Conflict Erupts Over Yongsan Development Plans Between Candidates Jeong Won-o and Oh Se-hoon Jeong Won-o, the Democratic Party candidate for Seoul mayor, and Oh Se-hoon, the People Power Party candidate, have clashed over the direction of real estate development in Seoul. Jeong's camp criticized Oh for neglecting the Yongsan development for an extended period, while Oh's camp accused Jeong of reverting to the urban regeneration policies of former Seoul Mayor Park Won-soon. On May 9, Jeong posted on Facebook, questioning, "Why has Oh Se-hoon left this land unattended during his four terms as mayor?" He attributed the delays in Yongsan development to a lack of clear responsibility for the project. Jeong stated, "We cannot continue down the path of Oh Se-hoon. I will develop differently." The day before, Jeong announced a pledge to attract a United Nations artificial intelligence hub to the Yongsan International Business District and to concentrate five advanced strategic industries there. Park Kyung-mi, a spokesperson for Jeong's campaign, remarked, "A candidate who has effectively neglected the Yongsan maintenance site for ten years is asking for a fifth chance. Citizens should hold Oh accountable for his decade of mismanagement." Oh's camp took issue with Jeong's comments regarding housing supply. Park Yong-chan, a spokesperson for Oh's campaign, expressed concerns in a statement, saying, "Jeong's remarks about villas raise suspicions that he aims to revive the urban regeneration projects of the Park Won-soon administration." The comments in question were made by Jeong during a meeting with candidates for district councilors on May 5, where he stated that solutions to the rental housing issue could be implemented within two to three years by utilizing villas, officetels, and residential-type accommodations. Park criticized this, stating, "The creation of villa towns was a core project of past urban regeneration efforts, which ended in failure. Are we to attempt this again?" Both sides are also at odds over the scale of housing supply within the Yongsan International Business District. Jeong's camp emphasizes the creation of a mixed-use city that integrates living and working spaces, while Oh's camp argues that this could undermine the international business functions of the area. As real estate policy emerges as a central issue in the Seoul mayoral election, the debate over redevelopment and reconstruction strategies is expected to intensify.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-09 15:45:21

Lee Jung-hoo Records Two Hits Against Pirates, Achieves Multi-Hit Game After Seven Matches Lee Jung-hoo of the San Francisco Giants recorded a multi-hit game for the first time in seven matches. On May 9, in a home game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Oracle Park in San Francisco, Lee started as the leadoff right fielder and went 2-for-4 at the plate. After struggling with his batting earlier in May, Lee's two hits marked his 12th multi-hit game of the season. This was his first multi-hit performance since May 1 against the Philadelphia Phillies. His batting average improved from .263 to .270. In his first at-bat in the opening inning, Lee popped out to right field. However, in the bottom of the third with one out and a runner on first, he connected with a low splitter from Pirates starter Carmen Mlodzinski for a single to right field. Unfortunately, the next batter, Luis Arraez, grounded into a double play, ending the scoring opportunity. Lee added another hit in the bottom of the fifth. With two outs and no runners on base, he hit a 95.6 mph fastball from Mlodzinski for a single to left field. Again, the following batter failed to drive him home. In a missed opportunity, Lee batted with the bases loaded and no outs in the bottom of the seventh while the Giants led 3-1. He hit a line drive to the second baseman and was unable to bring in a run. Arraez later delivered a two-run single, extending the Giants' lead. Lee also contributed defensively, making a notable play in the top of the sixth by chasing down a foul ball from Bryan Reynolds and catching it just in front of the stands. The Giants defeated the Pirates 5-2, snapping a two-game losing streak. Their season record improved to 15 wins and 23 losses, but they remain at the bottom of the National League West. 2026-05-09 15:27:21

Musinsa's foreign sales hit record high during Northeast Asian 'Golden Holiday' SEOUL, May 09 (AJP) - South Korean fashion platform Musinsa saw its offline sales from foreign tourists reach a record high during the recent "Northeast Asian Golden Holiday," as Japanese and Chinese vacation periods coincided to drive a surge in inbound shopping. According to data released by the company on Friday, sales from foreign customers at 12 of its global-focused stores—including Musinsa Standard and Musinsa Store—rose more than 30 percent between April 29 and May 5 compared to the previous week. The period saw a rare overlap of Japan’s Golden Week (April 29–May 6) and China’s Labor Day holiday (May 1–5). The growth was most pronounced in Seoul’s Seongsu district, a rising shopping hub for international tourists. Combined sales at the Musinsa Standard Seongsu and Musinsa Store Seongsu boutique surged 41 percent week-on-week, fueled by an influx of overseas visitors. For the first time, foreign nationals accounted for more than half of the total revenue at these 12 strategic locations, reaching 53 percent of the total sales mix. The Musinsa Store in Myeongdong recorded the highest international presence, with over 70 percent of its revenue generated by foreign shoppers. Other locations in Hannam, Hongdae, and Seongsu also reported foreign sales shares exceeding 60 percent. Industry analysts attribute the performance to a growing global preference for K-fashion and beauty, coupled with Musinsa's curation of local brands that appeal to independent travelers seeking "hip" South Korean lifestyle experiences. To capitalize on the holiday peak, the platform partnered with Japan’s largest fashion platform, ZOZOTOWN, and China’s WeChat Pay to offer targeted discounts and point-based incentives. “The alignment of major holidays in Korea, China, and Japan drew a concentrated number of global customers to our offline spaces,” a Musinsa official said. “We plan to continue strengthening our online-to-offline marketing and curation to ensure international tourists can experience the latest South Korean fashion trends.” The company is currently running its "On & Off Festival" across all offline locations through May 10, offering exclusive discounts to both domestic and international shoppers. 2026-05-09 15:20:24

Kim Jong Un Sends Victory Day Message to Putin, Reaffirms North Korea-Russia Treaty Commitment Kim Jong Un, the leader of North Korea, sent a congratulatory message to Russian President Vladimir Putin on the occasion of the 81st anniversary of Victory Day, reaffirming his commitment to the North Korea-Russia treaty. Although there has been speculation about Kim's potential visit to Russia amid recent high-level exchanges between the two countries, the visit did not materialize. According to reports from Yonhap News and the Rodong Sinmun on May 9, Kim stated in his message to President Putin, "I reaffirm that we will always be responsible for fulfilling the obligations of the treaty between our two countries." He reiterated his intention to continue cooperation based on the 'Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty' signed last year. The treaty, which was established during Putin's visit to North Korea in June 2024, includes provisions for military support if one side is attacked. North Korea began to deepen military cooperation with Russia by sending troops to Kursk, near the border with Ukraine, in October of the same year. In his message, Kim described the North Korea-Russia relationship as one that is "writing a brilliant new chapter of independence, dignity, peace, and prosperity in accordance with the common ideals and aspirations of our peoples," expressing his satisfaction and pride in the partnership. He also reaffirmed the North Korean government's commitment to valuing and continuously enhancing the comprehensive strategic partnership. Referring to Putin as a "most friendly comrade," Kim emphasized their close ties. He conveyed heartfelt congratulations to Putin, the Russian leadership, and the brotherly Russian people on the 81st anniversary of the Great Patriotic War victory, stating, "On behalf of the government and people of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, I extend my most sincere congratulations to you and the entire Russian people." Kim also paid tribute to the veterans of the past who fought valiantly against fascism, stating, "I express my profound respect for the previous generations of soldiers who, with indomitable courage and noble patriotism, defeated fascism and defended humanity's freedom and liberation, as well as world peace and security." This gesture comes as Russia uses Victory Day as a symbol of national unity, with North Korea also showing support for Russia's historical narrative through Kim's message. Kim concluded by stating, "Pyongyang is always with you and the brotherly Russian people," and expressed his hopes for the Russian people to achieve only victory and glory in their future endeavors. He emphasized that Russia's great victory history will continue. Recently, high-level contacts between North Korea and Russia have increased around the first anniversary of the 'Liberation of Kursk,' raising speculation about Kim's attendance at the Victory Day events. However, North Korea was not included in the list of attendees announced by Russia, and Kim's visit did not take place. Concerns over local safety issues, including drone attacks from Ukraine, have been suggested as factors influencing this outcome.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-09 15:18:25

Oh Se-hoon Criticizes Lee Jae-myung's Real Estate Policies Oh Se-hoon, the candidate for Seoul mayor, sharply criticized the current government's real estate policies on May 9, stating, "I will stand with the citizens until the end," alongside district mayor candidates in Seoul. In a statement titled "Standing with Citizens Against Real Estate Tyranny" shared on his social media, Oh remarked, "Seoul is currently a real estate hell where everyone suffers, whether they own a home, are looking to buy, or want to sell," directly targeting Lee Jae-myung's real estate policy. Oh specifically addressed the recent surge in apartment assessed values in Seoul, noting, "The assessed value of multi-family homes in Seoul has risen by 18.6% in just one year, with some areas like Seongdong, Gangnam, Songpa, and Yangcheon nearing a 30% increase." He criticized the government, saying, "It is the administration's policy failures that have driven up housing prices; why should responsible citizens bear that burden?" He also expressed deep concern for those without homes, stating, "There are currently zero rental listings in complexes with thousands of units," and emphasized, "We have entered an era where tenants must interview in front of landlords." He argued that merely increasing the supply of multi-family and multi-household units will not suffice, insisting that new apartment construction must be allowed to alleviate the overall market. Oh took a firm stance against the proposed abolition of the Long-Term Holding Special Deduction (LTHSD), stating, "To label citizens who own a single home they have worked a lifetime to acquire as speculators is a cruel act that undermines the middle class's housing ladder," and called for an immediate halt to such measures. He also criticized loan regulations, stating, "The dual barriers of DSR (Debt Service Ratio) and LTV (Loan-to-Value) effectively mean that only cash-rich individuals can buy homes," and pointed out that redevelopment and reconstruction projects are stalled due to blocked relocation loans, leaving members of associations in limbo. Oh implicitly targeted President Lee Jae-myung and ruling party candidate Jeong Won-o, questioning, "How can a candidate who only seeks to appease the president represent the cries of the citizens?" In conclusion, Oh vowed, "I will protect the hopes of ordinary citizens and youth dreaming of homeownership, the valuable assets of lifelong laborers, and the crumbling housing ladder. I will confront the misguided real estate tyranny head-on." Political analysts interpret this message as a strategic move to seize the real estate issue, a key factor in public sentiment ahead of the June 3 local elections. They note that it particularly targets the anxieties of residents in middle-class neighborhoods and areas undergoing redevelopment and reconstruction.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-09 15:12:25

S. Korea, U.S. coordinate investment pipeline ahead of new trade law launch SEOUL, May 09 (AJP) - South Korean Trade Minister Kim Jung-kwan met with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on Saturday to finalize the details of major investment projects slated for rollout under a landmark bilateral investment framework. The meeting, held in Washington, follows the recent signing of a memorandum of understanding on the "MASGA" shipbuilding initiative. However, the talks between the two chiefs focused more broadly on the implementation of South Korea’s "Special Act on Strategic Investment Management," which is set to take effect on June 18. The legislation serves as the domestic legal foundation for Seoul’s $350 billion U.S. investment pledge, a strategic commitment made last year to secure a 15 percent tariff rate on South Korean exports. Minister Kim’s visit aimed to concretize the first batch of projects to be officially designated under this new law. During his stay in Washington, Kim addressed speculation regarding the first major project under the initiative. While a liquefied natural gas (LNG) export terminal in Louisiana has been cited as a primary candidate, Kim told reporters it was "too early to confirm" whether it would be the official "No. 1" project, though he acknowledged it remains under active consideration. The high-level coordination comes at a critical time as South Korea seeks to navigate Washington’s evolving trade policies. While recent U.S. court rulings have challenged some of President Donald Trump’s tariff mechanisms, Seoul remains focused on industrial partnerships as a hedge against potential Section 301 investigations and broader trade friction. The discussions also touched upon the upcoming establishment of the Korea-U.S. Shipbuilding Partnership Center, which will serve as a hub for the $150 billion maritime portion of the investment package. “The focus of this meeting was to ensure that our investment pipeline is fully operational the moment the special act takes effect next month,” a ministry official said. “We are moving from the stage of high-level agreements to the practical execution of projects that will reinforce the bilateral economic alliance.” Minister Kim is expected to continue consultations with other U.S. trade officials, including the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), to discuss ongoing tariff and trade environment issues before returning to Seoul. 2026-05-09 12:54:16

Trump Responds to Fire on Korean Ship with 'I Love Korea' On May 8, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that a response from Iran regarding the ceasefire conditions proposed by the United States is imminent. According to Yonhap News, Trump told reporters at the White House, "I will probably receive a letter from Iran tonight," adding, "We will see what happens." This comment suggests that Iran may soon provide an official stance on the U.S. demands. The U.S. and Iran began ceasefire negotiations following a truce on April 7, but the initial high-level talks ended without significant progress. Since then, both sides have continued private negotiations mediated by Pakistan, during which the U.S. reportedly proposed that Iran suspend uranium enrichment for 20 years and gradually reopen the Strait of Hormuz as conditions for a ceasefire. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, while visiting Italy, expressed hope that Iran would present a serious proposal within hours. In a related matter, when asked about the recent fire on the Korean bulk carrier HMM Namoo, Trump responded, "I love Korea," which raised eyebrows. The question referenced Trump's earlier claim that the Namoo had been attacked by Iran, a statement that Iran has denied. Trump's response appeared unrelated to the question, leaving some to wonder if he misunderstood it or intentionally gave a non-answer. Meanwhile, a South Korean government investigation team boarded the Namoo on May 8 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, to begin an inquiry into the cause of the fire. 2026-05-09 11:18:24

'The King's Warden' dominates 62nd Baeksang Arts Awards with grand prize win SEOUL, May 09 (AJP) - The historical blockbuster "The King's Warden" swept the 62nd Baeksang Arts Awards on Friday, with lead actor Yoo Hae-jin securing the Grand Prize (Daesang) in the film category. The film, which recently became the second highest-grossing South Korean production of all time with 16.8 million admissions, took home four awards at the ceremony held at COEX in Seoul. Beyond the night’s top honor, the production earned the Gucci Impact Award, while co-star Park Ji-hoon won both Best New Actor and the Naver Popularity Award. “I want to thank the nearly 17 million moviegoers who chose to see this film,” Yoo said in his acceptance speech. “It is rewarding to see that the distinct appeal of the theatrical experience remains as strong as ever.” The film’s success was mirrored in the television category by actor Ryu Seung-ryong, who won the Grand Prize for his role in the JTBC drama The Dream Life of Mr. Kim. The simultaneous wins for Yoo and Ryu drew significant attention as the two have remained close friends since their days as struggling theater actors three decades ago. Other top honors included Park Chan-wook’s No Other Choice for Best Film and the Netflix series Eunjung and Sangyeon for Best Drama. Individual acting accolades went to Hyun Bin for his role in Made in Korea and Park Bo-young for Unknown Seoul. Established in 1965, the Baeksang Arts Awards is considered one of South Korea's most prestigious honors in entertainment, recognizing excellence across film, television, and theater. 2026-05-09 11:01:31

BTS draws 65,000 fans in triumphant Mexico City return after decade-long hiatus SEOUL, May 09 (AJP) - K-pop giant BTS made a long-awaited return to Mexico City on Friday, performing before a sold-out crowd of 65,000 at the Estadio GNP Seguros. The concert marked the group's first appearance in the Mexican capital since 2017, ending a nearly decade-long wait for local fans. The performance opened with "Hooligan," a track from their latest album Arirang, instantly energizing a stadium situated 2,240 meters above sea level. The setlist showcased a deliberate fusion of contemporary pop and traditional Korean heritage, as the audience joined in a massive sing-along of the folk anthem "Arirang" during the performance of "Body to Body." Fans also delivered synchronized chants for the group's global hits, including the 2018 smash "Fake Love" and their recent Billboard-topping single "Swim." The scale of the event extended beyond the stadium walls, with thousands of fans who were unable to secure tickets gathering outside the venue. Within the arena, the atmosphere remained electric as members addressed the crowd in Spanish, expressing their gratitude for the enduring support despite the long absence. Member Suga noted the overwhelming energy of the crowd, apologizing for the ten-year gap between visits and promising a more frequent presence in future tours. The two-hour show concluded with an emotional rendition of "Hold Me Tight," a 2015 track that fans sang in clear Korean while holding placards urging the group to return. The group is scheduled to perform two more sold-out shows at the same venue on May 10 and 11, completing a three-day residency that underscores their significant cultural and commercial footprint in Latin America. “We definitely realized tonight that we must make Mexico a mandatory stop on our next tour,” the members told the crowd before the final curtain. “Te amo, Mexico City.” 2026-05-09 10:17:15

U.S.-South Korea Discuss Transition of Wartime Operational Control Amid Complex Security Landscape The discussion surrounding the transition of wartime operational control (WOC) is once again at the forefront of U.S.-South Korea security issues. Ahead of the Security Consultative Meeting (SCM) in the second half of this year, both nations are intensifying the verification process for this transition. Speculation about a possible transition in 2028 or 2029 is circulating among government officials and analysts. However, the current discussions on wartime operational control are taking place in a vastly different international context, necessitating a more cautious approach. The issue of wartime operational control is not merely a symbol of 'military sovereignty.' It involves redesigning who will command and respond to the allied forces in the event of a crisis on the Korean Peninsula. With North Korea's advanced nuclear and missile capabilities, the military alignment between North Korea and Russia, U.S.-China strategic competition, and changes in the role of U.S. forces in South Korea all occurring simultaneously, the transition of wartime operational control cannot be treated as a mere political slogan. Recent messages from the U.S. side have been relatively clear. The U.S. is demanding an expanded role for the South Korean military. The Trump administration publicly emphasized the need for allied nations to strengthen their defense responsibilities, asserting that South Korea should take a central role in conventional defense on the peninsula. In fact, the U.S. National Defense Strategy (NDS) highlights the need for South Korea to play a leading role in deterring North Korea, and U.S. forces in South Korea have repeatedly mentioned the necessity of 'modernizing the alliance.' The challenge is that the 'modernization of the alliance' as described by the U.S. goes beyond mere role adjustments. It is connected to the U.S. Indo-Pacific strategy. If U.S. forces in South Korea transfer some of the defense burden to the South Korean military, the U.S. can gain greater strategic flexibility to counter China. In other words, the discussions on wartime operational control are situated at the intersection of South Korea's self-defense logic and the U.S.'s global strategy. As a result, South Korea's calculations are becoming increasingly complex. While it cannot indefinitely delay the transition, it also cannot rush it to align with political schedules. Notably, U.S. Forces Korea Commander General Xavier Brunson recently stated, "Political convenience should not take precedence over conditions," publicly advocating for caution. He added, "Choosing a shortcut could jeopardize our readiness posture." In reality, there is a subtle temperature difference between the U.S. and South Korea. The South Korean government emphasizes its commitment to transitioning wartime operational control within its term, while the U.S. continues to stress a 'conditions-based transition.' Both nations agree on the necessity of the transition itself, but the U.S. appears to prioritize strategic flexibility for U.S. forces in South Korea and the realignment of the alliance. Another concern is the approach taken by the political sphere. The issue of wartime operational control should not be consumed by partisan logic. In the past, discussions of 'early transition' and 'delay' have recurred with each change of administration, undermining the consistency of security policy. However, the current security environment is far more unstable than it was during those times. North Korea has effectively institutionalized its nuclear capabilities and is strengthening military cooperation with Russia. The international security order has also been rapidly shaken since the Middle East conflict. That said, maintaining the current system indefinitely is not a solution either. The South Korean military's capabilities have grown significantly compared to the past. Its reconnaissance, missile, space, and cyber capabilities are expanding. It is no longer possible to deny the need to enhance self-defense capabilities. However, what matters is not the speed of the transition but the level of preparedness and strategic direction. Especially after the transition of wartime operational control, there must be a national explanation and verification regarding whether the U.S.-South Korea joint defense system can operate stably, how the U.S. will maintain its extended deterrence commitments, and how the response system to North Korean nuclear threats will be adjusted. Security must be backed by actual operational capabilities, command structures, and joint response systems. Ultimately, the transition of wartime operational control is not merely a political issue but a matter of national survival strategy. What South Korea needs now is neither emotional self-defense rhetoric nor vague security dependence. It requires a rational assessment centered on national interests. In an increasingly complex security environment, what is needed more than a race against time is a meticulous strategy.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-09 10:03:42