78 percent of workers support reducing working hours this year SEOUL, March 16 (AJP) - More than three out of four South Korean office workers believe that working hours should be reduced within the year and that a cap on overtime work should be established, survey data showed Sunday. Gapjil119, a South Korean online-based labor rights advocacy group, commissioned polling firm Global Research to conduct a survey from Dec. 2 to 11 last year, targeting 1,000 office workers aged 19 and older nationwide. The survey found that 77.9 percent of respondents agreed on the need to implement policies to reduce working hours and set an overtime limit by the end of this year. Support for these measures was relatively higher among women (81.9 percent), workers in their 30s (83.3 percent), and general employees (81.3 percent). Regarding the comprehensive wage system, in which a fixed amount of overtime pay is included in salaries regardless of actual working hours, 78.1 percent of respondents said that the government should push for a complete ban on the practice. Gapjil119 criticized the government’s recent decision to grant special exemptions allowing semiconductor research and development (R&D) personnel to work up to 64 hours per week, arguing that it could worsen overall working conditions. Kim Do-ha, a labor attorney affiliated with the group, stated, "Long working hours pose a direct threat to workers' health and safety. Reducing working hours is essential to ensure workers can maintain their health and work-life balance." 2025-03-16 13:42:39

Police launch nationwide crackdown on online drug crimes amid rising youth offenders SEOUL, March 16 (AJP) - The National Police Agency announced Saturday that it will conduct a 15-week intensive crackdown on major public safety crimes, including drug trafficking and voice phishing, until Jun. 30. The National Police Agency said it will prioritize crackdown on key drug distribution channels such as online platforms, nightlife districts, and areas with high concentrations of undocumented foreigners. As part of the initiative, the existing "Dark Web and Virtual Asset Drug Investigation Teams" operating in local police agencies will be reorganized into the "Online Drug Investigation Task Force," strengthening efforts to combat drug distribution through digital networks. Authorities highlighted a concerning rise in drug-related offenses among people in their teens to 30s, noting that this group accounted for 63.4 percent of drug offenders last year, a 5.6 percentage point increase from the previous year. Starting in April, a joint government task force comprising the National Police Agency, Supreme Prosecutors' Office, Korea Coast Guard, Korea Customs Service, and Ministry of Justice will be deployed to conduct special crackdowns in nightlife areas, foreigner-dense districts, and at airports and seaports. The police also plan to focus on the illegal distribution of medical narcotics and the unauthorized cultivation of opium poppies and cannabis, which are entering their blooming and harvest seasons. Additionally, the crackdown will target voice phishing operations, with an emphasis on money laundering organizations that use foreign exchange and virtual assets to obscure financial trails. Investigators will pursue high-level criminal syndicates, applying organized crime and criminal conspiracy charges to ensure severe legal penalties. Last year, the police arrested 21,833 suspects related to voice phishing schemes and seized or blocked more than 220,000 crime-related tools, including malicious apps and fraudulent bank accounts. The authorities also noted a surge in 'account transfer-type' scams, where perpetrators exploit corporate bank accounts to facilitate fraudulent transactions. This method accounted for 48 percent of phishing crimes in 2023, up 26 percentage points from the previous year. The police will continue ongoing crackdowns on illegal private loans (Nov. 1, 2023–Oct. 31, 2024) and deepfake-related sex crimes (Aug. 28, 2023–Mar. 31, 2025). Woo Jong-soo, head of the National Office of Investigation, stated, "Drug crimes, phishing, illegal financing, and deepfake-related offenses are serious social issues that require strong countermeasures. We will continue to implement high-intensity enforcement measures." 2025-03-16 10:31:18

Police to deploy 20,000 officers, enforce no-fly zone on impeachment ruling day SEOUL, March 14 (AJP) - Police will implement its highest emergency alert level on the day of the Constitutional Court’s ruling on President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment, deploying 337 riot police units and about 20,000 officers nationwide. The court’s decision follows Yoon’s declaration of martial law on Dec. 3, 2024, a move that escalated political tensions across the country. While the exact date of the ruling has not yet been announced, legal experts predict the decision could be made within a week. The emergency order mandates full police mobilization, suspending all leave and requiring officers to remain on duty. Riot police, mobile patrol units, and detectives will be stationed at the Constitutional Court, the National Assembly, courts, law enforcement agencies, major political party offices, and media headquarters. Security measures are being intensified due to concerns over possible repeat incidents like the Jan. 19 riot at the Seoul Western District Court, where hundreds of Yoon’s supporters stormed the courthouse after a detention warrant was issued against him for insurrection. Protesters smashed windows, breached the building up to the judge’s chambers, and violently attacked police, journalists, and civilians. Security will be particularly tight around the Constitutional Court, with riot police, safety barricades, and special protection units stationed to safeguard justices and court facilities. Specialized SWAT teams will also be deployed. Seoul will be divided into eight security zones, designated as "special crime prevention areas," with 1,300 officers from mobile patrol units, 112 emergency response teams, and traffic police conducting widespread monitoring. Officers will be equipped with protective gear and crowd control devices, including capsaicin spray, in preparation for potential violent protests. Additionally, a no-fly zone for drones will be enforced around the Constitutional Court. Unauthorized drone activity will be disrupted using signal jammers and interception devices, and violators will face prosecution. All privately owned firearms stored at police stations—approximately 86,800 weapons—will be locked down from midnight before the ruling until three days after the verdict to prevent potential security threats. Authorities are also working with local governments and emergency services to prevent safety incidents, including the deployment of ambulances and potential subway non-stop operations near key protest sites. "We will take a zero-tolerance approach to illegal activities such as facility destruction and violence against police officers," said acting police chief Lee Ho-young. "We are preparing for every possible scenario to ensure public order and security. We ask for the public’s cooperation." 2025-03-14 16:44:54

Air Busan fire likely caused by power bank short circuit, forensic report finds SEOUL, March 14 (AJP) - A fire that broke out aboard Air Busan flight BX391 at Gimhae International Airport on Jan 28 was likely triggered by a short circuit inside a portable battery pack, also known as a power bank, according to an investigation by the National Forensic Service (NFS). The Aviation and Railway Accident Investigation Board (ARAIB) under the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport said Friday that forensic analysis revealed multiple traces of melted material on the remnants of a portable battery pack found in the aircraft cabin. This suggests an "insulation breakdown," where the battery’s positive and negative terminals are short-circuited, likely sparking the fire. Due to extensive damage, the exact cause of the short circuit could not be determined. However, the investigation ruled out the possibility of the fire originating from the aircraft’s wiring or onboard systems. "The battery remnants were extensively burned, making it challenging to determine the exact cause of the insulation breakdown based solely on the post-fire condition," the NFS stated in its report, adding: "No electrical abnormalities or fire-related damage were identified in the aircraft’s wiring, lighting fixtures, or circuit board remnants. This makes it highly unlikely that the fire originated from any part of the aircraft’s internal infrastructure." Investigators believe the fire started in the overhead compartment above seat 30 on the left side of the cabin. A passenger video showed flames erupting from that area, and the burnt remains of the backup battery were later found on the floor near seat 31. On Feb. 3, the ARAIB, NFS, police forensic team, and fire authorities conducted a joint investigation, collecting evidence from rows 28 to 32, including electrical wiring, lighting fixtures, and battery remnants. The materials were sent to the NFS for computed tomography (CT) scans and microscopic examinations. "Based on our findings so far, we are focusing on the likelihood that the fire was caused by the power bank and will continue our investigation accordingly," the ARAIB stated. "If we identify any necessary safety measures during the investigation, we will issue safety recommendations to the airline and other relevant parties." The agency pledged to determine the exact cause of the fire. "We will make every effort to uncover the precise cause of the incident. Further updates will be disclosed based on their potential impact on the ongoing inquiry." 2025-03-14 15:15:01

[[UPDATE]] Constitutional court dismisses impeachment of chief state auditor and prosecutors SEOUL, March 13 (AJP) -The Constitutional Court unanimously dismissed the impeachment motions against Chief State Auditor Choe Jae-hae and three prosecutors on Thursday, allowing them to return to their posts immediately. The court ruled that the impeachment charges lacked sufficient legal grounds, rejecting the National Assembly’s case against Choe, Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office chief Lee Chang-soo, and senior prosecutors Cho Sang-won and Choi Jae-hun. Choe was impeached in December for allegedly mishandling an audit into the 2022 relocation of the presidential office and conducting politically motivated inspections. The three prosecutors faced impeachment for allegedly failing to indict First Lady Kim Keon Hee in a stock manipulation case. The court’s decision, made unanimously, means all four officials will resume their duties immediately. The ruling is expected to have wider political implications, particularly as President Yoon Suk Yeol had cited the impeachment of top officials as part of his justification for declaring martial law in December. The Constitutional Court is still deliberating on Yoon’s own impeachment case, with a ruling expected in the coming days. 2025-03-13 09:31:36

INTERVIEW: Czech envoy highlights growing partnership between Czechia and South Korea SEOUL, March 12 (AJP) - Ivan Jančárek, the Ambassador of Czechia to South Korea, underscored the deepening strategic partnership between the two nations. As they celebrate 35 years of diplomatic ties and a decade of strategic partnership, he highlighted key areas for further collaboration. "There is great potential for cooperation in trade, technology, and infrastructure," he said, pointing to the increasing opportunities for South Korean investment in Czechia’s expanding electric vehicle (EV) battery industry. With Czechia’s strong automotive sector, he noted, South Korean companies have a promising chance to play a larger role in this field. In an interview at the Czech Embassy in Seoul on Mar. 6, Jančárek outlined Czechia's foreign policy priorities, which closely align with its commitments to the European Union (EU) and NATO. "In Asia, we see the Republic of Korea, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and Taiwan as key partners with whom we want to strengthen ties," he said. He emphasized South Korea’s critical role in global security and technological advancement, making it a natural partner for deeper cooperation in defense, research, and trade. Economic collaboration remains a cornerstone of bilateral relations. With annual trade exceeding five billion dollars, Jančárek stressed the potential for further investment, particularly in EV batteries and semiconductors. "Czechia is one of the biggest car producers in Europe, yet we don’t have an EV battery factory. That presents a clear opportunity," he said, pointing to Czechia’s strong economic stability and investor-friendly environment as attractive factors for foreign businesses. Infrastructure is another key area for collaboration, especially in high-speed rail. Czechia, with its extensive railway network, is looking to modernize and integrate high-speed rail technology, taking inspiration from South Korea’s advancements. "We are looking at Korea for its technology," Jančárek said, highlighting South Korea’s expertise in tunnel drilling and railway operations. While France and Spain have traditionally dominated the European high-speed rail sector, he acknowledged that South Korean firms have proven their capabilities in the field. Beyond infrastructure, Czechia is also expanding partnerships with South Korea in artificial intelligence (AI), nuclear energy, and innovation. Jančárek pointed to Horizon Europe, a major EU research initiative that South Korea participates in, as a platform for joint projects in renewable energy, hydrogen technology, and AI-driven solutions. "We see nuclear engineering as one of the key growth industries for the future," he said, adding that Czechia is eager to work with South Korean companies on next-generation nuclear engineering and energy infrastructure. Reflecting on Czechia’s political evolution, Jančárek recalled the country’s transition from a communist regime to a democracy after the Velvet Revolution in 1989. "Until 1989, we were a socialist, communist country where everything was controlled—who you could be friends with, what you could say, where you could travel," he said. "Then the revolution came, and Václav Havel, a philosopher and writer rather than a politician, became president. He believed that society should not be about government control but about people shaping their own futures." Jančárek stressed that cultural and business ties should grow organically rather than be dictated by government mandates. "If cooperation is forced, it never lasts. It must be built on natural connections between people," he said. 2025-03-12 15:25:24

INTERVIEW: Finland and S. Korea seek collaboration opportunities in EV batteries and quantum computing sectors SEOUL, March 11 (AJP) - As Finland and South Korea mark more than 50 years of diplomatic relations, their partnership continues to expand across high-tech industries, sustainability, and cultural exchanges. Ambassador Jyri Järviaho, in an interview at the Embassy of Finland in Seoul on Mar. 5, underscored the growing cooperation between the two nations. Looking back on diplomatic ties that began in 1973, Järviaho noted how the relationship has evolved. "In the early days, Finland’s exports to Korea were focused on textiles and pulp and paper products," he said. "But as both countries developed their economies, the relationship expanded to include mobile technology, ICT, biotechnology, and a wide range of high-tech industries." Finland opened a commercial office in Seoul in 1977 before establishing its embassy in 1986. Beyond economic ties, the ambassador highlighted shared political values between the two nations. "We both uphold democratic values, and in today’s turbulent world, we share a common commitment to a rules-based international order and liberal democracy," he said. Both Finland and South Korea have established themselves as global leaders in technological innovation, particularly in mobile communications. "Korean research institutions are actively participating in 5G and 6G research alongside their Finnish counterparts," Järviaho said. "This is a crucial area of cooperation, as both countries are global leaders in connectivity and telecommunications." The technology sector is not limited to telecommunications. Finland also has a strong presence in the gaming and software industry. "We have a number of successful gaming companies, and there is significant potential for collaboration with Korea’s booming gaming sector," Järviaho said. The ambassador pointed to additional opportunities in semiconductors, shipbuilding, and the automotive industry. "Finland has strong expertise in ship engines and has had long-term engagement with Korea’s shipbuilding sector," he said. "We see many opportunities to work together in areas such as big data handling, quantum computing, and satellite technologies." Finland has also positioned itself as a leader in clean energy, with 96 to 97 percent of its electricity generated from fossil-free sources. The country is expanding its hydrogen energy sector, an area where it sees strong potential for cooperation with South Korea. "We have large-scale plans for hydrogen energy in Finland, thanks to our abundance of clean electricity," Järviaho said. "We are aiming for green hydrogen production, which is crucial for a sustainable energy transition." The ambassador highlighted Finland's role in EV battery production and recycling. "We have natural materials required for battery production, and we are working on building a circular economy around EV battery recycling," he said. "Given Korea's leadership in electric vehicle manufacturing, we see strong potential for cooperation in this field." When asked about investment opportunities for Korean businesses, Järviaho pointed to Finland’s EV battery sector as a key area of interest. "We have the ecosystem, raw materials, and technology to support battery production and recycling," he said. "This could be a strategic opportunity for Korean companies looking to diversify their supply chains." Quantum computing is another promising field for collaboration, with Finnish company IQM recently installing a quantum computer at Chungbuk National University. "This marks a significant step in research collaboration between our countries," the ambassador said. "Finland has a strong quantum research base, and we see this as a promising area for future cooperation." The defense industry is also gaining traction in bilateral cooperation. "Finland recently purchased K9 howitzers from Korea," Järviaho said. "We are looking to build on that cooperation and explore further opportunities in defense technology." Cultural exchanges between Finland and South Korea continue to grow, supported by daily direct flights between Incheon and Helsinki. "These flights play a vital role in fostering business, tourism, and cultural exchanges," Järviaho said. Korean pop culture has gained traction in Finland, while Finnish culture is becoming more recognized in South Korea. "Korean drama, music, and entertainment are extremely popular in Finland," he said. "At the same time, Finnish brands such as Iittala and Artek are recognized in Korea, and Finnish artists regularly showcase their work in Seoul." One of the major cultural highlights this year is the 80th anniversary of the Moomin character, a Finnish creation beloved worldwide. "We are excited to introduce more Moomin-related cultural events to Korean audiences," Järviaho said. The National Library of Children and Young Adults in Seoul will host a Finnish children's book exhibition this summer, featuring Moomin books. Education is another key pillar of cooperation. The Finnish Embassy in Seoul is working with the Seoul Metropolitan Government to introduce Finland to local students. "We visit high schools and middle schools, sharing insights about Finnish culture and education," Järviaho said. "We also try to engage students with small gifts, such as Moomin dolls and traditional Finnish souvenirs." While Finland does not have a state-run student exchange program with Korea, Finnish universities actively recruit Korean students. "There is a growing number of Finnish students studying in Korea, and we also have Korean students in Finland," the ambassador said. "We believe a European-level program could further encourage student exchanges." Looking ahead, Finland and South Korea are committed to strengthening ties across multiple sectors. In June 2025, the Finnish Embassy will host the Finland-South Korea Innovation Forum, focusing on technology and business collaboration. "We want to provide a platform for Finnish and Korean companies, researchers, and institutions to connect," Järviaho said. From political cooperation to economic security and technology, Finland views South Korea as a key partner in navigating global challenges. "Both of our countries have faced difficult times in history and emerged as highly developed nations," the ambassador said. "We share a strong mutual respect, and that is a great foundation for continued cooperation." 2025-03-11 15:08:35

Nearly 30 percent of new hires at major firms have work experiences: Survey SEOUL, March 02 (AJP) - Nearly three in ten newly hired university graduates at major South Korean companies last year had prior work experience, reflecting a growing preference for experienced candidates. According to a survey by the Korea Economic Research Institute (KERI) on major companies' hiring plans for the first half of 2025, released on Sunday, 28.9 percent of newly hired university graduates in 2024 had prior work experience. This marks a 3.2 percentage point increase from 2023, when the proportion stood at 25.7 percent. Among these experienced new hires, the most common length of prior experience was one to two years, accounting for 50.8 percent. This was followed by six months to one year at 32.2 percent, two to three years at 8.5 percent, more than three years at 5.1 percent, and less than six months at 3.4 percent. The proportion of experienced hires in major firms' overall recruitment has also increased. In the first half of 2025, experienced hires are expected to make up 31.2 percent of all university graduate recruitments, up 3.1 percentage points from the same period last year. Companies where experienced hires accounted for more than 50 percent of new recruits made up the largest share at 23.8 percent, a sharp rise from 8.1 percent the previous year The average starting salary for university graduates at major companies was recorded at 46.69 million won ($31,913.8), an increase of 1.65 million won from 45.04 million won the previous year. The most common salary range was between 45 million and 50 million won at 27.8 percent, followed by 40 million to 45 million won and 50 million to 55 million won, both at 23.8 percent. 2025-03-02 14:22:44

India-S. Korea conference explores new horizons in bilateral relations SEOUL, March 02 (AJP) - The Embassy of India in the Republic of Korea, in collaboration with the Sejong Institute and the Asia Foundation, hosted a conference titled "Bridging the Future: Exploring New Horizons in Korea-India Relations" at the Sejong Institute Conference Room in central Seoul on Feb. 27. The event brought together around 60 government officials, scholars, media representatives, and business leaders to discuss key aspects of the India-Korea partnership. Ambassador of India to South Korea Amit Kumar, Sejong Institute Chairman Yong-Joon Lee, and Deputy Minister for Economic Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Kim Hee-sang attended the event. In his welcome remarks, Chairman Lee underscored India's role as a key partner for South Korea in promoting peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific. Ambassador Kumar highlighted the growing importance of the India-South Korea Special Strategic Partnership in light of shifting geopolitical dynamics, noting the deepening bilateral ties and emerging areas of cooperation. Deputy Minister Kim emphasized the significance of Korea-India relations amid evolving global challenges. The conference featured four sessions covering diverse topics: India and South Korea’s role in the changing global order, building resilient supply chains, maritime security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, and collaboration in emerging technologies. Panelists from both countries shared insights on economic partnerships, security cooperation, and technological advancements. In his remarks, Ambassador Kumar addressed the broader geopolitical landscape, stating, "We are today undeniably in an era of significant flux in global geopolitics and geo-economics. The developments in Afghanistan, the Covid-19 pandemic, conflict in Ukraine and in the Middle East amidst greater strategic contestation between major powers have all strained the global architecture." He added that these disruptions have impacted supply chains, food security, and energy resources, disproportionately affecting developing nations. Highlighting India’s economic growth and increasing role in global trade, Kumar said, "India with its rapid economic growth trajectory with an annual average rate of 7 percent post-Covid is today well poised to become an integral hub for global supply chains." He pointed to major economic shifts, including India's focus on manufacturing, digital transformation, and infrastructure upgrades. He also noted key developments such as the Korea Investment Corporation opening an office in India, Hyundai Motor Group’s first overseas stock listing in India, and POSCO’s joint venture with JSW to establish a large-scale steel plant. Discussing security cooperation, Kumar stressed India’s contributions to maritime security in the Indo-Pacific, particularly in response to regional crises. "For more than a year now, India has also been contributing to maritime security through deployment of naval forces in response to attacks on shipping lines in the Red Sea," he said. He also highlighted India’s role in disaster relief efforts and crisis response across the Indian Ocean region, mentioning operations in Yemen, Sri Lanka, Mozambique, and Nepal. On strengthening Indo-Pacific security partnerships, Kumar noted, "It is essential that we develop greater maritime domain awareness," emphasizing India's efforts in linking regional maritime security centers and training naval forces in multiple countries. He encouraged South Korea to consider joining regional security initiatives such as the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative and the Indian Ocean Rim Association. The conference concluded with active discussions on expanding economic ties, technological collaboration, and strengthening regional security frameworks. Participants engaged in Q&A sessions, exchanging perspectives on future opportunities for bilateral cooperation. 2025-03-02 14:07:41

Russian Embassy in Seoul celebrates Maslenitsa with traditional performances SEOUL, March 02 (AJP) - The Russian Embassy in the Republic of Korea hosted a Maslenitsa celebration on February 28, bringing together students, diplomats, and guests for a day of cultural festivities. The event was attended by about 100 guests, including Russian embassy officials and their families, as well as representatives from other foreign embassies. Students from the Russian school at the embassy performed traditional songs and dances, showcasing Russian heritage. As part of the celebration, they invited children from a Seoul-based orphanage to participate in games and share special festive foods, fostering cultural exchange and community spirit. Irina Serova, headmaster of the Russian school, welcomed the participants and highlighted the festival's joyful spirit, saying, "Let us truly sing, play, and dance as we celebrate and welcome the arrival of spring!" Maslenitsa, a traditional Slavic festival marking the end of winter, is celebrated with music, dance, and the sharing of pancakes, symbolizing the arrival of spring. 2025-03-02 12:05:11