News

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

2025/04/17 17:00

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

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

2025/04/16 20:00

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

Nationwide memorials mark 11th anniversary of Sewol ferry disaster

2025/04/16 20:00

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

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

2025/04/16 17:00

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

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

2025/04/16 17:00

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

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

2025/04/16 14:00

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

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

2025/04/16 10:00

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

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

2025/04/16 10:00

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

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

2025/04/15 20:00

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

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

2025/04/15 17:00

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

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

2025/04/15 14:00

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

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

2025/04/11 20:00

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

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

2025/04/11 17:00

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

K-wave AI News

2025/04/11 14:00

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

Six dead in New York City helicopter crash

2025/04/11 10:00

Meanwhile, in the United States, a helicopter carrying a family from Spain crashed in New York City's Hudson River, resulting in the deaths of all six individuals on board, including the pilot. On Thursday afternoon, local time, at 3:17 PM, a Bell 206 helicopter operated by New York Helicopters crashed into the Hudson River near Lower Manhattan. The aircraft carried a Spanish family of two adults and three children, along with the pilot. Eyewitnesses observed the helicopter breaking apart mid-air before crashing upside-down into the water. The Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board have begun investigations into the cause of the crash. Mayor Eric Adams extended condolences to the victims' families, describing the incident as "heartbreaking and tragic."

Jeju 4.3 Archives officially listed in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register

2025/04/11 10:00

UNESCO has officially listed the Jeju 4.3 Archives in its Memory of the World Register, recognizing their historical value, authenticity, and universal significance. The decision was confirmed Thursday, local time in France, according to Jeju officials. The archives contain around 15-thousand records, including victim testimonies and documents from the decades-long truth and reconciliation process related to the April 3rd Incident and following civilian massacres on Jeju Island in 1948 and 1949. With this latest addition, South Korea now has 20 entries in UNESCO's Memory of the World Register.

K-wave AI News

2025/04/10 14:00

Hello and welcome to your AI guide to the latest cultural updates from Korea. Here's our top story. The National Heritage Service has downgraded the national heritage disaster warning level from "Serious" to "Alert." The decision comes two weeks after the highest alert level was issued on March 25 in response to massive wildfires in the Gyeongsang region. The agency explained that the immediate threat has been resolved as the fires have been fully contained in Ulsan and across the Gyeongsang provinces. A total of 35 national heritage sites were damaged in the wildfires, including the thousand-year-old Gounsa Temple in Uiseong. The National Museum of Korea ranked 8th in visitor numbers last year among museums and art galleries worldwide. According to international art publication, 'The Art Newspaper,' the museum attracted nearly 3.8 million visitors in 2024. This places the National Museum of Korea as the eighth most visited in the world among the institutions surveyed. The Louvre in Paris topped the list with over 8.7 million visitors, followed by the Vatican Museums, the British Museum in London, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. The '46th Seonnong Daeje,' a traditional royal ritual to pray for a bountiful harvest, will take place next week in Seoul's Dongdaemun District. Joseon kings symbolically plowed a field to underscore the importance of agriculture and shared beef soup with the people afterward — a custom believed to be the origin of 'seolleongtang,' a beloved Korean dish. Festivities will kick off next Friday with a Korean traditional music concert at the 'Flower Garden of Knowledge' in Jeonnong-dong. The main event will be held the following day, featuring ceremonial rites and a reenactment of a royal procession. Around 300 participants, including international students, are expected to join the procession to Seonnongdan, a historic altar where kings once carried out the agricultural rituals. That's all from me. Keep it tuned to the Kulture Wave.

[Short-form] Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty

2025/04/10 14:00

Embark on a journey through the charms of the Joseon royal tombs, where history and nature come together.

[Hallyu People] Meet the director of King Sejong Institute Surabaya, selected as "Best KSI of 2024"

2025/04/10 14:00

Indonesia is one of the largest consumers of Korean culture in Southeast Asia showing one of the highest favorabilities towards Korean cultural content according to surveys in recent years. No wonder then, that interest in learning the Korean language is also high. For today’s “Hallyu People” we connect live to Herwindy Maria Tejaatmaja, the director of the Sejong Institute Surabaya, to listen to the current status of Korean language learning in Indonesia. Hello Herwindy! Q1) First of all, congratulations to your King Sejong Institute having been chosen as one of the five best King Sejong institutes in 2024. How do you feel about this achievement? Q2) KSI Surabaya celebrates its 10th anniversary this year and has so far around 6,000 graduates. Any memorable moments or stories of students you would like to share? Q3) Indonesia has the fourth largest number of King Sejong Institutes in Asia, after Vietnam, China and Japan. What are the reasons behind people in Indonesia enrolling in Korean culture or language classes? (Majoring in Korean at universities is also popular we heard?) Q4) In addition to teaching Korean, we heard KSI Surabaya also works with the local community to organize Korean culture lectures. What kind of events have been held recently and how was the response? Q5) At the beginning, I mentioned that Indonesia has been found to be a country with one of the highest interests in K-culture in the world. Do you see that happening around you? Tell us about your own experience. 6) Lastly, for Indonesian fans of the Korean wave, what role can the King Sejong Institute Surabaya play in the future? What are your plans and goals? Is there any upcoming K-culture event (drama, movie, concert) you (Indonesians) are looking forward to this year? Thank you for connecting with us today Herwindy we wish you and the Sejong Institute Surabaya the best and keep in touch. Thank you Bella as always, we'll see you back tomorrow.

Ghibli-style AI-generated portrait boom; new wave in art scene?

2025/04/10 10:00

If you're active on social media, you've probably come across one of these Ghibli-style portraits that are AI-generated. Our Park Kun-woo tells us more about the craze as well as the potential issues with the craze. Social media is buzzing with Studio Ghibli-style portraits -not of actual characters but of real people transformed using generative AI. The global trend has also reached South Korea after OpenAI CEO Sam Altman posted his own version last month, showing how ChatGPT can now create intricate images with just simple prompts. "Whenever I open social media, it's flooded with these Ghibli-style images. A lot of my friends have tried them, some even shared their wedding photos in that style." Since the launch of the new image-generation tool in late March, over 700 million images were created, in just the first week. "This is my original photo, and I asked to be turned into a Ghibli character—and boom, two minutes later, here I am. And it's not just this but you can also turn into characters like Pororo or Marvel heroes. No wonder it's gone viral." As the craze spreads, Sam Altman even joked on social media that "our GPUs are melting." However, the trend has also had backlash. A Japanese animation director known for "One Piece" expressed strong distaste, saying the trend is tarnishing the Ghibli brand. And Studio Ghibli co-founder Hayao Miyazaki previously condemned AI-generated work as "an insult to life itself" adding that he would never use it in his pieces. Copyright concerns are also fueling the controversy. "Art styles and aesthetics are considered ideas, so the case is hard to judge whether it's violating copyrights. The issue is whether an AI company trained its model on works in the Ghibli style." She added that because this is a legal grey area with not much precedent, international and social consensus will be crucial moving forward. Despite the controversy, some believe this could be a new turning point in the culture and art scene. "The art world faces what's called "Baumol's cost disease" -rising labor costs without matching productivity. And hand-drawn animation is extremely labor-intensive. Ghibli, for example, hasn't released a new film since 2014. But AI could ease that burden and enable new creations while preserving the original identity." She also said that with proper consensus, AI-generated art could evolve into a new cultural movement, perhaps even gaining long-term value, much like Van Gogh's paintings did posthumously. And considering that, a tiny Ghibli-style AI portrait might just be the spark, redrawing the entire canvas of modern art. Park Kun-woo, Arirang News.