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제 28 호 Abuse of New Weight-Loss Drugs Like Wegovy and Mounjaro on the Rise

Kicker: LIFE Abuse of New Weight-Loss Drugs Like Wegovy and Mounjaro on the Rise By Hae-In Noh, Cup-reporter xhazmfnwm1@gmail.com New weight-loss drugs such as Wegovy and Mounjaro are rapidly gaining popularity among the general public thanks to their impressive promise of dramatic slimming results. Once reserved for patients with severe obesity or metabolic disorders, these medications are now being used more casually — often without full medical oversight — fueled by social-media hype, celebrity endorsements, and fear of missing out. In South Korea, authorities have raised alarm about prescriptions being issued off-label to individuals outside approved criteria, and the possibility of self-injection and online purchase is growing. The government has responded by announcing plans to designate these drugs as “medicines of concern for misuse” and is stepping up regulatory controls over prescribing practices and distribution channels. Meanwhile, regulatory agencies in the US and UK are also issuing warnings about unapproved online sales and counterfeit versions of GLP-1-based weight-loss drugs. As the market booms, many experts caution that what began as breakthrough treatments may become public-safety issues unless usage is guided by proper medical supervision, patient education and long-term monitoring. Off-Label Use Spreads Beyond Medical Needs New weight-loss drugs designed for diabetes and severe obesity now reach people with normal BMI and those seeking quick cosmetic slimming. Clinics report rising off-label demand from young adults who want fast results for events, photos or body-image pressures amplified on social media. Health authorities confirm a jump in non-eligible prescriptions and warn that misuse spreads faster than medical guidance. Government Moves to Tighten Oversight Government plans to list Wegovy and Mounjaro as “medicines of concern for misuse” and aims to tighten control over clinics offering easy prescriptions. Regulators push stronger checks on digital clinics, which enable rapid online sign-ups and same-day delivery without proper long-term monitoring. Officials are also moving to block illegal compounding and unauthorized in-house mixing after reports of clinics preparing unapproved GLP-1 blends for cosmetic use. Serious Side-Effect Risks Raise Alarm Medical experts warn that users outside approved criteria face major risks: severe nausea, gallbladder inflammation, pancreatitis, intestinal blockage and dangerous blood-sugar drops. Case reports in the U.S. and Europe highlight rising emergency room visits tied to self-injection errors and counterfeit semaglutide products. The U.S.Food and Drug Administration reports a surge in unapproved online sales, fake GLP-1 vials and “research-chemical” versions targeting cosmetic dieters. Illegal Sales and Counterfeit Products Expand Illegal distribution grows as demand spikes. South Korean authorities shut down several online communities offering imported semaglutide for self-injection, often without refrigeration or labeling. Police say the surge mirrors global trends where shortages push people to seek black-market versions. The UK’s drug agency seized more than £250,000 worth of counterfeit weight-loss shots in a recent raid, showing the scale of the problem. Experts warn that without proper supervision and realistic guidelines, breakthrough treatments risk turning into public-safety threats. Many call for strengthened patient screening, controlled dispensing, and nationwide education on long-term risks—arguing that easy access may undermine the drugs’ original medical purpose. Growing misuse of Wegovy and Mounjaro shows how fast medical breakthroughs can turn risky when demand outpaces proper oversight. I believe the challenge now is balancing strong control with responsible access. A full crackdown may slow abuse, yet many patients still benefit from these drugs when used under medical care. To protect both safety and treatment needs, regulators must build clearer rules, track prescriptions more closely and educate users before risks escalate further. The rise of these drugs signals not only a medical shift but also a social one and the response will shape how future weight-loss treatments enter everyday life. Sources: https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2025-10-27/national/socialAffairs/Government-to-designate-Wegovy-and-Mounjaro-as-drugs-of-concern-for-misuse/2429679 https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/fdas-concerns-unapproved-glp-1-drugs-used-weight-loss https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2025-10-27/national/socialAffairs/Government-to-designate-Wegovy-and-Mounjaro-as-drugs-of-concern-for-misuse/2429679 https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/fdas-concerns-unapproved-glp-1-drugs-used-weight-loss? https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2025-10-27/national/socialAffairs/Government-to-designate-Wegovy-and-Mounjaro-as-drugs-of-concern-for-misuse/2429679

• 작성일 2025-12-16
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제 28 호 More Data, Less Truth?

Kicker: LIFE More Data, Less Truth? : A Warning from the Naver Dokdo Case By Leesoi, Cub-Reporter Leesoi3157@naver.com On October 30, the AI search function of Naver, South Korea’s largest portal site, sparked controversy after it presented Dokdo as part of Japanese territory.When users typed ‘Japanese territory’ into the search bar then AI responded, “The Japan’s territory consist of Takeshima, the Northern Territories, the Senkaku Islands, and more.” The issue, first surfaced by Professor Seo Kyung-duk of Sungshin Women’s University, was settled after Naver announced that, as of 8:09 a.m, it had prevented its AI search service AI Briefing from displaying answers suggesting that ‘Dokdo is Japanese territory.’ Naver has since taken additional measures, and the AI Briefing response no longer appears when users search for that problem. Naver a global platform widely used by international users, faced strong criticism.As the Dokdo territorial dispute is a sensitive and important national issue, domestic platforms must first accurately reflect historical facts. AI briefing is not to be based on data that the model has learned, it provides answers to content search results. The problem arising while referring to the territorial description results presented on the websites. Therefore, depending on the documents within the utilized searched results, AI’s response contains inaccurate information.Similar cases can find easily sites that provide information based on AI like Google andWikipedia.While Naver resolved the immediate issue, this case raises a deeper question of what happens when AI systems present information without proper verification. As AI powered services become central to how people access information, the responsibility of those who design, manage, and verify these systems becomes increasingly important. This article explores that responsibility and examines why stronger verification processes and ethical awareness among future AI practitioners are becoming essential. Why accuracy matters for national platform (Naver AI’s screen showing Dokdo as Japanese territory (Photo by Professor Seo Kyung-Deok, Yonhap news) Although this incident may appear to be nothing more than a simple technical glitch, it raises deeper and more fundamental questions about how AI systems handle information at the very earliest stages of processing. When an AI model receives new input, it does not “understand” or “interpret” truth in a human sense. Instead, it identifies patterns, predicts relationships, and generates outputs based on statistical likelihood. This raises an important issue: if the initial information fed into the system contains inaccuracies—or if the model draws on ambiguous or flawed training data—then the AI may confidently reproduce or even amplify those errors. The Dokdo mislabeling case illustrates this vulnerability with clarity. Territorial sovereignty is not merely a factual matter but a historically sensitive and politically charged topic, intertwined with national identity and diplomatic relations. Even a moment in which a platform incorrectly identifies Dokdo as Japanese territory carries the potential to distort public understanding, trigger public outrage, and damage the platform’s credibility both domestically and internationally. With global users increasingly relying on Korean platforms, the stakes are higher than ever. This is why the incident cannot be dismissed as an isolated technical mishap. Instead, it exposes the structural limitations of current AI systems and the platforms that deploy them. It highlights the need for more transparent data pipelines, better monitoring of AI-generated outputs, and stronger human oversight—especially for topics with profound social or historical implications. Ultimately, the error invites us to rethink not only how AI operates, but also how responsibly we build, supervise, and trust the tools that shape public knowledge. The hidden pipeline of machine learning AI-generated responses may appear authoritative, but their internal mechanisms are fundamentally probabilistic. Large language models process text by breaking input into tokens, analyzing contextual relationships, and predicting the most likely next word based on patterns learned during training. Although these models can detect certain inconsistencies, they do not possess an inherent fact checking system. Consequently, AI often relies on the data it was trained on whether that data was entirely accurate. This explains why AI still makes mistakes: it is not a verification tool but a probability-driven model, despite the common expectation that AI can do anything a user wants. Machine learning and deep learning systems operate through a complex, multi-stage pipeline designed to identify patterns and generate coherent outputs. During the training phase, models are exposed to massive datasets containing both accurate and inaccurate information, enabling them to learn statistical correlations rather than concrete truths. Once trained, the model interprets new input through multiple neural network layers that evaluate context, probability, and relevance. However, these systems do not double check facts in the way humans do they simply estimate the most likely response based on previous data. As a result, if training data or internal representations contain misconceptions, the model may confidently produce incorrect information. This limitation underscores a crucial reality AI does not inherently understand truth it merely predicts patterns. (created by Midjourney) The power of AI today Today, AI systems hold unprecedented power in shaping public understanding, influencing discourse, and delivering information across global platforms. Their speed and accessibility allow individuals to obtain answers instantly, yet this convenience comes with significant responsibility. As AI-generated content becomes increasingly integrated into everyday decision-making, its potential to amplify misinformation also grows. Therefore, the true power of AI lies not in its ability to generate information, but in how society chooses to guide, supervise, and ethically utilize these technologies. For students pursuing AI-related fields, this moment calls for strong digital literacy, critical thinking, and a deep sense of ethical responsibility. The more AI advances, the more essential human judgment becomes in ensuring that technology serves truth rather than distorting it. In the age of AI , information can only get closer to the truth through human choices and judgments. Now that various AI sites have emerged and everyone can easily generate information, we must all move beyond critically consuming information to ethically producing it. Media literacy has traditionally focused on those who consume media content, but those who design and manage AI programs should also strengthen their media literacy. Therefore, students aspiring to careers in computing AI should demonstrate a sense of ethical responsibility and devote significant effort to designing information verification and data learning structures. Sources: https://news.sbs.co.kr/news https://www.news1.kr/it-science

• 작성일 2025-12-16
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제 28 호 A New Public Transportation Pass

Kicker: LIFE A New Public Transportation Pass : A Benefit or a Burden By Leesoi, Cub-Reporter Leesoi3157@naver.com (Created by Midjourney) According to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) and the credit card industry, the government announce the introduction of an unlimited pass in the form of Flat rate K-pass for frequent public transportation users to ease the burden of transportation costs from 2026. The tentative ‘Flat-Rate Pass’ is being discussed as it would allow users to freely use public transportation up to a monthly limit of 200,000 won by paying a fixed fee of 55,000 won for youth, seniors, low-income households, and families with multiple children, or 62,000 won for the public in this manner. If the plan includes the Greater Seoul Express Transit (GTX) and regional buses, the fixed fee would be 100,000 won for the public and 90,000 won for the eligible groups. If this option is finally adopted, a simple calculation shows that purchasing a 55,000-won monthly pass and using 200,000 won worth of public transportation in a month could save up to 145,000 won. Pre-registration will be available from December 2025, and applicants can register online via the official website or app, or offline by bringing an ID and completing the application at community centers or transportation card issuing offices. It is a policy that only looks very good for students and office workers, but is it? We should think about problems that may arise upon the flat rate pass before this plan is commercialized. Compare flat rate pass, K-passand Climate Companion Card First, the K-Pass is a nationwide transportation card that refunds the public 20% for the general public, 30% for the youth, and low-income groups save 53% if they use public transportation 15 times or more per month, up to a maximum of 60 rides. The Climate Companion Card is a commuter pass costing 62,000 won per month (55,000 won for youth), allowing unlimited use of subways and buses in Seoul. From 2025, the K-Pass mileage benefit will only apply up to twice a day. Therefore, if you use public transportation three to four times or more per day and live or frequently travel in Seoul (with monthly transportation costs exceeding 77,500 won), the Climate Companion Card may be more advantageous. Lastly, regarding the main topic of this article, the new flat rate pass being introduced in 2026 allows users to use buses and subways nationwide up to 200,000 won for only 55,000–62,000 won per month, as explained earlier. Even after the flat rate pass is introduced, the existing refundable K-Pass will remain available, and it will operate concurrently with the flat rate pass, allowing users to choose based on their usage patterns, which is the most important factor. For example, if you live in Seoul and use public transportation frequently, the Climate Companion Card, which offers excellent cost effectiveness, is the most suitable card if you are limited to Seoul. Or, if I live in Gyeonggi Province and commute to other areas, using public transportation more than 3-4 times a day, the flat rate pass that provides the most benefits for nationwide public transportation is the most advantageous. What negative effects could there be First, the easiest thing to imagine is that as transportation costs decrease significantly, the frequency of public transportation use is expected to increase sharply. As a result, there are concerns that the density of subway stations could become even higher than it is now, raising the risk of various overcrowding accidents, especially during rush hours. However, concerns extend beyond congestion. The term flat-rate system inherently refers to a structure in which additional charges are waived once a predetermined threshold is reached. As a result, even if overall usage increases, the revenue that public transportation operators can collect remains fixed. This becomes a significant issue for bus companies, which rely on fares for 70–90 percent of their operating revenue. Even today, nationwide bus fares are rising annually due to transportation deficits, and in regions like Busan, Gwangju, and Jeonnam, where most operating costs are covered by transportation fares, such a system would have an even greater impact, leading to serious discussions about reducing non-main routes and consolidating bus companies. Shortly after the announcement of the introduction of a flat-rate pass, news came out that the Seoul City Village Bus Association would withdraw from the transfer discount system. As the frequent opposition and statements from bus companies show, the situation for bus operators cannot be described as favorable. Even without implementing a nationwide flat-rate pass offering tremendous benefits, residents in areas like Gyeonggi Province are experiencing inconvenience due to frequent strikes. Against this backdrop, if such a system were introduced, more frequent strikes could occur, and public transportation companies, which have no additional income from increased usage, could face limits in covering deficits with taxes, leading to a growing burden and potentially resulting in a vicious cycle of service reductions, route cancellations, and workforce cuts. Moreover, if the flat rate pass overlaps with the existing fare structure, there would be financial allocation issues. Currently, transfer discounts operate on a structure where subway and bus operators receive fares proportionally upon settlement, but with the introduction of a flat rate pass, it would become unclear which regions and modes of transportation generated the exponentially increased usage, overloading the settlement system and, in severe cases, posing a risk of collapse. Finally, there are concerns that financial burdens could be concentrated in Seoul and the metropolitan areas, where the population using public transportation is large. Even if a flat rate pass is a nationwide policy, the cost burden varies by region. In Seoul, which has adopted a jointly managed revenue semi-public bus system, financial support has doubled each year over the past three years, amounting to 6.3 trillion won over 18 years since 2004. If a fixed rate pass is introduced, Seoul, with its extensive subway and bus lines, would bear the greatest burden, followed by the metropolitan area where commuting to Seoul is frequent, meaning that more than twice the current tax revenue would need to be spent on public transportation. Conversely, in smaller provincial cities with fewer users, revenue is expected to decline sharply, and along with claims of discrimination against non-metropolitan areas, conflicts over cost burdens are likely to intensify. Given these underlying conditions, the introduction of a flat rate pass raises another critical question that if bus driver unions refuse to accept the system due to insufficient revenue and decide to strike, what alternatives can the government offer to citizens who have already purchased the pass. What alternatives can the government offer The flat rate pass has very good intentions and offers significant practical benefits, so rather than seeing the system itself as problematic, we need to think deeply about how to handle the issues mentioned above if they arise. In the event of unexpected problems, the government is likely to manage the situation through various countermeasures. First, if deficits in buses or community buses worsen to the point where maintaining operations becomes difficult, the government can minimize inconvenience to citizens caused by service reductions or route closures by providing emergency financial support or increasing subsidies. Additionally, if the transfer discount system collapses or revenue distribution becomes unbalanced, the government can intervene by adjusting the operation time settlement method or providing compensation to operators experiencing significant losses for a certain period to mitigate financial shocks. In situations where public transportation congestion increases rapidly, measures can be taken to maintain good service, such as providing peak-time guidance, temporarily expanding operations during commuting hours, or adding extra buses. Real-time monitoring of pass usage data can also help identify overuse areas or low use groups, allowing for post-management measures such as imposing restrictions on certain sections, times, or user groups when necessary. The Flat rate pass was introduced with the intention of reducing citizens’ burden of transportation costs, and it is clearly a good policy for our lives. But we as college students, need to analyze it from a variety of perspectives. Sources: https://www.mk.co.kr/news/economy http://www.jbsori.com/news/articleView https://www.sisajournal.com/news/article https://www.news1.kr/society/incident-accident/5971924

• 작성일 2025-12-15
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제 28 호 Injury-Free Winter Running

Kicker : Life Injury-Free Winter Running Don't Run Like You Used to By Myung-Kwan Kang, Editor-in-chief Kmmg199999@naver.com From 2024 to 2025, a running craze has sweped Korea. The number of runners has surpassed 10 million, approaching 20% of the total population. Related searches have also surged by over 80% in just one year, demonstrating the sheer intensity of this trend. Various big data and credit card spending statistics reveal a significant increase in running-related spending, particularly among people in their 30s and 40s. A noticeable increase in runners, including the MZ generation and middle-aged and older generations, is taking to the streets and parks every morning and night. With lifestyle changes and growing interest in health, running is moving beyond mere exercise to become a social and cultural trend. So, should we take a break from running in the cold winter? Experts emphasize that winter is the time to be even more active. We explore the benefits of winter running and how to run safely. Running Boom From 2024 to 2025, running in Korea is rapidly emerging as a form of popular culture, transcending mere hobby. With over 10 million runners, one in five Koreans enjoys running. Participation is steadily increasing, particularly among those in their 20s and 30s. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, growing interest in health and wellness has led to the accessibility and freedom of running becoming a new exercise trend. In addition to personal achievements, community activities like running crews are fostering social bonds. Furthermore, celebrity participation in running and marathon challenges have also significantly influenced the younger generation, motivating them. With the growing number of runners, the related market has also grown. By 2025, sales of running accessories, including running shoes, apparel, and accessories, are expected to surge, reaching a market size of over 2 trillion won. Accordingly, major sports brands are striving to capture the "running spirit" by strengthening their running lineups and creating experience spaces for runners. They are also actively developing AI-based personalized running coaching services and urban running infrastructure utilizing IoT technology. As such, Korea's running culture is expanding its importance in various areas, including health promotion, self-improvement, and community building, establishing itself as a lifestyle that combines the urban environment with cutting-edge technology. The Challenges of Winter One of the main reasons why winter running in Korea is difficult is the harsh winter conditions, including low temperatures, strong winds, snow, and ice. In particular, the average winter temperature in Seoul and Gangwon Province often remains below freezing, increasing the risk of hypothermia and muscle stiffness. Furthermore, snow and ice pose a risk to running. While winter running competitions, such as the "2025 Frozen Race" hosted by the Korea Association of Athletics Federations, are held, participants must be mindful of their winter surroundings and wear proper winter clothing and safety equipment. Furthermore, the short winter daylight hours limit opportunities for outdoor exercise during the day, and fine dust and dry air caused by heating pose a threat to respiratory health. Due to this, many runners are concerned about health issues such as decreased stamina and colds, making it difficult to run consistently during the winter. Major Korean news outlets have repeatedly reported that many citizens are resorting to alternative exercise methods, such as indoor treadmills, or are avoiding winter exercise. The combined effects of winter climate and environmental factors, along with health concerns, are challenging the sustainability of winter running in Korea. Essential Safety Guidelines Many runners use the cold weather as an excuse to avoid winter running. However, experts unanimously agree that winter is actually a more effective time to exercise. The secret lies in our body's "brown fat." There are two types of fat: white fat and brown fat. Brown fat has the property of breaking down fat and generating heat when exposed to cold. Experts explain that winter running activates this brown fat, making it more effective for weight loss. Furthermore, winter training is essential for preparing for the various marathons that begin in earnest in the spring. The importance of winter running is further emphasized by the fact that running hard throughout the winter will ensure a smooth spring race season and maintain good conditioning year-round. Safety, more than speed, and muscle management is paramount in winter running. A staggering 90% of running injuries stem from muscle damage. In cold weather, muscles contract and don't stretch easily. In this condition, increasing strides or speed as usual can lead to unavoidable muscle damage. Experts recommend slowing down your pace by about 10% compared to warm weather. For track training, a minimum of 10-20 minutes of warm-up is recommended to ensure your muscles are fully warmed up before starting, and running at 80-90% of your maximum speed is recommended for safety. Even if you're in good condition, it's important to avoid overexertion. Cold weather causes blood vessels to constrict, so maintaining cardiovascular health is crucial. Those with cardiovascular disease should be especially careful. These days, it's easy to monitor your heart rate with a running watch, so it's recommended to take advantage of this. For regular runners, maintaining a heart rate of around 120-130 bpm is ideal. If you feel out of breath or struggling, slow down immediately. For reference, best times are known to occur at 14.4 degrees Celsius, but an even more careful pace control is necessary when temperatures drop below freezing. The success of winter running hinges on your gear. First and foremost, protecting your respiratory system from the cold air is crucial. A buff is recommended over a mask. A buff not only covers your mouth and nose, but also protects your neck and ears. It folds down to a compact size, making it easy to carry. It can be wrapped around your hand or worn as a fashion accessory, making it highly versatile. Layering, which involves wearing multiple thin layers, is more effective than wearing a single thick garment. This is because the warm air layer between layers provides much better insulation. A thin windbreaker is useful when temperatures are between 0 and 5 degrees Celsius. Wear it before you set out, and once you've warmed up, fold it and put it in your pocket. For temperatures below freezing, wear long sleeves and prepare multiple layers. You should also change your shoes according to the season. Summer running shoes have plenty of mesh holes for ventilation, but in winter, your feet will get cold. Winter running shoes are less prone to wind and have large treads on the soles to prevent slipping even in snow. Trail running shoes are also a good option. A lightweight backpack for clothes, towels, and water is also convenient. Packing minimal space in your backpack will help you prepare for a variety of situations. If you're running in shorts, applying a generous amount of Vaseline to your legs can help you withstand the cold. One thing to keep in mind is to avoid icy roads at all costs. Even the best running shoes are useless on ice. Crampons, used in the mountains, can't be used while running, so avoid icy roads at all costs. The biggest enemy of winter running isn't the cold, but a shrinking mind. Experts advise, "Don't agonize over whether to get out of bed." If you agonize under the covers, you'll eventually fall asleep. Once you step out into the living room and pace around, your body will relax and naturally move out. Running well in winter will make the rest of the year easier. Don't use the cold weather as an excuse. As long as you follow safety guidelines, winter running can be enjoyable and effective. Let's all keep running, stay healthy, and keep running vigorously, even in winter. Sources: https://youtu.be/oWAhPR88pK4?si=bx7NcMNuVgeCQMxV https://news.nate.com/view/20250918n04468 https://weekly.chosun.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=44889 https://contents.premium.naver.com/textom/reprot/contents/250507171206512vh https://mosports.co.kr/soft-magazine/?bmode=view&idx=127853069 https://www.korea.kr/news/issueQAView.do?newsId=148771597 https://e-learning.kaaf.or.kr/mobile/community/news_view.asp?tn=KAF_NOTICE_BOARD&RECNO=4959&p=6 https://www.adidas.co.kr/blog/%F0%9F%92%AA2025-%EC%84%9C%EC%9A%B8%EB%A7%88%EB%9D%BC%ED%86%A4-%EC%A4%80%EB%B9%84-%EA%B2%A8%EC%9A%B8%EC%B2%A0-%EC%95%88%EC%A0%84%ED%95%9C-%EB%9F%AC%EB%8B%9D%EC%9D%84-%EC%9C%84%ED%95%9C-%EA%BF%80-%ED%8C%81 https://magazine.securities.miraeasset.com/contents.php?idx=1338 https://kr.pinterest.com/pin/613545149208608435/

• 작성일 2025-12-08
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제 27 호 Culture Vouchers in Korea: Usage, Options, and The Road To Improvement

Kicker: LIFE Culture Vouchers in Korea: Usage, Options, and The Road To Improvement by Sumin Lee , Reporter minnida_@naver.com Have you ever actively used consumer coupons for people's livelihood recovery, an economic policy that has been implemented under the current Presidential administration in the Republic of Korea? This policy, which was implemented in the form of an extra budget of 13.9 trillion won to all citizens in the form of local currency to improve the economic recession in Korea, has gained popularity since the first day of the application period. In order to spread active consumer sentiment across the country in response to the popularity of consumer coupons for people's livelihood recovery, the Ministry of Strategy and Finance has provided 8.1 million copies of the five major consumption coupons consisting of accommodation, performance, exhibition, movies, and sports facility coupons which were a new kind of consumer policy business . This policy is being implemented for economic recovery through consumption in addition to the Seoul metropolitan area. In this article, I will introduce cultural consumption coupons by looking at how to apply, where to use them, and its limitations. The Contents of Cultural Consumption Coupons https://www.nongmin.com/article/20250808500697 What Is The Cultural Voucher? First of all, cultural consumption coupons are similar policies that discount a certain amount to accommodation, performances, and exhibitions outside the Seoul metropolitan area in order to spread consumer sentiment that has been revived since the government successfully implemented the consumer recovery coupon policy. The policy, which aims to revive the local economy, is characterized by the fact that it is actively promoting local consumption by issuing additional coupons that can only be used in non-metropolitan areas. In addition, there may be a consumption lottery event where you can win up to 20 million won in digital Onnuri gift certificates if you pay more than 50,000 won by credit card in rural areas. A Broad Range of Cultural Vouchers There are five types of coupons: accommodation, art exhibition, performance art, movies, and sports. Each coupon has a slightly different expiration date and application method, so you have to apply with this in mind. Broadly speaking, accommodation coupons can only be used if you reserve accommodation in non-metropolitan areas, and while art exhibitions and performance art coupons can be used in the metropolitan area until the end of the year, they have the property of being invalidated if not used by September 19th. Specific Details of Each Coupon type Furthermore, if you look at the characteristics of each coupon, in the case of accommodation coupons, the first application period is from August 20th to October 30th, and the second application period is from November 3rd to December 7th. Since accommodation coupons are only available when booking non-metropolitan accommodation products, they can only be issued on the website of 42 travel agencies such as 11th Street and Yanolja, and cannot be used on individual hotel sites. It is issued on a first-come, first-served basis at 10 a.m. every day, so if you need to issue it, you have to check the time and apply. Also, if the issued accommodation coupon is not used until 7 a.m. the next day, the issuance details will be initialized, so be careful. The discount amount is 30,000 won for products valued at 70,000 won or more and 20,000 won for those with valued less than 70,000 won per night, and more discounts can be received for 50,000 won and 30,000 won in Andong, a special disaster area, respectively. In the case of art exhibitions and performance art coupons, the period of use is from August 9th to September 19th, and during this period, it will be issued at five online reservation destinations, including Norinter Park, Ticket Link, Yes 24, Melon Ticket, and Time Ticket, and can be applied at the time of reservation for discounts. Two coupons are issued per person, and in the case of art exhibition coupons, you can get a discount of 3,000 won per coupon and 10,000 won per coupon for performing arts. Unlike accommodation coupons, art exhibitions and performance coupons can be used in the Seoul metropolitan area, and if you watch performances or exhibitions in non-metropolitan areas, two more bonus coupons will be given, and a total of four coupons will be available. One thing to note when using this coupon is that the payment amount must exceed 15,000 won for the performance and 5,000 won for the exhibition, and it cannot be used for popular music and dance performances such as artist concert, dance festival. In the case of movie coupons, if they are issued on July 25th, discount coupons of 6,000 won per ticket can be issued on the website of CGV, Lotte Cinema, Megabox, and Cinequeue, and must be used by September 2nd. Up to two copies can be issued per person, and it can be issued offline on a first-come, first-served basis at independent theaters and small theaters. Lastly, in the case of Sports Coupon, the target is limited to senior citizens receiving basic pensions, and up to three tickets can be downloaded and used per person on the website exclusively for issuing coupons for sports facilities. Additional Information And The Limitations of The Policy Along with this policy, the government has raised the deduction limit for business promotion expenses for gift certificates from 0% to 20% so that companies can purchase Local gift certification, which can only be used in specific district, more actively. In addition, the prize event will be held from August 1st to October 9th, and digital onnuri gift certificates will be provided by lottery to the people who pay more than 50,000 won by credit card at traditional markets and small business stores nationwide. Critics have criticized the policy, but some say it is effective to invest in improving local tourist facilities in rural areas, as there are limitations and discrimination in increasing consumption even if there are discount coupons for non-metropolitan areas. In addition, the Ministry of Public Administration and Security argues that it is necessary to ease the preemptive limit on the use of consumer coupons and relax regulations on local gift certificates, as the current local gift certificates and Onnuri gift certificates do not provide real benefits to consumers in rural areas. The government's next policy needs to be implemented to restore the local economy and explain active policies to the public and improve awareness, given that policies implemented to revive the economy are continuously implemented and planned to promote consumption in non-metropolitan areas. Sources: https://www.khan.co.kr/article/202508071110001 https://www.newstomato.com/ReadNews.aspx?no=1271017

• 작성일 2025-09-30
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제 26 호 Streamflation

Kicker: LIFE Streamflation By Sol-Mi Lim, Cub-reporter imsolver4@gmail.com In recent years, major global OTT platforms, such as Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube Premium, have steadily raised their subscription fees, triggering frustration among users worldwide. This trend has given rise to a new term: streamflation, a combination of "streaming" and "inflation," used to describe the increasing costs of maintaining access to multiple streaming services. The impact of streamflation is not limited to international services. South Korea’s own OTT platforms, including Tving and Wavve, have also adjusted their pricing policies, placing a growing financial burden on young consumers—especially university students—who often rely on these platforms for both entertainment and relaxation. Ad - Supported Plans: A Double - Edged Sword To alleviate the burden of rising OTT prices, some companies have introduced advertising-supported subscription plans. These plans offer users a lower monthly fee in exchange for periodic advertisements during content playback. Netflix has launched such a plan in Korea, and other platforms are testing similar models. While these options reduce costs, they come with tradeoffs. Some viewers find the ads disruptive to their immersive experience. Moreover, privacy concerns have surfaced due to data collection practices used in targeted advertising. Students, in particular, often choose ad-supported plans due to financial constraints, but their long-term satisfaction remains uncertain. Government Scrutiny and the Debate over Fair Pricing As subscription fees rise and OTT services become household essentials, the South Korean government has begun to examine whether price hikes are justifiable and transparent. In a country where streaming services are integral to everyday life, especially for students and young consumers, concerns are mounting over whether users are being overcharged without adequate explanation. In early 2024, the Korea Communications Commission (KCC) hinted at the possibility of introducing consumer protection guidelines specifically for digital content platforms. While these are not formal regulations, they reflect growing public pressure to ensure that OTT platforms clearly communicate the reasons behind price increases, provide fair service tiers, and respect users' rights. However, the industry strongly resists these moves. OTT providers argue that overregulation could stifle innovation, restrict the growth of domestic content production, and interfere with their global competitiveness. They emphasize that price adjustments are often necessary to invest in high - quality original series, improve user interfaces, and expand content diversity. The outcome of this tug-of -war between government and platform providers could set a precedent for how digital media services are governed in Korea and possibly across Asia. Coupang Play: Redefining OTT through Bundled Strategy Amid the turbulence, Coupang Play has emerged as a unique case in Korea’s OTT market. Unlike competitors who rely on direct subscription revenue, Coupang Play is included as a free benefit for Coupang Wow members-users who pay a monthly fee for premium e-commerce perks like fast delivery and discounts. This bundling strategy offers a sharp contrast to the traditional OTT business model. For students already using Coupang for daily essentials, Coupang Play is an effortless add - on that requires no separate subscription. It creates a sense of added value rather than additional cost, appealing especially to cost sensitive users. Coupang also focuses on sports broadcasting, including exclusive rights to Premier League matches and local sporting events. This differentiates the platform from others that primarily push drama and movie content. By targeting niche interests and leveraging its existing logistics ecosystem, Coupang Play is shifting the narrative from “just another streaming service” to a lifestyle utility. Furthermore, Coupang's approach allows it to avoid the controversy of price hikes or ad interruptions altogether. Its content library may not be as vast as Netflix or Disney+, but its strategy shows that content relevance and convenience can matter more than sheer quantity. In a saturated market, Coupang Play is proving that integration, not isolation, may be the key to survival. The South Korean OTT market is undergoing a strategic transformation. With price hikes, new ad -supported plans, and increasing government scrutiny, users are no longer passive subscribers. They are becoming selective, budget - conscious consumers who actively evaluate the cost and quality of digital services. In this evolving landscape, platforms like Coupang Play stand out by offering alternative models that focus on value integration rather than pure content volume. As the debate over pricing and regulation continues, one thing is clear - students and everyday users will play a critical role in determining which platforms thrive and which fall behind. Sources: https://kcc.go.kr/user.do?mode=view&page=A05030000&dc=&boardId=1113&cp=1&nop=10&ctx=ALL&searchKey=ALL&searchVal=OTT&boardSeq=65109 https://kcc.go.kr/user.do?mode=view&page=A05030000&dc=&boardId=1113&cp=1&nop=10&ctx=ALL&searchKey=ALL&searchVal=OTT&boardSeq=64933

• 작성일 2025-07-03
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제 26 호 Climate Change: the Effects of Global Warming

Kicker: LIFE Climate Change: the Effects of Global Warming By Ye-Dam Hwang, Reporter hwangyedam1108@naver.com Do you have any experience that you think you feel climate change? Especially in this year, in Korea, it sometimes snowed in some areas in March and April, which are usually divided into the period of spring. Moreover, even though the weather gets warmer, the daily temperature difference is increasing, with the temperature difference becoming chilly again quickly. Like these cases, climate change is intensifying, and we can actually feel and experience the changes of weather. Actually, as the effects of global warming have become more obvious, climate change has been discussed for a long time about its problems, seriousness, and solutions. However, it is getting worse and it affects not only people’s health but also the earth system such as the atmosphere, the hydrosphere, the cryosphere, the pedosphere, and the biosphere, so that it causes climate crisis. Thus, climate change is continuing to be an important issue, and we need to consider this significant matter. Global Warming and Climate Change Climate change, which is getting worse and affects us and the Earth, is related to global warming and its causes and effects are explained. The causes of climate change can be largely divided into natural and artificial factors. First, natural factors include the interaction of the Earth system, volcanic ash caused by volcanic eruptions, and changes in solar energy. The process by which the interaction of the Earth system causes climate change is that the atmosphere is constantly changing through the interaction of the atmosphere, the hydosphere, the iceosphere, the geosphere, and the biosphere, which are the main components of the Earth system; this affects the climate system by weather phenomena, changes in the reflectivity of solar energy, and carbon circulation. Next, volcanic eruptions affect the climatic system by allowing volcanic eruptions to rise to the stratosphere and stay for months to years, absorbing sunlight, thereby increasing the stratosphere temperature, but decreasing the solar light reaching the troposphere temperature. Solar energy causes climate change due to changes in solar energy caused by solar activities such as changes in the number of solar sunspots, and in addition, the amount of solar energy received is changed by latitude as the orbit of the Earth changes shape every 100,000 years, which can lead to climatic fluctuations on an astronomical time scale. Second, the artificial factors of climate change include greenhouse gases, aerosols' effects, land cover changes, and forest destruction effects. The release of global greenhouse gases generated by human activities resulted in a natural greenhouse effect, and fossil fuel combustion is mainly cited as the cause of the release of carbon dioxide, a representative greenhouse gas. These greenhouse gases stay in the atmosphere for a long or short period of time, changing the chemical composition of the Earth's atmosphere and causing climate change. Next, looking at the effect of aerosols, which are microparticles floating in the atmosphere, refer to liquid or solid particles that are uniformly distributed in a fine form mainly in gases such as air. Like greenhouse gases, industrialization caused by human activities has particularly changed the amount of aerosols in the atmosphere, which is also affecting climate change. In terms of land and forests, changes in land use by excessive land use, firewood, and charcoal collection and deforestation due to road construction, logging, urbanization, and industrialization cause changes in the reflectance of the surface, eventually causing climate change. The Currentt Circumstances Climate change is affecting not only Korea but also the world in this way. The average global temperature has risen by 1.1℃ compared to before industrialization (1850-1900), and in general, temperature increases are greater on land than in the ocean and in the high latitudes and in the Arctic than in the mid-latitudes. These changes in land and marine ecosystems and effects on humans are already being observed. And if these climate changes continue, they will pose irreparable risks to human civilization, such as water shortages, food shortages, marine acidification, sea level rise, and ecosystem collapse, as well as extreme weather, which could lead to a climate crisis that requires drastic greenhouse gas reduction. Over the past 30 years, the area of rainforests in the Amazon River basin in South America has been reduced from 7.05 million square kilometers to 5.5 million square kilometers due to mining and development of forest resources such as wood, and such large-scale forest removal has a serious impact on water circulation, negatively affecting forest growth and agriculture, and also emitting carbon dioxide into the atmosphere by forest fires, affecting the greenhouse effect. At the end of April, the highest temperature in southern China exceeded 42°C, and in countries such as Indonesia, high temperatures and irregular heavy rains caused by rising sea levels have also caused natural disasters. Furthermore, according to the National Statistical Office, livestock imports of farmers plunged 11.2% last year as livestock farms were hit hard by heat waves and heavy snow in Korea. This is a result of abnormal climate effects such as the collapse of livestock due to heavy snow and the death of livestock, indicating that climate change is also affecting the economy. The Effects on our Health and Health Care Climate change is affecting our health as well as the planet. With the current summer heat wave getting worse due to climate change, this year's heat wave is expected to be earlier and longer than usual, so more caution is needed. In addition, climate change, such as large daily temperature differences and heavy snow, makes us need to be prepared for diseases caused by cold, so we need to pay attention to health care in preparation for these climate changes. First of all, when the temperature change is large, it is recommended to carry your outerwear to maintain body temperature, so that it can be taken off when it is hot and worn when it is cold. In addition, since there are cases where the temperature difference between indoors and outdoors increases in situations such as using air conditioners during heat waves or using heaters when it is cold, it is necessary to keep the indoor temperature constant by providing regular ventilation without lowering or increasing the indoor temperature too much to prevent diseases such as cooling diseases. In addition, it is recommended to refrain from going out on days when fine dust and air pollution are severe, and to wear a mask when forced to go out. In addition, making regular lifestyles and increasing moisture intake are also good ways to cope with climate change. It is a fact that climate change is already continuing with global warming, and not only it makes lots of damage to the Earth system but also affects our health. As the climate change continues, the threat to our ecosystem and health will increase if we don’t develop any solutions to prevent it. Therefore, I hope for you to think about this important issue of climate change and take some actions to prevent climate change and global warming. Sources: https://www.gihoo.or.kr/menu.es?mid=a30101010000 https://www.gihoo.or.kr/menu.es?mid=a30106000000 https://news.tf.co.kr/read/livingculture/2208791.htm https://www.nocutnews.co.kr/news/6344383?utm_source=naver&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=20250523120040 https://www.weeklyseoul.net/news/articleView.html?idxno=80503 https://www.freepik.com/premium-vector/flat-climate-change-concept-illustration_18038240.htm

• 작성일 2025-07-03
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제 26 호 ‘Daiso’ Strikes Back - H&B Market Advance

Kicker: LIFE ‘Daiso’ Strikes Back - H&B Market Advance By Chae-yun Lee, Reporter o4nly_1@naver.com When people think of Daiso, they often think of shelves lined with affordable household items, stationery, and daily necessities. Known for their affordability and accessibility, Daiso is a popular store for cost-conscious consumers. However, Daiso is no longer just a go-to for cheap home goods. In recent years, it has begun making an unexpected yet strategic advance into the health and beauty (H&B) market, responding to shifting consumer demands and retail trends in Korea. This transformation has been especially notable in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. In the beauty retail market alone, many once-popular single-brand stores, such as Missha, The Face Shop, and Innisfree, have closed down. Instead, multi-brand health and beauty chains like Olive Young have settled in to offer a wider range of products and respond more flexibly to changing customer preferences, and more beauty consumers are starting to look for cheaper alternatives. Against this backdrop, Daiso has made a bold move, drawing attention not only for its prices but also for the surprising popularity of some of its beauty products. A Viral Skincare Routine Creates a Buzz One of the biggest beauty trends to emerge from Daiso’s cosmetics section is not a single product, but a routine — the so-called “Roro Formal” This skincare combination, widely shared on TikTok and in online communities, involves using three specific items: Needle Shot serum, PDRN ampoule, and a wrapping mask. Together, these products are said to create a radiant, glass-like complexion that mimics expensive spa treatments. As interest grew, many stores saw these items sell out quickly, leading users to refer to it as a “holy grail routine for dewy skin.” Social media played a key role in its rise, with before-and-after images and video tutorials fueling the hype. Picture 1: The tweet that started "Roro Formal" Picture 2: The beauty products that make up "Roro Formal" From Trend to Sales Boost Following the “Roro Formal” craze, other Daiso cosmetics also began attracting attention. Items such as cushion foundations, lip tints, eyebrow pencils, and eyeliners were increasingly featured in social media content and reviews. Consumers noted that while the packaging was simple, the products were functional and ideal for daily use. Daiso’s beauty shelves, once overlooked, became a new destination for budget-savvy shoppers. According to retail data, the brand has seen a significant rise in health and beauty sales since early last year — with some months showing double-digit growth. Who Buys — and Who Doesn’t? Not all consumers are convinced. Supporters say Daiso’s cosmetics are perfect for students, beginners, or those in need of inexpensive backups. However, skeptics express concern over the limited shade ranges, absence of testers, and lack of transparency in ingredients. Still, as positive word-of-mouth continues to spread, even hesitant shoppers are beginning to experiment — and many report being pleasantly surprised. Why So Cheap — and How Rivals React Daiso’s low prices are made possible by bulk manufacturing, simple packaging, and a streamlined distribution model. Without spending heavily on advertising or celebrity endorsements, the company keeps costs low and passes those savings to consumers. In response, other H&B chains like Olive Young and Lalavla have launched their own affordable in-house brands, but few can match Daiso’s ultra-low price point. Beauty Redefined in an Era of Inflation As prices continue to rise across all sectors, consumer habits are changing. More people are prioritizing practicality and affordability over brand prestige — especially for everyday beauty products. In fact, Daiso has announced plans to expand its beauty line with new items priced between 5,000 and 20,000 won, signaling a possible shift in its strategy. Some worry this could dilute the brand’s original identity, while others believe the company has earned enough trust to take the next step. For now, Daiso remains a symbol of “value over vanity.” Whether you are a loyal user or a curious newcomer, exploring its skincare section — and perhaps trying the “Roro Formal” routine — might just challenge how you define affordable beauty. Sources: https://www.daisomall.co.kr/ds https://m.cafe.daum.net/subdued20club/ReHf/5208506

• 작성일 2025-06-09
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제 26 호 Slow Aging: Redefining What It Means to Grow Old Well

Kicker: LIFE Slow Aging: Redefining What It Means to Grow Old Well By Hae-In Noh, Cub-reporter xhazmfnwm1@gmail.com Slow aging draws global attention as more people embrace lifestyle changes promoting healthier aging. Unlike anti-aging, which aims to fight signs of age, slow aging encourages natural, conscious aging through diet, exercise, sleep, and stress care. This movement stresses balance between body and mind, reducing disease risk and supporting mobility, cognition, and mental health. Younger generations are leading this shift by focusing on daily habits over cosmetic fixes, sparking growth in wellness, digital health, and nutritional markets. The World Health Organization highlights that healthy aging enhances independence and quality of life regardless of age or preexisting conditions. Experts urge early action, noting even small changes in lifestyle improve long-term health outcomes. Slow aging now is seen not only as a beauty trend but as a philosophy reshaping how society views age, vitality, and self-care. Defining Slow Aging and Its Distinction from Traditional Anti-Aging Slow aging is a holistic approach that emphasizes embracing the natural aging process while maintaining health and vitality through lifestyle choices. Unlike traditional anti-aging methods that often focus on reversing visible signs of aging, slow aging prioritizes preventive measures such as balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and adequate sleep to enhance overall well-being. This paradigm shift reflects a growing societal interest in longevity and quality of life over mere aesthetic enhancements. Lifestyle Practices and the Rise of Preventive Wellness Slow aging relies heavily on consistent lifestyle habits that support long-term health and delay the aging process naturally. Key among these habits are balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and sufficient sleep, all of which work synergistically to maintain cellular health and reduce inflammation, a major contributor to aging. Diets rich in antioxidants—such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains—help combat oxidative stress and protect DNA from damage. Nutrients like vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids also play essential roles in supporting immune function and cognitive health, which tend to decline with age. Exercise, particularly a combination of aerobic activities and strength training, improves cardiovascular health, boosts metabolism, and preserves muscle mass and bone density, helping to prevent frailty and chronic diseases associated with aging. Additionally, proper sleep hygiene enhances the body’s natural repair processes, regulates hormones, and supports mental health, all critical factors for healthy aging. Among younger generations, especially the MZ generation (Millennials and Gen Z), the concept of “prejuvenation” has gained popularity. This proactive approach involves adopting healthy habits early to prevent signs of aging before they appear, rather than trying to reverse damage later. Social media platforms amplify this trend, with influencers and wellness experts sharing tips on nutrition, exercise, skincare routines, and mindfulness practices. This generation places high value on holistic wellness that integrates physical, mental, and emotional health. Technological advancements also support this preventive wellness movement. Wearable devices, smartphone apps, and digital health platforms allow individuals to track their sleep quality, physical activity, heart rate, and even stress levels in real time. These tools empower users to make informed decisions, adjust their routines, and stay motivated on their slow aging journey. Furthermore, personalized nutrition and fitness programs based on genetic testing and biomarker analysis are becoming more accessible, enabling tailored approaches that maximize effectiveness. The rise of preventive wellness reflects a broader shift in healthcare—from reactive treatment of illness to proactive maintenance of health—aligning perfectly with the principles of slow aging. By prioritizing daily self-care and embracing technology-enabled health monitoring, people are better equipped to maintain vitality and independence well into older age. Market Growth in Health Supplements, Skincare, and Digital Healthcare The emphasis on slow aging has spurred significant growth in related industries. The global anti-aging supplements market, for instance, was valued at USD 4.47 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 8.80 billion by 2032, driven by demand for products like collagen and NMN. Similarly, the nutricosmetics sector, which combines nutrition and skincare, is expected to grow from USD 8.06 billion in 2025 to USD 15.40 billion by 2034. Digital healthcare solutions, including AI-driven health assistants and personalized wellness apps, are also gaining traction, reflecting a broader consumer shift towards integrated, technology-enabled health management. Slow aging goes beyond merely maintaining appearance or fighting signs of aging. It represents an attitude that prioritizes health and quality of life while aging gracefully. Initially popularized by the MZ generation’s focus on proactive self-care, this approach now extends across all age groups, making slow aging a practical and accessible way for everyone to manage aging. This shift stems from individuals’ growing desire to take control of their health, supported by advances in wellness practices and digital healthcare technologies that make self-management easier and more effective. Ultimately, slow aging is not just a passing trend but a sustainable philosophy aimed at living longer, healthier lives, reflecting the evolving values of modern society. Sources: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/healthy-aging https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10339083/ https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10970731/ https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10339083/ https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/what-is-so-good-about-growing-old-130839848/

• 작성일 2025-06-09
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