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Sun, December 10, 2023 | 09:53

Compressed modernization as epistemology

Compressed modernization as epistemology

Modernity has many definitions. It is understood as (capitalist) economic development, technological advancement, or liberal democratic communities. Decolonization has helped give rise to a less Eurocentric vision by championing local subjectivities and raising the voices of those once oppressed.

2022-08-27 11:58

Can we escape the Korean metaverse?

Can we escape the Korean metaverse?

One of the decisions that many in South Korea have taken recently, from the largest conglomerates, to government projects and high school education, has been to embrace the idea of the metaverse.

2022-08-20 11:33

K-pop: Full of aesthetic but devoid of art

K-pop: Full of aesthetic but devoid of art

With religion having largely receded from day-to-day life, particularly among the youth, a vacuum is created. Our extra-rational cravings and innate desires leave us yearning for something more than a simple physical existence. We become masterless dogs. Desperate to chase a ball but no one to throw it for us.

2022-08-13 13:22

Extraordinary Attorney Woo is about more than mental health

Extraordinary Attorney Woo is about more than mental health

There's no denying the quality, charm, and success of Extraordinary Attorney Woo. Not just here in Korea, but all around the world people eagerly await the release of the latest episodes

2022-08-06 10:55

President without support?

President without support?

Much has been said of the incredibly low approval ratings President Yoon Seok-yul is experiencing in the early stages of his tenure. With its leaders only able to serve one five-year term, South Korea is used to the lame duck phenomenon. However, they've rarely seen public support drop this far this quickly.

2022-07-30 11:56

K-Equality

Because people all over the world wear similar clothes, vibe on the same YouTube videos, and speak similar hashtags, it's all too easy to think of them wanting the same things. We try to equalize values globally as much as possible.

2022-07-23 11:50

Who likes BTS?

There's no getting away from BTS' popularity. The Korean idol group topped charts, broke countless records, and spoke at the United Nations. In doing so, they went through various metamorphoses: from hyper-masculine black-inspired hip-hop, to schizophrenic genre-bending K-pop, and finally the soft masculinity of western pop that propelled them to their greatest heights.

2022-07-16 11:47

Even in death, Twitter demands immediacy

Even in death, Twitter demands immediacy

Yesterday, my students at Hanyang University debated the merits of Frantz Fanon's 1961 text, “The Wretched of the Earth.” The book remains a cornerstone of revolutionary thought and demand for action, bringing with it the claim that, “There comes a time when silence becomes dishonesty.”

2022-07-09 12:04

Korean studies and K-vibe

Korean studies and K-vibe

During the country's wettest season, a time that has seen expressways closed and rivers flooded, I make my way every morning to Hanyang University. One of the country's biggest and most prestigious universities, it is currently hosting a summer program for international students from all over the word. As part of this, I teach courses on Korea with a focus on culture, society...

2022-07-02 10:50

Forget K-pop, real Korean activism is underground

Forget K-pop, real Korean activism is underground

Some people access Korea through its literature, others through its movies, its beauty products, its webtoons, or its history. The pathways into the country and its culture are endless. And once in, for many people, a vice-like grip keeps you enthralled. South Korea is addictive. A drug that you can't quit. It can change your life.

2022-06-25 10:24

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Top 10 Stories

1	Korea to expand visa benefits to accelerate inbound tourism

2	Seoul awards honorary citizenship to outstanding foreign residents

3	'British Spider-Man' ends 6-month stay in Korea

4	Justice minister challenges opposition leader in polls for potential next president

5	Why Korean shoppers flock to Chinese e-commerce sites

6	Will Korea avoid hard landing in housing market?

7	'12.12: The Day' goes strong at box office, attracts younger generation

8	Young K-pop couple Choi Min-hwan, Yulhee announce divorce

9	K-pop's appeal reflected in global accolades

10	Hyundai Motor hires former US Ambassador to Korea Sung Kim as adviser

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