Oh Se-hoon Claims Lee Jae-myung is Using Government Power for Election Oh Se-hoon, the People Power Party candidate for Seoul mayor, claimed on May 21 that President Lee Jae-myung has initiated a government-backed election campaign to support Jung Won-oh, urging voters to protect Seoul. During his official campaign launch at Cheonggye Plaza that evening, Oh stated, "As Jung's approval ratings fluctuated, they fabricated a 'rebar rumor,' and now even the president has stepped in." His comments were directed at President Lee's instruction to relevant ministries to conduct safety inspections and investigations regarding the missing rebar in the construction section of the GTX-A line at Samsung Station. Jung Won-oh, the Democratic Party's candidate for Seoul mayor, has been attacking Oh, blaming him for the incident. Oh remarked, "Seeing Jung, who was chosen by the president, struggling, it seems there’s an after-service from the president. I ask the citizens of Seoul to help keep the president's spirit alive." Oh also criticized Jung for refusing to participate in debates, saying, "This election is truly difficult. Meeting for a debate feels harder than 'picking stars from the sky.'" He emphasized that all citizens of Seoul are suffering due to the real estate failures of the Lee Jae-myung administration and urged, "Please help us protect Seoul." Earlier that morning, Yoo Seung-min, a former lawmaker who accompanied Oh on his first campaign schedule, also took the stage at the launch event to request support. Yoo stated, "Jung is a subordinate of President Lee, and he will never oppose the president even if he goes down the wrong path." He added, "The president will tighten loans, impose taxes, and refrain from redevelopment and reconstruction, yet Jung will remain silent." Yoo praised Oh for his ample experience and capabilities, urging supporters to increase his approval ratings by 1% each day until the night of June 2. Meanwhile, Oh began his campaign at the Garak-dong Agricultural and Fishery Wholesale Market in Songpa District at midnight and concluded his first day of campaigning by meeting citizens at Gangnam Station after the launch event.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 22:43:13

Court Denies Arrest Warrant for Former KTV Director Over Sedition Charges A court has denied an arrest warrant for Lee Eun-woo, the former director of the Korea Policy Broadcasting (KTV), who is facing sedition charges related to the December 3 martial law declaration. According to Yonhap News on May 21, Judge Lee Jong-rok of the Seoul Central District Court dismissed the warrant after a pre-arrest interrogation of Lee. The judge stated, "There is room for dispute regarding the establishment of the sedition charges," and added that it is unlikely Lee would flee or destroy evidence based on the current status of the case. Lee is accused of repeatedly broadcasting news that justified the martial law and related proclamations from December 3 to December 13, 2024, while blocking and deleting news critical of the martial law. The special prosecutors' team has identified indications that Lee continued to support sedition forces even after the martial law was lifted, prompting them to reopen the investigation and file for an arrest warrant on May 18. This warrant request marked the first attempt by the special prosecutors to secure an arrest since the team's establishment in February, approximately 82 days prior. However, the court's denial has raised concerns that the special prosecutors may have rushed the warrant request amid criticism of their lack of progress. As the special prosecutors approach the expiration of their initial investigation period on May 24, they have yet to arrest or indict any suspects.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 22:39:51

Financial Authorities to Appoint Chief Inclusion Officers to Address Financial Exclusion South Korea's financial authorities are moving to appoint Chief Inclusion Officers (CIFOs) within banks and financial institutions to tackle the issue of financial exclusion, which President Lee Jae-myung has described as a problem of "predatory finance." This initiative aims to implement structural changes to address the root causes of financial exclusion. Additionally, to encourage foreign investment in the domestic stock market, the authorities plan to expand the trading scope of integrated foreign accounts to include exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and will hold a large-scale overseas investment briefing in September. On May 21, Financial Services Commission Chairman Lee Ok-yeon stated during a meeting with reporters, "We need fundamental improvements to how we address the structural issues that create financial exclusion." He announced plans to establish a Financial Inclusion Strategy Promotion Team in June, which will consist of four divisions: general, policy for the underprivileged, financial industry, and credit infrastructure. The general division will focus on designating CIFOs within financial companies to discuss ways to improve access to finance for low-income and vulnerable groups at the board and governance levels. The team will also consider measures such as providing immunity for employees actively engaged in financial inclusion efforts, establishing a comprehensive evaluation system for financial inclusion, and linking evaluation results to financial company incentives and compensation. Lee emphasized, "While we have focused on urgently rescuing marginalized groups pushed out of the formal financial system, it is now time to improve the structures that lead to financial exclusion." Pressure for Candidate Unification Grows in Busan's North District, Signs of Division in the People Power Party In the Busan North District, a key battleground for the June 3 by-elections, Democratic Party candidate Ha Jung-woo and independent candidate Han Dong-hoon are in a tight race within the margin of error. As pressure mounts for unification between People Power Party candidate Park Min-sik and Han, the party is showing signs of division. According to political sources on May 21, Han has taken the lead in support for the first time in the three-way race. Previously, Ha had consistently led in polls, but recent data shows Han at 34.6%, Ha at 32.9%, and Park at 20.5%, based on a survey conducted by Research & Research from May 17 to 19 among 500 eligible voters in the Busan North District. The gap between Han and Ha is within the margin of error of 1.7 percentage points (the survey used a 100% mobile phone interview method with a sampling error of ±4.4 percentage points at a 95% confidence level, with a response rate of 10%. For more details, refer to the Central Election Survey Deliberation Committee's website). Calls for unification are growing within the People Power Party. Representative Park Soo-young urged the party leadership to make a decision regarding candidate unification in Busan North. He reportedly stated in a group chat that his district, Busan Nam-gu, is currently trailing the Democratic Party by 10 to 15 percentage points, and emphasized that without decisive action from the Busan city party and the central party, the election will be challenging. Iran Establishes 'Controlled Area' in the Strait of Hormuz, Requires Pre-Approval for All Vessels The Iranian government has announced the establishment of a "controlled area" in the Strait of Hormuz, managed by the newly formed Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA), under the pretext of regulating navigation in the strait. On May 20, the PGSA stated via social media platform X (formerly Twitter) that the eastern boundary of the controlled area will be defined by a straight line connecting Iran's Kouh-e Mobarak and the southern UAE city of Fujairah. The western boundary will connect Iran's Qeshm Island and the UAE's Umm al-Quwain. Earlier reports from AP and CNN indicated that the Iranian government aims to formalize its control over the Strait of Hormuz through the establishment of the PGSA. CNN reported that the authority has notified the shipping industry that it will require all vessels to complete a "Vessel Information Declaration" form to ensure safe navigation. According to a document obtained by CNN, the form consists of over 40 items, including the vessel's name and identification number, departure country, destination, owner and operator nationality, and cargo information. Past names of the vessel must also be included, and this information must be submitted to Iranian authorities via email before passing through the Strait of Hormuz.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 22:35:43

President Lee Questions High Rent in Dongin-dong Goshiwon President Lee Jae-myung questioned the affordability of monthly rent in goshiwons, asking, "Is 300,000 won too expensive?" during a visit to the Dongin-dong goshiwon in Jongno-gu, Seoul, on May 21.While listening to the opinions of residents and officials, President Lee expressed concern upon hearing the rent prices. When a representative from the goshiwon counseling center explained that rents tend to align with housing benefit levels, President Lee appeared skeptical and raised an eyebrow.Chief Presidential Spokesperson Kang Yu-jung explained in a written briefing that the visit aimed to assess the living conditions and safety of residents in preparation for the upcoming summer storms and heatwaves.The day before, President Lee had directed a field inspection and support measures for vulnerable groups, including goshiwon residents, elderly individuals living alone, and outdoor workers, during a Cabinet meeting and emergency economic review.Initially, President Lee met with representatives from the goshiwon counseling center to express gratitude for their efforts to ensure the safety and support of residents. He also suggested utilizing vacant spaces for communal rest areas.Additionally, while observing air conditioning units installed on building exteriors, President Lee carefully checked the status of cooling equipment with the counseling center director.As he walked through the alleys, President Lee greeted each resident, inquiring about their needs and health. Residents expressed their appreciation, saying, "This is the first time a president has visited our neighborhood," and thanked him for coming. President Lee shook hands and embraced residents as they exchanged greetings.Notably, President Lee visited one resident's room to ask about their receipt of support funds. In another home, he admired a painting on the wall and asked, "Who painted this?" Upon learning it was the resident's work, he complimented, "You did a great job!"President Lee meticulously checked on residents' health and living difficulties. When one resident mentioned struggling without an air conditioner during the summer, President Lee confirmed with officials about possible support measures.He continued to ask residents about the cleanliness and maintenance of their surroundings, as well as any additional concerns that needed attention.Spokesperson Kang noted that President Lee responded warmly to the residents waiting at the street's end and actively participated in photo requests. After spending about an hour inspecting various areas of the goshiwon, he concluded his visit by saying farewell to residents waiting by his vehicle.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 22:31:37

Government Launches Safety Inspections at GTX Samsung Station Following Rebar Omission The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport and the Ministry of Interior and Safety are initiating government-led safety inspections at the GTX Samsung Station, where a rebar omission has been reported. According to Yonhap News on May 21, the joint safety inspection team will include experts from various organizations, such as the Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency, Korea Electric Safety Corporation, Korea Gas Safety Corporation, Korea Land Safety Management Agency, Korea Railroad Research Institute, and the National Railroad Corporation. A private expert will lead the team to ensure objectivity in the inspections. The purpose of the joint inspection team is to prevent major safety accidents by assessing the safety management status of facilities, industrial safety, firefighting, and electrical systems at the construction site. The team will also evaluate the overall appropriateness of the construction process and investigate the causes of construction errors. It will consist of 40 members, divided into one group focused on construction site safety and two groups focused on construction execution. After completing the safety inspections at the construction site, the team plans to conduct inspections in the construction execution area over the next two months. The government stated that the inspection period could be extended if necessary. Previously, a special on-site inspection team formed by the Ministry of Land was integrated into the joint inspection team starting today. The government emphasized that the safety inspections will be thorough, covering not only the underground fifth floor of the Yeongdong-daero Section 3, where the construction error occurred, but also all facilities currently under construction at the Yeongdong-daero site.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 22:30:20

Kim Hye-kyung Emphasizes Education's Role in Social Change at Sookmyung University Event Kim Hye-kyung, the spouse of President Lee Jae-myung, visited her alma mater, Sookmyung Women's University, to highlight the importance of education and community values. On May 21, Deputy Spokesperson Ahn Gyu-ryeong announced in a written briefing that Kim attended the 120th anniversary eve celebration at a hotel in Samsung-dong, Gangnam, where she stated, "Learning opens new possibilities for some and provides courage and hope for others. Education is the greatest force that can change an individual's life and, in turn, transform society." She continued, "The future society will require 'people who can grow together' more than 'those who advance alone.' Even as technology rapidly changes the world, the power to lead communities ultimately comes from people." Kim expressed her hopes for her alma mater, saying, "Not only has it nurtured outstanding talent, but it has also taught the values of respecting individuals, taking responsibility for the community, and embracing solidarity. I encourage the university to develop into an institution that conveys hope to society with intelligence, dignity, and a warm community spirit." Additionally, Kim received the 'Proud Sookmyung Alumni Award.' Sookmyung University President Moon Si-yeon presented the award, expressing gratitude and respect for Kim's deep affection and unwavering support for the university's development and future endeavors. Meanwhile, Kim donated a silver ring crafted by master artisan Park Hae-do, which she wore during French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to South Korea, to a charity auction. The proceeds from the auction will be used for the university's development fund, supporting educational initiatives.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 22:28:31

Kim Hye-kyung: Education is the Greatest Force for Social Change Kim Hye-kyung attended the 120th anniversary celebration of her alma mater, Sookmyung Women's University, on May 21, where she offered congratulations and encouragement.According to a written briefing by Deputy Spokesperson Ahn Gyu-ryeong, Kim participated in the event held at a hotel in Samseong-dong, Gangnam, Seoul.In her speech, Kim stated, "Education opens new possibilities for some and provides courage and hope for others. It is the greatest force that can change a person's life and, ultimately, society."She added, "The future society will need people who know how to grow together rather than those who advance alone. Even as technology rapidly changes the world, the power to lead communities ultimately comes from people."Kim expressed her hopes for her university, saying, "Not only has it produced outstanding talents, but it has also taught the values of respecting individuals, taking responsibility for the community, and embracing solidarity. I support its development into a university that conveys hope to society with intelligence, dignity, and a warm community spirit."On this occasion, Kim was awarded the 'Proud Sookmyungian Award' given to alumni.Ahn reported that Kim greeted alumni, including Sookmyung Women's University President Moon Si-yeon, and posed for photos with them.Additionally, Kim donated a silver ring crafted by master artisan Park Hae-do, which she wore during French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to South Korea, to a charity auction. The proceeds from the auction will be used for the university's development fund and educational support.Meanwhile, on the official YouTube channel and Instagram of President Lee Jae-myung, a short video titled 'Today is #CoupleDay' was posted to mark Couple's Day. This day, celebrated annually on May 21, is a legal commemorative day established to promote healthy family culture and prevent family disintegration.The released video features a montage of past and present photos of the presidential couple. Kim playfully touched President Lee's face without glasses and said, "You look handsome," while he responded with a smile, saying, "Don't hit me."The video also included photos from their dating days, wedding, and appearances on the SBS variety show 'Same Bed, Different Dreams.' President Lee introduced Kim as "my other half and almost my entirety," while Kim referred to him as "my husband, Lee Jae-myung."The Blue House also shared a photo of the couple walking along the Jeju Olle Trail on its Instagram account later that afternoon.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 22:25:25

South Korea's Foreign Ministry Reviews Response to Transnational Crime The South Korean Foreign Ministry has assessed trends in responding to transnational crime and strategies for enhancing cooperation. On May 21, the ministry held a meeting of ambassadors from Southeast Asia and China, chaired by Deputy Minister Kim Jin-ah, to discuss these issues. The virtual meeting included participation from the Special Task Force on Transnational Crime, the National Police Agency, and 18 embassies in Southeast Asia, along with three embassies in China. During the meeting, Deputy Minister Kim stated, "In accordance with President Lee Jae-myung's directive to thoroughly pursue and eradicate transnational crime that disrupts the lives of our citizens, we have strengthened cooperation with relevant domestic agencies and authorities in each country." She noted that there have been positive outcomes, including a reduction in domestic voice phishing incidents and a case in Cambodia where a South Korean citizen was victimized by a scam and held captive. However, she expressed concern that criminal organizations are evolving into smaller, decentralized groups and expanding their activities into South Asia and Central Asia. Kim urged each embassy to closely monitor local developments and enhance collaboration with host country authorities and nearby embassies. In response, ambassadors from the Southeast Asia region committed to working closely with host countries to eliminate South Korean involvement in transnational crime. Additionally, embassies in China stated they would strengthen cooperation with Chinese authorities, considering the potential links between criminal organizations in China and Southeast Asia.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 22:22:49

French-Korean Chamber of Commerce Celebrates 140 Years of Diplomatic Relations The French-Korean Chamber of Commerce (FKCCI) held a commemorative event on May 20 at the National Assembly to celebrate the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between France and Korea, as well as the 40th anniversary of FKCCI. The event highlighted the cooperation between the two nations from the Joseon Dynasty to the present day. Following French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to Korea last month, the event featured FKCCI President David Pierre Jalicon, French Ambassador Philippe Bertu, and lawmaker Na Kyung-won, among over 80 prominent figures, enhancing the significance of friendship and cooperation between the two countries. In his speech, Jalicon stated, "The National Assembly symbolizes the shared values of democracy and freedom between our two countries and is a true testament to our friendship." He emphasized that the Korea-France relationship has evolved into a genuine "strategic partnership" encompassing key areas, fostering greater economic integration. He added, "This year will be a time to renew our aspirations beyond mere achievements," announcing that FKCCI will open its own independent building, the 'French Korea EcoMaison,' in Gangnam this September, which will serve as a multipurpose space for the French-Korean business community. Ambassador Bertu, in his congratulatory remarks, noted, "In two weeks, on June 4, we will officially celebrate the 140th anniversary of our diplomatic relations." He remarked that through a century and a half of friendship, trust, and cooperation, France and Korea have forged closer ties than ever. He expressed his honor in gathering at the National Assembly, a place rich in history and symbolic of the republican values fought for by both nations. He highlighted that France and Korea are called to play increasingly important roles on the international stage, based on their shared history, economic dynamism, and rich culture. Lawmaker Na Kyung-won, president of the Korea-France Parliamentary Friendship Association, quoted a French proverb, "Small streams gather to form a mighty river," stating, "Based on the trust built over the past 140 years, we must now move together toward a larger sea. The synergy of Korea's dynamism and France's creativity, along with Korea's technological prowess and France's cultural depth, presents us with limitless possibilities." During the event, Jalicon presented the commemorative book marking the 140th anniversary of Korea-France diplomatic relations and the 40th anniversary of FKCCI to distinguished guests. He expressed gratitude, stating, "This book would not have come to fruition without your dedication and participation. In that sense, this book is truly yours." The commemorative book includes historical moments from the 1886 Korea-France Treaty of Friendship and Commerce, activities of French missionaries in Korea during the 19th century, the French battalion led by General Ralph Monclar, known as the 'hero of the Battle of Jipyeongri' during the Korean War, and exchanges between the two countries, culminating in the recent summit between President Yoon Suk Yeol and President Macron. Additionally, to commemorate FKCCI's 40th anniversary, the book details significant milestones in economic cooperation between the two nations, from the introduction of France's high-speed rail (TGV) in the 1990s to the Korea-European Union Free Trade Agreement in the 2010s, and the current strategic partnerships in various fields, including innovation, mobility, energy, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, luxury, and cultural industries. Following the ceremony, a special congratulatory performance was held by musicians from the Orchestre national Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes as part of cultural cooperation between France and Korea. Founded in 1986 with 20 member companies, FKCCI has grown to include over 475 members, making it the third-largest foreign chamber of commerce in Korea and the sixth largest among 125 French chambers worldwide across 95 countries.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 22:21:00

Korean Minister Discusses Safety at Barakah Nuclear Plant with UAE Counterpart Kim Jeong-kwan, South Korea's Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy, held a video conference with his counterpart from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to assess safety conditions and recovery efforts at the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant. According to Yonhap News on May 21, the minister spoke with Suhail Mohamed Faris Al Mazrouei, UAE Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, to review the status of recovery efforts for transmission facilities near the Barakah plant that were damaged in a recent drone attack. They also discussed measures to enhance the safety of South Korean employees working at the Barakah facility. Kim expressed gratitude for the UAE government's efforts to ensure the safety of South Korean staff and their families residing in the country, assuring that the South Korean government would actively support the recovery of the damaged facilities. In response, Al Mazrouei emphasized that ensuring the safety of employees at the nuclear plant is a top priority and expressed a commitment to actively communicate and cooperate with South Korea. The Barakah Nuclear Power Plant, built in Abu Dhabi, is a facility where Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) has exported its next-generation reactor model, APR1400. Employees from KEPCO, Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power, and domestic partners are currently working on-site. On May 17, a fire broke out at a generator located outside the internal security perimeter of the plant due to a drone attack, but no casualties were reported. The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy stated, "We plan to deepen cooperation in energy and industrial sectors, including strengthening nuclear collaboration and stabilizing oil supply, while maintaining close communication with the UAE government, our special strategic partner."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 22:15:00