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Korea’s National Pension System: A Simple Guide for Foreigners Living in Korea

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1. What Is the National Pension in Korea? South Korea has a public pension system called the National Pension Service (NPS) . The system was introduced to help people maintain a basic standard of living after retirement. It also provides financial support in certain situations, such as disability or the death of an insured person. The National Pension is an important part of Korea’s social security system. It is managed by the National Pension Service, commonly known as NPS. Unlike private pension plans, the National Pension is a government-managed social insurance program. 2. Who Must Join the National Pension? The National Pension generally covers Korean citizens between the ages of 18 and 60 who meet the applicable requirements. Foreign residents may also be required to participate. For example, foreigners working for a company in Korea are generally enrolled as workplace-based insured persons if they meet the relevant conditions. Foreigners who are self-employed or otherwise not co...
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Jensen Huang’s Personal Controversy and NVIDIA’s Future: What It Means for the Global-Korean AI Industry

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Introduction: A Major Turning Point for NVIDIA Jensen Huang has long been one of the most recognizable figures in the technology industry. As the co-founder and longtime leader of NVIDIA, he played a major role in transforming the company from a graphics-chip manufacturer into a central player in artificial intelligence. However, in November 2026, NVIDIA faced an unexpected leadership crisis. Reports about Huang’s personal relationships, questions involving a business partner in Asia, and concerns about corporate governance attracted worldwide attention. On November 12, 2026, NVIDIA officially announced that Huang had resigned as president, chief executive officer, and a member of its board of directors. Chief Financial Officer Colette Kress was appointed interim CEO while the company searches for a permanent successor. This development raises several important questions: Who are the women connected to the recent controversy? What is publicly known about Huang’s wife, Lori? Who is busi...
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Walking 120 km Along the Yeongsan River Bike Path: An Autumn Journey That Ended with the First Snow of Winter

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A Personal Walking Challenge in South Korea – From Golden Autumn Fields to the First Snowfall 1. A Different Kind of Adventure: Walking a Bike Trail In October 2024, I decided to take on a personal challenge that was a little different from the usual outdoor activities in South Korea. Instead of riding a bicycle, I decided to walk the entire Yeongsan River Bike Path, a beautiful cycling route stretching approximately 120 km along the Yeongsan River in southwestern Korea. Many people enjoy this route on bicycles, but I wanted to experience it at walking speed. Could I really complete such a long journey on foot? With excitement and a little nervousness, I started from Damyang Dam in late October. The autumn sunshine was still warm, and I was wearing light shorts as I took my first steps. I had no idea that this simple decision would become one of my most memorable outdoor experiences. 2. Walking Every Saturday: 20–30 km at a Time Rather than trying to complete the entire route in one da...
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🥬 Discover Gochang, Korea: Sangha Farm, Beautiful Green Barley Fields & Traditional Kimjang Festival

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If you want to experience something beyond the usual tourist attractions in Korea, Gochang is a wonderful destination to explore. Located in Jeollabuk-do (Jeonbuk Province), Gochang is famous for its beautiful countryside, green barley fields, traditional Korean food, and peaceful rural atmosphere. One of its most interesting attractions is Sangha Farm , where visitors can experience Korean farming culture, enjoy fresh local food, and even make traditional Korean kimchi! Especially from November 14, 2026 , Sangha Farm offers special Kimjang (Korean winter kimchi-making) experiences. It is a great opportunity for international visitors to discover one of Korea's most meaningful food traditions. 1. Sangha Farm – Experience the Beauty of Korean Countryside Sangha Farm is a unique agricultural theme park in Gochang. It combines farming, food production, nature, and hands-on activities in one beautiful place. Visitors can enjoy: Meeting farm animals and feeding them Exploring the dairy ...
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Jensen Huang, NVIDIA, and the KOSPI: Why One Man Can Influence the Korean Stock Market

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1. Why Is Jensen Huang Important to the Korean Stock Market? When people talk about the global artificial intelligence (AI) industry, one name frequently comes up: Jensen Huang, CEO of NVIDIA . NVIDIA has become one of the most influential companies in the AI revolution. Its graphics processing units (GPUs) are widely used to train and operate advanced AI systems. But why does a company based in the United States have such a strong connection with the Korean stock market? The answer is simple: semiconductors . South Korea is home to two major semiconductor companies, Samsung Electronics and SK hynix. Both companies play important roles in the global memory chip supply chain, which supports AI data centers and high-performance computing. As a result, developments involving NVIDIA can influence investor sentiment toward Korean technology stocks. 2. NVIDIA and the AI Revolution NVIDIA originally became famous for producing graphics processing units used in computer gaming. However, its GP...
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Korean Skincare Guide: 10 Powerful Ingredients and the Best Korean Beauty Brands (K-Beauty)

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Korean skincare, commonly known as K-Beauty, has become popular worldwide. From Seoul's Olive Young stores to international online shopping platforms, Korean cosmetics are attracting customers with innovative formulas, affordable prices, and multi-step skincare routines. After exploring Korean skincare products, one thing becomes clear: choosing the right ingredients is more important than simply buying expensive cosmetics. Today, let's discover 10 popular skincare ingredients and some of Korea's best-known beauty brands. 1. Ten Important Skincare Ingredients Ingredient Main Benefits Hyaluronic Acid Hydration and moisture retention Ceramide Strengthens the skin barrier Peptides Supports skin firmness Retinol Helps reduce fine lines Bakuchiol Plant-derived anti-aging ingredient Vitamin C Antioxidant and brightening care Niacinamide Improves uneven skin tone Panthenol Soothes and moisturizes AHA Removes dead skin cells BHA Helps clean pores and control excess oil 2. Popular K...
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Korean Oyster Pancake (Gul Jeon): A Delicious Winter Seafood Dish You Should Try in Korea

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Have you ever tried fresh oysters cooked in a crispy egg batter? If you visit Korea during winter, there is one traditional Korean seafood dish you should definitely try: Gul Jeon (굴전), Korean Oyster Pancake . Koreans love oysters, especially during the cold winter months. They are enjoyed raw, steamed, in soups, rice dishes, and delicious golden-brown pancakes. Among these dishes, oyster pancake is one of my favorites because it is simple, delicious, and surprisingly easy to make at home. In this post, I will introduce Korean oyster season, how to make authentic Korean oyster pancakes, their nutritional benefits, and important food safety tips. 1. When Is Oyster Season in Korea? Oysters are one of Korea's most popular winter seafood ingredients. The best season to enjoy Korean oysters is generally from November to February. During this period, oysters are widely available in traditional markets, supermarkets, and seafood restaurants. Some famous oyster-producing regions in Korea i...
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Our Ballad 2: The Young Korean Singers Who Touched My Heart

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1. A Korean Music Show That Is More Than a Singing Competition Have you ever listened to a song and suddenly felt tears coming to your eyes? That is exactly how I felt while watching Our Ballad 2 (우리들의 발라드 2) , a Korean music competition broadcast on SBS. At first, I expected another singing contest where talented people compete to become the winner. But as I watched the performances, I realized that this show was about something much deeper. The contestants were not simply singing famous songs. They were sharing their dreams, personal struggles, family relationships, and hopes for the future through music. What made the show particularly special was the young age of many contestants. The average age was just 17.9 years. Some were still teenagers attending school, yet their voices carried emotions that even experienced adults could relate to. As a viewer, I found myself thinking that music has no age limit. A young person can sometimes express feelings that adults struggle to put into ...
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Forgotten Season: The Korean Song That Makes October 31 Special

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1. A Song That Reminds Koreans of October 31 In South Korea, October 31 is remembered for more than Halloween. For many people, it is also the day associated with a beautiful and nostalgic Korean song called “Forgotten Season” (잊혀진 계절) , sung by Lee Yong (이용). The song opens with a memorable reference to the last night of October. Even people who do not listen to old Korean music may recognize its famous opening. Every year, as October comes to an end, Korean radio stations, music programs, and online communities bring this song back. It has become almost a musical tradition. Why does one song remain so popular for more than four decades? 2. The Story Behind “Forgotten Season” “Forgotten Season” was released in 1982 and quickly became one of the most beloved Korean ballads of its generation. Singer: Lee Yong (이용) Release year: 1982 Lyrics: Park Geon-ho (박건호) Composer: Lee Beom-hee (이범희) Genre: Korean ballad Interestingly, the song was reportedly considered for another singer, Jo Y...
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Soju + Beer = Somaek! Discover Korea's Unique Drinking Culture

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Have you ever heard of Somaek , one of the most popular drinks in South Korea? If you visit Korea, enjoy Korean BBQ with local friends, or experience a traditional Korean company dinner, you may come across a drink called Somaek. Somaek is a combination of two Korean alcoholic beverages: Soju and Beer . The name itself comes from combining the Korean words Soju (소주) and Maekju (맥주), meaning beer. It is simple to make, refreshing to drink, and closely connected to Korean social culture. Let's discover how to make delicious Somaek and understand why it is so popular among Korean adults. 1. What Is Somaek? Somaek is a mixed alcoholic drink made by combining Korean soju and beer. Soju (소주): A clear Korean distilled alcoholic beverage, usually around 16–20% alcohol, depending on the brand. Maekju (맥주): Korean beer, generally around 4–5% alcohol. Somaek (소맥): A mixture of soju and beer. Popular Korean soju brands include Chamisul and Chum Churum. Popular beer brands include Cass, Te...
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