News

U.S. presses Israel to reenter Gaza talks, delay offensive

2025/05/26 10:00

The U.S. has pressed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to delay plans for a full-scale ground offensive in Gaza. That's according to a report in the Jerusalem Post on Sunday that said the request was made to in order to allow ceasefire negotiations and a hostage deal "proceed in parallel with military operations." With the ceasefire negotiations deadlocked, Israel has intensified its bombardment and ground invasion in Gaza with reports saying that the Israeli army controls over 77-percent of the Gaza Strip. In Gaza, a four-year-old child died on Saturday due to severe malnutrition, bringing the death toll from hunger-related causes in the besieged enclave to 58. Nine children were also killed in an Israeli airstrike that struck a family home in Khan Younis on Friday.

Russia launches largest aerial assault of three-year war on Ukraine

2025/05/26 10:00

Russia's massive aerial assault on Ukraine over the weekend left at least 12 people dead, including children. Ukrainian leader blasted Washington over its silence. Our Kim Bo-kyoung has the details. At least 12 people were killed and 60 wounded in different regions of Ukraine, after the Kremlin launched a series of air assaults throughout Ukraine late Saturday night. Among those killed were three children from the same family in the Zhytomyr region – west of Kyiv – according to Ukraine's internal affairs minister. "Let the world wake up and see. How long can they bomb children? We go to bed and do not know what awaits us in the morning." Nearly three-hundred attack drones and almost 70 missiles of various types were fired, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on his social media X account, where he said ordinary citizens were subject to deliberate attacks. Zelenskyy condemned America's silence, saying it encouraged Putin, and asked for sanctions that would show the determination of the U.S. and European countries, to stop Russia's brutality. Later on Sunday, U.S. President Donald Trump's Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia, Keith Kellogg, called Russia's overnight attacks a "clear violation of the 1977 Geneva Peace Protocols designed to protect innocents." The protocol, is an annex to the Geneva Conventions signed in 1949, containing provisions for the protection of victims of international armed conflicts. Europe too, strongly condemned Russia and warned of additional sanctions. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said Putin, having no interest in peace, should not be tolerated and that the EU will agree to further sanctions. EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas was on the same page, stating the strongest international pressure was needed to make Russia end the war. The assault overnight into Sunday came, despite the largest prisoner swap of the war taking place. Ukraine brought home 303 prisoners of war on Sunday in the final phase of a one-thousand-for-one-thousand prisoner exchange with Russia. Kim Bo-kyoung, Arirang News.

Political mudslinging takes over policy talk during 2nd live debate between presidential candidates

2025/05/26 10:00

And on Friday, political mudslinging took over the talk on social policy as the four leading presidential contenders held their second debate. Our Oh Soo-young has the highlights. While promising social unity, presidential candidates clashed ferociously over politics and policy in their second televised debate. Focusing on social affairs, Friday's topics were social division, social safety nets, and sustainability. The Democratic Party's Lee Jae-myung said he would overcome social division and inequality with technology such as AI,.. and continue to improve the current national pension system. As the former labor minister, the People Power Party's Kim Moon-soo promised to build wider income safety nets for small businesses, with improved pension schemes. Reform candidate Lee Jun-seok proposed a major pension overhaul, pointing out the two major parties' legislative revision last year, benefits the older generation while adding a 37-thousand-dollar burden on every young Korean. He also called for cuts to unnecessary, high-tech scans that ramp up health insurance premiums. Democratic Labor's Kwon Young-kook suggested doubling the basic pension to over 500 U.S. dollars, and building scores of state-run hospitals. Candidates also clashed over climate and energy policies. Left-leaning candidates continued pushing for renewable energy sources over nuclear power. Kim Moon-soo and Lee Jun-seok argued that nuclear power is much more efficient, affordable, and essential to support future industries like AI. But politics overrode policy throughout the two-hour debate. Lee Jae-myung said Kim Moon-soo was part of the impeached Yoon Suk Yeol administration that declared martial law last year. “The most extreme form of social conflict is an insurrection by martial law. Weren't they trying to completely wipe out the opposition?” Kim Moon-soo accused Lee's party of insurrection, for handing radical left-wing groups seats in parliament, and underscored Lee's five criminal trials. “In corruption cases like Baekhyeon-dong and Daejang-dong, just look at how many people close to him are in prison, or have died under suspicious circumstances? Uprooting lies and corruption is the first step toward national unity.” Lee Jun-seok blasted both the leading parties. He said that while the conservatives are tarnished with Yoon's martial law, the majority Democratic Party is just as guilty of creating a broken society. "You should be ashamed. Those who are jointly responsible for wrecking the country show up in red and blue only different in color fighting over power, in a shameless world." The third and final live debate takes place on Tuesday, focusing on politics. Oh Soo-young, Arirang News.

Last weekend before early voting starts candidates try to amplify messages

2025/05/26 10:00

With that being said, this past weekend was the final weekend before early voting, which kept the contenders busier than ever. The liberal party's Lee Jae-myung spent the weekend promising the people to revitalize the economy, while the People Power Party continued to request a merger with the Reform Party. Our Kim Do-yeon reports. The Democratic Party candidate Lee Jae-myung held a press conference on Sunday ahead of early voting later this week, where he reiterated that restoring the economy is his top priority. But he also reminded voters of what triggered the election in the first place: the declaration of martial law. “Those who threatened our constitutional order and public safety must be held accountable. But I will not engage in political retaliation targeting individuals.” On the economic front, Lee pledged to launch a presidential emergency task force to tackle inflation and tariffs and said a supplementary budget will follow to jumpstart growth. Lee spent Sunday in the Chungcheong-do provinces after making stops in Gyeonggi-do Province, a familiar region where he previously served as governor. Both areas are key swing regions expected to play a decisive role in the race. Kim Moon-soo of the People Power Party chose Gyeongsangbuk-do Province, a conservative stronghold, for Saturday. In Daegu, Kim met with former President Park Geun-hye and argued that her impeachment had been unjust the location and message come as he tries to strengthen support among traditional PPP supporters who aren't so enthusiastic yet. But at the same time, he appeared to draw a line between himself and another impeached president, Yoon Suk Yeol. “Criticism that the party is controlled by the president and his aides will no longer stand. I will put an end to power-driven, factional politics.” Kim pledged to revise the PPP charter to block presidential interference in party affairs seen as a direct response to criticism over Yoon’s role in internal decisions. Meanwhile, Reform Party candidate Lee Jun-seok campaigned in the capital region targeting younger voters and doubling down on attacks against both rivals: Lee Jae-myung for progressive economic policies, and Kim Moon-soo for his stance on martial law. As ballots began printing on Sunday, Lee’s name was confirmed as the fourth on the list, regardless of any merger talks with the PPP. Kim Do-yeon, Arirang News.

[WEEKLY FOCUS] 4.5-day workweek? How S. Korea's presidential candidates aim to reform labor, housing policies

2025/05/24 12:00

We are now about 10 days away from the big election day, and candidates’ pledges especially on the economy are beginning to draw more attention. Following last week's coverage on AI and trade, this week, we take a closer look at their plans for labor reform and housing. For more on this, we are joined in the studio by our economics correspondent Lee Soo-jin. Welcome Soo-jin. Great to be here. Let's start with labor reform. Can you tell us how the candidates are proposing to improve labor conditions? Sure, so South Korea's presidential candidates are hoping to win the votes of those wishing for a better work-life balance by, as you said, improving labor conditions. To do so, the two frontrunners have proposed a 4-point-5-day workweek. The current standard workweek is five days, and most full-time workers log 40 hours from Monday to Friday, with a legal maximum of 52 hours per week. The 5-day workweek was introduced under a 2003 revision to the Labor Standards Act, and fully implemented nationwide by 2011. Now, attention is on whether a 4-point-5 workweek will become a reality this year. And here's how an expert assesses the key goals behind the two leading candidates’ proposals. Let's take a listen. "he also focused on a 4-point-5 day workweek that is aimed at reducing worker fatigue and improving their work-life balance, with the hope that it would boost productivity. If you look at Kim Moon-soo's proposal, he believes that with good negotiations between workers and employers, a more flexible situation can be achieved without dramatic changes." So, can you walk us through what each candidate's 4-point-5 day workweek looks like? To start off with Democratic Party candidate Lee Jae-myung, just as we heard from the expert, his focus is on easing worker burnout. He has proposed reducing the standard workweek from 40 to 36 hours by cutting Friday afternoons, without reducing wages. The proposal also includes providing incentives for companies to adopt the new schedule, and has the long-term goal of eventually transitioning to a 4-day workweek. "South Korea’s total working hours are too long, about 200 hours more than the OECD average. Longer hours no longer mean higher productivity; efficiency and creativity are now key." People Power Party candidate Kim Moon-soo has proposed a 4-point-5 day workweek that maintains the current 40 hours by redistributing working hours across the other four days in the week. Under this plan, employees work one extra hour from Monday to Thursday, and finish earlier on Friday, creating a shorter workday without cutting total weekly hours. He has also said that he supports granting exemptions to the 52-hour workweek limit for the semiconductor sector. "I will replace the rigid working hours system with a more flexible one; cut corporate and inheritance taxes significantly, and drastically reform regulations to help businesses thrive." Reform Party candidate Lee Jun-seok has strongly criticized the 4-point-5-day workweek proposal that reduces working hours without cutting wages, calling it unrealistic. He has instead pledged labor reforms that include giving local governments the authority to adjust the minimum wage to revitalize regional economies. Now turning to housing pledges, how do they compare? Housing is a key issue for all three candidates,. as the country's residence crisis has fueled voter concern, and also contributed to the country’s low birth rate. While they all aim to increase supply, their approaches differ, here’s how. The key theme of Lee Jae-myung's housing proposal is the "New Town." South Korea’s first New Town project from the late 1980s, which includes Bundang and Ilsan, now faces an aging infrastructure that he plans to rebuild. Lee has also pledged to cut red tape for Seoul’s downtown redevelopment, and to develop a 4th-generation New Town with more quality public housing. The key theme of Kim's proposal is "youth." Kim’s “3•3•3” Youth housing supply plan offers support for up to 9 years, 3 years after marriage, and 3 years each after a first and second child. His proposal includes supplying 200-thousand homes for young adults, newlyweds and families, and more housing for single-person households. The key theme of Lee Jun-seok's proposal is "life stages." He plans to increase the supply of 59㎡ homes by promoting the redevelopment and building of small-unit housing. Lee pledged to promote high-density urban development, citing strong housing demand, and proposed housing tax cuts tailored to newlyweds seeking smaller homes, growing families needing more space, and seniors looking to downsize. How can candidates reassure voters that these pledges will be carried out? Right, so feasibility has been raised as a key area of concern. And it looks like it will be crucial for candidates to make it clear to voters that they will be able to bridge the gap between parties to move policies forward. Here's what an expert said. "I think for the next six months after the new administration, everything depends upon how successful the National Assembly and government are in coming up with a revolutionary deregulation framework. All we need is a political consensus, which I think is very possible." Thank you for coming in today, Soo-jin. Thank you for having me.

Trump administration blocks Harvard University from enrolling foreign students

2025/05/23 19:00

The U.S. is ending Harvard University's eligibility to enroll foreign students amid tensions between the school and the Trump administration, which is expected to affect hundreds of international students in that school. Lee Seung-jae has details. The Trump administration has barred Harvard University from enrolling international students moving forward. According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on Thursday, it has revoked the school's Student and Exchange Visitor Program certification saying that Harvard "has created an unsafe campus environment by permitting anti-American, pro-terrorist agitators to harass and physically assault individuals, including many Jewish students, and otherwise obstruct its once-venerable learning environment." The DHS added that many of the "agitators are foreign students." The latest ban also means that currently enrolled students at the Ivy League school must transfer or lose their legal status. The move comes as Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem ordered the DHS to terminate the school's Student and Exchange Visitor Program certification, due to the university's refusal to hand over the conduct records of international students, as requested last month. In an interview with Fox News on Thursday, Noem said that her department is "absolutely" considering similar measures for other universities, including Columbia University. She stressed that what has happened to Harvard should be a warning to all other universities to get their "act together." The Trump administration's revoking of Harvard's Student and Exchange Visitor Program certification means 68-hundred international students enrolled in the school must transfer to keep hold of their legal status in the U.S. Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.

S. Korea concludes 2nd tariff talks with U.S. ahead of presidential election

2025/05/23 19:00

Trade officials of Korea and the U.S. ended their latest technical talks in Washington, where the U.S. reportedly addressed non-tariff barrier issues. A tangible deal is expected under the new Korean government. Moon Ji-young has the latest. South Korea and the U.S. concluded the second round of working-level consultations in Washington, D.C., on Thursday. These talks come as South Korea seeks to negotiate product-specific tariffs and the reciprocal tariffs imposed by the Donald Trump administration. The Korean delegation, led by Chang Sung-gil , Director-General of Trade Policy at the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, met with officials from the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative. The technical discussions focused on six key areas: balanced trade, non-tariff measures, economic security, digital trade, country of origin, and commercial considerations. The U.S. side reportedly raised specific issues concerning Korea's non-tariff barriers, as detailed in the USTR's report from late March. That report listed 21 measures, including restrictions on imports of U.S. beef from cattle over 30 months old, digital trade barriers, and the "offset" defense trade policy. Washington wants Seoul to lower non-tariff barriers and expand imports from the U.S. to reduce trade deficits. The South Korean government intends to conclude negotiations with the U.S. after a new president takes office following the upcoming June 3rd election. "Once the election's over, then the new government, actually the administration team is going to start negotiating. So, if they make too much hasty decisions, and then, if the new government is going to just flip everything, that's going to be super costly in terms of both reputation and also actual time and efforts." Seoul aims to minimize the rates of the Trump administration's new duties, including 25-percent reciprocal tariffs as well as sectoral tariffs including 25-percent levies on automobiles, steel, and aluminum before July 8th, when Trump's 90-day suspension of reciprocal tariffs ends. Moon Ji-young, Arirang News.

U.S. could withdraw troops from S. Korea amid tensions with China

2025/05/23 19:00

The U.S. is reportedly exploring the option of relocating more than 4-thousand American troops from South Korea to elsewhere in the Indo-Pacific. The idea is yet to be confirmed by President Trump, but raises concerns over security on the Korean Peninsula. Our foreign affairs correspondent Bae Eun-ji covers this report. The U.S. is reportedly considering withdrawing around 4-thousand-500 American troops from South Korea to Guam or other locations in the Indo Pacific region. That's about 16-percent of the total number of U.S. forces in South Korea, where there are roughly 28-thousand-500 troops. Citing defense officials familiar with the matter, the Wall Street Journal reported on Thursday that the idea is being developed by the Pentagon, for consideration by Trump as part of an informal policy review. While adding the proposal has yet to reach Trump's desk, it said this is one of several ideas under discussion by senior officials. Since his first term, Trump has considered changing the U.S. footprint in South Korea --which relies on close coordination with American forces to deter threats from the North. "It depends. We pay for military over in Europe. We don't get reimbursed by much. South Korea too." But the head of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command has presented negative views about the idea of a troop drawdown in a Senate hearing last month, saying the loss of the force on the Korean Peninsula, would mean a higher probability that North Korea would invade. "As General Brunson said, North Korea's development of advanced nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles pose a direct threat to our homeland and our allies, and are executing a deepening cooperation with Russia." Trump has been hinting at an attempt to renegotiate a deal on sharing the costs for American troops stationed in Korea, saying Washington cannot be taken advantage of any longer in military and trade. He's described South Korea as a "money machine," insisting that Seoul should be paying 10 billion dollars a year. Experts suggest pulling troops out of Korea could mean the Trump administration is looking to redeploy them to areas that better align with priority goals such as countering China. "What the United States is saying is: we're currently focused on China, so we want our allies to take responsibility in terms of conventional defense capabilities, while we are willing to fully support in areas such as nuclear deterrence. And in return, the U.S. is asking for help in preparing to respond to potential conflicts with China, especially in the event of a Taiwan contingency." Seoul's defense ministry explained there hasn't been any discussions with Washington over a possible troop reduction. The Pentagon reportedly said there were no policy announcements to make. Bae Eun-ji, Arirang News.

Presidential candidates scale back their campaigns ahead of second televised debate

2025/05/23 19:00

Presidential hopefuls are gearing up for tonight's second face-off, having spent the day with minimal campaign activities. The DP's candidate wrapped up his trip to a southeastern village where he paid tribute to late President Roh Moo-hyun on the 16th anniversary of his death while the PPP's candidate attended a prayer breakfast in the morning, calling for unity. Our correspondent Shin Ha-young reports. The rival parties' presidential candidates scaled back their campaigns on Friday ahead of their second televised debate this evening. Instead, Democratic Party presidential candidate Lee Jae-myung wrapped up his trip to Gyeongsangnam-do Province after paying tribute to the late liberal President Roh Moo-hyun on the 16th anniversary of his passing away. "While paying tribute to former President Roh Moo-hyun, I reaffirmed my commitment to building a country where the people are respected as the rightful owners and can live happily." Lee met former President Moon Jae-in for lunch, during which Moon said now was a crucial time for South Korea and urged Lee to take responsibility in creating a country that respects the people. "With just 11 days to go to the 21st presidential election, key political figures from across the political spectrum gathered in Bongha Village, located in the city of Gimhae." Attendees of a memorial service included former President Moon Jae-in and his wife, National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik, and People Power Party interim leader Kim Yong-tae. In a social media post, Kim said former President Roh Moo-hyun put the country and its people first, beyond political affiliation, and said he would remember Roh's hope for a world without injustice or privilege. Meanwhile, the PPP's Kim Moon-soo attended a prayer breakfast for the nation and its people, where he emphasized unity, saying that economic struggles and social division have worsened conflict. The PPP said Kim's support is growing and expressed hope that he could lead in the polls before early voting starts if the trend continues. "In the end, Kim Moon-soo's distinct character, proven skills, and clear vision will bring him victory. As the election passes the halfway point, support is starting to pick up across the country." With the candidates set to fully resume their rallies after the debate, they are expected to put their utmost efforts into the final week of the official presidential campaign. Shin Ha-young, Arirang News, Gimhae.

Final opinion polls for S. Korea's Presidential Election indicates surprisingly tighter race

2025/05/23 17:00

Today we start with a gauge of voter sentiment AHEAD of the two-day early voting that begins next Thursday and the snap election on June 3rd. Oh Soo-youg has our top story. With just eleven days until the June 3rd Presidential Election, the stakes are higher in the final public opinion polls,.. and the candidates' televised debates. Gallup's final survey conducted this week, shows the Democratic Party's Lee Jae-myung is still ahead with 46 percent support. But compared to a week earlier, his approval dropped six points, while his main rival Kim Moon-soo of the People Power Party, has gained seven points narrowing the gap between them from 22 points to 10. Meanwhile, the Reform Party's Lee Jun-seok saw his support jump to 10 percent marking two-digit figures for the first time in this race The final National Barometer Survey on Thursday showed a similar trend. Lee Jae-myung lost three points while Kim Moon-soo and Lee Jun-seok scored higher ratings at 32 percent, and 10 percent. It seems conservatives and moderates have been solidifying their votes as Election Day draws near. The gap between the main liberal and conservative candidates shrunk to about one-third of last week's level, in the Seoul capital region. "If you look at the regional voter distribution released monthly by Gallup Korea, conservatives actually outnumber progressives. Given this numerical advantage, how actively conservatives are willing to vote in this election is, in my view, critically important." Among independent voters, who don't affiliate themselves with any party, preference for the DP and Reform candidates was neck and neck, while the PPP contender fell to third place. Younger Koreans,.. regarded swing voters, also made decisive moves. Among voters aged 29 and under, support for Reform's Lee Jun-seok jumped to 26 percent, closely behind the DP's Lee Jae-myung's 30 percent. The PPP's Kim Moon-soo was significantly behind at 19 percent. As all candidates aim to solidify their support base, the number of respondents who said they could switch the candidate they vote for, fell one percentage point to 16 percent. More than 8 in 10 people say they'll vote in this election. According to the NBS survey,.. voters believe the biggest tasks for the new president will be reviving the local economy, reforming the structure of politics, and reducing social conflict. The leading presidential hopefuls will hold a second televised debate on Friday night, focusing on societal issues. Regardless of their preferred candidate, Korean adults under 40 believed the Harvard-educated Lee Jun-seok performed the best at the candidates' first live debate last Sunday, which touched upon trade and the economy. Those in their 40s and 50s, who are left leaning, overwhelmingly backed the DP candidate, and those over 70 believed PPP's Kim Moon-soo had outshined others in the TV debate. Oh Soo-young, Arirang News.

Putin’s security buffer zone plan along Ukraine border underway

2025/05/23 17:00

Russia is creating a buffer zone along its border with Ukraine. Intentions to this end were shared by its leader Vladimir Putin on Thursday while addressing his government officials. Ukraine for its part has condemned the construction of the so-called "security buffer zone" with its Foreign Ministry calling it quote "aggressive". This latest development comes one day ahead of a planned prisoner swap between the two countries that was agreed during bilateral talks last week in Türkiye.

Trump administration blocks Harvard University from enrolling foreign students

2025/05/23 17:00

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security is ending Harvard University's eligibility to enroll foreign students in a dramatic escalation of tensions between the prestigious school and the Trump administration. Lee Seung-jae has details. The Trump administration has barred Harvard University from enrolling international students moving forward. According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on Thursday, it has revoked the school's Student and Exchange Visitor Program certification saying that Harvard "has created an unsafe campus environment by permitting anti-American, pro-terrorist agitators to harass and physically assault individuals, including many Jewish students, and otherwise obstruct its once-venerable learning environment." The DHS added that many of the "agitators are foreign students." The latest ban also means that currently enrolled students at the Ivy League school must transfer or lose their legal status. The move comes as Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem ordered the DHS to terminate the school's Student and Exchange Visitor Program certification, due to the university's refusal to hand over the conduct records of international students, as requested last month. In an interview with Fox News on Thursday, Noem said that her department is "absolutely" considering similar measures for other universities, including Columbia University. She stressed that what has happened to Harvard should be a warning to all other universities to get their "act together." The Trump administration's revoking of Harvard's Student and Exchange Visitor Program certification means 68-hundred international students enrolled in the school must transfer to keep hold of their legal status in the U.S. Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.

Overseas S. Korean troops begin voting in upcoming presidential election: JCS

2025/05/23 17:00

South Korean troops deployed overseas began casting their ballots for the 21st Presidential Election back on Tuesday. The Hanbit Unit in South Sudan and the Dongmyeong Unit in Lebanon both deployed as part of UN peacekeeping operations set up polling stations within their bases with officials from the defense and foreign ministries and the National Election Commission dispatched as observers. Members of the Akh Unit deployed to the UAE are voting at the Korean Embassy there while the Cheonghae Unit is heading to the Korean Embassy in Oman.

U.S. could withdraw troops from S. Korea amid tensions with China

2025/05/23 17:00

An American daily says the U.S. Defense Department is exploring the option of relocating some American soldiers stationed here in South Korea to other parts of the Indo-Pacific. Bae Eun-ji covers this report. The U.S. is reportedly considering withdrawing around 4-thousand-500 American troops from South Korea to Guam or other locations in the Indo Pacific region. That's about 16-percent of the total number of U.S. forces in South Korea, where there are roughly 28-thousand-500 troops. Citing defense officials familiar with the matter, the Wall Street Journal reported on Thursday that the idea is being developed by the Pentagon, for consideration by Trump as part of an informal policy review. While adding the proposal has yet to reach Trump's desk, it said this is one of several ideas under discussion by senior officials. Since his first term, Trump has considered changing the U.S. footprint in South Korea which relies on close coordination with American forces to deter threats from the North. "It depends. We pay for military over in Europe. We don't get reimbursed by much. South Korea too." But the head of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command has presented negative views about the idea of a troop drawdown in a Senate hearing last month, saying the loss of the force on the Korean Peninsula, would mean a higher probability that North Korea would invade. "As General Brunson said, North Korea's development of advanced nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles pose a direct threat to our homeland and our allies, and are executing a deepening cooperation with Russia." Trump has been hinting at an attempt to renegotiate a deal on sharing the costs for American troops stationed in Korea, saying Washington cannot be taken advantage of any longer in military and trade. He's described South Korea as a "money machine," insisting that Seoul should be paying 10 billion dollars a year. Experts suggest pulling troops out of Korea could mean the Trump administration is looking to redeploy them to areas that better align with priority goals such as countering China. "What the United States is saying is: we're currently focused on China, so we want our allies to take responsibility in terms of conventional defense capabilities, while we are willing to fully support in areas such as nuclear deterrence. And in return, the U.S. is asking for help in preparing to respond to potential conflicts with China, especially in the event of a Taiwan contingency." Seoul's defense ministry explained there hasn't been any discussions with Washington over a possible troop reduction. The Pentagon reportedly said there were no policy announcements to make. Bae Eun-ji, Arirang News.

S. Korea concludes 2nd tariff talks with U.S. ahead of presidential election

2025/05/23 17:00

Trade delegates from Seoul and their counterparts in Washington D.C. ended their latest technical talks on tariffs amid hopes for a tangible deal once a new administration enters the top office here on June 4th. Moon Ji-young has the latest. South Korea and the U.S. concluded the second round of working-level consultations in Washington, D.C., on Thursday. These talks come as South Korea seeks to negotiate product-specific tariffs and the reciprocal tariffs imposed by the Donald Trump administration. The Korean delegation, led by Chang Sung-gil , Director-General of Trade Policy at the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, met with officials from the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative. The technical discussions focused on six key areas: balanced trade, non-tariff measures, economic security, digital trade, country of origin, and commercial considerations. The U.S. side reportedly raised specific issues concerning Korea's non-tariff barriers, as detailed in the USTR's report from late March. That report listed 21 measures, including restrictions on imports of U.S. beef from cattle over 30 months old, digital trade barriers, and the "offset" defense trade policy. Washington wants Seoul to lower non-tariff barriers and expand imports from the U.S. to reduce trade deficits. The South Korean government intends to conclude negotiations with the U.S. after a new president takes office following the upcoming June 3rd election. "Once the election's over, then the new government, actually the administration team is going to start negotiating. So, if they make too much hasty decisions, and then, if the new government is going to just flip everything, that's going to be super costly in terms of both reputation and also actual time and efforts." Seoul aims to minimize the rates of the Trump administration's new duties, including 25-percent reciprocal tariffs as well as sectoral tariffs including 25-percent levies on automobiles, steel, and aluminum before July 8th, when Trump's 90-day suspension of reciprocal tariffs ends. Moon Ji-young, Arirang News.

Presidential candidates scale back their campaigns ahead of second televised debate

2025/05/23 17:00

As mentioned in that report presidential hopefuls are gearing up for tonight's second live debate that starts at EIGHT in the evening local time having spent the day with minimal campaign activities. Our political correspondent Shin Ha-young reports. The rival parties' presidential candidates scaled back their campaigns on Friday ahead of their second televised debate this evening. Instead, Democratic Party presidential candidate Lee Jae-myung wrapped up his trip to Gyeongsangnam-do Province after paying tribute to the late liberal President Roh Moo-hyun on the 16th anniversary of his passing away. "While paying tribute to former President Roh Moo-hyun, I reaffirmed my commitment to building a country where the people are respected as the rightful owners and can live happily." Lee met former President Moon Jae-in for lunch, during which Moon said now was a crucial time for South Korea and urged Lee to take responsibility in creating a country that respects the people. "With just 11 days to go to the 21st presidential election, key political figures from across the political spectrum gathered in Bongha Village, located in the city of Gimhae." Attendees of a memorial service included former President Moon Jae-in and his wife, National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik, and People Power Party interim leader Kim Yong-tae. In a social media post, Kim said former President Roh Moo-hyun put the country and its people first, beyond political affiliation, and said he would remember Roh's hope for a world without injustice or privilege. Meanwhile, the PPP's Kim Moon-soo attended a prayer breakfast for the nation and its people, where he emphasized unity, saying that economic struggles and social division have worsened conflict. The PPP said Kim's support is growing and expressed hope that he could lead in the polls before early voting starts if the trend continues. "In the end, Kim Moon-soo's distinct character, proven skills, and clear vision will bring him victory. As the election passes the halfway point, support is starting to pick up across the country." With the candidates set to fully resume their rallies after the debate, they are expected to put their utmost efforts into the final week of the official presidential campaign. Shin Ha-young, Arirang News, Gimhae.

U.S. considers withdrawing of 4,500 troops from S. Korea to Guam or other locations

2025/05/23 10:00

The Trump administration could be pulling thousands of U.S. soldiers out of South Korea to have them stationed in other locations in the Indo-Pacific an idea that's reportedly yet to be greenlit by Trump. Bae Eun-ji has our top story. The U.S. is considering withdrawing around 4-thousand-500 American troops from South Korea to Guam or other locations in the Indo Pacific region. That's about 16-percent of the total number of U.S. forces in South Korea, where there are roughly 28-thousand-500 troops. Citing defense officials familiar with the matter, the Wall Street Journal reported on Thursday that the idea is being developed by the Pentagon for consideration by Trump as part of an informal policy review on dealing with North Korea. It added the proposal has yet to reach Trump's desk and is one of several ideas under discussion by senior officials conducting the review. When asked about a possible troop withdrawal, the Pentagon reportedly said there were no policy announcements to make. Since his first term, Trump has considered changing the U.S. footprint in South Korea which relies on close coordination with U.S. forces to deter threats from North Korea. "It depends. We pay for military over in Europe. We don't get reimbursed by much. South Korea too." But the head of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command has presented negative views about the idea of a troop drawdown in a Senate hearing last month, saying the loss of the force on the Korean Peninsula, would mean a higher probability that North Korea would invade. "As General Brunson said, North Korea's development of advanced nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles pose a direct threat to our homeland and our allies, and are executing a deepening cooperation with Russia." Trump has been hinting at an attempt to renegotiate a deal on sharing the costs for American troops stationed in Korea, saying Washington cannot be taken advantage of any longer in military and trade. He's described South Korea as a "money machine," insisting that Seoul should be paying 10 billion dollars a year. Pulling troops out of Korea could mean that the Trump administration is looking to redeploy them to areas that better align with priority goals such as countering China. The Washington Post reported in March that a secret internal guidance memo signed by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth showed that the country considers China as its sole pacing threat,.. pressuring allies in East Asia, Europe and the Middle East to spend more on defense to deal with threats from North Korea, 러시아 and Iran. Bae Eun-ji, Arirang News.

On-point: Will S. Korea-U.S. summit be any help to solve tariff issues?

2025/05/23 10:00

In about 10 days, South Korea will have a new leader, which also raises hopes of a possible South Korea-U.S. summit and a solution to the lingering U.S. tariff issues. Let's discuss more with Professor Kim Hwagyun. Welcome back. 1. I'd like to begin with the latest trade figures. According to the Korea Customs Service on Wednesday, exports in the first three weeks in May were down 2.4% on year. Would you say we are already being hit by tariff-related repercussions? 2. And the second round of trade negotiations between South Korea and the U.S. were more timely than ever. Do you think the U.S. proposed what it really wants at the talks this time? Or do we know what they are already, without the U.S. telling South Korea? 3. Do you think there's no reason for the U.S. or South Korea to rush the trade negotiations since there'll be a new South Korean government soon after the June 3rd election? Or is the U.S. more desperate here? Or not? 4. South Korea will have a new leader in about 11 days. Will a summit between a new South Korean leader and U.S. President Donald Trump be of any help in solving the trade issues? Or no? 5. But neither South Korea nor the U.S. wants to pass July 31st when the 90-day tariff pause is expired, right? Or is that deadline just a temporary deadline to put pressure on trading partners including South Korea? Thanks for joining us this morning. We appreciate it.

Lee Jun-seok rejects PPP's push for merger in press conference

2025/05/23 10:00

Reform Party candidate Lee Jun-seok is still firmly rejecting a merger with the main conservative party candidate Kim Moon-soo, saying it will be his own name and party on the voting ballots. On Thursday, Lee held an emergency press conference with regard to the People Power Party's so-called "love calls" to the young candidate, urging him to join hands with Kim Moon-soo, to form a stronger conservative ticket. Lee said that his support in national polls hit 10 percent for the first time, and dismissed the idea of a merger as "meaningless." On his campaign trail, Lee continued to target young voters and centrists in the greater Seoul area. He also continued his campus cafeteria outreach, meeting with students at Inha University.

PPP's Kim apologizes to doctors amid prolonged medical crisis, calls for political reform

2025/05/23 10:00

And the main conservative party's candidate took the time to meet with different organizations here in the capital area, including doctors' associations, amid the prolonged conflict over medical reform. Our Kim Do-yeon reports. Yet another apology from the People Power Party for the actions of the former administration. On Thursday, presidential candidate Kim Moon-soo met with leaders of the medical community issuing a public apology for the Yoon Suk Yeol administration's handling of the medical reform, despite collective pushback from doctors. "As a responsible cabinet member of the government myself, I sincerely offer an apology. The fact that it's not just one or two doctors but nearly all of them raising this issue clearly indicates there is a problem." Kim clarified that he wasn't taking sides but emphasized the need for the government to listen to professionals in the field. According to the Doctors' Association, Kim pledged to resolve the ongoing medical crisis within the first six months of his term. He spent the day meeting with various civil society groups. At a roundtable with the heads of Korea's five major business organizations, Kim highlighted his pro-industry record as former Gyeonggi-do Province Governor. "This was also his fourth day in the capital region meeting organizations and rallying for support. And one of his rallies here was Bucheon City's Sosa-gu District his old congressional district where he served three terms until around 20 years ago." This also comes as the capital region is always a key battleground where he needs to expand his support to turn things around before the election day. Meanwhile, Kim also made a surprise morning announcement calling for sweeping political reform. "Will we achieve a second wave of democratization? Or head toward an authoritarian presidential system? I'm deeply concerned." His remarks were seen as a warning against a potential power monopoly, should Democratic Party front-runner Lee Jae-myung win adding to the DP's existing parliamentary majority. Kim's reform pledges include cutting the number of lawmakers from 300 to 270, granting the opposition power to appoint an independent inspector general, raising the threshold for impeachment motions, and shielding the judiciary and investigative bodies from political pressure. His message lands as the DP filed around 30 impeachment motions during Yoon's term only one of which, against former President Yoon, passed. Kim Do-yeon, Arirang News.