North Korea’s Kim Jong Un vows to speed up nuclear arsenal expansion in response to U.S.-South Korea joint military drills. Calling the exercises a provocation, Kim warns of increased tensions as Pyongyang strengthens its deterrence.


North Korea: Kim Jong Un kick-starts nuclear pedal | 'US-S Korea drill has nuclear element'

Heavy Israeli airstrikes have pounded Gaza City, leaving destruction in their wake, as children are seen scrambling for books and pens amid the rubble. Watch to know more!

South Korea's Former First Lady Kim Keon Hee Arrested

<p>Japan has opened a formal anti-dumping investigation into steel imports from China and South Korea, in a move aimed at protecting its domestic producers from a wave of cheap foreign products. The probe will examine imports of hot-dipped galvanised coil, sheet and strip, according to a joint statement from the trade and finance ministries on Wednesday, as reported by Bloomberg. The investigation is set to run for up to a year. It follows an application filed in April by four major Japanese steelmakers, including Nippon Steel Corp. and Kobe Steel Ltd., which argued that the influx of low-priced imports was harming the local industry. Officials confirmed that Chinese and South Korean suppliers will have an opportunity to submit evidence before any decision on duties is made.</p><h2><strong>China’s steel export boom pressures global prices</strong></h2><p>China, the world’s largest steel producer, has seen its exports surge in 2025 as domestic demand falters. A prolonged slowdown in the property sector — traditionally a key driver of steel consumption has left producers with large surpluses, prompting them to flood overseas markets with low-cost steel.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>According to Bloomberg, this export wave has weighed heavily on global steel prices and intensified competition, hitting producers in Japan, South Korea, and other key manufacturing hubs. Analysts say Japan’s move reflects a broader global trend, as governments look to shield their industries from the impact of aggressive export strategies by Chinese mills.</p><h2><strong>Trade tensions and US tariffs complicate market dynamics</strong></h2><p>The Japanese steel industry is already contending with shifting trade flows and heightened competition. Tariffs imposed by the US government under President Donald Trump have reshaped global steel supply chains, adding a further layer of complexity for Japanese producers trying to maintain competitiveness.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>These trade measures have forced exporters to seek new markets and adjust pricing strategies, creating additional volatility in the steel trade. In this context, Japan’s anti-dumping action is seen as a defensive measure to maintain stability in its domestic market.</p><h2><strong>Not the first recent action by Japan</strong></h2><p>This is Japan’s second anti-dumping investigation in as many months. In July, Tokyo began a probe into Chinese and Taiwanese nickel-added cold-rolled stainless-steel coil, sheet and strip. Both actions signal a stronger stance from the Japanese government in countering what it sees as unfair trade practices.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As per Bloomberg, if the current probe concludes that dumping has occurred, Japan could impose new import duties on Chinese and South Korean steel products. Such a move would join a growing list of global trade restrictions reshaping the steel market in 2025.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><i>(With inputs from the agencies)&nbsp;</i></p><p><br>&nbsp;</p>

The year long probe targets hot dipped galvanised products. China steel export surge due to domestic demand declines has pressured global prices, complicating market dynamics further impacted by US tariffs. 

Japan has opened a formal anti-dumping investigation into steel imports from China and South Korea, in a move aimed at protecting its domestic producers from a wave of cheap foreign products. The probe will examine imports of hot-dipped galvanised coil, sheet and strip, according to a joint statement from the trade and finance ministries on Wednesday, as reported by Bloomberg. The investigation is set to run for up to a year. It follows an application filed in April by four major Japanese steelmakers, including Nippon Steel Corp. and Kobe Steel Ltd., which argued that the influx of low-priced imports was harming the local industry. Officials confirmed that Chinese and South Korean suppliers will have an opportunity to submit evidence before any decision on duties is made. China’s steel export boom pressures global prices China, the world’s largest steel producer, has seen its exports surge in 2025 as domestic demand falters. A prolonged slowdown in the property sector — traditionally a key driver of steel consumption has left producers with large surpluses, prompting them to flood overseas markets with low-cost steel. According to Bloomberg, this export wave has weighed heavily on global steel prices and intensified competition, hitting producers in Japan, South Korea, and other key manufacturing hubs. Analysts say Japan’s move reflects a broader global trend, as governments look to shield their industries from the impact of aggressive export strategies by Chinese mills. Trade tensions and US tariffs complicate market dynamics The Japanese steel industry is already contending with shifting trade flows and heightened competition. Tariffs imposed by the US government under President Donald Trump have reshaped global steel supply chains, adding a further layer of complexity for Japanese producers trying to maintain competitiveness. These trade measures have forced exporters to seek new markets and adjust pricing strategies, creating additional volatility in the steel trade. In this context, Japan’s anti-dumping action is seen as a defensive measure to maintain stability in its domestic market. Not the first recent action by Japan This is Japan’s second anti-dumping investigation in as many months. In July, Tokyo began a probe into Chinese and Taiwanese nickel-added cold-rolled stainless-steel coil, sheet and strip. Both actions signal a stronger stance from the Japanese government in countering what it sees as unfair trade practices. As per Bloomberg, if the current probe concludes that dumping has occurred, Japan could impose new import duties on Chinese and South Korean steel products. Such a move would join a growing list of global trade restrictions reshaping the steel market in 2025. (With inputs from the agencies)

<p>Japan has initiated an anti-dumping investigation into steel imports from China and South Korea to protect its domestic producers from low-priced imports, following a request from major steelmakers.</p>

Japan launches anti-dumping probe into Chinese, South Korean steel imports

<p>A Pakistani man, found to be a member of Pakistan-based terrorist organisation designated by the United Nations, Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), has been reportedly arrested by the South Korean police. The man was working as a market clerk in Seoul's Itaewon district, according to local media outlet Korea Herald.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The man was arrested on August 2 in Itaewon-dong, Seoul, where he had been working at a local market, according to the report. It further added that the man has not been accused of carrying out or plotting any acts of terror.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The officials at the Gyeonggi Nambu Provincial Police Agency said that the suspect is in his 40s, and has been arrested in violation of the Act on Counter Terrorism and the Immigration Act.</p><h2>How did it all begin?</h2><p>The Pakistani man entered South Korea in December 2023, through the visa he got from a South Korean consulate in Pakistan, as he allegedly posed as a businessman intending to establish a business in South Korea.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>According to the investigation, the suspect joined LeT in Pakistan in 2020. He was being trained in the use of weapons and infiltration tactics and was accepted as an official member of the UN-designed terrorist organisation.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The man, although he is not accused of plotting or carrying out any acts of terrorism in South Korea, is a member of the LeT, which violates Article 17 of the Act on Counter-Terrorism for the Protection of Citizens and Public Security.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>However, the man reportedly denied the charges imposed against him.</p><p>The South Korean police are investigating whether the man has sent any money to the LeT group or not.</p><h2>What do we know about LeT?</h2><p>The Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) was listed as a terrorist organisation in May 2005 by the United Nations Security Council, for engaging in terror activity and supporting listed individuals and entities, including Al-Qaeda and Osama Bin Laden.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Notably, the terror group has been behind several major terrorist attacks, including the Mumbai terror attacks.&nbsp;</p>

The officials at the Gyeonggi Nambu Provincial Police Agency said that the suspect is in his 40s, and has been arrested in violation of the Act on Counter Terrorism and the Immigration Act.

A Pakistani man, found to be a member of Pakistan-based terrorist organisation designated by the United Nations, Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), has been reportedly arrested by the South Korean police. The man was working as a market clerk in Seoul's Itaewon district, according to local media outlet Korea Herald. The man was arrested on August 2 in Itaewon-dong, Seoul, where he had been working at a local market, according to the report. It further added that the man has not been accused of carrying out or plotting any acts of terror. The officials at the Gyeonggi Nambu Provincial Police Agency said that the suspect is in his 40s, and has been arrested in violation of the Act on Counter Terrorism and the Immigration Act. How did it all begin? The Pakistani man entered South Korea in December 2023, through the visa he got from a South Korean consulate in Pakistan, as he allegedly posed as a businessman intending to establish a business in South Korea. According to the investigation, the suspect joined LeT in Pakistan in 2020. He was being trained in the use of weapons and infiltration tactics and was accepted as an official member of the UN-designed terrorist organisation. The man, although he is not accused of plotting or carrying out any acts of terrorism in South Korea, is a member of the LeT, which violates Article 17 of the Act on Counter-Terrorism for the Protection of Citizens and Public Security. However, the man reportedly denied the charges imposed against him. The South Korean police are investigating whether the man has sent any money to the LeT group or not. What do we know about LeT? The Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) was listed as a terrorist organisation in May 2005 by the United Nations Security Council, for engaging in terror activity and supporting listed individuals and entities, including Al-Qaeda and Osama Bin Laden. Notably, the terror group has been behind several major terrorist attacks, including the Mumbai terror attacks.

<p>The officials at the Gyeonggi Nambu Provincial Police Agency said that the suspect is in his 40s, and has been arrested in violation of the Act on Counter Terrorism and the Immigration Act.</p>

Pakistani man, linked to LeT, arrested in South Korea - Here's what we know

<p>A North Korean defector who swam across the maritime border off the western coast of the Korean peninsula on the night of July 30 had been taken into custody by South Korea. Authorities in Seoul reported this development on August 7. The man reportedly tied himself to plastic foam for buoyancy. According to South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff, he was rescued in a 10-hour-long operation and taken into custody at 4 am on July 31.</p><p>The border is known as the northern limit line and has occasionally served as a route for North Korean defectors swimming to South Korea's Ganghwa Island. According to the local media report, he was waving for help and expressed his desire to defect.</p><p>Direct sea crossing remains one of the most dangerous ways to defect, as the maritime border is heavily fortified. This is also the reason why it remains so rare. In 2021, &nbsp;a case featured a swimmer using diving gear, paddled for hours without getting noticed. &nbsp;</p><p>President Lee Jae Myung has shifted towards a more diplomatic approach. This includes suspending loudspeaker propaganda and halting balloon-based leaflet campaigns.&nbsp;</p><p>Ganghwa Island is located in the Northwest of Seoul and is one of the closest South Korean territories. It is to be noted that North Korea has not responded to any of these defection claims. Previously, there were cases when North Korean fishermen strayed to the other side of the border, and South Korea was able to repatriate them. For example, in July 2025, six North Koreans who were rescued at sea earlier and requested to return home, not stay in the South, were sent back, Seoul's unification ministry said.</p><p>On rare occasions, for example, in 1997, after Hwang Jang-yop defected, Kim Jong-un reportedly responded via the state media, calling them cowards for running away from the red revolution.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

South Korean authorities have claimed that they have rescued a North Korean man who was attempting to cross to the other side of the Korean Peninsula, tying Styrofoam across his body.

A North Korean defector who swam across the maritime border off the western coast of the Korean peninsula on the night of July 30 had been taken into custody by South Korea. Authorities in Seoul reported this development on August 7. The man reportedly tied himself to plastic foam for buoyancy. According to South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff, he was rescued in a 10-hour-long operation and taken into custody at 4 am on July 31. The border is known as the northern limit line and has occasionally served as a route for North Korean defectors swimming to South Korea's Ganghwa Island. According to the local media report, he was waving for help and expressed his desire to defect. Direct sea crossing remains one of the most dangerous ways to defect, as the maritime border is heavily fortified. This is also the reason why it remains so rare. In 2021, a case featured a swimmer using diving gear, paddled for hours without getting noticed. President Lee Jae Myung has shifted towards a more diplomatic approach. This includes suspending loudspeaker propaganda and halting balloon-based leaflet campaigns. Ganghwa Island is located in the Northwest of Seoul and is one of the closest South Korean territories. It is to be noted that North Korea has not responded to any of these defection claims. Previously, there were cases when North Korean fishermen strayed to the other side of the border, and South Korea was able to repatriate them. For example, in July 2025, six North Koreans who were rescued at sea earlier and requested to return home, not stay in the South, were sent back, Seoul's unification ministry said. On rare occasions, for example, in 1997, after Hwang Jang-yop defected, Kim Jong-un reportedly responded via the state media, calling them cowards for running away from the red revolution.

<p>South Korean authorities have claimed that they have rescued a North Korean man who was attempting to cross to the other side of the Korean Peninsula, tying Styrofoam across his body. The man reportedly requested to defect.</p>

North Korean defector swims across maritime border with foam tied to his body, rescued by South Korea

<p>A content creator from South Korea has won hearts on social media after posting a sweet video of himself teaching Bhojpuri to a group of Korean students. The creator, Yechan C. Lee, is seen cheerfully leading the class in a fun and classroom-style session, where he introduces simple Bhojpuri greetings. At the start of the video, Lee explains the lesson, "How to have four basic conversations in India. When we meet someone for the first time, we say hello but in India, we say, ‘ka ho?’ Very nice, very nice." The group happily repeats each phrase after him, copying his pronunciation (the way in which a particular word is said) with excitement.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He further said, "When we meet the same person again, we ask, how have you been? In India, we say, ka hal ba? And then we reply, 'theek ba?’ Great. Now it’s time to say a goodbye. In India, we say, ‘khush raho.’ The group repeat each phrase together and create a joyful and lively atmosphere.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read -</strong> <a href="Who is Matt Rife? Comedian and new owner of haunted Annabelle doll and Lorraine Warren's house">Who is Matt Rife? Comedian and new owner of haunted Annabelle doll and Lorraine Warren's house</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The viral video was shared on Instagram with the caption: "Teaching Bhojpuri to Korean kids #korean #kdrama #bhojpuri #bihar. Had a lovely opportunity to share my journey as a YouTube creator with Korean kids and also make a short video teaching them Bhojpuri."&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The video quickly went viral on the social media and crossed over 5 lakh views across social media platforms.</p>

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overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DM2BptJxuYB/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Yechan C. 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<p>People on the social media praised the video for its warmth and cultural connection. One person commented, "This is so wholesome. Bhojpuri being taught in Korea feels surreal." Another one wrote, "The kids are learning so naturally. It’s beautiful."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A Bhojpuri speaker said, "This brought tears to my eyes. Thank you." Another user wrote, "This is the kind of global bond the world needs. So heartwarming."</p>

A video of a South Korean creator teaching children basic Bhojpuri greetings and phrases in a fun and engaging way has gone viral. Watch the video inside.

A content creator from South Korea has won hearts on social media after posting a sweet video of himself teaching Bhojpuri to a group of Korean students. The creator, Yechan C. Lee, is seen cheerfully leading the class in a fun and classroom-style session, where he introduces simple Bhojpuri greetings. At the start of the video, Lee explains the lesson, "How to have four basic conversations in India. When we meet someone for the first time, we say hello but in India, we say, ‘ka ho?’ Very nice, very nice." The group happily repeats each phrase after him, copying his pronunciation (the way in which a particular word is said) with excitement. He further said, "When we meet the same person again, we ask, how have you been? In India, we say, ka hal ba? And then we reply, 'theek ba?’ Great. Now it’s time to say a goodbye. In India, we say, ‘khush raho.’ The group repeat each phrase together and create a joyful and lively atmosphere. Also Read - Who is Matt Rife? Comedian and new owner of haunted Annabelle doll and Lorraine Warren's house The viral video was shared on Instagram with the caption: "Teaching Bhojpuri to Korean kids #korean #kdrama #bhojpuri #bihar. Had a lovely opportunity to share my journey as a YouTube creator with Korean kids and also make a short video teaching them Bhojpuri." The video quickly went viral on the social media and crossed over 5 lakh views across social media platforms.

<p>A video of a South Korean creator teaching children basic Bhojpuri greetings and phrases in a fun and engaging way has gone viral. Watch the video inside.</p>

South Korean creator teaches Bhojpuri phrases to students, video goes viral - WATCH

South Korea hit by deadly floods; worst rainfall in years leaves 17 dead, several missing

<p>South Korea typically experiences monsoon rains in July and is usually well-prepared. But this week, the country's southern regions were hit with some of the heaviest hourly rainfall on record, according to official data</p>

<p>Heavy rain in South Korea has killed at least 17 people in recent days, government records showed Sunday, while 11 remain unaccounted for in the intense downpours. South Korea typically experiences monsoon rains in July and is usually well-prepared. But this week, the country's southern regions were hit with some of the heaviest hourly rainfall on record, according to official data.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>There was also a dangerous deluge in the north early Sunday, with close to 170 millimetres (6.7 inches) of rain hitting Gapyeong county in Gyeonggi province, east of the capital Seoul, leaving at least two dead and five missing. The number of casualties rose throughout the day as bodies of those previously reported missing -- many swept away in landslides -- were recovered. &nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A woman in her 70s was killed when her house collapsed in a landslide, while the body of a man in his 40s was found near a bridge after he drowned, Yonhap news agency reported. The total number of deaths from the five-day deluge now stands at at least 17, with 11 missing, according to interior ministry data as of Sunday evening. Most of the deaths occurred in the southern county of Sancheong, which has seen nearly 800 millimetres of rain since Wednesday.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>With the bodies of those who had gone missing retrieved on Sunday, the number of deaths in the rural county of 33,000 rose to 10, with four still unaccounted for. Scientists say climate change has made extreme weather events more frequent and intense around the world.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In 2022, South Korea endured record-breaking rains and flooding, which killed at least 11 people.</p><p>They included three people who died trapped in a Seoul basement apartment of the kind that became internationally known because of the Oscar-winning Korean film "Parasite". The government said at the time that the rainfall was the heaviest since records began, blaming climate change for the extreme weather.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><i><strong>Disclaimer:</strong> This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</i></p>

At least 17 dead, 11 missing as torrential rains lash South Korea

Heavy rain in South Korea has killed at least 17 people in recent days, government records showed Sunday, while 11 remain unaccounted for in the intense downpours. South Korea typically experiences monsoon rains in July and is usually well-prepared. But this week, the country's southern regions were hit with some of the heaviest hourly rainfall on record, according to official data. There was also a dangerous deluge in the north early Sunday, with close to 170 millimetres (6.7 inches) of rain hitting Gapyeong county in Gyeonggi province, east of the capital Seoul, leaving at least two dead and five missing. The number of casualties rose throughout the day as bodies of those previously reported missing -- many swept away in landslides -- were recovered. A woman in her 70s was killed when her house collapsed in a landslide, while the body of a man in his 40s was found near a bridge after he drowned, Yonhap news agency reported. The total number of deaths from the five-day deluge now stands at at least 17, with 11 missing, according to interior ministry data as of Sunday evening. Most of the deaths occurred in the southern county of Sancheong, which has seen nearly 800 millimetres of rain since Wednesday. With the bodies of those who had gone missing retrieved on Sunday, the number of deaths in the rural county of 33,000 rose to 10, with four still unaccounted for. Scientists say climate change has made extreme weather events more frequent and intense around the world. In 2022, South Korea endured record-breaking rains and flooding, which killed at least 11 people. They included three people who died trapped in a Seoul basement apartment of the kind that became internationally known because of the Oscar-winning Korean film "Parasite". The government said at the time that the rainfall was the heaviest since records began, blaming climate change for the extreme weather. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

<p>South Korea’s government says it will instruct all domestic airlines operating Boeing aircraft to inspect fuel switch locking mechanisms, after a fatal crash involving an Air India 787 put renewed focus on a long-standing safety advisory from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). According to Reuters, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) confirmed on Monday that the upcoming directive will apply to South Korean carriers flying affected Boeing models, including the 787 Dreamliner. The ministry did not give a specific timeline for issuing the formal order or completing inspections.</p><h2><strong>FAA advisory under scrutiny after India crash</strong></h2><p>The renewed safety push comes in the wake of a catastrophic crash last month involving an Air India Boeing 787-8, which killed 260 people. A preliminary investigation report released in India cited a 2018 FAA safety bulletin warning airlines to check the locking feature of fuel cutoff switches. The FAA advisory, however, was only a recommendation—not a mandatory directive.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>According to the FAA document, operators of various Boeing models, including the 787, were urged to inspect the fuel switches to ensure they could not be moved accidentally. But India’s preliminary crash report said Air India had never conducted those recommended checks. Maintenance records also showed that the throttle control module, housing the fuel switches, had been replaced in both 2019 and 2023.</p><h2><strong>Boeing and FAA say systems remain safe</strong></h2><p>The safety spotlight on Boeing comes amid heightened global scrutiny over its aircraft design and production quality. As per Reuters reporting on Sunday, Boeing and the FAA have privately assured airlines and regulators that the fuel switch locks are safe and that additional inspections are not required.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Yet national aviation regulators are increasingly unwilling to rely solely on voluntary measures.</p><h2><strong>How many Boeing jets fly in South Korea?</strong></h2><p>South Korea’s major airlines operate more than 100 Boeing aircraft across their commercial and cargo fleets, as per 2024 data compiled by Cirium and fleet-tracking platform ch-aviation. The majority, over 80 jets are Boeing 737s, including both 737-800s and 737 MAX variants, flown by carriers such as Korean Air, Jin Air, Jeju Air and T’way Air.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Korean Air and Asiana Airlines also operate roughly 30 wide-body jets, including Boeing 777s and 787 Dreamliners, primarily for long-haul international routes. In addition, both carriers field Boeing 747 and 767 freighters through their cargo divisions. Korean Air is currently the world’s largest operator of the Boeing 747-8 passenger aircraft, according to its official fleet disclosures. These aircraft form the backbone of South Korea’s trans-Pacific passenger and cargo operations, with several deployed on key US and European routes.</p><h2><strong>What about the cost of inspection?&nbsp;</strong></h2><p>While South Korea’s transport ministry has not published any cost estimates for enforcing inspections of Boeing fuel cutoff switches, aviation maintenance experts say such inspections generally cost between $3,000 and $10,000 per aircraft, depending on model and labour costs. For over 100 Boeing jets in South Korean fleets, that suggests a total cost in the range of $300,000 to $1 million for a nationwide compliance sweep.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>According to data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), such safety inspections are typically absorbed as part of airlines’ regular maintenance budgets but can still tighten margins, especially for low-cost carriers operating large single-aisle fleets. As per Cirium and ch-aviation estimates, Korean Air and Asiana would bear most of the wide-body-related costs given their large 777 and 787 fleets used on trans-Pacific routes.</p><h2><strong>A global wave of inspections?</strong></h2><p>The Korean order is likely to be part of a broader international reaction.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>According to industry experts cited by Reuters, aviation regulators often choose to enforce recommended inspections themselves after a major accident, even when the FAA does not make them mandatory. European safety authorities are also reviewing&nbsp;the FAA’s advisory history following the India crash, according to Reuters sources. &nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>While Boeing has declined immediate comment on South Korea’s announcement, the planemaker faces fresh questions about the clarity of its maintenance guidance and the rigour of its voluntary inspection recommendations. For South Korea’s airlines, the planned inspections add a layer of operational complexity just as passenger demand surges in the peak summer season. As the Air India crash investigation continues, regulators across Asia and beyond will be watching closely balancing the need to reassure passengers with the imperative to keep fleets flying safely.</p><p><br>&nbsp;</p>

The Korean directive could trigger a wave of fuel switch inspections worldwide, as aviation regulators reassess Boeing safety practices post-Air India crash.

South Korea’s government says it will instruct all domestic airlines operating Boeing aircraft to inspect fuel switch locking mechanisms, after a fatal crash involving an Air India 787 put renewed focus on a long-standing safety advisory from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). According to Reuters, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) confirmed on Monday that the upcoming directive will apply to South Korean carriers flying affected Boeing models, including the 787 Dreamliner. The ministry did not give a specific timeline for issuing the formal order or completing inspections. FAA advisory under scrutiny after India crash The renewed safety push comes in the wake of a catastrophic crash last month involving an Air India Boeing 787-8, which killed 260 people. A preliminary investigation report released in India cited a 2018 FAA safety bulletin warning airlines to check the locking feature of fuel cutoff switches. The FAA advisory, however, was only a recommendation—not a mandatory directive. According to the FAA document, operators of various Boeing models, including the 787, were urged to inspect the fuel switches to ensure they could not be moved accidentally. But India’s preliminary crash report said Air India had never conducted those recommended checks. Maintenance records also showed that the throttle control module, housing the fuel switches, had been replaced in both 2019 and 2023. Boeing and FAA say systems remain safe The safety spotlight on Boeing comes amid heightened global scrutiny over its aircraft design and production quality. As per Reuters reporting on Sunday, Boeing and the FAA have privately assured airlines and regulators that the fuel switch locks are safe and that additional inspections are not required. Yet national aviation regulators are increasingly unwilling to rely solely on voluntary measures. How many Boeing jets fly in South Korea? South Korea’s major airlines operate more than 100 Boeing aircraft across their commercial and cargo fleets, as per 2024 data compiled by Cirium and fleet-tracking platform ch-aviation. The majority, over 80 jets are Boeing 737s, including both 737-800s and 737 MAX variants, flown by carriers such as Korean Air, Jin Air, Jeju Air and T’way Air. Korean Air and Asiana Airlines also operate roughly 30 wide-body jets, including Boeing 777s and 787 Dreamliners, primarily for long-haul international routes. In addition, both carriers field Boeing 747 and 767 freighters through their cargo divisions. Korean Air is currently the world’s largest operator of the Boeing 747-8 passenger aircraft, according to its official fleet disclosures. These aircraft form the backbone of South Korea’s trans-Pacific passenger and cargo operations, with several deployed on key US and European routes. What about the cost of inspection? While South Korea’s transport ministry has not published any cost estimates for enforcing inspections of Boeing fuel cutoff switches, aviation maintenance experts say such inspections generally cost between $3,000 and $10,000 per aircraft, depending on model and labour costs. For over 100 Boeing jets in South Korean fleets, that suggests a total cost in the range of $300,000 to $1 million for a nationwide compliance sweep. According to data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), such safety inspections are typically absorbed as part of airlines’ regular maintenance budgets but can still tighten margins, especially for low-cost carriers operating large single-aisle fleets. As per Cirium and ch-aviation estimates, Korean Air and Asiana would bear most of the wide-body-related costs given their large 777 and 787 fleets used on trans-Pacific routes. A global wave of inspections? The Korean order is likely to be part of a broader international reaction. According to industry experts cited by Reuters, aviation regulators often choose to enforce recommended inspections themselves after a major accident, even when the FAA does not make them mandatory. European safety authorities are also reviewing the FAA’s advisory history following the India crash, according to Reuters sources. While Boeing has declined immediate comment on South Korea’s announcement, the planemaker faces fresh questions about the clarity of its maintenance guidance and the rigour of its voluntary inspection recommendations. For South Korea’s airlines, the planned inspections add a layer of operational complexity just as passenger demand surges in the peak summer season. As the Air India crash investigation continues, regulators across Asia and beyond will be watching closely balancing the need to reassure passengers with the imperative to keep fleets flying safely.

<p>In a ripple effect from the deadly Air India 787 crash, South Korea joins growing list of nations enforcing inspections Boeing and FAA left optional.</p>

South Korea to order fuel switch inspections on Boeing jets after deadly crash

<p>South Korea is scrambling to seal an in-principle trade deal with the United States before a looming tariff deadline threatens to hit some of its most vital industries. With a 25 per cent tariff set to kick in on August 1, negotiators in Seoul are under growing pressure to find a compromise that will protect exports of cars and steel, key drivers of the country’s industrial base.</p><h2><strong>A tight deadline for a fragile agreement</strong></h2><p>South Korea’s Minister for Trade, Yeo Han-koo, suggested there was still hope for an “agreement in principle” before the deadline, but warned that a perfect, detailed treaty was unrealistic on such short notice. As reported by the Newsis news agency, Yeo said talks were progressing but that the next three weeks would be critical to avoid what he described as “unfair” tariffs from Washington.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Twenty days are not enough to come up with a perfect treaty that contains every detail,” Yeo told local media. He described the goal as agreeing on a broad framework that could head off Trump’s tariffs while buying time for more complex negotiations later.</p><h2><strong>Agriculture market access on the table</strong></h2><p>One of the most sensitive sticking points in the talks is agriculture. Traditionally a fiercely protected sector in South Korea, agriculture and livestock market access has now emerged as a potential bargaining chip. Yeo signalled that while “sensitive” areas would still need protection, Seoul could consider opening up some parts of the market to US exports as part of the broader deal.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Such a move would be politically risky, given the power of South Korea’s farming lobby, but officials see it as necessary if it helps defuse Trump’s tariff threat.</p><h2><strong>Trade surplus under scrutiny</strong></h2><p>The urgency in Seoul is driven by fears of serious economic damage. According to Korea Customs Service data, South Korea posted a record $55.6 billion trade surplus with the US in 2024, up 25 per cent from the previous year, fuelled largely by surging car exports.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Washington has long complained about that imbalance. Trump’s administration is demanding concrete measures to reduce the US trade deficit—echoing similar demands made during earlier rounds of trade fights with allies in Europe and Asia.</p><h2><strong>Tariffs on cars and steel a key battleground</strong></h2><p>For South Korea, the big worry is sector-specific tariffs that would hit its auto and steel industries hard. Trump has already threatened to impose 25 per cent duties on those goods if no deal is reached by August 1.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>South Korean officials hope that by offering concessions on agriculture and showing willingness to cut the surplus, they can secure exemptions similar to those the US granted Britain in past negotiations.</p><p>Yeo said there had been “considerable progress” on industrial issues, but stressed that both sides would need to make concessions.</p><h2><strong>Political turmoil complicates talks</strong></h2><p>South Korea’s rush to negotiate is also shaped by recent political upheaval. President Lee Jae-myung only took office on June 4, after months of instability following his predecessor’s removal over an attempted martial law declaration.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>That turmoil left Seoul with little time to respond to Trump’s tariff threats. Negotiations began in earnest only after the new administration was sworn in, forcing officials to work under intense pressure with the clock ticking.</p><h2><strong>Trump’s pressure tactics continue</strong></h2><p>Meanwhile, President Trump has kept up the public pressure. Speaking to reporters in Maryland, he said bluntly that “South Korea wants to make a deal right now,” but did not specify what terms Washington would accept or how quickly a final pact could be concluded.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Analysts suggest Trump is looking for headline commitments that he can sell as a win to domestic voters—a reduction in the trade deficit, increased access for US farm exports, and new proof of his tough-on-trade stance.</p><h2><strong>A race against time</strong></h2><p>With less than three weeks to go before the deadline, both sides know the stakes are high. The tariffs would not only disrupt trade flows but could also strain broader security and diplomatic ties between the allies.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>For Seoul, the mission is clear: avoid an economic shock that could ripple through its industrial base. For Washington, the goal is to extract concessions that help balance the trade relationship.</p><p>As the deadline nears, negotiators on both sides face the delicate task of turning fragile progress into a deal that can withstand political scrutiny at home and avert a damaging escalation in one of Asia’s most important trade relationships.</p>

South Korea seeks urgent trade deal with US to avoid 25% tariffs on cars and steel, offering farm concessions amid rising political and economic pressure.

South Korea is scrambling to seal an in-principle trade deal with the United States before a looming tariff deadline threatens to hit some of its most vital industries. With a 25 per cent tariff set to kick in on August 1, negotiators in Seoul are under growing pressure to find a compromise that will protect exports of cars and steel, key drivers of the country’s industrial base. A tight deadline for a fragile agreement South Korea’s Minister for Trade, Yeo Han-koo, suggested there was still hope for an “agreement in principle” before the deadline, but warned that a perfect, detailed treaty was unrealistic on such short notice. As reported by the Newsis news agency, Yeo said talks were progressing but that the next three weeks would be critical to avoid what he described as “unfair” tariffs from Washington. “Twenty days are not enough to come up with a perfect treaty that contains every detail,” Yeo told local media. He described the goal as agreeing on a broad framework that could head off Trump’s tariffs while buying time for more complex negotiations later. Agriculture market access on the table One of the most sensitive sticking points in the talks is agriculture. Traditionally a fiercely protected sector in South Korea, agriculture and livestock market access has now emerged as a potential bargaining chip. Yeo signalled that while “sensitive” areas would still need protection, Seoul could consider opening up some parts of the market to US exports as part of the broader deal. Such a move would be politically risky, given the power of South Korea’s farming lobby, but officials see it as necessary if it helps defuse Trump’s tariff threat. Trade surplus under scrutiny The urgency in Seoul is driven by fears of serious economic damage. According to Korea Customs Service data, South Korea posted a record $55.6 billion trade surplus with the US in 2024, up 25 per cent from the previous year, fuelled largely by surging car exports. Washington has long complained about that imbalance. Trump’s administration is demanding concrete measures to reduce the US trade deficit—echoing similar demands made during earlier rounds of trade fights with allies in Europe and Asia. Tariffs on cars and steel a key battleground For South Korea, the big worry is sector-specific tariffs that would hit its auto and steel industries hard. Trump has already threatened to impose 25 per cent duties on those goods if no deal is reached by August 1. South Korean officials hope that by offering concessions on agriculture and showing willingness to cut the surplus, they can secure exemptions similar to those the US granted Britain in past negotiations. Yeo said there had been “considerable progress” on industrial issues, but stressed that both sides would need to make concessions. Political turmoil complicates talks South Korea’s rush to negotiate is also shaped by recent political upheaval. President Lee Jae-myung only took office on June 4, after months of instability following his predecessor’s removal over an attempted martial law declaration. That turmoil left Seoul with little time to respond to Trump’s tariff threats. Negotiations began in earnest only after the new administration was sworn in, forcing officials to work under intense pressure with the clock ticking. Trump’s pressure tactics continue Meanwhile, President Trump has kept up the public pressure. Speaking to reporters in Maryland, he said bluntly that “South Korea wants to make a deal right now,” but did not specify what terms Washington would accept or how quickly a final pact could be concluded. Analysts suggest Trump is looking for headline commitments that he can sell as a win to domestic voters—a reduction in the trade deficit, increased access for US farm exports, and new proof of his tough-on-trade stance. A race against time With less than three weeks to go before the deadline, both sides know the stakes are high. The tariffs would not only disrupt trade flows but could also strain broader security and diplomatic ties between the allies. For Seoul, the mission is clear: avoid an economic shock that could ripple through its industrial base. For Washington, the goal is to extract concessions that help balance the trade relationship. As the deadline nears, negotiators on both sides face the delicate task of turning fragile progress into a deal that can withstand political scrutiny at home and avert a damaging escalation in one of Asia’s most important trade relationships.

<p>South Korea is racing to secure an in-principle trade deal with the US before Trump’s August 1 tariff deadline threatens its key car and steel exports.</p>

South Korea races to avert US tariff threat with last-minute trade push

<p>Caves in South Korea are teeming with a dragon-like creature, although it is completely blind. These creepy-crawlies are four new species discovered by Kyung–Hoon Jeong, a researcher at Jeonbuk National University, in different caves. The creatures belong to the dragon pseudoscorpion family and are arthropods, only about 1-3mm long. The term dragon is used for them because of their gigantic jaws that resemble those of "dragons in ancient mythology,” Kyung–Hoon Jeong told BBC. Their mouths are known as chelicerae in scientific terms and are used to capture prey. Despite having a dragon feature, the peculiar thing about these species is that they are blind. This is because of their habitat. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/scientists-stumbled-upon-four-jet-black-eggs-20-000-feet-below-ocean-they-turned-out-to-be-1752050826299"><strong>Scientists stumbled upon four pitch-black eggs 20,000 feet below ocean. They turned out to be...</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The critters live in completely dark places in the caves, and so they do not have a need to see anything. Hence, they do not have visionary powers. The same is true for their colour. Because they never leave the caves, their bodies have no need to adapt to withstand the harsh rays of the sun. This leads to them having a pale colour. The newly discovered species found in the South Korean caves are believed to only exist here. However, most dragon-like pseudoscorpions are not native to South Korea, and one particular species has been found almost everywhere. The only exception is Antarctica. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/scientists-detect-more-evidence-of-underground-city-in-egypt-this-time-under-great-sphinx-1752127738821"><strong>Scientists detect secret chambers and staircase under Great Sphinx, adding to evidence for lost city</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>South Korea has nearly 1,000 caves, and most of them are yet to be explored. Kyung–Hoon believes several species of pseudoscorpion, unknown to scientists, inhabit these caves. However, the challenge in discovering them lies in the fact that the changing climate is also affecting these caves and the species that live in them. Researchers say it is important to better understand the caves’ biodiversity in order to protect the pseudoscorpions and other critters crawling in them. More research and expeditions need to be carried out at these caves to discover the other species that have been living in them but remain a secret.&nbsp;</p>

South Korean caves are bristling with creatures that remain to be discovered. Four species of a particular dragon critter have been found in different caves. Scientists are calling for more expeditions to the over 1,000 caves in the country. 

Caves in South Korea are teeming with a dragon-like creature, although it is completely blind. These creepy-crawlies are four new species discovered by Kyung–Hoon Jeong, a researcher at Jeonbuk National University, in different caves. The creatures belong to the dragon pseudoscorpion family and are arthropods, only about 1-3mm long. The term dragon is used for them because of their gigantic jaws that resemble those of "dragons in ancient mythology,” Kyung–Hoon Jeong told BBC. Their mouths are known as chelicerae in scientific terms and are used to capture prey. Despite having a dragon feature, the peculiar thing about these species is that they are blind. This is because of their habitat. Also Read: Scientists stumbled upon four pitch-black eggs 20,000 feet below ocean. They turned out to be... The critters live in completely dark places in the caves, and so they do not have a need to see anything. Hence, they do not have visionary powers. The same is true for their colour. Because they never leave the caves, their bodies have no need to adapt to withstand the harsh rays of the sun. This leads to them having a pale colour. The newly discovered species found in the South Korean caves are believed to only exist here. However, most dragon-like pseudoscorpions are not native to South Korea, and one particular species has been found almost everywhere. The only exception is Antarctica. Also Read: Scientists detect secret chambers and staircase under Great Sphinx, adding to evidence for lost city South Korea has nearly 1,000 caves, and most of them are yet to be explored. Kyung–Hoon believes several species of pseudoscorpion, unknown to scientists, inhabit these caves. However, the challenge in discovering them lies in the fact that the changing climate is also affecting these caves and the species that live in them. Researchers say it is important to better understand the caves’ biodiversity in order to protect the pseudoscorpions and other critters crawling in them. More research and expeditions need to be carried out at these caves to discover the other species that have been living in them but remain a secret.

<p>South Korean caves are bristling with creatures that remain to be discovered. Four species of a particular dragon critter have been found in different caves. Scientists are calling for more expeditions to the over 1,000 caves in the country.&nbsp;</p>

South Korean caves are teeming with creatures with dragon-like features. They are completely blind

<p>A court in South Korea issued a warrant on Thursday to arrest former president Yoon Suk Yeol over his failed bid to impose martial law in the country, placing him in custody for the second time. The Seoul Central District Court issued the warrant hours after holding a hearing to review the arrest warrant requested by special counsel Cho Eun-suk. Cho’s team sought the arrest warrant on five charges, including Yoon’s alleged violation of the rights of Cabinet members by calling only a select few to a meeting held shortly before he declared martial law on Dec. 3.<br>Yoon and his lawyers attended the hearing and rejected all charges before the former president was taken to Seoul Detention Centre in Uiwang, just south of the capital, to await the court’s decision.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Nam Se-jin, a senior judge at Seoul’s Central District Court, issued the warrant, citing concerns that Yoon could destroy evidence, the Yonhap news agency said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The former president is also accused of creating a false martial law declaration document after Dec. 3 to add legitimacy to his actions and getting it signed by then prime minister Han Duck-soo and then defence minister Kim Yong-hyun before discarding it.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The other charges involve his alleged instruction to the presidential spokesperson for foreign press to distribute false statements denying his intent to destroy the constitutional order through the martial law attempt, his alleged instruction to the Presidential Security Service to block his detention by investigators in early January and his alleged order to delete call records from secure phones used by three military commanders.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This is the second time Yoon has been arrested.</p><p>The first time was in January when he was still in office, but a court later accepted his request to cancel his arrest, allowing his release in March.</p>

Former president Yoon attended the hearing and rejected all charges before he was taken to Seoul Detention Centre in Uiwang to await the court’s decision. Nam Se-jin, a senior judge at Seoul’s Central District Court, issued the warrant, citing concerns that Yoon could destroy evidence.

A court in South Korea issued a warrant on Thursday to arrest former president Yoon Suk Yeol over his failed bid to impose martial law in the country, placing him in custody for the second time. The Seoul Central District Court issued the warrant hours after holding a hearing to review the arrest warrant requested by special counsel Cho Eun-suk. Cho’s team sought the arrest warrant on five charges, including Yoon’s alleged violation of the rights of Cabinet members by calling only a select few to a meeting held shortly before he declared martial law on Dec. 3. Yoon and his lawyers attended the hearing and rejected all charges before the former president was taken to Seoul Detention Centre in Uiwang, just south of the capital, to await the court’s decision. Nam Se-jin, a senior judge at Seoul’s Central District Court, issued the warrant, citing concerns that Yoon could destroy evidence, the Yonhap news agency said. The former president is also accused of creating a false martial law declaration document after Dec. 3 to add legitimacy to his actions and getting it signed by then prime minister Han Duck-soo and then defence minister Kim Yong-hyun before discarding it. The other charges involve his alleged instruction to the presidential spokesperson for foreign press to distribute false statements denying his intent to destroy the constitutional order through the martial law attempt, his alleged instruction to the Presidential Security Service to block his detention by investigators in early January and his alleged order to delete call records from secure phones used by three military commanders. This is the second time Yoon has been arrested. The first time was in January when he was still in office, but a court later accepted his request to cancel his arrest, allowing his release in March.

<p>Former president Yoon attended the hearing and rejected all charges before he was taken to Seoul Detention Centre in Uiwang to await the court’s decision. Nam Se-jin, a senior judge at Seoul’s Central District Court, issued the warrant, citing concerns that Yoon could destroy evidence.</p>

Seoul court issues warrant to arrest ex-president Yoon over martial law bid

<p>South Korea says it will intensify negotiations with the United States in a last-ditch effort to avoid a threatened 25 per cent tariff, as President Donald Trump’s administration sets an August 1 deadline for the new duties.</p><h2><strong>Trump threatens new tariffs from August 1</strong></h2><p>President Trump announced on Monday that he would impose a 25 per cent tariff on South Korean goods from 1 August, posting formal letters to President Lee Jae Myung and Japan’s prime minister on his social media platform.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In the letter to President Lee, Trump criticised what he called a lopsided trading relationship, urging Seoul to open “heretofore closed markets” and eliminate tariff and non-tariff barriers. According to South Korea’s Industry Ministry, the letter effectively grants a grace period before the new tariffs are enforced, as per Reuters.&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Seoul promises intensified negotiations</strong></h2><p>In response, South Korea’s Industry Ministry said it would use the remaining time to secure a deal that could prevent the tariffs from taking effect. “We will step up negotiations during the remaining period to reach a mutually beneficial result to quickly resolve the uncertainties from tariffs,” the ministry said in an official statement, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As per Reuters, South Korea also plans to use the window to address US concerns about its large trade surplus and overhaul domestic regulations. The ministry said it would pursue reforms through what it described as a “manufacturing renaissance partnership” with Washington.&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Record trade surplus draws US scrutiny</strong></h2><p>As per Korea Customs Service data cited by Reuters, South Korea posted a record $55.6 billion trade surplus with the United States in 2024, up 25 per cent from the previous year. The imbalance has been driven largely by strong car exports, making South Korea a target for Trump’s renewed push on trade.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Although the two countries have a free trade agreement, signed in 2007 and revised in 2018, economists note that South Korea’s effective tariff rates on US imports are near zero. However, Washington has continued to argue that non-tariff and regulatory barriers remain a major obstacle.</p><h2><strong>High-level diplomacy after political upheaval</strong></h2><p>President Lee Jae Myung, who took office on 4 June after a snap election, faces his first major foreign policy test with these negotiations. Lee has blamed his predecessor’s martial law declaration in December for weakening South Korea’s ability to respond quickly to Trump’s tariff demands.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>After initially sticking to technical-level discussions, Seoul has moved rapidly to high-level diplomacy. South Korea’s top trade envoy and National Security Advisor Wi Sung-lac have travelled to Washington in recent days for trade and defence talks.</p><h2><strong>Hopes for a last-minute deal</strong></h2><p>According to President Lee’s office, Wi met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington on Monday. The two agreed that a summit between Lee and Trump could help advance negotiations. Lee’s office cited Rubio as saying there was still time to reach a settlement before the deadline. “Tariff letters to major trading partners including South Korea were sent out today but there is still time until tariffs are implemented on August 1 so he hopes the two countries can communicate closely to reach an agreement before that,” Lee’s office said, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Trump himself suggested the deadline was not entirely rigid. Asked if it was firm, he told reporters: “I would say firm, but not 100% firm. If they call up and they say we’d like to do something a different way, we’re going to be open to that.”</p><h2><strong>Uncertainty for exporters</strong></h2><p>The Industry Ministry acknowledged in its statement that the new administration did not have enough time after Lee’s inauguration to settle all outstanding issues with Washington, despite what it called “intense negotiations”.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As the 1 August deadline looms, the threat of new tariffs casts a shadow over one of Asia’s most critical trade relationships with the United States. For South Korea, securing an exemption could not only protect exporters from fresh costs but also prove that President Lee’s new government can restore stability to a vital alliance after months of domestic political turmoil.</p>

Facing a record trade surplus and rising US pressure, South Korea new government intensifies talks with Washington to prevent steep tariffs, with hopes pinned on high-level diplomacy and a potential Lee-Trump summit.

South Korea says it will intensify negotiations with the United States in a last-ditch effort to avoid a threatened 25 per cent tariff, as President Donald Trump’s administration sets an August 1 deadline for the new duties. Trump threatens new tariffs from August 1 President Trump announced on Monday that he would impose a 25 per cent tariff on South Korean goods from 1 August, posting formal letters to President Lee Jae Myung and Japan’s prime minister on his social media platform. In the letter to President Lee, Trump criticised what he called a lopsided trading relationship, urging Seoul to open “heretofore closed markets” and eliminate tariff and non-tariff barriers. According to South Korea’s Industry Ministry, the letter effectively grants a grace period before the new tariffs are enforced, as per Reuters. Seoul promises intensified negotiations In response, South Korea’s Industry Ministry said it would use the remaining time to secure a deal that could prevent the tariffs from taking effect. “We will step up negotiations during the remaining period to reach a mutually beneficial result to quickly resolve the uncertainties from tariffs,” the ministry said in an official statement, as quoted by Reuters. As per Reuters, South Korea also plans to use the window to address US concerns about its large trade surplus and overhaul domestic regulations. The ministry said it would pursue reforms through what it described as a “manufacturing renaissance partnership” with Washington. Record trade surplus draws US scrutiny As per Korea Customs Service data cited by Reuters, South Korea posted a record $55.6 billion trade surplus with the United States in 2024, up 25 per cent from the previous year. The imbalance has been driven largely by strong car exports, making South Korea a target for Trump’s renewed push on trade. Although the two countries have a free trade agreement, signed in 2007 and revised in 2018, economists note that South Korea’s effective tariff rates on US imports are near zero. However, Washington has continued to argue that non-tariff and regulatory barriers remain a major obstacle. High-level diplomacy after political upheaval President Lee Jae Myung, who took office on 4 June after a snap election, faces his first major foreign policy test with these negotiations. Lee has blamed his predecessor’s martial law declaration in December for weakening South Korea’s ability to respond quickly to Trump’s tariff demands. After initially sticking to technical-level discussions, Seoul has moved rapidly to high-level diplomacy. South Korea’s top trade envoy and National Security Advisor Wi Sung-lac have travelled to Washington in recent days for trade and defence talks. Hopes for a last-minute deal According to President Lee’s office, Wi met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington on Monday. The two agreed that a summit between Lee and Trump could help advance negotiations. Lee’s office cited Rubio as saying there was still time to reach a settlement before the deadline. “Tariff letters to major trading partners including South Korea were sent out today but there is still time until tariffs are implemented on August 1 so he hopes the two countries can communicate closely to reach an agreement before that,” Lee’s office said, as quoted by Reuters. Trump himself suggested the deadline was not entirely rigid. Asked if it was firm, he told reporters: “I would say firm, but not 100% firm. If they call up and they say we’d like to do something a different way, we’re going to be open to that.” Uncertainty for exporters The Industry Ministry acknowledged in its statement that the new administration did not have enough time after Lee’s inauguration to settle all outstanding issues with Washington, despite what it called “intense negotiations”. As the 1 August deadline looms, the threat of new tariffs casts a shadow over one of Asia’s most critical trade relationships with the United States. For South Korea, securing an exemption could not only protect exporters from fresh costs but also prove that President Lee’s new government can restore stability to a vital alliance after months of domestic political turmoil.

<p>South Korea is racing to negotiate a last-minute trade deal with the US to avoid Trump’s threatened 25% tariffs set to take effect on August 1.</p>

South Korea races to secure US tariff deal before August 1 deadline

<p>South Korea is making a last-ditch effort to avert sweeping new US tariffs, as officials from Seoul and Washington race to extend a looming deadline for finalising trade deals. According to a statement from South Korea’s industry ministry, Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo met US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in Washington on Saturday, urging an extension of the 9 July deadline while proposing new manufacturing partnerships aimed at avoiding tariffs on key exports such as automobiles and steel, as per Bloomberg.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The meeting underscores growing anxiety in Seoul over President Donald Trump’s threat to impose 25 per cent across-the-board tariffs as early as next month, a move that could hit South Korea’s vital manufacturing sector hard. Trump has warned that the United States would issue letters to trading partners confirming new unilateral tariff rates that would take effect on 1 August.</p><h2><strong>South Korea pitches manufacturing partnerships</strong></h2><p>South Korea’s industry ministry said Yeo outlined a “mutually beneficial” framework for industrial cooperation, intended to strengthen bilateral supply chains while calling for the elimination or reduction of tariffs on major export products. As per the ministry’s statement, both sides agreed they had conducted “good faith” negotiations for a month following South Korea’s recent change in government, but acknowledged that more work was needed to bridge remaining differences, as per Bloomberg.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Yeo’s appeal marks an urgent diplomatic push by Seoul to protect its economy, which is already grappling with weak domestic consumption. South Korea’s central bank cut its GDP growth forecast for 2025 to 0.8 per cent in May, down from 1.5 per cent previously.</p><h2><strong>Seoul ramps up diplomatic outreach</strong></h2><p>The talks in Washington represented Yeo’s second trip to the United States in just over a week, a sign of Seoul’s determination to revive stalled negotiations following a period of political turmoil at home.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>President Lee Jae Myung took office last month after winning a snap election triggered by the ousting of Yoon Suk Yeol. Yoon’s imposition of martial law late last year led to the country’s worst political crisis in decades and created a leadership vacuum that delayed key policy negotiations, including trade. South Korean officials appear to be working quickly to re-establish momentum. Lee’s national security adviser, Wi Sung-lac, also departed for Washington on Sunday for meetings with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is also serving as acting national security adviser.</p><h2><strong>High stakes for South Korea’s economy</strong></h2><p>Speaking with reporters before leaving Seoul, Wi described the negotiations as being in a “critical phase” and said he would seek to arrange an initial summit between President Lee and President Trump while also discussing broader security and bilateral issues, as per Bloomberg.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>South Korea is a major US ally and a global manufacturing powerhouse, exporting cars, semiconductors and batteries. The threat of 25 per cent tariffs on its goods has alarmed industry leaders, who warn such levies would further undermine an already sluggish economy. By pushing for an extension to the deadline, Seoul hopes to buy time to secure a deal that would limit or eliminate the threatened tariffs and provide stability for its exporters.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>(With inputs from the agencies)</p><p><br>&nbsp;</p>

With President Trump threatening 25% tariffs effective 1 August, South Korea economy is at risk. Trade Minister Yeo Han koo emphasized a framework for industrial cooperation, while the recent political shift adds urgency to re-establish negotiations and secure a favorable outcome.

South Korea is making a last-ditch effort to avert sweeping new US tariffs, as officials from Seoul and Washington race to extend a looming deadline for finalising trade deals. According to a statement from South Korea’s industry ministry, Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo met US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in Washington on Saturday, urging an extension of the 9 July deadline while proposing new manufacturing partnerships aimed at avoiding tariffs on key exports such as automobiles and steel, as per Bloomberg. The meeting underscores growing anxiety in Seoul over President Donald Trump’s threat to impose 25 per cent across-the-board tariffs as early as next month, a move that could hit South Korea’s vital manufacturing sector hard. Trump has warned that the United States would issue letters to trading partners confirming new unilateral tariff rates that would take effect on 1 August. South Korea pitches manufacturing partnerships South Korea’s industry ministry said Yeo outlined a “mutually beneficial” framework for industrial cooperation, intended to strengthen bilateral supply chains while calling for the elimination or reduction of tariffs on major export products. As per the ministry’s statement, both sides agreed they had conducted “good faith” negotiations for a month following South Korea’s recent change in government, but acknowledged that more work was needed to bridge remaining differences, as per Bloomberg. Yeo’s appeal marks an urgent diplomatic push by Seoul to protect its economy, which is already grappling with weak domestic consumption. South Korea’s central bank cut its GDP growth forecast for 2025 to 0.8 per cent in May, down from 1.5 per cent previously. Seoul ramps up diplomatic outreach The talks in Washington represented Yeo’s second trip to the United States in just over a week, a sign of Seoul’s determination to revive stalled negotiations following a period of political turmoil at home. President Lee Jae Myung took office last month after winning a snap election triggered by the ousting of Yoon Suk Yeol. Yoon’s imposition of martial law late last year led to the country’s worst political crisis in decades and created a leadership vacuum that delayed key policy negotiations, including trade. South Korean officials appear to be working quickly to re-establish momentum. Lee’s national security adviser, Wi Sung-lac, also departed for Washington on Sunday for meetings with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is also serving as acting national security adviser. High stakes for South Korea’s economy Speaking with reporters before leaving Seoul, Wi described the negotiations as being in a “critical phase” and said he would seek to arrange an initial summit between President Lee and President Trump while also discussing broader security and bilateral issues, as per Bloomberg. South Korea is a major US ally and a global manufacturing powerhouse, exporting cars, semiconductors and batteries. The threat of 25 per cent tariffs on its goods has alarmed industry leaders, who warn such levies would further undermine an already sluggish economy. By pushing for an extension to the deadline, Seoul hopes to buy time to secure a deal that would limit or eliminate the threatened tariffs and provide stability for its exporters. (With inputs from the agencies)

<p>South Korea is urgently attempting to prevent new US tariffs by seeking to extend the 9 July deadline for trade deal finalizations.</p>

South Korea urges US trade deadline extension as tariff threat looms

<p>South Korea’s exports rebounded in June on the back of strong technology demand, but shipments to the United States and China remained under pressure, reflecting the lingering impact of US tariff threats and broader trade tensions. According to data reported by Reuters, overall exports from Asia’s fourth-largest economy rose 4.3 per cent in June from a year earlier to $59.80 billion. The result was slightly below economists’ median forecast of a 4.7 per cent gain, underlining a still uneven recovery for one of the world’s key bellwethers of global trade.</p><h2><strong>Semiconductor shipments lead growth</strong></h2><p>The standout performer was semiconductors, South Korea’s most important export. Shipments of chips increased for a fourth consecutive month, rising 11.6 per cent in June, though at the slowest pace in that streak.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Demand for advanced chips has remained solid even as broader factory activity has weakened. South Korea’s factory output contracted for a fifth straight month in June, with sluggish demand in Japan, China and the US offsetting some improvement in the domestic economy. Other tech-heavy sectors also offered mixed results. Exports of automobiles rose 2.3 per cent, thanks largely to robust electric-vehicle demand in Europe that offset weaker sales in the United States.</p><h2><strong>Tariff threats hit steel, appliances</strong></h2><p>While tech-related exports showed resilience, other key sectors were hurt by high tariffs, especially in the US market. Reuters reports that shipments to the United States fell 0.5 per cent in June, marking the third consecutive monthly decline, while exports to China fell 2.7 per cent for a second straight monthly drop.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Steel products exports fell 8.0 per cent, and home appliances plunged 15.6 per cent, under direct pressure from US tariffs. By contrast, exports of car parts rose 2.4 per cent, with automakers increasing local production in the US to sidestep some tariff costs. South Korea’s Trade Ministry noted exports to the European Union climbed 14.7 per cent, while those to Southeast Asian countries rose 2.1 per cent, suggesting that exporters are seeking to diversify markets to reduce reliance on China and the US.</p><h2><strong>Seoul braces for tariff uncertainty</strong></h2><p>The South Korean government acknowledged the difficult outlook, warning that tariff volatility and global demand uncertainties would likely persist through the second half of 2025. “Volatility in US tariff policy and economic recovery uncertainty are expected to persist in the second half,” Industry and Trade Minister Ahn Duk-geun said in a statement, as reported by Reuters, promising an “all-out response” to US tariff threats.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Seoul is currently negotiating with Washington for an extension to a 90-day pause in punitive US tariffs that is set to expire next week. A senior South Korean trade official told Reuters that talks are expected to continue past the deadline as both sides seek a deal. The US has imposed high tariffs on various sectors under President Donald Trump’s administration. A 25 per cent “reciprocal” duty on South Korean goods remains paused for negotiations. Meanwhile, China—South Korea’s biggest trading partner is also engaged in its own trade negotiations with the US, after both sides significantly reduced tariffs on each other’s goods in a truce reached in mid-May and a framework agreement last month.</p><h2><strong>Trade surplus hits multi-year high</strong></h2><p>Despite the sectoral challenges, South Korea posted its largest monthly trade surplus since September 2018, with the surplus reaching $9.08 billion in June. Imports rose 3.3 per cent to $50.72 billion, as domestic demand remained relatively steady. Analysts said there were reasons for cautious optimism about trade stabilisation, even as risks remained. “Optimism is growing around trade negotiations of major countries and tariffs are unlikely to be raised even more, though it is too early to say exports have bottomed out,” Lee Jeong-hoon, an economist at Eugene Investment, told Reuters.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As the global trade environment remains tense and US tariff policy under President Trump remains unpredictable, South Korea’s strategy is likely to focus on both defending access to key markets and accelerating its push into new ones.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><i>(With inputs from the agencies)</i></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Seoul exports rose 4.3% in June, driven by strong chip demand, but US and China-bound shipments fell amid ongoing tariff tensions.

South Korea’s exports rebounded in June on the back of strong technology demand, but shipments to the United States and China remained under pressure, reflecting the lingering impact of US tariff threats and broader trade tensions. According to data reported by Reuters, overall exports from Asia’s fourth-largest economy rose 4.3 per cent in June from a year earlier to $59.80 billion. The result was slightly below economists’ median forecast of a 4.7 per cent gain, underlining a still uneven recovery for one of the world’s key bellwethers of global trade. Semiconductor shipments lead growth The standout performer was semiconductors, South Korea’s most important export. Shipments of chips increased for a fourth consecutive month, rising 11.6 per cent in June, though at the slowest pace in that streak. Demand for advanced chips has remained solid even as broader factory activity has weakened. South Korea’s factory output contracted for a fifth straight month in June, with sluggish demand in Japan, China and the US offsetting some improvement in the domestic economy. Other tech-heavy sectors also offered mixed results. Exports of automobiles rose 2.3 per cent, thanks largely to robust electric-vehicle demand in Europe that offset weaker sales in the United States. Tariff threats hit steel, appliances While tech-related exports showed resilience, other key sectors were hurt by high tariffs, especially in the US market. Reuters reports that shipments to the United States fell 0.5 per cent in June, marking the third consecutive monthly decline, while exports to China fell 2.7 per cent for a second straight monthly drop. Steel products exports fell 8.0 per cent, and home appliances plunged 15.6 per cent, under direct pressure from US tariffs. By contrast, exports of car parts rose 2.4 per cent, with automakers increasing local production in the US to sidestep some tariff costs. South Korea’s Trade Ministry noted exports to the European Union climbed 14.7 per cent, while those to Southeast Asian countries rose 2.1 per cent, suggesting that exporters are seeking to diversify markets to reduce reliance on China and the US. Seoul braces for tariff uncertainty The South Korean government acknowledged the difficult outlook, warning that tariff volatility and global demand uncertainties would likely persist through the second half of 2025. “Volatility in US tariff policy and economic recovery uncertainty are expected to persist in the second half,” Industry and Trade Minister Ahn Duk-geun said in a statement, as reported by Reuters, promising an “all-out response” to US tariff threats. Seoul is currently negotiating with Washington for an extension to a 90-day pause in punitive US tariffs that is set to expire next week. A senior South Korean trade official told Reuters that talks are expected to continue past the deadline as both sides seek a deal. The US has imposed high tariffs on various sectors under President Donald Trump’s administration. A 25 per cent “reciprocal” duty on South Korean goods remains paused for negotiations. Meanwhile, China—South Korea’s biggest trading partner is also engaged in its own trade negotiations with the US, after both sides significantly reduced tariffs on each other’s goods in a truce reached in mid-May and a framework agreement last month. Trade surplus hits multi-year high Despite the sectoral challenges, South Korea posted its largest monthly trade surplus since September 2018, with the surplus reaching $9.08 billion in June. Imports rose 3.3 per cent to $50.72 billion, as domestic demand remained relatively steady. Analysts said there were reasons for cautious optimism about trade stabilisation, even as risks remained. “Optimism is growing around trade negotiations of major countries and tariffs are unlikely to be raised even more, though it is too early to say exports have bottomed out,” Lee Jeong-hoon, an economist at Eugene Investment, told Reuters. As the global trade environment remains tense and US tariff policy under President Trump remains unpredictable, South Korea’s strategy is likely to focus on both defending access to key markets and accelerating its push into new ones. (With inputs from the agencies)

<p>South Korea’s June export rebound, led by semiconductors, is tempered by declining trade with the US and China due to tariff pressures—prompting Seoul to diversify markets and brace for prolonged trade uncertainty.</p>

South Korea trade improves on tech boom, struggles with US tariffs

<p>South Korea is urging the United States to strike a “mutually beneficial” trade deal, as tensions rise over looming tariffs that could hit key Korean exports. During his first official trip to Washington this week, South Korea’s new trade minister, Yeo Han-koo, pushed for a broader, forward-looking agreement. As per Bloomberg, Yeo met US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, and US lawmakers. The high-stakes meetings come ahead of a 9 July deadline when higher tariffs paused in April could be reinstated.</p><h2><strong>Turning crisis into opportunity</strong></h2><p>In a statement released on Saturday, South Korea’s Trade Ministry shared Yeo’s message of cooperation “The ongoing negotiations are not merely for tariffs but also an opportunity to establish a new framework for future cooperation,” Yeo said in a statement as quoted by Bloomberg.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He promised to “fiercely engage” in talks to ensure that momentum for collaboration between Seoul and Washington isn’t lost. Yeo framed the discussions as a chance to turn the “current crisis into an opportunity,” as per Bloomberg.</p><h2><strong>South Korea’s trade dependency on the US</strong></h2><p>South Korea and the US share a deeply interdependent trade relationship. The United States is South Korea’s second-largest export market, buying goods ranging from cars to semiconductors and batteries. These products are critical for South Korea’s economy and vital to US manufacturing supply chains.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, South Korea is a key US ally in East Asia, offering advanced manufacturing capacity, cutting-edge tech development, and strategic security cooperation. Any significant increase in US tariffs would hit South Korean exporters hard. The country’s economy is already feeling the pinch from slowing domestic consumption. The Bank of Korea last month slashed its 2025 GDP growth forecast to just 0.8 per cent from 1.5 per cent, underlining the risk of further economic stress.</p><h2><strong>Industry concerns over US export controls</strong></h2><p>Beyond tariffs, Yeo also raised industry worries about tightening US export controls. Washington has been imposing stricter rules on technology transfers, especially to countries like China, in an effort to secure critical tech supply chains and limit military applications.</p><p>South Korean companies heavily involved in semiconductor production and advanced manufacturing, fear they could get caught in the crossfire.</p><h2><strong>US says talks underway with multiple nations</strong></h2><p>As per Bloomberg, US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick confirmed Washington is working to finalise trade deals with around 10 countries ahead of the July 9 deadline. Speaking on Bloomberg Television, Lutnick said that President Donald Trump might extend the deadline if talks progress, but he did not specify which nations were involved.</p><p>Negotiating partners will get a “response,” he said, offering some hope of flexibility. But as per Yonhap News, a senior South Korean official in Washington made clear that Seoul has not received any notification of an extension, saying the country is not yet in a position to “feel assured.”</p><h2><strong>Tariffs risk harming a vital partnership</strong></h2><p>For both sides, the stakes are high. South Korea is not only a top trade partner but also a major hub for critical industries, including electric vehicle batteries, semiconductors, and automotive manufacturing. A 25 per cent across-the-board tariff would risk disrupting global supply chains, push up costs for US manufacturers, and worsen inflation pressures. Seoul’s push for a new deal isn’t just about avoiding immediate pain. It’s also about defining a modern trade framework that strengthens the alliance in the face of rising global competition, particularly from China.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As negotiations continue, all eyes will be on Washington to see if a last-minute deal can keep the trade partnership on track.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><i>(With inputs from the agencies)</i></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo met with US officials, highlighting the urgency as a July 9 deadline approaches for potential tariff reinstatements. Yeo emphasized using negotiations to create a new framework for cooperation and turning the current crisis into an opportunity.

South Korea is urging the United States to strike a “mutually beneficial” trade deal, as tensions rise over looming tariffs that could hit key Korean exports. During his first official trip to Washington this week, South Korea’s new trade minister, Yeo Han-koo, pushed for a broader, forward-looking agreement. As per Bloomberg, Yeo met US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, and US lawmakers. The high-stakes meetings come ahead of a 9 July deadline when higher tariffs paused in April could be reinstated. Turning crisis into opportunity In a statement released on Saturday, South Korea’s Trade Ministry shared Yeo’s message of cooperation “The ongoing negotiations are not merely for tariffs but also an opportunity to establish a new framework for future cooperation,” Yeo said in a statement as quoted by Bloomberg. He promised to “fiercely engage” in talks to ensure that momentum for collaboration between Seoul and Washington isn’t lost. Yeo framed the discussions as a chance to turn the “current crisis into an opportunity,” as per Bloomberg. South Korea’s trade dependency on the US South Korea and the US share a deeply interdependent trade relationship. The United States is South Korea’s second-largest export market, buying goods ranging from cars to semiconductors and batteries. These products are critical for South Korea’s economy and vital to US manufacturing supply chains. Meanwhile, South Korea is a key US ally in East Asia, offering advanced manufacturing capacity, cutting-edge tech development, and strategic security cooperation. Any significant increase in US tariffs would hit South Korean exporters hard. The country’s economy is already feeling the pinch from slowing domestic consumption. The Bank of Korea last month slashed its 2025 GDP growth forecast to just 0.8 per cent from 1.5 per cent, underlining the risk of further economic stress. Industry concerns over US export controls Beyond tariffs, Yeo also raised industry worries about tightening US export controls. Washington has been imposing stricter rules on technology transfers, especially to countries like China, in an effort to secure critical tech supply chains and limit military applications. South Korean companies heavily involved in semiconductor production and advanced manufacturing, fear they could get caught in the crossfire. US says talks underway with multiple nations As per Bloomberg, US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick confirmed Washington is working to finalise trade deals with around 10 countries ahead of the July 9 deadline. Speaking on Bloomberg Television, Lutnick said that President Donald Trump might extend the deadline if talks progress, but he did not specify which nations were involved. Negotiating partners will get a “response,” he said, offering some hope of flexibility. But as per Yonhap News, a senior South Korean official in Washington made clear that Seoul has not received any notification of an extension, saying the country is not yet in a position to “feel assured.” Tariffs risk harming a vital partnership For both sides, the stakes are high. South Korea is not only a top trade partner but also a major hub for critical industries, including electric vehicle batteries, semiconductors, and automotive manufacturing. A 25 per cent across-the-board tariff would risk disrupting global supply chains, push up costs for US manufacturers, and worsen inflation pressures. Seoul’s push for a new deal isn’t just about avoiding immediate pain. It’s also about defining a modern trade framework that strengthens the alliance in the face of rising global competition, particularly from China. As negotiations continue, all eyes will be on Washington to see if a last-minute deal can keep the trade partnership on track. (With inputs from the agencies)

<p>South Korea is advocating for a "mutually beneficial" trade deal with the US amid rising tariff threats on key exports.</p>

South Korea urges for 'mutually beneficial' trade deal with US to avert tariff threat

<p>The United States, 75 years ago, controlled North Korea's Pyongyang for eight weeks. According to the US Army histories, in 1950, the US Army's Cavalry Division along with a division of South Korean soldiers captured the North Korean capital on October 19.</p><p>According to the histories, the US forces quickly got comfortable there, making it their home. All this happened during the "Korean War", also known as "The Forgotten War", which occurred during 25 June 1950 – 27 July 1953.</p><p>One of the world's most secretive cities, Pyongyang, North Korea's capital, was under the US Army's control. By October 22, the US Eighth Army had set up its advance headquarters in what was the headquarters building for North Korean leader Kim Il Sung.</p><p>However, this period did not last long. The Chinese troops entered the war in late November 1950 and pushed South Korean and US forces out of Pyongyang by December 5.</p><p>The Korean war that began 75 years ago this week, was considered as the first major armed conflict of the Cold War era. More than 135,000 North Korean troops invaded South Korea, beginning a war that took millions of lives and causing impact which is still there today. The US Army intervened in the war, sending combat troops in aid of South Korea under the United Nations Command.</p><h2>Why was it called 'The Forgotten War'?</h2><p>The war in Korea was overshadowed by World War II, a much bigger conflict that ended less than five years earlier.</p><p>The US Army referred to the Korean War as "the Forgotten War" as it got less public attention compared to World War II and the Vietnam War. The US, however, never declared war on North Korea and instead called it a "police action" under the orders of the UN.</p><p>The war fought from 1950 until 1953, was also overlooked by the media and the public as they were focusing on the larger and impactful events, and leaving the Korean War on the sideline.</p>

However, this period did not last long. The Chinese troops entered the war in late November 1950 and pushed South Korean and US forces out of Pyongyang by December 5.

The United States, 75 years ago, controlled North Korea's Pyongyang for eight weeks. According to the US Army histories, in 1950, the US Army's Cavalry Division along with a division of South Korean soldiers captured the North Korean capital on October 19. According to the histories, the US forces quickly got comfortable there, making it their home. All this happened during the "Korean War", also known as "The Forgotten War", which occurred during 25 June 1950 – 27 July 1953. One of the world's most secretive cities, Pyongyang, North Korea's capital, was under the US Army's control. By October 22, the US Eighth Army had set up its advance headquarters in what was the headquarters building for North Korean leader Kim Il Sung. However, this period did not last long. The Chinese troops entered the war in late November 1950 and pushed South Korean and US forces out of Pyongyang by December 5. The Korean war that began 75 years ago this week, was considered as the first major armed conflict of the Cold War era. More than 135,000 North Korean troops invaded South Korea, beginning a war that took millions of lives and causing impact which is still there today. The US Army intervened in the war, sending combat troops in aid of South Korea under the United Nations Command. Why was it called 'The Forgotten War'? The war in Korea was overshadowed by World War II, a much bigger conflict that ended less than five years earlier. The US Army referred to the Korean War as "the Forgotten War" as it got less public attention compared to World War II and the Vietnam War. The US, however, never declared war on North Korea and instead called it a "police action" under the orders of the UN. The war fought from 1950 until 1953, was also overlooked by the media and the public as they were focusing on the larger and impactful events, and leaving the Korean War on the sideline.

<p>However, this period did not last long. The Chinese troops entered the war in late November 1950 and pushed South Korean and US forces out of Pyongyang by December 5.</p>

US Army once controlled one of the world’s most SECRETIVE cities - Hint: A North Korean city - Here's all you need to know

<p>The Korean war that began 75 years ago this week, was considered as the first major armed conflict of the Cold War era. More than 135,000 North Korean troops invaded South Korea, beginning a war that took millions of lives and causing impact which is still there today. The US Army intervened in the war, sending combat troops in aid of South Korea under the United Nations Command.</p><p>The war in Korea was overshadowed by the World War II, a much bigger conflict that ended less than five years earlier.</p><h2>'The Forgotten War'</h2><p>The US Army referred to the Korean War as "the Forgotten War" as it got less public attention compared to World War II and the Vietnam War. The US, however, never declared war on North Korea and instead called it a "police action" under the orders of the UN.</p><p>The war fought from 1950 until 1953, was also overlooked by the media and the public as they were focusing on the larger and impactful events, and leaving the Korean War on the sideline.</p><p>On the directions of the United Nations Command, 16 nations including the US, sent combat troops to South Korea. While the Chinese troops intervened on the North Korean side.</p><h2>How it started?</h2><p>It all began when North Korean forces stormed across the 38th parallel dividing North and South Korea. Later in 1953, an armistice stopped the war, however, it was never officially over since there was no peace treaty.</p><p>During the three years of war, the US aircraft dropped 635,000 tons of bombs, both high explosive and incendiary on North Korea.</p><p>It is more than the 500,000 tons of bombs the US dropped in the Pacific in the entirety of the Second World War, according to a report.</p><p>"We went over there and fought the war and eventually burned down every town in North Korea anyway, some way or another," General Curtis LeMay, father of US strategic bombing and the architect of fire raids that destroyed swathes of Japanese cities in World War II, said.</p><p>He said that the bombing of North Korea has effects that still have effects to this day.</p>

The war in Korea was overshadowed by the World War II, a much bigger conflict that ended less than five years earlier.

The Korean war that began 75 years ago this week, was considered as the first major armed conflict of the Cold War era. More than 135,000 North Korean troops invaded South Korea, beginning a war that took millions of lives and causing impact which is still there today. The US Army intervened in the war, sending combat troops in aid of South Korea under the United Nations Command. The war in Korea was overshadowed by the World War II, a much bigger conflict that ended less than five years earlier. 'The Forgotten War' The US Army referred to the Korean War as "the Forgotten War" as it got less public attention compared to World War II and the Vietnam War. The US, however, never declared war on North Korea and instead called it a "police action" under the orders of the UN. The war fought from 1950 until 1953, was also overlooked by the media and the public as they were focusing on the larger and impactful events, and leaving the Korean War on the sideline. On the directions of the United Nations Command, 16 nations including the US, sent combat troops to South Korea. While the Chinese troops intervened on the North Korean side. How it started? It all began when North Korean forces stormed across the 38th parallel dividing North and South Korea. Later in 1953, an armistice stopped the war, however, it was never officially over since there was no peace treaty. During the three years of war, the US aircraft dropped 635,000 tons of bombs, both high explosive and incendiary on North Korea. It is more than the 500,000 tons of bombs the US dropped in the Pacific in the entirety of the Second World War, according to a report. "We went over there and fought the war and eventually burned down every town in North Korea anyway, some way or another," General Curtis LeMay, father of US strategic bombing and the architect of fire raids that destroyed swathes of Japanese cities in World War II, said. He said that the bombing of North Korea has effects that still have effects to this day.

<p>The war in Korea was overshadowed by the World War II, a much bigger conflict that ended less than five years earlier.</p>

'The Forgotten War': 75 years ago, US intervened in North Korea-South Korea war with 635,000 tons of bombs - It has never ended

<p>South Korea has elected Lee Jae-Myung as its new president after a snap election held just six months after the country faced one of its most turbulent political periods. With 93% of the votes counted, Lee secured 48.67% of the vote. His conservative opponent, Kim Moon-soo of the People Power Party, conceded defeat and congratulated Lee.</p><p>The vote followed months of unrest and the briefest martial law in the nation’s history. With voter turnout nearing 80%, the highest in 28 years, the public delivered a strong message for political change.</p><h2><strong>Lee thanks voters, promises peace and stability</strong></h2><p>Speaking to supporters in Seoul, Lee expressed gratitude and promised to push for peaceful dialogue with North Korea. He also committed to preventing future military interventions.</p><p>“I thank the people for their support,” he said, adding that he would work towards unifying the country and ensure “another military coup or repeat of the martial law crisis does not take place.”</p><p>Lee will be sworn in as president on Wednesday and will immediately assume office.</p><h2><strong>A dramatic rise: Who is Lee Jae-myung?</strong></h2><p>At 61, Lee Jae-myung has had a remarkable journey. Once a child labourer, he rose to become a human rights lawyer and key political figure in South Korea. He previously served as mayor of Seongnam for eight years and governor of Gyeonggi province for three years.</p><p>In 2022, Lee narrowly lost the presidential election to Yoon Suk-yeol but stayed in politics as the opposition leader. Known for his progressive vision and criticism of inequality, corruption and gender gaps, Lee has often been labelled a populist by critics.</p><h2><strong>Survived a stabbing and made headlines during martial law</strong></h2><p>In 2024, Lee was stabbed in the neck during a visit to Busan. The attacker approached him pretending to ask for an autograph before launching the attack. He was quickly airlifted to Seoul National University Hospital and survived the life-threatening incident.</p><p>Later that year, during South Korea’s martial law crisis, Lee gained widespread attention after livestreaming himself climbing the National Assembly walls to vote against the emergency decree. Despite military cordons, he reached the building and joined other lawmakers in a historic vote to end martial law. The video of his climb went viral and cemented his image as a determined political figure.</p>

The vote followed months of unrest and the briefest martial law in the nation’s history. With voter turnout nearing 80%, the highest in 28 years, the public delivered a strong message for political change.

South Korea has elected Lee Jae-Myung as its new president after a snap election held just six months after the country faced one of its most turbulent political periods. With 93% of the votes counted, Lee secured 48.67% of the vote. His conservative opponent, Kim Moon-soo of the People Power Party, conceded defeat and congratulated Lee. The vote followed months of unrest and the briefest martial law in the nation’s history. With voter turnout nearing 80%, the highest in 28 years, the public delivered a strong message for political change. Lee thanks voters, promises peace and stability Speaking to supporters in Seoul, Lee expressed gratitude and promised to push for peaceful dialogue with North Korea. He also committed to preventing future military interventions. “I thank the people for their support,” he said, adding that he would work towards unifying the country and ensure “another military coup or repeat of the martial law crisis does not take place.” Lee will be sworn in as president on Wednesday and will immediately assume office. A dramatic rise: Who is Lee Jae-myung? At 61, Lee Jae-myung has had a remarkable journey. Once a child labourer, he rose to become a human rights lawyer and key political figure in South Korea. He previously served as mayor of Seongnam for eight years and governor of Gyeonggi province for three years. In 2022, Lee narrowly lost the presidential election to Yoon Suk-yeol but stayed in politics as the opposition leader. Known for his progressive vision and criticism of inequality, corruption and gender gaps, Lee has often been labelled a populist by critics. Survived a stabbing and made headlines during martial law In 2024, Lee was stabbed in the neck during a visit to Busan. The attacker approached him pretending to ask for an autograph before launching the attack. He was quickly airlifted to Seoul National University Hospital and survived the life-threatening incident. Later that year, during South Korea’s martial law crisis, Lee gained widespread attention after livestreaming himself climbing the National Assembly walls to vote against the emergency decree. Despite military cordons, he reached the building and joined other lawmakers in a historic vote to end martial law. The video of his climb went viral and cemented his image as a determined political figure.

<p>The vote followed months of unrest and the briefest martial law in the nation’s history. With voter turnout nearing 80%, the highest in 28 years, the public delivered a strong message for political change.</p>

From defying martial law to surviving stabbing: Who is Lee Jae-myung? New South Korean president elected after snap elections

<p>South Korea's leading candidates held major campaign events Sunday, two days out from a snap presidential election triggered by its former leader's removal after his disastrous declaration of martial law.</p><p>The June 3 election is set to cap months of political turmoil sparked by Yoon Suk Yeol's brief suspension of civilian rule in December, for which he was impeached and removed from office.</p><p>All major polls have put liberal Lee Jae-myung well ahead in the presidential race, with the latest Gallup survey showing 49 per cent of respondents viewed him as the best candidate.</p><p>Kim Moon-soo, from the conservative People Power Party (PPP) -- Yoon's former party -- trailed Lee on 35 per cent.</p><p>The 60-year-old Lee began his rally in his hometown of Andong, 240 kilometres (149 miles) southeast of Seoul, telling his supporters he would seek to weaken the concentration of development in the capital region and boost non-Seoul areas.</p><p>"We should not simply seek a regional equal development strategy but rather provide more incentives for non-Seoul regions to support them more," said Lee, wearing a bulletproof vest.</p><p>Lee has been campaigning with additional security measures, including bulletproof shields set up on the podium.</p><p>He was stabbed in the neck in January 2024 in Busan by a man pretending to be a supporter, who later confessed that his intention was to kill Lee to prevent him from becoming president.</p><p>Lee is set to campaign in Busan later Sunday.</p><p>Kim Moon-soo was scheduled to campaign in the greater Seoul area, and kicked off a rally on Sunday in nearby Suwon by commenting on rival Lee's security measures.</p><p>"Look, I'm not wearing a bullet proof vest, right? But Lee is now even using bulletproof shields, feeling the vest isn't enough," he said.</p><p>"With such bulletproof measures, Lee is poised to impose his own dictatorship and we must stop it," Kim added.</p><p>Nearly 35 per cent of voters have already cast their ballots -- taking advantage of two days of early voting earlier last week, according to the National Election Commission.</p>

All major polls have put liberal Lee Jae-myung well ahead in the presidential race, with the latest Gallup survey showing 49 per cent of respondents viewed him as the best candidate.

South Korea's leading candidates held major campaign events Sunday, two days out from a snap presidential election triggered by its former leader's removal after his disastrous declaration of martial law. The June 3 election is set to cap months of political turmoil sparked by Yoon Suk Yeol's brief suspension of civilian rule in December, for which he was impeached and removed from office. All major polls have put liberal Lee Jae-myung well ahead in the presidential race, with the latest Gallup survey showing 49 per cent of respondents viewed him as the best candidate. Kim Moon-soo, from the conservative People Power Party (PPP) -- Yoon's former party -- trailed Lee on 35 per cent. The 60-year-old Lee began his rally in his hometown of Andong, 240 kilometres (149 miles) southeast of Seoul, telling his supporters he would seek to weaken the concentration of development in the capital region and boost non-Seoul areas. "We should not simply seek a regional equal development strategy but rather provide more incentives for non-Seoul regions to support them more," said Lee, wearing a bulletproof vest. Lee has been campaigning with additional security measures, including bulletproof shields set up on the podium. He was stabbed in the neck in January 2024 in Busan by a man pretending to be a supporter, who later confessed that his intention was to kill Lee to prevent him from becoming president. Lee is set to campaign in Busan later Sunday. Kim Moon-soo was scheduled to campaign in the greater Seoul area, and kicked off a rally on Sunday in nearby Suwon by commenting on rival Lee's security measures. "Look, I'm not wearing a bullet proof vest, right? But Lee is now even using bulletproof shields, feeling the vest isn't enough," he said. "With such bulletproof measures, Lee is poised to impose his own dictatorship and we must stop it," Kim added. Nearly 35 per cent of voters have already cast their ballots -- taking advantage of two days of early voting earlier last week, according to the National Election Commission.

<p>All major polls have put liberal Lee Jae-myung well ahead in the presidential race, with the latest Gallup survey showing 49 per cent of respondents viewed him as the best candidate.</p>

South Korea presidential candidates rally ahead of June 3 vote

<p>In a move aimed at shielding South Korea’s faltering economy from global trade shocks and domestic instability, the Bank of Korea (BOK) on Thursday cut its key interest rate for the fourth time since October. The central bank lowered its seven-day repurchase rate by 25 basis points to 2.5 per cent, a decision that was widely anticipated by markets and economists alike.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>According to Bloomberg, all 21 economists surveyed had predicted the cut, as pressure mounted on the BOK to act amid a worsening external environment and weak domestic indicators.</p><h2><strong>Economy in reverse as political crisis deepens</strong></h2><p>South Korea’s economy slipped into contraction in the first quarter of 2025, and recent indicators show little momentum for recovery. A combination of sluggish exports, faltering domestic consumption, and subdued business investment has led policymakers to acknowledge the need for further stimulus.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The BOK also revised its annual growth forecast down sharply to 0.8 per cent, from an earlier estimate of 1.5 per cent made in February. This move reflects the twin headwinds facing Asia’s fourth-largest economy: the global trade upheaval triggered by US tariffs and the uncertainty following the ousting of former President Yoon Suk Yeol.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Yoon, removed from office in April after a failed martial law attempt led to a constitutional crisis, left behind a political vacuum just as Donald Trump’s sweeping import tariffs rattled global markets.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Trump’s April announcement of 10 per cent tariffs on all US imports—and a 60 per cent duty on Chinese goods has hit export-heavy economies like South Korea especially hard.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>According to Bloomberg, the South Korean won initially held steady but later fell by 0.4 per cent against the US dollar following the rate cut announcement.</p><h2><strong>Monetary easing despite election sensitivities</strong></h2><p>The rate cut comes just five days before South Korea’s presidential election on June 3, a timing that has raised eyebrows in some quarters. However, BOK Governor Rhee Chang-yong had already signalled in April that the decision would remain focused solely on the economy, not politics.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“At that time, all six board members were open to a rate cut within three months,” Bloomberg reported, “in what appeared to be a clear signal that action was coming this month.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The recent appreciation of the Korean won, which had climbed to a seven-month high, also provided more room for the BOK to resume easing without immediately stoking inflation, a concern that had restrained its previous moves.</p><h2><strong>Fiscal stimulus on the horizon</strong></h2><p>The election result is expected to shape the broader fiscal landscape in the months ahead. The frontrunner, Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party, has pledged at least 30 trillion won ($21.8 billion) in stimulus focused on households and small businesses. His conservative challenger, Kim Moon-soo, has proposed a similar-sized supplementary budget aimed at boosting public welfare.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As Bloomberg notes, “The BOK and broader markets are closely watching which candidate takes office, as their fiscal strategies will shape the central bank’s room to manoeuvre.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The South Korean parliament has already passed a 13.8 trillion won supplementary budget, targeted at buffering vulnerable sectors and mitigating tariff-induced trade risks. However, implementation of any further measures is likely to hinge on the incoming president’s priorities.</p>

Business & Economy: The rate cut comes just five days before South Korea’s presidential election on June 3, a timing that has raised eyebrows in some quarters.

In a move aimed at shielding South Korea’s faltering economy from global trade shocks and domestic instability, the Bank of Korea (BOK) on Thursday cut its key interest rate for the fourth time since October. The central bank lowered its seven-day repurchase rate by 25 basis points to 2.5 per cent, a decision that was widely anticipated by markets and economists alike. According to Bloomberg, all 21 economists surveyed had predicted the cut, as pressure mounted on the BOK to act amid a worsening external environment and weak domestic indicators. Economy in reverse as political crisis deepens South Korea’s economy slipped into contraction in the first quarter of 2025, and recent indicators show little momentum for recovery. A combination of sluggish exports, faltering domestic consumption, and subdued business investment has led policymakers to acknowledge the need for further stimulus. The BOK also revised its annual growth forecast down sharply to 0.8 per cent, from an earlier estimate of 1.5 per cent made in February. This move reflects the twin headwinds facing Asia’s fourth-largest economy: the global trade upheaval triggered by US tariffs and the uncertainty following the ousting of former President Yoon Suk Yeol. Yoon, removed from office in April after a failed martial law attempt led to a constitutional crisis, left behind a political vacuum just as Donald Trump’s sweeping import tariffs rattled global markets. Trump’s April announcement of 10 per cent tariffs on all US imports—and a 60 per cent duty on Chinese goods has hit export-heavy economies like South Korea especially hard. According to Bloomberg, the South Korean won initially held steady but later fell by 0.4 per cent against the US dollar following the rate cut announcement. Monetary easing despite election sensitivities The rate cut comes just five days before South Korea’s presidential election on June 3, a timing that has raised eyebrows in some quarters. However, BOK Governor Rhee Chang-yong had already signalled in April that the decision would remain focused solely on the economy, not politics. “At that time, all six board members were open to a rate cut within three months,” Bloomberg reported, “in what appeared to be a clear signal that action was coming this month.” The recent appreciation of the Korean won, which had climbed to a seven-month high, also provided more room for the BOK to resume easing without immediately stoking inflation, a concern that had restrained its previous moves. Fiscal stimulus on the horizon The election result is expected to shape the broader fiscal landscape in the months ahead. The frontrunner, Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party, has pledged at least 30 trillion won ($21.8 billion) in stimulus focused on households and small businesses. His conservative challenger, Kim Moon-soo, has proposed a similar-sized supplementary budget aimed at boosting public welfare. As Bloomberg notes, “The BOK and broader markets are closely watching which candidate takes office, as their fiscal strategies will shape the central bank’s room to manoeuvre.” The South Korean parliament has already passed a 13.8 trillion won supplementary budget, targeted at buffering vulnerable sectors and mitigating tariff-induced trade risks. However, implementation of any further measures is likely to hinge on the incoming president’s priorities.

<p>The Bank of Korea (BOK) has cut its key interest rate for the fourth time since October to protect South Korea's economy from global trade shocks and domestic instability.&nbsp;</p>

Bank of Korea cuts rates to shield economy from Trump tariffs and political turmoil

<p>South Korean authorities have imposed travel bans on two former acting presidents as part of an investigation into ex-leader Yoon Suk Yeol's December martial law bid, Yonhap news agency said Tuesday.</p><p>"Police said on May 27 that former prime minister Han Duck-soo and former finance minister Choi Sang-mok have been banned from leaving the country as they are being investigated as suspects in an insurrection case," Yonhap reported, adding the ban came into effect in mid-May.</p><p>Yoon was formally stripped of office last month after being impeached and suspended by lawmakers over his December 3 attempt to subvert civilian rule, which saw armed soldiers deployed to parliament.</p><p>He is currently on trial on insurrection charges over that declaration.</p><p>If found guilty, Yoon would become the third South Korean president to be found guilty of insurrection -- after two military leaders in connection with a 1979 coup.</p><p>For charges of insurrection, Yoon could be sentenced to life in prison or the maximum penalty: the death sentence.</p><p>South Koreans go to the polls next week to elect Yoon's successor, capping months of political turmoil since the martial law declaration.</p><p>Career bureaucrat Han had been touted as a possible candidate to replace him.</p><p>The ruling People Power Party (PPP) this month was forced to backtrack after trying to revoke former labour minister Kim Moon-soo's candidacy in favour of Han.</p>

South Korean authorities have banned former prime minister Han Duck-soo and former finance minister Choi Sang-mok from travelling abroad due to an ongoing investigation into the December martial law of ex-leader Yoon Suk Yeol

South Korean authorities have imposed travel bans on two former acting presidents as part of an investigation into ex-leader Yoon Suk Yeol's December martial law bid, Yonhap news agency said Tuesday. "Police said on May 27 that former prime minister Han Duck-soo and former finance minister Choi Sang-mok have been banned from leaving the country as they are being investigated as suspects in an insurrection case," Yonhap reported, adding the ban came into effect in mid-May. Yoon was formally stripped of office last month after being impeached and suspended by lawmakers over his December 3 attempt to subvert civilian rule, which saw armed soldiers deployed to parliament. He is currently on trial on insurrection charges over that declaration. If found guilty, Yoon would become the third South Korean president to be found guilty of insurrection -- after two military leaders in connection with a 1979 coup. For charges of insurrection, Yoon could be sentenced to life in prison or the maximum penalty: the death sentence. South Koreans go to the polls next week to elect Yoon's successor, capping months of political turmoil since the martial law declaration. Career bureaucrat Han had been touted as a possible candidate to replace him. The ruling People Power Party (PPP) this month was forced to backtrack after trying to revoke former labour minister Kim Moon-soo's candidacy in favour of Han.

<p>South Korean authorities have banned former prime minister Han Duck-soo and former finance minister Choi Sang-mok from travelling abroad due to an ongoing investigation into ex-leader Yoon Suk Yeol's December martial law</p>

South Korea slaps travel ban on two former acting presidents

<p>OpenAI, the firm behind ChatGPT and one of the most influential Artificial Intelligence companies in the world is setting up shop in South Korea, marking another chapter in its dramatic global expansion.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>But this rapid growth also comes with mounting financial pressures, internal controversies, and potential scrutiny from the Trump administration.</p><h2><strong>The strategic expansion: Why Seoul matters?</strong><br>&nbsp;</h2><p>According to Bloomberg, OpenAI has established a legal entity in South Korea and will soon open an office in Seoul, according to a company statement published on 26 May.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The move is aimed at strengthening partnerships with South Korean tech giants and policymakers while deepening OpenAI’s reach in one of Asia’s most digitised economies.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“South Korea is one of the most innovative and digitally connected countries in the world,” said Jason Kwon, OpenAI’s Chief Strategy Officer, in the official press release stated by Bloomberg. “We’re excited to collaborate more deeply with Korean companies and talent.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The expansion will also reportedly build on OpenAI’s partnership with Kakao, the South Korean tech company, to create AI-native experiences customised for the local market.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In February 2025, OpenAI also launched its virtual assistant “Operator” in several new regions, including India, Japan, Brazil, the UK, and South Korea. This mark as a major step toward globalising its AI ecosystem.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Announced via&nbsp; OpenAi’s official X account,&nbsp; the rollout marks a significant step in the company’s efforts to enhance AI-powered automation for users worldwide.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>OpenAI noted that while Operator is not yet available in European nations, including Switzerland, Norway, Liechtenstein, and Iceland, the firm is actively working towards its release in these regions.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Operator is now rolling out to Pro users in Australia, Brazil, Canada, India, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, the UK, and most places ChatGPT is available. Still working on making Operator available in the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Liechtenstein &amp; Iceland—we’ll keep you updated!” said OpenAI in its post on X.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Operator is powered by&nbsp;Open AI’s Computer-Using Agent (CUA), a specialised AI model designed to handle complex online tasks autonomously. This model integrates advanced reasoning from an undisclosed OpenAI framework, possibly the o3 model, and leverages computer vision capabilities from GPT-4o.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The AI agent has been further refined through reinforcement learning to improve its efficiency and adaptability.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>One of Operator’s key features is its ability to interact seamlessly with graphical user interfaces (GUIs), including buttons, menus, and text fields. It operates within a dedicated browser, allowing it to execute tasks independently while the user focuses on other activities.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Additionally, it accepts both text and image inputs, enabling more versatile task management.</p><p>Unlike traditional AI assistants,Operator &nbsp;analyses raw pixel data from the screen and interacts using a virtual keyboard and mouse within a controlled sandbox environment.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This functionality enables it to perform multi-step processes, resolve errors, and adapt to unexpected challenges, enhancing productivity for users in professional and personal settings.</p><h2><strong>The meteoric rise of OpenAI&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></h2><p>Founded in 2015 by tech heavyweights including Sam Altman and Elon Musk, OpenAI began as a non-profit research lab with the ambitious mission of ensuring artificial general intelligence benefits all of humanity. But according to Bloomberg, Musk parted ways in 2018 over disagreements about the company’s direction and potential conflicts with Tesla’s AI development.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In 2019, OpenAI shifted gears, forming a capped-profit arm to attract commercial investment, a controversial but pivotal move. Microsoft reportedly swooped in with major funding, and by late 2022, the launch of ChatGPT catapulted the company into global fame. It chatbot gained 100 million users in just two months, becoming the fastest-growing consumer app in history at the time.<br><br>The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated digital transformation globally, with AI tools like ChatGPT becoming essential in fields ranging from education to healthcare and creative industries. Businesses turned to generative AI for automation, productivity, and customer support amid widespread remote working conditions.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>OpenAI’s financial growth has been astonishing. According to internal forecasts cited by Bloomberg, the company expects to generate $3.7 billion in revenue in 2024, growing to $12.7 billion in 2025, &nbsp;a rise of more than 240 per cent.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Then came the boardroom meltdown.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As per The Associated Press, in November 2023, OpenAI’s board fired CEO Sam Altman, citing concerns over transparency. The shock move triggered an internal rebellion: more than 700 of OpenAI’s 770 employees signed a letter threatening to quit unless Altman was reinstated.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>According to Reuters, Microsoft even offered to hire the entire team. Within five days, Altman was back and the board, reshaped. However, OpenAI remains deeply unprofitable. In 2024 alone, the company reportedly posted $5 billion in losses and doesn’t anticipate becoming cash-flow positive until 2029, when revenues are projected to exceed $125 billion as per Bloomberg.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The massive infrastructure required to run large language models like GPT-4 and its successors from computing costs to data centre maintenance , continues to weigh heavily on the company’s balance sheet.</p><h2><strong>Trump’s tariff politics: Will OpenAI be next?</strong></h2><p>Donald Trump’s return to the presidency has brought with it a renewed focus on “America First” industrial policy. Earlier this month, Trump threatened to slap a 25 per cent tariff on Apple’s iPhones made outside the US, pressuring Apple CEO Tim Cook to reconsider the firm’s overseas supply chains.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>If Trump applies the same scrutiny to other US tech giants, Sam Altman could face a similar dilemma. With OpenAI now operating in multiple foreign jurisdictions, including South Korea, India, and the UK, the company’s global footprint could come under political fire.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Altman’s expansion model hinges on collaboration with foreign governments and firms, the kind of global interdependence that Trump’s administration seeks to unwind. Given OpenAI’s reliance on US-based supercomputers and infrastructure, the company may find itself forced to justify every overseas investment decision.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As OpenAI pushes deeper into global markets, it stands at a delicate intersection of innovation and geopolitics. It is building the most powerful AI tools the world has ever seen, yet it is still governed by a hybrid for-profit and non-profit structure that could be tested under regulatory and political scrutiny.</p>

Business & Economy: However, this expansion faces financial pressures, internal issues, and possible scrutiny from the Trump administration.

OpenAI, the firm behind ChatGPT and one of the most influential Artificial Intelligence companies in the world is setting up shop in South Korea, marking another chapter in its dramatic global expansion. But this rapid growth also comes with mounting financial pressures, internal controversies, and potential scrutiny from the Trump administration. The strategic expansion: Why Seoul matters? According to Bloomberg, OpenAI has established a legal entity in South Korea and will soon open an office in Seoul, according to a company statement published on 26 May. The move is aimed at strengthening partnerships with South Korean tech giants and policymakers while deepening OpenAI’s reach in one of Asia’s most digitised economies. “South Korea is one of the most innovative and digitally connected countries in the world,” said Jason Kwon, OpenAI’s Chief Strategy Officer, in the official press release stated by Bloomberg. “We’re excited to collaborate more deeply with Korean companies and talent.” The expansion will also reportedly build on OpenAI’s partnership with Kakao, the South Korean tech company, to create AI-native experiences customised for the local market. In February 2025, OpenAI also launched its virtual assistant “Operator” in several new regions, including India, Japan, Brazil, the UK, and South Korea. This mark as a major step toward globalising its AI ecosystem. Announced via OpenAi’s official X account, the rollout marks a significant step in the company’s efforts to enhance AI-powered automation for users worldwide. OpenAI noted that while Operator is not yet available in European nations, including Switzerland, Norway, Liechtenstein, and Iceland, the firm is actively working towards its release in these regions. “Operator is now rolling out to Pro users in Australia, Brazil, Canada, India, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, the UK, and most places ChatGPT is available. Still working on making Operator available in the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Liechtenstein & Iceland—we’ll keep you updated!” said OpenAI in its post on X. Operator is powered by Open AI’s Computer-Using Agent (CUA), a specialised AI model designed to handle complex online tasks autonomously. This model integrates advanced reasoning from an undisclosed OpenAI framework, possibly the o3 model, and leverages computer vision capabilities from GPT-4o. The AI agent has been further refined through reinforcement learning to improve its efficiency and adaptability. One of Operator’s key features is its ability to interact seamlessly with graphical user interfaces (GUIs), including buttons, menus, and text fields. It operates within a dedicated browser, allowing it to execute tasks independently while the user focuses on other activities. Additionally, it accepts both text and image inputs, enabling more versatile task management. Unlike traditional AI assistants,Operator analyses raw pixel data from the screen and interacts using a virtual keyboard and mouse within a controlled sandbox environment. This functionality enables it to perform multi-step processes, resolve errors, and adapt to unexpected challenges, enhancing productivity for users in professional and personal settings. The meteoric rise of OpenAI Founded in 2015 by tech heavyweights including Sam Altman and Elon Musk, OpenAI began as a non-profit research lab with the ambitious mission of ensuring artificial general intelligence benefits all of humanity. But according to Bloomberg, Musk parted ways in 2018 over disagreements about the company’s direction and potential conflicts with Tesla’s AI development. In 2019, OpenAI shifted gears, forming a capped-profit arm to attract commercial investment, a controversial but pivotal move. Microsoft reportedly swooped in with major funding, and by late 2022, the launch of ChatGPT catapulted the company into global fame. It chatbot gained 100 million users in just two months, becoming the fastest-growing consumer app in history at the time. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated digital transformation globally, with AI tools like ChatGPT becoming essential in fields ranging from education to healthcare and creative industries. Businesses turned to generative AI for automation, productivity, and customer support amid widespread remote working conditions. OpenAI’s financial growth has been astonishing. According to internal forecasts cited by Bloomberg, the company expects to generate $3.7 billion in revenue in 2024, growing to $12.7 billion in 2025, a rise of more than 240 per cent. Then came the boardroom meltdown. As per The Associated Press, in November 2023, OpenAI’s board fired CEO Sam Altman, citing concerns over transparency. The shock move triggered an internal rebellion: more than 700 of OpenAI’s 770 employees signed a letter threatening to quit unless Altman was reinstated. According to Reuters, Microsoft even offered to hire the entire team. Within five days, Altman was back and the board, reshaped. However, OpenAI remains deeply unprofitable. In 2024 alone, the company reportedly posted $5 billion in losses and doesn’t anticipate becoming cash-flow positive until 2029, when revenues are projected to exceed $125 billion as per Bloomberg. The massive infrastructure required to run large language models like GPT-4 and its successors from computing costs to data centre maintenance , continues to weigh heavily on the company’s balance sheet. Trump’s tariff politics: Will OpenAI be next? Donald Trump’s return to the presidency has brought with it a renewed focus on “America First” industrial policy. Earlier this month, Trump threatened to slap a 25 per cent tariff on Apple’s iPhones made outside the US, pressuring Apple CEO Tim Cook to reconsider the firm’s overseas supply chains. If Trump applies the same scrutiny to other US tech giants, Sam Altman could face a similar dilemma. With OpenAI now operating in multiple foreign jurisdictions, including South Korea, India, and the UK, the company’s global footprint could come under political fire. Altman’s expansion model hinges on collaboration with foreign governments and firms, the kind of global interdependence that Trump’s administration seeks to unwind. Given OpenAI’s reliance on US-based supercomputers and infrastructure, the company may find itself forced to justify every overseas investment decision. As OpenAI pushes deeper into global markets, it stands at a delicate intersection of innovation and geopolitics. It is building the most powerful AI tools the world has ever seen, yet it is still governed by a hybrid for-profit and non-profit structure that could be tested under regulatory and political scrutiny.

<p>OpenAI, creator of ChatGPT, is expanding into South Korea amid significant global growth.&nbsp;</p>

OpenAI expands to South Korea, here’s how it became an AI giant

<p>South Korea, the country which is facing a drop in birth rates, has now sought to a unique method to deal with the situation. The government is now offering cash to its people in return of marriage. From their first dates to engagement, wedding, honeymoon, South Korean government is funding everything just to encourage its citizen to get married, and have kids.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bsf-neutralises-pakistani-intruder-at-gujarat-border-1748073820403"><strong>BSF neutralises Pakistani intruder at Gujarat border</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Previously, fearing regional depopulation, local governments in in the country had introduced &nbsp;childbirth subsidies. This decision is a next step towards the goal of increasing the population.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/eam-s-jaishankar-responds-to-german-journalist-s-claim-of-germany-not-supporting-operation-sindoor-initially-1748052022482"><strong>EAM S Jaishankar refuted journalist's claim of Germany not supporting Operation Sindoor</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In a district of Busan the government has promised to give up to $14,700 to couples who marry after participating in the matchmaking event organised by the district.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zee-tv-uk-celebrates-30th-anniversary-with-yash-raj-films-come-fall-in-love-the-ddlj-musical-1748023440499"><strong>Zee TV UK celebrates 30th anniversary with Yash Raj Films’ ‘Come Fall In Love – The DDLJ Musical’</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“This is one component of our population policy to counter the crisis of low birth rates and regional decline,” a district official said, South China Morning Post reported.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-sees-nearly-100-covid-cases-is-there-a-need-to-be-concerned-here-s-the-precautions-you-can-take-1748014684276"><strong>Mumbai sees nearly 100 covid cases - Is there a need to be concerned? Here's the precautions you can take</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Additionally, the government is funding the dates, engagement, and an expensive honeymoon trip.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/operation-sindoor-banarasi-sarees-get-patriotic-makeover-with-missiles-and-warships-1747987931911"><strong>Operation Sindoor: Banarasi sarees get patriotic makeover with missiles and warships</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>South Korea has the lowest birth rate in the world. In 2024, the country's fertility rate has increased to 0.75. It is the slightest increased from 0.72 in 2023.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/an-out-of-the-world-video-call-from-space-astronaut-shukla-to-address-indian-students-1748003193205"><strong>An out of the world video call: From space, Astronaut Shukla to address Indian students</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

South Korea will pay you to get married. Here's how you can earn $14,700

South Korea, the country which is facing a drop in birth rates, has now sought to a unique method to deal with the situation. The government is now offering cash to its people in return of marriage. From their first dates to engagement, wedding, honeymoon, South Korean government is funding everything just to encourage its citizen to get married, and have kids. Also read: BSF neutralises Pakistani intruder at Gujarat border Previously, fearing regional depopulation, local governments in in the country had introduced childbirth subsidies. This decision is a next step towards the goal of increasing the population. Also read: EAM S Jaishankar refuted journalist's claim of Germany not supporting Operation Sindoor In a district of Busan the government has promised to give up to $14,700 to couples who marry after participating in the matchmaking event organised by the district. Also read: Zee TV UK celebrates 30th anniversary with Yash Raj Films’ ‘Come Fall In Love – The DDLJ Musical’ “This is one component of our population policy to counter the crisis of low birth rates and regional decline,” a district official said, South China Morning Post reported. Also read: Mumbai sees nearly 100 covid cases - Is there a need to be concerned? Here's the precautions you can take Additionally, the government is funding the dates, engagement, and an expensive honeymoon trip. Also read: Operation Sindoor: Banarasi sarees get patriotic makeover with missiles and warships South Korea has the lowest birth rate in the world. In 2024, the country's fertility rate has increased to 0.75. It is the slightest increased from 0.72 in 2023. Also read: An out of the world video call: From space, Astronaut Shukla to address Indian students

<p>South Korea, the country which is facing a drop in birth rates, has now sought to a unique method to deal with the situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report from the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) claims that Washington is considering scaling back its military presence in South Korea. However, reports from Seoul indicate that the South Korean Defence Ministry have not received any formal communication from Washington.</p><p>If the reports were to be true, Washington is reviewing proposals to withdraw approximately 4500 troops from South Korea. There are approximately 28,500 troops stationed in South Korea, part of the United States Forces Korea (USFK). These forces serve as a critical deterrent to the nuclear-armed North Korea. They organise and participate in joint operations and drills as part of trilateral security cooperation between the United States, South Korea and Japan.&nbsp;</p><p>The report at WSJ also states that Washington is planning to relocate these forces to other parts of the Indo-Pacific region, such as Guam. Even though no concrete official reports confirm this, Trump's rhetoric indicates the same. Trump historically called South Korea a ‘money machine’ in October before his second term at the White House. He insisted back then that if he were to be the next President, South Korea would have to pay billions more to host the American Army.&nbsp;</p><p>The US &nbsp;and South Korea agreed on a new deal which sees the cost of deploying the US army in South Korea rise by 8.3 per cent to $1.1 billion in 2026.</p><h2>North Korea's growing threat&nbsp;</h2><p>A senior researcher of Carnegie Endowment, an international think tank, states that North Korea is in the ‘strongest strategic position in decades’. According to the intelligence report of the United States Defence Intelligence Agency, '2025 Worldwide Threat Assessment', North Korea is most certainly in a position to launch a prolonged war. It has now developed an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) capable of reaching the continental United States. Military experts in South Korea believe that it is actively receiving aid from Russia, including military cooperation, SA-22 surface-to-air missile systems, and electronic warfare equipment. It is also reciprocating by providing military and material support to Russia against Ukraine. These two nations also signed a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership agreement last year. Frequent missile tests and provocative actions have heightened tensions in the region. On the other hand, &nbsp;North Korea’s critical economic and political dependence on China underpins the bilateral relationship between these two. The presence of US military troops acts as a deterrent to hinting to Pyongyang that any aggression would be reciprocated with a strong military response.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>South Korea's Military Autonomy</h2><p>South Korea ranks 5th in the 2025 Global Firepower Index, with advanced weaponry, military readiness, and cybersecurity. It isn't entirely dependent on the US for deterrence. It allocates $222 billion to defence spending.&nbsp;</p><p>It has a Three-Axis Defence System comprising of Kill Chain preemptive strike strategy, a multi-layered Korea Air and Missile Defence System, and Korea's Massive Punishment and Retaliation doctrine. It also has other advanced weaponry, such as a fleet of F-35 stealth fighters, Hyunmoo-5 ballistic missiles capable of penetrating underground bunkers. It has indigenously developed AI-powered military tech that enables drones and fighter jets to fly autonomously.&nbsp;</p><p>"Territorial defence can no longer rely solely on human resources,” said Seong Tae Jeong, chief technology officer at the Advanced Defence Science and Technology Research Institute at South Korea’s Agency for Defence Development</p><p>South Korea and Japan have been working towards less reliance on the US, as Japan's Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru was pushing for an ‘Asian NATO’- a long-term strategy for a viable ally in the region.&nbsp;</p><p>Despite not having its nuclear arsenal, it comes under the US nuclear umbrella. Seoul does have civil nuclear technology and a missile system capable of delivering a payload if it ever chooses to pursue nuclear ambitions.</p><h2>Deterrence Dynamics and Risks</h2><p>Maintaining a credible deterrent in the face of North Korea’s nuclear ambitions remains a challenge for the United States. Indo-Pacific Security Initiative (IPSI), with the support of the Defence Threat Reduction Agency, produced a report on the United States' readiness for deterrence in the region. The report's striking findings indicate that if a conflict starts with China or North Korea, the United States will not be able to deter the other one either North Korea or China from escalating the conflict. What could start from one flash point could escalate into much more. The US-South Korea conflict with North Korea could quickly spill into a Nuclear War. Other flashpoints, like Taiwan, is also facing growing military, diplomatic, and information pressure from China towards its long-term objective of unification. North Korea continues to support its nuclear weapon program by increasing its plutonium and highly enriched uranium, adding to its arsenal.&nbsp;</p><p>Gen. Xavier T. Brunson, commander of United Nations Command, Combined Forces Command and United States Forces Korea, met with Gen. Ken-ichiro Nagumo, commander of the Japanese Joint Operations Command, on May 20.&nbsp;</p><p>Brunson reiterated that USFK is committed to maintaining the momentum of trilateral cooperation. "The partnership between the United States, the Republic of Korea, and Japan is evolving beyond confidence-building measures and is maturing into a cornerstone of regional stability", stated Brunson.</p><p>However, scaling back does not necessarily mean a reduction in deterrence; the US could possibly justify this scaling down by citing the advanced technology and increased military spending of South Korea. Still in South Korea, this reduction might spark the debate of having its own nuclear arsenal and stepping out of the US umbrella. Domestically, this will resonate with the USA's ‘America first’ policy.&nbsp;</p><p>Nonetheless, this potentially emboldens China and North Korea, destabilising the balance of power in the region. Beijing might pursue its expansionist ambitions and push territorial integrity of Taiwan if the US seems increasingly adamant about its ‘America first’ policy. In a conflict situation, the United States is likely to face operational and strategic challenges in the Indo-Pacific and the Korean Peninsula.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Reports from the Wall Street Journal suggest a scaling down of USFK in South Korea. How could this move potentially alter the power dynamics in the Korean Peninsula 

A report from the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) claims that Washington is considering scaling back its military presence in South Korea. However, reports from Seoul indicate that the South Korean Defence Ministry have not received any formal communication from Washington. If the reports were to be true, Washington is reviewing proposals to withdraw approximately 4500 troops from South Korea. There are approximately 28,500 troops stationed in South Korea, part of the United States Forces Korea (USFK). These forces serve as a critical deterrent to the nuclear-armed North Korea. They organise and participate in joint operations and drills as part of trilateral security cooperation between the United States, South Korea and Japan. The report at WSJ also states that Washington is planning to relocate these forces to other parts of the Indo-Pacific region, such as Guam. Even though no concrete official reports confirm this, Trump's rhetoric indicates the same. Trump historically called South Korea a ‘money machine’ in October before his second term at the White House. He insisted back then that if he were to be the next President, South Korea would have to pay billions more to host the American Army. The US and South Korea agreed on a new deal which sees the cost of deploying the US army in South Korea rise by 8.3 per cent to $1.1 billion in 2026. North Korea's growing threat A senior researcher of Carnegie Endowment, an international think tank, states that North Korea is in the ‘strongest strategic position in decades’. According to the intelligence report of the United States Defence Intelligence Agency, '2025 Worldwide Threat Assessment', North Korea is most certainly in a position to launch a prolonged war. It has now developed an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) capable of reaching the continental United States. Military experts in South Korea believe that it is actively receiving aid from Russia, including military cooperation, SA-22 surface-to-air missile systems, and electronic warfare equipment. It is also reciprocating by providing military and material support to Russia against Ukraine. These two nations also signed a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership agreement last year. Frequent missile tests and provocative actions have heightened tensions in the region. On the other hand, North Korea’s critical economic and political dependence on China underpins the bilateral relationship between these two. The presence of US military troops acts as a deterrent to hinting to Pyongyang that any aggression would be reciprocated with a strong military response. South Korea's Military Autonomy South Korea ranks 5th in the 2025 Global Firepower Index, with advanced weaponry, military readiness, and cybersecurity. It isn't entirely dependent on the US for deterrence. It allocates $222 billion to defence spending. It has a Three-Axis Defence System comprising of Kill Chain preemptive strike strategy, a multi-layered Korea Air and Missile Defence System, and Korea's Massive Punishment and Retaliation doctrine. It also has other advanced weaponry, such as a fleet of F-35 stealth fighters, Hyunmoo-5 ballistic missiles capable of penetrating underground bunkers. It has indigenously developed AI-powered military tech that enables drones and fighter jets to fly autonomously. "Territorial defence can no longer rely solely on human resources,” said Seong Tae Jeong, chief technology officer at the Advanced Defence Science and Technology Research Institute at South Korea’s Agency for Defence Development South Korea and Japan have been working towards less reliance on the US, as Japan's Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru was pushing for an ‘Asian NATO’- a long-term strategy for a viable ally in the region. Despite not having its nuclear arsenal, it comes under the US nuclear umbrella. Seoul does have civil nuclear technology and a missile system capable of delivering a payload if it ever chooses to pursue nuclear ambitions. Deterrence Dynamics and Risks Maintaining a credible deterrent in the face of North Korea’s nuclear ambitions remains a challenge for the United States. Indo-Pacific Security Initiative (IPSI), with the support of the Defence Threat Reduction Agency, produced a report on the United States' readiness for deterrence in the region. The report's striking findings indicate that if a conflict starts with China or North Korea, the United States will not be able to deter the other one either North Korea or China from escalating the conflict. What could start from one flash point could escalate into much more. The US-South Korea conflict with North Korea could quickly spill into a Nuclear War. Other flashpoints, like Taiwan, is also facing growing military, diplomatic, and information pressure from China towards its long-term objective of unification. North Korea continues to support its nuclear weapon program by increasing its plutonium and highly enriched uranium, adding to its arsenal. Gen. Xavier T. Brunson, commander of United Nations Command, Combined Forces Command and United States Forces Korea, met with Gen. Ken-ichiro Nagumo, commander of the Japanese Joint Operations Command, on May 20. Brunson reiterated that USFK is committed to maintaining the momentum of trilateral cooperation. "The partnership between the United States, the Republic of Korea, and Japan is evolving beyond confidence-building measures and is maturing into a cornerstone of regional stability", stated Brunson. However, scaling back does not necessarily mean a reduction in deterrence; the US could possibly justify this scaling down by citing the advanced technology and increased military spending of South Korea. Still in South Korea, this reduction might spark the debate of having its own nuclear arsenal and stepping out of the US umbrella. Domestically, this will resonate with the USA's ‘America first’ policy. Nonetheless, this potentially emboldens China and North Korea, destabilising the balance of power in the region. Beijing might pursue its expansionist ambitions and push territorial integrity of Taiwan if the US seems increasingly adamant about its ‘America first’ policy. In a conflict situation, the United States is likely to face operational and strategic challenges in the Indo-Pacific and the Korean Peninsula.

<p>Reports from the Wall Street Journal suggest a scaling down of USFK in South Korea. How could this move potentially alter the power dynamics in the Korean Peninsula&nbsp;</p>

What would happen if the US scales down its military presence in South Korea, and how could it impact deterrence against North Korea?

<div class="x_elementToProof" data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">Trade ministers from 21 Asia-Pacific nations kicked off a crucial summit on Thursday, only to be greeted by a sobering economic outlook. The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum warned that regional exports will see near-stagnant growth in 2025, a direct consequence of the sweeping tariffs reimposed under former US President Donald Trump&rsquo;s trade policy revival.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">According to APEC&rsquo;s latest regional trends analysis, exports among member economies are projected to rise by just 0.4 per cent this year, a steep decline from the 5.7 per cent growth recorded in 2024. Regional GDP is also forecast to grow at a sluggish 2.6 per cent, revised down from the previous estimate of 3.3 per cent, as reported by Reuters.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">&ldquo;Trade growth is set to decline sharply across APEC due to lower external demand, particularly in manufacturing and consumer goods, while rising uncertainty over goods-related measures weighs on services trade,&rdquo; APEC said in an official statement, as quoted by Reuters.</div>
<h2 class="x_elementToProof"><b>The Trump tariff effect</b><b></b></h2>
<div class="x_elementToProof">The downturn in trade coincides with the revival of tariff policies by the Trump administration, which has targeted more than half of APEC&rsquo;s member nations. Since the forum&rsquo;s inception in 1989, regional average tariff rates had dropped from 17 per cent to 5.3 per cent by 2021, contributing to a more than nine-fold increase in merchandise trade. However, Trump&rsquo;s recent tariff reinstatements threaten to reverse decades of economic integration.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">&ldquo;We&rsquo;re moving as quickly as we possibly can with folks who want to be ambitious,&rdquo; US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer told CNBC before departing for Jeju, declining further comment on his bilateral meeting schedule, Reuters reported.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">The tariff measures have already triggered visible shifts in trade flows and investor sentiment. Economists warn that if the US continues its protectionist stance, sectors such as manufacturing, electronics, and consumer goods could face long-term disruptions.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">Meanwhile, China&rsquo;s Vice Commerce Minister Li Chenggang also attended the gathering. Although Reuters reports that no formal meeting with Greer has been confirmed, both sides had agreed to reduce steep tariffs during their initial face-to-face talks in Geneva on 10&ndash;11 May.</div>
<h2 class="x_elementToProof"><b>WTO reform &amp; bilateral deals</b><b></b></h2>
<div class="x_elementToProof">The Jeju summit is also being viewed as a staging ground for broader discussions on World Trade Organization (WTO) reforms, a hot-button issue after Washington recently moved to pause US funding to the institution. The Trump administration has long accused the WTO of enabling China&rsquo;s rise through what it terms &ldquo;unfair export advantages.&rdquo;</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">Trade representatives are holding bilateral discussions on the sidelines of the summit, which forms part of the lead-up to the APEC leaders&rsquo; summit later this year in Gyeongju, South Korea.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">APEC, which accounts for 60 per cent of global GDP and half of global trade, remains a key pillar of global economic stability. But with tariff battles heating up and multilateralism on the defensive, the forum faces one of its most pivotal chapters yet.</div>

Business & Economy: APEC's latest report highlights exports among member economies are projected to rise by just 0.4 per cent this year, a steep decline from the 5.7 per cent growth recorded in 2024.

Trade ministers from 21 Asia-Pacific nations kicked off a crucial summit on Thursday, only to be greeted by a sobering economic outlook. The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum warned that regional exports will see near-stagnant growth in 2025, a direct consequence of the sweeping tariffs reimposed under former US President Donald Trump’s trade policy revival. According to APEC’s latest regional trends analysis, exports among member economies are projected to rise by just 0.4 per cent this year, a steep decline from the 5.7 per cent growth recorded in 2024. Regional GDP is also forecast to grow at a sluggish 2.6 per cent, revised down from the previous estimate of 3.3 per cent, as reported by Reuters. “Trade growth is set to decline sharply across APEC due to lower external demand, particularly in manufacturing and consumer goods, while rising uncertainty over goods-related measures weighs on services trade,” APEC said in an official statement, as quoted by Reuters. The Trump tariff effect The downturn in trade coincides with the revival of tariff policies by the Trump administration, which has targeted more than half of APEC’s member nations. Since the forum’s inception in 1989, regional average tariff rates had dropped from 17 per cent to 5.3 per cent by 2021, contributing to a more than nine-fold increase in merchandise trade. However, Trump’s recent tariff reinstatements threaten to reverse decades of economic integration. “We’re moving as quickly as we possibly can with folks who want to be ambitious,” US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer told CNBC before departing for Jeju, declining further comment on his bilateral meeting schedule, Reuters reported. The tariff measures have already triggered visible shifts in trade flows and investor sentiment. Economists warn that if the US continues its protectionist stance, sectors such as manufacturing, electronics, and consumer goods could face long-term disruptions. Meanwhile, China’s Vice Commerce Minister Li Chenggang also attended the gathering. Although Reuters reports that no formal meeting with Greer has been confirmed, both sides had agreed to reduce steep tariffs during their initial face-to-face talks in Geneva on 10–11 May. WTO reform & bilateral deals The Jeju summit is also being viewed as a staging ground for broader discussions on World Trade Organization (WTO) reforms, a hot-button issue after Washington recently moved to pause US funding to the institution. The Trump administration has long accused the WTO of enabling China’s rise through what it terms “unfair export advantages.” Trade representatives are holding bilateral discussions on the sidelines of the summit, which forms part of the lead-up to the APEC leaders’ summit later this year in Gyeongju, South Korea. APEC, which accounts for 60 per cent of global GDP and half of global trade, remains a key pillar of global economic stability. But with tariff battles heating up and multilateralism on the defensive, the forum faces one of its most pivotal chapters yet.

APEC sounds alarm on sluggish trade growth amid escalating US tariff pressure

North Korea has fired a short-range ballistic missile from the Wonsa area, prompting strong condemnation from South Korea. Seoul labeled the launch a “clear provocation,” raising tensions in the region just ahead of Russia's Victory Day.

South Korea: North Korea fires short-range ballistic missile into East Sea

Just ahead of the June 3rd presidential election, the country's fast changing political landscape is keeping the voters guessing amid a slew of legal challenges, resignations, and also emerging candidates. Watch in for more details!

South Korea Snap Elections: Yoon's party yet to announce candidate

South Korea snap elections: Presidential race rocked by court ruling, resignations

Lee Jae-Myung, a lawyer-turned-politician, has clinched the Democratic Party's nomination for the presidential election with nearly 90% support. The election is set for June 3, following the impeachment of President Yoon. The ruling party has yet to name its candidate.

S Korea: Main Opposition Party Taps Former Chief As Presidential Candidate

Lee Jae-Myung set to challenge in South Korea's presidential election

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