News
Acting President urges politicians to refrain from provocations as gov't prepares for verdict day
2025/04/02 20:00
As Korea awaits the verdict, acting President Han Duck-soo has highlighted the importance of peacefully accepting the court's ruling while urging politicians not to instigate division and disorder. Kim Do-yeon has more. With the Constitutional Court's landmark decision on President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment just days away, the government is on high alert—prioritizing citizen safety—as thousands of protesters from both sides are expected to fill the streets. Acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo on Wednesday presided over a meeting with safety related ministers and Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon and emphasized unity over division while calling on politicians to act responsibly. "I also urge politicians: now is the time to prioritize the stability and survival of our community above political interests. Please demonstrate a responsible stance that promotes social unity rather than division and conflict. In particular, I earnestly ask you to refrain from making remarks that may incite or provoke illegal protests and violence." Seoul Mayor also laid out the city government's plan to keep safety and order. It's set to deploy 24-hundred personnel across the city's mass gatherings sites to oversee safety. Public transport will be run according to the situation except for Anguk Station on Line 3, which will be closed on the day of the verdict. Buses are set to take detours, while certain key metro stations such as Yeouido and Gwanghamun will be closely monitored to operate according to the crowd situation. "Honorable citizens, the Seoul Metropolitan Government deeply respects everyone's right to express their opinion. At the same time, we reiterate that safeguarding a safe and peaceful daily life for our citizens is also a precious value that must be protected." The police and relevant ministries have also laid out their plans. Starting at 9 AM on April 3rd, the police agency will be on emergency duty. Starting at midnight on April 4th, 100 percent of its available officers will be deployed to assigned positions. The Safety Ministry will be in charge of the safety adjustments overall, while the Ministry of Science and ICT will be in charge of stationing additional mobile base stations so citizens' phone services aren't disrupted due to large gatherings. The government's alertness comes with good reason. Protesters for both sides have been gathering, with intensity mounting as polarized views clash in close areas. Most recently, there was an attack at a local court in Seoul, where supporters of Yoon raided the building, vandalized it, and used violence against authorities. Back in 2017, after the last presidential impeachment verdict, when President Park Geun-hye's impeachment was upheld, her supporters caused riots, charging toward the police. This left four people dead. Kim Do-yeon, Arirang News.
Trump's upcoming tariffs set to go into effect immediately on Apr. 2
2025/04/02 20:00
In other news. America's trading partners are keeping a close eye on a new round of tariffs by the Trump administration, details of which will be disclosed tomorrow such as which countries to be included and in what way it'll be imposed. Lee Soo-jin explains. U.S. President Donald Trump's pending tariffs will go into effect immediately after they are announced, according to a White House spokesperson on Tuesday local time. "My understanding is that the, tariff announcement will come tomorrow. They will be effective immediately. He is with his trade and tariff team right now, perfecting it to make sure this is a perfect deal for the American people and the American worker." The tariffs are set to be announced by Trump at a Rose Garden ceremony at 4 PM Eastern Time on April 2nd, which is 5 AM on the 3rd here in Korea. He has repeatedly touted April 2nd as "Liberation Day", as he believes that his policies will free American industries from what he calls “unfair trade practices.” And according to U.S. media outlets including the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal, the Trump administration is considering various tariff strategies. One is imposing a 20 percent flat tariff on all imports, another is assigning each country a reciprocal tariff 'number' that corresponds to tariffs and other trade barriers on U.S. products. And the U.S. Trade Representative is also considering a third option, where levies likely to be lower than the universal 20 percent would be imposed on a wide range of imports from select countries. For South Korea, these tariffs are expected to add further pressure as they come amid a wave of other tariffs, such as the 25 percent auto tariffs set to go into effect on April 2nd and collected the following day. And just last month, the Trump administration imposed sweeping 25 percent tariffs on aluminum and aluminum. But despite the country's leadership vacuum, the Korean government is holding various emergency meetings to come up with response measures. Acting president Han Duck-soo on Tuesday,.. along with the industry, finance and foreign ministers, met with heads of Korea's top four conglomerates, Samsung Electronics, Hyundai Motor, SK,.. and LG, where Han pledged to continue high-level U.S. outreach and to work with the private sector to respond to the challenges posed by the tariffs. Lee Soo-jin, Arirang News.
Trump says there's 'communication' with N. Korean leader Kim Jong-un
2025/04/02 20:30
Welcome to Within The Frame, where we bring the most pressing issues across the globe into focus, I'm Kim Mok-yeon. As tensions on the Korean Peninsula continue, U.S. President Donald Trump is once again signaling openness to diplomacy, revealing that lines of communication with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un are still active. Let's have a listen. "Well, I do. I have a very good relationship with Kim Jong-un. Now, you people hate to hear that, but it's very important, I get along with him fantastically as you know. It started off very rough, very nasty. Little Rocket Man. The whole thing was a nasty deal. And then one day we got a call that they'd like to meet. We met. We have a great relationship. And yeah, we have. There is communication. Yeah. I think it's very important. You know, it is a big nuclear nation. And he's a very smart guy. I got to know him very well." Trump's latest comments, delivered during a press availability at the White House, have reignited debate over the future of U.S.-North Korea relations and the possibilities for a fourth Trump-Kim summit. Trump's reference to the regime as a "big nuclear nation" is also drawing attention, prompting fresh questions about whether Washington's denuclearization policy may be shifting. For a deeper discussion on this, we invite our go-to North Korea expert, Dr. Go Myong-hyun, Senior Research Fellow at the Institute for National Security Strategy. Welcome. Also joining us online is Frank Jannuzi, President & CEO of The Maureen and Mike Mansfield Foundation. Great to have you. (GO) 1. So, Dr. Go, U.S. President Trump hinted at ongoing communication with Kim Jong-un and said he would “probably do something at some point.” How should we interpret his statement? Do you think a fourth Trump-Kim summit is likely? (JANNUZI) 2. Now to Mr. Jannuzi. Trump referred to Kim Jong-un as a “smart guy” and North Korea as a “big nuclear nation.” What implications could this rhetoric have for future denuclearization talks and international perceptions of North Korea’s nuclear status? (GO) 3. There’s confusion around terminology like "big nuclear nation" and “nuclear power.” Dr. Go, can you clarify how North Korea is officially viewed in terms of the NPT (Non-Proliferation Treaty) framework and what strategic messaging is at play in Trump use of such phrases? (JANNUZI) 4. Despite such comments, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau underscored America's commitment to the "complete" denuclearization of North Korea during phone talks with his South Korean counterpart on Tuesday. Mr. Jannuzi, how could we interpret Washington's stance on the denuclearization of North Korea? (JANNUZI) 5. Looking back at the 2018–2019 summits between Trump and Kim, what lessons or outcomes should Trump’s second term take into account for re-engagement? (JANNUZI) 6. In response to Trump's latest remarks, South Korea's Unification Ministry reaffirmed that “denuclearization of North Korea remains the unified goal of South Korea, the U.S., and the international community.” In your view, is this goal still realistic given the evolving global and regional dynamics? (JANNUZI) 8. Then, Mr. Jannuzi, to what extent are North Korea’s cyber operations integrated into its broader military strategy or used as asymmetric tools to fund its WMD programs? (GO) 9. Shifting gears, the U.S. has increasingly promoted “strategic flexibility,” hinting that U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) may be deployed beyond the Peninsula. How realistic is this scenario, and how might this impact the deterrence posture against North Korea? Could this create new vulnerabilities? (GO) 10. Finally, as the strategic landscape shifts — with North Korea's growing capabilities on one side and evolving U.S. military posture on the other — what should South Korea prioritize to avoid being sidelined?
Trump's upcoming tariffs set to go into effect immediately on Apr. 2
2025/04/02 14:00
In other news. The Trump administration is poised to make public its reciprocal tariffs on Tuesday local time at the White House. Our correspondent Lee Soo-jin reports. U.S. President Donald Trump's pending tariffs will go into effect immediately after they are announced, according to a White House spokesperson on Tuesday local time. "My understanding is that the, tariff announcement will come tomorrow. They will be effective immediately. He is with his trade and tariff team right now, perfecting it to make sure this is a perfect deal for the American people and the American worker." The tariffs are set to be announced by Trump at a Rose Garden ceremony at 4 PM Eastern Time on April 2nd, which is 5 AM on the 3rd here in Korea. He has repeatedly touted April 2nd as "Liberation Day", as he believes that his policies will free American industries from what he calls “unfair trade practices.” And according to U.S. media outlets including the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal, the Trump administration is considering various tariff strategies. One is imposing a 20 percent flat tariff on all imports, another is assigning each country a reciprocal tariff 'number' that corresponds to tariffs and other trade barriers on U.S. products. And the U.S. Trade Representative is also considering a third option, where levies likely to be lower than the universal 20 percent would be imposed on a wide range of imports from select countries. For South Korea, these tariffs are expected to add further pressure as they come amid a wave of other tariffs, such as the 25 percent auto tariffs set to go into effect on April 2nd and collected the following day. And just last month, the Trump administration imposed sweeping 25 percent tariffs on aluminum and aluminum. But despite the country's leadership vacuum, the Korean government is holding various emergency meetings to come up with response measures. Acting president Han Duck-soo on Tuesday,.. along with the industry, finance and foreign ministers, met with heads of Korea's top four conglomerates, Samsung Electronics, Hyundai Motor, SK,.. and LG, where Han pledged to continue high-level U.S. outreach and to work with the private sector to respond to the challenges posed by the tariffs. Lee Soo-jin, Arirang News.
What President Yoon's impeachment ruling will look like this Friday
2025/04/02 17:00
The date for the Constitutional Court's decision on President Yoon Suk Yeol's political fate following his brief imposition of martial law has been set. So what can we expect on Friday? Our Oh Soo-young walks us through the formalities that may unfold on that day. President Yoon Suk Yeol's removal or return to power, will take effect the moment his fate is stated aloud by the Constitutional Court bench on Friday. Set to be broadcast live at 11 AM, the nation will be reading the lips of Justice Cheong Hyung-sik who, as the presiding judge on the case, will deliver the decision by the eight-member bench. The ruling will come 111 days after the National Assembly's impeachment vote last December, following the President's martial law order. The bench's deliberation is the longest-ever for a presidential case, as the ruling will be delivered 38 days after Yoon's final trial hearing in February. "While sources say the justices reached an understanding on the verdict, and scheduled a meeting for Wednesday, most likely to discuss procedural matters, the bench is expected to sign off their decision at the very last minute, to maintain utmost confidentiality. In the case of former President Park Geun-hye in 2017, justices arrived early in the morning of the ruling to confirm their decision." If the same procedure is followed, the lead justice for the case, Cheong Hyung-sik, will present his opinion first, followed by other justices in reverse order of their appointments to the Court. Once they establish a consensus, the bench will conduct a final review of the written judgment, collect signatures, and seal the ruling. When entering the courtroom to deliver their decision, the justices will take their seats in order of seniority, with Acting Chief Justice Moon Hyung-bae at the center to declare a start to the proceedings. Typically,.. if there has been a unanimous decision, the lead justice explains the rationale for the ruling first, followed by the main decision. If there are dissenting or various concurring opinions, the main decision is usually read first, followed by explanations from individual justices representing differing views. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo’s impeachment trial was also concluded with the bench first declaring the case dismissed, before revealing various opinions. However, as the order of delivery is at the Court’s discretion, the style of the proceedings could vary. If the Court upholds the impeachment, with the consent of at least six justices, President Yoon will be removed from office. If the case is dismissed or rejected on procedural grounds by three or more members of the bench, he will return to his duties. While previous presidents did not attend their ruling session, President Yoon may choose to show up in the courtroom, as he has done for his hearings throughout the trial. Oh Soo-young, Arirang News.
World News: Putin meets Chinese FM Wang Yi, says he expects to see Xi Jinping in Moscow in May
2025/04/02 17:00
This is the World Now, bringing you the latest stories from around the globe. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has visited Moscow, meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin and foreign affairs minister Sergei Lavrov to discuss bilateral relations and international issues. During his three-day visit, Wang Yi stated on Tuesday, local time, that both nations are "friends forever, never enemies," emphasizing the enduring friendship between China and Russia. President Putin underscored the high level of Russia-China relations, calling for the consistent enhancement of strategic cooperation. Wang also expressed China's readiness to play a "constructive role" in resolving the Ukraine conflict. It was also confirmed that Chinese President Xi Jinping would visit Moscow for the Victory Parade in May, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany. Ukraine has announced it plans to work with the United States to develop a mutually acceptable minerals agreement, aiming to bolster economic ties and support Ukraine's reconstruction efforts. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha stated on Tuesday local time that Kyiv is working with the U.S. to refine a minerals deal that would see more American business involvement in Ukraine and contribute to the nation's security infrastructure. The latest U.S. proposal suggests that Ukraine allocate all profits from a fund controlling its resources to repay American wartime aid with interest. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed caution, emphasizing the need for a thorough review before proceeding. Meanwhile, Germany's Foreign Minister said, during a visit to Kyiv on Tuesday, that any minerals agreement between Ukraine and the U.S. must comply with European Union legislation. In the United States, the Department of Health and Human Services initiated significant layoffs on Tuesday local time, affecting approximately 10,000 employees. This affected workers across various agencies, including the Food and Drug Administration, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the National Institutes of Health. The action is part of a broader restructuring plan led by Health Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr., aiming to consolidate 28 divisions into 15, to potentially save taxpayers 1.3 billion U.S. dollars annually. Despite concerns about the nation's capacity to manage health emergencies, Kennedy said the reorganization will enhance efficiency within the department. Choi Chi-hee, Arirang News.
N. Korean troops suffer over 5,000 casualties while fighting against Ukraine: UK defense ministry
2025/04/02 17:00
North Korea has witnessed more than five-thousand CASUALTIES as of March amid its support of Russian aggression against Ukraine. This is according to the British Defence Ministry in a recent intelligence assessment that adds a third of the casualties died while in active combat missions on the ground against Ukrainian troops in Russia's Kursk region. This latest number of casualties indicate that North Korea has lost roughly half of its initial deployment of 11-thousand soldiers to Russia.
Top U.S. general nominee calls N. Korea 'immediate security challenge'
2025/04/02 17:00
Meanwhile over in the U.S. A three-star general officer tapped for a key military post has reaffirmed concerns over North Korea's nuclear weapons capabilities. Lee Seung-jae has the latest. During a Senate confirmation hearing on Tuesday, top U.S. general nominee John Caine called North Korea's nuclear and missile programs an "immediate security challenge." The retired Air Force Lieutenant General, who has been chosen by U.S. President Donald Trump to be the next chief of U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff, raised the concerns in a written statement submitted in advance to the Senate Armed Services Committee. Caine said if confirmed, he would assess the U.S. military presence in South Korea and Japan, and make recommendations to the Secretary of Defense and the U.S. President. The nominee also stressed that North Korea's nuclear, missile, and cyber capabilities continue to threaten not just the U.S. but its allies "on a global scale." Caine also expressed support for trilateral security cooperation between the U.S., South Korea, and Japan. He vowed to continue advocating the use of the Trilateral Security Cooperation Framework as a blueprint for military cooperation if confirmed. The framework was signed by the defense chiefs of Seoul, Washington and Tokyo last July, which was seen as a move to formalize their trilateral security cooperation. The top U.S. general nominee also raised concerns that North Korea's cooperation with Russia may provide an opportunity for Pyongyang to improve its missile capabilities. He says the regime had provided ballistic missiles to Russia that were used against Ukraine, marking the first time North Korean missile systems have been used in actual combat. Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.
Acting President urges politicians to refrain from provocations as gov't prepares for verdict day
2025/04/02 17:00
And as Korea awaits the Constitutional Court's verdict on President Yoon Suk Yeol's fate acting President Han Duck-soo has highlighted the importance of peacefully accepting the court's ruling WHILE renewing calls on political parties against statements that may instigate division and disorder. Kim Do-yeon has details. With the Constitutional Court's landmark decision on President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment just days away, the government is on high alert—prioritizing citizen safety—as thousands of protesters from both sides are expected to fill the streets. Acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo on Wednesday presided over a meeting with safety related ministers and Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon and emphasized unity over division while calling on politicians to act responsibly. "I also urge politicians: now is the time to prioritize the stability and survival of our community above political interests. Please demonstrate a responsible stance that promotes social unity rather than division and conflict. In particular, I earnestly ask you to refrain from making remarks that may incite or provoke illegal protests and violence." Seoul Mayor also laid out the city government's plan to keep safety and order. It's set to deploy 24-hundred personnel across the city's mass gatherings sites to oversee safety. Public transport will be run according to the situation except for Anguk Station on Line 3, which will be closed on the day of the verdict. Buses are set to take detours, while certain key metro stations such as Yeouido and Gwanghamun will be closely monitored to operate according to the crowd situation. "Honorable citizens, the Seoul Metropolitan Government deeply respects everyone's right to express their opinion. At the same time, we reiterate that safeguarding a safe and peaceful daily life for our citizens is also a precious value that must be protected." The police and relevant ministries have also laid out their plans. Starting at 9 AM on April 3rd, the police agency will be on emergency duty. Starting at midnight on April 4th, 100 percent of its available officers will be deployed to assigned positions. The Safety Ministry will be in charge of the safety adjustments overall, while the Ministry of Science and ICT will be in charge of stationing additional mobile base stations so citizens' phone services aren't disrupted due to large gatherings. The government's alertness comes with good reason. Protesters for both sides have been gathering, with intensity mounting as polarized views clash in close areas. Most recently, there was an attack at a local court in Seoul, where supporters of Yoon raided the building, vandalized it, and used violence against authorities. Back in 2017, after the last presidential impeachment verdict, when President Park Geun-hye's impeachment was upheld, her supporters caused riots, charging toward the police. This left four people dead. Kim Do-yeon, Arirang News.
Police seal off 100-meter radius around Constitutional Court, restricting public access
2025/04/02 10:00
And the police are taking extra security precautions to reduce potential friction and violence on the ruling day. Some areas around the court will be cordoned off while schools near the court will be shut down. Choi Soo-hyung reports. Following the impeachment ruling for President Yoon set for Friday, April 4th, the police have sealed off a 100-meter radius around the Constitutional Court. As of 1 PM Tuesday, police banned all gatherings and traffic within a 100-meter radius of the Constitutional Court. Police vehicles formed barricades on nearby roads, including in front of the court and at the Jaedong Elementary School intersection. Pedestrian paths have been blocked, restricting public access. and vehicle traffic on Bukchon-ro outside the court has also been banned. For safety reasons, Anguk Station on line number 3 has closed all exits except for exits 5 and 6. Seoul Metro has announced the station would be fully closed on Friday, the day of the ruling. Police have tightened security, closely monitoring nearby gatherings to prevent potential clashes. On the day of the ruling the highest-level emergency response from the police, "Gabho Emergency," will be issued, allowing full deployment of police forces. Around 20-thousand police personnel from across the country will be mobilized, with 14-thousand deployed to Seoul. The level of personal protection for Constitutional Court judges will also be strengthened. Currently, the police are providing dedicated protection for all Constitutional Court judges including protecting their homes. Meanwhile, on Friday, the day of the ruling, nearby palaces and schools will be closed. The Korea Heritage Service announced that Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, and Deoksugung palaces will be closed. The Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education stated that at least 13 schools near the court and the presidential residence in Yongsan will also be temporarily closed as a precaution. Choi Soo-hyung, Arirang News.
Top U.S. general nominee calls N. Korea 'immediate security challenge'
2025/04/02 10:00
The nominee for U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff chairman John Caine criticized North Korea's nuclear and missile programs, while calling for trilateral security cooperation among Washington, Seoul and Tokyo. Lee Seung-jae has more. During a Senate confirmation hearing on Tuesday, top U.S. general nominee John Caine called North Korea's nuclear and missile programs an "immediate security challenge." The retired Air Force Lieutenant General, who has been chosen by U.S. President Donald Trump to be the next chief of U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff, raised the concerns in a written statement submitted in advance to the Senate Armed Services Committee. Caine said if confirmed, he would assess the U.S. military presence in South Korea and Japan, and make recommendations to the Secretary of Defense and the U.S. President. The nominee also stressed that North Korea's nuclear, missile, and cyber capabilities continue to threaten not just the U.S. but its allies "on a global scale." Caine also expressed support for trilateral security cooperation between the U.S., South Korea, and Japan. He vowed to continue advocating the use of the Trilateral Security Cooperation Framework as a blueprint for military cooperation if confirmed. The framework was signed by the defense chiefs of Seoul, Washington and Tokyo last July, which was seen as a move to formalize their trilateral security cooperation. The top U.S. general nominee also raised concerns that North Korea's cooperation with Russia may provide an opportunity for Pyongyang to improve its missile capabilities. He says the regime had provided ballistic missiles to Russia that were used against Ukraine, marking the first time North Korean missile systems have been used in actual combat. Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.
What President Yoon's impeachment ruling will look like this Friday
2025/04/02 10:00
The ruling date has finally been set for President Yoon's impeachment trial: Friday at 11 AM. The Constitutional Court will rule on the validity of the impeachment over Yoon's martial law declaration. Our correspondent Oh Soo-young lays out what to expect on the ruling day. President Yoon Suk Yeol's removal or return to power, will take effect the moment his fate is stated aloud by the Constitutional Court bench on Friday. Set to be broadcast live at 11 AM, the nation will be reading the lips of Justice Cheong Hyung-sik who, as the presiding judge on the case, will deliver the decision by the eight-member bench. The ruling will come 111 days after the National Assembly's impeachment vote last December, following the President's martial law order. The bench's deliberation is the longest-ever for a presidential case, as the ruling will be delivered 38 days after Yoon's final trial hearing in February. While sources say the justices reached an understanding on the verdict, and scheduled a meeting for Wednesday, most likely to discuss procedural matters, the bench is expected to sign off their decision at the very last minute, to maintain utmost confidentiality. In the case of former President Park Geun-hye in 2017, justices arrived early in the morning of the ruling to confirm their decision. If the same procedure is followed, the lead justice for the case, Cheong Hyung-sik, will present his opinion first, followed by other justices in reverse order of their appointments to the Court. Once they establish a consensus, the bench will conduct a final review of the written judgment, collect signatures, and seal the ruling. When entering the courtroom to deliver their decision, the justices will take their seats in order of seniority, with Acting Chief Justice Moon Hyung-bae at the center to declare a start to the proceedings. Typically,.. if there has been a unanimous decision, the lead justice explains the rationale for the ruling first, followed by the main decision. If there are dissenting or various concurring opinions, the main decision is usually read first, followed by explanations from individual justices representing differing views. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo's impeachment trial was also concluded with the bench first declaring the case dismissed, before revealing various opinions. However, as the order of delivery is at the Court's discretion, the style of the proceedings could vary. If the Court upholds the impeachment, with the consent of at least six justices, President Yoon will be removed from office. If the case is dismissed or rejected on procedural grounds by three or more members of the bench, he will return to his duties. While previous presidents did not attend their ruling session, President Yoon may choose to show up in the courtroom, as he has done for his hearings throughout the trial. Oh Soo-young, Arirang News.
Massive layoffs begin at top US health agency
2025/04/02 10:00
In the United States, the Department of Health and Human Services initiated significant layoffs on Tuesday local time, affecting approximately 10,000 employees. This affected workers across various agencies, including the Food and Drug Administration, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the National Institutes of Health. The action is part of a broader restructuring plan led by Health Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr., aiming to consolidate 28 divisions into 15, to potentially save taxpayers 1.3 billion U.S. dollars annually. Despite concerns about the nation's capacity to manage health emergencies, Kennedy said the reorganization will enhance efficiency within the department.
Ukraine says it will work with U.S. towards mutually acceptable minerals deal
2025/04/02 10:00
Ukraine has announced it plans to work with the United States to develop a mutually acceptable minerals agreement, aiming to bolster economic ties and support Ukraine's reconstruction efforts. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha stated on Tuesday local time that Kyiv is working with the U.S. to refine a minerals deal that would see more American business involvement in Ukraine and contribute to the nation's security infrastructure. The latest U.S. proposal suggests that Ukraine allocate all profits from a fund controlling its resources to repay American wartime aid with interest. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed caution, emphasizing the need for a thorough review before proceeding. Meanwhile, Germany's Foreign Minister said, during a visit to Kyiv on Tuesday, that any minerals agreement between Ukraine and the U.S. must comply with European Union legislation.
Putin meets Chinese FM Wang Yi, says he expects to see Xi Jinping in Moscow in May
2025/04/02 10:00
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has visited Moscow, meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin and foreign affairs minister Sergei Lavrov to discuss bilateral relations and international issues. During his three-day visit, Wang Yi stated on Tuesday, local time, that both nations are "friends forever, never enemies," emphasizing the enduring friendship between China and Russia. President Putin underscored the high level of Russia-China relations, calling for the consistent enhancement of strategic cooperation. Wang also expressed China's readiness to play a "constructive role" in resolving the Ukraine conflict. It was also confirmed that Chinese President Xi Jinping would visit Moscow for the Victory Parade in May, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany.
S. Koreans head to polls in local by-elections
2025/04/02 10:00
South Koreans began heading to the polls for Wednesday's local by-elections. Voting kicked off at 6 AM, and will close at 8 PM. Up for grabs, are 23 seats, including Busan's superintendent of education, the head of Seoul's Guro District Office, as well as mayors for Asan, Gimcheon in Gyeongsangbuk-do Province and Geoje in Gyeongsangnam-do Province. According to the National Election Commission, early turnout on March 28th and 29th came to seven-point-nine-four percent. Pundits say the by-elections are unlikely to serve as a reliable barometer of voter sentiment ahead of the upcoming impeachment verdict for President Yoon Suk Yeol.
President Yoon's impeachment verdict to be delivered live Friday 11 AM: Constitutional Court
2025/04/01 20:00
Thank you for joining us. I'm Yoon Jung-min. The date has been set for the president. The Constitutional Court says its verdict on whether to reinstate or remove him will be delivered on Friday, 11 AM. This comes more than three months since the leader was removed by the National Assembly. Our correspondent Oh Soo-young starts our coverage. President Yoon Suk Yeol will face his fate on Friday, as the Constitutional Court's decision on his impeachment is revealed via a live broadcast. The Court notified the press on Tuesday that the eight-member bench will deliver its ruling at 11 AM on April 4th. The verdict will come 111 days after the National Assembly voted to impeach President Yoon, following his declaration of martial law on December 3rd last year. His case has marked the Court's longest-ever deliberation on a presidential case, compared to Presidents Roh Moo-hyun and Park Geun-hye's, which took at most two weeks. The prolonged timeline has sparked speculation about what is happening behind closed doors, with legal analysts divided over what the verdict could be. Removing a president requires at least six justices to uphold the National Assembly's impeachment. If three or more dissent, President Yoon returns to power. Some believe the justices have been working towards a unanimous decision, with foolproof reasoning to minimize societal backlash. Others suggest the court has been struggling to reach a consensus, as justices may be split ideologically. A recent impeachment case involving Korea Communications Commission Chair Lee Jin-sook ended in a four-to-four deadlock, in line with the justices' political orientations. According to legal circles, the bench expected to reach their final decision either the evening before or on the morning of the ruling day, to maintain utmost confidentiality. If the decision is unanimous, the presiding justice typically reads a summary of the reasoning first, followed by their final written judgment. The ruling will inevitably have major political consequences, as an impeachment would trigger an early presidential election within 60 days. If Yoon is removed from office, the opposition's Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung is seen as the frontrunner for a snap election, far ahead of the conservative candidates. Thus, conservatives and Yoon's supporters continue to push for his impeachment to be dismissed or for the case itself to be scrapped. In the meantime, a presidential official told reporters that Yoon's office is "calmly awaiting" the Court's decision. As the Constitutional Court prepares to deliver a historic ruling, it faces the formidable challenge of issuing a decision that can command legitimacy in a nation deeply divided along political lines. Oh Soo-young, Arirang News.
S. Korea’s foreign minister to attend NATO foreign ministers’ meeting in Belgium
2025/04/01 20:00
South Korea's top diplomat will be heading to Belgium to attend the NATO foreign ministers' meeting this week, in what will mark the fourth straight year that a Korean official is attending the multilateral gathering. Foreign minister Cho Tae-yul is scheduled to take part in the session on NATO allies and Indo-Pacific partners where he will likely seek ways to boost security cooperation with Europe. He is also set to attend a trilateral meeting with his Japanese and Chinese counterparts, held on the sidelines. They expected to address security issues related to North Korea, as well as ways to strengthen economic cooperation amid reciprocal tariff threats from the Trump administration.
Trump teases new talks with Kim Jong-un, calls him "very smart" amid ongoing communication
2025/04/01 20:00
Moving on. U.S. President Donald Trump claims there has been contact with North Korea's Kim Jong-un in recent times amid complicated geopolitics. Kim Jung-sil has more. Could there be a part two in the Trump-Kim bromance? At the White House on Monday local time, President Trump said his relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has come a long way since their rocky start. "I have a very good relationship with Kim Jong-un. Now, you people hate to hear that, but it's very important. It started off very rough, very nasty. Little Rocket Man. The whole thing was a nasty deal. And then one day we got a call that they'd like to meet. We met." Trump confirmed that the U.S. is communicating with the regime and hinted at future action, though he didn't specify what that might look like. "There is communication. Yeah. I think it's very important. You know, it is a big nuclear nation. And he's a very smart guy. But I have a very good relationship with him. Yeah, I will probably do something at some point." Experts question whether this renewed approach can lead to a breakthrough, especially as North Korea's nuclear capabilities have advanced since their 2019 summit. "President Trump is focusing on key issues where he can achieve tangible foreign policy successes during his short term, and North Korea is likely one of the areas he sees as crucial." While diplomatic efforts may continue, Dr. Hong points out that North Korea's nuclear advances remain a significant barrier to progressing talks. Analysts suggest the U.S. is adjusting its strategy accordingly. "Trump's second term signals a shift toward arms control with North Korea, moving away from the goal of complete denuclearization. With North Korea's continued development of ICBMs, the focus is now on negotiating to reduce the threat to the U.S." Experts added that North Korea's growing ties with Russia, China, and Iran could complicate future negotiations. With the stakes now higher, the attention will be on Trump's next move, as his unpredictable approach could lead to unexpected outcomes. Kim Jung-sil, Arirang News.
U.S. names South Korea's trade barriers ahead of reciprocal tariff impositions
2025/04/01 20:00
A recent report by the U.S. office for foreign trade policy is raising concern in Korea as the findings draw attention to what they see as barriers. Ahn Sung-jin reports. The Trump administration is putting scrutiny on South Korea's trade barriers. The United States Trade Representative on Monday local time released a 7-page National Trade Estimate report, which stated that emissions-related regulations on imported vehicles and the pricing of pharmaceutical products remain a barrier to trade. The U.S.' concerns came from a lack of transparency despite South Korea's Clean Air Conservation Act layout, and added that market entry for U.S. automotive manufacturers into South Korea remains a top priority. Korea's prioritization of local technology over foreign technology in defense procurement has also been labeled a barrier. In the case of the pharmaceutical and medical industry, the report said Korea lacks transparency and opportunity for stakeholders to "input into proposed policy changes." It also noted Seoul's import ban on American beef from cattle aged 30 months or older, calling the restriction a transitional measure. Other trade barriers include digital trade barriers such as network usage fees that allegedly feed into a monopoly of internet service providers. The USTR releases an annual report to the President and Congress that documents obstacles for U.S. exporters and solutions including efforts to overcome these barriers. Though these trade barriers have already been brought up in the past, with Trump's hard-line tariff impositions, they seem more pertinent. South Korea's Trade Ministry pledged to closely analyze the trade barriers in the report and discuss these issues with relevant ministries and stakeholders to draft a response. The government also plans to consult with the U.S. through working-level channels to further explain Seoul's non-tariff measures. Trump's efforts to impose reciprocal tariffs will resume from the beginning of April. He has stated that further details will become clearer between the night of April 1st or 2nd Eastern Time. Ahn Sung-jin, Arirang News.