News

Osan Air Base opens doors to local community for first air show in six years

2025/05/12 20:00

Following a pause of some six years in light of the global pandemic, the Osan Air Base has opened its doors to the public for a showcase that shared its spectacular aerial capabilities. Our defense correspondent Kim Bo-kyoung was there. The F-16 Fighting Falcon performs advanced flight maneuvers, cutting through the rain-soaked sky. After a six-year pause, since the COVID-19 pandemic paused the tradition, Osan Air Base reopened its doors to the public over the weekend. Playing a critical role defending not just South Korea but also the Pacific region, this premier U.S. air base finally enjoyed the chance to welcome locals to showcase its capabilities. "This air show is, in many ways, a chance for us to say thank you for the hospitality and all the support we receive from the city of Pyeongtaek and the country of South Korea." Team Osan prepared a lot for people to see, but one of the most significant moments attendees could perhaps have enjoyed was this: "Fitting with the air show's theme, "Respect the past and forge the future," the show offered a final display in Korea of the A-10 Thunderbolt, which is in the process of phased withdrawal." The 51st Fighter Wing is the last overseas unit operating the A-10. Nicknamed Warthog, the aircraft will depart by the end of the fiscal year 2025. As part of a historic sendoff, visitors were able to witness static displays and weapon load demonstration. "For my squadron, we focused on close air support combat, search and rescue, and forward air control, and airborne missions, among others that are specific to Korea. And the significance of that is, as mentioned earlier, is that we, you know, take a deep pride in the mission of defending Korea." Another particularly special performance would be this year's final public performance of the Pacific Air Force's F-16 Demonstration Team, based out of Misawa Air Base, Japan. "I'm super honored that this is going to be our last show here in Korea, and then I get to do it as well." While letting the public experience the spirit of "Fight Tonight" firsthand, the air base was able to express gratitude to the local Korean community in its own way. Kim Bo-kyoung, Arirang News, Pyeongtaek.

Here's how K-pop fans in Japan are living the dream at KCON JAPAN 2025

2025/05/12 20:00

This past weekend, a major K-culture festival opened doors to fans over in Japan and our culture correspondent Song Yoo-jin was there to bring us this report. The Makuhari Messe, Japan's second-largest convention center, has been transformed into a K-pop arena. Fans scream, sing along, and wave neon-colored lightsticks as their favorite artists take to the stage. The lineup features rising and top-tier acts, like KiiiKiii, QWER, ZEROBASEONE, and HIGHLIGHT. This is KCON JAPAN 2025. "Where I am right now, KCON JAPAN, is one of the world's largest K-culture festivals. Here, you can experience almost everything you need to know about Korean culture." Launched in Los Angeles in 2012, KCON has toured over 10 countries, growing from just 10-thousand attendees to now more than 1-hundred-thousand per event. KCON JAPAN, the festival's first Asian edition, has been held annually since 2015. "Japan isn't just a major music market. It's the biggest overseas consumer of K-content. We're seeing more top-tier artists like G-Dragon, SEVENTEEN, and Stray Kids performing here, which shows K-pop is no longer just a foreign genre. It's now part of Japan's mainstream culture." Beyond the music, KCON offers hands-on experiences related to the broader Korean Wave. Dozens of booths introduce the latest in K-beauty, K-food, dramas, and merchandise. But what truly sets KCON apart is how close fans can get to their favorite stars. "It was amazing. Everything I'd hoped for. The fan service was incredible. They even blew hand kisses. It felt like we were close, like friends." "What really stood out was getting to see the artists up close when they visited the artist booths. Also, at the meet-and-greet, you could see them from a very close distance, something you don't normally get to experience." Having wrapped up its three-day run in Japan, KCON now prepares for its next stop, Los Angeles, this August. Song Yoo-jin, Arirang News, Chiba.

Pope Leo XIV calls for 'no more war' in first Sunday message

2025/05/12 20:00

At the Vatican. Pope Leo XIV appealed for "no more war," in his first Sunday address, echoing the words of his predecessor Pope Francis. The pontiff called for a lasting peace in Ukraine, an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. He also welcomed the recent ceasefire between India and Pakistan. Speaking to a crowd in St. Peter's Square, the new pope said he was praying to God to grant the world the "miracle of peace."

Russia and Ukraine to hold direct negotiations on Thursday for ceasefire deal

2025/05/12 20:00

Russia and Ukraine are set to hold negotiations in Istanbul on Thursday. Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed direct talks with Ukraine in a late-night address on Saturday, aiming at bringing peace, and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelenskyy responded by saying he is ready to meet Putin "personally." His response came shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday demanded that Ukraine agree to Putin's offer of talks.

U.S. and China agree on tariff cuts

2025/05/12 20:00

In a major breakthrough, the U.S. and China have announced a significant roll back on their tariffs, lowering them by 115 percentage points for 90 days. Ahn Sung-jin has the latest. After months of what seemed like a trade war, the United States and China have decided on tariff cuts. "We have reached an agreement on a 90-day pause and substantially moved down the tariff levels, both sides, on the reciprocal tariffs, will move their tariffs down 115 percent." The announcement comes following trade negotiations in Geneva over the weekend. In a joint statement, both emphasized the importance of "a sustainable, long-term, and mutually beneficial economic and trade relationship." "China has always pursued win-win outcomes in its trade and economic negotiations, and therefore any deal to be reached must surely be in China's own development interests. The Trump administration will be lowering its tariffs on Chinese goods from 1-hundred-45 percent to 30 percent, while Beijing will slash its taxes on U.S. imports from 125 percent to 10 percent. The tariff revisions are set to be imposed before May 14th. The tariff cuts, which come as a surprise breakthrough, may de-escalate tightened trade tensions and pessimistic global market outlooks. Ahn Sung-jin, Arirang News.

Fmr. President Yoon uses court's public entrance for first time at third criminal trial hearing

2025/05/12 20:00

Former President Yoon Suk Yeol attended the third hearing of his criminal trial on charges of insurrection at the Seoul Central District Court today. He also passed through the main public entrance for the first time, in contrast to his earlier visits that allowed him entry via the underground car park area to avoid the media. On this Monday, Yoon walked straight into the court building without any interaction with the press pool. A group of people were also gathered outside the court, chanting his name in a show of support.

Reform Party candidate promises new future with stronger economy, democratic institutions

2025/05/12 20:00

Reform Party candidate Lee Jun-seok has pledged to lead South Korea to the future, strengthening its economy and rebuilding its institutions. Kicking off his official campaign at midnight Monday, Lee visited an industrial complex in the southern city of Yeosu, calling for policies to revitalize the country's struggling export hubs. He also proposed introducing flexibility on the minimum wage, to boost labor competitiveness, while ramping up industrial safety standards. Upon his return to Seoul, he launched himself as a presidential contender at the age of 40, saying the upcoming election is a showdown between "the future and the past, integrity and corruption."

DP’s Lee Jae-myung heads south to visit 'K-Initiative Belt', focusing on economic vision

2025/05/12 20:00

The DP's Lee Jae-myung launched his campaign at a landmark in the capital where called for national unity. His next stops centered around shedding light on his economic vision. Our correspondent Shin Ha-young reports. Seoul's Gwanghwamun was the first stop of the official campaign of Democratic Party presidential candidate Lee Jae-myung, where he drew around 20-thousand people. The DP launched the campaign and Lee delivered his first public speech as the official presidential candidate of the party on Monday at Cheonggye Plaza near Gwanghwamun. Lee's camp chose this place as his first stop because it's where people gathered with light sticks, calling for the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk Yeol. The DP refers to the process of overcoming the December 3rd martial law declaration and subsequent unrest as a "Revolution of Light." The concept of the campaign centers on "listening" and "unity." During the speech Lee emphasized that national unity was his number one priority. "I'm running not only as the DP's candidate, but for all people who seek to end insurrections, overcome crises, and ensure everyone's happiness. I will lead with humility to unite the country, which I believe is the president's most important duty." Lee's camp also outlined three key goals: recovery, 회복, growth, 성장, and happiness 행복 along with ten major pledges. These included boosting the economy, restoring democracy, strengthening national security, and overcoming challenges such as the low birth rate, the aging population, and climate change. The camp also emphasized transforming South Korea into one of the world's top three AI powers. After finishing in Seoul, Lee then headed south to visit what the party calls the "K-Initiative Belt," which includes Pangyo and Dongtan in Gyeonggi-do Province, as well as Daejeon. In Pangyo, known for its IT companies, Lee focused on innovation. He spoke with workers in IT research and development and said he plans to expand support for startups. On a visit to Dongtan, home to major chipmaker plants, Lee asked for support as he pledged to boost the semiconductor industry. "As part of his visit to the "K-Initiative Belt," Lee Jae-myung wrapped up the first day of his official campaign in Daejeon, a hub for scientific research, where he highlighted science and technology. Shin Ha-young, Arirang News, Daejeon."

[Sports Round-up] Kim Hyo-joo successfully defends Ladies European Tour title on home soil

2025/05/12 20:00

Time now to take a look at what's been happening in the world of sports. Joining us in the studio is our sports editor, Paul Neat. Welcome, Paul. Thank you. Let's begin with golf. A win on home soil for Kim Hyo-joo. Yes, the LPGA veteran successfully defended her European Tour title. She won the Aramco Korea Championship on Sunday, following a final round card of three-under 69. This meant a 7-under par 209 finish, two strokes clear of Chiara Tamburlini of Switzerland. Kim takes home 225-thousand U.S. dollars in prize money. She won the same tournament last year, doing so wire to wire for what was the Ladies European Tour's debut in South Korea. It's her third win overall, to go with seven wins on the LPGA Tour. To football now. Son Heung-min is back from an injury layoff. Yes, he was back in the Spurs squad on Sunday. For the first time since April 11th -nine games ago. He picked up a foot injury in a Europa League tie with Eintracht Frankfurt and has been out since then. Son came off the bench in the second half, replacing Pedro Porro in the 58th minute. Spurs lost 2-0 to Crystal Palace and sit 17th in the table. The team's major focus now is the Europa League final against Manchester United on May 21st in Bilbao. Son's return is timely given that Spurs are looking for their first trophy since 2008, and Son is looking for the first trophy of his career. Sticking with football and trophies, Kim Min-jae was finally able to get his hands on one in a Bayern Munich shirt. Yes, Bayern eventually did seal the Bundesliga title. They actually did so when Bayer Leverkusen in second drew 2-2 with Freiburg last weekend. But on Saturday, after a 2-0 win over Borussia Mönchengladbach, he and the rest of the Bayern players were presented with the trophy. It's Kim Min-jae's first with Bayern Munich in what is his second season with the club. He's featured in 27 league games this season, playing 77 percent of all possible minutes, and scoring two goals. It's his second league title in Europe, having also won the Scudetto with Napoli in 2023. And finally, to baseball. Hanwha Eagles just can't be stopped at the moment. Right, 12 wins in a row now. Something that hasn't been done by Hanwha in 33 years. It's been down to some dominant starting pitching and late-game offensive surges. If they beat the Doosan Bears on the 13th, they'll tie for 7th on the all-time win streak list. And, sweeping the series could break the team's all-time record of 14. The Eagles soared to the top of the standings on April 26th and have a record of 27 wins and 13 losses. They also lead the league in comeback wins and pinch-hit batting average, while starter Ryu Hyun-jin and closer Kim Seo-hyun have become a near-unbeatable combo. This could be a historic season for the Eagles, who, for the last six seasons, have finished in the bottom three of the KBO standings including dead last on three occasions. Their last Korean Series dates back to 1999, while their last league championship was in 1992. Much to look forward to. Thanks for that wrap-up, Paul. See you next week. Thank you.

World News: 'No more war' says Pope Leo XIV in first Sunday message

2025/05/12 17:00

This is the World Now, bringing you the latest stories from around the globe. Starting in Rome, Pope Leo XIV delivered his inaugural Sunday address in St. Peter's Square, making a powerful plea for global peace, urging for an end to conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. "As Pope Francis has repeatedly stated, I too appeal to the great ones of the world, repeating the ever-relevant plea: No more war!'' On May 11, Pope Leo XIV, the first American-born pope, stood on the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica to deliver his first Sunday blessing in front of a crowd of approximately 100,000. He chose this position over the usual Apostolic Palace window, departing from tradition to symbolize a new approach. In his address, Pope Leo XIV echoed the words of his predecessor, Pope Francis, by urging "No more war." He expressed deep concern over the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, describing the global situation as a "Third World War being fought piecemeal." While calling for lasting peace in Ukraine and an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the pontiff also acknowledged the recent ceasefire between India and Pakistan. The truce between India and Pakistan remains fragile with reports of renewed tensions. On Saturday, May 10, India and Pakistan reached a ceasefire agreement following a series of military exchanges that had raised concerns about a broader conflict. However, within hours of the truce being announced, renewed hostilities were reported along the Line of Control in Kashmir. Both sides accused each other of violating the ceasefire, with incidents of shelling and drone activity occurring. The ceasefire was facilitated by the United States, with President Donald Trump announcing the agreement and praising both nations for their decision. It followed military clashes that had begun after a deadly attack by militants in Pahalgam in the Indian-administered region of Kashmir on April 22. Finally, in France, the 78th Cannes Film Festival kicks off Tuesday until May 24. This year's festival will open with the French comedy Leave One Day by Amelie Bonnin, marking the first time a debut director's film has been selected for the opening slot. 22 films have been officially selected for competition. Notably, actors Scarlett Johansson and Kristen Stewart will debut as directors with their respective films Eleanor the Great and The Chronology of Water. Despite global challenges, including potential U.S. tariffs on international films, the festival's president expressed confidence in Cannes' commitment to showcasing diverse and significant films. Choi Chi-hee, Arirang News.

June 3 Election campaigns start Mon. with gov't supporting fair, transparent election in Korea, from abroad

2025/05/12 17:00

A total of seven presidential contenders have formally launched their campaigns today as Korea counts down to the June third snap election. Our correspondent Oh Soo-young covers the agenda ahead. With candidates traveling and blaring theme tunes throughout the nation, official presidential election campaigns hit the streets on Monday with banners, flyers, and head shots now installed across some 80-thousand locations throughout the country. From 7 AM to 11 PM, candidates can give speeches and hold talks in public spaces, with the use of loudspeakers only until 9 PM. The candidates and their teams can also distribute banners, leaflets and name cards. Voters can also take part in campaigning, expressing support for a party or candidate through speech or phone calls until the day before the election. Campaigning via text messages or social media is allowed even on election day. However, sharing false information, defamatory content, or producing and distributing deepfake videos may result in legal consequences under election laws. The rules also apply to overseas Koreans. The official campaigning period ends on June 2nd the day before election day. In the meantime, registered Koreans overseas can cast their ballots from Tuesday to Sunday next week, at designated locations from 8 AM to 5 PM. They must have proof of identification issued by a Korean or foreign government, and a document proving their nationality. If they are in Korea during the voting period, they can visit the local election commission of their most recent registered Korean address. Early voting for all Korean citizens will on May 29th and 30th from 6 AM til 6 PM. On Election Day, ballots will be open until 8 PM. Given that it's an early election triggered by a presidential vacancy, the new government will take office the next day, without an transition committee. Acting President Lee Ju-ho on Monday chaired a high-level meeting, urging a fair and transparent campaign period. He warned of zero tolerance for illegal acts from spreading misinformation to political bias among public servants. Special investigation units have been activated, and a nationwide oversight system is in place to protect the rights of voters at home and abroad. Calling the election a "historic opportunity for national unity," the acting president appealed to Koreans to come together not only to vote but to move beyond division and face challenges as one nation. Oh Soo-young, Arirang News.

[Weather] Warmer and sunnier on Tuesday

2025/05/12 17:00

It was a pretty classic late spring day out there today. And we saw a good climb in temperatures this afternoon, making it feel quite warm for most of us. It will be warmer in most places tomorrow, and while the temperature gaps are narrowing down in many regions, bigger gaps will stay put in inland regions. If you forgot your sunglasses and a hat today, be sure to have them with you tomorrow. UV rays will reach very high levels in more places. Checking on tomorrow's temperatures now, Seoul and Busan begin the day at 15 degrees Celsius under sunny skies. Then, Seoul gets up to 25 degrees; Daejeon makes it to 28 degrees. We're looking at a chance of some showers on Thursday for the capital area and the southern coast, and Jeju. That's Korea for you, here's a look at the international weather conditions.

KSIF holds Korean language class to commemorate King Sejong's birthday

2025/05/12 17:00

Meanwhile back here in South Korea. The King Sejong Institute Foundation hosted a special Korean class at Gyeongbokgung Palace this past Saturday to commemorate the birth of King Sejong who created Hangul. He was born on May 15th 1397. Foreigners here in the country were invited to partake in Hangul calligraphy and Hanbok fitting against the backdrop of the Joseon palace's architecture and treasures.

Here's how K-pop fans in Japan are living the dream at KCON JAPAN 2025

2025/05/12 17:00

Also this past weekend over in Japan a major K-culture festival opened doors to fans in the neighboring country and our culture correspondent Song Yoo-jin was there to bring us this report. The Makuhari Messe, Japan's second-largest convention center, has been transformed into a K-pop arena. Fans scream, sing along, and wave neon-colored lightsticks as their favorite artists take to the stage. The lineup features rising and top-tier acts, like KiiiKiii, QWER, ZEROBASEONE, and HIGHLIGHT. This is KCON JAPAN 2025. "Where I am right now, KCON JAPAN, is one of the world's largest K-culture festivals. Here, you can experience almost everything you need to know about Korean culture." Launched in Los Angeles in 2012, KCON has toured over 10 countries, growing from just 10-thousand attendees to now more than 1-hundred-thousand per event. KCON JAPAN, the festival's first Asian edition, has been held annually since 2015. "Japan isn't just a major music market. It's the biggest overseas consumer of K-content. We're seeing more top-tier artists like G-Dragon, SEVENTEEN, and Stray Kids performing here, which shows K-pop is no longer just a foreign genre. It's now part of Japan's mainstream culture." Beyond the music, KCON offers hands-on experiences related to the broader Korean Wave. Dozens of booths introduce the latest in K-beauty, K-food, dramas, and merchandise. But what truly sets KCON apart is how close fans can get to their favorite stars. "It was amazing. Everything I'd hoped for. The fan service was incredible. They even blew hand kisses. It felt like we were close, like friends." "What really stood out was getting to see the artists up close when they visited the artist booths. Also, at the meet-and-greet, you could see them from a very close distance, something you don't normally get to experience." Having wrapped up its three-day run in Japan, KCON now prepares for its next stop, Los Angeles, this August. Song Yoo-jin, Arirang News, Chiba.

Osan Air Base opens doors to local community for first air show in six years

2025/05/12 17:00

Following a pause of some six years in light of the global pandemic the Osan Air Base opened its doors to the public this past weekend for a showcase that shared its spectacular aerial capabilities. Our defense correspondent Kim Bo-kyoung was there. The F-16 Fighting Falcon performs advanced flight maneuvers, cutting through the rain-soaked sky. After a six-year pause, since the COVID-19 pandemic paused the tradition, Osan Air Base reopened its doors to the public over the weekend. Playing a critical role defending not just South Korea but also the Pacific region, this premier U.S. air base finally enjoyed the chance to welcome locals to showcase its capabilities. "This air show is, in many ways, a chance for us to say thank you for the hospitality and all the support we receive from the city of Pyeongtaek and the country of South Korea." Team Osan prepared a lot for people to see, but one of the most significant moments attendees could perhaps have enjoyed was this: "Fitting with the air show's theme, "Respect the past and forge the future," the show offered a final display in Korea of the A-10 Thunderbolt, which is in the process of phased withdrawal." The 51st Fighter Wing is the last overseas unit operating the A-10. Nicknamed Warthog, the aircraft will depart by the end of the fiscal year 2025. As part of a historic sendoff, visitors were able to witness static displays and weapon load demonstration. "For my squadron, we focused on close air support combat, search and rescue, and forward air control, and airborne missions, among others that are specific to Korea. And the significance of that is, as mentioned earlier, is that we, you know, take a deep pride in the mission of defending Korea." Another particularly special performance would be this year's final public performance of the Pacific Air Force's F-16 Demonstration Team, based out of Misawa Air Base, Japan. "I'm super honored that this is going to be our last show here in Korea, and then I get to do it as well." While letting the public experience the spirit of "Fight Tonight" firsthand, the air base was able to express gratitude to the local Korean community in its own way. Kim Bo-kyoung, Arirang News, Pyeongtaek.

Zelenskyy says he's ready to meet Putin in Istanbul for peace talks

2025/05/12 17:00

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has shared his intentions to meet with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in Türkiye this week for talks to end the Kremlin's aggression against Kyiv. Lee Seung-jae has the latest. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says he's ready to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin face-to-face for talks to finally end the Russia-Ukraine War. The Ukrainian leader said Sunday that he would be in Istanbul to negotiate with his Russian counterpart "personally," raising hopes for a complete ceasefire. Zelenskyy took to X, saying that it was a "positive sign that the Russians have finally begun to consider ending the war." However, he stressed that "the very first step in truly ending any war is a ceasefire," adding that Kyiv hopes Moscow will confirm a ceasefire starting Monday. Zelenskyy's comments came after Putin announced that Moscow is ready to resume direct talks with Kyiv in Istanbul starting on May 15. According to the Associated Press on Sunday, Putin said that "Russia has continuously proposed a ceasefire," adding they "had never once refused dialogue with Ukraine." The Russian leader also stressed that "Ukraine bears the responsibility for the suspension of negotiations in 2022," and called on Kyiv to "resume the previously suspended negotiations unconditionally." However, Putin did not specify whether the talks in Istanbul would involve the two leaders directly. A number of world leaders,.. including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk met with Zelenskyy in Kyiv on Saturday. They issued a joint call for a 30-day ceasefire starting Monday, a plan which has also received support from both the EU and Washington. The leaders also pledged tougher sanctions on Moscow if Putin did not accept the ceasefire proposal. Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.

U.S. and China to roll back on tariffs by 115%

2025/05/12 17:00

And in a dramatic turn of events.. the U.S. and China have agreed to tangible bilateral tariff cuts. The Trump administration will slash its import duties on Chinese products from 1-hundred-45 percent to 30 percent while Beijing will cut its tariffs from 1-hundred-25 percent to 10 percent. This latest development follows talks among senior trade officials from Beijing and Washington this past weekend in Geneva.

S. Korea's Acting President Lee Ju-ho calls for national interests, mutual benefits in trade talks with U.S.

2025/05/12 17:00

Acting President Lee Ju-ho urged officials to place priority on national interests as well as bilateral benefit during trade talks with the U.S. Remarks to this end were made at a Cabinet meeting on this Monday during which he also stressed the need to monitor U.S. tariff negotiations with allies like the UK. with whom U.S. President Donald Trump claimed a trade deal had been reached. Seoul's top trade officials are expected to engage with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer later this week when he lands Thursday in Korea to attend the APEC trade ministers' meeting.

Fmr. President Yoon uses court's public entrance for first time at third criminal trial hearing

2025/05/12 17:00

Former President Yoon Suk-yeol attended the third hearing of his criminal trial on charges of insurrection at the Seoul Central District Court earlier on this Monday morning. He also passed through the main public entrance for the first time in sharp contrast to his earlier visits that allowed him entry via the underground car park area to avoid media scrutiny. On this Monday Yoon walked straight into the court building without any interaction with the press pool. Meanwhile a group of people were also gathered outside the court chanting his name in a show of support.

Reform Party candidate promises new future with stronger economy, democratic institutions

2025/05/12 17:00

Staying on the campaign trail. Reform Party candidate Lee Jun-seok has pledged to revitalize the economy and rebuild democratic institutions. Lee was at an industrial complex in the southern city of Yeosu in the wee hours of this Monday sharing plans to address slowing exports to bolster industrial safety standards and to create flexibility in minimum wage. Later in a speech here in Seoul the forty-year-old contender claimed the snap election is a showdown between "the future and the past integrity and corruption."