News

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

2025/03/24 17:00

Up next 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.

Hyundai, Kia set to surpass 30 million cumulative sales in the U.S. 39 years after entering market

2025/03/24 17:00

Hyundai Motor and Kia Motors are set to hit a new milestone in the U.S. market this year with total car sales soaring past 30 million since entering the American market in 1986. According to the two automakers their combined sales as of February stands at 29-point-3 million cars over the past 39 years. Last year a total of one-point-seven million Hyundai and Kia cars were sold in the U.S. Company officials plan to further expand their presence in the American market by focusing on sports utility vehicles and eco-friendly vehicles.

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

2025/03/24 17:00

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 this 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.

U.S. and Ukraine hold talks 1 day ahead of U.S.-Russia talks

2025/03/24 17:00

In Saudi Arabia this past Sunday. Officials from Ukraine and the U.S. sat down for talks one day ahead of separate ceasefire negotiations between Washington and Kyiv as well as Washington and Moscow scheduled for this Monday. Lee Seung-jae reports. 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 later confirmed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that Washington and Kyiv would hold talks a day ahead of its meeting set for Monday. 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. The defense chief said that Ukraine was working to make its goal of a "just and lasting peace" become a "reality." 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." The special envoy also said he believes Russian President Vladimir Putin wants to end the war, stressing that "he wants peace." Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.

Wildfires spread in S. Korea amid strong winds over weekend

2025/03/24 17:00

Wildfires here that began late last week took the lives of four people including firefighters and forced over two thousand people to flee. What's more unrelenting winds have been hindering efforts to ease the blaze. Our Choi Soo-hyung has the latest. Houses completely burned down, with collapsed roofs and blackened walls. In Sancheong-gun County, Gyeongsangnam-do Province, the whole of Oegong Village was covered in smoke over the weekend, and six houses were destroyed. "The fire sparks were flying in all directions. With strong winds in the afternoon, the fire spread across the river." The wildfire started last Friday afternoon on a hillside in Sancheong-gun County and spread rapidly due to strong winds. Three firefighters and one government official from Changnyeong-gun County died while fighting the fire, and the county has declared a mourning period until March 27th. It is reported that it seems they were trapped while clearing embers on the mountainside as shifting winds reignited the flames. An area of around 14 square kilometers, about the size of 1,900 football fields, has been reduced to ashes. As of Monday morning, 65 percent of the fire had been contained. Large wildfires also broke out in other parts of the country, including Uiseong-gun County in Gyeongsangbuk-do Province and Ulju-gun in Ulsan over the weekend. The total area burned is about 87 square kilometers, roughly the size of 12,000 football fields. Nearly 160 homes have been destroyed, and around 2,000 residents have been temporarily evacuated. The Korea Heritage Service has confirmed that three national heritage sites, including a ginkgo tree, which was over 900 years old, have been destroyed in the fire. Currently, the government is deploying over 100 helicopters and almost 9,000 personnel to put out the fires. The cause of the wildfires has not been determined yet as the firefighting efforts are ongoing, but they are tentatively believed to be accidental caused by acts such as welding or from burning gardening waste from tombs or graves. The Korea Meteorological Administration said that the wildfires were made worse by the severe dryness in forested areas and strong spring gusts. Choi Soo-hyung, Arirang News.

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

2025/03/24 17:00

Meanwhile rival political parties have responded to the Constitutional Court's ruling against the impeachment of Prime Minister Han Duck-soo . I have our political correspondent Shin Ha-young standing by live with details. Ha-young it's great to have you back. So the reaction from lawmakers across the aisle stands poles apart I believe? Sunny, indeed, 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. Take a listen. "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 against acting presidents, calling it a dangerous precedent. The PPP said on Monday that its lawmakers 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. And what has the main opposition party been saying? Well, Sunny, 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. Take a listen to what DP leader said. "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 nominee Ma Eun-hyuk , urging Prime Minister Han, who also resumed his role as the Acting President to do so 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. That's all I have for this hour. Back to you, Sunny. All right Ha-young thank you for the latest on the political front. That was our National Assembly correspondent Shin Ha-young .

Finance Minister Choi orders creation of team to explain Seoul's stance on U.S. foreign policies

2025/03/24 17:00

The government will put together a task force to focus on the current Trump administration's tariffs as well as the listing of South Korea as a sensitive country by the former Biden administration. Intentions to this end were shared on this Monday by Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok during the weekly roundtable on global economic matters at the government complex. Highlighting the importance of staying vigilant on the trade front Choi also called for follow-up measures to recent talks between Trade Minister Ahn Duk-geun and U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright last week in Washington during which the two officials agreed to work together to "swiftly" settle South Korea's concerns over the sensitive country designation.

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

2025/03/24 17:00

Upon his return to his post as acting president Han Duck-soo urged for national unity with the focus on moving forward and not towards the left nor to the right. Our correspondent Kim Do-yeon has details. 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.

K-wave AI News

2025/03/24 14:00

Hello and welcome to your AI guide to the latest cultural updates from Korea. Here's our top story. Dozens of wildfires that have swept across multiple regions in Korea in recent days have caused damage to three national heritage sites so far. The Cultural Heritage Service reports that the 900-year-old 'Hadong Duyang-ri Ginkgo Tree' in Sancheong-gun County, Gyeongsangnam-do Province, was partially burned in the fire. In the same province, two annex buildings near the cultural heritage site 'Dubangjae,' which houses the portrait of General Kang Min-cheom from the Goryeo Dynasty, were completely destroyed. In Jeongseon, Gangwon-do Province, parts of the historic scenic site 'Baegunsan Chiljoknyeong' were damaged. Efforts to fully contain the blaze in the southeastern regions are ongoing but are being hindered by unfavorable weather conditions. An exhibition exploring the possibilities and limitations of generative AI and its impact on art is now open. The Coreana Museum of Art in Seoul is showcasing a thematic exhibition titled "Synthetic Fever," which examines the potential and constraints of generative AI, alongside the excitement and fears it provokes, through the perspectives of nine contemporary artists. It highlights how AI technology is reshaping the concepts of art and creativity, while also revealing its complex impact on societies. The exhibition runs until June 28. The annual Everland Tulip Festival has kicked off, welcoming visitors to a vibrant spring experience with over one million flowers from over 100 species, including tulips, daffodils, and muscari. Everland operator Samsung C&T Corporation says this year's festival offers an expanded lineup of globally popular Sanrio character-themed content for an immersive experience. The festival's main venue, the 10,000-square-meter Four Seasons Garden, showcases a dazzling array of spring blooms alongside 11 interactive experience zones. Visitors can also experience the festival's signature daytime and nighttime performances, including captivating carnival parades and circus shows. That's all from me. Keep it tuned to the Kulture Wave.

[Short-form] Trending K-food Among Foreign Tourists

2025/03/24 14:00

Explore some of the most popular Korean cuisines as foreign tourists go beyond bibimbap and galbi to uncover a broader array of authentic Korean flavors

[Kulture Issue] Implications of rising global video streaming platform production fees

2025/03/24 14:00

Recently, global video streaming platforms have been raising their production costs dramatically, affecting the content industry around the world, including Korea. Will these higher costs lead to significantly improved content quality or just become a bigger burden to content makers and users? Let’s discuss this issue with culture critic Professor Chie Hye-won at Kyung Hee University’s Arts and Cultural Management Program. Welcome Professor Chie! Q1. Let’s start with an example of a recent high-cost Korean drama, “When Life Gives You Tangerines“ on video streaming giant Netflix. How big of a budget are we talking about? Q2. What other Korean dramas were big budget productions? How did they turn out? (Were they all successful?) Q3. What’s the reason behind the rising production costs and how is the growing investment in Korean content by global producers affecting the domestic content production landscape? Q4. Spending more money on a production surely contributes to higher quality. but is it really necessary? What's your assessment Professor Chie? Q5. Skyrocketing actor salaries are also a major part of production costs. How are big budgets for superstars affecting production companies' budget allocations as well as staff pay levels? Q6. What about underfunded video streaming services or production companies? How do they keep their competitiveness in the Korean drama industry?

[K-enter] NewJeans (NJZ) temporarily suspend activities

2025/03/24 14:00

It's time for our daily dose of K-enter news with Walter Lee. Starting off with some big news on NJZ or NewJeans. NewJeans or NJZ have come back into the spotlight again, performing at a concert in Hong Kong. However, it might not have been the ending that fans wanted. On Sunday, after their set at the AsiaWorld-Expo in Hong Kong, NewJeans announced to the crowd that the performance might be their last for a while, adding that they have decided to suspend all activities in compliance with a court ruling in South Korea. In a controversial move by the group, the venue displayed the name "NJZ" instead of NewJeans on stage, and official merchandise was sold under the NJZ name. Also ADOR had sent staff to Hong콩 in an attempt to support the members as their agency, but they reportedly could not meet with the NewJeans members on-site. Sounds like an uncomfortable situation indeed, now going back to what's happening here in Korea with the court case. What exactly has the court ruled on? And did the group have anything to say about the matter? On Friday, the Seoul Central District Court accepted ADOR’s injunction request against all five members of NewJeans, preventing them from engaging in independent activities such as signing advertising contracts without the agency’s consent. As a result, NewJeans cannot operate independently until the first trial of the main lawsuit is concluded. As a protest against this lawsuit, all members have expressed their determination not to return to ADOR, even if it means suspending their activities scheduled under the agency. On Saturday, the group shared their disappointment over the court’s decision in an interview with Time magazine, making remarks that seemed to criticize the ruling. Their comments, which included references to Korean society and implied they were being portrayed as revolutionaries, sparked online controversy. A court hearing is scheduled for April 3. for the members to appeal their injunction. We have been keeping a close eye on this story so I am sure we will see more developments. Let's move on to something a little lighter with the boy group NCT Wish. Over the weekend, NCT Wish, the Japanese sub group of NCT, wrapped up their Seoul leg of their Asian tour titled "2025 NCT WISH ASIA TOUR LOG in SEOUL" which was held at the Olympic Handball Gymnasium in Seoul, with all three shows completely sold out. The concerts were also live-streamed, allowing fans from around the world to join in with the experience. Following this, at midnight on Monday, they released some additional teaser content on their official social media channels, revealing a detailed promotion schedule and further building anticipation for their new music. NCT Wish will continue their Asia tour with stops in Macau, Manila, Hong Kong, Singapore, Taipei, Jakarta, and Bangkok.

[Features reporter] How a journey through Korean history landed in Germany

2025/03/24 14:00

What do you have for us today? I recently found out that Korean cultural treasures are making a surprise appearance in Germany, with happiness at the heart of the story. They're currently on display in Dresden, also known as the cultural center of Germany. First, take a look. This gold crown and belt from Korea's 5th century Silla Dynasty, are making a rare visit to Germany, for the first time in over 60 years. These national treasures are part of the "100 Ideas of Happiness. Art Treasures from Korea," an exhibition at Dresden Royal Palace, a result of years of collaboration between the National Museum of Korea and Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden, one of the most prestigious museum networks in the world. The partnership began in 2017 when SKD showcased its prized collections to Korea. Now, the favor is being returned, with over 1-hundred-80 objects spanning from the Three Kingdoms Period to the Joseon Dynasty, making their way to Germany. Claudia Brink and Baik So-jin are the curators. "We start with works coming from the fifth and sixth century and up to the 19th and 20th century. And also, lots of genres, so we have sculpture, we have metal work, goldsmith work, precious objects, paintings, calligraphy." "From my field, that this opportunity to present the Korean heritage in this volume, really it's impossible. We had like this kind of like a comparable size of exhibition in 1999 in Essen and that was kind of like the last biggest exhibition in Germany." Though these artifacts differ in shape, size, and era, they share a common theme: happiness. "Figurative earthenware from the Three Kingdoms period reflects wishes for a good afterlife. The Korean folding screen from the GRASSI Museum of Ethnology in Leipzig, '100 Signs of Happiness and Long Life,' captures traditional Korean ideas of joy and fortune. We wanted to introduce Korean cultural heritage and also share a message of hope and resilience." This isn't just East meets West. It's a bridge between cultures, told through a story that never gets old. And in times like these, who couldn't use a little extra happiness? An exhibition with happiness at its heart is something we could all use more of these days. Yoo-jin, your report mentioned that this is the largest Korean culture exhibition to take place in Germany in well over two decades. Tell us more about its significance. Sure. One thing I'd like to highlight is the significance of the venue itself: the Dresden Royal Palace. The palace was nearly destroyed during World War II but has since been beautifully restored. According to Curator Kim from the National Museum of Korea, the fact that Korean culture is now being showcased in a space so cherished across Europe is a sign of just how far Korean culture has come. It's truly spreading its wings across the continent. As for the exhibition itself, it runs until August 10th, and several events are planned along the way. One highlight is Korean Week, from May 26th to June 1st, where visitors can try on hanbok, Korea's traditional attire, and experience a modern art performance inspired by Korean themes. More details will be announced soon. And just a quick note for anyone planning a visit. It's open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, except Tuesdays. And Yoo-jin, I hear this exhibition isn't the only cultural moment where Silla's golden crown is making an impression. That's right. If you found Silla's gold crown and belt featured in my report intriguing, you might want to check out BLACKPINK Jennie's music video for her recent track, "ZEN." Released in late January, it features a dazzling costume inspired by the Silla gold crown, which is what you're seeing on the screen right now. The designer says the outfit includes over one-thousand handcrafted metal embellishments, which is a bold fusion of heritage and modern style meant to highlight Jennie's unique charisma and connect past and present through fashion. It is a stunning reinterpretation of tradition. Yoo-jin, thank you for your report today.

Prime Minister Han Duck-soo returns to office, as Court dismisses impeachment

2025/03/24 10:00

Now, we've just heard the Constitutional Court has decided to dismiss Prime Minister Han Duck-soo's impeachment. Let's connect right away to our correspondent there. Q1. Soo-young fill us in on the verdict Han will be returning to office right? Yes, Dami. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo will resume his duties immediately as his impeachment has just been dismissed by the Constitutional Court. The eight-member bench ruled against the National Assembly's motion last December to remove Han from office, thereby ending Han's suspension from his position as prime minister as well as the acting presidency. The Assembly set out five grounds for impeaching Han which included abetting President Yoon Suk Yeol’s December 3rd Martial Law, vetoing controversial bills pushed through by the opposition, and, most of all, refusing to appoint three Constitutional Court justices recommended by the National Assembly. As the charges were highly political, and the motion vote was pushed through by the opposition party's simple majority in the Assembly, critics have argued that the two-thirds majority threshold for a President should have applied. The justices are now explaining their judgment in detail on each charge, as well as presenting various differences of opinion. But the fact of the matter is that they collectively agree Han should not be removed from power. Out of the 13 impeachment cases recently pushed through by the National Assembly, the Court has ruled on 8 and dismissed all of them. Q2. So he will return to his office in Gwanghwamun straight away? That seems to be the case. The Prime Minister’s Office has reportedly drafted a scenario for Prime Minister Han Duck-soo's reinstatement, and expects him to return to his duties right away. He's likely to be briefed by Deputy Prime Minister Choi Sang-mok who has been filling in as acting president during Han's suspension. Han may also convene with Cabinet members as well as the National Security Council to address urgent matters, particularly in trade, and diplomacy. His office has been coordinating a meeting with the U.S. Ambassador to South Korea Joseph Yun. Observers expect Han to deliver a speech to the nation, emphasizing his commitment to stabilizing governance. Q3. Now this verdict was delivered before President Yoon’s impeachment ruling, the date of which is still unknown. That's right. The Court still has not revealed when it will rule on President Yoon's impeachment, taking at least two weeks longer than expected. It's impossible at this point to know at what stage the justices are at, and whether they are united or divided in their opinions. Most pundits expect a ruling this Thursday or Friday which means the Court would give an advance notice tomorrow or Wednesday. But in the meantime, observers say the ruling on Prime Minister Han’s case could provide an early indication of how the Constitutional Court is reviewing President Yoon’s impeachment, especially when it comes to the legality of the martial law declaration. Some legal experts believe that because the court dismissed Han’s impeachment, it might signal a similar outcome for President Yoon’s case especially since some of the allegations overlap. However, others caution that the president’s case carries far greater political weight, and the justices may not necessarily apply the same legal reasoning. For now, Han’s return to office marks a critical turning point, but with President Yoon’s fate still undecided, the nation’s political uncertainty is far from over. Alright, we will continue to follow this story throughout the day. Thanks for your report, Sooyoung.

[Weather] Wildfires sweep South Korea, poor air quality nationwide

2025/03/24 10:00

Wildfires are breaking out across the country as severe dry and windy conditions continue. Today looks like another day with an extreme risk of fire. A dry weather advisory is in place, across the eastern regions. In particular, Daegu and the eastern coastal areas of Gyeongsangbuk-do are under a dry weather warning. Wildfire crisis alert levels are set at the highest, "Severe" for the Chungcheong-do provinces and and southern regions. Adding to the fire risk, strong winds will be sweeping across the country today. Even stronger winds in mountainous areas. Air quality will remain bad. Ultrafine dust levels will be in the "unhealthy" range across most of the country. On top of that, yellow dust from recent storms is moving which could further impact air conditions. Afternoon highs will be 2 to 5 degrees lower today at 19 degrees in the capital, Daegu at 24 degrees under partly cloudy skies. Much-needed nationwide rain will not arrive until Thursday, so extreme caution against wildfire is absolutely necessary.

Landmarks around the world join Earth Hour

2025/03/24 10:00

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.

Canada's Carney calls snap election, asks for mandate to tackle Trump

2025/03/24 10:00

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.

Pope Francis leaves hospital after first public appearance in five weeks

2025/03/24 10:00

Over 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.

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

2025/03/24 10:00

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.

K-pop girl group NewJeans temporarily halt entertainment activities

2025/03/24 10:00

The K-pop girl group NewJeans who recently renamed themselves as NJZ have announced the temporary suspension of all entertainment activities. NewJeans announced during their Sunday night performance at Hong Kong's 'ComplexCon' that they would pause all activities for a while, saying it a necessary decision. Their agency, ADOR, which is in a contract dispute with the group expressed regret and hopes to communicate with the members soon. On Friday, Seoul Central District Court accepted an injunction request filed by ADOR, and blocked the group from acting independently.