Journalist

by Jun Sung-min
  • State media breaks silence to cover North Koreas win over South Korea in womens football
    State media breaks silence to cover North Korea's win over South Korea in women's football SEOUL, May 21 (AJP) - North Korea advanced to the final of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Women's Champions League after beating South Korea, state media reported on Thursday. Breaking its silence over the reclusive country's footballers' trip to South Korea last weekend, the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported briefly that its Naegohyang Women's Football Club beat its rival 2–1 in a semifinal match in Suwon, Gyeonggi Province the pervious day. In a rain-soaked match, North Korea came from behind to defeat South Korea. South Korea had taken the lead just minutes into the second half but could not hold on, as an equalizer by North Korean player Choe Kum-ok came about five minutes later, followed by another goal from Kim Kyong-yong in the 67th minute. South Korea also missed a late penalty, failing to salvage a draw at least. The North Korean team will now face against Japan's Nippon TV Tokyo Verdy Beleza in the final at the same venue in Suwon on Saturday. Wednesday's match marks the first time in about eight years that North Korean athletes have participated in a sporting event held in South Korea. 2026-05-21 13:56:49
  • North Koreas My Hometown Womens Football Team Advances to Finals
    North Korea's 'My Hometown Women's Football Team' Advances to Finals North Korean state media reported that the 'My Hometown Women's Football Team' has advanced to the finals after a match held in South Korea. The Korean Central News Agency announced on May 21 that the team won 2-1 against Suwon FC Women in the semifinals of the 2025-26 Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Women's Champions League (AWCL) held the previous day. This marks the first time in nearly eight years that North Korean athletes have participated in a sports event in South Korea, with the last instance being in December 2018 during the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) World Tour Grand Finals in Incheon. In football, it is the first visit by North Korean players to South Korea since the 2014 Incheon Asian Games. This is also the first time a North Korean women's football club has traveled to the South. The Central News Agency noted, "The semifinal match between our My Hometown team and the South Korean Suwon team took place on May 20 in South Korea. Despite conceding a goal in the second half, our players intensified their cooperation and launched a strong offensive." The report mentioned that players Choi Geum-ok and Kim Kyung-young scored goals, and the finals are scheduled for May 23. However, the Central News Agency did not provide details about the atmosphere at the match, including the support from a joint cheering squad organized by civilian groups from both Koreas. The name 'Suwon FC Women' was abbreviated to 'Suwon team,' and the venue was referred to simply as 'South Korea.' The Rodong Sinmun, which is read by North Korean citizens, also published the Central News Agency's article on its third page, featuring photos of My Hometown players celebrating in the rain and competing in the wet conditions.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 12:12:18
  • U.S.-South Korea Deputy Foreign Ministers Meet to Launch Joint Fact Sheet Group
    U.S.-South Korea Deputy Foreign Ministers Meet to Launch Joint Fact Sheet Group Park Yoon-joo, First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, met with Christopher Landau, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, in Washington on May 20 to discuss specific measures for implementing the Joint Fact Sheet (JFS) from the recent summit between the two nations. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on May 21, the two deputy ministers emphasized that the South Korea-U.S. alliance is a cornerstone for peace, security, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. They agreed that the announcement of the JFS is one of the most significant diplomatic achievements in the past year since the current government took office and serves as a vital tool for addressing shared challenges amid international security and economic uncertainties. The deputy ministers also noted that discussions on U.S. investment in South Korea are progressing smoothly and committed to ensuring the success of the upcoming kickoff meeting scheduled for later this month. During a meeting with South Korean correspondents at the South Korean Embassy in Washington, Park highlighted the agreement to hold a launch meeting for the implementation of the Joint Fact Sheet as the most important outcome of his visit to the U.S. Landau reaffirmed the United States' strong defense commitment to South Korea and the unwavering readiness of the South Korea-U.S. alliance, stating that South Korea is the best economic, trade, and investment partner for both nations and that efforts will continue to support this partnership. Park expressed gratitude for Landau's keen interest and commitment to resolving visa issues, which are essential for advancing investment cooperation between the two countries, and expressed hope for continued progress. Landau acknowledged the significant contributions of South Korean companies to the U.S. economy and manufacturing revival, pledging ongoing support for their investment activities. The two deputy ministers also exchanged in-depth views on global issues and situations, including the Middle East, the recent U.S.-China summit, and critical mineral supply chains. Park particularly praised President Trump's proactive leadership in addressing Middle East issues and agreed on the importance of safe and free navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. They agreed to maintain immediate communication on various issues arising between the two countries and to coordinate high-level communications over the next 2-3 months through various opportunities. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 08:32:14
  • North Koreas Nae Go Hyang Womens Football Team Upsets Suwon FC Women in AFC Semifinal
    North Korea's Nae Go Hyang Women's Football Team Upsets Suwon FC Women in AFC Semifinal In a historic matchup, North Korea's Nae Go Hyang Women's Football Team defeated Suwon FC Women 2-1 in the semifinals of the AFC Women's Champions League on May 20 at Suwon Sports Complex. This marked the first time North Korean players participated in a sports event held in South Korea since December 2018, when table tennis player Cha Hyo-sim competed in the ITTF World Tour Grand Finals in Incheon. Nae Go Hyang will face Japan's Tokyo Verdy Beleza, who previously defeated Melbourne City 3-1, in the final on May 23 at the same venue. Despite heavy rain, 5,763 fans attended the match, including notable figures such as National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-sik, Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Park Hae-ryun, and Korea Sports Council President Yoo Seung-min. President Lee Jae-myung expressed his desire to attend the match during a cabinet meeting, saying, "I actually want to go, but I was told not to," and added, "I need to cheer with balance." Unification Minister Jeong Dong-young did not attend the match. He stated in a National Assembly meeting that the AFC had requested the Korea Football Association to ensure the event proceeded as a purely sports international event, separate from political considerations. Jeong decided not to attend to avoid any political implications. A joint cheering squad formed by civil organizations, including the North-South Cooperation Civil Society (Bukminhyup) and the National Council for Reconciliation and Cooperation (Minhwa-hyup), waved small flags featuring the logos of both Suwon FC Women and Nae Go Hyang, showing support for both teams. The AFC Women's Champions League is the premier women's club football competition in Asia, and this season marks its second iteration. The champions will receive a prize of $1 million, while the runners-up will earn $500,000.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-20 21:42:00
  • Minister Jeong Dong-young Decides Not to Attend Inter-Korean Womens Football Match
    Minister Jeong Dong-young Decides Not to Attend Inter-Korean Women's Football Match Minister of Unification Jeong Dong-young has decided not to attend the inter-Korean women's football match scheduled for May 20 in Suwon. A Ministry of Unification official stated on May 19 that Minister Jeong will not be present at the semifinal match between Suwon FC Women and the Nae Gohyang Football Club. The official explained that the decision was made after considering various factors, including the nature of the event as an international tournament organized by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). Given the current tense inter-Korean relations characterized by a 'hostile stance' from North Korea, it is believed that Minister Jeong's attendance could lead to unnecessary political interpretations. The fact that this is a club-level match rather than a national competition likely also influenced the decision. The Nae Gohyang Women's Football Club will compete against Suwon FC Women in the AFC Women's Champions League (AWCL) semifinals at the Suwon Sports Complex on May 20. This will mark the first time in eight years that a North Korean sports team has visited South Korea for a competition since the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) World Tour Grand Finals held in Incheon in December 2018. Additionally, it will be the first visit by the North Korean women's football team to South Korea since the 2014 Incheon Asian Games.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-19 14:49:10
  • Lee brings heritage-inspired gifts for Japanese PM to Andong summit
    Lee brings heritage-inspired gifts for Japanese PM to Andong summit SEOUL, May 19 (AJP) - President Lee Jae-myung is set to meet Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi at a summit in Andong, North Gyeongsang Province on Tuesday. Lee has prepared locally themed gifts for Takaichi, according to Cheong Wa Dae. Among them is a framed set of wood carvings depicting nine types of traditional folk masks, a well-known symbol of Andong, home to Hahoe Village, one of the country's most notable living repositories of Joseon-era heritage. The item was chosen to represent harmony and hopes for stronger ties between the two neighboring countries. The gift list also includes a leather bag made with hanji, traditional Korean paper, and red ginseng, known for its health benefits. Lee will also present her with an artwork featuring a moon jar, reflecting the moon as a symbol of wishes in both countries. For Takaichi's husband, former Japanese politician Yamamoto Taku, Lee has prepared a snowflake-themed tableware set crafted with zinc glaze and silver to create snow-crystal patterns, resembling the snowy landscapes of Fukui Prefecture, his hometown. Separately, local cultural heritage organizations prepared a lightweight blanket made from Andongpo, a traditional hemp fabric once used as a royal court tribute, as a gesture wishing Takaichi good health and well-being. The historic city's Confucius clan also prepared a miniature set of traditional village guardian totems believed to ward off evil spirits and illness, saying their symbolism reflects the roles of the two leaders. The two leaders first met last fall on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Gyeongju, where they agreed to pursue shuttle diplomacy between the two countries. Lee then traveled to Nara in January, during which he proposed that the next summit be held in Andong. 2026-05-19 13:40:40
  • President Yoon Gifts Traditional Korean Artifacts to Japanese Prime Minister
    President Yoon Gifts Traditional Korean Artifacts to Japanese Prime Minister On May 19, President Yoon Suk Yeol prepared a selection of gifts reflecting the local culture for Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who is visiting his hometown of Andong, North Gyeongsang Province.President Yoon is scheduled to hold a summit with Prime Minister Takaichi in Andong later in the afternoon.According to the presidential office, the gifts include a wooden frame featuring nine types of Hahoe masks, which symbolize harmony and express hopes for the development of friendly relations between Korea and Japan.Also included in the gift list are a leather bag made from hanji (traditional Korean paper) and red ginseng, inspired by items that were significant during the Joseon Tongsinsa (Korean envoys to Japan).Additionally, a moon jar frame, representing a symbol of hope in both countries, conveys wishes for friendship and cooperation between Korea and Japan.For the Prime Minister's spouse, a set of traditional Joseon Tongsinsa items will be presented along with a 'snowflake pottery' set. The snowflake pottery features patterns created using zinc glaze and silver, capturing the winter scenery of Fukui Prefecture, the hometown of the Prime Minister's spouse.Furthermore, the Andong Poji Village Preservation Association prepared a single blanket made from Andong po, historically presented to the royal family, wishing for the health and peace of Prime Minister Takaichi.The Andong Hahoe Village clan association also prepared a mini guardian totem set, symbolizing protection from evil spirits and disease, reflecting the roles of the leaders of both countries.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-19 10:42:28
  • First Unification White Paper Released by Lee Jae-myung Administration, Emphasizing Peaceful Coexistence
    First Unification White Paper Released by Lee Jae-myung Administration, Emphasizing Peaceful Coexistence The Lee Jae-myung administration has released its first "Unification White Paper," reflecting its commitment to peaceful coexistence on the Korean Peninsula.On May 18, the Ministry of Unification published the "2026 Unification White Paper: Records of Peaceful Coexistence on the Korean Peninsula in 2025" to help the public understand the government's overall policy efforts during the year 2025.This white paper is the first issued by the Lee Jae-myung administration and includes the subtitle "Records of Peaceful Coexistence on the Korean Peninsula in 2025" for the first time since the inception of the white paper. The Ministry explained, "Since the Lee Jae-myung administration took office in June 2025, it has continuously worked to overcome the complete severance of inter-Korean relations and to shift from hostility and confrontation to peaceful coexistence. The new subtitle reflects the significance of this policy direction change." The white paper details the administration's efforts to promote and expand its "Peaceful Coexistence Policy on the Korean Peninsula." It includes proactive measures taken to ease tensions, such as halting leaflet distribution and stopping loudspeaker broadcasts, which have contributed to restoring peace in border areas. It also reflects efforts to establish a foundation for the "Peaceful Coexistence Policy on the Korean Peninsula." This includes restoring inter-Korean dialogue and cooperation functions through organizational restructuring within the Ministry of Unification and improving the reporting system for contact with North Korean residents to align with its original intent.To create a "people's sovereignty" policy on the Korean Peninsula, the Ministry established the "Korean Peninsula Peace Listening Group" under the direct supervision of the Minister of Unification to hear the voices of the public. Additionally, it has changed the designation of North Korean defectors to "North Korean residents" to move closer to unification and has shifted the paradigm of unification education to focus on peace, unification, and democratic citizenship.The white paper states that the Lee Jae-myung administration has established a policy of peaceful coexistence on the Korean Peninsula, declaring three principles: respect for North Korea's regime, no pursuit of absorption unification, and no hostile actions. It emphasizes the need to transition from the current "hostile two-state relations" to "peaceful two-state relations aiming for unification."Meanwhile, key statistics related to inter-Korean relations indicate that humanitarian aid to North Korea has been nonexistent for two consecutive years since 2024. Trade between the two Koreas has also been absent for three years since 2023.The number of people crossing the border has remained at zero for both entering and leaving North Korea since 2021, and inter-Korean communication channels have been severed since April 7, 2023. Jeong Dong-young, Minister of Unification, stated in the preface, "In 2025, we began to move the clock of peace on the Korean Peninsula, which had long been stalled. In 2026, we will continue to move steadily toward the goal of peaceful coexistence, practicing peace through actions rather than words, and hope to sit down again as neighbors coexisting peacefully." * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-18 17:54:33
  • Kim Jong Un Orders Strengthening of Frontline Troops
    Kim Jong Un Orders Strengthening of Frontline Troops Kim Jong Un, Chairman of the Workers' Party of Korea, has directed the strengthening of frontline troops stationed along the southern border. On May 18, the Korean Central News Agency reported that Kim convened a meeting of division and brigade commanders at the Party's Central Committee headquarters the previous day to discuss a series of "important military issues." During the meeting, Kim emphasized the need to reinforce the first-line units guarding the "southern border" and transform the border into an impregnable fortress, in line with the Party's territorial defense policy. He also announced plans to reorganize military structures as a "critical decision" to ensure a more thorough deterrence against war. Additionally, he outlined strategies to enhance the military capabilities of key units, including the first-line troops. Kim stated, "We will establish organizational measures to renew our military in terms of military structure and technology," highlighting the responsibilities and roles of commanders in this effort. Yang Moo-jin, a professor at the University of North Korean Studies, noted that the directive to make the border an impregnable fortress likely reflects pressure on field commanders to strengthen physical barriers and isolation from South Korea, including the deployment of tactical nuclear weapons and new artillery forces. Kim further stressed the need to redefine operational concepts across all domains to match the rapid modernization of military equipment and to expedite plans for practical training. He instructed commanders that training for combat readiness is the military's primary duty, urging them to adjust training systems in line with the evolving nature of modern warfare and the development of the military. Kim asserted, "We are building a powerful military," and stated that the tasks outlined in the upcoming five-year plan will significantly enhance the military's strategic readiness and deterrence capabilities compared to the present. Hong Min, a senior researcher at the Korea Institute for National Unification, noted that this is the first report of a meeting of division and brigade commanders since Kim took power, suggesting it conveys the leader's commitment and plans for implementing modern training and weaponry over the next five years.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-18 13:02:25
  • South Korean Foreign Minister Discusses Ship Safety with Iranian Counterpart
    South Korean Foreign Minister Discusses Ship Safety with Iranian Counterpart On May 17, South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun held a phone conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi to discuss the recent situation in the Middle East, bilateral relations between South Korea and Iran, and the safety of South Korean vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. According to the Foreign Ministry, Minister Cho explained that the South Korean government is currently conducting further investigations into the recent attack on the HMM Namoo vessel. He requested Iran's position on the facts surrounding the incident and emphasized the importance of safety and freedom of navigation for all vessels, including those from South Korea, in the Strait of Hormuz. Minister Araghchi shared Iran's perspective on the current Middle Eastern situation and expressed agreement on the need to restore safe passage in the Strait of Hormuz, stating that the standoff in the area should be resolved promptly, the ministry reported. Both ministers agreed to maintain ongoing communication to ensure the safety of South Korean vessels and crew in the Strait of Hormuz. On May 4, an explosion and fire occurred on the South Korean vessel HMM Namoo while it was in the Strait of Hormuz. Investigations revealed that the incident was caused by two unidentified projectiles. The government is currently conducting an investigation. Debris from the projectiles that struck the South Korean vessel was transported to South Korea on May 15, packed in a diplomatic pouch aboard a commercial flight from Abu Dhabi to Incheon. Separately, the government has dispatched a technical analysis team from the Ministry of National Defense, consisting of experts from ADD, to Dubai, where the HMM Namoo is being towed, to conduct a detailed examination of the hull damage. On May 13, Suh Wook, head of the National Security Office, stated during a meeting with the Editors' Association that regarding the projectiles that collided with the Namoo in the Strait of Hormuz, "We need to consider the results of the investigation so far and conduct further inquiries. It could be a drone or a missile; various possibilities are open at this stage." In response to concerns about why Iran has not been specifically identified as responsible, he explained, "Just because there are circumstances or suspicions does not mean we can blame another country. We need to conduct more investigations and avoid making assumptions. It is customary not to speculate."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-17 18:22:52