Calls for Selective Re-elections Emerge Within Democratic Party Amid Voting Issues Within the Democratic Party, discussions are emerging about the possibility of selective re-elections in response to the ballot shortage controversy from the June 3 local elections. However, this approach differs from the comprehensive re-election demanded by the People Power Party. On June 7, lawmaker Park Sun-won stated on Facebook, "The areas affected by the ballot shortage should undergo re-elections," emphasizing that the National Election Commission (NEC) must take responsibility and ensure re-elections, given that the need for ballots could have been anticipated 2 to 3 days in advance of the early voting. Park further asserted, "Citizens deprived of their voting rights due to the ballot shortage will not remain silent. It is fundamental to question why the NEC allowed this situation to disrupt public sentiment. Can Noh Tae-ak and Cheon Dae-yeob be unaware of this?" Similarly, lawmaker Choi Min-hee criticized the call for a full re-election by Jang Dong-hyuk as unreasonable, advocating instead for re-elections only in the regions where ballot issues occurred. Kim Hyung-nam, a former spokesperson for Democratic Party mayoral candidate Jung Won-o and former director of the Military Human Rights Center, officially requested the party to file an election appeal, stating, "We need to clarify the targets for re-election according to legal procedures and resolve the confusion." An election appeal is a preliminary step in election litigation under the Public Election Act, allowing for challenges to the validity of an election. Kim noted, "If a decision of 'partial invalidity' is made, the elections at the affected polling stations will be nullified, and re-elections will only be held at those specific locations." In response, Han Byeong-do acknowledged during a press conference that he was aware of these discussions, urging caution and stating, "We must wait for a swift decision from the courts in accordance with the law and principles."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-08 11:51:00

Naver Shares Surge Ahead of Jensen Huang and Lee Hae-jin Live Broadcast Naver's stock has turned upward, showing a strong gain of over 12% ahead of a special live broadcast featuring Jensen Huang, CEO of NVIDIA, and Lee Hae-jin, chairman of Naver's board. As of 11:42 a.m. on June 8, Naver shares were trading at 287,500 won, up 32,000 won (12.52%) from the previous trading day, according to the Korea Exchange. The anticipation surrounding Huang's visit to South Korea has sparked optimism about a significant collaboration between Naver and NVIDIA in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). According to Naver, the special live broadcast, featuring both Huang and Lee, will begin at 3:30 p.m. and last approximately 15 minutes, starting at 3:50 p.m. Users can watch the broadcast for free via the Chijijik app and on PC. The event will take place at the 'Vision Stage' in Naver's second headquarters, 1784. The Vision Stage is a virtual studio designed for video content production and live streaming, showcasing Naver's technological capabilities in AI, cloud computing, robotics, and digital twins. Previously, Naver announced a strategic partnership with NVIDIA to build a global AI infrastructure. This initiative will begin with the Sejong Data Center, known as 'Gak Sejong,' and aims to expand AI infrastructure, enhance Naver's large language model, HyperCLOVA X, and promote collaboration in the field of physical AI. Market observers are keenly watching for potential announcements regarding additional collaboration between the two companies in AI infrastructure, robotics, and physical AI during the public discussion between their CEOs.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-08 11:48:00

Japan's Population Decline Reaches Major Cities as Birth Rate Hits Record Low Japan's population decline is now affecting not only rural areas but also major metropolitan regions. Yokohama, the largest city in Kanagawa Prefecture, has recorded its first population decrease since World War II, with Kanagawa, Chiba, and Saitama also experiencing declines. Last year, the total fertility rate fell to a historic low of 1.14. Even the metropolitan areas, which had absorbed population outflows from rural regions, can no longer compensate for the decline in births and the natural decrease due to aging. According to preliminary data from the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications based on the 2025 national census, Japan's total population was 123,049,524 as of October 1 last year, a decrease of 3,096,575 (2.5%) from five years earlier, marking the largest decline on record. The only areas that saw population growth were Tokyo and Okinawa. The Asahi Shimbun reported that 45 of Japan's 47 prefectures experienced population declines, indicating that this trend has become structural and is accelerating. Notably, changes in the metropolitan area are striking. The Yomiuri Shimbun pointed out that “the wave of population decline has reached the Tokyo area.” Despite maintaining a net increase in population due to more people moving in than out, the natural decrease in Kanagawa, Chiba, and Saitama has led to an overall population drop. Tokyo's population increased to 14,246,219, but the growth rate has significantly slowed from 532,000 five years ago to just 199,000. A symbolic case is Yokohama. According to the Nihon Keizai Shimbun (Nikkei), Yokohama's population is now 3,754,840, a decrease of 22,651 from five years ago, marking the first decline since the post-war period. The number of deaths (80,858) exceeded the number of births, despite a net migration gain of 74,320. Yokohama, which has grown as a residential city for Tokyo, is also facing aging issues. Among the 20 designated cities, 13, including Hiroshima, Kyoto, and Kobe, have also seen population declines. The speed of population decline is confirmed by demographic statistics. The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare reported on June 3 that the total fertility rate has dropped for ten consecutive years to 1.14, setting a new record low. The number of births in Japan was 671,236, the lowest since records began. The National Institute of Population and Social Security Research had projected a fertility rate of 1.25 for 2023, but the actual figure is closer to the pessimistic low estimate of 1.10. The point at which the number of births falls below 680,000 is now expected to occur in 2040, but this milestone has arrived 15 years earlier than anticipated. Even within the concentration of population in Tokyo, trends are mixed. While the overall population of the 23 wards has increased, the three wards of Chiyoda, Shibuya, and Meguro, which have high living costs, have seen declines. The Nikkei suggested that rising housing costs may have pushed families with children out of the city center. Conversely, the central area where the Harumi Flag residential complex was built for the Tokyo Olympics has seen a 7.53% increase, the highest in years. The population decline is also impacting public utility costs. According to the Yomiuri Shimbun, Yokosuka City in Kanagawa Prefecture, which experienced the 11th largest population decline (23,100), plans to raise water and sewage fees starting in October due to decreased revenue. Even with fewer users, maintaining facilities remains costly. The burden of social security is also increasing. Takuya Hoshino, chief economist at Dai-ichi Life Research Institute, estimates that the social security costs borne by each working individual will rise by about 20%, from 2.07 million yen in 2025 to 2.48 million yen in 2050. Even with more women and elderly people in the workforce, there are limits to preventing the decline in the working-age population. Hiroya Masuda, a senior advisor at Nomura Research Institute, told the Nikkei, “Japan has entered a period where the population will decline by one million each year,” predicting that the total population will fall to the 110 million range by the 2030 national census. He emphasized that merely encouraging childbirth or attracting businesses will not suffice; Japan must restructure its administration, urban planning, infrastructure, and social security systems to adapt to the shrinking population.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-08 11:48:00

Brewing Companies Launch Environmental Cleanup Efforts for World Oceans Day In recognition of World Oceans Day on June 8 and World Environment Day on June 5, Hite Jinro and OB Beer have launched large-scale environmental cleanup initiatives. These efforts go beyond simple employee volunteer work, as both companies collaborate with local communities and relevant agencies to expand their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives. According to industry sources, Hite Jinro conducted its second-quarter marine cleanup on June 8 at Daecheong Beach in Jeju to mark World Oceans Day. The event involved over 60 participants from four organizations, including Hite Jinro's Jeju branch, the Jeju Coast Guard, the Ara Community Welfare Center, and Jeju Polytechnic University, operating under a model of collaborative ESG. Participants collected approximately 2 tons of waste, including plastic debris and old fishing nets, over a period of about 90 minutes in the heavily trafficked Daecheong Beach area. Since starting its quarterly marine cleanup activities at Jeju's Pyoseon Beach in 2020, Hite Jinro has continued to engage in systematic efforts, selecting cleanup areas based on data from the Jeju Coast Guard regarding coastal waste distribution. For its contributions, Hite Jinro's Jeju branch received a commendation from the Jeju Coast Guard in late 2024 and an award from the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries in late 2025. Go Jae-im, head of Hite Jinro's Jeju branch, stated, "We will continue our efforts to create a cleaner ocean and fulfill our responsibilities as a national company committed to environmental protection." In line with this year's theme of "Climate Action" for World Environment Day, OB Beer is conducting a nationwide environmental campaign throughout June at its three production facilities in Gwangju, Icheon, and Cheongju. On June 4, about 30 employees from the Gwangju factory participated in a cleanup around the Yeongsan River. On June 14, around 40 employees from the Icheon factory will clean up the Bokha River and engage in an upcycling program using plastic bottle caps to create keychains. On the same day, another 40 employees from the Cheongju factory will also participate in environmental cleanup efforts along the Ocheon Stream, while the factory will host a second-hand marketplace to promote resource recycling. Additionally, OB Beer is implementing a "Zero Food Waste" event in its cafeteria to reduce food waste and encouraging employees to use carpooling and shuttle buses to lower carbon emissions. An OB Beer representative stated, "We aim to go beyond a simple campaign and continuously expand practical programs that inspire individual behavioral changes among employees to contribute to a sustainable future." * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-08 11:42:00

Police Launch Investigation into Local Election Ballot Shortage Police have intensified their investigation into the ballot shortage that occurred during the June 3 local elections, focusing on officials from the National Election Commission (NEC). Authorities have secured communication records from election workers and are investigating relevant public officials, affected voters, and printing companies to verify the facts surrounding the incident. The Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency's Special Investigation Unit summoned Kim Soon-hwan, Secretary-General of the People's Livelihood Committee, on June 8 as a complainant regarding allegations of dereliction of duty against former NEC Chairman No Tae-ak and others. In recent weeks, police have been gathering evidence by securing communication records from election workers, interviewing public officials involved in the election, and investigating voters who were unable to cast their ballots due to the shortage, as well as specific printing companies. The investigation aims to clarify the processes of ballot supply and distribution and the decision-making involved at the NEC. Further witness interviews with election officials are expected to follow. On June 4, the People's Livelihood Committee filed complaints against No Tae-ak, Secretary-General Heo Cheol-hoon, and Seoul Election Commission Chairman Oh Min-seok for abuse of power, dereliction of duty, embezzlement, and breach of trust. Kim Soon-hwan stated upon arriving at the police station, "The NEC secured a budget for ballots equivalent to 110% of the number of voters, yet only 50% were actually printed," urging for a thorough investigation. This investigation is expected to gain momentum following President Lee Jae-myung's directive for a comprehensive inquiry into the ballot shortage issue. On June 7, President Lee emphasized on social media that citizens' right to vote should never be restricted or violated, as it is a constitutional right. He instructed the establishment of a joint investigation team involving the police and prosecutors to determine accountability and clarify the circumstances of the incident. The Supreme Prosecutors' Office also announced on the same day that it would swiftly form a joint investigation team to address the issues affecting citizens' voting rights during the June 3 local elections. A police official stated, "We will promptly conduct necessary investigations, including the complainant's testimony, until the joint investigation team is fully operational." * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-08 11:39:00

CJ Freshway's Synergy Drives 101% Increase in Users for Sikbom Integrated Delivery Service Marketboro's open market for food ingredients, Sikbom, continues to grow, leading the online transition in the food distribution sector. On June 8, Sikbom reported a 101% increase in users of its integrated delivery service compared to the previous year, with transaction volume rising 3.3 times year-over-year. This service allows food service operators to order over 100 types of fresh and processed food items and consumables at once, receiving them the next day. It streamlines the ordering and receiving process into a single platform, reducing the burden of procurement tasks. The service operates based on CJ Freshway's 23 logistics hubs and cold chain infrastructure across the country. When food service operators place orders through the app the day before, products from various vendors are consolidated at the logistics centers and delivered the next morning. Notably, refrigerated and frozen items are safely delivered to the business premises, ensuring freshness is maintained. Currently, demand for integrated delivery is expanding among food service establishments that utilize a variety of ingredients, such as shabu-shabu restaurants, Western-style dining establishments, and brunch cafes. The ability to manage orders and delivery schedules without separate handling for each product is a significant advantage. Integrated delivery is also gaining attention as a new online sales channel for food manufacturers and distributors. Small and medium-sized distributors without their own logistics or delivery networks can reliably supply products to food service operators nationwide. Thanks to this effect, over 20 new vendors are set to join the platform this month. Sikbom plans to strengthen its logistics collaboration with CJ Freshway to continuously increase the range of products and vendors offered. This strategy aims to respond to the demand for online transitions and build a cooperative platform ecosystem. Park Sung-min, CEO of Marketboro, stated, "We provide a convenient purchasing environment for food service operators and an online sales channel without logistics burdens for vendors. We will continue to enhance service competitiveness by combining Sikbom's platform technology with CJ Freshway's logistics capabilities." Meanwhile, CJ Freshway became the largest shareholder of Marketboro in February by acquiring an additional 27.5% stake.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-08 11:39:00

Toy Story 5 Explores Play in the Age of Smart Devices Pixar's iconic franchise, "Toy Story," is set to return with its fifth installment. While previous films explored themes of growth, separation, and friendship through the lens of a child's relationship with toys, "Toy Story 5" confronts the reality of how digital devices and screens have transformed children's play. This time, the toys face a new challenge not from a villain, but from the smart tablet that has become an integral part of children's daily lives.On June 8, a virtual press conference for "Toy Story 5" took place, featuring director McKenna Harris, along with voice actors Tom Hanks (Woody), Tim Allen (Buzz), Joan Cusack (Jessie), and new character LilyPad voiced by Greta Lee.In "Toy Story 5," the toys—Jessie, Woody, and Buzz—must unite once again to navigate an unprecedented crisis brought on by Bonnie's new friend, the smart tablet LilyPad. The film is directed by Andrew Stanton, who has won two Academy Awards for Best Animated Feature for "Finding Nemo" and "WALL-E," with McKenna Harris serving as co-director.This installment notably addresses the current reality faced by children today. The time spent playing with toys is rapidly being replaced by time spent on smart devices and screens.Director McKenna Harris stated, "The most significant advancement in 'Toy Story 5' is that we are directly addressing how children today live and what their reality is. Nowadays, kids spend much more time on iPads and various devices than playing with traditional toys."She added, "The challenges the toys face in this film are greater than any they have encountered before. This is why Jessie, the main character, experiences significant worry. We have portrayed the child's imagination in a completely new way. While previous films have explored how children play and their imagination in a fun manner, this time we will show it in a different light."However, the film does not simply portray technology as a villain. Even within the apparent conflict between digital devices and toys, the film explores the meaning of play and connection in a changing era.Harris remarked, "Technology has changed everyone's lives. We are questioning what it means for us and for children. We cannot simply depict technology as the antagonist. No matter how much times change, play is an instinct inherent in all humans. The curiosity and imagination of childhood are innate. The key theme of 'Toy Story 5' is connection. Everyone has a desire to connect with others. Regardless of what children play with, their desire to engage in imaginative play remains unchanged through the ages."For Korean audiences, Bonnie's loneliness and longing for friendship resonate strongly. Bonnie wants to connect with her friends and uses the same devices and language as them, yet she struggles to achieve genuine connections.Harris explained, "Bonnie yearns for connection, empathy, and friendship. Her understanding of friendship and relationships is shaped by her peers. She tries to have the same devices, use the same technology, and speak the same language as her friends. Yet, she confronts the reality that she cannot achieve the heartfelt connections she truly desires. This becomes a significant challenge for both Bonnie and Jessie. Jessie values friendship and connection but believes she must not lose her authenticity in the process. I hope Korean audiences can relate to this balance."Jessie's narrative also plays a crucial role in this film. Her desire to be with the child while grappling with the anxiety of watching the child drift toward a different world is central to her journey.Joan Cusack stated, "This film beautifully captures Jessie's journey. I believe it portrays the pain involved in that growth process beautifully. Parents can relate to the experience of having to let go of their children as they grow. It is heartwarming to have a character like Jessie reminding children that they should enjoy, play, and have fun, especially when they are becoming less engaged with play due to smart devices. The theme of forming connections and sharing feelings with good friends is not easy to convey in film, but this installment does it exceptionally well."Tom Hanks, who has voiced Woody for 30 years, reflected on the character's journey and renewed sense of responsibility.He said, "Woody has gone through a lot. Initially, he was the authoritative leader of the toys in Andy's room, but later he ventured into the wider world to rescue discarded toys. Nevertheless, the core duty of bringing joy to children remains alive in Woody's heart. Woody is a toy that shows the marks of time. I believe he is the most experienced veteran among all toy characters."He continued, "Returning to a character I have been with for 30 years, I felt the need to acknowledge all the lessons learned along the way. I approached this role with a greater sense of responsibility than any other character."Buzz also undergoes new changes. Tim Allen hinted that Buzz's emotional depth will be more pronounced in this film. He stated, "This time, you will see Buzz experiencing emotions. You will witness moments where he feels excitement and his feelings for Jessie will be more evident."He also shared his enjoyment in voicing multiple versions of Buzz, saying, "It has been a lot of fun to portray the character, and I enjoy upgrading my performance each time. The Buzz you will meet this time is an upgraded version of the toy."The new character LilyPad is voiced by Greta Lee, a Korean-American actress known to local audiences from "Fast Lives." She noted that she did not interpret the smart tablet as a simple antagonist.Greta Lee said, "The directors wanted me to focus on the human aspects of LilyPad, which was very helpful. Honestly, how do you act as a machine? That was daunting, and joining such a talented cast was also intimidating."She added, "I tried to focus on how smart devices and technology manifest in my life. As a parent of two sons, I find technology and smart devices to be very complex issues. It makes me reflect on how to nurture children's childhood and how adults should approach these devices and technologies."She also pointed out a scene in the film that reflects today's reality, saying, "There is a scene where the toys rise to a high place and see the entire neighborhood. It looks as if the neighborhood has experienced a zombie apocalypse. It is dark, and no children are outside; everyone is sitting alone on their sofas, staring at screens. I think that scene symbolically represents today's reality. Technology and devices are not simply good or bad; they are just reality."Finally, Tom Hanks spoke about the enduring legacy of the "Toy Story" series for long-time fans. He addressed Korean audiences, saying, "You can ignore the number '5' in 'Toy Story 5.' We are all 'Toy Story.' I believe this story is as consistent as the speed of laughter and the laughter itself.""Toy Story 5" is set to be released in South Korea on June 17.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-08 11:39:00

President Lee Calls for Caution in Excess Profit Distribution Debate President Lee Jae-myung addressed the ongoing debate over excess profit distribution among companies, including Samsung Electronics, during a press conference marking his first anniversary in office on June 8. He emphasized that this issue could have serious implications for national industrial policy and suggested that discussions should extend beyond domestic borders to encompass international trade norms. During the press conference held at the Blue House, President Lee noted, "You may have been particularly interested in the labor-management conflict surrounding Samsung Electronics' operating profit distribution." He remarked on the evolving nature of profit-sharing discussions, stating, "In the past, when profits were high, people would ask for salary increases, but the idea of sharing operating profits was unimaginable. Isn’t that quite lively?" He further elaborated, saying, "Excess profits involve contributions from workers, as well as returns for company investors. There are also citizens who have supported subsidies." President Lee cautioned that if South Korea were to implement such measures unilaterally, companies might relocate to avoid social pressures related to high operating profit margins. He questioned, "If there is social pressure to allocate a portion of high operating profits, would companies hesitate to invest?" He concluded by stating, "This is an issue that could have very serious implications for national industrial policy. It is not something that can be resolved through domestic debate alone. It will soon become a common issue globally. Therefore, discussions about how to handle excess profits must be approached with great caution." * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-08 11:36:00

100 days of conflict in Middle East with no end in sight SEOUL, June 8 (AJP) - One hundred days in, the U.S. finds itself trapped in a conflict it didn't fully plan for and can't easily end. When American and Israeli warplanes struck Iran on Feb. 28, the operation seemed almost surgical in its ambition. Within hours, Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was dead, and confidence was running high in Washington. Many believed Iran might quickly unravel, much as Saddam Hussein's regime collapsed within weeks of the U.S. invasion in 2003. U.S. President Donald Trump, never one to undersell a moment, boasted the conflict in the Middle East would be over "in four to five weeks." But 100 days on, the conflict has evolved into a grinding stalemate, with no clear end in sight. What was promised and what has been achieved are starkly different. Iran's theocratic regime — battered, grief-stricken and economically strangled — has not collapsed. Ali Khamenei's son, Mojtaba, has stepped into the role, and if anything, the hard-liners around him have consolidated power rather than cracked under pressure. Once again, the Islamic Republic has shown itself to be more than any single man. The human cost, meanwhile, has been staggering. Iranian military and civilian casualties have surpassed 3,500 dead, with tens of thousands wounded. About a dozen American service members have been killed. Even countries like Oman and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), thought to be bystanders, have seen casualties on their soil. This was not supposed to be that kind of war. And then there is the Strait of Hormuz. Iran's decision to block the critical chokepoint, through which roughly one-fifth of the world's oil passes, transformed a military operation into an economic crisis with global consequences. The number of vessels transiting the strait fell from roughly 100 per day to just a few. U.S. crude prices surged nearly 40 percent. Oil inventories dropped to their lowest level in more than two decades. Norwegian energy consultancy Rystad Energy estimates that repairing damage to Middle East energy infrastructure could cost up to $60 billion. The diplomatic landscape also looks nearly as bleak. The coalition of Gulf Arab states has frayed badly following Iranian attacks on neighbors cooperating with Washington. North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) allies declined Trump's request for military support, leaving a lasting bruise on the alliance. The U.S. and Israel, long bound by an almost unconditional partnership, now look at each other with growing suspicion, with American officials involved in back-channel negotiations reportedly fearing that Israeli intelligence services have been listening in on their conversations in what they believe goes beyond the permissive standards of allied espionage. Talks continue, fitfully, with Pakistan serving as an unlikely intermediary. Washington and Tehran have come tantalizingly close to a broad framework that would begin with the full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to restore shipping, and then proceed to formal nuclear negotiation. But disagreements on core issues remain unresolved. Trump insists that Iran cannot be allowed to possess nuclear weapons, while Iran demands that sanctions be lifted and some $24 billion in frozen assets released before any meaningful concessions. Trump's own remarks reflect how stalled the conflict has become. Early last week, he said a deal could come "this weekend" and that Iran was "quite close" to signing. But just a few days later, he was comparing the conflict to Viet Nam, saying, "You know, the Vietnam War lasted 19 years," as if it did not matter. Tensions continue with repeated attacks and retaliation. The U.S. and Iran have exchanged drone and missile strikes, but neither side wants full-scale war, and neither can find an exit. In Lebanon, Israel has expanded its strikes on Hezbollah in the south. When the U.S. launched its airstrikes on Iran, the Trump administration had two goals: regime change in Tehran and the destruction of Iran's nuclear program. But neither has been achieved. The leadership has changed, but the regime has not. Nuclear facilities were struck, but Iran's remaining highly enriched uranium, the material that could be turned into a weapon, remains unresolved. Trump has been down this road before. During his first term in 2018, he withdrew from the nuclear deal signed under then-President Barack Obama, which had required Iran to reduce its enriched uranium stockpile by 98 percent from roughly 10,000 kg to 300 kg. With midterm elections in November approaching, Trump would need a better deal than Obama's, the one he could use to justify his war in Iran. In Washington, hard questions are being asked: why did this war begin, how does it end, and what does "winning" even mean? The bombs have fallen and talks continue, but these key questions remain unanswered. As the conflict reaches 100 days, the world waits to see whether this conflict ends in a handshake or something far worse. 2026-06-08 11:27:23

US House panel passes defense bill provision barring foreign construction of Navy warships SEOUL, June 08 (AJP) - A U.S. House committee has approved a provision in the fiscal 2027 defense policy bill that would prohibit the Navy from using funds to build warships at foreign shipyards, a move that could complicate Washington’s recent push to tap allied shipbuilding capacity, including South Korean yards. Rep. Jared Golden, a Democrat from Maine, said in a press release on Friday that the House Armed Services Committee had adopted his amendment to the fiscal 2027 National Defense Authorization Act, or NDAA, saying, “Under a provision in the NDAA approved by the House Armed Services Committee early this morning, the U.S. Navy will have to scrap plans to send shipbuilding jobs overseas.” The NDAA is an annual bill that authorizes defense spending and sets policy priorities for the Pentagon. It must still pass both the House and Senate and be signed by the president before taking effect. The House Armed Services Committee passed the fiscal 2027 NDAA on June 5 in a 44-12 vote after considering a series of amendments. Golden said two of his amendments were approved by the committee, including one aimed at blocking what he called the Navy’s outsourcing plan. According to his office, the amendment states that none of the funds authorized for the Navy in fiscal 2027 may be obligated or spent to enter into a procurement plan for a battle force ship that would be built in a foreign shipyard. “American military spending should support American jobs,” Golden said. “The idea that any part of our surface fleet would be built on foreign soil, by foreign labor, is unacceptable.” He added that the plan posed a threat to U.S. industry, jobs and national security. The provision is not final, as the bill still needs approval from the full House and must be reconciled with the Senate’s version. Still, if the restriction survives the legislative process, it could affect recent Pentagon discussions on using allied shipyards to help procure next-generation naval vessels. South Korean shipbuilders have been seen as possible partners as Washington seeks to address delays, cost overruns and limited capacity in its own naval shipbuilding sector. The move could also weigh on broader South Korea-U.S. shipbuilding cooperation under the MASGA initiative, short for “Make American Shipbuilding Great Again,” which has been promoted as part of efforts to strengthen U.S. maritime industrial capacity through cooperation with allies. Breaking Defense reported last month that the Pentagon had requested $1.85 billion to study and potentially procure future Navy ships from allied shipbuilders, including yards in South Korea and Japan. South Korean shipbuilders have expanded their presence in the U.S. shipbuilding and maintenance market in recent years, while Seoul and Washington have discussed ways to link Korea’s shipbuilding capacity with U.S. efforts to rebuild its maritime industrial base. 2026-06-08 11:22:19