From Fantasy Worlds to Real-Life Stories The Rise of Lore in K-pop K-pop has evolved beyond just music, embracing storytelling and fictional universes—known as “lore”—to define group identities and captivate fans. Since the 2010s, many groups have crafted intricate storylines, transforming their music videos and performances into immersive experiences that go far beyond the stage. … Read more
“Maybe Happy Ending” and Its Historic Tony Awards A New Chapter for Korean Musicals on the Global Stage The Korean original musical “Maybe Happy Ending” made history by sweeping six awards at the prestigious Tony Awards, including Best Musical. This achievement is even more remarkable considering it was nominated in ten categories, the most for … Read more
Seoul: Paradise for Solo Living and the Rise of “Honjok” Embracing the Solo Lifestyle in Seoul Seoul has rapidly transformed into a haven for solo dwellers, offering countless spaces and experiences tailored to those who prefer doing things alone. From karaoke rooms to barbecue joints and cozy bars, the city welcomes individuals who seek comfort … Read more
How Ranking Culture Shapes Life in South Korea Numbers Define Everyday Life From a young age, many South Koreans find their lives dominated by numbers—grades, rankings, salaries, and even social status. In school, students are constantly compared through report cards that list their exact rank in each subject and overall. This relentless focus on numerical … Read more
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