Author: Seoul Reporter

The Seoul Reporter is an independent news platform uncovering untold stories from the heart of Korea. Our team of journalists and contributors expose corruption, highlight innovation, and bring unfiltered truth to readers worldwide from Seoul’s power corridors to its underground culture.

The popular EDM festival, ‘Dunes Night, Dance Night!’, is set to return for its third consecutive year, offering a unique blend of electronic dance music and golf at L.A.B.E.L. Dunes Course. This year’s event promises an exciting lineup and new experiences for attendees, running from July 19th to August 30th. An Electrifying Summer Series Scheduled across five dates, the festival will take place every Sunday at 1:30 PM on the L.A.B.E.L. Dunes Course. The unique format combines a shotgun start for golf with live performances from top DJs and artists, creating an energetic atmosphere. Since its inception in 2024, the…

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The KT Wiz baseball team has consistently demonstrated a thoughtful approach to fan engagement, particularly through unique gifts distributed during the KBO All-Star break and post-season. This year’s initiative focused on promoting the team’s promising young players, often less visible to the general public, through meticulously crafted ‘guidebooks’ and ‘photo cards’. These special presentations underscore the team’s commitment to nurturing both its talent and its fanbase. Innovative Fan Engagement Through Player Spotlights During the recent All-Star game held at Jamsil Stadium in Seoul, KT Wiz unveiled another surprise for attendees: custom-made fans featuring the faces and aspirations of their future…

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IKEA has issued a statement acknowledging serious concerns regarding allegations that employees returning from parental leave faced discrimination, including demotions and unfavorable work assignments. The company stated on October 10th that it is taking these claims “very seriously.” IKEA Korea emphasized its commitment to complying with all relevant South Korean laws and regulations, ensuring that all employees can confidently utilize their legally protected rights, such as those related to pregnancy, childbirth, and parental leave. IKEA’s Stance on Parental Leave and Employee Rights In its official statement, IKEA Korea highlighted its existing policies and practices concerning parental leave. The company reported…

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Prosecutors have launched a raid on the headquarters of the Gwangsan Police Station in Gwangju, South Korea, as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged misconduct by senior officers involved in the Jang Yoon-gi case. The raid targets the offices of the former station chief and a former head of the criminal investigation division. Investigation Focuses on Alleged Evidence Tampering and Leaks The Gwangju District Prosecutors’ Office is investigating two former police officials, identified as A, a former station chief, and B, a former head of the criminal investigation division, on suspicion of obstructing justice, tampering with evidence, and leaking…

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During an official state visit to Mongolia, South Korean President Lee Jae-myung presented a set of national treasures and a smartwatch to Mongolian President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa. The gifts were formally handed over on July 10th, according to the Blue House. Symbolic Gifts Highlight Shared Culture and Well-Wishes The centerpiece of the gift exchange was a national treasure set, meticulously crafted using traditional techniques. This set features a bow and arrow, a symbol deeply rooted in the shared cultural heritage of both South Korea and Mongolia. The bow and arrow are particularly significant as they are one of the three representative…

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The Supreme Court is scheduled to deliver its verdict on July 16 regarding allegations against Kim Keon-hee concerning stock price manipulation and the acceptance of luxury goods. On the same day, the court will also announce its decision in the appeal case of Kwon Seong-dong, a member of the People Power Party, who is accused of receiving illegal political funds from the Unification Church. Supreme Court to Decide on Kim Keon-hee’s Appeal The Supreme Court’s Second Division, presided over by Justice Park Young-jae, will hear the appeals on July 16 at 10:15 AM. The cases involve alleged violations of the…

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A woman, dubbed ‘Oldaruk’ by some protest participants, is under police investigation for her role in blocking access to the handball venue at the Seoul Olympic Park during the 9th National Simultaneous Local Elections on June 3rd. The Seoul Songpa Police Station summoned the woman on the afternoon of June 10th as a suspect and questioned her regarding the alleged obstruction. This development comes approximately three weeks after the investigation commenced on May 17th. Background of the Incident The incident occurred on May 17th when the woman, reportedly wearing a protest banner, physically prevented officials from the Korea Sports Promotion…

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Emart, a prominent South Korean retailer, has launched its first ‘Nobrand’ specialty store in Mongolia, marking a significant step in its strategy to create an export platform for domestic small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The new store, located in the Yarmag district of the capital city Ulaanbaatar, aims to expand the overseas market reach for Korean businesses. Nobrand’s International Debut in Mongolia The inaugural Nobrand store in Mongolia is the largest among its international locations, spanning approximately 836 square meters (about 253 pyeong). It features a diverse product selection, including around 1,100 Nobrand private label items, alongside an additional 5,000…

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The anticipation for the latest Balenciaga couture collection, helmed by Creative Director Pierpaolo Piccioli, reached its zenith with a striking reveal that merged traditional artistry with cutting-edge technology. Ahead of the official presentation, Balenciaga shared a poignant image on Instagram: 39 individuals, each clad in a crisp white lab coat, their faces a testament to the human element at the heart of haute couture. A powerful caption accompanied the image, stating, “The creators of couture are, after all, human. It is they who must pour in time, dedication, love, and soul to complete it. All of them created the collection…

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The Haeundam Sangryu Ecological Site in Ulsan, a normally restricted area, is opening its gates for a limited period of one month to allow the public to witness the peak blooming season of its iconic wildflowers. This special access, often described as a “secret spot” by locals, offers a unique opportunity to experience a pristine natural environment. Limited Access to a Prized Ecosystem The Ulsan Waterworks Office’s Haeundae Purification Plant announced that the “Haeundam Sangryu Ecological Site Tour” event will run from May 21st to June 14th. The site, covering approximately 50,000 square meters of wildflower clusters and 123,000 square…

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