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제 30 호 Corporation workers who chose salary instead

Kicker: LIFE Corporation workers who chose salary instead : The Fall of Homeplus By Leesoi, Reporter Leesoi3157@naver.com (Photo by Gemini) Homeplus, one of Korea’s major supermarket chains, is once again drawing public attention due to its ongoing financial crisis. The company is facing multiple issues, including delayed wage payments to employees. The company’s headquarters announced that May salaries may also be delayed, following the failure to pay wages that were originally due in April. In addition, it was decided to temporarily suspend the operation of 37 stores, or 35% of all stores, due to operational burdens, resulting in a significant reduction in the number of stores nationwide to 67. Homeplus, which is in a difficult situation, is currently doing its best to save the company, but it is difficult to maintain the 67 stores currently in operation because it requires a huge amount of money to recover and operate normally, and it earnestly asked Meritz Financial, its largest creditor, for a rescue fund through loans. Workers Offer to Sacrifice Salaries At the time, the general union, one of the two major labor unions of Homeplus, urged them to put their salaries into normalizing Homeplus operations, saying, "We will give up our salary." According to the industry on the 1st of may, the General Union of Homeplus made the decision at the 30th regular delegate meeting held the day before, and said, "We strongly welcome the court's decision to extend the two-month extension of the Homeplus rehabilitation process." Workers desperate appeals quickly spread through local media interviews and news reports. The workers in the interview said, "With the desperate feeling that this extension is the last golden time that will determine whether Homeplus will survive or not, we will normalize operations even by giving up the salaries of employees," and "We urge all the funds to be invested in normalizing operations and supplying products." The reason for this big decision was, "For our workers, Our salaries represent the results of our hard work and sacrifice, but we know that if the company collapses now, it doesn't mean anything," he said, adding, "As workers give up their wages, the management and loan companies should also put down their vested interests and focus all their efforts on normalizing the sales site and the customers come back." Measures for Corporate Rehabilitation In a statement, Homeplus revealed the process of negotiating loans to raise funds for corporate rehabilitation and said it is currently seeking emergency loans worth 100 billion won. The funds should be used to clear up the situation in two to three months and stabilize the company, so the government, shareholders, and companies have raised several questions about how to use these enormous assets in a few months and how to pay them back, but Homeplus announced a detailed plan to pay them as soon as the process is over because the funds can be raised through the sale of Homeplus Express, a Home plus supermarket. Although the process within Homeplus is steadily progressing, it is not clear whether Meritz Company is willing to pay a large amount of money for Homeplus, since liquidation may appear more profitable than continuing normal operations, and the fact that the actual period of use of about a month is very short, which is a major problem, so various variables are expected to play a role. Meritz's company says it needs a clear guarantee in consideration of the breach of trust problem. If Meritz fails to normalize the company within two months even if it does not provide money or receives support, the company will stop the rehabilitation process and go through bankruptcy and liquidation procedures. It is a negative prospect that the damage to workers who give up their salaries and work hard for companies and families, local commercial districts, and store owners will continue to increase. In order to prevent this, Homeplus should make all-out efforts to persuade shareholders with a firm guarantee that they will surely implement the plan they proposed to Meritz. Sources: https://www.seoul.co.kr/news/economy https://www.newscj.com/news https://www.daejonilbo.com/news

• 작성일 2026-06-01
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제 30 호 The Rise of Buddhist Expos: Why Buddhism Is Gaining Popularity Among Young Generations

Kicker: LIFE The Rise of Buddhist Expos: Why Buddhism Is Gaining Popularity Among Young Generations By Ji-Won Choi, reporter Support0321@naver.com 그림 11Buddhist Expos Buddhism has long been regarded as a religion, but recently it has gained new attention as a cultural trend among young people. This change is clearly reflected in the growing popularity of Buddhist fairs. The 14th Seoul International Buddhism Expo, held at COEX in Seoul from April 2 to April 5, ended successfully. About 250,000 people visited the expo this year, compared to about 200,000 visitors last year. More than 60,000 people registered in advance or purchased discounted tickets before the opening, showing strong interest from the beginning. In particular, a large number of people in their 20s and 30s attended the event. Visitors enjoyed not only traditional Buddhist culture, but also meditation experiences, stylish Buddhist merchandise, and a variety of exhibition programs. Photos and reviews of the expo quickly spread on social media, helping Buddhism gain attention as a “hip” and trendy culture. In a society where competition and anxiety have become part of everyday life, Buddhism offers young people a new way to find comfort and emotional healing. This raises an important question: how did Buddhism capture the interest of younger generations, and what does the success of this expo mean? A New Way to Experience Buddhism 그림 2The “Ball Draw” Program The theme of this year’s Seoul International Buddhism Expo was “Form is Emptiness, Emptiness is Form: The Ball Game You Love.” The expo reinterpreted the Buddhist concept of “śūnyatā,” or emptiness, as a playful “ball game.” In Buddhism, emptiness means that all things with form do not have a fixed essence. Instead, they are constantly changing and exist through their relationships with one another. At the center of the expo was an interactive event called “Ball Draw.” Visitors used coins collected at the venue to draw a ball. Depending on the message inside, they could complete a mission or exchange it for a souvenir. There were three types of balls: question balls, fortune balls, and prize balls. Question balls allowed visitors to speak directly with monks and explore the meaning of emptiness. Fortune balls contained message cards that revealed a play on words between “emptiness” and “luck” when turned over. Prize balls included handwritten messages and autographs donated by well-known figures such as monks, rappers, and actors. New Cultural Experiments in Buddhism The Seoul International Buddhism Expo went beyond the programs mentioned above and introduced a variety of related events that made Buddhism more approachable and engaging. One of the most notable programs was the “Heart Sutra Party” held at Bongeunsa. At this event, rapper Woo Won-jae and DJ Soda reinterpreted the Heart Sutra, one of Buddhism’s most important scriptures, through hip-hop and DJ performances. By presenting a traditional scripture in a modern performance format, the event attracted strong interest from young people and quickly became a hot topic on social media and online communities. During the expo, “Relax Week” and the International Seon Meditation Conference were also held. Relax Week introduced meditation, yoga, counseling, and wellness spaces across the country, offering people opportunities to find peace of mind in their daily lives. The International Seon Meditation Conference featured lectures and hands-on programs that helped participants experience Seon meditation in an accessible way. Activities such as meditation with dogs, singing bowl workshops, and vegetarian cooking classes showed that Buddhism is not only a religious practice for believers, but also a lifestyle culture that anyone can enjoy. Through music, meditation, exhibitions, and interactive programs, the Seoul International Buddhism Expo presented Buddhism in a new and creative way. By translating traditional teachings into a language that resonates with modern audiences, Buddhism is becoming more than a solemn religion for young people. Instead, it is emerging as a cultural experience that offers relaxation, healing, and meaningful new perspectives. Why Buddhism Appeals to Young People One reason Buddhism has become popular among young people is that it is now seen as a cultural trend rather than simply a religion. The term “hip Buddhism” has emerged to describe this change. Buddhism is no longer viewed as solemn or distant. Instead, it is seen as stylish, approachable, and relevant to everyday life. Comedian Yoon Seong-ho attracted widespread attention with his DJ persona “NewJeansNim,” and the temple-stay dating program “I Am Solo, Temple Style” (“나는절로”) also became a popular topic among young adults. One of Buddhism’s greatest strengths is that it focuses on self-reflection rather than belief in a specific god. Because of this, even people with no religious affiliation can easily enjoy activities such as meditation, temple stays, and Buddhist merchandise. In addition, Buddhist teachings about letting go of attachment and focusing on the present align closely with values that many young people appreciate, including minimalism and mindfulness. For young people who are stressed by school, work, and relationships, Buddhism offers comfort and rest. Meditation, counseling, temple food, and wellness programs help people find emotional balance and inner peace. In this way, Buddhism is moving beyond the boundaries of traditional religion and becoming a cultural experience that resonates with younger generations. Whether this trend will remain a temporary fad or develop into a lasting cultural phenomenon remains to be seen. Some people have expressed concerns that Buddhism may be consumed as light and commercial content, which could dilute the depth of its teachings and practices. However, it is clear that many young people are finding comfort, rest, and new perspectives on life through Buddhism. The success of the Seoul International Buddhism Expo shows that traditional religions can also communicate with the public in new ways that reflect the changing times. Buddhism is no longer seen as something only for religious believers. Instead, it is becoming an open and accessible culture for anyone seeking peace of mind in the midst of a busy life. If Buddhism continues to preserve its traditional values while being reinterpreted with a modern sensibility, it is likely to remain a meaningful cultural force that offers comfort and inspiration to younger generations. Source: https://www.ibulgyo.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=436964 https://www.newswire.co.kr/newsRead.php?no=1031770

• 작성일 2026-06-01
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제 29 호 Toward a Unified High-Speed Rail System: KTX–SRT Integration

Kicker: LIFE Toward a Unified High-Speed Rail System: KTX–SRT Integration By Ji-Won Choi, reporter Support0321@naver.com Starting on February 25, the first attempt toward the integration of SRT and KTX will be implemented. Cross-operation will begin, with SRT departing from Seoul Station and KTX departing from Suseo Station. This pilot operation marks the practical starting point of operational integration and serves as a process to verify efficient and flexible operation of high-speed rail without distinguishing between departure and terminal stations or train types, including Suseo Station and Seoul Station. SRT plans to operate one round trip daily between Seoul Station and Busan Station, while KTX plans to operate one round trip daily between Suseo Station and Busan Station. By deploying KTX trains, which have more than twice the number of seats compared to SRT, at Suseo Station—where ticket reservations have been difficult—it is expected that passengers using Suseo Station will have a wider range of seat options. Major Changes In addition to the cross-operation mentioned above, several integration policies are scheduled to be implemented. Starting in June 2026, KTX and SRT will be interconnected and operated freely between Seoul Station and Suseo Station without distinction. For example, on the Seoul–Busan route, after the integration, trains will depart from Seoul, pass through Busan, and continue on to Suseo and Pohang, operating in a more flexible route structure. Second, the reservation and ticketing system will be integrated. Payment and ticket issuance for both KTX and SRT will be available through a single application. In addition, fare discounts will be introduced for transfers between SRT and Korail’s general trains (such as ITX-Maum). Cancellation fees will also be waived when changing between KTX and SRT trains. By the end of this year, a plan to launch an integrated corporation between Korail and SR will be promoted. With full integration and operation, the number of seats supplied per day is expected to increase by 16,000. Background of the Integration SRT separated railway operations on the grounds of introducing a competitive railway system and increasing service efficiency. In 2011, it was promoted in the form of privatization under the justification of “advancement of public enterprises.” However, it was suspended at the time due to strong opposition to railway privatization. Later, in 2013, SR, a public corporation whose shares were divided among Korail and the Government Employees Pension Service, was established to dualize high-speed railway operations. Since 2016, SR has operated SRT, and the competitive system between KTX departing from Seoul Station and Yongsan Station and SRT departing from Suseo Station has continued for ten years. However, problems caused by the separation of institutions have been consistently raised. While SRT operated only routes departing from the Gangnam area of Seoul, Korail was solely responsible for operating deficit routes to mountainous and remote areas, which worsened Korail’s financial condition. In addition, although the institutions were separated, vehicle maintenance, the control system, and train leasing all depended on Korail. There were also many overlapping costs between the two institutions, including labor and facility expenses. According to the 2022 “Analysis of the Structural Evaluation of the Railway Multiple Operator System,” the competitive system between Korail and SR generates 40.6 billion won in overlapping costs annually. As a result, criticism continued that SRT took the profits while KTX bore the burden. Furthermore, the dual system of KTX and SRT caused considerable inconvenience for users. First, reservations had to be made separately through the Korail Talk app for KTX and the SRT app for SRT, and transfers between Seoul Station and Suseo Station were inconvenient due to their separation. Advantages and Concerns of the Integration First, one of the advantages is the easing of seat shortages. As the supply of high-speed rail seats is expected to increase by about 16,000 seats per day, competition for reservations is likely to be reduced. Second is the convenience of booking. With the integration of the applications, reservations are expected to become more convenient from the user’s perspective. Third, the range of choices for train use will expand, enabling more flexible route operations. Since both KTX and SRT will be available at all stations, users’ options for train selection will increase. Lastly, through institutional integration and the resolution of overlapping structures, operational efficiency is expected to improve and cost reduction effects can be anticipated. On the other hand, there are also concerns. If the two institutions are merged, competition will disappear and a monopoly supply structure may be formed, raising concerns about possible fare increases or a decline in service quality in the long term. Passenger Interviews A senior at Sangmyung University who frequently uses Suseo Station said, “It was inconvenient because it was difficult to book SRT tickets on weekends, but I expect that the range of seat choices will expand if KTX operates together.” A sophomore who commutes using Seoul Station said, “If the integration takes place, the reservation apps will be unified into one, which seems more convenient. However, I am also concerned that fares might increase if competition disappears.” The integration of SRT and KTX is not merely a change in railway policy, but a decision that reshapes the way people travel and experience daily convenience. In particular, for university students who travel between regional areas and the capital region for academic purposes, high-speed rail is a means of transportation directly connected to their daily lives. If the expansion of seat supply and the integration of the reservation system lead to tangible improvements in convenience, the mobility burden on young people could be significantly reduced. However, if fare increases or a decline in service quality occur after the competitive system is dissolved, the burden will once again fall entirely on the younger generation. Therefore, this integration should not simply be a merger between institutions, but a reform centered on users. If the integration process moves forward in a direction that considers not only efficiency but also public value and accessibility, high-speed rail will become a foundation that provides a better travel environment for the younger generation. Source: https://www.hani.co.kr/arti/economy/economy_general/1233492.html https://www.korea.kr/news/policyNewsView.do?newsId=148959926 https://newneek.co/@saltylife/article/38788

• 작성일 2026-03-21
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제 28 호 Abuse of New Weight-Loss Drugs Like Wegovy and Mounjaro on the Rise

Kicker: LIFE Abuse of New Weight-Loss Drugs Like Wegovy and Mounjaro on the Rise By Hae-In Noh, Cup-reporter xhazmfnwm1@gmail.com New weight-loss drugs such as Wegovy and Mounjaro are rapidly gaining popularity among the general public thanks to their impressive promise of dramatic slimming results. Once reserved for patients with severe obesity or metabolic disorders, these medications are now being used more casually — often without full medical oversight — fueled by social-media hype, celebrity endorsements, and fear of missing out. In South Korea, authorities have raised alarm about prescriptions being issued off-label to individuals outside approved criteria, and the possibility of self-injection and online purchase is growing. The government has responded by announcing plans to designate these drugs as “medicines of concern for misuse” and is stepping up regulatory controls over prescribing practices and distribution channels. Meanwhile, regulatory agencies in the US and UK are also issuing warnings about unapproved online sales and counterfeit versions of GLP-1-based weight-loss drugs. As the market booms, many experts caution that what began as breakthrough treatments may become public-safety issues unless usage is guided by proper medical supervision, patient education and long-term monitoring. Off-Label Use Spreads Beyond Medical Needs New weight-loss drugs designed for diabetes and severe obesity now reach people with normal BMI and those seeking quick cosmetic slimming. Clinics report rising off-label demand from young adults who want fast results for events, photos or body-image pressures amplified on social media. Health authorities confirm a jump in non-eligible prescriptions and warn that misuse spreads faster than medical guidance. Government Moves to Tighten Oversight Government plans to list Wegovy and Mounjaro as “medicines of concern for misuse” and aims to tighten control over clinics offering easy prescriptions. Regulators push stronger checks on digital clinics, which enable rapid online sign-ups and same-day delivery without proper long-term monitoring. Officials are also moving to block illegal compounding and unauthorized in-house mixing after reports of clinics preparing unapproved GLP-1 blends for cosmetic use. Serious Side-Effect Risks Raise Alarm Medical experts warn that users outside approved criteria face major risks: severe nausea, gallbladder inflammation, pancreatitis, intestinal blockage and dangerous blood-sugar drops. Case reports in the U.S. and Europe highlight rising emergency room visits tied to self-injection errors and counterfeit semaglutide products. The U.S.Food and Drug Administration reports a surge in unapproved online sales, fake GLP-1 vials and “research-chemical” versions targeting cosmetic dieters. Illegal Sales and Counterfeit Products Expand Illegal distribution grows as demand spikes. South Korean authorities shut down several online communities offering imported semaglutide for self-injection, often without refrigeration or labeling. Police say the surge mirrors global trends where shortages push people to seek black-market versions. The UK’s drug agency seized more than £250,000 worth of counterfeit weight-loss shots in a recent raid, showing the scale of the problem. Experts warn that without proper supervision and realistic guidelines, breakthrough treatments risk turning into public-safety threats. Many call for strengthened patient screening, controlled dispensing, and nationwide education on long-term risks—arguing that easy access may undermine the drugs’ original medical purpose. Growing misuse of Wegovy and Mounjaro shows how fast medical breakthroughs can turn risky when demand outpaces proper oversight. I believe the challenge now is balancing strong control with responsible access. A full crackdown may slow abuse, yet many patients still benefit from these drugs when used under medical care. To protect both safety and treatment needs, regulators must build clearer rules, track prescriptions more closely and educate users before risks escalate further. The rise of these drugs signals not only a medical shift but also a social one and the response will shape how future weight-loss treatments enter everyday life. Sources: https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2025-10-27/national/socialAffairs/Government-to-designate-Wegovy-and-Mounjaro-as-drugs-of-concern-for-misuse/2429679 https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/fdas-concerns-unapproved-glp-1-drugs-used-weight-loss https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2025-10-27/national/socialAffairs/Government-to-designate-Wegovy-and-Mounjaro-as-drugs-of-concern-for-misuse/2429679 https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/fdas-concerns-unapproved-glp-1-drugs-used-weight-loss? https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2025-10-27/national/socialAffairs/Government-to-designate-Wegovy-and-Mounjaro-as-drugs-of-concern-for-misuse/2429679

• 작성일 2025-12-16
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제 28 호 More Data, Less Truth?

Kicker: LIFE More Data, Less Truth? : A Warning from the Naver Dokdo Case By Leesoi, Cub-Reporter Leesoi3157@naver.com On October 30, the AI search function of Naver, South Korea’s largest portal site, sparked controversy after it presented Dokdo as part of Japanese territory.When users typed ‘Japanese territory’ into the search bar then AI responded, “The Japan’s territory consist of Takeshima, the Northern Territories, the Senkaku Islands, and more.” The issue, first surfaced by Professor Seo Kyung-duk of Sungshin Women’s University, was settled after Naver announced that, as of 8:09 a.m, it had prevented its AI search service AI Briefing from displaying answers suggesting that ‘Dokdo is Japanese territory.’ Naver has since taken additional measures, and the AI Briefing response no longer appears when users search for that problem. Naver a global platform widely used by international users, faced strong criticism.As the Dokdo territorial dispute is a sensitive and important national issue, domestic platforms must first accurately reflect historical facts. AI briefing is not to be based on data that the model has learned, it provides answers to content search results. The problem arising while referring to the territorial description results presented on the websites. Therefore, depending on the documents within the utilized searched results, AI’s response contains inaccurate information.Similar cases can find easily sites that provide information based on AI like Google andWikipedia.While Naver resolved the immediate issue, this case raises a deeper question of what happens when AI systems present information without proper verification. As AI powered services become central to how people access information, the responsibility of those who design, manage, and verify these systems becomes increasingly important. This article explores that responsibility and examines why stronger verification processes and ethical awareness among future AI practitioners are becoming essential. Why accuracy matters for national platform (Naver AI’s screen showing Dokdo as Japanese territory (Photo by Professor Seo Kyung-Deok, Yonhap news) Although this incident may appear to be nothing more than a simple technical glitch, it raises deeper and more fundamental questions about how AI systems handle information at the very earliest stages of processing. When an AI model receives new input, it does not “understand” or “interpret” truth in a human sense. Instead, it identifies patterns, predicts relationships, and generates outputs based on statistical likelihood. This raises an important issue: if the initial information fed into the system contains inaccuracies—or if the model draws on ambiguous or flawed training data—then the AI may confidently reproduce or even amplify those errors. The Dokdo mislabeling case illustrates this vulnerability with clarity. Territorial sovereignty is not merely a factual matter but a historically sensitive and politically charged topic, intertwined with national identity and diplomatic relations. Even a moment in which a platform incorrectly identifies Dokdo as Japanese territory carries the potential to distort public understanding, trigger public outrage, and damage the platform’s credibility both domestically and internationally. With global users increasingly relying on Korean platforms, the stakes are higher than ever. This is why the incident cannot be dismissed as an isolated technical mishap. Instead, it exposes the structural limitations of current AI systems and the platforms that deploy them. It highlights the need for more transparent data pipelines, better monitoring of AI-generated outputs, and stronger human oversight—especially for topics with profound social or historical implications. Ultimately, the error invites us to rethink not only how AI operates, but also how responsibly we build, supervise, and trust the tools that shape public knowledge. The hidden pipeline of machine learning AI-generated responses may appear authoritative, but their internal mechanisms are fundamentally probabilistic. Large language models process text by breaking input into tokens, analyzing contextual relationships, and predicting the most likely next word based on patterns learned during training. Although these models can detect certain inconsistencies, they do not possess an inherent fact checking system. Consequently, AI often relies on the data it was trained on whether that data was entirely accurate. This explains why AI still makes mistakes: it is not a verification tool but a probability-driven model, despite the common expectation that AI can do anything a user wants. Machine learning and deep learning systems operate through a complex, multi-stage pipeline designed to identify patterns and generate coherent outputs. During the training phase, models are exposed to massive datasets containing both accurate and inaccurate information, enabling them to learn statistical correlations rather than concrete truths. Once trained, the model interprets new input through multiple neural network layers that evaluate context, probability, and relevance. However, these systems do not double check facts in the way humans do they simply estimate the most likely response based on previous data. As a result, if training data or internal representations contain misconceptions, the model may confidently produce incorrect information. This limitation underscores a crucial reality AI does not inherently understand truth it merely predicts patterns. (created by Midjourney) The power of AI today Today, AI systems hold unprecedented power in shaping public understanding, influencing discourse, and delivering information across global platforms. Their speed and accessibility allow individuals to obtain answers instantly, yet this convenience comes with significant responsibility. As AI-generated content becomes increasingly integrated into everyday decision-making, its potential to amplify misinformation also grows. Therefore, the true power of AI lies not in its ability to generate information, but in how society chooses to guide, supervise, and ethically utilize these technologies. For students pursuing AI-related fields, this moment calls for strong digital literacy, critical thinking, and a deep sense of ethical responsibility. The more AI advances, the more essential human judgment becomes in ensuring that technology serves truth rather than distorting it. In the age of AI , information can only get closer to the truth through human choices and judgments. Now that various AI sites have emerged and everyone can easily generate information, we must all move beyond critically consuming information to ethically producing it. Media literacy has traditionally focused on those who consume media content, but those who design and manage AI programs should also strengthen their media literacy. Therefore, students aspiring to careers in computing AI should demonstrate a sense of ethical responsibility and devote significant effort to designing information verification and data learning structures. Sources: https://news.sbs.co.kr/news https://www.news1.kr/it-science

• 작성일 2025-12-16
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제 28 호 A New Public Transportation Pass

Kicker: LIFE A New Public Transportation Pass : A Benefit or a Burden By Leesoi, Cub-Reporter Leesoi3157@naver.com (Created by Midjourney) According to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) and the credit card industry, the government announce the introduction of an unlimited pass in the form of Flat rate K-pass for frequent public transportation users to ease the burden of transportation costs from 2026. The tentative ‘Flat-Rate Pass’ is being discussed as it would allow users to freely use public transportation up to a monthly limit of 200,000 won by paying a fixed fee of 55,000 won for youth, seniors, low-income households, and families with multiple children, or 62,000 won for the public in this manner. If the plan includes the Greater Seoul Express Transit (GTX) and regional buses, the fixed fee would be 100,000 won for the public and 90,000 won for the eligible groups. If this option is finally adopted, a simple calculation shows that purchasing a 55,000-won monthly pass and using 200,000 won worth of public transportation in a month could save up to 145,000 won. Pre-registration will be available from December 2025, and applicants can register online via the official website or app, or offline by bringing an ID and completing the application at community centers or transportation card issuing offices. It is a policy that only looks very good for students and office workers, but is it? We should think about problems that may arise upon the flat rate pass before this plan is commercialized. Compare flat rate pass, K-passand Climate Companion Card First, the K-Pass is a nationwide transportation card that refunds the public 20% for the general public, 30% for the youth, and low-income groups save 53% if they use public transportation 15 times or more per month, up to a maximum of 60 rides. The Climate Companion Card is a commuter pass costing 62,000 won per month (55,000 won for youth), allowing unlimited use of subways and buses in Seoul. From 2025, the K-Pass mileage benefit will only apply up to twice a day. Therefore, if you use public transportation three to four times or more per day and live or frequently travel in Seoul (with monthly transportation costs exceeding 77,500 won), the Climate Companion Card may be more advantageous. Lastly, regarding the main topic of this article, the new flat rate pass being introduced in 2026 allows users to use buses and subways nationwide up to 200,000 won for only 55,000–62,000 won per month, as explained earlier. Even after the flat rate pass is introduced, the existing refundable K-Pass will remain available, and it will operate concurrently with the flat rate pass, allowing users to choose based on their usage patterns, which is the most important factor. For example, if you live in Seoul and use public transportation frequently, the Climate Companion Card, which offers excellent cost effectiveness, is the most suitable card if you are limited to Seoul. Or, if I live in Gyeonggi Province and commute to other areas, using public transportation more than 3-4 times a day, the flat rate pass that provides the most benefits for nationwide public transportation is the most advantageous. What negative effects could there be First, the easiest thing to imagine is that as transportation costs decrease significantly, the frequency of public transportation use is expected to increase sharply. As a result, there are concerns that the density of subway stations could become even higher than it is now, raising the risk of various overcrowding accidents, especially during rush hours. However, concerns extend beyond congestion. The term flat-rate system inherently refers to a structure in which additional charges are waived once a predetermined threshold is reached. As a result, even if overall usage increases, the revenue that public transportation operators can collect remains fixed. This becomes a significant issue for bus companies, which rely on fares for 70–90 percent of their operating revenue. Even today, nationwide bus fares are rising annually due to transportation deficits, and in regions like Busan, Gwangju, and Jeonnam, where most operating costs are covered by transportation fares, such a system would have an even greater impact, leading to serious discussions about reducing non-main routes and consolidating bus companies. Shortly after the announcement of the introduction of a flat-rate pass, news came out that the Seoul City Village Bus Association would withdraw from the transfer discount system. As the frequent opposition and statements from bus companies show, the situation for bus operators cannot be described as favorable. Even without implementing a nationwide flat-rate pass offering tremendous benefits, residents in areas like Gyeonggi Province are experiencing inconvenience due to frequent strikes. Against this backdrop, if such a system were introduced, more frequent strikes could occur, and public transportation companies, which have no additional income from increased usage, could face limits in covering deficits with taxes, leading to a growing burden and potentially resulting in a vicious cycle of service reductions, route cancellations, and workforce cuts. Moreover, if the flat rate pass overlaps with the existing fare structure, there would be financial allocation issues. Currently, transfer discounts operate on a structure where subway and bus operators receive fares proportionally upon settlement, but with the introduction of a flat rate pass, it would become unclear which regions and modes of transportation generated the exponentially increased usage, overloading the settlement system and, in severe cases, posing a risk of collapse. Finally, there are concerns that financial burdens could be concentrated in Seoul and the metropolitan areas, where the population using public transportation is large. Even if a flat rate pass is a nationwide policy, the cost burden varies by region. In Seoul, which has adopted a jointly managed revenue semi-public bus system, financial support has doubled each year over the past three years, amounting to 6.3 trillion won over 18 years since 2004. If a fixed rate pass is introduced, Seoul, with its extensive subway and bus lines, would bear the greatest burden, followed by the metropolitan area where commuting to Seoul is frequent, meaning that more than twice the current tax revenue would need to be spent on public transportation. Conversely, in smaller provincial cities with fewer users, revenue is expected to decline sharply, and along with claims of discrimination against non-metropolitan areas, conflicts over cost burdens are likely to intensify. Given these underlying conditions, the introduction of a flat rate pass raises another critical question that if bus driver unions refuse to accept the system due to insufficient revenue and decide to strike, what alternatives can the government offer to citizens who have already purchased the pass. What alternatives can the government offer The flat rate pass has very good intentions and offers significant practical benefits, so rather than seeing the system itself as problematic, we need to think deeply about how to handle the issues mentioned above if they arise. In the event of unexpected problems, the government is likely to manage the situation through various countermeasures. First, if deficits in buses or community buses worsen to the point where maintaining operations becomes difficult, the government can minimize inconvenience to citizens caused by service reductions or route closures by providing emergency financial support or increasing subsidies. Additionally, if the transfer discount system collapses or revenue distribution becomes unbalanced, the government can intervene by adjusting the operation time settlement method or providing compensation to operators experiencing significant losses for a certain period to mitigate financial shocks. In situations where public transportation congestion increases rapidly, measures can be taken to maintain good service, such as providing peak-time guidance, temporarily expanding operations during commuting hours, or adding extra buses. Real-time monitoring of pass usage data can also help identify overuse areas or low use groups, allowing for post-management measures such as imposing restrictions on certain sections, times, or user groups when necessary. The Flat rate pass was introduced with the intention of reducing citizens’ burden of transportation costs, and it is clearly a good policy for our lives. But we as college students, need to analyze it from a variety of perspectives. Sources: https://www.mk.co.kr/news/economy http://www.jbsori.com/news/articleView https://www.sisajournal.com/news/article https://www.news1.kr/society/incident-accident/5971924

• 작성일 2025-12-15
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제 28 호 Injury-Free Winter Running

Kicker : Life Injury-Free Winter Running Don't Run Like You Used to By Myung-Kwan Kang, Editor-in-chief Kmmg199999@naver.com From 2024 to 2025, a running craze has sweped Korea. The number of runners has surpassed 10 million, approaching 20% of the total population. Related searches have also surged by over 80% in just one year, demonstrating the sheer intensity of this trend. Various big data and credit card spending statistics reveal a significant increase in running-related spending, particularly among people in their 30s and 40s. A noticeable increase in runners, including the MZ generation and middle-aged and older generations, is taking to the streets and parks every morning and night. With lifestyle changes and growing interest in health, running is moving beyond mere exercise to become a social and cultural trend. So, should we take a break from running in the cold winter? Experts emphasize that winter is the time to be even more active. We explore the benefits of winter running and how to run safely. Running Boom From 2024 to 2025, running in Korea is rapidly emerging as a form of popular culture, transcending mere hobby. With over 10 million runners, one in five Koreans enjoys running. Participation is steadily increasing, particularly among those in their 20s and 30s. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, growing interest in health and wellness has led to the accessibility and freedom of running becoming a new exercise trend. In addition to personal achievements, community activities like running crews are fostering social bonds. Furthermore, celebrity participation in running and marathon challenges have also significantly influenced the younger generation, motivating them. With the growing number of runners, the related market has also grown. By 2025, sales of running accessories, including running shoes, apparel, and accessories, are expected to surge, reaching a market size of over 2 trillion won. Accordingly, major sports brands are striving to capture the "running spirit" by strengthening their running lineups and creating experience spaces for runners. They are also actively developing AI-based personalized running coaching services and urban running infrastructure utilizing IoT technology. As such, Korea's running culture is expanding its importance in various areas, including health promotion, self-improvement, and community building, establishing itself as a lifestyle that combines the urban environment with cutting-edge technology. The Challenges of Winter One of the main reasons why winter running in Korea is difficult is the harsh winter conditions, including low temperatures, strong winds, snow, and ice. In particular, the average winter temperature in Seoul and Gangwon Province often remains below freezing, increasing the risk of hypothermia and muscle stiffness. Furthermore, snow and ice pose a risk to running. While winter running competitions, such as the "2025 Frozen Race" hosted by the Korea Association of Athletics Federations, are held, participants must be mindful of their winter surroundings and wear proper winter clothing and safety equipment. Furthermore, the short winter daylight hours limit opportunities for outdoor exercise during the day, and fine dust and dry air caused by heating pose a threat to respiratory health. Due to this, many runners are concerned about health issues such as decreased stamina and colds, making it difficult to run consistently during the winter. Major Korean news outlets have repeatedly reported that many citizens are resorting to alternative exercise methods, such as indoor treadmills, or are avoiding winter exercise. The combined effects of winter climate and environmental factors, along with health concerns, are challenging the sustainability of winter running in Korea. Essential Safety Guidelines Many runners use the cold weather as an excuse to avoid winter running. However, experts unanimously agree that winter is actually a more effective time to exercise. The secret lies in our body's "brown fat." There are two types of fat: white fat and brown fat. Brown fat has the property of breaking down fat and generating heat when exposed to cold. Experts explain that winter running activates this brown fat, making it more effective for weight loss. Furthermore, winter training is essential for preparing for the various marathons that begin in earnest in the spring. The importance of winter running is further emphasized by the fact that running hard throughout the winter will ensure a smooth spring race season and maintain good conditioning year-round. Safety, more than speed, and muscle management is paramount in winter running. A staggering 90% of running injuries stem from muscle damage. In cold weather, muscles contract and don't stretch easily. In this condition, increasing strides or speed as usual can lead to unavoidable muscle damage. Experts recommend slowing down your pace by about 10% compared to warm weather. For track training, a minimum of 10-20 minutes of warm-up is recommended to ensure your muscles are fully warmed up before starting, and running at 80-90% of your maximum speed is recommended for safety. Even if you're in good condition, it's important to avoid overexertion. Cold weather causes blood vessels to constrict, so maintaining cardiovascular health is crucial. Those with cardiovascular disease should be especially careful. These days, it's easy to monitor your heart rate with a running watch, so it's recommended to take advantage of this. For regular runners, maintaining a heart rate of around 120-130 bpm is ideal. If you feel out of breath or struggling, slow down immediately. For reference, best times are known to occur at 14.4 degrees Celsius, but an even more careful pace control is necessary when temperatures drop below freezing. The success of winter running hinges on your gear. First and foremost, protecting your respiratory system from the cold air is crucial. A buff is recommended over a mask. A buff not only covers your mouth and nose, but also protects your neck and ears. It folds down to a compact size, making it easy to carry. It can be wrapped around your hand or worn as a fashion accessory, making it highly versatile. Layering, which involves wearing multiple thin layers, is more effective than wearing a single thick garment. This is because the warm air layer between layers provides much better insulation. A thin windbreaker is useful when temperatures are between 0 and 5 degrees Celsius. Wear it before you set out, and once you've warmed up, fold it and put it in your pocket. For temperatures below freezing, wear long sleeves and prepare multiple layers. You should also change your shoes according to the season. Summer running shoes have plenty of mesh holes for ventilation, but in winter, your feet will get cold. Winter running shoes are less prone to wind and have large treads on the soles to prevent slipping even in snow. Trail running shoes are also a good option. A lightweight backpack for clothes, towels, and water is also convenient. Packing minimal space in your backpack will help you prepare for a variety of situations. If you're running in shorts, applying a generous amount of Vaseline to your legs can help you withstand the cold. One thing to keep in mind is to avoid icy roads at all costs. Even the best running shoes are useless on ice. Crampons, used in the mountains, can't be used while running, so avoid icy roads at all costs. The biggest enemy of winter running isn't the cold, but a shrinking mind. Experts advise, "Don't agonize over whether to get out of bed." If you agonize under the covers, you'll eventually fall asleep. Once you step out into the living room and pace around, your body will relax and naturally move out. Running well in winter will make the rest of the year easier. Don't use the cold weather as an excuse. As long as you follow safety guidelines, winter running can be enjoyable and effective. Let's all keep running, stay healthy, and keep running vigorously, even in winter. Sources: https://youtu.be/oWAhPR88pK4?si=bx7NcMNuVgeCQMxV https://news.nate.com/view/20250918n04468 https://weekly.chosun.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=44889 https://contents.premium.naver.com/textom/reprot/contents/250507171206512vh https://mosports.co.kr/soft-magazine/?bmode=view&idx=127853069 https://www.korea.kr/news/issueQAView.do?newsId=148771597 https://e-learning.kaaf.or.kr/mobile/community/news_view.asp?tn=KAF_NOTICE_BOARD&RECNO=4959&p=6 https://www.adidas.co.kr/blog/%F0%9F%92%AA2025-%EC%84%9C%EC%9A%B8%EB%A7%88%EB%9D%BC%ED%86%A4-%EC%A4%80%EB%B9%84-%EA%B2%A8%EC%9A%B8%EC%B2%A0-%EC%95%88%EC%A0%84%ED%95%9C-%EB%9F%AC%EB%8B%9D%EC%9D%84-%EC%9C%84%ED%95%9C-%EA%BF%80-%ED%8C%81 https://magazine.securities.miraeasset.com/contents.php?idx=1338 https://kr.pinterest.com/pin/613545149208608435/

• 작성일 2025-12-08
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제 27 호 Culture Vouchers in Korea: Usage, Options, and The Road To Improvement

Kicker: LIFE Culture Vouchers in Korea: Usage, Options, and The Road To Improvement by Sumin Lee , Reporter minnida_@naver.com Have you ever actively used consumer coupons for people's livelihood recovery, an economic policy that has been implemented under the current Presidential administration in the Republic of Korea? This policy, which was implemented in the form of an extra budget of 13.9 trillion won to all citizens in the form of local currency to improve the economic recession in Korea, has gained popularity since the first day of the application period. In order to spread active consumer sentiment across the country in response to the popularity of consumer coupons for people's livelihood recovery, the Ministry of Strategy and Finance has provided 8.1 million copies of the five major consumption coupons consisting of accommodation, performance, exhibition, movies, and sports facility coupons which were a new kind of consumer policy business . This policy is being implemented for economic recovery through consumption in addition to the Seoul metropolitan area. In this article, I will introduce cultural consumption coupons by looking at how to apply, where to use them, and its limitations. The Contents of Cultural Consumption Coupons https://www.nongmin.com/article/20250808500697 What Is The Cultural Voucher? First of all, cultural consumption coupons are similar policies that discount a certain amount to accommodation, performances, and exhibitions outside the Seoul metropolitan area in order to spread consumer sentiment that has been revived since the government successfully implemented the consumer recovery coupon policy. The policy, which aims to revive the local economy, is characterized by the fact that it is actively promoting local consumption by issuing additional coupons that can only be used in non-metropolitan areas. In addition, there may be a consumption lottery event where you can win up to 20 million won in digital Onnuri gift certificates if you pay more than 50,000 won by credit card in rural areas. A Broad Range of Cultural Vouchers There are five types of coupons: accommodation, art exhibition, performance art, movies, and sports. Each coupon has a slightly different expiration date and application method, so you have to apply with this in mind. Broadly speaking, accommodation coupons can only be used if you reserve accommodation in non-metropolitan areas, and while art exhibitions and performance art coupons can be used in the metropolitan area until the end of the year, they have the property of being invalidated if not used by September 19th. Specific Details of Each Coupon type Furthermore, if you look at the characteristics of each coupon, in the case of accommodation coupons, the first application period is from August 20th to October 30th, and the second application period is from November 3rd to December 7th. Since accommodation coupons are only available when booking non-metropolitan accommodation products, they can only be issued on the website of 42 travel agencies such as 11th Street and Yanolja, and cannot be used on individual hotel sites. It is issued on a first-come, first-served basis at 10 a.m. every day, so if you need to issue it, you have to check the time and apply. Also, if the issued accommodation coupon is not used until 7 a.m. the next day, the issuance details will be initialized, so be careful. The discount amount is 30,000 won for products valued at 70,000 won or more and 20,000 won for those with valued less than 70,000 won per night, and more discounts can be received for 50,000 won and 30,000 won in Andong, a special disaster area, respectively. In the case of art exhibitions and performance art coupons, the period of use is from August 9th to September 19th, and during this period, it will be issued at five online reservation destinations, including Norinter Park, Ticket Link, Yes 24, Melon Ticket, and Time Ticket, and can be applied at the time of reservation for discounts. Two coupons are issued per person, and in the case of art exhibition coupons, you can get a discount of 3,000 won per coupon and 10,000 won per coupon for performing arts. Unlike accommodation coupons, art exhibitions and performance coupons can be used in the Seoul metropolitan area, and if you watch performances or exhibitions in non-metropolitan areas, two more bonus coupons will be given, and a total of four coupons will be available. One thing to note when using this coupon is that the payment amount must exceed 15,000 won for the performance and 5,000 won for the exhibition, and it cannot be used for popular music and dance performances such as artist concert, dance festival. In the case of movie coupons, if they are issued on July 25th, discount coupons of 6,000 won per ticket can be issued on the website of CGV, Lotte Cinema, Megabox, and Cinequeue, and must be used by September 2nd. Up to two copies can be issued per person, and it can be issued offline on a first-come, first-served basis at independent theaters and small theaters. Lastly, in the case of Sports Coupon, the target is limited to senior citizens receiving basic pensions, and up to three tickets can be downloaded and used per person on the website exclusively for issuing coupons for sports facilities. Additional Information And The Limitations of The Policy Along with this policy, the government has raised the deduction limit for business promotion expenses for gift certificates from 0% to 20% so that companies can purchase Local gift certification, which can only be used in specific district, more actively. In addition, the prize event will be held from August 1st to October 9th, and digital onnuri gift certificates will be provided by lottery to the people who pay more than 50,000 won by credit card at traditional markets and small business stores nationwide. Critics have criticized the policy, but some say it is effective to invest in improving local tourist facilities in rural areas, as there are limitations and discrimination in increasing consumption even if there are discount coupons for non-metropolitan areas. In addition, the Ministry of Public Administration and Security argues that it is necessary to ease the preemptive limit on the use of consumer coupons and relax regulations on local gift certificates, as the current local gift certificates and Onnuri gift certificates do not provide real benefits to consumers in rural areas. The government's next policy needs to be implemented to restore the local economy and explain active policies to the public and improve awareness, given that policies implemented to revive the economy are continuously implemented and planned to promote consumption in non-metropolitan areas. Sources: https://www.khan.co.kr/article/202508071110001 https://www.newstomato.com/ReadNews.aspx?no=1271017

• 작성일 2025-09-30
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제 26 호 Streamflation

Kicker: LIFE Streamflation By Sol-Mi Lim, Cub-reporter imsolver4@gmail.com In recent years, major global OTT platforms, such as Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube Premium, have steadily raised their subscription fees, triggering frustration among users worldwide. This trend has given rise to a new term: streamflation, a combination of "streaming" and "inflation," used to describe the increasing costs of maintaining access to multiple streaming services. The impact of streamflation is not limited to international services. South Korea’s own OTT platforms, including Tving and Wavve, have also adjusted their pricing policies, placing a growing financial burden on young consumers—especially university students—who often rely on these platforms for both entertainment and relaxation. Ad - Supported Plans: A Double - Edged Sword To alleviate the burden of rising OTT prices, some companies have introduced advertising-supported subscription plans. These plans offer users a lower monthly fee in exchange for periodic advertisements during content playback. Netflix has launched such a plan in Korea, and other platforms are testing similar models. While these options reduce costs, they come with tradeoffs. Some viewers find the ads disruptive to their immersive experience. Moreover, privacy concerns have surfaced due to data collection practices used in targeted advertising. Students, in particular, often choose ad-supported plans due to financial constraints, but their long-term satisfaction remains uncertain. Government Scrutiny and the Debate over Fair Pricing As subscription fees rise and OTT services become household essentials, the South Korean government has begun to examine whether price hikes are justifiable and transparent. In a country where streaming services are integral to everyday life, especially for students and young consumers, concerns are mounting over whether users are being overcharged without adequate explanation. In early 2024, the Korea Communications Commission (KCC) hinted at the possibility of introducing consumer protection guidelines specifically for digital content platforms. While these are not formal regulations, they reflect growing public pressure to ensure that OTT platforms clearly communicate the reasons behind price increases, provide fair service tiers, and respect users' rights. However, the industry strongly resists these moves. OTT providers argue that overregulation could stifle innovation, restrict the growth of domestic content production, and interfere with their global competitiveness. They emphasize that price adjustments are often necessary to invest in high - quality original series, improve user interfaces, and expand content diversity. The outcome of this tug-of -war between government and platform providers could set a precedent for how digital media services are governed in Korea and possibly across Asia. Coupang Play: Redefining OTT through Bundled Strategy Amid the turbulence, Coupang Play has emerged as a unique case in Korea’s OTT market. Unlike competitors who rely on direct subscription revenue, Coupang Play is included as a free benefit for Coupang Wow members-users who pay a monthly fee for premium e-commerce perks like fast delivery and discounts. This bundling strategy offers a sharp contrast to the traditional OTT business model. For students already using Coupang for daily essentials, Coupang Play is an effortless add - on that requires no separate subscription. It creates a sense of added value rather than additional cost, appealing especially to cost sensitive users. Coupang also focuses on sports broadcasting, including exclusive rights to Premier League matches and local sporting events. This differentiates the platform from others that primarily push drama and movie content. By targeting niche interests and leveraging its existing logistics ecosystem, Coupang Play is shifting the narrative from “just another streaming service” to a lifestyle utility. Furthermore, Coupang's approach allows it to avoid the controversy of price hikes or ad interruptions altogether. Its content library may not be as vast as Netflix or Disney+, but its strategy shows that content relevance and convenience can matter more than sheer quantity. In a saturated market, Coupang Play is proving that integration, not isolation, may be the key to survival. The South Korean OTT market is undergoing a strategic transformation. With price hikes, new ad -supported plans, and increasing government scrutiny, users are no longer passive subscribers. They are becoming selective, budget - conscious consumers who actively evaluate the cost and quality of digital services. In this evolving landscape, platforms like Coupang Play stand out by offering alternative models that focus on value integration rather than pure content volume. As the debate over pricing and regulation continues, one thing is clear - students and everyday users will play a critical role in determining which platforms thrive and which fall behind. Sources: https://kcc.go.kr/user.do?mode=view&page=A05030000&dc=&boardId=1113&cp=1&nop=10&ctx=ALL&searchKey=ALL&searchVal=OTT&boardSeq=65109 https://kcc.go.kr/user.do?mode=view&page=A05030000&dc=&boardId=1113&cp=1&nop=10&ctx=ALL&searchKey=ALL&searchVal=OTT&boardSeq=64933

• 작성일 2025-07-03
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