News

Former DP chairman Lee Jae-myung announces presidential candidacy in video message

2025/04/10 17:00

Former Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung who stepped down on Wednesday has announced his third run for the nation's top office. In a video message on this Thursday morning Lee pledged dedication to the people in a new vision dubbed "K-Initiative" that highlights Korea's ability to turn crisis into opportunity. He is expected to elaborate on this vision at the parliament on Friday. Other DP candidates are former lawmaker Kim Du-kwan and Governor of Gyeonggi-do Province Kim Dong-yeon who earlier declared their intentions to run.. in the race. Meanwhile the opposition party has tapped Park Beom-kye a four-term lawmaker as its election committee chair and yet has to announce its partisan primary election plan.

PPP presidential primary rules set: Garnering attention, support amid impeachment fallout

2025/04/10 17:00

On the political front. The ruling Power People Party has disclosed its partisan primary election plan which looks to include both open and closed votes. Our correspondent Kim Do-yeon has details. The rules for the People Power Party's presidential primary are set. With over 10 contenders expected to vie for the nomination, there will be a series of cut-offs. But their biggest challenge: winning public support amid the fallout from President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment. That's why the first round of cut-offs, to leave four contenders, will be an open survey to all citizens, not just their registered members. "The decision to base the first round entirely on the general public was made in response to widespread calls for an open primary and greater weight on public sentiment. This ensures that candidates who align with the public's expectations can advance to the four-way race." As for the specific timeline, the first round of candidates will be finalized by April 16th. After three days of debates, the general public poll will leave four contenders. For the next few days, the four candidates will face the media and debate each other. The next cut-off survey starts on the 27th and by the 29th the remaining two will be decided through an open poll for 50 percent and eligible PPP electors for 50 percent, or registered PPP members who've paid for party membership at least once in the past year. If one of the four contenders receives more than 50 percent of the final votes here, he or she will be the final candidate. If not, on April 30th, a debate will be held between the two contenders. On May 3rd, the PPP will hold a convention and announce its candidate. Meanwhile, to prevent tactical voting in open polls—where opposition supporters might boost a weaker PPP candidate—those who've previously backed another are excluded from the survey sample. As for the race, the latest to enter is former PPP chair Han Dong-hoon. Speaking at the National Assembly, Han vowed to block what he called Lee Jae-myung's "monstrous" administration and says he wants a generational shift in politics. "I'm going to create a nation where the citizens come first, the middle class grows, and practicality beats ideology. With that in mind, I will make a change in politics, the era, and the generation." Once the closest to President Yoon, Han broke ranks in early 2024 and even backed Yoon's impeachment. Because of this, he's expected to score high on the all-open voting tallies. Daegu Mayor Hong Joon-pyo is also likely a beneficiary, and his declaration is set to come next Monday. On the other hand, Yoon's close political ally, Na Kyung-won, also announced that she will declare her candidacy on Friday. Kim Moon-soo and Ahn Cheol-soo are among those that's declared candidacy already. Kim Do-yeon, Arirang News.

Zelenskyy says 155 Chinese nationals are fighting for Russia in Ukraine

2025/04/10 17:00

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says at least 1-hundred-55 Chinese nationals as identified by Kyiv's intelligence are fighting alongside Russia against Ukraine. Addressing members of the media on Wednesday he added that Beijing is aware Moscow is recruiting Chinese mercenaries through social media platforms. Also earlier on Tuesday the Ukrainian leader revealed that two Chinese men had been captured during combat on Ukrainian soil. China's Foreign Ministry in response has said Beijing is looking into the situation but rejected as groundless reports of broader Chinese involvement in Russia's military campaign.

S. Korea and U.S. inked new joint wartime operations plan last year to counter N. Korea WMD, missile threats: USFK Commander

2025/04/10 17:00

Seoul and Washington reportedly signed a fresh wartime operations plan last year. This is according to General Xavier Brunson the commander of the U.S. Forces Korea in a written statement to the U.S. House Committee on Armed Services on Wednesday. He added the new deal was sealed in response to Pyongyang's increasingly sophisticated weapons of mass destruction and missile capabilities. Moreover with regard to the stationing of American soldiers on the Korean peninsula Brunson highlighted the "positional advantage" of this troop presence.

Seoul mobilizes full diplomatic response to U.S. tariff policy shift

2025/04/10 17:00

Acting President Han Duck-soo has called for a closely coordinated approach to addressing U.S. tariffs on South Korea with all agencies including the country's embassy in the U.S. reaching out to relevant American authorities for talks. Our correspondent Moon Hye-ryeon has the latest. Acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo has ordered an all-out diplomatic push to respond to Washington's tariff moves, following the Trump administration's decision to temporarily suspend additional rates on reciprocal tariffs for key trade partners, including South Korea. During a virtual meeting on Wednesday with South Korea's ambassador to the United States, Cho Hyun-dong, and Minister for Trade, Cheong In-kyo, Han stressed the need for swift and unified coordination with U.S. counterparts — the National Security Council, U.S. Trade Representative, and the U.S. Departments of State, Commerce and Energy. He instructed the Korean Embassy in Washington to strengthen communication with U.S. officials and ensure timely reporting back to Seoul, where all government ministries are treating the situation with "the utmost seriousness." Ambassador Cho said U.S. officials reacted positively following Han's phone call with U.S. President Trump, expressing interest in deepening cooperation in trade, energy, and shipbuilding. Trade Minister Cheong, who is currently in Washington, echoed that the tariff delay gives Korea a chance to minimize the economic fallout. However, he warned of potential spillover effects from steep U.S. tariffs on China — such as an influx of discounted Chinese goods into Korean and regional markets. Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok also addressed the issue, stating on Wednesday that the 90-day deferral has eased some immediate pressure. In a meeting with financial envoys abroad, he pledged full support for Korean companies during this adjustment period and emphasized the need for clear messaging that Korea's economic and foreign policy remains steady despite this period of political transition. Officials noted that while China is responding forcefully to the U.S. tariffs, countries like Japan and Vietnam are prioritizing dialogue — highlighting the importance of tailored, proactive diplomacy in the weeks ahead. Moon Hye-ryeon, Arirang News.

Trump announces 90-day pause on reciprocal tariffs, hikes levies on China

2025/04/10 10:00

U.S. President Donald Trump has made a dramatic reversal, announcing a 90-day pause on the reciprocal tariffs that went effect on Wednesday. But he hiked China's tariff rate to 125% after Beijing retaliated. Kim Bo-kyoung has our top story. In just 13 hours since the reciprocal tariffs for so-called "worst offender" countries took effect on Wednesday, U.S. President Donald Trump abruptly backed down on this set of tariffs for 90 days for all countries apart from China, which instead saw its tariffs raised to one-hundred-25-percent. Trump's stunning reversal came through his social media just before 1:30 PM Wednesday where he said Washington would pause higher targeted tariffs to more than 75 trading partners who reached out to negotiate with the U.S., rather than retaliated. He repeated his thoughts during an event with race car champions on the White House South Lawn. "I did a 90-day pause for the people that didn't retaliate, because I told them, if you retaliate we're going to double it. And that's what I did with China, because they did retaliate." The decision means countries that would have faced reciprocal tariff rates on Wednesday including South Korea, see rates go back down to the universal ten-percent rate. But for Beijing, which had retaliated to Trump's 104% tariffs by upping its tariff rate on U.S. goods to 84%, Trump raised tariffs on China yet again, to now 125%. Products that aren't exempt under the trade deal --steel, aluminum and autos, will still have a 25-percent tariff. When asked whether volatile bond markets persuaded him to pull back on his plan, Trump said he saw people were getting afraid. "The bond market right now is beautiful. But yeah, I saw last night where people were getting a little queasy. . They were getting yippy, you know, they were getting a little bit yippy, a little bit afraid." On this, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent reportedly told the press at the White House,. that what people saw --the reciprocal tariffs that went effect on Wednesday was a "ceiling", and now that they have a temporary "floor." He added it would take some time for each country's tailor-made solutions. Meanwhile for South Korea, the 90-day pause will likely serve as time to negotiate with the U.S. after the new administration launches in June. Kim Bo-kyoung, Arirang News.

U.S. Defense Secretary calls for cooperation against "Chinese threats" during Panama visit

2025/04/10 10:00

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has announced plans to enhance military cooperation with Panama, aiming to counter perceived threats from China's influence over the Panama Canal. During a visit to Panama City on Tuesday, Hegseth emphasized the strategic importance of the Panama Canal, through which over 40% of U.S. container traffic transits annually. On Wednesday, he asserted that China-based companies control critical infrastructure in the canal area, potentially enabling surveillance activities that compromise the security and sovereignty of both Panama and the United States. In response, the U.S. and Panama have agreed to deepen their military collaboration, including conducting joint training exercises and enhancing security operations to safeguard the canal's operations.

Coalition deal in Germany clears way for Friedrich Merz to become chancellor

2025/04/10 10:00

Let's begin in Germany where Friedrich Merz is set to become the next chancellor? That's right. With the conservative CDU/CSU alliance and the center-left SPD reaching a coalition agreement, Merz will be inaugurated as the new chancellor next month. On Wednesday local time, leaders from Germany's Christian Democratic Union, its sister party the Christian Social Union, and the Social Democratic Party announced a coalition deal. This follows the federal elections held on February 23, where the CDU and CSU emerged as the leading force without an outright majority. The coalition's policy framework, titled "Responsibility for Germany," outlines key initiatives, including economic measures, fiscal policy, defense, and foreign policy. Friedrich Merz, leader of the CDU, is poised to become the next Chancellor, pending formal approval processes within the involved parties.

On-point: Why 125% tariffs on China when a 90-day pause for others?

2025/04/10 10:00

Trump is really hunting down China. A 90-day pause on Trump's reciprocal tariffs with the exception of China, with Beijing now facing 125% tariffs. We're joined by Professor Oh Joon-seok this morning. Welcome back. 1. Tariffs continue to roll in for Beijing when a tariff delay has been given to others. 2. Some analysts also point out it's about who'll blink first here: Washington or Beijing? 3. With the tariff delay, South Korea has bought time until early July, when we'll have a new leader. 4. It looks like Trump's pushing for this one-stop shopping --bundling trade, defense, and industrial cooperation into one package deal. 5. Trump can be really pushy, especially when pursuing his goals. Thanks so much for sharing your insight this morning.

China counters Trump's 104% tariffs with 84% levies on U.S. products

2025/04/10 10:00

And hours before the announcement on the delay, both China and the EU decided to strike back at Trump's reciprocal tariffs. First, China countered Trump's 104 percent tariff with 84 percent duties on American goods. Lee Seung-jae tells us more. The two largest economies in the world are now going back and forth with tariffs, each hoping one side with succumb first. A day after U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 104 percent tariff on Chinese goods coming into the U.S., China retaliated, announcing an 84 percent tariff on U.S. goods. China's State Council Tariff Commission said in a statement that the U.S. escalation of tariffs against Beijing is a "mistake upon mistake," adding that it "severely" infringes upon China's legitimate rights and interests. It added that the U.S. tariffs seriously damage the rules-based multilateral trading system. China had warned that it would "fight to the end" if Washington continued to impose additional tariffs against the country. On top of the 84 percent tariffs, China's Ministry of Commerce announced that it had imposed export controls on 12 American companies, banning Chinese companies from supplying them with dual-use products with military and civilian applications. Beijing also added 6 more U.S. firms to its "unreliable entity list," which bans them from trading or making new investments in China. Meanwhile the European Union will impose its first countermeasures against the U.S. reciprocal tariffs starting next week. EU members agreed on Wednesday to join Canada and China in retaliating against U.S. tariff policies. Members agreed to impose retaliatory tariffs on 23 billion U.S. dollars worth of American products, from farm produce to products from Republican states. The EU says it will impose 25 percent tariffs on a number of goods from almonds to yachts,.. with the first levies being collected starting next Tuesday. Most of the retaliatory tariffs will be applied from May 15th,.. and the remainder starting on December 1st. However,.. the European Commission said in a statement that "these countermeasures can be suspended at any time, should the U.S. agree to a fair and balance negotiated outcome. Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.

S. Korea and U.S. inked new joint wartime operations plan last year to counter N. Korea WMD, missile threats: USFK Commander

2025/04/10 10:00

South Korea and the United States signed a new joint wartime operations plan last year, in response to North Korea's evolving nuclear threats. Commander of the U.S. Forces Korea, General Xavier Brunson, mentioned this plan in a written statement to the House Armed Services Committee on Wednesday. The general said the plan was in response to Pyongyang's increasingly sophisticated weapons of mass destruction and missile capabilities and that the new plan was signed after testing and validating it through the two countries' joint exercises. He added that Seoul and Washington will continue to refine the plan to improve integration and interoperability.

Negotiations already launched as reciprocal tariffs come into effect on Wednesday

2025/04/09 20:00

Country-specific U.S. tariffs took effect today, putting much uncertainty on the world economy. The team from Korea is in Washington, with the U.S. saying its allies South Korea and Japan in mind for negotiations. Meantime, the levy for China went up to 104-percent. Kim Bo-kyoung has more. Countries hit by tariffs have already launched negotiations with the U.S. as the steeper rates of reciprocal tariffs for what Trump calls the "worst offenders" were officially imposed on Wednesday. South Korea, which saw a 25-percent reciprocal tariff imposed as of 1PM Wednesday local time, began its talks as well. Along with Acting President Han Duck-soo's phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump, Seoul's trade minister Cheong In-kyo arrived at Washington, D.C. on Tuesday, for talks with the U.S. Trade Representative. Cheong said Korea has two major projects it could bring to the table. "The Alaska LNG project is an important part, and shipbuilding, where discussions are already ongoing between the two countries is an area the U.S. is particularly interested in so it will likely be brought to the negotiating table for discussions." While saying his goal is to completely eliminate mutual tariffs, Cheong said Korea will aim to reduce the tariffs gradually if elimination is difficult. Such talks come as the U.S. is prioritizing its key allies South Korea and Japan, in holding trade negotiations. Among dozens of countries facing high reciprocal tariffs, Kevin Hassett, Chairman of the White House National Economic Council, said in an interview with local media on Tuesday that Seoul and Tokyo are the highest priorities, citing them as major trading partners and allies with large trade surpluses with the United States. Meanwhile, China now needs to deal with Washington's huge one-hundred-four-percent tariff across all Chinese imports. China was already set to see tariffs increase by 34-percent on Wednesday, following two rounds of ten-percent levies. The rate shot up again as Beijing did not back down on its decision to impose 34-percent retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods by noon on Tuesday. "Countries like China, who have chosen to retaliate and try to double down on their mistreatment of American workers, are making a mistake. President Trump has a spine of steel and he will not break and America will not break under his leadership." Regarding the massive tariff on China, Trump at the National Republican Congressional Committee President’s Dinner on Tuesday, said though it might seem outrageous, China has imposed tariffs of one-hundred or one-hundred-25-percent on many American items. He then said China would at some point, negotiate. Kim Bo-kyoung, Arirang News.

[Politics & Diplomacy] Presidential race heats up: DP leader resigns to run for president, former Labor Minister joins race

2025/04/09 20:00

For the presidential election on June 3rd, politicians are speeding up their moves to join the race. To take a closer look at how the rival parties are preparing and what’s ahead, let’s turn to our political correspondent Shin Ha-young. Ha-young, the Democratic Party leader resigned from the chairmanship of the party today. What does this mean? You’re right. Today, Democratic Party Chairman Lee Jae-myung, widely seen as the likely DP candidate, stepped down from his position, hinting at his presidential bid. This comes as the political scene quickly shifted into early election mode, following former President Yoon’s removal from office. Lee, who lost to former President Yoon by a margin of zero-point-7-3 percentage points in the last presidential election, has not officially declared his candidacy but plans to do so on Thursday. Take a listen. "I am grateful to have been able to serve as the party leader for three years and to have achieved some meaningful results. Things were tough in the beginning, but I’m leaving with the situation looking better than when I started. I will soon be starting a new chapter." Politicians outside Lee's faction within the DP are also preparing to enter the race. Among them, former DP lawmaker Kim Du-kwan, who also served as minister of interior, and governor of Gyeongsangnam-do Province, was the first to announce his candidacy. Kim Dong-yeon, the current Governor of Gyeonggi-do Province, also formally declared his bid today, before departing for Michigan in the U.S. to address tariff-related issues. Following Lee's resignation, the DP quickly shifted into election mode, planning to launch an election committee as soon as possible. The party aims to select its presidential candidate by the end of this month. Primary rules and the election schedule are also expected to be finalized soon, with candidate registration expected to start next week. There’s growing attention on how the primary will be run, as different factions within the party hold different views. In the last presidential election, the primary was based on the results of a party membership vote given a 50 percent share and public opinion polls also given a 50 percent share. This time, however, politicians outside Lee’s faction are pushing for an open primary, where the outcome is determined entirely by public voting. What's the mood at the People Power Party? Any updates? Well, as for the People Power Party, there is no front runner like its rivals, and the primary is expected to have around 10 candidates or even more. Now-former Labor Minister Kim Moon-soo, who resigned from his post yesterday, declared his candidacy today. Let's take a listen. "I received a lot of support and encouragement from the public. I've decided to follow the will of the people. I'm committed to defending South Korea's identity as a free democracy, and doing my part to help make the country even stronger." PPP lawmaker Ahn Cheol-soo also declared his fourth run for presidency on Tuesday. Former PPP Chair Han Dong-hoon said the formation of his camp will begin on Thursday, while Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon is planning to announce his candidacy on Sunday. Daegu Mayor Hong Joon-pyo's supporters said his official announcement will be on the 14th of April. The party's election committee today decided to hold its national convention on May 3rd to choose its official presidential candidate. Candidate registration will take place next Monday for two days, and the first-round contenders will be announced on April 16th. With as many as 15 people expected to run, there’s a lot of talk about how many rounds of cutoffs there'll be, and how many candidates make it through each time. Those details are set to be decided at tomorrow's meeting. With the election date now official, I hear the election commission today ensured a fair and transparent process. You're right. National Election Commission chief Roh Tae-ak today stressed the importance of the 21st presidential election, saying the commission will make the voting and counting process more transparent to build public trust. Take a listen. "The National Election Commission takes this election seriously and is committed to ensuring a fair and impartial process. Despite the short timeline, we’ll do all we can to prepare thoroughly so the will of the people is fully reflected in the outcome." Roh also emphasized that election fraud is impossible, noting that over 300-thousand clerks take part in the voting and counting process, and more than 100-thousand observers monitor every step. CCTV will record in real-time the storage rooms for ballot boxes, and the footage will be shared. Ballot-counting clerks will count the ballots with their hands in addition to the electronic counting. Let's shift our focus to the Constitutional reform that has been making headlines during the past few days. I hear the Assembly Speaker has backtracked on the idea of holding a referendum on the election day. What's the story there? You're right. Well, calls for constitutional reform surface almost in every election in South Korea. But this time, National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik pushed for a nationwide referendum to take place alongside the upcoming election, emphasizing the need to strengthen the separation of powers to ensure popular sovereignty and national unity. However, on Wednesday, he withdrew his earlier proposal, saying that it has become virtually impossible under the current political turmoil, especially after Acting President Han Duck-soo nominated two Constitutional Court justices to fill the bench. Instead, Woo suggested opening full-scale discussions on the revision after the presidential election. Alright, thank you, Ha-young, for your report today. Keep us posted on future developments. Thank you.

S. Korean, U.S. leaders signal interest in "win-win" "one-stop shopping" deal in phone call

2025/04/09 20:00

A deal between Korea and the U.S. could involve the one that ties trade and security. The country's acting president spoke over the phone with the American leader last night. Oh Soo-young reports. The leaders of South Korea and the United States have signaled interest in a potential "win-win" package deal, amid tensions over tariffs and defense cost-sharing. This came during a phone call Tuesday between Acting President Han Duck-soo and U.S. President Donald Trump,.marking the first top-level contact between the two countries since Trump began his second term 78 days ago. It follows a leadership shift in Seoul,. just four days after President Yoon Suk Yeol was removed from office by the Constitutional Court, placing Han in full control as acting president. The 28-minute conversation focused on trade and security issues. On trade, both leaders agreed to continue ministerial-level talks aimed at mutually beneficial outcomes, particularly around trade balance. Han highlighted potential cooperation in three key sectors: shipbuilding, liquefied natural gas, and trade adjustment. The call came just 16 hours before the U.S. implemented its so-called Liberation Day levies a 10 percent baseline tariff on all imports, and a country-specific reciprocal tariffs on goods from South Korea. On security issues, Han called for stronger unity on North Korea's denuclearization, as both leaders reaffirmed their dedication to the South Korea-U.S. alliance. They also pledged close coordination on North Korea policies, and backed continued trilateral cooperation with Japan. Beyond the formalities, both sides appeared to willing to work towards a deal. Speaking to CNN earlier that day, Han ruled out retaliation against Trump's tariffs, unlike China or Japan, and called for a “cool negotiation.” On top of last month's duties on steel and aluminum, Washington's latest measures target key Korean exports such as automobiles, batteries, and machinery. While calling Trump's string of tariffs “a pity,” Han said he believed a “win-win deal” between friends could encourage Washington to ease its stance. Meanwhile, Trump took to Truth Social, posting he had a "great call" with Han. He said they discussed South Korea’s trade surplus, tariffs, LNG purchases, and cost-sharing for U.S. troops in Korea. Trump claimed South Korea began paying “billions” in military costs during his first term, only for “Sleepy Joe Biden” to cancel the deal. However, no such agreement was finalized. A new cost-sharing pact was signed under Biden last year, raising South Korea’s contribution by 8.3 percent from 2026, with annual increases tied to inflation, marking a significant financial commitment by Seoul. Still, as a growing number of countries strike back against his tariffs, Trump seemed hopeful for a breakthrough with South Korea, saying he saw potential for a "great deal." Noting that South Korea’s “top team” on trade was en route to Washington, he floated a “one-stop shopping” approach which bundles trade, defense, and industrial policy into one sweeping pact. A South Korean government official told local press on Wednesday that Seoul prioritizes the easing of tariffs. The official added that Trump seemed "open" to a streamlined, package deal, but said sealing a deal will depend on the pace of negotiations, and what cards the two sides bring to the table. Oh Soo-young, Arirang News, Sejong.

A look into N. Korea’s moves and regional risks amid S. Korea’s political uncertainty

2025/04/09 20:30

Welcome to Within The Frame, where we bring the most pressing issues across the globe into focus. I'm Kim Mok-yeon. South Korea is facing an intense period of political transition following the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk-yeol. As Seoul prepares for new leadership, attention has been shifted to North Korea’s muted response to Yoon’s dismissal as it stands in stark contrast to its past behaviors, raising questions about Pyongyang’s current strategic thinking. Meanwhile, Kim Jong-un’s high-profile military inspection on the day of the ruling, along with renewed statements from Kim Yo-jong and a reported border-crossing incident in the DMZ, suggest that tensions may still be simmering beneath the surface. To delve deeper into the inter-Korean situation, we invite our go-to North Korea expert, Dr. Go Myong-hyun, Senior Research Fellow at the Institute for National Security Strategy. Welcome. Also joining us is Brian Myers, Professor of International Studies at Dongseo University. Great to have you. 1. (Go) So Dr. Go, North Korea briefly reported the news of former President Yoon Suk-yeol's dismissal without special comments a day after it happened. This is in contrast with the swift and detailed reporting of former President Park Geun-hye’s impeachment. How could we read into this? 2. (Myers) On the other hand, there is also a view that the North may have limited its rhetoric against the South, as the impeachment news could negatively impact its own regime. What is your view? 3. (Go) The North's KCNA reported that Kim Jong-un inspected a special operations unit on April 4—the day of Pres. Yoon's impeachment ruling. Do you think this holds any significance? 4. (Go) Meanwhile, the former Yoon administration maintained a hardline stance on North Korea. Do you believe a shift in North Korea policy is necessary under the next administration for better stability on the Korean Peninsula? 5. (Myers) Dialogue between North Korea and the U.S. is being cited as the biggest variable that could shake the situation on the Korean Peninsula. In this context, Kim Yo-jong, Vice Department Director of the Workers’ Party, strongly objected to the foreign ministers' meeting between Seoul, Washington, and Tokyo, which reaffirmed commitments to North Korea’s denuclearization, calling it the most hostile act. What is the significance of Kim Yo-jong stepping forward to reiterate North Korea's position? 6. (Go) Meanwhile, Acting President Han Duck-soo and U.S. President Trump held their first phone call for nearly 30 minutes on Tuesday. This was the first conversation between the two leaders since the launch of Trump’s second administration, amid continued concerns over a “Korea passing” in the North Korea nuclear negotiations. How do you assess this development? 7. (Myers) After the call with Acting President Han, President Trump hinted at renegotiating the increase in South Korea's defense cost sharing. What kind of proactive diplomatic and security responses do you think are necessary going forward? 8. (Go) North Korea–Russia relations are strengthening into a strategic alliance, and the U.S.–Russia relationship is reportedly improving in light of the Ukraine ceasefire talks. Amid such changes in the international landscape, what direction should South Korea’s diplomacy take for the sake of Peninsula stability? 9. (Myers) Recently, the United Nations Human Rights Council adopted a North Korea human rights resolution for the 23rd consecutive year. This year's resolution notably includes concerns over North Korean troop deployment to Russia. While these resolutions are not legally binding, do you think continued pressure like this can have an impact on North Korea? 10. (Go) On April 8th, the Joint Chiefs of Staff reported that around a dozen North Korean soldiers crossed the Military Demarcation Line in the eastern section of the Demilitarized Zone. While it may have been a simple mistake made during reconnaissance, there is also speculation that it was a deliberate incursion taking advantage of South Korea’s current political instability. What is your view on this?

S. Korean, U.S. leaders signal interest in "win-win" "one-stop shopping" deal in phone call

2025/04/09 17:00

Acting President Han Duck-soo and U.S President Donald Trump have confirmed their commitment to bolstering bilateral ties on trade and security. Our correspondent Oh Soo-young reports. The leaders of South Korea and the United States have signaled interest in a potential "win-win" package deal, amid tensions over tariffs and defense cost-sharing. This came during a phone call Tuesday between Acting President Han Duck-soo and U.S. President Donald Trump,.marking the first top-level contact between the two countries since Trump began his second term 78 days ago. It follows a leadership shift in Seoul,. just four days after President Yoon Suk Yeol was removed from office by the Constitutional Court, placing Han in full control as acting president. The 28-minute conversation focused on trade and security issues. On trade, both leaders agreed to continue ministerial-level talks aimed at mutually beneficial outcomes, particularly around trade balance. Han highlighted potential cooperation in three key sectors: shipbuilding, liquefied natural gas, and trade adjustment. The call came just 16 hours before the U.S. implemented its so-called Liberation Day levies a 10 percent baseline tariff on all imports, and a country-specific reciprocal tariffs on goods from South Korea. On security issues, Han called for stronger unity on North Korea's denuclearization, as both leaders reaffirmed their dedication to the South Korea-U.S. alliance. They also pledged close coordination on North Korea policies, and backed continued trilateral cooperation with Japan. Beyond the formalities, both sides appeared to willing to work towards a deal. Speaking to CNN earlier that day, Han ruled out retaliation against Trump's tariffs, unlike China or Japan, and called for a “cool negotiation.” On top of last month's duties on steel and aluminum, Washington's latest measures target key Korean exports such as automobiles, batteries, and machinery. While calling Trump's string of tariffs “a pity,” Han said he believed a “win-win deal” between friends could encourage Washington to ease its stance. Meanwhile, Trump took to Truth Social, posting he had a "great call" with Han. He said they discussed South Korea’s trade surplus, tariffs, LNG purchases, and cost-sharing for U.S. troops in Korea. Trump claimed South Korea began paying “billions” in military costs during his first term, only for “Sleepy Joe Biden” to cancel the deal. However, no such agreement was finalized. A new cost-sharing pact was signed under Biden last year, raising South Korea’s contribution by 8.3 percent from 2026, with annual increases tied to inflation, marking a significant financial commitment by Seoul. Still, as a growing number of countries strike back against his tariffs, Trump seemed hopeful for a breakthrough with South Korea, saying he saw potential for a "great deal." Noting that South Korea’s “top team” on trade was en route to Washington, he floated a “one-stop shopping” approach which bundles trade, defense, and industrial policy into one sweeping pact. A South Korean government official told local press on Wednesday that Seoul prioritizes the easing of tariffs. The official added that Trump seemed "open" to a streamlined, package deal, but said sealing a deal will depend on the pace of negotiations, and what cards the two sides bring to the table. Oh Soo-young, Arirang News, Sejong.

World News: UN chief calls Gaza a 'killing field', condemning Israel for aid blockade

2025/04/09 17:00

This is The World Now, bringing you the latest stories from around the globe. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has described Gaza as a "killing field," following urgent appeals from UN agencies for immediate action to ensure the delivery of food and aid to Palestinians in Gaza. On Tuesday, the UN chief addressed the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, calling the area a "killing field" where civilians face extreme suffering. He emphasized the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and humanitarian access to the enclave. Guterres also rejected an Israeli proposal to control aid deliveries into Gaza, saying it could potentially restrict humanitarian support "down to the last calorie and grain of flour." The heads of six UN agencies issued a joint appeal to world leaders calling for urgent action to facilitate the delivery of food and aid to Gaza's residents, who have been without supplies since March 2. In the Dominican Republic's capital city Santo Domingo, at least 79 people died and over 150 were injured after the roof of a nightclub collapsed during a live performance. In the early hours of Tuesday, local time, the roof of the Jet Set nightclub collapsed during a concert by merengue singer Rubby Perez, with hundreds of people inside when the incident occurred. Among the deceased are Nelsy Cruz, the governor of Monte Cristi province, and the sister of former Major League Baseball player Nelson Cruz, as well as former MLB pitcher Octavio Dotel. Rubby Perez sustained injuries but is reported to be in stable condition. While investigations are underway to determine the cause of the collapse, the country's president expressed his condolences and assured all resources are being deployed for ongoing rescue efforts. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on Tuesday, local time, that Ukrainian forces have captured two Chinese nationals fighting alongside the Russian army in the eastern part of the country. Zelenskyy stated that intelligence suggests more Chinese individuals are present in Russian military units. He directed Ukraine's foreign minister to engage with Beijing to seek clarification on this matter, but has not heard from the Chinese government yet. The development raises questions about China's role in the conflict, given its previously declared stance for peace. Finally, in the United Arab Emirates, Sotheby's has unveiled a collection of rare diamonds valued at over 100 million U.S. dollars in an exhibition center in Abu Dhabi. The exhibition's centerpiece is the Mediterranean Blue, a 10.03-carat Fancy Vivid Blue diamond from South Africa, regarded as one of the most significant blue diamonds ever discovered. The gem is expected to be valued at up to 20 million dollars at an auction scheduled for May in Geneva. The exhibition features eight diamonds totaling over 700 carats and will be open to the public from April 9 to 10. Choi Chi-hee, Arirang News.

Russia “welcomes” U.S.-Iran nuclear talks, ratifies treaty to upgrade relations with Iran

2025/04/09 17:00

Come Saturday this week over in Oman officials from the U.S. and Iran will launch talks over the latter's nuclear weapons. Lee Seung-jae covers this much-anticipated event and more. The United States and Iran will sit down for nuclear talks in Oman on Saturday. Tuesday's announcement comes a day after U.S. President Donald Trump warned that Iran could be in great danger if the nuclear negotiations do not go well. "He has said there will be direct talks with Iran on Saturday. You can strike a deal with the president, you can negotiate or there will be hell to pay. And as the president said yesterday, if they don't choose to move forward with diplomacy and a deal, which is the direction we do see them headed in, there will be grave consequences to pay." Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said a nuclear deal is possible as long as the U.S. is willing, while he dismissed the Libyan model, which would mean the full dismantling of Iran's nuclear program, mentioned by Israel. Russia welcomed the news of the upcoming talks, and expressed its willingness to provide assistance. According to Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov on Tuesday, Moscow supports resolving the Iranian nuclear issue through political and diplomatic means. The remarks by the Kremlin also comes as Russia's lower-house, the State Duma, on Tuesday ratified a 20-year strategic partnership treaty with Iran, elevating their bilateral relations. The treaty which was signed by the leaders of Russia and Iran in January, strengthens political, military and economic cooperation between the two countries. One of the key provisions commits Moscow and Tehran to counter shared security threats, exchange intelligence and refrain from helping an aggressor if either country is attacked. However, unlike the treaty Russia signed with North Korea in October 2024, Iran did not include a clause allowing the deployment of troops to support military operations. Meanwhile, Russia also announced a separate expert-level talks with China and Iran on nuclear issues took place in Moscow on Tuesday. Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.

Negotiations already launched as reciprocal tariffs come into effect on Wednesday

2025/04/09 17:00

And country-specific U.S. tariffs are in effect as we speak and the "top team" on trade from South Korea that Mr. Trump earlier mentioned is in Washington D.C. for negotiation rather than retaliation which is the case for China. Kim Bo-kyoung has more. Countries hit by tariffs have already launched negotiations with the U.S. as the steeper rates of reciprocal tariffs for what Trump calls the "worst offenders" were officially imposed on Wednesday. South Korea, which saw a 25-percent reciprocal tariff imposed as of 1PM Wednesday local time, began its talks as well. Along with Acting President Han Duck-soo's phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump, Seoul's trade minister Cheong In-kyo arrived at Washington, D.C. on Tuesday, for talks with the U.S. Trade Representative. Cheong said Korea has two major projects it could bring to the table. "The Alaska LNG project is an important part, and shipbuilding, where discussions are already ongoing between the two countries is an area the U.S. is particularly interested in so it will likely be brought to the negotiating table for discussions." While saying his goal is to completely eliminate mutual tariffs, Cheong said Korea will aim to reduce the tariffs gradually if elimination is difficult. Such talks come as the U.S. is prioritizing its key allies --South Korea and Japan, in holding trade negotiations. Among dozens of countries facing high reciprocal tariffs, Kevin Hassett, Chairman of the White House National Economic Council, said in an interview with local media on Tuesday that Seoul and Tokyo are the highest priorities, citing them as major trading partners and allies with large trade surpluses with the United States. Meanwhile, China now needs to deal with Washington's huge one-hundred-four-percent tariff across all Chinese imports. China was already set to see tariffs increase by 34-percent on Wednesday, following two rounds of ten-percent levies. The rate shot up again as Beijing did not back down on its decision to impose 34-percent retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods by noon on Tuesday. "Countries like China, who have chosen to retaliate and try to double down on their mistreatment of American workers, are making a mistake. President Trump has a spine of steel and he will not break and America will not break under his leadership." Regarding the massive tariff on China, Trump at the National Republican Congressional Committee President's Dinner on Tuesday, said though it might seem outrageous, China has imposed tariffs of one-hundred or one-hundred-25-percent on many American items. He then said China would at some point, negotiate. Kim Bo-kyoung, Arirang News.

COUNTRY-TAILORED TRUMP TARIFFS KICK IN

2025/04/09 17:30

Welcome to Press Perspective for this Wednesday April 9th here in Seoul. I'm Min Sunhee. The art of the deal for South Korea is negotiation over retaliation in response to Mr. Trump's country-tailored tariffs that are in effect today. For more I have Ruy Valdes with Spanish news agency EFE Spain. Ruy welcome back. I also have Professor Kim Yong-jin at Sogang University joining our session virtually. Professor Kim it's a pleasure as always. #1) Ruy, acting President Han Duck-soo and U.S. President Donald Trump spoke on the phone Tuesday evening to mark the first leader-level talks between Seoul and Washington since the start of the second Trump term. #2) Professor Kim, speaking in an interview with CNN, acting President Han spoke of negotiation rather than retaliation with regard to Trump tariffs, and he also played down prospects of a trilateral economic response including South Korea, Japan and China to U.S. import duties. 3-1) Ruy, the South Korean stock market tumbled at the start of this workweek, triggering a circuit breaker for five minutes during early morning trade on Monday. 3-2) Ruy, the 25-percent tariff on CAR imports into the U.S. market went into effect on APRIL 3rd, and the same tariff on CAR PART imports is expected to take effect by MAY 3rd. 4) Professor Kim, foreign automakers are responding to U.S. tariffs on car imports with layoffs as well as halts in exports to the American market. 5) Ruy, Trump tariffs are also being condemned among the public in the U.S. 6) Ruy, some pundits believe the Trump administration's tariff campaign will not last long. 7) Professor Kim, speaking within your capacity as a scholar, what are your prospects with regard to Mr. Trump's tariff policy? 8) Ruy, the so-called reciprocal tariffs kick in on this Wednesday, with South Korea facing a hefty import duty of 25 percent. 9) Professor Kim, some of the economic priorities for Korea, as we speak, are reviving domestic consumption and responding to U.S. tariffs.