News

PUBLIC PROTESTS ACROSS U.S. CITIES

2025/06/19 17:30

Welcome to Press Perspective for this Thursday June 19th here in Seoul. I'm Min Sunhee. Today we turn our attention to public protests over in the U.S. following our own fair share of domestic demonstrations after a short-lived martial law late last year. For more I have Ruy Valdes with Spanish news agency EFE Spain. Ruy it's good to have you here. I also have Jessica Stone an independent journalist over in the U.S. Jessica thank you making time to join us live. 1-1) Jessica, LA has become the epicenter of tensions over Trump's deportation plan 1-2) And Jessica, broadly speaking, what's the latest with regard to ICE raids on farms, hotels and restaurants? 2) Jessica, what can you tell us about the demographics of the demonstrators? 3-1) Ruy, for the sake of clarity, how many undocumented immigrants are there in the U.S., and what makes the U.S. a desired destination? 3-2) Ruy, do you suppose the Trump administration's immigration policies have changed how Mexican migrants view the U.S.? 4) Ruy, we've been told immigrants contribute tangibly to the U.S. economy. 5) Jessica, beyond the public protests against ICE raids in LA, there were rallies in other parts of the U.S. this past weekend called the "No Kings" that drew millions, I hear. 6) Ruy, the LA protests also prompted a diplomatic dispute between Mexico and the U.S., I believe. 7) Jessica, also with regard to Mr. Trump's broader immigration policies. 8) Ruy, speaking about immigration but here in South Korea. All right.

President Lee says it's time for gov't to spend; supplementary bill draft comes with 20.2 trillion KRW spending

2025/06/19 17:00

The Lee Jae-myung administration is looking to loosen the government's purse strings to breathe fresh life into the local economy. Accordingly, an extra budget plan has been hammered out and will soon be sent to the National Assembly. Our correspondent Kim Do-yeon reports. The second round of a supplementary budget bill this year, the first of its kind under Lee Jae Myung's presidency, has been drafted and is set to go to the National Assembly next week. President Lee, presiding over a Cabinet meeting on Thursday, took a final look. The size of this supplementary budget is 30.5 trillion Korean won, or a bit more than 22 billion U.S. dollars. 15.2 trillion of that will be going into boosting the economy through stimulus. 5 trillion will be going to stabilizing people's livelihoods. 10.3 will be for revenue adjustment, for the nation's fiscal situation. This means, 20.2 trillion will be for direct spending by the government with 19.8 trillion being debt. Going into the details 15.2 trillion for economic stimulus will consist of 10.3 trillion of that being cash relief to everyone, in a different form of the recipient's choosing. 1 trillion will go into boosting discounts and other needed aspects. 2.7 trillion will go into support for the construction sector as it's currently one of the hardest hit industries with close links to the employment of working-class citizens. President Lee has been pushing for cash relief to everyone for some time now, since his lawmaker days. The conservative government had been saying a universal payout is not right due to the financial pressure on the nation's fiscal status, and selective support is better. This draft did go with a universal payout but for those who need it, the more they will receive. The top 10-percent, approximately 5.12 million people, will receive a one-time payment of 150,000 Korean won, or around a 100 U.S. dollars. And the biggest group of citizens of around 43 million people will receive the first payment of 150,000 Korean won, but will get an additional 100,000 in the second round. The lower levels will receive more in first-time payments, with the social welfare recipients later getting 500,000 in total. As for stabilizing livelihoods, money will be spent on debt relief for small businesses as well as boosting employment and taming inflation. Now, the ball is in the National Assembly's court with the government's draft being transferred on the 23rd. Lawmakers will be reviewing the bill, but with the ruling Democratic Party holding the majority on the floor, the bill won't face many obstacles. Kim Do-yeon, Arirang News.

[Weather] Rainy season across the country, heavy rain is expected

2025/06/19 17:00

Ahead of the rainy season, the heat has become stronger. The lowest temperature in Gangneung last night was 26-point-5 degrees Celsius, the first tropical night of the year. The daytime temperature in Seoul rose up to 33 degrees, Wonju, Cheongju, and Gyeongju 34 degrees with humid conditions. Today and tomorrow, the whole country will gradually enter the rainy season. Heavy rain of up to 150 millimeters is expected in northern parts of Gyeonggi-do Province, Gangwon-do Province, Chungcheongnam-do Province, and Jeollabuk-do Province. Please be prepared in advance. Tomorrow morning will start warm at around 22 to 23 degrees all over the country. Daily highs will move up to 25 degrees in Seoul, Chuncheon and Busan, 29 degrees in Daegu. Rain in the central parts of the country will gradually stop on Saturday morning, but it will continue in southern parts of the country and Jeju Island until Sunday. That's all for Korea. Here are the weather conditions around the world.

World News: Once-in-a-century flooding swamps south China's Huaiji County

2025/06/19 17:00

This is the World Now, bringing you the latest stories from around the globe. Huaiji County in China's Guangdong Province is facing a 'once-in-a-century' flooding and mass evacuations, after heavy rainfall caused by Typhoon Wutip caused the Suijiang River to burst its banks. As of around 7 AM on Wednesday, the Huaiji hydrometric station recorded a peak river level at its highest ever recorded, some 5.22 meters above the warning threshold. Along the river, 7.8 kilometers of levees have been breached. Flooding has hit 19 towns, affecting around 300,000 residents, with more than 68,000 evacuated. Over half the county's roads are submerged, power and internet are down in many areas, and schools and businesses remain closed. More than 10,000 rescuers have been deployed to evacuate stranded residents. In Indonesia, dozens of flights have been canceled or delayed after Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki erupted on Tuesday. The volcano on Flores Island erupted at around 5:35 PM local time, sending a massive ash cloud over 10 kilometers into the sky, visible up to 150 kilometers away. Authorities have raised the alert to the highest Level 4. The ash cloud prompted the cancelation and delay of flights to and from Bali's international airport. The airport in Flores also closed temporarily. Several villages near the volcano were evacuated. While no injuries have been reported, ash is falling on homes and roads, and is contaminating water supplies. According to experts, ash clouds pose serious risks to jet engines, and could linger depending on wind. They also cautioned about potential lava flows and mudslides if rain follows. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is facing growing criticism at home after saying on Tuesday that Israel is doing the West's "dirty work" by striking Iran's nuclear facilities. Speaking on the sidelines of the G7 summit, Merz praised Israel's actions as "courageous," saying he has the "greatest respect" for its military campaign against Iran. The comments have stirred backlash among German lawmakers and human-rights advocates. Critics argue Merz is normalizing targeted strikes that bypass international diplomacy and risk violating international law. However, Merz defended his stance, saying he stands by his remarks, though he declined to address criticisms directly. On Fano Island, off Denmark's southwestern coast, more than 5,000 kite enthusiasts from over 26 countries are taking part in the 40th anniversary of the island's international kite festival. Fano Island is uniquely positioned for the festival with its 16-kilometer length, 3-kilometer width, and reliable winds, making it ideal for kite flying. The festival runs from June 19 to 22, and family-friendly events, including workshops and demonstrations, will be offered. Choi Chi-hee, Arirang News.

Korean ballet sees a boom amid acknowledgment on the world stage

2025/06/19 17:00

On the cultural front. Korea is expanding its presence in the world of ballet led by local talent and global recognition. Cha Yun-kyung has more. Last fall, famous Korean ballet troupes performed the ballet 'La Bayadère' with renowned dancers including Ballerino Jeon Min-chul. Ticket sales last year saw a dramatic increase due to famous works and performances. The total ticket sales in the first three quarters of 2024 exceeded 6 billion Korean won, around 4.4 million U.S. dollars, which is the highest in 5 years. And with this growth, world famous ballet companies and choreographers are visiting Korea. The American Ballet Theatre performed in Korea last month, showing the history of American ballet. 'Lady of the Camellias', which brought an award to Korean National Ballet director Kang Sue-jin in 1999, also returned to the stage at the beginning of this month. And choreographer John Neumeier has come to Korea to collaborate for this work. Living legends of Korean ballet, such as Choi Tae-ji and Kim Joo-won, will come out in the 15th 'Ballet Festival Korea', which will be held until the end of June. The Seoul Metropolitan Ballet has also collaborated with famous Swedish choreographer Johan Inger for this festival. Inger has visited Korea for the first time as a choreographer for this project. As Korean ballet dancers are seeing global acknowledgment, world famous masters are also heading to Korea. Cha Yun-kyung, Arirang News.

More than 200 overseas Korean teens in the search for their Korean heritage

2025/06/19 17:00

Meanwhile back on the local front. Young overseas Koreans are taking part in a special program here aimed at offering them the opportunity to delve into their roots. Ahn Sung-jin files this report. 7.5 million. That's how many overseas Koreans there are. Gathered here are around 240 next-generation overseas Koreans aged 15 to 18. This teen camp, hosted by the Overseas Korean Agency and organized by the Overseas Koreans Cooperation Center, has participants from 26 countries. "For these students, by visiting their parents' country, they can really feel their Korean heritage. Our ultimate goal is to increase the budget for such programs so we can invite more participants." Especially as 2025 is the 80th anniversary of Korea's liberation, these students are delving into learning about their history and roots. "Programs like these offer the opportunity for overseas Koreans to experience Korea's history, culture and society while helping them build connections with young people in the country. For some, the 7-day program starts with a visit to Seodaemun Prison History Hall, which gives them a chance to understand Japan's colonial era and reflect on their background. For 15-year-old Sofiya, this was an opportunity to fulfill her interest and ties with her Korean roots. "My grandmother was born in Korea, but it so happened that they were deported in train cars to Kazakhstan just in the cold they were thrown like that. They started working at coal mines, and life began to improve for them. It's my first time in Korea, but I really like it here, and I will definitely come again in the future and maybe study here." And at the National Museum of Korean Contemporary History, students look back at the country's past to strengthen ties and raise awareness of their Korean identity. "I know one of my great-grandfathers on my mom's side was a war veteran in the Korean military. I feel like this shows courage, which is often shown throughout my family. That's why I wanted to come to Korea." This program for the summer will run until August, not only for teens but also for those aged up to 24 as well to foster overseas Koreans as global leaders who embrace and uphold their Korean heritage. Ahn Sung-jin, Arirang News.

New U.S. visa policy adds social media screening for foreign students

2025/06/19 17:00

The U.S. is resuming its visa applications for foreign scholars but now requires full access to their social media accounts for thorough vetting procedures. Lee Eun-hee reports. The U.S. State Department is resuming the process for foreign nationals applying for student visas, following a temporary suspension last month. But according to a statement released Wednesday, applicants will now be required to provide information about their social media profiles. All applicants will be asked to set the privacy settings on all their social media profiles to public. New guidance directs U.S. diplomats to look for "any indications of hostility toward the citizens, culture, government, institutions, or founding principles of the United States." Failure to comply may be seen as an attempt to evade screening or as an effort to conceal online activity. This policy applies to students and other applicants for visas in the F, M, and J categories, which refer to academic and vocational education, as well as cultural exchanges. The temporary pause in visa interview scheduling last month was prompted by the U.S. evaluating new social media vetting procedures, leaving students worldwide anxious. The New York Times commented that the guidelines' "vague parameters will no doubt create much uncertainty among American universities and students and scholars overseas who intend to travel to the United States." It also wrote that critics say such a process and other related actions by Secretary of State Marco Rubio are aimed at limiting free speech, enforcing certain beliefs, and pressuring foreign citizens to censor themselves and refrain from criticizing the Trump administration. Meanwhile, according to a senior state department official, the Trump administration is working to make America safer, acting on citizen expectations, and that Marco Rubio was "helping to make America and its universities safer while bringing the state Department into the 21st century." Lee Eun-hee, Arirang News.

U.S. Federal Reserve keeps rates steady amid tariff uncertainty

2025/06/19 17:00

For the fourth session in a row the U.S. Federal Reserve is holding its benchmark interest rate steady citing uncertainty over the broader repercussions of the Trump administration's tariff campaign. Moon Ji-young covers this latest decision. The U.S. Federal Reserve kept its key rate unchanged for the fourth straight meeting Wednesday and lowered the country's economic growth outlook. This keeps the rate in the 4-point-two-five to 4-point-five percent range and marks the fourth consecutive rate freeze since Trump took office, despite pressure to make cuts. "What we're waiting for to reduce rates is to understand what will happen with, really, the tariff inflation. And there's a lot of uncertainty about that." So far, inflation has remained relatively tame, near the Fed's target of 2 percent. However, economists warn it may take months for the effects of tariffs to be felt. Inflation has also seen recent upward pressure from rising oil prices driven by the conflict between Israel and Iran. However, Fed officials still foresee two interest rate cuts by the end of this year, the same as they projected in March. The central bank's latest quarterly projections show noticeably weaker growth, higher inflation, and slightly higher unemployment by the end of this year, than it had forecast in March. For this year, Fed officials expect inflation to rise to 3 percent, unemployment to increase to 4-point-5 percent, and growth to slow to 1-point-4 percent. The Fed also projects GDP to grow by 1-point-4 percent in 2025, down from 1-point-7 percent projected in March. "Following growth of 2.5% last year, GDP was reported to have edged down in the first quarter, reflecting swings in net exports that were driven by businesses bringing in imports ahead of potential tariffs." President Donald Trump has publicly criticized Powell for not cutting rates, increasing pressure on the central bank. But the Fed Chairman dismissed criticism, saying "we're in a good place." Meanwhile, this week's decision puts the benchmark rate gap between South Korea and the U.S. at up to 2 percentage points with the Bank of Korea slashing its key rate to 2-point-5 percent in its last meeting in May. On the same day, Bank of Korea Deputy Governor Park Jong-woo noted the Fed Chairman's cautious policy approach, influenced by U.S. tariff policy and divergent views among officials. Speaking at a meeting on macroeconomic issues, he also highlighted the growing uncertainty regarding the future path of U.S. monetary policy. Moon Ji-young, Arirang News.

'New standard' for Asian, other allies' defense spending: Pentagon chief

2025/06/19 17:00

Recent remarks by the head of the U.S. Defense Department are re-igniting concerns about U.S. commitment to security partnerships with its allies including those here on the peninsula. Lee Seung-jae has details. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said there will be a "new standard" for defense spending for Asian and other U.S. allies, as the Pentagon chief reiterated U.S. President Donald Trump's call for NATO members to raise defense spending to five percent of GDP. Speaking to the Senate Armed Services Committee on Wednesday, Hegseth stressed that the U.S. cannot want the allies' security "more than they do." He also said NATO heads must commit to spending five percent of GDP on defense at the NATO heads of state meeting next week. The comments from the Pentagon chief come amid speculation that Trump might raise South Korea's defense spending or its share of the cost of stationing U.S. Forces Korea. Currently, South Korea's defense spending stands at around two-point-five percent of its GDP. Meanwhile, during a forum hosted by the Center for Strategic and International Studies on Wednesday, U.S. Senator Andy Kim said that the current administration's reported consideration to decrease USFK presence in South Korea is a "perfect" way to derail the Seoul-Washington relationship, especially "at a critically important moment" for the alliance. The Korean-American senator also stressed that failing to treat U.S. allies and partners differently from adversaries is a "huge" mistake,.. adding that it will cause unnecessary friction. At the same forum, former deputy secretary of state during the Joe Biden administration, Kurt Campbell warned that any substantial adjustments to the USFK troop level could be "misinterpreted" as a sign of reduced security commitment from Washington. Campbell warned that any steps that would lower the troop presence in South Korea could lead to a "crisis in confidence." The Wall Street Journal last month reported that the Pentagon was considering the idea of withdrawing some 45-hundred USFK troops to other locations in the Indo-Pacific to better calibrate U.S. force posture in Korea to deter China. Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.

Trump holds off decision on U.S. military involvement in Israel-Iran conflict

2025/06/19 17:00

U.S. President Donald Trump is delaying his decision on U.S. involvement in the military confrontation between Israel and Iran. Our Moon Hye-ryeon reports. Seven days into Israel's military campaign against Iranian nuclear and missile facilities, cross-border attacks are escalating. On Thursday morning local time, an Iranian missile struck Israel's main southern hospital, causing what officials described as "extensive damage." This came as Israel targeted a heavy water reactor southwest of the Iranian capital, with Iranian state media reporting that the facility had been evacuated ahead of the strike and that no civilian areas were affected. Israel had issued a warning earlier in the day, stating its intention to strike the site and urging residents to evacuate. The latest air assaults come amid uncertainty over possible U.S. involvement in the conflict. Speaking to reporters at the White House on Wednesday local time, U.S. President Donald Trump said that he had yet to make a final call, and he would hold off doing so for now. "I have ideas as to what to do, but I haven't made it final. I'd like to make the final decision one second before it's due, you know, because things change. I mean, especially with war, things change with war, it can go from one extreme to the other." Shortly afterwards, he convened a second White House Situation Room meeting in as many days to discuss the agenda with his national security advisers. The talks lasted for around an hour, and it is not yet clear what was discussed or whether any decisions were made. According to The Wall Street Journal, Trump told senior aides late Tuesday that he had approved plans for a potential military strike on Iran, but decided to pause, hoping Tehran might still give up its nuclear program. Earlier in the day, Trump claimed that Iran had proposed to come to the White House to begin negotiations, and once again, called for "unconditional surrender." In response, Iran's diplomatic mission to the United Nations in New York hit back on social media by saying that "No Iranian official has asked to grovel at the gates of the White House," followed by a message from Iran's supreme leader himself. "The Iranian nation stands firm against the imposed war – as it has stood so far – and stands firm against the imposed peace. The Iranian nation will not surrender to anyone in the face of imposition." As tensions intensify, nations are moving to evacuate their own nationals from Israel. The U.S. State Department has started pulling out non-essential diplomats and is arranging evacuation flights and ships for American citizens, while China is also working to evacuate its citizens. Moon Hye-ryeon, Arirang News.

South Korea's one-person households exceeds 8 million for first time

2025/06/19 17:00

The number of one-person households stands at an all-time high of eight million here in South Korea. and among them over five million are employed the highest proportion since related data collection began ten years ago. This latest finding is part of a report by Statistics Korea on the employment status of one-person and dual-income households during the latter half of last year. And speaking of that dual-income married households fell to some six million and among the working parents those with children under 18 accounted for over 58 percent the highest on record.

K-enter_Hearts2Hearts show their summer "STYLE"

2025/06/19 14:00

Let's kick off today's K-enter with a girl group in "style!" Hearts2Hearts dropped a summer hit on Wednesday with their new song "STYLE." "STYLE" is an uptempo dance song with a lively rhythm, where the members' bright and playful vocals harmonize to deliver a feel-good energy. While the group's debut song "The Chase" showcased the mysterious and chic side of Hearts2Hearts, "STYLE" highlights the bright and lovely charm of the group. One of the members, Yuha, introduced the song as the perfect song for the summer season as it is filled with energetic vocals. Hearts2Hearts, who debuted on February 24th of this year, are SM Entertainment's first new girl group since aespa five years ago. Excited for their future activities. Next story is on a male artist who collaborated with a famous artist in Japan? On Wednesday, artist and producer ZICO released a new song "EKO EKO" in collaboration with a famous Japanese musician m-flo. "EKO EKO" is a love song about two people living in different universes-resonating through the frequency of their minds to exchange echoes with each other, and fly to "a world just between you and me." The lyrics that mix Korean, Japanese, and English imply a message that things can work out even with distance. The new release is part of the "loves" series to commemorate the 25th anniversary of m-flo's debut. ZICO participated in the overall work of the song, including writing, composing, and concept planning. Meanwhile, ZICO will meet with his fans at "ZICO FANMEETING COMvenience" in Blue Square SOL Travel Hall in Seoul from July 5th to 6th. Collaborations with the Japanese artist m-flo always turn out so trendy. Always great to see new collaborations. Lastly, we will end off with an exciting story on a boy group that's celebrating something big this year. Super Junior will launch a world tour as they celebrate the 20th anniversary of their debut. According to the group's agency, SM Entertainment, the tour titled "Super Show 10" will kick off in Seoul on August 23rd to 24th and continue in 15 cities around the globe, including Hong Kong, Jakarta, Manila and Mexico City. Since their debut 20 years ago, the group gained global popularity with their hit songs such as "Sorry, Sorry" and "Mr. Simple." That's not all! As Walter reported last week, while the fans wait for the tour to come around in their region, the group is set to release their 12th full-length album, "Super Junior25," on July 8th. Super Junior fans must be very thrilled with both news. Thank you Bella for today's stories. Now let's go over to our AI anchor Ari, for other culture-related news. Ari, take it away!

K-wave AI News

2025/06/19 14:00

Hello and welcome to your AI guide to the latest cultural updates from Korea. Here's our top story. Maestro Chung Myung-whun, set to lead Italy's prestigious opera house, Teatro alla Scala, will preview his collaboration with the La Scala Philharmonic in Korea this fall. Chung will conduct the orchestra alongside Russian pianist Nikolai Lugansky on September 17 at the Seoul Arts Center, and at Busan Concert Hall the following day. The program features Verdi's overture "Laforza del destino" and Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 6, "Pathétique." Chung was recently appointed to lead La Scala starting in 2027, becoming the first Asian to hold the position. Seoul City will simultaneously open six outdoor swimming pools and water play areas along the Hangang River tomorrow to help residents beat the summer heat. The swimming pools at Ttukseom, Yeouido, and Jamwon Hangang Parks, along with water play zones at Jamsil, Yanghwa, and Nanji Hangang Parks, will operate until August 31. Located in the city center, these facilities attracted over 310,000 people last year offering easy access and scenic views of the Hangang River. How about catching a golden wave of sunflowers in a scenic and tranquil rural village in Gyeongsangnam-do Province? The 'Gangju Sunflower Festival' has kicked off in Haman County at the Gangju Village Sunflower Center, inviting visitors to radiant sunflower fields in full bloom. This year, the sunflower fields have been expanded to over 42,500 square meters, the largest scale to date. Haman County hopes that the festival will offer visitors a chance to enjoy the region's scenic charm and also help boost the local economy. That's all from me. Stay tuned to the Kulture Wave.

Korean ballet sees a boom amid acknowledgment on the world stage

2025/06/19 14:00

Ballerino Jeon Min-chul won the Grand Prix at the world's largest student ballet competition in the U.S. last month. Also, world famous choreographers are visiting Korea to collaborate, raising expectations for Korean ballet. Cha Yun-kyung reports. Last fall, famous Korean ballet troupes performed the ballet ' La Bayadère' with renowned dancers including Ballerino Jeon Min-chul, who will join Mariinsky Ballet Company next month. Ticket sales last year saw a dramatic increase due to famous works and performances. The total ticket sales in the first three quarters of 2024 exceeded 6 billion Korean won, around 4-point-4 million U.S. dollars, which is the highest in 5 years. And with this growth, world famous ballet companies and choreographers are visiting Korea. The American Ballet Theatre performed in Korea last month, showing the history of American ballet. 'Lady of the Camellias', which brought an award to Korean National Ballet director Kang Sue-jin in 1999, also returned to the stage at the beginning of this month. And choreographer John Neumeier has come to Korea to collaborate for this work. Living legends of Korean ballet, such as Choi Tae-ji and Kim Joo-won, will come out in the 15th 'Ballet Festival Korea', which will be held until the end of June. The Seoul Metropolitan Ballet has also collaborated with famous Swedish choreographer Johan Inger for this festival. Inger has visited Korea for the first time as a choreographer for this project. As Korean ballet dancers are seeing global acknowledgment, world famous masters are also heading to Korea. Cha Yun-kyung, Arirang News.

[Short-form] Inside the DMZ

2025/06/19 14:00

It's been over 70 years since civilians last set foot in the demilitarized zone dividing the two Koreas. Discover who calls this place home now, and how you can experience this mysterious strip up close!

Hallyu People_Meet the first foreigner recognized for traveling to all of Korea's nat'l heritage sites

2025/06/19 14:00

With its roughly 5,000 years of rich history, Korea has been and is home to a wide range of cultural and natural heritage. Since 2020, the South Korean government has been promoting Korea's national heritage to Koreans and foreigners alike through the "Visit Korean Heritage Campaign". One of the programs within this campaign is the "Korean Heritage Passport Tour" through which participants visit all 76 of Korea's national heritage sites. Today, we meet with a person who became the first foreigner to visit all of them in the span of just two months. It's Kuvvet Ayse who's joining us in the studio. Hello Ayse! Ayse, just last week, you were acknowledged for having completed the "Korean Heritage Passport Tour", which is part of the Korea Heritage Agency and Korea Heritage Service's programs. Congratulations! How do you feel about this achievement? So tell us more about this exciting tour. 76 sites in just two months. To me, that sounds almost impossible. How did you do it? How did you plan your trip and how did you move from one place to another? Was there any site that you particularly remember? A lot can happen on a two-month tour. Are there any fun episodes you could share? Or some trip that turned out to be totally different from what you expected? Our theme today is Korean heritage sites, but Türkiye, the country you are from, also is known for its rich and diverse cultural heritage. I'm sure there are many heritage sites of Türkiye that you would like to introduce to Koreans visiting your country. Can you tell us about some of them? Ayse, you majored in Korean, completed your master's degree here, and are active as a Korean language teacher. What sparked your interest in Korea? You have finished the "Korean Heritage Passport Tour", but your travel plans do not end here, right? Please share with us your upcoming goals. Thank you very much Ayse for joining us today. We wish you the best for all your travels and life in Korea. Thank you Bella as always, we'll see you back tomorrow.

Trump holds off decision on U.S. military involvement in Israel-Iran conflict

2025/06/19 10:00

As Washington deliberates its role in the conflict between Israel and Iran, global attention is on unfolding developments and the potential for further escalation. Our Moon Hye-ryeon has the details. U.S. President Donald Trump kept the international community on edge with an ambiguous response to whether Washington would join Israel's military campaign against Iranian nuclear sites. Speaking to reporters at the White House on Wednesday local time, he said that he had yet to make a final call, and he would hold off doing so for now. "I have ideas as to what to do, but I haven't made it final. I'd like to make the final decision one second before it's due, you know, because things change. I mean, especially with war, things change with war, it can go from one extreme to the other." Shortly afterwards, he convened a second White House Situation Room meeting in as many days to discuss the agenda with his national security advisers. The talks lasted for around an hour, and it is not yet clear what was discussed or whether any decisions were made. According to The Wall Street Journal, Trump told senior aides late Tuesday that he had approved plans for a potential military strike on Iran, but decided to pause, hoping Tehran might still give up its nuclear program. Earlier in the day, Trump claimed that Iran had proposed to come to the White House to begin negotiations, and once again, called for "unconditional surrender". In response, Iran's diplomatic mission to the United Nations in New York hit back on social media by saying that "No Iranian official has asked to grovel at the gates of the White House," followed by a message from Iran's supreme leader himself. "The Iranian nation stands firm against the imposed war – as it has stood so far – and stands firm against the imposed peace. The Iranian nation will not surrender to anyone in the face of imposition." In the meantime, Israel downgraded its domestic security level on the assessment that Tehran's retaliatory capabilities have weakened after days of intense airstrikes. Israeli authorities have also begun operating return flights for Israeli citizens abroad, while other nations move to evacuate their own nationals from Israel. The U.S. State Department has started pulling out non-essential diplomats and is arranging evacuation flights and ships for American citizens, while China is also working to evacuate its citizens. Moon Hye-ryeon, Arirang News.

Monsoon rain begins inland today, but intense heat during the day

2025/06/19 10:00

Today marks the beginning of this summer's first monsoon rains for inland areas. Rain will begin on Jeju Island this morning, then spread to parts of the southern regions this afternoon before reaching the central region by tonight. Be on alert, as we're expecting heavy downpours in many parts of the country starting tomorrow afternoon. Until Saturday, the capital area and Gangwon-do could see up to 120 millimeters of rain. Before the rain fully sets in, the heat will continue. It will be hotter today. Seoul will climb to 33 degrees, Wonju in Gangwon-do and Gyeongju will soar to 34 degrees under sunny skies. Daejeon and Daegu will be as hot as Seoul, and Gwangju will get up to 30 degrees Celsius. Monsoon rain in the central region will stop on Saturday, but it's expected to continue into early next week in the southern regions. Stay safe and prepared!

Colourful kites fill sky over Danish island for festival

2025/06/19 10:00

On Fano Island, off Denmark's southwestern coast, more than 5,000 kite enthusiasts from over 26 countries are taking part in the 40th anniversary of the island's international kite festival. Fano Island is uniquely positioned for the festival with its 16-kilometer length, 3-kilometer width, and reliable winds, making it ideal for kite flying. The festival runs from June 19 to 22, and family-friendly events, including workshops and demonstrations, will be offered.

Germany’s Merz sparks criticism for respecting Israel’s courage for ‘doing dirty work for us’ in Iran

2025/06/19 10:00

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is facing growing criticism at home after saying on Tuesday that Israel is doing the West's "dirty work" by striking Iran's nuclear facilities. Speaking on the sidelines of the G7 summit, Merz praised Israel's actions as "courageous," saying he has the "greatest respect" for its military campaign against Iran. The comments have stirred backlash among German lawmakers and human-rights advocates. Critics argue Merz is normalizing targeted strikes that bypass international diplomacy and risk violating international law. However, Merz defended his stance, saying he stands by his remarks, though he declined to address criticisms directly.