Local-news
The Return of Royal Spirits: Jongmyo Shrine Reopens After Five-Year Restoration
After five years of meticulous restoration, Jongmyo Shrine reopens its gates. On April 20, ancestral tablets of Joseon kings and queens will return in a historic royal procession — the first in over a century — rekindling Korea’s enduring dialogue with its royal past.
Ulsan’s Population Set to Decline Below 1 Million by 2050: What Lies Ahead?
Ulsan is facing a severe population crisis, with projections showing a decline from 1.09 million in 2025 to 844,000 by 2050. As the city’s workforce shrinks and aging accelerates, concerns grow over economic stagnation, labor shortages, and reduced public services.
Gyeongnam Unleashes 10.92 Million Sqm of Land for Industrial and Urban Growth
Gyeongnam Province lifts 10.92 million sqm of greenbelt for logistics, R&D, and urban expansion. Major projects in Jinhae, Changwon, and Gimhae to drive industrial growth, create 49,000 jobs, and position the region as a key economic hub.
Can University Mergers Save Regional Higher Education?
South Korea’s regional universities are facing a crisis, and the Changwon-Geochang-Namhae merger is at the center of the debate. Will this bold move save regional higher education, or will legal and enrollment challenges derail the plan?
Gimhae Invests 218.6 Billion KRW for Carbon Neutrality and Sustainability
Gimhae, South Korea -In a bold move to tackle climate change and build a more livable city, Gimhae has unveiled a sweeping plan to invest 218.6 billion KRW in environmental initiatives throughout 2025. The city’s vision is to transform itself into a leader in sustainability, blending global ambitions with local action to create a greener, more resilient future. At the heart of this initiative is Gimhae’s push for carbon neutrality. From installing solar panels at key facilities to rolling out e
Gyeongnam Extends Geogadaegyo Bridge Toll Discounts into 2025
Changwon, Gyeognam - Gyeongnam Province has announced the continuation of its toll discount policies on the iconic Geogadaegyo Bridge into 2025. The decision, aimed at easing the financial burden on drivers and fostering tourism, underscores the province’s commitment to stimulating local economic growth. This initiative builds on the success of previous years, which saw a steady rise in bridge traffic and increased regional tourism. The Geogadaegyo Bridge, also known as the Busan–Geoje Fixed Li
Can Government-Sponsored Events Reverse Declining Birth Rates?
In a bold attempt to address one of the world’s most pressing demographic issues, South Korea’s local governments are turning to matchmaking events to increase marriage and birth rates. Facing a fertility rate of 0.78 births per woman—one of the lowest globally—local governments have decided to play Cupid, hoping these events can inspire marriage and, eventually, childbearing. Yet, for all the media buzz, these matchmaking initiatives may be diverting attention from more deeply rooted socioecono
2024 ASEAN Food Festival at National ASEAN Forest
Yangju, South Korea – The serene forests of the National ASEAN Natural Recreation Forest in Yangju, Gyeonggi-do, will come alive with the vibrant flavors and traditions of Southeast Asia and Central Asia during the 2024 ASEAN Food Culture Festival. Organized by the Korea Forest Service’s National Natural Recreation Forest Management Office, the festival will take place on October 19th and 20th, offering a unique platform for cultural exchange between ASEAN and Central Asian students. The Nation