PHOTOS: Kim Jong-un honors troops sent to fight in Ukraine with lavish event

SEOUL, August 22 (AJP) - North Korean leader Kim Jong-un hosted a lavish ceremony in Pyongyang for commanders of units deployed to fight in Russia’s war in Ukraine, state media reported on Friday. The event, held in his office compound, included an elaborate banquet and performances, as well as what was described as one of Kim’s highest personal gestures of respect: sharing cigarettes with the visiting commanders. During the ceremony, Kim delivered a speech praising

August 22, 2025

TRAVEL: Hahoe Village in Andong, preserved in time

ANDONG, August 21 (AJP) - The village of Hahoe, nestled in Andong, North Gyeongsang Province, stands as a living testament to the country's past. Here, traditional tile-roofed houses and thatched-roof homes have been meticulously preserved for centuries, encircled by the flowing Nakdong River. The village's name, Hahoe, literally means "to turn and flow," a reference to the river's distinctive S-shaped embrace of the settlement. At the heart of the village

August 21, 2025

PHOTOS: Civil defense drill

SEOUL, August 20 (AJP) - A 20-minute civil defense drill, simulating an enemy air raid, was conducted nationwide on Wednesday, with sirens blaring and text alerts sent to millions, as citizens were directed to seek shelter in designated spaces. The drill, which began at 2 p.m., included a nationwide air raid warning that prompted a wailing siren and emergency broadcasts. In response, people across the country were instructed to move to nearby shelters and other underground areas.

August 20, 2025

PHOTOS: A street where time stands still, Dongdaemun Stationery and Toy Market

SEOUL, August 19 (AJP) - The Dongdaemun Stationery and Toy Wholesale Market, with around 100 shops, is the largest of its kind in South Korea. Stretching across a 200-meter intersection in every direction, the market is lined with stores offering every imaginable type of stationery and toy, inviting visitors to browse, touch, and choose at leisure. Walking down the street feels like stepping into a time machine. Shop windows burst with color, filled with red fire trucks, yellow-ha

August 20, 2025

PHOTOS: Thrills on the water

SEOUL, August 18 (AJP) - In the heart of Gangwon Province's mountainous terrain, the Naerincheon Stream in Inje stands as a premier destination for thrill-seeking rafters. Widely regarded as a top spot for the sport in South Korea, the waterway is prized for its lengthy and challenging stretches of rapids. During the sweltering summer months, the stream's combination of intense whitewater and picturesque scenery makes it a popular escape for those seeking to combat the oppressive h

August 18, 2025

[TRAVEL] How cabbages in Gangwon's mountainous areas beat summer heat

TAEBACK, GANGNEUNG, August 14 (AJP) - Kimchi, the traditional fermented vegetable dish, is a staple in everyday meals in South Korea. Whether served with a steaming bowl of rice or paired with noodle soups, few consider a meal complete without it. Many people customarily prepare large quantities of kimchi to last through the cold winter months when fresh vegetables become relatively scarce. The traditional practice of making the spicy dish, known as "kimjang," is recognize

August 14, 2025

PHOTOS: Event showcases beauty of hanbok

SEOUL, August 12 (AJP) - The beauty of hanbok, or traditional Korean dress, continues to capture global attention, fueled by the huge popularity of South Korean dramas and films overseas. Hosted by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and organized by the Korea Craft & Design Foundation, a four-day event was held last week in southern Seoul to ride the wave of hanbok's rising popularity, showcasing a diverse range of hanbok from over 150 brands. The collection include

August 12, 2025

PHOTOS: Zoos help animals beat heat

SEOUL, August 08 (AJP) - As sweltering summer temperatures bear down, the challenges for zoo animals are significant. The intense heat often leads to considerable stress, making it difficult for many species to cope. In response, zookeepers are providing cool, nourishing meals and other relief efforts to help the animals regain their energy and find comfort. This collection of photographs offers a glimpse into the creative ways zoos are helping their residents endure the season

August 8, 2025

PHOTOS: Signs of autumn approaching

SEOUL, August 07 (AJP) - August 7 marks Ipchu, the traditional start of autumn according to the East Asian calendar. This summer has been among the hottest in recent memory, with relentless heatwaves. As Ipchu passes, temperatures are expected to ease. The following images capture early signs of the season changing.

August 7, 2025

[K-Food] PHOTOS: Korea's summer stamina food

SEOUL, August 06 (AJP) - As the summer heat grips the Korean Peninsula, many find themselves turning to food not just for nourishment but for revival. And while the instinct may be to cool down with icy treats or chilled dishes, Korean tradition takes a different path: when it gets hot, the food gets hotter. Contrary to expectations, Korea’s summer stamina foods — or boyangshik — are served steaming. Rooted in centuries of traditional medicine and culinary wis

August 6, 2025