News

World News: Two people killed and at least 5 wounded in Florida State shooting

2025/04/18 17:00

This is the World Now, bringing you the latest stories from around the globe. In the U.S., a shooting on Thursday at Florida State University has led to two deaths and at least five injuries. The suspect has been identified as a 20-year-old student at FSU and the son of a local sheriff's deputy. Authorities report that he used his mother's handgun in the attack. The incident began around 11:50 AM local time, near the university's student union. There were eight to ten gunshots before responding officers confronted the shooter, who was shot after failing to comply with commands and then taken into custody. The two people who lost their lives were not students. One of the injured remains in critical condition. The motive behind the shooting is still under investigation. It was the second significant campus shooting at FSU, following a 2014 incident at the university library. In Russia, the Supreme Court has officially removed Afghanistan's ruling Taliban from its list of banned terrorist organizations, a designation that had been in place since 2003. While the Taliban remains unrecognized as Afghanistan's official government, the ruling on Thursday, local time, reflects Moscow's intent to normalize ties. It also reflects efforts to collaborate with the Taliban to counter threats posed by Islamic State Khorasan, which has been responsible for deadly attacks in both Russia and Afghanistan. Russia's attitude toward the Taliban has changed over the past two decades. It was the first country to open a business representative office in Kabul after the Taliban's takeover, seeing the group as a strategic partner to advance its political and economic interests. In Italy, near Naples, four people died and one person was critically injured when a cable car crashed on Thursday. The victims included two British tourists, an Israeli woman, and the cable car operator. According to reports, the cable car crashed to the ground after a traction cable snapped during its ascent. The incident occurred on Monte Faito, a popular tourist destination known for its panoramic views of the Bay of Naples. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who is visiting the U.S., extended her condolences to the victims' families from Washington, D.C., and emphasized the government's commitment to uncovering the cause of the tragedy. Finally, in the UK, author F. Scott Fitzgerald's classic 1925 novel The Great Gatsby has been brought to life on the musical stage in London's West End. While an official opening is scheduled for April 24 and previews began on April 11, the show's launch event was held on Wednesday. The production features Jamie Muscato as Gatsby, Frances Mayli McCann as Daisy Buchanan, and Corbin Bleu as Nick Carraway, the narrator. After its Broadway run, the adaptation received praise for its vibrant energy and lavish production, allowing audiences to immerse themselves in Jay Gatsby's dazzling world through a theatrical experience. The musical will run at The London Coliseum until September 7. Choi Chi-hee, Arirang News.

Online King Sejong Institute taking applications for 2nd semester Korean learners

2025/04/18 17:00

Starting next Monday that is April 21st those interested in learning Korean online can register for remote classes with the King Sejong Institute Foundation. The institute's online platform which currently carries lectures on Korean culture is offering real-time Korean language classes with one-on-one feedback and assignment evaluation. The second semester is set to begin on May 12th with the ambition to reach over 90-thousand learners via some 1-thousand courses across four semesters. Courses range from beginner to advanced.

Why Korean temple food is more than just a meal

2025/04/18 17:00

Efforts are underway to preserve the culinary practices of monks in Korea as temple food here not simply nourishes the body but also the mind and soul. Our culture correspondent Song Yoo-jin files this report. Grinding. Chopping. Boiling. Here, cooking is more than just technique. It's meditation in motion. These colorful ingredients are being transformed into Korean temple cuisine: Soybean soup, 된장국, cucumber kimchi, and wild greens over noodles. Each dish reflects core Buddhist values: respect for life and a ban on "five pungent vegetables" believed to disturb inner peace. "I've learned so much, not just about recipes, but about food itself. I used to think vegetarian dishes lacked flavor, but temple food is delicious. It feels light, comforting, and good for your health." "I never really knew how to cook with wild greens. But now, I finally understand how to use ingredients I've always seen at the market." "Korean temple food has finally received the recognition it deserves. Last month, the Korea Heritage Service announced plans to designate it as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage. That's food for thought." The agency cited the cuisine's historical continuity, cultural uniqueness, and its ability to evolve with the times. Since the introduction of Buddhism to ancient Korea during the Three Kingdoms period, temple food has been passed down through generations. "In Northeast Asia, especially Korea, monks have traditionally farmed, foraged, and cooked their meals, creating a distinct culinary tradition. Korean temple food centers not only on vegetables and grains, but also on fermented foods like jang and kimchi. That's why it's increasingly seen as both nourishing and in harmony with nature." Because temple cuisine has long been practiced across Korea, the Cultural Corps of Korean Buddhism spent years systematizing its philosophy, core ingredients, and preparation methods. The upcoming heritage designation is the result of that effort. And next, the Buddhist community is setting its sights on a larger goal: becoming a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. A tradition that treats food as medicine and the body as a temple, now preparing to take its place on the global stage. Song Yoo-jin, Arirang News.

K-HISTORY ACKNOWLEDGED, K-POP APPLAUDED, K-TOURISM APPRECIATED

2025/04/18 17:00

Welcome to Press Perspective for April 18th here in Seoul. I'm Min Sun-hee. It's Friday and time for our talk on various matters of social interest here that made international headlines as well. For more I have Chloe Borgnon with French broadcaster France 24. Chloe it's good to have you here. I also have writer Colin Marshall with the pundit's take on today's issues. Colin it's been a while. Welcome back. 1) Colin, let's begin with details about a painful chapter in history over in the southern island of Jeju being included in UNESCO's documentary heritage. 2) Chloe, I hear a special exhibition is being held in Paris to commemorate the incident's UNESCO listing. 3) Colin, do you suppose more can be done to share knowledge about Korea's history on a global scale? 4) Meanwhile Chloe, findings for this year show K-pop remains the most recognized symbol of South Korean culture worldwide. 5) Colin, findings also show Korean screen productions are the 2nd most-watched content on Netflix worldwide, just behind the U.S., but ahead of the U.K. and Japan that ranked 3rd and 4th respectively. 6) Chloe, despite its popularity on the small screen, Korea's big screen productions will be absent at this year's Cannes Film Festival for the first time in 12 years. 7) Colin, beyond the screens, along with the growing global popularity of the Korean Wave, there is mounting concern about the overly commercial nature of some of its related initiatives. 8) Chloe, CNN recently covered the popularity of Asia's tourist information centers including that here in South Korea, claiming that they serve as top tourist attractions. 9) Colin, how much of an impact do Korea's tourist information centers have on overall tourism enjoyment here, do you think? 10) Chloe, also in recent times, there has been much foreign coverage about the academic pressure on children in Korea. All right.

Two people killed and at least 5 wounded in Florida State shooting

2025/04/18 10:00

Starting in the U.S., a shooting has occurred at a university campus in Florida. Yes. A shooting on Thursday at Florida State University has led to two deaths and at least five injuries. The suspect has been identified as a 20-year-old student at FSU and the son of a local sheriff's deputy. Authorities report that he used his mother's handgun in the attack. The incident began around 11:50 AM local time, near the university's student union. There were eight to ten gunshots before responding officers confronted the shooter, who was shot after failing to comply with commands and then taken into custody. The two people who lost their lives were not students. One of the injured remains in critical condition. The motive behind the shooting is still under investigation. It was the second significant campus shooting at FSU, following a 2014 incident at the university library.

Four dead in Italian cable car accident near Naples

2025/04/18 10:00

In Italy, near Naples, four people died and one person was critically injured when a cable car crashed on Thursday. The victims included two British tourists, an Israeli woman, and the cable car operator. According to reports, the cable car crashed to the ground after a traction cable snapped during its ascent. The incident occurred on Monte Faito, a popular tourist destination known for its panoramic views of the Bay of Naples. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who is visiting the U.S., extended her condolences to the victims' families from Washington, D.C., and emphasized the government's commitment to uncovering the cause of the tragedy.

Millennial women make up majority of N. Korean defectors in Q1

2025/04/17 17:00

A notable demographic reality is taking shape with regard to the age and gender of North Korean defectors arriving in South Korea in recent times. According to the Unification Ministry on this Thursday most of the new arrivals are women in their 20s and 30s who spent a few years in third countries before seeking to settle in South Korea. Between January and March this year 38 North Korean defectors entered South Korea SLIGHTLY down from 43 during the same period last year and only one was male. Most were younger women who had spent more than five years in third countries after fleeing North Korea before its COVID-19 border closure. At present over 34-thousand North Korean defectors reside here in South Korea.

Overcoming loneliness through local community: Seoul’s ‘Mind Convenience Stores’

2025/04/16 20:00

There are convenience stores here in Seoul that are working to fight loneliness and social isolation by offering hot meals and lending a sympathetic ear. Our Choi Soo-hyung shares their story. Soup is cooked in a simple instant cooker. Neighbors gather to chat and share warm food, enjoying a comforting lunch together. This is "Mind Convenience Store", a place run by the Seoul Metropolitan government and local district offices. Here, anyone can come in and enjoy a free meal. For those living alone, this store becomes a cozy, welcoming space. "I really like it. We get to enjoy a nice cup of tea and have delightful chats with other seniors. It's all just so nice." A report from the Korea Institute for Health and Social Affairs last year found that nearly 80 percent of single-person households in the country are at risk of dying alone. The government created this space to overcome loneliness by fostering small local communities with the power of togetherness. With donated goods from private businesses, the store offers not only shared meals, but also programs to ease loneliness and prevent social isolation. Through a self-test, people can assess their loneliness, and social workers are on-site for immediate support if needed. "Visitors can assess their loneliness and, if needed, they go through an additional checklist that looks at daily life and potential crisis areas. Based on the results, we provide counseling, or connect them to special programs offered at Mind Convenience Store, all through a one-stop support system." Starting in late March, it has now opened in four districts across Seoul in Gangbuk-gu, Dobong-gu, Gwanak-gu, and Dongdaemun-gu. Although it's only been open about three weeks, the Dobong-gu store is already welcoming over 60 local residents a day. "Until now, we didn't have many cozy spaces in the area where locals could gather and talk like this. But the response from the residents has been even better than expected, they are happy to have a place that's comfortable and easy to use." The stores plan to launch many programs that will not only target the elderly but also include young adults and middle-aged groups. In addition, the Seoul Metropolitan government plans to open more Mind Convenience Stores, aiming to have one in each district by 2027. Choi Soo-hyung, Arirang News.

Nationwide memorials mark 11th anniversary of Sewol ferry disaster

2025/04/16 20:00

Today marks the 11th anniversary of the Sewol ferry disaster, which claimed 304 lives. Memorial services were held nationwide, including in Ansan city, home to Danwon High School. At 4:16 PM, a moment of silence was observed as a siren sounded across Ansan, from where 261 victims, mostly students and teachers from Danwon High School, were lost. The remembrance ceremony began at 3 PM, with survivors, survivors, family members, and citizens paying tributes and reading letters to the lost. Similar services were held in Incheon, Seoul, and other cities as the country remembers the victims.

Overcoming loneliness through local community: Seoul’s ‘Mind Convenience Stores’

2025/04/16 17:00

There are convenience stores here in Seoul that are working to fight loneliness and social isolation by offering hot meals AND by lending a sympathetic ear. Our news feature reporter Choi Soo-hyung shares their story. Soup is cooked in a simple instant cooker. Neighbors gather to chat and share warm food, enjoying a comforting lunch together. This is "Mind Convenience Store", a place run by the Seoul Metropolitan government and local district offices. Here, anyone can come in and enjoy a free meal. For those living alone, this store becomes a cozy, welcoming space. "I really like it. We get to enjoy a nice cup of tea and have delightful chats with other seniors. It's all just so nice." A report from the Korea Institute for Health and Social Affairs last year found that nearly 80 percent of single-person households in the country are at risk of dying alone. The government created this space to overcome loneliness by fostering small local communities with the power of togetherness. With donated goods from private businesses, the store offers not only shared meals, but also programs to ease loneliness and prevent social isolation. Through a self-test, people can assess their loneliness, and social workers are on-site for immediate support if needed. "Visitors can assess their loneliness and, if needed, they go through an additional checklist that looks at daily life and potential crisis areas. Based on the results, we provide counseling, or connect them to special programs offered at Mind Convenience Store, all through a one-stop support system." Starting in late March, it has now opened in four districts across Seoul in Gangbuk-gu, Dobong-gu, Gwanak-gu, and Dongdaemun-gu. Although it's only been open about three weeks, the Dobong-gu store is already welcoming over 60 local residents a day. "Until now, we didn't have many cozy spaces in the area where locals could gather and talk like this. But the response from the residents has been even better than expected, they are happy to have a place that's comfortable and easy to use." The stores plan to launch many programs that will not only target the elderly but also include young adults and middle-aged groups. In addition, the Seoul Metropolitan government plans to open more Mind Convenience Stores, aiming to have one in each district by 2027. Choi Soo-hyung, Arirang News.

11th anniversary memorial ceremony to take place at site of Sewol Ferry disaster

2025/04/16 17:00

Beyond politics. Today that is April 16th Korea marks 11 years since the sinking of the Sewol Ferry that claimed the lives of 3-hundred-4 people mostly high school students on a graduation trip. A memorial service was held earlier this morning by the April 16th Foundation on a boat close to where the ferry sank in Jindo-gun Jeollanam-do Province. A similar event also took place in the afternoon at the Sewol Ferry Memorial Hall in Paengmokhang Port near the site of the tragedy. Other organizations held memorials nationwide including in Ansan Gyeonggi-do Province as most of the victims were students at a high school there.

[Features-reporter] Overcoming loneliness through local community: Seoul’s ‘Mind Convenience Stores’

2025/04/16 14:00

Believing in the power of local communities, special convenience stores have opened in Seoul to tackle loneliness and isolation. They offer not just simple meals, but also a place where you can open up your heart. Our News Features reporter Choi Soo-hyung delivers us the story. Soup is cooked in a simple instant cooker. Neighbors gather to chat and share warm food, enjoying a comforting lunch together. This is “Mind Convenience Store”, a place run by the Seoul Metropolitan government and local district offices. Here, anyone can come in and enjoy a free meal. For those living alone, this store becomes a cozy, welcoming space. "I really like it. We get to enjoy a nice cup of tea and have delightful chats with other seniors. It’s all just so nice." A report from the Korea Institute for Health and Social Affairs last year found that nearly 80 percent of single-person households in the country are at risk of dying alone. The government created this space to overcome loneliness by fostering small local communities with the power of togetherness. With donated goods from private businesses, the store offers not only shared meals, but also programs to ease loneliness and prevent social isolation. Through a self-test, people can assess their loneliness, and social workers are on-site for immediate support if needed. "Visitors can assess their loneliness and, if needed, they go through an additional checklist that looks at daily life and potential crisis areas. Based on the results, we provide counseling, or connect them to special programs offered at Mind Convenience Store, all through a one-stop support system." Starting in late March, it has now opened in four districts across Seoul in Gangbuk-gu, Dobong-gu, Gwanak-gu, and Dongdaemun-gu. Although it’s only been open about three weeks, the Dobong-gu store is already welcoming over 60 local residents a day. "Until now, we didn't have many cozy spaces in the area where locals could gather and talk like this. But the response from the residents has been even better than expected, they are happy to have a place that’s comfortable and easy to use." The stores plan to launch many programs that will not only target the elderly but also include young adults and middle-aged groups. In addition, the Seoul Metropolitan government plans to open more Mind Convenience Stores, aiming to have one in each district by 2027. Choi Soo-hyung, Arirang News. It's assuring to have these new ideas to help people deal with loneliness, but it's also sad to know we need such measures. Right, as it shows how big of a problem loneliness has become here in the country. A survey by the culture ministry last year said roughly seven out of ten Koreans felt lonely on a regular basis. What it also said is that culture can solve this issue as cultural content can play a positive role in raising people's happiness. And doesn't Korea have plenty of that to show? Of course and we have more culture to show in our program, coming up.

Beyond Division: Yang Han-jong's 1 billion KRW donation for N. Korean defectors brings new hope

2025/04/16 10:00

Up next we share with you the story of one elderly man who is seeking emotional closure through a generous donation to help defectors build a new home here in South Korea. Our Kim Jung-sil has his story. 89-year-old Yang Han-jong's life reflects the deep pain and division that has shaped Korea for decades. His story, filled with personal tragedy, is one shared by many families torn apart by the invisible line that divides North and South Korea. In 1947, when Yang was only 11, his father, a respected intellectual, made the life-changing decision to defect to North Korea. This left Yang, his mother, and five siblings behind in the South. The family's world was shattered, and poverty took over. Yang's father's name became a source of shame. "I was just a child when my father went over to the North My mother, at 33, was left alone to raise six children. We lived in a small room, so poor it's hard to describe." Despite everything, Yang's resilience was stronger than the weight of his sorrow. In Seoul, during the 1970s and 1980s, he built a successful life running 'Sansugapsan,' a classical music nightclub that became a haven for the city's artistic community. But even in success, the memory of his father and the division within Korea never really faded. It wasn't until later in life that Yang found peace—by giving back. Earlier this month, Yang's donation was recognized at Hanawon, a South Korean center helping North Korean defectors. His contribution of one billion won, about 700,000 U.S. dollars, will be distributed as around 500 dollars per person, each month, until the fund is used up. For Yang, this is about more than just financial help—it's about giving North Korean defectors a fresh start. "I hope this small donation will help North Korean defectors build new lives here. The South is different from the North. Here, you can make something of yourself with your own efforts, and I want them to feel that possibility, that they can dream again." Yang's family is equally proud of his decision. Choi Han-chul, Yang's stepson, voiced his full support. "I'm very proud of my father. I think that the money will be a great help to the people who evacuated from North Korea." In his later years, Yang has found a way to bridge the gap—turning his painful past into something lasting and meaningful for others. Kim Jung-sil, Arirang News.

11th anniversary memorial ceremony to take place at site of Sewol Ferry disaster

2025/04/16 10:00

Wednesday marks 11 years since the tragic Sewol Ferry disaster, which claimed the lives of 304 people, most of them high school students. The April 16th Foundation will hold a memorial service at 10:30 AM, on a boat close to where the ferry sank in Jindo-gun, Jeollanam-do Province. The memorial service will include the reading out of the names of the victims and speeches given by family members. Other organizations will hold memorial services all over the country, including in Ansan, Gyeonggi-do Province, where most of the victims were students at Danwon High School. A memorial service will also be held at the Sewol Ferry Memorial Hall in Paengmokhang Port, near the disaster site from 1 PM.

Korea steps up push to list 'hanbok' culture as UNESCO heritage

2025/04/15 20:00

Korea is stepping up efforts to have 'hanbok' culture recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. From government initiatives to private sector campaigns, a wide range of efforts are underway to protect, preserve, and promote its cultural significance. Our Han Da-eun takes a closer look. With its graceful lines, vivid colors, and exquisite design, 'hanbok' is more than just a traditional attire—it's a reflection of Korean history, value, and identity. But hanbok has become quite distant from everyday life in Korea, and at times, has been the subject of groundless debates over its origins. To safeguard hanbok from cultural misappropriation and to further promote its beauty and significance worldwide, Korea's leading hanbok experts have come together to launch the 'Hanbok Globalization Foundation.' Its primary goal is to have hanbok culture recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Around 180 prominent figures from hanbok-related industries have joined the group. "Hanbok is unarguably Korea's unique traditional costume and an essential part of the country's cultural heritage. Hanbok culture should've been recognized by UNESCO long ago." The government has recently been accelerating efforts to preserve and promote hanbok. In 2022, it designated hanbok as a national intangible cultural heritage, and last year, it unveiled the "Basic Plan for Promoting Traditional Cultural Industries" to integrate traditional culture into modern industries. "We frequently see foreigners wearing hanbok and taking photos at Korea's traditional palaces. Hanbok has transcended time, evolving into a "hip" and trendy cultural expression." A hanbok fashion show was held at the Paris Olympics, and specially designed hanboks will be crafted for world leaders attending the upcoming APEC Summit in Gyeongju this fall. Hanbok is not just a symbol of Korea's cultural identity but a living tradition that plays a vital role in cultural industry. As the government and private sector continue their efforts, it's time for citizens to embrace hanbok more closely to ensure it thrives as a vibrant part of modern life, both at home and abroad. Han Da-eun, Arirang News.

Beyond Division: Yang Han-jong's 1 billion KRW donation for N. Korean defectors brings new hope

2025/04/15 17:00

Up next we share with you the story of one elderly man who is seeking emotional closure via a generous donation to help defectors build a new home here in South Korea. Our Kim Jung-sil met up with him. 89-year-old Yang Han-jong's life reflects the deep pain and division that has shaped Korea for decades. His story, filled with personal tragedy, is one shared by many families torn apart by the invisible line that divides North and South Korea. In 1947, when Yang was only 11, his father, a respected intellectual, made the life-changing decision to defect to North Korea. This left Yang, his mother, and five siblings behind in the South. The family's world was shattered, and poverty took over. Yang's father's name became a source of shame. "I was just a child when my father went over to the North My mother, at 33, was left alone to raise six children. We lived in a small room, so poor it's hard to describe." Despite everything, Yang's resilience was stronger than the weight of his sorrow. In Seoul, during the 1970s and 1980s, he built a successful life running 'Sansugapsan,' a classical music nightclub that became a haven for the city's artistic community. But even in success, the memory of his father and the division within Korea never really faded. It wasn't until later in life that Yang found peace—by giving back. Earlier this month, Yang's donation was recognized at Hanawon, a South Korean center helping North Korean defectors. His contribution of one billion won, about 700,000 U.S. dollars, will be distributed as around 500 dollars per person, each month, until the fund is used up. For Yang, this is about more than just financial help—it's about giving North Korean defectors a fresh start. "I hope this small donation will help North Korean defectors build new lives here. The South is different from the North. Here, you can make something of yourself with your own efforts, and I want them to feel that possibility, that they can dream again." Yang's family is equally proud of his decision. Choi Han-chul, Yang's stepson, voiced his full support. "I'm very proud of my father. I think that the money will be a great help to the people who evacuated from North Korea." In his later years, Yang has found a way to bridge the gap—turning his painful past into something lasting and meaningful for others. Kim Jung-sil, Arirang News.

[K-wave] Korea steps up push to list 'hanbok' culture as UNESCO heritage

2025/04/15 14:00

Korea is stepping up efforts to have 'hanbok' culture recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. From government initiatives to private sector campaigns, a wide range of efforts are underway to protect, preserve, and promote its cultural significance. Our Han Da-eun takes a closer look. With its graceful lines, vivid colors, and exquisite design, 'hanbok' is more than just a traditional attire—it's a reflection of Korean history, value, and identity. But hanbok has become quite distant from everyday life in Korea, and at times, has been the subject of groundless debates over its origins. To safeguard hanbok from cultural misappropriation and to further promote its beauty and significance worldwide, Korea's leading hanbok experts have come together to launch the 'Hanbok Globalization Foundation.' Its primary goal is to have hanbok culture recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Around 180 prominent figures from hanbok-related industries have joined the group. "Hanbok is unarguably Korea's unique traditional costume and an essential part of the country's cultural heritage. Hanbok culture should've been recognized by UNESCO long ago." The government has recently been accelerating efforts to preserve and promote hanbok. In 2022, it designated hanbok as a national intangible cultural heritage, and last year, it unveiled the "Basic Plan for Promoting Traditional Cultural Industries" to integrate traditional culture into modern industries. "We frequently see foreigners wearing hanbok and taking photos at Korea's traditional palaces. Hanbok has transcended time, evolving into a "hip" and trendy cultural expression." A hanbok fashion show was held at the Paris Olympics, and specially designed hanboks will be crafted for world leaders attending the upcoming APEC Summit in Gyeongju this fall. Hanbok is not just a symbol of Korea's cultural identity but a living tradition that plays a vital role in cultural industry. As the government and private sector continue their efforts, it's time for citizens to embrace hanbok more closely to ensure it thrives as a vibrant part of modern life, both at home and abroad. Han Da-eun, Arirang News.

Jeju 4.3, reforestation records listed as UNESCO Memory of the World

2025/04/11 20:00

In other news. The UNESCO has recognized the archives documenting the painful memory of state violence against civilians in Jeju decades ago as its Memory of the World Register, in honor of human rights and reconciliation. Park Hyo-been has more. The road to remembrance begins with tragedy. In the aftermath of Korea's liberation, Jeju Island faced severe economic hardship, leading to growing public unrest. Tensions boiled over in 1947, when police opened fire during a demonstration, killing six civilians. In response to increasing crackdowns, involving far-right youth groups, local units of the Workers' Party launched an armed uprising on April 3rd, 1948. Over the next seven years, there were an estimated 15-thousand civilian casualties, while some estimate the number of victims to be as high as 30-thousand. After decades of efforts to uncover the truth, the Jeju 4.3 archives were officially added to UNESCO's Memory of the World Register on Thursday, local time, in Paris. This recognition honors a rich collection of materials: records of military trials, postcards from imprisoned survivors, and the government's official report. UNESCO acknowledged the archive's historical value, authenticity and global significance, highlighting its role in confronting past state violence and restoring the dignity of the victims. "The inscription of the Jeju 4.3 Incident highlights the universal value of human rights, and offers a new path forward through Jeju's spirit of reconciliation and healing." Also, the reforestation archive, which records Korea's large-scale forest recovery after the Korean War, was added to UNESCO's Memory of the World list. The reforestation project is now considered a model case for developing nations and a valuable reference in global discussions on climate action and desertification prevention. "The reforestation archive showcases Korea's post-war recovery efforts and serves as a global model for climate action and desertification prevention." With these additions, South Korea now has 20 entries in UNESCO's Memory of the World Register, bolstering its global reputation as a leader in preserving documentary heritage. Beyond preserving the past, these records continue to speak to the world — reminding us of the enduring power of truth, resilience, and collective memory. Park Hyo-been, Arirang News.

Jeju 4.3, reforestation records listed as UNESCO Memory of the World

2025/04/11 17:00

In other news. A painful chapter in Korea's history has been included in UNESCO's register. Park Hyo-been covers this event. The road to remembrance begins with tragedy. In the aftermath of Korea's liberation, Jeju Island faced severe economic hardship, leading to growing public unrest. Tensions boiled over in 1947, when police opened fire during a demonstration, killing six civilians. In response to increasing crackdowns, involving far-right youth groups, local units of the Workers' Party launched an armed uprising on April 3rd, 1948. Over the next seven years, there were an estimated 15-thousand civilian casualties, while some estimate the number of victims to be as high as 30-thousand. After decades of efforts to uncover the truth, the Jeju 4.3 archives were officially added to UNESCO's Memory of the World Register on Thursday, local time, in Paris. This recognition honors a rich collection of materials: records of military trials, postcards from imprisoned survivors, and the government's official report. UNESCO acknowledged the archive's historical value, authenticity and global significance, highlighting its role in confronting past state violence and restoring the dignity of the victims. "The inscription of the Jeju 4.3 Incident highlights the universal value of human rights, and offers a new path forward through Jeju's spirit of reconciliation and healing." Also, the reforestation archive, which records Korea's large-scale forest recovery after the Korean War, was added to UNESCO's Memory of the World list. The reforestation project is now considered a model case for developing nations and a valuable reference in global discussions on climate action and desertification prevention. "The reforestation archive showcases Korea's post-war recovery efforts and serves as a global model for climate action and desertification prevention." With these additions, South Korea now has 20 entries in UNESCO's Memory of the World Register, bolstering its global reputation as a leader in preserving documentary heritage. Beyond preserving the past, these records continue to speak to the world — reminding us of the enduring power of truth, resilience, and collective memory. Park Hyo-been, Arirang News.

K-wave AI News

2025/04/11 14:00

Hello and welcome to your AI guide to the latest cultural updates from Korea. Here's our top story. Two pivotal chapters of Korea's modern history have been officially recognized by UNESCO. The Jeju April 3rd Archives and post-war forest rehabilitation records have been added to the list of UNESCO's Memory of the World. The decision was made during UNESCO's Executive Board meeting in Paris on Friday, local time. The Jeju April 3rd Archives comprise more than 14,600 documents chronicling the thousands of civilians killed during the Jeju Uprising, which began in 1948. The collection also includes records of the subsequent efforts for truth-finding and reconciliation. UNESCO recognized the archives for their historical value, authenticity, and universal significance. Also inscribed were Korea's forest rehabilitation records—a collection of over 9,600 materials, including official documents, photographs, and public campaign materials from the post-Korean War era. Often referred to as Korea's "Green Revolution," the nationwide reforestation movement played a critical role in rebuilding the country from the devastation of war. With these additions, Korea now holds 20 entries on the UNESCO Memory of the World Register. The number of visitors to Cheong Wa Dae, the former presidential compound, spiked sharply after President Yoon Suk-yeol was dismissed. According to the Cheong Wa Dae Foundation, more than 16,000 people visited the site over the weekend following the Constitutional Court's impeachment ruling, up by over 5,200 compared to the previous weekend. A foundation official noted that the surge represents more than a threefold jump from the usual daily average. President Yoon relocated the presidential office to Yongsan in May 2022, and Cheong Wa Dae was opened to the public for the first time on his inauguration day. With speculation mounting that the next administration could return to the Blue House, visitor numbers are expected to remain high in the coming weeks. Since its public opening, Cheong Wa Dae has steadily evolved into a major cultural and arts venue, attracting over seven million visitors to date. An exhibition celebrating the artistic legacy of Uigyeom, a renowned Buddhist monk-painter of the late Joseon Dynasty, has opened ahead of Buddha's Birthday. Showcasing 47 works, including three National Treasures, it underscores the historical and artistic significance of Uigyeom's contributions to Buddhist art. Among the highlights is the 'Yeongsanhoesangdo' from Haeinsa Temple, painted in 1729. Designated a National Treasure, the painting depicts Shakyamuni Buddha delivering a sermon, which serves as a key reference in the study of late Joseon Buddhist painting. Active from the early to mid-18th century, Uigyeom is believed to have produced Buddhist artworks at temples across Korea for over four decades. The exhibition runs through June 29 at the Central Buddhist Museum of the Jogye Order with select works, including the Yeongsanhoesangdo, on view until April 22. That's all from me. Keep it tuned to the Kulture Wave.