What happens when you‘re the only person who’s read an obscure web novel, and then its story becomes reality? That mind-bending premise drives “Omniscient Reader: The Prophet,” this summer’s most ambitious tentpole in local theatres, built on a web comic juggernaut that‘s amassed over 425 million views worldwide since its launch in 2020. Adapted from the smash hit web novel "Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint" which first launched in 2018 and later spawned the comic, the film has everything riding on

The inaugural Kering Generation Award X Jewelry, presented by global luxury group Kering, named its first-ever university category winner Lee Min-seo, a student at Hongik University in Seoul, South Korea. Lee's groundbreaking collection, "Rhythm Reborn," reimagines discarded materials from traditional Korean percussion instruments, earning her international recognition for innovation in sustainable design. The competition, a collaboration between Kering, the World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO)

One of Seoul’s most buzzed-about bakeries, London Bagel Museum, became an instant hit when it opened its doors in Anguk-dong, Jongno, in 2021 -- and it still draws long lines four years later. Behind the wildly successful brand is Ryo, whose real name is Lee Hyo-jung, the visionary and brand director who has had a hand in nearly every detail, from recipe development to interior aesthetics, not only of London Bagel Museum, but also of Artist Bakery -- known for its salt butter bread -- as well as

When South Korean soprano Sumi Jo takes the stage later this month alongside the four winners of the international singing competition named in her honor, the performance will mark far more than a musical collaboration: It will symbolize the fulfillment of her long-held aspiration to support rising vocal talents. “One thing I felt was missing in many singing competitions is the opportunity to actually perform after winning,” Jo told reporters during a press conference held Monday at The Plaza, a

What if you could meet your favorite YouTubers in real life? That became a reality over the weekend at the YouTube Fanfest Korea 2025 in Seoul, where a three-day pop-up experience in Seongsu-dong and a live concert event at KBS Arena brought fans face-to-face with their favorite digital creators. Running from Friday through Sunday, the Seongsu pop-up drew massive crowds despite the scorching early summer heat. Packed with installations, interactive booths and surprise in-person appearances, the

The Sewol Ferry disaster of 2014 remains one of Korea’s most deeply felt national tragedies. While public attention has long focused on those who were on board, the stories of civilian divers who risked their lives to recover victims' bodies have largely remained in the background. "Sea Tiger," Jung Yoon-chul’s (“Marathon,” “A Man Who Was Superman”) first film in eight years, brings those overlooked narratives to the fore through an experimental approach that strips cinema down to its theatrical

As part of a cultural exchange program between South Korea and Japan marking the 60th anniversary of their diplomatic ties, the National Museum of Korea and the Tokyo National Museum are jointly holding a special exhibition in Seoul for the next two months, shedding light on the aesthetics and subtle depths of Japanese art. Titled "Japanese Art from Four Perspectives," the exhibition invites visitors to trace the beauty of the neighboring country's ancient times from Tuesday until Aug. 10. The e

Following Han Kang’s historic Nobel Prize in literature win last year, leading academics in translation and Korean studies, as well as translators from around the world, will gather in Seoul to explore new strategies for expanding Korean literature's reach. The Literature Translation Institute of Korea will host the 2025 LTI Korea Global Literature Forum on July 3-4 at Yonsei University, Han’s alma mater. The forum, held under the theme “Strategies for Fostering the Global Expansion of Korean Li

A recent National Assembly Research Service indicated that temporary public holidays are not boosting domestic spending; instead, they are resulting in increased overseas travel. Released Thursday, the report examined the impact of this year’s extended Seollal New Year holiday in January, when the government added a temporary holiday on the 27th. That move created a six-day break, intended to encourage local consumption. Instead of spending more at home, nearly 3 million South Koreans went abroa

American light master James Turrell is familiar to Korean audiences through his monumental installations at Museum San in Wonju, Gangwon Province, where five of his works, created solely with light and space, offer a meditative experience. The exhibition “The Return,” at Pace Gallery in Hannam-dong, central Seoul, shows Turrell’s five recent installations, including the never-before-seen piece “Wedgework,” made specifically for the Seoul exhibition. Turrell’s exhibition, which runs through Sept.

Adapting a hit webtoon into live action has become a go-to move for drama creators, lowering risk while guaranteeing a ready-made fanbase eager to leap from digital panels to episodic storytelling. It is no surprise that original screenplays are becoming the exception rather than the rule in today’s drama landscape. Netflix Korea’s tentpole series “Mercy for None” rode that wave, bringing one of the most critically acclaimed webtoons to life with a star-studded ensemble cast. Fans were especiall

A new exhibition in Seoul explores visions of happiness and utopia through a blend of contemporary and traditional art, enhanced by immersive technology. The Korea Craft and Design Foundation is running a special exhibition titled "Our Enchanting Paradise" featuring a wide array of artistic media. The exhibition, which kicked off on Friday, runs through July 27 at Culture Station Seoul 284 near Seoul Station. The exhibition is open daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., except Mondays. Admission is free.

Running has never been more stylish, especially in Seoul, where a new generation of celebrity runners is turning everyday jogs into curated fashion moments. From athleisure chic to techwear sleek, Korean stars are redefining the aesthetic of movement, and their influence is shaping a growing culture that blends fitness with fashion and community. But these celebrities aren’t just dressing the part — they’re hitting the pavement, signing up for real races and investing in the right gear. Style me

Tucked away in South Jeolla Province and long overshadowed by Korea’s more popular tourist hubs, Jangheung is fast emerging as a haven for travelers seeking healing, tranquility and a deep breath of fresh air. With its expansive forests, therapeutic landscapes and immersive cultural sites, this southern gem offers a restorative escape from the noise and speed of modern life. From majestic mountains and healing woodlands to serene temples and unique cultural landmarks, Jangheung invites visitors

South Korea is no longer the drug-free society many believe it to be. In 2023, the number of drug-related offenses surpassed 27,000, the highest on record, with a staggering rise among teens and young adults. Korean National Police Agency data for 2018-2023 showed that over 1,400 teens were investigated for drug offenses — more than triple the number from the previous year. Additionally, a recent report from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety on Thursday showed that methamphetamine has been de