Korea Joongang Daily
Korea JoongAng Daily

[WHY] Gettin' ciggy with it: The burning question of where to smoke in Seoul

Seoul is paradoxically increasing nonsmoking zones while simultaneously lacking in strict enforcement, leaving smokers and nonsmokers in a secondhand standoff.

2024-11-02

[WHY] What's with all these booze-fueled after-work dinners?

A group of coworkers all raise their glasses in a cheerful toast after work hours end. Such a scene can be typically observed in restaurants in Korea. However, are they enjoying their drinks and meal out of pure joy? Or simply out of obligation?

2024-10-19

[WHY] Animals on wheels: Why are pet strollers so popular in Korea?

In Korea, it's becoming increasingly common to see strollers being pushed through parks and streets occupied not by babies, but by owners' beloved dogs.

2024-10-05

[WHY] 'I don't want those negative feelings to leave a scar': Treatment for depression in Korea on the rise

Bucking thousands of years of tradition, Koreans are beginning to talk about mental health, with younger generations leading the way.

2024-08-10

[WHY] 'I'll get it. My treat. It's on me!' The politics of bill squabbling in Korea

Koreans like to battle for who is paying the bill in restaurants, a practice rooted in tradition but evolving with modern influences and generational changes.

2024-07-27

[WHY] Korea is Samsung's turf. Why do its young people love iPhones?

Samsung dominates the Korean smartphone market with its Galaxy series, but Apple's iPhone remains popular among the younger generation. Why?

2024-06-29

[WHY] Bright, fluffy and cute: Why are mascots so popular in Korea?

Mascots play a significant role in Korean culture, with many representing sports teams, cities and government branches. Many are much-loved by the public, resulting in their instant recognition and high merchandise sales in some cases.

2024-06-15

[WHY] Why do Koreans wait hours in line for baked treats?

Koreans are now traveling hundreds of kilometers, not for local favorites like nakgopsae stew from Busan or grilled black pork from Jeju, but for the love of bread. This trend is called "bbangjisullae," or a bread pilgrimage.

2024-06-08

[WHY] Where did the 'K-heart' pose come from and why do celebs do it?

From K-pop to Korean film, the 'K-heart' gesture is a popular trend now adopted by the public at large. Despite its prevalence, the specific origin of the pose remains shrouded in mystery.

2024-05-04

[WHY] To snip, or not to snip? Korean society and circumcision

In Korea, circumcision is widespread, with 7 out of 10 men being circumcised. With rates much higher than the global average, why does circumcision remain so prevalent in Korean society?

2024-04-20