The National Samsung Electronics Union in South Korea called for an indefinite strike on Wednesday to intensify its campaign against the company for better wages and benefits. Using estimates by the union's vice president, Lee Hyun-kuk, around 6,500 workers joined the strike that began on Monday, while the company has maintained that the first three days of striking did not cause any disturbance. However, the union is adamant about disturbance to the production on some of the chip lines such as with equipment running more slowly.

"Samsung Electronics will ensure no disruptions occur in the production lines. The company remains committed to engaging in good faith negotiations with the union," the company said in a statement.

The union, which represents about 30,000 members—nearly a quarter of Samsung's South Korea workforce—will extend a strike originally planned for three days until Wednesday after management failed to give any sign it would negotiate with them.

"We haven't spoken to management since we started the strike on Monday," said Lee.

The union wants to be treated as a partner on equal terms with management&nbsp;in a bid to push further an already beleaguered world's biggest memory chipmaker fighting razor-thin competition in AI chips.

However, the union officials have also denied reports about the low turnout, arguing that the union, which is only five years old, did not have adequate time to train its members on labour matters. Some training took place on Tuesday, and another one is scheduled for Wednesday to educate the members.

The NSEU has revised its demands and is holding out for a 3.5 per cent basic salary increase and a day off to celebrate the founding of the union, having earlier dropped the extra day's annual leave. Management earlier offered to raise the salary increase by 3 per cent, but the union disagrees that 3.5 per cent is needed to accurately reflect the real figure for inflation.

Analysts said it would be difficult to gauge the extent of damage to production from the strike without further clarity from the union related to wafers and processes.&nbsp;

Shares of Samsung shed 0.3 per cent in early trade, while the benchmark KOSPI index was little changed.

The National Samsung Electronics Union in South Korea called for an indefinite strike on Wednesday to intensify its campaign against the company for better wages and benefits.

The National Samsung Electronics Union in South Korea called for an indefinite strike on Wednesday to intensify its campaign against the company for better wages and benefits. Using estimates by the union's vice president, Lee Hyun-kuk, around 6,500 workers joined the strike that began on Monday, while the company has maintained that the first three days of striking did not cause any disturbance. However, the union is adamant about disturbance to the production on some of the chip lines such as with equipment running more slowly. "Samsung Electronics will ensure no disruptions occur in the production lines. The company remains committed to engaging in good faith negotiations with the union," the company said in a statement. The union, which represents about 30,000 members—nearly a quarter of Samsung's South Korea workforce—will extend a strike originally planned for three days until Wednesday after management failed to give any sign it would negotiate with them. "We haven't spoken to management since we started the strike on Monday," said Lee. The union wants to be treated as a partner on equal terms with management in a bid to push further an already beleaguered world's biggest memory chipmaker fighting razor-thin competition in AI chips. However, the union officials have also denied reports about the low turnout, arguing that the union, which is only five years old, did not have adequate time to train its members on labour matters. Some training took place on Tuesday, and another one is scheduled for Wednesday to educate the members. The NSEU has revised its demands and is holding out for a 3.5 per cent basic salary increase and a day off to celebrate the founding of the union, having earlier dropped the extra day's annual leave. Management earlier offered to raise the salary increase by 3 per cent, but the union disagrees that 3.5 per cent is needed to accurately reflect the real figure for inflation. Analysts said it would be difficult to gauge the extent of damage to production from the strike without further clarity from the union related to wafers and processes. Shares of Samsung shed 0.3 per cent in early trade, while the benchmark KOSPI index was little changed.

Samsung faces uncharted territory in South Korea as union calls indefinite strike

Blackpink singer Jennie has apologised for a viral video in which she can be seen vaping. She was criticised for vaping indoors, while she got her makeup done, blowing out smoke on the faces of her staff.

K-pop star Jennie from BlackPink apologises after vaping video goes viral

Asian stocks opened higher today, buoyed by gains on wall street. Japan’s Nikkei 225 rose 1%, while South Korea’s Kospi climbed 0.3%, driven by an increase in Samsung electronics despite ongoing union strikes. Hong Kong’s hang Seng Index futures were slightly up, reflecting cautious optimism in the region.

Global market roundup: Risk sentiment rises across markets

South Korea said on Monday it would drop a plan to suspend the licenses of striking trainee doctors, offering a concession to end a months-long walkout prompted by the government's decision to increase medical school admissions.

Thousands of trainee doctors, which include medical interns and resident doctors, walked off the job in February, forcing major hospitals to cut back non-emergency services and turn back patients at emergency rooms.

Health Minister Cho Kyoo-hong said the government had decided not to suspend the licenses of the striking doctors, whether they return to work or not.

Cho said the decision to drop its threat of punitive action was necessary because ending the current shortage in medical services is "more urgent".

Two-thirds of the country's residents and intern doctors have walked off the job to protest a plan to raise the number of students admitted to medical school each year by 2,000 in a bid to address what the government says is a shortage of doctors.

The young doctors who are protesting say the government should first address pay and working conditions before trying to increase the number of physicians.

Cho added that the government would build a "sustainable" medical system that does not rely on excessive work by trainee doctors.

"Trainee doctors, do not hesitate any longer, and take out courage to decide. The government will make sure you, our previous resources who have chosen essential medical care even under difficult circumstances, can focus on training without worry," Cho said at a briefing.

The minister also called on the trainee doctors to return and join dialogue to discuss their working conditions as well as the medical college admission quota for 2026 and beyond.

South Korea said on Monday it would drop a plan to suspend the licenses of striking trainee doctors, offering a concession to end a months-long walkout prompted by the government's decision to increase medical school admissions.

South Korea said on Monday it would drop a plan to suspend the licenses of striking trainee doctors, offering a concession to end a months-long walkout prompted by the government's decision to increase medical school admissions. Thousands of trainee doctors, which include medical interns and resident doctors, walked off the job in February, forcing major hospitals to cut back non-emergency services and turn back patients at emergency rooms. Health Minister Cho Kyoo-hong said the government had decided not to suspend the licenses of the striking doctors, whether they return to work or not. Cho said the decision to drop its threat of punitive action was necessary because ending the current shortage in medical services is "more urgent". Two-thirds of the country's residents and intern doctors have walked off the job to protest a plan to raise the number of students admitted to medical school each year by 2,000 in a bid to address what the government says is a shortage of doctors. The young doctors who are protesting say the government should first address pay and working conditions before trying to increase the number of physicians. Cho added that the government would build a "sustainable" medical system that does not rely on excessive work by trainee doctors. "Trainee doctors, do not hesitate any longer, and take out courage to decide. The government will make sure you, our previous resources who have chosen essential medical care even under difficult circumstances, can focus on training without worry," Cho said at a briefing. The minister also called on the trainee doctors to return and join dialogue to discuss their working conditions as well as the medical college admission quota for 2026 and beyond.

South Korea drops plan to suspend licenses of striking doctors

In a never-heard incident, a civil servant robot committed suicide by throwing itself down a flight of stairs in South Korea.&nbsp;

The robot was working as a civil servant for a council and his mysterious death has left the people shocked.&nbsp;

Gumi City Council said that the robot became defunct after it smashed itself on a two-metre staircase.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/man-who-stabbed-south-korean-opposition-leader-lee-sentenced-to-15-years-in-prison-738210">Man who stabbed South Korean opposition leader Lee sentenced to 15 years in prison</a>

Gumi City said that the officials found the 'Robot Supervisor' smashed up and lying in the stairwell in between the council building's first and second floors.&nbsp;

<h2>Was the robot depressed due to workload? Council investigates mysterious death</h2>

According to some witnesses, the robot was seen mysteriously "circling in one spot as if something was there" before it occurred, however, the exact cause is being investigated, said a city council official.

"Pieces have been collected and will be analysed by the company," said the official, further stating that the robot had "helped with daily document deliveries, city promotion, and delivered information" to local residents.

"It was officially a part of the city hall, one of us," added another official, further stating, "It worked diligently."

The local media questioned the robot's suicide, as headlines read, "Why did the diligent civil officer do it?" or questioned "Was work too hard" for the robot?

One of the netizens said on a social media platform, "If the workload had been too much, would he have spun around for a long time and then rushed down the stairs?" Meanwhile, another said: "I pray that scrap metal rests in peace."&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;S Korea faced with a shrinking population

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/s-korea-faced-with-a-shrinking-population-736437/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The robot was appointed in August 2023 and this was the first cyborg who was used as a council official

Bear Robotics, which is a California-based robot-waiter startup, made the robot that worked from 9 am to 6 pm. It also had a civil service officer card.&nbsp;

Unlike other robots, that generally use one floor, the Gumi City Council robot was able to go in an elevator and move across floors on its own.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a never-heard incident, a civil servant robot committed suicide by throwing itself down a flight of stairs in South Korea. The robot was working as a civil servant for a council and his mysterious death has left the people shocked.

In a never-heard incident, a civil servant robot committed suicide by throwing itself down a flight of stairs in South Korea. The robot was working as a civil servant for a council and his mysterious death has left the people shocked. Gumi City Council said that the robot became defunct after it smashed itself on a two-metre staircase. Also Read: Man who stabbed South Korean opposition leader Lee sentenced to 15 years in prison Gumi City said that the officials found the 'Robot Supervisor' smashed up and lying in the stairwell in between the council building's first and second floors. Was the robot depressed due to workload? Council investigates mysterious death According to some witnesses, the robot was seen mysteriously "circling in one spot as if something was there" before it occurred, however, the exact cause is being investigated, said a city council official. "Pieces have been collected and will be analysed by the company," said the official, further stating that the robot had "helped with daily document deliveries, city promotion, and delivered information" to local residents. "It was officially a part of the city hall, one of us," added another official, further stating, "It worked diligently." The local media questioned the robot's suicide, as headlines read, "Why did the diligent civil officer do it?" or questioned "Was work too hard" for the robot? One of the netizens said on a social media platform, "If the workload had been too much, would he have spun around for a long time and then rushed down the stairs?" Meanwhile, another said: "I pray that scrap metal rests in peace." Watch: S Korea faced with a shrinking population The robot was appointed in August 2023 and this was the first cyborg who was used as a council official Bear Robotics, which is a California-based robot-waiter startup, made the robot that worked from 9 am to 6 pm. It also had a civil service officer card. Unlike other robots, that generally use one floor, the Gumi City Council robot was able to go in an elevator and move across floors on its own. (With inputs from agencies)

Can robots commit suicide? The curious case of cyborg's death shocks South Korea

Headlines of the hour: - Gantz slams settler attack on IDF - Taliban prisoner swap with US - Japan sterilisation law struck down - India stampede: Hunt on for 'Godman' - Egyptian cabinet rejig likely today - Flash floods in Northeast India - South Korea fines Credit Suisse

Egypt cabinet rejig likely today | Flash floods in Northeast India

South Korea’s consumer inflation fell to the lowest level in eleven months in June, thus giving a hint to the policymakers.

The domestic aspect showed slight annual inflation of the consumer price index in the region at 2.5 per cent year-on-year in June from 2.3 per cent in May, representing the slowest inflation rate since July 2023.

This fell below the median estimate of 2.7 per cent forecast by economists through the averages from the Reuters poll.

According to the country’s vice finance minister, inflation may settle at a low-to-mid 2 per cent level possibly towards the second semester.

It also promised to sustain measures for regulating prices that have prevailed over the previous six months.

Bank of Korea (BOK) recognised the recent change in the inflation rate as good news as it is now in the mid-2 per cent region.

The inflation rate will be observed, specifically, its approach to the target level of 2 per cent. Notably, the CPI also fell to a minus of 0. 2 per cent lower than in the previous month, which was the first time drop in seven months.

Cuts in the global agricultural and petroleum prices helped to push the index down. In April, Governor Rhee Chang-yong of BOK stated that consumer inflation would also persist to ease hence fuelling expectations by persons of rate cuts for the BOK by the close of the year.

The BOK decided to leave its interest rates unchanged for the eleventh time in a row in May next meeting is due on July 11, 2012. 
&nbsp; 
The annual measures of core CPI that leave out the fluctuating food and energy prices remained steady with 2.2 per cent annualised month-on-month basis in June to 2 per cent year-on-year.

(With inputs from Reuters)

South Korea’s consumer inflation fell to the lowest level in eleven months in June, thus giving a hint to the policymakers. The domestic aspect showed slight annual inflation of the consumer price index in the region at 2.

South Korea’s consumer inflation fell to the lowest level in eleven months in June, thus giving a hint to the policymakers. The domestic aspect showed slight annual inflation of the consumer price index in the region at 2.5 per cent year-on-year in June from 2.3 per cent in May, representing the slowest inflation rate since July 2023. This fell below the median estimate of 2.7 per cent forecast by economists through the averages from the Reuters poll. According to the country’s vice finance minister, inflation may settle at a low-to-mid 2 per cent level possibly towards the second semester. It also promised to sustain measures for regulating prices that have prevailed over the previous six months. Bank of Korea (BOK) recognised the recent change in the inflation rate as good news as it is now in the mid-2 per cent region. The inflation rate will be observed, specifically, its approach to the target level of 2 per cent. Notably, the CPI also fell to a minus of 0. 2 per cent lower than in the previous month, which was the first time drop in seven months. Cuts in the global agricultural and petroleum prices helped to push the index down. In April, Governor Rhee Chang-yong of BOK stated that consumer inflation would also persist to ease hence fuelling expectations by persons of rate cuts for the BOK by the close of the year. The BOK decided to leave its interest rates unchanged for the eleventh time in a row in May next meeting is due on July 11, 2012. The annual measures of core CPI that leave out the fluctuating food and energy prices remained steady with 2.2 per cent annualised month-on-month basis in June to 2 per cent year-on-year. (With inputs from Reuters)

South Korea's inflation slows to 11-month low, raising hopes for rate cuts

A man in his sixties ploughed his car into a crowd of people in the South Korean capital Seoul on Monday (Jul 1), killing at least nine people. The incident took place at 9:30 pm local time as the pedestrians waited at a traffic stop. Police said at least four people were taken to hospital and were being treated.

Local media reported the car was moving in the wrong direction and crashed into two other vehicles before hitting the pedestrians.

The man was immediately detained near Seoul city hall. He is understood to have told police that his car accidentally accelerated, killing six people on the spot. Three later succumbed to their injuries.

According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the speed limit in South Korea is 50kmph on urban roads and 30kmph in residential areas.

Pedestrians are the most common casualties in road accidents in the country. In 2022, an OECD report revealed that pedestrians accounted for 35 per cent of all road-related deaths. However, the report also mentioned that road fatalities in South Korea have declined over the past years.

(With inputs from agencies)

A man in his sixties ploughed his car into a crowd of people in the South Korean capital Seoul on Monday (Jul 1), killing at least nine people. The incident took place at 9:30 pm local time as the pedestrians waited at a traffic stop.

A man in his sixties ploughed his car into a crowd of people in the South Korean capital Seoul on Monday (Jul 1), killing at least nine people. The incident took place at 9:30 pm local time as the pedestrians waited at a traffic stop. Police said at least four people were taken to hospital and were being treated. Local media reported the car was moving in the wrong direction and crashed into two other vehicles before hitting the pedestrians. The man was immediately detained near Seoul city hall. He is understood to have told police that his car accidentally accelerated, killing six people on the spot. Three later succumbed to their injuries. According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the speed limit in South Korea is 50kmph on urban roads and 30kmph in residential areas. Pedestrians are the most common casualties in road accidents in the country. In 2022, an OECD report revealed that pedestrians accounted for 35 per cent of all road-related deaths. However, the report also mentioned that road fatalities in South Korea have declined over the past years. (With inputs from agencies)

Nine dead as man ploughs car into pedestrians in South Korean capital Seoul

North Korea test-fired two ballistic missiles. The missiles were launched in a northeasterly direction from the town of Jangyon in North Korea. The First missile flew 600 kilometres (370 miles) and the second missile 120 kilometres (75 miles).

North Korea launches two ballistic missiles off its east coast

South Korea, the country with the world's lowest fertility rate has been reeling under a population decline for 4 years. Now, as same-sex couples continue to be barred from marrying or having children, the problem seems snowballing. Watch in this report for more details!

Can same-sex couples help revive South Korea's shrinking population?

North Korea has successfully conducted an important test aimed at developing missiles carrying multiple warheads, state television KRT said on Thursday (June 27), a claim rejected by South Korea as "deception" to mask a failed launch.

North Korea claims successful test to develop multiple warhead missile

North Korea publicly executed a 22-year-old man in 2022 for watching and sharing South Korean films and music, The Guardian reported on Friday (June 28) citing South Korea's unification ministry.&nbsp;

The Guardian report said that the man, a resident of the&nbsp;South Hwanghae province, was executed for listening to&nbsp;70 South Korean songs, watching three films, and distributing them,&nbsp;falling foul of a North Korean law that&nbsp;bans “reactionary ideology and culture.” This law was adopted by Pyongyang in 2020.&nbsp;

<h2>A threat to North Korea's ideology</h2>

According to the unification ministry, the ban on K-pop (Korean Popular Music)&nbsp;is part of a campaign to shield North Koreans from the “malign” influence of Western culture.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-building-roads-and-walls-inside-demilitarized-zone-seoul-reacts-732175">North Korea building roads and walls inside Demilitarised Zone. Seoul reacts</a>

Citing experts, The Guardian reported that allowing South Korean popular culture to seep into North Korean society could pose a threat to the ideology that demands loyalty to the Kim dynasty.

<h2>Influence of South Korean culture over North Korea</h2>

But despite such harsh measures, the influence of South Korean culture appears unstoppable, a recent North Korean defector told reporters.

The defector, a woman in her 20s said that the speed of South Korean culture influencing Pyongyang was seriously fast. "Young people follow and copy South Korean culture, and they really love anything South Korean," she added.&nbsp;

"After watching Korean dramas, many young people wonder, ‘Why do we have to live like this?&nbsp;thought I’d rather die than live in North Korea,” she further said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korea publicly executed a 22-year-old man in 2022 for watching and sharing South Korean films and music, The Guardian reported on Friday (June 28) citing South Korea's unification ministry.

North Korea publicly executed a 22-year-old man in 2022 for watching and sharing South Korean films and music, The Guardian reported on Friday (June 28) citing South Korea's unification ministry. The Guardian report said that the man, a resident of the South Hwanghae province, was executed for listening to 70 South Korean songs, watching three films, and distributing them, falling foul of a North Korean law that bans “reactionary ideology and culture.” This law was adopted by Pyongyang in 2020. A threat to North Korea's ideology According to the unification ministry, the ban on K-pop (Korean Popular Music) is part of a campaign to shield North Koreans from the “malign” influence of Western culture. Also read | North Korea building roads and walls inside Demilitarised Zone. Seoul reacts Citing experts, The Guardian reported that allowing South Korean popular culture to seep into North Korean society could pose a threat to the ideology that demands loyalty to the Kim dynasty. Influence of South Korean culture over North Korea But despite such harsh measures, the influence of South Korean culture appears unstoppable, a recent North Korean defector told reporters. The defector, a woman in her 20s said that the speed of South Korean culture influencing Pyongyang was seriously fast. "Young people follow and copy South Korean culture, and they really love anything South Korean," she added. "After watching Korean dramas, many young people wonder, ‘Why do we have to live like this? thought I’d rather die than live in North Korea,” she further said. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea executed man in 2022 for watching, sharing South Korean films & music: Report

North Korea claimed to have successfully tested its multiple-warhead missile capability, according to state-run KCNA news agency Thursday.

Pyongyang "successfully conducted the separation and guidance control test of individual mobile warheads" on Wednesday," KCNA reported, adding that the "separated mobile warheads were guided correctly to the three coordinate targets."

"The test is aimed at securing the MIRV capability," it said, referring to multiple independently targetable reentry vehicle technology -- or, the ability to fire multiple warheads on a single ballistic missile.

The statement came a day after South Korea's military said the North had test-fired what appeared to be a hypersonic missile on Wednesday, but the launch ended in a mid-air explosion.

The missile took off from an area in or around Pyongyang at about 5:30 am (2030 GMT) and South Korean and US intelligence agencies were conducting a detailed analysis, Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-faces-rare-missile-test-failure-amid-war-of-trash-with-south-korea-735172">North Korea faces rare missile test failure amid war of trash balloons with South Korea</a>

The JCS official said the test of what appeared to be a hypersonic missile ended in failure after a journey of some 250 kilometres (155 miles).

More smoke than usual appeared to emanate from the missile, raising the possibility of combustion issues, the official said, adding it may have been powered by solid propellants.

Japan also confirmed the launch, with its coast guard saying the missile splashed down in the Sea of Japan, also known as the East Sea.

According to KCNA, the test "was carried out by use of the first-stage engine of an intermediate-range solid-fuel ballistic missile within a 170-200 km radius."

"The effectiveness of a decoy separated from the missile was also verified by anti-air radar," it said.

The test follows North Korea launching hundreds more trash-carrying balloons southward on Monday and Tuesday, the latest in a series of border barrages that have sparked a tit-for-tat propaganda campaign.

Late Wednesday, South Korea's military said the North has again floated another round of trash-carrying balloons southward for the third consecutive day, advising the public to report the balloons if spotted and refrain from touching them.

Watch:&nbsp;Russia and North Korea sign strategic partnership treaty

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-and-north-korea-sign-strategic-partnership-treaty-733280/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In response, Seoul has fully suspended a tension-reducing military deal and restarted some propaganda broadcasts from loudspeakers along the border.

Meanwhile, South Korea's Marine Corps resumed live-fire exercises on islands near the western inter-Korean border on Wednesday, marking the first such exercises since a 2018 tension-reducing military deal with the North was suspended earlier this month over the balloon-borne propaganda.

South Korea and the US also staged joint air drills Wednesday involving around 30 aircraft, including Washington's advanced stealth fighter jet, F-22 Raptor.

On Tuesday, President Yoon Suk Yeol visited a US aircraft carrier that arrived in South Korea at the weekend for joint military drills aimed at countering North Korean threats.

The drills, which include Japan, are set to go ahead later this month.

Pyongyang has routinely criticised such exercises as rehearsals for an invasion.

North Korea claimed to have successfully tested its multiple-warhead missile capability, according to state-run KCNA news agency Thursday. Pyongyang "successfully conducted the separation and guidance control test of individual mobile warheads" on Wednesday," KCNA reported, adding that the "separated mobile warheads were guided correctly to the three coordinate targets.

North Korea claimed to have successfully tested its multiple-warhead missile capability, according to state-run KCNA news agency Thursday. Pyongyang "successfully conducted the separation and guidance control test of individual mobile warheads" on Wednesday," KCNA reported, adding that the "separated mobile warheads were guided correctly to the three coordinate targets." "The test is aimed at securing the MIRV capability," it said, referring to multiple independently targetable reentry vehicle technology -- or, the ability to fire multiple warheads on a single ballistic missile. The statement came a day after South Korea's military said the North had test-fired what appeared to be a hypersonic missile on Wednesday, but the launch ended in a mid-air explosion. The missile took off from an area in or around Pyongyang at about 5:30 am (2030 GMT) and South Korean and US intelligence agencies were conducting a detailed analysis, Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement. Also Read: North Korea faces rare missile test failure amid war of trash balloons with South Korea The JCS official said the test of what appeared to be a hypersonic missile ended in failure after a journey of some 250 kilometres (155 miles). More smoke than usual appeared to emanate from the missile, raising the possibility of combustion issues, the official said, adding it may have been powered by solid propellants. Japan also confirmed the launch, with its coast guard saying the missile splashed down in the Sea of Japan, also known as the East Sea. According to KCNA, the test "was carried out by use of the first-stage engine of an intermediate-range solid-fuel ballistic missile within a 170-200 km radius." "The effectiveness of a decoy separated from the missile was also verified by anti-air radar," it said. The test follows North Korea launching hundreds more trash-carrying balloons southward on Monday and Tuesday, the latest in a series of border barrages that have sparked a tit-for-tat propaganda campaign. Late Wednesday, South Korea's military said the North has again floated another round of trash-carrying balloons southward for the third consecutive day, advising the public to report the balloons if spotted and refrain from touching them. Watch: Russia and North Korea sign strategic partnership treaty In response, Seoul has fully suspended a tension-reducing military deal and restarted some propaganda broadcasts from loudspeakers along the border. Meanwhile, South Korea's Marine Corps resumed live-fire exercises on islands near the western inter-Korean border on Wednesday, marking the first such exercises since a 2018 tension-reducing military deal with the North was suspended earlier this month over the balloon-borne propaganda. South Korea and the US also staged joint air drills Wednesday involving around 30 aircraft, including Washington's advanced stealth fighter jet, F-22 Raptor. On Tuesday, President Yoon Suk Yeol visited a US aircraft carrier that arrived in South Korea at the weekend for joint military drills aimed at countering North Korean threats. The drills, which include Japan, are set to go ahead later this month. Pyongyang has routinely criticised such exercises as rehearsals for an invasion.

North Korea claims success in its multiple-warhead missile test

North Korea faced a rare failure in the ballistic missile test on Wednesday (June 26), as per South Korea’s military.&nbsp;

The test was carried out days after North Korea protested against the US aircraft carrier's regional deployment which was placed&nbsp;for a trilateral military drill with South Korea and&nbsp;Japan.

On Monday (June 24), North Korea’s Vice Defence Minister Kim Kang II called the deployment of US aircraft carrier “reckless” and “dangerous.”&nbsp;

In a statement, South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said that a ballistic missile was launched by North Korea from its capital region around 5:30 am&nbsp;on Wednesday (4:30 pm&nbsp;Tuesday ET).&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-will-consider-supplying-arms-to-ukraine-after-russia-and-north-korea-sign-strategic-pact-733603">South Korea will consider supplying arms to Ukraine after Russia and North Korea sign strategic pact</a>

It added that the missile was launched towards the eastern waters of North Korea, however, the launch is likely to have ended in failure.

The Joint Chiefs of Staff said that the details regarding the missile launch by North Korea are being investigated by the South Korean and US intelligence authorities.

Earlier on Wednesday (June 26), Japan’s defence ministry said that it had detected a suspected ballistic missile which was launched by North Korea.

It was reported by South Korea’s Yonhap news agency that the North Korean missile flew nearly 155 miles.

According to a report by Japanese media, the North Korean projectile fell outside the exclusive economic zone of Japan.

<h2>South Korean airport's runways shut amid trash attack</h2>

The reported missile launch by North Korea came hours after South Korea alleged that their neighbour country sent another set of huge balloons filled with trash across the border.

In the latest trash attack, South Korea's Incheon International Airport faced disruptions in takeoffs and landings for about three hours before dawn as balloons filled with refuse dropped from the sky, said an airport spokesperson.

Watch:&nbsp;Russia and North Korea sign strategic partnership treaty

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-and-north-korea-sign-strategic-partnership-treaty-733280/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The spokesperson said that one balloon fell on the tarmac near passenger Terminal 2 after which the three runways at Incheon were temporarily closed.

Since late May, North Korea has been sending hundreds of balloons filled with trash into South Korea.

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korea faced a rare failure in the ballistic missile test on Wednesday (June 26), as per South Korea’s military. The test was carried out days after North Korea protested against the US aircraft carrier's regional deployment which was placed for a trilateral military drill with South Korea and Japan.

North Korea faced a rare failure in the ballistic missile test on Wednesday (June 26), as per South Korea’s military. The test was carried out days after North Korea protested against the US aircraft carrier's regional deployment which was placed for a trilateral military drill with South Korea and Japan. On Monday (June 24), North Korea’s Vice Defence Minister Kim Kang II called the deployment of US aircraft carrier “reckless” and “dangerous.” In a statement, South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said that a ballistic missile was launched by North Korea from its capital region around 5:30 am on Wednesday (4:30 pm Tuesday ET). Also Read: South Korea will consider supplying arms to Ukraine after Russia and North Korea sign strategic pact It added that the missile was launched towards the eastern waters of North Korea, however, the launch is likely to have ended in failure. The Joint Chiefs of Staff said that the details regarding the missile launch by North Korea are being investigated by the South Korean and US intelligence authorities. Earlier on Wednesday (June 26), Japan’s defence ministry said that it had detected a suspected ballistic missile which was launched by North Korea. It was reported by South Korea’s Yonhap news agency that the North Korean missile flew nearly 155 miles. According to a report by Japanese media, the North Korean projectile fell outside the exclusive economic zone of Japan. South Korean airport's runways shut amid trash attack The reported missile launch by North Korea came hours after South Korea alleged that their neighbour country sent another set of huge balloons filled with trash across the border. In the latest trash attack, South Korea's Incheon International Airport faced disruptions in takeoffs and landings for about three hours before dawn as balloons filled with refuse dropped from the sky, said an airport spokesperson. Watch: Russia and North Korea sign strategic partnership treaty The spokesperson said that one balloon fell on the tarmac near passenger Terminal 2 after which the three runways at Incheon were temporarily closed. Since late May, North Korea has been sending hundreds of balloons filled with trash into South Korea. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea faces rare missile test failure amid war of trash balloons with South Korea

A fire at a battery plant in South Korea killed at least 22 people on Monday (Jun 24), Yonhap news agency reported. Most of those killed were Chinese nationals. The fire broke out at 10:30 am local time in Hwaseong, south of the capital Seoul. The plant is owned by Aricell, a South Korean primary battery manufacturer.

South Korea factory fire: Death toll rises to 20; authorities investigating the cause of blaze

Watch top headlines of the hour: - ICC issues warrants against Russia's Shoigu & Gerasimov - Israel's High Court orders drafting ultra-orthodox men - Kenya: New Finance Bill triggers protests - South Korea conducts live fire drills - Assange begins journey back to Australia - Kremlin 'preparing' for PM Modi's Russia visit

South Korea conducts live fire drills | Kenya: New Finance bill triggers protests

The South Korean government ordered on Tuesday (Jun 25) urgent safety inspections at high-risk industrial sites a day after a fire at a lithium battery factory that killed 22 workers with one person still missing.

Death toll reaches 22 in South Korean battery plant fire

A fire&nbsp;at a battery plant in South Korea killed at least 22&nbsp;people on Monday (Jun 24), Yonhap news agency reported. Most of those killed were Chinese nationals. The fire broke out at 10:30 am local time in Hwaseong, south of the capital Seoul. The plant is owned by Aricell, a South Korean primary battery manufacturer.

Firefighters earlier said they were unable to go inside and carry out rescue operations due to the massive fire.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwi5w5ep6_OGAxX5g68BHbhlCAcQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/autonews/south-koreas-sk-innovation-and-sk-es-to-go-ahead-with-merger-733506" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/autonews/south-koreas-sk-innovation-and-sk-es-to-go-ahead-with-merger-733506&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi5w5ep6_OGAxX5g68BHbhlCAcQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE">South Korea`s SK Innovation and SK E&amp;S to go ahead with merger</a>

"We are still unable to go inside and carry out rescue operation. We will carry it out once we get the fire under control," firefighter Kim Jin-young was quoted as saying by news agency CNA.

Some workers were unaccounted for. "We are planning to track their whereabouts with their contacts provided from the company," he added.

Watch:&nbsp;US, Japan &amp; South Korea to start military exercise in June

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The fire erupted after several&nbsp;battery cells exploded inside a warehouse with some 35,000 units, the firefighter added.

South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol has issued emergency instructions to authorities to “mobilise all available personnel and equipment to focus on searching for and rescuing people”, according to the agency.

(With inputs from agencies)

A fire at a battery plant in South Korea killed at least 22 people on Monday (Jun 24), Yonhap news agency reported. Most of those killed were Chinese nationals. The fire broke out at 10:30 am local time in Hwaseong, south of the capital Seoul.

A fire at a battery plant in South Korea killed at least 22 people on Monday (Jun 24), Yonhap news agency reported. Most of those killed were Chinese nationals. The fire broke out at 10:30 am local time in Hwaseong, south of the capital Seoul. The plant is owned by Aricell, a South Korean primary battery manufacturer. Firefighters earlier said they were unable to go inside and carry out rescue operations due to the massive fire. Also read: South Korea`s SK Innovation and SK E&S to go ahead with merger "We are still unable to go inside and carry out rescue operation. We will carry it out once we get the fire under control," firefighter Kim Jin-young was quoted as saying by news agency CNA. Some workers were unaccounted for. "We are planning to track their whereabouts with their contacts provided from the company," he added. Watch: US, Japan & South Korea to start military exercise in June × The fire erupted after several battery cells exploded inside a warehouse with some 35,000 units, the firefighter added. South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol has issued emergency instructions to authorities to “mobilise all available personnel and equipment to focus on searching for and rescuing people”, according to the agency. (With inputs from agencies)

At least 22 dead after major fire breaks out at South Korean battery plant

Nuclear powered US aircraft carrier Theodore Roosevelt arrived in South Korea yesterday. The deployment comes ahead of the three-way military exercise 'Freedom Edge' between Japan South Korea and the United States. Watch in for more details!

US, Japan & South Korea drills: Nuclear-powered US aircraft carrier arrives in Busan

US, Japan & South Korea to start military exercise in June

The Theodore Roosevelt, a nuclear-powered US aircraft carrier, arrived in the South Korean port city of Busan on Saturday to participate in joint military drills later this month with the host country and Japan, according to naval officials.

Freedom Edge exercises in South Korea, drills happening in backdrop of Putin visit

Freedom Edge exercises conducted by US, Japan & South Korea to check China's 'agressive behaviour'

South Korea’s military, on Friday (Jun 21) said that they fired warning shots after North Korean soldiers crossed the heavily fortified border again, on Thursday, in the third such incursion this month. The recent incident comes after Russian President Vladimir Putin’s historic visit to the isolated nation.&nbsp;

<h2>What we know about the incident</h2>

The South Korean military said dozens of North Korean soldiers breached the demarcation line, on Thursday (Jun 20) around 11:00 am (local time), prompting Seoul’s army personnel to broadcast warnings and fire warning shots after which Pyongyang’s soldiers retreated.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/multiple-north-korean-soldiers-injured-after-they-cross-the-dmz-732724">Multiple North Korean soldiers injured in landmine explosions after they crossed the DMZ</a>

“Several North Korean soldiers who were working inside the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) on the central front line crossed the Military Demarcation Line,” said South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS).&nbsp;

They added, “After our military’s warning broadcasts and warning shots, the North Korean soldiers retreated back northward.”

A report by the South Korean news agency Yonhap citing the officials said that the incursion appeared to be accidental, adding that the North Korean soldiers returned to their jobs soon after and continued to work into the night after returning to their side of the border.&nbsp;

The incident came after Putin’s first visit to Pyongyang in 24 years, where the Russian president and the North Korean leader Kim Jong Un signed a strategic treaty which included a commitment to come to each other’s aid if attacked.

<h2>Previous incidents</h2>

The crossing on Thursday marked the third border violation by North Korea after similar incidents on June 18 and June 9.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-would-be-making-big-mistake-if-it-supplies-arms-to-ukraine-says-putin-733643">South Korea would be making 'big mistake' if it supplies arms to Ukraine, says Putin</a>

The latest crossing, on Thursday, came days after South Korean officials said dozens of North Korean soldiers briefly crossed the DMZ, on Tuesday (Jun 18) but retreated after warning shots were fired.&nbsp;

The JCS, at the time, said that landmine explosions near the border also injured multiple North Korean soldiers. Pyongyang, as per the South Korean officials, recently deployed troops in the area to clear scrub and lay mines, as relations between the two Koreas plummet.

As per Yonhap, border violations came as North Korea has been deploying large numbers of troops in front-line areas since April to plant mines, erect walls, and what is said to be anti-tank barriers and reinforce roads.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

South Korea’s military, on Friday (Jun 21) said that they fired warning shots after North Korean soldiers crossed the heavily fortified border again, on Thursday, in the third such incursion this month.

South Korea’s military, on Friday (Jun 21) said that they fired warning shots after North Korean soldiers crossed the heavily fortified border again, on Thursday, in the third such incursion this month. The recent incident comes after Russian President Vladimir Putin’s historic visit to the isolated nation. What we know about the incident The South Korean military said dozens of North Korean soldiers breached the demarcation line, on Thursday (Jun 20) around 11:00 am (local time), prompting Seoul’s army personnel to broadcast warnings and fire warning shots after which Pyongyang’s soldiers retreated. Also Read | Multiple North Korean soldiers injured in landmine explosions after they crossed the DMZ “Several North Korean soldiers who were working inside the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) on the central front line crossed the Military Demarcation Line,” said South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS). They added, “After our military’s warning broadcasts and warning shots, the North Korean soldiers retreated back northward.” A report by the South Korean news agency Yonhap citing the officials said that the incursion appeared to be accidental, adding that the North Korean soldiers returned to their jobs soon after and continued to work into the night after returning to their side of the border. The incident came after Putin’s first visit to Pyongyang in 24 years, where the Russian president and the North Korean leader Kim Jong Un signed a strategic treaty which included a commitment to come to each other’s aid if attacked. Previous incidents The crossing on Thursday marked the third border violation by North Korea after similar incidents on June 18 and June 9. Also Read | South Korea would be making 'big mistake' if it supplies arms to Ukraine, says Putin The latest crossing, on Thursday, came days after South Korean officials said dozens of North Korean soldiers briefly crossed the DMZ, on Tuesday (Jun 18) but retreated after warning shots were fired. The JCS, at the time, said that landmine explosions near the border also injured multiple North Korean soldiers. Pyongyang, as per the South Korean officials, recently deployed troops in the area to clear scrub and lay mines, as relations between the two Koreas plummet. As per Yonhap, border violations came as North Korea has been deploying large numbers of troops in front-line areas since April to plant mines, erect walls, and what is said to be anti-tank barriers and reinforce roads. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea fired warning shots after North Korean soldiers crossed the border again: Seoul

US and South Korean air forces held air drills over South Korea as tensions in the Korean Peninsula continue to escalate. Watch in for more details!

US and South Korean air forces hold joint drills

US AC-130J & South Korean KF-16 jet fighters conduct live drills

South Korea said Thursday that it would consider sending arms to Ukraine, a major policy change suggested after Russia and North Korea rattled the region and beyond by signing a pact to come to each other’s defense in the event of war.

The comments from a senior presidential official came hours after North Korea’s state media released the details of the agreement, which observers said could mark the strongest connection between Moscow and Pyongyang since the end of the Cold War. It comes at a time when Russia faces growing isolation over its war in Ukraine and both countries face escalating standoffs with the West.

According to the text of the deal published by the North’s official Korean Central News Agency, if either country gets invaded and is pushed into a state of war, the other must deploy “all means at its disposal without delay” to provide “military and other assistance.” But the agreement also says that such actions must be in accordance with the laws of both countries and Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, which recognizes a U.N. member state’s right to self-defense.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin signed the pact at a summit Wednesday in Pyongyang. Both described it as a major upgrade of bilateral relations, covering security, trade, investment, cultural and humanitarian ties.

The office of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol issued a statement condemning the agreement, calling it a threat to the South’s security and a violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions, and warned that it would have negative consequences on Seoul’s relations with Moscow.

“It’s absurd that two parties with a history of launching wars of invasion — the Korean War and the war in Ukraine — are now vowing mutual military cooperation on the premise of a preemptive attack by the international community that will never happen,” Yoon’s office said.

At the United Nations in New York, South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul called it “deplorable” that Russia would act in violation of multiple U.N. sanctions resolutions against North Korea that Moscow voted for.

Yoon’s national security adviser, Chang Ho-jin, said Seoul would reconsider the issue of providing arms to Ukraine to help the country fight off Russia’s invasion.

South Korea, a growing arms exporter with a well-equipped military backed by the United States, has provided humanitarian aid and other support to Ukraine while joining U.S.-led economic sanctions against Moscow. But it has not directly provided arms to Kyiv, citing a longstanding policy of not supplying weapons to countries actively engaged in conflict.

The summit between Kim and Putin came as the U.S. and its allies expressed growing concern over a possible arms arrangement in which Pyongyang provides Moscow with badly needed munitions for its war in Ukraine, in exchange for economic assistance and technology transfers that could enhance the threat posed by Kim’s nuclear weapons and missile program.

Following their summit, Kim said the two countries had a “fiery friendship,” and that the deal was their “strongest-ever treaty,” putting the relationship at the level of an alliance. He vowed full support for Russia’s war in Ukraine. Putin called it a “breakthrough document” reflecting shared desires to move relations to a higher level.

North Korea and the former Soviet Union signed a treaty in 1961, which experts say necessitated Moscow’s military intervention if the North came under attack. The deal was discarded after the collapse of the USSR, replaced by one in 2000 that offered weaker security assurances.

There’s ongoing debate on how strong of a security commitment the deal entails. While some analysts see the agreement as a full restoration of the countries’ Cold War-era alliance, others say the deal seems more symbolic than substantial.

Ankit Panda, a senior analyst at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, said the text appeared to be carefully worded as to not imply automatic military invention. 
But “the big picture here is that both sides are willing to put down on paper, and show the world, just how widely they intend to expand the scope of their cooperation,” he said.

The deal was made as Putin visited North Korea for the first time in 24 years, a trip that showcased their personal and geopolitical ties with Kim hugging Putin twice at the airport, their motorcade rolling past giant Russian flags and Putin portraits, and a welcoming ceremony at Pyongyang’s main square attended by what appeared to be tens of thousands of spectators.

According to KCNA, the agreement also states that Pyongyang and Moscow must not enter into agreements with third parties if they infringe on the “core interests” of any of them and must not participate in actions that threaten those interests.

KCNA said the agreement requires the countries to take steps to prepare joint measures for the purpose of strengthening their defense capabilities to prevent war and protect regional and global peace and security. The agency didn’t specify what those steps are, or whether they would include combined military training and other cooperation.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putins-pyongyang-yawn-social-media-buzzes-over-videos-of-bored-putin-at-north-korean-concert-733542">Putin's Pyongyang yawn: Social media buzzes over videos of 'bored' Putin at North Korean concert - See pics</a>

The agreement also calls for the countries to actively cooperate in efforts to establish a “just and multipolar new world order,” KCNA said, underscoring how the countries are aligning in face of their separate confrontations with the United States.

How the pact affects Russia’s relations with the South is a key development to watch, said Jenny Town, a senior fellow at the Stimson Center in Washington and director of the North Korea-focused 38 North website.

“Seoul had already signed onto sanctions against Russia for its invasion of Ukraine, souring its relations with Moscow. Now with any ambiguity of Russia’s partnership with North Korea removed, how will Seoul respond?” she said. “Is there a point where it decides to cut or suspend diplomatic ties with Russia or expel its ambassador? And have we reached it?”

Kim in recent months has made Russia his priority as he pushes a foreign policy aimed at expanding relations with countries confronting Washington, embracing the idea of a “new Cold War” and trying to display a united front in Putin’s broader conflicts with the West.

Tensions on the Korean Peninsula are at their highest point in years, with the pace of both Kim’s weapons tests and combined military exercises involving the U.S., South Korea and Japan intensifying in a tit-for-tat cycle.

The Koreas also have engaged in Cold War-style psychological warfare that involved North Korea dropping tons of trash on the South with balloons, and the South broadcasting anti-North Korean propaganda with its loudspeakers.

South Korea said Thursday that it would consider sending arms to Ukraine, a major policy change suggested after Russia and North Korea rattled the region and beyond by signing a pact to come to each other’s defense in the event of war.

South Korea said Thursday that it would consider sending arms to Ukraine, a major policy change suggested after Russia and North Korea rattled the region and beyond by signing a pact to come to each other’s defense in the event of war. The comments from a senior presidential official came hours after North Korea’s state media released the details of the agreement, which observers said could mark the strongest connection between Moscow and Pyongyang since the end of the Cold War. It comes at a time when Russia faces growing isolation over its war in Ukraine and both countries face escalating standoffs with the West. According to the text of the deal published by the North’s official Korean Central News Agency, if either country gets invaded and is pushed into a state of war, the other must deploy “all means at its disposal without delay” to provide “military and other assistance.” But the agreement also says that such actions must be in accordance with the laws of both countries and Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, which recognizes a U.N. member state’s right to self-defense. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin signed the pact at a summit Wednesday in Pyongyang. Both described it as a major upgrade of bilateral relations, covering security, trade, investment, cultural and humanitarian ties. The office of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol issued a statement condemning the agreement, calling it a threat to the South’s security and a violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions, and warned that it would have negative consequences on Seoul’s relations with Moscow. “It’s absurd that two parties with a history of launching wars of invasion — the Korean War and the war in Ukraine — are now vowing mutual military cooperation on the premise of a preemptive attack by the international community that will never happen,” Yoon’s office said. At the United Nations in New York, South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul called it “deplorable” that Russia would act in violation of multiple U.N. sanctions resolutions against North Korea that Moscow voted for. Yoon’s national security adviser, Chang Ho-jin, said Seoul would reconsider the issue of providing arms to Ukraine to help the country fight off Russia’s invasion. South Korea, a growing arms exporter with a well-equipped military backed by the United States, has provided humanitarian aid and other support to Ukraine while joining U.S.-led economic sanctions against Moscow. But it has not directly provided arms to Kyiv, citing a longstanding policy of not supplying weapons to countries actively engaged in conflict. The summit between Kim and Putin came as the U.S. and its allies expressed growing concern over a possible arms arrangement in which Pyongyang provides Moscow with badly needed munitions for its war in Ukraine, in exchange for economic assistance and technology transfers that could enhance the threat posed by Kim’s nuclear weapons and missile program. Following their summit, Kim said the two countries had a “fiery friendship,” and that the deal was their “strongest-ever treaty,” putting the relationship at the level of an alliance. He vowed full support for Russia’s war in Ukraine. Putin called it a “breakthrough document” reflecting shared desires to move relations to a higher level. North Korea and the former Soviet Union signed a treaty in 1961, which experts say necessitated Moscow’s military intervention if the North came under attack. The deal was discarded after the collapse of the USSR, replaced by one in 2000 that offered weaker security assurances. There’s ongoing debate on how strong of a security commitment the deal entails. While some analysts see the agreement as a full restoration of the countries’ Cold War-era alliance, others say the deal seems more symbolic than substantial. Ankit Panda, a senior analyst at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, said the text appeared to be carefully worded as to not imply automatic military invention. But “the big picture here is that both sides are willing to put down on paper, and show the world, just how widely they intend to expand the scope of their cooperation,” he said. The deal was made as Putin visited North Korea for the first time in 24 years, a trip that showcased their personal and geopolitical ties with Kim hugging Putin twice at the airport, their motorcade rolling past giant Russian flags and Putin portraits, and a welcoming ceremony at Pyongyang’s main square attended by what appeared to be tens of thousands of spectators. According to KCNA, the agreement also states that Pyongyang and Moscow must not enter into agreements with third parties if they infringe on the “core interests” of any of them and must not participate in actions that threaten those interests. KCNA said the agreement requires the countries to take steps to prepare joint measures for the purpose of strengthening their defense capabilities to prevent war and protect regional and global peace and security. The agency didn’t specify what those steps are, or whether they would include combined military training and other cooperation. Also read: Putin's Pyongyang yawn: Social media buzzes over videos of 'bored' Putin at North Korean concert - See pics The agreement also calls for the countries to actively cooperate in efforts to establish a “just and multipolar new world order,” KCNA said, underscoring how the countries are aligning in face of their separate confrontations with the United States. How the pact affects Russia’s relations with the South is a key development to watch, said Jenny Town, a senior fellow at the Stimson Center in Washington and director of the North Korea-focused 38 North website. “Seoul had already signed onto sanctions against Russia for its invasion of Ukraine, souring its relations with Moscow. Now with any ambiguity of Russia’s partnership with North Korea removed, how will Seoul respond?” she said. “Is there a point where it decides to cut or suspend diplomatic ties with Russia or expel its ambassador? And have we reached it?” Kim in recent months has made Russia his priority as he pushes a foreign policy aimed at expanding relations with countries confronting Washington, embracing the idea of a “new Cold War” and trying to display a united front in Putin’s broader conflicts with the West. Tensions on the Korean Peninsula are at their highest point in years, with the pace of both Kim’s weapons tests and combined military exercises involving the U.S., South Korea and Japan intensifying in a tit-for-tat cycle. The Koreas also have engaged in Cold War-style psychological warfare that involved North Korea dropping tons of trash on the South with balloons, and the South broadcasting anti-North Korean propaganda with its loudspeakers.

South Korea will consider supplying arms to Ukraine after Russia and North Korea sign strategic pact

Watch top headlines of the hour: - Rutte set to be next NATO Chief - Romania to send Patriots to Ukraine - South Korea & US hold joint air drills - Kenya: Police fire tear gas on protesters - India: PM Modi begins 2-day J&K visit - UK keeps rates at 16-year high

Rutte set to be next NATO Chief | South Korea & US hold joint air drills

South Korean and US air forces hold joint drills

Watch top headlines of the hour: - IDF kill Hamas squad commander - Romania to send Patriots to Ukraine - Kenya police fire tear gas on protesters - South Korea and US hold joint air drills - Jaishankar meets Sri Lankan President Delhi: 17 dead in heatwave

IDF kills Hamas Squad Commander | Romania to send Patriots to Ukraine | WION Headlines

The South Korean government is aiming to find the 'Next BTS'. According to reports, the government reportedly plans to establish a ‘K Content Cultural Complex' with a 5 trillion won policy finance initiative. The aim is to find a new band similar to BTS and a 'second Parasite'. Watch in for more details!

'Finding next BTS': South Korean government official's comment sparks outrage

The South Korean government is aiming to find the&nbsp;'Next&nbsp;BTS'. According to reports, the government reportedly plans to establish a ‘K Content Cultural Complex' with a 5 trillion won policy finance initiative. The aim is to find a new band similar to BTS and a 'second Parasite'. &nbsp; 
 
A recent report by Seoul Newspaper quoted the Vice Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, who drew major backlash for referring to the popular K-pop group currently serving in the military. The complex is slated to become a K Contents landmark by 2035.

Finding Next BTS? Official receives backlash over remark 
 
Boyband BTS has unprecedented popularity worldwide and its success has now prompted the South Korean government to focus on nurturing more talents in the K-pop genre.&nbsp; 
 
The 7 member K-pop band including Jin, Suga, Jimin, RM, Taehyung, J-Hope and Jungkook has played a big role in boosting the country’s culture and tourism.&nbsp;

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bts-member-jin-gets-warm-welcome-from-band-members-as-he-is-discharged-from-military-service-730997">BTS' Jin discharged from military service, gets warm welcome from band members</a> 
 
Highlighting the band's role as cultural ambassadors, the First Vice Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Jeon Byeong Geuk, recently announced plans to back the growth of musicians, to emulate BTS's achievements. 
 
“We will support the entire cycle of musician development for capable small and medium-sized agencies to discover the next BTS.” 
 
The official's comment, referring to BTS and its success, led to heated debate online. BTS fans, popularly known as ARMY, expressed outrage at the idea of emulating the iconic group. Others viewed it as an insult to other working K-pop bands, as they were being pictured as inferior because the "BTS standard" was established.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bts-army-speculate-collaboration-between-bts-jin-and-coldplay-post-his-return-726576">BTS ARMY speculate collaboration between BTS Jin and Coldplay post his return</a> 
 
The objective of the administration is to reach a content export target of $25 billion (around 34.5 trillion won) by the year 2027, as per the outlet. “The government announced the K Contents Strategy to Become one of the Four Global Powerhouses.” 
 
“At this point, they are obsessed with finding the next BTS..There is no next BTS!!,” a user commented.&nbsp; 
 
A K-pop fan pointed out, “The fact they are still looking for the next BTS is a slap to the active Kpop groups because you are telling them that they failed to reach the "BTS Standard" and no matter what they do, it will never be good enough for the higher-ups and govt.” 
 
South Korea's search for the 'Next BTS' 
 
This isn't the first time where the concept of discovering the 'Next BTS' has been discussed in government circles since the group's growing popularity proved to be a major economic boost for the country.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/nasa-new-voyage-to-have-two-bts-tracks-and-a-solo-track-by-rm-676131">NASA's new voyage to have two BTS tracks and a solo track by RM&nbsp;</a> 
 
In 2020, at a press conference, a journalist asked about the possibility of the&nbsp;"Next BTS." Jin and Jimin answered, “In fact, we would also need time to think about this. We used to think of our role models and desire to be artists. But by walking through our own path instead of following their directions, we could discover our own way. We believe in ourselves but also our next juniors.”

The South Korean government is aiming to find the 'Next BTS'. According to reports, the government reportedly plans to establish a ‘K Content Cultural Complex' with a 5 trillion won policy finance initiative.

The South Korean government is aiming to find the 'Next BTS'. According to reports, the government reportedly plans to establish a ‘K Content Cultural Complex' with a 5 trillion won policy finance initiative. The aim is to find a new band similar to BTS and a 'second Parasite'. A recent report by Seoul Newspaper quoted the Vice Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, who drew major backlash for referring to the popular K-pop group currently serving in the military. The complex is slated to become a K Contents landmark by 2035. Finding Next BTS? Official receives backlash over remark Boyband BTS has unprecedented popularity worldwide and its success has now prompted the South Korean government to focus on nurturing more talents in the K-pop genre. The 7 member K-pop band including Jin, Suga, Jimin, RM, Taehyung, J-Hope and Jungkook has played a big role in boosting the country’s culture and tourism. Also see: BTS' Jin discharged from military service, gets warm welcome from band members Highlighting the band's role as cultural ambassadors, the First Vice Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Jeon Byeong Geuk, recently announced plans to back the growth of musicians, to emulate BTS's achievements. “We will support the entire cycle of musician development for capable small and medium-sized agencies to discover the next BTS.” The official's comment, referring to BTS and its success, led to heated debate online. BTS fans, popularly known as ARMY, expressed outrage at the idea of emulating the iconic group. Others viewed it as an insult to other working K-pop bands, as they were being pictured as inferior because the "BTS standard" was established. BTS ARMY speculate collaboration between BTS Jin and Coldplay post his return The objective of the administration is to reach a content export target of $25 billion (around 34.5 trillion won) by the year 2027, as per the outlet. “The government announced the K Contents Strategy to Become one of the Four Global Powerhouses.” “At this point, they are obsessed with finding the next BTS..There is no next BTS!!,” a user commented. A K-pop fan pointed out, “The fact they are still looking for the next BTS is a slap to the active Kpop groups because you are telling them that they failed to reach the "BTS Standard" and no matter what they do, it will never be good enough for the higher-ups and govt.” South Korea's search for the 'Next BTS' This isn't the first time where the concept of discovering the 'Next BTS' has been discussed in government circles since the group's growing popularity proved to be a major economic boost for the country. NASA's new voyage to have two BTS tracks and a solo track by RM In 2020, at a press conference, a journalist asked about the possibility of the "Next BTS." Jin and Jimin answered, “In fact, we would also need time to think about this. We used to think of our role models and desire to be artists. But by walking through our own path instead of following their directions, we could discover our own way. We believe in ourselves but also our next juniors.”

South Korean government looking for the Next BTS? Official's remark draws flak

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