Lee Jae-myung builds commanding lead as Kim Moon-soo trails, Lee Jun-seok stays in single digits SEOUL, May 18 (AJP) - One week into South Korea’s snap presidential election, Democratic Party (DP) candidate Lee Jae-myung is beginning to break away from the pack, a survey showed Saturday. Lee’s campaign, steady and cautious, is gaining traction even in regions once considered hostile ground. People Power Party (PPP) candidate Kim Moon-soo remains stalled in second place, while Reform Party candidate Lee Jun-seok stays in the single digits, aiming to position himself as a third option. A poll released by Gallup Korea on May 17 shows Lee Jae-myung with 51 percent support nationwide, marking the first time he’s crossed the halfway mark. He holds strong numbers in the capital region, 50 percent in Seoul and 55 percent in Gyeonggi and Incheon, and is making surprising inroads in conservative strongholds, polling at 34 percent in Daegu City and North Gyeongsang Province and 41 percent in Busan City, Ulsan City, and South Gyeongsang Province. He also holds a solid majority among centrists, with 52 percent support. Lee reportedly told aides to “keep their heads down” and stay humble, trying to keep his posture low even as his numbers climb. Within his camp, there’s growing awareness of a potential backlash or late conservative surge, particularly among so-called “shy” conservative voters. Kim Moon-soo, who emerged as the PPP’s nominee after a drawn-out internal battle, is struggling to build momentum. He sits at 29 percent support, with 48 percent in Daegu and North Gyeongsang Province and 39 percent in South Geyongsang Province including Busan and Ulsan, numbers far below what the party had expected. His backing among conservatives (58 percent) also trails the 84 percent support Lee enjoys among progressives. Kim’s early campaign has been marred by a string of challenges, including the delayed departure of former President Yoon Suk Yeol from the party and unease over the presence of hardline figures in his camp. While some in the PPP believe Yoon’s exit will help consolidate their fractured base, others argue it came too late to change the dynamic. Meanwhile, Lee Jun-seok, polling at 8 percent, is pressing his case as the only real alternative to both Lee and Kim. He’s hoping to attract conservatives disenchanted with the PPP and moderates wary of Lee Jae-myung’s return to power. But with the election drawing closer, many voters are expected to return to the familiar camps of the two main parties. Calls for a conservative unification have largely lost steam. Kim’s early plan to build a broad right-wing coalition collapsed when talks with former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo broke down. Now, with Lee Jae-myung pulling ahead, there appears to be little incentive left to pursue an alliance with Lee Jun-seok. Lee is expected to sharpen his attacks on Kim, framing him as a "far-right insurrection candidate" for refusing to cut ties with Yoon Suk Yeol. Lee Jun-seok also criticized Kim, saying, "Any candidate with shared responsibility must step down with Yoon." With just over two weeks to go, the race is entering a critical phase. Lee Jae-myung is focused on protecting his lead without overreaching. Kim Moon-soo is under pressure to find momentum. And Lee Jun-seok, despite low numbers, is holding his position in hopes of a late break. The Korea Gallup poll cited in this article was conducted from May 13 to 15 among 1,004 respondents aged 18 or older. The survey has a margin of error of ±3.1 percentage points at a 95 percent confidence level and a response rate of 16.4 percent. For full details, refer to the National Election Survey Deliberation Commission. 2025-05-18 13:45:19

Firefighters bring major blaze at Gwangju Kumho Tire plant under control SEOUL, May 18 (AJP) - A large fire at Kumho Tire’s Gwangju plant is nearing containment, prompting fire authorities to consider scaling back the emergency response level as of Sunday. The National Fire Agency said that as of the morning of May 18, the blaze was about 80 percent contained. A total of 462 firefighters and 168 pieces of equipment have been deployed in an ongoing effort to fully extinguish the flames. The fire broke out around 7:11 a.m. Saturday in the mixing area of Plant 2, located in the western section of the facility. The Gwangju plant is divided into two sections: Plant 1 to the south and Plant 2 to the west. The mixing process, where raw rubber is combined with chemical agents at the start of tire production, is believed to have been the ignition point. Investigators suspect sparks from an industrial oven used to preheat the rubber set off the fire. Due to the scale of the incident and the release of toxic smoke, the fire agency had initially issued a national firefighting mobilization order. However, with containment efforts progressing, officials are now weighing whether to lower the response level. Kumho Tire has halted all production at the plant while damage assessment and recovery are underway. Nearby residents were affected by the smoke and dust, prompting evacuations. A total of 183 people from 98 households across four adjacent apartment complexes have taken shelter at a temporary evacuation center set up at Gwangju Women’s University gymnasium. Firefighters bring major blaze at Gwangju Kumho Tire plant under control A large fire at Kumho Tire’s Gwangju plant is nearing containment, prompting fire authorities to consider scaling back the emergency response level as of Sunday. The National Fire Agency said that as of the morning of May 18, the blaze was about 80 percent contained. A total of 462 firefighters and 168 pieces of equipment have been deployed in an ongoing effort to fully extinguish the flames. The fire broke out around 7:11 a.m. Saturday in the mixing area of Plant 2, located in the western section of the facility. The Gwangju plant is divided into two sections: Plant 1 to the south and Plant 2 to the west. The mixing process, where raw rubber is combined with chemical agents at the start of tire production, is believed to have been the ignition point. Investigators suspect sparks from an industrial oven used to preheat the rubber set off the fire. Due to the scale of the incident and the release of toxic smoke, the fire agency had initially issued a national firefighting mobilization order. However, with containment efforts progressing, officials are now weighing whether to lower the response level. Kumho Tire has halted all production at the plant while damage assessment and recovery are underway. Nearby residents were affected by the smoke and dust, prompting evacuations. A total of 183 people from 98 households across four adjacent apartment complexes have taken shelter at a temporary evacuation center set up at Gwangju Women’s University gymnasium. Firefighters bring major blaze at Gwangju Kumho Tire plant under control A large fire at Kumho Tire’s Gwangju plant is nearing containment, prompting fire authorities to consider scaling back the emergency response level as of Sunday. The National Fire Agency said that as of the morning of May 18, the blaze was about 80 percent contained. A total of 462 firefighters and 168 pieces of equipment have been deployed in an ongoing effort to fully extinguish the flames. The fire broke out around 7:11 a.m. Saturday in the mixing area of Plant 2, located in the western section of the facility. The Gwangju plant is divided into two sections: Plant 1 to the south and Plant 2 to the west. The mixing process, where raw rubber is combined with chemical agents at the start of tire production, is believed to have been the ignition point. Investigators suspect sparks from an industrial oven used to preheat the rubber set off the fire. Due to the scale of the incident and the release of toxic smoke, the fire agency had initially issued a national firefighting mobilization order. However, with containment efforts progressing, officials are now weighing whether to lower the response level. Kumho Tire has halted all production at the plant while damage assessment and recovery are underway. Nearby residents were affected by the smoke and dust, prompting evacuations. A total of 183 people from 98 households across four adjacent apartment complexes have taken shelter at a temporary evacuation center set up at Gwangju Women’s University gymnasium. Firefighters bring major blaze at Gwangju Kumho Tire plant under control A large fire at Kumho Tire’s Gwangju plant is nearing containment, prompting fire authorities to consider scaling back the emergency response level as of Sunday. The National Fire Agency said that as of the morning of May 18, the blaze was about 80 percent contained. A total of 462 firefighters and 168 pieces of equipment have been deployed in an ongoing effort to fully extinguish the flames. The fire broke out around 7:11 a.m. Saturday in the mixing area of Plant 2, located in the western section of the facility. The Gwangju plant is divided into two sections: Plant 1 to the south and Plant 2 to the west. The mixing process, where raw rubber is combined with chemical agents at the start of tire production, is believed to have been the ignition point. Investigators suspect sparks from an industrial oven used to preheat the rubber set off the fire. Due to the scale of the incident and the release of toxic smoke, the fire agency had initially issued a national firefighting mobilization order. However, with containment efforts progressing, officials are now weighing whether to lower the response level. Kumho Tire has halted all production at the plant while damage assessment and recovery are underway. Nearby residents were affected by the smoke and dust, prompting evacuations. A total of 183 people from 98 households across four adjacent apartment complexes have taken shelter at a temporary evacuation center set up at Gwangju Women’s University gymnasium. 2025-05-18 10:27:57

Lee Jae-myung calls for pragmatic diplomacy and phased peace with North Korea Editor’s Note: This article is the second in a series examining the leading presidential candidates and their positions on diplomacy, security, and North Korea. SEOUL, May 16 (AJP) - As South Korea prepares for a pivotal snap election, Democratic Party candidate Lee Jae-myung is putting forward a foreign and security policy that contrasts sharply with his conservative rival Kim Moon-soo. At the center of Lee’s approach is a push for pragmatic diplomacy, a gradual shift toward peace on the Korean Peninsula, and a more balanced engagement with the world’s major powers. Lee has repeatedly emphasized that diplomacy should serve the national interest and adapt to the realities of a changing global order. While reaffirming the importance of the United States–South Korea alliance, he has cautioned against an overly one-sided approach. Instead, he argues for broadening South Korea’s diplomatic reach to include more strategic cooperation with China, Japan, and Russia. His so-called “New Asia Strategy” aims to restructure past outreach efforts like the Moon Jae-in administration’s New Southern and New Northern Policies to better fit current geopolitical dynamics. Lee also advocates for closer ties with the Global South, pointing to emerging nations in Southeast Asia, Africa, and Latin America as important diplomatic and economic partners. This multipolar approach, he says, is necessary for securing South Korea’s long-term strategic autonomy. On North Korea, Lee has called for a shift away from confrontation and toward phased engagement. His campaign envisions a gradual easing of military tensions, the restoration of inter-Korean dialogue, and the pursuit of denuclearization in step-by-step stages. He has pledged to pursue humanitarian exchanges such as family reunions and to resume cooperation projects aimed at building mutual trust. Although Lee has not ruled out a strong national defense posture, he has rejected calls for tactical nuclear weapons or independent nuclear armament. Instead, he supports enhancing missile defense systems and maintaining deterrence through conventional capabilities within the framework of the U.S.–South Korea alliance. In terms of defense reform, Lee is proposing a hybrid conscription system, what he calls a “selective volunteer service.” Under his plan, men who must fulfil their conscripted military service could choose between short-term conscription and longer-term professional service as non-commissioned officers or military specialists. The goal, according to Lee, is to improve military efficiency and offer young people meaningful career paths. He has also pledged to expand the defense industry’s global competitiveness by setting up a dedicated export control tower and holding regular defense export strategy meetings led by the president. Lee’s foreign policy vision centers on what he calls “realistic diplomacy based on national interest.” In a recent televised debate, he noted that even long-standing allies like the U, S. are turning inward with protectionist policies, arguing that South Korea needs to act in its own best interest while maintaining strong ties. He pledged to launch an emergency task force on trade negotiations and to take a more proactive role in managing tensions with Washington on economic issues. “The U.S.–South Korea alliance remains a pillar of our diplomacy,” Lee said, “but we can’t afford to follow unilaterally. We need to manage relations with all major powers, including China, Russia, and even North Korea, practically and carefully.” While many experts question the feasibility of reviving inter-Korean cooperation under current conditions, Lee maintains that diplomacy and gradual engagement are South Korea’s best path forward. 2025-05-16 10:37:25

Kim Moon-soo pushes nuclear option, calls for tighter U.S. alliance Editor's Note: This article is the first in a series examining the leading presidential candidates and their positions on diplomacy, security, and North Korea. SEOUL, May 15 (AJP) - Presidential candidate Kim Moon-soo is drawing a firm line in South Korea’s snap election, positioning himself as a staunch advocate of military strength and nuclear deterrence. Representing the conservative People Power Party (PPP), Kim has made clear that his foreign and security policy will be grounded in a stronger alliance with the United States, and a long-term vision for South Korea to acquire its own nuclear capability. As tensions with North Korea persist and questions grow over regional stability, Kim has argued that Seoul can no longer rely solely on American protection. One of his key proposals is to revise the U.S.–ROK Mutual Defense Treaty to explicitly include a clause that guarantees protection in the event of a nuclear attack. He also wants U.S. strategic assets, such as bombers and submarines, deployed in South Korea at a level approaching permanent presence. In a recent televised debate, Kim took his stance a step further, suggesting that South Korea and the U.S. jointly develop nuclear-powered submarines capable of carrying tactical nuclear weapons. These submarines, he said, could patrol near the Korean Peninsula until Pyongyang agrees to dismantle its nuclear arsenal. A joint declaration outlining this strategy, he added, would be a clear signal of resolve. But the most controversial part of his platform is the idea that South Korea should build up its own nuclear capability. Kim has called for amending the U.S.–South Korea nuclear cooperation agreement to allow uranium enrichment and plutonium reprocessing, technologies that would bring Seoul closer to becoming a latent nuclear power, similar to Japan. He also said South Korea should accumulate the technical expertise to design nuclear weapons, if necessary. He hasn’t ruled out the reintroduction of U.S. tactical nuclear weapons to the region, either. One option he raised was deploying them in Guam with the understanding that they would serve South Korea’s defense. Kim also floated the idea of a NATO-style nuclear sharing arrangement with the United States. While his policy on North Korea leans heavily on deterrence, Kim has shown little interest in engagement or dialogue with Pyongyang. Instead, he’s focused on improving defense infrastructure and boosting military morale. His pledges include restoring military bonus points for veterans, enhancing food and living conditions for enlisted troops, and repositioning military service as a professional advantage rather than a disruption. On the diplomatic front, Kim wants to pursue a wide-ranging investment pact with the U.S. that spans defense, semiconductors, shipbuilding, and nuclear energy. He has also vowed to meet with the U.S. president immediately upon taking office and to cultivate a new generation of 100,000 trade specialists. Free trade agreements with India and Middle Eastern countries are also part of his agenda. Kim’s positions have sparked concern among some experts, who warn that a move toward indigenous nuclear weapons could isolate South Korea and provoke regional instability. Still, his message is clear. In a world of shifting alliances and growing threats, he believes strength is the only reliable safeguard. “Peace doesn’t come from hoping for the best,” he said. “It comes from power.” 2025-05-15 14:57:45

Kim Moon-soo promises science-focused presidency in aerospace hub SEOUL, May 14 (AJP) - Kim Moon-soo, the presidential candidate of the People Power Party, pledged Wednesday to become a president who prioritizes science and technology, as he toured Jinju and Sacheon, cities in South Gyeongsang Province known for their concentration of aerospace and defense industries. In a campaign speech in Jinju, Kim urged voters to back his vision of transforming South Korea into a global leader in aerospace. “Let’s raise our aerospace technology and industries to the top level worldwide,” he said. “If I am elected as president, I will be a ‘science and technology president.’” He drew parallels with the legacy of former President Park Chung-hee, saying, “Some might ask, ‘What do you know about science and technology?’ President Park wasn’t a scientist, but he knew the importance of those sectors and trained some of the world’s best experts. He built POSCO, the automobile industry, shipbuilding, and K-defense.” Kim also proposed bringing in top talent from overseas. “We need to recruit the best minds from abroad and create a Korea, especially Jinju, Sacheon, and the whole of South Gyeongsang Province, where practicing science and raising a family are both ideal,” he said. Mentioning the major shipyards in nearby Geoje, Kim added, “Korea’s shipbuilding technology is the best in the world. We need to keep expanding this strength.” He also spoke about the symbolic value of Jinju, invoking patriotic and civic pride. “Jinju has always stood firm for the country,” he said. Kim also visited the Korea Aerospace Administration in Sacheon and received a policy briefing from Commissioner Yoon Young-bin. Kim also engaged in discussions with staff and experts. 2025-05-14 15:56:24

Lee Jae-myung urges Busan voters to hold PPP accountable in election SEOUL, May 14 (AJP) - Democratic Party (DP) presidential candidate Lee Jae-myung called on voters in the southern port city of Busan to deliver a clear judgment on the People Power Party (PPP), taking direct aim at the conservative bloc for its support of former President Yoon Suk Yeol. Speaking at a campaign rally in Seomyeon on Wednesday, Lee described Busan as a city with a proud democratic history and urged its citizens to reflect on the PPP’s role in backing Yoon, who was impeached in April following his controversial declaration of emergency martial law. “If the People Power Party truly respects the constitutional order of liberal democracy, it must immediately expel the ringleader of the military coup, Yoon Suk Yeol,” Lee said. Turning to the crowd, he continued, “Isn’t this the sacred ground of democracy? Isn’t this the political hometown of Kim Young-sam, a fighter for democracy? I ask you once again to hold the PPP accountable.” Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city, has long been considered a conservative stronghold. Lee’s campaign stop there follows earlier visits to Daegu and North Gyeongsang Province, also known for their conservative leanings. Lee also called on his supporters to stay vigilant and participate fully in the June 3 election. Quoting former President Kim Dae-jung, he said, “A conscience without action sides with evil.” He added, “Abstaining from voting isn’t neutrality. It’s choosing their side.” While some experts have projected a comfortable lead for the DP, Lee struck a cautious tone. “This will be a close contest,” he said. “Our goal isn’t a landslide — it’s to win for certain.” He also urged his supporters to act as if the race could come down to just a few votes. “I’m doing everything I can to win even by a single vote,” he said. “Please help us by thinking we’re short by three votes and secure three more each.” 2025-05-14 15:01:35

N. Korean leader Kim Jong-un inspects special military drill SEOUL, May 14 (AJP) - North Korean leader Kim Jong-un inspected a special military drill on Tuesday that included a joint firepower demonstration featuring armored vehicles, anti-tank weapons, and drones, according to state media. The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported Wednesday that Kim visited a training camp under the capital city defense force, where he observed a demonstration involving various military systems and training officers. During the visit, Kim reportedly expressed strong interest in ensuring that the North Korean military stays in step with modern warfare trends. The inspection underscored Pyongyang’s focus on next-generation weapon development, including localized missiles, drones, and upgraded armored vehicles. Kim described contemporary warfare as “a showdown between military talents and war of commanding officers’ brains,” emphasizing the need for drills to encourage the independence and creativity of military leaders. KCNA also released dozens of photographs showing a range of military hardware -- drones, tanks, anti-tank weapons, and infantry equipped with modern arms. In several images, Kim was seen accompanied by bodyguards carrying a briefcase that resembled a so-called “nuclear suitcase.” 2025-05-14 10:41:05

INTERVIEW: SNU professor explains why Pansori resonates beyond words SEOUL, May 13 (AJP) - When Anna Yates-Lu first sat down for a live Pansori performance, she barely understood a word. At the time, she had studied Korean for just six months and couldn’t keep up with the subtitles and the stage at the same time. But that didn’t matter. “The sound alone completely captivated me,” she said in an interview with Aju Press on May 9. “I didn’t need to understand the words. The voice, the gestures, the rhythm. All of it made sense on its own. I was stunned.” Pansori is one of the most expressive forms of traditional Korean Gugak music. A single singer narrates dramatic tales through powerful vocals, stylized gestures, and rhythmic storytelling, accompanied by a drummer who adds both beats and verbal cues. The stories are long, the delivery emotional, and the connection with the audience is part of the magic. In fact, one of the defining features of Pansori is its interactive nature. Audiences are expected to react with Chuimsae, spontaneous verbal exclamations like “Eolsigu!” (“All right!”) or “Jotta!” (“Great!”). These aren’t interruptions, they’re welcomed responses, part of the tradition that helps carry the performance forward. Today, Yates-Lu is an Assistant Professor at Seoul National University’s Department of Korean Music. But her path to Korean traditional music wasn’t a straight one. Originally trained in anthropology and political science in Britain, she encountered Pansori during a master’s program in London. A professor had urged her to attend a performance at the local Korean Cultural Center. “It was a dual concert, with Western classical music in the first half and Pansori in the second,” she recalled. “Song Soon-seop performed the ‘Bird Song,’ and Lee Ja-ram did a battle scene from Jeokbyeokga. I didn’t understand the lyrics, but the sound, the expressiveness, the raw energy, it all made sense.” That performance marked a turning point. “From that moment on, I wrote every paper about Pansori. I had so many questions,” she said. “Eventually, I switched fields entirely.” Still, she acknowledges that many Koreans and non-Koreans alike find Pansori intimidating. “It’s not that Pansori is hard,” she said. “People just don’t know how to listen to it. If you’ve never experienced it live, it’s like trying to appreciate wine without ever tasting it.” She cautions against labeling Gukak as “difficult,” especially in public discourse. “Once people hear that often enough, they start to believe it. Even children,” she said. “But my son listens to Pansori at home. Kids don’t think it is hard unless someone tells them it is.” She believes that engaging young audiences is key to sustaining traditional music. “Start early. Make it fun. Give them the space to explore it without pressure,” she said. “There are amazing educational programs out there. We just need to support them more.” Yates-Lu also emphasized that building an international audience is not only about exposure but about cultivating depth. “We need to take care of the enthusiasts, the manias,” she said. “They’re the ones who go out of their way to study, to travel for performances. Give them something rich, something meaningful.” But she also believes that beginners need a little help. “Keep performances intimate,” she said. “Small theaters, close audiences. Those are places where Pansori really shines. And just five minutes of explanation before the show can make all the difference.” As for how someone with no background should begin? “Start with the voice,” she said. “Don’t worry about the story. Just listen to the timbre, the texture. Let it wash over you.” Then, smiling, she added, “And if nothing else—just say ‘Eolsigu!’ It’s always the right response.” 2025-05-13 17:30:38

Hybe chairman Bang summoned to testify in Kakao founder's stock manipulation trial SEOUL, May 13 (AJP) - A South Korean court has summoned Bang Si-hyuk, the chairman of Hybe and the creator behind K-pop wonder BTS, to testify as a witness in the ongoing trial of Kakao founder Kim Beom-su over alleged stock manipulation tied to Kakao’s 2023 acquisition of SM Entertainment. According to legal sources on Tuesday, the Seoul Southern District Court issued a subpoena to Bang on May 8. Unless he provides a valid reason for absence, Bang is required to appear in court on June 20. The case centers on charges that Kim conspired with private equity firm One Asia Partners to inflate SM Entertainment’s stock price in February 2023, in order to block Hybe’s public tender offer for control of the iconic K-pop powerhouse. Hybe had acquired a 14.8 percent stake in SM from its founder Lee Soo-man and launched a public tender offer at 120,000 won ($84.8) per share to gain majority control. However, SM’s stock price surged above that level, leading Hybe to abandon its takeover attempt. Prosecutors argue that Kim, who was then leading Kakao’s efforts to acquire SM Entertainment, manipulated the market to keep SM shares above the offer price, thereby disrupting Hybe’s acquisition attempt. Kim is also accused of failing to properly disclose his stake in SM, violating financial market regulations. The prosecution believes Bang and Kim met on February 14, 2023, to discuss the SM acquisition. Bang reportedly asked Kim not to pursue control of the company, but Kim allegedly refused, signaling Kakao’s intent to push ahead with its takeover. Kakao eventually took control of SM by acquiring a 39.87 percent stake through Kakao and Kakao Entertainment, cementing its influence over the agency. Kim was arrested in July 2024 on charges of stock manipulation and violating disclosure requirements. His arrest was based on concerns that he might destroy evidence or flee the country. 2025-05-13 14:17:31

Renowned conductor Chung Myung-whun named music director of Italy's La Scala SEOUL, May 13 (AJP) - Renowned South Korean conductor Chung Myung-whun has been appointed as the next music director of Italy’s prestigious Teatro alla Scala in Milan, marking the first time an Asian musician will hold the position in the opera house’s 247-year history. La Scala announced the appointment on its official website on May 12 (local time), stating that Chung will succeed current music director Riccardo Chailly and begin his term in 2027, serving until February 2030. The 72-year-old maestro has previously held key conducting positions with major orchestras including the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra, the Korean Broadcasting System Symphony Orchestra, and the Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio France. Chung’s relationship with La Scala dates back decades. In 2016, he conducted Verdi’s Simon Boccanegra as part of the theater’s international opera tour at the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow. In March 2023, he was named the first honorary conductor of La Scala’s resident orchestra, the Filarmonica della Scala. La Scala is expected to announce its full 2025–2026 season later this month, which will include 13 operas and 7 ballets, though details regarding new productions and repertory works have yet to be disclosed. A new tour of Asia featuring Chung and the Filarmonica della Scala is also reportedly in the works. Founded in 1778, La Scala is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious opera houses in the world. With its rich history of premiering works by composers like Verdi and Puccini, and its legacy of performances by opera legends such as Maria Callas and Luciano Pavarotti, the theater is considered a global symbol of excellence in opera and classical music. 2025-05-13 10:51:13