News

World News: Russia's deadliest attack on Kyiv for months kills at least 10

2025/06/18 17:00

This is the World Now, bringing you the latest stories from around the globe. At least 10 people were killed when a ballistic missile flattened a nine-story residential building in Kyiv on Tuesday as Russia carried out its deadliest attacks on the city in months. Kyiv was hit by a massive assault involving over 440 drones and 32 missiles, striking 27 locations across the capital in the early hours of Tuesday morning. Ukraine's southern port city of Odesa was also targeted in a separate strike. Among those killed in the apartment block bombing was a 62-year-old American citizen while more than 100 others were wounded. Kyiv's Mayor announced a day of mourning, while President Zelenskyy denounced the strike as "one of the most horrific" on the capital since the war began. At the same time, Russian forces launched an attack on Odesa, targeting civilian infrastructure, killing at least two people and injuring more than a dozen. In Argentina, former President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner has been placed under house arrest after a six-year corruption sentence was upheld. On Tuesday, local time, a federal court in Buenos Aires approved 72-year-old Kirchner's request to serve her sentence at home rather than in prison with judges taking her age and health into consideration. She is subject to an electronic ankle monitor and strict restrictions, including remaining at her residence except for approved outings and providing a list of authorized visitors within 48 hours. This follows the Supreme Court's decision to uphold her 2022 conviction for directing public works contracts to an ally and to enforce a lifetime ban from public office. Meanwhile, thousands of Kirchner's supporters took to the streets in Buenos Aires, fighting for her release. Despite her legal situation, Kirchner, who served two terms as president from 2007 to 2015, and is a former first lady, remains a powerful presence among working-class Peronists. The European Commission has put forward a legally binding plan to phase out Russian gas and LNG imports by the end of 2027, aiming to formally end the EU's energy dependence on Moscow. Under the proposal on Tuesday, no new gas or LNG contracts may be signed after January 1, 2026; short-term contracts concluded before June 17, 2025 must end by June 17 next year; and all existing long-term contracts will be terminated by January 1, 2028. LNG terminals will also stop servicing Russian clients on a similar timetable. The proposed ban is structured in accordance with EU trade and energy laws, allowing for its adoption with a qualified majority and bypassing vetoes from Hungary and Slovakia. Pope Leo XIV is set to spend half of July at his Castel Gandolfo summer residence, away from the sweltering Roman summer. The Vatican confirmed on Tuesday that the pontiff will stay in the traditional papal residence on the shores of Lake Albano from July 6 to 20, with an additional weekend break in mid-August over the Feast of the Assumption. The move revives a centuries-old practice discontinued under Pope Francis, who remained in the Vatican. While Rome's midday heat has soared past 35 degrees Celsius this month, Castel Gandolfo's estate is roughly 10 degrees cooler. The Pope's public and private audiences have all been suspended from July 2 through July 23, and Vatican activities will resume on July 30. Choi Chi-hee, Arirang News.

Rosé's APT. sets record for longest charting K-pop track on Billboard Hot 100

2025/06/18 17:00

BLACKPINK's Rosé has made K-pop history as her song "APT." has become the longest charting K-pop song on the Billboard Hot 100. According to the latest findings "APT." entered week 34 on the Hot 100 at number 24 the same spot as the week prior. This breaks the previous K-pop record of 33 weeks set by Jimin of BTS with his track "Who." Rosé's "APT." is a collaboration with American pop star Bruno Mars and it went viral for its addictive hook and entertaining nod to a popular Korean drinking game.

Oasis in Seoul: What's happening at the restored Cheonggyecheon stream

2025/06/18 17:00

As part of celebrations to commemorate its 20th birthday after restoration Seoul's Cheonggyecheon has opened up a section of its stream that is normally closed to the public. Our Park Kun-woo was there. With daytime temperatures soaring past 30 degrees Celcius, people in Seoul are doing all they can to stay cool -from carrying sun umbrellas to clutching icy drinks. And for many, it's the perfect weather to enjoy the water, or even get right in. And there's a special place that's drawing big crowds -the upper part of Cheonggyecheon, temporarily opened to the public to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the stream's restoration. Laughter echoed as children and adults splashed, kicked up water, and even waded through stronger currents for fun. International tourists were also spotted easily, cooling off and snapping photos. "Living in somewhat of a big city you don't normally get to see really lovely streams like this especially when it's so hot and humid. Kind of refreshing to be able to step in the water. It was a lot of fun." But for Seoulites, Cheonggyecheon isn't just for play, it also offers a peaceful escape from the heat. "It's been so hot lately, but by the stream, it feels cool, so it's a great place to rest. I often like coming out here for some fresh air especially as sitting all day at work feels stuffy." That comfort is the result of a remarkable transformation that began two decades ago. "Cheonggyecheon was once hidden under concrete during Korea's industrial boom. Restoring it raised environmental concerns -but now it's clean enough for native fish and birds to thrive. A true case of urban ecological revival." In fact, the stream is home to around 20 native fish species, including the Korean spotted barbel, which only survives in grade-two or cleaner water. And that's thanks to regular water and bacteria tests conducted to maintain quality. Beyond ecosystem revival, the stream is widely recognized as a successful model of urban water management, offering more than just eco-friendly value. "Cheonggyecheon helps lower the surrounding temperatures raised by heat-absorbing pavement like asphalt, and even improves air quality, acting like an air conditioner for the city." Seoul now plans to transform more than 300 kilometers of streams, running through the city, into vibrant, accessible waterfront parks just like Cheonggyecheon. And as the city moves toward a more water-sensitive future, Cheonggyecheon stands as a reminder that even in the heart of a big city, nature can make a peaceful comeback. Park Kun-woo, Arirang News.

Korean Army holds joint burial ceremonies for remains of 11 Korean War veterans

2025/06/18 17:00

The Korean Army has been holding solemn burial ceremonies for soldiers who lost their lives during the Korean War but whose remains were recently recovered. The remains of eleven soldiers were laid to rest at the Yeongcheon National Cemetery the Daejeon National Cemetery and the Seoul National Cemetery from this past Monday to Wednesday. Their remains were recovered between the years 2000 and 2024 from regions where intense battles were fought during the Korean War. Their identities were confirmed through DNA analysis using genetic samples provided by surviving family members.

Gov't and ruling party agree to include cash handouts for all in extra budget plan

2025/06/18 17:00

A planned second supplementary budget will offer cash handouts to all citizens. This was announced following a meeting between government officials and ruling party members earlier on this Wednesday morning. The relief package also includes additional assistance to low-income and vulnerable groups. Accordingly the size of this extra budget plan is projected to hit over 20 trillion won or some 14-point-5 billion U.S. dollars which is higher than this year's FIRST supplementary budget that amounted to 13-point-8 trillion won.

Trump holds 80-minute NSC meeting to discuss U.S. involvement in Iran-Israel conflict

2025/06/18 17:00

MEANWHILE following an unexpected early departure from his diplomatic engagements in Canada U.S. President Donald Trump held a National Security Council meeting on Tuesday to address the escalating conflict in the Middle East. Moon Hye-ryeon reports. As the conflict between Israel and Iran continues to escalate, U.S. President Donald Trump convened a National Security Council meeting in Washington. Taking to social media on Tuesday ahead of the talks, Trump warned that the U.S. knows where Iran's supreme leader is hiding, and called for "UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER." He added that while the Iranian leader is an "easy target", they are not going to kill him – "at least for now." Following the 80-minute NSC meeting, CNN reported that Trump is "warming" to the idea of using U.S. military assets to strike Iran, and that he spoke by phone with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. American strategic bombers equipped with bunker-busting munitions are seen as a key component of any potential operation aimed at disabling Iran's Fordow nuclear facility. According to Reuters, fighter aircraft have been deployed to the Middle East already, although U.S. military officials have emphasized their defensive nature. So far, Washington's involvement in the conflict has remained defensive — supporting Israel by helping intercept Iranian missile attacks. The U.S. already has significant military presence in the region, including troops, warplanes and air defense systems equipped to neutralize aerial threats. While the White House has yet to issue an official statement regarding the outcome of the NSC talks, analysts suggest the administration may also be preparing a diplomatic proposal alongside its military options. "This would involve ending the Iranian nuclear program, Iran agreeing to not controlling any uranium enrichment capability, and then in return, the United States would lift economic sanctions." On Monday Israel issued evacuation orders affecting 300,000 people in central Tehran. President Trump took to his social media platform on the same day urging civilians to "immediately evacuate" the Iranian capital. The U.S. State Department has since launched a task force to assist American citizens and residents seeking to leave the region. As the situation unfolds, global attention is now on whether the United States will enter the Israel-Iran conflict with military support, or push for peaceful negotiations. Moon Hye-ryeon, Arirang News.

Pyongyang to send 6,000 personnel to Russia for reconstruction; Seoul condemns move

2025/06/18 17:00

North Korea is deploying its military builders and deminers to Russia's Kursk region to support the Kremlin's reconstruction efforts. Intentions to this end were shared by Russia's presidential security adviser following talks with Kim Jong-un in Pyongyang earlier on Tuesday. Our correspondent Kim Jung-sil has more. North Korea is sending thousands of military construction workers to Russia's Kursk region: including 5,000 construction workers to rebuild damaged infrastructure and 1,000 sappers to clear the area of landmines. The decision was announced by Russia's top security official, Sergei Shoigu after he met with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in Pyongyang on Tuesday afternoon , their second meeting in just two weeks. "It's a gesture of brotherly support from the North Korean people and their leader, Kim Jong-un." North Korea is believed to have already sent some 12,000 combat troops to Russia's Kursk region since October. South Korean intelligence says around 600 have been killed, with total casualties nearing 4,700. Analysts say Pyongyang's support isn't without strings , and it's likely expecting a payoff. "North Korea will likely get advanced systems like the Pantsir air defense weapon and reconnaissance satellite technology." Professor Kim added that Pyongyang will also likely receive oil and food supplies in return , crucial support as it struggles under sanctions and isolation. Other analysts say the visit also reflects shared concerns over Washington's recent signals regarding the situation in the Middle East. "With Trump doubling down on saying Iran must never get nuclear weapons, Russia may be reassuring North Korea , which has taken real risks for Moscow and still wants full recognition as a nuclear power." Pyongyang gave no details on the new deployment but said the two sides exchanged views on global and regional issues and reached full consensus. A South Korean presidential office official on Wednesday called the deployment "concerning" and said Seoul "does not support it". Earlier, the Foreign Ministry said the employment of North Korean workers abroad violates UN Security Council resolutions and called on Pyongyang and Moscow to halt their cooperation. Kim Jung-sil, Arirang News.

Zelenskyy calls for strengthened sanctions against Russia at G7

2025/06/18 17:00

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also made a brief visit to Canada to call on the Group of Seven for heightened pressure on Russia amid its alarming assaults against civilians in Ukraine in recent times. Lee Seung-jae has the latest. During the G7 Summit in Canada, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Tuesday called on member nations to invest in Ukraine's defense technologies. The comments were made at the special G7 leaders' meeting for Ukraine, where Zelenskyy shared details of Russia's missile and drone strikes targeting civilians in his country. The Ukrainian leader said Russia's upgrading of Iranian drones and its cooperation with North Korea, is the reason Ukraine is actively working on the development of interceptor drones, and why the country requires additional funding for their production. Zelenskyy also called for tougher sanctions on Russia, stressing that the EU's 18th sanctions package must reinforce restrictions on Russia's banking and energy sectors. He also called on G7 leaders to impose a strict price cap on Russian oil. During a meeting between Zelenskyy and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on the same day, the Canadian leader announced that his country will provide Ukraine with a new military package worth more than 2 billion U.S. dollars. Carney says the new military aid will give Ukraine drones, helicopters and ammunition. Canada will also provide Ukraine with a two-point-three billion dollar loan to help it rebuild public infrastructure destroyed by years of Russian bombing. Meanwhile, the Kremlin on Tuesday said U.S. President Donald Trump was right to say that it was wrong to remove Russia from the Group of Eight in 2014. The comments come as Trump said at the G7 Summit on Monday that the G8 had been wrong to expel Russia after annexing Crimea from Ukraine. According to Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, despite being expelled from the group,.. the G7 had "lost practical significance" for Russia and looked "rather useless" now. While the G7 Summit takes place in Canada, Chinese President Xi Jinping held a summit with the leaders of five Central Asian countries on Tuesday. During the summit in Astana,.. Xi criticized Trump's tariff policy, saying that there are no winners in a tariff war. Xi said China and the five Central Asian countries of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan will strengthen its cooperation, as Beijing looks to further deepen cooperation on trade, energy and infrastructure with the resource-rich region. Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.

First Lady Kim Hea Kyung makes first solo appearance in Canada

2025/06/18 17:00

First Lady Kim Hea Kyung on Tuesday met with members of the Korean community at the Calgary Korean Association. According to the Presidential Office Kim shared her gratitude for the association's efforts to keep active connection with South Korea and promised greater support for overseas Koreans. Later in the day the first lady made her way to the National Access Arts Centre an institution in support of artists with disabilities led by a Korean director. Here Kim voiced interest in Canada's disability support programs and emphasized the importance of expanding exchanges between South Korea and Canada in the field of disability arts.

President Lee holds first summit with Japanese PM Ishiba on sidelines of G7

2025/06/18 17:00

Also in Canada. President Lee Jae-myung sat down with his Japanese counterpart Shigeru Ishiba on the sidelines on the G7 summit. Our correspondent Song Yoo-jin covers these talks and the president's other bilateral engagements. It was a packed day of diplomacy for South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on his final day at the G7 Summit in Canada. There, President Lee held his first summit with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. "I truly hope that, marking the 60th anniversary of normalized diplomatic ties, exchanges will grow not just between our two governments and businesses, but also between our people. I look forward to Korea and Japan working together in a way that contributes more to the region and to the world." During the 30-minute meeting, the leaders reaffirmed their commitment to regular summit-level meetings while agreeing to strengthen trilateral coordination with the United States, particularly in responding to regional geopolitical challenges, including North Korea. President Lee also held bilateral talks with other G7 members, the United Kingdom, and Canada. "The leaders of South Korea and the UK agreed to move forward on updating their post-Brexit FTA. They also discussed working together on Korean Peninsula peace and security." In his summit with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Lee emphasized defense cooperation, mentioning the participation of Korean companies in Canada's submarine acquisition program, with contracts expected to be finalized by 2028. Economic cooperation was high on the agenda in talks with the leaders of Brazil, Mexico, India, and the European Union. "The Lee Jae Myung administration will continue to pursue pragmatic diplomacy based on active international cooperation, with national interest as the top priority." However, the most anticipated meeting, between President Lee and U.S. President Donald Trump, was canceled after Trump cut his trip short due to the escalating crisis in the Middle East. The two sides have key issues still unresolved, including the Trump administration's looming July deadline on reciprocal tariffs and defense cost-sharing. Song Yoo-jin, Arirang News.

[Features reporter] Oasis in Seoul: What's happening at the restored Cheonggyecheon stream

2025/06/18 14:00

Kun-woo, as our go-to reporter for travel, you've been discovering fresh places across the country. But this time, I hear you stayed within the capital. Where exactly did you go, and what did you find? This time, though I didn't travel far, I went to Cheonggyecheon, one of the most iconic urban streams in Seoul. This place used to be covered by elevated roads but it was later brought back to how it is now as a stream. And marking the 20th anniversary since its restoration, Seoul prepared some exciting activities for the public to cool off. But before I tell you more, let's take a look at what's happening by the stream. With daytime temperatures soaring past 30 degrees Celcius, people in Seoul are doing all they can to stay cool -from carrying sun umbrellas to clutching icy drinks. And for many, it's the perfect weather to enjoy the water, or even get right in. And there's a special place that's drawing big crowds -the upper part of Cheonggyecheon, temporarily opened to the public to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the stream's restoration. Laughter echoed as children and adults splashed, kicked up water, and even waded through stronger currents for fun. International tourists were also spotted easily, cooling off and snapping photos. "Living in somewhat of a big city you don't normally get to see really lovely streams like this especially when it's so hot and humid. Kind of refreshing to be able to step in the water. It was a lot of fun." But for Seoulites, Cheonggyecheon isn't just for play, it also offers a peaceful escape from the heat. "It's been so hot lately, but by the stream, it feels cool, so it's a great place to rest. I often like coming out here for some fresh air especially as sitting all day at work feels stuffy." That comfort is the result of a remarkable transformation that began two decades ago. "Cheonggyecheon was once hidden under concrete during Korea's industrial boom. Restoring it raised environmental concerns -but now it's clean enough for native fish and birds to thrive. A true case of urban ecological revival." In fact, the stream is home to around 20 native fish species, including the Korean spotted barbel, which only survives in grade-two or cleaner water. And that's thanks to regular water and bacteria tests conducted to maintain quality. Beyond ecosystem revival, the stream is widely recognized as a successful model of urban water management, offering more than just eco-friendly value. "Cheonggyecheon helps lower the surrounding temperatures raised by heat-absorbing pavement like asphalt, and even improves air quality, acting like an air conditioner for the city." Seoul now plans to transform more than 300 kilometers of streams, running through the city, into vibrant, accessible waterfront parks just like Cheonggyecheon. And as the city moves toward a more water-sensitive future, Cheonggyecheon stands as a reminder that even in the heart of a big city, nature can make a peaceful comeback. Park Kun-woo, Arirang News.

[K-Enter] Rosé's APT. sets new record for longest-running K-pop song in Hot 100

2025/06/18 14:00

Time for a look at what's making headlines in the K-enter world, with Walter Lee. Starting off with news on BLACKPINK's Rosé! Rosé has broken the record for the longest-running K-pop song on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart with her hit single "APT." According to the latest chart released on Tuesday, "APT." held steady at No. 24 for the second week in a row, marking its 34th consecutive week on the Hot 100. This surpasses the previous record of 33 weeks, set by BTS's Jimin with his solo track "Who" from his second album. Since its debut on the chart in October last year, "APT." has set new milestones for a K-pop female solo artist in both chart longevity and chart position. At some time it saw itself trending downward but the song surged back up at the beginning of the year as holiday hits dropped off, climbing as high as No. 3, the highest-ever ranking for a K-pop female solo act. A massive accomplishment and congratulations to Rosé. Next up, some news on NewJeans and their ongoing legal battle with ADOR. On Tuesday, the Seoul High Court dismissed the appeal filed by the NewJeans members against the injunction that prohibited them from signing advertising contracts and maintaining their status independent of their agency. In simpler terms, NewJeans still cannot take part in any activities unless under the name of ADOR. Back in May, the court ruled that if NewJeans engage in independent activities, EACH MEMBER must pay 1 billion Korean won, or approximately 720 thousand U.S. dollars, in damages to ADOR. An appeal on yesterday's ruling was immediately made by the members of NewJeans but was subsequently denied by the High Court. Meanwhile, the main civil lawsuit filed by ADOR to confirm the validity of the exclusive contracts is still ongoing at the district court level. Obviously this is something we will continue to follow as the case progresses. Lastly, let's talk about a K-series that has taken the top spot on Netflix in many countries. As of Wednesday, Netflix reported the series "Mercy For None", starring So Ji-sub , has reached the No. 1 spot on Netflix's Global Top 10 for non-English TV shows garnering 7.6 million views in its second week and placing it at the top of the weekly non-English series rankings. The series made it into the Top 10 lists in 75 countries, including South Korea, Hong Kong, Indonesia, and Switzerland, and ranked No. 1 in nine of them. The story follows Nam Gi-jun , a former gangster who once severed his own Achilles heel to escape the criminal world. He returns 11 years later after the mysterious death of his younger brother Gi-seok , the gang's second-in-command, and begins a ruthless quest for revenge. K-dramas are seeing hit after hit. As always thanks for the news Walter and stick around. Now let's move over to our AI anchor Ari for more culture news. Ari!

K-wave AI News

2025/06/18 14:00

Hello and welcome to your AI guide to the latest cultural updates from Korea. Here's our top story. A global literary celebration in the heart of the city, 'The Seoul International Book Fair' kicked off today at COEX for a five-day run. This year's theme, "The Last Resort," invites visitors to reflect on the role of books as a source of comfort and resilience in an increasingly challenging world. The fair brings together over 530 publishers and literary organizations from 17 countries, including Korea, Saudi Arabia, and France. Overseas participants are showcasing their work in the international pavilion, while the domestic pavilion features a vibrant mix of book markets, exhibitions, and author talks. This year's Guest of Honor is Taiwan, represented by more than 30 prominent writers and artists. A new exhibition is offering a closer look at the layered and often unfamiliar world of Japanese culture. Marking 60 years of diplomatic normalization between Korea and Japan, the National Museum of Korea is presenting a special exchange exhibition titled "Japanese Art from Four Perspectives." The show brings together over 60 significant works, including rare pieces designated as Japan's national treasures. Among the highlights is a golden six-panel folding screen adorned with phoenixes and peacocks and traditional silk garments embroidered with autumn flowers that depict the delicate beauty of a fleeting moment. Some 40 works from the Tokyo National Museum's collection are on display in Korea for the first time. Asia's largest celebration of global musicals, the 'Daegu International Musical Festival,' kicks off this Friday in the southern city. Now in its 19th year, the festival features 29 productions scheduled for over 100 performances, including standout works from overseas alongside showcases by Korea's top-tier stars as well as emerging talents. The opening show is the European musical hit "Tesla," a spectacular production portraying the life of Nikola Tesla, the pioneering electrical engineer and one of history's most influential inventors. The festival will close with the Chinese mega-musical "Panda," an artistic meditation on the relationship between humans and nature, and a profound reflection on life itself. That's all from me. Stay tuned to the Kulture Wave.

[Kulture Correspondent] Indulging in Korea's musical performances at K-Musical Festival in Shanghai

2025/06/18 14:00

The new face of the Korean wave or hallyu is 'K-Musical'. As we reported on the show before, a Korean original musical "Maybe Happy Ending" even won six Tony Awards just this month. The passion and excitement unfolding on the stage is captivating musical fans around the world, including through the "K-Musical Festival 2025" that took place in Shanghai recently. We now connect to an organizer of this event, Kang Yongmin , Director of the Korean Cultural Center in Shanghai. Hello Yongmin/ Director Kang! Q1. First of all, please introduce us to the "K-Musical Festival" in Shanghai. Q2. Recently, there seems to be a growing interest in Korean performing arts and content in China. So, what was the atmosphere like at the event? Q3. Korean musical recitation performances also took place. What kind of works were introduced? (Also, were there any mentionable criteria in choosing them?) Q4. Which performance received the biggest response and why? Q5. In addition to the performances, there were other things to experience, such as exhibitions and lectures. Could you tell us more about the programs? Q6. So, how was the local response to the event overall? Q7. What do you think this kind of event means to the cultural exchange between Korea and China? And would you like to share any hopes in terms of bilateral exchanges or future projects? Thank you very much, Yongmin/ Director Kang for connecting with us today and for organizing such a meaningful event Thank you Walter as always, enjoy the rest of the week, and see you soon.

Pres. Lee Jae Myung holds flurry of bilateral talks at G7

2025/06/18 10:00

On the sidelines of the G7 summit's expanded session, President Lee Jae Myung has been busily engaging in a series of bilateral meetings with fellow world leaders. For the latest, we go live to our Presidential Office correspondent, Song Yoo-jin. Yoo-jin, what's the latest? Eun-ji, it's been a full day for President Lee Jae Myung, who took part in the G7 Summit's expanded session while holding a number of bilateral meetings in Kananaskis. I want to begin with President Lee's one-on-one with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. Even before departing for Canada, the focus was on whether Lee would meet with his U.S. and Japanese counterparts. While President Donald Trump left early due to the situation in the Middle East, Lee's very first face-to-face with Ishiba did take place on Tuesday afternoon, nine days after their phone call. During the 30-minute meeting, the two leaders agreed to build a stronger and more mature South Korea-Japan relationship based on mutual respect and trust, as this year marks the 60th anniversary of normalized diplomatic ties. They also reaffirmed their commitment to regular high-level meetings and continuing to advance discussions through official channels. Strengthening trilateral coordination with the United States, particularly in responding to regional geopolitical challenges, including North Korea, was discussed as well. Aside from the meeting with the Japanese Prime Minister, which other leaders has President Lee met with so far? President Lee also held meetings with the leaders of Brazil, the United Nations, Mexico, India, the United Kingdom, the European Union, and Canada. For some key takeaways, in talks with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the two discussed upgrading their post-Brexit Free Trade Agreement, with the latest round of negotiations held in London in March. UN Secretary-General António Guterres proposed that President Lee speak at the UN General Assembly in September on the resilience of South Korea's democracy following last December's martial law declaration. Lee's final bilateral was with this year's G7 host, Canada, where he and Prime Minister Mark Carney agreed to deepen cooperation on security and defense. President Lee specifically mentioned Korean companies' participation in Canada's submarine acquisition program, with Canada aiming to finalize contracts by 2028. Both sides also shared serious concern over the worsening situation in the Middle East and called for a swift de-escalation. Meanwhile, economic cooperation was a key theme in Lee's talks with the leaders of Brazil, the European Union, Mexico, and India. That's all I have for now. Back to you, Eun-ji. Thank you, Yoo-jin.

Peak heat this week, then monsoon

2025/06/18 10:00

The heat is truly building day by day, and it's going to be a very warm one. The capital will see the peak of this week's heat on Thursday climbing to 32 degrees. Daegu soars to even warmer daytime highs. Remember to stay well-hydrated. The sun will be extremely strong as well, with very high UV levels expected, Seoul seeing a high of 31 degrees, Gwangju at 32 degrees. Meanwhile, following the start of the monsoon season on Jeju Island last week, monsoon rain will begin in both central and southern regions later this week. Be prepared for a strong start, as heavy rainfall is expected from the outset. The monsoon rains will begin in the central region tomorrow night, then expand to most other areas by Friday. Northern Gyeonggi-do and Gangwon-do can expect up to 80 millimeters of rain, while other regions will see around 60 millimeters. So please get ready for the monsoon and stay safe in the heat today!

Pope Leo to escape Rome's summer heat with July stay at Castel Gandolfo

2025/06/18 10:00

Pope Leo XIV is set to spend half of July at his Castel Gandolfo summer residence, away from the sweltering Roman summer. The Vatican confirmed on Tuesday that the pontiff will stay in the traditional papal residence on the shores of Lake Albano from July 6 to 20, with an additional weekend break in mid-August over the Feast of the Assumption. The move revives a centuries-old practice discontinued under Pope Francis, who remained in the Vatican. While Rome's midday heat has soared past 35 degrees Celsius this month, Castel Gandolfo's estate is roughly 10 degrees cooler. The Pope's public and private audiences have all been suspended from July 2 through July 23, and Vatican activities will resume on July 30.

EU proposes ban on Russian gas imports by end of 2027

2025/06/18 10:00

The European Commission has put forward a legally binding plan to phase out Russian gas and LNG imports by the end of 2027, aiming to formally end the EU's energy dependence on Moscow. Under the proposal on Tuesday, no new gas or LNG contracts may be signed after January 1, 2026; short-term contracts concluded before June 17, 2025 must end by June 17 next year; and all existing long-term contracts will be terminated by January 1, 2028. LNG terminals will also stop servicing Russian clients on a similar timetable. The proposed ban is structured in accordance with EU trade and energy laws, allowing for its adoption with a qualified majority and bypassing vetoes from Hungary and Slovakia.

Argentine ex-President Kirchner handed house arrest in graft case

2025/06/18 10:00

Over in Argentina, former President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner has been placed under house arrest after a six-year corruption sentence was upheld. On Tuesday, local time, a federal court in Buenos Aires approved 72-year-old Kirchner's request to serve her sentence at home rather than in prison with judges taking her age and health into consideration. She is subject to an electronic ankle monitor and strict restrictions, including remaining at her residence except for approved outings and providing a list of authorized visitors within 48 hours. This follows the Supreme Court's decision to uphold her 2022 conviction for directing public works contracts to an ally and to enforce a lifetime ban from public office. Meanwhile, thousands of Kirchner's supporters took to the streets in Buenos Aires, fighting for her release. Despite her legal situation, Kirchner, who served two terms as president from 2007 to 2015, and is a former first lady, remains a powerful presence among working-class Peronists.

Russia's deadliest attack on Kyiv for months kills at least 10

2025/06/18 10:00

Good morning, I'm Choi Chi-hee, and this is the World Now. At least 10 people were killed when a ballistic missile flattened a nine-story residential building in Kyiv on Tuesday as Russia carried out its deadliest attacks on the city in months. Kyiv was hit by a massive assault involving over 440 drones and 32 missiles, striking 27 locations across the capital in the early hours of Tuesday morning. Ukraine's southern port city of Odesa was also targeted in a separate strike. Among those killed in the apartment block bombing was a 62-year-old American citizen while more than 100 others were wounded. Kyiv's Mayor announced a day of mourning, while President Zelenskyy denounced the strike as "one of the most horrific" on the capital since the war began. At the same time, Russian forces launched an attack on Odesa, targeting civilian infrastructure, killing at least two people and injuring more than a dozen.