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

2025/05/13 14:00

Over this past weekend over in neighboring Japan a major K-culture festival opened doors to fans and our culture correspondent Song Yoo-jin was there to experience the event up close. Let's take a look. 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. So this was not just about a K-pop concert but so many elements of the Korean wave can be experienced at KCON. I spotted some popular beauty brands and food brands there as well it's like a "jonghap seonmul set" how you would say in Korean, the full hallyu gift set. And as Yoo-jin mentioned, KCON will be in LA in August. That'll actually be August first to third. And the K-pop lineup is being unveiled in separate announcements. What do we know so far? Fans in LA can look forward to a wonderful lineup, that includes aespa, NCT 127, RIIZE, MEOVV and MONSTA X. Speaking of MONSTA X, that's most likely going to include a specific member we'll talk about now.

Trump says China will "fully" open its markets to U.S. firms, hints at call with Xi

2025/05/13 10:00

U.S. President Donald Trump said China has agreed to 'fully' open its market to U.S. firms and signaled that he may speak with Chinese President Xi Jinping this week, following a temporary tariff truce agreement. Our Lee Soo-jin has more. President Donald Trump on Monday hailed the temporary de-escalation of trade tensions with China as a 'total reset' that will open China's market to American companies. "In addition, yesterday we achieved a total reset with China after productive talks in Geneva. And they've agreed to open China, fully open China. And, I think it's going to be fantastic for China. I think it's going to be fantastic for us." He also told reporters in the Oval Office that he may speak to Chinese President Xi Jinping later this week. The U.S. and China reached a trade agreement that slashes U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods to 30 percent from 1-hundred-45 percent, and lowers Chinese tariffs on U.S. imports to 10 percent from 1-hundred-25 percent, a decision that cuts tariffs from both nations by 1-hundred-15 percent. But sector-specific tariffs on automobiles, automobiles, aluminum, and steel are still in place, and China will be subject to the tariffs on pharmaceuticals that Trump previously said would arrive "shortly." The agreement followed two days of discussions held in Switzerland between senior-level officials from both nations. "Neither side wants a decoupling. We do want trade, we want more balanced trade and I think that both sides are committed to achieving that." "The two sides held in-depth exchanges on trade and economic issues of their respective concern. The atmosphere of the meeting was candid, in-depth and constructive." The deal,. which will be in place by May 14, will be effective for 90 days and sets up a framework for further talks between the two countries. U.S. stocks responded positively to the news, with the Dow Jones surging to close at 2-point-81 percent, the S&P 500 closed nearly 3-point-3 percent up, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq closed 4-point-35 percent compared to the previous trading day. This comes as investors reacted favorably to the unexpected progress in talks between the U.S. and China, sparking a rally in major tech stocks such as Nvidia, Nvidia, Amazon, and Meta. Companies like Best Buy and Dell Technologies, which rely heavily on Chinese manufacturing, also saw strong gains. Lee Soo-jin, Arirang News.

[Weather] Early summer warmth with strong UV rays

2025/05/13 10:00

It feels pleasant right now, but by the afternoon, it's going to warm up quite a bit, possibly even feeling a little hot for some. Here in Seoul, it will climb to around 25 degrees this afternoon. Daegu and Gangneung could see temperatures soaring to near 30 degrees Celsius along with plenty of sunshine. The sun will be quite strong today. We're expecting 'very high' levels for the UV index across most of the country, and ozone concentrations will likely reach 'unhealthy' levels, so be mindful of that if you're spending time outdoors. Checking on daily highs for other regions, Gwangju will reach 27 degrees Celsius, Gyeongju a warmer 29 degrees this afternoon. The capital area could have bad ultrafine dust levels in the first half of the day. Looking ahead, we have rain in the forecast for Thursday. That rain brings down the highs to near norms. However, Jeju will see on-and-off rain from Thursday into Saturday. Meanwhile, stay safe in the sun today!

Usher gives commencement speech at Emory University

2025/05/13 10:00

Finally, in the U.S., Grammy Award-winning R&B artist and philanthropist Usher Raymond IV delivered the keynote address at Emory University's 180th Commencement ceremony in Atlanta on Monday, local time. He also received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from the university. In his speech, Usher encouraged graduates to "be a dreamer" and shared personal experiences, including the challenges he faced in his early education. He said while a diploma still matters, "it's not the paper that gives the power" and that "You create the value behind that degree." Usher's nonprofit organization, Usher's New Look, has supported over 55-thousand under-resourced young people in collaboration with Emory's Business School.

59 white South Africans land in U.S. under Trump refugee plan

2025/05/13 10:00

On Monday, the Trump administration welcomed 59 white South Africans as refugees to the United States. The move, backed by claims of racial persecution and violence in South Africa, has sparked widespread controversy for the policy being "racialized." President Donald Trump defended the decision by citing alleged "genocide," adding that white farmers in the country are "being killed," a claim that South African authorities and human rights organizations have strongly disputed. While the Trump administration has suspended the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program in other parts of the world, the acceptance of the recent group of refugees garnered criticism for racial bias and undermining equity.

Pope urges media to end divisive language and calls for release of jailed reporters

2025/05/13 10:00

In his first encounter with the media, Pope Leo XIV , the first American pontiff, stressed the vital role of journalists and called for the release of imprisoned reporters worldwide. On Monday, May 12, Pope Leo addressed some 6,000 journalists at the Vatican and highlighted the importance of free speech and press freedom. At the same time, the Pope addressed the issue of divisive language by the media and called for an end to the "war of words and images," advocating for communication that promotes peace. The pontiff also condemned the imprisonment of journalists worldwide and reaffirmed the Church's solidarity with those imprisoned for reporting the truth. While stating that communication was about the "creation of culture," he warned against misusing artificial intelligence in journalism, stressing responsible use of the technology that can "benefit all of humanity."

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

2025/05/13 10:00

This past weekend was an especially exciting one for those K-culture lovers over in Japan, with one of the world's largest K-culture festivals, KCON JAPAN, having taken place there. Our culture correspondent Song Yoo-jin was there. 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.

On-point: Will 90-day pause 'reset' U.S.-China relations?

2025/05/13 10:00

The U.S. and China managed to agree to a break from their tariff spat for now. Will the 90-day pause really 'reset' their relations and draw out an ultimate end to the trade war? Let's turn to Professor Park Min-jung. Welcome back. 1. Professor Park, I think we can all agree that the U.S.-China deal came sooner than we all expected. What do you think was behind the outcome of Monday's negotiations? Was China more desperate here? Or the U.S.? 2. The U.S. and China have reached an agreement to slash tariffs by 115%. It means U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports will fall to 30%. It is a bigger cut than expected, but isn't 30% still a high tariff? 3. Then how is it a deal that satisfies both sides? Who won here? Did both win? 4. What's taking so long for South Korea and the U.S. to draw out a deal, then? Or are we not behind that much? Taking much-needed time? 5. Last week, the UK became the first country to strike a trade deal with the U.S. The U.S. agreed to cut tariffs on cars to as low as 10%, while the UK will lower barriers on agricultural and auto products. If South Korea were to make a deal with the U.S. by product, similar to the UK deal, what would it look like? Thanks so much for connecting with us this morning. We appreciate it.

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

2025/05/13 10:00

And with the election seen as a three-way race, also joining the campaign trail is the Reform Party candidate Lee Jun-seok, who pledged to nourish the economy and rebuild institutions. Lee headed to 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

2025/05/13 10:00

South Korea is now officially in campaign mode for the June 3rd presidential election. The Democratic Party's Lee Jae-myung made his campaign debut in central Seoul, with a call for national unity. Our correspondent Shin Ha-young starts us off. 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."

Israeli-U.S. hostage released by Hamas

2025/05/13 10:00

Beginning in the Middle East, Hamas has released an American-Israeli soldier after more than 19 months of captivity in Gaza. Hamas said the release was a goodwill gesture toward the U.S. administration. On Monday, local time, Edan Alexander, a 21-year-old from New Jersey, was released by Hamas after being captured during the October 7, 2023, attacks. His release is the first since Israel resumed military operations in March, ending a previous ceasefire. The handover occurred in Khan Yunis, southern Gaza, where Alexander was transferred to the Red Cross before being handed over. President Donald Trump praised the decision, which comes a day before he visits the Middle East, as a step toward peace. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu credited the release to Israel's military pressure and political influence from the U.S. He reaffirmed his commitment to securing the release of the remaining hostages.

Korean conductor Chung Myung-whun named new musical director at Italy's La-Scala

2025/05/13 10:00

South Korean conductor Chung Myung-whun has been appointed as the new music director of Italy's Teatro alla Scala. According to the Associated Press on Monday, the 72-year-old becomes the first Asian to be given the role at the famed opera house in Milan. He will succeed Riccardo Chailly at the end of next year, and will remain as the music director until February 2030. A famed pianist, Chung has been a conductor for a number of renowned orchestras, including the Tokyo Philharmonics.

Trump says he could join Russia, Ukraine ceasefire talks

2025/05/13 10:00

With Russia and Ukraine set to hold ceasefire negotiations in Istanbul later this week, U.S. President Donald Trump says he could travel there to join the two countries. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says he wants the U.S. leader to join the talks. Lee Seung-jae reports. As Russia and Ukraine gear up for their upcoming ceasefire negotiations in Istanbul later this week, U.S. President Donald Trump said he might travel to Turkey, as well. Speaking to reporters at the White House on Monday, Trump raised the prospects of taking part in the talks, in the hope of putting an end to the killing on the battlefields. "I was thinking about flying over. I don't know where I'm going to be on Thursday. I've got so many meetings. But I was thinking about actually flying over there. There's a possibility of it, I guess, if I think things can happen. But we've got to get it done. We've got to save 5,000 lives a week. 5,000 lives -it's really more than that. It's worse than that." President Trump will be visiting Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar this week. Amid prospects of Trump taking part in the talks in Istanbul, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Monday that he wanted the U.S president to join the peace talks. In a post on X, Zelenskyy said that everyone in Ukraine wants President Trump to take part in the peace talks in Turkey, calling it a "good idea." However, the Kremlin remained silent about whether Russian President Vladimir Putin would take part in the talks this week. Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.

U.S.-ROK Alliance in a shifting world order: Interview with Evans Revere, Former U.S. Acting Assistant Sec. of State

2025/05/12 20:30

Welcome to Within The Frame, where we bring the most pressing issues across the globe into focus. I'm Kim Mok-yeon. U.S. President Donald Trump's second term is in full swing, with his administration aggressively pushing to resolve the wars in Ukraine and Gaza while reprioritizing America's global commitments. Under the revived "America First" doctrine, traditional alliances are being redefined or tested. The U.S.-ROK alliance now stands at a critical juncture. South Korea is navigating a leadership transition, while the regional balance SHIFTS due to deepening North Korea–Russia ties and heightened U.S.–China confrontation. Tariff threats, increased defense cost-sharing demands, and signals of a new approach toward North Korea raise urgent questions about the stability and future of the alliance. On Within The Frame today, we speak with Evans Revere—Former U.S. Acting Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs and longtime Korea expert—to assess what lies ahead for the U.S.-ROK alliance in an increasingly volatile global order. Welcome, Mr. Revere 1. It's been nearly four months since President Trump's second-term administration took office. And as you know, South Korea is awaiting a snap election within a few weeks. How would you assess the current state of the Seoul-Washington alliance? 2. Lately, the Trump administration has been focusing on resolutions to the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, seemingly at the expense of traditional alliances. Do you think President Trump's anti-alliance stance—as seen in his approach to ceasefire talks in Ukraine—also negatively impact the Seoul-Washington alliance? 3. In fact, President Trump is pressuring South Korea on two fronts—tariffs and increased defense cost-sharing. In light of Trump's anti-alliance posture Mr.Revere, what diplomatic tools can South Korea use to take the lead in redefining or reinforcing the alliance? 4. There is growing analysis that Trump's "America First" agenda is raising uncertainty around the Seoul-Washington-Tokyo trilateral alliance, which had been solidified under the Biden administration. What is your outlook on the trilateral alliance going forward? 5. There is speculation that if President Trump succeeds in brokering a ceasefire in Ukraine, his next focus will shift to North Korea. In a previous interview, you expressed concern over the possibility of Trump pursuing arms control talks with Pyongyang. Could you elaborate on that concern? 6. Meanwhile, President Trump is pressuring NATO allies to raise their defense spending to 5% of GDP. What implications does this version of "America First" policy have for the security order in Northeast Asia, especially in the joint response framework against North Korea's nuclear threat? 7. Trump's "America First" strategies are widely seen as weakening U.S. global leadership. Some say this could offer its rival, China, an opportunity to expand its influence in the international arena. What are your thoughts on this, and how is China currently moving? 8. So, given China's rising assertiveness, the U.S. may demand even stronger allied cooperation from South Korea. How should South Korea respond? 9. With North Korea and Russia growing increasingly close, and U.S.-ROK relations entering a period of transition, U.S.-China confrontation is also intensifying. In this rapidly shifting security landscape, what efforts do you believe the next South Korean administration should make to strengthen its diplomatic and security capabilities? Mr.Revere, we'll have to conclude our discussion right here, thank you so much for making time for us tonight.

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

2025/05/12 20:00

Thank you for joining us. I'm Yoon Jung-min. As Korea counts down to the June 3rd snap election, official campaigning began today. Oh Soo-young explains in detail. 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] Taste of summer on Tuesday afternoon with strong UV rays

2025/05/12 20:00

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 gaps are narrowing down in many regions, bigger gaps will remain in inland regions. Gyeongju will see a chilly morning turning into summer within a few hours. If you forgot your sun-protective items, 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 Celsiys under mostly sunny skies. The capital area could have high levels of ultrafine dust in the morning. Seoul gets up to 25 degrees by the afternoon; Daegu makes it to 27 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.

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.