AJU PRESS ASIA FIRST NEWS AGENCY

Journalist

SHIN DONGKUN
  • Trump Administration Tightens U.S. Green Card Application Rules
    Trump Administration Tightens U.S. Green Card Application Rules The Trump administration has significantly tightened the procedures for applying for U.S. green cards, mandating that applicants generally submit their applications from their home countries. The previous practice of adjusting status while remaining in the U.S. will now only be allowed in exceptional circumstances. According to Yonhap News on May 23, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced a new policy requiring foreign nationals to apply for green cards from outside the United States. Previously, foreign nationals in the U.S. on student, tourist, or work visas could adjust their status and apply for a green card based on marriage to a U.S. citizen or employment. However, under the new rules, unless there are special circumstances, applicants must return to their home country to apply through a local U.S. consulate. Citing the Washington Post, Yonhap reported that this measure is part of a hardline immigration policy aimed at preventing cases where individuals enter the U.S. on short-term visas and then remain long-term. USCIS spokesperson Jack Carler stated, "Individuals on non-immigrant visas, such as students, temporary workers, and tourists, are visiting the U.S. for specific short-term purposes. Their visit should not be the first step toward obtaining a green card." He added, "In the future, foreign nationals temporarily in the U.S. will need to return to their home countries to apply for a green card unless there are exceptional circumstances. This approach will help reduce issues related to illegal stays after status denials." The impact of this policy change is expected to be substantial. The New York Times reported that approximately 1.4 million people obtained green cards in the U.S. last year, with 820,000 of them adjusting their status while in the country. Under the new regulations, many of these individuals may need to return home to restart the application process. A significant concern is the potential for lengthy processing times for green card applications. Even if applicants have U.S. citizen spouses or family members, they may face months or years of waiting in their home countries, leading to prolonged separations from their families. The Wall Street Journal noted that appointments at U.S. consulates are already backlogged for months or even years, suggesting that the implementation of the new rules could exacerbate these delays. It also estimated that millions could be directly or indirectly affected by this policy change. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 21:25:28
  • UN NPT Conference Fails to Reach Agreement on North Korea and Iran Nuclear Issues
    UN NPT Conference Fails to Reach Agreement on North Korea and Iran Nuclear Issues The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) review conference held at the United Nations headquarters in New York has ended without reaching a final agreement, primarily due to disagreements among member states over North Korea and Iran's nuclear issues. According to Yonhap News on May 23, the NPT review conference concluded its four-week schedule the previous day, aiming to adopt a document to strengthen the NPT framework. However, differences in positions between nuclear and non-nuclear states, along with conflicts surrounding North Korea and Iran's nuclear matters, prevented any consensus. This marks the third consecutive failure to adopt a final agreement at the NPT review conferences, following similar outcomes in 2015 and 2022. Concerns are growing over the prolonged stalemate in international nuclear disarmament discussions. The conference was held against a backdrop of deteriorating international relations, including heightened tensions between the U.S. and Iran and a deepening new Cold War. During the proceedings, the U.S. criticized Iran for violating its NPT obligations, while Iran retaliated by accusing the U.S. and Israel of violating international law through attacks on its nuclear facilities. While there was some agreement among member states on the need to adopt at least a lower-level amendment, they ultimately failed to overcome the differences in key issues. Notably, the final draft circulated during the conference reportedly omitted any references to concerns regarding North Korea's nuclear program and denuclearization on the Korean Peninsula. The content related to Iran was limited to a vague expression that nuclear weapons should 'never' be developed. According to AFP, language urging the commencement of follow-up negotiations on the New START treaty, which expired in February without extension, was also removed from the draft. Kim Sang-jin, the Deputy Permanent Representative of South Korea to the UN, expressed deep regret during the closing meeting, stating, "It is disappointing that not a single line addressing the North Korean issue was included. The principle of complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula should have been reaffirmed." He emphasized that North Korea cannot hold nuclear weapons status under the NPT framework and that this issue must be resolved through negotiation and diplomacy. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 21:12:43
  • Kevin Warsh Sworn in as New Fed Chair, Emphasizes Independence and Reform
    Kevin Warsh Sworn in as New Fed Chair, Emphasizes Independence and Reform Kevin Warsh was officially sworn in as the new chair of the U.S. Federal Reserve on May 22. Following his inauguration, he emphasized the importance of the Fed's independence and the need for reform, drawing attention to how he will navigate monetary policy amid pressure from President Donald Trump for interest rate cuts. According to Yonhap News, during the swearing-in ceremony held at the White House, Warsh stated, "The mission of the Fed is to promote price stability and maximum employment." He added, "When we pursue these goals with wisdom, clarity, independence, and determination, inflation will decrease and growth will strengthen." Warsh expressed his intention to lead a reform-oriented Fed to further enhance America's prosperity and international standing, stating, "I will learn from past successes and failures and break free from rigid frameworks and models." While he underscored the importance of the Fed's independence, his comments also suggested a willingness to align with the reform agenda sought by President Trump. During the ceremony, President Trump remarked, "There is no one better prepared to lead the Fed than Warsh," and expressed his hope that Warsh would work completely independently. He added, "Do not look at me or be conscious of anyone else. Just do what needs to be done." Warsh's term will last four years, and he will preside over his first Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting next month. Market observers are keenly interested in how Warsh will approach interest rate policy amid rising inflation concerns due to instability in the Middle East and the prolonged conflict in Iran. Meanwhile, Jerome Powell, the former chair who frequently clashed with President Trump during his tenure, has stepped down from the chair position but remains on the Fed's board.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 21:11:14
  • Takaichi Strengthens Party Ties to Advance Constitutional Revisions and Security Issues
    Takaichi Strengthens Party Ties to Advance Constitutional Revisions and Security Issues Reports indicate that Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is increasing face-to-face interactions with Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) officials to solidify her support within the party. On May 22, Takaichi hosted a dinner at the Prime Minister's official residence for LDP executives, including Matsuyama Masashi, the chair of the LDP's House of Councillors, and Ishii Junichi, the secretary-general of the House of Councillors. During the gathering, Takaichi acknowledged the challenges faced by the ruling party in the upper house, stating, "It has been very tough." According to the Yomiuri Shimbun, Takaichi had previously shown signs of distrust during the budget discussions for the 2026 fiscal year due to opposition from some LDP members. However, her demeanor at this meeting was reportedly more conciliatory. Matsuyama commented after the meeting that he sensed Takaichi's strong commitment to constitutional amendments. This has led to speculation that she is seeking cooperation from the upper house to advance key issues, including drafting a constitutional amendment proposal and revising security documents aimed at enhancing defense capabilities by early next year. Takaichi also mentioned potential locations for the upcoming Japan-South Korea summit, referring to a hot spring area previously discussed with South Korean President Lee Jae-myung, stating, "I am looking for an inn with hot springs and karaoke." This marks the fourth occasion this month that Takaichi has dined with party executives, both during the day and at night. Unlike her political mentor, former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who frequently attended social gatherings and party meetings, Takaichi has been known for her focus on policy research and minimal participation in such events. However, analysts suggest that she may have recognized the limitations of her previous "reclusive governance" approach in pushing sensitive issues like constitutional reform, defense enhancement, and the establishment of a national intelligence agency. Within the LDP, there are signs of a movement to consolidate support around Takaichi. According to the Asahi Shimbun, her support group, the National Power Research Association (JiB), reportedly includes 347 of the 417 LDP members, representing approximately 83% of the party's total membership.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 21:06:00
  • SpaceX Successfully Tests Next-Gen Starship V3 Ahead of IPO
    SpaceX Successfully Tests Next-Gen Starship V3 Ahead of IPO SpaceX has successfully conducted a test launch of its next-generation spacecraft, Starship V3, ahead of its upcoming initial public offering (IPO). The mission, which included key objectives such as spaceflight and ocean landing, is expected to positively influence investor sentiment as the company prepares to go public. On May 22, SpaceX broadcasted the launch and flight of its 12th Starship rocket, Starship V3, via its official social media platform X. Launched from SpaceX's Starbase in Texas, the rocket completed a suborbital flight and successfully landed in the Indian Ocean. During the flight, it successfully deployed 22 model satellites and streamed the entire process live. This successful test is seen as a significant achievement for SpaceX ahead of its planned Nasdaq listing next month. Market analysts predict that the company's valuation could reach approximately $1.75 trillion (about 2,658 trillion won) following the IPO. Starship V3 is a next-generation launch vehicle developed to support NASA's lunar exploration project. In its recent IPO filing, SpaceX stated, "Starship is the most powerful launch system ever developed, capable of carrying up to 100 tons of cargo, with plans to double its payload capacity in future models." However, some technical challenges were noted. The first-stage booster, Super Heavy, successfully separated but failed to land upright in the ocean due to ignition issues with some engines. Additionally, one of the six engines on the Starship experienced an ignition failure, but the flight continued thanks to adjustments made to the remaining engines. SpaceX had initially planned to attempt the launch a day earlier but postponed it by a day due to issues detected in the hydraulic system of the launch tower.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 20:55:29
  • Sunny and Mild Weather Expected for Buddhas Birthday
    Sunny and Mild Weather Expected for Buddha's Birthday On Buddha's Birthday, Sunday, May 24, clear and mild weather is expected across the country. Rain that fell in various regions the previous day is forecast to mostly cease by morning, making it a suitable day for outings during the holiday.According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, the weather will start cloudy but gradually clear up by the morning. However, Jeju Island will remain overcast throughout the day. Morning low temperatures are predicted to range from 11 to 16 degrees Celsius, while daytime highs are expected to reach between 21 and 28 degrees. The temperature difference between day and night, particularly in inland areas, may reach around 15 degrees, so residents are advised to take care of their health. Fine dust levels will be at 'good' to 'moderate' levels nationwide, indicating fair air quality. Waves in the coastal waters are expected to be 0.5 to 1.5 meters in the East and South Seas, and around 0.5 meters in the West Sea. Offshore wave heights are forecasted to be between 0.5 to 2.0 meters in the East and South Seas, and 0.5 to 1.0 meters in the West Sea. Looking ahead to early next week, rain is again expected nationwide. The Korea Meteorological Administration predicts that rain will begin in Jeju Island on the afternoon of May 25, spreading to the Jeolla region and western South Gyeongsang Province by night. Expected precipitation amounts are 5 to 30 millimeters in Jeju, 5 to 20 millimeters in Gwangju and South Jeolla, and 5 to 10 millimeters in North Jeolla and western South Gyeongsang. The rain is expected to expand nationwide on May 26 and mostly cease by May 27, although some areas in Gangwon Province, Gyeongsang regions, and Jeju may continue to see rain into the morning. Temperatures next week are expected to remain around normal levels. On May 25, morning lows are forecasted to be between 12 and 18 degrees, with daytime highs ranging from 22 to 29 degrees. On May 26, when rain is expected, morning temperatures will be between 16 and 20 degrees, and daytime highs will be between 20 and 26 degrees. Following this, early summer-like weather with morning lows of 13 to 20 degrees and daytime highs of 21 to 29 degrees is anticipated.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 20:54:00
  • U.S. Deploys Dozens of Refueling Aircraft at Israeli Airport Amid Iran Strike Concerns
    U.S. Deploys Dozens of Refueling Aircraft at Israeli Airport Amid Iran Strike Concerns The United States has reportedly stationed dozens of refueling aircraft at Israel's Ben Gurion Airport, raising speculation about preparations for a potential resumption of strikes against Iran. According to a report by Yonhap News on May 23, citing the Financial Times (FT), satellite imagery analysis revealed that at least 50 U.S. military refueling aircraft have been observed at Ben Gurion Airport this month. The number of refueling aircraft at the airport has steadily increased since late February, just before the U.S. and Israel were poised to launch attacks on Iran. The count rose from about 36 in early March to 47 by early April, coinciding with the onset of a ceasefire, and has now reached 52 this week. Ben Gurion Airport, located near Tel Aviv, serves as Israel's primary civilian aviation hub. The FT noted, "Gray military aircraft belonging to the U.S. Air Force, particularly refueling planes, are filling the airport's tarmac, making them easily visible to both civilian passengers and motorists on nearby highways." Refueling aircraft are considered essential for long-range strike operations, as they enable fighter jets to receive fuel in midair, significantly extending their operational range and flight time. During the previous U.S. operation against Iran, known as 'Operation Grand Fury,' KC-135 and KC-46 refueling aircraft were deployed throughout the Middle East to support long-range missions by U.S. and Israeli fighter jets. This increase in refueling aircraft may also indicate preparations for a renewed campaign against Iran. While negotiations for a ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran are ongoing, President Donald Trump has maintained that military options remain on the table. Recently, there has been a growing sentiment that if negotiations remain stalled, the U.S. and Israel could resume strikes against Iran within days. The FT also reported concerns within Israel that Ben Gurion Airport is effectively being used as a U.S. military base. The influx of military aircraft has led to space shortages for Israeli airlines, with some flights reportedly being redirected to foreign airports.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 20:51:21
  • Weather Forecast: Cloudy Saturday with Light Rain Expected
    Weather Forecast: Cloudy Saturday with Light Rain Expected On Saturday, May 23, the weather across the country is expected to be mostly cloudy, with light rain in some areas during the day. Temperatures are forecasted to return to seasonal averages, easing the early summer heat. According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, light rain of less than 5mm is anticipated in most regions from morning into the afternoon. While the rainfall is not expected to be significant, it may temporarily make roads slippery in some areas, necessitating caution for drivers. After the rain, skies will gradually clear, leading to generally sunny weather across the country starting Sunday morning, May 24. However, Jeju Island is expected to remain mostly cloudy. The highest temperatures on May 23 are predicted to range from 17 to 24 degrees Celsius. Major cities are forecasted to see temperatures of 23 degrees in Seoul, Incheon, and Daejeon, 24 degrees in Gwangju, 22 degrees in Daegu, and 20 degrees in Busan and Ulsan. On May 24, morning lows are expected to be between 11 and 16 degrees, with daytime highs ranging from 21 to 28 degrees. While it may feel warm during the day, temperatures are expected to be cooler in the mornings and evenings, leading to a temperature difference of around 15 degrees in inland areas. On May 25, a public holiday for Buddha's Birthday, the weather is expected to start off mostly clear but will gradually become cloudy by the morning. Temperatures are projected to rise slightly compared to the weekend, with daytime highs reaching between 22 and 29 degrees, slightly above seasonal averages. Rain is expected to begin in Jeju on the afternoon of May 25, spreading to the Jeolla region and western South Gyeongsang Province by night. Rainfall is anticipated to continue across most of the country on May 26. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 20:36:00
  • Pep Guardiola Steps Down as Manchester City Manager After 10 Years
    Pep Guardiola Steps Down as Manchester City Manager After 10 Years Pep Guardiola has announced his departure from Manchester City after a decade at the helm. Leading the team through a golden era, he cited "exhaustion" as the reason for his decision to part ways. On May 23, Manchester City confirmed that Guardiola's final match will be against Aston Villa on May 25, marking the end of the 2025-2026 season. The game will take place at the Etihad Stadium. This announcement comes as a surprise, especially since Guardiola had signed a contract extension with the club last November, committing to the 2026-2027 season. However, it is reported that he has expressed a need for a long break. Guardiola joined Manchester City in 2016, succeeding Manuel Pellegrini, and has since rewritten the club's history. He achieved a record 100 points in the Premier League during the 2017-2018 season and completed a historic treble in the 2022-2023 season by winning the Premier League, FA Cup, and UEFA Champions League. Notably, he led the team to four consecutive league titles in the 2023-2024 season, a first in English top-flight history. During his tenure, Guardiola secured six Premier League titles, three FA Cups, five League Cups, and one UEFA Champions League title, totaling 17 major trophies. This season, however, the team finished as runners-up to Arsenal in the league.To honor his achievements, Manchester City plans to name a stand after Guardiola and erect a statue in his likeness. Enzo Maresca, a former Chelsea manager and past City coach, is considered a leading candidate to succeed him. Guardiola will take a break from coaching before assuming the role of global ambassador for City Football Group (CFG), where he will assist with the operations and technical advice of its affiliated clubs. According to the BBC, Guardiola stated at a press conference, "Ten years is a very long time," and emphasized that the team needs a new manager and fresh energy. He added, "I felt I could no longer maintain the drive to stand in front of the players and compete for victory in every match."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 20:33:28
  • U.S. and Israel Prepare for Possible Strikes on Iran Amid Stalled Negotiations
    U.S. and Israel Prepare for Possible Strikes on Iran Amid Stalled Negotiations Reports indicate that the United States and Israel are preparing to resume strikes on Iran within days if negotiations show no progress. In response, mediating countries such as Qatar and Pakistan are reportedly intensifying efforts to extend a ceasefire and establish a framework for further negotiations. According to a report by Yonhap News on May 23, citing the Wall Street Journal, the current goal of the negotiations is to extend the unstable ceasefire that has been in place since May 8, rather than to reach a formal peace agreement. The aim is to sign a Letter of Intent (LOI) or a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to facilitate future discussions. The Trump administration insists that any agreement must include restrictions on Iran's nuclear program. Conversely, Iran argues that the focus should first be on ending the war, lifting restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz, and easing financial sanctions. The two sides have reportedly been unable to narrow their differences on which issues should be included in an immediate agreement and which should be deferred to future negotiations. If even a limited agreement fails, there is a possibility that the U.S. and Israel will conduct short-term strikes targeting Iran's energy infrastructure and other economic facilities. This would be a measure to increase pressure on the Iranian regime, but Iran has warned that it would respond with extensive retaliation if new attacks occur. Mediators are also acting swiftly. General Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff of Pakistan, visited Tehran on May 22, and a Qatari negotiating team is reportedly staying in the region to continue mediation efforts. Saudi Arabia has also warned Iran that failing to reach an agreement could escalate the situation further. The U.S. maintains that Iran must agree to a long-term halt of its uranium enrichment program and the transfer of nuclear materials close to weapons-grade levels. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on May 22 in Brussels that while there has been “some progress,” the U.S. position remains unchanged: it cannot accept Iran possessing nuclear weapons. Reports suggest that President Trump has repeatedly warned of the possibility of resuming attacks on Iran if negotiations break down, and if military action is taken, Israel is likely to join. Concerns have also been raised within Israel that President Trump might agree to a deal that does not sufficiently curb Iran's nuclear program and missile capabilities.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 20:31:13