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 celebration on May 20 at the National Assembly to mark the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and France, as well as the 40th anniversary of FKCCI. The event highlighted the history of 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 remarks from FKCCI President David Pierre Jalicon, French Ambassador Philippe Berthe, People Power Party lawmaker Na Kyung-won, and former Minister of SMEs and Startups Park Young-sun, among over 80 distinguished guests, emphasizing the significance of friendly cooperation between the two countries. In his speech, Jalicon stated, "The Korean National Assembly symbolizes the shared values of democracy and freedom between our two countries and is a true testament to our friendship." He added, "Today, the Korea-France relationship has evolved into a genuine 'strategic partnership' encompassing key areas, becoming more integrative in our economies." He expressed optimism for the year ahead, noting that FKCCI will open its own independent building, 'Maison France,' in Gangnam this September, which he hopes will serve as a multipurpose space for the Korea-France business community. Ambassador Philippe Berthe, in his address, remarked, "In two weeks, on June 4, we will officially celebrate the 140th anniversary of our diplomatic relations. Through a century and a half of friendship, trust, and cooperation, France and Korea have forged closer ties than ever before." He expressed pride in gathering at the National Assembly, a place rich in history and symbolic of the republican values both nations have fought for, and emphasized that France and Korea are called to play increasingly important roles on the international stage based on their shared history, economic dynamism, and rich cultures. Na Kyung-won, president of the Korea-France Parliamentary Friendship Association, quoted a French proverb, "Little 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." Park Young-sun shared a personal anecdote from her time as a journalist in the 1980s and 1990s, covering the competition between France's high-speed rail (TGV) and Germany for Korea's high-speed rail project, reflecting on how rapidly cooperation between the two countries has developed since then. On this day, FKCCI also officially unveiled a commemorative publication marking the 140th anniversary of Korea-France diplomatic relations and the 40th anniversary of FKCCI, with Jalicon presenting copies to key 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 publication includes historical photographs and narratives, starting from the 1886 Korea-France Treaty of Friendship and Commerce, through the activities of French missionaries in Korea in the 19th century, to the French battalion led by General Ralph Monclar, known as the 'hero of the Battle of Jipyeongri' during the Korean War, and the recent summit between President Lee Jae-myung and President Macron last month. Additionally, to commemorate FKCCI's 40th anniversary, the publication details key milestones in economic cooperation between the two countries, from the introduction of TGV in Korea in the 1990s to the Korea-European Union Free Trade Agreement in the 2010s, and the current strategic partnerships in various fields such as innovation, mobility, energy, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, luxury, and cultural industries. Following the ceremony, a special performance by musicians from the Orchestre national Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes was held as part of cultural cooperation between Korea and France. 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. 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

AI Takes Center Stage in Regional Growth Strategies Ahead of Local Elections As the June 3 local elections approach, candidates from Gangwon, Busan, and Ulsan are positioning artificial intelligence (AI) as a key element of their regional growth strategies. The common theme among them is to expand the AI industry, which has been concentrated in the capital region, into local areas and to create new growth engines by integrating AI with regional industries. In particular, Gangwon is focusing on securing AI infrastructure, Busan aims to establish itself as an AI hub, and Ulsan is prioritizing the transformation of its manufacturing sector through AI, leading to a competitive landscape of AI pledges tailored to each region's industrial structure. The race for the Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province governor has highlighted the importance of attracting the National AI Computing Center. Woo Sang-ho, the Democratic Party's candidate for governor, has made this a central promise of his campaign. Woo stated, "This is the largest investment project in Gangwon's history, estimated to be worth between 20 trillion and 70 trillion won. We will secure both advanced companies and youth jobs based on AI infrastructure." He has also urged large corporations to prioritize hiring local talent in connection with policies aimed at fostering the AI industry. Kim Jin-tae, the People Power Party's candidate for Gangwon governor, is advocating for a strategy focused on developing future industries through the establishment of a semiconductor cluster and attracting advanced companies. His plan includes training semiconductor personnel and building test beds to expand Gangwon's advanced industrial ecosystem. In Busan, the competition to become an AI hub is intensifying. Jeon Jae-soo, the Democratic Party's candidate for Busan mayor, has proposed creating a customized AI belt by dividing the city into three areas: South, East, and West Busan. He envisions developing South Busan, home to the Busan New Port's 7th terminal, into a center for marine and logistics AI, while East Busan will leverage existing content infrastructure, such as the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), to create a media AI special zone. This strategy aims to focus on nurturing AI-based content industries, including film, drama, and gaming. In West Busan, centered around Saha District, plans are in place to establish an 'AI Industry Operations Center' to enhance productivity and equipment utilization in aging manufacturing plants through AI. Park Hyung-jun, the People Power Party's candidate for Busan mayor, emphasizes the importance of data for Busan's tailored AI initiatives. He plans to organize data from Busan's six key industries—port, marine, shipbuilding, manufacturing, finance, and civilian life—for AI learning and inference, and to establish a 'Busan AI Hub' that will provide over 200 types of public data (APIs) for free. He aims to create 50,000 related jobs by 2035. In Ulsan, the focus is on the transformation of the manufacturing sector through AI. Kim Sang-wook, the Democratic Party's candidate for Ulsan mayor, has proposed integrating AI into Ulsan's key industries, including shipbuilding, automotive, and petrochemicals, to enhance industrial competitiveness. His main pledges include expanding smart factories using data from manufacturing sites and creating an industrial AI ecosystem. Kim Doo-gyeom, the People Power Party's candidate for Ulsan mayor, has made the 'AI Capital Ulsan' strategy a key promise. He plans to promote the AI transformation of Ulsan's core manufacturing industries, including shipbuilding, automotive, and petrochemicals, based on the expansion of data centers by SK and Amazon Web Services (AWS). His strategy also includes maximizing local industrial competitiveness through the expansion of smart manufacturing and the utilization of industrial data.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 22:13:16

Prime Minister Kim Meets UNDP Chief to Discuss AI Collaboration Kim Min-seok, the Prime Minister of South Korea, met with Alexander de Croo, the Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), to discuss enhancing cooperation in global artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives and expanding collaboration with international organizations. According to Yonhap News, during their meeting, Prime Minister Kim expressed gratitude for de Croo's leadership in facilitating South Korea's participation in the UNDP's Global AI Hub. Earlier that day, the South Korean government hosted a Global AI Hub Vision Declaration ceremony in Seoul, attended by representatives from nine international organizations, including the UNDP, who united in their commitment to advancing the AI Hub. Kim emphasized South Korea's intention to increase its contributions to international organizations, including the UN, as a responsible leading nation amid challenging global circumstances. He called for strengthened cooperation across various sectors. Additionally, he urged greater involvement and support from the Korean public and businesses, including youth, in UNDP activities. In response, de Croo noted, "The relationship between South Korea and UNDP began in the aftermath of the Korean War, but it has achieved remarkable progress. As a result, South Korea is now one of the most stable contributing countries to UNDP." He added, "The Global AI Hub Vision Declaration we held today signifies the opening of new horizons for cooperation between South Korea and UNDP, and I will work to strengthen our collaboration further."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 22:09:40

SpaceX Plans to Build Cities on the Moon as IPO Approaches Aerospace company SpaceX has publicly released its investment prospectus ahead of its initial public offering (IPO) filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). According to Yonhap News on May 21, the prospectus, published on the SEC's website, states that SpaceX has applied for the listing of its Class A common stock on the Nasdaq and Nasdaq Texas under the ticker symbol 'SPCX.' SpaceX aims to raise a record $75 billion through the IPO. If successful, the company's valuation is expected to reach $1.75 trillion. The prospectus outlines SpaceX's mission to "ultimately build cities on the Moon and other planets." Additionally, as of March 31 of this year, the company has successfully launched a total of 7,400 tons of cargo into orbit, boasting a 99% mission success rate for its Falcon rockets. The company plans to conduct an IPO roadshow for institutional investors starting June 4, with the listing process expected to conclude by June 12. Class A shares will be available for general investors, while a select few insiders, including CEO Elon Musk, will hold Class B shares with ten times the voting power. Notably, Musk will retain over 80% of the total voting rights even after the IPO. He also has protections in place that prevent him from being dismissed without his consent, and any legal claims from shareholders must go through arbitration. Goldman Sachs is the lead underwriter, with Morgan Stanley, Bank of America, Citigroup, and JPMorgan serving as co-managers. Mirae Asset Securities is also included in the underwriting group. The prospectus leaves the allocation of SpaceX's public offering shares to each co-manager blank. However, it appears that a domestic public offering in Korea will be difficult. The prospectus states that "the Class A common stock offered under this prospectus has not been registered under the Korean Capital Markets Act (FSCMA) and will not be registered in the future," indicating that the shares will be offered privately in Korea under the FSCMA. Meanwhile, Mirae Asset Securities is reported to have invested approximately 800 billion won in SpaceX, with speculation that the Mirae Asset Group may receive around $5 billion worth of public offering shares.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 22:07:28

South Korea Freezes Sixth Oil Price Cap Amid Global Market Stability The South Korean government has decided to freeze the sixth oil price cap, marking the fourth time since the second cap was implemented. Previously announced every two weeks, the oil price caps will now be adjusted every four weeks. The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy announced on May 21 that the sixth oil price cap, effective from midnight on May 22, will maintain the prices at 1,934 won per liter for regular gasoline, 1,923 won for diesel, and 1,530 won for kerosene. The government implemented the oil price cap system on March 13 in response to rising inflation pressures due to international oil prices exceeding $100 per barrel. The initial cap set prices at 1,724 won for regular gasoline, 1,713 won for diesel, and 1,320 won for kerosene. The second cap, effective from March 27, set the prices at 1,934 won for gasoline, 1,923 won for diesel, and 1,530 won for kerosene. The third and fourth caps were also frozen, with the current prices remaining unchanged. The decision to freeze the price cap again was influenced by the lack of significant changes in international circumstances since the last adjustment. The cumulative factors contributing to price increases continue to exert pressure on inflation and the cost of living. Yang Gi-wook, head of the Ministry's Resource Security Division, stated, "While there seemed to be progress in the ceasefire negotiations between the U.S. and Iran, they are currently at a standstill, and the U.S.-China summit has not yielded clear results. International oil prices are hovering around the $100 mark, and there have been no significant changes since the fourth price cap decision." He added, "The cumulative increase factors for gasoline have slightly risen to the upper 200 won range, while diesel and kerosene have decreased to the mid-300 won and mid-400 won ranges, respectively." Sales of oil products continue to decline compared to the previous year. In May, gasoline sales decreased by 2% and diesel by 6% compared to the same month last year. Over the past ten weeks since the price cap was implemented, gasoline sales dropped by 8%, and diesel sales fell by 8% compared to the same period last year. Prices at gas stations have mostly remained stable. The government has also decided to extend the adjustment period for the price cap from two weeks to four weeks. Previously, the Ministry adjusted the price cap every two weeks to respond quickly to market changes. However, with the ongoing stalemate in the Middle East conflict, international oil price volatility has decreased. This change aims to enhance predictability and stability for gas station operators, the general public, and drivers reliant on their vehicles for economic activity. Yang emphasized, "If there are changes in the situation, we will adjust the price cap regardless of the schedule. If the situation in the Strait of Hormuz changes, we will immediately begin adjustments. If there are no changes in the Strait of Hormuz, the likelihood of stabilization appears low, so we will monitor the situation closely." Regarding the recent agreement to pursue an oil swap system with Japan during the Korea-Japan summit, he noted, "We have reached a consensus on the general direction, but we need to specify the details through discussions with private companies. Japan has significant reserves, but South Korea has superior refining capabilities, suggesting there may be mutually beneficial solutions to explore." He further explained, "Given Japan's relatively long territory, it may be effective to utilize Ulsan's refining facilities for areas adjacent to the East Sea. We have examined various aspects, including storage facilities, leading to the Korea-Japan agreement. Further details will be developed in the future."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 22:04:46

Lottery Winner Shares Surprising Story After Winning Pension Lottery "One day, I suddenly felt like buying a lottery ticket, so I went to a lottery shop and bought both lotto and pension lottery tickets." As interest grows in the winning numbers for the 316th Pension Lottery 720+ on May 21, the story of a winner from the 284th Pension Lottery 720+ has captured attention. The winner, who claimed 1st place (1 ticket) and 2nd place (4 tickets), shared their experience on the Donghaeng Lottery winner's bulletin board, stating, "One day, I suddenly felt like buying a lottery ticket, so I went to a lottery shop and bought both lotto and pension lottery tickets. Later, while checking the tickets at home using the QR code, I discovered I had won 1st place in the pension lottery." The winner expressed disbelief, saying, "I was so surprised that I checked it several times to make sure it was real. Even now, it doesn't feel real. I bought the tickets just for fun, thinking, 'There's no way I'll win,' and now I'm so grateful and happy to have received such great luck." The individual purchased the tickets at a lottery shop in Cheongsan-myeon, Goheung-gun, Jeollanam-do. When asked about their usual lottery purchases, they replied, "I usually buy lotto and pension lottery tickets, and occasionally Spitto." Regarding plans for the winnings, the winner stated, "I still can't believe it, so I haven't made any specific plans yet." Meanwhile, the winning numbers for the 316th Pension Lottery 720+ will be available after 7:05 PM today.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 22:03:00

Supreme Court Rules Tattooing by Non-Medical Professionals Is Not a Violation of Medical Law The Supreme Court has ruled that the typical tattooing practices performed by non-medical professionals do not constitute unauthorized medical practice. This marks a significant change in legal precedent after 34 years since the court's previous ruling in 1992 that deemed such actions a violation of medical law.On May 21, the Supreme Court's full bench unanimously overturned the lower court's ruling that had imposed fines on defendants A and B for violating medical law and sent the case back to the Seoul Western District Court and Suwon District Court with an acquittal recommendation.Defendant A was charged with performing scalp tattooing at a beauty salon in Yongsan, Seoul, from January to December 2020, while Defendant B was charged with providing lettering tattoos at a fashion accessory store in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province, in May 2019. Both were fined 1.5 million won and 1 million won, respectively, in the first and second trials.The key issue in these cases was whether typical cosmetic tattooing practices fell under the unauthorized medical practices prohibited by Article 27, Section 1 of the former medical law.The Supreme Court stated, "The typical cosmetic tattooing practices performed by the non-medical defendants do not constitute unauthorized medical practices as defined by Article 27, Section 1 of the former medical law." It added that the lower court had maintained the guilty verdict from the first trial, which misinterpreted the legal principles regarding medical practices and affected the judgment.The court explained, "Since the Supreme Court's ruling in May 1992, which classified eyebrow tattooing as unauthorized medical practice, advancements in medical technology and changes in the healthcare environment have significantly improved access to medical services for consumers. Additionally, the general public's knowledge and practice of health and hygiene have markedly improved."It further noted, "Individuals seeking tattoos are in a position to freely decide whether to undergo tattooing as a means of expressing their individuality and pursuing happiness, based on information regarding the health risks and management associated with typical cosmetic tattooing practices."The court emphasized that when determining whether typical cosmetic tattooing constitutes unauthorized medical practice, various interpretations should favor the constitutional rights of individuals seeking tattoos, including their freedom of occupation, freedom of expression, and the right to pursue happiness.Moreover, the court pointed out that tattooing requires not only technical skills for safe procedures but also the ability to achieve a desired level of aesthetic quality, which is not necessarily possessed by medical professionals. It warned that a blanket prohibition against non-medical professionals could infringe upon the constitutional rights of individuals seeking cosmetic tattooing, including their general personality rights and freedom of expression derived from Article 10 of the Constitution.A Supreme Court official stated, "According to the full bench ruling, typical cosmetic tattooing practices are no longer considered unauthorized medical practices under Article 27, Section 1 of the former medical law. Comprehensive regulations regarding this matter are expected to be implemented under the Tattoo Law and related legislation, which will take effect on October 29, 2027."The official added, "However, even before the implementation of the Tattoo Law, if a tattoo artist causes injury due to negligence, it does not negate the possibility of criminal penalties or the introduction of regulations to protect public health as defined by relevant laws such as the Criminal Code or Public Health Management Act."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 22:00:25