[What to see] From conceptual to video art -- must-see exhibitions in December

If you are looking for exhibitions to visit this winter to spend time indoors in the cold weather, here is a roundup of shows that are worth your visit in Samcheong-dong, Hannam-dong and Pyeongchang-dong, Seoul. On view are two exhibitions of video art pioneer Bill Viola and Korean popular painter Park Jina at Kukje Gallery, Chun Kwang-young's hanji installation at Gana Art Center and Lawrence Weiner's conceptual art at Pace Gallery. Bill Viola, Park Jina at Kukje Gallery Kukje Galler

Arts & DesignDec. 7, 2024

[Herald Interview] Fabrizio Ferrari: From Michelin-starred chef to culinary educator and YouTube star

Fabrizio Ferrari, widely recognized here as a friendly Italian chef who is fluent in Korean, has successfully transitioned from a Michelin-starred restaurateur in Italy to a culinary educator and content creator in Korea. Known as Fabri, he brings his rich culinary expertise to his roles as a professor, YouTuber and chef-owner of Fabri Kitchen, located in Yongsan-gu, Seoul. Fabri's culinary journey began in 2003 in Lecco, Italy, where he took over the family business at Al Porticciolo 84,

FoodDec. 7, 2024

Jeju’s winter charms beckon travelers

The Jeju Tourism Organization has curated a selection of iconic travel spots on Jeju Island where holidaymakers can take in the unique winter ambiance and enjoy a memorable travel experience. Ranging from scenic views of nature to hands-on activities, these destinations will delight even the pickiest travelers, allowing them to explore the island without even noticing a chill in the air. Hallasan No trip to Jeju is complete without a visit to Hallasan, the highest mountain in all of South Korea

TravelDec. 7, 2024

Chopin Competition director shows dedication to both participants and audience

The International Chopin Piano Competition, where Korean pianist Cho Seong-jin won the first prize in 2015 and rose to international stardom, will celebrate its 19th edition next year. According to Artur Szklener, director of the Polish National Fryderyk Chopin Institute, this edition of the nearly century-old competition promises to be the most audience-friendly yet. To this end, the organizers have added a journalist to the jury panel of 16 musicians, educators and more. “The opinion of

CultureDec. 7, 2024

Overdue library book? You're forgiven thanks to Han Kang's Nobel win

To celebrate Han Kang's historic Nobel Literature Prize win, the Seoul Metropolitan Library will host a special event Tuesday, coinciding with the Nobel Prize award ceremony. A special pardon will also be offered to individuals with overdue books, with borrowing restrictions lifted at the Seoul Library and 232 other public libraries across the city, provided they return their overdue books by Tuesday. Under current library rules, overdue books result in a suspension of borrowing privileges,

BooksDec. 7, 2024

Film industry personnel call for President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment

South Korean film industry professionals, including actors Gang Dong-won, Kim Go-eun and Jeon Do-yeon have called for the dismissal and arrest of President Yoon Suk Yeol. A statement released Saturday morning, endorsed by 2,518 individual film professionals representing 77 industry organizations -- including the Screen Actors Guild of Korea, Directors Guild of Korea, and Producers Guild of Korea -- condemned Yoon’s sudden declaration of martial law and demanded his resignation. The stateme

Social AffairsDec. 7, 2024

Nobel Prize winner Han Kang expresses shock over martial law news

South Korean author Han Kang, this year's Nobel laureate in literature, expressed her shock Friday over the martial law turmoil in her native country. "I am following the news in a state of shock," she said during a press conference held in Stockholm, Sweden, to commemorate her win. "Like many South Koreans, I am deeply shocked over the last few days by the news of a martial law situation unfolding in 2024," she said. President Yoon Suk Yeol declared emergency martial la

BooksDec. 6, 2024

'12.12: The Day' in spotlight amid martial law aftermath

Amid the aftermath of President Yoon Suk Yeol's emergency martial law declaration on Tuesday night, the film "12.12: The Day" has surged to the top of Netflix’s movie rankings, drawing renewed attention for its historical themes. As of Friday, "12.12: The Day" claimed the No. 1 spot among Netflix’s popular films, overtaking newer releases like "Pilot" and "Because I Hate Korea." Released over a year ago, on Nov. 22, the movie has newfound

FilmDec. 6, 2024

Christian groups to hold prayer meeting calling for President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment

A coalition of over 160 Christian organizations, including the National Council of Churches in Korea (NCCK) and the Christian Action for the Current Situation, announced they will hold a prayer meeting on Saturday at 1 p.m. in front of the NCCK’s headquarters in Jongno-gu, Seoul, to demand the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol. “Emergency martial law was declared without legitimate procedure or justification, and has reversed the clock on democracy,” the group said in a st

CultureDec. 6, 2024

'Long-term damage on K-culture limited,' says Culture minister

DAEGU -- Yu In-chon, the minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, said Friday that he believes the martial law declaration chaos will have limited negative impact on Korean culture's popularity among the globe, as he resumed his activities just two days after the president's fiasco. “There may be some short-term shocks, but I don't believe this will lead to any long-term damage. Some countries have issued travel advisories, likely out of concern that the situation might esca

CultureDec. 6, 2024

French architect, designer Jean Prouve's modernism on view at Seoul Auction

Seoul Auction, a major auction house in South Korea, has opened an exhibition highlighting modernist design led by prominent 20th-century architects and designers, with a particular focus on the works of French architect and designer Jean Prouve. Prouve is celebrated as one of the most influential figures of the 20th century, renowned for developing cutting-edge technology and modular systems for mass production during the postwar modernist era. His exhibition, titled “Jean Prouve 6x6,&rdq

Arts & DesignDec. 6, 2024

Song Joong-ki takes on his most desire-driven role in in 'Bogota: City of the Lost'

Song Joong-ki, the Hallyu sensation known for his roles in Korean hits like "Vincenzo," "Reborn Rich" and "My Name is Loh Kiwan," is ready to portray one of his most passionate and desire-driven characters in the upcoming film, "Bogota: City of the Lost," premiering Dec. 31. The film follows the journey of Guk-hee (played by Song Joong-ki), who escapes with his family to Bogota, Colombia, after South Korea’s IMF bailout in 1997. Struggling to survive

FilmDec. 6, 2024

[Photo News] Haeundae Light Festival to illuminate Busan’s winter nights

The 11th edition of Haeundae Light Festival is coming to Busan’s iconic Haeundae Beach and Haeundae Market areas, from Dec. 14 to Feb. 2, 2025. Under the theme of “New Wave Snow Wave,” the festival’s opening ceremony will take place at Haeundae Beach at 6 p.m., featuring a concert by vocalist Kim Jae-hee, media projections and fireworks. The spectacular night view will be presented with the decorative lights, media art, a megasized Christmas tree and a light playground. A

TravelDec. 6, 2024

Culture Ministry seeks to ease tourism concerns

The Culture Ministry has sought to ease concerns about tourism safety in South Korea following a brief six-hour martial law declaration on Tuesday night. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism shared an official document Thursday with the Korea Tourism Organization, Korea Tourism Association, Korea Association of Travel Agents, and other local travel organizations, confirming that diplomatic notes had been sent to foreign embassies to ensure travelers of their safety. “Daily life in S

TravelDec. 6, 2024

[Well-curated] Book fest at Seoul Forest, espresso bar and Christmas markets

Picture book fest at Seoul Forest library Throughout Dec. 15, Seoul Forest will turn into a magical winter haven with its "Picture Book Library in the Woods" festival. Held at the Seoul Forest Community Center from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., the event offers enchanting exhibitions, live music and interactive activities, creating a cozy and festive experience for all ages. The event features performances involving storytelling with music, such as "I love you today as well," and a pict

CultureDec. 6, 2024

[Travel Bits] Festivals, sights across Korea

Light festival at Ansan Star Village A light festival is running year-round in Ansan, Gyeonggi Province. An 8,000 won entrance fee is all it takes to make a tranquil escape to Ansan Star Village, which includes a garden and animal installations. The park, open from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., will light up at 5 p.m. Check out the latest at ansanstar.net. Jeju Folk Village Come and see what life looked like on Jeju Island in the 19th century at Jeju Folk Village. Interactive programs like grindi

TravelDec. 6, 2024

[Around the Hotels] Promotions and packages

Mohegan Inspire Entertainment Resort unveils new winter campaign Mohegan Inspire Entertainment Resort, an integrated resort located in Yeongjong-do, Incheon, entertains its guests with winter-themed media art, starting from Monday. Under the theme of “Santa’s Village,” the new media art will be displayed at the resort’s digital entertainment street Aurora and on its mega-sized LED screens, depicting a unique fairytale atmosphere featuring Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer pu

TravelDec. 6, 2024

[Box office] Movies in theaters this week

“Moana 2” (US) Opened Nov. 27 Fantasy/Adventure Directed by Dana Ledoux Miller, Jason Hand, David Derrick Jr. After receiving an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors, Moana (Auli'i Cravalho) embarks on a journey to the far seas of Oceania into dangerous, long-lost adventures unlike anything she has never faced. “Wicked” (US) Opened Nov. 20 Musical/Fantasy Directed by Jon M. Chu Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo), a green-skinned outcast with extraordinary magical abi

FilmDec. 6, 2024

Culture Minister Yu In-chon urges focus on cultural goals amid crisis, resumes activities

Yu In-chon, minister of culture, sports and tourism, talks during a meeting with the ministry staff on Thursday at Government Complex Sejong. (MCST) Yu In-chon, the Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, who temporarily suspended outside engagements amid the aftermath of the martial law declaration, urged ministry staff on Thursday to remain focused and committed while preparing for upcoming events. “The current external conditions may make it difficult to implement policies. However, t

CultureDec. 5, 2024

[Herald Interview] Gong Yoo of 'The Trunk' says he wanted to explore darker sides of love

Gong Yoo, one of South Korea's top actors, famous for his iconic role as the immortal heartthrob in the megahit K-drama "Guardian: The Lonely and Great God" and his performances in other popular titles like "Coffee Prince," has returned with "The Trunk" -- a Netflix mystery melodrama released Nov. 29. The series centers on Jung-won (Gong Yoo), a successful music producer haunted by a traumatic past involving an abusive father and a broken marriage, and In-ji (S

TelevisionDec. 5, 2024