News

Marriage rate hits record high; divorces declines for fifth year

2025/03/20 17:00

Also in local news. Marriages rose remarkably while divorces dropped last year. According to Statistics Korea there were 2-hundred-22-thousand marriages in 2024 up 15 percent on year the highest since related data collection began in 1970. Officials note the rise was led by newlyweds in their early to mid-30s and link the phenomenon to postponed wedding plans owing to the COVID-19 pandemic. Divorces meanwhile declined by one percent on year marking the fifth annual fall in a row since 2020.

K-wave AI News

2025/03/20 14:00

Hello and welcome to your AI guide to the latest cultural updates from Korea. Here's our top story. Records documenting the Jeju April 3rd Incident of 1949 and South Korea's post-war forest restoration efforts are expected to be inscribed in the UNESCO Memory of the World Register. According to UNESCO on Wednesday, the recommendation for inscription was recently made by the International Advisory Committee for the Memory of the World Program, and the final decision will be made at the UNESCO Executive Board meeting in April. The Jeju April 3rd Incident Records chronicle a significant chapter in modern Korean history between March 1st of 1947, to September 21st of 1954, documenting the armed conflicts and government crackdowns that led to the deaths of numerous civilians on Jeju Island. The records collection will include government documents, court records, media reports and victim testimonies. And the Forest Restoration Records highlight South Korea's successful reforestation campaign following the devastation of the Korean War. The archive consists of over 9,600 documents, including government reports and photographs that show the efforts made by the government and the people to restore the nation's forests. The UNESCO Memory of the World Program was launched in 1997 to preserve and promote globally significant historical documents, manuscripts, and other archival records. If inscribed, South Korea will have a total of 20 Memory of the World listings. Korea's earliest cherry blossoms bloom on Jeju Island. The Jeonnong-ro King Cherry Blossom Festival, which features the Jeju-native large-petaled king blossoms, will kick off on March 28th with its opening ceremony at 7 PM. Over the following two days, the festival will host various events and activities, including local concerts, parades and flea markets. The Jeonnong-ro area will restrict vehicle access, allowing a safer walk for visitors admiring the cherry blossom scenery. The 2025 Cheongsando Slow Walking Festival will be held for one month, starting April 5th. During the festival, visitors can participate in various cultural events and exhibitions, as well as various themed walking trails as they enjoy the spring scenery of the bright canola blossoms. Visitors can also experience Cheongsando's community-led tourism initiatives, like "plogging," which is a combination of jogging and litter-picking. The picturesque island in Wando-gun, Jeollanam-do Province, was designated as the first "Slow City" in Asia in 2007, for its promotion of a slow-paced lifestyle, and was awarded the "Star of Korean Tourism" award in 2024 under the eco-friendly tourism category by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism and the Korea Tourism Organization. That's all from me. Keep it tuned to the Kulture Wave.

UN report says nearly half of N. Koreans are undernourished

2025/03/20 10:00

Nearly half of North Korea's population is estimated to be undernourished, says a recent UN report. The report submitted to the UN Human Rights Council by Elizabeth Salmón, the UN Special Rapporteur on North Korean Human Rights, estimated that about 12 million people, --roughly 46% of the population, have been undernourished in recent years. Despite efforts to boost domestic food production, chronic food insecurity remains a major issue in the North. The report pointed to aging infrastructure, outdated technology and frequent natural disasters as key factors that are worsening the crisis.

UN report says nearly half of N. Koreans are undernourished

2025/03/19 20:00

Nearly half of North Korea's population is estimated to be undernourished, says a recent UN report. The report submitted to the UN Human Rights Council by Elizabeth Salmón, the UN Special Rapporteur on North Korean Human Rights, estimated that about 12 million people, roughly 46% of the population, have been undernourished in recent years. Despite efforts to boost domestic food production, chronic food insecurity remains a major issue in the North. The report pointed to aging infrastructure, outdated technology and frequent natural disasters as key factors that are worsening the crisis.

St. Patrick's Day brings parades and celebrations to New York

2025/03/18 10:00

Finally, in the United States, New York City celebrated its 264th annual St. Patrick's Day Parade on Monday local time, attracting approximately 2 million spectators and featuring 150,000 marchers. Participants included school bands, Irish pipe and drum ensembles, and uniformed personnel from the police and fire departments. Mayor Eric Adams and Governor Kathy Hochul were among the attendees, and also wore green for the occasion. Meanwhile, in Chicago, the annual tradition of dyeing the Chicago River green with an eco-friendly dye, a practice that began in 1962, was once again observed.

World News: Death toll from North Macedonia nightclub fire rises to 59

2025/03/17 17:00

This is the World Now, bringing you the latest stories from around the globe. In the North Macedonian town of Kocani, a devastating fire engulfed a nightclub, resulting in the death of at least 59 people and injuries for more than 150 others. The fire broke out at the Pulse nightclub in Kocani at approximately 2:35 AM on Sunday local time during a concert by a local hip-hop duo. The fire was reportedly caused by pyrotechnic devices used during the performance, which set the club's ceiling alight. Reports also say the venue was overcrowded leading to a stampede as people tried to escape through limited exits. Emergency responders faced challenges due to the intensity of the fire and the club's overcrowded conditions. Authorities detained 15 individuals in connection with the incident, amid allegations that the nightclub was operating without proper licensing and had exceeded its capacity. The North Macedonian government declared a seven-day period of national mourning following the tragedy. The United States has been experiencing a significant surge in egg prices, with the average cost reaching 5 U.S. dollars 90 cents per dozen in February. While the price hike is primarily due to a severe avian influenza outbreak, some consumers are attempting to source cheaper eggs from neighboring countries, such as Mexico, where prices average under 2 dollars per dozen. However, U.S. Customs and Border Protection has reported a 36% increase in egg smuggling incidents this fiscal year. Meanwhile, the U.S. has turned to several European countries, including Denmark, for egg imports to curb soaring prices. Disney's live-action movie "Snow White" premiered in Los Angeles on Saturday local time with a notably subdued event. The premiere featured limited media presence, with interviews conducted primarily by Disney-affiliated personnel. The film has been surrounded by controversies, including criticism over the casting of Rachel Zegler, a Latina actress, as Snow White and debates regarding the portrayal of the seven dwarfs. Also, the differing political views between Zegler and co-star Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen have fueled further discussions. The film is scheduled for worldwide theatrical release on March 21. Choi Chi-hee, Arirang News.

Death toll from North Macedonia nightclub fire rises to 59

2025/03/17 10:00

In the North Macedonian town of Kocani, a devastating fire engulfed a nightclub, resulting in the death of at least 59 people and injuries for more than 150 others. The fire broke out at the Pulse nightclub in Kocani at approximately 2:35 AM on Sunday local time during a concert by a local hip-hop duo. The fire was reportedly caused by pyrotechnic devices used during the performance, which set the club's ceiling alight. Reports also say the venue was overcrowded leading to a stampede as people tried to escape through limited exits. Emergency responders faced challenges due to the intensity of the fire and the club's overcrowded conditions. Authorities detained 15 individuals in connection with the incident, amid allegations that the nightclub was operating without proper licensing and had exceeded its capacity. The North Macedonian government declared a seven-day period of national mourning following the tragedy.

U.S. influencer's visa under review after taking baby wombat from mother

2025/03/14 10:00

An American influencer in Australia is receiving scrutiny, after she posted a video of herself removing a baby wombat from its mother, causing public outrage and prompting Australian authorities to review her visa status. The video, now deleted from her social media, shows Sam Jones picking up the baby wombat at night while its distressed mother chases after her. Wildlife experts criticized the act as potentially harmful and illegal, under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act. Australia's Home Affairs department is reviewing the conditions of Jones' visa, to determine if immigration laws were breached.

[Hallyu People] Meet overseas Korean "KrossOveR" supporters in search for true identity

2025/03/13 14:00

1. Valerie Youmi Depreytere / KrossOveR Supporter 2. OH Min Ju / KrossOveR Supporter More than 7 million people are registered as overseas Korean residents as of 2023. In a bid to spread information on the Korean diaspora and encourage a stronger Korean identity, the first wave of the “KrossOveR” a group of overseas Koreans, have wrapped up their six month long activities as “KrossOveR” supporters. For today's Hallyu People we are now connected to two of them, Oh Minju and Valerie Youmi Depreytere! Hello Minju and Youmi! 1-1) (Minju) Minju, Youmi, last month you wrapped up your roles as “KrossOveR” supporters, a program by the Overseas Koreans Cooperation Center, an affiliate of the Overseas Koreans Agency. How was that experience? Let's start with Minju. 1-2) (Youmi) And Youmi, how was it for you? 2) (Youmi) Youmi, I heard that your mother, who is Korean, encouraged you to apply for the “KrossOveR” supporter program. How did it start for you, and how were you able to take part in the activities in Singapore where you are currently based? 3) (Minju) Now turning to Minju, just like many other Koreans who live overseas, we heard you experienced some difficulties from being “different”? Please tell us in what way and also was there any change to that feeling while you were active as a “KrossOveR” supporter? 4) (Minju) Minju, you currently live in South Africa and have also lived in the UK, I heard. How is Korea perceived in those countries? (What’s the image of Korea, what’s Korea known for, etc.) 5) (Youmi) Youmi, in what way do you recognize the cultural phenomenon around you? (In Singapore, Belgium, or any other places you’ve been) 6) (Minju) How does it make you feel as an overseas Korean when you hear about Korean cultural content being recognized around the world, such as the popularity of K-pop or the Nobel Prize for literature won by author Han Kang? 7-1) (Minju) Finally, do you have any words for Koreans overseas who may be struggling with finding their identity or other difficulties? 7-2) (Youmi) And you Youmi?

UK climate activists target Tesla robot in Elon Musk protest

2025/03/13 10:00

In London, climate activists have protested against Tesla, targeting the company's robots to highlight environmental concerns. On Wednesday local time, two activists in west London poured orange liquid latex over a life-sized humanoid robot at a Tesla store. Following political activities by Elon Musk, CEO of the carmaker, a number of Tesla outlets in the U.S. and parts of Europe have also faced protests recently.

S. Korea's boarding house culture revives amid rising costs

2025/03/12 20:00

Hasukjib is the Korean word for a boarding house that rents out a room with the option of a meal or two every day. This form of accommodation was quite popular among college students here in Seoul up until the late 1990s and it's been making a notable comeback in recent days. Our Park Kun-woo tells us why. A small, quiet living room fills with university students. That's because a variety of 15 side dishes that might be quite costly at a restaurant are served twice a day at mealtime at this boarding house. These dishes are all cooked by the owner herself, who says it's a joy to prepare them for the students. Communal meals at boarding houses were common in South Korea up until the late 1990s but as millennials began prioritizing privacy, studio flats have become more popular since then. However, students living here today say privacy isn't that much of a concern as there are bigger benefits. "Since I live in Seoul like eating out is quite expensive. I spend about 50k(won) like per day but that's how much I would save by eating here." More students are choosing boarding houses to keep costs down. "During COVID-19, there were almost no students, but after the pandemic, demand surged, even among foreign students." "Since I came from another country it's quite expensive. I don't cook that much. No time. So more convenient compared to other places." "This boarding house built decades ago and showing its age, has become increasingly popular, with every room booked. And it's not just this house but according to data, boarding house reservations rose by around 20 percent in the first two months of this year compared to last year." An official from an online accommodation platform added that boarding houses are cost-effective for students, especially when compared to other housing options. "The Korean style "one-room," one month price is more than 700-thousand won. Boarding house, there are no deposits and the average price is like 400-thousand won, include the meals. As boarding houses offer students an affordable option in an era of high costs with rent, meals, and utility bills all included, this trend is expected to continue among students on a limited budget. Park Kun-woo, Arirang News.

S. Korea's boarding house culture revives amid rising costs

2025/03/12 17:00

Hasukjib is the Korean word for a boarding house that rents out a room with the option of a meal or two every day. Now this form of accommodation was quite popular among college students here in Seoul up until the late 1900s and it's been making a huge comeback in recent days. Our Park Kun-woo tells us why. A small, quiet living room fills with university students. That's because a variety of 15 side dishes that might be quite costly at a restaurant are served twice a day at mealtime at this boarding house. These dishes are all cooked by the owner herself, who says it's a joy to prepare them for the students. Communal meals at boarding houses were common in South Korea up until the late 1990s but as millennials began prioritizing privacy, studio flats have become more popular since then. However, students living here today say privacy isn't that much of a concern as there are bigger benefits. "Since I live in Seoul like eating out is quite expensive. I spend about 50k(won) like per day but that's how much I would save by eating here." More students are choosing boarding houses to keep costs down. "During COVID-19, there were almost no students, but after the pandemic, demand surged, even among foreign students." "Since I came from another country it's quite expensive. I don't cook that much. No time. So more convenient compared to other places." "This boarding house built decades ago and showing its age, has become increasingly popular, with every room booked. And it's not just this house but according to data, boarding house reservations rose by around 20 percent in the first two months of this year compared to last year." An official from an online accommodation platform added that boarding houses are cost-effective for students, especially when compared to other housing options. "The Korean style "one-room," one month price is more than 700-thousand won. Boarding house, there are no deposits and the average price is like 400-thousand won, include the meals. As boarding houses offer students an affordable option in an era of high costs with rent, meals, and utility bills all included, this trend is expected to continue among students on a limited budget. Park Kun-woo, Arirang News.

ACADEMIC PRESSURE ON PRESCHOOLERS

2025/03/11 17:00

Hello. You're watching Press Perspective for this Tuesday March 11th here in Seoul. I'm Min Sunhee. The passion for education here in Korea has been frequently covered by both the local and foreign media but interest has been renewed in recent times as academic pressure now seems to target preschoolers. For more on this phenomenon I have Steven Borowiec a staff writer for Japanese weekly news magazine Nikkei Asia. Steven it's good to have you here. I also have writer Colin Marshall with the pundit's take on today's topic. Steven, a growing number of children here are being sent to private academic institutions even before entering school. Some say it's fundamental; others claim it's foolish. What have been your observations? Colin, there appears to be renewed interest in the so-called "tiger moms" as themes of drama as well as entertainment content. How do you explain this growing interest in recent times? Steven, the foreign media has often covered the callous consequences of Korea's high academic pursuits. Do walk us through some of the concerns. Colin, according to Statistics Korea, Korea's participation in private academic initiatives stood at over 78% in 2023, and this level is almost two times higher than that of its global counterparts. What do you suppose is the reason behind this reality? And Steven, while the academic pressure for excellence continues to build, the sad reality is that there are fewer children enrolling into schools every year. In fact, this year, some 180 schools nationwide saw not a single first grade student. What are your thoughts? Colin, the government, in response, has sought to redirect the academic focus back to public schools and away from cram schools, but it has not been very successful. What are your thoughts regarding such efforts by the nation's education authorities? Steven, also in the academic arena. A Bloomberg article last year claimed most top students in Korea were seeking medical degrees. Do share with us details of this coverage and your takeaways. Colin, on the subject of medical schools. The government here shared plans to reduce the medical school admission quota to 3-thousand-58 IF all protesting medical school students return to classrooms. Do you suppose this was an inevitable move on the part of the government? All right.

World News: Oil tanker, cargo ship collide off UK coast

2025/03/11 17:00

This is the World Now, bringing you the latest stories from around the globe. Off the east coast of England an oil tanker and a cargo ship have collided, leading to fires and environmental concerns due to leaking fuel. On Monday, the U.S.-flagged oil tanker Stena Immaculate and the Portuguese-flagged cargo vessel Solong collided in the North Sea near the Humber Estuary. The Stena Immaculate, anchored at the time and carrying jet fuel for the U.S. military, suffered ruptured cargo tanks after the collision, resulting in explosions and a subsequent fire. The Solong, reportedly transporting sodium cyanide, also caught fire. Emergency response teams rescued 36 individuals from both vessels. One person was taken to the hospital and one person is reportedly missing. Experts are currently assessing the environmental impact of the collision, noting that while the leaking jet fuel evaporates more quickly than crude oil, the potential release of sodium cyanide presents additional risks. Greenland is set to hold its parliamentary election on Tuesday local time, attracting significant international attention due to recent comments by U.S. President Donald Trump, regarding his interest in acquiring the world's largest island. Greenland's electorate will vote to fill all 31 seats in the parliament on Tuesday. Approximately 40,500 of Greenland's 57,000 residents are eligible to vote, and some Greenlanders cast early ballots on Monday. The election's central issue is whether it should pursue independence from Denmark, as the island remains a self-governing territory of the country. Recent statements by U.S. President Donald Trump, proposing that Greenland could join the United States, have intensified this debate. The election's outcome is unpredictable, with Greenlanders emphasizing their right to self-determination amid external pressures. In Guatemala, the country's Volcano of Fire, located 53 kilometers from the capital Guatemala City, erupted on Sunday night local time, prompting authorities to evacuate almost 300 families and caution that an additional 30,000 residents could be at risk. The 3,763-meter volcano, among Central America's most active, expelled gas and ash high into the atmosphere, leading to the closure of nearby schools and a major roadway connecting local communities. Emergency services are on high alert and are closely monitoring the situation. An eruption in 2018 killed over 190 people and left approximately 230 missing. In India's northern city of Varanasi, a major Hindu pilgrimage town, people celebrated 'Holi,' the festival of colors that signifies the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil. The devotees, drenched in colored powder, enjoyed cultural performances as they immersed themselves in the festival spirit at a temple for Hindus. Festivities of Holi reach their peak on March 13 and 14. Choi Chi-hee, Arirang News.

Oil tanker, cargo ship collide off UK coast

2025/03/11 10:00

Starting off the east coast of England an oil tanker and a cargo ship have collided, leading to fires and environmental concerns due to leaking fuel. On Monday, the U.S.-flagged oil tanker Stena Immaculate and the Portuguese-flagged cargo vessel Solong collided in the North Sea near the Humber Estuary. The Stena Immaculate, anchored at the time and carrying jet fuel for the U.S. military, suffered ruptured cargo tanks after the collision, resulting in explosions and a subsequent fire. The Solong, reportedly transporting sodium cyanide, also caught fire. Emergency response teams rescued 36 individuals from both vessels. One person was taken to the hospital and one person is reportedly missing. Experts are currently assessing the environmental impact of the collision, noting that while the leaking jet fuel evaporates more quickly than crude oil, the potential release of sodium cyanide presents additional risks.

K-wave AI News

2025/03/11 14:00

Hello and welcome to your AI guide to the latest cultural updates from Korea. Here's our top story. The former presidential office of Cheong Wa Dae has welcomed more than seven million visitors since it opened to the public in May 2022. The total number of foreign visitors is nearing 800,000. The Blue House Foundation continues efforts to enhance visitors' convenience and says it remains committed to transforming the historic site into a distinguished space where history, culture, and nature come together. Cheong Wa Dae was reopened to the public for the first time in 74 years in 2022 when the Yoon administration relocated the top office to Seoul's Yongsan-gu District. An exhibition showcasing artifacts from the Hittite Empire– one of the three major powers of the late bronze age, alongside Egypt and Assyria– is currently on display in Seoul. The ruins of ancient Hittite cities, including fortress walls and palaces are designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites. This exhibition presents over 200 artifacts from over 3,750 years ago, excavated from Hattusa, the Hittite capital. Highlights include bronze weapons, armor, ritual pottery shaped like animals, and clay tablets inscribed with hieroglyphs that document Hittite culture. The exhibition runs through June 8 at Seoul Baekje Museum. Changwon City is recruiting 150 volunteer interpreters to assist foreign tourists with communication during this year's Jinhae Gunhangje Festival. Held annually in Gyeongsangnam-do Province, the festival is one of Korea's most iconic cherry blossom celebrations. 50 interpreters will be selected for each language—English, Japanese, and Chinese. Those wishing to take part can apply through Changwon City's official website until March 19. A dedicated interpretation booth for foreign visitors will be set up for the first time this year. The city plans to offer reimbursements for volunteer-related expenses as well as volunteer mileage points. That's all from me. Keep it tuned to the Kulture Wave.

[Hallyu People] Designer Yang Cheon-Shik spreads beauty of hanbok as way of reclaiming his identity

2025/03/06 14:00

Hanbok, Korea’s traditional attire is not just clothing worn in the past. It is an emblem of Korean culture, history and identity. Today, we meet a person who is searching for his Korean identity by designing, making, and wearing hanbok. For today’s “Hallyu People” we are joined by hanbok designer Yang Cheon-shik in the studio. Welcome Cheon-shik! 1-1) Cheon-shik, thank you for joining us during your current stay in Korea. Please introduce yourself to our viewers. 1-2) You practice “hanbok saenghwal”, which means you wear hanbok in your daily life, not just for special occasions. That’s why you are in one of your daily hanbok outfits today, that you designed yourself? 1-3) How did your affection for hanbok start and since when did you wear hanbok on a daily basis? 2) There are many different types of hanbok: men’s and women’s hanbok, hanbok worn by kings and queens, as well as different styles of hanbok for different eras. Do you have a personal favorite? 3) On the back of the hallyu boom, the interest in hanbok has also grown overseas. How is the response out in the streets in the U.S. (New York) when people see you wearing hanbok? 4) Let’s talk about some hanbok-related events that you were part of, either here in Korea or abroad. 5-1) You describe yourself as “Aggressively Korean” and a Korean American Adoptee (KAD), also seen on your social media. What is it that you want to express with that? 5-2) How much influence does hanbok exert on you and how does hanbok display your identity? 6) Can you share with us your goal or wish as a hanbok designer or someone who raises awareness about this beautiful Korean traditional attire? 7) Last but not least, what makes hanbok so beautiful?

[Short-form] Gorosoe Sap: Korea’s must-try drink in spring

2025/03/05 14:00

Discover Gorosoe Sap, a natural remedy from trees that offers a refreshing taste of pure spring, packed with health-boosting benefits!

Pope Francis returns to ventilator following respiratory failure

2025/03/04 10:00

Pope Francis is back on a ventilator in a hospital in Rome after experiencing two episodes of acute respiratory distress on Monday. According to a Vatican official later the same day the pope's acute respiratory distress had stabilized and the 88-year-old pontiff was under "careful observation." Pope Francis was admitted to the hospital on February 14th due to a respiratory infection with pneumonia detected in both lungs. The latest setback means the pope will miss the procession and mass on Wednesday marking the first day of Lent.

2 killed as car rams into crowd at carnival in German city of Mannheim

2025/03/04 10:00

At least two people were killed and 11 others were injured in the western German city of Mannheim on Monday, local time when a car was driven into a crowd during a carnival celebration. Authorities have arrested the suspect, a 40-year-old German man, who is now under investigation for two counts of murder and multiple counts of attempted murder. According to Mannheim prosecutors, the man shot himself following the attack but survived and is in a stable condition in hospital. They also said the attack did not appear to be politically or religiously motivated but suggested the suspect may have been mentally unstable. Police in Mannheim had been on high alert after a surge in violent incidents in Germany in recent months. In December, a similar car-ramming attack occurred in Magdeburg, followed by another in Munich last month.