Death in any culture has predominately become a paradox of emotions. Throughout our lives we learn that death is inevitable and that it should be approached with acceptance, on the other hand, when someone close to us dies, we are filled with grief – even as we get older, our perception of death is one of trepidation. To overcome these feelings, we’ve turned to commemorating the memory of our loved ones withkeepsake memorials, from memorial tattoos to the revival of Tear Bottles.

However, for Kim Il-nam, his grief was one that he endured every day since the death of his father 27 years ago. In fact, his loss led  Kim to make a startling decision. Digging up the grave, he had his father’s bones cremated and paid $870 to have the ashes transformed into gem-like beads.

Another great article from Mysendoff - click through to read the rest!