[Anchor Lead]
Many regions were hit hard by the severe rain Wednesday including southern Seoul, which is particularly prone to flooding.
[Pkg]
The area near Gangnam Station in Seoul was submerged shortly after the torrential rain began pouring down on Wednesday. In a matter of seconds the motorways were flooded, leaving cars stranded in water. The situation was similar in the area near Sadang Station, which has also been prone to flooding. Ever since the area saw severe flooding last year, it has been repeatedly inundated every time with heavy rain. This is the fifth flood since 2000. These two low-lying areas are especially vulnerable to floods as they contain many high-rise buildings and paved roads. To make matters worse, their sewage facilities cannot process the large amounts of rainwater, which eventually comes back out when it rains heavily. Another culprit behind the rising flood damage in Seoul is the growing amount of paved streets. 50 years ago 40 percent of rainwater in Seoul was absorbed into the ground, but these days the amount has been reduced to just half. Experts call for expanding sewage and rainwater retention facilities in the long term to prevent any more damage from the heavy rains.
2. Sex Slavery
[Anchor Lead]
Yesterday marked the 67th anniversary of Korea's independence from Japanese colonial rule. President Lee Myung-bak had some strong words for Japan in his Liberation Day speech, repeatedly urging the country to take responsibility for forcing Korean women into sexual slavery during World War II.
[Pkg]
In his Independence Day speech on Wednesday, President Lee Myung-bak called on Japan to resolve the issue of women who were conscripted as sex slaves during World War Two, calling the act a violation against universal values of mankind.
[Soundbite] Lee Myung-bak (President): “Japan's conscription of women as sex slaves for their soldiers is an issue concerning the human rights of women during wartime. It’s an act against the universal values of humanity and history. It’s an issue that goes beyond the bilateral relations between Korea and Japan.”
The president's remarks are interpreted as a signal to Japan that Tokyo should make a dramatic shift on its stance towards the wartime sex slavery issue in order to overcome a major obstacle that is preventing the two countries from strengthening their relationship. Lee's latest demand echoes the call he delivered to Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda at a meeting in Kyoto last December. The president stressed his determination to overcome the economic crisis, saying that while politicians face political tenure, addressing the affairs of the economy and the livelihood of the people must never end. Lee asked the political parties to make bipartisan efforts to overcome the economic crisis ahead of the upcoming presidential election in December. Turning to the inter-Korean issue, the president said that the South Korean government's consistent policies towards North Korea have begun to bear fruit. He added that it is now time for the North to seek changes. Aware of the grim reality that the North Koreans are facing, Lee stated that South Korea is willing to provide humanitarian aid to the North and resume the reunions of separated families. The president also added that Seoul is leaving the door open for inter-Korean dialogue.
3. Cultural Assets
[Anchor Lead]
More than six decades have passed since Korea's liberation but a number of Korean cultural assets that were looted during Japan's annexation have yet to be returned.
[Pkg]
This is the Byeokjegwan mansion site where Chinese envoys stayed during the Joseon Dynasty. There was a pavilion here with a hexagonal roof, a rare form. It disappeared during Japan's annexation of Korea. The hexagonal pavilion now can be found at a park in Japan. Hasegawa, the second governor-general of the then colonized Joseon, brought it along with him on his return trip to Japan. A five story stone pagoda of the Goryeo Dynasty which once stood on the grounds of a Confucian temple and school at Icheon, Gyeonggi Province can now be found behind a hotel in Japan. It is covered with moss, receives no sunlight, and is now crooked due to an earthquake last year. The priceless heritage has not been taken care of. In all, a total of 150,000 Korean cultural assets are located overseas; about half of them in Japan. But under the Treaty on Basic Relations between Japan and the Republic of Korea signed in 1965, the Korean government does not have the right to request the return of such stolen cultural assets. Civic groups are voluntarily running campaigns for their return, but Japan has hardly shown any response. As requests for the return of the Yeonjisa Temple Bell, one of the three greatest bells of the Silla Dynasty, grew stronger, Japan responded by banning all public viewing.
[Soundbite] Prof. Lee Sang-chan (Seoul National University): “A government organization in charge of having cultural assets returned should be launched to conduct thorough fundamental investigations and draw up realistic measures.”
Korea celebrates its 67th Independence Day, but may have to wait longer for its cultural assets looted during its annexation to be returned.
4. Eye Dryness
[Anchor Lead]
Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that occurs in the winter. But a growing number of people are suffering from dry eyes even in the humid summer.
[Pkg]
Lee Myung-jae has had dry eye syndrome for a long time. Lately, he had to seek medical help because his eyes have become even drier despite the humid summer weather and he felt as if there were foreign substances in his eyes. A growing number of people are suffering from dry eyes this summer because of the increased use of cooling devices due to the severe heat waves. Although many people are able to adjust the level of humidity in their homes during the winter by using humidifiers, only a few people pay attention to the humidity levels during the summer because many think that there is enough humidity with the sticky weather. Excessive use of fans and air conditioners also causes the eyes to dry out. Dry eyes should be treated at an early stage when there are symptoms such as itchiness and redness. If left untreated, the condition may result in severe pain, which can even hamper one’s sleep.
[Soundbite] Dr. Kim Sang-guk (Ophthalmologist): “In addition to simple dryness, it also causes a foreign body sensation or pain as well as blurred vision. You can prevent it from eliminating all environmental factors and using eye drops.”
To prevent dry eyes in the summer, experts advise staying hydrated and maintaining the indoor humidity level at 60 percent.
5. Luxury Brands
[Anchor Lead]
Koreans’ love for luxury brands from abroad has created significant growth for such companies here over the past few years. However, it’s being discovered that a large portion of their revenues go back to their headquarters overseas, and little is left for making donations in their host country.
[Pkg]
Forty two of 55 brands located on the first floor of this large department store in Seoul are overseas luxury brands. Their number has been growing steadily along with impressive revenue figures. A survey conducted by Chaebul.com shows that the sales revenues of the top-10 overseas luxury brands in Korea have grown 2.9 times over the past six years, while their net income has more than quadrupled. But these lucrative overseas luxury brands send a significant portion of their revenues to their headquarters abroad. One of them, Sisley, sends a whopping 88 percent of its net income to its headquarters. On average, overseas brands send 39 percent of their sales to their home countries.
[Soundbite] Jeong Seon-seop (Chaebul.com): “By letting them take their profits reaped from Korean consumers thanks to their high-dividend policy, we eventually lose our national wealth.”
Though overseas luxury brands are keen on reaping profits in Korea, they are quite stingy when it comes to donating to their local communities. Of more than 600 million dollars that the ten luxury brands have earned over the past six years in Korea, only 880,000 dollars have been donated to society. That's just 0.14 percent of their net income. Overseas luxury brands are under fire for pursuing their own profits while avoiding their social responsibilities.
6. Saving Energy
[Anchor Lead]
As the scorching weather stretches on, the demand for power remains high. And as people use more and more energy to keep themselves cool, the warnings continue of possible power shortages. However, a village in Imsil, North Jeolla Province, isn’t worried. Here’s why.
[Pkg]
When the heat wave was at its hottest, companies reduce their usage of large electronic billboards and the Seoul government cut down on the amount of water being used in the city fountains. The operations of the signboard and fountain had break times to help decrease the use of electricity in light of the surging power consumption and plunging power reserves. But this village of some 30 families is not concerned about a possible power shortage despite the continuing heat waves. The residents of Junggeum Village in North Jeolla Province use electricity generated through solar energy panels installed on their rooftops. Sometimes the gauge would run backwards since the amount of electricity produced is greater than the amount of power consumed. Residents of this village strictly follow energy-saving measures in their everyday lives. And the village generates 60 percent of its power needs. Its goal is to become self-reliant in energy use by using the methane gas produced from the manure of livestock animals. The environment-friendly, green energy village is presenting an alternative solution to the power crisis.
7. Innovative Schools
[Anchor Lead]
Many schools in rural areas are having a tough time attracting more students, but some such schools are enjoying growing popularity and seeing an increase in their student populations. Let's take a look at what makes these schools special.
[Pkg]
Eun-byul, a second grader, enjoys going to her elementary school. Here, she can learn anything she wants from the violin to the flute. Students here are taking a computer class preparing for a PowerPoint skill test.
[Soundbite] “This school is more interesting than others. I have more friends here.”
One of the school's attractive points is that it operates free daycare and after-school classes throughout the year, even during vacations and on Saturdays. Dozens of students have moved in from city schools. The rural school has seen the number of transferred students increase from 32 to 63 students in just a year. This rural school was once on the verge of closing down but is now seeing more students transfer from city schools. The school's education is focused on helping students nurture their own dreams. Each of the students already have a clear vision about what they want to be when they grow up. The school supports its students' dreams by providing opportunities for various interactive programs and camps, where they can meet students from prestigious universities. Thirty-four percent of 974 schools in South Gyeongsang Province are on the brink of mergers or shutting down. But the small, yet conspicuous changes made by some rural schools are presenting newer alternatives and serving as examples for other schools.
8. Whales and Humans
[Anchor Lead]
We go now to an exhibition featuring photos of communication between whales and people.
[Pkg]
Water sprays out of a humpback whale’s blowhole in the South Pacific Ocean. The giant humpback whale looks as if it is gracefully gliding along in the water. A photographer approaches toward the whale, waiting for the right moment to take photos of the animal. The whale and the man appear to communicate with each other. The whale, weighing in at more than 30 tons, can be quite intimidating at first sight. But it shows its gentle and friendly nature to people who show kindness.
[Soundbite] Chang Nam-won (Photographer): “The whales don't leave once they conclude, "This man won’t hurt me." They follow and mimic, the way people do.”
As can be seen from each of the photos, man and the wild can come together and interact with one another peacefully.
9. Bladder Syndrome
[Anchor Lead]
If you feel the need to go to the bathroom too often, it may be a sign that you have a bladder syndrome that can lead to serious complications if it’s neglected.
[Pkg]
Kim Ok-ye has been suffering from a secret problem for three years. She finds herself heading to the bathroom to urinate dozens of times a day. It makes it difficult for her to lead a normal life. She suffers from overactive bladder syndrome.
[Soundbite] Son Gi-jeong (Traditional Medicine Doctor): “They feel frequent sensations of needing to urinate, because their bladders have gotten weak and sensitive. They feel the sensation to urinate at even a tiny stimulus. They have overactive bladders.”
Many women with this bladder problem mistake it for something else, letting the disease get serious. Normally, you get the sensation that you need a pee when 300 cubic centimeters of urine fill the bladder. But people with overactive bladder syndrome feel the urge with only 30 cubic centimeters. There are key differences that distinguish this issue.
[Soundbite] “People with urinary incontinence feel that urine leaks against their will when they cough, jump or sneeze. People with overactive bladder syndrome frequently need to urinate, because their bladders are weak and can’t store urine long. So they feel the urge to urinate when a small amount of urine is in their bladders.”
Bladder irritation frequently occurs in postmenopausal women aged 50 or above who are experiencing a decrease in female hormones. Here are some simple tips for self-diagnosis. You should see a urologist if you go to the bathroom more than eight times a day or over two times at night, and if you avoid going out due to the frequent urge to urinate. Choi Young-soon completely recovered from overactive bladder syndrome. She has a few habits she maintains in order to prevent a recurrence. First, she records when and how much she urinates every time she goes to the bathroom. Overactive bladder syndrome caused her many inconveniences in her daily life. She was reluctant to go out and meet people.
[Soundbite] “Sometimes, I go to the bathroom more than 20 times a day. Even though I empty my bladder, I don't feel good.”
Incorporating pelvic floor muscle training called Kegel exercises into your daily life also helps ward off bladder problems. The exercise involves repeatedly contracting and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles. Overactive bladder syndrome can develop into cystitis if you don't drink enough water because you think you’re going to be constantly heading to the bathroom. It helps to frequently drink small amounts of water.
[Soundbite] Prof. Kim Tae-hyoung (Chung-Ang Univ. Medical Center): “It's better for you to relieve constipation and to drink enough water. Then, excessive caffeine intake isn’t recommended so you’d reduce it. Also, obesity isn’t good. Thus, you need to exercise and eat an appropriate amount of energy sources.”
If you find yourself in the bathroom more often than you should, you might want to get it checked out before the problem gets worse.
Many regions were hit hard by the severe rain Wednesday including southern Seoul, which is particularly prone to flooding.
[Pkg]
The area near Gangnam Station in Seoul was submerged shortly after the torrential rain began pouring down on Wednesday. In a matter of seconds the motorways were flooded, leaving cars stranded in water. The situation was similar in the area near Sadang Station, which has also been prone to flooding. Ever since the area saw severe flooding last year, it has been repeatedly inundated every time with heavy rain. This is the fifth flood since 2000. These two low-lying areas are especially vulnerable to floods as they contain many high-rise buildings and paved roads. To make matters worse, their sewage facilities cannot process the large amounts of rainwater, which eventually comes back out when it rains heavily. Another culprit behind the rising flood damage in Seoul is the growing amount of paved streets. 50 years ago 40 percent of rainwater in Seoul was absorbed into the ground, but these days the amount has been reduced to just half. Experts call for expanding sewage and rainwater retention facilities in the long term to prevent any more damage from the heavy rains.
2. Sex Slavery
[Anchor Lead]
Yesterday marked the 67th anniversary of Korea's independence from Japanese colonial rule. President Lee Myung-bak had some strong words for Japan in his Liberation Day speech, repeatedly urging the country to take responsibility for forcing Korean women into sexual slavery during World War II.
[Pkg]
In his Independence Day speech on Wednesday, President Lee Myung-bak called on Japan to resolve the issue of women who were conscripted as sex slaves during World War Two, calling the act a violation against universal values of mankind.
[Soundbite] Lee Myung-bak (President): “Japan's conscription of women as sex slaves for their soldiers is an issue concerning the human rights of women during wartime. It’s an act against the universal values of humanity and history. It’s an issue that goes beyond the bilateral relations between Korea and Japan.”
The president's remarks are interpreted as a signal to Japan that Tokyo should make a dramatic shift on its stance towards the wartime sex slavery issue in order to overcome a major obstacle that is preventing the two countries from strengthening their relationship. Lee's latest demand echoes the call he delivered to Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda at a meeting in Kyoto last December. The president stressed his determination to overcome the economic crisis, saying that while politicians face political tenure, addressing the affairs of the economy and the livelihood of the people must never end. Lee asked the political parties to make bipartisan efforts to overcome the economic crisis ahead of the upcoming presidential election in December. Turning to the inter-Korean issue, the president said that the South Korean government's consistent policies towards North Korea have begun to bear fruit. He added that it is now time for the North to seek changes. Aware of the grim reality that the North Koreans are facing, Lee stated that South Korea is willing to provide humanitarian aid to the North and resume the reunions of separated families. The president also added that Seoul is leaving the door open for inter-Korean dialogue.
3. Cultural Assets
[Anchor Lead]
More than six decades have passed since Korea's liberation but a number of Korean cultural assets that were looted during Japan's annexation have yet to be returned.
[Pkg]
This is the Byeokjegwan mansion site where Chinese envoys stayed during the Joseon Dynasty. There was a pavilion here with a hexagonal roof, a rare form. It disappeared during Japan's annexation of Korea. The hexagonal pavilion now can be found at a park in Japan. Hasegawa, the second governor-general of the then colonized Joseon, brought it along with him on his return trip to Japan. A five story stone pagoda of the Goryeo Dynasty which once stood on the grounds of a Confucian temple and school at Icheon, Gyeonggi Province can now be found behind a hotel in Japan. It is covered with moss, receives no sunlight, and is now crooked due to an earthquake last year. The priceless heritage has not been taken care of. In all, a total of 150,000 Korean cultural assets are located overseas; about half of them in Japan. But under the Treaty on Basic Relations between Japan and the Republic of Korea signed in 1965, the Korean government does not have the right to request the return of such stolen cultural assets. Civic groups are voluntarily running campaigns for their return, but Japan has hardly shown any response. As requests for the return of the Yeonjisa Temple Bell, one of the three greatest bells of the Silla Dynasty, grew stronger, Japan responded by banning all public viewing.
[Soundbite] Prof. Lee Sang-chan (Seoul National University): “A government organization in charge of having cultural assets returned should be launched to conduct thorough fundamental investigations and draw up realistic measures.”
Korea celebrates its 67th Independence Day, but may have to wait longer for its cultural assets looted during its annexation to be returned.
4. Eye Dryness
[Anchor Lead]
Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that occurs in the winter. But a growing number of people are suffering from dry eyes even in the humid summer.
[Pkg]
Lee Myung-jae has had dry eye syndrome for a long time. Lately, he had to seek medical help because his eyes have become even drier despite the humid summer weather and he felt as if there were foreign substances in his eyes. A growing number of people are suffering from dry eyes this summer because of the increased use of cooling devices due to the severe heat waves. Although many people are able to adjust the level of humidity in their homes during the winter by using humidifiers, only a few people pay attention to the humidity levels during the summer because many think that there is enough humidity with the sticky weather. Excessive use of fans and air conditioners also causes the eyes to dry out. Dry eyes should be treated at an early stage when there are symptoms such as itchiness and redness. If left untreated, the condition may result in severe pain, which can even hamper one’s sleep.
[Soundbite] Dr. Kim Sang-guk (Ophthalmologist): “In addition to simple dryness, it also causes a foreign body sensation or pain as well as blurred vision. You can prevent it from eliminating all environmental factors and using eye drops.”
To prevent dry eyes in the summer, experts advise staying hydrated and maintaining the indoor humidity level at 60 percent.
5. Luxury Brands
[Anchor Lead]
Koreans’ love for luxury brands from abroad has created significant growth for such companies here over the past few years. However, it’s being discovered that a large portion of their revenues go back to their headquarters overseas, and little is left for making donations in their host country.
[Pkg]
Forty two of 55 brands located on the first floor of this large department store in Seoul are overseas luxury brands. Their number has been growing steadily along with impressive revenue figures. A survey conducted by Chaebul.com shows that the sales revenues of the top-10 overseas luxury brands in Korea have grown 2.9 times over the past six years, while their net income has more than quadrupled. But these lucrative overseas luxury brands send a significant portion of their revenues to their headquarters abroad. One of them, Sisley, sends a whopping 88 percent of its net income to its headquarters. On average, overseas brands send 39 percent of their sales to their home countries.
[Soundbite] Jeong Seon-seop (Chaebul.com): “By letting them take their profits reaped from Korean consumers thanks to their high-dividend policy, we eventually lose our national wealth.”
Though overseas luxury brands are keen on reaping profits in Korea, they are quite stingy when it comes to donating to their local communities. Of more than 600 million dollars that the ten luxury brands have earned over the past six years in Korea, only 880,000 dollars have been donated to society. That's just 0.14 percent of their net income. Overseas luxury brands are under fire for pursuing their own profits while avoiding their social responsibilities.
6. Saving Energy
[Anchor Lead]
As the scorching weather stretches on, the demand for power remains high. And as people use more and more energy to keep themselves cool, the warnings continue of possible power shortages. However, a village in Imsil, North Jeolla Province, isn’t worried. Here’s why.
[Pkg]
When the heat wave was at its hottest, companies reduce their usage of large electronic billboards and the Seoul government cut down on the amount of water being used in the city fountains. The operations of the signboard and fountain had break times to help decrease the use of electricity in light of the surging power consumption and plunging power reserves. But this village of some 30 families is not concerned about a possible power shortage despite the continuing heat waves. The residents of Junggeum Village in North Jeolla Province use electricity generated through solar energy panels installed on their rooftops. Sometimes the gauge would run backwards since the amount of electricity produced is greater than the amount of power consumed. Residents of this village strictly follow energy-saving measures in their everyday lives. And the village generates 60 percent of its power needs. Its goal is to become self-reliant in energy use by using the methane gas produced from the manure of livestock animals. The environment-friendly, green energy village is presenting an alternative solution to the power crisis.
7. Innovative Schools
[Anchor Lead]
Many schools in rural areas are having a tough time attracting more students, but some such schools are enjoying growing popularity and seeing an increase in their student populations. Let's take a look at what makes these schools special.
[Pkg]
Eun-byul, a second grader, enjoys going to her elementary school. Here, she can learn anything she wants from the violin to the flute. Students here are taking a computer class preparing for a PowerPoint skill test.
[Soundbite] “This school is more interesting than others. I have more friends here.”
One of the school's attractive points is that it operates free daycare and after-school classes throughout the year, even during vacations and on Saturdays. Dozens of students have moved in from city schools. The rural school has seen the number of transferred students increase from 32 to 63 students in just a year. This rural school was once on the verge of closing down but is now seeing more students transfer from city schools. The school's education is focused on helping students nurture their own dreams. Each of the students already have a clear vision about what they want to be when they grow up. The school supports its students' dreams by providing opportunities for various interactive programs and camps, where they can meet students from prestigious universities. Thirty-four percent of 974 schools in South Gyeongsang Province are on the brink of mergers or shutting down. But the small, yet conspicuous changes made by some rural schools are presenting newer alternatives and serving as examples for other schools.
8. Whales and Humans
[Anchor Lead]
We go now to an exhibition featuring photos of communication between whales and people.
[Pkg]
Water sprays out of a humpback whale’s blowhole in the South Pacific Ocean. The giant humpback whale looks as if it is gracefully gliding along in the water. A photographer approaches toward the whale, waiting for the right moment to take photos of the animal. The whale and the man appear to communicate with each other. The whale, weighing in at more than 30 tons, can be quite intimidating at first sight. But it shows its gentle and friendly nature to people who show kindness.
[Soundbite] Chang Nam-won (Photographer): “The whales don't leave once they conclude, "This man won’t hurt me." They follow and mimic, the way people do.”
As can be seen from each of the photos, man and the wild can come together and interact with one another peacefully.
9. Bladder Syndrome
[Anchor Lead]
If you feel the need to go to the bathroom too often, it may be a sign that you have a bladder syndrome that can lead to serious complications if it’s neglected.
[Pkg]
Kim Ok-ye has been suffering from a secret problem for three years. She finds herself heading to the bathroom to urinate dozens of times a day. It makes it difficult for her to lead a normal life. She suffers from overactive bladder syndrome.
[Soundbite] Son Gi-jeong (Traditional Medicine Doctor): “They feel frequent sensations of needing to urinate, because their bladders have gotten weak and sensitive. They feel the sensation to urinate at even a tiny stimulus. They have overactive bladders.”
Many women with this bladder problem mistake it for something else, letting the disease get serious. Normally, you get the sensation that you need a pee when 300 cubic centimeters of urine fill the bladder. But people with overactive bladder syndrome feel the urge with only 30 cubic centimeters. There are key differences that distinguish this issue.
[Soundbite] “People with urinary incontinence feel that urine leaks against their will when they cough, jump or sneeze. People with overactive bladder syndrome frequently need to urinate, because their bladders are weak and can’t store urine long. So they feel the urge to urinate when a small amount of urine is in their bladders.”
Bladder irritation frequently occurs in postmenopausal women aged 50 or above who are experiencing a decrease in female hormones. Here are some simple tips for self-diagnosis. You should see a urologist if you go to the bathroom more than eight times a day or over two times at night, and if you avoid going out due to the frequent urge to urinate. Choi Young-soon completely recovered from overactive bladder syndrome. She has a few habits she maintains in order to prevent a recurrence. First, she records when and how much she urinates every time she goes to the bathroom. Overactive bladder syndrome caused her many inconveniences in her daily life. She was reluctant to go out and meet people.
[Soundbite] “Sometimes, I go to the bathroom more than 20 times a day. Even though I empty my bladder, I don't feel good.”
Incorporating pelvic floor muscle training called Kegel exercises into your daily life also helps ward off bladder problems. The exercise involves repeatedly contracting and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles. Overactive bladder syndrome can develop into cystitis if you don't drink enough water because you think you’re going to be constantly heading to the bathroom. It helps to frequently drink small amounts of water.
[Soundbite] Prof. Kim Tae-hyoung (Chung-Ang Univ. Medical Center): “It's better for you to relieve constipation and to drink enough water. Then, excessive caffeine intake isn’t recommended so you’d reduce it. Also, obesity isn’t good. Thus, you need to exercise and eat an appropriate amount of energy sources.”
If you find yourself in the bathroom more often than you should, you might want to get it checked out before the problem gets worse.
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- Flooded Areas
-
- 입력 2012-08-16 16:44:06
[Anchor Lead]
Many regions were hit hard by the severe rain Wednesday including southern Seoul, which is particularly prone to flooding.
[Pkg]
The area near Gangnam Station in Seoul was submerged shortly after the torrential rain began pouring down on Wednesday. In a matter of seconds the motorways were flooded, leaving cars stranded in water. The situation was similar in the area near Sadang Station, which has also been prone to flooding. Ever since the area saw severe flooding last year, it has been repeatedly inundated every time with heavy rain. This is the fifth flood since 2000. These two low-lying areas are especially vulnerable to floods as they contain many high-rise buildings and paved roads. To make matters worse, their sewage facilities cannot process the large amounts of rainwater, which eventually comes back out when it rains heavily. Another culprit behind the rising flood damage in Seoul is the growing amount of paved streets. 50 years ago 40 percent of rainwater in Seoul was absorbed into the ground, but these days the amount has been reduced to just half. Experts call for expanding sewage and rainwater retention facilities in the long term to prevent any more damage from the heavy rains.
2. Sex Slavery
[Anchor Lead]
Yesterday marked the 67th anniversary of Korea's independence from Japanese colonial rule. President Lee Myung-bak had some strong words for Japan in his Liberation Day speech, repeatedly urging the country to take responsibility for forcing Korean women into sexual slavery during World War II.
[Pkg]
In his Independence Day speech on Wednesday, President Lee Myung-bak called on Japan to resolve the issue of women who were conscripted as sex slaves during World War Two, calling the act a violation against universal values of mankind.
[Soundbite] Lee Myung-bak (President): “Japan's conscription of women as sex slaves for their soldiers is an issue concerning the human rights of women during wartime. It’s an act against the universal values of humanity and history. It’s an issue that goes beyond the bilateral relations between Korea and Japan.”
The president's remarks are interpreted as a signal to Japan that Tokyo should make a dramatic shift on its stance towards the wartime sex slavery issue in order to overcome a major obstacle that is preventing the two countries from strengthening their relationship. Lee's latest demand echoes the call he delivered to Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda at a meeting in Kyoto last December. The president stressed his determination to overcome the economic crisis, saying that while politicians face political tenure, addressing the affairs of the economy and the livelihood of the people must never end. Lee asked the political parties to make bipartisan efforts to overcome the economic crisis ahead of the upcoming presidential election in December. Turning to the inter-Korean issue, the president said that the South Korean government's consistent policies towards North Korea have begun to bear fruit. He added that it is now time for the North to seek changes. Aware of the grim reality that the North Koreans are facing, Lee stated that South Korea is willing to provide humanitarian aid to the North and resume the reunions of separated families. The president also added that Seoul is leaving the door open for inter-Korean dialogue.
3. Cultural Assets
[Anchor Lead]
More than six decades have passed since Korea's liberation but a number of Korean cultural assets that were looted during Japan's annexation have yet to be returned.
[Pkg]
This is the Byeokjegwan mansion site where Chinese envoys stayed during the Joseon Dynasty. There was a pavilion here with a hexagonal roof, a rare form. It disappeared during Japan's annexation of Korea. The hexagonal pavilion now can be found at a park in Japan. Hasegawa, the second governor-general of the then colonized Joseon, brought it along with him on his return trip to Japan. A five story stone pagoda of the Goryeo Dynasty which once stood on the grounds of a Confucian temple and school at Icheon, Gyeonggi Province can now be found behind a hotel in Japan. It is covered with moss, receives no sunlight, and is now crooked due to an earthquake last year. The priceless heritage has not been taken care of. In all, a total of 150,000 Korean cultural assets are located overseas; about half of them in Japan. But under the Treaty on Basic Relations between Japan and the Republic of Korea signed in 1965, the Korean government does not have the right to request the return of such stolen cultural assets. Civic groups are voluntarily running campaigns for their return, but Japan has hardly shown any response. As requests for the return of the Yeonjisa Temple Bell, one of the three greatest bells of the Silla Dynasty, grew stronger, Japan responded by banning all public viewing.
[Soundbite] Prof. Lee Sang-chan (Seoul National University): “A government organization in charge of having cultural assets returned should be launched to conduct thorough fundamental investigations and draw up realistic measures.”
Korea celebrates its 67th Independence Day, but may have to wait longer for its cultural assets looted during its annexation to be returned.
4. Eye Dryness
[Anchor Lead]
Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that occurs in the winter. But a growing number of people are suffering from dry eyes even in the humid summer.
[Pkg]
Lee Myung-jae has had dry eye syndrome for a long time. Lately, he had to seek medical help because his eyes have become even drier despite the humid summer weather and he felt as if there were foreign substances in his eyes. A growing number of people are suffering from dry eyes this summer because of the increased use of cooling devices due to the severe heat waves. Although many people are able to adjust the level of humidity in their homes during the winter by using humidifiers, only a few people pay attention to the humidity levels during the summer because many think that there is enough humidity with the sticky weather. Excessive use of fans and air conditioners also causes the eyes to dry out. Dry eyes should be treated at an early stage when there are symptoms such as itchiness and redness. If left untreated, the condition may result in severe pain, which can even hamper one’s sleep.
[Soundbite] Dr. Kim Sang-guk (Ophthalmologist): “In addition to simple dryness, it also causes a foreign body sensation or pain as well as blurred vision. You can prevent it from eliminating all environmental factors and using eye drops.”
To prevent dry eyes in the summer, experts advise staying hydrated and maintaining the indoor humidity level at 60 percent.
5. Luxury Brands
[Anchor Lead]
Koreans’ love for luxury brands from abroad has created significant growth for such companies here over the past few years. However, it’s being discovered that a large portion of their revenues go back to their headquarters overseas, and little is left for making donations in their host country.
[Pkg]
Forty two of 55 brands located on the first floor of this large department store in Seoul are overseas luxury brands. Their number has been growing steadily along with impressive revenue figures. A survey conducted by Chaebul.com shows that the sales revenues of the top-10 overseas luxury brands in Korea have grown 2.9 times over the past six years, while their net income has more than quadrupled. But these lucrative overseas luxury brands send a significant portion of their revenues to their headquarters abroad. One of them, Sisley, sends a whopping 88 percent of its net income to its headquarters. On average, overseas brands send 39 percent of their sales to their home countries.
[Soundbite] Jeong Seon-seop (Chaebul.com): “By letting them take their profits reaped from Korean consumers thanks to their high-dividend policy, we eventually lose our national wealth.”
Though overseas luxury brands are keen on reaping profits in Korea, they are quite stingy when it comes to donating to their local communities. Of more than 600 million dollars that the ten luxury brands have earned over the past six years in Korea, only 880,000 dollars have been donated to society. That's just 0.14 percent of their net income. Overseas luxury brands are under fire for pursuing their own profits while avoiding their social responsibilities.
6. Saving Energy
[Anchor Lead]
As the scorching weather stretches on, the demand for power remains high. And as people use more and more energy to keep themselves cool, the warnings continue of possible power shortages. However, a village in Imsil, North Jeolla Province, isn’t worried. Here’s why.
[Pkg]
When the heat wave was at its hottest, companies reduce their usage of large electronic billboards and the Seoul government cut down on the amount of water being used in the city fountains. The operations of the signboard and fountain had break times to help decrease the use of electricity in light of the surging power consumption and plunging power reserves. But this village of some 30 families is not concerned about a possible power shortage despite the continuing heat waves. The residents of Junggeum Village in North Jeolla Province use electricity generated through solar energy panels installed on their rooftops. Sometimes the gauge would run backwards since the amount of electricity produced is greater than the amount of power consumed. Residents of this village strictly follow energy-saving measures in their everyday lives. And the village generates 60 percent of its power needs. Its goal is to become self-reliant in energy use by using the methane gas produced from the manure of livestock animals. The environment-friendly, green energy village is presenting an alternative solution to the power crisis.
7. Innovative Schools
[Anchor Lead]
Many schools in rural areas are having a tough time attracting more students, but some such schools are enjoying growing popularity and seeing an increase in their student populations. Let's take a look at what makes these schools special.
[Pkg]
Eun-byul, a second grader, enjoys going to her elementary school. Here, she can learn anything she wants from the violin to the flute. Students here are taking a computer class preparing for a PowerPoint skill test.
[Soundbite] “This school is more interesting than others. I have more friends here.”
One of the school's attractive points is that it operates free daycare and after-school classes throughout the year, even during vacations and on Saturdays. Dozens of students have moved in from city schools. The rural school has seen the number of transferred students increase from 32 to 63 students in just a year. This rural school was once on the verge of closing down but is now seeing more students transfer from city schools. The school's education is focused on helping students nurture their own dreams. Each of the students already have a clear vision about what they want to be when they grow up. The school supports its students' dreams by providing opportunities for various interactive programs and camps, where they can meet students from prestigious universities. Thirty-four percent of 974 schools in South Gyeongsang Province are on the brink of mergers or shutting down. But the small, yet conspicuous changes made by some rural schools are presenting newer alternatives and serving as examples for other schools.
8. Whales and Humans
[Anchor Lead]
We go now to an exhibition featuring photos of communication between whales and people.
[Pkg]
Water sprays out of a humpback whale’s blowhole in the South Pacific Ocean. The giant humpback whale looks as if it is gracefully gliding along in the water. A photographer approaches toward the whale, waiting for the right moment to take photos of the animal. The whale and the man appear to communicate with each other. The whale, weighing in at more than 30 tons, can be quite intimidating at first sight. But it shows its gentle and friendly nature to people who show kindness.
[Soundbite] Chang Nam-won (Photographer): “The whales don't leave once they conclude, "This man won’t hurt me." They follow and mimic, the way people do.”
As can be seen from each of the photos, man and the wild can come together and interact with one another peacefully.
9. Bladder Syndrome
[Anchor Lead]
If you feel the need to go to the bathroom too often, it may be a sign that you have a bladder syndrome that can lead to serious complications if it’s neglected.
[Pkg]
Kim Ok-ye has been suffering from a secret problem for three years. She finds herself heading to the bathroom to urinate dozens of times a day. It makes it difficult for her to lead a normal life. She suffers from overactive bladder syndrome.
[Soundbite] Son Gi-jeong (Traditional Medicine Doctor): “They feel frequent sensations of needing to urinate, because their bladders have gotten weak and sensitive. They feel the sensation to urinate at even a tiny stimulus. They have overactive bladders.”
Many women with this bladder problem mistake it for something else, letting the disease get serious. Normally, you get the sensation that you need a pee when 300 cubic centimeters of urine fill the bladder. But people with overactive bladder syndrome feel the urge with only 30 cubic centimeters. There are key differences that distinguish this issue.
[Soundbite] “People with urinary incontinence feel that urine leaks against their will when they cough, jump or sneeze. People with overactive bladder syndrome frequently need to urinate, because their bladders are weak and can’t store urine long. So they feel the urge to urinate when a small amount of urine is in their bladders.”
Bladder irritation frequently occurs in postmenopausal women aged 50 or above who are experiencing a decrease in female hormones. Here are some simple tips for self-diagnosis. You should see a urologist if you go to the bathroom more than eight times a day or over two times at night, and if you avoid going out due to the frequent urge to urinate. Choi Young-soon completely recovered from overactive bladder syndrome. She has a few habits she maintains in order to prevent a recurrence. First, she records when and how much she urinates every time she goes to the bathroom. Overactive bladder syndrome caused her many inconveniences in her daily life. She was reluctant to go out and meet people.
[Soundbite] “Sometimes, I go to the bathroom more than 20 times a day. Even though I empty my bladder, I don't feel good.”
Incorporating pelvic floor muscle training called Kegel exercises into your daily life also helps ward off bladder problems. The exercise involves repeatedly contracting and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles. Overactive bladder syndrome can develop into cystitis if you don't drink enough water because you think you’re going to be constantly heading to the bathroom. It helps to frequently drink small amounts of water.
[Soundbite] Prof. Kim Tae-hyoung (Chung-Ang Univ. Medical Center): “It's better for you to relieve constipation and to drink enough water. Then, excessive caffeine intake isn’t recommended so you’d reduce it. Also, obesity isn’t good. Thus, you need to exercise and eat an appropriate amount of energy sources.”
If you find yourself in the bathroom more often than you should, you might want to get it checked out before the problem gets worse.
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