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  • [Korean Travel] Seoullo 7017: Transforming a 1970s Highway into Seoul’s Green Pedestrian Hub

    Seoullo 7017 is a 1,024-meter-long elevated pedestrian park that breathes new life into a decommissioned 1970s overpass.

    Designed by renowned Dutch architect Winy Maas, this urban regeneration project connects 17 different pedestrian paths around the Seoul Station area, allowing travelers and business visitors to navigate the dense city center with ease. Standing 17 meters above the ground, the skywalk offers panoramic views of major landmarks, including the historic Seoul Station building, Namdaemun Gate, and N Seoul Tower, providing a unique perspective on Korea’s architectural evolution.

    The skywalk functions as a living botanical library, featuring over 24,000 plants across 228 species arranged alphabetically.

    Visitors can scan QR codes on the planters to learn about the seasonal flora, ranging from spring magnolias to vibrant autumn maples. After sunset, the entire path is illuminated with thousands of blue LED lights, creating a cosmic atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding city lights. This makes it not only a green retreat but also a premier spot for late-night photography and evening strolls.

    This landmark is open 24 hours a day with no admission fee, making it highly accessible for both early morning walks and late-night explorations.

    It is conveniently reached from Seoul Station (Lines 1 & 4, Exit 2) or Hoehyeon Station (Line 4, Exit 5). Due to its central location, it serves as a perfect bridge to nearby commercial hubs like Namdaemun Market and cultural sites like Culture Station Seoul 284, enabling a seamless walking tour through the heart of historic and modern Seoul.

  • [Korean News] Is the “Dujjonku” Bubble Bursting? Rising Consumer Fatigue Amidst Ethics Concerns

    The viral “Dubai Chewy Cookie” (Dujjonku) phenomenon in South Korea has reached a bizarre turning point as non-food businesses, including specialized bedding shops, have begun using the treat to lure customers.

    Recent online reports featured a blanket shop advertising the cookies to entice visitors inside, following similar tactics used by sushi and eel restaurants. This trend of using a high-demand dessert as a “bait product” has sparked a heated debate regarding unethical marketing practices across unrelated industries, with critics questioning the integrity of businesses that exploit viral trends to boost foot traffic.

    Beyond marketing ethics, the trend has raised significant legal and hygiene concerns.

    Netizens have pointed out potential violations of the Food Sanitation Act, questioning whether these establishments hold the necessary licenses for food distribution. Fears regarding the lack of proper hygiene management in non-food environments, such as textile or specialized service shops, are also mounting. Critics compare the current frenzy to the past “Honey Butter Chip” era, where popular snacks were bundled with unrelated goods to force sales, highlighting the recurring negative side effects of hyper-viral consumer trends in the Korean market.

    While the demand remains high, some observers suggest the craze may have reached its peak.

    Comparisons are being drawn to the once-ubiquitous “Tanghulu” trend, which saw a rapid decline after its initial surge due to overexposure and changing consumer tastes. As businesses increasingly use the cookie as a “click-bait” item on delivery apps to boost visibility, public fatigue over the commercial exploitation of the trend is becoming more apparent. This shift suggests that without a sustainable supply chain and ethical standards, the “Dujjonku” fever may soon follow the path of its short-lived predecessors.

  • [Korean News] “K-Pop: Demon Hunters” Makes History with Double Win at 83rd Golden Globes

    At the 83rd Golden Globe Awards held on January 11, 2026, in Beverly Hills, California, the Netflix animation “K-Pop: Demon Hunters” achieved a historic double victory.

    The film secured trophies for Best Animated Feature Film and Best Original Song for its hit track, “Golden.” This milestone marks the first time an animated production centered on K-Pop and Korean culture has been honored at this prestigious ceremony, signaling a significant shift in the global recognition of Korean-themed storytelling.

    The film’s success is backed by unprecedented global performance. The award-winning song “Golden” previously dominated major music markets, reaching number one on both the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and the UK Official Singles Chart.

    In the Animated Feature category, the film triumphed over formidable competitors such as “Zootopia 2” and “Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle.” Despite bypassing a traditional theatrical release, its record-breaking 300 million views on Netflix and proven artistic merit through prior accolades paved the way for this historic win.

    During the ceremony, vocalist and co-composer Lee Jae took the stage alongside producer Lee Hee-jun to accept the awards.

    Lee Jae moved the audience by sharing a personal journey of struggling for ten years to debut as a K-Pop idol. In a powerful acceptance speech, the artist stated, “Rejection is an opportunity to move in a new direction.

    Please never give up.” This message of resilience has resonated deeply with fans worldwide, further elevating the film’s cultural impact beyond its technical achievements.

  • [Korean News] South Korea Braces for Heaviest Snowfall of the Season Amid Arctic Blast

    As of January 9, 2026, a powerful arctic blast with temperatures reaching -40°C in the upper atmosphere is sweeping across the Korean Peninsula, triggering the heaviest snowfall of the winter season.

    According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, the snow began late Friday night and is expected to expand nationwide throughout Saturday, January 10. Significant accumulation is forecast, with inland areas of Gangwon and Jeolla provinces expecting over 15cm, while the Seoul metropolitan area may see up to 8cm of snow.

    This intense snowfall is caused by the frigid arctic air interacting with the relatively warmer waters of the West Sea, leading to the rapid development of thick snow clouds.

    Travelers should be prepared for heavy snow during the daytime on Saturday, which may be accompanied by thunder, lightning, and strong gusts in some regions. Because the snow is anticipated to accumulate very quickly within a short window, regional variations in depth will be significant, potentially impacting transportation and outdoor activities across the country.

    Once the snow subsides, a severe cold wave is projected to return starting Sunday, January 11.

    While Saturday’s morning temperatures remained relatively mild, they are expected to plummet to between -15°C and -2°C as a continental high-pressure system expands. Interior regions are likely to experience a deep freeze around -10°C, making for a bitterly cold start to the week.

    For those currently traveling in Korea, it is highly recommended to check real-time weather updates and prepare for extreme sub-zero temperatures.

  • [Korean News] Experience ‘Hip-Suwon’: The Perfect Blend of History and Modern Lifestyle

    In early 2026, a fascinating shift is happening in Korean tourism as international travelers begin to look beyond the bustling streets of Seoul.

    Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, has officially claimed the #1 spot in satisfaction among day-trip destinations near the capital, according to the latest data from the Korea Tourism Organization.

    This surge in popularity is largely driven by the grand opening of Starfield Suwon, where the magnificent “Starfield Library 2.0” has become a viral sensation.

    This month, it stands as one of the most tagged landmarks on Instagram and TikTok, drawing visitors who want to experience the cutting edge of Korean lifestyle and modern architecture.

    However, the true soul of Suwon lies in the striking harmony between its ancient past and vibrant present.

    The massive fortress walls of Suwon Hwaseong, a UNESCO World Heritage site, provide a grand backdrop to the trendy alleys of the Haenggung-dong neighborhood.

    This area has become a hub for the “New-tro” aesthetic, filled with cozy Hanok cafes and creative boutique shops that offer a unique blend of traditional Korean charm and contemporary style.

    It is the perfect place to spend an afternoon exploring hidden corners and discovering the creative energy of local artists.

    As the sun begins to set, Suwon transforms into a completely different world.

    The “Night View Tour” along the fortress walls has become an essential activity in 2026, as the illuminated stones cast a golden glow over the city, creating a truly magical atmosphere that is distinct from the daytime scenery.

    Whether you are a solo traveler or exploring with friends, Suwon is incredibly accessible via subway or ITX trains.

    It remains the ultimate destination for anyone looking to experience both high-end modern shopping and a peaceful journey through history in a single day.

  • [🇺🇸] BTS Announces Full-Group Comeback and World Tour

    The global music scene is buzzing as BTS officially confirms their long-awaited full-group return.

    Scheduled for March 20, BTS will release their fifth studio album, followed by a massive, large-scale world tour. This announcement marks the end of a hiatus lasting approximately three years and nine months—a period that has only served to heighten the anticipation of fans and industry experts alike. Major international media outlets are already dedicating significant coverage to the group’s trajectory, emphasizing the immense cultural weight of this reunion.

    The reaction from the global press has been nothing short of electric.

    Leading outlets such as CBS News, Complex, and the UK’s NME are closely tracking the group’s every move. Billboard captured the sentiment perfectly, describing it as “the moment a giant artist representing K-pop returns after a nearly four-year hiatus,” while

    The Washington Post remarked that BTS is set to “heat up 2026 like ‘Dynamite’.” Variety further added that for fans, this comeback isn’t just about the end of a season, but a long-awaited “spring” that the group’s return signifies for the world of pop music.

    Beyond the charts, the industry sees this as a historic milestone for modern pop history.

    L’Officiel Singapore highlighted the group’s pivotal role in bringing K-pop into the global mainstream, stating that the return of all seven members will be one of the most decisive moments in contemporary music.

    The upcoming album is set to feature 14 tracks that weave together the members’ personal reflections and emotions gathered throughout their journey. It also carries a heartfelt message of gratitude to the fans who have stayed by their side, making this return a deeply emotional experience for the global community.

  • [Korean News] The Glamorous Evolution of Korea’s Traditional Markets

    As of early 2026, South Korea’s traditional markets have moved far beyond their roots as mere grocery stops, emerging instead as the trendiest “complex cultural spaces” for international visitors.

    According to recent social media data analysis, iconic spots like Gwangjang Market and Mangwon Market are consistently ranking as the #1 must-visit destinations for global tourists. This surge in interest is largely driven by the rise of “fusion street food,” which masterfully blends time-honored traditional recipes with a sleek, modern sensibility to create a dining experience like no other.

    The heart of this cultural shift lies in a phenomenon known as “Hip-traditionalism.”

    This trend has captured the curiosity of the global Gen Z audience, who are flocking to markets to try innovative dishes such as Tteokbokki infused with luxurious truffle oil or premium desserts reimagined from traditional Yakgwa.

    By taking classic Korean flavors and adding a creative, contemporary twist, these markets have transformed everyday snacks into a sophisticated cultural statement that resonates with a worldwide audience.

    Beyond the food, the infrastructure of these markets has undergone a significant digital transformation to welcome the world.

    Most major markets have now implemented seamless mobile payment systems and multilingual kiosks in English and Japanese, allowing international travelers to navigate and enjoy local culture with total independence.

    Combined with exciting pop-up stores and collaborations with trendy local brands, a stroll through a Korean market in 2026 has become a truly special “local experience.”

    Even in the middle of winter, these vibrant alleys remain buzzing with energy and the joy of cultural discovery.

  • [Korean News] G-Dragon’s New Lectures and Legendary Comebacks

    Happy first Monday of 2026! To kick off the very first full week of the year, we have some incredible news from the world of K-pop. From academic milestones to long-awaited reunions, here are the hottest updates you should know as we start the week.

    Professor G-DRAGON Heading to USC

    The “King of K-pop” is expanding his reach into the world of academia.

    G-DRAGON is reportedly set to open a regular course at the University of Southern California (USC). As a global cultural visionary, he will be personally lecturing students on international cultural trends. It is inspiring to see a K-pop icon being recognized as a thought leader at such a prestigious global institution!

    The Return of Wanna One

    Wannables, get ready! The legendary group Wanna One is officially planning a reunion.

    They are scheduled to star in a new reality program airing in the first half of 2026. After years of waiting, seeing the members back together is sure to be the perfect gift for fans worldwide this year.

    Stray Kids: A Traditional Time-Slip

    The global superstars Stray Kids are preparing something special for the upcoming Lunar New Year.

    They will appear in a variety show titled Seolbim, featuring a “time-slip” concept that blends modern style with the traditional elegance of the Joseon Dynasty. It’s going to be a unique chance to see a different side of their versatility!

  • [Korean News] Brrr! Real Korean Winter Arrives with the “Sohan” Cold Snap

    Real winter has finally arrived! It is the first Monday of 2026, and the morning feels as if everything has been frozen solid. Today marks “Sohan” (Small Cold), a traditional solar term that, despite its name, is known for bringing the harshest and most biting cold of the entire year.

    Just how cold is it?

    Temperatures have taken a sharp dive. This morning, Seoul started at -4°C (25°F), while some inland regions plummeted to -10°C (14°F), making everyone huddle up. With the northern winds blowing in, the wind chill makes it feel much colder. It’s the kind of morning where the icy air hits your face the moment you step out the door.

    Don’t be fooled by the blue sky! While the sky is incredibly clear and blue today, it is actually because the freezing arctic air has pushed all the fine dust away. It might look beautiful from behind a window, but make no mistake—it is like an ice box outside.

    Survival tips for spending this week in Korea:

    • Layering is best: If you are walking outdoors, be sure to wear a heavy puffer coat, a thick scarf, and even thermal wear underneath.
    • Warm drinks: It’s a day to crave hot tea or a steaming latte just to keep your body temperature up.
    • Watch your step: With the sudden drop in temperature, be careful of icy patches that may have formed in shaded areas.

    How is the weather where you are?

    I hope you have a wonderful start to the week regardless. Stay warm, stay cozy, and have a very happy week ahead!

  • Year-End Greetings for Christmas

    As we celebrate Christmas, we would like to send our warmest greetings.
    Another year is already drawing to a close.

    We sincerely thank everyone who has visited and supported ONLINE-KOREA throughout the year.
    Every bit of interest and encouragement you shared has meant a great deal to us.

    We hope you finish the remaining days of 2025 on a happy note,
    and that 2026 brings you many smiles and joyful moments.

    Wishing everyone lots of happy moments in 2026.