U.S. and Iran Reach Agreement on War Termination MOU, Awaiting Trump Approval U.S. media outlet Axios reported on May 28 that the United States and Iran have reached an agreement on a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at ending hostilities, but final approval from President Donald Trump is still pending. According to Yonhap News and Axios, two U.S. officials and local sources involved in the negotiations indicated that additional discussions on nuclear-related issues, as requested by President Trump, are still necessary to finalize the agreement. U.S. officia May 29, 2026

Critique of South Korea's Pavilion at the 2026 Venice Biennale The South Korean Pavilion at this year's Venice Biennale has drawn mixed reactions, with Artistic Director Choi Bit-na claiming to have opened a blocked channel within the space. However, many found the exhibition perplexing and lacking engagement. The pavilion's theme, 'Liberation Space: Fortress and Nest,' left visitors with more questions than answers, and the ambition to create a 'living monument' seemed unfulfilled, leading to a sense of stagnation. During a press conference held on May 29, 2026

Shonu and Hyungwon of Monsta X: From Potential to Genre Every day, dozens of songs and works are created. While music, dramas, and films are introduced through countless media, what reaches the public is often less than half. The artists who sing and act face similar challenges, frequently undervalued or overlooked despite their exceptional talents. Artist Spotlight is a segment dedicated to introducing artists from various fields and exploring their growth. It serves as a heartfelt tribute to these creators. — Editor's Note Only those who have fille May 29, 2026

U.S. Stocks Close at Record Highs Amid Hopes for Extended U.S.-Iran Ceasefire U.S. stocks closed higher on expectations of an extended ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran. Despite concerns over inflation and slowing growth, optimism surrounding reduced geopolitical tensions bolstered investor sentiment. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq both set record closing highs for the third consecutive day. On May 28, the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 24.69 points (0.05%) to close at 50,668.97, according to Reuters. The S&P 500 increased by 43.27 points (0.58%) to finish at 7,563.63, May 29, 2026

Axios: U.S. Prepares for Potential Collapse of Cuban Regime Reports indicate that the Trump administration is preparing scenarios in response to the potential collapse of the Cuban regime. The U.S. is applying pressure on the Cuban government through sanctions while also reviewing military plans in case of increased internal turmoil. According to Axios on May 28, U.S. officials believe that the Trump administration sees the potential for the Cuban government to collapse as early as this summer. However, President Trump has not authorized an invasio May 29, 2026

Iran Media Reports US-Iran Ceasefire Agreement Not Finalized Iran's TASS news agency reported that the ceasefire extension agreement between the United States and Iran has not yet been finalized. This comes amid reports that both sides have tentatively agreed to a 60-day extension, with Iran clarifying its position on the interpretation of a final deal. On May 28, Reuters cited sources close to the negotiations, stating that the draft of the agreement has not been finalized and that the approval process is still pending. According to Reuters, while May 29, 2026

U.S. Warns of Punishment for Those Involved in Hormuz Toll Collection The United States has warned that it will punish individuals and organizations involved in the collection of tolls in the Hormuz Strait. This warning comes as Iran attempts to establish a toll collection system under the guise of navigation management, which the U.S. has made clear it will not recognize even during ongoing negotiations. On May 28, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Vesent stated on X (formerly Twitter) that "the U.S. government will not tolerate any attempts to implement a toll May 29, 2026

Iranian Military Launches Missiles at 'Specific Targets' in Southern Iran The Iranian military launched missiles toward specific targets in southern Iran on the night of May 28, according to the Fars news agency. The Guardian reported that the destination of the missiles remains unclear, and there has been no confirmation of any damage. Details about the targets, including their location and nature, have not been disclosed. It is also uncertain whether this missile launch is directly linked to other military activities occurring in the Gulf region on the same day May 29, 2026

Netanyahu Orders Israeli Forces to Expand Control in Gaza to 70% Benjamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of Israel, has instructed the Israeli military to expand its control over the Gaza Strip to 70%. This directive indicates a push beyond the control line established in the ceasefire agreement of October 2025. On May 28, during an event in a West Bank settlement, Netanyahu stated, "We were at 50%, and we moved to 60%. My instruction is to gradually increase our presence in Gaza." He added, "First, let’s aim for 70%. We are pressuring Hamas from all dir May 29, 2026

Do Not Mislead the Public with False Information About China Recently, President Lee Jae-myung criticized a South Korean media outlet for spreading false news that "Chinese nationals purchased 944 apartments in Gangnam, Seoul," which he said incited anti-China sentiment. The outlet later issued a public apology, acknowledging serious factual errors in its reporting and removed the article. President Lee's actions were well-received by citizens of both countries. China and South Korea are important neighbors and partners, and strengthening friendl May 29, 2026