News

[K-enter] "Dear Hongrang" enters Netflix's Global Top 10 Non-English Shows

2025/05/21 14:00

Time for some K-entertainment news with Bella Kim. Bella, today we’ll start with the latest Korean Netflix series, “Dear Hongrang.” How is it doing? “Dear Hongrang” is doing great not only domestically, but globally as well. The new series, released on the 16th, is a mystery romance that tells the story of Hong-rang, the son of the largest trading group in Joseon, returning after a decade-long disappearance with no memory of his childhood, while his half-sister, Jae I, seeks the truth behind Hong-rang’s sudden disappearance. "Dear Hongrang" stars Lee Jae-wook, Cho Bo-ah, Jung Ga-ram, and Uhm Ji-won. Within just 3 days of its release, the series recorded a total of 2.2 million viewers, making it onto Netflix’s Top 10 non-English shows at No.6. It’s currently receiving positive reviews, so if you haven’t seen it yet, make sure to check it out on Netflix. It makes me especially proud to see "sageuk" dramas, or historical K-dramas doing well overseas, the great review of the drama has also raised interest in the novel this series is based on by Jang Da-hye "Tangeum: Swallowing Gold" Up next, let's talk about K-pop artists doing great on the Billboard chart? Rosé continues to make history on the Billboard Hot 100. On Tuesday, Billboard revealed that Rosé and Bruno Mars’ hit song “APT.” is now spending its 30th consecutive week on the Hot 100 at No. 22. With the new record, Rosé is now the first female K-pop artist ever to have a song in the chart for 30 weeks on the Hot 100, and only the 4th overall, including male K-pop artists. Aside from “APT.”, the only other songs by a K-pop act to spend 30 weeks on the Hot 100 are PSY’s “Gangnam Style,” BTS’s “Dynamite,” and BTS Jimin’s “Who.” Another K-pop group doing great on the Billboard chart is P1Harmony. The group’s latest mini album “DUH!” debuted on Billboard 200 at No. 23. This is their 4th time entering Billboard 200 after their previous works, “HARMONY : ALL IN,” “Killin’ It,” and “SAD SONG.” Amazing records by both artists! Let’s stay on the topic of K-pop this time it's a comeback story. Who’s coming back to the K-pop scene? TWICE will make a comeback with their 4th full-length album “THIS IS FOR” on July 11th. The group’s agency, JYP Entertainment, released the news with the intro video on its official SNS. The short video captures nine members in a one-take video, centering on the keyword ‘FOUR.’ Their new full-length album comes 3 years and 8 months after their 3rd full-length album back in 2021. After their new release in July, TWICE will heat up the global stage as they will headline Lollapalooza Chicago on August 2nd. TWICE and summer sound great together! Thank you Bella for today’s stories.

[Features reporter] 2025 Seoul Plaza Exercising: Seoul plaza transforms into huge workout playground for everyone

2025/05/21 14:00

Soo-hyung, welcome back, so I hear you've got a story about group exercising outdoors. That sounds really fun to me. Did you go and try it out yourself? Yes, absolutely. With big speakers in the center of the plaza and many people enjoying themselves together, I couldn’t help but join in too. Exercising alone is good, but doing it together makes it feel less hard and sometimes even more fun. Every week, Seoul Plaza transforms into a giant workout playground. I went to there to see it for myself. Let's do take a look. As K-pop star Rosé's song 'APT' plays,.. people start copying the dance moves. This is Seoul Plaza, and right now, it’s K-pop dance practice time. Following the dancers' lead, everyone enjoys the moves and gets soaked in sweat. "It's really good. I mean, we were not expecting to come here but I've heard the song a lot." "I've heard it on the radio and stuff so it's nice that we can kind of connect to it too especially because it's in English." Taking place in the evening under the clear spring sky, the event is particularly popular among office workers. "I love it! I usually don’t have much time with my baby to have fun because of work, but thanks to this event, we are having a great time." The 2025 Seoul Plaza Exercising is held every Thursday and some Tuesdays until June 26th starting at 7 PM. The events offer fun and easy group workout programs for anyone whether they're a complete newbie or they just love to exercise. Each session will feature a different activity such as Zumba, yoga class, or cheer-leading, so participants can try something new every time. In one corner of the plaza, visitors can also try sports that are hard to find in everyday life in South Korea, such as lacrosse and padminton, which is similar to badminton, but played with table tennis style paddles. Now in its third year, the event drew around 10-thousand people last year. During the event, a coaching program with fitness experts allows participants to get one-on-one advice on posture correction and diet. I knew it would be fun! I really want to enjoy myself as well, what exactly are the group workouts they’re offering and what’s coming up next? In the official timetable, dynamic activities such as yoga, step aerobic workouts, and trampoline fitness are planned. The sessions in the middle of the plaza are all group workouts, packed with fun and effective exercises way better to do together. The new sports zone in the corner of the plaza offers easy-to-enjoy games like Spikeball and Boloball, along with lacrosse and padminton as we saw earlier. There’s also a flying disc zone where anyone can join in and have fun. I can't wait. How can I join, do I need to register in advance? Yes. I’d love to try it with my family too. Do we need to pay an entrance fee? No, you don't need to pay a penny. There is no participation fee. All events held at Seoul Plaza are free of charge. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy the activities. For group exercise sessions, participants may register online in advance or sign up on-site on the day of the event. For the K-pop dance class we just saw, about 80 people had signed up in advance. But when I went yesterday, around 150 people were actually there. For a detailed event schedule, please refer to the official website. I will take a look at the schedule right after the show. Thank you Soo-hyung for sharing the story. Thank you Soo-hyung!

[Weather] Heat continues with sudden showers across Korea

2025/05/21 10:00

It felt like we fast-forwarded two months on the calendar yesterday! Gyeongju and Daegu soared past 33 degrees, reaching heat advisory levels. Even Seoul saw its highest temperature of this year so far, feeling like July. The heat continues in the capital area, but temperatures in Gyeongsang-do provinces will go down a few notches compared to yesterday but still very warm. Keep an eye out for sudden afternoon and evening showers across Korea. These showers can be intense and quick, coming along with gusty winds and lightning. So with the humidity, the feels-like temperature will be even higher. By the afternoon, Seoul will reach 27 degrees, Gwangju at 28 degrees. Mostly sunny skies are in store until the passing showers arrive. Rain is a frequent visitor lately. We're expecting nationwide rain tomorrow, which should finally break this early heat.

Humanoid robots prepare for boxing contest in Hangzhou

2025/05/21 10:00

Hangzhou, China, will host the world's first live-streamed humanoid robot boxing match this Sunday. The contest, titled "Iron Fist King," organized by Unitree Robotics, features two G1 humanoid robots, each 1.32 meters tall and weighing approximately 35 kilograms. These robots are equipped with advanced AI and motion control systems, enabling them to perform complex combat moves such as spinning kicks and rapid punches. Their design also allows for quick recovery from falls. The boxing event comes after the world's first half marathon with humanoid robots in Beijing last month, as part of a series of robot competitions sponsored by China Media Group.

WHO members adopt global pandemic accord

2025/05/21 10:00

The World Health Organization adopted its first international pandemic agreement during the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva on Tuesday, to bolster global cooperation in preventing and responding to future pandemics. The agreement outlines measures to enhance surveillance and ensure equitable access to vaccines and treatments following the uncoordinated global response to COVID-19. 124 countries voted in favor while 11 abstained. The accord was touted as a "gift to the world" by the WHO Director General. Notably, the United States did not participate in the treaty, having withdrawn from the WHO under the Trump administration, criticizing the body as "moribund."

Rubio may have revoked thousands of visas as crackdown continues

2025/05/21 10:00

In the United States, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the State Department has likely revoked thousands of visas, emphasizing that visas are a privilege, not a right. During a Senate hearing on Tuesday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the U.S. will continue to revoke student visas, reaffirming the Trump administration's hardline stance on immigration enforcement. He indicated that the number of visa revocations so far is probably in the thousands and that the efforts are ongoing. The revocations primarily targeted individuals involved in on-campus pro-Palestinian protests. However, critics argue that this approach infringes on First Amendment rights to free speech.

Overseas voting underway across U.S., Europe and Africa for S. Korea's 21st Presidential Election

2025/05/21 10:00

Overseas voting is well underway for the snap presidential election, giving Korean nationals living abroad a chance to help shape the country's future. From the U.S. to Europe, many voters are turning out with a renewed sense of purpose. Our Moon Hye-ryeon has our top story. Sung Jin-ok, a Korean national living in Pittsburgh, Pennyslvania, drove 4 hours to a polling station in Virginia. Arriving at daybreak to cast her vote, she said that she had never felt such an urgent need to vote in all her 16 years of living overseas. "There was something deeply moving about stamping my vote. I used to think my vote was too small to matter, so I often gave up. But this time, I hope it becomes a vote for real change." With overseas voting for South Korea's presidential election now underway, Korean nationals across the United States are heading to polling stations in what they describe as a hopeful, even emotional, act of civic duty. For many, this election feels more personal than ever. "I hope this election brings us closer together — a society united through democracy." Meanwhile, others cast their ballot thinking of future generations. "I want our children to grow up in a society where responsible leaders step up." The overseas voting period began Tuesday and runs to Sunday, taking place across 118 countries, according to the National Election Commission. A total of 258 thousand overseas voters registered for this year's election, which is roughly a 14 percent increase in numbers compared to the previous election. Overseas voters in Asia account for the largest bloc at around 129 thousand registered voters, followed by the United States and Europe. When heading out to the ballot booths, voters must bring photo ID. Those who have emigrated or acquired permanent residency must also present proof they remain solely Korean nationals, such as visa documents and permanent residency cards. Requirements for each country of residence are available on the respective embassy or consulate websites. In an effort to improve accessibility for Korean citizens living abroad, the NEC has installed new polling stations, such as those in Lithuania, Estonia, and Luxembourg. Until now, Korean residents in Lithuania had to travel to Poland to vote, while those in Estonia made a two and a half hour ferry trip to Finland. As the overseas voting window continues ahead of the domestic election period, many voters say they're not just casting a ballot but expressing their hopes for a better, more unified country. Moon Hye-ryeon, Arirang News.

UK suspends trade talks with Israel over new Gaza offensive

2025/05/21 10:00

Beginning in Europe, the United Kingdom has suspended free trade negotiations with Israel. Yes. Citing concerns over Israel's recent military actions in Gaza, the British government said it will suspend new FTA talks with Israel. British Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced on Tuesday that the UK is freezing its negotiations for a free trade agreement with Israel and implementing other punitive measures. Secretary Lammy condemned the Israeli government's military escalation in Gaza as "monstrous." He also criticized the blockade of humanitarian aid to Gaza and summoned the Israeli Ambassador to express the UK's concerns. The UK government also imposed new sanctions targeting settlers in the West Bank, including freezing assets and banning travel. The announcement comes after Prime Minister Keir Starmer joined French President Emmanuel Macron and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in urging Israel to cease its military operations and allow increased humanitarian aid into Gaza. The European Union has similarly voted to review its trade agreement with Israel. The Israeli government dismissed the UK's actions, saying its military operations are necessary for national security.

On-point: How South Korea's presidential runners approach handling U.S. trade issues

2025/05/21 10:00

And different approaches to handling U.S. trade-related issues have also risen as crucial selling points for South Korea's presidential runners. Should South Korea take things slow or speed things up when it comes to U.S. tariff matters? Let's turn to Professor Kim Yong-jin. Welcome back, Professor Kim. 1. The Democratic Party's Lee Jae-myung argues we should take enough time, and the People Power Party's Kim Moon-soo believes a South Korea-U.S. summit is necessary right after the election. 2. Then how might a South Korea-U.S. summit right after the election work better? 3. Some experts expect the talks this time will see little progress and be another round of Team Korea exploring the U.S.'s demands. 4. Are you saying finding out Washington's wants and needs will be Seoul's number one task? 5. Do you think South Korea and the U.S. will make sure not to pass the July 8th deadline? Thanks so much for joining us this morning.

Reform Party candidate Lee Jun-seok visits areas near Seoul, extending outreach to centrists, young voters

2025/05/21 10:00

Reform Party candidate Lee Jun-seok plans to continue his campaign in suburban areas near Seoul on Wednesday. Lee plans to visit Suwon and Seongnam after meeting with university students at Gachon University and touring Seongnam Medical Center. This follows a visit to Gwangju City, where he met with students at Chonnam National University, to discuss youth issues such as employment and pension reform, and address concerns about regional economic disparities. Lee once again expressed aversion towards the main conservative party's push for him to merge with their candidate. He is currently third in national polls, and is hoping to see his support levels rise after live TV debates with other candidates.

PPP's Kim talks up ethics, reiterating rival's legal risks

2025/05/21 10:00

And the campaign race heats up with less than two weeks left until the election. People Power Party's Kim Moon-soo now talks up ethics and reiterates his rival Lee Jae-myung's legal risks. This as he continues to make efforts to merge with the Reform Party. Our Kim Do-yeon reports. Touring around the capital and the surrounding areas, People Power Party candidate Kim Moon-soo on Tuesday focused on ethics, emphasizing his DP rival Lee Jae-myung's legal risks. He tied in the message with the recent ramped-up security for Lee, saying the DP is using its supermajority on the floor to now make bulletproof legislation to protect Lee from legal risks. I'll be an ethical president. I will never wear a bulletproof vest. I would get rid of the bulletproof glass and never try to pass bulletproof legislation. Also during rallies, he compared his two Gyeonggi-do governor terms to the one term his rival Lee served. He said it was he who created Gyeonggi-do Province's economic zones, such as Pyeongtaek's Samsung Electronics plant the largest one in the world. Earlier in the day, he also shared his pledges on fostering culture and cultural activities, as he visited a culture and arts organization. His major pledge was to make community culture centers across the nation accessible to anyone within 10 minutes to enhance cultural and art activities. Meanwhile he also continued his efforts to convince another conservative candidate, Lee Jun-seok of the Reform Party to merge. Facing the media, he sent a clear message. He used to lead our party. As you've seen at the debate, there's absolutely no difference between us. Also, it was our party's problem that caused Lee Jun-seok to leave, so I think it's right to be together. Lee Jun-seok continued to reject the offer saying it doesn't make sense. But, a movement to form an anti-Lee Jae-myung bloc started, as the PPP's interim-leader Kim Yong-tae met with the New Future Democratic Party's chairman for talks on future cooperation. This is a new party made up of former DP members who were not in Lee Jae-myung's faction. The leader of this party said the PPP's Constitutional reform proposal of shortening the next president's term to three years, with the next one starting a new four-year term with re-election aligns with theirs. In the meantime, the PPP's Kim Yong-tae also proposed a debate for the first lady prospects but the DP and Reform Party candidates immediately criticized the idea to turn it down. Kim Do-yeon, Arirang News.

DP’s Lee calls for protecting overseas voting rights, suggests temporary polling stations

2025/05/21 10:00

And on the first day of overseas voting Tuesday, Democratic Party candidate Lee Jae-myung reached out to Korean nationals living abroad. He's set to appeal to voters in Incheon today, where his constituency is located. Our Shin Ha-young has more. Marking the first day of overseas voting, the Democratic Party's presidential candidate Lee Jae-myung encouraged overseas voters, saying a vote was "stronger than a bullet." Ahead of a rally on Tuesday, Lee held a one-hour virtual meeting with overseas Koreans. During a discussion, overseas voters from various countries shared the common difficulties they faced, especially inconvenience when voting. "Botswana has no Korean embassy or consulate general, so Koreans here have to go to South Africa to vote." "Lee Jae-myung emphasized that appropriate measures should be put in place to ease voting for those living abroad and suggested several ways to do so." "Overseas Koreans currently have to register and vote separately, but with a better system, both could be done at once. While some worry about mail-in voting security, countries like the U.S. use it, and Korea already allows similar voting for people with mobility issues or those in hospitals. I wonder if it's fair to not allow overseas Koreans to vote by mail." Lee also suggested setting up temporary polling stations with temporary staff, saying that given the high personal costs voters currently face, the government should provide this kind of support. On Tuesday, the DP candidate continued his campaign in Gyeonggi-do Province, where he served as governor. Lee held rallies in the cities of Uijeongbu and Goyang, as well as Paju, which borders North Korea. During his visit to Uijeongbu, Lee highlighted peace and security and promised to support the development of the northern part of Gyeonggi-do, which has long been restricted by heavy regulations. "Hasn't this northern region made big sacrifices for the country's security over many years? Those sacrifices should be properly compensated, so people from now on don't feel it's unfair." At his final stop of the day in Gimpo, Lee pledged to remove tolls on the Ilsan Bridge, which connects Gimpo and Goyang. Shin Ha-young, Arirang News.

Second round of S. Korea-U.S. technical tariff discussions kick off in Washington

2025/05/21 10:00

South Korea and the U.S. have begun a new round of trade talks in Washington, aimed at resolving disputes over tariffs proposed by the Trump administration. Starting Tuesday local time, Seoul's delegation, led by the trade ministry, and the U.S. Trade Representative will focus on six key issues, including balanced trade and non-tariff measures. This is the second round of technical discussions, and likely the last before Korea's new government takes office next month following the presidential election. Korea is pushing for lower tariffs, while the U.S. is expected to call for more imports and regulatory changes.

Trump unveils plans for 'Golden Dome' missile defense system

2025/05/21 10:00

U.S. President Donald Trump says he'll be protecting his country from missile attacks by building what he calls a "Golden Dome." He says the 175 billion dollar project should be capable of shielding the U.S. even if missiles are launched from space. Lee Seung-jae reports. U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday his plan for a missile defense program dubbed 'Golden Dome.' The multi-layered system would allow for U.S. weapons to be put into space for the first time. “Thank you very much, and thank you for being here in the Oval Office, one of the great places of the world, as we make a historic announcement about the Golden Dome Missile Defense Shield. That's something we want, and Ronald Reagan wanted it many years ago, but they didn't have the technology. But it's something that we're going to have." The 'Golden Dome' will include ground and space-based capabilities that can detect and destroy missiles at all major stages of a potential attack. Trump said that he had promised the American people that he would build a "cutting-edge missile defense shield" to protect the U.S. from the threat of foreign missile attacks. However, the ambitious plan also comes with a massive price tag. “I'm also pleased to report that the one big, beautiful bill will include $25 billion for the Golden Dome to help construction get underway. That's the initial sort of down posit. And we have probably you're talking about, General, we're talking about $175 billion total cost of this when it's completed." However, earlier this month, the Congressional Budget Office estimated that deploying and operating just the space-based interceptors of the defense system could cost up to 542 billion dollars over the next 20 years. Still, citing the increasingly sophisticated threats from North Korea, Russia, and China, Trump said the system could be operational within three years, as he named General Michael Guetlein, vice chief of operations for the U.S. Space Force, to oversee the 'Golden Dome' project. Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.

LIG Nex1 and KAI showcase K-defense capabilities at LIMA 2025

2025/05/21 10:00

South Korea's defense companies are making a strong push into Southeast Asia, showcasing their advanced capabilities at LIMA 2025, which kicked off in Malaysia. Our defense correspondent Kim Bo-kyoung reports. K-defense looks to expand its realm to Southeast Asia. The Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2025, the largest exhibition of its type in Southeast Asia, kicked off on Tuesday. Among the Korean defense companies taking part is LIG Nex1. With the South China Sea disputes propelling Southeast Asian states to strengthen their naval capabilities, LIG Nex1 is showcasing its "Haegung,.." ship-to-air guided missile defense system hoping to attract buyers such as the Malaysia Navy. Many officials from other countries such as Vietnam and even Saudi Arabia also showed their interest. "We are currently focusing our promotional efforts on a multi-layered air defense system. In the long term, we plan to expand into unmanned systems, space, cyber, and AI technologies." Korea Aerospace Industries, was visited by the Malaysian Prime Minister. KAI signed a deal with Malaysia in 2023 to export 18 FA-50 fighter jets, and with the very first one expected to be delivered next year, KAI is pushing for the second phase of the procurement project, as Malaysia plans to acquire an additional 18 aircraft. The exhibition gave a peek into where K-defense stands in the global market. European missile firm MBDA had a mock-up of KAI's FA-50 and KF-21 with its own missiles loaded, promoting these to Malaysia. While sharing ideas of how MBDA could cooperate with KAI, the technical executive cited advanced technology and rapid delivery as some of the South Korean defense industry's strengths. "It's how rapidly you can bring those capabilities to the market. KF-21 as an aircraft is a fine example of going from a concept phase all the way to something that is actually flying, integrating modern advanced missiles like meteor and actually doing test firings and maiden flights with it. Based on the credibility it has earned, K-defense aims to explore more opportunities in the global defense market, starting in Malaysia. Kim Bo-kyoung, Arirang News, Langkawi.

Israel hits 160 targets in Gaza as aid begins to come through

2025/05/20 20:00

In the Middle East. Israel has vowed to seize control of the entire Gaza Strip, while at the same time, allowing some humanitarian aid into the enclave. Lee Seung-jae has the latest. The Israeli military, which recently launched "Operation Gideon's Chariots," aimed at recapturing the Gaza Strip, announced it had struck some 160 targets, including Hamas infrastructure. However, according to Al Jazeera, airstrikes also targeted several hospitals across the enclave. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released a video statement on the same day, vowing to make progress amid fierce fighting, adding that Israel will take control of the entire Gaza Strip. The remark was slammed by Britain, France, and Canada, who were critical of Israel's expansion of its war, as they vowed a "concrete" response if Israel's campaign continues. Also, following pressure from around the globe over the blocking of any humanitarian aid into region, Israel has begun allowing some trucks carrying necessities. "Today, Israel is facilitating the entry of trucks with baby food into Gaza. In the coming days, Israel will facilitate the entry of dozens of aid trucks." The Director General of Israel's Foreign Ministry, Eden Bar Tal, said "Israel always complies with international law and with its obligations and statements." However, he was critical of the recent condemnation, saying the international community must decide whether to side with Israel or Hamas. He added that the aid that began coming in will only cover a few days. The foreign ministry official also stressed that the humanitarian aid "is to help the population, not to support Hamas." Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.

Trump's 2-hour phone call with Putin fails to achieve breakthrough in ending Ukraine war

2025/05/20 20:00

Following last week's talks between Russia and Ukraine in Istanbul, U.S. President Trump spoke with his Russian and Ukrainian counterparts, respectively, about peace in Ukraine. Putin called for the elimination of what he called "the root causes" of the war while Zelenskyy said decisions should not be made without Kyiv. Bae Eun-ji tells us more. Following the much-anticipated call between leaders from Washington and Moscow, U.S. President Donald Trump said he made progress during his conversation on Monday with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin. He proclaimed on his social media that the call "went very well" and that Russia and Ukraine had agreed to 'immediately' start negotiations toward a ceasefire, without providing details on when that will happen. "We just spent two and a half hours talking to Vladimir Putin, and I think some progress has been made." Putin, who described the call as "meaningful and frank," said Russia is ready to work with Ukraine on a memorandum on a possible future peace agreement. But he did not address demands from the U.S. and European countries for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire, meaning no major breakthrough in ending the war. "At the same time, I would like to note that, in general, Russia's position is clear. The main thing for us is to eliminate the root causes of this crisis." Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he also spoke with Trump before the American leader's call with Putin. He called for an unconditional ceasefire, while urging stronger U.S. sanctions if Russia is not ready to end the war. "I asked him before his conversation with Putin, not to make decisions about Ukraine without us. We agreed that we would get in touch after his conversation with Putin." Zelenskyy also urged Washington not to distance itself from peace talks, saying he is considering a high-level meeting between Ukraine, Russia, the U.S., and European countries. This comes after Trump said the conditions of a peace deal could only be negotiated between Russia and Ukraine, possibly with the help of the Pope, leading to speculation that this signals a possible shift in his stance that he was leaving the two countries to find a deal without the U.S. as a broker. Bae Eun-ji, Arirang News.

S. Korean delegation departs for tariff talks in Washington

2025/05/20 20:00

A South Korean trade delegation has departed for the U.S. to engage in more technical talks on tariffs. Moon Hye-ryeon covers the agenda ahead. A South Korean delegation will begin working-level talks with the U.S. Trade Representative in Washington on Tuesday local time, as part of broader efforts to finalize what's being dubbed the "July Package." With both sides aiming for a comprehensive trade deal by July 8th, Seoul is expected to focus on minimizing the steep tariffs on its key exports. However, time is tight, with the U.S. negotiating with its other trade partners and South Korea's presidential election just around the corner. Six key topics are on the agenda for this round of technical discussions: balanced trade, non-tariff measures, economic security, digital trade, country of origin, and commercial considerations. South Korea plans to use its cooperation in areas like shipbuilding as leverage, with the ultimate goal of lowering the 25-percent reciprocal tariff rates and the sector-specific tariffs on cars, steel, aluminum, and semiconductors. Meanwhile, the U.S. is expected to push back with its own demands, with concerns over its trade deficit and various non-tariff barrier issues. The Trump administration has pointed to a wide range of non-tariff barriers in Korea, such as restrictions on importing beef from cattle older than 30 months, as hindering American exports to the country. Seoul has since responded by saying there were few barriers hindering trade with the United States, and experts say that some concessions could be made for low-impact sectors in order to gain leverage in more critical areas. "We should be ready to ease non-tariff barriers on items like agricultural and livestock products — especially those with low import volumes. In return, we must push hard to secure U.S. tariff cuts on high-value exports like automobiles and semiconductors." This comes after high-level ministerial meetings during the APEC trade summit in Jeju last week, where South Korea's trade minister Ahn Duk-geun followed up his meeting with the U.S. Trade Representative, Jamieson Greer, with a press conference. He revealed that a ministerial-level interim review is scheduled for mid-June to finalize the results of the negotiations — meaning important decisions related to the trade agreement will be made by the next administration. Moon Hye-ryeon, Arirang News.

Reform Party's Lee Jun-seok pushes for harmony during second day campaigning in Gwangju

2025/05/20 20:00

Reform Party candidate Lee Jun-seok remained active in the southwestern city of Gwangju for a second day. Addressing the audience there, he spoke of pursuing the spirit of former President Roh Moo-hyun who sought unity between traditionally conservative and liberal regions in the southwest and the eastern parts of the country. Lee was also at Chonnam National University to touch base with the student body there as part of his campus cafeteria outreach. Earlier, he sat down with the Gwangju Mayor Kang Ki-jung and pledged support for AI and future mobility industries.

PPP's Kim talks up ethics, reiterating rival's legal risks

2025/05/20 20:00

The PPP's candidate has also been touring the capital region. He's focusing on a message claiming that he's more ethical than his major rival. This as Kim continues to make efforts to merge with the Reform Party. Our correspondent Kim Do-yeon has the details. Touring around the capital and the surrounding areas, People Power Party candidate Kim Moon-soo on Tuesday focused on ethics, emphasizing his DP rival Lee Jae-myung's legal risks. He tied in the message with the recent ramped-up security for Lee, saying the DP is using its supermajority on the floor to now make bulletproof legislation to protect Lee from legal risks. I'll be an ethical president. I will never wear a bulletproof vest. I would get rid of the bulletproof glass and never try to pass bulletproof legislation. Also during rallies, he compared his two Gyeonggi-do governor terms to the one term his rival Lee served. He said it was he who created Gyeonggi-do Province's economic zones, such as Pyeongtaek's Samsung Electronics plant the largest one in the world. Earlier in the day, he also shared his pledges on fostering culture and cultural activities, as he visited a culture and arts organization. His major pledge was to make community culture centers across the nation accessible to anyone within 10 minutes to enhance cultural and art activities. Meanwhile he also continued his efforts to convince another conservative candidate, Lee Jun-seok of the Reform Party to merge. Facing the media, he sent a clear message. He used to lead our party. As you've seen at the debate, there's absolutely no difference between us. Also, it was our party's problem that caused Lee Jun-seok to leave, so I think it's right to be together. Lee Jun-seok continued to reject the offer saying it doesn't make sense. But, a movement to form an anti-Lee Jae-myung bloc started, as the PPP's interim-leader Kim Yong-tae met with the New Future Democratic Party's chairman for talks on future cooperation. This is a new party made up of former DP members who were not in Lee Jae-myung's faction. The leader of this party said the PPP's Constitutional reform proposal of shortening the next president's term to three years, with the next one starting a new four-year term with re-election aligns with theirs. In the meantime, the PPP's Kim Yong-tae also proposed a debate for the first lady prospects but the DP and Reform Party candidates immediately criticized the idea to turn it down. Kim Do-yeon, Arirang News.