Journalist

by Jun Sung-min
  • North Korea conducts tests of major weapons
    North Korea 'conducts tests of major weapons' SEOUL, May 27 (AJP) - North Korea "conducted tests of newly-developed lightweight multi-purpose missile launching system and multiple tactical cruise missile weapon system," state media reported on Wednesday. According to the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), its leader Kim Jong-un inspected the previous day's "tests of major weapons" which were part of the country's five-year plan for "modernizing the artillery and missile armed forces" to strengthen its defense capabilities. The KCNA said the tests were aimed at analyzing and assessing tactical cruise missiles, as well as "the reliability of a 240-mm controlled artillery rocket" equipped with an ultra-precision autonomous navigation system and artificial intelligence (AI)-guided hit accuracy. Kim expressed "great satisfaction" over the tests, saying they showed "great technical progress in the strengthening of our army's combat power." He also praised the military "worth of the tactical cruise missile to be deployed at the long-range artillery brigades in the southern border area in particular," describing it as a powerful weapon system capable of striking targets 100 kilometers away with ultra-high precision. KCNA's coverage came just a day after South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said it had detected multiple projectiles including short-range ballistic missiles, fired toward the West Sea from the area of Jeongju in North Pyongan Province. Military authorities here assessed that they flew about 80 kilometers. Lim Eul-chul, a professor at Kyungnam University's Institute for Far Eastern Studies, said the tests included weapons "Russia most needs on the Ukraine front," adding that North Korea's emphasis on "cutting-edge specifications" such as AI guidance and automated fire control appeared aimed at actively marketing them to Russia and highlighting military cooperation. 2026-05-27 10:51:45
  • U.S. SM-6 Long-Range Naval Missile to Be Deployed by 2034
    U.S. SM-6 Long-Range Naval Missile to Be Deployed by 2034 The Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) announced on May 22 that it has finalized plans to purchase the U.S.-made SM-6 long-range naval surface-to-air missile for deployment on Aegis destroyers (KDX-III). On the same day, DAPA held the 175th Defense Acquisition Promotion Committee meeting in Yongsan, Seoul, where it reviewed and approved the decision on the SM-6 missile procurement. The SM-6 missile project aims to acquire these missiles through the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program for installation on the second batch of KDX-III Aegis destroyers, known as the Jeongjo Daewang class. DAPA stated, "We expect that the Aegis destroyers will enhance their air defense capabilities against anti-ship ballistic missiles, aircraft, and cruise missiles, as well as their response capabilities against ballistic missiles." The total project cost is approximately 530 billion won, with the project timeline extending from 2023 to 2034. A DAPA official noted, "The deployment is expected to be completed by 2034." The SM-6, often referred to as the 'Sea Patriot,' boasts a range of over 400 kilometers and features an active guidance system that allows the missile to track targets using its own radar, significantly enhancing the ship's ability to engage multiple threats simultaneously. Classified as a terminal-phase intercept missile with an interception altitude below 36 kilometers, the SM-6 can target aircraft, ballistic missiles, and cruise missiles. Additionally, the committee approved the basic development plan for the Military Satellite Communication System III. This initiative aims to secure military-exclusive geostationary communication satellites and ground control and terminal equipment through research and development led by the Agency for Defense Development, ensuring stable military satellite communication capabilities. By operationalizing the Military Satellite Communication System III satellites before the existing satellites reach the end of their missions and replacing aging ground systems, the project aims to improve communication capacity and domestic production of key components, thereby enhancing military operational capabilities and ensuring reliable command and control. The project is set to run until 2032, with a total budget of approximately 1.27 trillion won.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 19:36:58
  • Defense Ministry Suspends Collaboration with Starbucks on Soldier Welfare Program
    Defense Ministry Suspends Collaboration with Starbucks on Soldier Welfare Program The Defense Ministry has temporarily suspended its collaboration with Starbucks Korea on a soldier welfare program following criticism that the company trivialized the May 18 Democratic Uprising by hosting a 'Tank Day' event. A Defense Ministry official stated on May 22, "We have decided to temporarily suspend and postpone the beverage support project for remote military units in collaboration with Starbucks Korea." The official added, "We will carefully determine the direction of this matter, considering public sentiment and Starbucks Korea's social responsibility." Last month, the Defense Ministry entered into a memorandum of understanding with Starbucks Korea for the 'Hero Program,' which aimed to provide beverage support for remote military units, scholarships for children of deceased or injured soldiers, and employment support programs for soldiers about to be discharged. Starbucks Korea faced backlash for using phrases like 'Tank Day' and 'Desk Tapping' during a tumbler promotion in May, which were seen as mocking the May 18 Democratic Uprising and the torture and death of activist Park Jong-cheol. The company subsequently canceled the promotion. As a result of the controversy surrounding Starbucks Korea's 'Tank Day' marketing, a boycott movement has emerged across society, including among government officials. On the previous day, Minister of the Interior and Safety Yoon Ho-jung posted on X (formerly Twitter), stating, "In light of this situation, the Ministry will not provide products from companies that trivialize or commercialize the history and values of democracy." Earlier on the same day, Minister of Veterans Affairs Kwon Oh-eul expressed his deep regret regarding Starbucks Korea's marketing related to the May 18 Democratic Uprising. Following the controversy, the Veterans Affairs Ministry reportedly issued internal guidelines to refrain from using Starbucks gift cards and other products in its events for the next two to three years.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 19:03:26
  • President Lee Meets ILO Chief, Emphasizes Balance in Labor Rights and Innovation in AI Era
    President Lee Meets ILO Chief, Emphasizes Balance in Labor Rights and Innovation in AI Era President Lee Jae-myung met with Gilbert Houngbo, the Secretary-General of the International Labor Organization (ILO), to discuss labor policies in the age of artificial intelligence (AI). In a written briefing on the afternoon of May 22, Chief Spokesperson Kang Yu-jeong stated, "President Lee and Secretary-General Houngbo acknowledged that balancing the protection of labor rights and technological innovation is a critical challenge for the international community amid significant changes in the labor market and industrial structure due to advancements in AI technology. They discussed the role of AI in creating quality jobs." Houngbo praised South Korea's efforts to establish itself as a global AI hub and expressed expectations for the country's role in utilizing AI in the labor sector. The global AI hub is a South Korean-led initiative involving collaboration among governments, international organizations, and research institutions to build an AI cooperation framework. He also requested that President Lee attend the ILO General Conference scheduled for June next year to share the direction and achievements of South Korea's labor-respecting policies. President Lee emphasized the government's commitment to a "labor-respecting" policy framework, explaining that efforts are ongoing to ensure that the use of AI positively impacts labor. He highlighted key initiatives, including the protection of labor rights, the establishment of social safety nets, enhanced vocational training and lifelong learning, and building trust through social dialogue. Additionally, he expressed a desire to strengthen cooperation with the ILO to fulfill South Korea's responsible role in the international community. During the opening remarks, when Houngbo noted that South Korea ranks among the top ten contributors to the ILO, President Lee responded, "We have many talented individuals in South Korea, so please make good use of them in international organizations like the ILO." Houngbo agreed, stating, "That is a valid point." * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 18:24:54
  • Chinese Ambassador to South Korea Praises President Lees Critique of Anti-China Sentiment
    Chinese Ambassador to South Korea Praises President Lee's Critique of Anti-China Sentiment Chinese Ambassador to South Korea, Xing Haiming, expressed his appreciation for President Lee Jae-myung's criticism of fake news and the promotion of anti-China sentiment by some South Korean media. On May 22, the ambassador shared his thoughts on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), stating, "I hope that the entire Korean society can discern right from wrong and voluntarily reject fake news, discrimination, and incitement to enhance friendship between our two nations." In a subsequent post, he remarked, "Some minority media in Korea have fabricated and disseminated fake news to attract attention and increase viewership," urging adherence to journalistic ethics and factual reporting on China. He added, "Do not continue to deceive readers." Earlier, President Lee had addressed reports on May 21 regarding Chinese buyers purchasing numerous apartments in Gangnam, suggesting these reports were likely fabricated to serve as propaganda for anti-China sentiment. He vowed to hold those responsible accountable. The media outlet in question had reported on May 15 that, just before the reintroduction of a capital gains tax on multiple homeowners, Chinese buyers were concentrating their purchases in areas like Gangnam, Songpa, and Yongsan. However, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport refuted this claim, leading to the article's removal. The ministry clarified that among the 592 foreign buyers who applied for ownership transfer registration for collective buildings in Seoul from January to April this year, only 218 were Chinese, and just five of those purchased properties in Gangnam. During a Cabinet meeting the previous day, President Lee strongly criticized the report after receiving a briefing from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 17:00:40
  • President Yoon Praises Global AI Hub as Major Achievement
    President Yoon Praises Global AI Hub as Major Achievement President Yoon Jae-myung commended Prime Minister Kim Min-seok on May 21 for his significant achievements related to the previous day's Global AI Hub Vision Declaration event. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), President Yoon also recognized Democratic Party lawmaker Cha Ji-ho for his support in attracting the Global AI Hub, stating, "Both of them are a blessing to South Korea. I appreciate their hard work." The Global AI Hub is a global cooperation platform being established in South Korea. It aims to create a collaborative framework for addressing global challenges by leveraging AI technology and infrastructure among international organizations, governments, academia, research institutions, and non-profit organizations. During the opening remarks at the Global AI Hub Vision Declaration event held at the Grand Hyatt Seoul, Prime Minister Kim stated, "International organizations, governments, academia, industry, and civil society must come together to innovate towards 'AI for all' and 'human-centered inclusive AI.'" The event was attended by representatives from nine international organizations, including the International Labour Organization (ILO), International Organization for Migration (IOM), International Telecommunication Union (ITU), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), World Food Programme (WFP), and World Health Organization (WHO). The South Korean government and these organizations issued a joint statement expressing their commitment to advancing the Global AI Hub.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 15:42:00
  • Veterans Minister Expresses Regret Over Starbucks Koreas Marketing Misstep
    Veterans Minister Expresses Regret Over Starbucks Korea's Marketing Misstep Kwon Oh-eul, the Minister of the Ministry of Veterans Affairs, expressed deep regret over Starbucks Korea's marketing campaign related to the May 18 Democratic Uprising, known as 'Tank Day,' and pledged to take all necessary corrective actions to prevent the spread of misinformation. In a statement on his X (formerly Twitter) account on May 21, Kwon said, "As the Minister of the Ministry of Veterans Affairs, I express my deep regret and serious concern regarding Starbucks Korea's event that caused controversy on the May 18 Democratic Uprising anniversary." He added, "Honoring the noble spirit of the May 18 Democratic Uprising, which safeguarded democracy in South Korea, and recognizing the sacrifices and dedication of the May 18 democracy activists is a social responsibility for all citizens. Corporations are no exception." Kwon emphasized, "I hope Starbucks Korea will demonstrate a responsible attitude by offering a sincere apology that comforts the wounds of the May 18 democracy activists, their families, and the people of South Korea." Finally, Kwon promised, "The Ministry of Veterans Affairs will lead efforts to establish a culture of remembrance that fosters a mature and correct historical awareness among all citizens, including corporations, while also enhancing monitoring to prevent the spread of misinformation related to the May 18 Democratic Uprising and taking all necessary corrective actions." * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 15:27:20
  • Activists Detained by Israeli Forces Return Home, One Reports Hearing Loss
    Activists Detained by Israeli Forces Return Home, One Reports Hearing Loss Two South Korean activists who were detained by Israeli forces while attempting to reach Gaza returned home on May 22. Kim Ah-hyun (alias Haecho) and Kim Dong-hyun arrived at Incheon Airport around 6:24 a.m. on a flight from Bangkok, Thailand. Speaking to reporters, Kim Ah-hyun recounted, "We were illegally abducted by Israel during our voyage to Gaza and imprisoned. The Israeli occupying forces were extremely angry, and many people were beaten while we were in custody." Kim Dong-hyun stated, "What Israel did to us was to hijack our boats in international waters and continuously torture and imprison civilians. We only experienced a fraction of the violence perpetrated by Israel, but it was truly unbearable." Kim Ah-hyun also shared details about his health, saying, "I was beaten multiple times, and now I have difficulty hearing out of one ear." Regarding their mission to Gaza, Kim Ah-hyun explained, "Many people are dying not only from bombings but also from starvation. I believed that as long as there are people there, we must attempt to sail again, regardless of the dangers in the Middle East." When asked about his passport being invalidated, he asserted, "I believe people have the right to live where they want and travel where they wish. Even if the government tries to stop me with legal procedures like invalidating my passport, I have the right to do what I want." Kim Ah-hyun remarked, "Many consulates are avoiding diplomatic conflicts with Israel due to the dangerous situation in the Middle East. In that context, I think the South Korean government has done what it needed to do."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 10:58:31
  • Prime Minister Kim Min-seok Launches Global AI Hub to Tackle Global Challenges
    Prime Minister Kim Min-seok Launches Global AI Hub to Tackle Global Challenges "International organizations, governments, academia, industry, and civil society must come together to innovate towards 'AI for All' and 'human-centered inclusive AI.'" Prime Minister Kim Min-seok made this statement during his opening remarks at the 'Global AI Hub Vision Declaration Ceremony' held on May 21 at the Grand Hyatt Seoul. He introduced the vision of 'AI for All, AI to Solve Global Challenges.' The Global AI Hub is a global AI cooperation platform being established in South Korea. It aims to create a collaborative framework for addressing global issues by jointly utilizing AI technology and infrastructure among international organizations, governments, academia, research institutions, and non-profit organizations. Kim announced that the South Korean government will pursue three initiatives centered around the Global AI Hub. He stated, "We will work with the international community to establish safe and reliable AI norms and standards. The hub will lead in developing technical standards and guidelines, as well as control mechanisms for human safety and protection, clear ethical boundaries, and human accountability regarding AI norms." He emphasized that humanity is facing multifaceted and complex crises, such as infectious diseases, climate change, and food security, which cannot be resolved by individual countries or institutions alone, and that the AI Hub will take the lead in addressing these global challenges. Kim expressed hope that various stakeholders, including the United Nations, multilateral development banks, governments, businesses, and universities, will gather at the AI Hub to solve global problems. He also pledged to work towards bridging the AI divide, stating, "We will strengthen the capabilities of various organizations and countries through AI policy, technical advice, education, and training, creating inclusive cooperation pathways to ensure that the benefits of technology reach developing countries and vulnerable populations." The event was attended by representatives from nine international organizations, including the International Labour Organization (ILO), International Organization for Migration (IOM), International Telecommunication Union (ITU), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), World Food Programme (WFP), and World Health Organization (WHO). The South Korean government and these organizations issued a joint statement expressing their commitment to advancing the Global AI Hub. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 21:13:27
  • Decision on Transfer of Wartime Operational Control Expected This Year
    Decision on Transfer of Wartime Operational Control Expected This Year South Korean military authorities believe that the evaluation and verification of the Full Mission Capability (FMC), the final stage in the transfer of wartime operational control, can be completed in about a year. The government is also considering a plan to finalize the verification of full operational capability this year and present a target year for the transfer of operational control. A Defense Ministry official stated on May 20 that if the target year for the transfer is determined during this year's verification of full operational capability, the evaluation and verification of FMC will begin immediately, leading into the final stage of the transfer process. Once the verification of the future combined command, which will oversee joint U.S.-South Korean operations during wartime, is completed, the defense ministers of both countries will propose a specific date for the transfer to their respective presidents. The government believes that the FMC evaluation and verification can be completed within a year since both processes can be conducted simultaneously. The Defense Ministry official added that during the U.S.-South Korea Integrated Defense Dialogue (KIDD) held on May 12 and 13, the goal was to finalize the roadmap for the transfer of operational control, but the process has been delayed due to the extensive content that needs to be addressed. He emphasized that the transfer is a matter decided at the policy and political level. Discussions are ongoing between the U.S. and South Korea regarding how to assess modern warfare, which has evolved with new weapon systems and changes in combat methods. Additionally, the management of the Northern Limit Line was officially discussed as an agenda item during the KIDD meeting. The Defense Ministry official noted that the Northern Limit Line is not a perfectly straight line and that since 2011, there has been a need to change the requirement for U.S. permission to cross certain areas. He stated that significant progress was made during this discussion. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 16:00:12