Jung Won-oh Urges Voters to Choose a Mayor Who Keeps Promises Jung Won-oh, the Democratic Party's candidate for Seoul mayor, encouraged voters on June 2 during his final campaign rally, saying, "Please choose a mayor who not only talks but also takes action and keeps promises." He specifically targeted O Se-hoon, the candidate from the People Power Party, amid recent allegations regarding missing rebar in the GTX-A construction project, questioning, "Does a candidate who neglects safety deserve to be mayor?" At the rally held at Cheonggye Plaza in Seoul, Jung appealed to voters, stating, "By voting, you can choose a Seoul that will succeed alongside President Lee Jae-myung. We can create a Seoul where the dreams of young people are revived and become a bucket list destination for people worldwide." He urged participation in the upcoming vote on June 3. He emphasized, "Please elect a mayor who acts rather than just speaks, one who proves their worth through results and keeps their promises," and added, "Think of it as if we are just three votes short and make sure to encourage your friends to vote." Jung also criticized O Se-hoon for his alleged negligence regarding safety and his failure to fulfill housing and economic promises. He stated, "Protecting life and safety is the most precious and fundamental duty. A candidate who neglects safety does not deserve to be mayor," and asserted, "Just as I made Seongdong safe, I will ensure that Seoul becomes the safest city. Please choose someone who will create a safe Seoul." He pointed out that if O had kept his promise to supply 80,000 housing units annually, the housing crisis would have been resolved. "A candidate who does not keep promises must be replaced," he said. Jung highlighted that Seoul's economic growth rate ranks 11th among the 17 cities and provinces in the country, stating, "The economy in Seoul is dying in every alley. I transformed Seongsu, once an old industrial area, into a global hotspot and created jobs to revitalize the economy of Seongdong." Furthermore, Jung argued that the next mayor of Seoul should be from the ruling party to work alongside President Lee for the city's development. He concluded by questioning, "Can we just sit back and watch O Se-hoon hurl insults at President Lee during cabinet meetings? O is someone who should learn from President Lee, not someone who will hold him back."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 21:21:00

NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang to Visit Seoul National University on June 8 NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang will visit the AI research center and robotics lab at Seoul National University during his trip to South Korea. He has expressed a desire to meet directly with students, in addition to touring the research facilities. According to Yonhap News on June 2, Huang is expected to arrive in South Korea on the evening of June 4 and is coordinating details for his visit to the university on June 8. Faculty members from the research centers will accompany Huang, and demonstrations of key research areas are anticipated. Notably, Huang has indicated his interest in having a separate meeting with students, raising curiosity about the message he might convey to the next generation of researchers in the context of the competitive landscape for AI talent. A university official stated, "The format of the meeting is currently under discussion with NVIDIA." This visit comes about two months after Huang's daughter, Madison Huang, a senior director of robotics marketing at NVIDIA, visited the robotics lab at Seoul National University. During her visit, she observed robot demonstrations and met with researchers. With Huang's direct visit following that of a key executive, attention is focused on whether NVIDIA will strengthen collaboration with academia in the field of 'physical AI,' which the company has identified as a core future business area. Recently, NVIDIA has accelerated the expansion of its physical AI ecosystem by unveiling platforms such as the 'Omniverse' for robot simulation, the 'Isaac' robot development platform, and the humanoid foundation model 'GR00T.' While NVIDIA has developed software for training robots in virtual environments, securing partners with hardware and control technology for real-world validation is considered the final piece of the puzzle. Some speculate that collaboration on joint research or talent exchange with Seoul National University, known for its expertise in robot control technology, may be on the horizon.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 21:09:00

Court Denies Kim Se-hee's Request for Release in Defamation Case Involving Kim Soo-hyun A South Korean court has rejected a request from Kim Se-hee, head of the Garoseyro Research Institute, to review the legality of his detention on charges of defaming actor Kim Soo-hyun. According to Yonhap News, the 8th Criminal Division of the Seoul Central District Court, presided over by judges Cha Seung-hwan, Choi Hae-il, and Choi Jin-sook, dismissed the request on June 2, stating, "There is no reason for the request." Kim filed the request for a detention review five days after his arrest on May 31. This process allows the court to reassess the legality and necessity of the detention. After a one-hour hearing, Kim, whose hands were bound, claimed that his detention was linked to defamation against the late Kim Sae-ron. With Kim's detention upheld, police, who have been investigating the case for over a year, are expected to conclude their investigation into allegations that he pressured Kim Soo-hyun and soon forward the case to prosecutors. Kim is accused of spreading false information that Kim Soo-hyun was responsible for the financial pressures leading to the death of the late Kim Sae-ron, who was a minor at the time of their relationship. He is also alleged to have manipulated artificial intelligence to fabricate statements about their past interactions, further damaging Kim Soo-hyun's reputation.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 20:51:00

NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang Offers Bold Remarks on South Korea NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang has delivered striking messages aimed at South Korea. On June 2, Huang spoke with South Korean reporters during the Korea Partner Night event at the NVIDIA annual technology exhibition, GTC Taipei 2026, held at the Taipei Music Center in Taiwan. Huang stated, "If South Korea wants, we can hold NVIDIA's flagship event, GTC, in Korea," while also specifically mentioning robotics as a potential area for future investment in the country. Industry experts interpret this not merely as a friendly gesture but as a signal that NVIDIA views South Korea as a key hub for the AI semiconductor and robotics ecosystem. "Huang: GTC Could Be Held in South Korea If Desired" GTC is the largest AI and semiconductor technology event hosted by NVIDIA, showcasing the latest AI chips, data centers, robotics, autonomous driving, and AI agent technology roadmaps. It is often referred to as the "WWDC of the AI industry." If GTC is indeed held in South Korea, it would symbolize the country's recognition as a central player in NVIDIA's global AI strategy, beyond just attracting a conference. Currently, GTC events are primarily held in the United States and Taiwan, with opportunities largely limited to countries that are key players in the AI supply chain. "Investment in South Korea Always Under Review, Focus on Robotics" ​​​​​​​ Huang's comments regarding investment drew particular attention. When asked about NVIDIA's investment plans in South Korea, Huang replied, "Investments in South Korea are always under consideration," noting that the country has excellent infrastructure and outstanding companies. He specifically identified robotics as a promising area for collaboration. He emphasized, "Robotics is a very important industry for South Korea," expressing hope that NVIDIA can contribute to the development of the country's robotics sector. Huang also highlighted South Korea's declining workforce issue, explaining that AI and robotics could maximize the country's economic potential. "Next Frontier: Physical AI" ​​​​​​​ Market analysts believe Huang's remarks about robotics are linked to NVIDIA's emphasis on its "Physical AI" strategy. Physical AI refers to technology where AI interacts directly with real-world machines, robots, factories, and logistics systems. During his visit to South Korea, Huang is expected to hold a private roundtable with local robotics startups and researchers, discussing ways to expand collaboration with companies utilizing NVIDIA's robotics platform. Potential Benefits for South Korean Companies? Following Huang's comments on robotics, South Korean robotics stocks have shown strong performance. Companies like Doosan Robotics and Robostar have experienced significant surges. Additionally, there are expectations that as NVIDIA's interest in robotics expands, companies such as LG Electronics, Hyundai Motor Group, and Naver could benefit in their AI and robotics ventures. However, these are industry forecasts, and no specific investment or collaboration plans have been officially announced. Meanwhile, Huang is scheduled to meet with prominent business leaders in South Korea this week, including Chey Tae-won, chairman of SK Group; Koo Kwang-mo, chairman of LG Group; and Lee Hae-jin, chairman of Naver's board.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 20:42:00

Democratic Party Urges Support for Seoul Mayor Candidate Jung Won-o to Strengthen Lee Government The Democratic Party is urging voters to support Jung Won-o for Seoul mayor to ensure the success of President Lee Jae-myung's administration, while also calling for the defeat of People Power Party candidate Oh Se-hoon. Jung Cheong-rae, the party leader, emphasized that "this election is about empowering President Lee." Speaking at Jung's final campaign rally in Cheonggye Plaza, Jung stated, "We need to elect a Democratic mayor, a Democratic president, and Democratic district heads to ensure they work in harmony." He further appealed for support, saying, "Winning in Seoul is crucial for winning nationwide." He warned that failing to eliminate the remnants of insurrection could lead to a resurgence of corruption and political turmoil in South Korea. Democratic lawmakers have united in support of Jung's candidacy. Park Jumin, who competed against Jung in the party's primary, joined him at the rally. Park has been actively campaigning for Jung as part of a special support team composed of candidates who lost in the primary. Park stated, "If there are issues with housing, public transport, and welfare in Seoul, who should be replaced? We must remove Oh Se-hoon, who has ruined Seoul, and elect Jung Won-o to develop the city alongside President Lee's government." Seo Young-kyo, chair of the Legal Affairs Committee, referenced allegations against Oh regarding campaign financing and declared, "I will take the lead in the trial against Oh Se-hoon. Please ensure Jung Won-o is elected." Han Jeong-ae, chair of the policy committee, noted, "The KOSPI is rising and exports are strong, but these benefits must come through the Seoul city government. It is outrageous for a mayor to obstruct the work of President Lee, who is serving the people." Former National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-sik remarked, "The insurrection is not over yet. I pushed for constitutional amendments to prevent illegal martial law, and seeing the People Power Party oppose this makes me worry that if they gain power, chaos will return. That is why I am here to support Jung, who has proven his capabilities in Seongdong-gu. President Lee has shown how effective he can be, having served as mayor of Seongnam, governor of Gyeonggi Province, and now as president." 2026-06-02 20:42:00

Police Intensify Investigation into Seosomun Overpass Collapse Police investigating the Seosomun overpass collapse have begun a thorough inquiry into the construction company involved in the demolition work. According to Yonhap News on June 2, the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency's special investigation unit summoned representatives from Heung-Hwa, the construction firm responsible for the demolition, for questioning. This marks one week since both the police and the Ministry of Employment and Labor launched their investigations following the collapse. During the questioning, investigators are expected to focus on how the demolition work has been conducted, the safety management systems implemented by the construction company, and the circumstances surrounding the incident on the day of the collapse. The police also plan to summon officials from the oversight firm, Seong Engineering, later this week. Additionally, arrangements are being made to question the site manager and safety officers from Heung-Hwa's subcontractors. Four safety management personnel from Heung-Hwa have already been charged with negligent homicide in connection with the incident. Park Jeong-bo, the chief of the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency, stated at a briefing the previous day, "We are meticulously analyzing the materials obtained from the site inspection and search warrants to determine whether those charged bear any responsibility for the fatal incident." As the police continue to investigate the structural issues that may have led to the overpass collapse, there are speculations that the inquiry could expand to include officials from the Seoul city government, who are currently considered witnesses.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 20:30:00

Oh Se-hoon Launches Final Campaign Push Ahead of Local Elections Oh Se-hoon, the People Power Party candidate for Seoul mayor, launched an all-out campaign effort on June 2, one day before the June 3 local elections. He was joined by lawmaker Na Kyung-won and Supreme Council member Shin Dong-wook at a rally held at Namseong Market in Seocho-gu. During the rally, Oh emphasized the need to hold the Lee Jae-myung administration accountable. He addressed the crowd, saying, "You must have felt frustrated when the microphone wasn’t working properly. If we don’t make President Lee Jae-myung realize the seriousness of the situation now, we will face two more years of similar frustrations until the next general election." He pledged, "If elected, I will ensure that my first week in office will focus on correcting real estate policies during the Cabinet meeting." Oh appealed for support from the residents of Dongjak and Seocho, urging them to vote for him to achieve a decisive victory, stating, "Please help me win overwhelmingly, as I am determined to serve you all." Lawmaker Na Kyung-won also spoke at the rally, asserting, "The incompetence of the Lee Jae-myung administration has reached its peak. You must judge them." Meanwhile, Oh continued his final push against Democratic Party candidate Jeong Won-o. Speaking to reporters during a previous rally in Yangcheon-gu, he criticized Jeong for raising safety concerns, suggesting it was a tactic to distract from his lack of vision and policy proposals. Earlier that morning, at Hyochang Park, Oh called for Jeong's resignation, stating, "Jeong has evaded debates and discussions, and I believe that alone warrants a negative evaluation. If he wants to manage Seoul, he must create opportunities for self-verification. Jeong has disqualified himself due to his lack of preparation. He should resign now, labeling all unfavorable comments as 'negative campaigning.'" On the same day, Oh began his campaign at Yeouido Station in Yeongdeungpo-gu and continued a relay tour through Yongsan, Mapo, Jung, Eunpyeong, Gangseo, Yangcheon, Guro, Geumcheon, Gwanak, and Dongjak. He concluded with a final rally at Sinchon Star Square in Seodaemun-gu. After the rally, he engaged with citizens at Gwanghwamun Square, the Garden of Gratitude, and the Youth Street in Jongno. 2026-06-02 20:24:00

Court Hears Motion to Lift Travel Ban on Moss Tan Amid Defamation Investigation A court hearing was held on June 2 to determine whether to suspend a travel ban on Moss Tan, a professor at Liberty University, who is under police investigation for allegedly defaming President Lee Jae-myung. Tan did not attend the hearing. According to Yonhap News, Tan's legal representatives requested the Seoul Administrative Court to lift the travel ban, arguing that the right to freedom of movement is constitutionally protected. Attorney Lee Ha-sang, representing Tan, claimed that the travel ban was flawed both substantively and procedurally, leading to irreparable harm. He stated, "To restrict travel based on a lack of specific evidence regarding the purpose of travel is an unconstitutional assertion," adding that they would provide supporting documents if necessary. In contrast, the Ministry of Justice argued that the travel ban should remain in effect. A representative from the ministry stated, "Tan's side claims he needs to travel for lectures in the U.S., but they have not substantiated the specific purpose or timing of his travel. Vague assertions of necessity do not prove irreparable harm." The representative further noted that while Tan claims to be cooperating with investigators, he appears to be refusing to attend without legitimate reasons, suggesting that the request should be denied. Tan, who served as the U.S. Department of State's International Criminal Justice Ambassador during the Trump administration, has stirred controversy by alleging that China interfered in South Korea's elections and that President Lee had been incarcerated as a youth. The police, who charged Tan with defamation last July, requested his attendance after he announced plans to monitor and verify alleged election fraud in South Korea ahead of the June 3 local elections. After Tan submitted a notice of absence, the police applied for the travel ban to the Ministry of Justice, prompting Tan to file a lawsuit to cancel the ban along with a request for a stay. The travel ban refers to restrictions placed on foreigners preventing them from leaving the country. A hearing for the main lawsuit filed by Tan's side to cancel the travel ban is scheduled for June 10.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 20:24:00

Controversy Erupts Over Jeong Won-o's Resume as Seoul Mayor Candidate A debate has erupted regarding the resume of Jeong Won-o, the Democratic Party's candidate for Seoul mayor. Recently, a comment posted on a real estate community website drew attention to Jeong's background. The commenter, identified as A, stated, "Out of curiosity, I searched for his resume on a portal site and burst into laughter at the endless list of impressive credentials." A detailed Jeong's background, noting he was born in Yeosu, served as vice president of the student council at the University of Seoul, held various roles including chief secretary to a district mayor, aide to lawmaker Im Jong-seok, head of the Roh Moo-hyun campaign, deputy spokesperson for the Democratic Party, director of the Seongdong Urban Management Corporation, and has been elected three times as the district mayor of Seongdong. A pointed out, "The glaring fact is that he has never received a salary from the cold, hard capitalist market in the private sector." A characterized Jeong as a "perfect born-to-be politician," stating, "From his college days in his twenties to now in his fifties, he has only filled his plate through student movements, party activities, and local governments funded by taxes. If they argue that competing for power in their own league is a form of social life, I have nothing to say, but it is light-years away from the ordinary social life we know, filled with commuting hell and performance pressure." A also critically interpreted the characteristics of politicians who have built their careers primarily through student movements, party activities, and public office, claiming that many mainstream Democratic Party politicians share similar backgrounds. A asserted, "The resumes of mainstream Democratic politicians, aside from a few exceptional cases or those appointed in this administration, are eerily similar to Jeong's. The only experiences they can list on their resumes are struggles, chairmanships, aides, and campaign managers. Which private company would welcome them? Therefore, when they enter the election arena, they literally fight for their lives. They resort to smear campaigns, incitement, flip-flopping, and shameless tactics. Even if they are criticized, they never back down..." Meanwhile, the debate over politicians' 'social experience' has been ongoing in the political arena for some time. Some argue that individuals who have gained political expertise through student movements, civic groups, party activities, and staff roles are well-equipped for policy-making. In contrast, others criticize politicians lacking experience in private enterprises, self-employment, or industrial fields, suggesting they may not fully understand the realities of the economy and citizens' lives. Recently, discussions about whether 'career politicians' or 'politicians with social experience' are more suitable have been actively taking place online, transcending party lines.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 20:03:00

Government Selects 30 Key Agricultural and Rural Normalization Tasks The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs announced on June 2 that it has adopted 30 key normalization tasks for the agricultural and rural sectors, including a comprehensive land survey and cooperative reform. The ministry plans to continue identifying additional normalization tasks in the coming phases to actively address longstanding challenges in the agricultural and rural fields. On the same day, the ministry held a meeting of the "Task Force for Agricultural and Rural Normalization" at the aT Center in Seoul. Since launching the task force in April, the ministry has operated sector-specific teams and conducted workshops for civil servants, uncovering a total of 104 improvement tasks for the agricultural and rural sectors. During the meeting, the ministry confirmed 30 normalization tasks, which include five cases of exploiting legal loopholes, 16 outdated laws and regulations, six laws that are disconnected from public sentiment, and three cases of potential unjust enrichment. To prevent exploitation of legal loopholes, the ministry highlighted the need for a comprehensive land survey and cooperative reform. It plans to take strict action against illegal activities based on the survey results while also pursuing effective institutional improvements. Additionally, the ministry aims to strengthen internal and external checks on cooperatives and reform election systems to ensure they fulfill their primary roles. To improve outdated laws and regulations, the ministry will revise policies to recognize young farmers renting their parents' land and facilities as independent operators eligible for agricultural settlement support. Furthermore, it plans to expand the introduction of foreign seasonal workers, which was previously limited to cities and counties, to autonomous districts within metropolitan areas. In addressing laws that are disconnected from public sentiment, the ministry will actively collaborate with other departments to tackle issues related to public safety, such as prohibiting drunk driving of agricultural vehicles like tractors and cultivators. To prevent unjust enrichment, the ministry intends to ensure that the benefits of tariff quotas for sugar are directed to actual consumers by shifting the focus of quota recommendations to genuine demand-driven companies. The ministry aims to quickly produce results from the normalization tasks, led by the Agricultural Industry Policy Planning Division, while accelerating the identification of subsequent tasks. Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Song Mi-ryung stated, "We will thoroughly identify and improve unreasonable or outdated systems from the perspective of the public. We will continue to uncover tasks and promptly address any issues that cause inconvenience to the public."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 20:00:00