News

How South Korean adoptees raised abroad are returning in search of their identities

2025/03/26 17:00

Effort to better accommodate adoptees from overseas seeking to trace their roots here in Korea continue with both the government and private entities offering assistance. Our Bae Eun-ji reports. Kim Sperling was born in Seoul in 1975, and was sent to an adoption agency when he was a month old. He was then adopted in Germany when he was just seven months. "I probably totally barred the whole abduction thing that the agency might've tried to sell to adoptive parents. If I had questioned that, there would have been no place where I could have found answers at that time. In the 80s and the 90s, nobody knew anything about Korea." He first returned to Korea at the age of 30, seeking to find his roots. "For me, it was about okay, I've got to clear the relationship between me and Korea. I mean, it's there and I cannot deny it." That's when he also made efforts to find his biological parents. "I started looking for them in 2006. A few weeks later I got an email and it's like we looked at the files and we contacted the hospital and they had another file and we have a name of your mother and I was surprised. It had a birth date but the police wouldn't locate any person with a matching name and birth date." He now lives in Korea with his wife and two children. He's also a photographer who has worked on projects that portray different stories about Korean adoptees who've returned to their country of birth. His works also include projects that relate to his Korean heritage, including Dokdo as well as Korean nurses and miners who were sent to Germany in the mid-1900s. "I am Korean, and I am German, and you know it's like the way my Korean is something that like my Korean identity my consciousness is like still evolving. It's like I'm learning every day." Sterling was just one of many Korean children who were sent abroad for adoption. Since 1953, after the country was ravaged by the Korean War, around 200-thousand Korean babies are known to have been sent to other countries. Louise Lindberg was adopted in Sweden when she was 12. After working as a social worker in Sweden for 18 years, she decided to return to the country where she was born. She now helps overseas Korean adoptees reconnect with their heritage at a non-profit organization and explains many of those who return have said they feel safe and comfortable. "And just like things like hey, people just like look like me, and they feel really comfortable. Because I asked, why did you come? What is the best thing with being in Korea? And they were like everybody just looks like me and I can just feel safe." The South Korean government is also making efforts to help these Korean adoptees who grew up overseas. The Overseas Korean Agency newly opened a service counter in central Seoul, aimed at providing a "one-stop" service that will not only provide interpretation services but also help them find their birth parents. "One example of the services that this counter could provide is finding parents using DNA matches, or providing adoption information." As the country continues to acknowledge its past on adoption, the government is now hoping to provide full support to make up for decades of lost time. Bae Eun-ji, Arirang News.

S. Korea's birthrate increases for 7th straight month in Jan.

2025/03/26 17:00

The number of newborns in January here in Korea noted a remarkable rise on year as it surged over 11 percent. Park Jun-han covers the latest findings. As of January, the number of childbirths in South Korea has been on the rise for seven consecutive months. According to Statistics Korea's data on Wednesday, the number of childbirths in January 2025 was 23-thousand 9-hundred-47. This number is 11.6 percent higher than the 21-thousand-4-hundred-61 births in January 2024. That's the biggest percentage increase since related data was first compiled. South Korea's total fertility rate, the average number of children a woman would have during her lifetime, also increased from January 2024's point-8 children to this January's point-88 children. The statistics show an increase in the total fertility rate for 25-29 year olds, those in their 30s, and those aged 40 and over. The number of marriages in South Korea has been rising for the past ten months, with the marriage rate increasing by over ten percent compared to the year before for all of those ten months except for June 2024 and January 2025. In January 2025, the number of marriages came to 20-thousand-1-hundred-53, point-7 percent higher than that of January last year. "If you look at the marriage growth rate, it has been increasing since April 2024 until now. In January 2025, there was a point-7 percent increase, so it looks like the growth rate has decreased a little bit, but it's actually due to the impact of four fewer reporting days because of the Seollal holiday in January 2025. If the number of reporting days hadn't decreased by four, the marriage rate would have been in the 20 percent range or at least in double-digit growth." Even though there has been a recent increase in births and marriages, the declining population and aging society remain concerns for South Korea. As a result of 39-thousand-4-hundred-73 deaths in January 2025, the country saw a natural population decline of 15-thousand-5-hundred-26 people. Park Jun-han, Arirang News.

K-wave AI News

2025/03/26 14:00

Hello and welcome to your AI guide to the latest cultural updates from Korea. Here's our top story. The National Heritage Disaster Crisis Level has been raised to "serious" as massive wildfires in Gyeongsangbuk-do Province rage on for a fifth consecutive day. This marks the first time Korea has issued the highest-level alert. The National Heritage Service warns that the risk of damage to cultural heritage sites in Uiseong, Andong, and other parts of the province remains high, with strong winds continuing to drive the fire eastward. The historic Gounsa Temple in Uiseong, a thousand-year-old Buddhist site, has been destroyed by wildfires, with its Gaunru Pavilion and Yeonsujeon Hall reduced to ashes. The two national treasures were charred beyond recognition. Manhyujeong Pavilion in Andong, widely known as a filming location for the K-drama Mr. Sunshine, has escaped major damage. Authorities remain on high alert as the wildfires continue spreading east, with thick smoke detected around Andong's traditional Hahoe Village and Byeongsanseowon, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. While no direct fire damage has been reported in these areas, additional personnel and firefighting equipment have been deployed to prevent potential losses. The Heo Jun Museum is celebrating its 20th anniversary with a special exhibition titled "Joseon's Doctors: Practicing Benevolence." The exhibit highlights the stories of "yu-ui" —Confucian scholars who also served as physicians— and royal court doctors of the era who embodied the Confucian virtue of benevolence and altruism through their practice of medicine. Over 100 artifacts showcasing Joseon-era medical traditions are on display. Founded in 2005 and located in Seoul's Gangseo-gu District, the Heo Jun Museum is dedicated to honoring Heo Jun's legacy and promoting the global recognition of traditional Korean medicine. The exhibition runs until September 7. That's all from me. Keep it tuned to the Kulture Wave.

Five lions rescued from the war in Ukraine arrive at their forever home in the UK

2025/03/26 10:00

Finally, in the UK five neglected lions rescued from war-torn Ukraine have found a new home at the Big Cat Sanctuary in Smarden, Kent. The group includes a male African lion named Rori and lionesses Amani, Lira, Vanda, and Yuna. Their rescue journey was facilitated by the Wild Animals Rescue Center in Ukraine. After being temporarily cared for in Belgium, the lions arrived at The Lion Rescue Center, a sanctuary established through a fundraising campaign and officially opened on Tuesday.

Motorcyclist found dead after being trapped in 20-meter-wide sinkhole in Seoul

2025/03/25 20:00

A sinkhole that opened up here in Seoul on Monday killed one person and authorities now seek the cause of the incident. Park Kun-woo reports. A motorcyclist who had been trapped in a large sinkhole in Seoul was found dead at around 11:30 AM on Tuesday. The 30-year-old was identified after around 17 hours of rescue efforts, from when the approximately 20-meter-wide and deep sinkhole appeared on Monday evening. An official explained that the search operations were made more difficult due to thousands of tons of water and soil filling the sinkhole. "Accumulated soil and water raised the water level and construction equipment got tangled up, making it impossible to enter the area right away." The victim was discovered several hours after his mobile phone and motorbike were found underground earlier that morning. A car driver who passed over the area of road just before the collapse was injured and transported to hospital. The sinkhole appeared in the middle of a road in Myeongil-dong of Gangdong-gu District, eastern Seoul, at around 6:30 PM on Monday, affecting four lanes of a six-lane road. Due to concerns of further collapses, four nearby schools were temporarily closed on Tuesday. Fire authorities point out a possible link to the nearby subway Line 9 extension project and a burst underground pipeline as potential causes of the incident. Seoul officials plan to conduct a thorough investigation to find out the actual cause with experts and related organizations. An emergency safety measure meeting was also held by Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon Tuesday morning to discuss follow-up measures. Park Kun-woo, Arirang News.

Motorcyclist found dead after being trapped in 20-meter-wide sinkhole in Seoul

2025/03/25 17:00

A sinkhole that opened up here in Seoul back on Monday killed one person and has temporarily closed four schools in the vicinity as authorities now seek the cause of the tragic event. Park Kun-woo reports. A motorcyclist who had been trapped in a large sinkhole in Seoul was found dead at around 11:30 AM on Tuesday. The 30-year-old was identified after around 17 hours of rescue efforts, from when the approximately 20-meter-wide and deep sinkhole appeared on Monday evening. An official explained that the search operations were made more difficult due to thousands of tons of water and soil filling the sinkhole. "Accumulated soil and water raised the water level and construction equipment got tangled up, making it impossible to enter the area right away." The victim was discovered several hours after his mobile phone and motorbike were found underground earlier that morning. A car driver who passed over the area of road just before the collapse was injured and transported to hospital. The sinkhole appeared in the middle of a road in Myeongil-dong of Gangdong-gu District, eastern Seoul, at around 6:30 PM on Monday, affecting four lanes of a six-lane road. Due to concerns of further collapses, four nearby schools were temporarily closed on Tuesday. Fire authorities point out a possible link to the nearby subway Line 9 extension project and a burst underground pipeline as potential causes of the incident. Seoul officials plan to conduct a thorough investigation to find out the actual cause with experts and related organizations. An emergency safety measure meeting was also held by Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon Tuesday morning to discuss follow-up measures. Park Kun-woo, Arirang News.

[Kulture Issue] Ensuring safety and credibility amid rising popularity of K-food?

2025/03/25 14:00

From Kimbap to Ramyeon. K-food is growing more popular around the world and is also readily available in more and more places. That’s why, it’s not only taste that should be a priority, but also the packaging, safety and credibility of Korean food items being consumed overseas. Today, we invite someone in charge of that into the studio, Chung Harim , an inspector at the Korea Agency of HACCP Accreditation and Services. Welcome Ms. Chung ! Q1) Let’s first talk a bit about the current popularity of Korean food abroad. How big is it? Q2) Which K-food items are trending nowadays? Q3-1) What’s behind the growth in the popularity of K-food? Q3-2) Ms. Chung, as an inspector at your agency, you must also be embarking on business trips abroad a lot. What are you in charge of overseas? Also, are there particular moments when you feel the love for K-food while in a different country? Q4-1) The interest in hallyu may not be enough to keep the interest in K-food. When it comes to eating, a sense of trust is a must. What’s the government doing on that front? Q4-2) What’s the second one? Q4-3) Food safety policies exist in other countries too. Is Korea stricter in any way? Q5) What are some major accomplishments in terms of building credibility in food safety, and what are your expectations in the future? Q6) Finally, would you like to share some words to all the global K-food lovers out there?

People trek 'Korea Memorial Roads,' with national pilgrimage trails launched on Sunday

2025/03/25 10:00

In light of the 80th anniversary of Korea's liberation, a special tour took place here in Seoul over the weekend which offered trekkers the chance to join a unique trail that traces Korea's fight for independence. Our Kim Bo-kyoung was there. Thousands of enthusiastic trekkers began walking along the trail that starts at Baekbeom Square, on Namsan Mountain in Seoul. They headed along one of the "Korea Memorial Roads," national pilgrimage trails covering Korea's key historic sites. The patriots ministry launched this meaningful trail over the weekend, to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Korea's liberation this year. "South Korea's proud history has come this far after going through many hardships and challenges. The Patriots Ministry tries to remember this through cultural events such as trekking and camping." There are three courses in Seoul related to the country's independence. One that goes around the Jongro area, taking Tapgol Park where the Declaration of Independence was read on March first, 1919, a second route around the Seodaemun area, where trekkers can visit the Prison History Hall where martyrs were imprisoned during the Japanese colonial era. And last, but not least, the route around Namsan Mountain where people can visit the March 1st Independence Movement Monument. Not being a competition participants slowly walked along the trail, enjoying the scent of the newly arrived spring. The focus is not on speed, but on appreciating our ancestors' unyielding wish for independence. "By walking along the trail, tracing historic sites of the independence movement, people will be able to reflect on the courage and sacrifices made for the country's freedom." "I think this is a meaningful event because it lets people think about Korean history, which is easy to forget, once more." More 'Korea Memorial Road' routes are to be announced nationwide. Kim Bo-kyoung, Arirang News.

Rescue efforts continue for motorcyclist trapped in 20-meter-wide sinkhole in Seoul

2025/03/25 10:00

A massive sinkhole, 20 meters wide and deep, opened in a road in Seoul on Monday evening, trapping a motorcyclist and injuring a car driver. Rescue efforts have been ongoing for over 14 hours, in an effort to find the missing motorcyclist. Choi Min-jung reports. Rescue operations are continuing in Seoul after a motorcyclist fell into a massive sinkhole on a public road. According to authorities a sinkhole opened in the middle of a road in Myeongil-dong, Seoul at around 6:30 PM on Monday. The sinkhole is approximately 20 meters wide and 20 meters deep, affecting four lanes of a six-lane road. "We have been manually removing soil to search for the missing person underground. However, due to cracks forming on the upper part of the sinkhole, further entry was deemed too dangerous." The fire department said Tuesday morning, rescuers found the victim's mobile phone at 1:37 AM. The motorcycle was found at 3:30 AM. With tons of water and soil accumulated at the sinkhole, rescue workers in diving suits as well as a search-and-rescue dog continue their efforts to find the victim. Additionally, a car driver who passed through the area just before the collapse was injured and transported to the hospital. Schools in the area decided to close on Tuesday, as a precaution for student safety. As for the cause of the sinkhole, authorities have not ruled out a possible connection to the ongoing subway Line 9 extension project near the collapse site. Construction has been temporarily suspended after the incident. On Monday night, Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon urged enhanced safety measures to avoid additional casualties. Choi Min-jung, Arirang News.

People trek 'Korea Memorial Roads,' with national pilgrimage trails launched on Sunday

2025/03/24 20:00

Back on the local front. We shed light on a tour here in Capital Seoul that offers you the chance to join a trek that traces Korea's fight for independence. Our Kim Bo-kyoung was there. Thousands of enthusiastic trekkers began walking along the trail that starts at Baekbeom Square, on Namsan Mountain in Seoul. They headed along one of the "Korea Memorial Roads," national pilgrimage trails covering Korea's key historic sites. The patriots ministry launched this meaningful trail over the weekend, to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Korea's liberation this year. "South Korea's proud history has come this far after going through many hardships and challenges. The Patriots Ministry tries to remember this through cultural events such as trekking and camping." There are three courses in Seoul related to the country's independence. One that goes around the Jongro area, taking Tapgol Park where the Declaration of Independence was read on March first, 1919, a second route around the Seodaemun area, where trekkers can visit the Prison History Hall where martyrs were imprisoned during the Japanese colonial era. And last, but not least, the route around Namsan Mountain where people can visit the March 1st Independence Movement Monument. Not being a competition participants slowly walked along the trail, enjoying the scent of the newly arrived spring. The focus is not on speed, but on appreciating our ancestors' unyielding wish for independence. "By walking along the trail, tracing historic sites of the independence movement, people will be able to reflect on the courage and sacrifices made for the country's freedom." "I think this is a meaningful event because it lets people think about Korean history, which is easy to forget, once more." More 'Korea Memorial Road' routes are to be announced nationwide. Kim Bo-kyoung, Arirang News.

People trek 'Korea Memorial Roads,' with national pilgrimage trails launched on Sunday

2025/03/24 17:00

Up next we shed light on a tour here in Capital Seoul that offers you the chance to join a trek that traces Korea's fight for independence. Our Kim Bo-kyoung was there. Thousands of enthusiastic trekkers began walking along the trail that starts at Baekbeom Square, on Namsan Mountain in Seoul. They headed along one of the "Korea Memorial Roads," national pilgrimage trails covering Korea's key historic sites. The patriots ministry launched this meaningful trail over the weekend, to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Korea's liberation this year. "South Korea's proud history has come this far after going through many hardships and challenges. The Patriots Ministry tries to remember this through cultural events such as trekking and camping." There are three courses in Seoul related to the country's independence. One that goes around the Jongro area, taking Tapgol Park where the Declaration of Independence was read on March first, 1919, a second route around the Seodaemun area, where trekkers can visit the Prison History Hall where martyrs were imprisoned during the Japanese colonial era. And last, but not least, the route around Namsan Mountain where people can visit the March 1st Independence Movement Monument. Not being a competition participants slowly walked along the trail, enjoying the scent of the newly arrived spring. The focus is not on speed, but on appreciating our ancestors' unyielding wish for independence. "By walking along the trail, tracing historic sites of the independence movement, people will be able to reflect on the courage and sacrifices made for the country's freedom." "I think this is a meaningful event because it lets people think about Korean history, which is easy to forget, once more." More 'Korea Memorial Road' routes are to be announced nationwide. Kim Bo-kyoung, Arirang News.

K-wave AI News

2025/03/24 14:00

Hello and welcome to your AI guide to the latest cultural updates from Korea. Here's our top story. Dozens of wildfires that have swept across multiple regions in Korea in recent days have caused damage to three national heritage sites so far. The Cultural Heritage Service reports that the 900-year-old 'Hadong Duyang-ri Ginkgo Tree' in Sancheong-gun County, Gyeongsangnam-do Province, was partially burned in the fire. In the same province, two annex buildings near the cultural heritage site 'Dubangjae,' which houses the portrait of General Kang Min-cheom from the Goryeo Dynasty, were completely destroyed. In Jeongseon, Gangwon-do Province, parts of the historic scenic site 'Baegunsan Chiljoknyeong' were damaged. Efforts to fully contain the blaze in the southeastern regions are ongoing but are being hindered by unfavorable weather conditions. An exhibition exploring the possibilities and limitations of generative AI and its impact on art is now open. The Coreana Museum of Art in Seoul is showcasing a thematic exhibition titled "Synthetic Fever," which examines the potential and constraints of generative AI, alongside the excitement and fears it provokes, through the perspectives of nine contemporary artists. It highlights how AI technology is reshaping the concepts of art and creativity, while also revealing its complex impact on societies. The exhibition runs until June 28. The annual Everland Tulip Festival has kicked off, welcoming visitors to a vibrant spring experience with over one million flowers from over 100 species, including tulips, daffodils, and muscari. Everland operator Samsung C&T Corporation says this year's festival offers an expanded lineup of globally popular Sanrio character-themed content for an immersive experience. The festival's main venue, the 10,000-square-meter Four Seasons Garden, showcases a dazzling array of spring blooms alongside 11 interactive experience zones. Visitors can also experience the festival's signature daytime and nighttime performances, including captivating carnival parades and circus shows. That's all from me. Keep it tuned to the Kulture Wave.

Landmarks around the world join Earth Hour

2025/03/24 10:00

On Saturday, the Earth Hour campaign united millions globally, in a symbolic action against climate change. From 8:30 to 9:30 PM local time, iconic landmarks dimmed their lights to raise environmental awareness. In New York City, the Empire State Building's tower lights were turned off. In Sydney, the sails of the Opera House went dark. Rio de Janeiro's iconic Christ the Redeemer statue in Brazil, and landmarks in Hong Kong and Tokyo also switched off their lights. Organized by the World Wildlife Fund, Earth Hour 2025 saw participation from over 180 countries and territories.

Pope Francis leaves hospital after first public appearance in five weeks

2025/03/24 10:00

Over in Italy, Pope Francis has made his first public appearance in over five weeks, following a prolonged hospitalization due to bilateral pneumonia. The 88-year-old pontiff's return was met with widespread relief and joy. "Thank you all and I see this lady with the yellow flowers, she is good!" On Sunday, Pope Francis emerged from Rome's Gemelli Hospital, where he had been receiving treatment since mid-February. Appearing in a wheelchair, he greeted some 3,000 people outside the hospital. Expressing his gratitude, the Pope said thank you to everyone. While the Pope faced significant health challenges, including acute respiratory crises and early-stage kidney failure during his hospitalization, he remained conscious and continued his papal duties. Upon discharge, Pope Francis stopped at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major to offer prayers before returning to the Vatican.

More patrol dogs across S. Korea, promoting positive pet culture

2025/03/21 20:00

This Sunday marks National Puppy Day and in light of this occasion, we share with you a story of puppies who've been making contributions to their communities. Our Park Kun-woo shows us how. Around 7 PM, when pet owners usually get off work, it's time for their furry friends to head out for their favorite part of the day: a stroll around the neighborhood. These dogs aren't just on their regular walks, but are on a special mission. From tiny pooches to large ones, wearing green "patrol" suits, they're out there to identify dangerous situations, potential safety hazards, and individuals who may be drunk or lying on the ground. "Coco once found a drunk person on a cold winter day, so we reported it right away." "Coco, what was your most memorable patrol mission?" "Yeah, when I reported that drunk person!" Thanks to these dogs and their owners, thousands of reports were made in Seoul alone last year. And dogs that performed exceptionally well were given extra prizes. These patrol activities also mean valuable time together for both the pets and their owners. "We usually go for a walk once a day, but now, through this patrol activity, I get to spend time with my dog while also contributing to the safety of my city, which feels really rewarding." Starting in Seoul in 2022, the pet patrol program has expanded nationwide, reaching cities as far as Busan and on Jeju Island. However, not every dog can become a patrol dog as they must meet various criteria, such as how they react to strangers and other dogs, as well as their overall behavior. "Wait!" "As you can see, this dog that passed the patrol dog test, is very gentle and obedient. Although there's no pay, the dogs are rewarded with things like patrol certificates and snacks. Good boy!" And, the efforts of these patrol teams are helping to create a positive image of dogs for non-pet owners who may fear or dislike them. "I don't usually like having pets, but seeing these dogs working for public safety outside makes me feel good about them." With over 15-million people, around one-third of South Korea's population, owning pets, these dog patrols are contributing to the creation of a positive pet culture in society. Park Kun-woo, Arirang News.

More patrol dogs across S. Korea, promoting positive pet culture

2025/03/21 17:00

Come Sunday we mark National Puppy Day and in light of this occasion we share with you a story of some puppies who've been making commendable contributions to their communities. Our Park Kun-woo shows us how. Around 7 PM, when pet owners usually get off work, it's time for their furry friends to head out for their favorite part of the day: a stroll around the neighborhood. These dogs aren't just on their regular walks, but are on a special mission. From tiny pooches to large ones, wearing green "patrol" suits, they're out there to identify dangerous situations, potential safety hazards, and individuals who may be drunk or lying on the ground. "Coco once found a drunk person on a cold winter day, so we reported it right away." "Coco, what was your most memorable patrol mission?" "Yeah, when I reported that drunk person!" Thanks to these dogs and their owners, thousands of reports were made in Seoul alone last year. And dogs that performed exceptionally well were given extra prizes. These patrol activities also mean valuable time together for both the pets and their owners. "We usually go for a walk once a day, but now, through this patrol activity, I get to spend time with my dog while also contributing to the safety of my city, which feels really rewarding." Starting in Seoul in 2022, the pet patrol program has expanded nationwide, reaching cities as far as Busan and on Jeju Island. However, not every dog can become a patrol dog as they must meet various criteria, such as how they react to strangers and other dogs, as well as their overall behavior. "Wait!" "As you can see, this dog that passed the patrol dog test, is very gentle and obedient. Although there's no pay, the dogs are rewarded with things like patrol certificates and snacks. Good boy!" And, the efforts of these patrol teams are helping to create a positive image of dogs for non-pet owners who may fear or dislike them. "I don't usually like having pets, but seeing these dogs working for public safety outside makes me feel good about them." With over 15-million people, around one-third of South Korea's population, owning pets, these dog patrols are contributing to the creation of a positive pet culture in society. Park Kun-woo, Arirang News.

S.KOREA RANKS 58 OUT OF 147 COUNTRIES IN HAPPINESS

2025/03/21 17:00

Hello and welcome. It's Friday March 21st and you're watching Press Perspective. The world marked International Day of Happiness yesterday that was March 20th and in line with this occasion the latest findings of the World Happiness Report were released. For more I have Thomas Maresca with American international news agency United Press International. Thomas it's good to have you here. I also have writer Colin Marshall with the pundit's take on today's topic. Colin as always welcome. 1) Colin, what is the World Happiness Report, and what do you suppose is the significance of such publications? 2) And Thomas, what factors are considered in the ranking of a country's happiness in this report? 3) Colin, where does Korea rank, and what are your takeaways? 4) Thomas, the words of wisdom say "money cannot buy happiness", and yet here in Korea, money remains a big factor in determining contentment. Is this more or less a universal reality, or do you suppose it's more evident here in Korea? 5) Colin, let's now move on to other developments here that made international headlines. A Korean county recently received much media attention for its efforts to fight its shrinking population by opening doors to Myanmar refugees. Do tell us more. 6) Thomas, Germany once served as a model for opening doors to refugees as did Canada. What's the latest on that front, and based on their experiences, do you believe the welcoming of refugees can serve as a practical option to fighting population decline for South Korea? 7) Colin, based on findings for last year, out of every 100 residents here in Korea, five are now foreigners. You've been living here for quite a while now, what have been your observations? 8) Thomas, most of the foreigners in the country, just like their Korean counterparts, reside in the metropolitan area. What do you propose to encourage a more balanced distribution of the population? All right.

K-wave AI News

2025/03/21 14:00

Hello and welcome to your AI guide to the latest cultural updates from Korea. Here's our top story. The Korean government plans to implement a temporary visa exemption for Chinese group tourists in the third quarter of this year, as part of its "Global Growth Strategy for the Korean Tourism Market." The initiative focuses on attracting group tourists from China's second-and third-tier cities by offering themed tourism products in areas such as sports, cuisine, beauty, and culture. According to the Bank of Korea, an increase in the number of Chinese group tourists by one million would boost Korea's economic growth by 0.08 percentage points. The visa exemption is widely seen as a reciprocal gesture in response to China's trial visa-free policy for South Koreans amid thawing Seoul-Beijing relations. Korea's temple cuisine is set to be designated as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage. "Temple food" is a plant-based culinary tradition that excludes meat, fish, and pungent vegetables, embodying Buddhist principles by preserving the natural flavors of ingredients. The National Heritage Service emphasized its unique cultural significance, shaped by Buddhist values such as respect for life and mindful restraint. Temple food is gaining wider global recognition for its simple, balanced, and health-conscious approach, attracting interest from renowned chefs worldwide. An exhibition showcasing mirrors that reflect the lives and culture of ancient people opened today at the Cheongju National Museum. Featuring over 320 pieces, the collection includes mirrors used by shamans who believed they could communicate with divine beings, as well as various types of mirrors from the late Samsung Group Chairman Lee Kun-hee's collection. Experts describe the exhibition as a "one-stop shopping mall of ancient mirrors," offering a rare glimpse into the daily lives and traditions of past civilizations across different ages and regions. A standout piece is a 6.5 cm iron mirror, discovered in 1916 and preserved in museum storage for over a century, which is now being unveiled to the public for the first time. The mirror exhibition runs through July 20. That's all from me. Keep it tuned to the Kulture Wave.

[Features reporter] More patrol dogs across S. Korea, promoting positive pet culture

2025/03/21 14:00

Kun-woo, I heard you went out to see some cute dogs this week. Why's that? Yes, that's right. Ahead of National Puppy Day on Sunday, I had the chance to spend some time with some adorable dogs. Those pooches are extra special as they are patrol dogs that have even passed tests to become certified to make patrols. Let's check out how I got on. Around 7 PM, when pet owners usually get off work, it’s time for their furry friends to head out for their favorite part of the day: a stroll around the neighborhood. These dogs aren't just on their regular walks, but are on a special mission. From tiny pooches to large ones, wearing green "patrol" suits, they're out there to identify dangerous situations, potential safety hazards, and individuals who may be drunk or lying on the ground. "Coco once found a drunk person on a cold winter day, so we reported it right away." "Coco, what was your most memorable patrol mission?" "Yeah, when I reported that drunk person!" Thanks to these dogs and their owners, thousands of reports were made in Seoul alone last year. And dogs that performed exceptionally well were given extra prizes. These patrol activities also mean valuable time together for both the pets and their owners. "We usually go for a walk once a day, but now, through this patrol activity, I get to spend time with my dog while also contributing to the safety of my city, which feels really rewarding." Starting in Seoul in 2022, the pet patrol program has expanded nationwide, reaching cities as far as Busan and on Jeju Island. However, not every dog can become a patrol dog as they must meet various criteria, such as how they react to strangers and other dogs, as well as their overall behavior. "Wait!" "As you can see, this dog that passed the patrol dog test, is very gentle and obedient. Although there’s no pay, the dogs are rewarded with things like patrol certificates and snacks. Good boy!" And, the efforts of these patrol teams are helping to create a positive image of dogs for non-pet owners who may fear or dislike them. "I don't usually like having pets, but seeing these dogs working for public safety outside makes me feel good about them." With over 15-million people, around one-third of South Korea's population, owning pets, these dog patrols are contributing to the creation of a positive pet culture in society. Park Kun-woo, Arirang News. How was this patrol program first introduced in South Korea? The idea originated with Japan's "Bow-wow patrol" that started in 2003. According to the host of the patrol program, a U.S. study in 2022 found that areas where many pet dogs stroll with their owners had lower crime rates, robbery incidents for example were reduced by two-thirds compared to places with fewer dogs walking around. These cases helped introduce the program and contributed to its popularity in Korea. How can pet owners apply for this program? So right now there are many cities nationwide looking for dogs that can actively volunteer under this program. For those interested in applying, I recommend checking out the official website for more information. But before you apply, keep in mind the specific criteria, including whether your dog is obedient enough to respond to comments like "Wait" or "Come here," and remains calm when strangers or other dogs pass by during the waiting time. To pass, your dog must meet these standards and score at least 70 out of 100. The program we hear can even send a positive message regarding abandoned dogs? I think so. Although around 150-thousand pets are abandoned each year in Korea, fortunately, more people are adopting them. And an official from the company running the dog patrol program in partnership with local governments said more abandoned dogs are getting opportunities to actively volunteer for society. "As abandoned dogs carry emotional scars, their new owners often wish to engage in meaningful activities with them. That's why many pet owners who have adopted once-abandoned dogs are participating in the dog patrol program." Good to hear that even abandoned dog can take part. Alright Kun-woo, thanks for all of that. We'll see you next time. Thank you, Kun-woo.

Finland remains happiest country in world for eighth consecutive year: World Happiness Report

2025/03/20 20:00

Finland has been named the happiest country in the world for the eighth consecutive year. According to the World Happiness Report released on Wednesday, Nordic nations Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden followed closely behind. South Korea ranked 58th out of 147 countries, dropping six spots from last year. The U.S. fell to 24th place, its lowest ranking since the survey began in 2012. Researchers link declining happiness in the U.S. to more people dining alone and note a similar trend in South Korea due to aging and more single-person households.