News

S. Korea, U.S. agree to use term 'denuclearization of N. Korea,' not 'of Korean Peninsula'

2025/02/27 10:00

Seoul and Washington have agreed to consistently use the phrase "denuclearization of North Korea", and not to use the phrase "denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula." Our Kim Bo-kyoung tells us more. Seoul and Washington have agreed to use the term 'denuclearization of North Korea' instead of 'denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula', when addressing the North Korean nuclear issue. South Korean Ambassador to the U.S., Cho Hyun-dong, made this announcement, during a monthly meeting of South Korean correspondents in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday. As Seoul does not have nuclear weapons, the two expressions largely convey the same purpose of dismantling Pyongyang's nuclear program. However, 'denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula' holds the broader meaning of not only ridding North Korea of its nuclear program, but also the possibility of South Korea going nuclear or hosting U.S. tactical nuclear weapons. To make the meaning clearer, second Trump administration has decided to use the expression 'the denuclearization of North Korea' in a consistent matter. Following the agreement, Seoul's top envoy to the U.S. added that the term was used in documents issued during high-level meetings, including the U.S.-Japan summit and the trilateral foreign ministers' meeting between South Korea, the U.S., and Japan. Meanwhile, South Korea, the U.S. and Japan raised voices together at a UN conference on disarmament in Geneva, condemning North Korea's military provocations, and calling for its complete denuclearization. While pointing out that Pyongyang is continuing its reckless provocations in blatant violation of relevant UN Security Council resolutions the three countries said the international community is resolute that Pyongyang will never have the status of a nuclear weapon state. The North Korean representative dismissed the statement, calling it "outdated and meaningless." Calling 'denuclearization' an absurd fantasy he blamed U.S. and its allies' military actions as main cause of instability on the Peninsula, and said that North Korea's status as a full-fledged nuclear state will remain an undeniable reality. Kim Bo-kyoung, Arirang News.

Independence fighter Ahn Junggeun Memorial Museum to reopen with wider range of digital content

2025/02/26 20:00

This year, Korea marks a hundred and 15 years since the execution of independence hero Ahn Jung-geun whose faith in freedom for Korea fueled his fight against Japanese occupation and its atrocities. That being said, a memorial museum bearing his name is re-opening its doors in time for this weekend's March 1st Independence Movement Day. Our Kim Bo-kyoung reports. An independence fighter who cut off the tip of his left ring finger with 11 others as a symbol of sacrifice to their nation. A patriot who assassinated Japanese general Ito Hirobumi, firing three bullets into his chest and abdomen in Harbin, before being executed at Lushun Prison. Marking the 115th anniversary of his death, the Ahn Junggeun Memorial Museum held a re-opening ceremony on Wednesday. An expanded range of digital exhibits is part of the patriots' ministry's efforts to renew the memorial museums of Korea's patriots --Yun Bong-gil, Ahn Junggeun, and Baekbeom Kim Gu, commemorating the 80th anniversary of Korea's liberation. "Through introducing the latest digital content and immersive video rooms, visitors can now experience the life and independence movement of patriot Ahn Junggeun in a more vivid and interactive way." Ahn's commitment to the Enlightenment Movement in Korea, his role in the Righteous Army Movement along with his long journey are well-shown throughout the exhibition. But of course, the most noticeable part of the renewed exhibition is how it digitized major historical moments and lessons Ahn left. "If you put your hand on Ahn's handprint with his fingers cut off, it turns on the video on the wall showing Ahn pulling the trigger of his pistol to assassinate Ito Hirobumi, letting visitors feel the atmosphere at that moment." The museum recreated the courtroom as well, where Ahn explains why he shot Ito, citing 15 reasons, based on trial records. In the reproduced video, Ahn also talks about a treatise on peace in the East, which he wrote while at Lushun Prison, until his execution on March 26th, 1910. "I have always thought it has been difficult to convey why Ahn Junggeun shot Ito, the meaning behind it, and the ideals and dreams he envisioned. Through the renewal, I hope visitors will be able to easily understand Ahn's advanced philosophy on peace." People will be able to enjoy the renewed Ahn Junggeun Memorial Museum starting March 1st, Independence Movement Day. Kim Bo-kyoung, Arirang News.

Trump to replace EB-5 immigrant visa program with 'gold card' system

2025/02/26 20:00

In the U.S. A new visa program is in the works. The so-called "Trump gold card" will offer green card privileges and a path to U.S. citizenship at a price of five million dollars. Our Choi Min-jung has more. U.S. President Donald Trump plans to terminate the EB-5 immigrant investor visa program. Trump said Tuesday,. that the EB-5 program,. which grants permanent residency to foreign nationals promising to invest in American businesses, will be replaced by a "gold card" system. This new pathway to citizenship would allow individuals to purchase residency for 5 million U.S. dollars. "And wealthy people will be coming into our country by buying this card. They'll be wealthy and they'll be successful and they'll be spending a lot of money and paying a lot of taxes and employing a lot of people. And we think it's going to be extremely successful." Trump said the new program could start in about two weeks. U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick explained that the measure was introduced because the cost of investment for the EB-5 program was too low at around 1 million dollars for investors that create at least 10 jobs. "It was full of nonsense, make-believe, and fraud. And it was a way to get a green card that was low priced. So the president said rather than having this sort of ridiculous EB-5 program, we're going to end the EB-5 program, we're going to replace it with the Trump gold card." Trump has also initiated a probe that could result in tariffs on copper imports. On Tuesday, Trump instructed the Department of Commerce to examine copper imports, and if the probe uncovers evidence of dumping, the administration could impose tariffs or quotas in response. Trump's decision is part of his broader effort to expand his protectionist trade policies. In 2018, he used a similar investigation to justify tariffs on steel and aluminum imports and plans to bring them back next month. Lutnick said Tuesday, that "it is time for copper to come home," arguing that foreign competition has severely weakened the American copper industry, just as it did with steel and aluminum. Copper is vital for numerous industries, including defense, with the U.S. importing 45 percent of its supply, mainly from Chile and Canada. Although the U.S. was once the world's top copper producer, it now ranks fifth. Choi Min-jung, Arirang News.

Israel-Hamas agree on new exchange with ceasefire set to expire this weekend

2025/02/26 20:00

Israel and Hamas reached an agreement on Tuesday, local time, to exchange the bodies of four dead Israeli hostages for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. They were due to be freed last Saturday, but the process was delayed after Israel protested what it calls "cruel" treatment of hostages during their release by Hamas. This comes as the six-week ceasefire between the two parties expires this weekend, unless a new agreement is reached to extend it. The two sides initially planned to begin negotiations to end the war permanently in early February, but such talks have yet to take place.

Trump says Zelenskyy wants to visit U.S. this week, to sign 'very big' minerals deal

2025/02/26 20:00

The U.S. and Ukraine reportedly agree on signing a minerals deal, considered key to ending the prolonged war, while critics call it an exploitation. Ukraine's leader could visit Washington this week to sign the deal. Our foreign affairs correspondent Bae Eun-ji has the details. The United States and Ukraine are reportedly closing in on a critical minerals deal, as U.S. President Donald Trump pushes to end the three-year-long war. Media reports say, citing an unnamed Ukrainian official, that Ukraine has also reportedly agreed to the terms of the deal with the U.S. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy refused to sign an earlier draft of the agreement,. saying he "cannot sell Ukraine." But Trump told reporters on Tuesday that the Ukrainian leader wants to come to Washington on Friday, to sign the deal. "I hear that he is coming on Friday. It's a very big deal. It could be a trillion-dollar deal. It could be whatever, but it's rare earths and other things. And look, we're spending hundreds of billions of dollars on Ukraine and Russia fighting a war that should have never, ever happened. That's a war that would have never happened if I were president." Former U.S. Treasury Secretary under the former Bill Clinton administration Lawrence Summers denounced the deal, pointing out that it's a clear departure from traditional American policies in previous major conflicts. Speaking to Bloomberg TV on Monday, he compared the minerals deal to the Treaty of Versailles, only it imposes penalties on the victims of aggression, and not on the aggressor. The Treaty of Versailles is a post-World War One peace treaty signed in 1919, which imposed huge financial and other burdens on Germany. Meanwhile, other experts have also called the minerals deal "absurd." "For the United States to try to extract a half trillion dollars in mineral resources from Ukraine after giving Ukraine about 60 billion dollars in aid is an absolute absurdity. Ukrainians have been doing the fighting and dying. All we've done is provide some aid, which is a pittance compared to what we've gotten from them, which is defending Europe against Russian aggression." Although details of the deal are not yet known, if signed, the agreement is expected to allow the United States to take 50 percent of Ukraine's rare earth mineral deposits, worth 500 billion dollars. Ukraine is believed to hold substantial reserves of critical minerals including graphite, 흑연, uranium, 우라늄, titanium, 티타늄, and lithium. 리튬. Bae Eun-ji, Arirang News.

Bipartisan agreement for special parliamentary committees on pension reform, climate, APEC 2025

2025/02/26 20:00

At the parliament earlier on Wednesday, rival lawmakers agreed to launch a special committee on national pension reform. In a meeting presided over by National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik , ruling People Power Party Floor Leader Kweon Seong-dong and opposition Democratic Party Floor Leader Park Chan-dae also agreed to further address the prospects of setting up such a committee this coming Friday during talks with acting President Choi Sang-mok. Aside from that, the floor leaders also agreed on two additional committees: one for climate-related initiatives and the other for APEC summit preparations as Korea's city of Gyeongju prepares to host the annual multi-lateral gathering in November.

[Politics & Diplomacy] Pres. Yoon’s impeachment trial wrapped up; verdict expected in mid-March

2025/02/26 20:00

The final hearing of President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment trial wrapped up yesterday, and the Constitutional Court today began deliberations. To delve deeper into the recent hearing and what lies ahead, let's turn to our political correspondent Shin Ha-young. Ha-young, first walk us through the final hearing of Yoon's impeachment trial. The 11th and final impeachment hearing came 73 days after the National Assembly passed an impeachment motion following President Yoon Suk Yeol's martial law declaration on December 3rd. As the final speaker in his trial, President Yoon defended his actions, insisting that his call for martial law was a one-off plea to the public during what he described as a "state of emergency" caused by legislative obstruction and budget cuts from the opposition party. Take a listen. He also pledged to push for political reform and more effective governance through constitutional amendments if he were to resume his duties. Despite his firm stance, Yoon apologized for the confusion and inconvenience caused by his martial law declaration. The National Assembly's impeachment panel co-chair Jung Chung-rae delivered his final statement before Yoon saying that the public had already rejected Yoon and urged the court to uphold the impeachment. Take a listen. "President Yoon took the oath of office to uphold the Constitution and defend the nation, yet he sent martial law troops to invade the National Assembly and trampled on the Constitution. The respondent no longer has the qualifications to remain as president. He is no longer the president in the hearts of the people." Starting today, the Constitutional Court justices decided to hold deliberations every day except holidays and weekends, until the verdict is delivered. Deliberations will take place in a secure room with anti-eavesdropping devices, and only the judges will have access, ensuring strict security throughout the process. Now all that's left is the court's verdict, which is expected in March. But when exactly will it happen, and what factors could affect the timing? Based on the past presidential impeachment trials, the verdict is expected to come out around mid-March after about two weeks of deliberations so some point between March 10th and 14th. For the late former President Roh Moo-hyun, the court dismissed the impeachment motion 14 days after the final hearing, while it took 11 days for former President Park Geun-hye. The court usually announces the verdict date just a few days before, and this time it's also likely to be confirmed two to three days in advance as well. However, there's a factor that we need to consider when it comes to the timeline, which is the appointment of the vacancy on the Constitutional Court's justice panel. The verdict on whether or not acting President Choi Sang-mok violated the Constitution in deferring the appointment of left-leaning court justice nominee Ma Eun-hyeok will be shared at 10 in the morning tomorrow. This legal dispute follows the filing of a lawsuit by Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik earlier this month after acting President Choi appointed just two of the three justice nominees, citing the lack of bipartisan support for Ma Eun-hyeok. If the Court upholds the jurisdictional dispute and Ma joins the bench, it will need to decide whether Ma should also participate in deliberating President Yoon's impeachment case. This could take additional time, particularly if Yoon's side requests a retrial to allow the new justice to review and familiarize himself with the case, potentially delaying the ruling. Today, opposition leader Lee Jae-myung's final hearing was held at an appellate court over election law violation charges. Tell us about that. Indeed, the final appellate trial hearing for main opposition Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung's violation of the Public Official Election Act was held this afternoon at the Seoul High Court. "What is meant by the world will follow common sense and principles. The court will make the right decision." In the original verdict, the Seoul Central District Court ruled that Lee had spread false information while disputing corruption allegations during his presidential campaign. During a media interview in 2021, Lee denied knowing a man involved in a land development scandal in Seongnam and was also reported to have made false claims during a related parliamentary audit. The court handed him a one-year prison sentence suspended for two years. If the Constitutional Court upholds the motion to impeach President Yoon, there will be an early presidential election within 60 days. The speed of the Supreme Court's review could become a crucial factor in Lee's presidential ambitions. If the first ruling stands, Lee will lose his legislative seat and be barred from running in elections for ten years. The decision on his appeal could come as early as the end of next month. However, there's a variable earlier this month, Lee filed a request with the appellate court for a constitutional review, seeking a ruling on the constitutionality of relevant legal provisions. If the court accepts the request, the trial will be suspended until the Constitutional Court issues a ruling. So far, the appellate court has yet to make a decision on this request. It looks like next month going to be a turning point for South Korea's political situation. Alright, thank you for the wrap-up, Ha-young. Thank you.

Pres.Yoon's final impeachment hearing concludes; verdict likely in mid-March

2025/02/26 20:00

Welcome to Within The Frame, where we bring the most pressing issues across the globe into focus, I'm Kim Mok-yeon. Following 11 rounds of arguments, the Constitutional Court has finished reviewing the allegations against President Yoon Suk Yeol, from obstruction of parliamentary activities to the use of emergency martial law directives. Now, with the final arguments concluded, all eyes are on the court as it prepares to deliver its verdict. In his final statement on Tuesday, President Yoon made a bold pledge—to push for constitutional reform if reinstated. He emphasized that a revision is essential to better fit the country's present and future. He also delivered two apologies, one to the people for the confusion caused by the emergency measures and another referencing young supporters who've faced legal trouble after his arrest. Now that the trial has concluded, let's delve into the prospects, and for this, we invite attorney Kim Jisu here in the studio with us. Welcome. Also joining us is Cho Hee-kyung, Professor of Law at Hongik University. Welcome, Professor. 1. (Kim) So attorney Kim, the impeachment trial of President Yoon concluded with its 11th and final hearing yesterday. How would you assess the proceedings of the trial so far? Do you believe the impeachment review has탄핵 재판이 충분히 진행되었다고 생각하십니까? 2. (Cho) Now let's bring in Prof.Cho to the conversation, during the 11th hearing, both the National Assembly and the President's legal team presented their final arguments on key issues, including obstruction of parliamentary activities and directives to detain politicians and legal professionals. In your view, what is the most critical issue that will determine the Constitutional Court's final decision? 3.(Kim) President Yoon made history as the first sitting president to personally deliver a final statement in an impeachment trial. During his 67-minute speech, he spent much of the time criticizing the major opposition party and justifying the emergency martial law measures. As a legal expert, what's your assessment? 4.(Cho) In his final remarks, President Yoon also issued a public apology and even suggested a constitutional amendment to shorten his term if he is reinstated. Prof.Cho, how should we interpret this? Do you think it could influence the Constitutional Court's decision? 5. (Kim) In past impeachment trials, it took about two weeks from the conclusion of arguments until the final ruling. In President Yoon's case, when do you anticipate the court will deliver its verdict? and what are the next steps following the final arguments attorney Kim? 6. (Cho) Meanwhile, the Constitutional Court is set to rule on February 27th regarding the authority dispute case over the non-appointment of Constitutional Court Justice nominee Ma Eun-hyuk. Professor Cho, Could this decision become a last-minute variable in the impeachment trial ruling? 7. (Kim) Shifting gears, President Yoon's legal team has reignited the so-called "warrant shopping" controversy, arguing that the CIO initially requested a warrant from the Seoul Central District Court for an investigation into President Yoon's insurrection charges, but after repeated rejections, ultimately obtained approval from the Seoul Western District Court. Given that the President's legal team has now submitted a detention cancellation request, do you think the latest controversy will influence the review of this request? 8. (Kim) Now with this, when do you expect a decision on President Yoon's detention cancellation request? If the ruling on this request comes before the impeachment verdict, could it have any impact on the final ruling? 9. (Cho) Now Prof. Cho, separate from the impeachment trial, President Yoon is also facing a criminal trial related to charges of leading an insurrection. Do you believe the outcome of the impeachment trial will have any impact on the progression of his criminal case?

Independence fighter Ahn Junggeun Memorial Museum to reopen with wider range of digital content

2025/02/26 17:00

This year Korea marks a hundred and 15 years since the execution of independence hero Ahn Jung-geun whose faith in freedom for Korea fueled his fight against Japanese occupation and its atrocities. That being said a memorial museum bearing his name is re-opening its doors also just in time for this weekend's March 1st Independence Movement Day. Our Kim Bo-kyoung reports. An independence fighter who cut off the tip of his left ring finger with 11 others as a symbol of sacrifice to their nation. A patriot who assassinated Japanese general Ito Hirobumi, firing three bullets into his chest and abdomen in Harbin, before being executed at Lushun Prison. Marking the 115th anniversary of his death, the Ahn Junggeun Memorial Museum held a re-opening ceremony on Wednesday. An expanded range of digital exhibits is part of the patriots' ministry's efforts to renew the memorial museums of Korea's patriots --Yun Bong-gil, Ahn Junggeun, and Baekbeom Kim Gu, commemorating the 80th anniversary of Korea's liberation. "Through introducing the latest digital content and immersive video rooms, visitors can now experience the life and independence movement of patriot Ahn Junggeun in a more vivid and interactive way." Ahn's commitment to the Enlightenment Movement in Korea, his role in the Righteous Army Movement along with his long journey are well-shown throughout the exhibition. But of course, the most noticeable part of the renewed exhibition is how it digitized major historical moments and lessons Ahn left. "If you put your hand on Ahn's handprint with his fingers cut off, it turns on the video on the wall showing Ahn pulling the trigger of his pistol to assassinate Ito Hirobumi, letting visitors feel the atmosphere at that moment." The museum recreated the courtroom as well, where Ahn explains why he shot Ito, citing 15 reasons, based on trial records. In the reproduced video, Ahn also talks about a treatise on peace in the East, which he wrote while at Lushun Prison, until his execution on March 26th, 1910. "I have always thought it has been difficult to convey why Ahn Junggeun shot Ito, the meaning behind it, and the ideals and dreams he envisioned. Through the renewal, I hope visitors will be able to easily understand Ahn's advanced philosophy on peace." People will be able to enjoy the renewed Ahn Junggeun Memorial Museum starting March 1st, Independence Movement Day. Kim Bo-kyoung, Arirang News.

S. Korea's Trade Minister to request tariff exemptions on U.S. trip

2025/02/26 17:00

Trade Minister Ahn Duk-geun is visiting the U.S. for talks on tariffs. Starting Wednesday local time Ahn is spending the remainder of this workweek in Washington D.C. meeting with relevant Trump administration officials to seek exemption from the 25 percent tariff on steel and aluminium imports slated to start on March 12 and exclusion from reciprocal tariffs set to go into effect in April. Ahn is also expected to propose ways to enhance partnership in sectors such as shipbuilding and energy.

Trump to replace EB-5 immigrant visa program with 'gold card' system

2025/02/26 17:00

Also in the U.S. A new visa program is in the works. The so-called "Trump gold card" will offer green card privileges and a path to U.S. citizenship at a price of five million U.S. dollars. Our Choi Min-jung has more. U.S. President Donald Trump plans to terminate the EB-5 immigrant investor visa program. Trump said Tuesday, that the EB-5 program,. which grants permanent residency to foreign nationals promising to invest in American businesses, will be replaced by a "gold card" system. This new pathway to citizenship would allow individuals to purchase residency for 5 million U.S. dollars. "And wealthy people will be coming into our country by buying this card. They'll be wealthy and they'll be successful and they'll be spending a lot of money and paying a lot of taxes and employing a lot of people. And we think it's going to be extremely successful." Trump said the new program could start in about two weeks. U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick explained that the measure was introduced because the cost of investment for the EB-5 program was too low at around 1 million dollars for investors that create at least 10 jobs. "It was full of nonsense, make-believe, and fraud. And it was a way to get a green card that was low priced. So the president said rather than having this sort of ridiculous EB-5 program, we're going to end the EB-5 program, we're going to replace it with the Trump gold card." Trump has also initiated a probe that could result in tariffs on copper imports. On Tuesday, Trump instructed the Department of Commerce to examine copper imports, and if the probe uncovers evidence of 덤핑, the administration could impose tariffs or quotas in response. Trump's decision is part of his broader effort to expand his protectionist trade policies. In 2018, he used a similar investigation to justify tariffs on steel and aluminum imports and plans to bring them back next month. Lutnick said Tuesday, that "it is time for copper to come home," arguing that foreign competition has severely weakened the American copper industry, just as it did with steel and aluminum. Copper is vital for numerous industries, including defense, with the U.S. importing 45 percent of its supply, mainly from Chile and Canada. Although the U.S. was once the world's top copper producer, it now ranks fifth. Choi Min-jung, Arirang News.

U.S., Ukraine set to agree minerals deal this week

2025/02/26 17:00

In other news. Following days of speculation there is now talk about Ukraine and the U.S being close to sealing a critical minerals deal within this week at the White House. Lee Seung-jae has the latest. The United States and Ukraine are reportedly closing in on signing a critical minerals deal, which is considered key to ending the three-year-long war in Ukraine. According to AFP, citing a Ukrainian government official, the agreement could be signed as early as Friday. Speaking on the condition of anonymity, the official said that the two countries agreed on the terms of the minerals deal, with government officials from both sides working on the details. The official also explained that the draft agreement mentions Ukraine's security guarantees, but does not explicitly include the U.S.'s role in it. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump on Tuesday told reporters that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy wants to come to Washington later this week to sign the minerals deal. According to multiple sources, Zelenskyy's visit is scheduled for Friday, which coincides with reports of when the minerals deal may be signed. Trump also stressed the need for peacekeeping troops in Ukraine if a ceasefire agreement is struck, however, Russia has refused to accept any deployment of NATO troops. Former U.S. Treasury Secretary Lawrence Summers under the former Bill Clinton administration slammed the minerals deal, pointing out that it's a clear departure from U.S. action in the past. In an interview with Bloomberg TV on Monday,.. Summers compared the Trump administration's minerals deal to that of the Treaty of Versailles, only it imposes a large sum of payment to the victims of aggression and not the aggressor. The Treaty of Versailles is a World War I peace treaty signed in 1919. The Allied powers, including Britain, France, and the United States, who won the war, imposed a huge war reparation on Germany. The minerals deal, if signed this week, will allow the U.S. to take 50 percent of Ukraine's mineral and natural resources revenues worth 500 billion dollars. But the deal would include not only revenue from rare earth, but also uranium, lithium, oil, gas, and even some port revenues. The deal also specifies that U.S. companies must hold 50 percent ownership of Ukraine's rare earth elements deposits. This would allow the U.S. to receive more than three times what was given to Kyiv for its military and humanitarian support in the past three years. Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.

Bipartisan agreement for special parliamentary committees on pension reform, climate, APEC 2025

2025/02/26 17:00

At the parliament earlier on this Wednesday rival lawmakers agreed to launch a special committee on national pension reform. In a meeting presided over by National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik ruling People Power Party Floor Leader Kweon Seong-dong and opposition Democratic Party Floor Leader Park Chan-dae also agreed to further address the prospects of setting up such a committee this coming Friday during talks with acting President Choi Sang-mok . Now aside from the committee on pension reform the rival floor leaders also agreed on two additional committees one for climate-related initiatives and another for APEC summit preparations as Korea's city of Gyeongju prepares to host the annual multi-lateral gathering in November.

Pres. Yoon makes final appeal against impeachment at last Constitutional Court hearing, offering to serve shorter term

2025/02/26 17:00

President Yoon Suk Yeol delivered an hour-long closing statement at the Constitutional Court late Tuesday at the final hearing of his impeachment trial. Our correspondent Oh Soo-young covers his remarks and more. President Yoon Suk Yeol said he would serve a shorter term and pursue Constitutional reform to reduce executive power, to build national unity, dignity and security, as he delivered his final argument against his impeachment. "The Constitutional Court held President Yoon's 11th and final impeachment hearing trial on Tuesday some 73 days after the National Assembly passed a motion to remove him from power, following his December third martial law order." Standing as the last speaker of his trial, Yoon delivered a 67-minute statement to the 8-member judicial bench. He reiterated his stance that martial law was a one-off plea to the people, as the nation faced a "state of emergency," largely prompted by legislative sabotage and budget cuts by the opposition party, which holds an overwhelming majority in parliament. He argued that he'd kept Cabinet procedures required to declare martial law, and outlined global uncertainties that require executive attention. Yoon said if he were to resume his duties, he would pursue political reform and effective governance through Constitutional amendments. Still, the leader apologized for the confusion and inconvenience caused by his martial law decree. This comes as the ruling People Power Party endorse Constitutional revision to shorten the five-year presidential term, as removing Yoon from office would prompt a snap election, which would favor the opposition party. If Yoon is not impeached, he would resume his duties immediately with his term ending in May 2027. National Assembly impeachment panel co-chair Jung Chung-rae said in his closing statement, that the public has already rejected Yoon,.. and urged the Court to uphold impeachment. "President Yoon took the oath of office to uphold the Constitution and defend the nation, yet he sent martial law troops to invade the National Assembly and trampled on the Constitution The respondent no longer has the qualifications to remain as president. He is no longer the president in the hearts of the people." During the two hours assigned to each legal team, the Assembly's panel also emphasized its grounds for impeaching the leader, arguing his martial law order was illegal and unconstitutional in both procedure and substance. Yoon's lawyers meanwhile continued to defend its legitimacy and legality, arguing that the alleged orders to drag out lawmakers from the National Assembly and arrest high-profile figures had not been given nor implemented. With the hearings concluded the impeachment trial is now entering its final phase. For now, the Constitutional Court is likely to reveal its decision on around March 11th. In South Korea's past two presidential impeachment trials, the ruling came eleven and fourteen days after the final hearings. But, one variable that could affect the timeline is the Court's verdict on Thursday, on a dispute case over Acting President Choi Sang-mok's decision not to appoint left-leaning judge Ma Eun-hyuk as a Constitutional Court justice. If the Court upholds the jurisdictional dispute and Ma joins the bench, the Court will have to decide whether Ma would also deliberate on President Yoon's impeachment case. This could require more time for consideration, especially as Yoon's side might request a retrial process for the new justice to review and familiarize himself with the trial pushing back the date of the ruling. Oh Soo-young, Arirang News.

World News: Mexico holding talks with U.S. ahead of tariff pause deadline

2025/02/26 17:00

This is The World Now, bringing you the latest stories around the globe. As the deadline for the exemption of U.S. tariffs on Mexican goods approaches, negotiations are taking place to reach a mutually beneficial trade agreement. On Tuesday local time, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said discussions with the U.S. are underway, aiming to prevent the imposition of tariffs on Mexican exports. This follows a previous agreement in early February, where both nations consented to a one-month suspension of tariffs, set to expire on March 4. The proposed U.S. tariffs include a 25% duty on all imports from Mexico. Mexico currently sends approximately 80% of its exports to the United States. President Donald Trump has stated that these tariffs are "on time" and "on schedule" to commence as planned. In response, President Sheinbaum expressed optimism about reaching a resolution but has also indicated that Mexico is prepared to implement retaliatory tariffs if necessary. Germany's new chancellor-in-waiting, Friedrich Merz, is facing significant fiscal challenges in his bid to boost the nation's defense spending. Following his party's recent election win, Merz has prioritized bolstering Germany's defense infrastructure, especially in light of recent global tensions and shifting alliances. Merz had about 90 minutes of talks with outgoing chancellor Olaf Scholz on Tuesday local time and discussed ways to circumvent strict restrictions on debt so he could spend more on the military. There is increased urgency to raise military spending, due to concerns over the United States' potential isolationist stance under President Donald Trump, and the need for Europe to assume greater independence for its security. However, efforts are impeded by the constitutional "debt brake" which restricts federal borrowing to 0.35% of the nation's GDP. To navigate the debt brake constraints,.. Merz is exploring the establishment of a special defense fund, potentially amounting to 200 billion euros. In Chile, a massive power outage swept across Chile on Tuesday local time, , leaving millions without power. The blackout, which affected 14 of the country's 16 regions, including the capital, Santiago, was triggered by a failure in a 500 kilovolt transmission line in the Norte Chico region. The disruption caused widespread halt of public services, including traffic signals and businesses. Mining operations, the backbone of Chile's economy, were also impacted with some major sites experiencing power losses. The interior ministor ruled out cyberattacks as the cause and authorities are working on recovery efforts. Venezuela is celebrating its first saint, as Pope Francis on Tuesday authorized the canonization of Dr. Jose Gregorio Hernandez, known as the "doctor of the poor." Born in 1864, Hernandez was a physician renowned for his dedication to the underprivileged. He died in 1919 after being struck by a car while obtaining medicine for a patient. Beatified in April 2021, his canonization date will be set in a forthcoming meeting of cardinals. The historic event sparked a surge in sales of religious items and literature related to Hernandez, reflecting his reverence among Venezuelans. Choi Chi-hee, Arirang News.

S. Korea's Trade Minister to request tariff exemptions on U.S. trip

2025/02/26 10:00

South Korea's Trade Minister Ahn Duk-geun is visiting the U.S. to push for tariff exemptions from the Trump administration. Starting Wednesday, Ahn will spend three days in Washington, D.C., meeting with government officials, including those from the Department of Commerce. He is seeking exemptions from the 25 percent tariffs on steel and other items and will request South Korea's exclusion from reciprocal tariffs set to take effect on April 1. He will also propose ways to enhance cooperation between Korea and the U.S. in sectors such as shipbuilding and energy.

On-point: Will minerals deal be a foundation for lasting peace or just an unfair bargain?

2025/02/26 10:00

As Trump touted, it appears Ukraine WILL sign the deal over U.S. access to Ukraine's mineral deposits. Will the deal be a foundation for lasting peace or merely an unfair bargain? We are joined by Professor Andrew Millard. Good morning. 1. Is signing the deal the best that Ukraine can do at this stage? Trump says Ukraine has no card to play. 2. When do you think Ukraine will be invited to actual peace talks? When will Trump and Putin invite Zelenskyy to their talks? 3. Some countries, including Japan, appear to be not as proactive when it comes to aiding Ukraine now. Is it because of its relations with the U.S.? Is Japan walking on eggshells? 4. What do you think is the likelihood that Trump will urge other countries to chip in to end the Ukraine war? What will Trump demand? To which countries? 5. It can be good news for the Ukrainian people if the war does finally come to an end. Or will Ukrainians not be happy that Trump and Putin are leading the peacemaking? Would you say Zelenskyy's leadership is at risk now? Thanks so much for sharing your insight with us this morning. We appreciate it.

U.S. deputy defense secretary nominee vows to counter N. Korea, China

2025/02/26 10:00

The nominee for U.S. deputy secretary of defense, Stephen Feinberg, has stressed the need to prevent North Korea from advancing its nuclear and missile programs. In a written response to the Senate Armed Services Committee during his confirmation hearing on Tuesday, he warned that North Korea's growing weapons program threatens stability in the Korean Peninsula, Korean Peninsula, Indo-Pacific and beyond. Feinberg underscored the importance of strengthening U.S. missile defense, particularly to protect the homeland. He also pointed to China's expanding military capabilities, aimed at increasing regional influence and countering U.S. power. The nominee stated that if confirmed, he would prioritize strengthening the U.S. force posture in the Indo-Pacific to deter China's aggression.

Trump to replace EB-5 immigrant visa program with 'gold card' system

2025/02/26 10:00

The U.S. is set to end the EB-5 immigrant investor visa program, replacing it with a new "gold card" system that offers a pathway to citizenship for 5 million U.S. dollars. Choi Min-jung has more. U.S. President Donald Trump plans to terminate the EB-5 immigrant investor visa program. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick announced on Tuesday,. that the, quote, "low-priced" EB-5 program,. which grants permanent residency to foreign nationals promising to invest in American businesses, will be replaced by a "gold card" system. This new pathway to citizenship would allow individuals to purchase residency for 5 million U.S. dollars. "We're going to make sure they're wonderful world class, global citizens. They can come to America the president can give them a green card and they can invest in America, and we can use that money to reduce our deficit." Trump has also initiated a probe that could result in tariffs on copper imports. On Tuesday, Trump instructed the Department of Commerce to examine copper imports, and if the probe uncovers evidence of dumping, the administration could impose tariffs or quotas in response. Trump's decision is part of his broader effort to expand his protectionist trade policies. In 2018, he used a similar investigation to justify tariffs on steel and aluminum imports and plans to bring them back next month. Lutnick said Tuesday, that "it is time for copper to come home," arguing that foreign competition has severely weakened the American copper industry, just as it did with steel and aluminum. Copper is vital for numerous industries, including defense, with the U.S. importing 45 percent of its supply, mainly from Chile and Canada. Although the U.S. was once the world's top copper producer, it now ranks fifth. Choi Min-jung, Arirang News.

U.S., Ukraine set to agree minerals deal this week

2025/02/26 10:00

The U.S. and Ukraine may be on the brink of signing a minerals deal worth 500 billion U.S. dollars. The announcement comes as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is reportedly set to visit the U.S. to meet with President Donald Trump. Lee Seung-jae reports. The United States and Ukraine are reportedly closing in on signing a critical minerals deal, which is considered key to ending the three-year-long war in Ukraine. According to AFP, citing a Ukrainian government official, the agreement could be signed as early as Friday. Speaking on the condition of anonymity, the official said that the two countries agreed on the terms of the minerals deal, with government officials from both sides working on the details. The official also explained that the draft agreement mentions Ukraine's security guarantees, but does not explicitly include the U.S.'s role in it. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump on Tuesday told reporters that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy wants to come to Washington later this week to sign the minerals deal. According to multiple sources, Zelenskyy's visit is scheduled for Friday, which coincides with reports of when the minerals deal may be signed. Trump also stressed the need for peacekeeping troops in Ukraine if a ceasefire agreement is struck, however, Russia has refused to accept any deployment of NATO troops. Former U.S. Treasury Secretary Lawrence Summers under the former Bill Clinton administration slammed the minerals deal, pointing out that it's a clear departure from U.S. action in the past. In an interview with Bloomberg TV on Monday,.. Summers compared the Trump administration's minerals deal to that of the Treaty of Versailles, only it imposes a large sum of payment to the victims of aggression and not the aggressor. The Treaty of Versailles is a World War I peace treaty signed in 1919. The Allied powers, including Britain, France, and the United States, who won the war, imposed a huge war reparation on Germany. The minerals deal, if signed this week, will allow the U.S. to take 50 percent of Ukraine's mineral and natural resources revenues worth 500 billion dollars. But the deal would include not only revenue from rare earth, but also uranium, lithium, oil, gas, and even some port revenues. The deal also specifies that U.S. companies must hold 50 percent ownership of Ukraine's rare earth elements deposits. This would allow the U.S. to receive more than three times what was given to Kyiv for its military and humanitarian support in the past three years. Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.