Forgotten Kingdom

Chapter 9: Modern Professions and Governance

As the days continued in Seoul, the group realized they needed to understand more about how modern society operated. They decided to delve into the workings of contemporary professions and governance to better grasp the changes since Jungkook and Jimin's time.

The day began with a visit to a business district, where sleek office buildings housed various companies. Jungkook and Jimin observed the bustling activity and the array of professionals in their business attire.

“What are all these buildings?” Jungkook asked, his eyes scanning the impressive skyline. “And what do all these people do?”

Taehyung led them through the district, pointing out different types of offices. “These are offices where people work in various professions. You have everything from finance to technology to marketing. Each building represents a different industry.”

Jimin looked intrigued. “In our time, professions were often tied to specific trades or crafts. But here, it seems like people work in many different fields. How does it all work?”

Yoongi explained, “Modern professions have become quite specialized. For example, there are people who focus on managing money, developing software, designing products, and even influencing public opinion. It’s a diverse and interconnected system.”

They passed by a tech company, where employees were engrossed in their work. Jungkook noticed a group collaborating over a large screen. “What are they doing with that screen?”

Taehyung replied, “They’re likely working on a project or solving a problem. In the tech industry, people develop software, create digital tools, and work on innovations that affect many aspects of life.”

Jimin marveled at the complexity. “Back in our time, we had simpler trades—blacksmiths, weavers, and farmers. This seems much more advanced.”

The group then headed to a government building, where the architecture was grand and imposing. Jungkook and Jimin were curious about how the modern government functioned.

“This building looks important,” Jimin commented. “Is this where decisions are made?”

Taehyung nodded. “Yes, this is a government building. Modern governments are responsible for creating and enforcing laws, managing public services, and ensuring the well-being of citizens. The process is often complex, involving various departments and officials.”

Jungkook and Jimin were taken aback. “How does the government make decisions?” Jungkook asked.

Namjoon explained, “In democratic countries like South Korea, the government is elected by the people. There are different branches, such as the executive, legislative, and judicial branches, each with specific roles. Elected officials make decisions based on laws and policies, and they are accountable to the public.”

Jimin looked thoughtful. “In our time, governance was quite different. We had monarchies and aristocracies. The rulers made decisions based on their power and lineage, and there were fewer mechanisms for involving the common people in governance.”

Jungkook nodded in agreement. “Our government was often hierarchical and centralized. It was a system based on tradition and power rather than the democratic principles you have now.”

As they continued their tour, they visited a public service office where people were seeking assistance. Jungkook and Jimin observed the various services offered, from social welfare programs to public health services.

“This is quite different from what we had,” Jimin remarked. “We had local lords and officials who handled such matters, but there wasn’t a centralized system for public services like this.”

Taehyung nodded. “Modern societies have established systems to provide services and support to citizens. These services are designed to address needs such as healthcare, education, and social support, ensuring that everyone has access to essential resources.”

The group then explored a news agency. Jungkook and Jimin were fascinated by the rapid dissemination of information. “How do they manage to report news so quickly?” Jungkook asked, watching journalists work at their desks.

Yoongi explained, “With advancements in technology, news can be reported almost in real-time. There are 24-hour news channels, online platforms, and social media that allow people to stay informed about events as they happen.”

Jimin was impressed. “In our time, news traveled slowly, often taking days or weeks to reach people. This is astonishing.”

As the day drew to a close, the group gathered at a café to discuss their observations. Jungkook and Jimin reflected on the differences between their time and the modern era.

“This world is so different,” Jimin said, shaking his head in wonder. “The way people work and the governance structures are beyond anything we could have imagined.”

Jungkook agreed. “Yes, it’s a new reality. The advancements are incredible, but it’s also a reminder of how much has changed since our time.”

Taehyung smiled. “Understanding these changes helps us navigate this world more effectively. It’s not just about adapting to new technologies but also understanding how societies function.”

Namjoon nodded. “And the more we understand, the better equipped we’ll be to face the challenges ahead and work towards breaking the curse.”

The group agreed, feeling more informed and prepared to tackle their quest. They were not just exploring the modern world but also gaining insights into its inner workings. The journey was unfolding in unexpected ways, but with each new discovery, they were one step closer to their goals.

As they continued their adventure, they carried with them the knowledge of both the past and the present, ready to bridge the gap between two worlds and achieve their ultimate objective.