The dog patrols perform many activities, including neighborhood cleanups and security patrols. (Courtesy of Clearcity) In recent years, the number of pets in Korea has skyrocketed, providing more people with love and companionship, not to mention all sorts of physical and mental health benefits. According to the Korea Rural Economic Institute, the percentage of the total population who own dogs, cats and other pets increased from 17.4 percent in 2010 to 27.7 percent in 2020. Thi

Long renowned for its natural beauty and rugged terrain, Chilbosan (Seven Jeweled Mountain) has been the focal point of literature and artwork in Korea since the 17th century. The nearly 900-meter mountain now lies within the North Korean province of Hamgyeongbuk-do and is home to around 750 species of plants and 70 species of animals, birds and reptiles, according to UNESCO. Because of its location, most South Koreans and Americans would likely never have a chance to visit the sce

Courtesy of the Ministry of Unification The Ministry of Unification created a symbol to encourage public participation in the efforts to resolve the abductee, detainee and prisoner-of-war issue. The ministry is currently conducting a campaign to spread awareness of the issue. (Courtesy of Yonhap News) According to the Ministry of Unification, there are around 100,000 wartime abductees, 516 post-war abductees, six detainees and around 60,000 prisoners of war st

ANANTI AT BUSAN COVE , a resort within the OSIRIA Tourist Complex in Gijang  (Courtesy of ANANTI AT BUSAN COVE ) Busan is the second largest city in Korea and has a thriving tourism industry. Haeundae Beach and Gwangalli Beach are two of the city’s most prominent tourist destinations. Their sandy beaches have long attracted a steady stream of travelers with their colorful night views and bustling restaurants and shops nearby.   Howeve

(Courtesy of shutterstock) “Trend Korea 2024,” an annual publication that describes what’s new in the country, introduced the neologism “dopa-ming .” A portmanteau, dopa-ming combines the hormone “dopamine” with gaming slang “farming,” or the practice of methodically collecting money, powerups and other items to improve a player’s in-game abilities. While “dopa-ming” basically means pleasure-seeking and