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Current Social Issues in South Korea: Challenges Shaping the Nation in 2025

  Current Social Issues in South Korea: Challenges Shaping the Nation in 2025 South Korea stands at a critical juncture in its modern history, facing an unprecedented array of social challenges that threaten to reshape the very fabric of Korean society. From demographic collapse to political instability, the nation that once symbolized the "Miracle on the Han River" now grapples with complex issues that demand immediate attention and innovative solutions. Understanding these contemporary social issues is crucial for anyone seeking to comprehend the evolving landscape of one of Asia's most dynamic economies. The Demographic Crisis: A Ticking Time Bomb Ultra-Low Birth Rates and Population Decline The most pressing social issue confronting South Korea today is its demographic crisis, characterized by the world's lowest birth rates and rapid population aging. The TFR fell below 1 (0.98) in 2018, and it further decreased to 0.92 in 2019 and to 0.84 in 2020, the lowest ...

Korean Wedding Culture: A Complete Guide to Marriage Traditions and Customs

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Korean Wedding Culture: A Complete Guide to Marriage Traditions and Customs Korean wedding culture represents a fascinating blend of ancient Confucian traditions and modern Western influences, creating unique ceremonies that reflect both respect for heritage and adaptation to contemporary life. Understanding Korean marriage customs provides valuable insights into Korean society's values, family structures, and cultural evolution. From elaborate traditional ceremonies to modern celebrations, Korean weddings showcase the country's rich cultural tapestry and social dynamics. Historical Background of Korean Marriage Traditions Korean marriage traditions have deep roots in Confucian philosophy, which emphasized family hierarchy, filial piety, and social harmony. Historically, marriages were arranged by families rather than based on romantic love, serving as alliances between clans and ensuring social stability. The traditional Korean wedding, known as "honrye" (혼례), was...

Lee Jun-seok and the Reformist Party: Emerging as a New Alternative in Korea's Polarized Politics

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  Lee Jun-seok and the Reformist Party: Emerging as a New Alternative in Korea's Polarized Politics In the midst of South Korea's two major political parties—the Democratic Party and the People Power Party—losing trust due to their respective issues, the Reformist Party led by Lee Jun-seok is emerging as a new alternative among centrist and conservative voters. This phenomenon goes beyond a simple political trend and signals a fundamental shift in South Korea's political landscape. The Limitations of Lee Jae-myung's "One-Man Rule" in the Democratic Party Since transitioning to the leadership of Lee Jae-myung, the Democratic Party has formed a powerful internal power structure often referred to as a "one-man rule" system. Similar to the pro-Roh Moo-hyun and pro-Moon Jae-in factions of the past, the current Democratic Party has transformed into a structure where major party decisions are dominated by Lee Jae-myung's close allies. This one-man r...

The Crisis of Korea if Lee Jae-myung Becomes President: Based on Ahn Cheol-soo's Warning

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  The Crisis of Korea if Lee Jae-myung Becomes President: Based on Ahn Cheol-soo's Warning Introduction: Democracy on Trial South Korea's democracy has developed through historical trials and tribulations. From the era of military dictatorship to the democratic movement, and finally to peaceful transfers of power, our citizens have protected the liberal democratic system with blood and sweat. However, the Republic of Korea is now facing a new crisis. As Representative Ahn Cheol-soo of the People Power Party has pointed out, Lee Jae-myung, the Democratic Party's presidential candidate, has emerged as a threat to the foundations of our democracy. The recent attempt by the Democratic Party to impeach former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance Choi Sang-mok goes beyond mere political confrontation; it is a warning signal of a serious crisis in the constitutional order of the Republic of Korea. In this situation, Representative Ahn urged that "Lee J...

Sports in South Korea: A Comprehensive Guide

Sports in South Korea: A Comprehensive Guide South Korea is a nation renowned for its rich cultural heritage and rapid technological advancements. Among its many attractions, sports hold a special place in the hearts of Koreans. From traditional martial arts to modern professional leagues, the country boasts a diverse and vibrant sports scene. This guide will delve into the most popular sports in South Korea, their historical significance, and their impact on the nation's culture and global standing. Football: The Nation's Passion Football, or soccer, is undeniably one of the most beloved sports in South Korea. The K League, the country's professional football league, runs from March to November each year and features intense competition among 12 regional teams. The league's popularity is evident in the enthusiastic support from fans, particularly the Red Devils, the official supporting group for the Korea Republic national football team 1 . South Korea's football p...