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Historic Meeting Signals Inclusive Leadership Approach President Lee Jae-myung hosted a significant lunch meeting at the Blue House on July 12th with prominent conservative media figures Jo Gab-je, representative of Monthly Chosun, and Jeong Gyu-jae, CEO of Jeong Gyu-jae TV. This marks the president's first official engagement with conservative-leaning journalists since taking office, symbolizing his commitment to transcend political divisions and foster national unity. Breaking Down Political Barriers During the lunch, President Lee emphasized his determination to become "a president for all people" and achieve genuine national integration. This inclusive approach represents a significant departure from the polarized political climate that has characterized Korean politics in recent years. Both Jo Gab-je and Jeong Gyu-jae have been influential voices in conservative media c...

Seoul issued its first heatwave warning of the year on July 7th, marking an 18-day earlier onset compared to last year's "historically worst heat" period (July 25th). With this early heatwave warning and the end of the monsoon season, this summer's heat is expected to be unusually prolonged. Heatwave Warning Status According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, the heatwave advisory issued at 10 AM on July 7th for Seoul and the metropolitan area, including regions west of the Baekdu-daegan mountain range, was upgraded to a heatwave warning. A heatwave warning is the highest level of heat advisory, issued when the maximum apparent temperature exceeds 35°C for two or more consecutive days or when significant heat-related damage is expected. Seoul's maximum temperature is forecast to reach 36°C on July 8th and 9th, with apparent temperatures expected to be even higher. Suffocating heat that makes breathing difficult even while stationary is expected to ...

Former South Korean President Yoon Seok-youl appeared at the Seoul Central District Court on the afternoon of July 9th for an arrest warrant hearing related to the December 3rd martial law incident. This marks his return to potential detention after being released four months ago following a court's decision to cancel his previous arrest. Arrest Warrant Hearing Process Seoul Central District Court Judge Nam Se-jin, who presides over warrant cases, conducted the pre-detention interrogation (substantive warrant review) for former President Yoon from 2:15 PM on July 9th. The hearing lasted approximately 6 hours and 40 minutes until 9 PM, with an actual duration of 5 hours and 40 minutes excluding a one-hour recess for dinner. Former President Yoon arrived at the Seoul Central District Court building around 2:10 PM but did not respond to reporters' questions and quietly proceeded to the courtroom. Even after completing the hearing, he remained silent to journalists' ques...

President Lee Jae-myung has decided to exclude Broadcasting and Communications Commission Chairperson Lee Jin-sook from future cabinet meetings, the presidential office announced on July 9th. This decision comes after repeated violations of political neutrality obligations by the appointee from the previous Yoon Suk-yeol administration. Presidential Office Announcement Presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung stated during an afternoon briefing that "starting next week's cabinet meeting, the current Broadcasting and Communications Commission chairperson will not attend cabinet meetings." She explained that this decision was made due to "repeated politically biased statements and personal political activities that make cabinet meeting attendance inappropriate." The decision was made after Presidential Chief of Staff Kang Hun-sik directly advised President Lee that Lee Jin-sook's attendance at cabinet meetings was inappropriate, which the president accepted...

South Korea is experiencing its most severe July heatwave in 117 years, with temperatures reaching over 40°C and electricity consumption hitting record highs nationwide, triggering widespread economic disruptions. Record-Breaking Temperatures Scorch Nation According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, Paju and Gwangmyeong recorded temperatures of 40.1°C and 40.2°C respectively on July 8th, marking the first time this year that temperatures have exceeded 40°C. Seoul also reached 37.1°C, setting a new July temperature record since weather recordings began 117 years ago. The extreme heat has affected 68 out of 153 weather stations nationwide, with heat wave warnings issued across major metropolitan areas including Gangnam (38.7°C), Jongno (38.2°C), and Dongjak (39°C) districts in Seoul. Meteorologists attribute this unprecedented heatwave to the simultaneous influence of the North Pacific High and continental high-pressure systems covering the Korean Peninsula. Weather off...

South Korea's political landscape has been shaken as the special prosecution team investigating First Lady Kim Gun-hee conducted raids on National Assembly member Yoon Sang-hyun's residence and office. Major Investigation Unfolds On July 7th, the special prosecutor's office led by Prosecutor Min Jung-ki executed search warrants at over 10 locations, including Yoon Sang-hyun's home and parliamentary office. This aggressive move signals the intensification of investigations into multiple corruption allegations surrounding former President Yoon Suk-yeol's wife. The raids are connected to two major scandals: the Sambu Engineering stock manipulation case and the so-called "Myung Tae-kyun Gate" - allegations of election interference and influence peddling involving the former presidential couple. Political Shockwaves The investigation has created deep divisions in South Korean politics. The ruling People Power Party has denounced the raids as "poli...

Brave Decision and Public Announcement Actress Lee Si-young has become a topic of discussion after directly announcing her second pregnancy following her divorce from her ex-husband. On July 8th, Lee Si-young revealed her second pregnancy news through her personal SNS, expressing her determination for a new beginning. Unique Circumstances of Conception Lee Si-young revealed that she became pregnant with her second child while proceeding with divorce proceedings from her ex-husband after 8 years of marriage. This pregnancy was reportedly achieved through IVF using embryos preserved before the divorce, drawing significant attention. Wave of Celebrity Support Fellow celebrities have poured out support for Lee Si-youngs announcement. Actress Seo Hyo-rim commented that she is truly an amazing mother and supports her so enthusiastically it brings tears to her eyes. Jeon Hye-bin als...

Trump Tariff Ultimatum President Donald Trump has sent an official letter to Korea announcing a 25% mutual tariff on all Korean imports, scheduled to take effect on August 1st. This development marks a significant escalation in US trade policy, affecting Korea along with Japan and at least 12 other countries. Extended Deadline Provides Breathing Room The tariff implementation date was extended from the original July 9th deadline to August 1st, providing Korea with approximately three weeks to negotiate. Trump stated that the 25% rate is actually a low number considering the trade deficit the US has experienced with Korea. Korean Government Response The Korean presidential office assessed that they had avoided the worst-case scenario in tariff negotiations. Policy Chief Kim Yong-beom emphasized that while prompt consultation is important, protecting national interests remains ...

President Donald Trump has sent tariff warning letters to major countries including South Korea, announcing a 25% tariff to be imposed starting in August. This trade policy shock is creating ripple effects across the global economy, raising concerns about its impact on South Korea. Economic Ripple Effects Trump's tariff policy extends beyond simple trade conflicts, potentially leading to global inflation deterioration and upward pressure on interest rates. Experts warn that "tariff increases by the hegemonic United States will reduce global trade volumes, leading to GDP decline and economic growth slowdown." The strengthening dollar is intensifying won weakness. The won-dollar exchange rate rose to 1,370 won during Tuesday trading, showing instability. The Bank of Korea's New York office has suggested that the tariff policy's impact on the US economy may be prolonged. Corporate Response Strategies Korean companies are already reviewing various counterm...

One month has passed since Lee Jae-myung assumed the presidency of South Korea. Following the unexpected impeachment of former President Yoon Suk-yeol and subsequent early elections, the Lee administration had to begin governing without a transition committee. Despite these challenging circumstances, both the political sphere and the public are closely watching the new government's initial steps. Gestures of Cooperation and Opposition Resistance President Lee Jae-myung has emphasized cooperation since taking office, showing active engagement in inter-party communication. His recent dinner invitation to Democratic Party standing committee chairs and secretaries at the presidential residence reflects this approach. The presidential compound, once isolated behind barricades during Yoon's martial law declaration, now serves as a venue for political dialogue and communication. However, the opposition, led by the People Power Party, has voiced strong criticism of the Lee admi...

A construction worker who fell into a manhole in Incheon has been found dead after a 72-hour rescue operation, highlighting critical safety management failures and the dangerous working conditions faced by subcontracted laborers in South Korea's construction industry. The tragic incident has renewed calls for stricter safety regulations and enhanced oversight of multi-tier subcontracting practices. Incident Details and Rescue Efforts The accident occurred on July 5 at approximately 2 PM when Mr. A, a worker in his 50s, fell into a manhole while conducting sewer line inspection work in Namdong District, Incheon. Despite working alongside a colleague, Mr. A suddenly lost consciousness and fell into the manhole system. Emergency responders launched an extensive 72-hour rescue operation upon receiving the accident report. However, the complex underground structure and presence of toxic gases significantly hampered rescue efforts. Fire department officials deployed specialized ...

A devastating accident occurred in Seoul on July 7 when a teenage girl fell from the 13th floor of an apartment building, killing herself and injuring four passersby, including a mother and daughter who were walking below. The incident has shocked the local community and raised serious questions about apartment safety management and access control measures. Incident Details and Scene Description The accident took place at approximately 3:30 PM in an apartment complex in Gangseo District, Seoul. The victim, identified only as Ms. A and believed to be in her late teens, fell from the 13th floor and struck several pedestrians walking on the pathway below the building. Among the injured were a woman in her 40s and her teenage daughter, who suffered the most severe injuries from the impact. Both were immediately transported to nearby hospitals for emergency treatment, along with two other individuals who sustained minor injuries from debris and the chaos that followed. Witnesses ...

Seoul meteorological authorities issued the city's first heat wave warning of 2025 on July 7, with temperatures expected to soar to 36°C (97°F) on Tuesday. The extreme weather has prompted emergency health measures as heat-related illnesses surge across the metropolitan area, marking the beginning of what experts predict could be an exceptionally challenging summer season. Meteorological Conditions and Forecast According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, the heat wave warning will take effect from July 8, with maximum temperatures in Seoul expected to reach 36°C. This marks the first such warning issued for the capital this year, arriving somewhat later than in previous years but with potentially greater intensity. The persistent high-pressure system from the North Pacific continues to dominate the Korean Peninsula, creating stable atmospheric conditions that trap heat and prevent cooling. Urban heat island effects in downtown Seoul are expected to make the perce...

In July 2025, Donald Trump's announcement of a 25% reciprocal tariff on South Korean goods has sent shockwaves through the Korean economy and global markets. This tariff is part of a massive trade war affecting 183 countries worldwide, representing one of the most significant trade policy shifts in recent history. Understanding the implications and response strategies is crucial for businesses, investors, and policymakers. 🔥 Understanding Trump's Reciprocal Tariffs Reciprocal tariffs are Trump administration's response to what they perceive as "unfair trade advantages" taken by various countries in their trade relationships with the United States. The tariff rates are calculated based on the US trade deficit with each nation, reflecting Trump's core belief that trade deficits represent American losses. 💡 2025 Reciprocal Tariff Overview Country Tariff Rate Effective Date ...

South Korea's government has launched an exciting new rebate program in July 2025 that's creating a buzz among consumers nationwide. The "Top-Efficiency Appliance Purchase Cost Rebate Program" offers up to 300,000 KRW (approximately $225) for individuals and 600,000 KRW ($450) for newlyweds when purchasing energy-efficient appliances. This comprehensive guide will help you understand everything you need to know about this remarkable opportunity. 🌟 What Makes This Program Special? The Korea Energy Agency's rebate program represents a significant shift in South Korea's approach to energy conservation. Unlike previous initiatives run by KEPCO (Korea Electric Power Corporation), this new program allows double benefits - meaning even if you received rebates from KEPCO in 2024, you can still apply for this new program! Key Program Features: Rebate Rate : 10% of purchase price Maximum Individual Rebate : ...

South Korea's political landscape entered uncharted territory as Special Prosecutor Cho Eun-seok's team filed a second arrest warrant request against former President Yoon Suk-yeol on charges of insurrection. This unprecedented legal action marks a dramatic escalation in the investigation that has captivated the nation and raised fundamental questions about democratic accountability and the rule of law. Comprehensive Legal Documentation The latest arrest warrant application spans an impressive 66 pages, demonstrating the prosecution team's meticulous preparation following the previous warrant's rejection. According to exclusive reporting by Hankook Ilbo, the special prosecutor's office has outlined four primary justifications for detention: risk of repeat offenses, flight risk, potential evidence destruction, and the gravity of the alleged crimes. The comprehensive documentation reportedly includes detailed evidence of attempts to subvert constitutional ord...

A significant shift in South Korea's media landscape emerged on July 7, as the National Assembly's Science, Technology, Information, Broadcasting and Communications Committee passed the controversial "Broadcasting Three Acts" under the leadership of the ruling Democratic Party. This comprehensive legislation aims to restructure the governance framework of major public broadcasters including KBS, MBC, and EBS, marking a potential turning point in Korean broadcasting history. Key Reforms and Structural Changes The newly passed legislation introduces sweeping changes to ensure greater independence and fairness in public broadcasting operations. The most notable reform involves expanding the board of directors from nine to fifteen members for KBS, alongside mandating the establishment of presidential recommendation committees. This expansion aims to diversify decision-making processes and reduce concentrated power structures that have historically influenced broadc...

Understanding Korea's 2025 University Admission System South Korea's university admission system, known as "Susi" (early admission), is undergoing significant changes in 2025. As one of the world's most competitive educational environments, Korean students and parents are closely monitoring these developments that could reshape higher education access. Major Changes in 2025 Admissions The Korean university admission system traditionally consists of two main tracks: Susi (early admission based on school records and extracurriculars) and Jeongsi (regular admission based primarily on the national college entrance exam, Suneung). Key Updates for 2025: Seoul National University, Korea's most prestigious institution, has increased its regional balance quota from 506 to 509 students, providing slightly more opportunities for students from outside the Seoul metropolitan area. This change reflects ongoing efforts to promote educational equity across differe...

The artificial intelligence revolution has arrived in South Korea, and it's transforming how people work, create, and live. As of July 2025, AI adoption in Korea has reached unprecedented levels, with search queries for "AI usage tips" increasing by 168% compared to last year according to Naver Trends data. Top 7 AI Applications Taking Korea by Storm 1. Conversational AI for Productivity ChatGPT and Claude have become essential tools for Korean professionals. From drafting emails in both Korean and English to creating presentation outlines, these AI assistants are revolutionizing workplace efficiency. Korean Context: Many Korean companies are now integrating AI into their workflows, with Samsung and LG leading enterprise AI adoption. 2. AI Image Generation for Content Creation Tools like Midjourney and DALL-E are empowering Korean content creators to produce professional-quality visuals without extensive design skills. This is particularly popular among Ko...

Introduction: Korea's Digital Media Revolution South Korea has emerged as a global powerhouse in the AI-driven digital media landscape of 2025. With innovative services like Naver's AI Briefing and cutting-edge personalization technologies, Korean companies are reshaping how the world consumes and interacts with digital content. The first half of 2025 has witnessed unprecedented changes in the digital media ecosystem, driven by rapid advancements in artificial intelligence. From AI-powered search experiences to the rise of discovery-based platforms, Korea is at the forefront of these transformative trends that are capturing global attention. Key AI Digital Media Trends Shaping Korea's Market 1. AI Search and Personalized Briefings Naver's AI Briefing service exemplifies Korea's leadership in personalized content delivery. This service analyzes user interests and behavior patterns to provide customized news and information, setting a new standard for AI-p...