News

Rescue efforts continue for motorcyclist trapped in 20-meter-wide sinkhole in Seoul

2025/03/25 10:00

A massive sinkhole, 20 meters wide and deep, opened in a road in Seoul on Monday evening, trapping a motorcyclist and injuring a car driver. Rescue efforts have been ongoing for over 14 hours, in an effort to find the missing motorcyclist. Choi Min-jung reports. Rescue operations are continuing in Seoul after a motorcyclist fell into a massive sinkhole on a public road. According to authorities a sinkhole opened in the middle of a road in Myeongil-dong, Seoul at around 6:30 PM on Monday. The sinkhole is approximately 20 meters wide and 20 meters deep, affecting four lanes of a six-lane road. "We have been manually removing soil to search for the missing person underground. However, due to cracks forming on the upper part of the sinkhole, further entry was deemed too dangerous." The fire department said Tuesday morning, rescuers found the victim's mobile phone at 1:37 AM. The motorcycle was found at 3:30 AM. With tons of water and soil accumulated at the sinkhole, rescue workers in diving suits as well as a search-and-rescue dog continue their efforts to find the victim. Additionally, a car driver who passed through the area just before the collapse was injured and transported to the hospital. Schools in the area decided to close on Tuesday, as a precaution for student safety. As for the cause of the sinkhole, authorities have not ruled out a possible connection to the ongoing subway Line 9 extension project near the collapse site. Construction has been temporarily suspended after the incident. On Monday night, Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon urged enhanced safety measures to avoid additional casualties. Choi Min-jung, Arirang News.

On-point: Will we have to wait until April for Yoon's impeachment ruling?

2025/03/25 10:00

South Korea's top court has brought the country's Prime Minister back into office, but President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment ruling is still up in the air, with speculation that the ruling may not be made until April. We are joined by Professor Song Se-ryun. Good morning. 1. I'd like to recap Prime Minister Han Duck-soo's impeachment ruling with you first. 2. And how likely is it that Han will appoint the opposition-recommended Constitutional Court Justice candidate Ma Eun-hyuk as the ninth justice? 3. What happens if Han does appoint Ma? 4. Two of the 8 justices’ terms end on April 18th. If we pass that deadline, what happens to the ruling for President Yoon’s impeachment? 5. Patience is running out with the court yet to announce a ruling date for President Yoon. 6. President Yoon Suk Yeol’s insurrection trial is also ongoing, with the Seoul Central District Court having held the second preparatory hearing yesterday. Thanks so much for sharing your insight with us this morning.

Han Duck-soo calls for national unity as he returns as acting president

2025/03/25 10:00

After the top court overturned his impeachment, acting President Han immediately got back to work with a pledge to steer the country out of challenges, amid growing social division and the global trade war. Our political correspondent Kim Do-yeon reports. In an address to the nation after 88 days in suspension Acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo on Monday emphasized national unity. He especially called for politicians to work together amid multiple crises. "If there's one clear lesson we've learned over the past few years, it's that a society divided by extremes leads only to misery and fulfills the dreams of no one. The ruling and opposition parties, as well as the government, must truly change. And, I will start with myself." He also noted that during the 50 years he's spent in public service, the majority of the people in South Korea have wanted to make the country go up and forward not left or right. As for his return as the caretaker, he said during his suspension he thought deeply about what his last responsibilities would be if he were to return. He pointed out the global trade war started by U.S. President Donald Trump and said the world is currently facing an intensifying U.S.-China power rivalry following the inauguration of President Trump, along with a new wave of geopolitical shifts and the restructuring of the global economic order. "I will devote all my wisdom and capabilities to safeguarding our national interests in the trade war that has already become a reality. For the remainder of my term, every decision I make will be guided by what best serves Korea's industries and future generations. The entire Cabinet will move forward alongside me." Han was immediately briefed about the ongoing devastating wildfires in the southeast of the country. He also made orders to public safety officials amid the turbulent times. For his first lunch back, he ate with Cabinet members. There, he urged ministers to push forward on key issues directly tied to people's livelihoods with greater speed. And, he asked all Cabinet members and public officials across the country to do their utmost to ensure that every aspect of state affairs — including diplomacy, national security, the economy, trade, public safety, and administration — functions smoothly. Kim Do-yeon, Arirang News.

Acting President holds NSC on first day back from suspension, says security and economy go together

2025/03/25 10:00

Acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo says South Korea's security situation is more serious than ever, noting recent provocations by North Korea including missile and nuclear threats and cyberattacks. This came on Monday evening as he held his first emergency National Security Meeting since returning from 88 days of suspension and after visiting an area hit by wildfires in the nation's southeast. He also said that in current global conditions security and economic policies can no longer be separated. He added that due to this, all government ministries must work together as one team and cooperate closely to ensure that companies competing in the global market can secure stable supply chains and fully demonstrate their capabilities.

Firefighters continue battling wildfires

2025/03/25 10:00

Wildfires in Sancheong County and Gimhae, Gyeongsangnam-do Province have been burning for five and four days respectively on Tuesday, but firefighters have not yet fully extinguished the blazes. Some 15 hundred personnel have been mobilized to battle the Sancheong County wildfire, with over 85 percent of the fire extinguished. Forestry authorities are deploying 32 helicopters starting Tuesday morning to begin efforts to fight the fire from the air. Over in Gimhae, forestry authorities plan to increase the deployment of available firefighting resources, including helicopters, with the goal of extinguishing the main fire today. At least four people have died in the fires. Five people have been seriously injured, while 6 others received minor injuries.

Hyundai announces US$ 21 bil. investment plan in U.S. as executive chair meets Trump

2025/03/25 10:00

South Korean automaker Hyundai Motor Group says it'll invest a whopping 21 billion dollars into the U.S. through 2028, as part of its strategies and efforts to avoid being hit by Trump's tariffs. Lee Seung-jae has our top story. Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chairman Chung Eui-sun met with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House on Monday. There, Chung announced that South Korea's largest automaker will be investing 21 billion U.S. dollars in the United States through 2028. "Hyundai Motors entered the U.S. in 1986. Since then, we have invested over 20 billion dollars and now support more than 570,000 American jobs across all 50 nation states. Today, I'm pleased to announce an additional 21 billion dollars in a new investment over the next four years. Our largest U.S. invest ever." The investment includes 8-point-6 billion dollars for the automotive sector, 6-point-1 billion dollars for the steel industry, components parts and logistics and 6-point-3 billion dollars for future industry sectors and energy. Chung also announced that the company will open a new 8 billion dollar automotive plant in Georgia later this week,.. that will allow its U.S. car production to exceed 1 million units per year. According to the U.S. president, the 21 billion dollar investment will give Hyundai Motor Group a pass from his tariff policies. “Hyundai will be producing steel in America and making its cars in America. And as a result, they'll not have to pay any tariffs. You know, there are no tariffs if you make your product in America.” Trump also said on Monday that his administration will announce tariffs on automobiles "over the next few days." His remarks have raised speculation that new tariffs on cars could come before he announces his reciprocal tariffs on April 2nd. Trump also emphasized that Hyundai's massive investment is "clear" evidence that his tariff policy is effective. Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.

[Weather] Risk of wildfires remains dangerously high, bad dust levels nationwide

2025/03/25 10:00

Extreme dryness continues across the country, and the risk of wildfires remains dangerously high. Dry weather alerts have expanded into Gangwon-do and more southern areas. On top of that, strong winds are expected, along the west coast and eastern regions, where a strong wind advisory could be issued. AND this combination creates the perfect conditions for fires to spread rapidly. The wildfire crisis alert level remains at its highest in southern areas. If you're outdoors, avoid any activities that could spark a fire, like burning trash. Air quality is another major concern today, with yellow dust and ultrafine dust affecting the entire country. Pollution levels could briefly reach very unhealthy levels. Mostly sunny skies will be blurred with dust, and highs will stay on the warmer side. Seoul and Busan get up to 19 degrees. Much-needed rain is on the way tomorrow from Jeju and southern coastal areas spreading nationwide by Thursday. Meanwhile, let's do our part to prevent wildfires to keep communities safe.

Londoners use app to spot large Easter egg artwork around the city

2025/03/25 10:00

Finally, in the UK, London has turned into an open-air gallery with the launch of The Big Egg Hunt 2025 which runs from March 24 to April 27 ahead of Easter. The event features over 100 artist-designed egg sculptures, each standing about 60 centimeters tall, scattered across iconic locations within the city. Organized by the wildlife charity Elephant Family, the initiative, launched in 2021, aims to raise awareness and funds for Asian wildlife conservation projects. Participants can download The Big Egg Hunt app to track eggs they've discovered through QR code scans and unlock rewards along the way.

United Nations to scale down operations in Gaza amid renewed fighting

2025/03/25 10:00

The United Nations has announced a reduction in its operations within the Gaza Strip following a fatal incident involving personnel from the organization. An Israeli tank strike on March 19 resulted in the death of a UN employee and injuries to five others. In response, the UN spokesperson for Secretary-General Antonio Guterres announced Monday that the UN will temporarily withdraw around one-third of its staff members from the region. The decision follows escalated risks faced by humanitarian workers after Israel restarted military operations in the enclave.

Constitutional Court dismisses impeachment of Prime Minister Han; how will it affect Pres. Yoon's case?

2025/03/24 20:00

Welcome to Within The Frame where we bring the most pressing issues across the globe into focus, I'm Kim Mok-yeon. South Korea's Constitutional Court rejected the National Assembly's impeachment of Prime Minister Han Duck-soo today, clearing him of charges related to the controversial martial law plan and judicial appointment delays. The ruling—five votes to dismiss, five votes to uphold, and two to reject on procedural grounds—comes three months after Han was impeached for allegedly aiding President Yoon Suk Yeol's December 3rd martial law declaration. With the decision, Han was immediately reinstated as acting president and returned to government affairs without delay. But the implications may stretch far beyond Han himself. Legal experts and political observers are closely watching how this verdict could shape the Constitutional Court's approach to President Yoon's impeachment trial. To help us understand the legal and political impact of this ruling, we invite attorney An Jun-seong, into the studio with us. Welcome. Also joining us is Lee Hee-eun, Dean and Professor of Law at Handong International Law School. Great to see you, Prof. 1.(An) So attorney AN, this morning, the Constitutional Court dismissed the National Assembly's impeachment motion against Prime Minister Han Duck-soo. Of the eight justices, five voted to dismiss, one to uphold, and two rejected the motion on procedural grounds. What is your interpretation of today's ruling? 2.(Lee) Now to Prof.Lee, one of the issues at the time of the impeachment motion against Prime Minister Han was whether the National Assembly had met the required quorum. Han's side argued that since he was serving as acting president, the quorum for impeaching a president—not a cabinet member —should have applied. However, six justices concluded that there were no procedural issues. What was the reasoning behind this? 3.(An) Another thing to note is the National Assembly's argument that Han should be removed from office for allegedly conspiring or giving consent to President Yoon's plan to declare martial law. Yet, NOT only the five justices who voted to dismiss, but even the one who supported impeachment—Justice Jeong Kye-seon—concluded that there was NO violation of the Constitution. What was the reason behind this conclusion? 4.(Lee) Meanwhile, the Court did not make any legal or constitutional judgment on the December 3rd martial law proposal itself—an issue that could influence the impeachment case against President Yoon. Prof.Lee, How should we interpret the Court's silence on this point? 5.(An) That said, some believe today's decision could still influence President Yoon's impeachment trial. Though legally the two are separate cases, do you think today's ruling might offer clues about Yoon's outcome? What is your view? 6.(Lee) With the dismissal of the motion, Prime Minister Han has returned to his post as acting president after 87 days. The opposition is now expected to ramp up pressure to appoint Ma Eun-hyuk, especially since the Court previously ruled that the refusal to appoint Ma was unconstitutional. Prof.Lee, Do you think Ma will be appointed? And could this become a late-stage variable in President Yoon's impeachment trial? 7.(An) This ruling marks the Constitutional Court's first judicial decision involving a senior official over the December 3rd martial law plan. Initially, the Court had indicated that President Yoon's case would take precedence over others, but Han's case was ruled on first. Why was that? 8.(An) So yesterday marked 100 days since the Constitutional Court received the impeachment motion against President Yoon, but the Court has yet to set a ruling date. Why is it taking so long? How do you assess the drawn-out process? 9.(Lee) Some predict that a ruling in President Yoon's case could come by the end of this week. However, as deliberations are still ongoing, there's also speculation that the verdict might be delayed until early or mid-April. When do you expect the ruling to be announced?

[Weather] Dry conditions across the country, dusty air continues nationwide tomorrow

2025/03/24 20:00

Currently, the highest level of forest fire crisis warning, "severe" level is in effect in the southern regions. In addition, the dry weather warnings have also been expanded and strengthened. With gusty winds blowing, it is very important to take extra precautions to prevent wildfires. Meanwhile, the air stays dusty across the country. Due to the additional yellow dust, the concentration of ultra-fine dust tomorrow will stay at "bad" levels nationwide. Please wear a protective mask when you are outside. Tomorrow morning will start warmly across the country with Gwangju and Daegu at 9 degrees Celsius, and Busan at 11 degrees. Highs will jump to 20 degrees in Seoul and Chuncheon, 24 degrees in Daejeon and Gwangju. Rain is expected on Wednesday on Jeju Island and the south coast, and it will spread across the country by Thursday. That's all for Korea. Here are the weather conditions around the world.

[Sports Round-up] New KBO season begins with record opening weekend attendances

2025/03/24 20:00

Time now to take a look at what's been happening in the world of sports. Joining us in the studio is our sports editor Paul Neat. Hello, Paul. Hello. Let's begin with baseball. The new KBO season got underway over the weekend. Yes, and it began with all five opening-day games on Saturday being sellouts. A total of 109-thousand-950 fans were in attendance. This is the second-highest for an opening day, and the third-highest for a single KBO matchday. Then Sunday saw five more sellouts -the first time the opening series has completely sold out. In doing so, the KBO set a new opening weekend attendance record of 219-thousand-900. The previous record was just over 214-thousand set in 2019. Last season the KBO achieved 10 million fans for the first time, with the league growing in popularity. But it wasn't all good news as reigning MVP Kim Do-yeong of the Kia Tigers injured his hamstring and will be out for a short while. But the Tigers said on Sunday that it is the mildest form of muscle injury. Moving on to football now. The South Korean national team is back in action on Tuesday night against Jordan. Yes, the second of two World Cup qualification matches in March. The 1-1 draw with Oman on Thursday means South Korea's path to the World Cup isn't as straightforward as it was this time last week. A win, plus Iraq either losing or drawing in their game with Palestine, would mean South Korea can qualify early as Iraq in third play Jordan in second in their last game. But Palestine are ranked bottom of the group so South Korea might have to wait until the next international break in June to book their place at the 2026 World Cup. The 1-1 draw was described by Hong Myung-bo as the worst display in this round of qualification. He said his players gave the ball away too easily and his team never seemed in control. He'll be expecting a better performance against Jordan on Tuesday in Suwon. But I understand that there will be a few key players out injured. Yes, what could have gone wrong, did go wrong on Thursday. Midfielders Lee Kang-in and Paik Seung-ho, as well as defender Jung Seung-hyun have reportedly left the squad through injury. The latter picked up a knock in the lead-up to the Oman game in training. Paik Seung-ho, who started the game, went off injured in the first half. Lee Kang-in came on in the second half with Korea looking to find another goal, but went down injured in the build-up to Oman's equalizer. Feyenoord midfielder Hwang In-beom could return, however, and has been seen back in training but there will be no replacements called up. Manager Hong Myung-bo had already been impacted by the injury to Kim Min-jae before a ball was even kicked. There are three games left, including Tuesday's. Korea are top of Group B, three points clear of both Iraq and Jordan. The top two will seal places in the World Cup. Alright, fingers crossed. Thanks, Paul. See you next time. Thank you.

People trek 'Korea Memorial Roads,' with national pilgrimage trails launched on Sunday

2025/03/24 20:00

Back on the local front. We shed light on a tour here in Capital Seoul that offers you the chance to join a trek that traces Korea's fight for independence. Our Kim Bo-kyoung was there. Thousands of enthusiastic trekkers began walking along the trail that starts at Baekbeom Square, on Namsan Mountain in Seoul. They headed along one of the "Korea Memorial Roads," national pilgrimage trails covering Korea's key historic sites. The patriots ministry launched this meaningful trail over the weekend, to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Korea's liberation this year. "South Korea's proud history has come this far after going through many hardships and challenges. The Patriots Ministry tries to remember this through cultural events such as trekking and camping." There are three courses in Seoul related to the country's independence. One that goes around the Jongro area, taking Tapgol Park where the Declaration of Independence was read on March first, 1919, a second route around the Seodaemun area, where trekkers can visit the Prison History Hall where martyrs were imprisoned during the Japanese colonial era. And last, but not least, the route around Namsan Mountain where people can visit the March 1st Independence Movement Monument. Not being a competition participants slowly walked along the trail, enjoying the scent of the newly arrived spring. The focus is not on speed, but on appreciating our ancestors' unyielding wish for independence. "By walking along the trail, tracing historic sites of the independence movement, people will be able to reflect on the courage and sacrifices made for the country's freedom." "I think this is a meaningful event because it lets people think about Korean history, which is easy to forget, once more." More 'Korea Memorial Road' routes are to be announced nationwide. Kim Bo-kyoung, Arirang News.

U.S. and Ukraine hold talks ahead of U.S.-Russia talks, as Russian drone attacks continue

2025/03/24 20:00

Over in Riyadh. Officials from Washington are to hold talks with delegates from Kyiv and Moscow for the U.S.-mediated partial ceasefire. Talks between Ukraine and the U.S. took place earlier than expected. Meantime, Russia and Ukraine continued to exchange attacks. Cha Yun-kyung has the latest. A day before the U.S. plans to hold separate meetings with Ukrainian and Russian delegates on Monday, Washington's technical team held talks with Ukrainian officials on Sunday in Riyadh. As part of Washington's shuttle diplomacy in Saudi Arabia, U.S. and Ukrainian officials were set to hold talks on Monday, followed by a separate meeting between U.S. and Russian delegates on the same day. However, it was confirmed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that Washington and Kyiv would hold the talks a day earlier. Following Sunday's meeting, Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov said talks with U.S. officials were "productive and focused," adding that the two sides addressed key points including energy. U.S. special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff expressed confidence that progress would be made with Russia and Ukraine. Speaking to Fox News on Sunday, Witkoff said he expects Ukraine and Russia to make progress on a ceasefire in the Black Sea after holding talks on Monday, which will "naturally gravitate to a full-on shooting ceasefire." However, the Kremlin, downplayed expectations of a rapid resolution on Sunday, saying talks were just beginning. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said in an interview that there are difficult negotiations ahead. U.S. and Russian officials began talks in Saudi Arabia on Monday to make progress towards a broad ceasefire in Ukraine, especially for a Black Sea maritime ceasefire deal. On the other hand, Russia continued attacks on Ukraine overnight with Ukraine saying Russia launched 99 attack drones, killing at least three people including a 5-year-old child. Cha Yun-kyung, Arirang News.

Top diplomats of S. Korea, Japan, China agree to work towards maintaining peace on Korean Peninsula

2025/03/24 20:00

Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul was in Tokyo this past weekend for trilateral talks with his Japanese and Chinese counterparts aimed at advancing partnership on security matters, including North Korea's nuclear ambitions. Our foreign affairs correspondent Bae Eun-ji covers the latest diplomatic endeavor. South Korea's foreign minister Cho Tae-yul sat down for talks with his Japanese and Chinese counterparts in Tokyo, as the three countries seek to boost cooperation for regional peace amid geopolitical uncertainties. This is the first time that they've met since November 2023. In a press conference following the meeting that took place in Tokyo on Saturday, Cho said they have agreed that it's in the three countries' common interest to maintain security on the Korean peninsula. He also added that they addressed the issue of illegal cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow. "I stressed that illegal military cooperation between Russia and North Korea must come to an end immediately and that the North should not be rewarded for its wrongdoings, in the course of ending the war in Ukraine." Japanese foreign minister Takeshi Iwaya noted that the the world is at a 'turning point in history,'.. and showed concerns about evolving threats from North Korea. "Regarding the current international situation, I expressed my concerns about North Korea's nuclear and missile development, cryptocurrency thefts, and cooperation with Russia as regional threats." Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi described the current situation on the Korean peninsula as complex and sensitive while adding that all parties must "meet each other halfway" and "show goodwill." On economic issues, he said the three countries are looking to push forward with regional economic integration including the resumption of a free trade agreement. "The three parties are maintaining communication on restarting the negotiations on the free trade agreement, and strive to resume them as soon as possible." The three officials also agreed to speed up efforts to hold a summit between their leaders as soon as possible, at a mutually convenient date. Bae Eun-ji, Arirang News.

Uiseong wildfires enter day 3 as fires rage across S. Korea

2025/03/24 20:00

The wildfires in Gyeongsangbuk-do Province have now entered their third day. Despite major firefighting efforts, strong winds continue to spread the flames, making the difficult situation even worse. Hundreds of residents have been forced to evacuate. Our Kim Jung-sil has the latest. The wildfires in Uiseong-gun county, Gyeongsangbuk-do Province, are now in their third day. The flames have spread to neighboring Andong city, prompting evacuation orders as strong winds worsen the situation. The containment rate has dropped from 71% at noon on Monday to just 65% by 3 p.m. Wind gusts reaching over 125 kilometers per hour have worsened the situation as the flames spread rapidly. As of Monday afternoon, over 110 buildings, including homes and warehouses, have been destroyed in Uiseong, along with 90 hectares of crops. More than 1,700 evacuees have sought shelter in local facilities, with the number expected to rise. Firefighting helicopters are working continuously, but with stronger winds and nightfall approaching, containment remains a challenge. On the day of his reinstatement, Acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo visited the wildfire command center and shelters in Uiseong to support displaced residents. He stressed the importance of protecting firefighting personnel and ensuring aid for affected communities, including housing and financial assistance. At least 27 locations nationwide are being affected by simultaneous wildfires that broke out over the weekend. Four firefighting personnel have lost their lives while battling the flames in southern Gyeongsangnam-do Province. Officials are urging residents to stay informed and evacuate when instructed. Kim Jung-sil, Arirang News.

Rival parties show mixed reactions after Court dismisses impeachment motion against PM

2025/03/24 20:00

Following the Court's decision, rival political parties showed different responses. Our National Assembly correspondent Shin Ha-young has the details. The Constitutional Court's ruling on Prime Minister Han Duck-soo's impeachment has brought mixed reactions from the rival parties. The ruling People Power Party welcomed the Court's decision to dismiss Han's impeachment, saying it was expected and describing the ruling as a warning against the opposition party's use of impeachment legislation. "It was a strong warning from the Court against the opposition party's reckless legislation. It has lost all nine cases --a historic defeat." The party floor leader Kweon Seong-dong, however, expressed deep regret over the Court's decision to set the required votes for passing an impeachment motion against an acting president at 151 seats. The PPP has been arguing that Han's impeachment should be treated like a presidential impeachment, which requires the support of two-thirds of lawmakers, or 200 votes out of 300. Kweon argued that this effectively allows unlimited impeachment motions against acting presidents, calling it a dangerous precedent. The PPP said on Monday that its lawmakers have proposed an amendment to the National Assembly Act to prevent abuse of impeachment rules in the future. The party's policy chief Kim Sang-hoon said that the bill would require lawmakers or parties that initiate an impeachment motion to cover the procedural costs if the Constitutional Court dismisses or rejects the case. The main opposition Democratic Party, which was at the forefront of the opposition-led push in the National Assembly to remove Han from office, expressed regret over the ruling. "We have to respect the decision, but I wonder if the public will accept why this clear and deliberate violation of the constitutional duty to form a constitutional body wasn't enough for impeachment." DP floor leader Park Chan-dae also emphasized that the Court confirmed it was unconstitutional not to appoint justice nominees, urging Prime Minister Han, who also resumed his role as the Acting President, who also resumed his role as the Acting President, to appoint justice nominee Ma Eun-hyuk immediately. Park also urged the Court to deliver a verdict on President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment as early as Tuesday. Meanwhile, National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik said he respects the Court's decision, stating it resolves constitutional interpretation issues regarding the required vote to pass an impeachment motion against an acting president. Shin Ha-young, Arirang News.

Han Duck-soo calls for national unity as he returns as acting president

2025/03/24 20:00

Returning to his post as acting president, Han Duck-soo first pledged to steer the country out of challenges, amid growing social division and the global trade war. Our political correspondent Kim Do-yeon reports. In an address to the nation after 88 days in suspension Acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo on Monday emphasized national unity. He especially called for politicians to work together amid multiple crises. "If there's one clear lesson we've learned over the past few years, it's that a society divided by extremes leads only to misery and fulfills the dreams of no one. The ruling and opposition parties, as well as the government, must truly change. And, I will start with myself." He also noted that during the 50 years he's spent in public service, the majority of the people in South Korea have wanted to make the country go up and forward not left or right. As for his return as the caretaker, he said during his suspension he thought deeply about what his last responsibilities would be if he were to return. He pointed out the global trade war started by U.S. President Donald Trump and said the world is currently facing an intensifying U.S.-China power rivalry following the inauguration of President Trump, along with a new wave of geopolitical shifts and the restructuring of the global economic order. "I will devote all my wisdom and capabilities to safeguarding our national interests in the trade war that has already become a reality. For the remainder of my term, every decision I make will be guided by what best serves Korea's industries and future generations. The entire Cabinet will move forward alongside me." Han was immediately briefed about the ongoing devastating wildfires in the southeast of the country. He also made orders to public safety officials amid the turbulent times. For his first lunch back, he ate with Cabinet members. There, he urged ministers to push forward on key issues directly tied to people's livelihoods with greater speed. And, he asked all Cabinet members and public officials across the country to do their utmost to ensure that every aspect of state affairs — including diplomacy, national security, the economy, trade, public safety, and administration — functions smoothly. Kim Do-yeon, Arirang News.

[Weather] Dry weather warnings in place, ultra-fine dust nationwide tomorrow

2025/03/24 17:00

More than ever, we need to pay more attention to not leaving any embers that could become fires. The forest fire crisis warning level in southern regions is at a "severe" level currently. In addition, dry weather warnings are in place mainly in the east of the country. On top of that, strong winds of around 50 to 70 kilometers per hour are expected throughout the country today. The view is also stuffy due to the dust in the air. With the additional yellow dust flowing in, the concentration of ultra-fine dust will stay at "bad" levels nationwide tomorrow. Please wear a protective mask when you go outside. Tomorrow morning will start warmly across the country with Seoul, Chuncheon, and Gyeongju at 8 degrees Celsius. Highs will jump to 20 degrees in Seoul and Chuncheon, 25 degrees in Daegu and Jeju. More rain will begin on Wednesday in Jeju Island and the south coast, and it will spread all over the country by Thursday. That's all for Korea. Here are the weather conditions around the world.

World News: Israel orders evacuation from part of Gaza’s southernmost city of Rafah

2025/03/24 17:00

This is the World Now, bringing you the latest stories from around the globe. Israel has expanded its military operations in the Gaza Strip, targeting key locations and issuing evacuation orders in the southern city of Rafah. Over the weekend, the Israel Defense Forces intensified its offensive in Gaza, focusing on the southern city of Rafah. The IDF on Sunday issued immediate evacuation orders for residents in the Tel al-Sultan neighborhood, designating it a "dangerous combat zone." Thousands of Palestinians fled their homes, adding to the substantial number of displaced people in the region. Also on Sunday, Israeli airstrikes targeted the Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, the largest medical facility in southern Gaza, resulting in the deaths of at least five individuals, including a senior Hamas political bureau member. Another senior member of the Hamas political bureau and his wife have also been killed in a strike in Al-Mawasi. In Italy, Pope Francis has made his first public appearance in over five weeks, following a prolonged hospitalization due to bilateral pneumonia. The 88-year-old pontiff's return was met with widespread relief and joy. "Thank you all and I see this lady with the yellow flowers, she is good!" On Sunday, Pope Francis emerged from Rome's Gemelli Hospital, where he had been receiving treatment since mid-February. Appearing in a wheelchair, he greeted some 3,000 people outside the hospital. Expressing his gratitude, the Pope said thank you to everyone. While the Pope faced significant health challenges, including acute respiratory crises and early-stage kidney failure during his hospitalization, he remained conscious and continued his papal duties. Upon discharge, Pope Francis stopped at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major to offer prayers before returning to the Vatican. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney called a snap federal election on Sunday for April 28, aiming to secure a mandate to confront tariff threats from the United States. The announcement comes just nine days after Carney took office, following the resignation of Justin Trudeau. The urgency stems from U.S. President Donald Trump's recent imposition of tariffs on Canadian exports and suggestions of annexing Canada as a 51st U.S. state. Carney condemned these actions, labeling the trade war "the most significant crisis of our lifetimes" and asserting, "we will not let that happen." The election campaign is expected to focus on defending national sovereignty and addressing economic challenges posed by the U.S. On Saturday, the Earth Hour campaign united millions globally, in a symbolic action against climate change. From 8:30 to 9:30 PM local time, iconic landmarks dimmed their lights to raise environmental awareness. In New York City, the Empire State Building's tower lights were turned off. In Sydney, the sails of the Opera House went dark. Rio de Janeiro's iconic Christ the Redeemer statue in Brazil, and landmarks in Hong Kong and Tokyo also switched off their lights. Organized by the World Wildlife Fund, Earth Hour 2025 saw participation from over 180 countries and territories.Choi Chi-hee, Arirang News.