News

Navigating North Korea's nuclear defiance and humanitarian Crisis

2025/03/19 20:00

Welcome to Within The Frame, where we bring the most pressing issues across the globe into focus, I'm Kim Mok-yeon. North Korea has unequivocally rejected the G7's demand for denuclearization, vowing to further expand and enhance its nuclear arsenal. The regime's foreign ministry condemned the call as a "political provocation," asserting that its nuclear weapons were essential to safeguarding its sovereignty and security. With North Korea strengthening its ties with Russia and tightening internal controls, the international community is left grappling with the looming threat of further escalation. Pyongyang's actions not only raise urgent questions about its strategic intentions but also underscore the growing humanitarian crisis that remains largely unaddressed. Today, we weigh in on the broader implications for regional stability, U.S. policy, and the regime's domestic situation. For this, we have invited Go Myong-hyun, senior research fellow at the Institute for National Security Strategy. Welcome. Also joining us from New York is Mark Barry, associate editor emeritus at the International Journal on World Peace. Great to have you. (BARRY) 1. Let's start with Dr.Barry. So North Korea has flatly rejected the G7's recent denuclearization call, vowing to further strengthen its nuclear arsenal. Is this simply a rhetorical response, or should we expect tangible nuclear escalation? (GO) 2. Now to Dr.Go, Pyongyang's latest statements suggest it aims to solidify its status as a permanent nuclear power. How does this position North Korea in the global nuclear order, and what implications does it hold for regional security? (BARRY) 3. Now U.S. President Donald Trump has once again referred to North Korea as a "nuclear power." We know that this isn't his first time. Though his government says its stance towards denuclearization still stands, do you think there's a chance for a shift in U.S. policy toward de facto recognition of North Korea's nuclear status Dr. Barry? (GO) 4. Trump has also hinted at rekindling his diplomatic relationship with Kim Jong-un. Dr.Go, how might this impact existing U.S. alliances in the region, particularly with South Korea and Japan? (GO) 5. Meanwhile, The Korean Central News Agency reported on the 18th that a North Korean government economic delegation, departed from Pyongyang on the 17th to visit Russia. Though the purpose of their visit hasn't been revealed yet, what could be up for discussion? (BARRY) 6. So it seems like bilateral cooperation between the two sides is deepening, amid this, a recent report suggests that over 3,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed or injured while supporting Russia's war efforts. Dr. Barry, what internal problems could Pyongyang face due to the continuous deployment of troops to Russia? (GO) 7. Now taking closer look at the regime, the UN highlighted North Korea's worsening humanitarian crisis, attributing it to failing infrastructure, limited investment, and natural disasters. Dr.Go, How does the regime's prioritization of military and nuclear programs over economic development exacerbate these problems? (BARRY) 8. Recent UN reports highlight severe sanitation issues and food insecurity in North Korea, with nearly half the population suffering from malnutrition. Dr. Barry, what does this reveal about the regime's economic priorities? (GO) 9. The North Korean government has reinforced local control through its "People's Unit" meetings, seemingly as a response to growing internal discontent. Dr. Go, do you see this as a sign of regime insecurity or merely standard authoritarian control measures? (BARRY) 10. With international sanctions restricting external aid, what realistic steps can the global community take to address North Korea's food and health crisis without strengthening the regime?

Pres. Yoon's impeachment verdict date highly unlikely to be announced this week

2025/03/19 20:00

Thank you for joining us. I'm Yoon Jung-min. President Yoon Suk Yeol's political fate remains in limbo as the Constitutional Court remains silent on a date for its decision on his impeachment. Speculation grows over longer-than-expected deliberation. Our correspondent Oh Soo-young reports. Three weeks and counting, the Constitutional Court is yet to announce when it will rule on President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment, meaning there will be no verdict this week. As of Wednesday 22 days since Yoon's final trial hearing was held, the Court has not revealed the date it would make the fateful ruling. Given that the Court notified former Presidents Park Geun-hye and Roh Moo-hyun two to three days in advance of their respective ruling dates, Yoon's verdict is now expected to take place next week at the earliest. The eight-member bench is reportedly continuing to deliberate on Yoon's impeachment. The longer-than-expected process has given rise to diverse speculation over what's holding up the justices. Some experts believe they have already decided unanimously to impeach President Yoon, and are fine-tuning their positions to deliver an indisputable judgment amid fears the result may trigger extreme reactions from the public. The Seoul Western District Court's approval to extend a warrant to detain Yoon,.. prompted violence from his supporters. Some believe the bench may be divided ideologically, and are struggling to align their views, given how an earlier impeachment case of Korea Communications Commission chair Lee Jin-sook was dismissed as the justices' opinions were split evenly in line with their political orientations. In any case, the justices are facing growing calls to make a swift decision as Yoon's prolonged suspension from office, hinders effective governance of the nation. The bench is also under significant political pressure. Those supporting Yoon's impeachment wish to quickly trigger a snap presidential election, which polls show would largely favor opposition Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung. Meanwhile, conservatives including Yoon's supporters are calling for the case to be dismissed, or for the Court to deliver a ruling after Lee Jae-myung's own verdict, on one of his five criminal cases next Tuesday. If at least six justices agree to uphold the presidential impeachment, Yoon will be removed from office immediately, triggering an early election that must be held within 60 days. If at least three are against impeachment, the President will resume his duties. Oh Soo-young, Arirang News.

If Court doesn't announce Pres. Yoon's verdict date by Wednesday, ruling unlikely to be made this week

2025/03/19 17:00

President Yoon Suk Yeol's political fate remains in limbo as the Constitutional Court remains silent on a date for its decision on his impeachment. Our correspondent Oh Soo-young reports. Three weeks and counting, the Constitutional Court has yet to announce when it will rule on President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment, meaning there may be no verdict this week. It took at most two weeks for former Presidents Park Geun-hye and Roh Moo-hyun, but there has been no word from the Court as of Wednesday 22 days since Yoon's final trial hearing was held. The chance that the verdict will be delivered this Friday is looking slimmer, given that the Court notified former leaders two to three days in advance of their respective ruling dates. The eight-member bench was reportedly convening even on Tuesday to deliberate on Yoon's impeachment, despite holding a trial hearing for Justice Minister Park Sung-jae. The longer-than-expected process has given rise to diverse speculations over what's holding up the justices. Some experts believe they have already decided unanimously to impeach President Yoon, and are fine-tuning their positions to deliver an indisputable judgment amid fears the result may trigger extreme reactions from the public. The Seoul Western District Court's approval to extend a warrant to detain Yoon,.. prompted violence from his supporters. Some believe the bench may be divided ideologically, and are struggling to align their views, given how an earlier impeachment case of Korea Communications Commission chair Lee Jin-sook was dismissed as the justices opinions were split evenly in line with their political orientations. In any case, the justices are facing growing calls to make a swift decision as Yoon's prolonged suspension from office, hinders effective governance of the nation. The bench is also under significant political pressure. Those supporting Yoon's impeachment wish to quickly trigger a snap presidential election, which polls show would largely favor opposition Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung. Meanwhile, conservatives including Yoon's supporters are calling for the case to be dismissed, or for the Court to deliver a ruling after Lee Jae-myung's own verdict, on one of his five criminal cases next Tuesday. If at least six justices agree to uphold the presidential impeachment, Yoon will be removed from office immediately, triggering an early election that must be held within 60 days. If at least three are against impeachment, the President will resume his duties. Oh Soo-young, Arirang News.

World News: EU must rearm by 2030, EU's von der Leyen says

2025/03/19 17:00

This is the World Now, bringing you the latest stories from around the globe. The European Union has unveiled a plan to bolster its defense capabilities by 2030, aiming to enhance military autonomy and reduce reliance on external allies. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced on Tuesday in Copenhagen, the EU's initiative to rearm itself by 2030, targeting a significant enhancement of the bloc's defense infrastructure. The strategy aims to establish a credible deterrent in response to evolving geopolitical threats, notably the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and uncertainties regarding U.S. military support. The "Readiness 2030" strategy, which will be announced on Wednesday local time, comprises several key components, including fiscal flexibility, defense loans, and infrastructure development. The proposal also includes the creation of a European Military Sales Mechanism to streamline collective arms procurement across the EU and support arms manufacturers. In Germany, the parliament has approved a historic spending package aimed at revitalizing the economy and bolstering defense capabilities. The legislation, championed by incoming Chancellor Friedrich Merz, secured a two thirds majority in the parliament. Key components of the package include a 545 billion U.S. dollar fund allocated over 12 years for infrastructure modernization and provisions for unlimited defense spending, facilitated by constitutional amendments easing strict debt regulations. The bill now awaits approval from Germany's upper house to become law. The International Olympic Committee commenced its 144th session in ancient Olympia, Greece, on Tuesday local time. The session holds particular significance as it comes just before the election of a new IOC president, set to take place on March 20. Seven candidates are contending for the presidency, including prominent figures such as the current IOC vice-president and an Olympic swimming champion who is Zimbabwe's current sports minister. Outgoing President Thomas Bach, who has led the IOC since 2013, addressed the assembly at the Olympic Academy, emphasizing the session's role in honoring the organization's heritage and future. Choi Chi-hee, Arirang News.

Trump and Putin agree to 30-day Russia-Ukraine ceasefire on energy and infrastructure targets

2025/03/19 17:00

Russia has rejected a thirty-day truce with Ukraine and instead accepted calls to cease assaults on energy facilities. This latest development follows phone talks between the leaders of the Kremlin and the White House on Tuesday U.S. time. Our Choi Soo-hyung has more. U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin have agreed on a limited ceasefire on energy and infrastructure targets in Russia and Ukraine. On Tuesday, local time, the White House announced that in a lengthy phone call between both parties, Russia agreed to halt attacks on energy and infrastructure facilities for 30 days. The Kremlin stated that Putin had immediately ordered a halt to attacks on these sites. During the three-year conflict between Russia and Ukraine, attacks on these sites caused immense damage. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also stated that he supports Trump's proposal. "We support all steps towards ending the war. We will give support but in order to support something we need to understand what specifically it is." He expressed his willingness to speak with Trump at any time to hear the details of the phone talks with Putin. He also stated that Ukraine cannot be excluded from future discussions on the details of the ceasefire. However, a full ceasefire still seems some way off. Recently, Putin rejected Trump's proposal for a 30-day full ceasefire, citing concerns such as Ukraine's potential rearmament. During the call, Putin also insisted that foreign military and intelligence assistance to Ukraine should be halted. Europe welcomed the agreement between Trump and Putin but stressed that Ukraine's position must be taken into account. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron stated in a press conference on Tuesday that Ukraine must be involved in the negotiations to achieve a just peace for Ukraine. Meanwhile, Moscow said that Russia and Ukraine are set to exchange 175 prisoners of war each on Wednesday. Choi Soo-hyung, Arirang News.

Gaza ceasefire collapses as Israel resumes airstrikes

2025/03/19 17:00

In an alarming turn of events Israel has resumed its air strikes against Gaza claiming that the Palestinian militant group Hamas has failed to hold up its end of the ceasefire. Hamas has made a similar accusation. Our Choi Min-jung has the latest. The two-month-long ceasefire between Israel and Gaza has been shattered, after Israel resumed airstrikes in Gaza. Early Tuesday, Israeli forces launched strikes that, according to the Gazan Health Ministry, killed over 400 Palestinians, including women and children. This occurred as the first phase of the ceasefire that started in January ended, but with plans for talks on a second phase to end the war and the release of more hostages, beginning. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the airstrikes, asserting that ceasefire negotiations would continue "only under fire." "I want to assure Hamas --this is only the beginning. We will continue to fight to achieve all the goals of this war—securing the release of all our hostages, eliminating Hamas, and ensuring that Gaza will no longer pose a threat to Israel." Both Israel and Hamas blamed each other for violating the truce, which had mostly remained in place since January. Netanyahu stated that the strikes were ordered because Hamas had rejected ceasefire extension proposals. While Hamas did not retaliate directly, it accused Israel of undermining efforts to secure a permanent ceasefire. Hamas still holds 59 of the approximately 250 hostages taken during the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel. Hamas stated that it saw Israel's attack as Netanyahu's "decision to resume war," and a choice to abandon Israeli captives. The international community has also widely condemned the renewed violence, with the United Nations expressing deep concern over the escalating humanitarian crisis. "We are horrified by last night's Israeli airstrikes and shelling in Gaza, which killed hundreds according to the Ministry of Health in the Strip. This will add tragedy onto the tragedy." Several countries, including Egypt and France, have also called for an immediate halt to hostilities. Choi Min-jung, Arirang News.

Acting President Choi pledges efforts to reduce trade risks

2025/03/19 17:00

Meanwhile acting President Choi Sang-mok has reaffirmed government support for small-and-medium sized businesses amid the 25-percent U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminium imports into the American market. During a meeting on this Wednesday he spoke of trade insurance for the steel sector and consultations for smaller companies to address the financial burden of tougher U.S. tariffs. Choi also highlighted the importance of maintaining close and constructive communication with all parties involved to minimize the potential fallout from excessive trade barriers.

'Dirty 15' trading partners imposing substantial tariffs on U.S.: U.S. Treasury Dept.

2025/03/19 17:00

The Trump administration has highlighted the presence of quote "15" "dirty" trade partners as it reaffirms the implementation of reciprocal tariffs on April SECOND. Lee Soo-jin covers this latest development and more. Concerns over how U.S. President Donald Trump's reciprocal tariffs will impact South Korea are growing, especially with its potential inclusion in the so-called 'Dirty 15' group of trade partners. Speaking to Fox News on Tuesday, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said that there were 15 nations, which he referred to as the 'Dirty 15', that are imposing substantial tariffs on the U.S. He did not clarify which nations would be included but with Trump previously highlighting South Korea as one of the countries that he claimed was unfairly benefiting from trade imbalances, there are growing concerns that Korea may be among the countries targeted. "And South Korea's average tariff is four times higher. Think of that four times higher. And we give so much help militarily and in so many other ways to South Korea." South Korea's trade surplus with the U.S. reached over 55 billion U.S. dollars last year, meaning that it could be a major target for the Trump administration. Bessent said that come April 2nd, each country will receive a specific reciprocal tariff number deemed fair by the U.S. and that 'Dirty 15' countries are likely to face higher tariffs due to perceived unfair trade practices. He added that the tariff calculation would be determined by the U.S. Trade Representative and the U.S. Commerce Department. The U.S. Treasury Secretary said that he has not seen any figures yet, as they are still being calculated. But Bessent expressed optimism that "some of the tariffs" may not go into effect if a deal is pre-negotiated or if countries look to negotiate after April 2nd. Emphasizing that the U.S. is only in pursuit of "fair and reciprocal" trade, Bessent said that countries that stop trade practices that the U.S. deems unfair could avoid reciprocal tariffs. Such practices include, non-tariff barriers, currency manipulation, unfair funding and labor suppression. While Bessent believes reciprocal tariffs could lead to a "win-win" situation for everyone,.. they continue to cause concerns here in South Korea, with trade officials keen to avoid new U.S. tariffs. Lee Soo-jin, Arirang News.

S. KOREA ON U.S. "SENSITIVE" COUNTRY LIST

2025/03/19 17:30

Welcome to Wednesday's edition of Press Perspective. It's March 19th here in Seoul. I'm Min Sunhee. Acting American Ambassador Joseph Yun to Seoul says the designation of South Korea as a sensitive country by the U.S. Energy Department under the Biden administration in January is quote "not a big deal". For more I have Kelly Kasulis Cho with The Washington Post back here in the studio with us. Kelly thank you for returning to partake in today's talk. I also have Professor Kim Jae-chun at Sogang University with the pundit's take on the latest developments. Professor Kim it's good to have you on. 1) Kelly, let's begin with details about the U.S. Energy Department's decision to designate South Korea as a "sensitive" country, and do tell us which other countries are also on the list. 2) And Professor Kim, what do you believe drove this decision? 3) Kelly, so what are the implications of being on the U.S. list of sensitive countries, and what are the requirements for removal from the list? 4) Professor Kim, , quite a number of pundits believe the designation comes amid growing talk of South Korea possibly arming itself with nuclear weapons. This being said, what are your thoughts on the idea of South Korea developing a nuclear arsenal? 5) Kelly, North Korea, for its part, at the start of this week, rejected calls by the G7 to abandon its nuclear ambitions. Do tell us more about this development. 6) Professor Kim, Trump last week called North Korea a nuclear power yet again. Does this worry you? 7) Kelly, some foreign journalists here believe the reference is simply an art of persuasion to promote U.S.-N. Korea talks and not necessarily a shift in U.S. policy. What are your thoughts? 8) Professor Kim, how does South Korea seek to remain relevant in shaping Washington's policy on North Korea? 9) Meanwhile Kelly, once the dust settles over South Korea's political arena, what should be the administration's broader diplomatic priorities as it seeks to ensure trade stability and regional security? 10) And Professor Kim, what should be some of the administration's domestic priorities? All right.

If Court doesn't announce Pres. Yoon's verdict date by Wednesday, ruling unlikely to be made this week

2025/03/19 10:00

It's still unclear when the Constitutional Court will deliver its ruling on President Yoon's impeachment. If a date isn't announced by Wednesday, observers say it's likely the ruling will not be made this week. Oh Soo-young reports. Three weeks and counting, the Constitutional Court has yet to announce when it will rule on President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment, meaning there may be no verdict this week. It took at most two weeks for former Presidents Park Geun-hye and Roh Moo-hyun, but there has been no word from the Court as of Wednesday 22 days since Yoon's final trial hearing was held. The chance that the verdict will be delivered this Friday is looking slimmer, given that the Court notified former leaders two to three days in advance of their respective ruling dates. The eight-member bench was reportedly convening even on Tuesday to deliberate on Yoon's impeachment, despite holding a trial hearing for Justice Minister Park Sung-jae. The longer-than-expected process has given rise to diverse speculations over what's holding up the justices. Some experts believe they have already decided unanimously to impeach President Yoon, and are fine-tuning their positions to deliver an indisputable judgment amid fears the result may trigger extreme reactions from the public. The Seoul Western District Court's approval to extend a warrant to detain Yoon,.. prompted violence from his supporters. Some believe the bench may be divided ideologically, and are struggling to align their views, given how an earlier impeachment case of Korea Communications Commission chair Lee Jin-sook was dismissed as the justices opinions were split evenly in line with their political orientations. In any case, the justices are facing growing calls to make a swift decision as Yoon's prolonged suspension from office, hinders effective governance of the nation. The bench is also under significant political pressure. Those supporting Yoon's impeachment wish to quickly trigger a snap presidential election, which polls show would largely favor opposition Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung. Meanwhile, conservatives including Yoon's supporters are calling for the case to be dismissed, or for the Court to deliver a ruling after Lee Jae-myung's own verdict, on one of his five criminal cases next Tuesday. If at least six justices agree to uphold the presidential impeachment, Yoon will be removed from office immediately, triggering an early election that must be held within 60 days. If at least three are against impeachment, the President will resume his duties. Oh Soo-young, Arirang News.

German parliament passes historic spending reforms

2025/03/19 10:00

Meanwhile, in Germany, the parliament has approved a historic spending package aimed at revitalizing the economy and bolstering defense capabilities. The legislation, championed by incoming Chancellor Friedrich Merz, secured a two-thirds majority in the parliament. Key components of the package include a 545 billion U.S. dollar fund allocated over 12 years for infrastructure modernization and provisions for unlimited defense spending, facilitated by constitutional amendments easing strict debt regulations. The bill now awaits approval from Germany's upper house to become law.

EU must rearm by 2030, EU's von der Leyen says

2025/03/19 10:00

The European Union has unveiled a plan to bolster its defense capabilities by 2030, aiming to enhance military autonomy and reduce reliance on external allies. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced on Tuesday in Copenhagen, the EU's initiative to rearm itself by 2030, targeting a significant enhancement of the bloc's defense infrastructure. The strategy aims to establish a credible deterrent in response to evolving geopolitical threats, notably the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and uncertainties regarding U.S. military support. The "Readiness 2030" strategy, which will be announced on Wednesday local time, comprises several key components, including fiscal flexibility, defense loans, and infrastructure development. The proposal also includes the creation of a European Military Sales Mechanism to streamline collective arms procurement across the EU and support arms manufacturers.

Israeli airstrikes on Gaza kill over 400

2025/03/19 10:00

Israel resumed extensive airstrikes across Gaza on Tuesday, killing over 400 Palestinians, injuring hundreds, and shattering the already fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the airstrikes are "just the beginning" and part of a broader strategy to dismantle Hamas and secure the release of Israeli hostages. He emphasized that future negotiations would proceed "under fire," indicating a readiness to continue military operations. While both Israel and the United States blame the renewed hostilities on Hamas, the international community has widely condemned the renewed violence. The United Nations has expressed deep concern over the escalating humanitarian crisis, and several countries, including Egypt and France, have called for an immediate halt in hostilities.

Top diplomats of S. Korea, Japan, China to hold talks in Tokyo this week

2025/03/19 10:00

The top diplomats of South Korea, Japan, and China are to hold talks this week in Tokyo. Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul will have a three-way meeting with his Japanese counterpart Takeshi Iwaya and Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on Saturday. The talks come for the first time in more than a year, since November 2023. The three sides are to assess the progress of trilateral cooperation since the their leaders' summit that took place in May last year, and exchange views on regional and international issues. Cho is to hold one-on-one talks with his Japanese and Chinese counterparts as well with the key agenda to be about preparations for the 60th anniversary of the normalization of Seoul-Tokyo ties with Iwaya and the APEC summit with Wang.

Trump's top economic aide mentions trade deficit with S. Korea

2025/03/19 10:00

Washington apparently continues sending a message to its trading partners ahead of the April tariffs, this time, identifying Korea as a major "trade deficit" country. Shin Ha-young explains. With about two weeks until the announcement of reciprocal tariff plans, a top economic aide to U.S. President Donald Trump mentioned South Korea as a major "trade deficit" country. U.S. National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett told CNBC on Monday that trade deficits with Europe, China and South Korea have persisted for years, claiming the deficits are attributable to the countries' high tariffs and non-tariff trade barriers. He added that if U.S. trading partners immediately lower all barriers, the negotiations will be over. Since South Korea and the U.S. have a Free Trade Agreement that removes tariffs on most items, Hassett's statement is raising expectations of increased pressure on South Korea to lower non-tariff trade barriers. "The Trump administration is focused on fixing trade imbalances and seems to be taking a one-on-one approach with countries that have large trade deficits. For South Korea, this could mean either imposing tariffs to reduce imports or negotiating to lower barriers so South Korea can import more from the U.S." The expert from the Korea Institute for International Economic Policy emphasized the need for South Korea to review its contributions to the U.S. and assess potential U.S. demands on non-tariff trade barriers. "We need to review our contributions to the U.S. and potential demands from the U.S. on non-tariff trade barriers. However, with many uncertainties, it's too early for negotiations." Meanwhile, during the interview with CNBC, Hassett said there will be "some uncertainty" between "now and April 2nd," referring to the date Trump is set to unveil his reciprocal tariff plans. His comments come as market analysts and business leaders have criticized the sweeping tariff announcements, which have led to volatility in world markets. However, Hassett defended Trump's tariffs against Mexico, Canada and China, calling them "very positive developments" adding things will clear up after April 2nd. Shin Ha-young, Arirang News.

On-point: Will Constitutional Court announce ruling day for Yoon's impeachment trial on Wednesday?

2025/03/19 10:00

If the court doesn't declare a ruling date today, Wednesday, the final verdict may even be pushed to next week. We discuss this more with Professor Song Se-ryun this morning. Welcome back. 1. Aren't we expecting the Constitutional Court to announce the ruling day today, considering the announcement comes at least 2-3 days before the ruling day? 2. Many are expecting that Friday will be the big day. 3. What do you think the justices are contemplating at this point? 4. Why do you think Yoon's remaining silent ever since his release from custody? 5. We should probably expect the ruling for Prime Minister Han Duck-soo's impeachment to come after ruling for Yoon, right? Thank you so much for your insight and your time as always, professor Song.

Reciprocal tariffs can be avoided if unfair trade practices stop: U.S. Treasury Dept.

2025/03/19 10:00

According to U.S Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, some reciprocal tariffs may be avoided under a pre-negotiated deal, or negotiations after April 2nd. Lee Seung-jae reports. U.S. President Donald Trump said he would be announcing a detailed plan on the reciprocal tariffs on U.S. imports by April 2nd. With the deadline looming, the Trump administration is showing some flexibility with its tariff policies. Speaking to Fox News on Tuesday, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent expressed optimism that come April 2nd, "some of the tariffs" may not go into effect if a deal is pre-negotiated or if countries look to negotiate after April 2nd. Emphasizing that the U.S. is only in pursuit of "fair and reciprocal" trade, Bessent said that countries that stop trade practices that the U.S. deems unfair could avoid reciprocal tariffs. Such practices include, non-tariff barriers, currency manipulation, unfair funding and labor suppression. Meanwhile, Bessent said that come April 2nd, each country will receive a specific reciprocal tariff number deemed fair by the U.S. He added that the tariff calculation would be determined by the U.S. Trade Representative and the U.S. Commerce Department. The U.S. treasury secretary said that he has not seen any figures yet, as they are still being calculated. While Bessent believes reciprocal tariffs could lead to a "win-win" situation for everyone,.. they have raised concerns here in South Korea, with trade officials keen to avoid new U.S. tariffs. Seoul fears that with South Korea's trade surplus with the U.S. reaching over 55 billion U.S. dollars last year, it could be a major target for the Trump administration. Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.

Trump and Putin agree to 30-day Russia-Ukraine ceasefire on energy and infrastructure targets

2025/03/19 10:00

The U.S. and Russia have made a partial deal for Russia and Ukraine to stop attacking energy and infrastructure facilities for now. Our Choi Soo-hyung has the latest. U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin have agreed on a limited ceasefire on energy and infrastructure targets in Russia and Ukraine. On Tuesday, local time, the White House announced that in a lengthy phone call between both parties, Russia agreed to halt attacks on energy and infrastructure facilities for 30 days. The Kremlin stated that Putin had immediately ordered a halt to attacks on these sites. During the three-year conflict between Russia and Ukraine, attacks on these sites caused immense damage. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also stated that he supports Trump's proposal. "We support all steps towards ending the war. We will give support but in order to support something we need to understand what specifically it is." He expressed his willingness to speak with Trump at any time to hear the details of the phone talks with Putin. He also stated that Ukraine cannot be excluded from future discussions on the details of the ceasefire. However, a full ceasefire still seems some way off. Recently, Putin rejected Trump's proposal for a 30-day full ceasefire, citing concerns such as Ukraine's potential rearmament. During the call, Putin also insisted that foreign military and intelligence assistance to Ukraine should be halted. Europe welcomed the agreement between Trump and Putin but stressed that Ukraine's position must be taken into account. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron stated in a press conference on Tuesday that Ukraine must be involved in the negotiations to achieve a just peace for Ukraine. Meanwhile, Moscow said that Russia and Ukraine are set to exchange 175 prisoners of war each on Wednesday. Choi Soo-hyung, Arirang News.

S. Korea says inclusion on U.S. 'sensitive country' list is due to security issues, not foreign policy

2025/03/18 20:00

Thank you for joining us. I'm Yoon Jung-min. We begin with the latest on what's taken as confusion on the diplomatic front. The authorities explain that South Korea being designated as a "sensitive" country by the U.S. Energy Department reportedly comes in line with security concerns. Our foreign affairs correspondent Bae Eun-ji reports. Concerns are rising after South Korea, a key U.S. ally, was recently added to the U.S. Energy Department's Sensitive and Other Designated Countries List alongside North Korea, China, Russia, and Iran. While South Korea is in the lowest tier as "Other Designated Countries," it is the only U.S. ally with a formal defense treaty. Following communication with the U.S., Seoul's Foreign Ministry confirmed that South Korea's inclusion is due to security-related issues, rather than foreign policy concerns. The government also clarified that the U.S. has said the designation will not significantly impact joint energy research or technology cooperation. The ministry further highlighted that it's closely cooperating with the U.S., while noting that South Korea has been on the list in the past and was removed through similar diplomatic efforts. According to a report from the U.S. Government Accountability Office in 1996, South Korea was previously on the DOE's sensitive country list from January 1993 to June 1996. But the report added that South Korea was a country no longer considered sensitive as of July 28th, 1994. Despite the government's explanation, many experts still believe there are other reasons behind the matter. Because the U.S. list cites concerns over national security and nuclear proliferation, some observers in Seoul suggest it has to do with growing discussions on the need for South Korea to acquire its own nuclear weapons capability. "I think that's the biggest reason. The main reason why the U.S. Department of Energy would designate a specific country to its sensitive countries list is nuclear non-proliferation." Others believe South Korea's domestic political situation may have influenced the move since the U.S. decision, made in January, follows President Yoon's martial law declaration on December 3rd. "Once the Constitutional Court's decision on the impeachment is announced, the political turmoil in South Korea will be resolved. In that case, there would be no reason for the Trump administration to keep South Korea on this list." Meanwhile,.. the acting U.S. ambassador to Seoul, Joseph Yun, said on Tuesday that the energy department's listing was not a serious matter that could affect bilateral relations adding that the matter was "not a big deal." He explained that Seoul was put on the DOE list due to "some mishandling of sensitive information" that should not be taken out of laboratories, without further elaboration. Nonetheless, Seoul is looking to actively engage with Washington to resolve the issue before the designation takes effect on April 15th with trade minister Ahn Duk-geun set to visit the U.S. later this week to meet with his counterpart. Bae Eun-ji, Arirang News.

Parliament to request gov't draft up supplementary budget within March

2025/03/18 20:00

The National Assembly is set to ask the government to come up with a draft for a supplementary budget within this month. This came on Tuesday after Speaker Woo Won-shik held a meeting with the floor leaders of the ruling People Power Party and the main opposition the Democratic Party of Korea. DP lawmaker Park Sung-joon argued that the government has been passive when it comes to a supplementary budget, so the two main parties felt the need to urge the government to create one. PPP lawmaker Park Hyung-joon added that the authority to draft a supplementary budget lies with the government, so the Parliament cannot force it to submit a proposal by a certain deadline, but the intention is to fully coordinate with the government.