Latest news with #Naver
Korea Herald
17 hours ago
- Korea Herald
Korean students' motivation to study English drops as AI tools rise: study
An increasing number of middle school students in South Korea are asking whether they need to study English at all, now that artificial intelligence can do the work for them. A new government report shows a clear drop in student motivation to learn English, and education officials say the widespread use of AI-powered translation apps is playing a key role. According to the 2024 National Assessment of Educational Achievement, released Tuesday by South Korea's Ministry of Education and the Korea Institute for Curriculum and Evaluation, just 61.3 percent of third-year middle school students (roughly ninth grade in the US) said they are motivated to study English. That marks a drop of 2.5 percentage points from 2023 and a more significant decline of 10.1 points compared to 2022. The report also found that fewer students see English as valuable for their academic or professional futures. In 2023, 73.1 percent of surveyed students said they believed English was a worthwhile subject. That number dropped to 69.6 percent this year. The survey drew responses from a nationally representative sample of 27,606 middle and high school students. Classroom teachers say the change is palpable. Many students now complete homework assignments by plugging English sentences into translation apps like Naver's Papago or OpenAI's ChatGPT. One Seoul teacher told researchers that students who returned from overseas trips and showed a renewed interest in learning English now heavily rely on AI tools, feeling less need to improve their skills on their own. An official from the Education Ministry put it this way: 'In Korea, English has mostly been something you study to pass exams, not something you actually use. That's always been a challenge." "But now, with AI tools handling translation so easily, students are asking themselves why they need to study at all. The ones who already lacked confidence in English are the first to give up, and over time, that's going to widen the learning gap,' he added.
Korea Herald
3 days ago
- Business
- Korea Herald
Naver readies new social platform ThingsBook for US market
As founder Lee Hae-jin returns to lead, Naver doubles down on US expansion with AI, user-centric platforms South Korean internet giant Naver is preparing to enter the crowded US social media market with a new platform, marking the company's boldest push yet into the world's most competitive digital market. The company said Monday it is developing the new user-generated content platform, named ThingsBook, through its US-based subsidiary But the date and the specifics are still under wraps. 'We are developing a platform targeting the US market, but the launch date and the specific details are undecided at this time,' a Naver spokesperson said. is spearheading the development of ThingsBook as part of Naver's efforts to create a service for the global market from the ground up instead of simply adapting popular Korean services for international users. Naver's Webtoon and Band were both launched in the US after achieving success in Korea. Dubbed a 'personal museum,' the new service will allow users to collect, organize and share content based on personal preferences. Naver has opened a LinkedIn page for ThingsBook, describing it as 'a new kind of social media made just for people who love organizing, collecting and sharing their favorite things, from books and movies to travel spots, fashion, food and more.' As it gears up for launch, Naver has begun recruiting brand ambassadors to help promote the platform, with content categories ranging from food and travel to books, games, movies and fashion. Naver's renewed global push follows the return of its founder Lee Hae-jin earlier this year. He was elected chair of the board at Naver in March, reclaiming a leadership role after an eight-year hiatus since stepping down in 2017. In June, Lee visited Silicon Valley and announced the establishment of Naver Ventures, a US-based investment arm. The new investment company aims to invest in AI startups and future technologies, highlighting Naver's ambitions in the US tech sector. With ThingsBook, Naver appears to be focusing on securing high-quality, localized data, which is critical in AI development. During a trip to the US last month, Lee cited user-generated content as a key factor that helped Naver compete against global tech giants like Google in the local search market. He also stressed that securing a wide range of data will be key to gaining an edge in the AI era. ThingsBook will add to Naver's growing portfolio in the US, which includes the Webtoon platform, operated by US subsidiary Webtoon Entertainment, Naver Band, a social media platform that has gained popularity among after-school activity groups, and Poshmark, a US fashion resale platform that was acquired by Naver in 2023.
Time of India
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Korean Drama Stars Oh Yeon-seo and Choi Jin-hyuk Team Up for Surprising New Romance
Choi Jin-hyuk and Oh Yeon-seo The Plot That's Got Everyone Talking Dude, imagine this - you're living your best single life, focused on your career, when BAM! One night changes everything. That's exactly what's happening in Channel A's upcoming drama " I'm Having a Baby " (아기가 생겼어요), and honestly, it sounds like the kind of chaos that would make for perfect binge-watching. The story follows two people who've basically sworn off marriage - Kang Du-joon, a second-generation chaebol heir, and Jang Hee-won, a corporate career woman. After one impulsive night together, they find themselves in the most unexpected situation possible: expecting a baby. Talk about your classic "oops" moment, but make it Korean drama style! Webtoon 'I'm having a Baby Star Power That's Hard to Ignore Oh Yeon-seo is stepping into the role of Jang Hee-won, and honestly, she's perfect for this. Remember her from "Hwayugi" and "Player 2"? She's got that perfect mix of vulnerability and strength that makes you root for her character. Her character is described as someone who excels at work but struggles with romance - basically every millennial's dating life summed up in one character. Choi Jin-hyuk takes on the role of Kang Du-joon, the chaebol heir who's been carrying his family's burdens since his brother's death. He's chosen to stay single for reasons that probably involve family drama (because what K-drama doesn't?). Choi Jin-hyuk has been killing it in dramas like "Different Dreams" and "Numbers," so seeing him navigate unexpected fatherhood should be entertaining. From Webtoon to Screen Magic What makes this even more interesting is that it's based on a popular Naver webtoon of the same name. Korean webtoon adaptations have been hitting different lately - they capture that perfect balance of relatable modern problems with just enough dramatic flair to keep you hooked. The production team is promising a "speed violation reverse romantic comedy " that'll apparently stimulate viewers' romance cells. While that sounds like marketing speak, the premise is genuinely fresh for the K-drama landscape. Most dramas either start with marriage or end with it, but starting with an unexpected pregnancy? That's bold territory. Reflecting Modern Relationship Dynamics This whole "pregnancy first, romance later" concept is actually pretty revolutionary for Korean entertainment. It's addressing real-life situations that many young adults face, especially in a society where traditional relationship timelines are being questioned more than ever. Much like how young people everywhere are redefining what relationships should look like, this drama tackles the messy reality of modern dating culture. The show is set to air in the first half of 2026 on Channel A, giving us plenty of time to mentally prepare for what's sure to be an emotional rollercoaster. Given how both actors have proven themselves in romantic comedies, this could be the perfect blend of heart-fluttering moments and genuine emotional depth. This storyline resonates because it tackles the universal theme of unexpected life changes and how they force us to reevaluate our priorities - something that transcends cultural boundaries and speaks to the shared experience of navigating adulthood's surprises. In today's world, where career pressures and changing social norms create complex relationship dynamics, this drama strikes a chord with audiences who are figuring out their own paths to love and family.
Buzz Feed
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
I Went To South Korea To Find The Best Food – Here's Where You Can Find Amazing Halal And Vegan-Friendly Options
Hey foodies! I'm Amer, and if there's one thing I love more than a good travel adventure, it's a good travel adventure filled with incredible food. South Korea has been on my bucket list for ages, not just for its incredible culture and K-pop vibes, but for its legendary cuisine. But here's the thing: as someone who's always on the lookout for diverse dietary options – specifically Halal and vegan-friendly spots – I knew this trip would be a delicious guess what? South Korea delivered! It was a culinary wonderland, and I'm here to share my absolute favourite finds, proving that you can seriously feast in Seoul and beyond, no matter your dietary needs. Come with me as I dive headfirst into South Korea's incredible food scene, from its buzzing street markets to its best-kept secrets. I'm here to show you that there's a delicious bite for every palate, especially Halal and plant-based eats! 비건키친 (Vegan Kitchen) Nestled near Myeongdong, Seoul, at Exit 3 (21 Toegye-ro 20-gil, Jung District, Seoul ), Vegan Kitchen is an absolute must-visit for anyone seeking delicious plant-based Korean food. This spot completely redefines what vegan eating in Korea can be, offering a delightful array of traditional Korean dishes, all made vegan-style. Think everything from classic Bibimbap and Stir-fried Bulgogi with Rice to more modern options like poke bowls, tortillas, and even plant-based fried chicken!First off, the location is super convenient, just a stone's throw from Myeongdong, making it easy to find. The menu variety is genuinely impressive, with so many choices you'll want to come back again and again to try them all. You place your order conveniently on a tablet at your table, which makes the whole process super smooth. But the absolute BEST surprise? Your food isn't delivered by a human! Instead, a super cute, cat-eared robot glides right up to your table with your order! It's a total futuristic delight and definitely adds to the fun of the experience. The Price Tag (and why it's a steal!): My entire meal, including the stew, dumplings, and a soft drink, came to a total of ₩18,000. That's approximately £9.72! For a full, delicious, and incredibly satisfying meal in central Seoul, this is fantastic value. You get generous portions of freshly made food, plus those essential free side dishes, making it a truly affordable Friendly? This entire restaurant is dedicated to vegan cuisine, meaning everything on the menu is plant-based and suitable for vegans. While not explicitly Halal-certified, the absence of meat and animal by-products means many dishes would align with a Halal diet, making it a fantastic option for both!Location/Tips: Search for "비건키친" or "Vegan Kitchen" near Myeongdong, Seoul. It's super close to Exit 3 of Myeongdong Station, and the Naver navigation map link is also handy. Don't forget to snap a pic with the robot when it delivers your food! Little Gangster / 리틀갱스터양식 Despite its captivating name, "Little Gangster" is far from intimidating; it's an absolute culinary gem! Located near Hyochang Park Station in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, this premium eatery offers a refined dining experience with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients. While the space might be on the cosier side, it exudes a classy and wonderfully comfortable vibe, making it perfect for a relaxed meal. The owner was super friendly and welcoming, making the whole experience even better, and trust me – the food here is genuinely outstanding! What truly sets Little Gangster apart is that they're constantly evolving their approach to ingredients. Their menu rotates seasonally, meaning every visit brings new and exciting plant-based creations to the table. This commitment to fresh, in-season produce ensures a dynamic and innovative dining experience, featuring items like kimchi stew with tofu katsu and lentil-kamut rice start, I tried April's Seongju Korean Melon Gazpacho (₩11,000) as an appetiser. This was an unexpected delight – incredibly refreshing, subtly sweet from the melon, and a perfect palate my main, I opted for their famous Signature Nature-Inspired Pasta (₩21,000). This dish is a true masterpiece; it felt like a hug in a bowl, reimagined with a 'Temple Cuisine' influence. The rich sauce, simmered with sweet daikon, carrots, and bell peppers, had incredible depth, which was then perfectly brightened with fresh mashed tomatoes for a lighter taste. It came served with beautifully roasted vegetables and a selection of seasonal Korean greens. The best part? You can choose your base, so I went with the delicious Handmade Gnocchi, which were perfectly tender. Every dish felt thoughtfully prepared and beautifully presented. The Price Tag (and why it's worth every penny!): My meal at Little Gangster came to a total of ₩32,000, which is approximately £17.30. While it's certainly more of a premium price point than your average Korean meal, for the quality of ingredients, the inventive plant-based cooking, and the beautiful dining experience, it feels incredibly justified. This is definitely a spot for a special Friendly? Little Gangster is a fantastic vegan-friendly restaurant with a clear focus on plant-based dishes. As with many dedicated vegan spots, the lack of meat and common animal products makes it suitable for those seeking Halal options, though it's always good to confirm specific ingredients if you have strict You'll find Little Gangster near Hyochang Park Station in Yongsan-gu, Seoul. It's a fantastic spot for a more upscale, yet cosy, dining experience. Naver navigation Map link. 집밥김선생 (Jipbab Kimseonsaeng) – Your Authentic Halal Korean Feast! If you're searching for authentic Korean cuisine with the absolute peace of mind that comes from knowing it's Halal, then 집밥김선선생 (Jipbab Kimseonsaeng) is your new favourite spot! This restaurant is a game-changer, offering a huge variety of traditional Korean dishes, all prepared with Halal meat. The moment you step in, you're greeted with incredibly friendly hospitality, making you feel right at home. Their menu are absolutely packed with options, ensuring there's something for everyone, even if a few popular items were temporarily sold out when I visited (which just shows how in-demand they are!). It's genuinely thrilling to see such a diverse range of Korean classics made accessible to a Halal diet. We went all out with our order to try as much as possible, and every dish was a winner! First up was the Bulgogi 한상 (Hansang) (₩14,000 / approx. £7.56). This set came with beautifully seasoned, thinly sliced Halal meat, served with fluffy rice, delicate Plain Boiled Quail Eggs, a refreshing salad with purple cabbage and greens, tasty Eomuk Bokkeum (fish cake stir-fry, often made with veggie broth here to keep it Halal-friendly!), and a comforting egg soup. It was a complete and utterly satisfying meal in one!We also devoured the classic Cheese Tteokbokki (₩12,000 / approx. £6.48), which had that perfect spicy, sweet, cheesy kick. The Fried Chicken (₩13,000 / approx. £7.02) was wonderfully crispy on the outside and juicy within – a Halal chicken triumph! And finally, the Japchae Hansang (₩14,000 / approx. £7.56) (glass noodle stir-fry) was perfectly seasoned and packed with vibrant Price Tag (and why it's a great deal!): For all these incredible dishes – the Bulgogi Hansang, Cheese Tteokbokki, Fried Chicken, and Japchae Hansang – our total came to ₩53,000. That's approximately £28.62! For a feast of this size and quality, especially for authentic Halal Korean food, this is absolutely brilliant value. The portions are generous, and the sheer variety you get for the price is fantastic, especially when dining with a Friendly? This restaurant is explicitly Halal-certified, making it a top choice for Muslim travellers and locals. While their main focus is on Halal meat, they offer a range of traditional Korean dishes, and it's always worth asking if certain items can be prepared vegan-friendly for those looking for plant-based options, though their primary strength is Halal You'll find 집밥김선생 (Jipbab Kimseonsaeng) easily near Noksapyeong Station, Exit 3. Their last order is at 9 PM, so plan accordingly. Naver navigation map link Have you visited South Korea? Let us know your favourite spots to eat in the comments below!
Time of India
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
‘Kpop Demon Hunter' star Arden Cho gets candid about her characters; reveals she originally auditioned for Celine and not Rumi
, mainly known for her roles in the hit series 'Teen Wolf' and 'Partner Track', has taken on a new 'identity' with ' Rumi ' in 'Kpop Demon Hunters'. The popular actress recently opened up about her experience on the animated movie as well as what she thought of the love it has been receiving ever since the official release. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Arden Cho on 'Kpop Demon Hunters' In an interview with Naver, the 40-year-old actress who voices the lead of 'Kpop Demon Hunters' talked about how the project was a way to her 'self-discovery'. She shared that she felt related to the main character as she herself is Korean American. While talking about her role, Cho revealed, 'I was overjoyed beyond words. Even after 20 years of acting, I wondered, 'Is it okay for me to want this role so badly?' Director Maggie Kang , I, and all the HUNTR/X members share Korean heritage. 'K-Pop Demon Hunters' is about more than K-pop: it showcases Korean warmth, unity, and how that helps overcome crises. I really wanted to help spread that message of 'us''. She even shared that initially, Rumi was not the one she was aiming to be. She shared that her original audition was for the role of Celine, who plays the girl group's mentor in the film. As per Cho , it was director Kang who encouraged her to try out for the lead instead. Becoming Rumi was 'destiny' for Arden Cho While talking about the role, the actress even shared how happy and great she is to be a part of such a project. She praised 'Kpop Demon Hunters' for representing Korean sentiments accurately. Emphasising that, she even shared that now, like Chinese and Japanese traditions have animations for representation, even Korean culture has finally got something similar now. She also added, 'It's the charm of Koreans to acknowledge others and take responsibility for the work given to them. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now And there's affection at the foundation of that. Also, Korean honorifics contain respect and consideration that are difficult to express in English-speaking countries. 'K-Pop Demon Hunters' captures those elements well'. She also talked about how the role felt like destiny, as it was a way to boost representation on a global level. The actress also recalled facing discrimination as she was the child of immigrants growing up in Texas. Cho on K-pop music Other than being a successful actress, Cho has also made her debut in the music industry! The star previously released her song titled 'Electrify' in 2019, and even has close ties with artists like Tiger JK and Yoon Mi Rae. While talking about her favourite artist, the actress does not hold back, saying, 'I love many groups, but BTS is the best. I even flew to Las Vegas during filming to catch their concert. If you want to understand what K-pop truly is, you have to see them live'.
