In this blog post, we will examine how self-identity is formed in both virtual and real spaces, compare the similarities and differences between the two, and discuss the possibility of distinguishing between these two selves.   What is self-identity? In a nutshell, self-identity is the answer to the question, “Who am I?” This concept has been discussed in various ways by numerous scholars...

In this blog post, using the movie “The Matrix” as a starting point, I’d like to reflect on the distinction between the virtual and real worlds, their essence, and the meaning of choice.   Choices in the Movie: The Red Pill and the Blue Pill The movie “The Matrix” revolves around the central theme of the virtual world versus the real world. The protagonist, Neo, is presented with a symbolic...

In this blog post, we’ll take a step-by-step look at which to choose—the virtual world or the real world—based on a few assumptions.   Ever since humanity emerged as a thinking species and society has made tremendous progress, discussions about the virtual world have been constant. The 1999 film *The Matrix* is a prime example of this contemporary interest. Beyond the iconic scene of dodging...

In this blog post, we’ll explore the definition, history, specifications, advantages, and use cases of CubeSats—satellites small enough to fit into a bag.   What is a CubeSat? CubeSat is a portmanteau of the English words “Cube” and “Satellite,” originally referring to ultra-small satellites based on a cube shape. However, not all CubeSats are perfectly cubic. While the width and length are...

In this blog post, we’ll explore the concept, core technologies, and expected benefits of the smart highway—the cutting-edge road of the near future.   Smart Highway Overview These days, the word “smart” is attached to many things around us. Just as devices combined with computers—from smartphones to smart TVs and smart home appliances—have transformed our lives, efforts have continued in...

In this blog post, I will explain why X-ray films have almost disappeared from hospitals and summarize the principles and advantages of PACS, the computer system that has replaced them.   The Landscape and Challenges of the X-ray Film Era In the past, it was a common sight in hospitals: after an X-ray was taken, the doctor would return to the examination room and insert the film into a light...

In this blog post, we will briefly examine the causes and implications of the collapse of the Twin Towers following the September 11 terrorist attacks.   Overview of the Incident On September 11, 2001, two hijacked Boeing 767s crashed into the upper sections of the World Trade Center Twin Towers (WTC 1 and WTC 2) in New York at 8:46 a.m. and 9:03 a.m., respectively. Although the buildings...

In this blog post, we’ll explore “tracking” technology—a key issue in the VR market—examining what it is, how it works, and what obstacles stand in the way of its commercialization.   The VR Market and the Tracking War In March 2014, public interest exploded when Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg acquired Oculus, a VR device company, for approximately 2.5 trillion won. VR stands for Virtual...

In this blog post, we’ll provide an intuitive explanation of the history and operating principles of mechanical televisions.   Introduction: The Emergence of TV and Contemporary Reactions George Orwell’s novel “1984,” published in 1949, depicted a bleak future where people were constantly monitored by screens everywhere. While some may recall the novel’s ominous vision when they see modern...

In this blog post, we will explain the principles behind TV’s delivery of visual and auditory information, and explore the feasibility and potential of conveying other senses, such as touch and smell.   The Principles of Information Transmission in TV Watching TV plays a significant role in modern life. In its early days, TV replaced or supplemented many aspects of radio with its ability to...