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Korea

South Korea Opens Industrial Complexes to Vertical Farms

SEOUL, South Korea — In a groundbreaking policy shift, the South Korean government has officially approved regulations that allow vertical farms—high-tech, stacked agriculture facilities using minimal land and resources—to operate within its industrial complexes. The new law represents a strategic move to promote sustainable agriculture within urban spaces, harnessing technology to meet challenges of food security and environmental sustainability. South Korea’s Ministry of Agriculture, Food and

Opinion

Why Busan’s 6-District Model is Essential for Effective Integration with Gyeongnam

Is it time to reshape Busan’s outdated district map to meet the demands of a modern, interconnected region? Busan’s current administrative structure, divided into 15 districts and 1 county, is a legacy of post-war population booms and the rapid industrialization that defined South Korea’s mid-20th century. While this structure once served the city well, today, Busan’s outdated district boundaries struggle to accommodate evolving demographic trends and shifting economic landscapes. Aging infrast

Busan

“Turn Toward Busan” on Nov 11 to Honor UN War Heroes

Busan, South Korea — Today, the 18th annual “Turn Toward Busan” ceremony will take place at the UN Memorial Cemetery in Busan, South Korea, honoring United Nations soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the Korean War. Under the theme “Turn Toward Busan,” this year’s event is expected to gather over 800 attendees, including veterans from 20 countries, their families, South Korean veterans, military leaders, and local citizens, who will come together in a powerful moment of remembrance and un

Busan

Busan Launches Third Startup Incubation Center

Busan, South Korea — Busan took another step forward in its mission to become a startup-friendly city today, as Mayor Park Heong-joon inaugurated the city’s third Startup Incubation center at Dong-eui University. The new center, part of the citywide “Startup Incubation” initiative, offers integrated work and living spaces designed to support young entrepreneurs in high-tech industries. This facility, which includes collaborative areas and networking lounges, is a key milestone in the city’s long

Opinion

Why Busan’s Youth Are Leaving Despite Global Hub Plans

Busan, once a dynamic port city with aspirations of becoming a "Global Hub City" and a magnet for young talent, is facing a critical moment. Despite city officials’ ambitious plans to transform Busan into a globally competitive urban center, the reality on the ground tells a story of departure rather than attraction. Young people, who are vital to the city’s future, are leaving in unprecedented numbers, drawn to other regions, particularly the Seoul metropolitan area, in search of better opportu

Psychology

Why Korean Singles Are Moving Away from Dating Apps

In South Korea, where traditions often intertwine with the latest technological advances, dating culture is undergoing a notable shift. Once dominated by the rise of dating apps, particularly during the socially restrictive pandemic years, the scene is now swinging back to more traditional, face-to-face interactions. While apps like Tinder and Bumble remain popular globally, recent statistics indicate a global trend of “app fatigue,” with users increasingly seeking in-person interactions over al

Korea

Can Immigration Fix South Korea’s Low Birth Rate Crisis?

South Korea faces a demographic crisis that threatens its economic and social stability: a birth rate of 0.78 and a rapidly aging population. These trends pose risks of labor shortages, increased social welfare costs, and a shrinking tax base. Immigration has been proposed as one potential solution, but significant policy limitations and cultural attitudes present barriers. In this context, a closer examination reveals why immigration alone may be inadequate for resolving Korea’s demographic cha

Busan

Busan-Gyeongnam Plan for Regional Integration and Autonomy

Busan, South Korea - In a landmark step toward greater regional autonomy, the cities of Busan and the neighboring province of Gyeongsangnam-do (Gyeongnam) unveiled a preliminary blueprint on November 8 for a proposed administrative integration. This initiative aims to transform Busan and Gyeongnam into a cohesive “regional economic capital” with expanded local control over finances, legislation, and public services. For South Korea, where administrative authority is highly centralized, the propo