News

S. Korea's May auto exports down; eco cars lead domestic sales

2025/06/17 17:00

Korea's overseas shipments of automobiles lost ground in May and trade officials are linking the decline to a number of factors. Moon Ji-young reports. South Korea's car exports shrank last month as outbound shipments to the U.S. sharply dropped on Washington's hefty tariffs on imported vehicles. That's according to the latest automotive trends report released by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy on Tuesday, which showed the country's auto exports came at 6-point-2 billion U.S. dollars, down over 4 percent from a year earlier. The figure marks the second consecutive month of decreases, but is the second-highest export value for any May. In terms of volume, exports fell by more than three percent on-year. However, exports of eco-friendly vehicles went up more than 10 percent to record a new monthly high, thanks to strong demand for hybrid cars. The Trade Ministry attributed the overall decrease in auto exports to a base effect from a record monthly figure posted a year earlier and the impacts of the Trump administration's 25 percent tariffs on all imported cars and auto parts. Exports to the U.S. decreased by more than 27 percent on-year in May. The Ministry further explained that this decrease appears to have been influenced by the start of mass local production at Hyundai Motor Group's Metaplant America in the U.S. state of Georgia. "Meanwhile, here at home, sales of eco-friendly cars have increased by 39 percent from the previous year and now exceed sales of gasoline-powered cars for the first time ever." This is driven by strong demand for hybrid cars, with sales rising more than 31 percent year on year, as well as EVs and plug-in hybrids. In terms of domestic production, South Korean carmakers produced 3-point-1 percent fewer vehicles compared to the previous year, recording 359-thousand units due to decreased exports. Moon Ji-young, Arirang News.

G7 leaders urge Middle East de-escalation from Iran, call for Trump to ease trade war

2025/06/17 17:00

In related news. The Group of Seven over in Canada is blaming Iran and its pursuit of nuclear weapons for latest military confrontation in the Middle East. Our Kim Bo-kyoung has more. The Group of Seven leaders have urged Iran for a de-escalation in the Middle East, showing unified support for Israel. Through the joint statement issued on Monday local time, and while saying that Israel has a right to defend itself, the leaders condemned Iran for being the "principal source of regional instability and terror, " and highlighted that Iran can never have nuclear weapons. De-escalation was not the only topic for the G7 leaders. Citing risk to global economic stability, the leaders pushed for U.S. President Donald Trump to ease off the trade war. As the U.S. plans to impose even steeper tariffs on countries across the world, they argue that such a dispute would only weaken G7 economies, and rather strengthen China. The countries did use the summit as a chance to reach a trade agreement with the U.S. Before his abrupt departure, U.S. President Donald Trump held talks with G7 leaders and the United Kingdom was able to sign a trade deal. The agreement sets the tax on British autos at ten-percent from the end of the month, down from the current 27-point-5-percent, up to a quota of 100-thousand vehicles a year and removes U.S. tariffs on UK aerospace products. "This now implements on car tariffs and aerospace, a really important agreement. And so this is a very good day for both of our countries, a real sign of strength." A final agreement to cut the tax on British steel to zero has not yet been reached. Meanwhile, other countries could not see breakthroughs. But following talks between Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Trump, the Canadian government indicated that there could be a trade agreement within 30 days. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, reportedly discussed a solution that aligns with Japan's national interests during a 30-minute conversation with President Trump but said there still are existing differences that needed to be worked out. Kim Bo-kyoung, Arirang News.

Israel strikes Iran's state broadcaster

2025/06/17 17:00

We begin with dramatic footage from the Iranian state-run broadcaster as its female anchor was forced to flee from set following an Israeli air assault during a live newscast. Lee Seung-jae reports. The Israeli military launched an airstrike against Iran's state-run broadcaster IRIB on Monday after it issued a warning for Tehran's District Three, where the broadcaster is located. "What you observed, what you heard, this dust in the air " Israel's Defense Minister, Israel Katz, confirmed the attack, saying that the "Iranian propaganda and incitement mouthpiece is on its way to disappear." Iran's foreign ministry quickly condemned the attack, calling it a "wicked act" that constitutes a war crime, as it targeted journalists. Meanwhile, in an ABC News interview aired on Monday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he believes killing Iran's Supreme Leader would "end the conflict" between Israel and Iran. Netanyahu said Ali Khamenei "tweeted almost every day, death to Israel." ABC Anchor Jonathan Karl quickly asked if Israel was going to "target the supreme leader," to which the Israeli leader said that they're doing what needs to be done, but did not go into details. Netanyahu added that such action would not escalate tensions, instead end them. In the meantime, the USS Nimitz aircraft carrier was rerouted from the South China Sea to the Middle East on Monday, meaning the U.S. will have two aircraft carriers in the region. Dozens of Air Force refueling aircraft also left U.S. bases over the weekend for Europe, a move seen as a preventative measure to support any operation in the Middle East. Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.

[K-Enter] G-Dragon donates to treat adolescents' alcoholism

2025/06/17 14:00

Okay, let's get straight into it, we are starting off with G-dragon. King of K-pop G-Dragon has donated 880 million Korean won, roughly 646 thousand U.S. dollars to help treat young people suffering from alcohol addiction. Last Friday, he contributed the amount to the JUSPEACE Foundation, where he serves as honorary chairman. The 880 million won donation carries symbolic meaning, with the number 8 representing infinity turned on its side but quite interestingly, there is more behind the number "8" as well. This year, G-Dragon entered the alcoholic beverage business by creating an art-themed highball with an alcohol content of 8.8%. A total of 8.8 million cans were sold, and by saving 100 won per can, he was able to donate 880 million won, he was also born in 1988. The JUSPEACE Foundation is a nonprofit organisation G-Dragon founded in August of last year. At the time of its launch, he pledged to donate 1% of his music earnings to support music therapy for young people affected by drug and alcohol addiction and to nurture emerging talent in the arts. A donation that will hopefully create the next generation of Korean talent. Okay moving on to girl group ILLIT ! ILLIT made their entry into this summer's intense K-pop scene with the release of their new mini album "bomb" starting with a showcase on Monday. The main track, "Do the Dance" captures the fluttering excitement and awkward charm of a first date that doesn't quite go as expected. It compares the flustered, mistake-prone protagonist to a "Do the Dance" symbolising its uneasy yet endearing moments. "bomb" is currently available on all major streaming platforms, so get streaming! And lastly, we have been talking about a number of boy group members discharged from the military but we have news of a K-pop star about to enlist, who is it? On Monday, at a media event to celebrate the release of his sixth mini album, "Glow to Haze", Kang Daniel made some additional news that surprised fans. Kang revealed that he is set to enlist in the military in the latter half of this year. Speaking to fans, he said, "Before I go, I want to make the most of my time as a singer by delivering meaningful performances. I'm also preparing follow-up activities after this album, so please stay tuned." "Glow to Haze" portrays a journey of emotions starting with bright, radiant moments expressed through lively sounds in the first half, and gradually transitioning into a hazier, more introspective mood in the second. The main track "Episode" captures the thrill of new love through a blend of Latin rhythms and R&B. The album features five tracks in total, designed to flow like a short film. Thank you for the K-enter news Walter. Now it's time to go over to our AI anchor for other culture-related news.

K-wave AI News

2025/06/17 14:00

Hello and welcome to your AI guide to the latest cultural updates from Korea. Here's our top story. Renowned soprano Sumi Jo, recipient of France's highest cultural honor, the Commandeur of the Order of Arts and Letters, will launch a new opera concert series in Korea on Thursday. Titled "The Magic, Sumi Jo & Winners," the performance will bring together Jo and promising young vocalists who earned top honors at the inaugural Sumi Jo International Singing Competition held in Paris last year. The tour will begin this Thursday at the Sori Arts Center of Jeonbuk State and conclude at the Chuncheon Culture & Arts Center next Tuesday. Meanwhile, conductor Chung Myung-Whun, who recently became the first Asian appointed as Artistic Director of Italy's famed La Scala Opera House, will also return to the Korean stage. He will lead performances on July 27 and 28, celebrating the grand opening of the new Busan Concert Hall, conducting Beethoven's "Fidelio." The number of foreign tourists visiting Korea's southern port city of Busan surpassed one million in the first four months of this year, marking the fastest growth since official records began in 2014. This figure represents a nearly 24% increase compared to April last year, when visitor numbers had fully recovered to pre-pandemic levels. Taiwan topped the list of foreign visitors with over 192,200 tourists, followed by China and Japan. Busan City officials credited the surge in foreign arrivals to the rising popularity of gourmet tourism and cruise travel. More than 3,000 people visited Jeju Island's iconic Hallasan Mountain without reservations over the past month, following a significant reduction in reservation-only sections. According to a recent survey, nearly 3,500 visitors accessed the mountain without prior booking after the system was eased. While reservations are still required to reach the famous Baekrokdam summit, parts of other popular trails have been open to unrestricted access since last month. Based on monitoring results, Jeju Island plans to continue refining the system to enhance visitor convenience while protecting the mountain's natural environment. That's all from me. Stay tuned to the Kulture Wave.

Koreans splash the heat away at Gimpo Aramarine Festival

2025/06/17 14:00

Before monsoon season officially hits us in just a matter of days here in South Korea, a summer festival in Gimpo, Gyeonggi-do Province is helping people beat the summer heat, blending water fun with music, culture and eco-friendly experiences. Byeon Ye-young was there. This summer is forecast to be hotter than usual. Heavy rainfall is expected to start in June. And what better way to make most of the sweltering heat and rain than water sports? "Here at the Gimpo Aramarine festival, visitors can kayak, kayak, slide down water slides, and splash the heat away." Following its roaring success over the past years, the Gimpo Aramarine festival came back this year, this time running for four days. The festival centers on the theme of connecting water and the environment with culture. "This year marks the 9th edition of the Gimpo Aramarine Festival. Our main programs include the Pori Race, various water leisure activities, and a yacht competition. We're doing our best to offer fun and exciting experiences not only for Gimpo residents but for visitors from all over." Running from June 14th to 17th, the event offers more than just water sports. A dance competition and live performances by popular artists add to the energy and excitement. Visitors can also explore community partnership booths offering hands-on experiences linked to water and sustainability. "Oh, we heard there are lots of fun activities for kids to enjoy here, so we decided to come." At the Carbon-Neutral Wooden Play Experience booth, children play with eco-friendly wooden toys while learning about carbon neutrality. And one charming star stole the show: the festival's duck mascot, Pory. Gimpo has a unique tradition of using ducks in rice farming to control pests --an eco-friendly practice that inspired the city's lovable duck mascot. On Sunday, the ducks made a splashy return in the annual rubber duck race, now with a brand-new name: Pory Race. The name "Pory" is a playful blend of "Gimpo" and ori , the Korean word for duck, and was selected through a public naming contest. With rubber ducks raining from the sky, the Pori Race once again filled the city with smiles and laughter. According to officials, an estimated 80,000 visitors attended the festival over the weekend. Byeon Ye-young, Arirang News.

[Short-form] The Mystery of Water Deer

2025/06/17 14:00

Unravel the mystery of water deer– why the endangered species is thriving in Korea and what’s being done to keep their population in balance

Hallyu People_Meet ‘No.1 Foreign DJ in Korea’ DJ Fenner, a pioneer in creating new sounds with K-pop and EDM

2025/06/17 14:00

While K-pop is steadily growing in both quantity and quality, the spectrum of K-pop is expanding through several trends and genres. For today's Hallyu People, we meet a DJ originally from the UK, who is a pioneer in the extension of the K-pop realm. Let's welcome DJ Fenner, also CEO and Founder of "On The Pulse Records" who's joining us today in the studio. Hello DJ Fenner! 1) DJ Fenner, you have been named among the best 25 DJs in Asia, as well as NO.1 Foreign DJ in Korea. How did your DJing career start? 2) Was it your interest in K-pop that brought you to Korea? How long has it been now? 3) What do you think is it about K-pop that mesmerizes fans worldwide? 4) Let's talk about your music now. Please introduce us to your work, including a new project called 'KPOP KRACKED'? 5) Is there any K-pop artist or producer in the K-pop field you'd like to collaborate with? 6) You are from London, which boasts a rich culture. What are some cultural differences (or even similarities) between the UK and Korea that you have experienced or that you find interesting? 7) What's next on your list of things to do in music? Thank you very much DJ Fenner for sharing your story with us and for being a pioneer in the creative expansion of K-pop and beyond. Thank you Walter as always, see you tomorrow.

Israel strikes Iran's state broadcaster

2025/06/17 10:00

Israel launched an attack on an Iranian state broadcaster, marking another escalation in the conflict with Tehran. Meanwhile, the U.S. is building up its presence in the Middle East amid the conflict, sending the USS Nimitz aircraft carrier. Lee Seung-jae has more. The Israeli military launched an airstrike against Iran's state-run broadcaster IRIB on Monday after it issued a warning for Tehran's District Three, where the broadcaster is located. "What you observed, what you heard, this dust in the air " Israel's Defense Minister, Israel Katz, confirmed the attack, saying that the "Iranian propaganda and incitement mouthpiece is on its way to disappear." Iran's foreign ministry quickly condemned the attack, calling it a "wicked act" that constitutes a war crime, as it targeted journalists. Meanwhile, in an ABC News interview aired on Monday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he believes killing Iran's Supreme Leader would "end the conflict" between Israel and Iran. Netanyahu said Ali Khamenei "tweeted almost every day, death to Israel." ABC Anchor Jonathan Karl quickly asked if Israel was going to "target the supreme leader," to which the Israeli leader said that they're doing what needs to be done, but did not go into details. Netanyahu added that such action would not escalate tensions, instead end them. In the meantime, the USS Nimitz aircraft carrier was rerouted from the South China Sea to the Middle East on Monday, meaning the U.S. will have two aircraft carriers in the region. Dozens of Air Force refueling aircraft also left U.S. bases over the weekend for Europe, a move seen as a preventative measure to support any operation in the Middle East. Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.

U.S. president leaving G7 summit in Alberta early to attend to "important matters"

2025/06/17 10:00

The White House says U.S. President Donald Trump is leaving the G7 summit in Alberta early to return to Washington to attend to matters relating to the crisis in the Middle East. The decision comes as he warned people in Tehran to evacuate "immediately." Our Lee Eun-hee brings the latest. U.S. President Donald Trump is cutting his stay at the G7 summit short to return to Washington, D.C. on Monday night. According to the White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt, President Trump has to attend to "many important matters." This follows Trump's message on social media urging the immediate evacuation of Tehran, adding that "Iran can not have a nuclear weapon." While attending the G7 summit, Trump repeatedly commented about Iran, including how Iran is not winning this war and they should start talking now, before it's too late. He also told reporters that Iran should have made a deal with the U.S. on its nuclear program. "Israel is doing very well. As you probably noticed, and I gave Iran 60 days and they said no and the 61st, you saw what happened? I think a deal will be signed or something will happen. But a deal will be signed. And I think Iran is foolish not to sign one." Ahead of meetings the U.S. President also shared with reporters his dissatisfaction over Russia's exclusion from the G7. "The G7 used to be the G8. Barack Obama and a person named (Justin) Trudeau didn't want to have Russia in and I would say that that was a mistake because I think you wouldn't have a war right now if you had Russia in. And you wouldn't have a war right now if Trump were president four years ago." When asked whether China should join, Trump said that he wouldn't mind China joining the G7, saying it's "not a bad idea." Meanwhile, according to a White House official, Trump does not intend to sign the G7 statement on the Iran-Israel conflict, which is raising concerns, as the draft calls for de-escalation, monitoring Iran's actions, and urging both sides to protect civilians. Lee Eun-hee, Arirang News.

Pres. Lee in Canada for G7 summit, resumes summit diplomacy

2025/06/17 10:00

President Lee Jae-myung is in Canada for his diplomatic debut at the G7 Summit. On day one, he held bilateral meetings with the leaders of South Africa and Australia addressing economy and energy cooperation. Our Correspondent Yoon Jung-min reports from Calgary. On his way to Canada to attend the G7 Summit, South Korea's new President Lee Jae-myung was asked about the timing of the G7 summit during a impromptu press conference on-board Korea's Air Force One. "It's true that it is not easy to attend an international meeting only a few days after taking office. There were opinions that we needed to show the international community that the Republic of Korea had quickly returned to normal." By that, he meant filling the leadership vacuum following the martial law incident. The President started off his resumption of summit diplomacy by holding bilateral meetings with invited non-G7 countries South Africa and Australia on his first day in Canada. President Lee met South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese separately, and in those meetings, he addressed cooperation on the economy and energy, building upon friendships dating back to the Korean War over seven decades ago. Lee also addressed regional security surrounding the Korean peninsula. Also in the president's mind for this trip is trade with the U.S. "At least we need to make sure that we will not be placed in a more disadvantageous position than other countries. We need to make efforts to yield mutually beneficial results for all." Having wrapped up some of his first bilateral meetings, more summit diplomacy awaits President Lee here in Canada, possibly with his U.S. counterpart Trump and Japanese counterpart Ishiba. Yoon Jung-min, Arirang News, Calgary.

Hot and humid with a chance of sudden showers

2025/06/17 10:00

Yesterday was a day you needed an umbrella and sunglasses, and with that unpleasant high humidity. Today looks like being a combination of heat and humidity. Readings will only go up heading towards the end of the week, with an expected high of 32 degrees in the capital on Thursday. Sudden showers could pop up from morning to evening, mainly in inland regions. Gangwon-do and Chungcheong-do could see 5 to 20 millimeters, while southern regions might get heavier downpours of up to 30 to 40 millimeters along with strong wind and thunderstorms. Checking on today's highs now, Seoul will get up to 29 degrees, Daegu at 31 degrees. Jeju will be rain-free today with a high of 29 degrees. Looking ahead, nationwide rain is in the forecast on Friday, which is when there's a possibility of the first summer monsoon rains reaching inland areas.

The Paris Air Show opens, showcasing the latest in defense and commercial aviation, shuts down Israeli stands

2025/06/17 10:00

The 2025 Paris Air Show kicked off at the Le Bourget airport on Monday local time, displaying various civilian and military aerial vehicles. However, France has ordered the closure of four major Israeli defense companies' stands after exhibitors refused to stop displaying attack weapons, citing the escalation in the Gaza conflict. Israeli President Isaac Herzog condemned it as "outrageous and unprecedented," accusing Paris of politically motivated discrimination. He went on to compare the blacked-out booths to a "Jewish ghetto." The Paris Air Show will be open to the public until June 20.

Trump Organization unveils self-branded mobile network

2025/06/17 10:00

The Trump Organization, led by U.S. President Donald Trump's two sons, unveiled a new mobile network named "Trump Mobile" on Monday. The service launches on the 10th anniversary of Trump's presidential campaign announcement. It is priced at 47 U.S. dollars 45 cents per month, symbolically referencing Trump's positions as the 45th and 47th president. The offering includes the T1 Phone, a gold-hued Android smartphone priced at 499 dollars, made in the U.S., targeting conservative consumers seeking an American-made alternative. The phone is set for release in August or September.

Denmark tests sea drones to enhance Baltic maritime surveillance

2025/06/17 10:00

Denmark has launched a trial of uncrewed robotic saildrones, nicknamed "Voyagers," to enhance maritime surveillance across the Baltic and North Seas. Two of the Voyagers, built by California-based company Saildrone, were deployed by Denmark's armed forces on Monday from the port of Koge, south of the capital Copenhagen. The 10-meter-long unmanned surface drones, which resemble ordinary sailboats, are powered by wind and solar energy and are equipped with radar, optical, and infrared cameras, as well as sonar and acoustic sensors for monitoring purposes. They are set to patrol Danish and NATO waters autonomously for three months. Their operation follows testing in early June, when two Voyagers joined NATO's maritime patrols. Saildrone's founder and CEO said the vessels provide a "full picture of what's above and below the surface" to about 30 to 50 kilometers in the open ocean.

Heavy rains in dry season kill at least 29 in DR Congo's capital

2025/06/17 10:00

Good morning, I'm Choi Chi-hee, and this is the World Now. Starting in the Democratic Republic of Congo, heavy weekend rains in the capital Kinshasa have triggered floods and landslides that have claimed at least 29 lives. Kinshasa Governor Daniel Bumba said on Sunday local time that sudden downpours, unusually heavy for the dry season, dumped nearly 90 millimeters of rain across the city on Saturday. Drone footage on Monday showed the devastation as the storm overwhelmed drainage systems and walls. Roads and bridges have been swept away, and many neighborhoods saw power outages. Rescues are underway, with affected residents relocated to temporary shelters. Kinshasa lies on the Congo River, and many residents live in areas vulnerable to flooding. More than 30 people died in Kinshasa in April, also due to flash floods.

Economic sentiment highest in 11 months: BOK

2025/06/17 10:00

Meanwhile,.. the country's economic sentiment rose to an 11-month high on the back of a rally in the domestic stock market and the prospects of a second supplementary budget plan. According to the Bank of Korea, the country's News Sentiment Index stood at 108-point-4-3 as of June 13th, recording the highest level since July of last year. The index fell to just above 77 on December 10th, in the wake of the emergency martial law declaration, and briefly rebounded to the 100 mark in January. However, due to concerns over U.S. tariffs, it fell again to the 80-point range before the recent rebound. The BOK releases its NSI figures every Monday, showing the economic sentiment based on economy-related media outlets. A figure above 100, means optimism outweighs pessimism.

S. Korea's competitiveness ranking drops to 27th after impeachment saga

2025/06/17 10:00

In this year's Global Competitiveness Ranking, South Korea fell to 27th place—down from 20th last year. The annual report, released on Tuesday by Switzerland's International Institute for Management Development, cited declines in South Korea's domestic economy, infrastructure, and social indicators—linked in part to recent political unrest. The presidential office responded by stressing that President Lee Jae-myung has consistently advocated for what he calls "genuine growth" to boost the nation's long-term potential. The administration says it will turn that vision into action—with a focus on restoring South Korea's global competitiveness.

[On-Point] S. Korea's Lee attends G7 summit in Canada; no meeting with Trump

2025/06/17 10:00

Leaders of G7 nations have gathered in Canada, and South Korea's President Lee Jae-myung is also there --making it his first overseas trip since taking office less than two weeks ago. For more on this, we have Professor Christophe Gaudin, Professor of Political Science at Kookmin University. Professor Gaudin, thanks for joining us this morning. 1. At the G7 summit, U.S. President Donald Trump said Russia should be readmitted to the group, and that the war in Ukraine would not have happened if Moscow had been kept in the club. What's your take on this? 2. The U.S. and the UK also signed a trade deal during the summit. As the Trump administration continues to sign deals with key trading partners, including the recent framework with China --do you think South Korea could move closer to reaching a trade agreement as well? 3. It appears that President Lee will not be able to hold a meeting with Trump, with the U.S. president leaving the G7 early because of the conflict between Israel and Iran. How do you think the situation in the Middle East will unfold? And how could this affect South Korea? 4. This is President Lee's first diplomatic trip since taking office. Could you tell us more about the significance of this trip? 5. The Lee administration is also considering whether the president should attend the NATO Summit in the Netherlands. How do you think he should approach relations with European countries? Alright I'm afraid that's all the time we have for today. Thank you so much for your insight. We appreciate it.

Pres. Lee departs for Canada to attend G7 summit

2025/06/16 20:00

Good evening. President Lee Jae-myung has departed for Canada this afternoon to take part in the G7 summit as a guest and also to sit down with the leaders of major economies. Our top office correspondent Song Yoo-jin has our top story. South Korea's new leader, President Lee Jae-myung, is making his diplomatic debut on the global stage. President Lee began his three-day trip to Canada on Monday to attend the Group of Seven summit, less than two weeks after taking office. First Lady Kim Hye-kyung is accompanying him and will participate in official programs arranged by the host nation. "President Lee will build rapport with world leaders and lay the groundwork for tangible progress on key issues, including trade. In particular, by highlighting the strength of Koreans who overcame martial law and insurrection, and the resilience of our democracy, we expect this summit to elevate South Korea's standing on the global stage." The President's first stop is Calgary, where he is expected to hold bilateral talks with leaders of non-G7 countries, who were invited to the summit along with South Korea. Those invited countries include Australia, Brazil, India, Mexico, South Africa and Ukraine. The following day, on Tuesday local time, he will participate in the G7 expanded session in Kananaskis, where the focus will be on energy security. Lee is expected to speak twice, laying out Korea's vision for diversifying global energy supply chains and promoting AI-integrated energy innovation. Bilateral meetings are also being arranged with G7 members. Attention is on whether Lee will hold talks with U.S. President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, at a time when the July deadline for the Trump administration's reciprocal tariffs is approaching, while Seoul and Tokyo mark 60 years of normalized diplomatic ties this Sunday. "Through bilateral talks, we will have an opportunity to strengthen friendly cooperation with major countries in terms of our national interest and pragmatic diplomacy. We will also make progress in discussing pending issues, such as trade." This year's G7 summit, marking its 50th anniversary, will take place on Monday and Tuesday in Canada. President Lee is expected to conclude his schedule and return to South Korea late on Wednesday. Song Yoo-jin, Arirang News.