When a Society Forgets Why It Exists
What happens when education produces elite professionals, but not ethical citizens? When the smartest people in the room are more interested in protecting their privilege than shaping society?
Why South Korea’s New Towns Feel Lifeless: The Psychological Failures of Urban Planning
South Korea’s new town developments—built with high-rise apartments, oversized roads, and isolated commercial zones—were supposed to be the future of urban living. Yet, they have instead become psychologically exhausting, socially disconnected, and economically unsustainable.
Coupang’s Retail Dominance: A Threat to Small Businesses or a New Retail Era?
Is Coupang’s retail empire unstoppable? As e-commerce thrives, Korean small businesses face extinction—or a transformation. Can they adapt in a Coupang-dominated market?
Can Busan Bring Its Youth Back? The City’s Struggle and Future Prospects
Busan faces a critical turning point as young professionals leave in search of better jobs. Can the city reverse its decline and reinvent itself as a thriving hub for talent, innovation, and growth? Explore the challenges, economic impact, and strategies that could shape Busan’s future.
A Stratified Risk Society: How Inequality Fuels Environmental and Social Harm
In Korea’s fast-paced society, the pursuit of convenience has made cheap, disposable products and ultra-processed foods a staple of daily life. From single-use plastics to calorie-dense packaged meals, these items offer affordability and practicality to time-pressed households. But hidden beneath their veneer of convenience is an uncomfortable reality: their
How South Korea is Confronting Its Population Challenges
South Korea is grappling with an unprecedented demographic crisis, marked by a record-low fertility rate and an aging population. The nation, once celebrated for its rapid economic growth and bustling cities, now faces the stark reality of a shrinking and graying populace. This trend not only threatens the sustainability of
Can South Korean Conservatism Reinvent Itself for a Democratic Future?
South Korea's democracy, celebrated as one of Asia's most vibrant and resilient, faced a critical test with the recent martial law controversy. The attempt to invoke such an extreme measure during a period of political unrest shocked citizens and drew widespread condemnation, highlighting persistent vulnerabilities in