News

UN condemns targeted Israeli attack that killed five Al Jazeera journalists

2025/08/12 11:38

The United Nations has strongly condemned a targeted Israeli airstrike that killed five Al Jazeera journalists in Gaza on Sunday, calling it a serious breach of international law. UN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, condemned the killing and demanded an "independent and impartial" investigation into the incident, according to his spokesperson on Monday. Al Jazeera labeled the attack a "blatant and premeditated assault on press freedom," asserting that it aimed to silence those documenting the impending occupation of Gaza. The U.S.-based Committee to Protect Journalists urged accountability and denounced Israel's repeated claims of Hamas affiliation as justification for targeting journalists. According to reports, at least 242 journalists have been killed in Gaza since the war began.

Trump deploys National Guard to Washington, D.C. and pledges crime crackdown

2025/08/12 11:38

Good morning, I'm Choi Chi-hee, and this is The World Now. Starting in the United States, President Donald Trump has declared a "public safety emergency" in Washington, D.C., placing the city's police under direct federal control. At a White House press conference on Monday, President Trump also announced the deployment of 800 National Guard troops. Trump stated the move was to "re-establish law, order, and public safety" in the capital. He referenced the emergency powers granted by the D.C. Home Rule Act, which allow him to federalize the Metropolitan Police Department, bypassing elected city leaders. Attorney General Pam Bondi was appointed to oversee the federalized police force. National Guard troops are expected to arrive by the end of the week, with between 100 and 200 deployed at any given time to assist the police. D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser described the President's actions as "unsettling and unprecedented," asserting that the city is not experiencing a crime surge and that violent crime is at a 30-year low.

Fmr. First Lady Kim Keon Hee faces arrest hearing on corruption allegations

2025/08/12 11:37

A Seoul court is holding a hearing today on whether to arrest former First Lady Kim Keon Hee, the wife of former President Yoon Suk Yeol. She faces allegations of stock manipulation, interference in party nominations, and influence-peddling , which she denies. Prosecutors argue that there's a high risk she will destroy evidence. A decision could come as early as tonight , and if granted, it would mark the first time in the country's history that a former president and first lady are detained at the same time.

Lee–Trump summit could reshape S. Korea-U.S. security alliance: Victor Cha

2025/08/12 11:37

With a tariff deal now behind them, the leaders of South Korea and the U.S. are looking ahead to what could be their first-ever summit within this month, which would reshape the two countries' security alliance, says Victor Cha, the Korea chair at the Center for Strategic & International Studies. Kim Jung-sil reports. The tariff deal announced late last month may have dominated headlines, but for veteran Korea watcher Victor Cha, its biggest impact is on the agenda it clears the way for. "Now that this is kind of been at least in a framework agreement stage that really opens up space for the two leaders to talk about all the other things that are important in the alliance. they can get back to talking about the issues that matter on security: military, defense and deterrence." That, he says, could set the stage for adjustments, not just in policy, but in the alliance itself. "I think they will there will be some changes coming to the alliance. We've already seen them on the economic side but there could also be some coming on the security side." "Could you give us an example on what changes could come if you can just predict?" "We know very clearly that President Trump wants Korea to pay more for the stationing of U.S. forces in Korea. On the Korean side, the Lee government, progressive governments in general, have been very focused on trying to return OPCON transition So that's something that could certainly come up. And President Trump has made no secret of his desire to reduce the U.S. military footprint in Korea and in including the number of ground troops that are in Korea. So those are three big areas where we could see a potential change." Dr. Cha says any troop drawdown could be part of a broader alliance modernization , paring fewer ground forces with more air and naval power, and stronger South Korean intelligence and surveillance. "If that's all packaged together as part of a dual effort to modernize the alliance then I think you don't have any problems. Then I don't think you hurt deterrence, you strengthen the alliance." But he warns that acting without consultation could have the opposite effect. "But if the United States just starts doing this unilaterally just starts pulling forces unilaterally without much consultation that can weaken the alliance and can also create miscalculation or misperception by the North Koreans and the Chinese that the alliance is weakening." Still, he says the trade deal opens the door for talks on key security issues and their first meeting could determine whether the allies move toward a stronger, more modern security partnership. Kim Jung-sil, Arirang News.

Who's on President Lee Jae Myung's first pardons list?

2025/08/12 11:35

On the local front. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has issued his Liberation Day special pardons. The clemency list spans high-profile politicians, business leaders, and members of the public. Our top office correspondent Song Yoo-jin has the details. With South Korea's National Liberation Day on Friday, the customary presidential pardons have been announced. At an extraordinary Cabinet meeting on Monday, clemency was granted to 2-thousand-1-hundred-88 people. "This round of pardons is aimed at responding to the call for national unity, creating an opportunity to overcome division and conflict, and revitalizing the struggling economy amid global uncertainty." At the center of attention is Cho Kuk, former head of the minor Rebuilding Korea Party. Cho, who served as Justice Minister and senior presidential aide to former President Moon Jae-in, has been serving a two-year prison term since last December for academic fraud involving his children and unlawfully interfering with a government-led corruption inspection. "The Rebuilding Korea Party is an opposition party, and Cho Kuk is not a close associate of President Lee. In fact, he is among those whose pardons were widely requested by figures from various political and religious circles." Pardoned with a restoration of rights, Cho can run for public office again, with speculation that he may enter the 2026 local elections. Also among the 27 pardoned politicians is former lawmaker Yoon Mee-hyang, convicted of embezzling funds from a civic group supporting Korean wartime sex slaves, known as "comfort women." The main opposition People Power Party blasted the pardons as a "reward for regime change." The pardons this time also aim to boost people's livelihoods. "We expect pardons for key business leaders to help create jobs and drive dynamic growth, while clemency for small business owners and self-employed workers will support stability and recovery in the local economy." Notable names include former SK Networks chairman and CEO Choi Shin-won. Others include those who were sent to labor facilities for failing to pay court-imposed fines, as well as taxi and bus drivers. The first round of pardons under the new administration will take effect this Friday. Song Yoo-jin, Arirang News.

S. Korea, Vietnam agree to bolster strategic partnership

2025/08/11 22:42

President Lee Jae Myung hosted Vietnam's political leader To Lam today in Seoul to bolster cooperation in a host of areas. One particular focus was on sharply increasing bilateral trade volume. Our Presidential Office Correspondent Yoon Jung-min reports. The summit began on a friendly note, with a handshake and a gun salute to welcome Vietnam's top political leader. "You are the first state guest since the launch of the new government of the Republic of Korea. It shows that we highly value Vietnam." The sentiment was mirrored by Vietnam's Communist Party leader, To Lam, as he invited President Lee and the first lady to Vietnam in the near future. "I'm honored to be invited. I congratulate President Lee Jae Myung for being elected as the 21st President of the Republic of Korea." Monday's summit talks yielded deliverables to further deepen the South Korea-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. "Marking the 10th anniversary of the bilateral FTA this year, the two countries will bolster efforts to achieve the goal of increasing bilateral trade to US$ 150 billion by 2030." Last year, bilateral trade reached nearly 87-billion dollars, with Vietnam being South Korea's third-largest trading partner. There are other areas of cooperation. "We agreed to focus on developing strategic infrastructure, such as infrastructure related to transportation, energy, digital and climate change." South Korea hopes to take part in large-scale infrastructure projects in Vietnam, including its nuclear power plant project and North-South express railway project. Focus was also on strengthening cooperation on AI, renewable energy, critical minerals and copyright, for which an array of MOUs were signed. And the meeting was crucial in more ways than one. The new South Korean leader shared his vision for peace and prosperity on the Korean Peninsula, as Lam welcomed the South Korean government's efforts to resume dialogue with North Korea. The Vietnamese leader, for his part, noted the importance of peace and freedom of navigation in the South China Sea. On the diplomatic front, the two leaders agreed upon cooperation on multilateral forums, as South Korea and Vietnam serve as hosting countries of the APEC summit in 2025 and 2027, respectively. Also, exchanges will be expanded at parliamentary and municipal levels. And as a clear reflection of the importance of people-to-people and cultural exchanges, first lady Kim Hea Kyung hosted the spouse of Vietnam's top leader, Ngo Phuong Ly at the National Museum of Korea in Seoul. To Lam's visit to Korea the first of its kind in 11 years involves a dinner hosted by the South Korean President with heads of major South Korean businesses, including SK and Hyundai Motor groups. Seoul's top office says Monday's summit signals the start of Lee's "pragmatic diplomacy" in earnest. This comes at a time when the global trade environment is becoming increasingly unstable. Yoon Jung-min, Arirang News.

USFK Commander Gen. Brunson hints at possible "strategic flexibility"

2025/08/11 22:39

The commander of U.S. Forces Korea stressed the importance of defense skill over troop size when asked to define the term "alliance modernization". Our defense correspondent Kim Bo-kyoung has this report. Capabilities over size. That is what General Xavier Brunson, the commander of the United States Forces Korea emphasized when asked to define "alliance modernization." This follows concerns in Seoul over a possible reduction of U.S. troops on the Korean peninsula for "strategic flexibility." The general did not directly mention any troop reduction, but he did highlight the need for Seoul to acknowledge strategic flexibility as well, citing the example of Patriot batteries that have been temporarily moved to the Middle East but that are expected to return with upgrades. "Whenever things of strategic flexibility happen — I think that the onus is on this command, read me, to ensure that our allies understand what I'm doing. But there's nothing that says that we can't move to where we need to be in support of allied nations and our own objectives." The general underlined that the ROK-U.S. alliance is not just dealing with North Korea, which he called the closest alligator to the boat, but also with Russia and China which both have strong links with Pyongyang. "What's being asked of Korea is to be stronger against DPRK—that we might have the flexibility as we modernize our alliance so that we could go do other things." Against such a backdrop, the issue of transferring wartime operational control the OPCON transfer was brought up as well. General Brunson said rushing things would hurt readiness, and that conditions need to be bilaterally agreed upon. "Now, if we choose to take shortcuts, that could endanger the readiness of the force here on the Peninsula. So I think that our approach has to be one that is, again, bilaterally managed, bilaterally considered, and bilaterally assessed in order to get to that point." The allies are slated to go ahead with the annual Ulchi Freedom Shield starting next week. Some outdoor exercises have been adjusted, but the general says he is comfortable with the decision and as the allies will still exercise fully. Kim Bo-kyoung, Arirang News.

N. Korea condemns planned ROK-U.S. exercises, threatens ‘self defense’ actions

2025/08/11 22:37

North Korea has slammed the upcoming joint military drills between South Korea and the U.S., a reaction that is not too much of a surprise. But what's notable is that the statement came days after the North also took down its border speakers that broadcast propaganda directed at the South. Park Hyo-been reports. North Korea has condemned an upcoming large-scale joint military exercise between South Korea and the United States. According to a report by the North's state-run Korean Central News Agency on Monday, Defense Minister No Kwang-chol had warned that Pyongyang would invoke its right to "self-defense" in response to any provocation. The warning came a week ahead of Seoul and Washington's annual summertime Ulchi Freedom Shield exercise, set to run from August 18th to 28th. Experts say this is a clear sign that the North is seeking to permanently end the allied exercises. "This is not the first time that North Korea has criticized a ROK-U.S. joint military exercise since Trump was inaugurated, and it has continued to raise questions and criticized the ROK-U.S. alliance. This is a very clear purpose that North Korea definitely wants to stop or permanently halt ROK-U.S. joint military exercises." In response to Pyongyang's denunciation, Seoul's Ministry of National Defense said: "The ROK-U.S. combined exercises are annual defensive drills to maintain a strong joint defense posture, contributing to peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and beyond. The defense authorities from both nations are closely coordinating their execution." North Korea's warning comes despite recent signs of a potential de-escalation by the reclusive state. Last Saturday, Pyongyang began dismantling some loudspeakers installed along its border, which were previously used for noise campaigns against South Korea. The move by the North came just days after Seoul completed removing border loudspeakers, a move aimed at reducing inter-Korean tensions last Tuesday. In response, Seoul's Ministry of Unification welcomed North Korea's swift removal of its border loudspeakers. "Regarding North Korea's dismantling of propaganda loudspeakers along the border, our government assesses Pyongyang's swift action in removing its own loudspeakers, following our removal of anti-Pyongyang loudspeakers, positively." While the dismantling of loudspeakers hints at easing tensions, North Korea's hardline stance over the drills suggests the road to reconciliation will be far from smooth. Park Hyo-been, Arirang News.

[THE INTERVIEW] Lee–Trump summit could reshape S. Korea-U.S. security alliance: Victor Cha

2025/08/11 22:36

With a tariff deal now behind them, the leaders of South Korea and the U.S. are looking ahead to what could be their first-ever summit within this month, which would reshape the two countries' security alliance, says Victor Cha, the Korea chair at the Center for Strategic & International Studies. Kim Jung-sil reports. The tariff deal announced late last month may have dominated headlines, but for veteran Korea watcher Victor Cha, its biggest impact is on the agenda it clears the way for. "Now that this is kind of been at least in a framework agreement stage that really opens up space for the two leaders to talk about all the other things that are important in the alliance. they can get back to talking about the issues that matter on security: military, defense and deterrence." That, he says, could set the stage for adjustments, not just in policy, but in the alliance itself. "I think they will there will be some changes coming to the alliance. We've already seen them on the economic side but there could also be some coming on the security side." "Could you give us an example on what changes could come if you can just predict?" "We know very clearly that President Trump wants Korea to pay more for the stationing of U.S. forces in Korea. On the Korean side, the Lee government, progressive governments in general, have been very focused on trying to return OPCON transition So that's something that could certainly come up. And President Trump has made no secret of his desire to reduce the U.S. military footprint in Korea and in including the number of ground troops that are in Korea. So those are three big areas where we could see a potential change." Dr. Cha says any troop drawdown could be part of a broader alliance modernization , paring fewer ground forces with more air and naval power, and stronger South Korean intelligence and surveillance. "If that's all packaged together as part of a dual effort to modernize the alliance then I think you don't have any problems. Then I don't think you hurt deterrence, you strengthen the alliance." But he warns that acting without consultation could have the opposite effect. "But if the United States just starts doing this unilaterally just starts pulling forces unilaterally without much consultation that can weaken the alliance and can also create miscalculation or misperception by the North Koreans and the Chinese that the alliance is weakening." Still, he says the trade deal opens the door for talks on key security issues and their first meeting could determine whether the allies move toward a stronger, more modern security partnership. Kim Jung-sil, Arirang News.

Who's on President Lee Jae Myung's first pardons list?

2025/08/11 22:35

South Korean President Lee issued his Liberation Day special pardons today. The clemency list spans high-profile politicians, business leaders, and members of the public. Our Top Office correspondent Song Yoo-jin has the details. With South Korea's National Liberation Day on Friday, the customary presidential pardons have been announced. At an extraordinary Cabinet meeting on Monday, clemency was granted to 2-thousand-1-hundred-88 people. "This round of pardons is aimed at responding to the call for national unity, creating an opportunity to overcome division and conflict, and revitalizing the struggling economy amid global uncertainty." At the center of attention is Cho Kuk, former head of the minor Rebuilding Korea Party. Cho, who served as Justice Minister and senior presidential aide to former President Moon Jae-in, has been serving a two-year prison term since last December for academic fraud involving his children and unlawfully interfering with a government-led corruption inspection. "The Rebuilding Korea Party is an opposition party, and Cho Kuk is not a close associate of President Lee. In fact, he is among those whose pardons were widely requested by figures from various political and religious circles." Pardoned with a restoration of rights, Cho can run for public office again, with speculation that he may enter the 2026 local elections. Also among the 27 pardoned politicians is former lawmaker Yoon Mee-hyang, convicted of embezzling funds from a civic group supporting Korean wartime sex slaves, known as "comfort women." The main opposition People Power Party blasted the pardons as a "reward for regime change." The pardons this time also aim to boost people's livelihoods. "We expect pardons for key business leaders to help create jobs and drive dynamic growth, while clemency for small business owners and self-employed workers will support stability and recovery in the local economy." Notable names include former SK Networks chairman and CEO Choi Shin-won. Others include those who were sent to labor facilities for failing to pay court-imposed fines, as well as taxi and bus drivers. The first round of pardons under the new administration will take effect this Friday. Song Yoo-jin, Arirang News.

Pres. Lee Jae Myung opens month of summit diplomacy with Vietnam talks; U.S. and Japan next

2025/08/11 21:35

Welcome to Within The Frame, where we bring the most pressing issues across the globe into focus. I'm Kim Mok-yeon. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has opened a month of high-stakes summit diplomacy. It began today in Seoul with Vietnam's top political leader, Communist Party General Secretary To Lam, the first Vietnamese head of state visiting in 11 years. The two leaders pledged to deepen their "Comprehensive Strategic Partnership," aiming for 150 billion U.S. dollars in trade by 2030 and boosting cooperation in energy, technology, and security. Later this month, Lee meets U.S. President Donald Trump to discuss modernizing the alliance, tariff negotiations, and defense cost-sharing. A Korea–Japan summit is also under discussion, with speculation it could happen first, potentially shaping talks with Washington. For an overall discussion on how the array of talks could shape Seoul's regional strategy, we're joined by Evans Revere, Former Acting Assistant Secretary of State and Non-resident Senior Fellow in the Foreign Policy Program at Brookings. Welcome. Also joining us is Hannah Kim, Associate Professor at Sogang University GSIS. Good to see you. (Revere) To start with the big picture, today in Seoul, President Lee Jae Myung met with Vietnam's top political leader, Communist Party General Secretary To Lam. With this summit kicking off a month of intensive diplomacy, including planned talks with U.S. and Japan, what do you see as the top priorities of the Lee administration's diplomatic strategy? (Kim) So General Secretary To Lam's visit carries a lot of significance. Why do you think the Lee administration invited Vietnam's top leader as its first state guest? (Kim) Looking at the results of the meeting, the two sides adopted a joint statement to deepen the "Korea–Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership" with future-oriented cooperation. They set a goal to expand bilateral trade to 150 billion dollars by 2030, and signed over 10 MOUs on various industries. How could this partnership bolster Korea's "global middle power diplomacy" strategy? (Revere) Turning to the U.S. summit ahead, at the end of this month, a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump is also scheduled. The key agenda item, "modernizing the Korea–U.S. alliance," covers a broad scope, including adjustments to the role of U.S. Forces Korea. Mr.Revere, what is the core of alliance modernization? And what diplomatic approach should Korea take in preparation? (Kim) Related to that, if Korea accepts the U.S. request for "expanded strategic flexibility," how could that affect the Korean Peninsula's security structure and relations with neighboring countries, particularly China? (Revere) On the defense cost issue, foreign media outlets have reported that the Trump administration is considering asking Korea to raise its defense spending to 3.8% of GDP and to increase its share of defense cost contributions during tariff negotiations. Would such demands be realistically acceptable? (Kim) Staying with the tariff talks, this Korea–U.S. summit is also expected to discuss specifics of those negotiations, including a 350 billion dollar investment fund for the U.S. What strategic approach would be necessary for Korea to gain an advantage in these talks? (Revere) Shifting to Korea–Japan relations, Japanese media outlets report that a summit is being coordinated for the 23rd, though the presidential office has yet to confirm. If the Korea–Japan summit were to take place first, what would be its symbolism and diplomatic message? (Kim) On the possible sequencing, analysts say President Lee's consideration of "Japan first, U.S. later" reflects a strategy to boost negotiating leverage with the U.S. by pre-coordinating on key issues like tariffs and security with Japan. Could this approach have a positive impact for Korea at the negotiating table with Washington? (Revere) Finally, looking at the trilateral picture, with both Korea–U.S. and Korea–Japan summits on the horizon, trilateral cooperation among Korea, the U.S., and Japan seems likely to strengthen. On issues like countering China and dealing with North Korea, what diplomatic balance should the Lee Jae-myung administration seek?

World News: Trump says homeless people in Washington, D.C. 'have to move out IMMEDIATELY'

2025/08/11 19:42

This is the World Now, bringing you the latest stories from around the globe. In the United States, President Donald Trump has announced sweeping measures to "clean up" Washington, D.C. He has ordered the immediate removal of homeless people from the city and pledged to crack down on violent crime. Trump said on Truth Social on Saturday that homeless individuals will be "moved out, IMMEDIATELY" to facilities "FAR from the Capital." Trump also said he would unveil on Monday his initiative to address the city's violent crime. The President threatened to "take Federal control" of Washington, D.C., on August 5, saying that "Crime in Washington, D.C., is totally out of control." The city's mayor Muriel Bowser responded on Sunday that Trump's move is legally questionable and noted that violent crime in the city is down 26% this year, with overall crime down 7%, and that 2024 had the lowest violent crime rate in three decades. The mayor said what the city needs instead are more federal prosecutors, judges, and funding for repairs to parks and buildings. The leaders of Australia and New Zealand agreed to strengthen military cooperation in the face of heightened regional tensions, including a Chinese live-fire naval drill earlier this year. New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese met on Saturday in New Zealand, where they highlighted the need for improved interoperability between their armed forces. Luxon called Australia New Zealand's "only ally" and called for a unified Anzac force, referring to the Australian New Zealand Army Corps, operating across the region. Albanese reaffirmed their shared commitment to regional stability. The summit comes after Chinese naval vessels conducted a live-fire exercise in the Tasman Sea in February without prior notification, an action that disrupted commercial flights and prompted Canberra and Wellington to seek deeper defense alignment. Four crew members of NASA's Crew-10 mission have safely returned to Earth after a five-month stay aboard the International Space Station. The SpaceX Crew Dragon Endurance capsule splashed down in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Southern California on Saturday at 11:33 AM. The returning astronauts include NASA's Anne McClain and Nichole Ayers, Japan's Takuya Onishi, and Russia's Kirill Peskov. Their mission involved conducting over 200 scientific experiments, performing spacewalks, and maintaining the station during their 146 days aboard. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, the 10th International Waterfall Jumping Competition took place in Jajce on Saturday. The contest drew 16 divers from across the globe to leap from the 20-meter-high Pliva Waterfall into the deep pool below in a unique traditional event. Competitors executed the "Lasta" or "Swallow" style jumps, diving styles in which the arms extend outward and the diver enters the water head first. The competition, supported by local and federal authorities, and held annually, continues to grow as a tourism highlight. Choi Chi-hee, Arirang News.

[THE INTERVIEW] Lee–Trump summit could reshape S. Korea-U.S. security alliance: Victor Cha

2025/08/11 19:41

A former White House official and renowned scholar specializing in Korean affairs believes the first summit between President Lee Jae Myung and his U.S. counterpart Donald Trump may offer the two leaders the opportunity to adjust their alliance to allow for a stronger security posture. Our Kim Jung-sil reached out to him. The tariff deal announced late last month may have dominated headlines, but for veteran Korea watcher Victor Cha, its biggest impact is on the agenda it clears the way for. "Now that this is kind of been at least in a framework agreement stage that really opens up space for the two leaders to talk about all the other things that are important in the alliance. they can get back to talking about the issues that matter on security: military, defense and deterrence." That, he says, could set the stage for adjustments, not just in policy, but in the alliance itself. "I think they will there will be some changes coming to the alliance. We've already seen them on the economic side but there could also be some coming on the security side." "Could you give us an example on what changes could come if you can just predict?" "We know very clearly that President Trump wants Korea to pay more for the stationing of U.S. forces in Korea. On the Korean side, the Lee government, progressive governments in general, have been very focused on trying to return OPCON transition So that's something that could certainly come up. And President Trump has made no secret of his desire to reduce the U.S. military footprint in Korea and in including the number of ground troops that are in Korea. So those are three big areas where we could see a potential change." Dr. Cha says any troop drawdown could be part of a broader alliance modernization , paring fewer ground forces with more air and naval power, and stronger South Korean intelligence and surveillance. "If that's all packaged together as part of a dual effort to modernize the alliance then I think you don't have any problems. Then I don't think you hurt deterrence, you strengthen the alliance." But he warns that acting without consultation could have the opposite effect. "But if the United States just starts doing this unilaterally just starts pulling forces unilaterally without much consultation that can weaken the alliance and can also create miscalculation or misperception by the North Koreans and the Chinese that the alliance is weakening." Still, he says the trade deal opens the door for talks on key security issues and their first meeting could determine whether the allies move toward a stronger, more modern security partnership. Kim Jung-sil, Arirang News.

Netanyahu reiterates goal of ending Gaza war

2025/08/11 19:40

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says the expansion of military operations in Gaza seeks to end NOT prolong the war against Hamas. Addressing members of the media the Israeli leader stressed that Israel has no desire to occupy Gaza but wishes to "liberate" it. He further noted that he ordered the military to accelerate the seizing of Gaza from Hamas control to end the war swiftly. Back last week he reaffirmed the five goals of Israeli operation in Gaza including the disarmament of Hamas, the return of all hostages, the demilitarization of Gaza, Israeli security control over the territory and the establishment of an alternative civilian government not linked to Hamas or the Palestinian Authority.

Vance says U.S. working to set up Trump-Putin-Zelenskyy face-to-face talks

2025/08/11 19:39

In other news. The U.S. is reportedly seeking to set up a trilateral summit among the U.S. Ukraine and Russia to end the Kremlin's war. Intentions to this end come amid a planned bilateral meeting between the leaders of the U.S. and Russia in Alaska this coming Friday. Lee Seung-jae has details. U.S. Vice President JD Vance said Sunday that Washington is working to arrange talks between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. "We're at a point now where we're now trying to figure out, frankly, scheduling and things like that around when these three leaders could sit down and discuss an end to this conflict." Speaking to Fox News, Vance also noted that a meeting between the leaders of Russia and Ukraine would be more productive after Putin first sits down with U.S. President Donald Trump. The U.S. vice president added that the Trump administration hopes to secure a negotiated settlement to the war in Ukraine, though he warned that "both sides will probably be unhappy with the outcome." "We're gonna try to find some negotiated settlement that the Ukrainians and the Russians can live with, where they can live in relative peace, where the killing stops. It's not gonna make anybody super happy." Meanwhile, according to a senior U.S. official and three people briefed on internal discussions, the White House is considering inviting Zelenskyy to Alaska, where Trump is scheduled to meet Putin next week. However, the sources said no visit has been finalized and it remains unclear whether Zelenskyy will attend. When asked about the formal invitation, the senior official said that Trump remains open to a trilateral summit, but added that the White House is focusing on planning the bilateral summit requested by Putin. While Kyiv has yet to comment on the matter, European allies of Ukraine have reiterated that any peace talks with Russia must include Ukraine. In a joint statement on Saturday, the leaders of the UK, France, Italy, Germany, Poland, Finland, and the European Commission underscored that position ahead of Friday's Trump-Putin meeting in Alaska. The European leaders also expressed their support for Trump's efforts to end the war in Ukraine, but stressed that "only an approach that combines "diplomacy, support to Ukraine, and pressure on the Russian Federation to end their illegal war can succeed." Zelenskyy has previously said any agreements reached without Kyiv's involvement would amount to "dead decisions." Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.

USFK Commander Gen. Brunson hints at possible "strategic flexibility"

2025/08/11 19:38

The commander of U.S. Forces Korea stressed the importance of defense skill over troop size when asked to define the term "alliance modernization". Remarks to this end were shared with the South Korean press corps at a U.S. military base here. Our defense correspondent Kim Bo-kyoung was there. Capabilities over size. That is what General Xavier Brunson, the commander of the United States Forces Korea emphasized when asked to define "alliance modernization." This follows concerns in Seoul over a possible reduction of U.S. troops on the Korean peninsula for "strategic flexibility." The general did not directly mention any troop reduction, but he did highlight the need for Seoul to acknowledge strategic flexibility as well, citing the example of Patriot batteries that have been temporarily moved to the Middle East but that are expected to return with upgrades. "Whenever things of strategic flexibility happen — I think that the onus is on this command, read me, to ensure that our allies understand what I'm doing. But there's nothing that says that we can't move to where we need to be in support of allied nations and our own objectives." The general underlined that the ROK-U.S. alliance is not just dealing with North Korea, which he called the closest alligator to the boat, but also with Russia and China which both have strong links with Pyongyang. "What's being asked of Korea is to be stronger against DPRK—that we might have the flexibility as we modernize our alliance so that we could go do other things." Against such a backdrop, the issue of transferring wartime operational control the OPCON transfer was brought up as well. General Brunson said rushing things would hurt readiness, and that conditions need to be bilaterally agreed upon. "Now, if we choose to take shortcuts, that could endanger the readiness of the force here on the Peninsula. So I think that our approach has to be one that is, again, bilaterally managed, bilaterally considered, and bilaterally assessed in order to get to that point." The allies are slated to go ahead with the annual Ulchi Freedom Shield starting next week. Some outdoor exercises have been adjusted, but the general says he is comfortable with the decision and as the allies will still exercise fully. Kim Bo-kyoung, Arirang News.

N. Korea warns of 'self-defense' against ROK-U.S. drills

2025/08/11 19:37

While denouncing an upcoming annual defense drill between Seoul and Washington in a statement carried on its state-run media on this Monday North Korea also began dismantling its loudspeakers directed toward South Korea this past weekend. Moon Ji-young has more. North Korea's defense chief has denounced a planned large-scale joint military exercise between South Korea and the U.S. According to the North's state-run Korean Central News Agency on Monday, Defense Minister No Kwang-chol warned that Pyongyang would exercise its "self-defense" right against any provocation. He delivered the warning a week before Seoul and Washington are set to commence their annual summertime Ulchi Freedom Shield exercise scheduled from August 18th to 28th. Defense Minister No asserted that the joint exercise, conducted under a simulated nuclear war scenario, constitutes a direct military provocation against the North. In response to Pyeongyang's denunciation, Seoul's Ministry of National Defense said: "The ROK-U.S. combined exercises are annual, defensive drills conducted to maintain a robust combined defense posture. They have significantly contributed to peace and stability, not only on the Korean Peninsula, but also in the wider region. The defense authorities of both South Korea and the U.S. are closely coordinating the execution of these combined exercises." North Korea's stern warning comes despite recent signs of a potential de-escalation from the reclusive state. Last Saturday, Pyongyang began dismantling some loudspeakers installed along its border, which were previously used for noise campaigns against South Korea. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff confirmed that North Korean military activities to remove loudspeakers were detected in parts of the front-line area as of Saturday morning. In response to these developments, Seoul's Ministry of Unification said: "Regarding North Korea's dismantling of propaganda loudspeakers along the border, our government assesses positively Pyongyang's swift action in removing its own loudspeakers following our removal of anti-Pyongyang loudspeakers." The move by the North comes just days after Seoul completed removing border loudspeakers aimed at reducing inter-Korean tensions last Tuesday. Moon Ji-young. Arirang News.

Gov't and ruling party agree to support vulnerable industries likely affected by Korea-U.S. trade deal

2025/08/11 19:35

Also on the political front. A high-level meeting took place between the government and the ruling party with a new head at the helm to address details of the trade deal between South Korea and the U.S. amid preparations for a bilateral summit this month. Our correspondent Shin Ha-young reports. South Korea's government and ruling party agreed to provide support to industries and businesses expected to be most affected by the new U.S. tariffs. This comes after the two sides on Sunday reviewed follow-up measures to the recent trade agreement between South Korea and the United States. During the meeting, Democratic Party leader Jung Chung-rae said the party and government will evaluate the impact of the recent trade deal on the economy and industries, and devise response measures. "We will work to ensure the outcome of the trade talks directly benefits the national interest, and quickly introduce the necessary bills and policies in the National Assembly to carry out follow-up measures without delay." The two sides agreed to deliberate on the Lee Jae Myung administration's recent proposal to tighten capital gains tax rules by lowering the threshold for major shareholders, a move that sparked strong backlash from retail investors. Currently, only those holding 5 billion won roughly 3-point-6 million U.S. dollars or more in a single listed stock are taxed. Under the new plan, that threshold would be reduced to 1 billion won, or just under 720 thousand dollars. "We closely consulted and decided to deliberate on the issue while monitoring developments." Sunday's meeting was the first high-level consultation between government officials and the ruling party since four-term lawmaker Jung was elected party leader. Prime Minister Kim Min-seok congratulated him on his election and emphasized that the party, government, and presidential office need to work as one. Shin Ha-young, Arirang News.

President Lee grants special pardon to fmr. minor party leader Cho Kuk

2025/08/11 19:35

And President Lee Jae Myung has granted special Liberation Day pardons to 2-thousand-1-hundred-88 individuals including Cho Kuk the former head of the minor Rebuilding Korea Party. The decision was made at an extraordinary Cabinet meeting held on this Monday afternoon. Cho who served as Justice Minister and senior presidential aide to former President Moon Jae-in has been serving a two-year prison term since last December for academic fraud involving his children and unlawful interference with a government-led corruption inspection. Pardoned with restoration of rights Cho can run for public office again. The first round of presidential pardons under the new administration will take effect this coming Friday.

S. Korea, Vietnam agree to bolster strategic partnership

2025/08/11 19:34

We start with the summit between President Lee Jae Myung and his Vietnamese counterpart To Lam earlier on this Friday morning that was followed by a joint press conference at noon. Arirang's Yoon Jung-min starts us off from the top office. The summit began on a friendly note, with a handshake and a gun salute to welcome Vietnam's top political leader. "You are the first state guest since the launch of the new government of the Republic of Korea. It shows that we highly value Vietnam." The sentiment was mirrored by Vietnam's Communist Party leader, To Lam, as he invited President Lee and the first lady to Vietnam in the near future. "I'm honored to be invited. I congratulate President Lee Jae Myung for being elected as the 21st President of the Republic of Korea." Monday's summit talks yielded deliverables to further deepen the South Korea-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. "Marking the 10th anniversary of the bilateral FTA this year, the two countries will bolster efforts to achieve the goal of increasing bilateral trade to US$ 150 billion by 2030." Last year, bilateral trade reached nearly 87-billion dollars, with Vietnam being South Korea's third-largest trading partner. There are other areas of cooperation. "We agreed to focus on developing strategic infrastructure, such as infrastructure related to transportation, energy, digital and climate change." South Korea hopes to take part in large-scale infrastructure projects in Vietnam, including its nuclear power plant project and North-South express railway project. Focus was also on strengthening cooperation on AI, renewable energy, critical minerals and copyright, for which an array of MOUs were signed. And the meeting was crucial in more ways than one. The new South Korean leader shared his vision for peace and prosperity on the Korean Peninsula, as Lam welcomed the South Korean government's efforts to resume dialogue with North Korea. The Vietnamese leader, for his part, noted the importance of peace and freedom of navigation in the South China Sea. On the diplomatic front, the two leaders agreed upon cooperation on multilateral forums, as South Korea and Vietnam serve as hosting countries of the APEC summit in 2025 and 2027, respectively. Also, exchanges will be expanded at parliamentary and municipal levels. And as a clear reflection of the importance of people-to-people and cultural exchanges, first lady Kim Hea Kyung hosted the spouse of Vietnam's top leader, Ngo Phuong Ly at the National Museum of Korea in Seoul. To Lam's visit to Korea the first of its kind in 11 years involves a dinner hosted by the South Korean President with heads of major South Korean businesses, including SK and Hyundai Motor groups. Seoul's top office says Monday's summit signals the start of Lee's "pragmatic diplomacy" in earnest. This comes at a time when the global trade environment is becoming increasingly unstable. Yoon Jung-min, Arirang News.