News

D-1 to U.S. tariffs showdown: Seoul mobilizes gov't and business community

2025/07/30 23:03

We are now just a day away from the final tariff talks between Seoul and Washington. From government officials to economic heavyweights, Team Korea is all in for the final push to strike a deal. Our Choi Soo-hyung reports. With just one day left before final tariff talks with the U.S., the South Korean government and business community are mounting an all-out effort. After Hanwha Vice Chairman Kim Dong-kwan and Samsung Chairman Lee Jae-yong left for Washington, D.C., Hyundai Motor Group's chairman Chung Eui-sun flew out on Wednesday, Korean Time. Chung leads the world's third-largest automaker and, in March this year, announced a massive 21-billion-dollar investment in the U.S. with the Trump administration. Hanwha's Kim is expected to push for a Korea-proposed shipbuilding cooperation project, while Samsung's Lee is focusing on expanding semiconductor investments and strengthening technology partnerships. Samsung Electronics will have already invested more than 37 billion dollars in the U.S. by 2030, and is building a semiconductor foundry in Texas. These bargaining chips, aligned with Washington's semiconductor revival strategy, could give Korea an edge at the negotiating table. In Washington, D.C., Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Koo Yun-cheol, Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan, and Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo met with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on Tuesday, local time, for about two hours. The meeting with Lutnick comes just ahead of final negotiations scheduled with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on July 31, widening communication channels between the two sides. Also on July 31, Foreign Minister Cho Hyun will meet U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington to propose concrete initiatives in emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, as a third pillar of Korea-U.S. cooperation, alongside their security alliance and Free Trade Agreement. After the latest talks, the Presidential Office said President Lee Jae Myung was briefed on the same day and responded that the country will seek a beneficial deal with the U.S. under the principle of prioritizing national interests, while keeping the terms within Korea's limits. Korea's top priority in the deals is cutting the 25 percent "reciprocal" tariffs imposed by the Trump administration on automobiles and related parts, alongside a 50 percent tariff on steel, and new duties on key exports such as semiconductors. With Japan and the EU already getting tariffs down to 15 percent, including on autos, pressure is mounting on export-dependent Korea. Seoul's best-case scenario is a full tariff exemption, but given other countries' results, cutting tariffs to 15 percent is seen as the most realistic one. With autos, South Korea's biggest exports to the U.S., any deal above 15 percent could leave manufacturers trailing Japan and Europe, casting doubt on the negotiations success. Choi Soo-hyung, Arirang News.

[Weather] Record breaking tropical nights in Seoul with heat wave warnings everywhere

2025/07/30 23:00

Until yesterday, there had been 21 tropical nights in July in Seoul this year, the same number as in 1994, which was the highest ever. If Seoul has another tropical night tonight, it will break the tie with 1994 and hold the all-time record alone. With hot temperatures even during the night, it is likely that a new record will be set in Seoul. In addition, a strong heat wave has been appearing everywhere, with the heat wave advisory on the east coast of Gyeongsang-do provinces being upgraded to a warning. This summer heat will cover the whole country again tomorrow. It will start warm tomorrow morning again with Seoul at 28 degrees Celsius and Daegu and Gyeongju at 24 degrees. Highs will stay hot at around 35 to 36 degrees in most parts of the country. Scorching heat of around 35 degrees will last until early next week. That's all for Korea. Here are the weather conditions around the world.

Unique way to cool off with a night in a haunted Korean village

2025/07/30 22:59

Amid the hot weather in Korea. People are finding ways to cool off in a unique and spooky way at a historical themed village that transforms into a haunted world full of traditional ghosts and spine-chilling horror experiences. Our Park Kun-woo was there and about. A quiet, peaceful village by day. But as darkness falls, a chill creeps in, and eerie whispers echo through the air. Under the crescent moon, ghosts begin to appear. Summer may be the hottest season, but for many in Korea, it's also the coolest in a spooky kind of way. One popular destination is the "Horror Village in the Dead of Night" festival, running until the end of August at the Korean Folk Village in Yongin, in Gyeonggi-do Province. "Korean ghosts are known to be souls with unresolved sorrow -or "han." They don't just scare you, but they carry a story, one they never got to finish. So, what kind of sorrow are you holding onto?" "I died without being able to get married" From virgin ghosts to a local version of the grim reaper, these traditional Korean spirits send chills down visitors' spines, especially when they appear out of nowhere. "It's been scorching hot lately, so I thought this horror experience might blow away the heat. I kept sweating and shivering." "It's way different to watching movies." From haunted escape rooms to scream-filled walk-throughs, flashing red lights and scary sounds greet those who dare to enter. "GET OUT. You don't belong here." Even the food gets creepy, including the bloody "finger latte," topped with a broken finger-shaped cookie. Some restaurants are splattered with blood, with things appearing above visitors' heads. "I thought it was a regular restaurant, until I saw ghosts hanging above. I almost fell over in shock, but it's unique and fun. I was too scared to even feel the heat." The restrooms are also haunted, dimly lit up with red lights, with ghosts waiting for you, some appearing in the mirror. At the end of the night, visitors who turned into ghosts with costumes and painted faces, competed with each other to see who was the scariest. It seems like a peaceful, happy ending, but beware, these ghosts will return with the next dark night until August 24. So, for those looking for an experience of Korea's haunted summer night, good luck. Park Kun-woo, Arirang News.

APEC 2025 Korea looks to promote the beauty of hanbok

2025/07/30 22:54

Following up with yesterday's report on the cultural heritage of Gyeongju, the host city of APEC 2025 Korea, our correspondent Ahn Sung-jin also had a look at one of the traditional elements that the city looks to promote through the event. Colorful hand-dyed fabrics and threads of silk. For artisan Park Soon-ra, this is all a work of precision and pride. Every cut of the scissors and stitch sewn into silk reflect years of mastery in hanbok, Korea's traditional attire, but Park devotes her expertise beyond that focusing on hanbok from the Silla period. "In Silla, even the silk was different. The clothes or hanbok was made from the finest materials, and gold was abundant, often used for decorations. It truly was the kingdom of silk and splendor." The attire of the Silla Kingdom is characterized with its wide sleeves had delicate details around the sleeves and collar. Hanbok styles differed by class yet all of them had slimmer silhouettes compared to the wider hanbok of latter periods. And this sophisticated look is especially tied to Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom. But what sets Park's work apart is not only her tailoring, it's the traditional dyeing techniques. The process is meticulous. Handpicked flowers are dried and infused alongside berries to create the red palette. Then pieces of white silk are soaked, dried and soaked again, often more than 50 times. With each soaking, the fabric absorbs more color, giving it earthy yet vibrant hues. As Gyeongju prepares to host APEC 2025 Korea, Gyeongsangbuk-do Province and Gyeongju are planning to showcase key elements of Korean traditional culture, and hanbok is taking center stage. During the international event, world leaders will be given the traditional attire, bringing Korea's elegance to the global stage. But it's more than recognition for Park, the honor for her lies in hanbok leaping forward onto the world stage. In every dip of dye and every stitch of silk, Park works on continuing the legacy. Ahn Sung-jin, Arirang News, Gyeongju.

Disaster management officials, experts from Asia-Pacific gather in Incheon to enhance disaster response

2025/07/30 22:50

South Korea is hosting the Third Senior Officials' Meeting in Incheon, ahead of the upcoming APEC 2025 Korea. In related meetings, disaster management experts across the Asia-Pacific have gathered to strengthen international cooperation in tackling major disasters. Our Shin Ha-young reports. Natural disasters, including floods and earthquakes, continue to threaten millions around the world and Asia-Pacific economies are no exception. Amid these challenges, South Korea's Ministry of the Interior and Safety is hosting this year's APEC meetings on disasters, in the western port city of Incheon from Wednesday, with disaster management officials and experts from across the Asia-Pacific participating to strengthen cooperation on risk reduction. As part of the three days of meetings, the Emergency Preparedness Working Group convened on Wednesday to explore ways to strengthen practical cooperation, with a focus on digital tools for disaster risk management. The Senior Disaster Management Officials Forum, scheduled for Thursday, is expected to build on those discussions and work toward actionable policy steps and stronger joint responses to emerging threats. "The key focus of this conference is to strengthen international cooperation in responding to complex disasters such as climate change and pandemics. With its advanced ICT capabilities, South Korea has a well-developed early warning system and is well positioned to contribute to global efforts, including the UN's Early Warning for All initiative." Alongside the meetings, the interior ministry is partnering with New Zealand's National Emergency Management Agency to conduct joint disaster drills, collaborate on research, and share information regularly to help reduce disaster risks. "From an emergency management perspective, the knowledge and the advancements that Korea has are well in advance of New Zealand. We're really looking forward to understanding how we can share knowledge, and how we can share our experiences to make both countries stronger, particularly, as I said earlier, in the light of the changing hazard scape that we all face." A disaster safety exhibition featuring Korea's latest technologies will be open through Sunday, highlighting the country's innovations and efforts to expand its presence in the global disaster-tech market. Shin Ha-young, Arirang News.

[Politics & Diplomacy] Kim Yo-jong releases back-to-back statements toward Seoul, Washington; what does this suggest?

2025/07/30 22:45

North Korea has broken the silence and issued back-to-back statements toward both South Korea and the U.S. this week. Seoul is pondering whether to downsize joint military drills, while Washington maintains its stance that it is open to dialogue with Pyongyang. For more on this, we invite our defense correspondent Kim Bo-kyoung, into the studio. Bo-kyoung, welcome. Thank you for having me. Let's delve a little bit deeper into what Kim Yo-jong said earlier this week. It marked the North's first official statement on the Lee administration. Right, amid Seoul trying to ease tensions and resume dialogue with Pyongyang, Kim Yo-jong released a statement on Monday and said President Lee is no different from his predecessor in blindly adhering to the ROK-U.S. alliance. While saying that Seoul's recent suspension of anti-Pyongyang broadcasts is not something that deserves any appreciation, she also said that Pyongyang is not interested in any proposal put forward by Seoul. To this, the Unification Ministry said this shows the high walls of distrust between the two Koreas, emphasizing that it will continue to pursue reconciliation with the North. "The government will stay steady and consistent in pursuing reconciliation, cooperation, and peaceful coexistence on the Korean Peninsula, without overreacting to the North's responses." The Presidential Office also issued a similar message, saying it will consistently take the necessary actions to make a peninsula without hostility and conflict. Regarding Kim Yo-jong's remarks, one expert said the regime is asking more from Seoul, especially regarding its alliance with the U.S. "The message points to a more fundamental issue—the nature of the South Korea-U.S. alliance. It suggests that the future of inter-Korean dialogue and the restoration of relations will depend on how much autonomy South Korea can exercise from the U.S. in managing its relationship with the North." After Kim's such remarks, the unification minister talked about downsizing the ROK-U.S. drills. Right, Minister Chung Dong-young said he will propose to the President that the scale of the Seoul-Washington joint military drills be adjusted. South Korea and the U.S. conduct two major joint drills every year Freedom Shield in March, and Ulchi Freedom Shield in August. Both are Command Post Exercises, a war game in which military leadership executes wartime scenarios. They are accompanied by various field training exercises, and U.S. strategic assets, too, are sometimes deployed to the Peninsula. A lot of reporters asked the Defense Ministry whether there would be any changes regarding the joint drill. "The joint drills are proceeding as agreed between South Korea and the U.S., with no changes so far." But one expert says there is a case of a drill having been suspended in 2018, and there could be changes made even at the last minute if the Korean and the U.S. leaders agree to do so. "Back in 2018, South Korea and the U.S. suspended joint military drills amid improving inter-Korean and U.S.-North Korea relations. While changing the current exercise schedule may be difficult, if both leaders agree, a decision to adjust or pause the drills could still be made to support broader peace efforts." Kim Yo-jong issued a message to Washington the next day. What was at the core of her message? Yes, she urged the U.S. to approach North Korea based on new thinking, and asked to recognize Pyongyang as a nuclear-weapon state. She did admit that personal ties between the leaders Donald Trump and Kim Jong-un are "not bad, " but ruled out talks on Pyongyang's denuclearization. Still, the White House reaffirmed its readiness for dialogue with the regime's leader for denuclearization. The same expert said Pyongyang is asking Washington to make a decisive shift for talks to resume, tossing the ball in Trump's court. "It is calling for new thinking and the search for an exit strategy: to recognize North Korea as a nuclear-armed state and begin a new round of nuclear arms reduction talks based on that premise." Until now, we've focused on Pyongyang's messages toward Seoul and Washington. How is the regime's relationship with Moscow going? Their ties are strengthening more than ever, with Russia having launched direct passenger flights between Moscow and Pyongyang for the first time in about three decades, and Pyongyang keeps providing arms to Moscow for its war in Ukraine. In fact, according to a report by South Korea's National Intelligence Service on Wednesday, such boosted ties with Russia support from Moscow and Pyongyang's troop dispatches, have been cited as reasons behind Pyongyang's boosted confidence. The regime is considering itself to have a significantly more advantageous strategic position than before, which apparently led to Kim Yo-jong's back-to-back statements. Meanwhile, the relationship between Pyongyang and Beijing seems to have weakened a bit. North Korea's Central News Agency did show Kim Jong-un paying tribute at the Friendship Tower recently symbolizing the ties between them, on the occasion of the 72nd anniversary of the Armistice Agreement. The report on it was quite shorter than before, though, hinting at a bit strained relations between the two. Alright, this is all the questions I have for you, Bo-kyoung. Thank you for the wrap-up. Thank you.

LG Energy Solution's mega battery deal might involve supplies to Tesla

2025/07/30 22:40

South Korean battery manufacturer LG Energy Solution announced a landmark battery supply contract on Wednesday. Sources report that the batteries might be supplied to the U.S. tech giant Tesla. Park Jun-han has more. Leading battery manufacturer LG Energy Solution announced on Wednesday that it had signed a landmark 6 trillion won, or around 4-point-3 billion U.S. dollars, contract to supply lithium iron phosphate batteries for energy storage systems . Although LG did not disclose the client's identity due to confidentiality obligations, Reuters reported that it is Tesla, the U.S.-based tech-driven automotive and energy company. The three-year contract, starting on August 1, includes an option to extend it up to seven years with additional supplies. This deal will likely bolster South Korea's leadership in the global battery industry, with LG positioned as the only Korean company producing LFP batteries for energy storage systems in North America. Also, experts claim that LG is the only cell maker in the market capable of supplying more than 15 gigawatt-hours per year of LFP batteries in the United States. LG, which operates major U.S. production sites in Ohio, Tennessee and Michigan, is considered a suitable company to benefit from rising U.S. tariffs on Chinese batteries — currently at around 41 percent and projected to exceed 58 percent next year. The tariff has reduced the cost advantage of Chinese batteries, with prices expected to rise from the current 73 dollars per cell to 87 dollars by 2026. As demand for non-Chinese battery suppliers in the U.S. grows, LG is accelerating its energy storage systems contracts, recently securing a 4-gigawatt-hour deal with Delta Electronics. The company expects strong profit growth in the second half of 2025, driven by energy storage systems sales, amid a slowdown in EV battery demand. Park Jun-han, Arirang News.

President Lee unveils blueprint for long-term economic growth

2025/07/30 22:39

President Lee Jae Myung held another emergency economic meeting today to unveil his blueprint for the country's long-term growth strategy. That includes creating a large-scale fund for investments in AI and other future growth engines. Our presidential office correspondent Yoon Jung-min starts us off. The emergency meeting on economic affairs will shift to one seeking growth engines in the long term, as the fully-fledged new government takes shape. That was according to President Lee Jae Myung on Wednesday, as he presided over the third emergency economic meeting at his office, hinting at where the economy is headed for the next five years. "Our government of people's sovereignty will be a pragmatic, market-oriented government. It will be the government that supports and encourages business activities to create opportunities and engines for growth." Lee promised to create a fund of over 100-trillion won, worth some 72-billion U.S. dollars, which the people and corporations take part in, to make investments in areas deemed strategically important, such as AI and renewable energy. The liberal-leaning leader also vowed to cut red tape to encourage businesses in Korea and launch another task force to revamp penalties too heavy on firms. "To ensure that corporate activities are not intimidated by excessive economic punishments, the government will immediately launch a task force to rationalize economic punishments. It will be discussed at the upcoming National Assembly regular session to set up specific targets, like revamping 30% within a year." He was pointing to a case where "breach of trust" is abused to place penalties too heavy on corporations, raising questions about whether it fits into a "global standard." Another pillar for growth was on achieving balanced regional growth, for a country where too much concentration on its capital area has often been cited as a factor that threatens the sustainability of the nation. Lee vowed to draw up rules and policies to make sure resources are used in an "efficient way," noting as an example his consumption voucher policy that favors people living in rural areas over those in the capital. Also hinted at was aggressive belt-tightening in fiscal policy so that more funds can be used for "key" policies. "With regard to next year's budget, President Lee ordered a bold restructuring of budgets that yield very little or are used routinely." Details of the new government's growth strategy will be unveiled in August, based on what was discussed on Wednesday, apparently taking into account not-so-favorable conditions, such as low growth and higher prices. Yoon Jung-min, Arirang News.

Suga’s visits Seoul and Ishiba’s possible resignation, where are Korea-Japan relations headed?

2025/07/30 21:37

Welcome to Within The Frame, where we bring the most pressing issues across the globe into focus. I'm Kim Mok-yeon. Japan is entering political uncertainty, and South Korea is moving quickly to maintain ties. With Prime Minister Ishiba under pressure after election losses, former PM Yoshihide Suga's visit to Seoul has reignited hopes for restoring shuttle diplomacy. As Korea and Japan mark 60 years since normalization, President Lee's meeting with the latest Japanese delegation signals significant intent — but deeper challenges still remain. With trilateral dynamics with the U.S. shifting and unresolved issues still on the table, what's next for Korea-Japan relations? To break down these, we have Choi Hyun Jin, professor of political science at Kyung Hee University. Welcome. And Dr. John Nilsson-Wright, head of the Japan and Koreas program at the University of Cambridge. Good to see you. 1. (CHOI) Starting with today's meeting — President Lee Jae-myung officially received former Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga and members of the Japan-Korea Parliamentary Union at the presidential office in Yongsan. Suga is known to have delivered a personal message from Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. Could this be seen as the symbolic start of shuttle diplomacy? And at this point, what is the significance of Suga's visit? 2. (Nilsson-Wright) Just a day before Suga's visit, on July 29th, Korea's Foreign Minister Cho Hyun visited Japan. Traditionally, South Korean foreign ministers make their first overseas visit to the U.S., but this time, Japan was chosen. Does this suggest a shift in diplomatic priorities? How should we interpret this departure from convention? 3. (Nilsson-Wright) Building on that — today, Minister Cho paid a courtesy visit to Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. With both sides recognizing the 60th anniversary of diplomatic normalization and the need for concrete cooperation outcomes, could a Korea-Japan summit come before a Korea-U.S. summit, given the current gridlock in Washington? 4. (CHOI) So Foreign Minister Cho's visit to Japan comes just prior to his scheduled meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Rubio on the 31st. What kind of strategic calculations could be behind visiting Japan ahead of the U.S.? Could it involve sharing trade negotiating know-how? 5. (Nilsson-Wright) And looking at the wider picture, Cho's stop in Japan, followed by a direct trip to Washington, is being seen as a positive sign for Korea-U.S.-Japan trilateral cooperation. What message does this send about the current state of that trilateral alliance? Could it be seen as the Lee administration's willingness to improve Korea-Japan ties and deepen three-way cooperation? 6. (CHOI) Let's turn to what came out of the foreign ministers' talks. In the recent talks, Seoul reportedly emphasized a "two-track" approach — separating historical issues from practical cooperation. Do you think this approach could realistically lead to future-oriented progress in the bilateral relationship? 7. (CHOI) Meanwhile, within Japan's ruling LDP, calls are growing for Prime Minister Ishiba to step down following the upper house election. Ishiba had earlier pledged to resume shuttle diplomacy and reinforce Korea-U.S.-Japan cooperation. How might the political fallout from the LDP's defeat affect the trajectory of Korea-Japan relations? 8. (Nilsson-Wright) Let's shift to South Korea's diplomatic approach. President Lee's administration has already sent special envoys to 14 countries, beginning with the EU, yet still hasn't finalized a delegation for Japan. Is this delay a sign of more cautious handling, given the sensitive nature of issues like historical grievances, security, and economic ties? 9. (CHOI) And finally, with Japan's internal uncertainty growing, some analysts say South Korea's role in bilateral relations is now larger than ever. For pragmatic diplomacy to succeed, what kind of approach should the Lee Jae Myung administration take toward Japan moving forward?

S. Korean Finance Minister Koo Yun-cheol holds talks with Lutnick on first day in U.S.

2025/07/30 19:49

We start over in Washington, D.C. where Economy and Finance Koo Yun-cheol headed a meeting with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Byeon Ye-young starts us off. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance Koo Yun-cheol , Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan , and Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo held talks in Washington, D.C. with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on Tuesday, local time. The talks lasted about two hours. Koo is in Washington aiming to finalize a tariff deal before the U.S. reciprocal tariffs on South Korea come into effect on August 1. He immediately began talks with Secretary Lutnick despite only his meeting with Treasury Secretary Bessent on July 31st having been publicly disclosed. Upon landing, Koo had told reporters that Korea will explain its economic cooperation proposals clearly, especially in areas like shipbuilding. "We'll explain economic cooperation projects between Korea and the U.S., including shipbuilding, which the U.S. is interested in. We'll make the case that forming an alliance with Korea brings major benefits to the U.S. as well. I believe their understanding of this has improved a lot." According to the Wall Street Journal, the U.S. side had urged South Korea to bring its "best and final" trade offer to the table during a recent meeting with Korea's industry and trade ministers in Scotland. Lutnick reportedly told Korean officials that they need to "bring it all" when meeting President Trump, who still wants to be convinced why a new deal with Korea is necessary, given that the U.S. has already struck trade agreements with the EU, Japan, and the UK. With just two days left before the tariff decision, Foreign Minister Cho Hyun is also set to arrive in the U.S., bringing the scope of the Korea-U.S. talks into the diplomatic sphere. Cho is scheduled to meet with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio the day after his arrival. Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong has also arrived in Washington and is expected to support the Korea-U.S. tariff negotiations from the sidelines. Byeon Ye-young, Arirang News.

[Weather] Record-breaking tropical nights in Seoul, heat wave continues

2025/07/30 19:46

From July 1st to July 29th, there were 21 tropical nights in Seoul, the same number as in 1994, which was the highest ever. If Seoul has another tropical night tonight, it will break the tie with 1994 and hold the all-time record alone. It seems like the steaming heat will not cool down even during the night. Today, a strong heat wave has been raging everywhere, with the heat wave advisory on the east coast of Gyeongsang-do provinces being upgraded to a warning. This scorching heat will continue again throughout the country tomorrow. It will start warm tomorrow morning again with Seoul at 28 degrees Celsius and Chuncheon at 25 degrees. Highs will stay hot at around 35 to 36 degrees in most parts of the country. It is predicted that the heat of around 35 degrees will continue until early next week. That's all for Korea. Here are the weather conditions around the world.

World News: UK will recognize Palestinian state in Sept. unless Israel agrees to conditions

2025/07/30 19:45

This is the World Now, bringing you the latest stories from around the globe. Starting in the UK, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced that the UK will recognize the State of Palestine at the UN General Assembly in September, unless Israel meets key conditions, including agreeing to a ceasefire in Gaza. On Tuesday, following an emergency cabinet meeting, Starmer outlined the UK's conditional recognition of Palestine's statehood. He said recognition will be formalized in September unless Israel agrees to an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, pledges no annexation of the West Bank, allows full humanitarian access, and recommits to a viable two-state solution. Starmer reiterated that there is "no equivalence between Israel and Hamas" and reaffirmed demands on Hamas to release all hostages and disarm. However, Israel's government strongly rejected the announcement, calling it a "reward for Hamas." Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump, after meeting with Starmer in Scotland, stated that the recognition was not discussed during their talks. The UK's warning follows reports of a severe famine in Gaza and plans to airdrop aid into the enclave. In the United States, after 4 people died in a deadly shooting in Midtown Manhattan on Monday, investigators have been sent to Las Vegas, where the gunman, who also shot himself, lived, to learn more about the possible motive. Investigators, who recovered a handwritten note, say there were no links to terrorism or criminal organizations found. The note, found on the body of 27-year-old Shane Devon Tamura, said, "Study my brain. I'm sorry." It also claimed he suffered from CTE, a brain disease triggered by head injuries, and blamed the NFL for his condition, despite having never played football professionally. Tamura, who had driven from Las Vegas, entered the lobby of a building housing the National Football League headquarters and major financial firms at around 6.30 PM on Monday with an assault-style rifle. The victims included an off-duty New York City police officer, who was described as a "New York Hero." The incident marks the city's deadliest mass shooting in over two decades. Pope Leo XIV met over 1,000 Catholic influencers and digital missionaries from more than 140 countries at a Jubilee Mass in St. Peter's Basilica on Tuesday. The Pope addressed the young people in Spanish, English, and Italian, reiterating his call for an end to violence and the need to proclaim peace. He emphasized that digital missionaries are more essential than ever in spreading the message of peace. He also cautioned that while technology has become increasingly influential, creativity should not be used to undermine human dignity. At the 2025 India Couture Week in Delhi, Rohit Bal's design house unveiled the "Kash-Gul" collection on Tuesday, marking a tribute to the late designer nearly nine months after his death. The collection is rooted in Rohit Bal's lifelong bond with Kashmir, drawing on symbols of flowers and his signature motifs of lotus and peacocks. Bollywood actor Arjun Rampal closed the show wearing a black velvet 'Sherwani' detailed in silver embroidery. He paused midway on the ramp to honor his friend, saying "legends never die." Choi Chi-hee, Arirang News.

Unique way to cool off with a night in a haunted Korean village

2025/07/30 19:43

A theme park in the Greater Seoul area has been transformed into a haunted village to offer visitors a refreshing break from the sweltering heat. Our Park Kun-woo was there. A quiet, peaceful village by day. But as darkness falls, a chill creeps in, and eerie whispers echo through the air. Under the crescent moon, ghosts begin to appear. Summer may be the hottest season, but for many in Korea, it's also the coolest in a spooky kind of way. One popular destination is the "Horror Village in the Dead of Night" festival, running until the end of August at the Korean Folk Village in Yongin, in Gyeonggi-do Province. "Korean ghosts are known to be souls with unresolved sorrow -or "han." They don't just scare you, but they carry a story, one they never got to finish. So, what kind of sorrow are you holding onto?" "I died without being able to get married" From virgin ghosts to a local version of the grim reaper, these traditional Korean spirits send chills down visitors' spines, especially when they appear out of nowhere. "It's been scorching hot lately, so I thought this horror experience might blow away the heat. I kept sweating and shivering." "It's way different to watching movies." From haunted escape rooms to scream-filled walk-throughs, flashing red lights and scary sounds greet those who dare to enter. "GET OUT. You don't belong here." Even the food gets creepy, including the bloody "finger latte," topped with a broken finger-shaped cookie. Some restaurants are splattered with blood, with things appearing above visitors' heads. "I thought it was a regular restaurant, until I saw ghosts hanging above. I almost fell over in shock, but it's unique and fun. I was too scared to even feel the heat." The restrooms are also haunted, dimly lit up with red lights, with ghosts waiting for you, some appearing in the mirror. At the end of the night, visitors who turned into ghosts with costumes and painted faces, competed with each other to see who was the scariest. It seems like a peaceful, happy ending, but beware, these ghosts will return with the next dark night until August 24. So, for those looking for an experience of Korea's haunted summer night, good luck. Park Kun-woo, Arirang News.

APEC 2025 Korea looks to promote the beauty of hanbok

2025/07/30 19:42

Every year leaders of APEC member states dress up in the host country's traditional attire for a family picture and as Korea's ancient city of Gyeongju looks to host this year's economic gathering Korea's hanbok is receiving the limelight yet again. My colleague Ahn Sung-jin reports. Colorful hand-dyed fabrics and threads of silk. For artisan Park Soon-ra, this is all a work of precision and pride. Every cut of the scissors and stitch sewn into silk reflect years of mastery in hanbok, Korea's traditional attire, but Park devotes her expertise beyond that focusing on hanbok from the Silla period. "In Silla, even the silk was different. The clothes or hanbok was made from the finest materials, and gold was abundant, often used for decorations. It truly was the kingdom of silk and splendor." The attire of the Silla Kingdom is characterized with its wide sleeves had delicate details around the sleeves and collar. Hanbok styles differed by class yet all of them had slimmer silhouettes compared to the wider hanbok of latter periods. And this sophisticated look is especially tied to Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom. But what sets Park's work apart is not only her tailoring, it's the traditional dyeing techniques. The process is meticulous. Handpicked flowers are dried and infused alongside berries to create the red palette. Then pieces of white silk are soaked, dried and soaked again, often more than 50 times. With each soaking, the fabric absorbs more color, giving it earthy yet vibrant hues. As Gyeongju prepares to host APEC 2025 Korea, Gyeongsangbuk-do Province and Gyeongju are planning to showcase key elements of Korean traditional culture, and hanbok is taking center stage. During the international event, world leaders will be given the traditional attire, bringing Korea's elegance to the global stage. But it's more than recognition for Park, the honor for her lies in hanbok leaping forward onto the world stage. In every dip of dye and every stitch of silk, Park works on continuing the legacy. Ahn Sung-jin, Arirang News, Gyeongju.

94-year-old U.S. Korean War vet returns to a country that never forgot

2025/07/30 19:40

Up next we take you for a walk down memory lane as one Korean War veteran recounts his experience of the past conflict here and his impression of South Korea today. Our Kim Jung-sil had the pleasure of meeting up with him. More than seventy years ago, he served aboard a U.S. Navy minesweeper during the Korean War. This week, he returned to the country he once helped protect. Dr. Malcolm Lynn Williamson is one of six UN veterans invited to Korea as part of a government-led program marking UN Forces Participation Day on July 27th. "Dr. Williamson, welcome back to Korea. Thank you so much for being here. What do you think when you think of the word Korea?" "I served in the Korean War in 1951 through 1953 on a minesweeper and had some close calls. But I appreciate the fact that we have a chance to come and revisit Korea through the program." One of those close calls came during a mission near Incheon when his ship took a direct hit. "The water just churned, and the smoke drifted by. The ship shuddered, and I knew we'd been hit. And if I had run down the starboard side, I would have been right where a shell hit." He never forgot that moment, and returning decades later, he found a country transformed. "I've been very impressed with the advancements that have been made in your country because I know it was devastated during the war. But you know the thing that I'm impressed most by is the people." By his side this week is someone who didn't live through the war but now calls Korea home. Emily, his granddaughter, has spent the past five years teaching kindergarten in Seoul. "I've lived here for five years and I've always been very proud of my grandfather and the sacrifices he made." For Emily, it wasn't just stories this time, it was seeing that gratitude, in person. "I'm really touched, and it's been a very special experience seeing my grandparents here in Korea and having them be taken care of by so many loving people." After the war, Dr. Williamson earned a Ph.D. in statistics from USC and spent decades consulting on medical research. Now, at 94, he leaves Korea with one final message: "I hope that people will recognize that their inalienable rights come from God." A sailor. A grandfather. A man of science, and of faith. Honored by the nation he once helped protect. Kim Jung-sil, Arirang News.

U.S. State Dept. says Trump is willing to talk with "everyone," after N. Korea rejects denuclearization talks

2025/07/30 19:39

The Trump administration remains open to dialogue with quote "everyone" for peace and prosperity. This is according to U.S. State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce in response to questions by reporters on Tuesday regarding recent remarks by North Korea's Kim Yo-jong. This sister of the regime's leader Kim Jong-un suggested that talks between her brother and his U.S. counterpart Donald Trump may take place if Washington discards its demand for denuclearization.

Magnitude 8.8 quake in Russia's Far East prompts widespread tsunami warnings

2025/07/30 19:38

An 8-point-8-magnitude earthquake struck Russia's Far East early Wednesday triggering tsunami warnings and evacuation orders across Pacific nations including Japan. Centered on the Kamchatka Peninsula the earthquake ranks as the sixth-strongest ever recorded and generated tsunami waves of up to four meters high. A state of emergency was declared after tsunami waves struck the region prompting the evacuation of nearly three hundred residents. No casualties have been reported thus far. The U.S. Tsunami Warning System issued alerts for "hazardous tsunami waves" across parts of the Pacific including Hawaii. Authorities in South Korea say no significant impact is expected here.

IMF lowers economic outlook for South Korea to 0.8%

2025/07/30 19:38

The International Monetary Fund has lowered yet again its growth projection for South Korea this year to 0-point-8 percent. Our economic correspondent Kim Do-yeon covers the latest outlook. The International Monetary Fund has once again cut its growth forecast for South Korea this time to 0.8% for 2025. In its latest World Economic Outlook update released Tuesday, the IMF lowered Korea's growth projection by 0.2 percentage points from April, which was already half of January's 2.0% forecast. Lower projections have also been released recently by other institutions. The Korea Development Institute and BOK both fixed their 2025 growth outlook to 0.8% as well with the OECD having the most positive outlook at 1.0%. While no direct commentary for South Korea was provided South Korea is heavily reliant on trade with the U.S., and tariffs had an impact on these numbers according to the IMF. "A breakdown in trade talks or renewed protectionism could dampen growth globally and fuel inflation in some countries." As for South Korea's 2026 outlook the IMF's projection improved for South Korea to 1.8% from 1.4% in April. The IMF releases economic outlooks for all member countries every April and October, and publishes revised forecasts for the 30 major economies in January and July. For the world's economic outlook the IMF revised its projection to 3.0% from 2.8%. Still lower than its forecast earlier this year but showing improvement. "Global growth has been revised up to 3.0 percent in 2025 and 3.1 percent in 2026, reflecting stronger-than-expected front loading, lower tariff rates compared to early April, easier financial conditions, including a weaker U.S. dollar and fiscal expansion in some jurisdictions." As for other nations the U.S. growth forecast was raised by 0.1 percentage point to 1.9%, while China's was significantly revised up by 0.8 percentage points to 4.8%. Kim Do-yeon, Arirang News.

President Lee unveils blueprint for long-term economic growth

2025/07/30 19:36

President Lee Jae Myung has pledged to set up a strategic fund to support investments in areas such as artificial intelligence and renewable energy. Our Yoon Jung-min reports from the Presidential Office. The emergency meeting on economic affairs will shift to one seeking growth engines in the long term, as the fully-fledged new government takes shape. That was according to President Lee Jae Myung on Wednesday, as he presided over the third emergency economic meeting at his office, hinting at where the economy is headed for the next five years. "Our government of people's sovereignty will be a pragmatic, market-oriented government. It will be the government that supports and encourages business activities to create opportunities and engines for growth." Lee promised to create a fund of over 100-trillion won, worth some 72-billion U.S. dollars, which the people and corporations take part in, to make investments in areas deemed strategically important, such as AI and renewable energy. The liberal-leaning leader also vowed to cut red tape to encourage businesses in Korea and launch another task force to revamp penalties too heavy on firms. "To ensure that corporate activities are not intimidated by excessive economic punishments, the government will immediately launch a task force to rationalize economic punishments. It will be discussed at the upcoming National Assembly regular session to set up specific targets, like revamping 30% within a year." He was pointing to a case where "breach of trust" is abused to place penalties too heavy on corporations, raising questions about whether it fits into a "global standard." Another pillar for growth was on achieving balanced regional growth, for a country where too much concentration on its capital area has often been cited as a factor that threatens the sustainability of the nation. Lee vowed to draw up rules and policies to make sure resources are used in an "efficient way," noting as an example his consumption voucher policy that favors people living in rural areas over those in the capital. Also hinted at was aggressive belt-tightening in fiscal policy so that more funds can be used for "key" policies. "With regard to next year's budget, President Lee ordered a bold restructuring of budgets that yield very little or are used routinely." Details of the new government's growth strategy will be unveiled in August, based on what was discussed on Wednesday, apparently taking into account not-so-favorable conditions, such as low growth and higher prices. Yoon Jung-min, Arirang News.

Musk confirms collaboration following video call with Samsung chaiman

2025/07/30 19:35

Tesla CEO Elon Musk says he had a video call with Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong as well as senior leadership confirming a recent announcement of collaboration. Taking to X this past Tuesday Musk claimed the two companies are combining their respective strengths to deliver the best possible result. It was announced earlier this week that Samsung Electronics secured a 16.4 billion U.S. dollar order from Tesla for AI chips.