News

Reform Party's Lee Jun-seok pushes for harmony during second day campaigning in Gwangju

2025/05/20 17:00

Staying on the campaign trail. Reform Party candidate Lee Jun-seok remained active in the southwestern city of Gwangju for a second day on this Tuesday. Addressing the audience there he spoke of pursuing the spirit of former President Roh Moo-hyun who sought unity between traditionally conservative and liberal regions in the southwest and the eastern parts of the country. Lee was also at Chonnam National University to touch base with the student body there as part of his campus cafeteria outreach. Earlier he sat down with the Gwangju Mayor Kang Ki-jung and pledged support for AI and future mobility industries.

PPP's Kim talks up ethics, reiterating rival's legal risks

2025/05/20 17:00

Up next we turn to the conservative camp whose contender Kim Moon-soo is also campaigning in the Greater Seoul region. For details I have Kim Do-yeon joining me live. Do-yeon welcome back. So where exactly are you joining us from? Sun-hee, I'm currently in Hanam City at a shopping complex, where Kim is about to appear on stage for his last rally of the day. Now, Kim has been arguing that he is more ethical than his DP rival Lee Jae-myung, saying that the DP is using its super majority on the floor to pass legislation to protect Lee from his legal risks. Take a listen. I'll be an ethical president. I will never wear a bulletproof vest. I would get rid of the bulletproof glass and never try to pass bulletproof legislation. Here, he's tying Lee's recent upgraded security measures to the DP's legislative efforts. He also reiterated that it was he who created Gyeonggi-do Province's economic zones, such as Pyeongtaek's Samsung Electronics plant the largest one in the world, comparing his success as the province's governor to that of Lee's. Earlier in the day, he toured around Seoul meeting with members of the public in the streets. Now, he also shared his pledges on fostering culture and cultural activities, as he visited a culture and arts organization. His major pledge was to make community culture centers across the nation accessible to anyone within 10 minutes to enhance cultural and art activities. Also Do-yeon I hear Kim sought to reach out to his conservative rival Lee Jun-seok of the Reform Party yet again. That's right, Sun-hee. Early in the day as he faced the media he repeated his message saying that his agenda and Lee's alignment was the PPP's fault. First, take a listen. He used to lead our party. As you've seen at the debate, there's absolutely no difference between us. Also, it was our party's problem that caused Lee Jun-seok to leave, so I think it's right to be together. Of course, Lee Jun-seok rejected the offer again. But, a movement to form an anti-Lee Jae-myung bloc started moving for the PPP, as the interim-leader Kim Yong-tae met with the New Future Democratic Party's chairman for talks on future cooperation. This is a new party made up of former DP members who were not in Lee Jae-myung's faction. The leader of this party said the PPP's Constitutional reform proposal of shortening the next president's term to three years with the next one starting a new four-year term with re-election aligns with theirs. In the meantime, the PPP's Kim Yong-tae also proposed a debate for the first lady prospects but the DP and Reform Party candidates immediately criticized the idea to turn it down. That's all for now, back to you, Sun-hee. All right Do-yeon thank you for that coverage of the conservative camp.

DP’s Lee calls for protecting overseas voting rights, suggests temporary polling stations

2025/05/20 17:00

Turning now to the latest on the campaign trail. Liberal party contender Lee Jae-myung addressed his supporters in the city of Paju today. I have our political correspondent Shin Ha-young standing by live with details. Ha-young it's good to have you on. Do FILL us in. Yes, Sunny. I'm currently out here in front of Geumneung Station at Paju in Gyeonggi-do Province, which borders North Korea. Democratic Party candidate Lee Jae-myung *just wrapped up a speech a few minutes ago. During his speech, Lee said Before coming to Paju, he held a rally in Uijeongbu , where he spoke about peace and security. Take a listen. "Hasn't this northern region made big sacrifices for the country's security over many years? Those sacrifices should be properly compensated, so people from now on don't feel it's unfair." At his final stop of the day in Gimpo, he's expected to reveal a plan to cut travel time between Gimpo and Seoul's Gangnam area to around 30 minutes. Ha-young overseas voting began today and I understand Lee touched upon this. Do tell us more. Sure, Sunny. Marking the first day of overseas voting, Lee Jae-myung held a one-hour virtual meeting with overseas Koreans ahead of today's rally. During the discussion, overseas voters from various countries shared the common difficulties they face, especially the inconvenience of voting. Take listen. "Botswana has no Korean embassy or consulate general, so Koreans here have to go to South Africa to vote." After the event, I had a chance to ask Lee about ways to ensure voting rights for overseas Koreans, including thoughts on mail-in voting. He said that appropriate measures should be put in place to ease voting for those living abroad and suggested several ways to do so. Take a listen. "Overseas Koreans currently have to register and vote separately, but with a better system, both could be done at once. While some worry about mail-in voting security, countries like the U.S. use it, and Korea already allows similar voting for people with mobility issues or those in hospitals. I wonder if it's fair to not allow overseas Koreans to vote by mail." Lee also suggested setting up temporary polling stations with temporary staff, saying that given the high personal costs voters currently face, the government should provide such kind of support. That's all for this hour. Back to you Sunny. All right Ha-young thank you for that coverage of the liberal camp.

Acting President Lee calls on election authorities to tighten ballot management

2025/05/20 17:00

Acting President Lee Ju-ho has called for commitment to conducting a fair and transparent election as overseas voting begins today. The remarks were made during a Cabinet meeting earlier on this Tuesday as he called on the National Election Commission to ensure the safe management and transportation of ballot boxes from overseas once voting by registered Korean voters there ends this coming Sunday. Also with the official voting day here now precisely two weeks away the acting leader also urged relevant ministries to actively support the efforts of the election commission.

Cancer touches us all, says Biden after outpouring of support

2025/05/20 10:00

Former U.S. President Joe Biden expressed gratitude for the support he has received from around the world after announcing on Sunday that he has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has metastasized to the bones. Biden wrote on his social media on Monday, "Cancer touches us all," and that he and his wife Jill have learned that you are "strongest in the broken places." Reacting to the announcement, President Donald Trump said Biden's diagnosis was "very sad," but added that he was surprised it wasn't detected earlier. At the same time, he and First Lady Melania wished Biden a "fast and successful recovery." While not curable, experts note that effective management can allow patients to live for several years.

U.S. Supreme Court lets Trump end deportation protection for Venezuelans

2025/05/20 10:00

The U.S. Supreme Court has allowed the Trump administration to terminate the Temporary Protected Status for approximately 350-thousand Venezuelan nationals living in the country. In an unsigned order on Monday, the Supreme Court lifted a lower court's injunction that blocked the Department of Homeland Security's attempt to end TPS for Venezuelans. This decision allows the administration to revoke protections extended until October 2026 during the Biden administration. TPS provides temporary legal status and work authorization to individuals from countries experiencing severe crises. The Biden administration granted Venezuelans an extension of the status in response to ongoing political and economic instability in Venezuela. TPS has also been removed for nationals from Afghanistan and Cameroon as part of the Trump administration's efforts to tighten immigration policies.

UK strikes EU trade and defense reset in 'new era' for relations

2025/05/20 10:00

Five years after the United Kingdom departed from the European Union a new agreement has been reached between the two parties. The deal announced on Monday includes defense cooperation and youth mobility. At a summit in London on May 19, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen unveiled a comprehensive agreement to improve post-Brexit relations. It includes a new defense and security partnership, granting the UK access to a 200 billion U.S. dollar EU defense fund, and facilitating joint military procurement and support for Ukraine's defense. The agreement also extends mutual fishing access for 12 years, allowing EU vessels to continue operating in UK waters. A youth mobility scheme will facilitate temporary work and study exchanges between the UK and EU member states. British travelers will also benefit from faster airport procedures through EU e-gates. Prime Minister Starmer lauded the agreement as a "win-win," while EU Commissioner Ursula von der Leyen described the progress as "historic."

India open for tariff negotiation: White House

2025/05/20 10:00

Washington says trade negotiations with a number of its trading partners are "very close to the finish line," signaling optimism that agreements could be reached within the next few weeks. Speaking to Fox Business on Monday, Chairperson of the U.S. National Economic Council Kevin Hassett said that the U.S. is closing in on trade deals with several countries. Regarding negotiations with India, Hassett said that while it's "up to the negotiators," India is showing a "very open attitude." He also voiced his hope that India will become a good negotiation model for "other countries in Asia."

Reform Party's Lee Jun-seok continues to seek support in Gwangju, rules out possible merger

2025/05/20 10:00

In the meantime, the Reform Party's Lee Jun-seok is back in Gwangju City, with an aggressive push to convince voters he is the ultimate conservative runner. Earlier on Monday, he ruled out PPP candidate Kim Moon-soo's hint of a possible merger with him and instead stressed the race will be him against the Democratic Party's Lee Jae-myung. He also went around Gwangju City pledging more diverse investment in the Jeolla-do provinces. He's expected to do the same on his second day in the southwestern region on Tuesday, and continue his campus cafeteria outreach to college students.

PPP's Kim stresses ROK-U.S. alliance after labeling DP rival Lee as 'pro-China' during debate

2025/05/20 10:00

And the People Power Party's Kim Moon-soo also continues to expand his campaign here in the capital. He started off the week by stressing his vision for the ROK-U.S. alliance while insinuating a possible merger with Reform Party candidate Lee Jun-seok. Our Kim Do-yeon reports. On the campaign trail on Monday, People Power Party candidate Kim Moon-soo emphasized the ROK-U.S. alliance saying that he will meet U.S. President Donald Trump as soon as he's elected amid the ongoing tariff negotiations. "If I’m elected president, I will visit the United States as early as June to hold a prompt summit with President Trump and swiftly resolve issues that are hindering economic cooperation between our two countries." The comments came during a luncheon with the American Chamber of Commerce in Korea. He added he’ll promote Korea-U.S. business cooperation in advanced technology and culture, not just security. Kim also pledged to remove unnecessary regulations to attract more foreign investment. This comes after Kim claimed his DP rival Lee Jae-myung is too pro-China, during the first televised debate the night before. "In other campaign activities and rallies around Seoul, he also gave pledges to the younger generations, on Coming of Age Day, vowing to create jobs, expand opportunities, and ease financial burdens related to marriage and housing." Meanwhile, much attention was given to his gesture toward the Reform Party’s Lee Jun-seok with an idea of a conservative and anti-Lee Jae-myung alliance looming over the election scene. The two met at a Seoul City event, where Kim apologized for the PPP’s past treatment of Lee when he was party chair—and praised his debate performance from the night before. During the AMCHAM talk, Kim also hinted that a merger may be possible. "Things are gradually improving. If you watched the debate yesterday, you would’ve seen Reform Party candidate Lee Jun-seok—he used to be our party leader, and now he’s out there representing a certain segment. If I can bring together people like him and unify our efforts, I believe we can bring about significant change." Lee Jun-seok has so far rejected the idea of a merger—and the current polls show that even combined, their ratings trail DP’s Lee Jae-myung. But with the election now just two weeks away a last-minute conservative alliance could still shift the race. Kim Do-yeon, Arirang News.

Trump's 2-hour phone call with Putin fails to achieve breakthrough in ending Ukraine war

2025/05/20 10:00

U.S. President Donald Trump held a rare phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, in his latest effort to end the prolonged war in Ukraine. The call lasted more than two hours, but there appears to have been little sign of a breakthrough on peace talks. Bae Eun-ji reports. Following the much-anticipated call between leaders from Washington and Moscow, U.S. President Donald Trump said he made progress during his conversation on Monday with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin. He proclaimed on his social media that the call "went very well" and that Russia and Ukraine had agreed to 'immediately' start negotiations toward a ceasefire, without providing details on when that will happen. "We just spent two and a half hours talking to Vladimir Putin, and I think some progress has been made." Putin, who described the call as "meaningful and frank," said Russia is ready to work with Ukraine on a memorandum on a possible future peace agreement. But he did not address demands from the U.S. and European countries for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire, meaning no major breakthrough in ending the war. "At the same time, I would like to note that, in general, Russia's position is clear. The main thing for us is to eliminate the root causes of this crisis." Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he also spoke with Trump before the American leader's call with Putin. He called for an unconditional ceasefire, while urging stronger U.S. sanctions if Russia is not ready to end the war. "I asked him before his conversation with Putin, not to make decisions about Ukraine without us. We agreed that we would get in touch after his conversation with Putin." Zelenskyy also urged Washington not to distance itself from peace talks, saying he is considering a high-level meeting between Ukraine, Russia, the U.S., and European countries. This comes after Trump said the conditions of a peace deal could only be negotiated between Russia and Ukraine, possibly with the help of the Pope, leading to speculation that this signals a possible shift in his stance that he was leaving the two countries to find a deal without the U.S. as a broker. Bae Eun-ji, Arirang News.

Israel hits 160 targets in Gaza as aid begins to come through

2025/05/20 10:00

Israel continued its airstrikes across the Gaza Strip on Monday, increasing pressure on Hamas. While it targeted some 160 sites throughout the enclave, Israel also began letting in humanitarian aid amid global concerns of a famine crisis. Lee Seung-jae has more. The Israeli military, which recently launched "Operation Gideon's Chariots," aimed at recapturing the Gaza Strip, announced it had struck some 160 targets, including Hamas infrastructure. However, according to Al Jazeera, airstrikes also targeted several hospitals across the enclave. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released a video statement on the same day, vowing to make progress amid fierce fighting, adding that Israel will take control of the entire Gaza Strip. The remark was slammed by Britain, France, and Canada, who were critical of Israel's expansion of its war, as they vowed a "concrete" response if Israel's campaign continues. Also, following pressure from around the globe over the blocking of any humanitarian aid into region, Israel has begun allowing some trucks carrying necessities. "Today, Israel is facilitating the entry of trucks with baby food into Gaza. In the coming days, Israel will facilitate the entry of dozens of aid trucks." The Director General of Israel's Foreign Ministry, Eden Bar Tal, said "Israel always complies with international law and with its obligations and statements." However, he was critical of the recent condemnation, saying the international community must decide whether to side with Israel or Hamas. He added that the aid that began coming in will only cover a few days. The foreign ministry official also stressed that the humanitarian aid "is to help the population, not to support Hamas." Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.

S. Korean officials to travel to Washington for tariff talks on Tues.

2025/05/20 10:00

A group of South Korean officials is set to travel to Washington, D.C. on Tuesday to hold working-level talks with the U.S. over tariffs. The two sides are expected to hold discussions focused on six key areas, including economic security and digital trade. This comes after Seoul's trade minister, Ahn Duk-geun, met with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer here in South Korea last week, and requested exemptions from higher levies. South Korea, which faces 25 percent U.S. reciprocal tariffs, is seeking a trade deal before the July 8th deadline, when the temporary pause on tariffs is lifted.

1st TV debate: S. Korea's Presidential candidates hold intense debate on U.S. tariffs, China, economic growth

2025/05/19 20:00

Eyes of the voters in the country were on the first televised presidential debate on Sunday night, with clashes on economic and trade policy. And the four debaters on the stage looked as equally focused on controversies surrounding their rivals as addressing ways to tackle economic challenges. Lee Soo-jin fills us in. Pledging to save Korea from its present economic downturn, the four main presidential candidates held their first televised debate live on Sunday, beginning with the task of improving livelihoods. Democratic Party candidate Lee Jae-myung promised big government spending, with funding towards debt forgiveness for small business owners, more research and development in AI, and new industries in energy and culture. "We need a supplementary budget as soon as possible, within feasible limits, to revive domestic demand and everyday livelihoods." The People Power Party's Kim Moon-soo agreed on boosting spending to offer subsidies and debt restructuring for small firms. He pledged to be a 'jobs president', using regulatory reform to support growth in high tech sectors. "By eliminating excessive regulations, businesses won't feel forced to move abroad and can confidently operate locally and create jobs." Reform Party leader Lee Jun-seok opposed "reckless" injections of money in a time of high inflation and low demand, saying it will hurt, not benefit small companies. He proposed regional governments set their own minimum wage, and focused more on building national competence in sectors critical to economic growth. "To beat China, we need not only an understanding of science and technology but also competent leadership that can communicate freely with global leaders." Meanwhile, the Democratic Labour Party's Kwon Young-kuk focused on overcoming inequality for workers, farmers, women, and minorities. "A world where you work hard yet remain poor, where you're driven further to the margins -this unequal world must not be left as it is. With the topic turning to America's tariffs on its trading partners, Lee Jae-myung said negotiations must begin but Korea must also diversify its export items. He said the door should stay open to Russia and China. Kim Moon-soo promised to hold a summit with U.S. leader Donald Trump,.. and resolve the bilateral issues based on their personal trust. Lee Jun-seok suggested a cool, strategic response that highlights South Korea's strength in semiconductors, and its value as Washington's long-standing security partner. Kwon Young-kuk showed the U.S a red card and said he will not submit to predatory trade tactics. The two candidates leading the polls faced intensive questioning. Lee Jae-myung was under fire over his proposed wind power project largely involving Chinese firms, and his alleged affinity with Beijing. Lee was also grilled on alleged illegal payments made to North Korea during his time as Gyeonggi-do province governor with the Reform Party candidate suggesting Lee's plans to legalise domestic spot cryptocurrency ETFs could also potentially fund North Korea. Meanwhile, Kim Moon-soo was strongly criticised for being a part of the impeached Yoon Suk Yeol Administration, as former Labour Minister. Lee Jae-myung said Kim should share the blame for the sluggish economy. And Kwon Young-kuk slammed Kim's endorsement of allowing extra working hours for semiconductor workers. The next live debate will take place on Friday, focusing on social issues. Lee Soo-jin, Arirang News.

PPP's Kim stresses ROK-U.S. alliance after labeling DP rival Lee as 'pro-China' during debate

2025/05/19 20:00

The People Power Party's Kim Moon-soo had the chance to share his vision for the ROK-U.S. alliance at American Chamber of Commerce in Korea. He also hinted at possibly merging with Reform Party candidate Lee Jun-seok, who rejected the idea. Our Kim Do-yeon reports. On the campaign trail on Monday, People Power Party candidate Kim Moon-soo emphasized the ROK-U.S. alliance saying that he will meet U.S. President Donald Trump as soon as he's elected amid the ongoing tariff negotiations. "If I'm elected president, I will visit the United States as early as June to hold a prompt summit with President Trump and swiftly resolve issues that are hindering economic cooperation between our two countries." The comments came during a luncheon with the American Chamber of Commerce in Korea. He added he'll promote Korea-U.S. business cooperation in advanced technology and culture, not just security. Kim also pledged to remove unnecessary regulations to attract more foreign investment. This comes after Kim claimed his DP rival Lee Jae-myung is too pro-China, during the first televised debate the night before. "In other campaign activities and rallies around Seoul, he also gave pledges to the younger generations, on Coming of Age Day, vowing to create jobs, expand opportunities, and ease financial burdens related to marriage and housing." Meanwhile, much attention was given to his gesture toward the Reform Party's Lee Jun-seok with an idea of a conservative and anti-Lee Jae-myung alliance looming over the election scene. The two met at a Seoul City event, where Kim apologized for the PPP's past treatment of Lee when he was party chair—and praised his debate performance from the night before. During the AMCHAM talk, Kim also hinted that a merger may be possible. "Things are gradually improving. If you watched the debate yesterday, you would've seen Reform Party candidate Lee Jun-seok—he used to be our party leader, and now he's out there representing a certain segment. If I can bring together people like him and unify our efforts, I believe we can bring about significant change." Lee Jun-seok has so far rejected the idea of a merger—and the current polls show that even combined, their ratings trail DP's Lee Jae-myung. But with the election now just two weeks away a last-minute conservative alliance could still shift the race. Kim Do-yeon, Arirang News.

Looking into first TV debate on economy among S. Korea's 4 main presidential candidates

2025/05/19 20:00

Welcome to Within The Frame, where we bring the most pressing issues across the globe into focus. I'm Kim Mok-yeon. The economy is once again a decisive issue that could sway voter sentiment in South Korea's upcoming presidential election. On May 18th, the four leading candidates—Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party, Kim Moon-soo of the People Power Party, Lee Jun-seok of the Reform Party, and Kwon Young-guk of the Democratic Labor Party—faced off in their first televised debate. With Korea stuck in a prolonged period of 저성장, soaring inequality, and deepening regional disparity, each candidate laid out their vision to revive the everyday economy. From job creation and fiscal policies to trade and labor reform, the stakes couldn't be higher. Voters are no longer content with slogans—they're demanding realistic, concrete solutions. On Within The Frame tonight, we break down what each economic pledge really offers, what sets them apart, and how feasible their roadmaps are in confronting Korea's most pressing economic challenges. For a closer look into the trade dynamics, we are joined by Shin Se-don, Professor of Business Economics at Sookmyung Women's University. Welcome. Also joining us online is Chai Sang-mi, Professor of Business Administration at Ewha Womans University. Good to see you. 1. (Shin) Let's begin with Prof. Shin, so on May 18th, the four leading presidential candidates — Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party, Kim Moon-soo of the People Power Party, Lee Jun-seok of the Reform Party, and Kwon Young-guk of the Democratic Labor Party — faced off in their first televised debate. The spotlight was on overcoming low growth and jumpstarting the everyday economy. Professor Shin, how did you assess the overall direction of the debate? 2. (Chai) While all four candidates agreed on the urgency of economic recovery, their proposed solutions couldn't have been more different. Professor Chai, can you walk us through the key differences between the plans put forward by the candidates? 3. (Shin) Let's now delve into the different pledges of each candidate. Democratic Party candidate Lee Jae-myung, he's proposing swift supplementary budgeting, paired with long-term investment in AI, renewable energy, and cultural industries. But since his strategy depends on aggressive fiscal expansion, some are warning about the risk of worsening fiscal health. Professor Shin, what's your evaluation? 4. (Chai) Turning to People Power Party candidate Kim Moon-soo — he's called for sweeping deregulation, including new bodies like a Regulatory Reform Committee and a Ministry for Regulatory Innovation. Professor Chai, is this level of economic restructuring necessary to escape the low-growth trap? 5. (Shin) Reform Party candidate Lee Jun-seok offered a localized approach, suggesting the minimum wage be adjusted by region. It's a bold departure from uniform policy. Professor Shin, how realistic and effective could this be for struggling communities? 6. (Chai) Democratic Labor Party candidate Kwon Young-guk is putting inequality, not growth, front and center. He's pushing for wealth redistribution through increased taxes on the rich. Professor Chai, how would you assess this equity-focused economic philosophy? 7. (Shin) Trade with the U.S. also split the candidates. Democratic Party's Lee Jae-myung says there's no rush to finalize tariff negotiations, while People Power Party's Kim Moon-soo insists on wrapping up talks before July 8th. Professor Shin, what do you make of this stark policy divergence? 8. (Chai) In labor policy, the fault lines were especially clear. Democratic Party candidate Lee Jae-myung supports the Yellow Envelope Law and a 4.5-day workweek. In contrast, People Power Party's Kim Moon-soo wants to reform the 52-hour workweek through labor-management consensus. Professor Chai, how should voters interpret these contrasting positions? 9. (Shin) And across the board, the candidates' proposals remain vague on funding details — raising questions about feasibility. When voters look at the economic pledges from the Democratic Party, People Power Party, Reform Party, and Democratic Labor Party, Professor Shin, where should they place the most weight?

Pope Leo XIV calls for peace and unity at inaugural Mass

2025/05/19 20:00

Pope Leo XIV called for peace and unity at his inaugural Mass, delivering a message that resonated far beyond the Catholic Church. During the service on Sunday at the Vatican, he condemned economic systems that exploit "the Earth's resources and marginalize the poorest," while also calling for peace in Ukraine and Gaza. Among the tens of thousands gathered for the address were believers and tourists alike, alongside world leaders. Following the Mass, the pontiff held a private meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Israel launches latest extensive ground operations in Gaza while lifting aid blockade

2025/05/19 20:00

In the Middle East. Israel has agreed to the basic flow of food into Gaza amid its launch of a fresh ground offensive against Hamas. Lee Eun-jin reports. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office released a statement on Sunday, which stated that under the recommendation of the Israeli Defense Forces, it would allow "a basic quantity of food" into Gaza so that a starvation crisis could be avoided, as such a situation would jeopardize the IDF's latest extensive ground operation. It was not immediately clear when or how aid would enter Gaza but Netanyahu said that Israel would work to ensure Hamas does not take control of the aid. The announcement came after the Israeli military said earlier on Sunday that it had begun "extensive ground operations" in the northern and southern parts of the enclave, named Operation Gideon's Chariot, including both active duty and reservist troops. The IDF said it would continue to operate against the terrorist organizations in the Gaza Strip in order to defend Israeli civilians, having conducted a preliminary wave of intensified airstrikes on more than 670 Hamas targets in Gaza over the past week to support "Gideon's Chariot." The Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry reported significant civilian casualties of more than 400 people in the four days since the offensives began last week, including the more than 100 people killed in Gaza on Sunday. Meanwhile, there have been reports that no progress has been made in a new round of indirect talks between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Qatar. Netanyahu's office said his negotiating team in Qatar was "working to realize every chance for a deal," but its position remained unchanged that fighting would end in exchange for the release of all remaining 58 hostages, the exile of Hamas terrorists from Gaza, and the disarmament of the territory. Hamas has refused to leave Gaza or disarm, as officials from the militant group said it was still proposing the release of all Israeli hostages in return for an end to the war, the pull-out of Israeli troops, an end to a blockade on aid for Gaza, and the release of Palestinian prisoners. Lee Eunjin, Arirang News.

DP's Lee holds campaign in Seoul, gives speeches from behind bulletproof glass

2025/05/19 17:00

Welcome to The Daily Report. I'm Min Sun-hee. We start here in Seoul where presidential contenders are seeking voter support following their first TV debate Sunday night. I have our political correspondent Shin Ha-young standing by live with the latest from the liberal camp. Ha-young, do start us off with Lee Jae-myung's agenda for today. Sunny, I’m currently in front of Times Square in Yeongdeungpo-gu District, southwest of Seoul, where Democratic Party candidate Lee Jae-myung And as you can see behind me, a large crowd has gathered in front of the stage. During his speech, Lee said Before coming to Yeongdeungpo, he held a rally near Yongsan Station. Take a listen. "Life is tough, isn't it? Things feel unstable. On June 3rd, let’s bring this to an end. Let’s build a new country together one where people are truly respected, and where peace and stability lead to a better, happier life." Lee kicked off his official campaign in Seoul last week, then headed south. Now he's back in the capital, making stops in busy areas across the city today. Ahead of a rally on Monday, Lee addressed real estate issues, saying that he will manage real estate policy by increasing supply when it's lacking, following the basic principle of supply and demand. His campaign in Seoul aims to reach both older and younger generations to highlight unity across age groups. He will wrap up Monday’s rallies near Hongdae. Meanwhile Ha-young, I hear Lee's camp is ramping up security around him. Do tell us more. The Democratic Party is strengthening security for Lee after receiving multiple reports of suspected assassination threats against him. Starting from today, Lee began delivering his rally speeches from behind bulletproof glass. This comes as concerns over Lee’s safety are growing within the party and among his supporters, especially after he was stabbed in the neck during a visit to Busan in January last year. Lee has already been wearing a 3-kilogram bulletproof vest while campaigning. “Inequality, polarization and insurrection have pushed our society into extreme division and conflict to the point where a presidential candidate now has to wear a bulletproof vest while campaigning.” His camp is also keeping people away from areas near the stage, and he’s avoiding physical contact with supporters, such as shaking hands. Bulletproof glass was also used by U.S. President Donald Trump during his campaign after he was shot. Trump was protected on all four sides, but Lee is using two side panels, reportedly due to limited production time. That's all for now, Sunny. All right Ha-young, thank you for that coverage of the liberal camp.

N. Korea reveals first public test of air-to-air missile; experts suggest Russian tech

2025/05/19 17:00

Here on the peninsula. North Korea this past weekend shared images showing its first live-fire test of an air-to-air missile. According to its state media the missile intercepted targets during a training session last Thursday overseen by Kim Jong-un. This is the first public test since the missile's 2021 unveiling. South Korea for its part has yet to develop its own air-to-air missile and experts here believe North Korea may have received Russian technology particularly in radar and software in return for troop deployment.