Journalist

Ryu Yuna
  • Hiring plans reflect chip boom vs weak consumption in Korea
    Hiring plans reflect chip boom vs weak consumption in Korea SEOUL, February 19 (AJP) -Electronics and semiconductor manufacturers enjoying an exceptional, record-setting second year from the artificial intelligence boom are set to lead hiring among South Korean employers in 2026, according to a new survey by HR technology company Incruit released Thursday. Incruit’s survey of 873 companies — including 102 large corporations, 122 mid-sized firms and 649 small and medium-sized enterprises — found that 84.4 percent of electronics and semiconductor companies plan to hire new university graduates this year, the highest among all industries. The survey was conducted between Jan. 5 and 27 through email questionnaires and telephone interviews with HR managers. The figure marks a 23.8 percentage-point increase from a year earlier, reflecting strong business conditions driven by surging demand for high-value chips used in artificial intelligence servers and data centers and competition over chipmaking engineers. Not just memory makers like Micron, U.S. big-tech names including Nvidia, Google and Tesla are aggressively chasing Korean engineers due to Korea's edge in chipmaking. Nvidia, the world’s leading supplier of AI accelerators and the largest buyer of HBM chips, is currently advertising senior memory system engineer positions at its Santa Clara headquarters, with base salaries of up to $356,500. The roles require more than a decade of experience in DRAM design and deep knowledge of HBM, a profile that closely matches engineers at Korea’s two dominant memory producers. HBM-dominant SK hynix’s revenue and operating income rose 47 percent and 101 percent to $68 billion and $33 billion, respectively. Its annual operating profit reached a record 47.2 trillion won, surpassing Samsung Electronics’ 43.6 trillion won. Google and Broadcom, which jointly develop tensor processing units for Google’s AI infrastructure, are also hiring HBM engineers in Silicon Valley. Google has posted openings for silicon validation engineers focused on characterizing HBM performance, while Broadcom is seeking specialists in design-for-test verification across HBM, DDR and high-speed interface technologies. Tesla has taken a more direct approach in Korea. Tesla Korea posted a job listing on Feb. 15 for AI chip design engineers as part of a project to develop proprietary AI processors for mass production. The recruitment drive was amplified by Chief Executive Elon Musk, who reposted the opening on his X account earlier this week. Industry analysts say the global competition for Korean chip engineers reflects the strategic importance of memory technology in the AI race. Reviving construction sector Following semiconductors, the construction, civil engineering, real estate and leasing sector ranked second in Incruit’s survey, with 83.3 percent of firms planning to hire, up sharply from 57.9 percent a year earlier. The IT, telecommunications and gaming sector followed at 80.5 percent. Media, advertising, education and publishing, and healthcare and pharmaceuticals also recorded relatively high hiring intentions, each approaching or exceeding 75 percent. Underscoring the prolonged slump in consumption, travel, accommodation and aviation sector posted the lowest hiring rate at 56.7 percent. Apparel, footwear and other manufacturing firms followed at 63.3 percent, while distribution and logistics companies stood at 64.0 percent. “These sectors are closely tied to household consumption and the broader real economy, which remains under pressure,” Incruit said. In terms of year-on-year changes, construction-related industries and electronics and semiconductors showed the largest gains in hiring plans, rising by 25.4 and 23.8 percentage points, respectively.Transportation recorded the steepest decline, with hiring intentions falling 4.5 percentage points to 64.3 percent. Automobile and auto parts manufacturers also saw a drop of 4.1 points to 66.7 percent. 2026-02-19 13:49:51
  • Seoul indices turbocharged after three-day break, hit another milestone
    Seoul indices turbocharged after three-day break, hit another milestone SEOUL, Feb. 19 (AJP) – Seoul bourses returned from a three-day Lunar New Year break on Thursday with strong gains, fueled by robust demand for technology and chip shares amid signs of easing U.S. inflation. U.S. January consumer prices rose 2.4 percent year on year, the slowest pace in eight months. Core inflation, which excludes food and energy, increased 2.5 percent, marking its lowest rise since March 2021. Nvidia climbed 1.63 percent overnight after reports that Meta Platforms agreed to purchase millions of its latest-generation graphics processing units. The Philadelphia Semiconductor Index rose 0.96 percent. Softer inflation data and sustained artificial intelligence-related demand lifted risk appetite across Asian markets at the open. The benchmark KOSPI jumped more than 2 percent in early trading, breaking the 5,600 mark just a week after surpassing its previous three-digit milestone. As of 10:27 a.m., the index stood at 5,643.80, up 2.49 percent, while the tech-heavy KOSDAQ advanced 3.24 percent to 1,141.73. The Korean won strengthened slightly, trading at 1,451.60 per dollar, up 1.80 won from the previous session. Investor flows were mixed. Individual and foreign investors sold a net 92.7 billion won ($64 million) and 321.7 billion won, respectively, while institutions bought a net 362.2 billion won. Heavyweight semiconductor stocks led the rally. As of 9:58 a.m., Samsung Electronics surged 5.08 percent to 190,400 won, while SK hynix gained 1.93 percent to 897,000 won. Battery maker LG Energy Solution rose 0.51 percent to 397,000 won. Financial and biotech shares also advanced. Samsung Life Insurance climbed 3.16 percent to 212,000 won, and Samsung Biologics added 0.99 percent to 1,727,000 won. Automakers extended gains, with Hyundai Motor up 0.50 percent and affiliate Kia rising 2.50 percent to 168,200 won. Defense-related stocks strengthened, led by Hanwha Aerospace, which rose 3.17 percent to 1,140,000 won. Shipbuilders outperformed the broader market. HD Hyundai Heavy Industries jumped 7.37 percent to 583,000 won, while Hanwha Ocean surged 9.55 percent to 142,200 won. Elsewhere in the region, Japan’s Nikkei 225 gained 0.78 percent to 57,587.67. Hong Kong markets are set to reopen on Friday, while Shanghai will resume trading on Feb. 24. 2026-02-19 11:02:23
  • BTS Comeback D-36: War with scalping begins, but victory may not be easy
    BTS Comeback D-36: War with scalping begins, but victory may not be easy SEOUL, February 13 (AJP) - South Korea’s ticket scalping market has expanded more than fortyfold over the past five years, drawing heightened scrutiny ahead of BTS’s highly anticipated comeback concert and domestic tour. “BTS The Comeback Live: ARIRANG,” scheduled for March 21 at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul, will offer around 15,000 to 17,000 seats. General reservations open at 8 p.m. on February 23 through NOL Ticket. Of the total, 2,000 standing spots will be raffled to ARMY members who pre-ordered the group’s new album. The concert is free. But free events often attract even more aggressive scalping. At BTS’s 2022 Busan Expo concert, VIP tickets were resold for up to 4 million won. Illegal transactions spread through social media and private chat rooms, with scalpers using automated programs and account transfers to bypass ticketing controls. Regular tour shows are scheduled in Goyang on April 9, 11 and 12, and in Busan on June 12 and 13. Scalping Cases Surge According to the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korea Creative Content Agency, suspected online scalping cases surged from 6,237 in 2020 to 184,933 in 2024, reaching 259,334 as of August 2025. About 75 percent of cases in 2024 were linked to music concerts. In response, the country’s largest ticket resale platform will cap resale prices at 1 million won starting January 1, 2026, automatically blocking listings above that level. The amendments to the Public Performance Act and the National Sports Promotion Act, passed late last month, ban all illegal ticket resales, allow authorities to confiscate profits, and impose fines of up to 50 times the resale amount. But they go into full effect late July. Previously, scalping was illegal only when macro software was used, leaving most individual resales on social media, online forums and private marketplaces largely unregulated. The revised law aims to close that loophole. Tax authorities have joined the crackdown. Last November, they launched their first large-scale investigation into high-volume scalpers targeting K-pop concerts and major sports events. The 17 individuals identified included teachers, public-sector employees and business owners. The total volume of tickets distributed through illegal channels was estimated at more than 20 billion won. Regardless of the law, the government plans to be strict against exploitative ticket sales of BTS concerts. Culture Minister Chae Hwi-young warned Thursday of a strong government crackdown, saying illegal resales must not be allowed to spoil BTS’s return. The economic impact of BTS concerts extends well beyond ticket sales. Accommodation prices have surged during major tour periods, raising broader inflation concerns. According to a joint investigation by the Korea Fair Trade Commission and the Korea Consumer Agency, 135 accommodations in Busan were surveyed during the June concert period. The average nightly rate for the concert weekend of June 13–14 reached 433,999 won — 2.4 times higher than surrounding weeks. Motel rates averaged 325,801 won, up 3.3 times, while hotel rates averaged 631,546 won, a 2.9-fold increase. Pension rates rose more modestly to 296,437 won, about 1.2 times the usual level. At some properties, price hikes were far steeper. One hotel room normally priced at 100,000 won was listed for 750,000 won. Thirteen properties raised rates by more than five times, with some rooms jumping from the 300,000-won range to as high as 1.8 million won. Despite regulatory efforts, containing price inflation linked to major events remains difficult when demand reaches fever pitch. For many fans, however, cost is secondary. “Will I pay many times more to see BTS? You bet,” said one Seoul-based fan. 2026-02-13 15:52:18
  • BTS Comeback D-36: From $15 dorms to mid-range stays, Itaewon has all for fans
    BTS Comeback D-36: From $15 dorms to mid-range stays, Itaewon has all for fans SEOUL, February 12 (AJP) — Five-star hotels offering bird’s-eye views of Gwanghwamun are already fully booked for the March 21–22 weekend, when BTS is set to stage its long-awaited comeback concerts. No-vacancy signs now stretch to mid-tier and budget hotels in Myeongdong and Jongno, while prices continue to climb. On major booking platforms, some three-star properties within walking distance of Gwanghwamun are charging nearly triple their usual rates. For fans traveling from outside the capital — and from abroad — AJP advises looking a few subway stops beyond central Seoul, toward Itaewon, where a wider range of affordable and mid-priced accommodations remains available. “Booking inquiries have increased significantly in recent weeks, but we are not planning to raise our room rates,” said the owner of A One Hotel Itaewon, located about a three-minute walk from Itaewon Station. Owner Heo Seong-jin said the hotel recently completed renovations but chose to keep prices stable. About 70 percent of his guests are international travelers, reflecting the area’s long-standing global profile. “Even if guests don’t speak Korean, we can communicate comfortably in English,” Heo said. “The stay may last only a few days, but the trust we build is meant to last much longer.” With thousands of BTS fans expected, the hotel has reinforced hygiene and service standards ahead of the peak period. Pricing approaches differ even within the same neighborhood. Near Exit 1 of Itaewon Station, Hamilton Hotel Seoul remains one of the district’s best-known landmarks. Opened in the 1970s, it has long benefited from direct access to Subway Line 6. A staff member said international guests account for the majority of visitors and that room rates were adjusted modestly for the concert period. “Usually we have around 60 rooms available, but only about 15 remain for those dates,” he said. “Looking at the booking pace, we can really feel the BTS effect.” While larger properties have moved prices in line with demand, many small and mid-sized operators have opted for stability over short-term gains, preserving long-term customer relationships. The result is a patchwork market in which pricing reflects each operator’s strategy as much as supply and demand. From $15 Beds to Mid-Range Comfort One of Itaewon’s main advantages is its unusually wide price spectrum. At Seoul Cube Itaewon, a six-bed mixed dormitory for March 21–23 is currently listed at about $15 per night (around $16 including taxes and fees), with free Wi-Fi and cancellation. Mid-range dormitory options are also available. G Guesthouse Itaewon, near Exit 4 of Itaewon Station, is offering a women-only four-bed dormitory for about 89,000 won ($67) per night, including breakfast. Availability, however, is tightening rapidly. At Sounds Inn Itaewon, near Noksapyeong Station, only one room remained for March 19 as of this week. “Foreign guests began booking from mid-March,” a manager said. “We’re offering rooms at around 60,000 won per night.” The operator is also preparing to open a new branch near Gwanghwamun in early March to accommodate rising demand. For fans traveling in pairs or small groups, many two- to four-person rooms in Itaewon offer further cost savings through shared stays. Location Still Matters Beyond price, accessibility remains a decisive factor. Connected by Subway Line 6, Itaewon provides relatively direct access to central Seoul. Gwanghwamun can be reached in about 20 minutes, including transfers — a manageable commute even late at night. For international visitors unfamiliar with Seoul’s transport system, this balance between distance and convenience helps reduce post-concert fatigue and logistical stress. Extending the Stay Itaewon also allows fans to extend their experience beyond the concert itself. Its proximity to Namsan, home to N Seoul Tower, offers panoramic views of the city. Nearby Han River parks provide popular settings for late-night walks and informal gatherings. Meanwhile, Gyeongnidan-gil and surrounding streets, where many cafes and restaurants stay open late, allow visitors to continue exploring after the show. From Itaewon Station, riverside districts such as Banpo and Ichon can be reached in about 10 to 15 minutes by public transit or taxi. AJP Tip: With availability tightening and prices still rising, fans planning to attend the March concerts are advised to: • Book early, especially for budget and mid-range options • Consider shared rooms to reduce per-person costs • Prioritize access to Subway Line 6 for smoother travel • Check cancellation policies as demand fluctuates 2026-02-13 13:18:36
  • Korean shares hold ground amid thin Asian trade ahead of long holiday
    Korean shares hold ground amid thin Asian trade ahead of long holiday SEOUL, February 13 (AJP) — South Korean shares held firm Thursday despite broad losses and subdued trading across Asia ahead of the Lunar New Year holiday, supported by renewed optimism over the semiconductor sector. Wall Street tech stocks fell overnight on concerns that artificial intelligence could disrupt the traditional software industry, dampening regional sentiment. However, strong earnings from Japan’s chipmaker Kioxia lifted investor confidence in South Korea, fueling hopes of a recovery in the global memory market. Kioxia, a major producer of NAND flash memory, reported third-quarter sales of 543 billion yen and issued fourth-quarter revenue guidance of 890 billion yen, both exceeding market expectations. The company also said its average selling price rose more than 10 percent from the previous quarter, signaling improving profitability. The upbeat outlook boosted local semiconductor shares. Samsung Electronics climbed above 180,000 won for the first time, pushing the KOSPI to a new intraday high above the 5,500 level before trimming gains on profit-taking. The stock was up 1.82 percent at 181,850 won ($126) in morning trade. As of 11:00 a.m., the benchmark KOSPI stood at 5,540.66, up 0.33 percent, after drifting lower earlier in the session. The KOSDAQ fell 1.55 percent to 1,108.57, pressured by new rules tightening delisting requirements for penny stocks. The won edged lower against the U.S. dollar, snapping a four-day winning streak. The exchange rate stood at 1,443.20 per dollar at 10:00 a.m., up 0.70 won from the previous session. Investor flows were mixed. Individual investors bought a net 490 billion won worth of shares, while foreigners and institutions sold a net 188.5 billion won and 316.2 billion won, respectively. Broader sentiment remained cautious despite gains in Samsung Electronics. Chipmaker SK hynix slipped 0.39 percent to 884,500 won, while battery maker LG Energy Solution fell 3.17 percent to 397,000 won. Financial and biotech shares showed mixed performance. Samsung Life Insurance rose 0.73 percent, while Samsung Biologics declined 0.81 percent. Automaker shares moved lower, with Hyundai Motor down 1.38 percent and affiliate Kia falling 1.56 percent to 499,000 won and 163,700 won, respectively. Defense-related shares softened, as Hanwha Aerospace slid 2.48 percent to 1,103,000 won. Shipbuilders showed mixed performance. HD Hyundai Heavy Industries gained 1.11 percent to 545,000 won, while Hanwha Ocean dropped 1.97 percent to 129,200 won. Elsewhere in the region, Japan’s Nikkei 225 fell 0.97 percent to 57,080.44, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index slipped 1.45 percent to 26,640.16, and China’s Shanghai Composite edged down 0.44 percent to 4,115.92 in morning trading. Business will be usual at the Tokyo exchange next week while Seoul opens Thursday, Hong Kong Friday, and Shanghai on Feb. 24. 2026-02-13 11:24:43
  • Chip surge pushes KOSPI past 5,400 amid broader Asian gains
    Chip surge pushes KOSPI past 5,400 amid broader Asian gains SEOUL, February 12 (AJP) – Major Asian stock markets advanced on Thursday, led by semiconductor shares after strong gains in U.S. chipmakers boosted optimism about the sector, while Japanese equities extended their rally. Shares of U.S. memory chipmaker Micron Technology surged nearly 10 percent overnight after the company said it was supplying sixth-generation high-bandwidth memory (HBM4) chips to Nvidia without disruption, quelling speculation it had been excluded from the supply chain. The Philadelphia Semiconductor Index rose 2.3 percent. Although the three main U.S. indexes ended slightly lower, confirmation that HBM4 has entered mass production improved sentiment toward chip stocks globally and reinforced expectations of a semiconductor upcycle. The positive spillover lifted South Korea’s market, where heavyweight chip stocks drove the benchmark KOSPI above the 5,400 level for the first time. As of 10: 31 a.m., Samsung Electronics rose 3.64 percent to 173,900 won ($120), while SK hynix climbed 3.26 percent to 888,000 won, leading gains in Seoul. The KOSPI was up 2.11 percent at 5,468.56, while the tech-heavy KOSDAQ added 0.31 percent to 1,118.19. The Korean won weakened slightly, with the dollar rising 0.80 won to 1,448.80 won. Investor flows were mixed, with retail investors selling a net 834.7 billion won worth of shares, while foreign and institutional investors purchased a net 487.2 billion won and 341.1 billion won, respectively. Battery maker LG Energy Solution gained 3.06 percent, while performance among other major stocks was mixed. Samsung Life Insurance rose 2.25 percent, but Samsung Biologics slipped 0.23 percent. Automakers traded unevenly, with Hyundai Motor down 0.98 percent while affiliate Kia rose 0.68 percent. Defense-related shares softened, as Hanwha Aerospace fell 0.53 percent. Shipbuilders advanced, with HD Hyundai Heavy Industries gaining 0.74 percent and Hanwha Ocean adding 0.77 percent. Financial shares also extended a strong rally this month, significantly outperforming the broader market. JB Financial Group rose 4.55 percent, iM Financial Group gained 3.89 percent and Hana Financial Group added 1.43 percent. The sector’s strength has been supported by solid earnings, expanded shareholder return policies and expectations of a valuation re-rating. Japanese equities continued to climb, helped by expectations of renewed momentum in the so-called “Takaichi trade,” reflecting hopes of a dovish monetary stance and fiscal expansion. The Nikkei 225 rose 0.48 percent to 57,926.61 in morning trading. Japan-focused exchange-traded funds listed in South Korea also rallied. TIGER Japan Nikkei 225 gained 8.59 percent over the past five sessions, while ACE Japan TOPIX Leverage (H) jumped 10.62 percent. Technology-focused funds also surged, with PLUS Japan Semiconductor Materials and Equipment and Midas Japan Tech Active rising 9.78 percent and 10.10 percent, respectively. Elsewhere in the region, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index slipped 0.29 percent to 27,187.17, while China’s Shanghai Composite edged up 0.12 percent to 4,136.99 in morning trade. 2026-02-12 10:51:52
  • Thailand sells luxury healing image as Korean travelers drift away
    Thailand sells 'luxury healing' image as Korean travelers drift away SEOUL, February 11 (AJP) – Thailand is rebranding itself as a “luxury healing” destination as it struggles to win back South Korean travelers increasingly opting for Vietnam and other alternatives amid rising costs, currency pressure and lingering safety concerns linked to regional tensions. Under its global “Amazing Thailand” campaign, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) will reposition its 2026 communications strategy around the tagline “Healing is the New Luxury,” reflecting shifting travel preferences in the Korean market. Siriges Anong Trirattanasongpol, executive director for East Asia and former head of the TAT Seoul office, said Korea remains central to Thailand’s strategy as it pivots toward higher-value tourism. “Korean travelers are experienced, highly informed and increasingly selective,” she said. “They travel not only to see destinations, but to seek meaningful experiences. This aligns closely with Thailand’s 2026 direction.” “Luxury is not only about price,” she added. “It is about emotional value, wellness and personal fulfillment.” The message was echoed by Vachirachai Sirisumpan, who took office this month as head of the TAT Seoul office. “Thailand may feel familiar to many Korean travelers, but each season and each destination offers a distinct experience,” he said at his inaugural press briefing in Seoul on Wednesday. “The diversity of our attractions and the warmth of ‘Thainess’ allow visitors to rediscover the country in new ways.” Korea remains one of Thailand’s key inbound markets. Last year, Korean arrivals totaled about 1.55 million, ranking among the country’s top five source markets. Officials also cite a repeat visitation rate of around 60 percent, classifying Korea as a “high-quality” market. Yet recent booking data suggest Thailand is losing ground. According to Hana Tour, Southeast Asia accounted for 37 percent of bookings during this year’s Lunar New Year holiday, while China accounted for 12 percent, following Japan. KyoWon Tour data show Vietnam ranking second after Japan at 13.9 percent, with Thailand at 12.9 percent. Thailand has been losing appeal as affordable resort destination due to high costs. In 2025, the baht appreciated more than 9 percent against the dollar, driving up accommodation, dining and transportation costs. As a result, Thailand’s long-standing “value-for-money” image has weakened. At the same time, security concerns linked to border tensions with Cambodia and regional crime incidents have dented confidence. A Realmeter survey conducted in October 2025 found that 82.4 percent of respondents said crime incidents in Cambodia had negatively affected their perception of travel to Southeast Asia, rising to 88.3 percent among those aged 18 to 29. Incheon International Airport data also showed that departures to Southeast Asia fell month-on-month in October, with travel to Thailand declining about 5 percent. Between January and September 2025, Korea ranked fifth among source markets with about 1.73 million visitors, following China, Malaysia, India and Russia. Korean travel patterns have shifted fundamentally in recent years. Independent travel has expanded rapidly, driven by digital platforms and social media. Travelers now prioritize safety, flexibility and personal value, particularly wellness, local culture and community-based experiences. “We understand that safety awareness has heightened,” Sirisumpan said. “Maintaining Thailand’s image as a welcoming and comfortable destination is essential.” Political uncertainty may also influence sentiment. Preliminary election results suggest no party has secured a clear majority, raising the prospect of prolonged coalition talks. While tourism was not a campaign centerpiece, analysts say political instability can affect confidence. Facing these challenges, TAT says it is shifting away from a pure volume strategy toward sustainable, high-quality tourism. “Our objective is not simply to recover numbers,” Sirisumpan said. “It is to deepen trust and ensure that every visit to Thailand feels renewed and meaningful.” 2026-02-11 18:01:55
  • Korean shares outperform Asian peers, while Tokyo pauses
    Korean shares outperform Asian peers, while Tokyo pauses SEOUL, February 11 (AJP) – South Korean shares gained upward traction as institutions renewed buying after a correction last week, outperforming China-related markets weighed down by latest data renewing stagflation concerns. China’s consumer inflation rose less than expected in January while the deflation in producer prices persisted, in a sign of continued deflationary pressure in the absence of stronger stimulus. The consumer price index rose 0.2% in January from a year earlier, China’s National Bureau of Statistics data showed on Wednesday. Japanese shares paused in their post-election rally as markets observed National Foundation Day. As of 11:10 a.m., the benchmark KOSPI added 0.87 percent to 5,348.78, while the tech-heavy KOSDAQ advanced 0.64 percent to 1,122.33. The won benefited from broad U.S. dollar weakness, with the greenback slipping 3.30 won to 1,455.70. Among heavyweight stocks, Samsung Electronics inched up 0.06 percent to 165,900 won, while chipmaker SK hynix dropped 1.26 percent to 865,000 won. Battery maker LG Energy Solution edged down 0.13 percent to 390,000 won. Financial and biotech shares traded higher. Samsung Life Insurance rose 0.71 percent to 199,100 won, while Samsung Biologics gained 0.64 percent to 1,721,000 won. Automakers outperformed. Shares of Hyundai Motor climbed after Chief Executive Jose Muñoz confirmed major investment plans in Korea and North America, highlighting the company’s focus on electric vehicles and artificial intelligence. The improved investment outlook boosted investor confidence. Hyundai Motor jumped 3.43 percent to 497,000 won, while affiliate Kia advanced 3.23 percent to 157,700 won. Defense and aerospace shares weakened, with Hanwha Aerospace retreating 0.35 percent to 1,142,000 won. Shipbuilders showed mixed performance. HD Hyundai Heavy Industries rose 1.12 percent to 540,000 won, while Hanwha Ocean slipped 0.31 percent to 130,500 won. Elsewhere in Asia, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index dipped 0.15 percent to 27,141.15, while China’s Shanghai Composite edged down 0.03 percent to 4,127.12 in morning trade. 2026-02-11 11:33:52
  • BTS Comeback D-38: Royalty built by a different kind of fan army
    BTS Comeback D-38: "Royalty" built by a different kind of fan army SEOUL, February 11 (AJP) - BTS’s global influence owes much to ARMY, a fan community that has shaped its identity around promoting dignity, civility, and mutual respect — and translating those values into coordinated digital action. From the beginning, ARMY’s devotion centered on music and performance. Over time, however, it evolved into something more durable: a digitally organized, transnational community capable of mobilizing across languages, platforms, and borders. What began as fandom has, in many cases, matured into a form of civic-minded participation. Since around 2017, as BTS expanded its global tours and sharpened its social messaging, informal networks of translators, regional coordinators, and content curators emerged. These structures were not centrally designed. They formed organically, shaped by shared norms and collective purpose. By the early 2020s, scholars and international media were no longer viewing ARMY merely as a cultural phenomenon. It was increasingly analyzed as a functioning digital ecosystem. When Hashtags Became a Public Square That transformation became visible in 2020, amid racial justice protests in the United States. K-pop fans, including BTS supporters, flooded extremist and anti-protest hashtags with fan content, effectively pushing hateful material out of public view. The tactic, known as “hashtag hijacking,” was analyzed by Australia’s Lowy Institute and reported by Al Jazeera as a form of decentralized digital activism. Participation was voluntary and informal. Yet the response was swift, coordinated, and sustained. It reflected years of accumulated experience in navigating online platforms, managing information flows, and maintaining internal discipline. In moments of social tension, ARMY demonstrated an ability to act collectively without centralized command — a hallmark of mature digital communities. A Network Mapped by Research Academic research has since documented how that coordination works. A 2024 peer-reviewed study published in Telematics and Informatics examined ARMY’s Twitter ecosystem and found a distributed structure organized around core information hubs, translation accounts, and amplification nodes. “The BTS ARMY network is sustained by a systematic structure of key players who voluntarily play distinct roles within the network, represented as subsystems of the VSM framework.” the authors note, highlighting how different accounts contribute to coordination and diffusion. The VSM (Viable System Model) refers to a framework used to describe how organizations sustain themselves through differentiated yet interconnected roles. In practice, this structure is reflected in how information flows across the network. Rather than functioning as a loose collection of fans, the network operates through layered channels that enable rapid cross-border communication. Messages originating in Seoul can be translated, contextualized, and circulated worldwide within minutes. The researchers described the system as decentralized, resilient, and highly adaptive — qualities more commonly associated with professional organizations than fan communities. 25 Hours, $1 Million The network’s fundraising capacity became globally visible in June 2020. After BTS donated $1 million to Black Lives Matter, fans launched the #MatchAMillion campaign and raised a matching sum in roughly 25 hours. The effort mobilized tens of thousands of participants across multiple continents. The campaign was supported by One In An ARMY, a fan-led nonprofit group founded in 2018 that coordinates charitable projects in partnership with established organizations. “If not 24 hours than 100M in 25 hours. We did it for #MatchAMillion. We can do it for #BTS_Dynamite,” an international fan wrote on X in August 2020, referring to ARMY’s earlier #MatchAMillion campaign and encouraging other fans to work together to reach streaming goals. Media outlets including Reuters and VICE cited the group’s systematic approach to fan-driven philanthropy. The episode underscored that ARMY’s capacity for mobilization was not spontaneous. It reflected a culture of preparation, transparency, and accountability that had been built over years. From Global Campaigns to Local Communities ARMY’s engagement has also taken root at the community level. In 2022, a fan collective known as Adorable Wave (A-Wave) partnered with South Korea’s Happy Alliance to support children facing food insecurity. The initiative coincided with BTS’s ninth debut anniversary and was funded entirely through voluntary contributions. According to organizers, the project was designed as an ongoing program rather than a symbolic gesture. It demonstrated how digital coordination could translate into sustained offline support. “The emergency fundraising campaign for flood victims conducted by Hope Bridge and Adorable Wave has ended. The total amount raised, 920,800 won, was delivered to Hope Bridge on August 10,” according to Adorable Wave’s official Instagram post, with the donation certificate listing “BTS ARMY + Adorable Wave” as donors. Similar initiatives have since appeared in multiple countries, tailored to local social needs while remaining connected to the broader global network. Aligning with Institutions This evolution has been reinforced by BTS’s institutional partnerships. In 2017, the group launched the “LOVE MYSELF” campaign with UNICEF, promoting self-respect, mental well-being, and violence prevention among youth. The partnership was renewed in 2021. Fans amplified the initiative through donations, educational campaigns, and social media advocacy, aligning grassroots activity with an established international framework. “Choose respect. Choose support. Choose kindness. Proud to be an army.” An anonymous fan wrote under HYBE LABELS’ official video “BTS LOVE MYSELF Global Campaign.” Another non-Korean fan commented, “People have happy, sad and painful stories. We want to take those stories and make them into music.” On the official UNICEF YouTube channel, support extended beyond admiration to recognition of impact. “It's rare to find artists who genuinely care about their music's impact. BTS is that once in a lifetime group to push for change in a world that really needs it.” The comment drew more than 5,000 likes. One fan thanked BTS. "They save my life, their music heals me. Thank you UNICEF for share this important message with BTS.” The collaboration provided ARMY with both moral direction and practical channels for engagement, strengthening the link between fandom and public service. When Fandom Becomes Digital Power Taken together, these developments reveal a consistent pattern. ARMY functions as a decentralized system composed of curators, translators, organizers, and amplifiers. Information circulates through trusted nodes, reducing misinformation and maintaining internal coherence. Fandom may begin with emotional attachment. It endures through organization. Large-scale campaigns persist not because of constant enthusiasm, but because institutional memory has been established. Knowledge is passed on. Practices are refined. Standards are enforced informally but effectively. A BTS concert lasts only a few hours. ARMY’s collective efforts have stretched across nearly a decade — from the LOVE MYSELF campaign in 2017 to #MatchAMillion in 2020 and community outreach in subsequent years. What has emerged is not merely loyalty, but continuity. Today, ARMY stands as one of the most sophisticated fan ecosystems in global popular culture. It illustrates how digitally connected communities can coordinate, adapt, and sustain collective action without formal hierarchy. 2026-02-11 10:37:48
  • BTS Comeback D-39: Affordable flight tips to arrive on time for the Gwanghwamun show
    BTS Comeback D-39: Affordable flight tips to arrive on time for the Gwanghwamun show *Editor’s Note: AJP will provide up-to-date travel information leading up to BTS’s Gwanghwamun live show on March 21, including flights, lodging, and where to go, see and eat to make the most of the Seoul experience. SEOUL, February 10 (AJP) — It is still not too late to book those tickets to fly into Seoul, for those who cannot wait for BTS’s tour stop in their home turf and arrive for the March 21 once-in-a-lifetime open-space comeback show in Gwanghwamun Square, regardless of how lucky they get with the free ticket opening on Feb. 23. And fans are far from alone. Search data point to a surge in interest in Seoul-bound flights ahead of the event, particularly from the United States, Indonesia and France, reflecting growing overseas travel demand tied to the group’s return. For long- and mid-haul travelers, a three-night stay remains the most popular option. U.S. routes: Balancing cost and time For fans traveling from the United States, budget-friendly options are still available. With Seoul 16 to 17 hours ahead of Los Angeles, a March 20 arrival allows time to adjust to jet lag before the evening performance. Searches across major booking platforms, including Skyscanner, Trip.com and Agoda, show a range of options for March 19 departures and March 23 returns. Both nonstop and connecting routes allow arrival in Seoul on March 20 or early March 21, leaving sufficient time ahead of the show. Hong Kong–routed itineraries remain relatively affordable, but some exceed 40 hours in total travel time. Mixed-carrier combinations offer alternatives in the low-20-hour range, providing a middle ground between price and overall journey length. For travelers prioritizing lower fares over shorter travel times, mainland China connections remain among the most affordable, though total duration varies depending on layover structure. Southeast Asia: Minimal jet lag, tight schedules Similar booking patterns are emerging across Southeast Asia. With only a one- to two-hour time difference between Jakarta and Seoul, Indonesian travelers face minimal jet lag compared with long-haul markets. However, arrivals on March 21 leave little buffer time, making careful schedule coordination important. Flights departing Jakarta on March 20 and returning March 23 remain available, with most routes involving one stop through regional hubs and overnight connections. Compared with routes from the United States or Europe, Southeast Asia itineraries offer relatively affordable round-trip fares while aligning closely with a March 20 arrival and March 23 departure schedule. Europe: Overnight stability, flexible options For travelers departing from Paris, Seoul is seven to eight hours ahead, and nonstop flights averaging around 12 hours provide a relatively stable overnight option. For the March 19–23 window, both nonstop and connecting itineraries remain available. While connecting routes extend overall travel time, they often offer noticeable cost savings. A March 19 departure still allows arrival in Seoul on March 20, providing a full day of buffer before the central Seoul performance. Getting into the city Beyond flight schedules, on-the-ground logistics are also part of travel planning. Incheon International Airport is located about one hour from central Seoul by Airport Railroad Express (AREX) or taxi. Late-afternoon arrivals on March 20 typically allow same-day hotel check-in without difficulty. Fans arriving late on March 21 may face tighter schedules, especially during peak evening traffic hours. Entry requirements International travelers are also advised to review entry rules before departure. U.S. and French passport holders may enter South Korea visa-free for stays of up to 90 days. While a K-ETA is normally required, the requirement is currently waived through 2026. Indonesian travelers generally need a short-term tourist visa and should apply in advance through a Korean embassy or designated visa center. Countdown to Gwanghwamun With just over a month to go, flight searches suggest that overseas fans are already mapping out their journeys to Seoul. As travel plans take shape, the road to Gwanghwamun is well underway for ARMY across continents ahead of BTS’s long-awaited open-air return. 2026-02-10 14:08:27