Culture
What the Numbers Really Mean The Hype Around ChatGPT Subscriptions South Korea recently made headlines for having the second-highest number of paid ChatGPT subscribers in the world, just behind the US. This announcement, made by OpenAI during a press event in Seoul, seemed to signal Korea’s leadership in AI adoption. However, experts caution that these … Read more
Why Koreans Seek Group Acceptance The Social Media Approval Craze In Korea, social media is more than just a platform for sharing photos or updates—it’s a space where people seek validation for even the smallest decisions. From what to wear to a car test-drive to whether it’s okay to feel upset with a friend, Koreans … Read more
The Unseen Challenge of a Changing Society The Invisible Problem of Xenophobia Xenophobia in South Korea is often dismissed or downplayed, especially in online spaces. Many Koreans believe that discrimination is either exaggerated or not as serious as in other countries. Comments on news articles frequently claim that racism is a global issue and that … Read more
Stereotypes, Realities, and the Digital Divide The Stereotype of Gen Z at Work Stories about Generation Z workers in Korea have become almost legendary in offices, often painting them as unprofessional or difficult. Viral social media posts and comedy sketches like SNL Korea’s “MZ Office” exaggerate these images, showing young employees filming TikToks at meetings … Read more
The Reality Behind K-Drama Stereotypes Many foreigners expect Koreans to be outgoing and friendly, influenced by the lively social scenes in K-dramas. However, real-life experiences often differ. For example, Ava Miller, an Australian visitor, found that locals in Seoul were reserved and seldom engaged in casual conversation, even in social spaces like hostels or cafes. … Read more