Han Dong-hoon Requests Supporters to Send Their Hearts Instead of Attending Campaign Opening Han Dong-hoon, a former leader of the People Power Party, stated that regarding the opening of his campaign office in Busan on May 10, he has asked lawmakers who expressed their intention to attend to "send their hearts from afar this time." Running as an independent candidate for the Busan North Gap seat in the June 3 local elections, Han made these comments during an appearance on MBC Radio's "Kim Jong-bae's Focus" on the morning of May 8. When asked if it would be awkward since the Peo May 8, 2026

Iran Continues Executions of Prisoners Amid War, Families Report Coercion Iran has been executing prisoners almost daily, according to human rights organizations. Reports indicate that families are often informed of the executions only after they occur, and some have faced pressure to remain silent about the events. On May 7, The Guardian reported that the Norway-based Iranian Human Rights NGO (IHRNGO) stated Iran has executed at least 24 individuals since March, with six of those executions occurring within just two days. Human rights groups believe this trend May 8, 2026

Lotte Wellfood Reports 118% Increase in Q1 Operating Profit to 35.8 Billion Won Lotte Wellfood has successfully rebounded in its first-quarter earnings this year through enhanced global competitiveness and improved operational efficiency. The growth of its overseas subsidiaries in countries like India and Kazakhstan has been a key driver of this performance, alongside domestic efforts to streamline low-margin products. On May 8, Lotte Wellfood announced that its consolidated revenue for the first quarter reached 1.0273 trillion won, with an operating profit of May 8, 2026

Financial Authorities Launch Inclusive Finance Initiative with $2 Billion Investment As President Lee Jae-myung recently emphasized that "financial institutions are quasi-public entities," South Korea's financial authorities are intensifying their support for social economy organizations. This year, they plan to inject approximately 2 trillion won through public and private financial institutions to promote social economy finance. The Financial Services Commission (FSC) announced on May 8 that it held the first Social Economy Finance Council of 2026 at the Korea Financial S May 8, 2026

South Korea Passes Special Law to Boost AI Data Center Industry The National Assembly has passed a special law aimed at promoting the artificial intelligence data center industry. While the name is lengthy, its intent is clear: the government is stepping in to ensure South Korea does not fall behind in the competitive landscape of AI infrastructure. This legislation includes provisions for easing facility regulations, establishing special zones, and providing financial support, marking a significant step in redesigning the foundation of the digital economy. May 8, 2026

The Role of Spouses in Shaping Election Strategies Similar scenes unfolded in Pyeongtaek and Busan's Buk-gu district. Jeong Kyung-shim, the spouse of candidate Cho Kuk, attended a local event, while Han Dong-hoon, another candidate, visited a senior center with his wife, attorney Jin Eun-jung, to greet residents. These moments symbolize the increasing importance of candidates' spouses in elections. Politics is a personal competition, but voter judgment extends beyond the individual. Factors such as a candidate's lifestyle, relationship-b May 8, 2026

The Arctic Route: A Matter of Time, Not Choice for South Korea's Maritime Strategy The Arctic is opening up. As ice melts, the maritime logistics map is changing rapidly. The administration of Lee Jae-myung has been focusing on the Arctic route as a key project, which is now gaining attention as it secures a legal foundation. The establishment of a new Arctic Route Committee under the Prime Minister, the passage of related special legislation, the training of specialized personnel, and the establishment of a financial support system are all contributing to its emergence as a n May 8, 2026

Democratic Party Strategically Nominates Lawyer Kim Young-bin for Local Elections The Democratic Party announced on May 8 that it has strategically nominated lawyer Kim Young-bin for the Gongju, Buyeo, and Cheongyang districts, completing nominations for all 14 by-elections. In a ceremony held at the National Assembly, the party officially welcomed Kim as a new member. Jeong Cheong-rae, the party leader, praised Kim, stating, "He has dedicated nearly a decade to correcting societal injustices and establishing justice. He has made significant contributions to prosecu May 8, 2026

White House Considers Restrictions on Anthropic's AI Model Mythos The potential for a shift in the White House's approach to artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged following the introduction of Anthropic's advanced AI model, Mythos. The Trump administration, which has previously prioritized deregulation and industry growth in the face of competition from China, is now considering increased oversight and access restrictions for cutting-edge models. According to the Wall Street Journal, U.S. Vice President JD Vance expressed concerns during a call last m May 8, 2026

Pope Leo XIV to Celebrate Mass at Sagrada Familia for Gaudí's 100th Anniversary The Sagrada Familia in Spain is more than just a cathedral; it represents a century of prayers offered to God and serves as a stone gospel. At the pinnacle of this prayer, the Pope will stand. Pope Leo XIV will officiate a mass for the 'Tower of Jesus Christ' on June 10, commemorating the 100th anniversary of Antoni Gaudí's death at the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. After 144 years of construction that began in 1882, the church has finally completed its symbolic centerpiece this year. May 8, 2026