TRAVEL: Putrajaya – where modern Malaysia's administrative heart beats

KUALA LUMPUR, September 30 (AJP) - Rising from what were once rubber and oil palm plantations, Putrajaya stands as a testament to Malaysia's ambitious modernization. The 4,931-hectare garden city, transformed from former plantations, became Malaysia's federal administrative capital after officially established in 1999. Now just 26 years young, the city prepares to host ASEAN meetings throughout 2025 under Malaysia's chairmanship. Named after Malaysia's f

September 30, 2025

PHOTOS: In memory of Japan's forced mobilization victims

SEOUL, September 29 (AJP) - South Korea held simultaneous memorial services in Seoul and Busan to honor Koreans who were conscripted into forced labor under Japanese colonial rule. At the ceremonies, religious leaders from Buddhism, Catholicism and Protestant Christianity offered rites of comfort to the victims and their families. Officials, civic leaders and ordinary citizens laid flowers and burned incense, while a student choir and traditional musician Oh Jung-hae p

September 29, 2025

PHOTOS: Highland harvest in full swing

SEOUL, September 25 (AJP) - The hills of Daegwallyeong, South Korea's largest production base for prized highland vegetables, are typically a scene of bustling harvest activity as the nation prepares for the major fall holiday, Chuseok. The annual harvest of goraengji baechu (highland cabbage) and goraengji mu (highland radish) is in full swing. These vegetables are distinct because they are exclusively grown in regions situated 1,000 meters or more above sea level, giving the

September 25, 2025

PHOTOS: At 105, philosopher Kim Hyung-seok defines a life well-lived

SEOUL, September 24 (AJP) - He arrived not in a wheelchair, but on his own two feet. At 105 years old, Professor Kim Hyung-seok, a living icon of South Korean philosophy, took the stage at a Seoul auditorium this week to a standing ovation, ready to share his blueprint for a meaningful life. Professor Kim, born in 1920, is more than a centenarian; he is a testament to the power of a disciplined mind and a well-nourished soul. With a clarity that defies his age, he captivated the a

September 24, 2025

PHOTOS: Chuseok holiday is approaching

SEOUL, September 24 (AJP) - As South Korea moves into autumn, families are beginning preparations for Chuseok, one of the nation’s two most significant holidays alongside Seollal (Lunar New Year). Often referred to as "Korean Thanksgiving," the holiday is a time for family reunions, expressing gratitude to ancestors, and celebrating the year's harvest. Chuseok, which literally means "autumn evening," falls on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month

September 24, 2025

PHOTOS: The present and future of the Korean Army at Gyeryongdae airstrip

SEOUL, September 23 (AJP) - From the moment visitors passed through the main gate of Gyeryongdae and walked toward the venue, there was a palpable sense of tension and anticipation. The chance to see up close the military equipment usually only seen on television quickened their steps. Upon entering the airstrip with the guidance of soldiers, the scale was overwhelming. Massive tanks stood proudly with their barrels pointed skyward, helicopters spread their rotor blades wide, and

September 23, 2025

PHOTOS: Seoul's public transportation on river

SEOUL, September 23 (AJP) - Seoul's newest water transportation service, the Hangang Bus, officially began operations on Sept. 18. This new public transit option is expected to become a significant attraction for both tourists and locals, offering a unique way to experience the city. The Hangang Bus navigates a 28.9-kilometer route, connecting seven key piers along the river: Magok, Mangwon, Yeouido, Apgujeong, Oksu, Ttukseom, and Jamsil. The full journey from the Magok pie

September 23, 2025

Tourism Malaysia Seoul concludes successful roadshow event with Batik Air Malaysia

SEOUL, September 19 (AJP) - The Tourism Malaysia Seoul on Thursday has wrapped up a four-day roadshow across Korea's key metropolitan hubs - Seoul Daejeon, Gwangju, and Busan - to showcase the attractions of Sabah, the northern Borneo state known for its natural beauty and cultural appeal. The promotional campaign co-sponsored by the Sabah Tourism Board and Batik Air Malaysia, is timed with the launch of the airliner's direct route between Incheon and Kota Kinabalu, one of Malaysia&#

September 19, 2025

PHOTOS: BIFF 2025

SEOUL, September 18 (AJP) - The Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) has officially commenced its 10-day event, celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. The festival began with an opening ceremony on the evening of Sept. 17 at the Busan Cinema Center's outdoor theater. The outdoor theater, with its 5,000 seats, was completely filled with enthusiastic spectators. A wave of cheers and applause greeted a host of actors and directors as they made their way down the red carp

September 18, 2025

TRAVEL: Finding solace at old traditional house in Nonsan

NONSAN, September 16 (AJP) - In an age of hyper-modernity, where sleek hotels and digital conveniences dominate our travels, there's a certain magic to stepping back in time. It's a magic that comes not from flawless service, but from the slight, delightful inconvenience of history itself. This is the experience that awaits at Myeongjae Historic House, where a stay is not just a night's rest, but a journey into the heart of Korea’s rich past. Nestled in the se

September 16, 2025