Korea and US agree to work on a separate pact on nuclear-power submarine project SEOUL, December 24 (AJP) -South Korea and the United States will start working-level talks early next to write out a separate bilateral agreement on cooperation on nuclear-powered submarines, said Seoul’s national security adviser said Wednesday. In a televised briefing on his back-to-back visits to the United States, Canada, and Japan, Wi Sung-lac specified the reasons for the need for a separate pact on the submarine program, which is linked to broader security commitments outlined in a joint fact sheet released last month. “We shared the view that a stand-alone agreement on cooperation over nuclear-powered submarines is necessary, and agreed to move forward with discussions,” Wi said. Wi traveled from Dec. 16 to 22 to the United States, Canada and Japan, holding meetings with senior officials including U.S. Secretary of State and national security adviser Marco Rubio and U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright. He described the talks in Washington as “practical and in-depth,” focused on implementing security commitments agreed at the leaders’ level. The submarine issue is part of follow-up measures stemming from a joint fact sheet issued after President Lee Jae Myung met U.S. President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Gyeongju in late October. Under current U.S. law, transfers of nuclear material for military use are generally prohibited. However, exemptions may be granted through specific provisions or presidential authority, making a separate bilateral agreement a key procedural hurdle. Wi noted that Australia secured similar exceptions through its own arrangements with Washington. On uranium enrichment and spent nuclear fuel reprocessing, Wi reiterated South Korea’s commitment to nuclear non-proliferation, stressing that Seoul plans to use low-enriched uranium below 20 percent for any nuclear-powered submarines and is not considering highly enriched uranium. He said Seoul emphasized to Washington that stable access to low-enriched uranium is becoming a strategic issue amid volatility in global uranium markets, framing the matter as one of shared energy and security interests rather than a departure from non-proliferation norms. A U.S. working-level delegation is expected to visit South Korea early next year to begin issue-by-issue consultations on security matters listed in the joint fact sheet. The two sides also agreed to set interim milestones — potentially around mid-2026 or the second half of the year — to review progress. “Based on the results of this visit, we will actively operate consultation channels with the United States and make every effort to implement the agreements quickly and faithfully,” Wi said. Beyond the submarine talks, Wi said discussions with U.S. officials also covered the stalled state of dialogue with North Korea, U.S.-China relations, Russia-North Korea military cooperation and broader regional security dynamics in Northeast Asia. During stops in New York, Ottawa and Tokyo, Wi also met with U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Canadian national security and defense officials, and senior Japanese policymakers. In Canada, he highlighted South Korea’s capabilities in submarine construction as Seoul seeks to participate in Ottawa’s next-generation submarine procurement program, while talks in Japan focused on maintaining stable bilateral relations and expanding regional coordination. Wi acknowledged that differences can emerge among South Korean ministries on North Korea policy, but stressed that coordination through the National Security Council is essential to avoid mixed signals to allies. “What matters is coordination,” he said. 2025-12-24 13:38:04

Top security adviser heads to Washington to discuss implementation of bilateral agreements SEOUL, December 16 (AJP) - National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lak on Tuesday left for Washington for working-level talks with U.S. officials this week. His trip comes after South Korea and the U.S. released a comprehensive joint fact sheet last month detailing agreements on bilateral trade and security. Wi is also expected to discuss measures for peace and security on the Korean Peninsula. Just before his departure from Incheon International Airport, Wi said, "I will discuss two main issues in the U.S. – follow-up on the joint fact sheet and peace on the Korean Peninsula." Wi emphasized the need for in-depth discussions and coordination with multiple U.S. agencies to implement the agreements outlined in the joint fact sheet, which include a U.S. commitment to support the reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel, uranium enrichment, and the construction of nuclear submarines using U.S.-supplied fuel. Wi will meet with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other officials to expedite the bilateral deal and share updates on progress. He also highlighted South Korea's diplomatic efforts to improve relations with its neighboring countries of China and Japan, which could help facilitate engagement with North Korea. Referring to President Lee Jae Myung's proposal to U.S. President Donald Trump to act as a "peacemaker" during their first summit in Washington, D.C. last summer, Wi said he plans to discuss strategies for bringing North Korea to the dialogue table. * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-12-16 14:53:21

Lee, Laotian president agree to strengthen bilateral partnership SEOUL, December 15 (AJP) - President Lee Jae Myung met with visiting Laotian President Thongloun Sisoulith in Seoul on Monday. During their summit at the presidential office in Yongsan, Seoul, the two leaders agreed to elevate their bilateral relationship to a comprehensive partnership, as the two countries mark 30 years of diplomatic relations. "Trade and investment have grown remarkably since 1995, with bilateral trade increasing 20-fold," Lee said, adding that mutual visits reached a record high last year. Lee emphasized South Korea's role as a key partner for Laos while highlighting Laos' importance to Seoul's efforts for ASEAN and Mekong cooperation. Lee also praised Laos' rich natural resources and called for cooperation in building a mineral supply chain, while pledging support for the country's development as a transport hub under Thongloun's leadership. Sisoulith expressed hope for strengthened bilateral relations and requested South Korea's continued support for Laos' development. Following the summit, the two sides signed multiple memorandums of understanding (MOUs) on combating transnational crimes including online scams and phishing schemes, as well as labor-related agreements for foreign workers here. * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-12-15 16:12:59

Laotian president to visit Seoul for summit SEOUL, December 11 (AJP) - President Lee Jae Myung will hold a summit with Laotian President Thongloun Sisoulith next week to discuss bilateral relations. Presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung said Thursday that Thongloun, who is scheduled to arrive in Seoul on Sunday, will sit down for talks with Lee on Monday, followed by a state luncheon. According to Kang, his trip to Seoul comes as the two countries mark the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations and it will be the first bilateral visit in 12 years. The two leaders are expected to discuss a wide range of issues, with a focus on combating rising transnational crimes such as online scams and phishing schemes. "The upcoming summit will strengthen cooperation and improve relations between Seoul and Vientiane," Kang said. * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-12-11 14:51:30

President Lee nominates Kim Ho-chul as auditor general SEOUL, December 07 (AJP) - President Lee Jae Myung has nominated Kim Ho-chul, a veteran human rights lawyer, as auditor general of South Korea’s Board of Audit and Inspection, the presidential office said on Sunday. The nomination was announced by presidential spokesperson Lee Kyu-yeon during a briefing at the presidential office in Seoul. Kim has held a range of senior public and civic posts, including serving as a standing member of a military death investigation panel and chairing the National Police Commission. He has also led major civic groups, including Lawyers for a Democratic Society, and served as a co-representative of the Korea Federation for Environmental Movements. Lee described Kim as a leading human rights lawyer who has consistently promoted public interest and social values, citing his involvement in high-profile institutional issues such as police oversight reforms and investigations into military deaths. “Kim is expected to help restore the constitutional principles of political neutrality, institutional independence and public trust in the Board of Audit and Inspection through the normalization of its audit functions,” Lee said. * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-12-07 14:29:47

Lee to discuss AI, semiconductor cooperation with SoftBank chairman SEOUL, December 4 (AJP) - President Lee Jae-myung is set to meet with SoftBank Chairman Masayoshi Son to discuss cooperation in advanced high-technology sectors including artificial intelligence (AI) and semiconductors. According to the presidential office on Thursday, their meeting is scheduled for Friday morning, with a focus on collaboration and infrastructure investment in these sectors. The meeting will also be attended by key officials including chief of staff Kang Hoon-sik, presidential policy chief Kim Yong-beom, Minister of Science and ICT Bae Kyung-hoon. SoftBank is speeding up its AI expansion in the U.S. through its "Stargate" project, working with OpenAI and Oracle to build large-scale AI infrastructure and data centers. South Korea aims to become one of the world's "top three AI powerhouses." Lee already met with OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang in October to discuss cooperation in the field. * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-12-04 13:50:54

Gov't seeks talks to bring home South Koreans held in North Korea SEOUL, December 4 (AJP) - South Korea is seeking talks with North Korea to bring back six South Koreans being held there, the presidential office said on Thursday. It comes just a day after the revelation was made during President Lee Jae-myung's press conference with foreign media, marking the first anniversary of disgraced former President Yoon Suk Yeol's martial law debacle. When asked by a reporter from NK News about the South Korean detainees in North Korea and any messages for their families here, Lee responded that he would look further into it, citing the lack of detailed information due to those cases occurring long ago. According to the presidential office, three North Korean defectors and three missionaries have been held since between 2013 and 2016 on dubious charges of espionage and other offenses. * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-12-04 11:14:13

South Korea should remember Dec. 3 as Democracy Memorial Day "A year has passed since the insurrection, yet darkness still lingers," said the ruling party leader, reflecting on the chaos following former President Yoon Suk Yeol's declaration of martial law. This statement underscores the ongoing turmoil in society. Since last December, this column has frequently criticized the martial law, mentioning terms like 'impeachment,' 'presidential election,' 'special prosecutor,' and 'People Power Party.' Even when not directly discussing martial law, related terms like 'diplomacy' and 'prosecution' have naturally surfaced. More articles on this topic are expected. As the special investigation into the insurrection nears completion, revelations continue, such as the justice minister's controversial communication with the first lady. The repeat of 'state manipulation' following the impeachment of Park Geun-hye has further angered the public. Despite Yoon's earlier promise to accept legal and political responsibility, his actions in court suggest otherwise. The past year has been tumultuous, marked by Yoon's failed arrest and release. On Nov. 26, the first trial of key figures indicted for martial law concluded. The special prosecutor labeled their actions as a 'terror against South Korean democracy.' While the appropriateness of the sentencing is debatable, holding those responsible is crucial. The court's first ruling is expected on Jan. 20. The People Power Party, now in opposition, appears unchanged from a year ago. Despite pledging to apologize for martial law and impeachment, internal discord persists. The party leader's stance resembles that of the ousted president, reflecting a regressive mindset. A consistent, reflective stance on martial law is necessary for public forgiveness and effective governance. The government is considering designating Dec. 3 as 'Democracy Memorial Day.' The martial law, the first since 1979, highlighted the importance of democracy and the constitution. Despite the failure of Yoon's 'coup,' support for his actions remains, posing a dangerous threat. To prevent future constitutional crises, strict legal action and continued emphasis on the day's significance are essential. * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-12-03 09:23:53

Korea's top conglomerates vow near $700 bn domestic investment, doubling US commitment SEOUL, November 16 (AJP) - South Korea’s four largest conglomerates — Samsung, SK, Hyundai and LG — pledged more than 1,000 trillion won ($687 billion) in domestic investment over the next five years, vowing to build new AI, semiconductor and hydrogen hubs outside the capital region to counter concerns that Seoul’s $350 billion U.S. investment commitment could drain high-tech capacity and jobs from home. The massive investment plans were laid out during a two-hour meeting with President Lee Jae Myung on Sunday, just days after Seoul and Washington electronically signed a memorandum of understanding for a sweeping industrial trade package. The deal lowers U.S. tariffs on Korean exports and includes $200 billion in Korean capital injections in the United States and $150 billion in bilateral shipbuilding cooperation. Under the agreement, tariffs on key Korean automobile and pharmaceutical exports will be cut to 15 percent, while semiconductor tariffs will be kept “no less favorable” than the rates applied to Taiwan. The meeting was attended by Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong, SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won, Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Chung Euisun, LG Group Chairman Koo Kwang-mo, as well as senior leaders from HD Hyundai and Hanwha. President Lee urged the chiefs to ensure domestic investment does not lag behind U.S. commitments. “Some worry that U.S.-centered investment may weaken domestic activity,” he said. “I trust you will make sure those concerns do not become reality. Given Korea’s serious regional imbalance, I ask for even greater commitment to revitalizing local industries.” Samsung: Expanding domestic manufacturing, 60,000 new hires and national AI infrastructure Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong ensured no reduction in domestic investment, highlighting hiring commitments and new industrial sites outside the capital region. Samsung confirmed plans to invest 450 trillion won over five years, hire 60,000 workers, and expand advanced manufacturing capacity across memory semiconductors, displays and next-generation batteries. Samsung will begin construction of the fifth production line at its Pyeongtaek mega-campus, aiming for operation by 2028. The company is also building two major AI data centers in South Jeolla hosting 15,000 GPUs, and an AI service center in Gumi for Samsung affiliates. Samsung SDS, Samsung Display, Samsung SDI and Samsung Electro-Mechanics are each expanding facilities in Asan, Gwangju, Ulsan and Busan. SK Group: Yongin mega-fabrication site may reach 600 trillion won SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won said domestic investment requirements have grown significantly due to demand for high-performance memory and advanced manufacturing technologies. SK had initially projected 128 trillion won in domestic investment by 2028. But Chey said that the Yongin semiconductor cluster alone may require up to 600 trillion won over the coming years. “As each fab begins partial operations, we are adding more than 2,000 jobs per facility,” Chey said. “If construction accelerates, SK could create 14,000 to 20,000 jobs per year through 2029.” Hyundai Motor Group: 125 trillion won through 2030 — AI, robotics and green energy at the core Hyundai Motor Group Chairman Chung Eui-sun unveiled a 125 trillion won domestic investment program for 2026–2030, the largest in the company’s history. The amount would sharply exceed its investment of 89 trillion won over the last five years. It will allocate 50.5 trillion won to new businesses including AI autonomous driving, robotics and hydrogen energy, 38.5 trillion won to R&D, and 36.2 trillion won to manufacturing upgrades and facility investments. Hyundai will build a high-power AI data center with Nvidia, expand robotics testing through a new Physical AI Application Center, and invest in a 1GW PEM hydrogen electrolysis plant in the southwest region. New EV and hydrogen fuel cell factories are underway in Ulsan and scheduled to open between 2026 and 2027. The company will also cover U.S. tariff burdens for key auto-parts suppliers this year and extend support to secondary and tertiary vendors. LG Group: Strengthening the supply chain with 100 trillion won LG Group Chairman Koo Kwang-mo said LG will invest 100 trillion won domestically over five years, assigning 60% to materials, components and equipment — the backbone of long-term competitiveness. LG is also expanding AI-powered factory automation for both LG plants and partner SMEs, citing successful productivity gains from earlier pilots. * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-11-16 18:58:47

South Korea to launch special benefit program to nurture scientists and AI experts SEOUL, November 7 (AJP) - The government will foster scientists and related professionals by offering a range of benefits to support their research and other studies, the Ministry of Science and ICT said on Friday. The ministry plans to finalize concrete plans for such a program with an aim to launch it by the second half of next year. Under the program, about 20 scientists will be selected annually over the next five years to receive research grants, stipends, and various other benefits. "To attract top talent and boost scientific research, a record 35.3 trillion won has been allocated to research and development (R&D) in the government's budget," said Ha Jung-woo, presidential adviser for artificial intelligence (AI) and future strategies and former employee of the country's largest portal Naver, during a press briefing. "The government plans to expand science-focused schools and other specialized educational institutions to nurture students and young prodigies into AI experts, while aiming to attract 2,000 foreign specialists by 2030," he added, stressing the need to also enhance the competitiveness of provincial universities. "Under President Lee Jae Myung's strong commitment to transforming South Korea into a science and technology powerhouse, the government also plans to raise R&D spending to about five percent of the total annual government expenditure," Ha explained. Expressing optimism about a recent increase in applicants for science and math majors at universities, he hoped the upcoming program would further accelerate this trend. * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-11-07 16:41:33