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SEOUL, South Korea – South Korea is facing an unprecedented healthcare crisis, driven by a controversial government decision that has thrown the medical community into turmoil and left the nation’s hospitals struggling to maintain essential services. At the heart of this crisis is the government’s poorly planned and hastily executed decision to increase medical school admissions by 2,000 students—a move that has been widely criticized as shortsighted and irresponsible. In an attempt to address

Busan, South Korea's second-largest city, is currently facing a critical economic challenge as its regional gross domestic product (GRDP) has dipped below 5% of the national total for the first time. Recent data released by Statistics Korea underscores the severity of this issue, revealing a steady decline in Busan's economic contributions over the past two decades. This downturn highlights deep-seated problems within the city’s industrial structure, necessitating immediate and strategic interve

On a brisk autumn morning in Seoul, Minju Kim carefully zipped up her suitcase. The small studio apartment she was leaving behind, nestled in a bustling neighborhood filled with cafes and convenience stores, had once been her sanctuary—an oasis amid the frenetic pace of city life. But as she stood by the door, ready to step out, Minju felt a mix of relief and apprehension. This wasn’t a move prompted by a new job or a relationship, but by a growing sense that the life she had been living—immerse

As South Korea’s cities expand and modernize, they are reaching new heights—both literally, with towering apartment complexes, and figuratively, as economic powerhouses. Yet, beneath the surface of this rapid urbanization lies a growing issue that is too often overlooked: social isolation. Despite living in densely populated urban centers, increasing numbers of South Koreans, particularly the elderly and young adults, report feeling profoundly lonely. This paradox highlights a critical flaw in S

Busan, South Korea – The 37th International Geological Congress (IGC 2024) has officially commenced in Busan, South Korea. Running from August 25 to 31 at BEXCO, this congress marks the first time South Korea has hosted this prestigious event, which is often referred to as the "Geological Olympics." It is the first time the congress has been held in East Asia in 28 years, drawing over 7,000 participants from 121 countries, making it the largest gathering in the history of the congress. One of t

Seoul, South Korea - The South Korean government's recent decision to increase the medical school admissions quota by up to 2,000 students in 2025 has ignited a complex debate. While the policy aims to address the ongoing doctor shortage and improve healthcare access across the country, it has also raised concerns about its potential impact on the quality of medical education and the rise of repeat applicants (N수생). As public sentiment largely supports the expansion, driven by the need for more

Seoul, South Korea - The Bank of Korea (BOK) has once again opted to maintain its key interest rate at 3.50%, a decision that marks the 13th consecutive rate hold since early 2023. This cautious approach comes amidst a backdrop of easing inflation, persistent household debt, and modest economic growth. As the BOK signals a potential rate cut in the near future, possibly as early as October, the implications for South Korea’s economy and its citizens are profound. The BOK's decision to keep the

Busan, South Korea — The first rice harvest of the year in Busan has officially begun, marking a significant moment for the region's agricultural community. On August 26, local farmer Kim Kyung-yang, 71, will start reaping the early-maturing Haedam rice variety in his field in Jukdong-dong, Gangseo-gu District. The harvest comes just in time for Chuseok, South Korea’s major autumn festival, when freshly harvested rice is traditionally used in various ceremonies and feasts. Busan’s rice farming