Journalist

한준구
Han Jun-gu and Kim Dong-woo
  • PHOTOS: Tug-of-war ritual in Dangjin seeks unity, blessings
    PHOTOS: Tug-of-war ritual in Dangjin seeks unity, blessings SEOUL, April 15 (AJP) - From April 10 to 13, Dangjin in South Chungcheong Province reverberated with the rhythmic chants and straining muscles of thousands gathered for the annual Gijisi tug-of-war festival, a vibrant tradition that transcends mere sport. Designated as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2015, the Gijisi tug-of-war is deeply rooted in agricultural ritual, a communal prayer for a bountiful harvest and protection against calamities. The scale of the Gijisi event is its most striking feature. Two immense ropes, each stretching 100 meters, are conjoined to create a 200-meter behemoth with a diameter exceeding one meter. So vast are these central cords that an adult seated atop would find their feet dangling above the ground. Numerous smaller ropes, like thick vines, sprout from the main cables, providing handholds for the throngs of participants representing different villages. Before the spirited contest commences on a broad expanse of open ground, a solemn rope ritual known as "Julgosa" unfolds. Ceremonial tables laden with offerings are arranged at the head of the massive rope. Here, prayers are offered for a safe and successful event. In a distinctive element of the ceremony, alcohol is reverently presented to the tug-of-war rope itself. Following the ritual, the coiled thinner ropes are unfurled and meticulously reattached to the main cable. Then, in a lively procession called "Gilnori," locals and visitors unite to transport the weighty rope from its place of creation to the competition grounds. Leaders, perched atop the colossal cords, wave flags and sound signaling devices, their calls of "euiyeocha" echoing through the crowd. The tug-of-war itself is more than a test of strength; it fosters a profound sense of unity and camaraderie, nurturing hometown pride and embodying both recreational joy and deep spiritual aspirations. An enduring belief associated with the Gijisi tug-of-war holds that the victor’s side foretells national peace, while the opposing triumph promises a prosperous harvest and abundance for all. The festival stands as a testament to the cooperative spirit and solidarity of traditional rural Korean society, seamlessly blending elements of Confucianism, Buddhism, and shamanism into a unique folk religious event. The Gijisi tug-of-war, with the enthusiastic participation of entire villages, is a living cultural heritage that vividly illustrates the enduring community spirit of Korea’s agricultural past. 2025-04-15 14:36:46
  • PHOTOS: Crime thriller Yadang: The Snitch to hit theaters next week
    PHOTOS: Crime thriller 'Yadang: The Snitch' to hit theaters next week SEOUL, April 09 (AJP) - The press screening and media conference for the upcoming crime action film Yadang: The Snitch took place on April 7 at Megabox COEX. Yadang: The Snitch delves into South Korea’s underground drug trade, weaving a tense narrative around three central figures: Yadang, a cunning broker who architects the nation’s illicit drug market; a driven prosecutor eager to climb the professional ladder; and a relentless detective who has devoted his career to dismantling the narcotics underworld. The film, which promises a gritty portrayal of ambition, betrayal, and justice, is slated to hit theaters nationwide on April 16. 2025-04-09 14:05:18
  • PHOTOS: Seoul locks down key areas ahead of Yoon Suk Yeol verdict
    PHOTOS: Seoul locks down key areas ahead of Yoon Suk Yeol verdict SEOUL, April 03 (AJP) - One day before the Constitutional Court is set to deliver its verdict on the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol, authorities in the capital have significantly expanded security measures, sealing off key areas and restricting public access. Police have widened the so-called “vacuum zone” around the court to a 150-meter radius, erecting large barriers and using buses to block roads and sidewalks leading to the court. The heightened restrictions are aimed at managing potential mass gatherings and ensuring public order. In anticipation of large crowds, city officials are also removing public bicycle stands near the court to prevent accidents. Bicycle rental services will be temporarily suspended in key government districts, including areas surrounding the Constitutional Court, the National Assembly, and the presidential residence. Businesses near the court have been advised to take precautionary measures, including removing outdoor signage on the day of the decision. Meanwhile, municipal authorities have fenced off flower beds around City Hall for safety and removed trash bins from major gathering sites to prevent potential misuse. Public transportation services will also be affected. Seoul Metro has announced the closure of Anguk Station, which is near the court, on the day of the ruling. Authorities are also considering shutting down Hangangjin Station near the presidential residence. Train services may bypass several major stations, including City Hall (Lines 1 and 2), Anguk and Gyeongbokgung (Line 3), as well as Gwanghwamun, Yeouido, and Yeouinaru (Line 5), depending on crowd conditions. Educational institutions in the vicinity are taking precautions as well, with some schools opting for shortened schedules or temporary closures to minimize disruptions. Bicycles removed from stands near the Constitutional Court are securely parked in Seoul, April 3, 2025. AJP Han Jun-gu Flower beds in front of the City Hall are fenced off as part of security measures, April 3, 2025. AJP Han Jun-gu 2025-04-03 13:52:14
  • PHOTOS: After the flames, nation rallies to aid wildfire victims
    PHOTOS: After the flames, nation rallies to aid wildfire victims SEOUL, March 31 (AJP) - The devastating wildfires that tore through South Korea’s southeastern region have finally been extinguished, authorities confirmed. Firefighters and military personnel worked around the clock to contain the flames, while civilian volunteers stepped in to provide critical support, offering medical care and meals to those impacted by the disaster. As the nation rallies to aid affected communities, fundraising efforts are gaining momentum. Donations are pouring in to supply essential goods such as dust masks, food, and other daily necessities to displaced residents. 2025-03-31 16:58:43