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Cultural Diversity Celebrated at Jindo County Multicultural Festival Families from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds gathered to share neighborly bonds and strengthen community unity during a meaningful event.Despite differences in nationality and culture, multicultural families and local residents came together, reflecting on the importance of respecting cultural diversity within the community.On October 24, Jindo County held the Multicultural Family Unity Festival at the Jindo County Gymnasium, as announced on October 26.Organized by the Jindo County Family Center, the event aimed to enhance community understanding of multicultural families and foster an inclusive environment where different cultures coexist.A standout performance was the Healing Family Nanta show, featuring multicultural family parents and children on stage.The Nanta performance, where families synchronized their movements, became a platform for communication through music, transcending generational and linguistic barriers.The parade of national flags, showcasing traditional costumes from various countries, added significance to the event.Participants introduced diverse cultures through traditional attire and flags, taking time to understand cultural differences with local residents.Notably, this festival was not solely for multicultural families; it served as a venue for local residents to engage and learn about each others cultures.Awards were presented to individuals who contributed to community harmony and neighborly relations.Jindo County recognizes that for multicultural families to settle stably within the community, support for language and lifestyle adaptation, as well as understanding and interaction from residents, is crucial.Currently, there are 430 multicultural families, totaling approximately 1,360 individuals, residing in Jindo County.This highlights the ongoing need for community-level support for the stable settlement, child-rearing, education, and family relationship assistance for multicultural families.Jindo County is implementing various initiatives through the Jindo County Family Center, including Korean language education, translation support, mother tongue experience programs, and support for visiting the hometowns of marriage immigrants.Korean language education and translation support aim to assist marriage immigrants in adapting to daily life and the community, while the mother tongue experience program helps children understand their parents languages and cultures.The support for visiting the hometowns of marriage immigrants is also designed to maintain family bonds and facilitate stable settlement.Expanding opportunities for local residents to understand and interact with each others cultures is seen as a key task to reduce social isolation among multicultural families and enhance community cohesion.Lee Jae-gak, the Mayor of Jindo County, expressed hope that the festival would serve as an opportunity to understand and respect different cultures, stating, We will continue to support multicultural families in settling stably within the community without discrimination, creating a warm Jindo where all residents can live together.The event concluded with multicultural families and local residents enjoying performances together and sharing a sense of belonging as members of the community.Meanwhile, Jindo County currently hosts 430 multicultural families, approximately 1,360 individuals, and is promoting various initiatives through the Jindo County Family Center to support the stable settlement and family relationship enhancement of multicultural families.* This article has been translated by AI. October 26, 2026 17 -
Pulmuone Expands Sales Channels with First Airport Duty-Free Store at Gimpo Airport Pulmuone has opened its first brand store in an airport duty-free shop, accelerating its efforts to diversify global distribution channels.Pulmuone Foods announced on October 26 that it has launched its brand store in the DF1 area of the international departure hall at Gimpo International Airport, operated by Lotte Duty-Free. This opening aligns with Lotte Duty-Frees strategy to enhance food offerings in response to the growing demand for K-food among foreign tourists, while also expanding Pulmuones reach to international customers.The store features items that tourists can purchase as souvenirs from their visit to Korea, including kimchi, seaweed, and various soups. Products such as Savory Perilla Oil Stir-Fried Kimchi, Chopped Jeolla-style Kimchi, Straightforward Beef Bone Soup, and Spicy Beef Radish Soup are packaged in convenient 500g portions for easy transport.To cater to gift-giving needs, the store also offers the Pulmuone Sunset Seaweed Gift Set, along with organic food items like sandwich wafers, sesame oil, and perilla oil. The stores interior reflects Pulmuones unique brand colors and identity.With the opening of this brand store, Pulmuone plans to collaborate with its subsidiaries operating within the airport. Pulmuone Food & Culture has been running the Sky Hub Lounge Premium at Gimpo Airport since last month and aims to expand services for airport users.Chun Young-hoon, CEO of Pulmuone Foods, stated, We are very pleased to open our brand store in an airport duty-free shop for the first time since our founding. In the future, we plan to enter additional airport duty-free shops and promote K-food, which embodies Pulmuones sustainable values, to more global customers.Meanwhile, Pulmuones overseas sales increased by 19% from 560.3 billion won in 2023 to 666.9 billion won last year, accounting for approximately 26% of total sales.* This article has been translated by AI. October 26, 2026 16
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Seongnam Cultural Foundation Hosts Tech Art Festival in Pangyo and Tancheon Seongnam City, in collaboration with the Seongnam Cultural Foundation, concluded the 2026 Seongnam Tech Art Festival held from October 23 to 25. According to the foundation on October 26, preliminary counts indicate that over 180,000 visitors attended the festival at Pangyo Station Square, Tancheon, and Seongnam Sports Complex. With the slogan Revitalizing the City through Technology and Art, this festival revamped the traditional Seongnam Festival by integrating advanced technology with cultural arts. The event was designed to allow citizens to enjoy the festival across various spaces, linking Pangyos industrial and technological content, Tancheons experiential and performance programs, and musical performances at Seongnam Sports Complex. Pangyo Station Square hosted the opening ceremony, Tech Concert, Conference SN26, Tech Popup Zone, and Creative Talks. The opening ceremony featured a performance combining AI robots, along with programs showcasing advanced technology and industry trends, and exhibition spaces for hands-on experiences with corporate technologies. At Tancheon, content merging technology and art was presented, including a media art multi-show, media canvas, and digital garden. The festival also offered experiences with robots, AI, and extended reality (XR), kayaking, Tancheon Market, and global food options, attracting families and participants of various ages. On October 24, the Seongnam Symphony Orchestra participated in the Seongnam Music Festival, which featured a drone show utilizing 3,000 drones. The music performances and drone displays were key highlights at the Tancheon waterfront. On October 25, a music festival featuring popular singers took place at Seongnam Sports Complex, concluding with a drone show using 1,500 drones. This festival was significant for combining Pangyos advanced industrial base with Tancheons natural environment and large performance facilities, providing both technological experiences and cultural performances. Food and market programs were also organized to enhance visitor engagement and explore potential connections with local businesses. Shin Sang-jin, the mayor, stated, We prepared this event so that citizens could directly experience advanced technology and cultural arts. Based on our operational experience linking key local spaces, we aim to create an urban environment where technology and culture coexist. Yoon Jeong-guk, the foundations CEO, remarked, The Seongnam Tech Art Festival was a new initiative connecting Pangyos advanced technology with Seongnams cultural arts, allowing citizens to experience future technologies in a friendly manner and enjoy them together. He added, We will continue to develop festival content based on citizen participation and feedback from the field.* This article has been translated by AI. October 26, 2026 16
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Ruling Party Discusses Mega Growth Strategy with Government, Emphasizes Use of Unused Campus Land The Democratic Party held a meeting with the government on October 26 to discuss the mega growth strategy, reaffirming its commitment to the development of the Five Extremes and Three Specials and the success of the Super Wide Area Special Zone Act through the active use of unused university land.The partys Mega Growth Special Committee convened in the National Assembly that afternoon to engage with government departments on issues related to state-led growth stemming from the Five Extremes and Three Specials and the Super Wide Area Special Zone Act.Before the meeting began, floor leader Han Byeong-do stated that universities should not be isolated islands in urban areas but should serve as growth engines for their regions.Many universities resemble islands in urban settings. While they teach and conduct research within their walls, their influence does not extend to businesses and jobs outside those walls, he emphasized. The unused land at universities is nearly seven times the size of Yeouido, and approximately 46% of the 15 trillion won in private university reserves is expected to be used in ten years.Kwon Chil-seung, chair of the policy committee, explained that the country must move away from a structure centered on the capital region and promote organic growth in local areas for nationwide development.For a long time, South Korea has followed a development strategy focused on the capital region, resulting in a solidified structure of capital-centered growth, Kwon added. This approach has clear limitations. Regions must achieve national development through advancements in industry, economy, culture, and education.Government officials also responded by committing to continuous cooperation and close communication with the special committee to achieve balanced national growth.Park Dong-il, Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy, stated, We will report the progress to the special committee through systematic policy management. Moving forward, we will ensure that the special committee and the government communicate effectively to achieve tangible results for balanced national growth.* This article has been translated by AI. October 26, 2026 16
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Poet Yoon Dong-ju Awarded Gold Medal of Cultural Merit; Kim Nam-jo Also Honored Yoon Dong-ju (1917–1945), a poet who expressed the pain and resistance of the Korean people during the Japanese occupation through his works, has been posthumously awarded the Gold Medal of Cultural Merit. On October 26, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism held the 2026 Cultural Arts Awards ceremony at the Modu Arts Theater in Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, where both Yoon Dong-ju and poet Kim Nam-jo (1927–2023) received the highest honor, the Gold Medal of Cultural Merit. Yoon Dong-ju is celebrated as a leading poet in Korea, known for his lyrical and introspective poetry that reflects the national suffering and spirit of resistance during the Japanese colonial period. Kim Nam-jo, a female writer, authored over 1,000 poems and essays throughout her 70-year career. The Silver Medal of Cultural Merit was awarded to five individuals, including cartoonist Lee Hyun-se, poet Yoo An-jin, and actors Jeon Mu-song and Park Jeong-ja, as well as the late artist Jeong Sang-hwa. The Bronze Medal of Cultural Merit was given to six recipients, including hanbok designer Kim Hye-soon, film director Park Kyung-sam, poet Kim Kwang-kyu, novelist Kim Hong-sin, pianist Seo Gye-sook, and dancer Kim Sook-ja. The Honorary Medal of Cultural Merit was awarded to the late Sijo master Lee Young-jun, dancer Moon Byeong-nam, and stone craft master Yoon Man-geol, while architect Cheon Ui-young received the Flower Medal of Cultural Merit. The Presidents Award, known as the Republic of Korea Cultural Arts Award, was presented to six individuals, including artistic director Jeong Gu-ho, novelist Kim Ae-ran, ajaeng player Kim Young-gil, theater director Kang Yang-won, installation artist Kim Seung-young, and craft planner Lim Mi-sun. Each recipient of the Republic of Korea Cultural Arts Award receives a presidential citation and a cash prize of 10 million won. The Young Artist of Today Award recognized eight individuals, including novelist Yeo So-yeon, composer Kim Shin, geomungo player Lee Jae-ha, performance planner Shin Ba-ram, choreographer Jeon Hyuk-jin, artist Kim Young-eun, craftsperson Park Jong-jin, and architectural curator Jeong Da-young. Additionally, five parents who supported the growth of artists were honored with the Outstanding Parents of Artists Award. This year, a total of 36 individuals received awards for their contributions to the arts. Minister Choi Hwi-young stated, Today, K-Culture stands on the foundation of the dedication and sacrifices of the awardees. The Ministry will do its utmost to ensure that current and future artists can work under better conditions than before.* This article has been translated by AI. October 26, 2026 16
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300 Talented Singers to Compete at the 2026 Yeongam Wolchulsan Moonlight Music Festival Hidden singing talents from across the country will compete at the base of Wolchulsan Mountain in Yeongam, South Korea. As the autumn chrysanthemums bloom, the festival combines music and tourism, drawing attention to Yeongam as a cultural venue for late fall.Yeongam County announced on October 26 that it will host the 2026 Yeongam Wolchulsan Moonlight Music Festival on November 7 at the outdoor performance venue of Wolchulsan Gichan Land.This festival is a competition for amateur singers from across the nation, designed for local residents and tourists to enjoy the performances together.In particular, it is planned to coincide with the Chrysanthemum Festival, providing music performances and various experiences for visitors, thereby boosting local tourism in the fall.Interest in the competition is high.According to Yeongam County, over 300 participants have registered from various regions across the country. With contestants from diverse age groups, anticipation for the finals is growing.The competition will be divided into youth and adult categories.Through preliminary evaluations, 20 finalists—10 from the youth category and 10 from the adult category—will be selected by October 30.The finalists will showcase their singing talents starting at 3 p.m. on November 7 at the outdoor venue of Wolchulsan Gichan Land.This event is distinct from traditional music performances, as it allows general participants to take center stage.By separating the youth and adult categories, the competition aims to provide young participants with stage experience and give adult contestants a chance to showcase their talents.Special performances by invited singers will also be featured on the main stage.Singers Min Kyung-hoon and Kim Na-young are scheduled to perform, attracting interest not only from contestants but also from tourists attending the event.The venue will also include music relaxation areas, experience spaces, and food markets.Yeongam County plans to enhance the connection between the Chrysanthemum Festival and the music performances, allowing tourists to enjoy autumn flowers and participate in cultural programs.This festival, set against the backdrop of Wolchulsan, is noteworthy for combining natural scenery with cultural arts.It is expected to encourage tourists visiting Yeongam in the fall to engage in various cultural events beyond just viewing the chrysanthemum festival, thereby increasing their stay.The key to revitalizing local tourism lies in connecting visitors to multiple event venues and encouraging spending in local businesses.Through this music festival, Yeongam County aims to provide cultural enjoyment opportunities for local residents while promoting Yeongams autumn tourism resources to outside visitors.Kim Cheol, head of the Yeongam County Culture and Arts Department, expressed gratitude for the interest and participation from across the country, stating, We will do our best to prepare the event so that tourists visiting Yeongam can enjoy the beauty of Wolchulsan while experiencing music and autumn flowers.The 2026 Yeongam Wolchulsan Moonlight Music Festival will take place on November 7 at 3 p.m. at the outdoor venue of Wolchulsan Gichan Land. The 20 finalists will be determined after preliminary evaluations on October 30, and the event will feature special performances by Min Kyung-hoon and Kim Na-young, along with experience and food programs.* This article has been translated by AI. October 26, 2026 15
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Hong Ra-hee Receives National Medal of Honor for Philanthropy Hong Ra-hee, honorary director of the Leeum Museum, has been awarded the National Medal of Honor.The Samsung Cultural Foundation announced that Hong received the medal on October 26 for her over 40 years of contributions in the fields of culture, healthcare, and welfare. This honor follows her receipt of the Red Cross Gold Medal in 2024.The National Medal of Honor is awarded by the government to individuals who have contributed to the improvement of national welfare and development. It is divided into five grades, from the highest, the Mugunghwa Medal, to the lowest, the Pomegranate Medal.Hong is recognized for her leadership in enhancing social safety nets and elevating the paradigm of domestic donation culture, embodying the principle of noblesse oblige. She has participated in various social contribution activities, including the donation of cultural heritage and medical support initiated by the late Lee Kun-hee, former chairman of Samsung.In 2021, Hong and her family, including Lee Jae-yong, chairman of Samsung Electronics, donated over 23,000 artworks from the late Lee Kun-hees collection to the nation, enhancing the publics access to culture. The donated works have been showcased in domestic exhibitions at the National Museum of Korea and the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, as well as internationally at venues such as the Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art in Washington, D.C., the Art Institute of Chicago, and the British Museum. Hong has also participated in overseas exhibition events to promote Korean art.Among the significant contributions from the late Lee Kun-hees estate is a donation of 1 trillion won to the healthcare sector. Of this amount, 300 billion won is allocated for supporting children with cancer and rare diseases, leading to the establishment of the Lee Kun-hee Pediatric Cancer and Rare Disease Support Project. Additionally, 700 billion won is designated for the construction of the National Central Infectious Disease Hospital and the expansion of research and treatment capabilities for infectious diseases.Hong has also been a leader in domestic donation culture. She has consistently donated cash to the Red Cross and became a founding member of the Red Cross Honors Club in 2016, which recognizes high-value donors who have contributed over 100 million won. In 2025, she was inducted into the Red Cross Honors 1 Billion Club.Furthermore, she has contributed 1 billion won to the Youth Happiness Foundation and 355 million won to the Yongsan Welfare Foundation, supporting children, youth, and vulnerable groups. She has also supported the preservation of cultural heritage in Buddhist traditions and welfare projects in various religious communities, including Won Buddhism and Catholicism.* This article has been translated by AI. October 26, 2026 15
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Hong Ra-hee Receives National Medal of Honor for 40 Years of Philanthropy Hong Ra-hee, honorary director of the Leeum Museum, received the National Medal of Honor this year. Her contributions, which began with volunteer work in a Hansens village in 1980, have expanded over 40 years to include donations of cultural heritage and support for pediatric cancer and rare disease patients.On October 26, Samsung reported that Hong was also awarded the Red Cross Gold Medal in 2024.Following the passing of her husband, the late Lee Kun-hee, Hong has engaged in significant social contributions alongside his family. In 2021, Lee donated over 23,000 artworks he had collected throughout his life to the state and allocated 1 trillion won to the medical sector.The donated items include national treasures such as Jeong Seon’s Inwangjesaekdo and works by prominent domestic and international artists. Since 2021, the National Museum of Korea and the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art have held 35 exhibitions of the KH Collection, attracting a cumulative audience of 3.5 million. Since November of last year, a special overseas tour has been underway, connecting the Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the British Museum. This marks the first large-scale special exhibition of Korean art at the British Museum in 42 years, since 1984.During the planning of the touring exhibitions, Hong collaborated with art community figures and supported the inclusion of key works from the Leeum and Hoam Art Museums. She attended events at the Smithsonian and the British Museum alongside her family to promote Korean art.In the medical field, 300 billion won of the 1 trillion won donation has been allocated for the treatment and research of pediatric cancer and rare diseases. Based on this, the Lee Kun-hee Pediatric Cancer and Rare Disease Support Project was launched, benefiting approximately 28,000 patients to date. The remaining 700 billion won is being invested in building a central infectious disease hospital and expanding research facilities for treatments and vaccines, contributing to the national infectious disease response system. In 2024, Hong visited Seoul National University Childrens Hospital to encourage patients and their families.Hongs philanthropic efforts began much earlier. In 1980, after learning about the struggles of Hansens disease patients during a lecture by the womens volunteer group Bul-i-hui, she established a connection with the Seong Lazarus Village in Uiwang. Starting the following year, she visited the village with sugar and daily necessities, continuing to deliver food and medical supplies annually. On January 9, the birthday of the late Lee Kun-hee, she provided food for the residents to last a year and contributed to improving living conditions, including restroom renovations.Her relationship with the Red Cross spans 36 years. She began her involvement in 1990 as a special advisory member for womens volunteer activities and worked as a sales clerk at Red Cross bazaars for over a decade. Since 2001, she has made regular donations and became a founding member of the Red Cross Honors Club in 2016. Last year, she joined the Red Cross Honors 1 Billion Club and donated 500 million won for mobile shower units for disaster victims and relief workers.Hong has also supported youth and vulnerable groups. She donated 1 billion won to the Youth Happiness Foundation to assist at-risk youth with temporary protection, psychological counseling, and vocational training. Additionally, she contributed 355 million won to the Yongsan Welfare Foundation to help vulnerable groups with heating and living expenses. She supports initiatives like Friends of Love for vulnerable children and youth and Shoulder to Shoulder for North Korean children, and participates in preserving traditional Buddhist culture and social welfare projects in the religious community. October 26, 2026 15
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Latin American dreaming for Korean game publishers SEOUL, October 26 (AJP) - Long before K-pop reached Latin American stadiums, a Korean dance machine had teenagers across the region stomping on flashing arrows. Andamiro's Pump It Up, launched in 1999, packed Mexico's arcades in the early 2000s and spread across Latin America. Korean PC games followed into Brazil’s internet cafes. Gravity's Ragnarok Online began commercial service there in 2005 through local publisher Level Up, which later brought in Nexon's Combat Arms in 2010 and Sudden Attack in 2011. Two decades on, Korean game makers are heading south again, this time with local servers and Portuguese voice actors. The draw is a growing market abroad as gaming participation falls at home. The challenge is turning enthusiasm into spending. Latin America's games market is forecast to grow 7.9 percent to $9.3 billion this year, outpacing North America and Europe, according to Newzoo figures cited by Gamescom Latam. In South Korea, gaming participation fell to 50.2 percent in KOCCA’s 2025 survey, down from 74.4 percent in 2022. The survey covers people aged 10 to 69. "Latin Americans are very friendly toward Korean culture" said Kim Jung-tae, a professor at the School of Game at Dongyang University. "The region is not that different from the US cultural sphere, so what works in the Americas can travel there." Kim said fighting over a limited domestic market would offer Korean companies few answers. But winning Brazilian players does not mean they will accept Korean pricing. NC's Aion 2 launched globally on Oct. 5 after opening early access on Sept. 30, offering South American servers and Brazilian Portuguese support. It topped Steam's sales chart in Brazil during early access, the company said. Some of its most-upvoted Brazilian Portuguese reviews, however, took aim at the price. "This is the first game with reverse regional pricing," one player wrote on Steam on Sept. 30. Reviewers said the monthly membership needed to trade on the in-game market costs about 82 reais, roughly 5 percent of Brazil’s monthly minimum wage. The response is far from uniformly negative. Of the game's 2,786 Brazilian Portuguese-language reviews, 69 percent are positive, compared with 52 percent of its English-language reviews. Even criticism can come from committed players. "The game is good in many ways: combat, graphics, soundtrack," wrote one player with more than 160 hours logged, before calling its monetization "extremely predatory." Pearl Abyss' Crimson Desert has received a warmer reception, with 92 percent of its 2,463 Portuguese-language reviews positive. The company added full Brazilian Portuguese voice-over in an update unveiled in August. "A perfect game for salaried workers, freelancers, family men and pet parents," one reviewer wrote. Brazil's growing visibility also extends to competitive gaming. Its team won Krafton's PUBG Nations Cup in Seoul in June, becoming the tournament's first champion from the Americas. Speculation about a Brazilian base for Krafton has followed, although the company has announced no decision. "Krafton constantly reviews business opportunities in various regions to expand its global business," a company spokesperson said. "Nothing has been confirmed or officially decided regarding Brazil." Brazil is strengthening support for its own games industry. President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who secured a fourth term in Sunday's runoff, signed an Oct. 14 decree implementing the country's 2024 games law. It establishes the Brazilian games sector's eligibility for federal support in culture, technology, research and innovation, subject to each program's rules. Beyond Latin America, Kim sees Africa as another potential growth market, although one requiring more time and adaptation. Africa's games revenue is forecast to rise 11.9 percent to $1.98 billion this year, according to Carry1st and Newzoo — faster than Latin America's growth, but from a much smaller base. "Much of Africa's working population is in its early 20s, which opens even more opportunities for us than Asia," Kim said. "But gaps in technology and culture still limit how far Korean games can go there, and it will take more time." Whether the next hit finds its audience in Sao Paulo or Lagos, Kim said, its Korean origins may matter less than the experience it delivers. "Nationality doesn't matter," he said. "A game just has to be fun." AJP Takeaways - Korean game makers are expanding local servers and language support in Latin America as gaming participation declines at home. - Latin America’s games market is forecast to grow 7.9 percent to $9.3 billion in 2026, but player enthusiasm does not guarantee acceptance of subscription fees and in-game charges. - Krafton has made no decision on a Brazilian base. Africa offers another growth prospect, though infrastructure and cultural differences remain barriers. October 26, 2026 14 -
Gyeongnam Lawmaker Aims to Eliminate Residency Restrictions for Military Service Families Families recognized for their military service in Gyeongnam, even those without a local address, will soon be eligible for public facility fee exemptions as a new ordinance is being proposed. This aims to improve the support criteria that have varied based on residency for families designated as military service families by the government.Kim Soon-taek, a member of the Gyeongnam Provincial Council, introduced a bill on October 19 to abolish residency restrictions for military service families under the Gyeongnam Ordinance on Recognition and Support for Military Service Families.The current ordinance stipulates that at least one member of the recognized family must reside in Gyeongnam to receive benefits. If the amendment passes, this residency requirement will be removed, allowing families living elsewhere to access the benefits provided by Gyeongnam.In a phone interview, Kim stated, Military service families have not contributed to a specific region but have dedicated themselves to the nation as a whole. I believe removing residency restrictions aligns with the intent of the system.The military service family designation is a program established by the Military Manpower Administration to recognize families that have fulfilled their military obligations across three generations. Introduced in 2004, these families receive benefits such as reduced fees for public facilities and parking.According to data from the provincial council, as of the end of August this year, 33,748 families and 159,940 individuals nationwide have been recognized as military service families. In Gyeongnam, there were 1,491 families and 7,478 individuals eligible for recognition as of the end of July. While the designation is made at the national level, the actual benefits vary by local government ordinances. A survey conducted at the end of February found that 200 out of 243 local governments nationwide impose residency restrictions.The Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission voted on May 18 to improve the regional disparities in recognition for military service families and recommended related ordinance revisions to the Military Manpower Administration and local governments on May 26.The proposed amendment includes not only the removal of residency restrictions but also clarifies the scope of eligible individuals and the verification process. It defines military service members as eligible individuals and their parents, spouses, and children as eligible family members.Additionally, the amendment aims to streamline recognition procedures for major events and awards, specifying the fee reductions for facilities managed or operated by Gyeongnam, including entrance fees and parking charges. It also outlines the necessary documentation for receiving benefits, such as presenting a military service family certificate and identification, along with family relationship verification.Kim noted that there are no significant changes to the definition of eligible family members compared to the existing ordinance, emphasizing that the focus of the amendment is on abolishing residency restrictions and refining the application criteria. He acknowledged concerns about the low number of actual beneficiaries but highlighted the rarity and symbolic significance of military service families.He remarked, Families where all three generations have completed their military service are not numerous, but their recognition is valuable due to their rarity. The benefits provided by local governments are not extensive but are significant in honoring these individuals. However, he clarified that even if Gyeongnams ordinance is amended, it does not mean that restrictions on military service families in other regions will be lifted simultaneously, as benefits will still depend on the ordinances of each local government.As a result, military service families residing in Gyeongnam may still miss out on fee reductions when using public facilities in other regions if those local governments maintain residency restrictions. Kim expressed optimism that these discrepancies between regions will be addressed soon, stating, I believe local governments will gradually revise their ordinances.Indeed, Ulsan City has already initiated efforts to eliminate residency restrictions for military service families as of September, and the Gyeongbuk Provincial Councils related ordinance amendment passed committee review on October 7, indicating ongoing regional reforms.Kim concluded, Recognizing military service families is about respecting their dedication to the nation, not just a specific region. I will work to improve the issue of varying recognition based on residency and ensure that the value of fulfilling military obligations is respected in society.Meanwhile, this ordinance will undergo legislative notice and is set for review by the Culture and Welfare Committee during the 438th Gyeongnam Provincial Council regular session starting November 3.* This article has been translated by AI. October 26, 2026 14
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Japanese Parents Seek Partners for Their Adult Children Amid Marriage Trends In Japan, a growing trend of parental matchmaking events is gaining popularity, where parents seek partners for their adult children.As a culture of singlehood spreads among younger generations, parents eager for their children to marry are taking matters into their own hands.According to a report by Yomiuri TV, cited by Yonhap News on October 26, a survey by the Children and Families Agency found that 35.1% of unmarried men and women in Japan have no intention of getting married. Amid this trend of marriage avoidance among youth, parents in their 50s to 70s are actively participating in matchmaking events.At a parental matchmaking event held in August at a hotel in Kyoto, about 80% of participating parents were in their 60s and 70s, while 90% of the children they were representing were in their 30s and 40s. Parents reviewed profiles detailing potential matches occupations, personalities, and family backgrounds before engaging in discussions to assess compatibility.Conversations at the event also touched on the future lives of the children post-marriage. For instance, a mother in her 50s with a daughter in her 20s informed the mother of a 30-something engineer that her daughter wishes to continue her career. The other mother responded, “That’s not a problem at all. In fact, it’s a good thing.” If both parties reach an agreement, they exchange profiles and photos and consult their children to decide whether to proceed with the matchmaking.The motivations behind parents participating in these events include hopes that their children will not be alone in their later years and desires to see them settled and independent, potentially leading to grandchildren.Additionally, children who feel overwhelmed by dating apps are increasingly favoring partners vetted by their parents, seeking a more efficient approach to relationships.Masahiro Yamada, a professor of family sociology at Chuo University, noted, “For parents, it provides a sense of satisfaction in doing something for their children and an opportunity to boast about them. For the children, having parents vet potential partners can streamline the approval process before marriage.”Meanwhile, among Japans younger generations, there is a growing trend of delegating not just matchmaking but also other social responsibilities to others, reflecting a desire to avoid unnecessary emotional strain. Services that handle resignations on behalf of clients, manage leave requests, and even offer apology services are becoming increasingly popular. Experts suggest that this trend reflects Japans unique meiwaku culture, where individuals are extremely cautious about imposing on others or finding themselves in awkward situations.* This article has been translated by AI. October 26, 2026 14
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Gyeonggi Province Mayor Shin Gye-yong Supports Future Generations at Toriyari Science Festival Shin Gye-yong, the mayor of Gwacheon in Gyeonggi Province, emphasized the importance of expanding science culture for children and families on October 24, aiming to create a harmonious environment for the growth and education of future generations. The mayor announced that the 24th Toriyari Science Festival, held at the Information Science Library and Airdrie Park, concluded successfully with over 3,000 citizens in attendance. Under the slogan Science Opening the Future, Meet in Gwacheon, the festival was designed for children and families to engage with science in an enjoyable and accessible manner, allowing them to experience future scientific technologies firsthand. A variety of experiential programs, ranging from basic science to advanced technology, stimulated childrens curiosity and creative imagination while providing families with opportunities to learn and enjoy together. During his visit, Mayor Shin toured the festival grounds with citizens, sharing the significance of the event in helping children experience science and nurture their dreams and imaginations for the future. Mayor Shin expressed hope that the Toriyari Science Festival would inspire children to dream about the future and create cherished memories for families. The festival was meaningful as it allowed children and teenagers to experience science in their daily lives and discover the possibilities of science and technology through family participation. In particular, the science experiences contributed to nurturing the potential of future generations and expanding citizens cultural experiences, aligning with the goal of creating a city where science, education, and culture coexist. Mayor Shin plans to continue offering various science culture programs to help children and teenagers engage closely with science and develop their future capabilities. Through these initiatives, the city aims to expand opportunities for citizens to enjoy science in their daily lives and support future generations in realizing their dreams based on creativity and imagination. Additionally, Mayor Shin stated, I will continue to work on expanding science culture so that citizens can enjoy science in their daily lives and future generations can pursue greater dreams. October 26, 2026 13
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Uiwang Fire Department Hosts Youth Firefighter Experience Program On October 23, the Uiwang Fire Department conducted a firefighter job experience program for youth at the 13th Uiwang City Youth Career Fair.According to the fire department on October 26, the program was designed to help young people learn about the duties and roles of firefighters while exploring career paths in the firefighting field.Participants received guidance on the main responsibilities of firefighters and the hiring process, and they had the opportunity to try on firefighting gear, including fire suits and air tanks.They also experienced a firefighter fitness test, measuring their grip strength and endurance.Additionally, participants practiced cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and learned how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED), gaining essential skills for responding to emergencies.The youth had the chance to wear firefighting equipment and engage in physical tests and first aid practice, providing them with a concrete understanding of a firefighters duties.Notably, the hands-on experience, from wearing equipment to practicing CPR, helped participants grasp the physical fitness, responsibility, and on-site response skills required in firefighting.This experience aimed not only to introduce the profession but also to encourage youth to consider their interests and aptitudes while learning about the importance of safety in everyday life.Fire Chief Lee Jeong-yong stated, “I hope this experience helps youth understand the profession of firefighting and explore career paths that align with their interests and aptitudes.” He emphasized the commitment to providing experiential fire safety education tailored to youth, aiming to enhance safety awareness and promote a culture of safety.* This article has been translated by AI. October 26, 2026 13
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Korea Technology Guarantee Fund Enhances Organizational Innovation Through Future Technology Experiences The Korea Technology Guarantee Fund announced that it conducted the 2026 Innovation Strategy Training from October 22 to 23 in Mapo, Seoul, with the participation of 27 innovation leaders and young directors. The fund has appointed innovation leaders at its nationwide branches to promote organizational innovation and a field-centered culture. Since 2023, it has operated a Youth Council to foster innovative ideas from the younger generation and enhance intergenerational communication. The annual training allows innovation leaders and young directors to share diverse opinions and explore the organizations development direction. This years training included visits to innovative companies, exhibitions of eco-friendly technologies, special lectures, and autonomous discussions. The focus was on enhancing participants innovation capabilities by improving understanding of future innovative technologies and discussing organizational innovation strategies. On the first day, participants visited SDTA, a company specializing in quantum technology, where they learned about the basic principles of quantum computing and its industrial applications. They examined quantum computers and recognized the industrial value of quantum computing as a next-generation core technology, expanding their expertise necessary for technology evaluation. Later, they attended the 2026 Korea ESG Eco-Friendly Expo at COEX in Gangnam, where they explored innovative technologies in carbon neutrality and green transition, gaining insights into the latest trends in the eco-friendly industry. On the second day, special lectures on Self-Leadership and Innovating Work Methods Using Generative AI were held at D.CAMP in Mapo. Following the lectures, participants engaged in autonomous discussions to share opinions on the leadership and work methods needed in a changing work environment, discussing various innovative ideas applicable to the fund. Kim Hyun, Director of the Korea Technology Guarantee Fund, stated, This training was a meaningful opportunity for innovation leaders and young directors to directly experience future innovative technologies and collectively reflect on changes in organizational culture and work methods. The fund will continue to actively respond to new technologies and environmental changes, spreading an innovation culture throughout the organization to create tangible changes that the public can feel.* This article has been translated by AI. October 26, 2026 11
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Hwacheon Youth Orchestra Collaborates with German Peers in Concert Young musicians from Hwacheon, South Korea, performed the Arirang Fantasy alongside their peers from Germany. The musical experience gained through regular practice and performances in their local community culminated in a cross-border collaboration.According to Hwacheon County, the Hwacheon Youth Symphony Orchestra visited Ravensburg in Baden-Württemberg and Munich in Bavaria from October 15 to 22 for music exchanges and cultural experiences.A key event was a joint concert held on October 17 at the Evangelische Stadtkirche in Ravensburg. The Hwacheon musicians, having rehearsed together beforehand, performed the Arirang Fantasy and Beethovens works with the youth from the Ravensburg Music School. Local residents reportedly filled the concert hall, offering enthusiastic applause.According to the concert program released by the German music school, the joint performance featured Arirang Fantasy composed by Choi Sung-hwan and the fourth movement of Beethovens Symphony No. 5. The youth from both sides showcased their individual performances before coming together for the final piece.This exchange was notable not only for introducing Korean youth music to local audiences but also for the collaborative effort of students from both countries to practice and complete a single piece. By performing both the Korean melody of Arirang and European classical music side by side, they created an opportunity to engage with each others musical traditions.Harald Hefner, principal of the Ravensburg Music School, shared his thoughts on the concert, emphasizing this collaborative process. He described Arirang as a piece that conveys themes of love, farewell, and longing, noting that from the first rehearsal, the youth from both countries connected through music to create a wonderful performance.The foundation for this German stage performance lies in the ongoing music education in the region. According to the official introduction of the Hwacheon Youth Training Center, the orchestra was established in 2009 to provide cultural and artistic experiences for local youth and to share music with the community. It operates year-round for students from second grade to high school seniors, holding regular rehearsals every Saturday.Domestic activities include regular concerts, outreach performances, participation in local events, and youth symphony festivals. Programs also encompass the Hwacheon Youth Joint Concert Harmony of a Midsummer Night and music camps, expanding the experience gained locally to international exchanges.The German music school highlighted the Hwacheon Youth Symphony Orchestras youth music festival and international exchange activities in its concert introduction. It emphasized the significance of joint rehearsals and the sharing of musical experiences and cultures. The preparation process itself was presented as an important aspect of the exchange, not just the concert outcome.After the joint concert, the members traveled to Bavaria to experience European history and culture before returning home.Hwacheon County Mayor Kim Se-hoon remarked, This experience will serve as a great motivation for the youth of Hwacheon, adding that efforts to expand opportunities for youth to travel abroad will continue. The county is also preparing overseas language training for all second-year middle school students and backpacking study trips for all first-year high school students starting next year.* This article has been translated by AI. October 26, 2026 10