News

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!

K-Correspondent_From K-dramas to K-healthcare Korean Wave in the Czech Republic

2025/01/15 14:00

Once a week we connect live to a correspondent who fills us in on K-culture news overseas. Today, we will talk to a K-correspondent in the heart of Europe, the Czech Republic. The country is well known here through a K-drama that was filmed in its capital Prague. Nowadays, Korean culture and products have become popular in the Czech Republic with the influence of K-pop, K-dramas, K-food and even Korean healthcare. Let’s now connect to our K-correspondent Kevin Chung in the Czech Republic to find out more! Kevin, hello! Q1. Please introduce yourself to our viewers. Q2. We see through the media how the Korean wave has grown in the Czech Republic. How do you perceive it? Q3. The Czech Republic’s capital Prague is a popular tourist destination for Koreans. Backed by the hallyu craze, are there any Korean tourism spots that are popular among Czechs? Q4. Are there any Korean dramas or movies that are a hit among Czech medical students? Q5. Recently, I heard that the influence of the Korean Wave is expanding into the medical field. Is this true? Q6. I wonder if there is any Korean medical practice that that Czechs are interested in. Q7. As far as I know, people in the Czech Republic consume a lot of meat and beer. I assume they may have similar tastes to Koreans. Where does Korean food stand in terms of popularity there? Q8. What other areas of the K-Wave are popular in the Czech Republic?

[K-Enter] J-Hope, Rosé, G-Dragon to attend French charity concert

2025/01/15 14:00

Time for K-Enter News with Walter Lee. Starting off with some news on three big names attending a fundraising concert in France. BTS's J-Hope, BLACKPINK's Rosé, and Big Bang's G-Dragon are set to take the stage at a charity concert named "Gala des Pièces Jaunes 2025" held at La Défense Arena in France on January 23rd (local time). The three K-pop stars are listed among the performers for the charity concert organised by the Fondation des Hôpitaux chaired by Brigitte Macron, the wife of French President Emmanuel Macron. Other performers include American singers Katy Perry and John Legend. The campaign involves collecting coins smaller than 1 euro (approximately 1,400 KRW) to improve the welfare of hospitalised children, with the fundraising effort lasting about a month. This will be Rosé's second time performing at the charity event as she has also taken part in the concert with BLACKPINK. C'est très intéressant. (Very interesting) Next up we are talking about a new K-pop group specifically from JYP. JYP Entertainment's rookie boy group Kickflip will release their debut mini-album, "Flip it, Kick it!", on January 20th, officially starting their activities. The group name, Kickflip, which refers to a skateboarding trick where the board barrel-rolls 360 degrees, 관습에서 벗어나 신선한 공연을 선보이겠다는 의지를 표현한 것입니다. The group Kickflip has seven members, five from Korea and two from Japan. They were recently named one of the "8 Rookie K-Pop Acts To Watch In 2025" by Grammy.com, signalling their bright future. Their debut mini-album, "Flip it, Kick it!", features six tracks, including the title song, "Mama Said". The mini-album will officially drop at 6pm on January 20th. On the same day, the group will hold a debut show on Mnet M2 at 7pm and a debut showcase at 9pm to mark the start of their career. I am sure we will be reporting on this group more in the near future. And now ending on some K-movie news. The press and distributor screening, along with a media Q&A session for the movie "Secret: Untold Melody" , starring EXO member Doh Kyung-soo better known as D.O. and Won Jin-ah , was held on Tuesday. "Secret: Untold Melody" is a fantasy romance film which starts with a chance meeting in a rehearsal room between Yoo Joon, a pianist played by Do Kyung-soo , and Jung Ah, portrayed by Won Jin-ah . Yoo Joon’s promising career is derailed by an unexpected injury, but Jung Ah rekindles his love for music, guiding him toward a timeless secret waiting to be uncovered. Doh Kyung-soo shared his experience playing the role, saying, "I don’t know how to play the piano, but the opportunity to act as if I were playing it and to try the melodrama genre drew me to this film." He also mentioned, "I worked hard to express the movements and actions of a pianist, such as how they emphasise certain notes or accents when playing." “Secret: Untold Melody" is set to be released on January 28th. The trailer of the movie really makes you wonder what that secret is. I'll have to find out at the cinema. Thank you for that news and stick around.

[Features reporter] Underprivileged youths getting winter sports experience in S. Korea

2025/01/15 14:00

Kun-woo, I heard you visited the sport facilities in Gangwon-do Province yesterday. So, why exactly were you there? That's right. I had a chance to visit the annual "Dream Program," one of the legacy projects of the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics, taking place in Gangwon-do Province until January 19th. This program is well-known for giving young people from around the world the opportunity to experience winter sports, some for the first time. So why don't we first take a closer look. 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 Guatemala, 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. Kun-woo, I'm curious about the athletes that made it to international sports competitions. Can you tell us more about them? Of course. Among the hundreds that advanced to such competitions, around 20 made it to the Winter Olympics or Winter Paralympics so far. I had a chance to interview Julian Yee, the first Malaysian figure skater to compete in the Olympics and the winner of multiple international competitions who participated in the 2009 edition of the Dream Program. One fun fact about him is that he also participated in the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics. Take a listen to him sharing his experience. "I thought that was like a huge stepping stone for me to just even realize and open my eyes to the world of winter sports. Always tell the participants to enjoy as much as they can, learn as much as they can from each other, from the coaches and most importantly to stay connected. It resonates with me a lot coming from Malaysia that we were not very developed and we made it this far." And especially as he participated as a special coach in this year's event, he said that his current dream is to help countries with less developed figure skating programs and produce athletes who can compete on the world stage. But Kun-woo, I've heard that climate change is changing the conditions for winter sports in Gangwon-do Province as well. How are they working on the issue? That's right Walter. Unfortunately, climate change is affecting South Korea as well, and ski resorts have been postponing their opening over the previous years. However, an official from the PyeongChang 2018 Legacy Foundation said they are working on creating indoor facilities where people can train while strengthening programs taking place at ice rinks, as they won't be affected by climate change. He also said training during the summer season is a possible option as well, saying that athletes in sports such as cross-country skiing and ski jumping can train even in summer. Alright Kun-woo, thanks for all of that. And we'll see you next time. Thank you Kun-woo. Of course, see you.

U.S. Defense Secretary nominee calls North Korea a "nuclear power" and threat to global stability

2025/01/15 10:00

U.S. Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth has labeled North Korea a "nuclear power" that threatens global stability, while stressing the importance of U.S. allies taking on more "burden sharing" to foster healthy partnerships. Lee Eun-hee brings more. 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 9 hundred billion U.S. dollar budget, 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.

Israel-Hamas ceasefire close: Blinken

2025/01/15 10:00

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken says an Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal is "right on the brink" and "closer than it's ever been before." 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.

[Weather] Bitter cold returns, morning snow in Jeolla-do Provinces

2025/01/15 10:00

The bitter cold returns to much of the country with cold wave alerts re-issued in many central regions. Feels like temperatures in the capital are much colder and highs will stay below freezing. Stay warm! Meanwhile, Jeolla-do Provinces could see lingering snow flurries through the first half of the day, drive with extra care. Jeju will be rainy until the evening. A dry weather advisory remains in place for the east coast, it will be quite windy in the west of Jeollanam-do Province. Afternoon highs in the capital will be nearly 7 degrees lower topping out at minus 1 degree. Daegu at 3 degrees, Busan at 4 degrees Celsius with a dry advisory in place for a week. Most parts of the country will be under sunny skies with decent air quality. A snowy day is in store for tomorrow in western regions including here in Seoul then the cold snap should subside tomorrow afternoon. That's Korea for you, here's a look at the international weather conditions.

Nato launches mission to protect crucial undersea cables in Baltic Sea

2025/01/15 10:00

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.

French PM proposes re-opening debate over Macron's pension reform

2025/01/15 10:00

Over 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.

Ukraine launches largest air attack on Russia since start of war

2025/01/15 10:00

Let's begin today with updates on the war in Ukraine. Kyiv has claimed it launched its largest air attack of war so far. That's right. 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.

President Yoon's 1st impeachment hearing ends after 4 minutes due to absence; what next?

2025/01/15 10:00

President Yoon's impeachment trial kicked off on Tuesday at the Constitutional Court, but concluded within minutes due to his absence. The bench rejected a request by the president's team to recuse a justice. Our correspondent Oh Soo-young reports. Meeting adjourned after four minutes. President Yoon Suk Yeol's first impeachment trial hearing wrapped up almost as soon as it began, as the leader did not show up before the Constitutional Court on Tuesday. "As the respondent is absent, proceedings will not continue today in accordance with Article 52, Paragraph 1 of the Constitutional Court Act." Yoon's absence was largely expected as his legal team announced he would not attend the first session and submitted a series of objections to the Court. These include an objection to the first hearing, and the Court's decision to fix five hearing dates without consultation. It also filed a request to recuse Justice Chung Kye-sun who was appointed to the bench this month. Yoon's team cited her connections to the opposition Democratic Party and her husband's close association with former chief justice Kim Yi-su who is co-chair of the National Assembly's panel of lawyers trying to impeach the President. The Court's Acting Chief Justice said the bench rejected the recusal request, and said the Court's announcement of multiple hearing dates aligns with the Constitutional Court Act. Speaking to reporters, Yoon's attorney Yun Gap-geun expressed "deep regret" and indicated the President's team will continue to contest the proceedings. "The rushed scheduling of hearings is unnecessary. Even if hearings were scheduled through February 4th, there was ample opportunity during today’s or the January 16th hearing to consult with and notify the defense counsel. Such omissions cast doubt on the fairness and neutrality of the trial process." Meanwhile, the National Assembly's impeachment team called for swift proceedings and for the President himself to attend his trial. "The respondent is expected to continue employing various measures, even after today, in order to hinder the swift and smooth progression of the trial." "Yoon's absence at the first hearing means the session has been rescheduled to Thursday. Now, if he skips the hearing a second time, the Court can proceed without him. However, it's unclear how far the arguments can progress at this point." During their two pre-trial sessions, President Yoon's lawyers and the National Assembly failed to narrow their differences over the main grounds for impeachment, due to various sticking points. First, Yoon's lawyers say the National Assembly's panel removing charges of insurrection as a main argument for impeachment makes no sense as the Assembly's motion to remove him from power cited insurrection as a major reason. The Constitutional Court is expected to decide on this matter. Yoon's side also argues that his declaration of Martial Law was an 'act of state' under executive authority and therefore not subject to judicial review. In a 60-page document submitted to the Court on Tuesday, the team justified his reasons for declaring the decree citing election fraud, the opposition-led parliament's disruption of governance, and a state of emergency. Furthermore, Yoon's team filed an objection to the Court’s decision to obtain records from ongoing trials and criminal investigations over the martial law declaration, arguing that it violates the Constitutional Court Act. By raising procedural issues and various complaints, observers say Yoon's legal team appears to be angling for more time, having criticized the Court's focus on holding expedited proceedings. Oh Soo-young, Arirang News.

President Yoon's 1st impeachment hearing ends in 4 minutes due to absence; what next?

2025/01/14 20:00

Thank you for joining us. I'm Yoon Jung-min. We start with the president's impeachment trial today at the Constitutional Court, which concluded within minutes due to his absence. The bench rejected a request by the president's team to recuse a justice. Our correspondent Oh Soo-young brings us the latest. Meeting adjourned after four minutes. President Yoon Suk Yeol's first impeachment trial hearing wrapped up almost as soon as it began, as the leader did not show up before the Constitutional Court on Tuesday. "As the respondent is absent, proceedings will not continue today in accordance with Article 52, Paragraph 1 of the Constitutional Court Act." Yoon's absence was largely expected as his legal team announced he would not attend the first session and submitted a series of objections to the Court. These include an objection to the first hearing, and the Court's decision to fix five hearing dates without consultation. It also filed a request to recuse Justice Chung Kye-sun who was appointed to the bench this month. Yoon's team cited her connections to the opposition Democratic Party and her husband's close association with former chief justice Kim Yi-su who is co-chair of the National Assembly's panel of lawyers trying to impeach the President. The Court's Acting Chief Justice said the bench rejected the recusal request, and said the Court's announcement of multiple hearing dates aligns with the Constitutional Court Act. Speaking to reporters, Yoon's attorney Yun Gap-geun expressed "deep regret" and indicated the President's team will continue to contest the proceedings. "The rushed scheduling of hearings is unnecessary. Even if hearings were scheduled through February 4th, there was ample opportunity during today's or the January 16th hearing to consult with and notify the defense counsel. Such omissions cast doubt on the fairness and neutrality of the trial process." Meanwhile, the National Assembly's impeachment team called for swift proceedings and for the President himself to attend his trial. "The respondent is expected to continue employing various measures, even after today, in order to hinder the swift and smooth progression of the trial." "Yoon's absence at the first hearing means the session has been rescheduled to Thursday. Now, if he skips the hearing a second time, the Court can proceed without him. However, it's unclear how far the arguments can progress at this point." During their two pre-trial sessions, President Yoon's lawyers and the National Assembly failed to narrow their differences over the main grounds for impeachment, due to various sticking points. First, Yoon's lawyers say the National Assembly's panel removing charges of insurrection as a main argument for impeachment makes no sense as the Assembly's motion to remove him from power cited insurrection as a major reason. The Constitutional Court is expected to decide on this matter. Also, Yoon's team filed an objection to the Court's decision to obtain records from ongoing trials and criminal investigations over the martial law declaration, arguing that it violates the Constitutional Court Act. By raising procedural issues and various complaints, observers say Yoon's legal team appears to be angling for more time, having criticized the Court's focus on holding expedited proceedings. Yoon's team has also cited security concerns as state investigators seek to execute an arrest warrant to question the President over insurrection charges. These challenges, if accepted by the Court, could delay the trial's progression. Oh Soo-young, Arirang News.