Photo Credit = X On December 3, 2024, South Korea was once again caught in the midst of a great historical upheaval. President Yoon Suk-yeol declared martial law under the pretext of national security, and the military seized control of major cities. Freedoms of assembly and expression were suppressed, and the daily lives of citizens were strictly monitored. Yet, even under such control, there was a generation determined not to remain silent: South Korea's MZ generation. The MZ generation found their own unique way of resisting—not through traditional means, but with lightsticks in hand, illuminating the darkness of oppression and showing their support for democracy. Lightsticks, symbols of the K-POP fandom, had long represented the unity and passion of music lovers. But that night, they took on a far greater meaning. They became a symbol of hope and support for democracy. In the streets of Seoul, citizens gathered with their lightsticks, creating a stunning display of diversity an...
Photo Credit = Pixabay South Korea is one of the world’s most cashless societies, leading the transition to a "cashless economy." With mobile payments and digital wallets becoming integral to daily life, especially among younger generations, this shift is not just about convenience—it’s reshaping how people live and interact in modern society. 1. What is a Cashless Society? A cashless society is one where physical money is rarely used, with transactions instead carried out through digital means like credit cards, mobile apps, QR codes, and NFC (Near-Field Communication). South Korea is at the forefront of this global trend. As of 2024, less than 10% of transactions involve cash, and digital payment methods dominate. Even traditional markets, once reliant on cash, now commonly accept QR codes and card payments. 2. Mobile Payments and Lifestyle Changes Among the Young Younger generations have been pivotal in driving the adoption of digital payments, embracing new technologies a...