News

Pope Francis lies in St. Peter's Basilica ahead of funeral on April 26

2025/04/23 20:00

The funeral of Pope Francis will take place in the Vatican on Saturday, local time, which will be a final reflection of his humble style. Ahn Sung-jin has more. Pope Francis lies in a wooden coffin, wearing a red robe with the papal mitre on his head and a rosary held in his hands. Unlike his predecessors, who were placed in a triple coffin, the Pope remains in a wooden coffin, which reflects the humble life he led. On Wednesday morning local time, the procession left the chapel of Santa Marta, the Pope's residence in the Vatican, to St. Peter's Basilica. It passed through Santa Marta Square and the Square of the Roman Protomartyrs. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, was in charge of the rite of translation -the process of translating liturgical texts. Large crowds gathered to mourn the Pope's death, carrying flowers and crosses while some prayed. The late Pope's body will be taken into the Basilica of St. Mary Major for entombment, but until then, will remain in an open coffin until Friday at St. Peter's Basilica for mourners who wish to pay their respects before the funeral mass. The Vatican has confirmed that the Pope's funeral will take place on Saturday in St. Peter's Square. Royals and world leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, have confirmed their attendance. Once the mourning period is over, conclave, the process of electing the new pope, will begin. Corriere della Sera, one of Italy's oldest and most-read newspapers, placed South Korea's first Prefect of the Vatican's Diacastery for the Clergy, Cardinal Lazarus You Heung-sik , as a potential successor. The newspaper described You as "A member of the Focolare Movement who sought reconciliation between the two Koreas." Pope Francis appointed 80 percent of the cardinals who will pick the next pope. Though several contenders have been brought up, it is more likely to be narrowed down in the coming days. Ahn Sung-jin, Arirang News.

[Earth day] Seoul's push to cut waste with reusable delivery containers

2025/04/23 17:00

Yesterday April 22nd was Earth Day and in light of this occasion we share with you the latest efforts by Seoul City to reduce single-use plastic waste at Hangang Parks where picnics are very popular. Lee Eun-hee files this report. Having a picnic and enjoying food delivery-it's pure happiness, until we realize that our earth can't sustain this convenience forever. And as more people begin to enjoy the outdoors after a long winter, starting this month, Seoul City is working to reduce single-use waste by installing return stations for reusable food delivery containers at Hangang Parks, beginning with two at Ttukseom Hangang Park and뚝섬 한강공원 두 곳, 여의도 한강공원 세 곳에 먼저 설치됩니다. three at Yeouido Hangang Park. To use the service, the reusable container option in the delivery app needs to be selected. And to return containers, simply scan the QR code on the delivery bag and drop them at the designated station. Next, these used containers are taken to the cleaning station. "Reusable containers -one concern that probably comes to mind is sterilization. Can we really trust that they're clean? Well, that's exactly what we're here to find out. Behind me, a full 7-step process ensures that each container is thoroughly washed, sanitized, and inspected before making its way back to customers." The steps include: pre-washing, soaking, high-temperature washing, rinsing, drying, sterilization, disinfection, and a comprehensive inspection. "We at Itgreen run the "Returnit" service, where the containers are collected, sanitized and returned to participating restaurants and vendors for reuse up to 300 times. To ensure the highest standards of hygiene, ATP tests are conducted to measure organic residue, and are ten times stricter than the standard guidelines. "Since the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, food delivery has become a regular part of life. To tackle the growing plastic waste issue, we partnered with major delivery companies in 2022 to launch a reusable container service. The service is now available in most areas of Seoul, and by next year, we plan to expand it to all of the city." For business owners, what are the advantages and challenges of using this system? "The reusable containers are not only clean, but they also retain heat well, helping to keep the food warm during delivery. However, it would be even more practical if the containers came in a wider range of shapes and materials to better suit the food." As more services take part in helping protect the planet, our role is just as important. By recognizing the impact of our daily choices and by participating, we can become part of the change we hope to see. Lee Eun-hee, Arirang News.

Births rise for 8th month, marriages see double-digit growth in Feb.

2025/04/23 17:00

In other news. More babies were born in Korea this past February on year maintaining a promising upward trend for the eighth month in a row. Shin Se-byuck covers the latest findings. South Korea reported a rise in the number of newborns for the eighth consecutive month in February. According to Statistics Korea's data on Wednesday, a total of 20-thousand-35 babies were born in February 2025, a 3-point-2 percent increase from the same month last year. This marks the first time in 11 years that the number of births in February has gone up compared to the previous year. But the pace of growth slowed from January, when the country recorded its highest childbirth growth in recent years at 11-point-6 percent. The country's total fertility rate, the average number of children a woman is expected to have during her lifetime, also saw a slight on-year increase. It came in at point-8-2, up point-0-5 from a year earlier, with gains seen across all age groups, from women aged 24 and under, to those in their 40s and beyond. The number of marriages also continued to climb, with 19-thousand-370 couples tying the knot in February, marking a 14-point-3 percent on-year increase and the 11th straight month of growth the longest upward streak since records began. Meanwhile, the number of divorces dipped slightly, down point-1 percent from a year earlier. Despite the positive signs in the number of newborns and marriages, one expert cautioned that the recent uptick may be a short-term trend, driven more by demographic timing than a fundamental shift. "We're seeing postponed births from the pandemic now taking place, and a large cohort of people currently in their prime age for marriage and childbirth. But that doesn't mean today's young generation is more inclined to get married or have children. So it's too soon to say this is a true upward trend." He added that fundamental issues like soaring housing costs, job insecurity, and the high cost of private education must be tackled to see lasting change. Meanwhile, despite the rise in births and marriages, the country still recorded a natural population decline. With 30-thousand-283 deaths reported in February, a 1-point-3 percent increase on-year, the population shrank by 10-thousand-248. Shin Se-byuck, Arirang News.

[Features reporter] [Earth day] Seoul's push to cut waste with reusable delivery containers

2025/04/23 14:00

Earth Day is celebrated on April 22nd every year. To remember the importance of protecting our planet, Eun-hee you have a story to share? Yes Soa. These kinds of special days are important, and at the very least, they deserve our attention throughout the week or month. Today, I want to share how the South Korean government is supporting sustainable everyday habits, which call for our awareness and participation. Let's all take a closer look. Having a picnic and enjoying food delivery-it's pure happiness, until we realize that our earth can't sustain this convenience forever. And as more people begin to enjoy the outdoors after a long winter, starting this month, Seoul City is working to reduce single-use waste by installing return stations for reusable food delivery containers at Hangang Parks, beginning with two at Ttukseom Hangang Park and three at Yeouido Hangang Park. To use the service, the reusable container option in the delivery app needs to be selected. And to return containers, simply scan the QR code on the delivery bag and drop them at the designated station. Next, these used containers are taken to the cleaning station. "Reusable containers -one concern that probably comes to mind is sterilization. Can we really trust that they’re clean? Well, that’s exactly what we're here to find out. Behind me, a full 7-step process ensures that each container is thoroughly washed, sanitized, and inspected before making its way back to customers." The steps include: pre-washing, soaking, high-temperature washing, rinsing, drying, sterilization, disinfection, and a comprehensive inspection. "We at Itgreen run the "Returnit" service, where the containers are collected, sanitized and returned to participating restaurants and vendors for reuse up to 300 times. To ensure the highest standards of hygiene, ATP tests are conducted to measure organic residue, and are ten times stricter than the standard guidelines. "Since the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, food delivery has become a regular part of life. To tackle the growing plastic waste issue, we partnered with major delivery companies in 2022 to launch a reusable container service. The service is now available in most areas of Seoul, and by next year, we plan to expand it to all of the city." For business owners, what are the advantages and challenges of using this system? "The reusable containers are not only clean, but they also retain heat well, helping to keep the food warm during delivery. However, it would be even more practical if the containers came in a wider range of shapes and materials to better suit the food." As more services take part in helping protect the planet, our role is just as important. By recognizing the impact of our daily choices and by participating, we can become part of the change we hope to see. Lee Eun-hee, Arirang News. I always feel a little bad when I order food from delivery apps because of all the packaging that remains I wasn’t aware of the return stations, and it's something more people should really know about. Exactly. Most importantly, those kinds of services are about making sure people are aware of and actually use them. To help with that, a Seoul City official said they plan to add more informational banners throughout Hangang Parks and update bulletin boards at delivery zones with clear instructions on how to order and return reusable containers. They're also working to bring more restaurants on board. That information really helps I might actually go for a picnic at one of the Hangang Parks this weekend. This reusable container service isn’t just for parks though you can use it at home too, right? Oh yes. The return process is just as simple. You just leave the used containers outside your door. I'd also like to share the progress made so far. Seoul City reported that last year, over 1-point-2 million reusable containers were used during more than 1-hundred-30 baseball games, effectively reducing single-use container consumption by about 9,210 per game. The city is now expanding the service, beginning with high-waste areas such as funeral halls, sports venues, and festivals. Additionally, a small reward is offered for using the service through delivery apps, where customers earn carbon-neutral points for each order, which can be exchanged for cash. Remember the days we left jjajangmyeon containers outside our doors? We've become so used to using all that plastic and throw it away. Great to see this environment-friendly shift, and let's hope the impact will grow as more people get involved. Thank you Eun-hee for sharing. Yes thank you Eun-hee for the story.

More than 20 killed after gunmen open fire on tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir

2025/04/23 10:00

In Indian-administered Kashmir, gunmen opened fire on tourists at a popular resort, killing more than 20 people and leaving many others injured. On Tuesday, local time, a group of at least four militants launched an attack on tourists near Pahalgam, a popular tourist destination in Kashmir. According to Indian police, at least 26 tourists have been killed and three dozen people wounded. Though no group has claimed responsibility for the attack, police attribute it to armed groups opposing Indian rule. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was on an official visit to Saudi Arabia at the time, called the attack a "heinous act" and said those responsible would be brought to justice. World leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also condemned the attack. India and Pakistan administer parts of the disputed region of Kashmir but both claim the territory in its entirety.

Pope Francis to lie in state until funeral on Saturday

2025/04/23 10:00

Over in Vatican now. The body of the late Pope Francis will be moved to Saint Peter's Basilica on Wednesday to lie in state until his funeral on Saturday morning. Lee Seung-jae has the details. The coffin containing the body of the late Pope Francis will be transferred from the chapel of the Casa Santa Marta to St. Peter's Basilica on Wednesday. According to the Holy See press office on Tuesday,.. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, will preside over the rite of translation on Wednesday. St. Peter's Basilica will be open for those who wish to pay their respects before the funeral mass takes place on Saturday. Large numbers were already seen at St. Peter's Square, mourning the death of Pope Francis. "He was a Pope who truly remembered the fringes of society." After the viewing, the funeral mass will begin on Saturday, and will be presided over by the Dean of the College of Cardinals. After communion, the ceremonial final praise and a farewell will be given to the late pope, before he's taken to the St. Mary Major Basilica for burial. Pope Francis will be the first pontiff in more than a hundred years to be buried outside the Vatican. Once the funeral concludes, the long process of choosing the next pope begins. According to Italian daily newspaper Corriere della Sera, Cardinal Lazzaro You Heung-sik, the first Korean to become a Vatican secretary, has been named as a strong candidate for the next pope. Ahead of the conclave to elect the next pope, the Italian daily selected 12 candidates, with Cardinal You the 11th mentioned. You previously served as Bishop of Daejeon from 2005 to 2021, before he was named a cardinal by Pope Francis in 2022. Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.

Gov’t holds disaster safety policy session for diplomatic missions to Korea

2025/04/22 20:00

Disasters are something we must always be prepared for, as safety matters to all. And with a growing number of foreign people in Korea, the authorities turn their eyes to ensuring them better access to information in times of emergency who may struggle due to language barrier. Shin Ha-young tells us more. South Korea is no exception to the growing disaster risks caused by various factors such as climate change and urbanization. Already this year, the country experienced one of the worst wildfires in its history in the southeastern region, and an earthquake struck the central city of Chungju. But not everyone can equally respond to disasters. According to the Justice Ministry, the number of foreigners living in South Korea has been growing annually, with over 2-point-6 million living in Korea as of last year. However, they are especially vulnerable to disaster-related risks due to language barriers and cultural differences. To address this issue, the Ministry of the Interior and Safety held on Tuesday the 8th Annual Policy Session on Disaster and Safety Management for Diplomatic Missions to Korea, bringing around 100 participants from 63 embassies. "Apart from disaster management for the Korean people, you're also thinking about foreigners living in Korea. That's a very good gesture from the Korean government. And we have had a lot of cooperation between the Korean government and Laos, including with ASEAN member states." The session addressed a range of topics, including Korea's comprehensive disaster and safety management system and the effectiveness of disaster alerts and emergency text messaging. One way for foreigners to receive emergency alerts is through the Emergency Ready App, operated by the ministry. "Foreign residents can't receive the emergency messages in their native languages because of the technical limitation of cell phone technology. So we developed an app which is called Emergency Ready App." The app offers a multitude of emergency services, including alerts, safety guides, and information on the locations of civil defense shelters, in five languages. The ministry plans to expand the service to 19 languages by August. During the session, improvements in the country's disaster management were also discussed. "As I said in Belgium, we don't have anything like this, so this is already much appreciated. But of course, there's always room for improvement. First of all is to limit the emergency alerts. It's repeated a lot of times every day." Regarding such an issue, the ministry said it is testing a system to cut down on repetitive or similar emergency alerts, aiming to implement it as early as the second half of this year. Shin Ha-young, Arirang News.

Public mourning for Pope Francis begins at Myeongdong Cathedral in Seoul

2025/04/22 20:00

Public mourning for the deceased Pope Francis has begun in the cathedral of the country's capital. The Archdiocese of Seoul announced that starting at 3 PM today, the public can pay their respects at Myeongdong Cathedral. A memorial space has been set up in the cathedral's underground chapel. Cardinal Andrew Yeom Soo-jung and Archbishop Peter Chung Soon-taick visited the place of worship to pay their respects and so did many South Korean Catholics and non-believers alike.

Pope Francis dies on Mon., to be buried in a 'simple' tomb

2025/04/22 10:00

Pope Francis died on Easter Monday at the age of 88 from a stroke and heart failure. Cathedral bells rang out 88 times in honour of the beloved pope, with people around the world making their way to the Vatican to remember him. Ahn Sung-jin has more. Bells tolled in St. Peter's Square, mourning the death of Pope Francis. The Vatican said that at 7:35AM on Monday, local time, the Pope died at 88 years old from a stroke and heart failure. Though he had been hospitalized for 38 days battling pneumonia in the winter, he had delivered an Easter blessing on Sunday morning, the day before his death. "It is just a very sad day. It is honestly, I think, impressive that he made it to Easter, I think that is almost like a miracle for Italy." "He has been doing a great pastoral work, reaching out to his sheep and, well, now the Lord is calling him to rest, to rest in peace after the great work he has done. We are left to pray for him." In his will, he asked to be buried in a simple tomb in the ground at Rome's Basilica of Saint Mary Major with a one-word inscription Franciscus, his name in Latin. That will make him the first pope in more than a century to be buried outside the Vatican. Pope Francis is history's first Latin American pope and the first Jesuit Pope. He was also the first to allow Catholic priests to bless same-sex couples. As an advocate of peace, he strived for a peaceful outcome in the Ukraine war and called for a Gaza ceasefire. Pope Francis had also visited South Korea in 2014 to pray for the war-divided Peninsula and the families of those who died in the Sewol ferry disaster. World leaders have also spoken about the death of the pontiff. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres called Pope Francis "a messenger of hope, humility and humanity" who "leaves behind a legacy of faith, service and compassion." U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order to put all flags of the country at half-mast, while Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his condolences. A new pontiff will be elected after Catholics begin the nine days of funeral rites. The centuries' old ritual of the conclave procedures begin as cardinals come to Rome to participate in the funeral mass. Following closed meetings, the cardinals will vote to choose the next pontiff. Some say that the Vatican may see their first African or Asian Pope, though it is hard to predict the highly secretive papal conclave. Ahn Sung-jin, Arirang News.

Easter period drownings could be 'the worst' on record says Australian lifesavers

2025/04/22 10:00

In Australia, seven people drowned in New South Wales over the Easter long weekend, marking the country's deadliest holiday period on record. The victims include a nine-year-old boy, who became trapped between rocks at a beach on Sunday afternoon. Surf Life Saving NSW described the weekend as "absolutely horrific," attributing the incidents to a combination of warm weather, dangerous swells, and risky behavior. The group said it performed more than 150 rescues during the holiday period. Authorities urged the public to swim only at patrolled beaches and to adhere to safety warnings.

Pope Francis has died at 88, Vatican announced on Easter Monday

2025/04/21 20:00

Thank you for joining us. I'm Yoon Jung-min. We begin this evening with the passing of a towering figure, not just in the Catholic Church, but for many on the world stage. Pope Francis died on Monday morning, local time, at the age of 88. The late Pope suffered from chronic lung disease. The iconic pontiff was known for his concern for the poorest and most marginalized. Our Choi Soo-hyung walks us through his legacy. Pope Francis died on Monday morning at the age of 88. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican camerlengo, announced that "At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church." Recently, Pope Francis had been treated for severe pneumonia at Gemelli Hospital in Rome, Italy, for about a month starting in February. He then returned to the Vatican and resumed his duties. Ahead of Easter, he made a surprise visit to a prison in Rome and also held a private meeting with U.S. Vice President JD Vance. On Easter Sunday, April 20th, he delivered a blessing message in St. Peter's Square. "Dear brothers and sisters, Happy Easter. The Master of Ceremonies will read you the message." On March 13th, 2013, Argentine-born Jorge Mario Bergoglio was elected as the 266th pope, the head of the Roman Catholic Church, following the surprise resignation of his predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI . He became the first Latin-American pontiff and one of the oldest popes in the Catholic Church's history at the age of 76. "Brothers and sisters, good evening." From his very first greeting as pope, Francis went on to lead the world's 1-point-4 billion Catholics for 12 years. Since his election, Pope Francis drew global attention with his humble and modest lifestyle wearing simple shoes and carrying an iron cross instead of the golden one. He also led progressive reforms within the Catholic Church, often clashing with conservative factions. As part of his efforts to reform the Vatican, he took on entrenched bureaucracies and emphasized the need for the Church to be more inclusive. He dedicated his whole life to supporting minorities and vulnerable groups. Last year, his decision to allow Catholic priests to "bless" same-sex couples sparked controversy and backlash from traditionalists. In January, he appointed Sister Simona Brambilla as the first female prefect in the history of the Vatican. Pope Francis is also remembered for his strong and consistent messages on global conflict and peace. He visited the Arab Emirates, becoming the first pope in history to set foot on the Arabian Peninsula, and also visited Orthodox Christian countries like Bulgaria, promoting unity. He called for an end to the war between Russia and Ukraine, and urged a ceasefire in the conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. In 2014, he visited South Korea as the first stop on his tour of Asia, demonstrating his deep concern for peace on the Korean Peninsula. During Pope Francis's tenure, two South Korean cardinals were appointed Andrew Yeom Soo-jung and Lazzaro You Heung-sik. Cardinal You currently serves as the Prefect of the Vatican's Dicastery for the Clergy. Choi Soo-hyung, Arirang News.

Remembering Jeju 4.3 incident

2025/04/21 20:00

A while back, we highlighted the inclusion of a painful chapter in Jeju's history in UNESCO's documentary heritage, remembering the incident where thousands of civilians fell victim to armed crackdowns. Today we expand on that event by sharing with you the journey from loss to healing. Our Ahn Sung-jin reports from the southern island. The search for answers still continues nearly 80 years after the Jeju April 3rd incident. Mr. Yang's grandfather was one of the missing from the incident. Only around ten years ago did he find out his grandfather had died in prison. "I still get emotional every time I talk about it, but the older I get, the more I understand the hardships of what my grandpa went through. I work on understanding the pain of those who have passed away." Mr. Yang works for the association of victim's families from the Jeju 4.3 incident. There are some 4-thousand tombstones of the missing victims that the families still mourn. The Jeju 4.3 incident traces back to an uprising on the island in the late 1940s, at a time when South Korea was still working on forming its own government. Following discontent over the election process and economic hardships, the Worker's Party of South Korea launched an armed uprising, which the government violently suppressed. Many were killed by the government forces and others allegedly involved in the uprising were sent to prison and tortured. Many like Mr. Yang's grandfather died in prison. "The reason this stone can't be placed is because this still doesn't have a name to it. Some call it a massacre, some say it's a revolt, but there has been no name given to it." Around 30-thousand people are thought to have died. More than 30 percent of them were elderly, children or women who were not affiliated with any of the combatants. "Those who know the past and the story behind it, work on raising awareness so more people recognize the value and significance of what happened here." The Jeju April 3rd incident became the background for Nobel Prize literature winner Han Kang's book "We do not part", discussing humanity and the survivors of the incident. "I read testimonies from massacre survivors, pored over materials, and then, in as restrained a manner as I could without looking away from the brutal details that felt almost impossible to put into words, I wrote what became 'We Do Not Part'." To make sure the incident and the victims are not forgotten, the Jeju 4.3 archives have been designated as a UNESCO Memory of the World. The documents in the archives illustrated the underlying human stories of Jeju. Time passes but what remains important is that people continue to remember. Ahn Sung-jin, Arirang News, Jeju.

Remembering Jeju 4.3 incident

2025/04/21 17:00

A while back we highlighted the inclusion of a painful chapter in Jeju's history in UNESCO's documentary heritage. Well today we expand on that event by sharing with you the journey from loss to healing. My colleague Ahn Sung-jin reports from the southern island. The search for answers still continues nearly 80 years after the Jeju April 3rd incident. Mr. Yang's grandfather was one of the missing from the incident. Only around ten years ago did he find out his grandfather had died in prison. "I still get emotional every time I talk about it, but the older I get, the more I understand the hardships of what my grandpa went through. I work on understanding the pain of those who have passed away." Mr. Yang works for the association of victim's families from the Jeju 4.3 incident. There are some 4-thousand tombstones of the missing victims that the families still mourn. The Jeju 4.3 incident traces back to an uprising on the island in the late 1940s, at a time when South Korea was still working on forming its own government. Following discontent over the election process and economic hardships, the Worker's Party of South Korea launched an armed uprising, which the government violently suppressed. Many were killed by the government forces and others allegedly involved in the uprising were sent to prison and tortured. Many like Mr. Yang's grandfather died in prison. "The reason this stone can't be placed is because this still doesn't have a name to it. Some call it a massacre, some say it's a revolt, but there has been no name given to it." Around 30-thousand people are thought to have died. More than 30 percent of them were elderly, children or women who were not affiliated with any of the combatants. "Those who know the past and the story behind it, work on raising awareness so more people recognize the value and significance of what happened here." The Jeju April 3rd incident became the background for Nobel Prize literature winner Han Kang's book "We do not part", discussing humanity and the survivors of the incident. "I read testimonies from massacre survivors, pored over materials, and then, in as restrained a manner as I could without looking away from the brutal details that felt almost impossible to put into words, I wrote what became 'We Do Not Part'." To make sure the incident and the victims are not forgotten, the Jeju 4.3 archives have been designated as a UNESCO Memory of the World. The documents in the archives illustrated the underlying human stories of Jeju. Time passes but what remains important is that people continue to remember. Ahn Sung-jin, Arirang News, Jeju.

[Features-reporter] Remembering Jeju 4.3 incident

2025/04/21 14:00

Earlier this month, Koreans commemorated the anniversary of an uprising on South Korea's Jeju Island back in 1948. Days after we learned that the archives of the Jeju April 3rd incident were officially added to UNESCO's Memory of the World Register in remembrance of the victims of state violence. Our News Features reporter Ahn Sung-jin went down to Jeju to take a closer look at the historical artifacts. The search for answers still continues nearly 80 years after the Jeju April 3rd incident. Mr. Yang's grandfather was one of the missing from the incident. Only around ten years ago did he find out his grandfather had died in prison. "I still get emotional every time I talk about it, but the older I get, the more I understand the hardships of what my grandpa went through. I work on understanding the pain of those who have passed away." Mr. Yang works for the association of victim's families from the Jeju 4.3 incident. There are some 4-thousand tombstones of the missing victims that the families still mourn. The Jeju 4.3 incident traces back to an uprising on the island in the late 1940s, at a time when South Korea was still working on forming its own government. Following discontent over the election process and economic hardships, the Worker's Party of South Korea launched an armed uprising, which the government violently suppressed. Many were killed by the government forces and others allegedly involved in the uprising were sent to prison and tortured. Many like Mr. Yang's grandfather died in prison. "The reason this stone can't be placed is because this still doesn't have a name to it. Some call it a massacre, some say it's a revolt, but there has been no name given to it." Around 30-thousand people are thought to have died. More than 30 percent of them were elderly, children or women who were not affiliated with any of the combatants. "Those who know the past and the story behind it, work on raising awareness so more people recognize the value and significance of what happened here." The Jeju April 3rd incident became the background for Nobel Prize literature winner Han Kang's book "We do not part", discussing humanity and the survivors of the incident. "I read testimonies from massacre survivors, pored over materials, and then, in as restrained a manner as I could without looking away from the brutal details that felt almost impossible to put into words, I wrote what became 'We Do Not Part'." To make sure the incident and the victims are not forgotten, the Jeju 4.3 archives have been designated as a UNESCO Memory of the World. The documents in the archives illustrated the underlying human stories of Jeju. Time passes but what remains important is that people continue to remember. Ahn Sung-jin, Arirang News, Jeju.

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.