News

On-point: Why Trump may prefer smaller-scale deals with Kim Jong-un

2025/01/17 10:00

According to South Korea's intel agency, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump might pursue smaller-scale agreements with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. Why not big deals, something that Trump pursued and chased 6, 7 years ago? We're joined by Dr. Bruce Bennett. Welcome back. 1. Let's start with what these small-scale agreements could be. What could be included in these small deals? 2. Then why smaller-scale agreements? Why not big deals? 3. What would be the best idea for Trump to make Kim Jong-un come to the negotiating table? What kind of deals do you think have the highest chance of satisfying both Trump and Kim? 4. What should South Korea do so that it doesn't get left out of Washington-Pyongyang talks? Especially when things are rocky because of the political instability here in South Korea. 5. North Korea fired a hypersonic missile two weeks ahead of the launch of the Trump administration and another short-range ballistic missile one week ahead of the big day in the U.S. Should we expect another missile launch on inauguration day? What makes you think so? Are these provocations strategically planned moves by the North? Thanks so much for your time and your insight as always, Dr. Bennett.

President Yoon's impeachment trial debates begin as court rejects request for rescheduling amid arrest

2025/01/17 10:00

And the second impeachment hearing for President Yoon was carried out as scheduled on Thursday without him, where his legal representatives and the National Assembly's legal team exchanged some heated words. Our Oh Soo-young reports. President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment trial unfolded with intense political overtones, as the Constitutional Court proceeded without the leader at the second hearing on Thursday. "As a full-fledged debate began, lawyers representing Yoon and the National Assembly presented conflicting narratives about the legality and necessity of the martial law declared on December third." The National Assembly's panel presented five grounds for impeachment, declaring there was no basis or conditions that made it necessary for a martial law decree, which can only be triggered by the president in times of national crises such as war or those akin to war. The panel also said Yoon violated the procedure of declaring the decree, by not having properly attained and documented Cabinet approval. They also claimed Yoon tried to paralyze the functions of parliament by aiming to prevent a motion to lift martial law, as well as block political activities, gatherings, and press freedom. The Assembly's side further said Yoon tried to undermine the independence of the National Election Commission, and tried to detain judicial figures. "The respondent violated the Constitution, attempting to dismantle the Republic of Korea's constitutional and democratic system in one sweeping act." Meanwhile, Yoon's lawyers questioned the impeachment process, and emphasized the context in which the President felt forced to declare the fateful decree. The lawyers insisted that the President was initiating a peaceful martial law against the opposition-led parliament's series of attacks and impeachment motions against the incumbent government. "I'd like to ask how exactly you as the opposition-led Parliament have been protecting the political opposition which is the Administration, with your relentless attacks? You claim protecting the opposition is fundamental to liberal democracy and that hit me hard." Yoon's side also raised suspicions about election fraud, and claimed it was the President's duty to try to protect the Constitutional order, as the National Election Commission refused to accept investigations. They fundamentally argued that martial law should not be subject to judicial review, calling it an act of governance that can be exercised by the president. The team further reiterated their position that the National Assembly panel's move to remove debate over insurrection from the trial, undermines its legitimacy, as the Assembly cited insurrection as a major reason for impeachment in their resolution. The second hearing took place without the President, as the leader was arrested and taken in for questioning on Wednesday. Under the Constitutional Court Act, the judicial bench is able to hold trial hearings without the respondent, if they are absent for the second time. The Court denied Yoon's request to delay Thursday's session, saying that his 48-hour detainment didn't justify rescheduling. However, during the hearing, the bench decided to add three full days of trial hearings until February 13th. It originally set five afternoon sessions until February 4th, which Yoon's defense objected to. His legal team has argued that the trial is moving along too quickly, without sufficient discussion or notification of the proceedings. The team has also objected to the Court obtaining investigation records as evidence. To this the Court said it does not violate the law, and also announced that five senior officials under investigation including former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun and former intelligence chief Hong Jang-won were selected as witnesses, with testimonies set for January 23rd and February 4th. The next trial hearing for the President's impeachment will be held Tuesday at 2 PM. Oh Soo-young, Arirang News.

President Yoon 'refuses to testify', claims investigation is illegal

2025/01/17 10:00

In the meantime, President Yoon stays put in the Seoul Detention Center after refusing to testify on Thursday. According to his legal team, he won't show up for Friday's questioning either. Our Kim Jung-sil reports. President Yoon Suk Yeol continues to refuse investigative procedures. The Corruption Investigation Office for High-Ranking Officials notified Yoon to attend questioning at 10AM on Friday, but his legal team has indicated he will not comply. Since his arrest on Wednesday, Yoon has remained silent. During his initial 10-hour interrogation, he declined to answer questions, verify his testimony, or sign documents. On Thursday, he delayed a second round of questioning due to health concerns and ultimately skipped the rescheduled session. The President has consistently argued that the investigation by the CIO is illegal, but legal experts disagree. "It's true that CIO does not have specific jurisdiction over insurrection But what they do have is the jurisdiction to look at any related crime And here they are investigating Yoon's abuse of office. So it's entirely within their jurisdiction so there's absolutely no problem." Professor Cho added that despite Yoon's silence, the CIO would still be able to indict him. Yoon is currently being held in a pretrial detention cell, separate from other detainees. The facility provides basic amenities, including a bed, table, and private restroom. He is being given the same food as provided to other detainees, costing around 1,700 KRW or about U.S. $1.20 per serving to make. The Justice Ministry has assigned a special team to monitor Yoon's safety around the clock. Meanwhile, Yoon's legal team has filed complaints against top investigators, arguing his arrest was illegal and vowing to challenge the investigation. Officials are considering stronger measures, such as forcibly escorting Yoon to questioning or conducting an on-site interview. Kim Jung-sil, Arirang News.

BOK holds key rate unchanged amid weak currency, Trump uncertainty

2025/01/16 20:00

Welcome to Within The Frame, where we bring you today's most pressing issues from across the globe, I'm Kim Mok-yeon. The arrest of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol this week has raised concerns about its impact on the economy. Amid ongoing uncertainty, the Bank of Korea held its benchmark interest rate steady at 3 percent and downgraded its growth forecast for this year, now predicting growth to fall below 1.9 percent. As experts assess the situation, key questions remain about how recent decisions by the central bank will shape the 2025 economic outlook. And also, will government measures aimed at stabilizing prices and boosting consumption be enough to deliver the desired results? For answers to these questions, we're joined by Song Soo-young, Professor of Business and Economics at Chung-Ang University. Also joining us is Minjung Park, Professor of Business at Kumoh National Institute of Technology (PARK) 1. Let's start with Professor Park, until now, President Yoon's potential arrest has been a significant variable in resolving uncertainties in the financial market. With President Yoon's arrest on the 15th and the confrontation coming to an end, what impacts do you foresee on exchange rates, consumer sentiment, etc.? Do you think a positive trend will emerge? (SONG) 2. Recently, the national research institute, the KDI, diagnosed that "economic downside risks are increasing amidst political uncertainty." They analyzed that economic sentiment is worse now compared to the impeachment crisis of 2016. What do you think is the reason for this? (SONG) 3. In the first monetary policy direction meeting of the year on the 16th, the Monetary Policy Committee decided to freeze the base interest rate at 3%. What is the reason behind this decision? (PARK) 4. Meanwhile, The real estate slump that started in the second half of last year seems to be worsening at the start of this year. How do you think a freeze of the base interest rate in this monetary policy meeting will affect the real estate market? (SONG) 5. Since the second half of last year, the household loan interest rates at commercial banks have been steadily rising, but many expect them to decrease in the first quarter of this year. What will be the economic impacts, such as on the real estate market? Could household debt rise again? (PARK) 6. Now to the U.S., there are expectations that the Federal Reserve may freeze interest rates at the upcoming FOMC meeting at the end of this month. What is your view on this? What impact do you think it will have on domestic economic factors like exchange rates? (SONG) 7. With the decline in economic growth, there have been discussions about supplementary budgets, and the Bank of Korea has continuously mentioned the need for them. What are your thoughts on its necessity? (PARK) 8. In preparation for the Lunar New Year, the government has prepared the largest-ever holiday measures, including the release of 265,000 tons of key goods and a 90 billion won discount support plan. Will these measures have their desired effect and stabilize prices? (SONG) 9. The government has designated January 27th, the day before the Lunar New Year holiday, as a temporary public holiday. This was meant to promote domestic travel, but with the long holiday, demand for overseas travel is increasing. How effective do you think this measure will be in boosting domestic consumption, which was its original intent?

Yoon rejects day two of questioning, stands by his claim over investigation's legitimacy

2025/01/16 20:00

Thank you for joining us. I'm Yoon Jung-min. We start at the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials in Gwacheon, where a second day of questioning was expected to take place. For more, our correspondent Kim Do-yeon joins me live. Do-yeon , a second session of questions was scheduled to open today but that did not happen. Jung-min, that's right as you said, Yoon was set to be brought here to the CIO headquarters for more questioning on charges of insurrection due to his declaration of martial law last month but he refused. That means he is still at Seoul Detention Center at the moment. At first, this morning Yoon's legal team requested the questioning session to start at 2 PM due to health reasons but soon afterward they said Yoon has said everything already and that another questioning session would not be necessary. What seems to be a lack of cooperation from Yoon reflects his stance on the investigation from the beginning. He's called it illegal as he says the CIO does not have the investigative authority over insurrection charges. And as he left the presidential residence yesterday morning he said he only gave in to investigators and was detained to prevent any unfortunate clashes between the investigators and the Presidential Security Service. And I hear the president's defense team has formally called on a local court to look into the legality of the president's arrest? That's right, Jung-min earlier in the day Yoon has actually called for a review of the legality of this arrest and Seoul Central District Court is currently in the process of reviewing it. And that move by Yoon's team is in line with what we just talked about how Yoon claims the CIO does not have the authority to investigate. Representatives from both Yoon and the CIO showed up at the local court to make their cases. The court is obligated to make the decision on this within 24 hours and this is likely to come out tomorrow. This means if the court rules in favor of Yoon he will be released right away if not he will be kept under the current detention. The countdown of 48 hours for Yoon's current detention has been temporarily paused as per the rule for the legality review. The countdown resumes once the CIO's documents that have been sent to the courts for the review are returned. Do keep in mind, that the CIO is expected to request another warrant that allows them to detain President Yoon for up to 20 days and this will probably be done after the court has decided on the legality review of the ongoing arrest. Meanwhile, public rallies in support of and in opposition to the president have moved their base from the Hannam-dong residential area. What have you been hearing there Do-yeon ? Jung-min, I've been here since early in the morning, and protesters were out here even before me. There were dozens at first, but now I see a much bigger group as throughout the day more came to join the others. It seems like the main protest here is in support of Yoon. Also, some 30 ruling People Power Party lawmakers joined the protesters here earlier in the day. Now as you said the protests in front of the residence have largely moved and those in favor of Yoon's impeachment are gathering at other locations as well and one of the main ones is going on in front of the Constitutional Court where the impeachment trial is being held. That's all for now, back to you Jung-min. That was our Kim Do-yeon reporting live at the investigation office.

[Weather] Temperatures will start to rise from the afternoon

2025/01/16 20:00

Snow fell sporadically, mainly on western parts of the country today. With freezing temperatures overnight, snow on the roads could turn icy tomorrow morning. Please pay attention while driving. Cold wave advisories are still in place in Gangwon-do Province. The temperatures in Daegwallyeong in Gangwon-do Province plummeted to minus 13 degrees Celsius today. This freezing cold will continue in these areas tomorrow. Elsewhere, the temperatures will rise from the afternoon and there will be no worries about the severe cold until the end of this week. Tomorrow, Seoul, Daegu, and Gyeongju will start off at minus 5 degrees, Busan at zero degrees. Daily highs will move up to 5 degrees in Seoul. Daejeon will reach 6 degrees. Another round of rain or snow is forecast in the central and northern parts of the country on Monday. That's all for Korea. Here are the weather conditions around the world.

S. Korea welcomes ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, hopes for swift implementation

2025/01/16 20:00

South Korea has welcomed the ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, which comes following 15 months of war. This is according to the foreign ministry on Thursday. The ministry said it hopes the agreement can be implemented swiftly so that all hostages can be released and the humanitarian situation in Gaza improves. Seoul hopes discussions on diplomatic solutions for peace and stability in the region will start. The ministry added that South Korea will continue actively participating in the international community's efforts to restore and promote peace in the region as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council.

Israel, Hamas agree to six-week ceasefire, hostage release deal

2025/01/16 20:00

On the international front. Starting this weekend, local time, a truce takes effect in Gaza to temporarily halt the fighting between Israel and Hamas for six weeks. The conflict that lasted for more than a year has left a deep scar, during which thousands were killed. Lee Seung-jae has more. Israel and Hamas have agreed to a ceasefire deal, that will put a halt to the conflict in Gaza for six weeks beginning on Sunday. Qatar's Prime Minister announced the ceasefire deal on Wednesday, adding his hope that the pause in fighting will lead to an eventual permanent ceasefire. "Qatar, the Arab Republic of Egypt, and the United States, are happy to announce the success of joint mediation efforts in order to reach a deal between the parties in conflict in the Gaza territory to exchange prisoners and hostages, and a return to a prolonged truce that achieves a permanent ceasefire between the two sides." As part of the ceasefire deal, the Palestinian militant group is expected to release 33 Israeli hostages initially. In exchange, Israel will release 30 Palestinian prisoners for every Israeli hostage, and 50 Palestinian prisoners for every one of the five female Israeli soldiers being held in Gaza. Within the first 42 days of the deal, females and hostages under 19 years old will be released. They make up the 33 Israeli hostages mentioned in the agreement. Reports say some 1-thousand-650 Palestinian prisoners could be released as part of the deal. Pundits say the growing pressure to have Israeli hostages returned home forced Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to agree to the ceasefire deal, while others say the election of Donald Trump was behind it. However,.. both Trump and U.S. President Joe Biden were quick to take credit. Speaking from the White House on Wednesday, Biden said the deal was reached under "the precise contours" of a plan he set out in May last year. Biden added that the ceasefire deal was the result of "painstaking American diplomacy." On the other hand, Trump took to Truth Social to say that the ceasefire agreement could have only happened as a result of his "Historic Victory" in November. Biden says negotiations will continue beyond the latest temporary ceasefire to phase two of the deal, that could include a permanent halt to the conflict in Gaza. Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.

Gov't says it will secure operation of "as many medical facilities as possible" during Seollal

2025/01/16 20:00

The days between January 20th and February 5th have been declared a period of emergency medical response as the government seeks to secure the operation of as many medical facilities and pharmacies as possible amid the longer lunar new year holiday and a concerning surge in the number of respiratory infections nationwide. Intentions to this end were shared following talks between health ministry officials and ruling party lawmakers at the National Assembly earlier on this Thursday. The number of suspected flu cases soared to its highest this month since related data collection began in 2016. Aggravating concerns is the reality that many hospitals are operating in the absence of trainee doctors following their mass resignation last year.

Ruling party decides to propose its own special investigation bill calling it the "lesser evil" option

2025/01/16 20:00

In response to the opposition's push to pass a special investigation bill into President Yoon's martial law declaration, the ruling People Power Party has decided to propose its own version. The main opposition Democratic Party will attempt to reach a deal tomorrow morning. Lee Eun-hee has the latest. The ruling People Power Party has decided to propose its own version of a bill for a special investigation into President Yoon's short-lived imposition of martial law. Floor Leader Kweon Seong-dong told reporters on Thursday that all 1-hundred-and-eight ruling party lawmakers have agreed to propose the bill, and that is only because the opposition party is pushing one with "unconstitutional" and "toxic" clauses. He said the party came to this conclusion despite objecting opinions because the members believed that although "not ideal," it is the "lesser evil." The PPP's decision comes as the main opposition Democratic Party and other opposition parties have been seeking to pass their second attempt at the bill. The primary focus of the DP's proposal is to uncover whether President Yoon unlawfully instigated an insurrection and violated the Constitution in the process. Following the veto of its initial bill by Acting President Choi Sang-mok two weeks ago, the DP's revised version includes allegations that Yoon committed "insurrection" and attempted to purposefully induce foreign aggression. PPP's version removes such allegations. Under the PPP's proposal, the Supreme Court's Chief Justice will recommend three special prosecutor candidates, with the president making the final appointment. The ruling party plans to officially propose the bill on Friday, and the floor leaders of both parties will begin negotiating the special investigation bill at 11 AM. The main opposition party aims to present the agreed bill up for a National Assembly vote at the 2 PM plenary session. DP Floor Leader Park Chan-dae emphasized that if an agreement is not reached by 2 PM, the session will be suspended to continue negotiations, with the deadline set for midnight Friday. Lee Eun-hee, Arirang News.

President Yoon's impeachment trial debates begin as court rejects request for rescheduling amid arrest

2025/01/16 20:00

The second impeachment case hearing for President Yoon Suk Yeol took place as scheduled today, where the legal teams on each side exchanged heated words. Our Oh Soo-young has the details. President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment trial unfolded with intense political overtones, as the Constitutional Court proceeded without the leader at the second hearing on Thursday. "As a full-fledged debate began, lawyers representing Yoon and the National Assembly presented conflicting narratives about the legality and necessity of the martial law declared on December third." The National Assembly's panel presented five grounds for impeachment, declaring there was no basis or conditions that made it necessary for a martial law decree, which can only be triggered by the president in times of national crises such as war or those akin to war. The panel also said Yoon violated the procedure of declaring the decree, by not having properly attained and documented Cabinet approval. They also claimed Yoon tried to paralyze the functions of parliament by aiming to prevent a motion to lift martial law, as well as block political activities, gatherings, and press freedom. The Assembly's side further said Yoon tried to undermine the independence of the National Election Commission, and tried to detain judicial figures. "The respondent violated the Constitution, attempting to dismantle the Republic of Korea's constitutional and democratic system in one sweeping act." Meanwhile, Yoon's lawyers questioned the impeachment process, and emphasized the context in which the President felt forced to declare the fateful decree. The lawyers insisted that the President was initiating a peaceful martial law against the opposition-led parliament's series of attacks and impeachment motions against the incumbent government. "I'd like to ask how exactly you as the opposition-led Parliament have been protecting the political administration which is the Administration, with your relentless attacks? You claim this is fundamental to liberal democracy and that hit me hard." Yoon's side also raised suspicions about election fraud, and claimed it was the President's duty to try to protect the Constitutional order, as the National Election Commission refused to accept investigations. They fundamentally argued that martial law should not be subject to judicial review, calling it an act of governance that can be exercised by the president. The team further reiterated their position that the National Assembly panel's move to remove debate over insurrection from the trial, undermines its legitimacy, as the Assembly cited insurrection as a major reason for impeachment in their resolution. The second hearing took place without the President, as the leader was arrested and taken in for questioning on Wednesday. Under the Constitutional Court Act, the judicial bench is able to hold trial hearings without the respondent, if they are absent for the second time. The Court denied Yoon's request to delay Thursday's session, saying that his 48-hour detainment didn't justify rescheduling. However, during the hearing, the bench decided to add three full days of trial hearings until February 13th. It originally set five afternoon sessions until February 4th, which Yoon's defense objected to. His legal team has argued that the trial is moving along too quickly, without sufficient discussion or notification of the proceedings. The team has also objected to the Court obtaining investigation records as evidence. To this the Court said it does not violate the law, and also announced that five senior officials under investigation including former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun and former intelligence chief Hong Jang-won were selected as witnesses, with testimonies set for January 23rd and February 4th. The next trial hearing for the President's impeachment will be held Tuesday at 2 PM. Oh Soo-young, Arirang News.

Pres. Yoon spent first night at Seoul Detention Center after being questioned

2025/01/16 20:00

And President Yoon Suk Yeol has become the first sitting president to spend a night at a detention center following his arrest on allegations of insurrection. Shin Ha-young reports. President Yoon Suk Yeol was taken to the Seoul Detention Center in Uiwang, Gyeonggi-do Province at 9:50 PM on Wednesday, where he spent his first night in a cell to himself. Yoon was taken by car from the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials after 10 hours of questioning. This unprecedented situation, with a sitting president being detained, has raised questions about security at the prison, but no specific rules are in place. The Presidential Security Service has reportedly discussed security measures with the detention center. However, an official from the Ministry of Justice said discussions about Yoon's security are confidential and cannot be confirmed. The room, about 10 square meters, is reported to have a toilet, toilet, television, foldable mattress, and other essentials. There is no bed, but the floor is heated, with CCTV monitoring the room. Former Presidents Roh Tae-woo and Park Geun-hye were held at this Detention Center, and currently, former minor opposition party leader Cho Kuk , sentenced for academic fraud involving his children, is serving time there. Yoon's breakfast on Thursday morning included cereal, boiled eggs, nuts, and milk. Until a decision is made on another type of arrest warrant seeking a longer period of detention, Yoon will be moving back and forth between the CIO for questioning, and the detention center. Shin Ha-young, Arirang News.

Yoon rejects day two of questioning, stands by his claim over investigation's legitimacy

2025/01/16 17:00

We start today at the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials in Gwacheon where a second day of questioning was expected to take place. For more I have our top office correspondent Kim Do-yeon joining me live. So Do-yeon, a second session of questions was scheduled to open today but that did not happen. Do tell us more. Sun-hee, that's right as you said, Yoon was set to be brought here to the CIO headquarters for more questioning but he refused. That means he is still at Seoul Detention Center at the moment. At first, this morning Yoon's legal team requested the questioning session to start at 2 PM due to health reasons but soon afterward they said Yoon has said everything already and that another questioning session would not be necessary. As you said on the first day of questioning which was yesterday he was questioned from 11 AM to nearly 10 PM while remaining silent. What seems to be a lack of cooperation from Yoon reflects his stance on the investigation from the beginning. He's called it illegal as he says the CIO does not have the investigative authority over insurrection charges. And as he left the presidential residence yesterday morning he said he only gave in to investigators and was detained to prevent any unfortunate clashes between the investigators and the Presidential Security Service. And I hear the president's defense team has formally called on a local court to look into the legality of the president's arrest? That's right, Sun-hee earlier in the day Yoon has actually called for a review of the legality of this arrest and Seoul Central District Court is currently in the process of reviewing it. And that move by Yoon's team is in line with what we just talked about how Yoon claims the CIO does not have the authority to investigate. Representatives from both Yoon and the CIO started the hearing for this a few moments ago. This means if the court rules in favor of Yoon he will be released right away if not he will be kept under the current detention. The countdown of 48 hours for Yoon's current detention has been temporarily paused as per the rule for the legality review. The countdown resumes once the CIO's documents that have been sent to the courts for the review are returned. Do keep in mind, that the CIO is expected to request another warrant that allows them to detain President Yoon for up to 20 days and this will probably be done after the court has decided on the legality review of the ongoing arrest. Meanwhile fortunately for the many residents of the Hannam-dong residential area public rallies in support of and in opposition to the president have moved their base. What have you been hearing there Do-yeon? Sun-hee, I've been here since early in the morning, and protesters were out here even before me. There were dozens at first, but now I see a much bigger group as throughout the day more came to join the others. It seems like the main protest here is in support of Yoon. Also, some ruling People Power Party lawmakers joined the protesters here earlier in the day. Of course, the police have been busy since early this morning as well. Our team's van was asked to be moved a few times as these barriers of buses were being set up. That's all for now, back to you Sun-hee. All right Do-yeon, thank you for the latest on the investigation into insurrection charges against the president. And do keep us posted.

[Weather] Cold conditions until tomorrow, the temperatures will rise from the afternoon

2025/01/16 17:00

In this cold weather, some sporadic snow fell mainly on western parts of the country today. Due to the rain and snow, the roads can turn slippery overnight. Please pay attention to traffic safety when driving. Cold wave advisories are in place in Gangwon-do Province. The temperatures in Daegwallyeong in Gangwon-do Province plummeted to minus 13 degrees Celsius today. This freezing cold will continue in these areas. Elsewhere, the temperatures will rise from the afternoon and there will be no worries about the severe cold until next week. Tomorrow, Seoul, Daegu, and Gyeongju will start off at minus 5 degrees, Daejeon at minus 4 degrees. Daily highs will move up to 5 degrees in Seoul. Gwangju will reach 7 degrees. More rain or snow is expected in the central and northern parts of the country on Monday. That's all for Korea. Here are the weather conditions around the world.

World News: Trump nominee Pam Bondi vows to uphold Justice Dept independence

2025/01/16 17:00

This is the World Now, bringing you the latest stories from around the globe. In the U.S., President-elect Donald Trump's pick for attorney general, Pam Bondi, testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Wednesday, vowing to maintain the Justice Department's independence. Bondi, who previously served as Florida's Attorney General from 2011 to 2019, said she will not allow politics to influence her decisions and that her duty is to uphold the rule of law. While Democratic senators expressed concerns about her close ties to Trump, particularly her role as his lawyer during his 2020 impeachment trial, and her comments related to the 2020 election, Republican senators voiced confidence in her confirmation. Bondi also emphasized that her overriding objective would be to keep Americans safe and get back to basics. In China, the Ministry of Commerce issued a statement denouncing recent U.S. trade restrictions, particularly those targeting China's semiconductor industry. It said the Biden Administration's expansion of export controls, were economic coercion and a violation of international trade rules. The commerce ministry spokesperson added that such measures disrupt global supply chains and harm the interests of both Chinese and American companies. This follows the U.S. Commerce Department's recent addition of several Chinese tech firms to its export control list, aiming to limit China's access to advanced semiconductor technologies. In South Africa, a police operation has retrieved at least 78 bodies from an illegal gold mine. Hundreds of miners had been trapped for months in the mine in Stillfontein, with the police trying to force them out by cutting off food and water. The operation also rescued 246 survivors from the mine, with many of the survivors in such bad condition from lack of food and water that they were unable to walk. The South African government's harsh measures to attempt to curb illegal mining have drawn criticism from human rights groups and community members. Over in Bulgaria, people dressed in masks and costumes to celebrate a festival that dates back 200 years. This annual New Year's festival, called Surva, aims to ward off evil spirits and ensure good health and prosperity. Surva is celebrated every January in villages across Bulgaria, and incorporates rituals that are Christian and pagan. While the festival's official opening is scheduled for the evening of January 24 at Krakra Square in Pernik, villagers began celebrating with activities such as bonfire dances early this week. Choi Chi Hee, Arirang News.

2025 Korea Image Awards for those who promote S. Korea

2025/01/16 17:00

Every year Seoul hosts an awards ceremony to acknowledge the efforts of those who served to enhance Korea's image overseas. Our Ahn Sung-jin was at the latest event. Gold-medal fencer Oh Sang-uk, table tennis medalist Shin Yubin and star chef Edward Lee. What these figures have in common is that they have played a key role in raising Korea's image. "Since 2005, the Corea Image Communication Institute holds its annual Korea Image Awards which not only honors those who raise Korea's profile abroad, but also those who represent and shine the country." Oh became the first Asian fencer to win a grand slam of golds at the Asian Games, Asian Championships, World Championships and Olympics. "When fencing at the Olympics, I never thought about being Asia's first, which is actually what helped me win the match." Fellow Olympic medalist, Shin Yubin, who won two bronze medals in table tennis, was given the "Korea Image Flowerstone Award." Shin went viral at the Games for her positive attitude and for the snacks she ate during her breaks. "It's an honor to receive this award, and I'm glad that my accomplishments can help promote the country. I've still got a long way to go, but I will do my best to further promote South Korea." The finalist on Netflix's Culinary Class wars, Edward Kyun Lee was given the "Korea Image Stepping Stone Bridge Award", for his efforts to introduce Korean cuisine with traditional ingredients and a modern twist. "For the past few months I was able to look back on who I am as Korean Lee Kyun. So many people from Korea have sent me love and support, and I was truly able to understand the meaning of "jeong" in Korea." These award winners show that it's not just K-pop and dramas that spread Korean culture around the world. Ahn Sung-jin, Arirang News.

Rubio says Kim Jong-un uses nuclear weapons to stay in power

2025/01/16 17:00

U.S. Secretary of State nominee Marco Rubio says North Korea's Kim Jong-un is using nuclear weapons as his "insurance policy" to stay in power. During his confirmation hearing on Wednesday Rubio depicted Kim as quote a "40-something-year-old dictator" seeking ways to secure "power for the rest of his life". by pursuing nuclear weapons He further claimed no amount of sanctions would therefore deter Kim from developing nuclear weapons.

Israel, Hamas agree to six-week ceasefire, hostage release deal

2025/01/16 17:00

On the international front. Starting Sunday this week local time a truce takes effect in Gaza to temporarily halt the fighting between Israel and Hamas for six weeks. Lee Seung-jae has details. Israel and Hamas have agreed to a ceasefire deal, that will put a halt to the conflict in Gaza for six weeks beginning on Sunday. Qatar's Prime Minister announced the ceasefire deal on Wednesday, adding his hope that the pause in fighting will lead to an eventual permanent ceasefire. "Qatar, the Arab Republic of Egypt, and the United States, are happy to announce the success of joint mediation efforts in order to reach a deal between the parties in conflict in the Gaza territory to exchange prisoners and hostages, and a return to a prolonged truce that achieves a permanent ceasefire between the two sides." As part of the ceasefire deal, the Palestinian militant group is expected to release 33 Israeli hostages initially. In exchange, Israel will release 30 Palestinian prisoners for every Israeli hostage, and 50 Palestinian prisoners for every one of the five female Israeli soldiers being held in Gaza. Within the first 42 days of the deal, females and hostages under 19 years old will be released. They make up the 33 Israeli hostages mentioned in the agreement. Reports say some 1-thousand-650 Palestinian prisoners could be released as part of the deal. Pundits say the growing pressure to have Israeli hostages returned home forced Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to agree to the ceasefire deal, while others say the election of Donald Trump was behind it. However,.. both Trump and U.S. President Joe Biden were quick to take credit. Speaking from the White House on Wednesday, Biden said the deal was reached under "the precise contours" of a plan he set out in May last year. Biden added that the ceasefire deal was the result of "painstaking American diplomacy." On the other hand, Trump took to Truth Social to say that the ceasefire agreement could have only happened as a result of his "Historic Victory" in November. Biden says negotiations will continue beyond the latest temporary ceasefire to phase two of the deal, that could include a permanent halt to the conflict in Gaza. Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.

Gov't says it will secure operation of "as many medical facilities as possible" during Seollal

2025/01/16 17:00

The days between January 20th and February 5th have been declared a period of emergency medical response as the government seeks to secure the operation of as many medical facilities and pharmacies as possible amid the longer lunar new year holiday and a concerning surge in the number of respiratory infections nationwide. Intentions to this end were shared following talks between health ministry officials and ruling party lawmakers at the National Assembly earlier on this Thursday. The number of suspected flu cases soared to its highest this month since related data collection began in 2016. Aggravating concerns is the reality that many hospitals are operating in the absence of trainee doctors following their mass resignation last year.

S. Korea's auto exports surpassed US$ 70 bil. for second straight year in 2024

2025/01/16 17:00

Korea's automobile industry remained resilient last year driven by its exports of hybrid vehicles. Our correspondent Moon Hye-ryeon has more. South Korea's auto exports continued to boom in 2024 due to robust growth in hybrid vehicle exports. That's according to the latest automotive trends report released by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy on Thursday, which shows that the country's auto exports came to 70-point-8 billion U.S. dollars last year. This marks the second-highest annual performance following the record of 70-point-9 billion dollars in 2023. Despite the global stagnation in demand for electric vehicles contributing to the point-one percent decline in total exports, the popularity of hybrid vehicles offset the losses. Exports of eco-friendly vehicles, which include EVs, hydrogen vehicles, hybrids, and plug-in hybrids, totaled 23-point-2-1 billion dollars – down by around four percent from the previous year. However, hybrid vehicle exports surged by nearly 46 percent, 11-point-3 billion dollars. In terms of domestic production, South Korean automakers produced 4-point-1-3 million vehicles in 2024, a 2-point-7 percent decline from the previous year. The top-produced models were Hyundai Motor's Avante, Chevrolet's Trax, Hyundai Motor's Kona, Kia Motor's Sportage, and GM Korea's Chevrolet Trailblazer. Approximately 67 percent of domestically produced vehicles were exported. Domestic sales dropped by 6-point-5 percent year-on-year, reaching 1-point-6-3 million units, as weakened consumer sentiment and declining EV demand took a toll. However, eco-friendly vehicle sales in the domestic market showed resilience, climbing by more than 18 percent – meaning that four out of every ten new vehicles sold in South Korea last year were eco-friendly. Among these, hybrid vehicles stood out with a 32 percent surge in sales compared to 2023. December's automobile export revenue, however, fell more than five percent from the same month in the previous year to six billion dollars. The Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy attributed the decline to factors such as the safety inspections and component factory damages caused by heavy snow in late November, as well as a drop in export prices due to weaker EV demand. Moon Hye-ryeon, Arirang News.