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OpenAI CEO calls off planned trip to Seoul this weekend SEOUL, June 12 (AJP) - OpenAI's CEO Sam Altman abruptly canceled his scheduled visit to South Korea, according to industry sources on Friday. Altman, who ushered in a revolutionary artificial intelligence (AI)-driven era, was initially scheduled to arrive in Seoul over the weekend for a two-day trip to give a lecture at the country's chip giant Samsung Electronics and other engagements including meetings with major IT companies including Naver and Kakao to discuss AI-related cooperation. OpenAI simply said the cancellation was due to "personal reasons," without providing further details on why he canceled or any revised schedule for his visit in the future. But it said South Korea is a "very important country and strategic partner" for OpenAI, and that cooperation with partners will continue as planned. 2026-06-12 17:40:10 -
Court Investigates Disposal of Ballot Box from Jamsil Polling Station A court is investigating the circumstances surrounding the disposal of a ballot box from the Jamsil 7-dong polling station in Songpa-gu, Seoul, where a shortage of ballots occurred during the June 3 local elections. Jeon Han-gil, a former history instructor, publicly displayed a ballot box he claims was used at the polling station. On June 12, Judge Kim Ji-yeon of the Seoul Eastern District Court partially granted an additional evidence preservation request filed by Kim Jeong-cheol, a senior member of the Reform Party and a candidate for mayor. Judge Kim ordered the Songpa District Election Commission to provide the name of the waste disposal company that received the ballot box, the time of transfer, the date of disposal, and the current location of the box if it has not been disposed of. The court also mandated the submission of closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage showing the process of the ballot box being removed from the polling station. Previously, the court had issued a preservation order regarding the ballot box at the Jamsil 7-dong polling station in connection with the ballot shortage. However, when Judge Kim visited the polling station for an on-site inspection on June 10, the ballot box was reportedly not present. The Songpa District Election Commission explained that it transferred the ballot box to a waste disposal company around noon on June 9, approximately five and a half hours before the court's preservation order. In response, Kim Jeong-cheol filed an additional evidence preservation request to secure related materials, which the court accepted the following day. However, the court rejected a separate preservation request concerning ballots and ballot boxes at the Jamsil counting center in Olympic Park, stating that it did not find a necessity to preserve these items to prove the ballot shortage. In a press release, Kim Jeong-cheol stated, "We plan to reapply for evidence preservation regarding the ballots at the counting center as circumstances change, to fully reveal the incompetence of the administration." On the same day, Jeon Han-gil held a press conference in front of the Olympic Park Handball Stadium, where he revealed the ballot box he claims to have secured through a tip-off. Jeon asserted, "This time, we have secured evidence that is clear enough for all citizens to understand," adding that he has long possessed substantial evidence of electoral fraud. Jeon's team believes the displayed box is one of those from the Jamsil 7-dong polling station, where the ballot shortage occurred and where the court had issued a preservation order, but the box was not secured at the site. Jeon plans to discuss the transfer of the box with the court. If the court does not recognize the authenticity of the item or shows reluctance to accept it, he is considering submitting it to the joint investigation team currently investigating the ballot shortage. Jeon’s attorney, Lee Seong-jik, mentioned, "There is a possibility that we will submit it as evidence to the joint investigation team." The authenticity of the publicly displayed box as one used at the Jamsil 7-dong polling station has not yet been confirmed. The box shown by Jeon is labeled "Seoul Mayor Election," while some previously photographed boxes from the site were marked for "District Councilor Election." Meanwhile, Jeon did not disclose the circumstances of how the box was obtained or the identity of the tipster, citing the need to protect the informant.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-12 17:36:00 -
CORTIS rocks Gwanghwamun before World Cup match SEOUL, June 12 (AJP) - Boy group Cortis performs on stage before South Korea's Group A match against the Czech Republic at a public viewing event for the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul on June 12, 2026. AJP Yoo Na-hyun 2026-06-12 17:35:46 -
Bicycle band boosts spirits at World Cup 2026 SEOUL, June 12 (AJP) - Dongmi Bicycle Music Band performs during a street cheering event for South Korea's Group A match against the Czech Republic at the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul on June 12, 2026. AJP Yoo Na-hyun 2026-06-12 17:33:33 -
UAE sends aircraft for early Cheongung-II delivery SEOUL, June 12 (AJP) - The United Arab Emirates has sent military transport aircraft to South Korea to secure early delivery of Korean-made Cheongung-II missile defense systems, as the Middle East war disrupts key maritime routes, defense sources said Friday. According to military and defense industry sources, the UAE has been dispatching several C-17 transport aircraft to an air base in Daegu since earlier this week to carry Cheongung-II batteries and interceptor missiles. One C-17 aircraft was seen parked on the runway at the Daegu air base on Friday. A total of eight UAE transport aircraft are expected to be used for the shipment, according to sources. Cheongung-II batteries and interceptor missiles are normally transported to the UAE by sea. But the maritime route has been disrupted as the Strait of Hormuz has been effectively blocked following the outbreak of the Iran war, prompting Abu Dhabi to use air transport instead. The UAE, which urgently needs to secure the missile defense system, is believed to have sent its own Air Force transport aircraft to bring the batteries and interceptors directly from South Korea. A Cheongung-II battery consists of four launcher vehicles, each equipped with eight launch tubes, along with a multifunction radar and an engagement control center, and it is being delivered this time is expected to arrive about six months earlier than the original delivery schedule. It is the first time in about three months that UAE transport aircraft have been spotted at the Daegu air base. The UAE signed a contract in 2022 with South Korea’s LIG Defense & Aerospace, Hanwha Systems and Hanwha Aerospace to purchase 10 Cheongung-II batteries. Two batteries have so far been deployed for operational use. When Iran launched missile attacks toward neighboring countries after being hit by U.S. and Israeli strikes, Cheongung-II systems deployed in the UAE were reportedly activated alongside other air defense systems, including the U.S.-made Patriot and Israel’s Arrow, to intercept Iranian missiles. Cheongung-II, also known as M-SAM II, is a medium-range surface-to-air missile system designed to intercept incoming ballistic missiles and aircraft. The system is considered one of South Korea’s key defense export items in the Middle East. 2026-06-12 17:32:09 -
Won, bonds rally on U.S.-Iran peace hopes SEOUL, June 12 (AJP) - The South Korean won and government bonds strengthened sharply Friday as hopes for an end to the U.S.-Iran conflict eased pressure from oil prices, the dollar and foreign equity outflows. The won-dollar exchange rate closed at 1,519.8 won, down 9.1 won from the previous session, in Seoul’s foreign exchange market. The rate opened 10.9 won lower at 1,518.0 won before trimming part of its decline, but still ended in the 1,510-won range. The move came as investors priced in a possible easing of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. U.S. President Donald Trump said he had canceled planned strikes on Iran and suggested that talks to end the conflict were in their final stage. The return of foreign investors to Korean equities also helped the won. Foreign investors bought a net 2.1 trillion won worth of shares on the main KOSPI market, turning net buyers for the first time in 25 trading sessions. The shift eased one of the main sources of recent pressure on the Korean currency, as sustained foreign selling of local stocks had added to dollar demand and weighed on the won. The bond market also strengthened sharply. The yield on the three-year government bond fell 9.6 basis points to 3.808 percent, while the 10-year yield dropped 10.5 basis points to 4.195 percent. The declines were the steepest since April 8, when the three-year government bond yield fell 13.6 basis points to 3.315 percent and the 10-year yield dropped 12.6 basis points to 3.628 percent, as hopes for a U.S.-Iran ceasefire combined with foreign buying of Korean bonds following the start of Korea’s World Government Bond Index (WGBI) inclusion. Market reports cited lower oil prices and a decline in U.S. Treasury yields as factors behind Friday’s drop in Korean bond yields. During the session, they sold a net 4,017 contracts of three-year government bond futures while buying a net 3,436 contracts of 10-year government bond futures. 2026-06-12 17:31:45 -
World Cup 26: Koreans ride emotional journey during the first match SEOUL, June 12 (AJP) -The thrill before kickoff Thousands of supporters dressed in red packed Seoul's Gwanghwamun Square on Friday morning, creating a sea of national flags and cheering sticks as South Korea opened its 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign against the Czechia. Office workers on leave, families with children and foreign visitors gathered beneath giant screens, united by anticipation and hope. The nail-biting first half As the match settled into a tense, scoreless opening half, emotions fluctuated with every attack. Fans leaned forward in expectation, erupting at every glimpse of a scoring chance before sinking back into anxious silence. The square held its breath as opportunities came and went, with tension building under the summer sun. Shock The mood changed instantly when the Czechia broke the deadlock early in the second half. Groans rippled through the crowd. Some supporters covered their faces in disbelief while others stared silently at the screens, struggling to process the setback. Relief Hope returned eight minutes later when Hwang In-beom calmly slotted home the equalizer. The square erupted in applause and cheers as supporters jumped from their seats, celebrating the goal that breathed new life into South Korea's World Cup opener. Joy The atmosphere intensified as South Korea pushed forward in search of a winner. Chants from the Red Devils echoed across the square, and supporters waved flags with renewed confidence as momentum swung decisively in the Taegeuk Warriors' favor. Euphoria When Oh Hyeon-gyu scored the winning goal to complete South Korea's 2-1 comeback, Gwanghwamun Square exploded in celebration. Strangers embraced, families danced and friends exchanged high-fives as a wave of pure joy swept through the crowd. Long after the final whistle, supporters remained in the square taking photos and reliving a memorable victory — South Korea's first World Cup opening-match win since 2010. Some headed back the office and luckier ones went straight to pubs for the World Cup chimaek – chicken and beer mix. One team, one moment For a brief moment, everyone at Gwanghwamun Square became part of the same team. Beneath a sea of red shirts and fluttering flags, thousands of supporters shared the exhilaration of a comeback victory that will be remembered as one of the defining scenes of South Korea's 2026 World Cup journey. 2026-06-12 17:30:52 -
Paris Baguette Expands Brand Experience Strategy with Unique Store in Jeju Jeju is gaining attention as a hub for brand experiences, moving beyond its status as a mere travel destination. Leading the charge are Paris Baguette, Nau Cafe, and Innisfree, which have introduced concept stores exclusive to Jeju, aligning with the local economy trend. According to industry reports on June 12, Jeju is recognized for its steady influx of visitors and extended stay durations, making it an ideal location for experience-centered consumption. The rise of a photo-sharing culture, particularly among younger generations, has made stores that offer unique experiences increasingly popular. The rarity of being able to experience something "only in Jeju" provides brands with a distinct marketing advantage. At the forefront of this trend is the Paris Baguette Jeju Donghwa Village store, which exemplifies Chairman Heo Young-in's strategy of enhancing brand experiences through regionally specialized concept stores. Opened last year in the Songdang Donghwa Village area of eastern Jeju, this store captures the natural beauty and mythology of the region. Its interior reflects Jeju's natural elements, featuring volcanic rock and wood, with an open layout centered around large windows that create a relaxed atmosphere. The Paris Baguette Jeju Donghwa Village store is a standalone building with 101 seats. It emphasizes a nature-friendly design with abundant greenery and photo opportunities, transforming it into a space where customers can linger rather than just a place to buy bread. The menu also actively incorporates local economy themes. Notable items include the "Omegi Rice Cake Stuffed Bread," which features a whole Omegi rice cake, the "Sea Scented Focaccia" made with olives and seaweed, and the "Jeju Mongsaeng Sandwich," inspired by Jeju matcha and the local horse character. Previously, the "Jeju Heart Sandwich," launched exclusively at Jeju Airport, became a must-have souvenir, showcasing the success of Chairman Heo's regionally tailored strategy. Nau Cafe Jeju, operated by Black Yak Group, is another prime example of a Jeju-specific store. It features architectural designs that harmonize with Jeju's natural scenery and offers food menus made with local ingredients, along with regionally limited products and "Nau Home" experiences, establishing itself as a must-visit location for tourists. Innisfree Jeju House is also noted for combining brand philosophy with local characteristics. Launched in 2013, it offers a space for a cafe, store, and experiences, creating a precedent for expressing the brand's worldview through its environment. With a green tea field right in front, the structure integrates Jeju's ingredients and naturalistic concepts, making it a popular destination for foreign tourists, often described as a place that demands half a day of a Jeju trip. An industry insider stated, "Jeju is establishing itself as a space that can maximize brand experiences beyond being just a tourist destination. For companies, the ability to secure both local characteristics and rarity makes the strategy of specialized stores in Jeju likely to become more active in the future." 2026-06-12 17:18:00 -
BTS releases 'Come Over' as part of 2026 FESTA SEOUL, June 12 (AJP) - K-pop supergroup BTS on Friday released "Come Over," a track previously available only on the deluxe vinyl edition of its fifth studio album, "ARIRANG," BigHit Music said. The release is part of 2026 BTS FESTA, the group's annual celebration held around its June 13 debut anniversary. "Come Over" was included only on the deluxe LP version of "ARIRANG," which came out on April 3. Suga produced the track, with RM and J-Hope also credited on the song. BigHit Music described it as a pop track with the scale of a stadium anthem, driven by layered synthesizers and expansive vocals. According to the label, the song is about finding one's way back to "you" even in moments of uncertainty. The label said the message is addressed to ARMY, the group's fanbase. BTS will also released a latest LP edition of "ARIRANG" on Friday. The "613 Limited Edition Picture Disc Vinyl" including 16 tracks, among them the original album songs and bonus tracks such as "Voice Message: Love Song" and the Korean-language version of "NORMAL." During this year's FESTA, the group has released a series of anniversary content, including a family photo, a performance video for "Hooligan" and a new episode of "Run BTS 2.0," its long-running variety web series. BTS will hold two concerts at Busan Asiad Main Stadium on Friday and Saturday as part of its "ARIRANG" world tour. Saturday marks the group's 13th debut anniversary. Busan, South Korea's second-largest city, is the hometown of members Jungkook and Jimin. The group is also set to release the music video for "Merry Go Round," another track from "ARIRANG," on Spotify on June 19. 2026-06-12 17:14:46 -
South Korea's President Praises National Soccer Team After Comeback Win Against Czech Republic Lee Jae-myung, President of South Korea, expressed his joy on June 12 over the national soccer team's victory against the Czech Republic in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA North and Central America World Cup. He stated, "Having made a strong start, I hope the team continues to play confidently and showcases the spirit of Korean soccer in the remaining matches." In a post on X (formerly Twitter), President Lee remarked, "The national soccer team achieved a valuable victory against the Czech Republic." He praised the players for maintaining focus and turning the game around despite the challenging conditions at an altitude of over 1,500 meters, saying, "The moment the winning goal was scored, the entire nation rejoiced together." The president extended his warm applause to the proud Taeguk Warriors, as well as the coaching staff, adding, "All of our citizens are supporters of the players. We will cheer you on with a united spirit." Meanwhile, the South Korean national soccer team secured a comeback victory against the Czech Republic, winning 2-1 in their first group stage match of the World Cup held at the Estadio Guadalajara in Mexico. 2026-06-12 17:12:00