Here are some prepared QSL cards received from various Korean Broadcasting System domestic medium-wave stations from when we lived in Korea in the 1990’s. Some are local and some are from Seoul. All are direct and were reported in Korean.

The evolution of QSLing in the digital age has brought about significant changes, reflecting the shifting landscape of communication. Today, I had a firsthand experience of this transformation when I received an automated QSL from KBS World Radio mere minutes after the broadcast ended. With just a few clicks on their online reception report form, I initiated the process, and within seconds, confirmation was in my web browser. While I appreciate the convenience of modern technology, this rapid exchange left me feeling somewhat disappointed.

Amidst the efficiency of automated confirmations, I couldn’t shake the sense of nostalgia for the personal touch that once defined QSLing. There was a special feeling knowing that someone on the other end took the time to acknowledge my reception report, whether through a handwritten note on a paper QSL card or a thoughtful email reply. It’s that human connection, that sense of reciprocity, which added depth to the hobby.

For me, QSLing goes beyond collecting cards; it’s about forging genuine connections with fellow enthusiasts and broadcasters. Whether it’s a tangible memento in the form of a QSL card or a heartfelt message of gratitude, each acknowledgment reinforces the bond between listener and broadcaster. Despite the allure of instant confirmation, I find myself yearning for those moments of authentic interaction.

Yet, amidst these reflections and the disappointment of automated exchanges, my affection for Radio Korea/KBS World Radio remains unwavering. Their broadcasts continue to captivate me, serving as a reminder of the enduring power of radio to connect people across borders and cultures.