Author: Ruairi Casey

Tashkent, Uzbekistan – Viktor An, a 77-year-old photographer, has dedicated his life to documenting the Korean diaspora of Central Asia, known as Koryo-saram. Born in Uzbekistan after his parents were deported from Siberia, An found his calling as a photographer in his 30s, capturing the everyday lives of Korean inhabitants across the region. His work showcases the cultural assimilation of Koryo-saram over the years, from traditional customs to the influence of South Korean pop culture. With the rise of the “Korean Wave” in Uzbekistan, younger generations are drawn to Korean language and culture, reflecting a complex blend of identities. Despite…

The academic freedom of students in Germany is under threat as they face challenges in expressing their solidarity with Palestine and opposing Israel’s war in Gaza. Students across universities in Germany have mobilized through demonstrations, occupations, and sit-ins to raise their voices against the Israeli government’s actions. However, their efforts have been met with repressive measures by universities, politicians, and even police violence. Jewish students critical of Israel’s war in Gaza have also faced backlash, with some being labeled as anti-Semitic for their antiwar stance. The introduction of a new expulsion law in Germany to target students accused of anti-Semitism…