Happy mothers': South Korean couple beat same-sex barriers to parenthood

14 Sept 04:45 Key points summarised by AI

A South Korean same-sex couple, Kim Kyu-jin and Kim Sae-yeon, overcame domestic legal and social barriers to parenthood by undergoing IVF in Belgium, with Kyu-jin now eight months pregnant.
South Korea's non-recognition of same-sex unions renders Kyu-jin legally single, excluding them from local adoption and fertility services designed for heterosexual married couples.
Sae-yeon will face significant practical hurdles, including no legal parental rights, leave, or guardianship for their child in South Korea, reflecting deep-seated societal stigmas against non-traditional families.
The couple is speaking out to raise awareness and advocate for a more inclusive society in South Korea, despite facing criticism and considering emigration if challenges become too difficult.

Lamphun in a New Light

Today 15:02 Key points summarised by AI

Lamphun illuminates its ancient city with two concurrent light festivals: the high-tech VIJIT Thailand @ LAMPHUN and the traditional Hundred Thousand Lantern Festival.
VIJIT Thailand @ LAMPHUN transforms historic landmarks into an outdoor gallery, using projections and multimedia to animate Lamphun's history, including Queen Chamadevi's story.
The Hundred Thousand Lantern Festival, part of Yi Peng, fills temples and streets with countless traditional lanterns, symbolizing Buddhist devotion and personal wishes.
These festivals offer a unique after-dark experience, blending contemporary light art with centuries-old Lanna traditions, connecting visitors to Lamphun's past and faith.