My old residence in Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang Province, is affectionately referred to as Silla University, thanks to my father s pioneering work in the field of Korean archeology.
On Jan. 20, Azerbaijan marked the 34th anniversary of a somber chapter in its history: the Soviet Army s military invasion and civilian bloodshed in Baku. In response to growing national independence movements, the Soviet leadership dispatched around 26,000 troops in an operation ominously named Strike. This forceful response aimed to suppress the burgeoning Azerbaijani nonviolent independence movement, fueled by discriminatory policies, territorial claims and mass deportations of ethnic Azerbaijanis. The resulting massacre was a blatant violation of international law and the Soviet Constitution.
It has been about a century and a half since the Treaty of Peace, Amity, Commerce and Navigation was signed between the Joseon Kingdom of Korea and the United States on May 22, 1882. Accordingly, Korea dispatched its first ambassador, Park Jeong-yang, to the United States as part of the Korean Legation in Washington in 1887.
I associate the legendary music icon Ray Charles (1930-2004) with the genius of American music, especially in the realm of soul music. His lasting legacy reverberates across genres and generations. Pioneering soul music in the 1950s, Charles seamlessly blended blues, gospel, R&B, rock, country and jazz, creating timeless hits such as Unchain My Heart and I ve Got a Woman. Over five decades, Charles earned prestigious awards, solidifying his status as a global music icon. His technical mastery and creative spirit transcended borders, races and time, influencing musicians worldwide. His soul-stirring performances broke barriers and left an indelible mark on the global musical landscape.
The Pran Pratishtha ceremony at Ram Mandir in Ayodhya on January 22 has invited representatives of more than 50 countries, including South Korea. The India-Korea connection and the historical ties between Ayodhya and Korea have been emphasized by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The legend of Princess Suriratna, also known as Queen Hu, who traveled from Ayodhya to Korea and started the Karak dynasty, is at the center of this connection.