A new trend called "companion stones" has been sweeping Korea. Companion stones, as the name suggests, are stones that people keep as friends. People find comfort and stability through them.

Foreign media has reported on this trend, attributing it to Korea's overly fatigued and overworked society.

Professor Shin Jeong-su of the Korea Institute of Korean Studies,who wrote a thesis on the topic of "interaction between stones and people," offered a different perspective.

Korea has long been called an "overworked society."

However, the recent popularity of companion stone culture goes beyond simply interpreting it as a way to find comfort from overwork.

Professor Shin Jeong-su viewed companion stone culture from the perspective of a shift from anthropocentrism to posthumanism.

In the past, the dominant mindset was that humans dominated and utilized nature. Recently, however, the perception that humans and nature are equal partners is spreading. Companion stones are a cultural symbol that conveys the message that humans are part of nature and must communicate with and respect nature.

Of course, there is a possibility that the stress and anxiety of an overworked society have influenced the popularity of companion stone culture.

However, he argues that companion stones should be understood not just as stress relievers, but as a cultural phenomenon that explores a new relationship between humans and nature.

Communicating with Stones: Past and Present

The interaction between humans and stones is not a new phenomenon.

This culture, which began in the Goryeo Dynasty, developed further during the Joseon Dynasty and blossomed into Suiseok culture (rock appreciation culture) and Gwaeseok culture (bizarre rock culture) in the 19th century.

Reasons for the Companion Stone Craze

Disconnection from nature due to computer use: Modern people who spend a lot of time in front of computers may feel a sense of disconnect from nature.

Companion stones can provide comfort to those who want to feel connected to nature.

Inexpensive and easy to manage: Unlike companion animals, companion stones are inexpensive and easy to manage.

They can be an attractive option for those facing financial difficulties.

Emotional stability: Relationships with people can cause hurt, but companion stones can provide comfort and stability without emotional hurt.

From "anthropocentrism" to "posthumanism": Professor Shin Jeong-su interprets companion stone culture as an expression of posthumanism, a departure from anthropocentrism, where humans communicate with nature and objects.

Overworked society: Korea is known for its overworked society. Companion stones have become an alternative culture for relieving stress and fatigue caused by overwork.

Finding Your Own Companion Stone

It is recommended to find your own companion stone in the mountains or receive one as a gift rather than purchasing it from a store.

Companion stones found or received as gifts have a more special meaning.

Life with a Companion Stone

Companion stones are not just decorations but a way to connect with nature, find emotional stability, and reflect on the meaning of life.

The companion stone trend should not be simply dismissed as a byproduct of an overworked society but understood as a new cultural phenomenon that reflects the changing relationship between humans and nature.

This provides important insights into the values ​​and future direction that our society should strive for.