world

Seoul’s housing market is showing signs of renewed optimism, with consumer sentiment reaching a seven-month high in February 2026. This shift comes after a period of market uncertainty and declining sales, fueled by rising interest rates and economic headwinds. The improved sentiment suggests a potential stabilization, or even a modest recovery, in the South Korean capital’s property sector, a key indicator of the nation’s economic health.

The consumer sentiment index for Seoul’s housing sales market rose to 108.2 this month, according to data released by the Korea Real Estate Board. This marks the highest level since July 2025 and signals a growing willingness among potential homebuyers to enter the market. The index measures the overall perception of housing market conditions, taking into account factors such as price expectations, interest rate outlook, and income levels.

Several factors are contributing to the improved sentiment. The Bank of Korea has signaled a potential pause in its interest rate hikes, offering some relief to prospective borrowers. The benchmark interest rate currently stands at 3.50%, as of January 2026, after a series of increases throughout 2024 and 2025, according to the Visit Seoul official tourism website. Government policies aimed at easing regulations and providing financial support to first-time homebuyers are also playing a role.

Regional Stakes and Economic Context

South Korea’s housing market is particularly sensitive to economic fluctuations and government policies. Housing is often viewed as a key store of wealth for Korean households, and changes in property values can have a significant impact on consumer spending and overall economic growth. The Seoul metropolitan area, which accounts for roughly half of the country’s population, is especially crucial. A downturn in the Seoul housing market can have ripple effects throughout the national economy.

The recent uptick in sentiment also comes amid broader concerns about global economic slowdown and geopolitical tensions. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine and rising inflation in major economies continue to pose risks to South Korea’s export-oriented economy. However, the domestic housing market appears to be showing some resilience, potentially supported by strong underlying demand and a relatively stable labor market.

What to Watch Next

Looking ahead, the sustainability of the improved housing market sentiment will depend on several key factors. The Bank of Korea’s monetary policy decisions will be closely watched, as further interest rate hikes could dampen demand. Government policies aimed at stabilizing the market and supporting homebuyers will also be critical. The overall economic outlook and global geopolitical developments will continue to influence market conditions. Analysts will be monitoring sales volumes and price trends in the coming months to assess whether the current positive sentiment translates into a sustained recovery.

The N Seoul Tower, a prominent landmark in the city, offers a panoramic view of Seoul’s extensive apartment complexes, serving as a visual reminder of the scale and importance of the housing market to the nation’s economy. The tower itself, officially the YTN Seoul Tower, is a communication and observation tower located on Namsan Mountain, and was completed in 1971, according to Wikipedia.

What are your thoughts on the current state of the Seoul housing market? Share your comments below and let us know what you feel the future holds for property values in the South Korean capital.

As the Islamic holy month of Ramadan approaches, Syria prepares to embrace a time of spiritual reflection and deeply rooted cultural traditions. Despite ongoing challenges, the traditions of Ramadan remain a powerful symbol of Syrian identity, fostering social cohesion and reflecting the country’s rich heritage. From pre-dawn meals to evening gatherings, Ramadan in Syria is marked by unique customs that have been passed down through generations.

Central to the Syrian Ramadan experience are the strong bonds of community and family. The month isn’t simply about abstaining from food and drink, but about strengthening relationships and sharing blessings. This is evident in the enduring practices of “Takariza” and “Sakbeh,” traditions that highlight the importance of togetherness and generosity. These customs, alongside a distinctive culinary landscape, define the spirit of Ramadan across Syrian cities and towns.

The Traditions of Preparation and Sharing

In the days leading up to Ramadan, particularly in the Sham region, families participate in “Takariza,” a tradition of picnicking and celebrating the impending arrival of the holy month. Families gather in parks and gardens, enjoying food and anticipating the spiritual renewal that Ramadan brings, as reported by Emirates Today. Once Ramadan begins, the custom of “Sakbeh” takes hold – a practice where neighbors exchange dishes, showcasing the diversity and richness of Syrian cuisine. This reciprocal exchange of food is a tangible expression of neighborly goodwill and strengthens community ties.

The Syrian table during Ramadan is renowned for its variety and flavor. Essential components include fresh salads like fattoush and tabbouleh, lentil soup, fatteh (a dish of layered bread, chickpeas and yogurt), kibbeh, and stuffed vegetables. Tea is a staple after the iftar meal, breaking the fast, and traditional drinks like ‘arq soos (licorice root drink) and tamr hindi (tamarind juice) are particularly popular. Sweet treats such as halawat al-jubn (cheese dessert), qatayef, and awameh (fried dough balls) complete the festive spread. Regional specialties also add to the culinary diversity; for example, ma’amoul, a date-filled pastry, is a favorite in Aleppo, while fried, syrup-soaked bread is enjoyed in Damascus, according to Enab Baladi.

Social Customs and Spiritual Observances

Beyond the culinary traditions, Ramadan in Syria is characterized by a series of social customs. Family visits are common, especially in the early days of the fast, with extended families gathering at the home of the eldest member for the iftar meal. These gatherings are often accompanied by increased hospitality and generosity. As the sun sets, the streets come alive with the sound of the musaharati – a traditional drummer who walks through neighborhoods, awakening people for the suhoor meal (the pre-dawn meal), as noted by Qatar News Agency.

These Ramadan traditions are not novel; their roots extend back centuries. The traditions began to seize shape during the era of Nur al-Din Mahmud Zangi in the 4th century AH (10th century CE), and further developed during the Ayyubid and Mamluk periods, demonstrating a continuous cultural heritage. The vibrant atmosphere of Ramadan is also reflected in the bustling markets, which become centers of activity and memory, offering a space for communities to connect and prepare for the month, as highlighted by Qatar News Agency.

The Enduring Spirit of Ramadan

Ramadan in Syria is more than just a religious observance; it’s a celebration of cultural identity and social solidarity. The traditions, passed down through generations, reinforce a sense of belonging and shared heritage. As Syrians navigate ongoing complexities, the spirit of Ramadan provides a moment for reflection, renewal, and a reaffirmation of communal values. Looking ahead, the preservation of these traditions will be crucial in maintaining Syria’s cultural fabric and fostering a sense of hope for the future.

What are your thoughts on the importance of preserving cultural traditions during times of change? Share your comments below and facilitate us continue the conversation.

WASHINGTON — FIFA President Gianni Infantino pledged $50 million toward the construction of a new soccer stadium in Gaza during a meeting of President Donald Trump’s Board of Peace on Thursday, a move that underscored a burgeoning partnership between the two men. The announcement came as Trump touted the potential for FIFA to bring “the biggest stars in the world” to the region and even suggested he might travel to Gaza with Infantino.

The pledge, part of a $7 billion relief package for Gaza announced at the meeting, will fund a 20,000 to 25,000-seat national stadium, a FIFA academy, 50 “arena mini pitches,” and five full-sized soccer fields, according to FIFA statements. Infantino framed the investment as a means of rebuilding “people, emotion, hope and trust” in a territory devastated by more than two years of conflict between Israel, and Hamas.

“We don’t have to just rebuild houses or schools or hospitals or roads,” Infantino said, echoing a sentiment Trump appeared to embrace. “We also have to rebuild and build people, emotion, hope and trust. And this is what football, my sport, is about.”

Trump, who received a newly created “FIFA Peace Prize” in December, publicly praised Infantino’s commitment. He was photographed wearing a red “USA” hat with “45-47” emblazoned on it – a reference to his presidential terms – which was distributed to all attendees of the Board of Peace meeting. “You are going to build fields and bring the biggest stars in the world, people who are bigger stars than you and me, Gianni,” Trump said, according to reports from the event.

The planned investment comes as Gaza’s infrastructure lies in ruins, with entire neighborhoods reduced to rubble and basic services like water, sewage, electricity, and food production severely disrupted. The principal soccer stadium in Gaza has been destroyed and is currently serving as a makeshift camp for displaced families. Despite the devastation, a makeshift pitch has been constructed in the Jabaliya camp, where Palestinian amputees have been training and local teams have begun to play again.

FIFA had previously announced in October 2025, at a summit in Egypt, its intention to launch a fund to support rebuild soccer facilities in Gaza and the West Bank. The organization called for contributions from individuals and entities worldwide to support the effort.

While a unified Palestinian squad, representing both Gaza and the West Bank, has been recognized by FIFA since 1998, it has never qualified for the World Cup. Gaza does not have its own national team. The FIFA partnership with the Board of Peace aims to create a “complete football ecosystem” in Gaza, according to a video presented by Infantino, depicting children playing on new pitches and crowds cheering in modern stadiums.

The timing of the announcement coincides with the US, Canada, and Mexico’s preparations to host the FIFA World Cup 2026 this summer. Infantino suggested that the World Cup could be a vehicle for uniting the world, but emphasized the need for peace to achieve that goal.

The Board of Peace meeting also saw commitments from nine governments to contribute $7 billion to the Gaza relief package and from five others to deploy troops as part of an international stabilization force. The status of those deployments remains unconfirmed.