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  • President Lee Returns Home After State Visit to France
    President Lee Returns Home After State Visit to France President Lee Jae-myung returned to South Korea on September 9 after completing a five-day state visit to France.Accompanied by First Lady Kim Hye-kyung, President Lee boarded Air Force One at Paris airport and is expected to arrive in Korea on September 10.On his final day in France, President Lee held meetings with Yael Braun-Pivet, the Speaker of the French National Assembly, attended a luncheon with expatriates, and met with Mathias Cormann, Secretary-General of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).During his meeting with Braun-Pivet, President Lee emphasized the importance of reflecting the will of the people in politics, especially in a time when democracy faces global challenges.At the expatriate luncheon, he explained the rationale behind his proactive diplomatic efforts since the beginning of his administration and pledged to incorporate the voices of overseas Koreans into national policy. He noted, “My term is clearly limited by the constitution,” stressing the need to initiate diplomatic efforts early to fully leverage the benefits of economic and security cooperation.In the afternoon, President Lee met with OECD Secretary-General Cormann, highlighting that this year marks the 30th anniversary of South Korea's membership in the OECD. He stated that as South Korea has transitioned from a recipient of aid to a donor country, it should contribute more to the international community.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-10 02:08:00
  • Lee Says His Term Is Clearly Limited by Constitution Amid Oppositions Re-election Claims
    Lee Says His Term Is Clearly Limited by Constitution Amid Opposition's Re-election Claims President Lee Jae-myung stated on September 9 that "my term is clearly limited by the Constitution." This remark is seen as a rebuttal to recent opposition claims that proposed constitutional amendments are aimed at enabling self-re-election.Lee made his comments during a luncheon for expatriates at a hotel in Paris, part of his state visit to France, while explaining the rationale behind his proactive approach to diplomacy since taking office.He emphasized, "Ultimately, we must start early to reap the benefits for a long time," adding that opportunities for utilizing good relationships become limited as time progresses.Lee highlighted that meetings between heads of state and diplomatic efforts provide South Korea, an open trading nation, with opportunities for trade, investment, and economic and security cooperation. He noted that countries he has visited have seen significant increases in export rates, along with enhanced private exchanges and cooperation among businesses, benefiting the expatriate community.His comments regarding constitutional amendments and re-election were not directly in response to questions but were part of a broader discussion on the importance of early diplomatic engagement to maximize outcomes. During a visit to Brazil in July, he made similar remarks, indicating that late visits abroad would limit the ability to leverage newly established cooperation.On the previous day, Kim Jeong-sik, the floor leader of the People Power Party, raised suspicions during a representative speech in the National Assembly, questioning whether Lee's mention of a two-term constitutional amendment was an attempt to delay judicial proceedings, noting that the president has not explicitly stated he would not seek re-election.Kim also referenced recent declines in approval ratings, asserting that a drop in support necessitates a change in national policy. He criticized the Lee administration for being out of touch, claiming it is "blindly pursuing its own path" regarding recent cabinet reshuffles, real estate policies, the abolition of investigative powers, and police reforms. He referred to a term coined by some opposition members, combining Lee's name with "pandemic," calling it a "jamdemic" and labeling it a national disaster.Lee also addressed the domestic political situation, stating, "South Korea is undergoing tremendous changes as of the night of December 3, 2024, and is experiencing revolutionary transformations."He explained that the French Revolution was a process of gathering the people's energy to create a new system and world, but warned that excessive momentum can lead to backlash.Lee stressed the need for restraint when energy is high, stating, "We must move in a desirable direction while minimizing pain and resistance with the consent of many people."He added, "We must not repeat the mistakes of the past," emphasizing the importance of caution.Earlier that day, during a meeting with Yael Braun-Pivet, the President of the French National Assembly, Lee underscored that reflecting the will of the people in politics is the essence of democracy. He noted that the French Revolution played a significant role in spreading the values of freedom, equality, and popular sovereignty, which have also been crucial in South Korea's journey toward a new era of popular sovereignty.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-10 00:20:10
  • Gimhae Youth Festival to Kick Off on September 12 with 156 Local Goods Competitors
    Gimhae Youth Festival to Kick Off on September 12 with 156 Local Goods Competitors The city of Gimhae will host the '2026 Gimhae Youth Festival FEEL SO GOODS' from September 12 to 19, showcasing the innovative ideas and talents of local youth. This festival, held during Youth Week, will feature a local goods competition along with various cultural events for residents.A total budget of 1.05 billion won has been allocated for the event, combining funds from the Gyeongnam Province's 'Youth 365 Hot Place Creation Project' and the youth festival budget.On September 19, the main event will coincide with the '2026 Gimhae Local Goods Competition,' which has attracted 156 teams. The city will conduct evaluations on September 10 and 11 to select five teams, with the final results to be announced on September 14 on the Gimhae Bio Industry Promotion Agency's website.A prize pool of 10 million won has been set aside for the competition. Plans for actual sales following the competition have yet to be finalized.Gimhae City is considering supporting winners who wish to sell their products by facilitating their entry into tourist souvenir shops, with the offline store 'Gakgum Art Market' currently under discussion as a potential venue.In addition to the major events on September 12 and 19, programs utilizing the Youth Center will continue throughout the festival. The 'Stamp Challenge' will run from September 1 to 19, encouraging participants to complete missions at various locations. Other activities include a photo exhibition by local youth artists titled 'Film Log,' a youth workshop sharing entrepreneurship experiences called 'Road to Gyeongju,' tarot psychological counseling, mock interviews, generative AI training, and craft experiences.On September 12, the Changui Market in Mugye-dong will host 'Mugye-ro, World-ro Blue Marble,' featuring participation from both local and foreign youth. Events will include an e-sports (LOL) tournament, preliminary rounds for a busking competition, and a potluck party sharing global cuisine.The main event, 'Goods Festa,' will take place on September 19 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. at Surungwon and Bongridangil. During the Youth Day ceremony at 2 p.m., 14 individuals will be recognized for their contributions to youth policy development, and awards for the local goods competition will also be presented.The event will feature over 40 booths, including youth goods experiences and sales, as well as promotions from related organizations. A local goods showcase, brand pop-up stores, goods repair shops, food truck zones, and photo zones will also be available. Among the award-winning products, items reinterpreting Gaya culture and Gimhae's historical and tourism resources will be unveiled.Following the ceremony, a talk concert by illustrator Yumma, the finals of the local and foreign youth busking competition, and performances by local youth artists and university clubs will take place. A congratulatory performance by singer Kyung Seo-yeji is also scheduled.Gimhae Mayor Jeong Yeong-du expressed hope that the festival, filled with the ideas and talents of youth, will foster communication and empathy between young people and citizens. He emphasized the city's commitment to creating an environment where youth can explore possibilities and settle in the region.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-10 00:08:00
  • President Lee Calls for Emphasis on Inclusive Growth Amid Economic Polarization
    President Lee Calls for Emphasis on Inclusive Growth Amid Economic Polarization President Lee Jae-myung identified economic polarization as a fundamental cause of conflict and the spread of extremism between nations and groups. He urged the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) to place greater emphasis on 'inclusive growth,' which focuses on fairly distributing opportunities and benefits of growth.On September 9, local time, President Lee met with OECD Secretary-General Mathias Cormann at a hotel in Paris to discuss global economic issues and ways to enhance cooperation between South Korea and the OECD.President Lee stated, "The OECD has provided significant research and direction on global economic and social policies, which has greatly benefited South Korea. It has been 30 years since we joined the OECD, and during that time, South Korea has transitioned from a recipient of aid to a donor country."He added, "Given the many changes in the global landscape, South Korea must also contribute significantly," and proposed ongoing discussions on areas of collaboration with the OECD.President Lee diagnosed that international relations have become increasingly unstable, with rising hostility and extremist thinking among people. He expressed concern that escalating tensions between nations could lead to war.He remarked, "While there are various causes for the intensification of conflicts between nations or among groups, at the core, economic polarization has a substantial impact."Furthermore, he expressed a strong interest in the theory of inclusive growth, which advocates for the fair distribution of growth opportunities and benefits as a path to sustainable growth. He requested that the OECD place more emphasis on policy and political efforts to alleviate polarization.He concluded by saying, "I hope the OECD will take a greater interest in South Korea and that we can continue to discuss how we can work together."In response, Secretary-General Cormann praised South Korea as a representative success story of the OECD, having transitioned from a recipient of development aid to a donor and a strong exporting nation.Cormann stated, "South Korea is an extraordinary success story among OECD member countries, having successfully transitioned from a recipient of development aid to a donor country, while also growing into a strong nation with excellent export competitiveness."Regarding the inclusive growth proposed by President Lee, he affirmed, "I fully agree on its importance, and the OECD will continue to focus on it." Cormann also highlighted the need for member countries to address declining productivity and the aging population and labor force, noting that the South Korean government is seeking innovative solutions to these challenges.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-10 00:04:00
  • Gunpo Mayor Han Dae-hee Receives National Award for Climate Response Policies
    Gunpo Mayor Han Dae-hee Receives National Award for Climate Response Policies Han Dae-hee, the mayor of Gunpo, South Korea, is gaining attention for his achievements in energy transition and citizen-focused climate change response policies utilizing existing urban infrastructure. On the day of the award ceremony held at BEXCO in Busan, Mayor Han received the Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport Award in the climate change (energy transition) category at the '2026 Korea Urban Awards.' This recognition acknowledges Mayor Han's efforts to produce renewable energy using existing urban facilities and implement policies that address extreme weather conditions such as heatwaves and cold snaps. Mayor Han has installed solar power facilities with a total capacity of 1,329 kW at existing road structures, including the Dae-ya Underpass and Samsung Underpass, generating approximately 1,490 MWh of renewable energy annually. During the project, he secured 8.6 billion won in external funding through private investments and provincial government initiatives. Mayor Han explained that by utilizing existing infrastructure, he has reduced financial burdens while expanding the production base for renewable energy. He is also implementing citizen-focused policies to respond to extreme weather. Initiatives such as 'Gunpo Ice' for heatwave response and 'Gunpo Hot' for cold snap response are being operated to closely address climate change impacts on citizens' daily lives. Citizen A stated, "As summer heatwaves and winter cold snaps feel more severe than before, I hope there will be more policies that provide immediate assistance in our local areas." Another citizen, B, expressed, "I view positively the production of solar energy using existing facilities and the implementation of climate response projects that meet citizens' needs. I hope to see more initiatives that allow citizens to feel real change." Mayor Han Dae-hee emphasized, "This award is a recognition of our efforts to actively respond to climate change by utilizing the various resources and infrastructure of Gunpo. We will continue to implement policies that citizens can feel in terms of climate change response and sustainable urban development." Meanwhile, Mayor Han plans to continuously expand energy transition and climate response policies that directly impact citizens' lives by leveraging existing urban facilities.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-09 22:40:00
  • President Lee Meets French National Assembly Speaker, Emphasizes Democracy
    President Lee Meets French National Assembly Speaker, Emphasizes Democracy President Lee Jae-myung emphasized the need for active parliamentary roles in advancing democracy and enhancing Korea-France relations during a meeting with Yael Bron-Pivet, the Speaker of the French National Assembly. Chief Presidential Spokesperson Kang Yu-jeong stated on September 9 that President Lee met with Speaker Bron-Pivet and requested the French Assembly's interest and cooperation. Speaker Bron-Pivet welcomed President Lee's visit to the National Assembly, noting that it signifies the President's special interest in the role of parliament in representing democracy. President Lee remarked, "In a global environment where democracy is under threat, reflecting the will of the people in politics is essential to democracy," adding that parliament plays a crucial role in this process. He also highlighted the influence of the French Revolution on the development of democracy in Korea, stating, "The French Revolution spread the values of liberty, equality, and popular sovereignty, significantly impacting Korea's transition to an era of popular sovereignty." President Lee explained that the fundamental values of democracy, such as freedom and equality, have provided a solid foundation for the continuous development of both countries' economies and advanced industries. He assessed that there is great potential for expanding cooperation between Korea and France in various fields, including trade, investment, advanced technology, and social policy. He stressed that for a new leap in bilateral relations, significant and deep cooperation between the two parliaments is necessary. Speaker Bron-Pivet expressed interest in the Korean government's policies for democratic development. President Lee introduced the institutional reforms Korea is pursuing to faithfully reflect the opinions of its citizens in policymaking. The two leaders also discussed ways to enhance cultural and human exchanges. They agreed on the need to activate exchanges and communication between the two parliaments to further develop Korea-France relations. Spokesperson Kang noted that this meeting serves as a catalyst to expand the cooperation between the two countries, which has been concretized through two summits this year, into the parliamentary level, ensuring that the outcomes translate into tangible cooperation felt by the citizens of both nations.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-09 22:16:00
  • Gwangju Mayor Park Kwan-yeol Advocates for Collaborative Future Amid Semiconductor Development
    Gwangju Mayor Park Kwan-yeol Advocates for Collaborative Future Amid Semiconductor Development Park Kwan-yeol, the mayor of Gwangju, emphasized on September 9 that the goal is not to obstruct the establishment of the Yongin semiconductor national industrial complex but to collaboratively shape Gwangju's future.Mayor Park made this statement while urging for the successful advancement of the Yongin semiconductor national industrial complex and the development of practical coexistence measures for Gwangju.This reflects the need for the success of national strategic industries to align with Gwangju's future development.The integrated water supply project for the Yongin semiconductor national industrial complex involves the installation of approximately 47 kilometers of water pipelines, with about 27 kilometers passing through Gwangju.Park stated, "While Gwangju actively cooperates with this national project, it is essential that the government provides support and coexistence measures that correspond to the burdens and sacrifices faced by local residents due to the large-scale pipeline installation."Key measures requested by Mayor Park include the government-led supply of 30,000 smart public housing units, the establishment of the national industrial complex, research and development in AI and semiconductors, the attraction of advanced companies, the formation of a government-wide coexistence council, and national support for areas affected by the water pipeline.He added, "Gwangju is ready to actively cooperate for the success of South Korea's semiconductor industry," and stressed the need for practical coexistence plans that allow for the simultaneous growth of industry, businesses, jobs, and housing, rather than solely demanding sacrifices from Gwangju citizens during the implementation of national projects.Citizens also voiced their desire for tangible development benefits to accompany the success of national projects in Gwangju.One resident remarked, "If the semiconductor project is necessary on a national level, Gwangju should actively cooperate. However, since Gwangju will bear the burden of large-scale infrastructure, there should be support that residents can feel in terms of businesses and jobs."Another resident expressed hope that the growth of the Yongin semiconductor industry and the development of Gwangju would progress together.Meanwhile, Mayor Park stated, "I will continue to negotiate with the government to ensure that Gwangju does not remain merely a transit area or a sacrifice zone, and I will strongly demand necessary measures."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-09 22:08:00
  • President Lee Jae-myung: My Term is Constitutionally Limited, Restraint Needed When Energy Abounds
    President Lee Jae-myung: My Term is Constitutionally Limited, Restraint Needed When Energy Abounds President Lee Jae-myung: My Term is Constitutionally Limited, Restraint Needed When Energy AboundsPresident Lee Jae-myung stated on September 9 that his term is clearly limited by the constitution, emphasizing the need to act quickly to maximize its benefits. Speaking at a luncheon with expatriates in Paris, during the final leg of his state visit to France, he noted that establishing good relationships in the latter part of his term may lead to limited opportunities. He added that meetings between heads of state and diplomatic engagements provide South Korea, known as an open trading nation, with valuable opportunities for trade, investment, economic cooperation, and security collaboration. Lee remarked, "The countries I have visited as part of my initiatives have seen significant increases in export growth, and there has been a rise in private exchanges and corporate cooperation, as well as revitalization within the expatriate community."Court Rules on Kwon Hyuk-bin's Divorce Case: 2.5 Trillion Won Asset DivisionThe Seoul Family Court ruled on September 9 that Kwon Hyuk-bin, Chief Vision Officer of Smilegate, must divide 35% of his shares in the company and pay 65 billion won in cash as part of his divorce settlement. The court dismissed claims for alimony from his spouse, determining that Kwon was not responsible for the breakdown of the marriage. The ruling came nearly three years after the case was filed in November 2022. The court assessed Kwon's net worth at approximately 73.375 trillion won, with the value of his Smilegate shares accounting for about 99.8% of that total. The court decided to divide the shares in kind rather than in cash, considering that Kwon holds 100% ownership of the company, thus posing no risk to his control over it.Political Parties Clash During Government Q&A on Constitutional AmendmentsOn September 9, lawmakers began a four-day government Q&A session in the National Assembly, focusing on political issues. The Democratic Party called for the inclusion of the spirit of the May 18 Democratic Uprising in the constitution, while the People Power Party raised concerns regarding allegations against Minister of Justice nominee Kim Seung-won and Minister of Gender Equality and Family nominee Yong Hye-in. Democratic Party lawmaker Lee Hae-sik stated, "It is unacceptable to destroy democracy in the name of democracy," urging that the spirit of May 18 be enshrined in the constitution to prevent the erosion of freedom. He criticized the People Power Party for not taking action against lawmaker Lee Jin-sook, who hosted a forum that distorted the May 18 movement. In response, Prime Minister Han Seung-sook expressed disbelief at the events occurring in the National Assembly and emphasized the need for appropriate measures against actions that undermine democratic values.Foreign Ministry: Nepal Relief Team to Return on 11th, Second Team Being DeployedThe first team of the Korea Disaster Relief Team (KDRT), dispatched to assist in the aftermath of severe flooding in Nepal, is set to return on September 11 after ten days of search and rescue operations. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the team, which was sent on September 1, will return aboard a KC-330 multi-purpose air refueling transport aircraft. The team began preparations to withdraw two days before the scheduled return date, as the Nepalese government shifted its focus from search and rescue to recovery efforts, significantly reducing support such as helicopter assistance. Additionally, with no signs of life detected for nine missing South Koreans two weeks after the flooding began on August 26, the government decided to proceed with the return. The KC-330 will also carry relief supplies, including blankets, clothing, and tents donated by civic groups and domestic companies.Prime Minister Han Seung-sook: Listening Closely to Public Concerns Amid Declining Approval RatingsPrime Minister Han Seung-sook addressed the recent decline in President Lee Jae-myung's approval ratings on September 9, stating, "We are seriously listening to the voices of the public." During the government Q&A session, she responded to a question from People Power Party lawmaker Yoon Jae-ok regarding the survey results, emphasizing the need to accurately assess what is being done well and what needs improvement. She attributed the decline in approval ratings to the government's failure to meet public expectations and the need for better communication regarding its successes. Regarding recent cabinet reshuffles, she noted that any allegations or issues raised should be addressed through hearings and that it is essential to follow democratic procedures that align with public expectations.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-09 22:00:20
  • Gwangmyeong Cave Completes Summer Season Without Safety Incidents
    Gwangmyeong Cave Completes Summer Season Without Safety Incidents Gwangmyeong Cave, a major tourist destination in Gwangmyeong, South Korea, successfully concluded its summer peak season without any safety incidents.On September 9, Gwangmyeong City Corporation reported that it held a session to encourage and communicate with staff who worked on-site to ensure tourist safety during the summer.This event was organized to recognize the efforts of employees in various roles, including ticketing, guidance, food and beverage services, and facility management, who directly interacted with visitors amid the ongoing heatwave.Participants included on-site workers and executives involved in the operation of Gwangmyeong Cave, who shared their experiences and suggestions for improvement during the summer season.With prolonged high temperatures this summer, the importance of managing tourist safety became even more critical.The corporation conducted inspections of key facilities and pathways ahead of the peak season and strengthened on-site safety management, successfully operating Gwangmyeong Cave without any safety incidents or heat-related illnesses during this period.Gwangmyeong Cave is known for providing a relatively comfortable environment for visitors, making it a popular destination for those seeking relief from the summer heat.As the peak season attracts a larger number of tourists, the roles of on-site personnel in ensuring safety, guidance, and order are vital.Visitors expressed positive feedback regarding the safe tourism environment. One guest remarked, “In the summer, I worry about safety and heat when moving around with my children, but the staff provided guidance everywhere, allowing us to enjoy our visit comfortably.”Another visitor noted, “From a tourist's perspective, it’s not easy to directly feel the staff's safety management efforts while using the facilities, but it’s reassuring to know that we went through the peak season without any incidents. I hope it continues to be a place where many people can visit comfortably.”Meanwhile, CEO Seo Il-dong stated, “Thanks to the dedicated efforts of our staff in their respective roles, we were able to safely conclude the summer peak season despite the heatwave.” He added, “We will continue to focus on on-site safety management to create a space where tourists can visit with peace of mind.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-09 21:40:00
  • South Koreas Emergency Relief Team to Return from Nepal on September 11
    South Korea's Emergency Relief Team to Return from Nepal on September 11 The first team of South Korea's overseas emergency relief team (KDRT), dispatched to Nepal following severe flooding, will return home on September 11 after completing ten days of search and rescue operations.According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on September 9, the KDRT team, which was sent on September 1, is scheduled to return to South Korea aboard a KC-330 multi-purpose air refueling transport aircraft. The team has halted its search activities two days before the scheduled end of operations and is preparing to withdraw.The Nepalese government has shifted its focus from search and rescue to recovery efforts, significantly reducing support such as helicopter assistance. Additionally, with no signs of life detected for nine missing South Koreans two weeks after the floods began on August 26, the government has decided to proceed with the return.In preparation for the return of the first team, the KC-330 heading to Nepal will carry relief supplies, including blankets, clothing, and tents, donated by civic groups from domestic companies.The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also announced plans to dispatch a second KDRT team to continue search operations. The size and mission of the second team will be finalized soon through a joint public-private overseas emergency relief council.Separately from the team rotation, the government’s rapid response team and the South Korean embassy in Nepal will closely cooperate with local authorities to support the families of the missing South Koreans.Meanwhile, families of three missing employees from Korea South-East Power expressed their opposition to the withdrawal of the KDRT first team. They held a press conference in Kathmandu, urging the government to halt the unilateral termination of search operations and the early return of the team.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-09 21:36:00