학내 언론사

제 29 호 The Silent Rise of Diabetes Among Young Adults in South Korea

Kicker: LIFE The Silent Rise of Diabetes Among Young Adults in South Korea By Hae-In Noh, Reporter xhazmfnwm1@gmail.com Image of Growth in diabetes cases Diabetes has long been considered a disease that mainly affects middle-aged and older adults. Recent data, however, shows that a growing number of young adults in South Korea are developing diabetes or prediabetes. Many people in their 20s and 30s do not realize that their blood sugar levels have already reached unhealthy levels. The lack of noticeable symptoms during the early stages has made diabetes a silent health issue among young adults, especially university students whose daily routines often increase their risk. Diabetes is becoming more common among young adults in South Korea. According to the Korean Diabetes Association's 2024 Diabetes Fact Sheet, about 300,000 people aged 19 to 39 currently have diabetes, while nearly 3 million are estimated to have prediabetes. These numbers mean that many young adults are living with abnormal blood sugar without knowing it. Health experts have also reported that diabetes cases among people in their 20s and 30s have increased dramatically over the past decade. This trend suggests that diabetes is no longer a condition that belongs only to older generations. Unhealthy eating habits are increasing diabetes risk Modern lifestyles have become one of the biggest reasons behind this increase. University students often skip breakfast, eat late at night, or rely on quick meals between classes and part-time jobs. Food delivery services have become a normal part of student life, making fried chicken, pizza, hamburgers, and other high-calorie meals easier to order than ever before. These foods usually contain large amounts of sugar, fat, and sodium, which can contribute to weight gain and poor blood sugar control when consumed regularly. Sweetened drinks have become another hidden risk. Many students drink iced coffee, bubble tea, fruit drinks, or energy drinks almost every day. A single beverage can contain far more sugar than people expect, although many consumers rarely check nutrition labels. Frequent consumption of these drinks can increase the risk of insulin resistance, which is one of the main causes of type 2 diabetes. Lack of exercise, stress, and poor sleep make the problem worse Physical activity has also decreased compared with previous generations. Students spend long hours sitting in classrooms, libraries, or in front of computers while studying, watching videos, or using smartphones. Regular exercise is often pushed aside by busy schedules and academic pressure. Medical experts point out that obesity has become more common among young adults, making diabetes even more likely to develop at an earlier age. Stress and sleep deprivation have become additional concerns. Many college students stay awake until late at night to complete assignments, prepare for exams, or work part-time jobs. Insufficient sleep can affect hormones that regulate blood sugar, while chronic stress can encourage unhealthy eating habits. These factors work together rather than separately, creating a cycle that gradually increases health risks. Low awareness delays early detection and treatment. Awareness remains another important challenge. Diabetes often develops without clear symptoms, which means many young adults believe they are healthy simply because they feel fine. Regular health checkups are less common among university students than among office workers who receive company-sponsored screenings. Early detection becomes much more difficult when people do not check their blood sugar until symptoms appear. The rise of diabetes among young adults reflects more than personal choices. Changing lifestyles, convenient food delivery culture, and demanding schedules have reshaped everyday habits across South Korea. Prevention, however, remains possible through practical actions such as eating balanced meals, reducing sugary drinks, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and receiving periodic health checkups. University students have an opportunity to build healthier habits now, making small daily changes that can protect their health for many years to come. Source: https://www.munhwa.com/article/11547482 : Introduction, body2,4, Conclusion https://www.chosun.com/national/welfare-medical/2025/08/26/23MESU4AWJDFPH3BVATRR5TZQU/: Body1,3 https://n.news.naver.com/mnews/article/662/0000101143 : Body2 Image of Growth in diabetes cases: Generated by ChatGPT

• 작성일 2026-09-20
• 좋아요 Like 0

제 31 호 Beyond Coffee: Low-Cost Coffee Chains Transform into Full-Course Dining Hubs

Kicker: LIFE Beyond Coffee: Low-Cost Coffee Chains Transform into Full-Course Dining Hubs By Eun-jin Kim, Cub-Reporter eunxvn@naver.com As prices keep climbing, Korea’s low-cost coffee chains are no longer just about a cheap cup of coffee. Brands once known for two-thousand-won Americanos are now filling their menus with tteokbokki, sandwiches, pizza, and bakery snacks, quietly turning into all-in-one food and beverage stops. What used to be a quick caffeine break between classes is becoming a place where students can grab an entire meal, and this shift is reshaping how young people eat on a budget. Behind the familiar counters and pastel-colored cups, a much bigger transformation of Korea’s dining habits is quietly taking shape. From Espresso Shots to Full Meals Image of Compose Coffee's tteokbokki, which sold out within weeks of its February launch The menu expansion is already well underway across the industry. Compose Coffee, one of the leading low-cost chains, has sold more than 6.2 million servings of its new snack-food lineup this year, led by a bowl-style tteokbokki launched in February that quickly became a bestseller. Mega MGC Coffee has expanded its own snack menu, while Bbaek-dabang and Theventi are focusing on bakery items such as salt bread and butter bread to diversify beyond drinks. Ediya Coffee has gone even further, opening a “deli zone” last October that serves in-store pizza and hamburgers alongside sandwiches, salads, doughnuts, and cakes, effectively turning some of its stores into small restaurants. What makes these new menus especially appealing is their price. A cup-style tteokbokki at a low-cost coffee chain typically costs around 3,000 to 4,000 won, well below the 5,000 to 6,000 won charged at a traditional snack-food stall or restaurant near campus. Paired with a 1,500-won americano, a student can walk away with both a drink and a light meal for less than what a single dish costs elsewhere. For students trying to stretch a tight monthly budget, that kind of math is difficult to ignore. Why Coffee Chains Are Becoming Dining Destinations Behind this trend lies a clear business calculation. The four largest low-cost coffee brands together surpassed 10,000 stores last year, and with new locations becoming harder to find, competing on price alone is no longer enough to stand out. Instead, companies are focusing on raising the average amount each customer spends per visit by bundling drinks with meal items in combo sets. A customer who buys food along with a drink tends to stay longer and is more likely to make an additional purchase, which boosts both sales per visit and overall store revenue. Rising coffee bean prices, driven by unstable weather in major growing regions, have added further pressure on chains to find new sources of profit beyond the drink menu itself. A Lifeline for Price-Weary Students This shift is landing at a moment when eating out has become a genuine financial strain for young people. South Korea’s consumer price index rose 3.1% year on year in May 2026, with dining-out prices climbing even faster; a bowl of kimchi stew now costs around 10,800 won, up 5.9% from a year earlier. Over the past five years, dining-out prices have risen roughly 24.7% in total, pushing some students to circulate so-called “beggar maps,” informal lists of restaurants where a full meal still costs less than 10,000 won. According to a recent survey by the Daehaknaeil 20s Research Lab, university students now spend about 681,000 won a month on average, leaving little room for expensive meals. Long lines have even formed at campus cafeterias offering 1,000-won breakfasts, as many students try to stretch their budgets. According to South Korea's National Data Agency, 67.2% of householders said dining-out spending would be the first thing they cut if their finances worsened, more than any other category, including clothing, groceries, and leisure. The country's Engel's coefficient, the share of total spending that goes to food, has also risen above 30%, its highest level since the 1990s, underscoring how central food costs have become to everyday financial pressure. For students with little to no stable income, this national trend is felt even more sharply. Against this backdrop, a coffee shop that also serves an affordable meal offers students a way to save both time and money in a single stop. This trend is also starting to blur the boundary between the coffee industry and the wider dining sector. As coffee chains take on menu items once limited to snack-food stalls, bakeries, and casual restaurants, some smaller food businesses near campuses now find themselves competing directly with cafes for the same lunch and snack customers. Industry watchers note that this cross-category competition could reshape which kinds of small businesses can survive in areas with a heavy student population, even as it gives students more affordable choices in the short term. These cases show that low-cost coffee chains are no longer simply places to grab a drink between classes; for many cost-conscious students, they have become a genuine alternative to a full meal. By combining an affordable coffee with a snack or light dish under one roof, these chains are quietly redrawing the line between a cafe and a restaurant. As Korea’s food and beverage market rapidly changes, staying aware of new trends like this one can help students make smarter, more efficient choices about where and how they spend their limited budgets. A little curiosity about what a nearby coffee shop now has on its menu might turn out to be a genuinely useful money-saving habit. Sources: Bizhankook, "Low-cost coffee chains wage a 'one-meal war' with fried chicken, noodles, and tteokbokki," Aug. 19, 2026. Photo courtesy of Compose Coffee. (bizhankook.com) Newsway, “Coffee shops turn into restaurants: Mega, Ediya, Theventi expand meal menus,” Jun. 27, 2026. (newsway.co.kr) Busan Ilbo, “Tteokbokki at coffee shops, burgers at bakeries: the food industry crosses the line,” May 28, 2026. (www.busan.com) Issue&Biz, “Coffee alone isn’t enough anymore: solving lunch at low-cost cafes,” Jun. 2, 2026. (www.issuenbiz.com) Digital Chosun, “End of the coffee-only era: low-cost chains widen dessert and snack options,” Feb. 10, 2026. (digitalchosun.dizzo.com) Chungnam Ilbo, “Dining-out prices weigh heavier amid triple pressure of oil, labor, and material costs,” Jun. 22, 2026. (www.chungnamilbo.co.kr) Reportera, “‘Beggar maps’ emerge as survival guides for price-weary youth,” Apr. 17, 2026. (www.reportera.co.kr) Huffington Post Korea, “15,000-won lunches: MZ generation turns thrifty amid rising prices,” Aug. 2026. (www.huffingtonpost.kr) Asia Economy, “‘This is 6,500 won’: students turn to campus cafeterias amid high prices,” Feb. 13, 2026. (view.asiae.co.kr) Asia Economy, "'Taste has become a luxury': Youths driven to 5,000-won-a-day meals," Apr. 17, 2026. (view.asiae.co.kr)

• 작성일 2026-09-20
• 좋아요 Like 0

제 31 호 Reclaiming Our Focus: The Rising Trend of Digital Detox on Campus

Kicker: LIFE Reclaiming Our Focus: The Rising Trend of Digital Detox on Campus By Seung-su Kim, Cub-Reporter seungthlng14@gmail.com Image of Digital Detox With the relentless expansion of short-form video content and instant media, modern university students are increasingly experiencing digital fatigue, attention fragmentation, and chronic cognitive exhaustion. In response to this invisible pressure, a quiet yet powerful counter-movement known as "digital detox" is rapidly gaining traction across the campus. More students are actively choosing to step away from their glowing screens, opting instead for offline reading circles, device-free study sessions, and community-driven hobbies. This conscious retreat from hyper-connectivity is not merely a passing lifestyle trend, but a deliberate effort to reclaim personal time and mental clarity. As students seek to restore their focus and emotional well-being, the campus is witnessing a meaningful shift toward more mindful, grounded, and present-moment daily routines. The Cost of Constant Connectivity In today’s hyper-connected academic environment, students are perpetually bombarded with a relentless stream of notifications, algorithmic social media feeds, and social pressures that demand continuous online engagement and instant responsiveness. This endless influx of digital stimuli has taken a severe, quantifiable toll on students' attention spans, leading to cognitive symptoms often described as mental fog, chronic exhaustion, and diminished deep-work capacity. Recent student surveys and psychological studies consistently indicate a direct correlation between excessive daily smartphone usage, plummeting concentration levels during lengthy lectures, and heightened anxiety spikes during moments that should be dedicated to rest. Recognizing how ubiquitous digital distraction gradually erodes both academic performance and inner peace, a growing number of proactive students have begun to seek tangible methods to sever the compulsive loop of device-checking. Embracing Offline Alternatives and Mindful Spaces This burgeoning movement toward digital detox is visibly reshaping daily campus life, with students actively carving out physical spaces and dedicated hours entirely free from technological interference. University libraries report a noticeable surge in students utilizing specialized quiet zones where mobile devices are strictly stowed away in lockers, while student-led reading circles and analog hobby clubs—ranging from film photography to manual sketching—are experiencing unprecedented participation rates. Activities such as journaling, physical exercise, and engaging in uninterrupted, face-to-face conversations over meals have transformed into intentional acts of cultural resistance against screen-dominated routines. By consciously replacing passive, isolating digital consumption with active, tangible engagement, students are rediscovering the profound psychological benefits of a slower, more deliberate, and grounded pace of life. Restoring Balance in an Over-Digitized World Ultimately, the growing popularity of digital detox on campus reflects a mature, collective realization that technology should function as a functional tool rather than an absolute master of human attention. While digital applications and online resources will inevitably remain integral components of modern university life, learning to establish firm, healthy boundaries is an absolute prerequisite for long-term mental well-being and personal growth. By stepping back deliberately from the deafening digital noise, students are successfully reclaiming the essential mental space required for deep analytical focus, genuine interpersonal connection, and meaningful self-reflection. This mindful cultural evolution ensures that contemporary students can navigate the digital universe effectively without ever losing touch with the rich, tangible reality of the physical world surrounding them. Sources: https://www.hankyung.com/article/202608277415g https://www.gocj.net/news/articleView.html?idxno=151781 https://news.kbs.co.kr/news/view.do?ncd=8517000

• 작성일 2026-09-20
• 좋아요 Like 0

제 31 호 One Test, Many Institutions: A New Era of Public Sector Recruitment

Kicker: Life One Test, Many Institutions: A New Era of Public Sector Recruitment By Sol-Mi Lim, Editor-in-chief imsolver4@gmail.com For college students preparing for careers in public institutions, studying for recruitment exams is only one part of the process. Applicants must also compare different institutions, check recruitment schedules, and understand the requirements of each hiring process before deciding where to apply. Recently, some local governments have expanded integrated recruitment systems in which application periods and written examinations for affiliated public institutions are managed together. The system is intended to improve fairness and transparency while reducing administrative costs, but it also changes how applicants plan their job search. When several institutions hold their written tests on the same date, candidates may no longer be able to apply broadly and then decide later which opportunities to pursue. Instead, they may need to compare job duties, NCS subjects, major-specific exams, and institutional characteristics in advance. As integrated recruitment becomes more common, public-sector job preparation is becoming less about applying to as many institutions as possible and more about making careful and strategic choices from the beginning. How Does Integrated Recruitment Work? Integrated recruitment does not mean that every step of the hiring process becomes identical across public institutions. Instead, a local government manages certain stages, particularly recruitment announcements and written examinations, while individual institutions continue to handle later stages such as document screening, interviews, and final selection. Seoul introduced this system for its affiliated public institutions for the first time in the second half of 2026. According to the final recruitment announcement, 14 institutions are participating and a total of 110 employees will be hired. Applications were accepted from Aug. 13 to 20, while the written examination is scheduled for Sept. 19. The written test also illustrates both the “integrated” and “individual” aspects of the system. Depending on the position, applicants may take the National Competency Standards, or NCS, vocational competency assessment together with a major-specific examination or a basic job competency test. This means that although candidates take examinations on a common schedule, the subjects they need to prepare for can still differ depending on the institution and position. Therefore, understanding the recruitment notice in detail remains just as important as preparing for the examination itself. Image of Seoul City Integrated Recruitment Website Why Introduce One Recruitment System? One of the main goals of integrated recruitment is to make public-sector hiring more consistent, fair, and efficient. Previously, affiliated institutions independently managed their own recruitment schedules and written examinations. Different application periods, testing procedures, and schedules could make the overall recruitment process difficult for applicants to follow. For institutions, separately organizing written examinations also required additional administrative resources and costs. By bringing major stages of recruitment together, local governments can establish a more standardized process while reducing differences in the way examinations are administered. Seoul has explained that the system is intended to increase fairness and objectivity in public-sector recruitment. Conducting written examinations together can also reduce repeated administrative work for smaller institutions that may have fewer resources to operate their own recruitment tests. However, greater efficiency for institutions can create a new challenge for applicants. When written examinations are held on the same date, candidates have fewer opportunities to take several tests and compare their options afterward. A student interested in multiple institutions may have to choose which opportunity best fits their career goals before even entering the examination room. Integrated recruitment therefore does not necessarily make the process easier for job seekers. Instead, it changes when important decisions must be made. From Multiple Applications to Strategic Choices For students preparing to enter the public sector, this change makes early research increasingly important. The name or reputation of an institution alone is no longer enough to determine where to apply. Candidates should examine the actual job description, required qualifications, recruitment scale, test subjects, and later interview procedures before submitting an application. The NCS is another important factor. It evaluates competencies considered necessary for performing tasks in the workplace, while some positions also require examinations related to a candidate’s academic major or professional field. Two institutions recruiting for seemingly similar administrative positions may therefore require different combinations of subjects. Applicants who begin preparing without checking these differences may spend significant time studying material that does not match their preferred position. This makes the recruitment announcement more than a simple notice of vacancies. It can function as a roadmap for preparation. Students can compare the subjects required by different institutions, identify areas that overlap, and determine which positions best match what they have already studied. Looking at previous recruitment information and learning about each institution’s major responsibilities can also help candidates decide whether the organization itself fits their interests. In other words, integrated recruitment encourages applicants to move away from the strategy of applying first and deciding later. A carefully selected application may become more valuable than submitting as many applications as possible. For university students who still have time before entering the job market, researching institutions and building relevant competencies in advance can therefore become an important part of career preparation. Integrated recruitment may appear to be only an administrative change, but its influence can extend to the way students prepare for public-sector careers. A common schedule and standardized written examination process can improve consistency and efficiency, while applicants may benefit from having recruitment information organized within a clearer framework. At the same time, fewer opportunities to take overlapping examinations mean that candidates must make important choices earlier. For students interested in public institutions, the lesson is simple: preparation should begin before opening an NCS textbook. Understanding what an institution does, which position fits one’s strengths, and which subjects are required can be just as important as achieving a high test score. As integrated recruitment develops and potentially expands to more public institutions, successful job preparation may increasingly depend not only on how much applicants study, but also on how carefully they choose where to apply. Source: https://seoul.saramin.co.kr/service/seoul/index.asp

• 작성일 2026-09-20
• 좋아요 Like 0

제 31 호 The Record-Breaking Heatwave of 2026: Causes, Impacts, and How to Stay Safe

Kicker: LIFE The Record-Breaking Heatwave of 2026: Causes, Impacts, and How to Stay Safe By Ji-Won Choi, reporter Image of a Child Shielding from the Scorching Sun at Dongdaegu Station South Korea is experiencing a record-breaking heat wave this summer. In early August, temperatures in Seoul exceeded 39°C for two consecutive days, while temperatures in Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do, surpassed 41°C, marking unusually high temperatures across the country. This year’s heat wave is even raising the possibility that 2026 could become the hottest year on record in South Korea, surpassing the previous record set in 2018. In particular, unusually warm seas are making it difficult for temperatures to drop at night, raising concerns that tropical nights could continue for an extended period. Heat waves should no longer be viewed simply as uncomfortable summer weather, but as a serious social issue that threatens public health and everyday life. Current Heat Wave Situation On August 2, temperatures in Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do, exceeded 42°C. The following day, a daily high of 40.9°C was recorded by an Automated Weather Station (AWS) in Buk-gu, Daegu. This surpassed the previous record of 40.0°C measured at Daegu’s official weather station in 1942, marking the return of temperatures above 40°C in Daegu after approximately 80 years. South Korea’s average temperature in July this year was 26.8°C, making it the third-highest July average since nationwide weather monitoring was expanded in 1973. The national average number of tropical nights was 9.7, approximately 3.5 times higher than the average of 2.8 days, setting a new record. The average minimum temperature also reached 23.4°C, the highest level ever recorded. On July 27, the government raised the heat wave alert to its highest level, “Severe,” and began operating Level 2 of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters on August 2. This marks the first time since 2023 that Level 2 has been activated in response to a heat wave. The government has strengthened inter-ministerial response efforts and dispatched on-site situation managers to each province and major city. It is also using emergency text alerts, electronic billboards, and village broadcasts to provide information on heat wave conditions and safety guidelines. In addition to the growing number of heat-related casualties, the livestock and aquaculture industries are also suffering significant losses. As temperatures inside livestock facilities have risen sharply, more than 432,000 livestock animals have died so far. This includes approximately 28,000 pigs and 404,000 poultry, such as chickens and ducks. Rising water temperatures have also caused the deaths of approximately 165,000 farmed fish, including olive flounder and mullet. As a result, the damage caused by the heat wave is spreading across the agricultural, livestock, and fisheries industries. Causes of the Heat Wave The record-breaking heat wave this year has been largely influenced by the North Pacific High and the Tibetan High. As the two high-pressure systems overlap over the Korean Peninsula, hot air becomes trapped, while strong sunlight continues to heat the surface. The Korea Meteorological Administration analyzed that the Foehn effect, in which easterly winds become warmer as they cross the mountains, also contributed to the extreme heat, particularly in the Yeongnam region. The basin-shaped terrain surrounded by mountains and the urban heat island effect have also intensified the heat wave. Heat accumulated in the ground and buildings during the day does not easily escape at night, preventing temperatures from dropping significantly and contributing to prolonged tropical nights. In addition, high sea surface temperatures and humid air around the Korean Peninsula make it more difficult for temperatures to fall overnight, further extending the duration of tropical nights. Heat-Related Illnesses: Symptoms and Prevention As heat waves continue, one of the most important health concerns is heat-related illness, which can occur when the body is exposed to high temperatures for an extended period. Common heat-related illnesses include heat exhaustion and heatstroke, and it is important to recognize the early symptoms and respond quickly. Heat exhaustion can cause severe fatigue, dizziness, headaches, nausea, muscle cramps, and excessive sweating. Heatstroke is more serious and can occur when the body temperature rises above 40°C, causing symptoms such as confusion, altered consciousness, or seizures. If these symptoms occur, the person should immediately move to a cool or shaded place, loosen tight clothing, and cool the body. If severe symptoms, such as a loss of consciousness, occur, medical attention should be sought immediately. To prevent heat-related illnesses, it is important to avoid outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day and drink plenty of water. People who spend long periods outdoors, including those working part-time jobs during the summer, should take regular breaks in cool or shaded areas. Wearing lightweight, breathable clothing and using hats or parasols can also help reduce direct exposure to sunlight. It is also important to drink water regularly before feeling thirsty. Since heat-related illnesses can often be prevented, paying close attention to your physical condition and avoiding excessive outdoor activity are among the most important ways to stay safe during a heat wave. Heat waves are more than just hot weather; they can directly affect our health and daily lives. College students who frequently commute, spend time outdoors, or work part-time jobs need to pay extra attention to extreme heat. Checking the temperature and heat wave alerts before going outside, drinking plenty of water, and reducing outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day can help prevent heat-related health problems. This summer, rather than viewing heat waves as simply hot weather, college students should recognize them as a weather phenomenon that requires caution and take active steps to protect their health. Source: https://www.etoday.co.kr/news/view/2611633 https://m.thescienceplus.com/news/newsview.php?ncode=1065579463833943 https://www.coloradotimesnews.com/%EC%99%9C-%EC%9D%B4%EB%A0%87%EA%B2%8C-%EB%8D%94%EC%9A%B8%EA%B9%8C-%ED%95%9C%EA%B5%AD-42-5%EB%8F%84%C2%B7%EB%AF%B8%EA%B5%AD-51%EB%8F%84-%EB%A7%8C%EB%93%A0-%ED%8F%AD%EC%97%BC%EC%9D%98-%EC%9B%90/ https://www.joongang.co.kr/article/25335307 (figure 1)

• 작성일 2026-09-17
• 좋아요 Like 0

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
• 좋아요 Like 2

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
• 좋아요 Like 2

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
• 좋아요 Like 1

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
• 좋아요 Like 1