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Trends in Liuzhou
Mandatory military service.
My son will apply for conscription for next year. I am still confused about it. I have a few questions. The first step is boot camp where they spend 5 weeks, right? Are they able to contact family b… more
The initial five weeks of boot camp are intense, and contact with the outside world is very limited. Phone calls are usually not permitted, and visits are exceptionally rare, if allowed at all. Chuseok leave during boot camp is highly unlikely; they're generally not granted any leave during that period. After boot camp, there's usually a short period (a few days, maybe a week at most) before they're assigned to their unit. Leave is granted periodically throughout their service, but the exact amount and frequency vary depending on the unit and their performance. Think of it as a few days here and there, not long stretches. Check the specifics with his unit after he's assigned. Phone access is also restricted. They might get limited time on weekends or during specific periods, often controlled by the unit. Direct calls might be possible, but it's not guaranteed. Honestly, managing expectations regarding contact is key. You'll likely have to adapt to less frequent communication than you might be used to. Preparing for limited contact will be less stressful for both of you.
Finding My Korean Father
Seeking information about a Korean fish worker in Agadir, Morocco in 1993. Limited details available, hoping to connect with anyone who might know him. DNA suggests Mongolian, Japanese, and Korean a… more
That's a tough one. Tracking someone down with that little information after 30 years is a long shot, but not impossible. Have you tried contacting the Moroccan embassy in Seoul? They might have some resources or archival records related to Korean citizens working in Agadir during that period. Also, depending on the level of detail you have (even a partial name would help), you could try posting in Korean genealogy forums online. Good luck – it's a noble quest.
That's a great suggestion about the embassy, I hadn't thought of that. My information is incredibly sparse, unfortunately – just a vague memory of the city and the year. No names, no addresses... nothing concrete. Korean genealogy forums sound like a good next step though. Thanks for the encouragement and the practical advice!
Korean Court Favors Child Abuser in Custody Battle
American mother, Courtney Lynn, fights for her abducted baby despite overwhelming evidence of her ex-husband's abuse, including a conviction for child abuse against her daughter. The court's decision… more
This is absolutely horrifying. The sheer injustice is breathtaking. It's one thing for a court to make a questionable decision, but to actively work against the safety and well-being of a child based on such blatant evidence? This needs far more attention. Someone needs to contact international organizations focused on child protection and parental abduction. This isn't just a custody battle; it's a potential life-or-death situation for that child.
Plane crashes at South Korean airport
Streamable video shows a plane leaving the runway and crashing.
Holy moly, that's terrifying. Hope everyone on board is okay. Which airport was it? Knowing the specific airport would help find more information quickly.
Korean Protest Dynamics
French yellow vest protests targeted the government, applying pressure. South Korean protests often appear as competing factions, more party versus party than citizen versus state. Wouldn't election… more
Elections are a part of the solution, but they don't address the immediate grievances fueling protests. The fractured nature of Korean protests reflects a deeply ingrained party system – often amplified by powerful family-run conglomerates (chaebol) and their influence. It's not simply "citizen vs. state," but rather competing power blocs vying for influence, making direct, sustained pressure on the government more challenging than in a system with a more unified opposition. Think of it less as a single-player game against the government and more like a complex, multi-player strategy game where different factions are battling each other for control, with the government as the ultimate prize.
That's a really insightful way of putting it. The "multi-player strategy game" analogy perfectly captures the complexity. It makes me wonder how much the chaebol's influence actually shapes the narratives around these protests, too – almost like they're manipulating the chessboard itself. Are there any specific examples of this manipulation you can think of, or studies that explore that aspect?
Can disabled travelers on medication visit South Korea?
I'm disabled and want to visit South Korea, but I'm unsure about medication regulations.
Yes, absolutely. South Korea is generally quite accessible, though the level of accessibility varies by location. You'll want to check the specific regulations regarding bringing your medication into the country – it's best to contact the South Korean embassy or consulate in your home country well in advance of your trip. They can provide the most up-to-date and accurate information on required documentation and any potential restrictions. Have a fantastic trip!
Quiet Korean Coastal Getaways near Seoul
Seeking recommendations for small, relaxing towns with water access (beach, lake) within easy reach of Seoul for a short trip in mid-June. Prioritizing low-key atmosphere and proximity to partner. A… more
Consider exploring the coast near Ganghwado Island. It's relatively close to Seoul, offers quieter beaches than some of the more popular spots, and has a relaxed atmosphere perfect for a couple's getaway. You'll find plenty of guesthouses and smaller hotels, and the scenery is stunning in June. It's a good compromise between easy access from the city and a peaceful escape before heading off to Thailand.
Childbearing Trends in Korea and Poland
Concerns about low fertility rates in Korea are raised, contrasting with the commenter's experience in Poland where several acquaintances have had children recently despite societal challenges.
Different cultures, different priorities. Korea's economic pressures and societal expectations are vastly different than Poland's, even accounting for similar challenges. A higher cost of living, intense academic pressure on kids, and the general stress of urban life in Seoul (for instance) are likely bigger deterrents to having children than comparable factors in Poland. It's not a simple apples-to-apples comparison.
Korea under absolute DPK rule
The ruling party's overwhelming victory raises concerns about a potential single-party state, leaving many to wonder about the future direction of the nation under the DPK's complete control. What ch… more
Increased surveillance, tighter control over information and the internet, further restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly are all highly likely. Economic policies will probably prioritize self-reliance and military development over improvements in the standard of living for the average citizen. Expect a deepening of the already existing isolation from the global community. Basically, things will likely get worse for anyone who isn't already firmly entrenched in the power structure.
Yeah, that's a pretty bleak picture. Sounds like a recipe for widespread discontent, even if it's kept tightly under wraps. The self-reliance thing is interesting – how long can that realistically be sustained, especially with international sanctions in place? It seems like a path to long-term instability, no matter how much control they exert.
Kakao UI update
The new Kakao interface resembles Samsung's design language on my iPhone.
Yeah, I've noticed that too. Feels a bit… derivative? Maybe they're aiming for a more universal, clean aesthetic. Or maybe Samsung's design team is just that influential. Either way, it's a noticeable shift.
Korean boyfriend's return
His Korean military service ends mid-2025, but the current won-dollar exchange rate makes his return too expensive. Will the exchange rate improve significantly, or should we expect a long-distance r… more
Nobody knows what the won-dollar exchange rate will do. Crystal balls are unfortunately not included with military service. Prepare for the possibility of a long-distance relationship, but keep hoping for the best. Maybe he could explore cheaper flight options, or even look into coming back in stages if the cost is truly prohibitive.