Journalist

Kim Bongcheol
  • President Lee Warns Samsung Union: Respect for Labor Rights Must Align with Management Rights
    President Lee Warns Samsung Union: Respect for Labor Rights Must Align with Management Rights President Lee Jae-myung stated on May 18 that in South Korea, which adopts a free democratic order and capitalist market economy, both labor and management must be respected. He emphasized that labor rights should be honored as much as management rights.This is the first time President Lee has directly addressed the Samsung Electronics union. With a strike planned for May 21, attention is focused on how his comments may influence negotiations between the company and its labor force.In a post on X (formerly Twitter), President Lee stressed that workers should receive fair compensation for their labor, while shareholders who bear risks and losses should also share in corporate profits.He noted that at one time, the Constitution included a provision for workers' equitable distribution of corporate profits, which was removed during the 1962 constitutional amendment process.President Lee hinted at the possibility of invoking 'emergency arbitration,' stating that while the current Constitution guarantees basic rights for all citizens, these rights can be limited for public welfare as long as the essence is not violated. If emergency arbitration is enacted, strikes would be prohibited for 30 days.He remarked, "Where there is light, there is shadow; where there is a high mountain, there is a deep valley," and referenced the concepts of 'excess leads to deficiency' and 'extremes lead to reversals.' His comments are interpreted as a response to the Samsung union's demands to eliminate the cap on performance bonuses, which they seek to formalize as 50% of annual salary and to allocate 15% of operating profit for bonuses.President Lee called for dialogue between labor and management, stating, "Being strong does not mean having more or being happier; a new future for South Korea is one where we support each other and live well together."Labor Minister Kim Young-hoon responded to the President's social media message, stating that he would ensure labor negotiations contribute to the healthy development of the national economy.Minister Kim remarked, "The spirit of solidarity shown during the May 1980 Gwangju uprising is more relevant today than ever," and pledged to work towards fair compensation and addressing polarization in the economy through labor negotiations.On the same day, the business community issued a joint statement urging the Samsung union to withdraw its strike plans and requesting immediate emergency arbitration if a strike occurs. Six business organizations, including the Korea Employers Federation and the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry, expressed deep concern that the union is sticking to its existing position despite government and labor committee efforts, stating that a strike would undermine the foundation of a key national industry and urging the union to resolve issues through dialogue.The business community emphasized that the issue of performance bonuses is more a matter of management judgment than a subject for collective bargaining, warning that excessive demands from some unions could deepen the dual structure of the labor market and increase social discord.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-18 20:13:00
  • President Lee Promises Constitutional Inclusion of May 18 Spirit and New Registration System
    President Lee Promises Constitutional Inclusion of May 18 Spirit and New Registration System President Lee Jae-myung pledged on May 18 to include the spirit of the May 18 Democratic Movement in the Constitution and to establish a new registration system to address the gaps for democratic heroes. He reiterated the government's unwavering responsibility towards victims of state violence.President Lee made these key policy announcements during the 46th anniversary commemoration of the May 18 Democratic Movement held at the May 18 Democracy Square in front of the former Jeonnam Provincial Office in Gwangju.In his commemorative speech, President Lee emphasized the need to enshrine the spirit of May 18 in the Constitution.He urged bipartisan cooperation, stating, "This is a promise to the people that transcends political interests, and I earnestly ask for the cooperation and determination of both ruling and opposition parties." He stressed, "The democratic ideals of the May 18 Democratic Movement must be firmly inscribed in the Constitution of the Republic of Korea."President Lee also announced the introduction of the 'May 18 Democratic Heroes Registration System' as part of veterans' policies. He referenced the case of the late Yang Chang-geun, who was not recognized as a hero due to the absence of direct family members to apply for registration, saying, "We will establish a registration system to ensure that not a single sacrifice is overlooked."He declared, "From now on, the government will become a family for each victim of state violence," and assured, "The state will fulfill its responsibilities to the end."The President also outlined government support for symbolic spaces related to May 18. He referred to the recently restored former Jeonnam Provincial Office as "the last bastion of citizen resistance against illegal state violence" and vowed to make it a living shrine of K-democracy where citizens from around the world can learn and remember.President Lee identified the 'May spirit' as a source of strength to overcome the complex crises currently facing South Korea, including weakened growth potential, deepening inequality, upheaval in international order, and regional decline.He remarked, "I see hope in Gwangju, where joy was shared even under the oppressive rule of a dictatorship armed with guns and swords."The President's speech connected the resistance in Gwangju in 1980 to the preservation of constitutional order by citizens during the December 3, 2024, martial law crisis.He stated, "The December 3 insurrection was still an unanswered question from May," and noted, "Just as the citizens of Gwangju confronted the martial law troops in May 1980, the people of South Korea in 2024 stood against armed martial law troops with their bare hands."He emphasized, "In 1980, in that fleeting moment when the unjust power withdrew, Gwangju gathered all its strength to bloom the 'Great Unity World,' which in 2024 revived as the 'Light Revolution' protecting democracy through the warmth of each other on that harsh winter night."This year's May 18 commemoration was only the second held in front of the former Jeonnam Provincial Office since the government designated the day as a memorial in 1997. Approximately 3,000 people attended the ceremony, including May 18 Democratic heroes, their families, government officials, and citizens.Before the event, President Lee and First Lady Kim Hye-kyung visited the National May 18 Democratic Cemetery in Gwangju. The couple paid respects at the graves of martyrs Park In-bae, Yang Chang-geun, and Kim Myung-sook, comforting grieving family members.After the ceremony, they visited the restored former Jeonnam Provincial Office to celebrate its opening and view a special exhibition.The former Jeonnam Provincial Office is a symbolic site of the May 18 Democratic Movement, where citizens of Gwangju fought to protect democracy in May 1980. Throughout the exhibition, First Lady Kim showed special consideration for Kim Gil-ja, the mother of the late Moon Jae-hak, who inspired the novel 'A Boy Comes.'President Lee then visited the mayor of Namgu in Gwangju, listening to the voices of citizens and merchants over lunch. The Namgu mayor highlighted the traditional market centered around the former Namgwangju Station, known for its fresh seafood arriving every dawn from the southwestern coast.The presidential couple enjoyed a meal of dried radish and cod fish at a market restaurant, engaging with the merchant association president, Son Seung-ki, about the local economy and market conditions.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-18 18:12:38
  • President Lee: We Will Boldly Uphold the Spirit of May 18
    President Lee: We Will Boldly Uphold the Spirit of May 18 President Lee Jae-myung stated on May 18, "The government of the people will boldly carry forward the spirit of May 18, striving for the 'country where the people are the masters' that Gwangju has long yearned for."In his commemorative speech at the 46th anniversary of the May 18 Democratic Movement held at the May 18 Democratic Square in front of the former Jeonnam Provincial Office in Gwangju, President Lee emphasized, "With the freedom, equality, and unity that May Gwangju has left us, I will do my utmost to overcome the current crisis and pass on a glorious and brighter future."He promised that the government would continuously document, remember, compensate, and honor the May 18 movement, stating, "The Gwangju of 1980 saved today's Republic of Korea and will continue to save its future. We will include the May 18 movement in the preamble of the Constitution, designate the Jeonnam Provincial Office as a 'living shrine of K-Democracy,' and establish a system for the official registration of May 18 democratic activists."President Lee remarked, "It was on the solid foundation of the May 18 spirit, which ultimately preserved human dignity in the face of horrific violence, that the Republic of Korea has walked the path of democracy and prosperity. It is because of you that our democracy did not collapse at the crossroads of our tumultuous modern history and could rise again."He continued, "Just as the citizens of Gwangju rose up against the martial law troops in May 1980, the great people of Korea in 2024 also stood against the armed martial law forces with bare hands. The 'great world of unity' that Gwangju created with all its strength in that fleeting moment when unjust power withdrew in 1980 has been reborn as the 'Revolution of Light,' where we protect democracy with each other's warmth on those harsh winter nights in 2024."President Lee concluded, "The shining spirit of May 18 has led the Republic of Korea down new paths of change and hope throughout history, and it now presents a new challenge of integration between Gwangju and Jeonnam. The united hands of Gwangju and Jeonnam will stand tall as a new milestone of coexistence and mutual prosperity, rewriting the history of balanced development."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-18 13:38:29
  • President Lee Attends 5·18 Memorial Ceremony, Remembers Gwangju Solidarity and Sacrifice
    President Lee Attends 5·18 Memorial Ceremony, Remembers Gwangju Solidarity and Sacrifice President Lee Jae-myung attended the 46th anniversary memorial ceremony for the Gwangju Uprising held on May 18 at the 5·18 Democracy Square in front of the former Jeonnam Provincial Office in Gwangju.The ceremony was organized to honor the spirit of citizens and students who resisted military dictatorship to protect democracy 46 years ago and to console the families of the victims.This year's memorial marks the first since the establishment of the people's sovereignty government and was themed "May, Embracing the Plaza Again." The theme reflects a commitment to remember the solidarity and sacrifices shown in Gwangju in May 1980 and to continue the spirit of May together.Notably, the ceremony took place at the newly opened 5·18 Democracy Square, which has been under restoration since 2019. This historic site was where various rallies were held during the Gwangju Uprising, using the fountain in the square as a podium.Approximately 3,000 people attended the ceremony, including 5·18 democracy activists, their families, government officials, and citizens, to commemorate the victims of the Gwangju Uprising and express their gratitude.Before the ceremony, President Lee and First Lady Kim Hye-kyung paid their respects at the 5·18 Memorial Tower in the National 5·18 Democratic Cemetery in Gwangju, alongside leaders of 5·18 civic organizations and representatives of the victims' families. They also visited the graves of three martyrs, including Park In-bae, to honor their memory and express gratitude.The ceremony included a national tribute, a thematic video, commemorative speeches, a special performance for the opening of the former Jeonnam Provincial Office, and a rendition of the song "March for the Beloved."The thematic video vividly depicted the events of the Gwangju Uprising through archival footage and interviews, followed by a declaration from three leaders of 5·18 civic organizations pledging to carry on the spirit of May.The commemorative performance featured actors and a theater troupe reading poetry, novels, and diaries symbolizing the spirit of May, concluding with attendees standing to sing "March for the Beloved."The Gwangju Uprising was a popular uprising that took place from May 18 to 27, 1980, when citizens of Gwangju rose against military dictatorship to defend democracy. On May 25, 2011, documents and photographs related to the Gwangju Uprising were registered as UNESCO World Documentary Heritage.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-18 13:17:57
  • President Lee Criticizes Samsung Union Strike, Emphasizes Respect for Corporate Rights
    President Lee Criticizes Samsung Union Strike, Emphasizes Respect for Corporate Rights President Lee Jae-myung emphasized on May 18 that both labor rights and corporate management rights must be respected in the ongoing negotiations between Samsung Electronics and its labor union.In a post on X (formerly Twitter), President Lee stated, "In South Korea, which adopts a free democratic order and a capitalist market economy, labor must be respected just as much as corporations."He added, "Workers should receive fair compensation for their labor, and shareholders who bear risks and losses should have a share in corporate profits," noting that the original constitutional provision for workers' equitable share of corporate profits was once included in the 1948 Constitution.The equitable share of corporate profits refers to the right of workers to receive a portion of a company's profits. This right was enshrined in the 1948 Constitution to protect workers' fundamental rights but was removed during the 1962 constitutional revision due to practical difficulties in its application.President Lee further criticized, "While the current constitution guarantees the basic rights of all citizens, these rights can be limited for public welfare as long as the essence is not violated. Just as there are peaks in mountains, there are also deep valleys. Excessive actions can lead to adverse outcomes."He concluded, "It is not about having more and being happier because one is strong; rather, a new future for South Korea lies in solidarity, responsibility, and a world where everyone thrives together."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-18 12:21:23
  • President Lee Discusses Middle East Peace with Trump
    President Lee Discusses Middle East Peace with Trump President Lee Jae-myung held a phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump on the evening of May 17, discussing the recent U.S.-China summit results and ways to enhance Korea-U.S. relations.According to Chief Presidential Secretary Kang Yu-jeong, the call took place at 10 p.m. and lasted about 30 minutes. The conversation was initiated at the request of South Korea to hear about the outcomes of the U.S.-China summit.During the call, President Trump shared details of the U.S.-China summit with President Lee, and both leaders discussed the peace situation on the Korean Peninsula and the smooth implementation of the Joint Fact Sheet signed last year.President Lee congratulated Trump on the successful state visit to China, which was the first in nine years, and noted that stable management of U.S.-China relations would contribute to peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region and globally.Additionally, President Lee praised the constructive discussions between President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping regarding the Korean Peninsula.In response, President Trump affirmed his commitment to play a necessary role in ensuring peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula through close cooperation between the two leaders.The two leaders also recalled that the Joint Fact Sheet announced last year represented a historic agreement that upgraded the Korea-U.S. alliance to a new level, and they agreed to work diligently toward its faithful implementation.Kang noted that President Lee appreciated Trump's proactive leadership in resolving the situation in the Middle East and expressed hope for a swift restoration of peace and stability in the region. Both leaders also expressed anticipation for their upcoming meeting at the G7 summit scheduled for mid-June.Meanwhile, following the U.S.-China summit, President Trump has been sharing the outcomes with allied leaders. On May 15, he spoke for about 15 minutes with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to discuss the results of his visit to China. 2026-05-18 00:04:06
  • President Yoon Discusses U.S.-China Summit with President Trump
    President Yoon Discusses U.S.-China Summit with President Trump President Yoon Suk Yeol held a phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump on the evening of May 17, discussing the outcomes of the recent U.S.-China summit.Chief Presidential Secretary Kang Yu-jeong stated in a written briefing that President Yoon spoke with President Trump for about 30 minutes starting at 10 p.m. The call was initiated at the request of South Korea to hear the results of the U.S.-China summit.During the conversation, President Trump shared details of the U.S.-China summit with President Yoon, and the two leaders also discussed issues related to peace on the Korean Peninsula and the smooth implementation of the Joint Fact Sheet signed last year.Meanwhile, following the U.S.-China summit, President Trump has been sharing the outcomes with leaders of allied nations. On May 15, he spoke for about 15 minutes with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to discuss the results of his visit to China.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-17 23:12:47
  • President Lee Calls Private Retaliation a Serious Crime
    President Lee Calls Private Retaliation a Serious Crime President Lee Jae-myung stated on May 15 that "private retaliation is a serious crime for both the requester and the executor," urging individuals not to let trivial matters ruin their lives.In a post on X (formerly Twitter), President Lee emphasized that disputes in a modern civilized society should be resolved according to the rule of law.He attached a document detailing an incident in which a suspected act of private retaliation occurred, including the painting of an apartment entrance in Incheon’s Seo-gu, which is currently under police investigation.The rise of so-called "retaliation services," where individuals are hired to vandalize property or distribute threatening flyers, has sparked social controversy recently.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-16 01:00:32
  • President Lee Engages with Community Through Rice Planting and Lunch with Former Teacher
    President Lee Engages with Community Through Rice Planting and Lunch with Former Teacher President Lee Jae-myung continued his community engagement efforts on May 15, traveling between his hometown of Andong in Gyeongbuk and Gunwi-gun in Daegu.On the occasion of Teacher's Day, President Lee had lunch with his former elementary school teacher, Park Byeong-gi, and alumni from Samgye Elementary School in Andong before visiting Umusil Village in Gunwi-gun.Dressed casually in beige pants and a checkered shirt, President Lee arrived at the village, donned a straw hat and boots, and participated in rice planting using a rice transplanter after receiving instructions.As he loaded seedlings onto the transplanter, local residents cheered, prompting him to respond, "I’m doing better than I thought."President Lee drove the transplanter alone for over 100 meters to plant the seedlings. While jumping over a muddy path, he joked, "It feels like I’ve worked hard," as mud splattered on his face.He also observed a demonstration of drone pest control and remarked, "This is much better than what I did," eliciting laughter from those present.Before the planting experience, he welcomed residents who requested photos, smiling as he said, "This is all part of farming too."During a break, he sat under a zelkova tree with farmers, sharing dishes like banquet noodles, tofu kimchi, and makgeolli while holding an impromptu meeting.Additionally, President Lee engaged residents in conversation about the market for agricultural products and the income of the local community."Having planted rice myself, I can feel how much effort farmers put in on-site," he said, expressing hopes for a bountiful harvest.Before his visit to Gunwi-gun, President Lee inspected the construction site for the Daegu-Gyeongbuk Integrated New Airport in Gunwi-gun and Uiseong-gun, reviewing the progress and conditions of the project, according to Deputy Spokesperson Ahn Gwi-ryeong in a written briefing.The site visit was arranged to hear about the challenges in the ongoing process of the Daegu-Gyeongbuk Integrated New Airport, a major regional issue. President Lee received updates on the project's progress from officials of Daegu City, the Ministry of National Defense, and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport.Daegu City officials reported that excessive financial costs have arisen in the process of securing funding for relocating the urban military airport for the new airport, warning that risks associated with the prolonged project are concentrated on the city and requesting national-level support.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-16 00:52:44
  • South Koreas Blue House Protests Bloombergs AI Profit Distribution Report
    South Korea's Blue House Protests Bloomberg's AI Profit Distribution Report The Blue House has confirmed that it sent an official letter to Bloomberg protesting the news agency's interpretation of Policy Chief Kim Yong-beom's proposal for a 'citizen dividend' as a distribution of 'excess profits' from artificial intelligence (AI) companies.In the letter sent the previous day, the Blue House expressed serious concerns about how Bloomberg reported Kim's personal social media post.The Blue House stated that Bloomberg's 'inaccurate framing' has caused 'substantial confusion in the market' and has had a clearly negative impact on investor sentiment. It demanded that Bloomberg acknowledge this and issue a formal apology for the adverse effects on the market.The Blue House clarified that Kim's remarks were about how to allocate 'excess tax revenue' from corporate taxes, not about distributing 'excess profits' from companies, which it described as a 'serious misunderstanding.'The Blue House requested a correction of Bloomberg's report, which suggested that Kim initially spoke about profit distribution and later clarified his comments. However, Bloomberg has yet to respond to the Blue House's request.In the letter, the Blue House emphasized that Kim has never advocated for the redistribution of corporate profits, proposed a windfall tax on companies, or suggested directly transferring private sector profits.Earlier, on May 12, Kim mentioned in a Facebook post that 'the fruits of the AI infrastructure era are not solely the result of specific companies' and referred to the 'citizen dividend system' to return these benefits to the public. The post included a suggestion to consider how to utilize any excess tax revenue that may arise.Bloomberg previously reported Kim's comments under the headline 'South Korea Floats Citizen Dividend Using AI Profits.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-16 00:40:09