News

[Weather] Summer heat in the west will continue for the time being

2025/07/09 19:43

The heat wave in the western parts of the country is severe. The daytime temperatures were similar to yesterday, when Seoul's high of 37 degrees Celsius broke its all-time high for early July. It soared to 38 degrees during the day in Gwangmyeong. This steaming heat around the west will continue for the time being. Under clear skies, the UV index will rise to high to very high levels from the morning. Please refrain from outdoor activities between 10 in the morning and 3 in the afternoon to avoid any heat-related illnesses. Tomorrow morning, Seoul, Daejeon, Gwangju and Jeju will start off at 25 degrees, Busan at 24 degrees. Daily highs will move up to 35 degrees in Seoul and Gwangju, 31 degrees in Daegu and Busan. Summer heat of around 35 degrees will continue around the Seoul metropolitan area. That's all for Korea. Here are the weather conditions around the world.

World News: Prince and Princess of Wales welcome Macron as he begins UK state visit

2025/07/09 19:42

This is the World Now, bringing you the latest stories from around the globe. French President Emmanuel Macron has made a state visit to the United Kingdom, receiving a ceremonial welcome from the British royal family and pledging renewed bilateral relations. "The United Kingdom and France must once again show the world that our alliance can make all the difference. Clearly, we have to work together in order to defend an efficient multilateralism " On Tuesday, Macron and First Lady Brigitte began their three-day visit with a full royal welcome at Windsor Castle, greeted by King Charles III , Queen Camilla, Prince William, and Princess Catherine in a horse-drawn carriage procession and Guard of Honor inspection. Macron delivered a rare address to both Houses of Parliament, urging Britain and France to reduce "excessive dependencies" on the U.S. and China, and calling for joint action on defense, migration, climate, and AI. He also announced 1.5 billion U.S. dollars of EDF investment in a UK nuclear plant and a cultural loan deal to bring the Bayeux Tapestry to Britain for the first time in more than 900 years. This is the first state visit by a European leader since Brexit and the first for a French President since 2008. Israel has carried out a targeted airstrike in northern Lebanon, reportedly killing a senior Hamas figure, one of the first hits in the region in months. The Israeli military announced on Tuesday that it had struck a "key" Hamas operative traveling in a car near Ayrounieh, just south of Lebanon's second-largest city, Tripoli, marking the first targeted assassination in the region since November. Lebanese state media confirmed the strike hit a vehicle, killing at least three people and wounding 13 others. Al Araby TV quoted a Hamas source in Lebanon stating no senior official was killed, though Israel maintains its target was high-ranking. The recent strike came as U.S. envoy Thomas Barrack visited Lebanon amid efforts to disarm Hezbollah. However, Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem on Sunday ruled out giving up the group's weapons before Israel withdraws from all of southern Lebanon. Liverpool's Portuguese forward Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva were likely speeding when the rear tire of their car blew out, causing the crash that killed them both, according to a preliminary report from Spain's Civil Guard on Tuesday. Investigators say a tire imprint analysis suggests Jota, confirmed to be driving, was traveling well above the speed limit of 120 kilometers per hour, while overtaking on a highway near Zamora, Spain, just before midnight on July 3. Evidence indicates that the overspeeding caused the Lamborghini in which they were traveling to veer off the road and crash. The results of the on-site investigation will be sent to the local court before being made public. A Martian meteorite weighing over 24 kilograms is going under the hammer. The specimen, known as NWA 16788, is verified as the largest piece of Mars ever found on Earth. It is estimated to fetch between 2 million and 4 million U.S. dollars at Sotheby's upcoming auction in New York on July 16. Before the sale, the meteorite will be on public display in Sotheby's galleries from July 8 to 15. The rare chunk, which represents more than 6 percent of all Martian material found on Earth, was discovered in Niger in 2023. Though it is unclear exactly when it landed on Earth, minimal weathering suggests a recent fall. Choi Chi-hee, Arirang News.

Why Korea is where future Paralympians come to dream big

2025/07/09 19:41

South Korea has been hosting an annual youth camp for athletes with disabilities for well over a decade and our Park Kun-woo spoke to some of this year's participants. Do take a listen. Running at full speed without falling. Drenched in sweat, but still smiling. 16-year-old John, who has dwarfism, dreams of one day competing on the Olympic stage, representing his country as a badminton player. He's been training hard -already around a decade since he first picked up a racket. Nothing stops him from pushing limits; instead, he's eager to keep improving. "I want a new experience for me. Korea is more advanced in training and they, giving knowledge for our players. They have so much respect for others. I like that" John is one of around 60 participants from 16 different countries who came to Korea this summer to take part in the annual international Para sports youth camp in Icheon, Gyeonggi-do Province. And, determination was shown across the court, where shuttlecocks flew rapidly, with players, some in wheelchairs, moving back and forth with precision and speed. This year's program not only features badminton but also powerlifting and archery, offering young athletes with disabilities the opportunity to train and dream big. "This barbell feels heavy to me. But for them? It seems like it's almost no big deal. It's not the body that holds them back but it's the strength inside that drives them forward." At the weightlifting gym, effort and spirit echoed with every lift. Some may not be able to use all parts of their body, but that hasn't stopped them from lifting bars and chasing their goals. "I want to go to the Paralympics and be a champion so I can earn money and make my parents proud. So, I need to stay disciplined and train consistently, especially here where the facility's good." Even when facing physical barriers, these young lifters stayed focused and consistent. Korea, an archery powerhouse, is also sharing its expertise with these future champions. Coaches are helping the participants to adjust their posture and techniques. "Just like everyone's bone structure is different, each person's disability and range of movement also varies. So, we teach them based on each athlete's condition and strength. Even for complete beginners, we structure training step-by-step and make sure it's fun and sustainable." In the end, what matters isn't the physical ability, but the will. And with that in mind, these young athletes continue to run, lift, and aim, toward their dreams. Park Kun-woo, Arirang News, Icheon.

"Squid Game 3" ranks no.1 in 93 countries for two weeks straight

2025/07/09 19:39

On the entertainment front. Squid Game Season 3 has made Netflix history. According to Netflix's Top 10 website on this Wednesday the final season ranked number one among non-English shows in all 93 countries where the chart is tracked for the second straight week. It's the first time any Netflix series has held the top spot in every tracked country for two consecutive weeks. All three seasons of Squid Game currently occupy the top three spots on Netflix's list of the most popular non-English shows of all time.

2025 Korea Season Part 2: A vibrant celebration of diverse Korean culture blossoming in Spain

2025/07/09 19:39

In our second installment of stories from Spain which has become this year's overseas center stage for the Korean Wave my colleague Choi Soo-hyung touches upon the use of immersive technology to offer residents in Madrid the chance to experience K-culture from the comfort of their city. Do take a look. Wearing a Virtual Reality headset, a participant swings her arms freely, learning a martial art from the Joseon Dynasty. "I think it's very beautiful to know how Korean culture is, all the temples, and it's funny, it's very fun. The second thing I did, I think, for people who live in Spain, it's a very good way to learn." Suwon Hwaseong, one of Korea's most iconic cultural heritage sites in Gyeonggi-do Province, comes vividly alive right before your eyes. "I think that it was quite similar to reality because it showed the colors, spaces in a very realistic way. Also, the explanation and the small details like the ceilings with those color combinations and the small animals looking through were really cute." At the Korean Cultural Center in Madrid, Korea's traditional culture has been fully digitized through a comprehensive database process, allowing visitors to experience it in digital format, without even setting foot in Korea. In other sites in the venue, unique reinterpretations of the Joseon Dynasty's white porcelain are on display, all created using "malchong," or horsehair. Jeong Da-hye became the first Korean artist to win the prestigious Loewe Craft Prize, a leading award in Spain's contemporary craft scene. "This work merged tradition and innovation. It's very important for Spain also to receive a very natural work like this. The Loewe Foundation was very happy to see this kind of artist, so they selected her in 2022." Right now, Spain is completely immersed in Korean Culture. Since 2022, South Korea's Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has selected one country each year with a strong potential to spread Korean culture, offering a year-long series of cultural programs. This year's Korea Season takes place in Spain. In particular, the Korean Cultural Center here is set to host around 60 events throughout the year. "The center is carrying out this year's Korea Season under the key theme of "expansion." Beyond just popular areas like K-pop, we are working to highlight all things across K-culture, from fine arts and exhibitions to literature, webtoons, fashion, and beauty." Moreover, after Han Kang's Nobel win last year, Korean literature is gaining a lot of interest in Spain. That's why, in the second half of the year, Korean literature events will take center stage. "October has been designated as Literature Month, and we're promoting Korean literature as a focus country at Madrid's Liber International Book Fair. At the same time, we'll be the guest of honor at Barcelona's Kosmopolis International Festival of Literature." "Through the end of this year, a dynamic cultural journey will unfold across Spain, connecting the richness of Korean culture with the world. Choi Soo-hyung, Arirang News, Madrid."

Six N. Koreans safely repatriated after being rescued in S. Korean waters

2025/07/09 19:37

Six North Korean fishermen who unintentionally drifted into South Korean waters earlier this year have been sent back home. Our Unification Ministry Correspondent Kim Jung-sil reports. These rare photos show six North Korean fishermen making their journey home. Despite their small size, these photos show the end of a months-long journey after the fishermen were rescued from South Korean waters. For their return, the group traveled together in a single wooden boat in the East Sea, and at 8:56 AM, they crossed the Northern Limit Line. By 9:24 AM, a North Korean vessel made contact with the boat, and both vessels began their journey back to the North. The six fishermen, in their 30s and 40s, were stranded in boats that drifted into the East and West Seas in March and May. Since direct communication between the two Koreas was severed in 2023, Seoul coordinated through the UNC to convey its message about the fishermen's return. While North Korea didn't confirm directly, its actions spoke louder. "At the handover, a North Korean patrol boat was stationed at the designated point, and the vessel returned under its own power, completing the repatriation smoothly and safely." The Ministry of Unification verified their voluntary wish to return, with consent confirmed. Experts say Wednesday's repatriation reflects North Korea's ongoing attention to South Korea. "North Korea's response shows they're watching South Korea's peace efforts, and if the new government remains sincere, a positive response from the North may not be far off." This isn't the first repatriation of its kind. Similar cases took place in 2017, when fishermen also expressed a strong desire to return to the North. Despite delays, officials emphasized that Wednesday's decision was driven by humanitarian concerns and respect for the individuals' wishes. A Ministry official expressed hope that better communication between the South and North could lead to smoother future repatriations. Kim Jung-sil, Arirang News.

Nat'l Assembly holds public hearing on prosecution reform bills pushed by DP

2025/07/09 19:36

A public hearing opened at the National Assembly today to gather expert opinions on prosecution reform bills championed by the ruling Democratic Party. The hearing centers on four proposals that aim to limit prosecutors' roles to indictments and trials and to establish new agencies to take over and coordinate investigations. The DP is also ramping up internal efforts with a task force spotlighting prosecutorial overreach and what it calls "politically motivated" indictments tied to key ruling party figures. It aims to complete the legislative process by the Chuseok holiday in early October.

President Lee stresses role of religion in bridging divides in society

2025/07/09 19:36

Also at the Yongsan Presidential Office on this Wednesday. President Lee Jae Myung hosted a luncheon with religious leaders from seven major faiths including Buddhism and Catholicism. Sharing concern over the public polarization in Korea the president called on religious communities to help build harmony adding that their role has become more important than ever given the shared values of love and respect. The chair of the Korean Council of Religious Leaders in response pledged to work with the President to create a more peaceful and stable country.

President Lee names vice ministers for the Office for Government Policy Coordination

2025/07/09 19:36

President Lee Jae Myung has named two vice ministers for the Office for Government Policy Coordination and both individuals are from WITHIN the agency. Kim Young-su currently heading the Planning and Coordination Office has been tapped as First Vice Minister. The top office says Kim has much expertise in policy planning coordination and evaluation. Meanwhile Kim Yong-soo who leads the Economic Policy Coordination Division has been appointed Second Vice Minister. He is expected to support the government's growth strategy by promoting regulatory reform and development in AI biotech and semiconductors. The Office for Government Policy Coordination serves as a control tower for policies that involve several ministries.

Trump shocks market again, with 50% tariff on copper; pharmaceuticals, chips maybe next

2025/07/09 19:35

Staying with news out of the White House. The Trump administration's SECTOR-specific tariffs are looking to INCLUDE a 50-percent tariff on copper imports into the American market and a 200-percent tariff on pharmaceutical imports. Our economic correspondent Park Jun-han has more. On Tuesday, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a plan to impose a 50% tariff on copper imports, prompting markets to push copper prices to a record high. "We did steel, as you know, they're 50%, we did aluminum 50%, lumber just came out. And we did cars and now today we're doing copper. I believe the tariff on copper, we're going to make it 50%." After Trump's announcement, copper prices jumped to a record high, ending the trading day up 13-point-12 percent — the largest one-day gain since 1989 — at approximately 5-point-69 U.S. dollars per pound. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the U.S. imports about 50% of the refined copper it uses each year. Over 90% of copper imports, roughly 1 million tons, come from Chile, Canada and Peru. While the Trump administration aims to revive domestic copper production, the new tariffs are likely to raise costs for American manufacturers. On the same day, Trump hinted at tariffs of up to 200% on pharmaceuticals, along with possible duties on semiconductors that could take effect by late July. A market analyst noted that while the market currently views the impact as limited, it could come under pressure if the proposed chip tariffs exceed expectations. "The impact of the tariffs has not yet been significant, as South Korea has already built — or is in the process of building — semiconductor factories in the U.S., and the specific tariff rate has yet to be announced. However, if a high rate is imposed, it will inevitably affect the Korean semiconductor industry and the stock market." Trump's sector-specific tariff plan, based on Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, which allows the president to restrict imports that threaten national security, came a day after he sent tariff letters to 14 trading partners, including South Korea, outlining new tariff rates effective August 1. Trump is set to send letters to 15 to 20 more countries in the coming days. Park Jun-han, Arirang News.

Trump pushes on defense cost-sharing with S. Korea

2025/07/09 19:34

One day after sending South Korea a letter unilaterally informing the country about a 25-percent tariff starting September U.S. President Donald Trump took issue with the cost of maintaining American troop presence here on the Korean peninsula. Ahn Sung-jin covers his latest remarks. U.S. President Donald Trump is pushing for a "one-stop shopping" deal with South Korea on defense and trade. At the White House on Tuesday, Trump stated that its Asian ally was underpaying for military protection. He reiterated his hardline stance that Seoul should increase its contributions to U.S. defense costs, referring back to negotiations during his first term where he claimed he demanded that Seoul should pay 10 billion U.S. dollars a year in defense cost-sharing, a figure far above current levels. "You know, we have 45,000 soldiers in South Korea. And, you know, that's a huge economic development for them. That's tremendous amount. That's like having a city. It's tremendous money for them and it's a tremendous loss for us." Unlike Trump's assertion, there are currently around 28-thousand U.S. military troops in Korea. And regarding Trump's remarks, the South Korean government said that it will comply with the existing defense cost-sharing agreement between the two countries. The Foreign Ministry on Wednesday stated that the existing 12th Special Measures Agreement contributes to a joint defense position and added that it is inappropriate to react to every single remark made by a foreign leader. As Trump's remarks continue to stir debate on the alliance between the two countries, an expert says Korea should show flexibility and try to negotiate with the people in charge from various stakeholder ministries. "It's not really clear to me that Donald Trump appreciates the American alliance network. He attacks U.S. allies on a fairly regular basis so I would encourage South Korea to go slow and see if they can move the bay from the executive level." South Korea's defense cost-sharing issue and the need to preserve its security alliance with the U.S. adds to the complexity of the high-stakes negotiations. Ahn Sung-jin, Arirang News.

[Features reporter] Why Korea is where future Paralympians come to dream big

2025/07/09 15:37

Kun-woo, I remember last time you brought a sports-related topic, where people from different countries come to Korea to train. And I hear that you brought something a bit similar today. Tell us more. That's right, Soa. Last time, I brought a report about young athletes from around the world coming to Korea to train in winter sports as part of the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics legacy project. This time, it's a summer sports version, but with a meaningful twist. Since 2015, Korea has been inviting young para-athletes from abroad in the second half of the year, offering training in sports where Korea has particular strength. But before I tell you more, follow me and see how this is all happening. Running at full speed without falling. Drenched in sweat, but still smiling. 16-year-old John, who has dwarfism, dreams of one day competing on the Olympic stage, representing his country as a badminton player. He's been training hard -already around a decade since he first picked up a racket. Nothing stops him from pushing limits; instead, he's eager to keep improving. "I want a new experience for me. Korea is more advanced in training and they, giving knowledge for our players. They have so much respect for others. I like that" John is one of around 60 participants from 16 different countries who came to Korea this summer to take part in the annual international Para sports youth camp in Icheon, Gyeonggi-do Province. And, determination was shown across the court, where shuttlecocks flew rapidly, with players, some in wheelchairs, moving back and forth with precision and speed. This year's program not only features badminton but also powerlifting and archery, offering young athletes with disabilities the opportunity to train and dream big. "This barbell feels heavy to me. But for them? It seems like it's almost no big deal. It's not the body that holds them back but it's the strength inside that drives them forward." At the weightlifting gym, effort and spirit echoed with every lift. Some may not be able to use all parts of their body, but that hasn't stopped them from lifting bars and chasing their goals. "I want to go to the Paralympics and be a champion so I can earn money and make my parents proud. So, I need to stay disciplined and train consistently, especially here where the facility's good." Even when facing physical barriers, these young lifters stayed focused and consistent. Korea, an archery powerhouse, is also sharing its expertise with these future champions. Coaches are helping the participants to adjust their posture and techniques. "Just like everyone's bone structure is different, each person's disability and range of movement also varies. So, we teach them based on each athlete's condition and strength. Even for complete beginners, we structure training step-by-step and make sure it's fun and sustainable." In the end, what matters isn't the physical ability, but the will. And with that in mind, these young athletes continue to run, lift, and aim, toward their dreams. Park Kun-woo, Arirang News, Icheon.

[K-Enter] "Squid Game 3" Tops Rankings in 93 countries for 2 consecutive weeks A first for a Netflix series

2025/07/09 15:35

Time now for K-Enter with Walter Lee. Though the series has wrapped up for Squid Game the impact across the globe continues. What's the latest? According to Netflix Tudum's TOP 10 rankings released on Wednesday, Squid Game 3 recorded approximately 46.3 million views between June 30th and July 6th (past Sunday), maintaining the No. 1 position for two consecutive weeks in all 93 countries where the chart is tracked. This marks the first time in Netflix history that a series has claimed the top spot in every country for two straight weeks. Squid Game 3 also jumped to No. 3 on Netflix's list of most popular non-English series of all time. With this, all three seasons of Squid Game now hold the top three spots on Netflix's all-time most popular non-English series chart, a historic achievement. To see that each season broke some record must be a satisfying feeling for director Hwang Dong-hyuk . Next up, let's talk about a K-movie. According to distributor NEW on Wednesday, action comedy film "Hi-Five" which premiered in Hong Kong on June 19 became the biggest box office hit among all Korean films released there this year, achieving the feat in just four days, beating out titles like crime film "The Snitch" or "Yadang". Meanwhile, in Thailand, the film also claimed the top spot amongst Korean releases in 2025 following its debut on June 12. "Hi-Five" is a comedy action adventure that follows five individuals who, after receiving organ transplants, unexpectedly gain superpowers and find themselves entangled in a battle against those who want to exploit their abilities. Lastly let's move onto some K-pop news with a return of a solo artist. Jeon Somi has made her return with a new single after nearly a year. On Monday, Somi released her new digital single "EXTRA," marking her first release since August of last year, when she dropped "Ice Cream." "EXTRA" is a dance track that captures the feeling of being on the sidelines, moments spent unnoticed or lingering in the background. Inspired by the role of an extra in a film, the song expresses emotional confusion with a modern new-disco sound. Somi will also be connecting with fans at her upcoming fan meeting named "CHAOS", set to take place on July 19 at Hyundai Card Understage in Yongsan, Seoul. Thanks as always Walter, stick around as we take a look at what Ari our AI anchor has for us on the culture front. Ari, take it away!

K-wave AI News

2025/07/09 15:34

Hello and welcome to your AI guide to the latest cultural updates from Korea. Here's our top story. A Buddhist painting from the early Joseon Dynasty has been repatriated from Japan. The artwork, titled "Siwangdo," depicts the Ten Kings who judge the dead in the afterlife. It features intricate details in the characters' clothing, background, and patterns, showcasing the artistic techniques of the period. Also returned was a Goryeo Dynasty Buddhist scripture, believed to have been transcribed in 1334. The Avatamsaka Sutra, transcribed in gold powder on blue paper, features a delicately rendered sermon scene that showcases the refined artistry of Buddhist art at the time. "Siwangdo" was reclaimed through a formal auction in Japan, while the Goryeo scripture was purchased from a Japanese collector. Korea's celebrated pianist Lim Yun-chan and his mentor, Sohn Min-su, are set to hold a duo recital series this month. Describing Sohn as a profound influence on both his life and music, Lim said he doesn't so much want to "perform" with his teacher but rather wants to "sing together with him." The program features two-piano arrangements by Brahms, Rachmaninoff, and Strauss. The rare duo recital will begin this Saturday at the Art Center Incheon, followed by performances set for July 14 at Lotte Concert Hall in Seoul, and July 15 at the Seoul Arts Center. The Gangwon-Chuncheon 2025 World Taekwondo Cultural Festival kicked off at Songam Sports Town Air Dome Stadium, with the 'Dynamic Taekwondo Competition.' Dynamic Taekwondo combines traditional techniques with music and performance, featuring breaking, high-level kicks, and synchronized routines that highlight strength, agility, as well as grace. During the festival, over 1,500 participants from 35 countries will compete in a series of events, including the World Cup Team Championships and the World Para Taekwondo Open Challenge, co-hosted by Chuncheon City and the World Taekwondo Federation. Now in its third year, the festival has grown into a comprehensive cultural event linking local culture and industries. That's all from me. Stay tuned to the Kulture Wave.

[K-Correspondent] Korean bojagi art unwrapped in Switzerland

2025/07/09 15:34

Once used in daily life to wrap gifts or store objects, Korea's traditional 'bojagi' made from different types of fabrics with intricate techniques, has over many years evolved into a contemporary art form, that nowadays is even getting global recognition. One of the countries that's shown interest in bojagi art is Switzerland. We now connect to Son Bo-young, the founder of Swiss Bojagi, and a bojagi artist herself. Bo-young, (Ms. Son) hello! Q1. Please tell us how the bojagi art journey started in Switzerland. And what kind of programs or activities are being offered? Q2. What kind of people have shown their interest in these classes and events? Do you see any specific groups showing more interest than others? Q3. So, how has the response been so far? I mean it must have been a first-of-its-kind experience for most of them. Q4. Do you think there is a special reason for why bojagi is receiving this attention especially in Switzerland or Europe? (Is there anything similar to bojagi or is it the artistic aspect they like?) Q5. What do you think is the strength of bojagi art compared to other hallyu items like Korea's traditional attire hanbok, K-calligraphy or more widely known aspects of the Korean wave? Q6. We've heard that you also work with a variety of different local organizations to promote Korean culture in Switzerland. Please tell us more about that. Q7. Last but not least, as a pioneer in bojagi art in Switzerland who is creating a new trend of the K-wave, do you have any hopes or goals you would like to share? Thank you very much for connecting with us today Bo-young, (Ms. Son) and for spreading the beauty of Korea's bojagi art in Switzerland. Thank you Walter as always. We'll have you back next week.

Paju, Gwangmyeong reach 40 degrees, heat-related deaths up 3 fold from last year

2025/07/09 12:35

Temperatures in Gwangmyeong and Paju soared above 40 degrees Celsius on Tuesday, marking the highest July temperatures ever recorded in the country. The intense heat wave has led to two more heat-related deaths, increasing the figure to nine this year. Lee Seung-jae has more. The intense heat wave continues in the capital region, with the western cities of Gwangmyeong and Paju seeing mercury readings soar above 40 degrees Celsius on Tuesday. According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, this marked the highest July temperatures ever recorded in the country. At around 3:24 PM, Paju reached 40-point-1 degrees, while Gwangmyeong hit 40-point-2 degrees at around 3:42 PM. The highest temperature ever recorded since weather observations began, was 41 degrees in Hongcheon, Gangwon Province. However, that was in August 2018. Amid the intense heat wave, two more heat-related deaths were reported on Tuesday. Two elderly people in Chungcheongnam-do Province, one in their 90s in Gongju and the other in their 80s from Seosan, died, bringing the number of heat-related deaths this year to nine. That's a three-fold jump from the same period last year. As of Monday, the country also reported 961 cases of heat-related illnesses, up from 478, the same period last year. And Seoul residents, too, are seeking an escape from the heat. "I'm working outside, and it's so hot I feel like I'm going to melt. It's very hot. I want to go to the seaside." The intense heat will continue in the capital on Wednesday, with Seoul forecast to see a daytime high reaching 36 degrees. The western regions will also see similar temperatures, with vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly advised to stay indoors and limit their outdoor activities. Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.

S. Korea says worst-case tariffs averted, eyes talks with U.S.

2025/07/09 12:34

Following U.S. President Donald Trump's announcement regarding his new tariffs timeline, South Korea's Presidential Office convened a response meeting on Tuesday. Our top office correspondent Song Yoo-jin reports. Regarding U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to impose 25-percent tariffs on South Korean imports from August 1st, the Presidential Office says it sees value in having earned more time. "Given how little time there has been after the new administration was launched, we see it as having avoided the worst-case scenario of tariffs going up. We've now secured extra time for negotiations, and National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac is continuing high-level talks in the U.S." In response, Presidential Chief of Policy Kim Yong-beom convened a meeting on Tuesday with the ministries of Industry, Finance, and Foreign Affairs. Kim stressed that although swift negotiations are important, safeguarding South Korea's national interests remains the top priority and urged the ministries to approach tariff talks with that in mind. He noted that market reactions so far have been relatively calm, but called for close monitoring and support measures for sectors likely to be affected, including carmakers and steel producers. Kim added that once National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac returns from the U.S., they will hold a joint meeting to discuss the next steps. Wi, who is on a three-day visit to Washington, D.C., met with his American counterpart, Marco Rubio, on Monday local time. There, the South Korean delegation reiterated the need to arrange a summit between Presidents Lee and Trump as soon as possible to make progress on key issues, to which the U.S. side agreed. On tariffs, Washington expressed hopes for close coordination to reach a deal before they kick in. On the same day, Seoul's top trade negotiator, Yeo Han-koo, also in Washington, met with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Yeo called for lowering tariffs on major Korean exports, mainly automobiles and steel, which are currently subject to separate 25-percent and 50-percent duties. He also emphasized Seoul's commitment to bilateral cooperation on manufacturing, describing it as a way to achieve more balanced trade. Yeo and Lutnick are scheduled to continue their talks on Wednesday. "Wi's visit to Washington is set to conclude on Tuesday. More details of his trip are expected once he returns to Seoul. Song Yoo-jin, Arirang News."

[NEWs GEN] Dress Code Dilemma: Which workwear is too hot to handle for the office?

2025/07/09 12:33

[NEWs GEN] Dress Code Dilemma: Which workwear is too hot to handle for the office?

Trump pushes on defense cost-sharing and tariff issues with S. Korea

2025/07/09 11:39

Just a day after Trump threatened to impose tariffs on its trading partners including South Korea, he said Seoul should be paying more for the U.S. military presence on the Peninsula. As Trump looks to tie defense cost-sharing with broader tariff issues, Seoul now faces a challenging balancing act in negotiations. Our Ahn Sung-jin starts us off. U.S. President Donald Trump is pushing for a "one-stop shopping" deal with South Korea on defense and trade. He continues to signal a hardline stance as he demands that Seoul increases its contributions to U.S. defense costs. At the White House on Tuesday, Trump stated that its Asian ally was underpaying for military protection, referring back to negotiations during his first term where he claimed he demanded that Seoul should pay 10 billion U.S. dollars a year in defense cost-sharing, a figure far above current levels. "You know, we have 45,000 soldiers in South Korea. And, you know, that's a huge economic development for them. That's tremendous amount. That's like having a city. It's tremendous money for them and it's a tremendous loss for us." Unlike Trump's assertion, there are currently around 28-thousand U.S. military troops in Korea. Trump also stated he is imposing tariffs on specific sectors including semiconductors, one of Korea's critical exports which the country exported 10-point-7 billion of products to the U.S. in 2024. When the semiconductor tariff would take effect and the exact rate hasn't been specified. He also announced an incoming tariff on copper to boost U.S. production of a metal critical to electric vehicles and other consumer goods. "We did steel, as you know, they're 50%, we did aluminum 50%, lumber just came out. And we did cars and now today we're doing copper. I believe the tariff on copper, we're going to make it 50%." Pharmaceutical imports could also face up to a 200% tariff. These remarks come just one day after Trump notified South Korea and Japan of a 25 percent tariff set to take effect on August 1st. Trump posted on his social media Truth Social on Tuesday that the deadline is firm and though negotiations could still happen, "no extensions will be granted." As the August 1st tariff deadline looms closer, South Korea not only has to defend its key industries, but also preserve its security alliance with the U.S., adding to the complexity of the high-stake negotiations. Ahn Sung-jin, Arirang News.

Scorching temperatures with strong UV rays

2025/07/09 11:37

Many people are wondering if early July is this hot, what will the rest of the summer bring? Yesterday, Seoul's daytime high soared to 37.8 degrees, a record-breaking heat for early July. The heat won't be letting up today. Heatwave warnings continue for western areas. Isolated showers will continue from late afternoon to evening, and sudden downpours could hit Incheon and the western coast of Gyeonggi-do. Summer weather has been quite unpredictable lately, which is why many people in Korea nowadays are opting for dual-purpose umbrellas that shield them from both the sun and rain, also helping to keep them a bit cooler. You will need one today as well, with sunny skies in store with very high UV levels nationwide. Seoul and Gwangju get up to 36 degrees, and most of the east coast regions get slight heat relief at 32 degrees in Daegu. The heat should become more bearable as the week progresses, so take good care of your health.