Sustainability

Busan has long been a center of industrial and maritime growth. However, this rapid development has disrupted the city’s natural waterways, particularly in the heavily industrialized western regions like Sasang-gu and Saha-gu. Streams such as Samrakcheon, Hakjangcheon, and Goejeongcheon, which once flowed freely into the Nakdonggang River, now face severe pollution, poor water quality, and physical disconnection. In response, Busan’s government is focusing on restoring these waterways as part o

As regional cities face declining populations, disappearing historic sites, and the threat of homogenized urban development, local governments and experts are turning to localism — a strategy focused on preserving and promoting a region's unique identity — as a potential solution. However, while localism has been heralded as a way to revitalize communities, many challenges lie beneath its surface. From Japan to Italy, localism is being touted as a way to counterbalance the rapid urbanization of

The humble cabbage, a staple ingredient in Korea's beloved kimchi, is at the center of an alarming crisis. Recent foreign media reports have sounded the alarm, suggesting that Korean cabbages are nearing "extinction," potentially making kimchi a rare commodity. As cabbage prices soar due to climate change-induced production declines, concerns are mounting over the Korean government's lack of long-term strategies to address the issue. This article delves into the multifaceted challenges facing Ko

South Korea’s food systems face increasing strain as climate change exacerbates agricultural challenges and shifting dietary patterns redefine the nation's consumption habits. Extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, erratic rainfall, and more intense rainy seasons, have significantly driven up prices for essential crops like apples and cabbages, highlighting the vulnerabilities within the country’s food supply system. Farmers, in particular, are grappling with these unpredictable conditions,

In 2024, South Korea, one of Asia's most advanced economies, is grappling with an unexpected crisis: food insecurity. With climate change reshaping traditional agriculture and global supply chains fraying due to geopolitical tensions, South Koreans are paying the price — quite literally — at the grocery store. South Korea's agricultural landscape is facing an unprecedented challenge as climate change and international instability converge to threaten the nation's food security. The country, whi

Imagine a future where kimchi, South Korea’s beloved staple, becomes a rare delicacy due to the scarcity of its essential ingredient—napa cabbage. As the global climate crisis deepens, this scenario is no longer a far-off possibility but a pressing concern for Korea’s agricultural industry. Rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and frequent extreme weather events are disrupting the nation’s food production, pushing key crops to the brink of collapse and causing food prices to soar. Over the la

Imagine waking up in the heart of a rapidly growing city, only to find that the ground beneath you is shifting, sinking, or even collapsing. This unsettling scenario is not a dystopian fiction but a real and pressing concern in Western Busan, where geotechnical challenges threaten the safety and sustainability of its ambitious urban development plans. Western Busan, a region of strategic importance and rapid development, is currently grappling with significant geotechnical challenges that are r

Seoul, South Korea - South Korea's recent announcement of its 15-year power supply plan has sparked significant controversy. The plan, which includes a renewable energy target of 21.6% by 2030, stands in stark contrast to the aggressive renewable energy goals set by other OECD countries. As the world embraces the RE100 initiative, aimed at transitioning to 100% renewable energy by 2050, South Korea's policy appears to be out of step with global trends. The South Korean government has committed

The recent announcement by Act-Geo about potential oil and gas reserves in the East Sea has captured significant public and governmental attention. The South Korean government swiftly approved an expensive exploration project based on Act-Geo's optimistic analysis. However, this development has not been without controversy, raising questions about the project's viability, the credibility of Act-Geo, and the wisdom of such a large financial commitment in the face of global energy shifts. In a st

Busan Metropolitan City, South Korea's port city known for its vibrant economy and rich cultural heritage, is embarking on an ambitious journey to reshape its urban landscape. The city has unveiled the "Future-Oriented Urban Regeneration Projects Promotion Plan," a comprehensive strategy designed to foster sustainable development and address long-standing urban challenges. This initiative is not just a response to the current needs but a visionary blueprint aiming to transform Busan into a more

In the urban landscapes of South Korea, the process of redevelopment plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of cities, transforming aging neighborhoods into vibrant, modern communities. Central to this transformative endeavor are the homeowner associations, groups of property owners who collectively initiate and drive redevelopment projects forward. This model, deeply ingrained in South Korea's approach to urban renewal, seeks not only to enhance housing quality but also to revitalize urban

In the serene landscapes of cemeteries and memorial parks across the country, a troubling environmental issue quietly unfolds. At first glance, the vibrant wreaths and bouquets adorning graves present a picturesque scene of remembrance and respect for the departed. However, a closer inspection reveals a less commendable truth: these beautiful tributes are often made from artificial flowers, primarily composed of plastic and synthetic materials. This practice, deeply rooted in tradition and conve