Journalist
Kim Dae-sik
swatchsjp@ajunews.com
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City data shows aging sewer infrastructure linked to sinkholes and ground settlements SEOUL, April 15 (AJP) - Seoul’s aging underground infrastructure is drawing attention after newly released data linked deteriorating sewer systems to a series of sinkholes and ground settlement incidents across the city. According to figures submitted to Democratic Party (DP) lawmaker Jin Sun-mi, 3,300 kilometers (2,050 miles), roughly 30.4 percent, of Seoul’s total 10,866 kilometers of sewer lines had been in use for over 50 years as of December 2023. The data, provided by the Seoul Metropolitan Government, was made public on Tuesday. The lawmaker also revealed data submitted by the transport ministry that showed 394 sinkhole or ground settlement cases (45.5 percent) out of 867 cases reported during the last five years were caused by deteriorated or damaged sewer pipes. “Sewer pipes typically last between 30 and 50 years,” Jin said, stressing that a significant portion of the capital’s network has long passed that threshold, especially in older neighborhoods and busy areas. She called for stronger inspections and faster replacement of vulnerable sections, warning that the outdated system is a major factor behind repeated ground collapses. Public concern has been growing since a deadly sinkhole incident occurred in Gangdong District on Mar. 24. A massive hole, about 20 meters (65 feet) wide and 18 meters deep, opened up near a construction site. A motorcyclist fell in and was killed; another person was injured. However, officials later said the collapse was caused by ground settlement, likely tied to nearby excavation and weaknesses in underground facilities. City officials said they are conducting emergency checks in high-risk zones and reassessing long-term replacement plans. In a separate announcement last week, the Seoul Metropolitan Government confirmed that 59 sinkhole and ground settlement cases were reported across the city over the past three years—underscoring just how widespread the problem has become. 2025-04-15 10:54:23 -
Police to step up protection for presidential candidates amid rise in political threats SEOUL, April 14 (AJP) - South Korean police are preparing to strengthen security around presidential candidates ahead of the June 3 election, responding to a sharp rise in threats and politically motivated incidents following the impeachment of former president Yoon Suk Yeol. Authorities say they are reviewing plans to increase the number of officers assigned to each candidate’s security detail, noting that recent months have seen an unusual spike in extreme acts such as arson, assaults, and even attempted self-immolation tied to political unrest. "We are considering expanding the number of security personnel compared to the last presidential election," a senior police official said Sunday. "We are preparing educational programs that address the growing number of threats surrounding candidate protection." During the 2022 presidential race, the police deployed 150 officers for candidate protection. This time, officials are considering raising that figure, though a final decision has yet to be made. Those selected will receive additional training from the police special forces unit. Under current rules, official security is deployed once each political party formally nominates a candidate. In previous elections, up to 30 officers were assigned per candidate, but that number is expected to grow this year. The level of protection, known as “Eulho” (Type B) security, is similar to what is provided for the prime minister or speaker of the National Assembly and remains in place until the election outcome is confirmed. The renewed focus on candidate safety follows the near-fatal stabbing of Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung in January 2024. The attack, which occurred during a public event in Busan, left Lee with life-threatening injuries and prompted widespread concern over the vulnerability of high-profile politicians. The suspect was arrested at the scene and later charged with attempted murder. The incident became a turning point in public debate over political security, prompting calls from across the political spectrum for stronger protections, especially during campaign season. Lawmakers and civil society groups warned that deepening political polarization and volatile public sentiment had created an environment ripe for violence. Lee, who announced his candidacy for the upcoming election earlier this week, is among those expected to receive enhanced protection as campaigning ramps up. Police are also preparing to coordinate more closely with local governments and campaign organizers to manage crowds and monitor protest activity around major events. 2025-04-14 18:03:57 -
Namwon kicks off countdown to Chunhyang Festival with press day SEOUL, April 14 (AJP) - Namwon City hosted a press day and ambassador networking event on April 10 in Seoul to mark 20 days ahead of the opening of the 95th Namwon Chunhyang Festival, South Korea’s longest-running local cultural celebration. Held at Park Hall in the Peace & Park Convention Center in Yongsan-gu, the event brought together travel journalists, foreign correspondents, influencers, and cultural figures to preview this year’s expanded festival lineup and global ambitions. The Chunhyang Festival is rooted in Chunhyangjeon (The Tale of Chunhyang), one of Korea’s most iconic folktales and a cornerstone of the Pansori storytelling tradition. It tells the story of Seong Chunhyang, the daughter of a lowborn Gisaeng, a female court entertainer, and her steadfast love for Lee Mongryong, the son of a nobleman. Despite separation, social boundaries, and the abuse of power by a corrupt magistrate, Chunhyang remains loyal—her story enduring as a symbol of integrity and resilience. The press event unfolded in two parts. In the first, Namwon officials laid out the highlights of this year’s festival, themed “The sounds of Chunhyang open the world.” Attendees were invited to explore more than 150 programs spanning Korean traditional music, global collaborations, and fusion performances that combine sound and technology. The festival will run from April 30 to May 6 in Namwon. The session was hosted by traditional musician and 1992 Miss Chunhyang winner Oh Jung-hae, who guided the audience through a promotional video on the festival’s legacy before introducing a live showcase. Jung Myung-hee, representing the Jo Gap-nyeo Traditional Dance Conservation Association, performed Seungmu, a meditative monk’s dance. Oh then followed with a performance of Sori, a traditional Korean vocal style. One of the most anticipated moments came with a Hanbok fashion show featuring past Miss Chunhyang titleholders and Namwon Mayor Choi Kyung-sik. The models wore designs by master Hanbok designer Kim Hye-soon, offering a striking visual tribute to Korean elegance and tradition. The second session focused on global outreach. Namwon City introduced plans to expand the Chunhyang Ambassador program through new networking opportunities with former and current Miss Chunhyang winners. A roundtable discussion is expected to follow, as part of preparations for the festival’s centennial in 2030. Launched in 1931, the Namwon Chunhyang Festival celebrates the love story of Chunhyang and Lee Mongryong. This year’s edition includes 100 performances featuring the sounds of Korea, international fusion, immersive cultural experiences, and the city’s signature Gugak showcase. The official Miss Chunhyang pageant will take place on April 30, and for the first time, contestants from the United States and Canada will join the competition. Other highlights include the return of the Theborn Zone and Barbecue Zone in partnership with celebrity chef Baek Jong-won, expanded venues across Gwanghalluwon Garden, Yocheon streamside, Guemam Park, and the Canola Flower Garden, as well as new additions like a 300-person community concert titled Life Is But a Dream and a Chunhyang Festival Archive Exhibition. 2025-04-14 16:36:42 -
India's ambassador joins lantern lighting in Seoul to mark Buddha's Birthday SEOUL, April 14 (AJP) - India’s Ambassador to South Korea Amit Kumar and his spouse participated in a lantern lighting ceremony at Dongguk University in Seoul on Apr. 9 to celebrate the birth anniversary of Buddha. The event, organized by Dongguk University with the participation of the Embassy of India in the Republic of Korea, was attended by over 500 people and featured the lighting of 16,000 lanterns. “This celebration holds profound meaning for both India and Korea,” Ambassador Kumar said during an opening speech session. “In India, there is deep reverence for the teachings and philosophy of Lord Buddha. As the land of his enlightenment and Mahaparinirvana, India is home to some of the most sacred sites in Buddhism, visited by thousands of South Korean pilgrims every year.” Held on the university’s campus, the ceremony symbolized the spiritual and cultural ties between India and South Korea, brought to life by the sea of lanterns representing compassion and wisdom. The ambassador noted the unique civilizational journey of Buddhism across Asia, not by conquest, but through monks, scholars, and seekers. “Lord Buddha’s core teachings, the Middle Path, the Four Noble Truths, and the Eightfold Path, offer timeless guidance in today’s turbulent world,” he said. “They speak to inner peace amidst anxiety, non-violence in times of conflict, and mindful living in an age of distraction.” The ambassador also reflected on the deep-rooted Buddhist connections between the two countries, citing architectural influence from India in early Silla temples, and the historic journey of Korean monk Hyecho, who traveled to India in the 8th century and wrote one of the earliest foreign travelogues of the country. During his visit to South Korea, Ambassador Kumar said he had the opportunity to visit several temples and praised the country’s rich Buddhist history. He added that India is prioritizing restoration and development of major pilgrimage sites and working with partner countries like South Korea to preserve manuscripts, promote academic research, and expand spiritual tourism. He also highlighted the Indian government’s recent decision to designate Pali, a language used by Buddha, as a classical language. Citing recent examples of India-South Korea Buddhist exchanges, Kumar mentioned the 2021 donation of a statue of Buddha to Tongdosa Temple, which was founded by monks who had traveled to India. The temple was built near Mount Yeongchuk, whose shape resembles the Rajgir mountain range where Buddha preached the Dhamma. In 2023, more than 100 senior monks from South Korea’s Jogye Order undertook a 1,200-kilometer pilgrimage across India’s sacred Buddhist sites to mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries. “I was privileged to meet them in Lucknow, where the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh hosted them,” he said. Reflecting on the ceremony itself, Ambassador Kumar said, “I am deeply moved by the 16,000 lanterns lit today, each symbolizing a prayer, a hope, and a commitment to compassion.” Quoting Buddha, he added, “Thousands of candles can be lit from a single flame, and the life of the candle will not be shortened.” 2025-04-14 16:07:05 -
Indonesia attracts S. Korean beauty industry to Bali expo SEOUL, April 14 (AJP) - The Embassy of Indonesia in South Korea hosted a briefing session on Monday to promote the upcoming "Bali Wellness and Beauty Expo 2025," inviting around 50 South Korean business operators from the beauty, cosmetics, wellness, and travel sectors. The event was held at the Indonesian Embassy in Seoul and served as a platform to introduce the inaugural expo and possible collaboration opportunities between the two countries. “This expo aims to strengthen Bali’s position as a leading destination for wellness and beauty tourism, not only in Asia but globally,” said Zelda Wulan Kartika, Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of Indonesia. “We hope this event will serve as a bridge for collaboration between Indonesian and Korean businesses, and we warmly invite Korean participants to attend the expo and experience the healing traditions and innovation Bali has to offer.” The Bali Wellness and Beauty Expo 2025 is scheduled to take place from June 27 to 29 at the Bali Beach Convention Center in Sanur. Under the theme “Grow Well in Bali: Where Wellness Becomes Beauty,” the event is officially supported by Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism and Bali Province and will include exhibitions, workshops, networking sessions, talk shows, private demonstrations, and cultural programs. Feri Agustian Soleh, Co-founder and Project Manager at MELALI MICE -- the organizing company behind the expo -- presented detailed information about the event. He emphasized Bali’s infrastructure and cultural assets as key strengths for wellness tourism, noting that Sanur offers a peaceful atmosphere with sunrise views and new resort developments. “Indonesia is a major global exporter of essential oils,” Feri said, highlighting that the country produces over 90 percent of the world’s patchouli oil and large shares of nutmeg, clove, and citronella oils. He encouraged South Korean businesses to recognize Indonesia’s role in supplying raw materials used in many K-beauty products. More than 25 exhibitors have already registered for the event, including members of the Indonesian Aromatherapy and Moringa Associations, according to the event organizer. The venue features 3,750 square meters of exhibition space and can accommodate up to 5,000 visitors. MELALI MICE, based in Bali, has nearly 20 years of experience in tourism and event management. Feri also introduced members of the expo advisory board, including Korean aromatherapy expert Louis Lee. The Indonesian Embassy and organizers said they are looking forward to welcoming more South Korean participants to the event in June and fostering stronger ties between the two countries’ wellness and beauty sectors. 2025-04-14 15:13:31 -
Studio Meta-K secures Series A investment from Korea Investment Partners to lead future of AI-powered content SEOUL, April 11 (AJP) - Studio Meta-K, a South Korean startup specializing in AI-based content IP production, announced on April 10 that it has raised 2 billion won from Korea Investment Partners as part of a 3 billion won Series A funding round. The investment aims to support the company’s efforts to revolutionize content production using proprietary AI and virtual human technologies. Studio Meta-K describes itself as South Korea’s first full-service studio to combine artificial intelligence with original content IP. The company is actively introducing generative AI into the production of dramas, films, commercials, and music videos—enhancing both efficiency and creativity. Its high-quality visuals are often indistinguishable from live-action footage, offering a compelling solution for South Korea’s drama industry, which has been struggling under rising production costs. Recognized for its innovation, Studio Meta-K has been selected for several major support programs, including TIPS by the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, and NVIDIA’s Inception Program. It is also working on collaborative projects with leading South Korean broadcasters and corporations. “The AI content production capabilities and virtual human technologies of Studio Meta-K are poised to become key drivers of the future content ecosystem, going far beyond today’s market,” said Kim Hee-jin, Senior Team Leader at Korea Investment Partners. “This investment will help accelerate their innovation and global expansion in content production.” The new funding will be used not only for further development of advanced AI technology but also for strengthening the company’s content production infrastructure and building global marketing strategies. Studio Meta-K plans to extend its business beyond AI-driven drama production into advertising, film, music videos, and virtual human content. As the digital content industry continues to evolve rapidly with AI at its core, Korea Investment Partners’ backing is expected to further bolster Studio Meta-K’s creative and technical edge. Industry experts say that AI-assisted drama production offers the potential to reduce costs while delivering high-quality results, making it an increasingly competitive format in the global market. Korea Investment Partners noted that this investment also reflects its broader goal of diversifying its portfolio and deepening engagement with innovative technology startups. Market watchers are now paying attention to whether this partnership will help spark meaningful transformation across South Korea’s content industry. 2025-04-11 15:02:50 -
Retail sector embraces EHS audits as ESG risk management gains ground SEOUL, April 11 (AJP) - South Korea’s retail industry is ramping up efforts to introduce Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS) audits, reflecting a broader shift toward ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) practices and long-term sustainability. Previously concentrated in manufacturing, EHS audits are now being expanded to include non-manufacturing sites such as retail stores, logistics centers, and corporate offices. The trend is gaining momentum as global consumer goods and retail companies seek to strengthen supply chain oversight and enhance brand credibility. Several international firms, including major fashion SPA brands, have recently launched formal EHS audits at their operations in South Korea. These assessments cover a wide range of risk factors, including emergency response systems, workplace safety, first-aid preparedness, chemical handling and storage, and third-party logistics (3PL) management. South Korean consulting firm ELPS has been leading these projects, carrying out multi-day inspections at retail locations, logistics hubs, and head offices in the Seoul metropolitan area. The company has also conducted regular EHS audits for flagship stores operated by global luxury and tech brands, responding to growing demand for ESG-based evaluations across the retail sector. "EHS risks in the retail industry are increasingly tied to brand trust and investment appeal," said Park Joon-soo, director at ELPS, who oversaw the recent audits. "Beyond regulatory pressures like the Serious Accidents Punishment Act, retailers must now address rising expectations from consumers and investors through systematic audits and tailored risk management strategies." In Europe and North America, EHS audit outcomes are already considered key benchmarks for brand valuation, supply chain agreements, and investment decisions. That international standard is prompting South Korean companies to build more sophisticated risk management systems and pursue objective validation of their ESG practices. As ESG management becomes a necessity rather than a choice, thorough EHS audits are emerging as a critical factor in ensuring long-term sustainability for retail and service businesses alike. 2025-04-11 14:34:11 -
Military battles unidentified wildfire in DMZ near Goseong SEOUL, April 11 (AJP) - A wildfire has started in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) near the front-line area of Goseong, Gangwon Province, prompting South Korea's military to engage in a firefighting operation. According to the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) on Friday, the fire was first detected around 4:30 p.m. on Thursday in the DMZ area of Goseong. Two firefighting helicopters from the Korea Forest Service were dispatched to extinguish the blaze at about 6:30 a.m. on Friday. "We have issued a prior announcement to the North via loudspeaker broadcasts before the helicopters were deployed," the JCS said in a statement. "There have been no reported casualties or damage to military facilities on our side, and firefighting efforts south of the Military Demarcation Line (MDL) are proceeding smoothly." The JCS added that the military is closely monitoring movements from the North and maintaining a heightened state of readiness. 2025-04-11 10:44:46 -
Jeju 4·3 Archives inscribed in UNESCO's Memory of the World program SEOUL, April 11 (AJP) - The Jeju 4·3 Archives have been officially inscribed in UNESCO's Memory of the World program, marking global recognition of the historical tragedy and the island’s long journey toward truth, reconciliation, and remembrance. The decision was adopted during the 221st session of UNESCO’s Executive Board, held in Paris on Apr. 10 (local time). The listing, under the title “Revealing Truth: Jeju 4·3 Archives,” acknowledges the historical value, authenticity, and universal importance of the records documenting one of South Korea’s darkest chapters. Submitted by Jeju Province and the Jeju 4·3 Peace Foundation in November 2023, the archive comprises 14,673 documents including military court trial records, handwritten postcards from prison, firsthand testimonies from survivors and bereaved families, civic society campaigns, and three official government investigation reports. The Jeju Uprising, also known as the Jeju 4·3 Incident, began on Apr. 3, 1948, as protests against separate elections planned in South Korea. It escalated into an armed conflict and a brutal state-led counterinsurgency campaign. Over the course of several years, tens of thousands of civilians were killed, and entire villages were destroyed. Historians estimate that between 14,000 and 30,000 people, about 10 percent of Jeju’s population at the time, lost their lives. Long suppressed under authoritarian rule, the events remained taboo for decades. A government truth commission in the early 2000s led to official acknowledgment, apologies, and compensation. The UNESCO listing is now seen as a milestone in international recognition of efforts to reckon with the past. “The inscription of the Jeju 4·3 Archives is a meaningful moment in which the historical journey of the people of Jeju, who healed the pain and achieved reconciliation, has become a heritage for the world,” Jeju Governor Oh Young-hun said. He vowed to continue collecting and preserving related records, and to use them as educational materials for future generations. UNESCO’s International Advisory Committee described the archives as highlighting “efforts to uncover truth in the face of state violence” and praised the community’s democratic commitment to peace and healing. With this inscription, Jeju Province now holds five UNESCO designations: Biosphere Reserve, World Natural Heritage, Global Geopark, Intangible Cultural Heritage, and Memory of the World. 2025-04-11 09:41:47 -
Kazakh Kurultai in Seoul brings together diaspora communities across Asia SEOUL, April 10 (AJP) - The second Kurultai of Kazakhs in Asia was held in South Korea from Apr. 5 to 6, drawing over 200 participants from ethnic Kazakh communities in Korea, Malaysia, Japan, China, and Mongolia, the Embassy of Kazakhstan in the Republic of Korea said Wednesday. A Kurultai is a traditional assembly rooted in Turkic and Mongol cultures, historically convened to discuss important political, social, or cultural matters. In the modern context, the Kurultai serves as a platform for uniting the global Kazakh diaspora and preserving cultural heritage while promoting dialogue and cooperation. Organized by the Kazakhstan Embassy in Seoul, the Otandastar Foundation, and the Qazaq Nomad Kazakh Association, the event was hosted at the Global Campus of Hankuk University of Foreign Studies, the event aimed to reinforce cultural bonds and expand economic collaboration between Kazakhstan and Asian countries. The assembly featured a range of cultural and economic programs. Kazakhstan’s Ambassador to the Republic of Korea Nurgali Arystanov noted the expanding partnership between the two nations, citing South Korea as Kazakhstan’s third-largest investor in 2024, with $1.2 billion in investments and 876 Korean-funded companies operating in the country. Ambassador Arystanov also highlighted deepening people-to-people exchanges, including 13 weekly direct flights, 40,180 Korean tourists visiting Kazakhstan in 2024 -- up 12 percent from the previous year -- and 53,224 Kazakhs traveling to South Korea, an 8 percent year-on-year rise. The first day featured a cultural and economic conference, including presentations on traditional Kazakh jewelry and cuisine, and a performance by singer Zhubanysh Zheksenuly. The day also included South Korea’s first Kazakh-language public speaking contest. Seven students from Hankuk University's Department of Central Asian Studies competed, with sophomore Lee Seo-yeon winning first prize -- a round-trip ticket to Kazakhstan and hotel stay. On April 6, the second day of the Kurultai, participants celebrated Nauryz, the Kazakh New Year, with folk music, dance, and displays of traditional attire and cuisine. The event provided a dynamic platform for cultural exchange and affirmed Kazakhstan’s commitment to strengthening ties with its diaspora communities and regional partners in Asia. 2025-04-10 10:53:05