Slow (and Welcome) Death of Korea's Ancestor Worship
Memorial rites for ancestors have long been the norm in South Korea. Now they appear to be breathing their final breath.
How Good Are Koreans at Korean?
The last ten days of August in South Korea were dominated by alarm that some Koreans don't speak proper Korean. Is there substance to the charge?
Crumbling Apartments of South Korea
All those residential towers stretching till the horizon. Apateu dominates the South Korean landscape. It's also often terribly built.
Do You Want Gold With That Mango Bingsu?
Gold, mango, frozen milk shavings. They define the country's craze for bingsu, a dessert that has become synonymous with living it up.
Mystery of Repatriated North Korean Fishermen
How South Korea sent defectors back to the North in 2019 reveals that human rights are a fluid concept, even for center-left 'progressive' politicians.
Abe's Death, and Korea's Japanophobia
South Korea's anti-Japanese sentiment is well-known. The country's rightwing argues that the left is to blame for the hatred. Are they right?
The Hottest Dress in Korea Right Now
In a country where money rules supreme, flaws of the rich are easily forgotten. A dress going viral illustrates Korea's enduring fascination with chaebol.
Gay Romance: Korea's Latest Cultural Obsession
Shows focusing on same-sex male couples are the rage in South Korea since last year. Do they signal that attitudes toward homosexuality are changing?
Young Koreans on Fire to Get Rich
The idea of easy money and very early retirement was vogue for the last two years. Now consequences are coming home to roost.
South Korea's Health Obsession
South Korea has somewhat improbably become known for longevity. One reason for it may be the country's recent obsession with health.
Environment and Korean Consumer Ethics (or Lack Thereof)
300 tons of water for a concert didn't strike South Korea as excessive until now. Terrible drought is making at least some rethink the status quo.
YouTubers Wrecking South Korea
South Korea has a vibrant cyberspace. It also suffers from an ingrained culture of hate amplified by so-called 'issue YouTubers'.