News

Seoul condemns Japan’s approval of textbooks claiming Dokdo as Japanese territory

2025/03/25 20:00

Seoul has strongly condemned Japan's approval of high school textbooks that continue to make unfounded claims over the South Korean islands of Dokdo. In a statement released on Tuesday, Seoul's foreign ministry called on Japan to correct these inaccuracies and uphold its commitment to show sincere remorse over past wartime atrocities. Japan's Ministry of Education has reportedly approved high school textbooks for use starting in 2026. These textbooks are reported to continue pushing Japan's false narrative over South Korea's Dokdo.

White House affirms commitment to working with S. Korea's Acting President Han Duck-soo

2025/03/25 20:00

The White House has confirmed its commitment to working with South Korea's Acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo. The Prime Minister's Office here shared a statement on Tuesday that included the first remarks made by the Trump administration on Han's return to office. It said that the U.S. is committed to working with Han and the South Korean government, further expressing confidence in the "democratic resilience" of South Korea and its people.

Acting President and PM Han pledges to leverage all his experience in dealing with U.S. tariffs

2025/03/25 20:00

Acting President Han Duck-soo has reaffirmed the government's priority on protecting national interests amid a global trade war. It's in line with this that he vows to lead a task force and tackle the issue at a higher level. Kim Do-yeon has this report. In his first Cabinet meeting since returning from suspension Acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo on Tuesday acknowledged the challenges facing the nation — from a global trade war sparked by U.S. tariffs to growing pressures on small business owners and the cost of living. He emphasized the need for all-out effort from everyone as well as cooperation with the National Assembly amid the fierce stand-off between the main rival parties. "Fellow Cabinet members, our calling at this moment is to protect the safety of our people, safeguard our national interests amid the ongoing trade war, and swiftly devise solutions to urgent national issues through cooperation with the National Assembly." He also pledged to leverage his experience of which he has more than 50년 in public service related to trade and foreign affairs to protect Korea's interests, especially in the face of what he called a "tariff storm," started from the U.S. He called on the members of the Cabinet to do the same and to make sure that the citizens can feel the efforts made by the government. "I ask each Cabinet member to exercise full authority and responsibility in implementing their respective policies in a timely manner. I also urge you to communicate actively with the public, providing clear and transparent explanations throughout the process and on the outcomes." This comes as for nearly the past three months South Korea had both its president and prime minister suspended with the deputy prime minister for finance in control of the government. With the Prime Minister's comeback as the acting president, the South Korean government can be seen as more stabilized and a conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump could take place. In fact, he held a meeting that followed the Cabinet meeting with ministers related to trade as his office says that Han was taking on the U.S.-related matters himself. There, the Acting President announced a restructuring of the existing "External Economic Issues Meeting"—which had been chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister for Finance—into the "Economic Security Strategy Task Force," which he will personally lead. According to the Acting President's office, the move aims to strengthen the government's ability to respond to growing external uncertainties, including the U.S. administration's tariff policies, and to enhance coordination between trade and security issues. Kim Do-yeon, Arirang News.

Acting President and PM Han pledges to leverage all his experience in dealing with U.S. tariffs

2025/03/25 17:00

Here in Korea. Acting President Han Duck-soo has reaffirmed the government's priority on protecting national interests amid mounting concerns over a global trade war. Our correspondent Kim Do-yeon covers his remarks. In his first Cabinet meeting since returning from suspension Acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo on Tuesday acknowledged the challenges facing the nation — from a global trade war sparked by U.S. tariffs to growing pressures on small business owners and the cost of living. He emphasized the need for all-out effort from everyone as well as cooperation with the National Assembly amid the fierce stand-off between the main rival parties. "Fellow Cabinet members, our calling at this moment is to protect the safety of our people, safeguard our national interests amid the ongoing trade war, and swiftly devise solutions to urgent national issues through cooperation with the National Assembly." He also pledged to leverage his experience of which he has more than 50 years in public service related to trade and foreign affairs to protect Korea's interests, especially in the face of what he called a "tariff storm," started from the U.S. He called on the members of the Cabinet to do the same and to make sure that the citizens can feel the efforts made by the government. "I ask each Cabinet member to exercise full authority and responsibility in implementing their respective policies in a timely manner. I also urge you to communicate actively with the public, providing clear and transparent explanations throughout the process and on the outcomes." This comes as for nearly the past three months South Korea had both its president and prime minister suspended with the deputy prime minister for finance in control of the government. With the Prime Minister's comeback as the acting president, the South Korean government can be seen as more stabilized and a conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump could take place. In fact, he held a meeting that followed the Cabinet meeting with ministers related to trade as his office says that Han was taking on the U.S.-related matters himself. There, the Acting President announced a restructuring of the existing "External Economic Issues Meeting"—which had been chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister for Finance—into the "Economic Security Strategy Task Force," which he will personally lead. According to the Acting President's office, the move aims to strengthen the government's ability to respond to growing external uncertainties, including the U.S. administration's tariff policies, and to enhance coordination between trade and security issues. Kim Do-yeon, Arirang News.

World News: Police and protesters clash in Turkiye, more than 1,000 arrested

2025/03/25 17:00

This is the World Now, bringing you the latest stories from around the globe. Amid the widespread protests in Turkiye following the detention of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu more than one thousand people have been arrested. The country's interior minister reported on Monday that 1,133 people across Turkiye had been taken into custody between March 19 and March 23 for illegal activities carried out while protesting the arrest of Imamoglu, a prominent opposition figure, and potential presidential candidate. Tens of thousands took to the streets in cities such as Istanbul and Ankara, participating in the largest demonstrations in the country in more than a decade. Law enforcement responded by employing tear gas, water cannons, and rubber bullets to disperse crowds. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned the demonstrations, calling them a "movement of violence." The United Nations has announced a reduction in its operations within the Gaza Strip following a fatal incident involving personnel from the organization. An Israeli tank strike on March 19 resulted in the death of a UN employee and injuries to five others. In response, the UN spokesperson for Secretary-General Antonio Guterres announced Monday that the UN will temporarily withdraw around one-third of its staff members from the region. The decision follows escalated risks faced by humanitarian workers after Israel restarted military operations in the enclave. Finally, in the UK, London has turned into an open-air gallery with the launch of The Big Egg Hunt 2025 which runs from March 24 to April 27 ahead of Easter. The event features over 100 artist-designed egg sculptures, each standing about 60 centimeters tall, scattered across iconic locations within the city. Organized by the wildlife charity Elephant Family, the initiative, launched in 2021, aims to raise awareness and funds for Asian wildlife conservation projects. Participants can download The Big Egg Hunt app to track eggs they've discovered through QR code scans and unlock rewards along the way. Choi Chi-hee, Arirang News.

Second vice FM meets UN Deputy Secretary-General to discuss N. Korea and cooperation

2025/03/25 17:00

In New York this past Monday. Second Vice Foreign Minister Kang In-sun met with UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed on the margins of a UN Security Council meeting. Their talks covered the importance of multilateral cooperation to address security concerns including North Korea's military collaboration with Russia. Separately Kang also sat down with officials from the UN Development Programme to propose more meaningful joint projects as Korea seeks to further expand its global contributions.

U.S., Russia hold 12-hour talks on Ukraine ceasefire

2025/03/25 17:00

In Saudi Arabia on Monday. U.S. efforts to mediate a ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia continue and a statement on talks between Washington and Moscow is scheduled to be shared on Tuesday. Our Park Joon-han has the latest. The meeting in Saudi Arabia between U.S. and Russian officials on Monday ended after over 12 hours, with a draft joint statement. An official joint statement is expected to be released on Tuesday, which a White House source said would be a "positive" one. Among other issues, the White House said the initial aim of the Saudi talks was to secure a maritime truce in the Black Sea, as it was President Trump's efforts to end the three-year-old war. Security Adviser Mike Waltz also mentioned discussions for a so-called "line of control" between Ukraine and Russia, which he described as "verification measures, peacekeeping, freezing the lines where they are". The talks, aimed at establishing a partial ceasefire in Ukraine were held behind closed doors in Riyadh and focused on implementing a limited 30-day pause in attacks. While all parties acknowledged the importance of reducing hostilities, disagreements emerged, particularly about which targets should not be attacked. The White House referred more broadly to "energy and infrastructure" while Russia was more narrow in its reference to "energy infrastructure." Ukraine wanted to also see other infrastructure like railways and ports protected. Discussions also touched on halting Black Sea attacks to safeguard commercial shipping routes. Meanwhile, on Monday, even as the meeting for a peace deal was underway in Saudi Arabia, Russian forces launched a missile strike in the Sumy region of northeastern Ukraine, which injured almost 90 people, including 17 children. Ukraine's foreign minister criticized Moscow for making hollow statements of peace despite brutal strikes on Ukrainian cities, adding that Russia must stop bombing civilians. According to Ukraine's national broadcaster Suspilne, Ukrainian and U.S. delegations will meet on Tuesday for talks. Park Jun-han, Arirang News.

U.S., Russia hold 12-hour talks on Ukraine ceasefire

2025/03/25 10:00

Let's begin with the U.S.-Russia talks on a Ukraine ceasefire. Sure. The meeting in Saudi Arabia between U.S. and Russian officials on Monday ended after over 12 hours, with a joint statement expected to follow. While talks aimed at establishing a partial ceasefire in Ukraine were ongoing in Riyadh with a Black Sea ceasefire also topping the meeting agenda hostilities persisted on the ground in the Sumy region. The talks behind closed doors focused on implementing a 30-day pause in attacks targeting energy infrastructure. While both the U.S. and Russian parties acknowledged the importance of reducing hostilities, disagreements emerged. Discussions also touched upon halting Black Sea attacks to safeguard commercial shipping routes. A joint statement is to be published on Tuesday. Meanwhile, Russian forces launched a missile strike in Sumy, northeastern Ukraine, injuring nearly 90 people, including 17 children.

On-point: Will we have to wait until April for Yoon's impeachment ruling?

2025/03/25 10:00

South Korea's top court has brought the country's Prime Minister back into office, but President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment ruling is still up in the air, with speculation that the ruling may not be made until April. We are joined by Professor Song Se-ryun. Good morning. 1. I'd like to recap Prime Minister Han Duck-soo's impeachment ruling with you first. 2. And how likely is it that Han will appoint the opposition-recommended Constitutional Court Justice candidate Ma Eun-hyuk as the ninth justice? 3. What happens if Han does appoint Ma? 4. Two of the 8 justices’ terms end on April 18th. If we pass that deadline, what happens to the ruling for President Yoon’s impeachment? 5. Patience is running out with the court yet to announce a ruling date for President Yoon. 6. President Yoon Suk Yeol’s insurrection trial is also ongoing, with the Seoul Central District Court having held the second preparatory hearing yesterday. Thanks so much for sharing your insight with us this morning.

Han Duck-soo calls for national unity as he returns as acting president

2025/03/25 10:00

After the top court overturned his impeachment, acting President Han immediately got back to work with a pledge to steer the country out of challenges, amid growing social division and the global trade war. Our political correspondent Kim Do-yeon reports. In an address to the nation after 88 days in suspension Acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo on Monday emphasized national unity. He especially called for politicians to work together amid multiple crises. "If there's one clear lesson we've learned over the past few years, it's that a society divided by extremes leads only to misery and fulfills the dreams of no one. The ruling and opposition parties, as well as the government, must truly change. And, I will start with myself." He also noted that during the 50 years he's spent in public service, the majority of the people in South Korea have wanted to make the country go up and forward not left or right. As for his return as the caretaker, he said during his suspension he thought deeply about what his last responsibilities would be if he were to return. He pointed out the global trade war started by U.S. President Donald Trump and said the world is currently facing an intensifying U.S.-China power rivalry following the inauguration of President Trump, along with a new wave of geopolitical shifts and the restructuring of the global economic order. "I will devote all my wisdom and capabilities to safeguarding our national interests in the trade war that has already become a reality. For the remainder of my term, every decision I make will be guided by what best serves Korea's industries and future generations. The entire Cabinet will move forward alongside me." Han was immediately briefed about the ongoing devastating wildfires in the southeast of the country. He also made orders to public safety officials amid the turbulent times. For his first lunch back, he ate with Cabinet members. There, he urged ministers to push forward on key issues directly tied to people's livelihoods with greater speed. And, he asked all Cabinet members and public officials across the country to do their utmost to ensure that every aspect of state affairs — including diplomacy, national security, the economy, trade, public safety, and administration — functions smoothly. Kim Do-yeon, Arirang News.

Acting President holds NSC on first day back from suspension, says security and economy go together

2025/03/25 10:00

Acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo says South Korea's security situation is more serious than ever, noting recent provocations by North Korea including missile and nuclear threats and cyberattacks. This came on Monday evening as he held his first emergency National Security Meeting since returning from 88 days of suspension and after visiting an area hit by wildfires in the nation's southeast. He also said that in current global conditions security and economic policies can no longer be separated. He added that due to this, all government ministries must work together as one team and cooperate closely to ensure that companies competing in the global market can secure stable supply chains and fully demonstrate their capabilities.

United Nations to scale down operations in Gaza amid renewed fighting

2025/03/25 10:00

The United Nations has announced a reduction in its operations within the Gaza Strip following a fatal incident involving personnel from the organization. An Israeli tank strike on March 19 resulted in the death of a UN employee and injuries to five others. In response, the UN spokesperson for Secretary-General Antonio Guterres announced Monday that the UN will temporarily withdraw around one-third of its staff members from the region. The decision follows escalated risks faced by humanitarian workers after Israel restarted military operations in the enclave.

Constitutional Court dismisses impeachment of Prime Minister Han; how will it affect Pres. Yoon's case?

2025/03/24 20:00

Welcome to Within The Frame where we bring the most pressing issues across the globe into focus, I'm Kim Mok-yeon. South Korea's Constitutional Court rejected the National Assembly's impeachment of Prime Minister Han Duck-soo today, clearing him of charges related to the controversial martial law plan and judicial appointment delays. The ruling—five votes to dismiss, five votes to uphold, and two to reject on procedural grounds—comes three months after Han was impeached for allegedly aiding President Yoon Suk Yeol's December 3rd martial law declaration. With the decision, Han was immediately reinstated as acting president and returned to government affairs without delay. But the implications may stretch far beyond Han himself. Legal experts and political observers are closely watching how this verdict could shape the Constitutional Court's approach to President Yoon's impeachment trial. To help us understand the legal and political impact of this ruling, we invite attorney An Jun-seong, into the studio with us. Welcome. Also joining us is Lee Hee-eun, Dean and Professor of Law at Handong International Law School. Great to see you, Prof. 1.(An) So attorney AN, this morning, the Constitutional Court dismissed the National Assembly's impeachment motion against Prime Minister Han Duck-soo. Of the eight justices, five voted to dismiss, one to uphold, and two rejected the motion on procedural grounds. What is your interpretation of today's ruling? 2.(Lee) Now to Prof.Lee, one of the issues at the time of the impeachment motion against Prime Minister Han was whether the National Assembly had met the required quorum. Han's side argued that since he was serving as acting president, the quorum for impeaching a president—not a cabinet member —should have applied. However, six justices concluded that there were no procedural issues. What was the reasoning behind this? 3.(An) Another thing to note is the National Assembly's argument that Han should be removed from office for allegedly conspiring or giving consent to President Yoon's plan to declare martial law. Yet, NOT only the five justices who voted to dismiss, but even the one who supported impeachment—Justice Jeong Kye-seon—concluded that there was NO violation of the Constitution. What was the reason behind this conclusion? 4.(Lee) Meanwhile, the Court did not make any legal or constitutional judgment on the December 3rd martial law proposal itself—an issue that could influence the impeachment case against President Yoon. Prof.Lee, How should we interpret the Court's silence on this point? 5.(An) That said, some believe today's decision could still influence President Yoon's impeachment trial. Though legally the two are separate cases, do you think today's ruling might offer clues about Yoon's outcome? What is your view? 6.(Lee) With the dismissal of the motion, Prime Minister Han has returned to his post as acting president after 87 days. The opposition is now expected to ramp up pressure to appoint Ma Eun-hyuk, especially since the Court previously ruled that the refusal to appoint Ma was unconstitutional. Prof.Lee, Do you think Ma will be appointed? And could this become a late-stage variable in President Yoon's impeachment trial? 7.(An) This ruling marks the Constitutional Court's first judicial decision involving a senior official over the December 3rd martial law plan. Initially, the Court had indicated that President Yoon's case would take precedence over others, but Han's case was ruled on first. Why was that? 8.(An) So yesterday marked 100 days since the Constitutional Court received the impeachment motion against President Yoon, but the Court has yet to set a ruling date. Why is it taking so long? How do you assess the drawn-out process? 9.(Lee) Some predict that a ruling in President Yoon's case could come by the end of this week. However, as deliberations are still ongoing, there's also speculation that the verdict might be delayed until early or mid-April. When do you expect the ruling to be announced?

U.S. and Ukraine hold talks ahead of U.S.-Russia talks, as Russian drone attacks continue

2025/03/24 20:00

Over in Riyadh. Officials from Washington are to hold talks with delegates from Kyiv and Moscow for the U.S.-mediated partial ceasefire. Talks between Ukraine and the U.S. took place earlier than expected. Meantime, Russia and Ukraine continued to exchange attacks. Cha Yun-kyung has the latest. A day before the U.S. plans to hold separate meetings with Ukrainian and Russian delegates on Monday, Washington's technical team held talks with Ukrainian officials on Sunday in Riyadh. As part of Washington's shuttle diplomacy in Saudi Arabia, U.S. and Ukrainian officials were set to hold talks on Monday, followed by a separate meeting between U.S. and Russian delegates on the same day. However, it was confirmed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that Washington and Kyiv would hold the talks a day earlier. Following Sunday's meeting, Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov said talks with U.S. officials were "productive and focused," adding that the two sides addressed key points including energy. U.S. special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff expressed confidence that progress would be made with Russia and Ukraine. Speaking to Fox News on Sunday, Witkoff said he expects Ukraine and Russia to make progress on a ceasefire in the Black Sea after holding talks on Monday, which will "naturally gravitate to a full-on shooting ceasefire." However, the Kremlin, downplayed expectations of a rapid resolution on Sunday, saying talks were just beginning. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said in an interview that there are difficult negotiations ahead. U.S. and Russian officials began talks in Saudi Arabia on Monday to make progress towards a broad ceasefire in Ukraine, especially for a Black Sea maritime ceasefire deal. On the other hand, Russia continued attacks on Ukraine overnight with Ukraine saying Russia launched 99 attack drones, killing at least three people including a 5-year-old child. Cha Yun-kyung, Arirang News.

Top diplomats of S. Korea, Japan, China agree to work towards maintaining peace on Korean Peninsula

2025/03/24 20:00

Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul was in Tokyo this past weekend for trilateral talks with his Japanese and Chinese counterparts aimed at advancing partnership on security matters, including North Korea's nuclear ambitions. Our foreign affairs correspondent Bae Eun-ji covers the latest diplomatic endeavor. South Korea's foreign minister Cho Tae-yul sat down for talks with his Japanese and Chinese counterparts in Tokyo, as the three countries seek to boost cooperation for regional peace amid geopolitical uncertainties. This is the first time that they've met since November 2023. In a press conference following the meeting that took place in Tokyo on Saturday, Cho said they have agreed that it's in the three countries' common interest to maintain security on the Korean peninsula. He also added that they addressed the issue of illegal cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow. "I stressed that illegal military cooperation between Russia and North Korea must come to an end immediately and that the North should not be rewarded for its wrongdoings, in the course of ending the war in Ukraine." Japanese foreign minister Takeshi Iwaya noted that the the world is at a 'turning point in history,'.. and showed concerns about evolving threats from North Korea. "Regarding the current international situation, I expressed my concerns about North Korea's nuclear and missile development, cryptocurrency thefts, and cooperation with Russia as regional threats." Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi described the current situation on the Korean peninsula as complex and sensitive while adding that all parties must "meet each other halfway" and "show goodwill." On economic issues, he said the three countries are looking to push forward with regional economic integration including the resumption of a free trade agreement. "The three parties are maintaining communication on restarting the negotiations on the free trade agreement, and strive to resume them as soon as possible." The three officials also agreed to speed up efforts to hold a summit between their leaders as soon as possible, at a mutually convenient date. Bae Eun-ji, Arirang News.

Rival parties show mixed reactions after Court dismisses impeachment motion against PM

2025/03/24 20:00

Following the Court's decision, rival political parties showed different responses. Our National Assembly correspondent Shin Ha-young has the details. The Constitutional Court's ruling on Prime Minister Han Duck-soo's impeachment has brought mixed reactions from the rival parties. The ruling People Power Party welcomed the Court's decision to dismiss Han's impeachment, saying it was expected and describing the ruling as a warning against the opposition party's use of impeachment legislation. "It was a strong warning from the Court against the opposition party's reckless legislation. It has lost all nine cases --a historic defeat." The party floor leader Kweon Seong-dong, however, expressed deep regret over the Court's decision to set the required votes for passing an impeachment motion against an acting president at 151 seats. The PPP has been arguing that Han's impeachment should be treated like a presidential impeachment, which requires the support of two-thirds of lawmakers, or 200 votes out of 300. Kweon argued that this effectively allows unlimited impeachment motions against acting presidents, calling it a dangerous precedent. The PPP said on Monday that its lawmakers have proposed an amendment to the National Assembly Act to prevent abuse of impeachment rules in the future. The party's policy chief Kim Sang-hoon said that the bill would require lawmakers or parties that initiate an impeachment motion to cover the procedural costs if the Constitutional Court dismisses or rejects the case. The main opposition Democratic Party, which was at the forefront of the opposition-led push in the National Assembly to remove Han from office, expressed regret over the ruling. "We have to respect the decision, but I wonder if the public will accept why this clear and deliberate violation of the constitutional duty to form a constitutional body wasn't enough for impeachment." DP floor leader Park Chan-dae also emphasized that the Court confirmed it was unconstitutional not to appoint justice nominees, urging Prime Minister Han, who also resumed his role as the Acting President, who also resumed his role as the Acting President, to appoint justice nominee Ma Eun-hyuk immediately. Park also urged the Court to deliver a verdict on President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment as early as Tuesday. Meanwhile, National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik said he respects the Court's decision, stating it resolves constitutional interpretation issues regarding the required vote to pass an impeachment motion against an acting president. Shin Ha-young, Arirang News.

Han Duck-soo calls for national unity as he returns as acting president

2025/03/24 20:00

Returning to his post as acting president, Han Duck-soo first pledged to steer the country out of challenges, amid growing social division and the global trade war. Our political correspondent Kim Do-yeon reports. In an address to the nation after 88 days in suspension Acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo on Monday emphasized national unity. He especially called for politicians to work together amid multiple crises. "If there's one clear lesson we've learned over the past few years, it's that a society divided by extremes leads only to misery and fulfills the dreams of no one. The ruling and opposition parties, as well as the government, must truly change. And, I will start with myself." He also noted that during the 50 years he's spent in public service, the majority of the people in South Korea have wanted to make the country go up and forward not left or right. As for his return as the caretaker, he said during his suspension he thought deeply about what his last responsibilities would be if he were to return. He pointed out the global trade war started by U.S. President Donald Trump and said the world is currently facing an intensifying U.S.-China power rivalry following the inauguration of President Trump, along with a new wave of geopolitical shifts and the restructuring of the global economic order. "I will devote all my wisdom and capabilities to safeguarding our national interests in the trade war that has already become a reality. For the remainder of my term, every decision I make will be guided by what best serves Korea's industries and future generations. The entire Cabinet will move forward alongside me." Han was immediately briefed about the ongoing devastating wildfires in the southeast of the country. He also made orders to public safety officials amid the turbulent times. For his first lunch back, he ate with Cabinet members. There, he urged ministers to push forward on key issues directly tied to people's livelihoods with greater speed. And, he asked all Cabinet members and public officials across the country to do their utmost to ensure that every aspect of state affairs — including diplomacy, national security, the economy, trade, public safety, and administration — functions smoothly. Kim Do-yeon, Arirang News.

World News: Israel orders evacuation from part of Gaza’s southernmost city of Rafah

2025/03/24 17:00

This is the World Now, bringing you the latest stories from around the globe. Israel has expanded its military operations in the Gaza Strip, targeting key locations and issuing evacuation orders in the southern city of Rafah. Over the weekend, the Israel Defense Forces intensified its offensive in Gaza, focusing on the southern city of Rafah. The IDF on Sunday issued immediate evacuation orders for residents in the Tel al-Sultan neighborhood, designating it a "dangerous combat zone." Thousands of Palestinians fled their homes, adding to the substantial number of displaced people in the region. Also on Sunday, Israeli airstrikes targeted the Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, the largest medical facility in southern Gaza, resulting in the deaths of at least five individuals, including a senior Hamas political bureau member. Another senior member of the Hamas political bureau and his wife have also been killed in a strike in Al-Mawasi. In Italy, Pope Francis has made his first public appearance in over five weeks, following a prolonged hospitalization due to bilateral pneumonia. The 88-year-old pontiff's return was met with widespread relief and joy. "Thank you all and I see this lady with the yellow flowers, she is good!" On Sunday, Pope Francis emerged from Rome's Gemelli Hospital, where he had been receiving treatment since mid-February. Appearing in a wheelchair, he greeted some 3,000 people outside the hospital. Expressing his gratitude, the Pope said thank you to everyone. While the Pope faced significant health challenges, including acute respiratory crises and early-stage kidney failure during his hospitalization, he remained conscious and continued his papal duties. Upon discharge, Pope Francis stopped at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major to offer prayers before returning to the Vatican. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney called a snap federal election on Sunday for April 28, aiming to secure a mandate to confront tariff threats from the United States. The announcement comes just nine days after Carney took office, following the resignation of Justin Trudeau. The urgency stems from U.S. President Donald Trump's recent imposition of tariffs on Canadian exports and suggestions of annexing Canada as a 51st U.S. state. Carney condemned these actions, labeling the trade war "the most significant crisis of our lifetimes" and asserting, "we will not let that happen." The election campaign is expected to focus on defending national sovereignty and addressing economic challenges posed by the U.S. On Saturday, the Earth Hour campaign united millions globally, in a symbolic action against climate change. From 8:30 to 9:30 PM local time, iconic landmarks dimmed their lights to raise environmental awareness. In New York City, the Empire State Building's tower lights were turned off. In Sydney, the sails of the Opera House went dark. Rio de Janeiro's iconic Christ the Redeemer statue in Brazil, and landmarks in Hong Kong and Tokyo also switched off their lights. Organized by the World Wildlife Fund, Earth Hour 2025 saw participation from over 180 countries and territories.Choi Chi-hee, Arirang News.

Top diplomats of S. Korea, Japan, China agree to work towards maintaining peace on Korean Peninsula

2025/03/24 17:00

Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul was in Tokyo this past weekend for trilateral talks with his Japanese and Chinese counterparts aimed at advancing partnership on security matters including North Korea's nuclear ambitions. Our foreign affairs correspondent Bae Eun-ji covers this latest diplomatic endeavor. South Korea's foreign minister Cho Tae-yul sat down for talks with his Japanese and Chinese counterparts in Tokyo, as the three countries seek to boost cooperation for regional peace amid geopolitical uncertainties. This is the first time that they've met since November 2023. In a press conference following the meeting that took place in Tokyo on Saturday, Cho said they have agreed that it's in the three countries' common interest to maintain security on the Korean peninsula. He also added that they addressed the issue of illegal cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow. "I stressed that illegal military cooperation between Russia and North Korea must come to an end immediately and that the North should not be rewarded for its wrongdoings, in the course of ending the war in Ukraine." Japanese foreign minister Takeshi Iwaya noted that the the world is at a 'turning point in history,'.. and showed concerns about evolving threats from North Korea. "Regarding the current international situation, I expressed my concerns about North Korea's nuclear and missile development, cryptocurrency thefts, and cooperation with Russia as regional threats." Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi described the current situation on the Korean peninsula as complex and sensitive while adding that all parties must "meet each other halfway" and "show goodwill." On economic issues, he said the three countries are looking to push forward with regional economic integration including the resumption of a free trade agreement. "The three parties are maintaining communication on restarting the negotiations on the free trade agreement, and strive to resume them as soon as possible." The three officials also agreed to speed up efforts to hold a summit between their leaders as soon as possible, at a mutually convenient date. Bae Eun-ji, Arirang News.

U.S. and Ukraine hold talks 1 day ahead of U.S.-Russia talks

2025/03/24 17:00

In Saudi Arabia this past Sunday. Officials from Ukraine and the U.S. sat down for talks one day ahead of separate ceasefire negotiations between Washington and Kyiv as well as Washington and Moscow scheduled for this Monday. Lee Seung-jae reports. A day before the U.S. plans to hold separate meetings with Ukrainian and Russian delegates on Monday, Washington's technical team held talks with Ukrainian officials on Sunday in Riyadh. As part of Washington's shuttle diplomacy in Saudi Arabia, U.S. and Ukrainian officials were set to hold talks on Monday, followed by a separate meeting between U.S. and Russian delegates on the same day. However, it was later confirmed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that Washington and Kyiv would hold talks a day ahead of its meeting set for Monday. Following Sunday's meeting, Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov said talks with U.S. officials were "productive and focused," adding that the two sides addressed key points including energy. The defense chief said that Ukraine was working to make its goal of a "just and lasting peace" become a "reality." U.S. special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff expressed confidence that progress would be made with Russia and Ukraine. Speaking to Fox News on Sunday, Witkoff said he expects Ukraine and Russia to make progress on a ceasefire in the Black Sea after holding talks on Monday, which will "naturally gravitate to a full-on shooting ceasefire." The special envoy also said he believes Russian President Vladimir Putin wants to end the war, stressing that "he wants peace." Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.