Pope Leo XIV Calls for Return to Diplomatic Dialogue, Criticizes Military Reliance Pope Leo XIV has urged the international community to return to diplomatic dialogue. He emphasized the need to revive bilateral, regional, and multilateral diplomatic channels amid a reliance on military force in international relations. On May 21, according to Vatican News, Pope Leo XIV met with the newly appointed non-resident ambassadors to the Holy See from eight countries: Sierra Leone, Bangladesh, Yemen, Rwanda, Namibia, Mauritius, Chad, and Sri Lanka. During the meeting, he stated, "There is an urgent need to return to diplomacy that promotes dialogue and consensus." The Pope pointed out the contradiction in the international community's pursuit of peace through military means. He stressed that peace should not be a condition of domination but should be built through dialogue and mutual understanding. He added, "Diplomacy should not be limited to bilateral relations but must extend to regional discussions and multilateral cooperation." Pope Leo XIV also highlighted the role of international organizations. He remarked that "international organizations are crucial tools for conflict resolution and promoting cooperation," and called for increased representation and effectiveness. He warned that if countries prioritize only their individual interests, it will be difficult to create a just international order, emphasizing that a willingness to reconcile interests for the common good should be the starting point of diplomacy.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-22 06:51:47

Dow Jones Hits Record High as Oil Prices Drop The three major U.S. stock indices rose together as expectations for peace negotiations between the U.S. and Iran led to a drop in international oil prices, easing energy cost pressures and boosting investor sentiment. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed at a record high. On May 21, the Dow gained 276.31 points, or 0.55%, finishing at 50,285.66. The Standard & Poor's 500 index rose 12.75 points, or 0.17%, to close at 7,445.72, while the Nasdaq Composite increased by 22.74 points, or 0.09%, ending at 26,293.10. Market attention focused on the geopolitical situation in the Middle East and oil price trends. According to Reuters, optimism surrounding progress in U.S.-Iran peace negotiations supported investor sentiment. Brent crude oil prices briefly rose to around $109 per barrel but later fell below $103. As concerns over soaring oil prices eased, the stock market rebounded. However, the gains were limited. Key issues such as Iran's uranium export and navigation management in the Strait of Hormuz remain unresolved, leaving uncertainty in the negotiations. Investors are wary that a resurgence in oil prices could increase inflationary pressures and corporate costs. In individual stocks, Nvidia fell despite strong earnings and an $80 billion stock buyback plan. High market expectations and concerns over intensified competition in the semiconductor sector weighed on its stock price. Walmart also showed weakness, reflecting a conservative outlook due to cost pressures from high oil prices. Economic indicators somewhat alleviated fears of a slowdown. New claims for unemployment benefits in the U.S. decreased, and manufacturing metrics showed signs of improvement. While the resilience of the economy was confirmed, inflation and oil price variables remain, tempering expectations for interest rate cuts from the Federal Reserve.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-22 06:42:55

U.S. Uses Half of THAAD Missiles for Israeli Defense, Raising Security Concerns in Asia The United States has reportedly expended a significant portion of its advanced interceptors in defense of Israel against Iranian missile attacks. Approximately half of the U.S. stockpile of THAAD (Terminal High Altitude Area Defense) interceptors has been used. This depletion of missile defense resources is raising security concerns among Asian allies, including South Korea and Japan. According to the Washington Post on May 21, the U.S. launched over 200 THAAD interceptors to bolster Israel's defense, which accounts for nearly half of the Pentagon's total inventory. Additionally, U.S. Navy vessels stationed in the eastern Mediterranean fired more than 100 SM-3 and SM-6 interceptors. Israel's usage was lower than that of the U.S., with the country firing fewer than 100 Arrow interceptors and about 90 David's Sling interceptors. A U.S. administration official noted, "The U.S. fired approximately 120 more interceptors than Israel and intercepted twice as many Iranian missiles." The concern now lies with the remaining stockpile. Kelly Grieco, a senior fellow at the Stimson Center, estimates that the U.S. has about 200 THAAD interceptors left. There are also concerns that production lines may struggle to keep pace with demand. The large-scale depletion of advanced interceptors in the Middle East could weaken U.S. military readiness in other regions. This anxiety has spread to Asian allies such as South Korea and Japan. The Washington Post reported, "The shortage of U.S. interceptors is heightening tensions for Asian allies like South Korea and Japan." Both countries rely on U.S. military deterrence and missile defense support to counter threats from North Korea and China. If hostilities resume, the burden on the U.S. could increase further. The Washington Post noted, "The Israeli military has temporarily excluded some missile defense batteries for maintenance, which could increase the burden on the U.S. if hostilities resume." The U.S. Department of Defense and Israel have refuted interpretations suggesting that the burden has fallen disproportionately on one side. The Pentagon stated that the ballistic missile defense system is just one part of a multi-layered integrated air defense network. Both countries have coordinated various assets, including fighter jets and drone defense systems. The Israeli Embassy in Washington also emphasized that operations between the two nations have been coordinated at the highest levels.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-22 06:36:57

Putin Introduces Plan to Export Iranian Uranium to Russia in Meeting with Xi Jinping Russian President Vladimir Putin introduced a plan to export enriched uranium from Iran to Russia during an informal meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. This proposal comes as U.S. President Donald Trump has stated that he will not allow Iran to retain high-enriched uranium. According to the TASS news agency on May 20, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov briefed reporters on the discussions between Putin and Xi. Peskov noted that Xi explained to Putin details regarding Trump’s recent visit to China, and the issue of Iran was also discussed. Peskov stated that Putin described the plan for transferring Iran's enriched uranium to Russia, calling it a proposal that could be accepted if both Iran and the U.S. deem it appropriate. Russia has indicated that the acceptance of this plan is contingent upon the judgments of the U.S. and Iran. This proposal arises amid ongoing negotiations where the export of Iran's enriched uranium has become a key issue. Recently, Trump responded negatively to a question about whether Iran could continue to hold high-enriched uranium in future agreements, stating, "No." He also expressed intentions to destroy the uranium after its export. In contrast, Iran maintains a firm stance against exporting its uranium. Reuters reported that two senior Iranian sources indicated that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has instructed that low-enriched uranium should not be sent abroad. Iran believes that exporting high-enriched uranium could make it more vulnerable to potential attacks from the U.S. and Israel. The contentious issue revolves around Iran's stockpile of 60% enriched uranium, which significantly exceeds the level needed for civilian nuclear fuel and approaches the 90% enrichment required for nuclear weapons. Russia had previously proposed transferring Iran's enriched uranium to its territory last month, but the U.S. rejected the idea. Peskov also criticized the U.S. regarding the situation in Cuba during the same briefing. He stated, "The U.S. blockade of Cuba has devastating effects on the general population," adding that military posturing only worsens the situation for the Cuban people. Peskov expressed opposition to the indictment of former Cuban National Assembly President Raul Castro, stating, "We oppose the U.S. approach of pressuring other countries' leaderships," and declared that pressure on Cuba is unacceptable.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-22 06:28:49

Trump Rejects Iran's Stance on Enriched Uranium Export As Iran's Supreme Leader has established a policy against exporting enriched uranium, President Donald Trump has firmly rejected this stance. Trump stated that Iran cannot retain enriched uranium in any future agreements, making the issue of nuclear material export a central point of contention in upcoming negotiations between the U.S. and Iran. On May 21, during a press briefing at the White House, Trump responded to a question regarding whether Iran could keep enriched uranium in future agreements. He said, "No. We will export it." Trump added, "We neither need nor want that uranium," and indicated that the material would likely be destroyed after export. He emphasized, "We will not allow Iran to keep it in any form," and reiterated, "I will not let Iran have nuclear weapons." These comments followed a strong statement from Iranian officials. According to Reuters, two senior Iranian sources reported that Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Supreme Leader, issued a directive prohibiting the export of weapons-grade uranium. Iran believes that exporting enriched uranium could make it more vulnerable to potential attacks from the U.S. and Israel. The key issue revolves around Iran's stockpile of enriched uranium, particularly the 60% enriched variety. This level of enrichment significantly exceeds that required for civilian nuclear fuel and is close to the 90% enrichment needed for nuclear weapons. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) estimated that prior to the U.S. and Israel's attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities last year, Iran possessed approximately 441 kilograms of 60% enriched uranium. The current amount remains unclear. While Iran denies any intention of developing nuclear weapons, the U.S. and Israel view the export of enriched uranium as a critical condition for any future agreements. As Iran maintains its stance against export, and Trump rejects this position, the gap between the two sides has widened. On the same day, Trump also expressed opposition to tolls in the Strait of Hormuz, stating, "We do not accept tolls; the Strait of Hormuz is an international waterway."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-22 06:23:49

Kim Hyang-gi Discusses Challenges of Comedy in 'The Absolute Value of Romance' Actress Kim Hyang-gi is showcasing the charm of K-highteen on the global stage with her role in 'The Absolute Value of Romance.' The Coupang Play series is reaching international audiences through Amazon Prime Video, expanding its presence in major Asian countries and South America. At the center of this success is Kim, who plays the lead character, Yeojoo, a seemingly ordinary student by day and a popular romance novelist by night. Her relatable acting and charming comedic timing are driving the show's popularity."I’m relieved that people are enjoying something new and finding it fun. It’s fascinating to see that international viewers seem to like it too. It makes me realize there’s a growing interest in works that reflect Korean sentiments," she said.The challenge of comedy was not easy for Kim. She had to learn how to elevate her natural tone to fit the comedic genre. Yeojoo, who has a lot of monologues and dialogue, required extensive practice to master the rhythm and delivery."I had no sense of comedy at all. Enjoying it as a viewer is different from performing it. I wasn’t sure how far I could push my natural tone to achieve a comedic effect. With so much dialogue and many monologues, I practiced a lot. I felt that even at my maximum, it wouldn’t come off as over-the-top. I decided to give my best within my limits and follow the director’s guidance," she explained.One principle Kim adhered to while preparing for comedy was to avoid trying too hard to be funny. This insight came from studying the performances of seasoned comedians and actors in the genre. Rather than exaggerating Yeojoo’s character, Kim aimed to portray her as genuine in every moment."When I first prepared, I looked at performances by comedians and actors in the comedy genre. The common thread was that you shouldn’t try too hard to be funny. Many said that the moment you try to be funny, you lose the rhythm. I felt my mission was to live as Yeojoo within the script. The reason Yeojoo is funny is that she is so honest and sincere, yet struggles to manage her own thoughts. Therefore, I believe it’s important to show that everything she says is sincere and that her honesty is evident," she said.Yeojoo's appearance was also a crucial aspect of her character. Her short bangs and red glasses visually represent her quirky personality and unique worldview. Kim wanted to incorporate both Yeojoo's mindset and comedic elements into her hairstyle."After finishing my previous project, I had a calm bob hairstyle. I thought about making a significant change, and I felt that a cartoonish look would suit both the character and the project. There’s a scene where Yeojoo wears red glasses while working on her dreams. I thought a spiky short hairstyle would fit her free-spirited nature and enhance the comedic elements. I decided to cut my bangs to add more fun to the character," she said.Kim also approached her facial expressions differently. Initially, she focused on delivering the rhythm of her lines and monologues, but during the preparation process, she realized she needed to use her face more actively. While she had previously restrained her emotions in past roles, this time she aimed to express herself more freely."At first, I was focused on the dialogue and the rhythm of the lines, but I realized I needed to use my face more actively. Since Yeojoo appears frequently, I thought it might be burdensome if I sounded too theatrical. So, I decided to use my facial expressions more. In the past, I had limited my expressions in genre-specific roles, but this time I approached it differently," she said.Playing Yeojoo also prompted Kim to reflect on her own school days. While filming, she looked back at photos from her middle and high school years, recalling the joy of laughing with friends even without special events. Growing up in the same neighborhood with friends from kindergarten through high school helped her understand Yeojoo better."While filming, I found myself looking at photos from middle and high school. Even without special events, we laughed every day. I was curious about those moments, so I looked at many old photos. I’m grateful for my friends who have been with me since kindergarten through high school. They accepted me naturally, and we enjoyed our school days together. Those memories were helpful in understanding Yeojoo," she said.Having started as a child actor, Kim finds playing a student role both familiar and refreshing. Just a short time ago, she was discussing the challenges of being a child actor, and now she is navigating roles across a wider age range."I definitely had those thoughts. It was amusing to think that just a few years ago, I was talking about the struggles of being a child actor, and now I can play roles across different age ranges. I see it as a blessing and a good opportunity, so I decided to embrace it. I don’t know how long I can play a high school student," she said.Currently, Kim is accepting her position as someone in a state of change rather than defining herself rigidly. Although she has been in the industry for a long time, she still finds herself as the youngest in some settings, while in others, she must take the lead or share energy with younger colleagues. This complex feeling leaves her with new questions about herself as both an actress and a person."I don’t really know myself right now. I feel ambiguous. I’ve realized that for the first time, I had many younger colleagues on set. I’ve often been the youngest, but now I have friends, and experiencing that has made me feel like I’m still the youngest in some situations, while in others, I’m the older sister. Those complexities have brought about a new sense of confusion for me as both an actress and a person," she said.Kim does not view this ambiguity negatively. Instead, she believes it’s a time to remain open to change rather than trying to control or define herself. She has grown more accepting of her evolving roles in different settings."When I think about what roles I can take on, it varies with each project. In theater, I was the perfect youngest, while in 'The Absolute Value of Romance,' I had to take the lead. This time, I had to play a role where I both received and gave energy in the middle. So, I felt I needed to keep an open mind. I think it’s a time to accept that I can’t control everything about myself. I don’t know how this ambiguity will change, but it doesn’t feel bad just because it’s difficult," she said.Kim’s attitude as an actress is also becoming clearer. Rather than striving to excel, she aims to fulfill her role within the project without causing harm to others. She believes this mindset allows her to feel freer."All my senses are feeling new. As an actress, I want to approach each project with the mindset of not causing harm to others while doing my part. I think that way, I feel less fear and perform better. I want to maintain that attitude," she concluded.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-22 06:18:07

Consumer Sentiment Rebounds Amid Semiconductor Exports and Stock Market Gains Consumer sentiment has turned optimistic again after a month, buoyed by strong semiconductor exports and a rising stock market. According to the Bank of Korea's "May Consumer Trend Survey" released on May 22, the Consumer Sentiment Index (CCSI) rose by 6.9 points from the previous month to 106.1. This marks a recovery above the baseline of 100, which it fell below for the first time in a year last month. The CCSI is calculated using six indices: current living conditions, future living conditions, household income expectations, consumption expenditure expectations, current economic conditions, and future economic conditions. A score above 100 indicates optimistic consumer sentiment compared to the long-term average (2003-2024), while a score below 100 indicates pessimism. All six components of the CCSI increased in this survey. Notably, the future economic outlook index surged by 14 points to 93. This increase is attributed to a first-quarter GDP growth rate that significantly exceeded expectations and upward revisions of growth forecasts by major institutions. The current economic conditions index also rose by 15 points to 83. Despite high oil prices, the current living conditions index increased by 2 points to 93, influenced by a booming stock market and support payments for high oil prices. The future living conditions index rose by 5 points to 97, while household income expectations (100) and consumption expenditure expectations (110) each increased by 2 points. Lee Heung-hoo, head of the Bank of Korea's Economic Sentiment Survey Team, stated, "The increase in consumer optimism is driven by strong exports centered on semiconductors and the rising stock market, marking a turnaround after three months of decline. We need to continue monitoring the energy supply situation due to Middle East tensions, global economic trends, and semiconductor export conditions." The interest rate outlook index (115) remains above the long-term average of 111, reflecting ongoing expectations for rising rates. However, it fell by 1 point due to easing tensions in the Middle East following reports of U.S.-Iran negotiations. The housing price outlook index (112) rose by 8 points, driven by a decrease in listings around May 10, when the government resumed higher capital gains taxes on multiple homeowners, leading to increased apartment prices in Seoul. The expected inflation rate for consumer prices over the next year is 2.8%, down 0.1 percentage points from the previous month. In contrast, the perceived inflation rate over the past year rose to 3.0%, an increase of 0.1 percentage points. Lee added, "The reports of negotiations between the U.S. and Iran in early May created expectations for peace. The government's inflation stabilization measures also seem to have eased consumer inflation expectations, according to our survey." He concluded, "To determine whether the decline in expected inflation in May is temporary, we need to monitor the energy supply situation due to future Middle East developments and the trend of consumer price increases."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-22 06:15:00

Glamorous Camping and Artisan Bread Festival Await in Chuncheon 초여름 문턱에 선 5월, 숲속에서 들려오는 청아한 새소리와 따스한 햇살 아래 퍼지는 고소한 빵 냄새가 여행객 마음을 간질인다. 번거로운 텐트 설치나 캠핑 장비 없이 자연 속에서 오롯이 누리는 글램핑의 여유, 그리고 전국의 내로라하는 유명 베이커리를 한자리에서 만나는 '숲속 빵시장'은 일상에 지친 현대인에게 건네는 달콤한 위로다. 이번 주말, 낭만과 미식이 가득한 강원 춘천으로 훌쩍 떠나보자. 거동이 불편하신 어르신부터 10대 아이까지 3대가 함께 편안하고 완벽한 봄날의 피크닉을 만끽할 수 있다. ◆No Need to Pack Equipment... Just Enjoy Luxury Glamping It takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach Elysian Gangchon Camping Park from Seoul. This all-season resort features a golf course, ski area, and condominiums, and has adapted to diverse travel preferences by offering both auto camping and glamping zones. Among these, the glamping area is particularly popular with families. A blend of the words “glamorous” and “camping,” glamping offers a luxurious camping experience without the hassle of setting up tents or packing camping gear. The glamping zone at Elysian Gangchon has been recently renovated in a Nordic style, creating an exotic atmosphere with curved tents set against a forest backdrop. Notably, the accommodations provide hotel-level amenities, including beds, sofas, tables, and all necessary cooking utensils. Most importantly, the area is designed to be barrier-free, allowing easy access for wheelchairs and strollers. This makes it comfortable for families with elderly members or teenagers. As the sun sets, guests can enjoy barbecues, thanks to individual grills provided in each unit, allowing for a private and pleasant dining experience. As darkness falls and the night lights illuminate the area, the tranquil atmosphere of glamping sets in. During the upcoming summer vacation season, guests can enjoy outdoor performances at the beer garden or cool off in the outdoor swimming pool. Facilities such as parasols, lounges, pergolas, and snack bars are available, and items like swimsuits, towels, mats, life jackets, and tubes can be rented, making it easy for visitors to enjoy the scenic views of Geombong Mountain. ◆A Bread Pilgrimage Destination with 20,000 Visitors... A Sensory Delight at the Forest Bread Market If glamping alone isn’t enough, visitors can indulge their taste buds at the Forest Bread Market, the largest bread festival in the country. Scheduled for May 24 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Elysian Gangchon Lawn Plaza, this event has gained popularity as a must-visit destination for bread lovers across the nation. The festival was first planned in October 2024 to create opportunities for bakeries and cafes, as well as small businesses in flea markets, while contributing to the local economy. Following the recent trend of “bread pilgrimages” centered around popular items like Jeju Udo peanut bread and Daejeon Seongsimdang, this festival aims to fill the gap in the so-called “national bread pilgrimage map” where Gangwon Province was previously missing. The result has been a resounding success, attracting over 20,000 visitors to a single event and selling out products from participating bakeries early. With each passing year, the festival has grown in reputation, establishing itself as a leading dessert festival in South Korea. This year’s theme is “A Day of Sensory Enjoyment Where the Scent of the Forest Meets the Aroma of Bread,” and the festival has significantly expanded in size. Over 100 popular bakeries and dessert brands from Chuncheon, Gangwon Province, and across the country will participate. The organizers have meticulously prepared a variety of cultural content to satisfy visitors’ senses and encourage longer stays. The event will feature emotional photo zones and comfortable relaxation areas to attract both the MZ generation and families, along with a handmade flea market, live busking performances, prize events, book giveaways for children, and simple baking experiences. Additionally, a collaboration with the camping gear rental platform “Camter” will enhance the event, appealing to camping enthusiasts as well. ◆A Model Festival Promoting Local Small Businesses The most significant achievement and distinguishing feature of this year’s Forest Bread Market is its active commitment to supporting local businesses beyond just attracting visitors. Elysian Gangchon has collaborated with the bakery platform “Bread Pilgrimage” to create a special “bread pilgrimage map” for the Chuncheon area. This initiative aims to promote hidden excellent bakeries in the region and inject new vitality into the local economy through dessert tourism. Elysian Gangchon plans to continue developing the Forest Bread Market as a regular market event involving local residents. To achieve this, they intend to work closely with key institutions in Chuncheon and Gangwon Province to establish a successful local festival model that fosters both regional development and support for small businesses. An Elysian Gangchon representative stated, “The combination of luxurious glamping in nature and the opportunity to taste famous breads from across the country will create a perfect synergy. We hope visitors can enjoy the best outing of the spring, combining comfortable relaxation and delightful cuisine in Chuncheon, easily accessible via the Gyeongchun Line from the metropolitan area.” * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-22 06:12:21

Korean Beef Industry as a Key Player in Resource Recycling Recent reports from environmental organizations and some media outlets have claimed that "the greenhouse gas emissions from meat consumption per person in South Korea are equivalent to taking 21 flights to Jeju Island." This provocative message has drawn significant public attention, leading to the perception that meat on our tables is a major contributor to climate change, placing the domestic livestock industry at the center of environmental concerns. However, a closer examination of the statistics reveals that this claim is based on a misleading standard and ignores scientific facts. The Korean Society of Animal Science and Technology, to which I belong, believes that a balanced explanation grounded in scientific evidence and data is necessary. According to our research, the first issue that needs correction is the fairness of the greenhouse gas accounting standards. The report calculated the carbon footprint of livestock products by aggregating emissions from the entire process of feed cultivation, manufacturing, distribution, processing, slaughtering, and sales, arriving at a figure of 1,115 kg CO₂-eq. In contrast, the emissions from flights were measured solely based on the direct emissions from fuel combustion during flight. For a fair comparison, the aviation sector should also include emissions from aircraft manufacturing, jet fuel extraction and refining, airport construction and operation, and disposal stages. If one industry is scrutinized under a microscope while another is viewed through a telescope, it inevitably leads to a 'statistical illusion' that excessively highlights the negative impacts of the livestock sector. An objective review of the national greenhouse gas inventory shows that the actual share of the domestic livestock industry is quite minimal. The energy sector, which includes coal power and gasoline vehicles, accounts for a staggering 86.9% of South Korea's total greenhouse gas emissions. In contrast, agriculture as a whole contributes only 2.9%, with direct emissions from the livestock sector at a mere 1.3%. Compared to the global transportation sector's emission share of 16.9%, South Korea's transportation sector stands at 13.5%, while livestock emissions are less than one-tenth of that. Despite this, singling out the livestock industry, which accounts for only 1.3% of total emissions, as a primary cause of the climate crisis while ignoring the energy sector's responsibility for 87% of total emissions is a distortion that obscures the essence of the issue. Ignoring the scientific mechanisms behind these comparisons leads to critical errors. The carbon dioxide and methane emitted by livestock are part of the 'Biogenic Carbon Cycle,' where atmospheric carbon is absorbed by feed crops through photosynthesis, then returned to the atmosphere through respiration and manure. This represents a natural flow within the global carbon cycle. In fact, under the Kyoto Protocol framework, carbon dioxide (CO₂) emitted from livestock respiration is excluded from greenhouse gas calculations. Conversely, the carbon emitted by aircraft or coal power plants comes from fossil fuels that have been trapped underground for millions of years, which humans extract and burn, adding new carbon to the atmosphere. Comparing these two scenarios is a disregard for the fundamental requirements of science. Another truth about the livestock industry that we often overlook is its value as a 'resource-recycling industry.' The domestic livestock sector absorbs and recycles a significant amount of organic byproducts generated during food production and agricultural processing, serving as an environmental purifier. Byproducts such as wheat bran, soybean meal, and fruit processing waste from apples and oranges, if left untreated, would lead to substantial disposal costs and environmental pollution. Instead, these materials are recycled into high-quality feed ingredients through the livestock industry. The domestic feed industry spends approximately 3.5 trillion won annually on purchasing these organic byproducts as feed ingredients. Without the livestock industry, the costs associated with disposing of these massive waste resources and the greenhouse gases generated during that process would have been transferred to society as additional social costs. Even now, the domestic livestock industry is not merely voicing its grievances but is actively pursuing proactive reforms. The government and farmers are expanding low-carbon livestock product certification systems and developing and distributing low-methane and low-protein feeds. Efforts to shorten the age at which Korean beef is marketed and to expand biogas facilities for livestock manure are among the various measures being implemented to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The intent to protect the environment and respond to the climate crisis should not be undermined. However, the methods and data used in this process must be scientific and fair. An emotional approach that demonizes meat on our tables while ignoring the critical issues of fossil fuel consumption and energy structure transition must cease. The grievances of our livestock farmers and the Korean beef industry, which quietly play a role in resource recycling and strive to adopt low-carbon technologies, deserve to be addressed through the lens of objective science.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-22 06:03:00

Kim Si-woo Shoots 7-Under 64 on First Day of The CJ Cup Kim Si-woo made a strong start at the PGA Tour's The CJ Cup Byron Nelson, shooting a 7-under 64 on the first day of the tournament, which has a total purse of $10.3 million. On May 22 (Korea time), at TPC Craig Ranch in McKinney, Texas, Kim recorded eight birdies and one bogey, finishing just one stroke behind the morning leader, Brooks Koepka, who shot an 8-under 63. Despite drizzly weather, Kim's shot-making was impressive. He showcased his skills while playing alongside top competitors, including world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler and 2018 tournament champion Koepka. Starting on the 10th hole (par 4), Kim sank a long birdie putt from about 20 meters on his first hole. He added birdies on the 12th (par 5) and 14th holes (par 4), finishing the front nine with a total of four birdies. His momentum continued on the back nine. On the 2nd hole (par 4), he placed his second shot just 70 centimeters from the hole for another birdie, and he made a short birdie putt on the 3rd hole (par 4). On the 5th hole (par 5), he used a mini driver to reach the green and followed up with a precise approach to secure another birdie. Although he had a disappointing three-putt bogey on the 7th hole (par 3), he redeemed himself with a birdie on the final 9th hole (par 5), finishing the round on a high note. After the round, Kim said, "It was a good round. My putting was excellent. My shots were a bit shaky, but I’m satisfied with the results. The greens were trickier than I expected, but my putting helped me have a good round." He also expressed satisfaction with the recently renovated course, stating, "I wasn’t sure if the changes were good during the practice rounds, but playing in the actual tournament, I felt it was much better than last year. The fairways are narrower, and there are more challenging situations when missing on the short side, but I personally like the course." Koepka, who recorded eight birdies without a bogey, topped the leaderboard. This marks his lowest score of the year since returning to the PGA Tour after joining LIV Golf. "It was my best round of the year. My putting felt good," Koepka said. "It really helped my confidence to see my feelings match the actual results." Koepka is aiming for his second title at this event after winning in 2018. He remarked, "Of course, it feels like there’s a long way to go to win now. If I can secure a second victory, it would be fantastic. I’ve felt my recent performance has been good, but my putting hasn’t reflected that. Winning would give me a huge boost in confidence. It would be great to have a chance to win in the final round." Defending champion Scheffler also started strong, shooting a 5-under 66 as he aims for back-to-back titles. "I had some good plays, but I was a bit short with my iron shots, which limited my birdie opportunities. Overall, it was a positive day," Scheffler said. "It’s still early in the tournament. Golf is a sport where you can’t force results. The worst thing is to try too hard to lower your score and end up making a silly mistake. I’ll focus on making good decisions and what I can control while looking for opportunities." Other South Korean players also had solid starts. Noh Seung-yul finished with a 4-under 67, while Kim Joo-hyung recorded a 3-under 68. 2026-05-22 05:28:28