News

More than 200 overseas Korean teens in the search for their Korean heritage

2025/06/19 17:00

Meanwhile back on the local front. Young overseas Koreans are taking part in a special program here aimed at offering them the opportunity to delve into their roots. Ahn Sung-jin files this report. 7.5 million. That's how many overseas Koreans there are. Gathered here are around 240 next-generation overseas Koreans aged 15 to 18. This teen camp, hosted by the Overseas Korean Agency and organized by the Overseas Koreans Cooperation Center, has participants from 26 countries. "For these students, by visiting their parents' country, they can really feel their Korean heritage. Our ultimate goal is to increase the budget for such programs so we can invite more participants." Especially as 2025 is the 80th anniversary of Korea's liberation, these students are delving into learning about their history and roots. "Programs like these offer the opportunity for overseas Koreans to experience Korea's history, culture and society while helping them build connections with young people in the country. For some, the 7-day program starts with a visit to Seodaemun Prison History Hall, which gives them a chance to understand Japan's colonial era and reflect on their background. For 15-year-old Sofiya, this was an opportunity to fulfill her interest and ties with her Korean roots. "My grandmother was born in Korea, but it so happened that they were deported in train cars to Kazakhstan just in the cold they were thrown like that. They started working at coal mines, and life began to improve for them. It's my first time in Korea, but I really like it here, and I will definitely come again in the future and maybe study here." And at the National Museum of Korean Contemporary History, students look back at the country's past to strengthen ties and raise awareness of their Korean identity. "I know one of my great-grandfathers on my mom's side was a war veteran in the Korean military. I feel like this shows courage, which is often shown throughout my family. That's why I wanted to come to Korea." This program for the summer will run until August, not only for teens but also for those aged up to 24 as well to foster overseas Koreans as global leaders who embrace and uphold their Korean heritage. Ahn Sung-jin, Arirang News.

South Korea's one-person households exceeds 8 million for first time

2025/06/19 17:00

The number of one-person households stands at an all-time high of eight million here in South Korea. and among them over five million are employed the highest proportion since related data collection began ten years ago. This latest finding is part of a report by Statistics Korea on the employment status of one-person and dual-income households during the latter half of last year. And speaking of that dual-income married households fell to some six million and among the working parents those with children under 18 accounted for over 58 percent the highest on record.

[Short-form] Inside the DMZ

2025/06/19 14:00

It's been over 70 years since civilians last set foot in the demilitarized zone dividing the two Koreas. Discover who calls this place home now, and how you can experience this mysterious strip up close!

Oasis in Seoul: What's happening at the restored Cheonggyecheon stream

2025/06/19 10:00

Cheonggyecheon is one of Seoul's most iconic urban streams that becomes a nice rest area especially during the hot summertime. But it wasn't this welcoming or comforting 20 years ago. Park Kun-woo tells us more. With daytime temperatures soaring past 30 degrees Celcius, people in Seoul are doing all they can to stay cool -from carrying sun umbrellas to clutching icy drinks. And for many, it's the perfect weather to enjoy the water, or even get right in. And there's a special place that's drawing big crowds -the upper part of Cheonggyecheon, temporarily opened to the public to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the stream's restoration. Laughter echoed as children and adults splashed, kicked up water, and even waded through stronger currents for fun. International tourists were also spotted easily, cooling off and snapping photos. "Living in somewhat of a big city you don't normally get to see really lovely streams like this especially when it's so hot and humid. Kind of refreshing to be able to step in the water. It was a lot of fun." But for Seoulites, Cheonggyecheon isn't just for play, it also offers a peaceful escape from the heat. "It's been so hot lately, but by the stream, it feels cool, so it's a great place to rest. I often like coming out here for some fresh air especially as sitting all day at work feels stuffy." That comfort is the result of a remarkable transformation that began two decades ago. "Cheonggyecheon was once hidden under concrete during Korea's industrial boom. Restoring it raised environmental concerns -but now it's clean enough for native fish and birds to thrive. A true case of urban ecological revival." In fact, the stream is home to around 20 native fish species, including the Korean spotted barbel, which only survives in grade-two or cleaner water. And that's thanks to regular water and bacteria tests conducted to maintain quality. Beyond ecosystem revival, the stream is widely recognized as a successful model of urban water management, offering more than just eco-friendly value. "Cheonggyecheon helps lower the surrounding temperatures raised by heat-absorbing pavement like asphalt, and even improves air quality, acting like an air conditioner for the city." Seoul now plans to transform more than 300 kilometers of streams, running through the city, into vibrant, accessible waterfront parks just like Cheonggyecheon. And as the city moves toward a more water-sensitive future, Cheonggyecheon stands as a reminder that even in the heart of a big city, nature can make a peaceful comeback. Park Kun-woo, Arirang News.

Oasis in Seoul: What's happening at the restored Cheonggyecheon stream

2025/06/18 20:00

Cheonggyecheon is one of Seoul's most iconic urban streams that becomes a nice rest area especially during the hot summertime. But it wasn't this welcoming or comforting 20 years ago. Park Kun-woo tells us more. With daytime temperatures soaring past 30 degrees Celcius, people in Seoul are doing all they can to stay cool -from carrying sun umbrellas to clutching icy drinks. And for many, it's the perfect weather to enjoy the water, or even get right in. And there's a special place that's drawing big crowds -the upper part of Cheonggyecheon, temporarily opened to the public to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the stream's restoration. Laughter echoed as children and adults splashed, kicked up water, and even waded through stronger currents for fun. International tourists were also spotted easily, cooling off and snapping photos. "Living in somewhat of a big city you don't normally get to see really lovely streams like this especially when it's so hot and humid. Kind of refreshing to be able to step in the water. It was a lot of fun." But for Seoulites, Cheonggyecheon isn't just for play, it also offers a peaceful escape from the heat. "It's been so hot lately, but by the stream, it feels cool, so it's a great place to rest. I often like coming out here for some fresh air especially as sitting all day at work feels stuffy." That comfort is the result of a remarkable transformation that began two decades ago. "Cheonggyecheon was once hidden under concrete during Korea's industrial boom. Restoring it raised environmental concerns -but now it's clean enough for native fish and birds to thrive. A true case of urban ecological revival." In fact, the stream is home to around 20 native fish species, including the Korean spotted barbel, which only survives in grade-two or cleaner water. And that's thanks to regular water and bacteria tests conducted to maintain quality. Beyond ecosystem revival, the stream is widely recognized as a successful model of urban water management, offering more than just eco-friendly value. "Cheonggyecheon helps lower the surrounding temperatures raised by heat-absorbing pavement like asphalt, and even improves air quality, acting like an air conditioner for the city." Seoul now plans to transform more than 300 kilometers of streams, running through the city, into vibrant, accessible waterfront parks just like Cheonggyecheon. And as the city moves toward a more water-sensitive future, Cheonggyecheon stands as a reminder that even in the heart of a big city, nature can make a peaceful comeback. Park Kun-woo, Arirang News.

Oasis in Seoul: What's happening at the restored Cheonggyecheon stream

2025/06/18 17:00

As part of celebrations to commemorate its 20th birthday after restoration Seoul's Cheonggyecheon has opened up a section of its stream that is normally closed to the public. Our Park Kun-woo was there. With daytime temperatures soaring past 30 degrees Celcius, people in Seoul are doing all they can to stay cool -from carrying sun umbrellas to clutching icy drinks. And for many, it's the perfect weather to enjoy the water, or even get right in. And there's a special place that's drawing big crowds -the upper part of Cheonggyecheon, temporarily opened to the public to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the stream's restoration. Laughter echoed as children and adults splashed, kicked up water, and even waded through stronger currents for fun. International tourists were also spotted easily, cooling off and snapping photos. "Living in somewhat of a big city you don't normally get to see really lovely streams like this especially when it's so hot and humid. Kind of refreshing to be able to step in the water. It was a lot of fun." But for Seoulites, Cheonggyecheon isn't just for play, it also offers a peaceful escape from the heat. "It's been so hot lately, but by the stream, it feels cool, so it's a great place to rest. I often like coming out here for some fresh air especially as sitting all day at work feels stuffy." That comfort is the result of a remarkable transformation that began two decades ago. "Cheonggyecheon was once hidden under concrete during Korea's industrial boom. Restoring it raised environmental concerns -but now it's clean enough for native fish and birds to thrive. A true case of urban ecological revival." In fact, the stream is home to around 20 native fish species, including the Korean spotted barbel, which only survives in grade-two or cleaner water. And that's thanks to regular water and bacteria tests conducted to maintain quality. Beyond ecosystem revival, the stream is widely recognized as a successful model of urban water management, offering more than just eco-friendly value. "Cheonggyecheon helps lower the surrounding temperatures raised by heat-absorbing pavement like asphalt, and even improves air quality, acting like an air conditioner for the city." Seoul now plans to transform more than 300 kilometers of streams, running through the city, into vibrant, accessible waterfront parks just like Cheonggyecheon. And as the city moves toward a more water-sensitive future, Cheonggyecheon stands as a reminder that even in the heart of a big city, nature can make a peaceful comeback. Park Kun-woo, Arirang News.

[Features reporter] Oasis in Seoul: What's happening at the restored Cheonggyecheon stream

2025/06/18 14:00

Kun-woo, as our go-to reporter for travel, you've been discovering fresh places across the country. But this time, I hear you stayed within the capital. Where exactly did you go, and what did you find? This time, though I didn't travel far, I went to Cheonggyecheon, one of the most iconic urban streams in Seoul. This place used to be covered by elevated roads but it was later brought back to how it is now as a stream. And marking the 20th anniversary since its restoration, Seoul prepared some exciting activities for the public to cool off. But before I tell you more, let's take a look at what's happening by the stream. With daytime temperatures soaring past 30 degrees Celcius, people in Seoul are doing all they can to stay cool -from carrying sun umbrellas to clutching icy drinks. And for many, it's the perfect weather to enjoy the water, or even get right in. And there's a special place that's drawing big crowds -the upper part of Cheonggyecheon, temporarily opened to the public to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the stream's restoration. Laughter echoed as children and adults splashed, kicked up water, and even waded through stronger currents for fun. International tourists were also spotted easily, cooling off and snapping photos. "Living in somewhat of a big city you don't normally get to see really lovely streams like this especially when it's so hot and humid. Kind of refreshing to be able to step in the water. It was a lot of fun." But for Seoulites, Cheonggyecheon isn't just for play, it also offers a peaceful escape from the heat. "It's been so hot lately, but by the stream, it feels cool, so it's a great place to rest. I often like coming out here for some fresh air especially as sitting all day at work feels stuffy." That comfort is the result of a remarkable transformation that began two decades ago. "Cheonggyecheon was once hidden under concrete during Korea's industrial boom. Restoring it raised environmental concerns -but now it's clean enough for native fish and birds to thrive. A true case of urban ecological revival." In fact, the stream is home to around 20 native fish species, including the Korean spotted barbel, which only survives in grade-two or cleaner water. And that's thanks to regular water and bacteria tests conducted to maintain quality. Beyond ecosystem revival, the stream is widely recognized as a successful model of urban water management, offering more than just eco-friendly value. "Cheonggyecheon helps lower the surrounding temperatures raised by heat-absorbing pavement like asphalt, and even improves air quality, acting like an air conditioner for the city." Seoul now plans to transform more than 300 kilometers of streams, running through the city, into vibrant, accessible waterfront parks just like Cheonggyecheon. And as the city moves toward a more water-sensitive future, Cheonggyecheon stands as a reminder that even in the heart of a big city, nature can make a peaceful comeback. Park Kun-woo, Arirang News.

[Short-form] The Mystery of Water Deer

2025/06/17 14:00

Unravel the mystery of water deer– why the endangered species is thriving in Korea and what’s being done to keep their population in balance

Meet the first foreigner to visit all 76 Korean heritage sites in just two months

2025/06/16 20:00

While most of us are still planning that "someday" trip, one Turkish traveler has already stamped her way through all 76 Korean heritage sites in just two months. Park Hyo-been has her story. While most Koreans have barely scratched the surface of the country's rich heritage, one foreign traveler has gone the distance—visiting all 76 cultural treasures from Ganghwa Dolmen Sites to the Museongseowon Confucian Academy in Jeongeup city. Ayse, a Korean language teacher from Türkiye, began her journey in April at Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, and wrapped it up in just two months. When asked to name her favorite site, she said it was impossible to choose just one. "I think you really have to break it down into categories. If we're talking about the most photogenic place? Definitely Pocheon Art Valley. But if I had to pick somewhere that felt both very Korean and somehow exotic, I'd say Naksansa Temple. And when I went to Hahoe Village in Andong I was honestly speechless." She also said the driving force to visit all the key Korean heritage sites was the stamps. The stamp is at the heart of the Korean Heritage Passport Tour, where participants receive a special "passport" and collect stamps at 76 designated sites across 10 themed routes. "My husband first told me about the program. But the moment I got my very first stamp, I was like—wow, this feels amazing. There was this powerful sense of achievement that made me want to keep going. And I guess another reason was I wanted to be the Turkish person who knows Korea best." The Korean Heritage Passport Tour is part of the Visit Korean Heritage Campaign, launched in 2020 by the Korea Heritage Agency and the Korea Heritage Service. It is an immersive program designed to promote the beauty and value of Korea's national heritage. Since its official launch in May 2023, nearly 400 people have completed the full tour so far. "We deliberately included lesser-known sites outside the Seoul metropolitan area. Since last year, interest has remained strong. So far, we've received around 260,000 applications, and we expect that number to hit 400,000 by the end of this year." As for Ayse, her Korean journey is far from over — in fact, it's only just begun. "I'll travel Korea until the day I die, seriously. I'll keep going until there's not a single step in Korea I haven't walked. Right now, I'm planning to visit all the cities I haven't been to yet, or the ones I passed through too quickly. That's my goal for the next year." Her journey may have started with stamps, but it continues with a deep love for Korea — one step, one city, one story at a time. Park Hyo-been, Arirang News.

Meet the first foreigner to visit all 76 Korean heritage sites in just two months

2025/06/16 17:00

South Korea hosts a total of 76 national heritage sites and one Turkish traveler has become the first foreigner to visit all of them over a span of two months. Park Hyo-been shares her story. While most Koreans have barely scratched the surface of the country's rich heritage, one foreign traveler has gone the distance—visiting all 76 cultural treasures from Ganghwa Dolmen Sites to the Museongseowon Confucian Academy in Jeongeup city. Ayse, a Korean language teacher from Türkiye, began her journey in April at Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, and wrapped it up in just two months. When asked to name her favorite site, she said it was impossible to choose just one. "I think you really have to break it down into categories. If we're talking about the most photogenic place? Definitely Pocheon Art Valley. But if I had to pick somewhere that felt both very Korean and somehow exotic, I'd say Naksansa Temple. And when I went to Hahoe Village in Andong I was honestly speechless." She also said the driving force to visit all the key Korean heritage sites was the stamps. The stamp is at the heart of the Korean Heritage Passport Tour, where participants receive a special "passport" and collect stamps at 76 designated sites across 10 themed routes. "My husband first told me about the program. But the moment I got my very first stamp, I was like—wow, this feels amazing. There was this powerful sense of achievement that made me want to keep going. And I guess another reason was I wanted to be the Turkish person who knows Korea best." The Korean Heritage Passport Tour is part of the Visit Korean Heritage Campaign, launched in 2020 by the Korea Heritage Agency and the Korea Heritage Service. It is an immersive program designed to promote the beauty and value of Korea's national heritage. Since its official launch in May 2023, nearly 400 people have completed the full tour so far. "We deliberately included lesser-known sites outside the Seoul metropolitan area. Since last year, interest has remained strong. So far, we've received around 260,000 applications, and we expect that number to hit 400,000 by the end of this year." As for Ayse, her Korean journey is far from over — in fact, it's only just begun. "I'll travel Korea until the day I die, seriously. I'll keep going until there's not a single step in Korea I haven't walked. Right now, I'm planning to visit all the cities I haven't been to yet, or the ones I passed through too quickly. That's my goal for the next year." Her journey may have started with stamps, but it continues with a deep love for Korea — one step, one city, one story at a time. Park Hyo-been, Arirang News.

Meet the first foreigner to visit all 76 Korean heritage sites in just two months

2025/06/16 10:00

While most of us are still planning that "someday" trip, one Turkish traveler has already stamped her way through all 76 Korean heritage sites in just two months. Park Hyo-been brings us her story. While most Koreans have barely scratched the surface of the country's rich heritage, one foreign traveler has gone the distance—visiting all 76 cultural treasures from Ganghwa Dolmen Sites to the Museongseowon Confucian Academy in Jeongeup city. Ayse, a Korean language teacher from Türkiye, began her journey in April at Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, and wrapped it up in just two months. When asked to name her favorite site, she said it was impossible to choose just one. "I think you really have to break it down into categories. If we're talking about the most photogenic place? Definitely Pocheon Art Valley. But if I had to pick somewhere that felt both very Korean and somehow exotic, I'd say Naksansa Temple. And when I went to Hahoe Village in Andong I was honestly speechless." She also said the driving force to visit all the key Korean heritage sites was the stamps. The stamp is at the heart of the Korean Heritage Passport Tour, where participants receive a special "passport" and collect stamps at 76 designated sites across 10 themed routes. "My husband first told me about the program. But the moment I got my very first stamp, I was like—wow, this feels amazing. There was this powerful sense of achievement that made me want to keep going. And I guess another reason was I wanted to be the Turkish person who knows Korea best." The Korean Heritage Passport Tour is part of the Visit Korean Heritage Campaign, launched in 2020 by the Korea Heritage Agency and the Korea Heritage Service. It is an immersive program designed to promote the beauty and value of Korea's national heritage. Since its official launch in May 2023, nearly 400 people have completed the full tour so far. "We deliberately included lesser-known sites outside the Seoul metropolitan area. Since last year, interest has remained strong. So far, we've received around 260,000 applications, and we expect that number to hit 400,000 by the end of this year." As for Ayse, her Korean journey is far from over — in fact, it's only just begun. "I'll travel Korea until the day I die, seriously. I'll keep going until there's not a single step in Korea I haven't walked. Right now, I'm planning to visit all the cities I haven't been to yet, or the ones I passed through too quickly. That's my goal for the next year." Her journey may have started with stamps, but it continues with a deep love for Korea — one step, one city, one story at a time. Park Hyo-been, Arirang News.

Bolivia celebrates subdued 'Gran Poder' festival

2025/06/16 10:00

Bolivia's city of La Paz celebrated its annual Gran Poder, or the Great Power festival, over the weekend, blending traditional Catholic devotion with indigenous Andean culture. The streets were filled with vibrant dances, prayers, and music, dedicated to a 17th-century painting of Jesus Christ. While the day of the Great Power is typically exuberant, the event was more subdued this year, with a moment of silence for six people killed in clashes between protesters and police following the disqualification of a former President.

Lone passenger survives deadly Air India crash, speculation of rare double engine failure

2025/06/13 20:00

Over in India now. Recovery efforts continued Friday in the wreckage of a London-bound Air India passenger plane that crashed almost immediately after takeoff, leaving just one survivor. Cha Yun-kyung has the latest. Air India said on Friday that 241 of 242 people onboard a plane bound for London that crashed on Thursday were killed in what is thought to be one of India's worst airline disasters in decades. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner crashed in the northwestern city of Ahmedabad, shortly after takeoff. According to reports, 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, seven Portuguese, and one Canadian national were among the passengers on board. However, one passenger, a British national named Vishwashkumar Ramesh who sat in seat 11A, miraculously survived the crash, and was sent to a nearby hospital for treatment saying he "had no idea how he survived." "Yes, he is fine, he said nothing else." "We are absolutely upset (about) things, not just because he's our brother, but (because of) other people as well. There were 242 people on the flight." Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the scene of the crash on Friday and met with hospitalized people who had been injured on the ground. The National Disaster Response Force said that 81 bodies had been recovered by the morning, with the remains of the dead still being recovered. The death toll is expected to rise as the aircraft crashed into a residential area attached to a Medical College. It's still unclear what caused the crash, however, videos that have emerged show the plane struggling to gain altitude, seemingly amid a lack of thrust or power. One cause that has been speculated on by some experts is the possibility of an extremely rare double engine failure. The UK government has dispatched an investigation team to India to assist in determining the cause of the crash, as has the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration, the National Transportation Safety Board, and representatives from Boeing, the aircraft's manufacturer. Cha Yun-kyung, Arirang News.

Air India says 241 dead after plane crashes following take off

2025/06/13 10:00

Investigations are underway after an Air India passenger plane headed to London with 242 people on board crashed shortly after takeoff, with only one survivor. The plane crashed into a medical college in the city of Ahmedabad, causing further casualties. Lee Seung-jae has more. Air India says 241 of 242 people onboard a London-bound plane that crashed on Thursday were killed in what is thought to be one of India's worst airline disasters in decades. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner crashed in the northwestern city of Ahmedabad, shortly after takeoff. According to reports 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, seven Portuguese, and one Canadian national were among the passengers on board. However,.. one passenger, a British national, miraculously survived the crash, and was sent to a nearby hospital for treatment. According to authorities, the lone survivor walked away after the accident, and escaped the site without life-threatening injuries. And the death toll is expected to rise as the aircraft crashed into a residential area attached to BJ Medical College, with part of the plane falling on a dining facility. According to local authorities, at least five medical students were killed on the ground, and dozens of others were injured. It's still unclear what caused the crash, however, video footage shows the plane with its nose pointed upward as it sinks lower toward the ground before the crash. An investigation is also underway to determine the exact cause. With 53 British nationals on board the ill-fated flight, the UK government has launched a crisis response team and has dispatched an investigation team to India. Its also working closely with Indian authorities to find the cause of the crash and provide support to affected families. Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.

K-Wave AI News

2025/06/11 14:00

Hello and welcome to your AI guide to the latest cultural updates from Korea. Here's our top story. The Korean government is stepping up efforts to combat rising overseas copyright infringement of K-content. The Culture Ministry held the 2025 Copyright Protection Enforcement International Cooperation Meeting on Tuesday, bringing together content industry leaders and law enforcement officials from Korea and abroad. Participants included investigative officials from the Philippines and Malaysia, Interpol, Naver Webtoon, and Kakao Entertainment. They discussed strategies for blocking illegal websites and strengthening cross-border cooperation for stronger joint copyright enforcement. Public access to the former presidential office of Cheong Wa Dae will be adjusted starting next month in line with the relocation of Korea's top office back to the Blue House. According to the Blue House Foundation, visits to Cheong Wa Dae will be partially restricted from July 16 to 31, and temporarily suspended from August 1 until President Lee Jae-myung's move is complete. This is to allow for security and safety inspections for the new president and his aides. The Blue House was opened to the public in 2022 when former President Yoon Suk-yeol relocated the presidential office to Yongsan. To mark the 75th anniversary of the Korean War, a special exhibition highlighting the voices and dedication of veterans is underway in Seoul. The nonprofit organization 'Project Soldier' is hosting the event titled: "Project Soldier: Searching for Korean War Veterans" at SJ Kunsthalle in Nonhyeon-dong, Gangnam-gu, District through June 25. The exhibit features Korean War veterans' testimonies, photographs, and historical records, delivering the powerful message that "Freedom Is Not Free." Organizers said the event aims to honor the sacrifices made during the war and remind the public of the value of hard-fought freedom. That's all from me. Stay tuned to the Kulture Wave.

How botanic gardens can be key in solving global environmental challenges

2025/06/11 10:00

Up next, a showcase here in Seoul suggests botanical gardens may be the key to sustainable solutions to some environmental concerns. Our Byeon Ye-young files this report. Environmental issues are a global challenge. But there's one solution that can boost biodiversity and cool the local environment: botanical gardens and arboretums. An event in Seoul is opening a new chapter in exploring their role in tackling environmental issues: The 11th International Congress on Education in Botanic Gardens. "From June 9th to 13th, the COEX Grand Ballroom has been transformed into a global hub for botanical garden education—where ideas take root and grow into solutions for a greener future." The global forum on botanical garden education comes to East Asia for the first time. This year's theme is "Education for Change: Botanic Gardens' Role in Addressing Global Challenges". At the core of the conversations is the importance of working together as a community to mitigate environmental challenges. Keynote speaker Choi Jae-chun posed the idea that the COVID-19 pandemic was the result of imbalances in biodiversity. "If this severe imbalance in biodiversity isn't addressed in some way, we'll continue to face situations like this repeatedly --it's simply a matter of probability." He highlighted the importance of botanical gardens as a means to promote biodiversity and raise interest in environmental conservation. Another keynote speaker Shahbaz Khan discussed the vital role of UNESCO in reversing climate change and highlighted botanical gardens as key tools in building sustainability. "Botanical gardens are important for keeping the cities cool, and they can be an answer to increasing temperatures. They can help us reduce the needs for the air conditioning for example." He pointed to thermal images of a city which showed how places with gardens had cooler temperatures, and underscored the importance of botanical gardens in conserving plant species. Over the course of five days, participants are engaging in workshops, panel discussions, and a field trip to the Korea National Arboretum, as they work toward a greener, more sustainable planet. Botanical artwork brings a colorful, creative layer to the educational experience, while booths showcase various contributions to environmental preservation. Byeon Ye-young, Arirang News.

How botanic gardens can be key in solving global environmental challenges

2025/06/10 17:00

Up next a showcase here in Seoul suggests botanical gardens may be the key to sustainable solutions to some environmental concerns. Our Byeon Ye-young files this report. Environmental issues are a global challenge. But there's one solution that can boost biodiversity and cool the local environment: botanical gardens and arboretums. An event in Seoul is opening a new chapter in exploring their role in tackling environmental issues: The 11th International Congress on Education in Botanic Gardens. "From June 9th to 13th, the COEX Grand Ballroom has been transformed into a global hub for botanical garden education—where ideas take root and grow into solutions for a greener future." The global forum on botanical garden education comes to East Asia for the first time. This year's theme is "Education for Change: Botanic Gardens' Role in Addressing Global Challenges". At the core of the conversations is the importance of working together as a community to mitigate environmental challenges. Keynote speaker Choi Jae-chun posed the idea that the COVID-19 pandemic was the result of imbalances in biodiversity. "If this severe imbalance in biodiversity isn't addressed in some way, we'll continue to face situations like this repeatedly it's simply a matter of probability." He highlighted the importance of botanical gardens as a means to promote biodiversity and raise interest in environmental conservation. Another keynote speaker Shahbaz Khan discussed the vital role of UNESCO in reversing climate change and highlighted botanical gardens as key tools in building sustainability. "Botanical gardens are important for keeping the cities cool, and they can be an answer to increasing temperatures. They can help us reduce the needs for the air conditioning for example." He pointed to thermal images of a city which showed how places with gardens had cooler temperatures, and underscored the importance of botanical gardens in conserving plant species. Over the course of five days, participants are engaging in workshops, panel discussions, and a field trip to the Korea National Arboretum, as they work toward a greener, more sustainable planet. Botanical artwork brings a colorful, creative layer to the educational experience, while booths showcase various contributions to environmental preservation. Byeon Ye-young, Arirang News.

Fire near Buddhist temple in Seoul extinguished; No injuries, no artifacts damaged

2025/06/10 17:00

A fire that broke out at around 10 AM on this Tuesday at a building within the compound of the historic Jogye temple in Seoul was extinguished some 90 minutes later. Some three hundred monks and officials from the Jogye order were at a meeting in the building's conference hall but were all safely evacuated. There have been no reports of casualties nor damage of national treasures. The cause of the fire has yet to be confirmed.

Moscow-Pyongyang direct railway to resume operations next week

2025/06/10 17:00

Passenger train service between Moscow and Pyongyang that were halted in 2020 amid the pandemic will resume next Tuesday. According to Russian Railways the service will be available twice a month with the train from Pyongyang departing on the 3rd and 17th of every month and that from Moscow departing on the 12th and 26th of each month. The one-way trip takes eight days and is reportedly the longest direct train journey in the world spanning over 10-thousand kilometers.

Korean Temple Food Festival returns after 10 years drawing crowds seeking tasty cultural experiences

2025/06/09 17:00

Korea's temple food as pundits claim has its "roots in history but speaks to modern tastes" and a recent festival here sought to share this reality with the broader public. Our Park Jun-han was there. From traditional steamed tofu to yuzu-flavored sweet rice, and shiitake mushroom stew. These foods are not just tasty vegetarian dishes — they also embody core Buddhist values. Temple food, known for creating mental and physical energy during training, respects life and avoids the use of the 'five pungent vegetables, namely, onions, garlic, chives, green onions, and leeks, which are believed to hinder spiritual clarity and inner peace. "I am currently at the Korean Temple Food Festival. Come along as I dive into the unique flavors and the timeless value of temple food." People from assorted backgrounds and a variety of countries gathered here in Seoul to celebrate and experience the excellence of temple food. They sampled dishes and even tried making some themselves. Some 20 thousand people took part in the event, over two days from Saturday to Sunday, with the majority of attendees in their 20s and 30s. With its health-forward approach and mild flavors, temple food has become a popular alternative for those avoiding strong flavors. "There's a recent trend like the slow aging diet and low-sodium diet. People these days want to live a healthy life, so I think these are the parts of what makes temple food so appealing." Of course, temple food is not just healthy, it is tasty and flavorful. "I was actually surprised because I've never tried temple food before. So I thought it would be like very bland, but it actually was very flavorful." Now that Korean temple food gained recognition as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage in May, efforts are underway to expand its reach globally. "Korean temple food, now recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage, is ready to inspire people around the world with its universal appeal, transcending religious boundaries, which is why we are actively promoting it overseas." Aiming for UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage recognition, the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism is strengthening its global presence through cultural exchanges, Templestay programs, and academic initiatives, while championing core Buddhist values. Park Jun-han, Arirang News.