
Korea’s ‘Iron Rice Bowl’: The Rise (and Fall) of Civil Service and Teaching Careers
When lifetime jobs vanished overnight, South Koreans chased a new dream: unbreakable security in public service.
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This page gathers writing from an earlier season of my work, including posts on parenting, media literacy, communication, and cultural intelligence, along with some of my early Substack essays.
I’m glad these pieces still have a home here. But these days, I publish my current writing only on Substack, where I focus on Korea, its culture, society, history, politics, and everyday life.

When lifetime jobs vanished overnight, South Koreans chased a new dream: unbreakable security in public service.

How a Nation Rose from Crisis—Fueled by Protest, Blankets, and Unshakable Will

A civic reflex shaped over 500 years of Confucian thought, peasant uprisings, and a deeply rooted culture of holding power accountable—now driving Korea’s modern democracy.

Why Medicine Has Become the New Gold Standard for Success in South Korea

From reverence so deep you wouldn’t step on their shadow, to a day too awkward to celebrate.

A deep dive into the tradition, meaning, and modern-day challenges of Korea’s Parents’ Day.

Ever heard of Korea’s National Children’s Day? Dive into this unique public holiday for kids – its surprising history, joyful celebrations, and why it’s more than just gifts.