Business Week released their list of the World’s Best Companies, and South Korea’s Doosan Heavy Industries and Hyundai Heavy Industries made the top five at fourth and fifth place, respectively.

[Business Week]

Not really. But for those who are biracial in Korea, military service may be in their future. According to a new proposal by 23 lawmakers, biracial Koreans may become eligible for mandatory military service in the near future. Interesting to see a Constitutional argument being made in favor of equal protection for a minority that has not even asked for the right to serve. Governing self-interest or self-interested governance?

Article at the [Korea Times]

What a find! Spending countless hours on the web has a purpose after all! An amazing piano version of Billie Jean.

[Youtube]

Said a fashion photographer at the Korea Fashion Week held on September 11, at SETEC in Daechi-dong. Colorful styles, futuristic fabrics, and ‘affordable recession couture’ were on display.

[Chosun]

Ever since the Lee Myung Bak Administration came into office, one of the principal campaign promises was to reduce the cost of private education. After fits and starts, the Administration is moving forward. (more…)

Korea Beat gives us the scoop on the rise of hagwons located inside officetel buildings. According a report by the Chosun, these non-traditional locations are distinct for their small size (in terms of pyeong the law dictates hagwons have to be over 100-pyeong). Imagine a one classroom hagwon located inside an 18-pyeong one-room officetel apartment and you get the idea.

Although lacking the sheer diversity of the Seoul food scene, Korea’s second city nevertheless packs a few punches of its own. In this southern city of mountains, sand and seafood, can be found some of the best eating experiences Korea has to offer. So, whether you’re a jaded Seoul-sider looking to escape the summer heat of the city for Busan’s marginally cooler climes, or a local hungry for something a bit different, follow my tips to find out what’s cooking and where with my five Busan food adventures. (more…)

If you haven’t seen Jang Ki Ha & The Faces live recently, then here’s a treat! A bohemian voice of a generation of hip & underemployed, his folksy rock songs about the quarterlife are catching fire:

[Youtube]

The pop dance troupe Pussycat Dolls were in town for the first time on Saturday, appearing at Olympic Park in Southern Seoul. [Korea Times]

[source: Youtube]