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![[Weather] Cold conditions tomorrow, snow forecast for western parts](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimg.arirang.com%2Fv1%2FAUTH_d52449c16d3b4bbca17d4fffd9fc44af%2Fpublic%2Fboard%2F202501%2F2851216291757294343.jpg&w=3840&q=75)
[Weather] Cold conditions tomorrow, snow forecast for western parts
2025/01/15 20:00
The temperature in Seoul this morning plummeted by around 7 degrees compared to the day before. With the cold wind, the feels-like temperatures also dropped to minus 11 degrees Celsius this morning. Tomorrow morning, Seoul will be at minus 5 degrees Celsius, very similar to today. Tomorrow, snow is also forecast mainly for western regions including Seoul. Meanwhile, the atmosphere remains extremely dry along the east coast. Please be careful not to cause any fires. Tomorrow, Seoul and Daejeon will start off at minus 5 degrees. Chuncheon minus 12. Daily highs will move up to 5 degrees in Seoul. Daegu and Busan 7 degrees. Until the second half of the week, typical winter cold will continue. That's all for Korea. Here are the weather conditions around the world.
Israel-Hamas ceasefire close: Blinken
2025/01/15 20:00
In the Middle East. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken claims Israel and Hamas are close to a cease fire deal for Gaza and that the ball is now in the latter's court. Lee Seung-jae reports. After over a year of fighting, Israel and Hamas may finally agree to a ceasefire deal. According to U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday, a ceasefire deal is "closer than it's ever been before." "Over the past several weeks, our intensive efforts have brought us to the brink of full and final agreement. On Sunday (January 12), the United States, Qatar and Egypt put forward a final proposal. The ball is now in Hamas's court. If Hamas accepts the deal is ready to be concluded and implemented, I believe we will get a ceasefire." Speaking at the Atlantic Council in Washington, the top U.S. envoy also laid out the plan, in which he says a reformed Palestinian Authority would lead Gaza and bring in international partners to help establish and run an interim government. Blinken added that the Biden administration will hand over the post-war management plan for Gaza to President-elect Donald Trump's team. This would include details of an interim security mission, including international forces and Palestinians. The Associated Press says that Hamas has accepted a draft agreement for a ceasefire, as well as the release of dozens of hostages. According to officials involved in the negotiation, the talks are in their final stages. The call for a ceasefire is also coming from a small number of Israeli soldiers, who are refusing to fight if a ceasefire agreement isn't reached. Some 200 soldiers signed a letter, vowing to stop fighting if the Israeli government didn't secure a ceasefire. The troops say they want others to come forward. Speaking to the Associated Press, a number of soldiers said the declaration comes as Palestinians were indiscriminately killed during the 15-month long conflict, with many soldiers being ordered to burn or destroy homes that posed no threat. Meanwhile, on Tuesday night thousands gathered at Tel Aviv's Hostages Square, a public plaza located in front of the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, where families of the hostages taken during the October 7, 2023 attack have made camp. Protesters sang and played music on stage, with those present anticipating a ceasefire deal that would finally bring back their loved ones. Ninety-four hostages are still being held by Hamas since being taken on October 7, 2023. The 15-month-long conflict has also led to the death of over 45-thousand Palestinians. Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.
S. Korea, U.S., Japan hold joint aerial drills involving B-1B bomber to counter N. Korean threats
2025/01/15 20:00
Seoul, Washington, and Tokyo held joint aerial drills earlier on this Wednesday. The exercise involved the U.S.'s B-1B strategic bomber, South Korea's F-15K, and Japan's F-2 fighters. According to the Defense Ministry here, the drills come as part of efforts to counter North Korea's evolving nuclear and missile threats, including its most recent series of ballistic missile tests.
U.S. Defense Secretary nominee calls North Korea a "nuclear power" and threat to global stability
2025/01/15 20:00
The incoming Trump administration's defense chief nominee Pete Hegseth has called North Korea a "nuclear power." Washington has refrained from this phrase amid concerns that it legitimizes the regime's illicit weapons program. Lee Eun-hee reports. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's nominee for U.S. defense secretary, Pete Hegseth, described North Korea as a threat to global stability, calling it a "nuclear power." Hegseth made the comments in reply to advanced policy questions submitted to the Senate Armed Services Committee ahead of his confirmation hearing for the role of 29th Secretary of Defense. Hegseth wrote that North Korea's nuclear weapons, missile development, and growing cyber capabilities threaten stability in the Korean Peninsula, the Indo-Pacific, and globally. He added that the threat is especially concerning due to North Korea's proximity to U.S. allies hosting American troops, and if confirmed, he will request both classified and unclassified briefings on the DPRK threat. His use of "nuclear power" differs from the term "nuclear weapon state" under international law, as it includes countries with nuclear weapons that are not officially recognized as countries with nuclear weapons. With him potentially running the U.S. Department of Defense, overseeing over 3 million people and a budget of nearly 9 hundred billion U.S. dollars, Hegseth's remarks signal a clear recognition of the threat posed by North Korea's nuclear capabilities. He also said he plans to reassess the readiness of U.S. military forces globally and ensure adequate funding to strengthen U.S. posture and deterrence in the Indo-Pacific. This suggests the Trump administration may seek higher defense contributions from South Korea for U.S. forces stationed in the country. Regarding China's military threat, Hegseth emphasized the need for greater global burden-sharing, along with increased investment in the U.S. defense industrial base. Hegseth emphasized that strong alliances require mutual responsibility and cannot be one-sided, noting that the U.S. will push for increased defense spending and burden-sharing from allies. He also said that strengthening these partnerships through consistent cooperation is key to enhancing mutual trust. Lee Eun-hee, Arirang News.
S. Korea's job market stumbles: December job decline marks weak end to 2024
2025/01/15 20:00
Employment here in Korea in 2024 rose by less than half the size of its growth in 2023. Our correspondent Moon Hye-ryeon tells us why. South Korea's job market saw a sharp decline in growth last year, with December marking the first employment figure decrease in more than three years amid political instability in the country. According to data released by Statistics Korea on Wednesday, the number of people in employment in 2024 increased by just 159-thousand compared to the previous year, reaching just under 28-point-6 million in total. This figure is less than half of the 327-thousand jobs added in 2023, highlighting a significant slowdown for the labor market. It also marks the smallest annual increase in employment since 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic led to job losses. Job growth rebounded in 2021 and surged in 2022 to mark the biggest gain in 22 years – before declining in 2023 and again in 2024. The construction sector saw the largest decline, losing 49-thousand jobs – the steepest drop on record. Employment in wholesale and retail, as well as in manufacturing, also decreased. By age, employment growth was concentrated among older workers in 2024, with 266-thousand jobs added for those aged 60 and above. Meanwhile, the number of employed people in their twenties and forties fell sharply. In December alone, the number of those in employment fell by 52-thousand, which marked the first decline in more than three years. A spokesperson from the agency commented on whether these figures are reflective of weakened consumer demand due to the political instability following the December 3rd martial law declaration. "It can be said that sectors like wholesale and retail, transportation and warehousing, and accommodation and food services may have been influenced to some extent by psychological factors, showing a slowdown in these industries." With these latest figures, the government pledged to actively support the recovery of domestic demand and job creation through rapid execution of livelihood and economic support projects including job initiatives in the first half of the year. This came during a ministerial economic meeting headed by the country's Finance Minister on Wednesday – who went on to further urge all ministries to act as "dedicated employment departments" and prepare tailored job support measures for vulnerable citizens. Despite the slowdown, South Korea's employment rate for those aged 15 and older reached 62-point-7 percent, the highest since records began. Moon Hye-ryeon, Arirang News.
Rival parties show mixed reactions to Yoon's arrest
2025/01/15 20:00
As widely expected, the responses at the National Assembly to the president's arrest are bitterly divided between the ruling and opposition parties. Our Correspondent Shin Ha-young reports. After President Yoon Suk Yeol was arrested on Wednesday morning, the rival political parties urgently convened meetings. The ruling People Power Party criticized investigators for executing a so-called "unlawful arrest warrant," adding that the party would hold the CIO accountable for this. "The CIO and police executed an unlawful warrant, with a complicit judiciary. The opposition party pressured both the CIO and the NOI. History will inevitably record this." Floor leader Kweon Seong-dong stated that it was embarrassing for the public and damaged the country's dignity. Regarding the citizen who was injured during the CIO's execution of the warrant, Kweon said the party would hold both the CIO and the National Office of Investigation responsible. The PPP filed a complaint with the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office against Oh Dong-woon, head of the CIO, and NOI chief Woo Jong-soo, for abuse of power, and unlawful arrest and detention. Ahead of Yoon's arrest, some PPP lawmakers gathered outside the presidential residence, and it was later confirmed that a few met with President Yoon inside. According to attendees, Yoon expressed doubts about continuing the remaining two-and-a-half years of his term, questioning its purpose under the current circumstances. He noted that whether he stayed at the residence or in custody, his freedom of movement would still be restricted, and suggested that the latter might be the better option. However, the main opposition Democratic Party welcomed the arrest, saying that this marked the first step to restoring the constitutional order and democracy, and upholding the rule of law. "Though delayed, it's reassuring to see that justice and public authority are still alive in South Korea." DP Floor Leader Park Chan-dae urged the CIO to fully investigate Yoon on insurrection charges. The DP also pressured the PPP to address a bill for a special investigation into President Yoon's short-lived imposition of martial law. Meanwhile, National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik expressed relief on Wednesday that the arrest warrant was executed without clashes. Woo said that with the president's arrest, efforts should now be focused on stabilizing current state affairs and improving the people's livelihoods. Woo also expressed his commitment to advancing a bill for a special investigation into President Yoon's brief imposition of martial law. Shin Ha-young, Arirang News.
President Yoon arrested: What’s next in the unfolding political crisis?
2025/01/15 20:00
Now, for more on what lies ahead for President Yoon following his arrest, we have Kim Jung-sil here in the studio. Jung-sil, welcome. Thank you for having me. Right then do walk us through the protocols ahead for the president given his arrest by anti-corruption investigators earlier this morning. Certainly. After questioning by the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO), President Yoon will be transferred to Seoul Detention Center in Uiwang, Gyeonggi-do Province, where he will likely be held in solitary confinement. The CIO must decide by Friday whether to request a detention warrant for President Yoon or release him. Under South Korean law, the CIO has 48 hours to request a detention warrant — until 10:33 a.m. on January 17. An arrest warrant allows custody for this amount of time, but a detention warrant extends this period during an ongoing investigation. If granted, the CIO and prosecution will split the investigation period, each conducting inquiries for 10 days. If denied, Yoon will be released but remain under investigation. Given that this involves a sitting president, the legal and political stakes are high. President Yoon and his legal team argue that his arrest and the investigation are illegal. What are the grounds for these claims? Jungmin, some legal experts support Yoon's claims, but others strongly disagree. Let's break it down. Let's hear from Professor Chang Young-soo from Korea University, who explains the basis of the legal arguments from Yoon's lawyers. "First, the CIO does not have the authority to investigate insurrection charges. Second, there's an issue with the warrant request — jurisdiction belongs to the Seoul Central District Court, so why was it filed with the Seoul Western District Court?" However, other experts dismiss these claims. Take a listen to Professor Cho Hee-kyoung of Hongik University. "It's true that the CIO does not have specific jurisdiction over insurrection because their focus is mainly to do with high-level public officials corruption and related acts. But what they do have is the jurisdiction to look at any related crime that they become aware of as they investigate another crime. Plus the CIO is not acting alone here they are actually cooperating with the National Investigation bureau(Office) so together they have all the necessary jurisdiction." With the warrant reviewed and approved multiple times, some view Yoon's claims as an attempt to exploit legal loopholes to avoid responsibility. Beyond this investigation, President Yoon is also facing an impeachment trial. Will he attend the next hearing scheduled for tomorrow? This afternoon, President Yoon's legal team confirmed that he will not attend tomorrow's impeachment hearing. Yoon also skipped the first session on Tuesday, citing concerns over the legitimacy of his arrest and his personal safety. As a result, that hearing ended after just four minutes. However, the Constitutional Court has made it clear that the trial will proceed regardless of his presence. Professor Cho Hee-kyoung explains why Yoon's absence may be more than just a safety concern. "The reason why Yoon didn't participate is really more a delaying tactic because the constitutional court still needs to ask the president, the defendant, to appear before the court to attend the trial process up to two times. Then if the defendant doesn't appear, even at the second request, they can simply go ahead without the defendant present." Lastly Jung-sil what's the fate of the president's security officials who stood their ground during the first arrest attempt earlier this month? The police are now focusing on high-ranking members of the Presidential Security Service who blocked the first attempt to arrest President Yoon. While some have cooperated, others continue to resist. So far, 55 individuals from various government, military, and security agencies have been charged, with key suspects — such as former defense minister Kim Yong-hyun and former defense intelligence commander Noh Sang-won — already handed over to the prosecution. Ultimately, how the police handle this high-stakes investigation will shape the outcome of this unprecedented legal battle. Unprecedented indeed. All right Jung-sil thank you for the latest on both the probe and legal proceedings against the president. Thank you.
President Yoon refuses to answer CIO's questions over imposition of martial law on Dec. 3
2025/01/15 20:00
The president has been under interrogation by the corruption investigation office since 11 AM this morning. For more on how the investigation is unfolding, we have our correspondent Choi Min-jung, joining us live from the investigation office in Gwacheon. Min-jung, let's begin with the details of his arrival at the investigation office. Right, President Yoon was transferred to the anti-corruption agency's headquarters here in Gwacheon, just twenty minutes after his 10:33 AM arrest at the presidential residence in Hannam-dong. He left the residence in a convoy of security vehicles. The Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials had set up a photo line at the front entrance for President Yoon, but he entered the building through a back door restricting his appearance to journalists waiting outside. Being escorted in a security vehicle and limiting his exposure to the public was likely a measure taken considering his status as the sitting president. Now, how is the investigation unfolding? Right, nine hours have passed since the interrogation began at 11 AM in a video recording room. From 11 AM to 1:30 PM, deputy chief of the CIO, Lee Jae-seung, conducted the investigation,. with Yoon's legal team present, including Yun Gap-geun. The interrogation resumed in the afternoon at 2:40 PM, conducted by Senior Prosecutor Lee Dae-hwan. President Yoon refused to testify during the questioning and exercised his right to remain silent. And it remains to be seen whether Yoon will cooperate at all, given his stance that the investigation is "illegal." The anti-corruption agency also mentioned that while President Yoon is currently being questioned in a video recording room, no video is being recorded due to his refusal to be taped. Yoon is expected to be questioned on multiple allegations tied to the imposition of martial law on December third, including the unlawful declaration and proclamation of martial law, insurrection, abuse of power, sending troops to the National Assembly on the night of the declaration to stop lawmakers from voting down the decree, and attempting to illegally arrest opposition and ruling party leaders. We have yet to know how long the questioning will last, but the CIO reportedly prepared 2-hundred pages worth of questions for Yoon. That's all I have for now. Back to you, Jung-min.
World News: Ukraine launches largest air attacks on Russia since start of war
2025/01/15 17:00
This is the World Now, bringing you the latest stories from around the globe. Ukraine's military struck several targets deep inside Russia on Tuesday in what it called the "most massive" air attack since the start of the war. Ukraine deployed over a hundred drones and more than a dozen cruise missiles targeting infrastructure in cities far from the Ukrainian border. Damage was reportedly caused at gas storage tanks that served an airbase for Russian bomber planes, as well as ammunition depots and chemical plants. In response, Russia has accused Ukraine of "energy terrorism" following an alleged drone attack on the TurkStream pipeline, a crucial channel for Russian gas to Europe. Amid the latest tensions, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius visited Kyiv to reaffirm Germany's unwavering support for Ukraine. In France, Prime Minister Francois Bayrou, on Tuesday, proposed reopening discussions on President Emmanuel Macron's 2023 pension reform, which raised the retirement age from 62 to 64. The move aims to secure support from left-wing lawmakers to pass the 2025 budget. Bayrou emphasized the necessity of restructuring the pension system to stabilize France's public finances, highlighting the country's significant debt and the goal to reduce the public deficit to 5.4% of GDP in 2025. The proposal comes after months of protests and political turmoil over the pension changes. Bayrou's approach includes engaging with labor unions and opposition parties to find common ground, and warning against modifications that could exacerbate France's financial challenges. NATO has launched a new mission, the "Baltic Sentry," to protect critical undersea infrastructure in the Baltic Sea, amid rising concerns over potential sabotage. This follows recent incidents involving damage to undersea cables and pipelines, following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. As part of the mission, NATO countries will deploy frigates, maritime patrol aircraft, and naval drones to increase surveillance and deterrence capabilities. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte stated the mission aims to "deter and detect any potential threats" to undersea assets. In the U.K., the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, has announced on Tuesday that after a year-long battle, she no longer has any signs of cancer. During a visit to London's Royal Marsden Hospital, where she received treatment, the princess expressed relief and gratitude for the exceptional care she received from the medical staff. In a social media post, Middleton acknowledged the challenges of adapting to a new normal following her diagnosis and shared her optimism for the future. The recent hospital visit was her first solo engagement since completing chemotherapy in September. Choi Chi Hee, Arirang News.
President Yoon undergoes questioning over imposition of martial law on Dec. 3
2025/01/15 17:00
We start today at the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials at the Gwacheon Government Complex where President Yoon Suk Yeol is facing questions on charges of insurrection following his arrest early this morning. For details Arirang's Choi Min-jung is standing by live on site. Min-jung let's begin with details of the actual arrest. Right, Sunny. President Yoon was arrested this morning at 10:33 AM,.. at his presidential residence in Hannam-dong, marking a historic moment in South Korea's political landscape. The arrest comes 43 days after he declared martial law on December third. He was seen leaving the residence in a convoy of security vehicles, and arrived at the CIO headquarters in Gwacheon behind me,.. where he is being held for questioning. The interrogation began at 11 AM in a video recording room,.. focusing on the allegations of insurrection that are tied to the imposition of martial law on December third. From 11 to 1:30 PM, deputy chief of the CIO, Lee Jae-seung, conducted the investigation,. with Yoon's legal team present. President Yoon refused to testify during the questioning and exercised his right to remain silent. The interrogation resumed in the afternoon at 2:40 PM, conducted by Senior Prosecutor Lee Dae-hwan. The anti-corruption agency also mentioned that while President Yoon is currently being questioned in a video recording room, no video is being recorded due to his refusal to get taped. The arrest comes after South Korea's anti-corruption agency executed the warrant to temporarily detain Yoon early this morning for questioning. The operation commenced at around 5 AM,. and approximately 1-thousand personnel, including members of the anti-corruption agency and police,. were deployed to the presidential residence. Authorities appeared better prepared than the first failed attempt. At around 7:30 AM,.. a few dozen investigators passed through defense lines,.. by using ladders to go over the buses that were parked as barricades. The team managed to secure entry without any major incidents, though initial resistance was reported. Now following his arrest the president shared a pre-recorded public address. What was the gist of his message? Before heading here, to the CIO headquarters, Yoon released a video message saying that he decided to appear for questioning to prevent "bloodshed" between government agencies. He, however, stressed that the investigation remains illegal. Take a listen. "As the president who must protect the Constitution and legal system of the Republic of Korea, responding to such illegal and invalid procedures is not an acknowledgment of them, but rather a desire to prevent any unsavory bloodshed." Yoon's legal team argues that the CIO does not have investigative authority over the president, but also illegally sought the arrest warrant from the Seoul Western District Court, where it does not have jurisdiction. President Yoon's side argues that the declaration of a state of emergency was a legitimate exercise of executive power. As this unprecedented event unfolds, all eyes remain on President Yoon's next steps and how the investigation will progress. This is all I have for now, but I'll be back with more updates on our next newscast.
![[Weather] Cold morning tomorrow, snow forecast for western parts of the country](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimg.arirang.com%2Fv1%2FAUTH_d52449c16d3b4bbca17d4fffd9fc44af%2Fpublic%2Fboard%2F202501%2F2851025101892092679.jpg&w=3840&q=75)
[Weather] Cold morning tomorrow, snow forecast for western parts of the country
2025/01/15 17:00
This morning the feels-like temperature in Seoul plummeted to minus 11 degrees. Even during the day, the temperature only rose to minus 1. This cold spell will continue tomorrow morning with minus 5 degrees Celsius in Seoul, very similar to today. In addition, there is snow forecast mainly in western regions including Seoul tomorrow. A dry weather advisory is still in place for the east coast areas due to extremely dry conditions there. Please be careful not to cause any wildfires. Tomorrow, Seoul and Daejeon will start off at minus 5 degrees. Gwangju minus 3. Daily highs will move up to 5 degrees in Seoul. Chuncheon 3 degrees. The winter cold will continue at the level of previous years for the rest of the week. That's all for Korea. Here are the weather conditions around the world.
J-Hope kicks off 2025 solo world tour with sold out Seoul concerts
2025/01/15 17:00
On the K-pop front. BTS's J-Hope is poised to embark on his first solo world tour next month. The tour will take him to 15 cities for over 30 shows on stage. It will start here in Seoul on February 28th and tickets have already sold out. Meanwhile his concerts in North America will begin in Brooklyn in New York City on March 13th. He's also looking to make new history as the first Korean solo artist to perform at the BMO Stadium in Los Angeles in April.
Underprivileged youths getting winter sports experience in S. Korea
2025/01/15 17:00
In other news. Korea hosts a special annual program that offers young foreigners with potential the chance to engage in winter sports that are not readily available in their own countries. Our Park Kun-woo covers this program. 17-year-old Fatima is a promising figure skater from Peru. She has faced many challenges due to the lack of ice rinks near home, except for a small facility that's often closed, making it difficult for her to practice regularly. But Gangwon-do Province where the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics were held has been providing opportunities for young people like Fatima for over 20 years with the support of related organizations through the "Dream Program." "If you have a smaller rink it's hard to train but here it's easier because the ice is better and the conditions are better. Coming here is really privileged. I wasn't really sure what I wanted to achieve but I think for now I want people to know that there is ice skating in Peru and to invite them to try it." With better conditions, young talents have been able to practice to their fullest, gliding, jumping, and spinning. "Every year, Gangwondo Province in South Korea runs the 'Dream Program,' bringing young athletes who lack proper facilities and coaching in their home countries to train in an ideal environment here. Let's see how hard these athletes are working to reach their goals." Professional coaches also helped participants train for short track, helping them give their best effort and skate at full speed. Ski slopes covered in heavy snow are also offering unique experiences for those seeing snow for the first time. "The snowing is very brilliant and very cool and this is the first time we come to snowing. So very interesting." "Very cool and very experienced winter season. Thank you so much. (I'm going to) get the Olympic ready Winter Olympic." Participants have steadily become used to the snow, to the point where they could tackle steep slopes on their own. And despite the heavy snowfall on the day, and falling during practice, they got back up right away. Since 2004, thousands of participants from around 100 countries, including Uganda and Uganda, have taken part in the program, with hundreds advancing to international sports competitions. This year, over 120 people from around 28 countries participated in the two-week program. These young talents will be returning to their homes next week, carrying with them the dreams of one-day becoming winter sports stars representing their countries. Park Kun-woo, Arirang News, Pyeongchang.
S. Korea's job market stumbles: December job decline marks weak end to 2024
2025/01/15 17:00
Employment here in Korea in 2024 rose by less than half the size of its growth in 2023. Our correspondent Moon Hye-ryeon tells us why. South Korea's job market saw a sharp decline in growth last year, with December marking the first employment figure decrease in more than three years amid political instability in the country. According to data released by Statistics Korea on Wednesday, the number of people in employment in 2024 increased by just 159-thousand compared to the previous year, reaching just under 28-point-6 million in total. This figure is less than half of the 327-thousand jobs added in 2023, highlighting a significant slowdown for the labor market. It also marks the smallest annual increase in employment since 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic led to job losses. Job growth rebounded in 2021 and surged in 2022 to mark the biggest gain in 22 years – before declining in 2023 and again in 2024. The construction sector saw the largest decline, losing 49-thousand jobs – the steepest drop on record. Employment in wholesale and retail, as well as in manufacturing, also decreased. By age, employment growth was concentrated among older workers in 2024, with 266-thousand jobs added for those aged 60 and above. Meanwhile, the number of employed people in their twenties and forties fell sharply. In December alone, the number of those in employment fell by 52-thousand, which marked the first decline in more than three years. A spokesperson from the agency commented on whether these figures are reflective of weakened consumer demand due to the political instability following the December 3rd martial law declaration. "It can be said that sectors like wholesale and retail, transportation and warehousing, and accommodation and food services may have been influenced to some extent by psychological factors, showing a slowdown in these industries." With these latest figures, the government pledged to actively support the recovery of domestic demand and job creation through rapid execution of livelihood and economic support projects including job initiatives in the first half of the year. This came during a ministerial economic meeting headed by the country's Finance Minister on Wednesday – who went on to further urge all ministries to act as "dedicated employment departments" and prepare tailored job support measures for vulnerable citizens. Despite the slowdown, South Korea's employment rate for those aged 15 and older reached 62-point-7 percent, the highest since records began. Moon Hye-ryeon, Arirang News.
Israel-Hamas ceasefire close: Blinken
2025/01/15 17:00
In the Middle East. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken claims Israel and Hamas are close to a cease fire deal for Gaza and that the ball is now in the latter's court. Lee Seung-jae reports. After over a year of fighting, Israel and Hamas may finally agree to a ceasefire deal. According to U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday, a ceasefire deal is "closer than it's ever been before." "Over the past several weeks, our intensive efforts have brought us to the brink of full and final agreement. On Sunday (January 12), the United States, Qatar and Egypt put forward a final proposal. The ball is now in Hamas's court. If Hamas accepts the deal is ready to be concluded and implemented, I believe we will get a ceasefire." Speaking at the Atlantic Council in Washington, the top U.S. envoy also laid out the plan, in which he says a reformed Palestinian Authority would lead Gaza and bring in international partners to help establish and run an interim government. Blinken added that the Biden administration will hand over the post-war management plan for Gaza to President-elect Donald Trump's team. This would include details of an interim security mission, including international forces and Palestinians. The Associated Press says that Hamas has accepted a draft agreement for a ceasefire, as well as the release of dozens of hostages. According to officials involved in the negotiation, the talks are in their final stages. The call for a ceasefire is also coming from a small number of Israeli soldiers, who are refusing to fight if a ceasefire agreement isn't reached. Some 200 soldiers signed a letter, vowing to stop fighting if the Israeli government didn't secure a ceasefire. The troops say they want others to come forward. Speaking to the Associated Press, a number of soldiers said the declaration comes as Palestinians were indiscriminately killed during the 15-month long conflict, with many soldiers being ordered to burn or destroy homes that posed no threat. Meanwhile, on Tuesday night thousands gathered at Tel Aviv's Hostages Square, a public plaza located in front of the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, where families of the hostages taken during the October 7, 2023 attack have made camp. Protesters sang and played music on stage, with those present anticipating a ceasefire deal that would finally bring back their loved ones. Ninety-four hostages are still being held by Hamas since being taken on October 7, 2023. The 15-month-long conflict has also led to the death of over 45-thousand Palestinians. Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.
S. Korea, U.S., Japan hold joint aerial drills involving B-1B bomber to counter N. Korean threats
2025/01/15 17:00
Seoul Washington and Tokyo held joint aerial drills earlier on this Wednesday. The exercise involved the U.S.'s B-1B strategic bomber South Korea's F-15K and Japan's F-2 fighters. According to the Defense Ministry here the drills come as part of efforts to counter North Korea's evolving nuclear and missile threats including its most recent series of ballistic missile tests.
U.S. Defense Secretary nominee calls North Korea a "nuclear power" and threat to global stability
2025/01/15 17:00
The incoming Trump administration's defense chief nominee Pete Hegseth has called North Korea a "nuclear power." Most U.S. officials have refrained from this phrase amid concerns that it legitimizes the regime's illicit weapons program and casts doubt on efforts to ensure nuclear non-proliferation. Lee Eun-hee reports. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's nominee for U.S. defense secretary, Pete Hegseth, described North Korea as a threat to global stability, calling it a "nuclear power." Hegseth made the comments in reply to advanced policy questions submitted to the Senate Armed Services Committee ahead of his confirmation hearing for the role of 29th Secretary of Defense. Hegseth wrote that North Korea's nuclear weapons, missile development, and growing cyber capabilities threaten stability in the Korean Peninsula, the Indo-Pacific, and globally. He added that the threat is especially concerning due to North Korea's proximity to U.S. allies hosting American troops, and if confirmed, he will request both classified and unclassified briefings on the DPRK threat. His use of "nuclear power" differs from the term "nuclear weapon state" under international law, as it includes countries with nuclear weapons that are not officially recognized as countries with nuclear weapons. With him potentially running the U.S. Department of Defense, overseeing over 3 million people and a budget of nearly 9 hundred billion U.S. dollars, Hegseth's remarks signal a clear recognition of the threat posed by North Korea's nuclear capabilities. He also said he plans to reassess the readiness of U.S. military forces globally and ensure adequate funding to strengthen U.S. posture and deterrence in the Indo-Pacific. This suggests the Trump administration may seek higher defense contributions from South Korea for U.S. forces stationed in the country. Regarding China's military threat, Hegseth emphasized the need for greater global burden-sharing, along with increased investment in the U.S. defense industrial base. Hegseth emphasized that strong alliances require mutual responsibility and cannot be one-sided, noting that the U.S. will push for increased defense spending and burden-sharing from allies. He also said that strengthening these partnerships through consistent cooperation is key to enhancing mutual trust. Lee Eun-hee, Arirang News.
Rival parties show mixed reactions to Yoon’s arrest
2025/01/15 17:00
As widely expected the response at the parliament to the president's arrest stands bitterly divided between the ruling and opposition parties. Our National Assembly Correspondent Shin Ha-young reports. After President Yoon Suk Yeol was arrested on Wednesday morning, the rival political parties urgently convened meetings. The ruling People Power Party criticized the investigators for executing a so-called "unlawful arrest warrant," adding that the party would hold the CIO accountable for this. "The CIO and police executed an unlawful warrant, with a complicit judiciary. The opposition party pressured both the CIO and the NOI. History will inevitably record this." Floor leader Kweon Seong-dong stated that it was embarrassing for the public and damaged the country's dignity. Regarding the citizen who was injured during the CIO's execution of the warrant, Kweon said the party would hold both the CIO and the National Office of Investigation responsible. After the meeting, the party told reporters that it is considering filing a complaint against the CIO for abuse of power, as well as possibly making a protest visit to the agency. However, the main opposition Democratic Party welcomed the arrest, saying that this marked the first step to restoring the constitutional order and democracy, and upholding the rule of law. "Though delayed, it's reassuring to see that justice and public authority are still alive in South Korea." DP Floor Leader Park Chan-dae urged the CIO to fully investigate Yoon on insurrection charges. The DP also pressured the PPP to address a bill for a special investigation into President Yoon's short-lived imposition of martial law. Meanwhile, National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik said in a written statement on Wednesday that with President Yoon's arrest, efforts should now be focused on stabilizing current state affairs and improving the people's livelihoods. He added that the Assembly would work toward the swift establishment of a joint consultative body between the rival parties and the government. Woo also expressed his commitment to advancing a bill for a special investigation into President Yoon's brief imposition of martial law. Shin Ha-young, Arirang News.
President Yoon arrested: What’s next in the unfolding political crisis?
2025/01/15 17:00
Now for more on what lies ahead for President Yoon Suk Yeol amid his arrest I have our Kim Jung-sil here in the studio. Jung-sil welcome. Thank you for having me. Right then do walk us through the protocols ahead for the president given his arrest by anti-corruption investigators earlier this morning. Certainly. After completing his interrogation by the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO), President Yoon will be transferred to the Seoul Detention Center in Uiwang, Gyeonggi-do Province, where he is expected to be placed in solitary confinement. Under South Korean law, the CIO must decide whether to formally request a detention warrant within 48 hours — by 10:33 a.m. on January 17th. To clarify, an arrest warrant allows the authorities to detain a suspect for up to 48 hours for questioning. If they need to hold the suspect beyond that, they must request a detention warrant, which allows extended custody while the interrogation continues. If a detention warrant is issued for the president, the CIO and the prosecution are expected to split the investigation period, each conducting investigations for 10 days. If the detention warrant is approved, President Yoon could remain in custody for longer pending a trial. If denied, he would be released but would still face an investigation. This process is highly sensitive, given that it involves a sitting president, raising potential constitutional and political concerns. Now along with the investigation into insurrection charges the president also faces an impeachment trial and a second hearing is scheduled for tomorrow. Will he be able to attend tomorrow's session? That's a critical point. President Yoon was absent from the first impeachment hearing on Tuesday, with his legal team claiming that he will appear once concerns over the legitimacy of his arrest and his personal safety are resolved. As a result, the session ended after just four minutes. The Constitutional Court has made it clear that the proceedings will continue regardless of his attendance. Experts believe Yoon's participation at the next hearing is unlikely, arguing that if this had been an option, the authorities may have postponed today's arrest. Meanwhile Jung-sil what's the fate of the president's security officials who stood their ground during the first arrest attempt last week? The police are now focusing on high-ranking members of the Presidential Security Service who blocked the first attempt to arrest President Yoon. While some have cooperated, others continue to resist. So far, 55 individuals from various government, military, and security sector have been charged, with key suspects—such as former defense minister Kim Yong-hyun and former defense intelligence commander Noh Sang-won— already handed over to the prosecution. Ultimately, how the police navigate these obstacles will determine the momentum and outcome of this unprecedented investigation. Unprecedented indeed. All right Jung-sil thank you for the latest on both the probe and legal proceedings against the president. Thank you.
K-wave AI News
2025/01/15 14:00
Welcome to The Kulture Wave AI News. Let's get started with today's top story. Gyeongju in Gyeongsangbuk-do Province attracted more than one million international tourists last year. This marks the first time the city has reached this milestone in a single year. The highest number of visitors came from China, followed by Taiwan, Japan and Russia. Gyeongju plans to enhance its promotion and marketing efforts to further stimulate tourism ahead of the upcoming APEC Summit, scheduled to take place in the city from late October to early November. Gyeongju, often referred to as "the museum without walls," was the capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom. The "Hallasan Snow Flower Bus," offering convenient access to Hallasan Mountain's breathtaking winter scenery, will now operate on weekdays. The Snow Flower Bus route 1100 will run six times daily, complementing the existing route 240. With the additional weekday service, a total of 15 daily trips will be available to popular Hallasan destinations. This initiative aims to ease parking shortages and reduce traffic congestion in the surrounding area. The celebrated play "The Cherry Orchard" will take the stage at the Busan Citizens' Hall Grand Theater from March 13 to 15. Directed by renowned director Simon Stone, the production features an all-star cast, including some of Korea's most acclaimed actors like Jeon Do-yeon and 전도연 and Park Hae-soo. The play reinterprets the final masterpiece of Anton Chekhov, one of Russia's greatest literary figures, transforming the classic into a modern tale set in contemporary Korean society. Each character has been given a new name and identity, tailored to reflect Korean cultural nuances. Director Simon Stone, known for his innovative productions across the U.S. and the UK brings his expertise to this adaptation, promising a fresh take on the timeless story. That's all for now. Stay tuned for more cultural updates and engaging discussions coming your way!