Journalist

Kim Bongcheol
  • South Korea Welcomes US-China Summit; Deputy Foreign Minister to Visit Washington
    South Korea Welcomes US-China Summit; Deputy Foreign Minister to Visit Washington South Korea's Blue House expressed a welcoming stance on May 15 regarding the US-China summit held in Beijing between President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Hong Kyoo-yeon, the Chief of Public Relations, stated during a briefing at the Chunchugwan that the South Korean government welcomes the meeting as it fosters a framework for cooperation between the US and China. He added, "We expect that this will strengthen the relationships between South Korea and China, as well as between South Korea and the United States." In related news, Deputy Foreign Minister Park Yoon-joo is set to visit the United States to meet with Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau and Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Allison Hooker. Park will be in Washington from May 18 for three days to discuss a wide range of topics, including follow-up actions on the joint fact sheet from the South Korea-US summit and various regional and global issues. She is also expected to request a briefing on the outcomes of the US-China summit. Reports indicate that while President Trump and President Xi reaffirmed a truce on tariffs, they did not reach a clear agreement on issues related to semiconductors, rare earths, and advanced technology controls.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-15 21:57:00
  • President Lee Meets Former Teacher on Teachers Day
    President Lee Meets Former Teacher on Teacher's Day President Lee Jae-myung met with his former elementary school teacher, Park Byeong-gi, on Teacher's Day, expressing his gratitude.Ahn Gyu-ryeong, deputy spokesperson for the Blue House, announced in a written briefing that President Lee had lunch with Park and fellow alumni from Samgye Elementary School at a restaurant in Andong, North Gyeongsang Province. Park was Lee's sixth-grade homeroom teacher at Samgye Elementary.During the meeting, President Lee pinned a carnation on Park's chest and said, "Thank you so much, teacher," before embracing him.Park expressed his gratitude for the occasion, stating, "I am really thankful for this gathering. Today is truly a happy day." He added, "I am deeply moved. I wonder what kind of teacher gets to experience such honor," as he became emotional.Deputy Spokesperson Ahn reported that President Lee, Park, and the alumni enjoyed a warm atmosphere while sharing memories over a meal that included bulgogi, tofu kimchi, and cabbage pancakes.Park thanked President Lee for "restoring the country to its rightful place," noting that he often hears people saying, 'Lee Jae-myung is doing well,' which makes him feel good. He expressed confidence that Lee would continue to excel, urging him to work hard for the development of their hometown.President Lee replied, "I want to thank you once again, teacher. It was truly a pleasure to see friends here, and I hope we all live healthily in a better world."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-15 21:37:40
  • Blue House Hopes for Resolution as Samsung Workers Threaten Strike
    Blue House Hopes for Resolution as Samsung Workers Threaten Strike The Blue House expressed concern on May 15 regarding the Samsung Electronics labor union's announcement of a potential general strike, stating, "Given Samsung's significant role in the national economy, we hope that a strike can be avoided and that negotiations between labor and management conclude successfully." Lee Gyu-yeon, the Blue House's chief of public relations, addressed questions during a briefing at the Chunchugwan regarding whether the government is considering invoking emergency mediation rights if the union proceeds with the strike. He responded, "We are not at a stage where such a decision can be made yet." Lee emphasized, "We are not merely observing; Samsung's impact on the national economy is substantial. Approximately one in ten citizens holds Samsung Electronics stock, either directly or indirectly, and there are around 1,700 partner companies associated with it." He added, "We are watching the situation with considerable concern and apprehension." However, he clarified that this concern does not automatically lead to the invocation of emergency mediation rights. He noted that Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy Kim Jeong-kwan had mentioned the necessity of such action, stating, "I believe he was expressing what needed to be said in his capacity as the Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy." Minister Kim had previously indicated via X (formerly Twitter) that if the Samsung Electronics union proceeds with the general strike on May 21, invoking emergency mediation rights would be unavoidable. If the Minister of Employment and Labor invokes these rights, the union would be required to suspend all strike activities for 30 days. Lee also addressed questions about whether Minister Kim's comments were made without coordination with the Blue House, stating, "That is not the case. Each ministry is fulfilling its respective roles, including the Ministry of Economy and Finance, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, and the Ministry of Employment and Labor." * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-15 15:15:46
  • New Appointments in South Koreas Ministry of Health and Customs Service
    New Appointments in South Korea's Ministry of Health and Customs Service President Lee Jae-myung appointed Hyun Soo-yeop as the new Deputy Minister of Health and Welfare and Lee Jong-wook as the Commissioner of the Korea Customs Service on May 15. This reshuffle comes less than a year after both officials were initially appointed.Lee Gyu-yeon, senior secretary for public relations at the Blue House, announced the personnel changes during a briefing at the Chunchugwan.Hyun Soo-yeop, the new Deputy Minister, is a seasoned bureaucrat who has held key positions in the ministry, including Director of Population and Child Policy and Head of Childcare Policy.Lee noted that Hyun, a working mother of four, has significantly contributed to improving the working conditions for childcare teachers and implementing on-site childcare systems. He described her as the right person to build a comprehensive social safety net that encompasses both welfare and health.Regarding Lee Jong-wook, the new Customs Commissioner, Lee highlighted his success in uncovering large-scale illegal exports and collaborating with the Thai government to crack down on drug trafficking. He emphasized that Lee is well-suited to support stable trade and investment activities for domestic companies while preventing customs violations that threaten public safety.Hyun Soo-yeop and Lee Myung-koo were appointed in June and July of last year, respectively, with Hyun being designated as the 'Dedicated Deputy Minister for Social Isolation' just two days prior to this announcement.When asked about the reasons for the personnel changes, Lee Gyu-yeon acknowledged the challenges of starting a new role and expressed gratitude for the contributions both officials made in laying the groundwork for policies in their respective fields. He added that the new appointments are expected to lead to more efficient and elevated policy development.Additionally, President Lee appointed Moon Sung-yo, the Planning and Coordination Director at the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, as the new head of the Saemangeum Development Agency, following the vacancy left by Kim Ui-gyeom's candidacy for a by-election in Gunsan, Gimje, and Buan.Lee Gyu-yeon described Moon as a veteran bureaucrat in land and urban development, noting his role in establishing the infrastructure for administrative-centered complex cities and developing the Busan-Ulsan-Gyeongnam master plan. He expressed optimism that Saemangeum will play a significant role in becoming a hub for future advanced industries such as robotics, hydrogen, and artificial intelligence (AI).Furthermore, President Lee appointed Hong Mi-young, a former lawmaker, as chair of the Sustainable Development Commission, Kim Ki-young, a professor at Yonsei University, as chair of the National Library Commission, and Baek Jong-woo, a professor in the Department of Mental Health at Kyung Hee University, as vice chair of the National Safety Commission.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-15 15:01:39
  • Kim Jong Un Takes Commemorative Photo with Participants of the 9th Workers Federation Congress
    Kim Jong Un Takes Commemorative Photo with Participants of the 9th Workers' Federation Congress Kim Jong Un, Chairman of the Workers' Party of Korea, took a commemorative photo with participants of the 9th Congress of the Korean General Federation of Trade Unions on May 14.According to a report by the Korean Central News Agency on May 15, Kim urged the entire working class and union members to lead the changes of the era under the banner of the three revolutions and to drive the country toward the achievement of the new five-year goals.He emphasized that the significant transitional period ahead requires the unwavering leadership and extraordinary efforts of the working class, which is the main force of creation and construction. He stated, "It is the fundamental task facing the working class and union members at this stage of socialist construction to further elevate the spirit of self-reliance and self-sustenance across all areas of ideology, technology, and culture."Kim also congratulated the newly elected chairman and vice-chairmen of the 9th Central Committee of the Federation and acknowledged the contributions of union members.To commemorate the 9th Congress, the Federation held a performance titled "Forward with the Great Party!" featuring the Central Workers' Art Propaganda Troupe and grassroots propaganda workers at the Central Workers' Hall. The Korean Central News Agency reported that Kim Yong Sop, deputy director of the Party Central Committee, Ri Won Jong, chairman of the Federation's Central Committee, and other officials attended the performance, although it did not specify the date and location of the event. The 9th Congress of the Federation was held in Pyongyang from May 11 to 12.The Federation is considered one of North Korea's "four major labor organizations," alongside the Socialist Women's Union, the Socialist Patriotic Youth League, and the Agricultural Workers' Union.These organizations serve to disseminate and implement the policies and lines determined by the Party, with mandatory membership for youth, women, workers, and farmers.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-15 13:49:06
  • President Lee Emphasizes Innovation Growth in Meeting with Nobel Laureate Peter Howitt
    President Lee Emphasizes Innovation Growth in Meeting with Nobel Laureate Peter Howitt President Lee Jae-myung met with Peter Howitt, a professor at Brown University and last year's Nobel Prize winner in Economics, on May 15 at the Blue House. During the meeting, Lee credited Howitt's guidance through his former student, Chief Economic Advisor Ha Joon-kyung, for helping South Korea achieve the highest global growth rate in the first quarter of this year."Your mentorship has greatly benefited our national policies," Lee said, acknowledging Howitt's influence on Ha, who was advised by Howitt during his doctoral studies at Brown University in 2003.Lee noted that Ha is directly overseeing South Korea's economic growth strategy, emphasizing that the country is focusing on innovation-driven growth, as taught by Howitt.He also requested Howitt's insights on South Korea's economic growth strategy, adding, "I apologize for the delay, but congratulations on your Nobel Prize win."Howitt expressed gratitude for the meeting, mentioning that he had heard it was Teacher's Day in South Korea. He expressed joy in seeing Ha implement the teachings he provided.He remarked, "The large corporations that have driven South Korea's economic growth for decades are not resting on their laurels but are continuing to innovate at a high level. I found that South Korea's R&D spending is the second highest in the world relative to GDP."Howitt praised President Lee's support for startups and small businesses, calling them the key drivers of economic growth and highlighting the incentives and financial support being provided under Lee's leadership. He noted the importance of ensuring that the benefits of growth are distributed inclusively and that rational policies are established.He also commended the government's efforts to maintain a sound fiscal policy while minimizing deficits and effectively managing inflation targets.Howitt concluded by emphasizing that despite the current unstable and uncertain global environment, South Korea has achieved impressive results, stating, "While many countries face various headwinds, few have navigated these challenges as successfully as South Korea."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-15 13:46:26
  • Japanese Prime Minister Kono to Visit South Korea for Shuttle Diplomacy
    Japanese Prime Minister Kono to Visit South Korea for Shuttle Diplomacy South Korea's Blue House announced on May 15 that Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi will visit Andong, South Korea, from May 19 to 20 at the invitation of President Lee Jae-myung.In a written briefing, Chief Spokesperson Kang Yoo-cheong explained that Takaichi's visit comes about four months after President Lee's trip to Japan in January, marking the first reciprocal hometown visit between the leaders of the two nations.On the first day of the visit, May 19, the two leaders will hold both small and expanded summit meetings, a joint press conference, and a dinner, along with additional informal engagements.During the summit, they will discuss the future direction of South Korea-Japan relations and seek to enhance practical cooperation in various areas directly affecting citizens, including the economy, society, and public safety. They will also address regional and global issues, including the situation in the Middle East.Kang expressed hope that the shuttle diplomacy between Prime Minister Takaichi and President Lee, expanding from Gyeongju to Andong and other regional cities, will deepen the strong ties and trust between the two leaders and solidify the foundation for a forward-looking development of South Korea-Japan relations.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-15 12:09:23
  • Lee expresses respect on Teachers Day
    Lee expresses respect on Teachers' Day SEOUL, May 15 (AJP) - President Lee Jae Myung on Friday expressed "deep respect and gratitude" to teachers as the country marked Teachers' Day. In a Facebook post, he thanked teachers across the country "who are working tirelessly in schools and classrooms even at this moment." He added, "Because of their efforts and dedication, today's Korea exists." He also pledged to do his best to create better environments in which teachers can concentrate on teaching their students, with support to help them keep their passion and sense of calling from fading. His comments came amid growing calls for stronger protection for teachers amid recent incidents of abusive behavior toward teachers by parents and students. Quoting a saying, "We receive life from our parents, but learn from our teachers how to make life meaningful," he recalled that, as a child, he gained the courage to move forward thanks to a teacher's warm encouragement. He added that a single encouragement from that teacher has remained a "great source of strength" for him even after many years. 2026-05-15 10:29:32
  • President Lee Sends Respectful Message on Teachers Day
    President Lee Sends Respectful Message on Teacher's Day President Lee Jae-myung expressed his deep respect and gratitude to all teachers across the nation on Teacher's Day, stating, "I extend my heartfelt appreciation to all teachers who are sweating it out in schools and classrooms at this very moment."In a Facebook post titled "To the Great Teachers Who Teach the Present and Shape the Future," President Lee emphasized that the existence of today's South Korea is due to the efforts and dedication of teachers.He quoted, "While I received life from my parents, I learned how to make that life meaningful from my teachers," describing teachers as those who give wings to children's dreams, provide encouragement to rise again, and often watch their growth from a closer position than parents.Reflecting on his own childhood, he recalled, "Thanks to the warm encouragement of my teacher, I gained the courage to move forward," adding that a single word from his teacher continues to support him to this day.President Lee noted, "I learned through my teachers that sincere interest and belief from someone can change a person's life," and he believes this experience is a cherished memory for many citizens as well.He acknowledged that "each day in the classroom is never light," stressing the need to understand the feelings of children who struggle to express themselves and to not overlook even the smallest words, but to grasp their underlying meanings.The president recognized that there will be moments when teachers share in the pain and tears of their students, stating, "I am well aware that the difficulties and responsibilities that teachers face in a rapidly changing educational environment are also increasing."He promised, "I will do my utmost to create a better environment where our teachers can fully dedicate themselves to education," vowing to continuously provide practical support and changes to ensure that teachers' passion and sense of mission do not fade away.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-15 09:42:00
  • President Lee Shares U.S. Treasury Secretarys Post, Emphasizes U.S.-Korea Partnership
    President Lee Shares U.S. Treasury Secretary's Post, Emphasizes U.S.-Korea Partnership President Lee Jae-myung stated on May 14 that "South Korea and the United States are the most important partners supporting each other's growth."In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), President Lee highlighted U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Besant's message, affirming that despite challenging international circumstances, the two countries will work closely to create opportunities and pave the way for shared prosperity.He emphasized that as South Korea prepares to assume the G20 presidency in 2028, it will communicate with the United States, the G20 president in 2026, to fulfill its responsible role in the international community.President Lee also referenced his meeting with Secretary Besant the previous day at the Blue House, noting that it reaffirmed the deep trust and commitment to cooperation between the two nations.In his post on X regarding the meeting, Secretary Besant expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and the strong U.S.-Korea alliance, stating, "Through extensive discussions, I reaffirmed the United States' commitment to advancing economic cooperation between our two countries and recognized South Korea's economic achievements."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-15 03:25:49