AJU PRESS ASIA FIRST NEWS AGENCY

Journalist

Hwang Jin-hyun
  • Kim Se-woo Requests Review of Detention in Defamation Case Involving Kim Soo-hyun
    Kim Se-woo Requests Review of Detention in Defamation Case Involving Kim Soo-hyun Kim Se-woo, head of the Garosero Research Institute, has requested a court review of his detention related to defamation charges stemming from allegations that he spread false information about the late actress Kim Sae-ron's death. According to Yonhap News on June 1, Kim's legal team filed a request for a review of the legality of his detention at the Seoul Central District Court on May 31, five days after his arrest. The hearing for the review is scheduled for June 2 at 2:10 PM. This review process allows the court to reassess the legality and necessity of the detention. The court is required to interrogate the suspect and examine evidence within 48 hours of receiving the request. Kim is accused of disseminating false claims that Kim Soo-hyun pressured Kim Sae-ron, who was a minor at the time, regarding debt repayment, suggesting that this pressure was a direct cause of her death. He is also facing allegations of using artificial intelligence to manipulate Kim Sae-ron's voice, fabricating statements that she had sexual relations with Kim Soo-hyun during her second year of middle school, which would harm Kim Soo-hyun's reputation. Police believe Kim knowingly spread these falsehoods to attract public attention. He has made related claims during a press conference with Kim Sae-ron's family in March of last year. After a year-long investigation, the Gangnam Police in Seoul concluded that Kim had manipulated transcripts using AI, as claimed by Kim Soo-hyun's side. Consequently, on May 14, a warrant for Kim's arrest was issued, citing violations of laws concerning sexual violence, defamation, threats, and attempted coercion. The Seoul Central District Court detained Kim on May 26, citing concerns that he might destroy evidence or flee.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-01 20:36:00
  • Labor Minister Orders Investigation into Hanwha Aerospace Explosion
    Labor Minister Orders Investigation into Hanwha Aerospace Explosion Kim Young-hoon, the Minister of Labor, visited the Hanwha Aerospace plant in Daejeon on June 1, where an explosion occurred, to hold an emergency situation assessment meeting. According to the Labor Ministry, Minister Kim instructed the head of the Ministry's Industrial Safety and Health Agency and the director of the Industrial Safety and Health Office, who were dispatched to the scene, to thoroughly investigate the cause of the accident and determine accountability. He emphasized the need to swiftly and rigorously uncover the cause of the incident during a joint investigation scheduled for June 2. He also urged participants to pay special attention to safety measures. Additionally, he directed local governments to establish a comprehensive support system for the families of the victims and the injured. He called for careful consideration of trauma counseling support for witnesses and fellow workers. The Labor Ministry has formed a dedicated investigation team of about 20 members, including inspectors from the Daejeon Regional Employment and Labor Office's Serious Industrial Accident Investigation Division and the Serious Industrial Accident Prevention Center, to commence a thorough investigation into the cause of the accident. The ministry stated, "We will rigorously identify the exact cause of the explosion through on-site investigations," adding that it will strictly examine whether safety measures for handling hazardous materials and obligations under the Serious Accident Punishment Act were properly implemented. The dedicated investigation team plans to work closely with relevant agencies, including the prosecution and the Occupational Safety and Health Agency, to clarify the specifics of the accident and determine accountability. Minister Kim has instructed the establishment of a Central Industrial Accident Response Headquarters within the Labor Ministry and a Regional Industrial Accident Response Headquarters at the Daejeon Regional Employment and Labor Office. Immediately following the incident, the head of the Daejeon Labor Office and inspectors issued a work stoppage order at the plant.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-01 19:57:00
  • Safety Concerns Prompt Campaigns to Scale Back Ahead of Elections
    Safety Concerns Prompt Campaigns to Scale Back Ahead of Elections As major safety incidents have occurred ahead of the June 3 local elections and National Assembly by-elections, both ruling and opposition parties have decided to lower the intensity of their campaign activities. In response to the recent explosion at Hanwha Aerospace in Daejeon and a toxic gas leak at SK Hynix in Cheongju, the leadership of the Democratic Party and the People Power Party announced on June 1 that they would suspend public campaign schedules. Individual candidate camps have also opted to refrain from campaign songs, choreographed movements, and speeches using microphones, instead choosing to meet voters in a more subdued atmosphere. With just two days before the elections, both parties are taking a cautious approach, aware that inappropriate responses to safety incidents could negatively impact voter sentiment. Jeong Cheong-rae, the Democratic Party's chief campaign manager, issued an urgent directive to all candidates to halt campaign activities nationwide immediately following the Hanwha Aerospace incident. After presiding over a final central campaign committee meeting in Cheonan, Chungcheongnam-do, Jeong planned to visit Goesan, Andong, and Ulsan. However, upon arriving in Goesan, he stated, "I have come to announce the urgent suspension of all national campaign activities. I hope everyone follows the central party's guidelines and remains calm. In a situation where lives are at stake, we cannot conduct our campaign as usual." Jeong skipped a scheduled event to present campaign pledges for candidate Lee Cha-young in Goesan and proceeded to Andong, where he wore a black suit without a tie instead of the usual blue campaign attire. He made no remarks of support for Gyeongsangbuk-do governor candidate Oh Jung-ki or Andong mayor candidate Lee Sam-gyeol before heading directly to Daejeon, where the explosion occurred. His planned visit to Ulsan was canceled. Jo Seung-rae, the Democratic Party's chief campaign headquarters director, stated at a press conference that afternoon, "The Democratic Party will actively cooperate in the recovery efforts following the incidents and will continue to conduct calm campaign activities during the remaining campaign period." Seoul mayor candidate Oh Se-hoon also canceled his scheduled speeches at the Namseong Market in Dongjak-gu. However, policy meetings regarding redevelopment and reconstruction in Gangnam and Yongsan will proceed as planned. The People Power Party's Jang Dong-hyuk, the chief campaign director, and co-director Song Eon-seok also canceled their public campaign schedules. Initially, the campaign leadership planned to visit Jeju and the metropolitan area to rally support, but following the collapse incident at Seosomun High School and the Hanwha Aerospace explosion, they shifted to a more restrained approach. Jang instructed all candidate camps nationwide to refrain from using campaign songs and choreographed movements, emphasizing a calm campaign strategy. He expressed condolences on Facebook, stating, "I pray for the souls of those who tragically lost their lives in the incidents and extend my heartfelt condolences to their families. I wish for a swift recovery for the injured." Jang has canceled his visit to Ulsan and plans to visit the Hanwha Aerospace facility in Daejeon instead. Oh Se-hoon's campaign also announced, "We will completely ban choreographed movements and campaign songs during today's events, proceeding with a calm and quiet schedule." A press conference originally scheduled at the party headquarters in Yeouido to support Oh has also been postponed. 2026-06-01 19:48:00
  • Korean Party Files Complaint Against Choo Mi-ae for False Statements
    Korean Party Files Complaint Against Choo Mi-ae for False Statements 국민의힘이 1일 추미애 더불어민주당 경기도지사 후보를 공직선거법상 허위 사실 공표 혐의로 경찰에 고발했다. 국민의힘 중앙선거대책위원회 클린선거본부는 이날 보도자료를 통해 "추 후보를 공직선거법상 허위 사실 공표 혐의로 서울지방경찰청에 고발했다"고 밝혔다. 본부는 "추 후보는 지난 5월 27일 선거방송토론위원회 주최 경기도지사 후보자 초청 TV 토론회에서 아들 군 복무 관련 의혹에 대한 질문을 받고 '(아들 관련 사건은) 무혐의로 종결됐다'는 취지로 발언했다"며 "해당 발언이 후보자와 관련된 중요 사실관계를 왜곡함으로써 유권자의 올바른 판단을 저해하는 중대한 위법 행위라고 판단했다"고 설명했다. 이어 "확인 결과 해당 사건은 기소중지 상태이며, 기소중지는 수사 종결이 아니라 피의자의 소재 불명 등으로 수사를 진행할 수 없어 수사가 일시 중단된 상태를 의미하는 것"이라며 "이를 무혐의 종결로 포장한 것은 유권자의 선택을 오도하는 명백한 허위 사실"이라고 말했다. 그러면서 "후보자와 관련된 정확한 정보 제공은 공정한 선거의 기본 원칙인 만큼 철저히 수사해 진상을 규명해 줄 것을 촉구한다"고 강조했다. 앞서 추 후보는 지난달 27일 TV 토론회에서 아들의 카투사 복무 당시 병가 연장 의혹과 2018년 평창동계올림픽 통역병 선발 청탁 의혹에 대해 "이미 무혐의로 끝난 사안"이라며 "엄마가 정치를 하고 있기 때문에 계속 법적 시비를 거는 것뿐"이라고 해명한 바 있다. 2026-06-01 19:09:00
  • Prosecutors and Police Form Investigation Team for Hanwha Aerospace Explosion
    Prosecutors and Police Form Investigation Team for Hanwha Aerospace Explosion Prosecutors and police have launched a dedicated investigation team following an explosion at Hanwha Aerospace's Daejeon plant that resulted in seven casualties. According to Yonhap News, the Daejeon District Prosecutors' Office announced that it has formed a 10-member team led by Chief Prosecutor Jeon Young-woo, consisting of three prosecutors and six investigators. The prosecutors emphasized their commitment to thoroughly investigate the cause of the accident and determine accountability, stating, "We will work closely with relevant agencies such as the police and labor authorities to ensure a swift response for the victims." The Daejeon Police Agency is also expected to establish a dedicated investigation team, led by Chief of Investigation Oh Dong-wook. This team will include officers from the regional investigation unit, violent crimes division, and forensic science division. The explosion occurred at approximately 10:59 a.m. at the Hanwha Aerospace facility in Oesam-dong, Yuseong District, Daejeon. The incident resulted in five fatalities and two individuals suffering varying degrees of burns. On the same day, police conducted an initial site inspection in collaboration with fire authorities and the National Forensic Service. A detailed joint investigation is scheduled for the morning of June 2. The National Forensic Service is currently working to identify the deceased through DNA analysis.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-01 18:57:00
  • Weather Forecast: Rain in Southern Regions, Heat Continues in the North
    Weather Forecast: Rain in Southern Regions, Heat Continues in the North On Tuesday, June 2, rain is expected primarily in the southern regions, bringing a respite from the heat. In contrast, the central regions will continue to experience temperatures exceeding 30 degrees Celsius. In Jeju and the southern coasts of Jeollanam-do and Gyeongsangnam-do, rain that began the previous day will taper off by the afternoon. Other areas in Jeollanam-do and Gyeongsangnam-do will see rain starting early in the morning, which will expand to Daegu and Gyeongsangbuk-do by mid-morning. The forecast predicts rainfall amounts of 30 to 80 millimeters in Jeju, with some areas receiving over 120 millimeters and mountainous regions expecting more than 150 millimeters. The southern coasts of Jeollanam-do and Gyeongsangnam-do, as well as Busan and Ulsan, are expected to receive 20 to 60 millimeters, with some areas exceeding 80 millimeters. In the inland areas of Gwangju and Jeollanam-do, as well as Gyeongsangnam-do, rainfall of 5 to 30 millimeters is anticipated, while southern Jeollabuk-do and southeastern Daegu and Gyeongsangbuk-do may see 5 to 10 millimeters. Temperatures in the southern regions will drop significantly compared to the previous day, with highs expected to reach 29 degrees in Gwangju, 28 degrees in Daegu, and 24 degrees in both Changwon and Busan. Conversely, the central regions will continue to experience heat, with highs around 33 degrees in Seoul, 32 degrees in Incheon and Suwon, and 32 degrees in Chuncheon. Nationwide, morning lows are forecasted to be between 16 and 20 degrees, while daytime highs will range from 24 to 33 degrees. Wave heights in the seas will be between 0.5 and 2.0 meters in the East and South Seas, and between 0.5 and 1.0 meters in the West Sea. Offshore wave heights are expected to reach 0.5 to 3.5 meters in the East Sea, 0.5 to 2.5 meters in the West Sea, and 1.0 to 4.0 meters in the South Sea. Morning low temperatures in major regions are expected to be: Seoul 19 degrees, Incheon 17 degrees, Suwon 18 degrees, Chuncheon 16 degrees, Gangneung 19 degrees, Cheongju 20 degrees, Daejeon 19 degrees, Sejong 18 degrees, Jeonju 20 degrees, Gwangju 20 degrees, Daegu 20 degrees, Busan 20 degrees, Ulsan 19 degrees, Changwon 20 degrees, and Jeju 20 degrees. Daytime high temperatures are forecasted to be: Seoul 33 degrees, Incheon 32 degrees, Suwon 32 degrees, Chuncheon 32 degrees, Gangneung 29 degrees, Cheongju 31 degrees, Daejeon 31 degrees, Sejong 30 degrees, Jeonju 30 degrees, Gwangju 29 degrees, Daegu 28 degrees, Busan 24 degrees, Ulsan 25 degrees, Changwon 24 degrees, and Jeju 24 degrees.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-01 18:06:00
  • Trump Pressures Iran on Nuclear Weapons Ahead of Peace Talks
    Trump Pressures Iran on Nuclear Weapons Ahead of Peace Talks As negotiations between the U.S. and Iran approach a critical juncture, President Donald Trump has reiterated that a key condition for any agreement is the prohibition of nuclear weapons development and acquisition. In response, Iran has indicated it will propose amendments and prepare for a potential breakdown in talks. In an interview on Fox News with his daughter-in-law Lara Trump on May 30, Trump stated regarding the peace agreement with Iran, "I will make a deal. We can open the Strait of Hormuz immediately upon signing." However, he emphasized, "One guarantee I need is that they cannot have nuclear weapons." Trump noted, "They (Iran) agreed. They originally said they would not develop nuclear weapons, and when I asked, 'What if you buy nuclear weapons?' they now say they will not develop or purchase military weapons in any way. There is a significant difference." He added, "I am not rushing. Slowly but surely, we are getting what we want," and warned, "If we do not get what we want, we will end it in another way," suggesting the possibility of resuming military action if negotiations fail. U.S. officials have also continued to apply pressure on Iran. Treasury Secretary Scott Bancen stated in a Fox News interview on May 31, "Completing our mission means opening the Strait of Hormuz, securing enriched uranium, and ensuring Iran does not possess nuclear weapons." He noted that discussions about Iran not having nuclear weapons are happening for the first time in 47 years, thanks to Trump, and that this previously taboo topic is now on the negotiation table. Kevin Hassett, Chairman of the White House Council of Economic Advisers, mentioned in an ABC interview that Iran is under significant pressure to agree to the conditions set forth by Trump. Alongside diplomatic pressure, military tensions are escalating. The U.S. Central Command announced on June 1 via X (formerly Twitter) that it conducted defensive strikes against Iranian radar and drone control facilities on the islands of Goruk and Qeshm over the weekend. The Central Command described the strikes as a measured and deliberate response to Iran's aggressive actions, including the downing of a U.S. MQ-1 drone operating in international airspace. In retaliation, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced through state media that it targeted the airbase responsible for a recent U.S. military attack on communication towers on Sirik Island in the Hormuz region. Heightened Uncertainty in Negotiations Meanwhile, both countries continue to negotiate the terms of a peace agreement. The New York Times reported that Trump did not approve a preliminary memorandum of understanding (MOU) established between the U.S. and Iran, instead sending it back with strengthened conditions. However, specific details on what changes were made have not been disclosed. The semi-official Tasnim news agency reported that Iran is also expected to propose new amendments. A source stated, "The exchange of drafts is ongoing, and Iran will naturally reflect its own amendments in the agreement. Nothing has been finalized yet." The source emphasized, "Iran's criterion is whether we can agree on the text directly," adding that just because Trump’s team has applied amendments does not mean Iran will accept them. He also noted that Iran is thoroughly preparing for a scenario where no deal is reached. Iran has made it clear that it will not accept an agreement that does not guarantee its rights. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Iran's chief negotiator, stated in a televised address, "We will not approve any agreement until we are assured that the rights of the Iranian people are protected," adding, "The Iranian negotiating team does not trust the enemy's words or promises." Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also mentioned in an interview with state TV that while dialogue and message exchanges between Iran and the U.S. continue, no judgments can be made until clear results are achieved. Thus, the possibility of negotiations breaking down remains. Amid these developments, there are reports of internal conflicts in Iran regarding the peace negotiations and future decision-making structures. According to the semi-official Fars news agency, President Masoud Pezeshkian, identified as a pro-negotiation figure, stated during a cabinet meeting on May 31, "Iran's leadership should not consist solely of a limited group of leaders and bureaucrats." This reflects the confusion in Iran's decision-making process amid the rising influence of hardliners, particularly within the IRGC. Pezeshkian emphasized that the general public, as well as all social groups, economic stakeholders, and scientists, should participate in Iran's decision-making process, asserting that the more the public is involved in decision-making and problem-solving, the higher the likelihood of resolving issues. He urged that those responsible must stand with the people to address challenges during difficult times. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-01 16:54:00
  • Trump Faces Domestic and International Pressures Amid Iran Negotiations
    Trump Faces Domestic and International Pressures Amid Iran Negotiations Donald Trump is facing simultaneous challenges from both international and domestic fronts, including tensions over Iran and political conflicts at home, CNN reported on May 31. According to the report, Trump’s second term is at risk of stagnation due to backlash surrounding his exercise of power. The most pressing issue is negotiations with Iran. CNN noted that Trump recently sent back a draft agreement with Iran, requesting revisions. He sought stronger language regarding Iran's commitment to abandon nuclear weapons and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, while also expressing concerns over potential financial relief measures for Iran. However, the situation has become more complicated as the Iranian regime remains resilient despite U.S. and Israeli airstrikes, and Iran has enhanced its negotiating power by threatening to block the Strait of Hormuz. Senator Chris Coons, the Democratic chair of the Senate Armed Services Committee, stated on Fox News, "Iran is stronger now than it was 90 days ago before this war. They have closed the Strait of Hormuz using cheap, deadly drones and have attacked U.S. partners and allies in the region, as well as targeting oil and gas infrastructure and U.S. embassies and bases." Domestically, Trump's political standing is also under threat. A notable example is the backlash from within the Republican Party regarding a fund aimed at supporting victims of what Trump calls 'weaponized justice.' This fund emerged during negotiations to settle a lawsuit with the Department of Justice over leaked tax returns, amounting to approximately $1.776 billion. The Trump administration claims it is intended to assist those harmed by the alleged political misuse of judicial power during the Biden administration. However, concerns have arisen over the lack of clarity regarding the beneficiaries, with fears that individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol riot could receive compensation, leading to increased criticism from both sides of the political aisle. CNN reported that Republican opposition in the Senate over this fund has disrupted attempts to address immigration enforcement legislation before the Memorial Day recess. Dissatisfaction with Trump's unilateral leadership style is also growing. Trump has attempted to oust Republican senators he perceives as insufficiently loyal in primary elections, but this strategy is reportedly exacerbating dissent within the party. As the midterm elections approach, there are concerns that deepening divisions within the Republican Party could jeopardize their majority in the Senate. Controversy is also surrounding the planned 250th anniversary celebration. Trump is reportedly planning to set up a large UFC arena on the South Lawn of the White House for the event, which coincides with his 80th birthday on June 14. Critics argue that this national celebration is being used to bolster his personal image. Democrats are looking to highlight this issue in the midterm elections. Senator Cory Booker appeared on ABC, criticizing Trump for attempting to create a "slush fund" of $1.776 billion, claiming he wants to insert his name into our money, passports, and park admission tickets.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-01 15:36:00
  • SoftBank Expected to Overtake Toyota as Japans Most Valuable Company Amid AI Surge
    SoftBank Expected to Overtake Toyota as Japan's Most Valuable Company Amid AI Surge SoftBank Group is projected to surpass Toyota Motor Corporation to become Japan's most valuable company. According to Bloomberg on June 1, SoftBank Chairman Masayoshi Son's company saw its stock price surge by as much as 14% during trading on the Tokyo Stock Exchange. The rise was fueled by a broader rally in AI-related stocks across Asia, along with news that key portfolio companies OpenAI and SB Energy are preparing for U.S. listings, boosting investor sentiment. As a result of this increase, SoftBank's stock has risen over 80% this year, pushing its market capitalization beyond 46 trillion yen (approximately $436 billion), surpassing Toyota's roughly 45.8 trillion yen (about $434 billion). In contrast, Toyota's stock has fallen more than 10% this year, with a decline of about 5% at one point during the day. Bloomberg noted that this shift in market capitalization illustrates a rapid change in investor preference toward companies benefiting from AI infrastructure. While macroeconomic pressures and geopolitical tensions weigh on the automotive sector, the AI boom is driving gains in technology stocks. If SoftBank maintains its gains through the market close, it will become Japan's top company by market capitalization for the first time in over 20 years, having briefly surpassed Toyota during the peak of the Japanese internet bubble in 2000. However, the timing of the market capitalization shift may vary depending on the calculation method. Bloomberg indicated that under Japan's calculation method, which includes both outstanding shares and treasury stock, SoftBank is likely to surpass Toyota. Conversely, excluding treasury stock, SoftBank's market capitalization had already exceeded Toyota's last month. While it is customary in Japan to include treasury stock in market capitalization calculations, analysts often exclude it for global comparisons.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-01 14:39:00
  • Global Funds Target SK Hynix Amid Prolonged HBM Supply Shortage
    Global Funds Target SK Hynix Amid Prolonged HBM Supply Shortage Global top-tier technology funds are reportedly planning to invest in SK Hynix as the memory semiconductor supply crisis deepens. According to Bloomberg on June 1, Richard Claude, portfolio manager of Janus Henderson Investors' Global Technology Leaders Fund, announced plans to hold shares of SK Hynix. This fund, valued at $8.3 billion, has outperformed 96% of its peers this year and has recorded a 36% return over the past three years. It currently holds shares in U.S. memory semiconductor companies Micron Technology and SanDisk. Claude assessed that SK Hynix is well-positioned in the global HBM market and could see significant profit growth next year, largely due to the likelihood of long-term supply contract prices being adjusted at higher levels. "Most people now believe that this year's supply shortage will worsen next year," he said, adding that customers are willing to sign contracts under conditions that may seem quite harsh. Bloomberg noted that Claude's assessment is interpreted as strong support for SK Hynix, one of the key beneficiaries of the global AI rally. Despite growing concerns over valuation pressures on AI-related stocks, expectations persist that the ongoing shortage of advanced memory semiconductors could favorably alter the industry's supply-demand dynamics in the long term. According to Counterpoint Research, SK Hynix accounted for 57% of global HBM market revenue in the fourth quarter of 2025, while Samsung Electronics and Micron held 22% and 21%, respectively. Claude believes that despite the surge in memory semiconductor stocks, their valuations remain attractive. He noted that as profits grow rapidly, the price-to-earnings ratio (P/E) remains low. Bloomberg reported that Micron trades at about 10 times expected earnings, while both SK Hynix and Samsung Electronics are at approximately 7 times. This represents a significant discount compared to the Philadelphia Semiconductor Index's 27 times. However, Claude expressed a preference for pure memory semiconductor companies over Samsung Electronics, citing pressures from rising costs and slowing performance in Samsung's consumer electronics division. He stated, "These stocks are rising while becoming cheaper. They demonstrate incredible profit-generating power, making it very easy to hold onto them."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-01 14:12:00