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Tag: tradition

  • South Koreans Bid Farewell to Dog Meat Tradition Ahead of Nationwide Ban

    South Koreans Bid Farewell to Dog Meat Tradition Ahead of Nationwide Ban

    Historically, the three warmest days of summer were the busiest times for South Korea’s dog meat eateries, with customers seeking traditional foods reputed to boost stamina during the intense heat. However, on the third of the hottest days, known as “boknal,” in 2026, a sense of finality was felt. This marked the last boknal before the total ban on breeding, slaughtering, and selling dogs for meat, which is set to be fully implemented in February 2027.

    At the Moran Market in Seongnam, once the country’s most prominent center for dog meat, lunch-goers continued to flock to the alleys filled with restaurants. Yet, many of these eateries have transitioned to serving other options like black goat stew, and the majority of customers who still ordered “bosintang” or dog meat stew, were predominantly elderly.

    Changing Times

    Kim Yong-book, the head of the Moran Market Merchants’ Association, lamented the decline. Kim, who has been working in the area near Seoul for over 40 years, described it as now being “a town of old people.” The ban marks a significant shift in South Korean culture, reflecting changing attitudes towards animal welfare as pet ownership increases.

    A 2024 survey showed that over 90% of 2,000 respondents had no intention of eating dog meat in the future, and over 80% supported the ban. Almost 95% stated they hadn’t eaten dog meat in the preceding year.

    The ban’s implementation will impact over 5,600 businesses, according to government data. However, officials have noted that most dog farms had already ceased operations in anticipation of the upcoming 2027 deadline.

    The Uncertain Road Ahead

    While some, like restaurant owner and former merchants’ association chairman Lee Kang-chun, agree with the ban considering South Korea’s global image and evolving societal attitudes, they also feel a sense of melancholy. Lee finds it particularly distressing when elderly customers, who believe the dish restores strength, leave his restaurant disappointed after traveling long distances only to find no dog meat available.

    Despite increasing supply costs and dwindling profits, Lee continues to serve the dish primarily for his loyal customers. He believes the authorities should provide more assistance to elderly vendors transitioning to new business models. Many Moran Market restaurants have switched to serving black goat stew, marketed as a health food, but owners report that the transition has been challenging and the new dish hasn’t compensated for the lost dog meat sales.

    Questions & Answers

    What is behind the shift away from dog meat consumption in South Korea?
    The shift away from dog meat consumption in South Korea is largely due to changing attitudes towards animal welfare and an increase in pet ownership.

    When will the ban on breeding, slaughtering, and selling dogs for meat be fully enforced?
    The ban will be fully enforced from February 2027.

    What is the impact of the ban on dog meat-related businesses in South Korea?
    Over 5,600 businesses are expected to be affected by the ban, with most dog farms already having ceased operations ahead of the 2027 deadline.

  • Bentley Unveils Sneak Peek of Torcal EV’s Interior, Marrying Tradition and Innovation Ahead of September Debut

    Bentley Unveils Sneak Peek of Torcal EV’s Interior, Marrying Tradition and Innovation Ahead of September Debut

    Bentley has provided an initial, comprehensive view of the interior design of its forthcoming Torcal EV, slated for its worldwide premiere on September 23. The Torcal EV will be Bentley’s premier fully electric production car, with the initial stages of assembly having commenced at the company’s Crewe factory in England in November 2025.

    Maintaining Physical Controls

    The initial glimpse of the car’s interior validates Bentley’s decision to retain physical controls rather than embracing a fully digital cabin. The Torcal features tangible buttons on the steering wheel and central console, encompassing controls for the air-conditioning system, audio, and the ignition.

    A contoured climate control panel is strategically positioned in the central console, presumably incorporated within the infotainment system. Temperature and blower controls exhibit silver finishes and textured surfaces, while a volume scroll wheel provides a tangible element. This approach is likely to appeal to Bentley customers who appreciate the functionality and tactile experience of traditional controls.

    Four Cabin Modes

    One of the distinctive features is the illuminated rotating dial surrounding the ignition button. This controls Bentley’s Curation Engine, offering four modes: Bentley, Comfort, Sport, and Refresh.

    These modes are designed to do more than just alter the car’s driving response. Bentley suggests that the Curation Engine can also modify interior lighting, sound, and air quality to create a unique ambiance for each mode. The goal is to tailor the car’s interior to adapt to the driver’s mood and the nature of the journey.

    Materials and Design

    The preview reveals light-hued seats adorned with embroidered Bentley logos and winged headrests. The door panels are a blend of fabric, carbon fiber, and leather, while the dashboard combines carbon fiber and wood trim. Round speakers, circular air vents, ambient lighting, and physical door-lock buttons contribute to the cabin’s meticulously planned design.

    The interior is expected to maintain the artisanal nature synonymous with Bentley, while incorporating a more modern layout for the electric era. The full cabin will be unveiled at the event in September.

    Electric Powertrain

    The Bentley Torcal is built on the Volkswagen Group’s Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture, which also powers the Porsche Cayenne Electric. It is forecasted to employ a 113 kWh battery capable of up to 390 kW DC rapid charging. Bentley has previously suggested that customers view a range of approximately 483 km to 563 km as a suitable benchmark for the model.

    The car is expected to feature a dual-motor all-wheel-drive layout, although definitive output figures are yet to be released. The launch of the Torcal was initially scheduled for 2025 but was postponed as Bentley reevaluated its electric vehicle strategy in light of decreased demand for luxury electric vehicles.

    Questions & Answers

    What is Bentley’s Curation Engine?
    Bentley’s Curation Engine is a control system providing four modes to adjust the car’s driving response, interior lighting, sound, and air quality.

    What is the expected battery capacity of the Bentley Torcal?
    The Bentley Torcal is expected to use a 113 kWh battery capable of up to 390 kW DC rapid charging.

    When will the full cabin of the Bentley Torcal be revealed?
    The full cabin design of the Bentley Torcal will be unveiled at an event in September.

  • Experience the Fusion of Innovation and Tradition at Hermes’ Revamped Sogo Fuxing Store in Taipei

    Experience the Fusion of Innovation and Tradition at Hermes’ Revamped Sogo Fuxing Store in Taipei

    The luxury brand Hermès recently celebrated the grand reopening of its outlet located in Sogo Fuxing Mall, Taipei. This event comes after a considerable period of renovations, reflecting the brand’s innovative and dynamic spirit that mirrors the vibrant essence of the city.

    Originating in 2007, the three-tiered store now boasts a modern look with its ceramic tile facelift. The French architectural firm, RDAI, is the mastermind behind the redesigned aesthetics of the Hermès store.

    Upon entering the establishment, visitors are instantly enveloped by a luxurious universe of silk. The space is tastefully arranged with fashion jewelry displays on the right and an enticing array of perfumes and beauty products on the left. Enhancing this opulent ambiance is the house’s signature Grecques lighting, adding a refined touch to the overall shopping experience.

    The redesign also features screen walls to define the space and accentuate Hermès’ commitment to local artisans. These walls are adorned with intricate thread compositions crafted locally and blended with Hermès silk offcuts, showcasing the brand’s marriage of traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design.

    As customers delve deeper into the store, they will come across an intimate and exclusive section dedicated to the brand’s exquisite jewelry and timepieces.

    Art connoisseurs will appreciate the store’s unique collection of artworks sourced from the Emile Hermès collection, as well as the Hermès ‘Collection of Contemporary Photographs’. These carefully curated pieces add an artistic touch, rendering the store not just a shopping destination, but a place of inspiration and creativity.

    In conclusion, Hermès stated: “This revitalized store welcomes both our loyal patrons and newcomers alike to explore Hermès’ timeless creations and craftsmanship within a bold, innovative setting.”

    Questions & Answers

    When was the Hermès store in Sogo Fuxing Mall, Taipei, first opened?
    The Hermès store in Sogo Fuxing Mall, Taipei, initially opened its doors in 2007.

    Who was behind the renovation and redesign of the Hermès store?
    The renovation and redesign of the Hermès store were carried out by the French architecture agency, RDAI.

    What unique features does the renovated Hermès store offer to its customers?
    The renovated Hermès store offers a luxurious shopping experience with its silk universe, fashion jewelry, perfumes and beauty products. It also showcases locally crafted thread compositions and a selection of artworks from the Emile Hermès collection and the Hermès ‘Collection of Contemporary Photographs’.