Journalist
Seo Hye Seung
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Today's Horoscope: Zodiac Predictions for May 10 Today’s horoscope from Ajou Economics reveals what the stars hold for you. Curious about your fortune today? Read on! 1. Aquarius (January 20 - February 18) You may face criticism from superiors or receive sharp remarks from close friends today, leading to potential stress. It's essential to maintain a calm mind and body. Couples should be cautious of minor disputes that could lead to distance in the relationship. Singles may find their romantic prospects less favorable, risking hurt feelings on either side. Financially, expect average luck. Spending moderately on yourself is acceptable, but avoid unnecessary purchases. Consider investing in leisure activities or travel instead. Lucky Tip Lucky time: 9 PM Lucky item: Aromatherapy products Lucky place: Restaurant Lucky color: Brown 2. Pisces (February 19 - March 20) Today may bring a flurry of unexpected events, creating a chaotic atmosphere. You might receive surprising results from ongoing projects, with some progressing unexpectedly well. Love is in the air; singles may develop feelings for someone new. It's best to express your feelings subtly rather than overtly. Couples should be vigilant, as distractions may arise. Financially, expect a good day with unexpected income that could lift your spirits. You might also recover money lent out in the past, so don’t shy away from socializing. Lucky Tip Lucky time: 8 PM Lucky item: Flowers Lucky place: Popular restaurant Lucky color: Yellow 3. Aries (March 21 - April 19) While no significant luck is expected today, there are also no major risks. However, avoid acting on whims, as boredom may lead to poor decisions. Staying still is the best course of action. If you’re contemplating a breakup, today might be the day to make that decision. For singles, attending social events could lead to meeting someone decent, though not exceptional. Financially, expect average conditions. You’ll see money coming in and out clearly, but be cautious of unexpected expenses. Avoid lending money, even in small amounts, to prevent future issues. Lucky Tip Lucky time: 2 PM Lucky item: Social media Lucky place: Exhibition or art gallery Lucky color: Violet 4. Taurus (April 20 - May 20) Today, you may find yourself dwelling on the past, potentially leading to jealousy and stress. It's important to find inner peace and avoid overreacting to minor issues. Love prospects are not particularly bright. Couples may face significant arguments due to jealousy, while singles should refrain from forcing romantic connections, as it could backfire. Financially, things are gradually improving. You might earn money through unexpected means. Career prospects are also favorable, so consider job changes or new opportunities. However, be cautious with short-term jobs. Lucky Tip Lucky time: 2 PM Lucky item: Photos Lucky place: Friend's house Lucky color: Pink 5. Gemini (May 21 - June 21) If you’ve been feeling down, today is a day for complete recovery. With a fresh mindset, it’s a great time to tackle postponed tasks. If you enter a contest, luck may be on your side. Love prospects are also bright; attending social events could lead to meeting someone who fits your ideal. Couples will enjoy a delightful day together, so don’t skip your date. Financially, expect a recovery. If money has been a concern, solutions will start to emerge. Just be careful not to overspend; balance is key. Lucky Tip Lucky time: 5 PM Lucky item: Books Lucky place: Place of worship Lucky color: Blue 6. Cancer (June 22 - July 22) Expect surprising news today, likely from a close friend. This news will not be negative, possibly involving a friend's marriage or job offer. You may feel anxious due to a partner who is reluctant to share their worries. It’s important to be patient and wait for them to open up. Singles should temper their expectations in love, as today may not be particularly favorable. Financially, expect a very good day. People will be eager to help you, and even if your wallet feels light, you won’t struggle financially today. It’s a good time for investments, so keep an eye out for opportunities. Lucky Tip Lucky time: 11 AM Lucky item: Mirror Lucky place: Busy area Lucky color: Gray 7. Leo (July 23 - August 22) You’ll radiate vitality today, and good news will come your way. Expect to receive compliments for your achievements, earning admiration from both juniors and seniors. If you’ve had a disagreement with your partner, reach out first to mend things. This could bring you closer together. Singles will find excellent romantic prospects; reaching out could lead to success. Financially, expect a great day. Even if you spend money on others, your wallet will quickly refill. Generosity now will pay off later when you might need help. Lucky Tip Lucky time: 2 PM Lucky item: Lottery ticket Lucky place: PC room Lucky color: White 8. Virgo (August 23 - September 23) Today, you may feel mentally foggy and could receive criticism for your lack of focus. Mistakes are likely, so avoid being careless. Stay organized to minimize errors. Couples should create a secret between themselves to strengthen their bond. Singles may fare better in one-on-one settings rather than group meetings, where mistakes could happen. Financially, you may face a slight crisis but will manage to overcome it. Be cautious of health-related expenses. Stay alert to avoid accidents while distracted. Lucky Tip Lucky time: 4 PM Lucky item: Lip gloss or lipstick Lucky place: Fast food restaurant Lucky color: Red 9. Libra (September 24 - October 22) Today may bring unexpected encounters in unusual places. You might meet someone who offers a unique perspective, bringing joy and assistance. For couples, too much time together may not be beneficial. Maintaining some distance can strengthen your relationship, as frequent meetings may lead to boredom. Financially, things are looking up. If you’ve been struggling with money, hope may finally be on the horizon. Keep an eye out for those willing to help you; following their advice could lead to good fortune. Lucky Tip Lucky time: 6 AM Lucky item: Necklace or earrings Lucky place: Amusement park Lucky color: Blue 10. Scorpio (October 23 - November 22) You may achieve unexpected success today without much effort, feeling as if luck has finally arrived. This fortune has been lingering around you and is now making its presence known. Love prospects are particularly bright. Singles may encounter someone attractive unexpectedly, so pay attention to your appearance. Couples can also expect positive developments in their relationship. Financially, expect the best. You might recover lost items or experience a windfall. With heightened financial awareness, offering advice to others could be beneficial. Overall, enjoy a period of financial ease. Lucky Tip Lucky time: 7 AM Lucky item: Emergency cash Lucky place: Train station Lucky color: Navy 11. Sagittarius (November 23 - December 24) Avoid unnecessary worries today. While minor annoyances may arise, it’s important to laugh them off. Balance is key, whether between work and leisure or family and friends. Couples may find themselves acting out of irritation. Instead of buying gifts, focus on showing genuine care, as your partner will appreciate your thoughtfulness more than material gifts. Financially, expect a significant boost. Despite any surrounding chaos, today is a good day for investments. If someone offers financial advice, consider discussing it with them. Lucky Tip Lucky time: 3 PM Lucky item: Wristwatch Lucky place: Shopping mall Lucky color: Orange 12. Capricorn (December 25 - January 19) Today, you may feel compelled to reconnect with someone you miss. This could be a chance to mend relationships with those from your past. While you may dwell on the past, it might not feel so bad. Singles will experience peak romantic luck, with multiple admirers vying for your attention. In such cases, choosing the last person you meet may be advantageous. Financially, things are looking decent. However, be firm if someone close asks to borrow money; your generosity could lead to financial strain later. Lucky Tip Lucky time: 3 PM Lucky item: Gift Lucky place: Café Lucky color: Ivory ※ Horoscope content is provided by the fortune-telling site 'Sansu Do-in'.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-11 02:51:57 -
Supreme Court Rules Desk-Tipping Not Assault Without Physical Threat The Supreme Court has ruled that tipping over a desk does not constitute assault if it does not pose a physical threat to the victim.On May 10, the Supreme Court's first division, led by Justice Ma Yong-joo, overturned a lower court's ruling that imposed a fine of 300,000 won on an individual identified as A, and sent the case back to the Uijeongbu District Court.A was charged with assault after tipping over a desk during a verbal altercation with B in a residents' meeting room of an apartment complex in Goyang, Gyeonggi Province, in May 2021.Both the first and second trials found A guilty and imposed the fine, stating that “fragments of the overturned desk flew toward the victim, and the sudden act startled and threatened the victim and others present.”However, the Supreme Court found that the lower court had misunderstood the legal principles regarding the establishment of assault, accepting A's appeal.The court stated, “The evidence presented by the prosecution, including the fact that fragments of the desk flew toward the victim as a secondary result of A's actions, is insufficient to conclude that A assaulted the victim or had the intent to do so.”It further explained, “Considering that the desk was tipped over in a direction blocked by another desk, and that the victim was standing approximately at the 10 o'clock position relative to A, it does not appear that A's actions posed a physical threat to the victim. Simply startling or frightening the victim does not qualify as 'assault.'”The court also referenced previous rulings, stating, “Assault under criminal law is intended to protect the integrity of a person's body, not to safeguard against psychological distress. Therefore, in cases where there is no physical contact with the victim, one must carefully assess whether the exertion of force against a person constitutes assault.”The court emphasized the need to consider various factors, including the physical orientation of the act, the degree of illegality against the victim's body, the spatial proximity between the actor and the victim, the intent and purpose of the act, the nature and method of the act, the circumstances at the time, and the presence and extent of any pain inflicted on the victim.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-11 02:49:54 -
Putin Says Meeting Zelensky Possible Only in Moscow Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized the justification of the Ukraine war during his speech commemorating the 81st anniversary of Victory Day, stating that any direct talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky would only be possible in Moscow. On May 9, during a press conference marking the victory in World War II, Putin expressed his willingness to engage in direct dialogue with Zelensky but insisted that the meeting must take place in the Russian capital. He stated, "Anyone who wants to meet me must come to Moscow." While he clarified that this was not a direct invitation to Zelensky, he expressed his readiness to meet, adding, "We can meet somewhere other than Moscow, but only if a long-term peace agreement is reached beforehand." Putin dismissed reports regarding a message from Zelensky conveyed by Slovak Prime Minister Roberto Fico, stating, "There was no personal message." He acknowledged that Fico had communicated Zelensky's willingness to meet but noted, "This is not the first time we have heard such statements." In his Victory Day speech, Putin reiterated the legitimacy of the Ukraine war, claiming, "We are facing aggressive forces supported by NATO," and asserted, "Our heroes are advancing and winning on the front lines and in the rear." He emphasized, "I firmly believe our cause is just." Putin also addressed the contentious issue of uranium enrichment in the context of ceasefire negotiations between the U.S. and Iran, stating that Russia could play a mediating role. He explained that, if necessary, Russia could accept and store Iran's enriched uranium as part of a ceasefire agreement. He claimed that all parties involved, including Iran, the U.S., and Israel, had initially agreed on uranium removal, but the U.S. later changed its position, prompting Iran to adopt a tougher stance. He noted that Russia had previously received enriched uranium from Iran in 2015 and was prepared to repeat that experience. Earlier, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that he had received an offer of assistance from Russia regarding Iran's enriched uranium but declined it, suggesting that the focus should remain on ending the war in Ukraine. North Korean Troops Participate in Victory Day Parade As Putin used Victory Day to underscore the justification for the Ukraine war, the participation of North Korean troops in the parade drew attention. According to TASS, North Korean military units marched in the military parade held in Moscow's Red Square to commemorate the victory in World War II. Victory Day is one of Russia's major national holidays, celebrating the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany, with large military parades taking place annually on May 9. This marked the first time North Korean troops participated in the Russian Victory Day parade. Video footage shared by TASS on social media showed North Korean soldiers in uniforms marching in formation while carrying rifles. Reuters and the Associated Press reported that the North Korean troops marching in Red Square were part of units that had fought alongside Russian forces in the Kursk region. Analysts suggested that their participation symbolized respect for North Korea's support of Russia in the Ukraine war. Kursk is a southwestern region of Russia bordering Ukraine, where Ukrainian forces occupied parts of the area in August 2024. North Korea is believed to have contributed to Russia's efforts to reclaim Kursk. Russia officially declared the recovery of Kursk territory on April 26 of last year. Leonid Slutsky, Chairman of the Russian State Duma's International Affairs Committee, told TASS, "The participation of North Korean troops in the parade signifies the strategic partnership and alliance between our two countries." He added, "North Korean soldiers fought bravely and selflessly alongside our troops to liberate the Kursk region, which exemplifies true camaraderie."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-11 02:48:30 -
Defense Minister An Gyu-baek: No Issues Accelerating Transfer of Wartime Operational Control An Gyu-baek, the Minister of National Defense, stated on May 10 that there are no significant issues with accelerating the transfer of wartime operational control, as preparations have been systematic, stable, and consistent. Speaking to reporters at Incheon International Airport before his departure to the United States, An noted that U.S. and South Korean officials made considerable progress on the transfer of wartime operational control based on conditions agreed upon in 2015. An will meet with high-ranking officials, including U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, during his visit to the U.S., which marks his first trip since taking office in July 2022. On May 11 (local time), An is scheduled to hold talks with Hegseth in Washington, D.C., and will also meet with other U.S. government and congressional officials, including the acting Secretary of the Navy, the Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman and Ranking Member, and the Chairman of the Subcommittee on Seapower. In 2015, during the 47th Korea-U.S. Security Consultative Meeting (SCM), the two countries agreed on a 'conditions-based transfer of wartime operational control plan' (COTP) and have been working toward this transfer since then. When asked about the direction in which the two countries are seeking to find common ground on the wartime operational control issue, An referred to the agreement made during last year's 57th SCM to finalize the target year for the transfer by the end of this year, stating, "That is also one of the key issues during this visit to the U.S." The government of President Lee Jae-myung is pushing for the transfer of wartime operational control as a national agenda, aiming for 2028 as the target year for the transfer before the current U.S. administration's term ends. The government is reportedly working to set the 2028 target year after completing the second phase of evaluation and verification procedures for the transfer, which involves verifying the full operational capability (FOC) of the future combined military command. This would be approved by the defense ministers of both countries at the SCM in October. Regarding cooperation on the construction of nuclear-powered submarines, An emphasized the importance of implementing follow-up measures agreed upon by the leaders of both countries, stating, "It is crucial to fulfill our promises and discuss mutual cooperation between South Korea and the U.S." When asked if an initial negotiation could be expected within the first half of the year, he responded, "Of course," adding, "Regardless of any difficulties, I believe this issue must be resolved between the military authorities of South Korea and the U.S." He further noted, "In the past, South Korea and the U.S. have had no significant issues in fulfilling promises and procedures, and if the U.S. provides some support regarding fuel, there should be no major problems in proceeding with the construction process." Last year, during a joint fact sheet, the leaders of South Korea and the U.S. agreed to cooperate on the construction of South Korea's nuclear-powered submarines, but subsequent negotiations have not progressed significantly. Observers have noted that other issues, such as the Coupang matter, have negatively impacted the progress of these negotiations. During An's visit to the U.S., a meeting of the 'Integrated Defense Consultative Body' (KIDD), which includes deputy ministers from both countries' defense authorities, will also be held in Washington, D.C., on May 12-13. Last month, South Korea's chief diplomatic representative for North Korea, Jeong Yeon-du, and Cho Hyun-woo, the security strategy secretary at the Blue House, visited Washington, D.C. A Defense Ministry official stated that this visit aims to facilitate direct communication at a high level to review the implementation of agreements from the Korea-U.S. summit and the SCM, noting that wartime operational control and nuclear-powered submarines will be key issues for discussion.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-11 02:46:38 -
Japan Initiates EPA Negotiations with Five South American Countries Amid Market Competition Japan is gearing up to begin negotiations for an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) with the five member countries of the South American trade bloc Mercosur. The initiative aims to diversify supply chains for energy and critical minerals, reducing reliance on the Middle East and China, while also protecting Japanese companies from tariff disadvantages as the European Union (EU) has already activated its own free trade agreement with Mercosur. According to the Nikkei newspaper, the Japanese government is exploring options to enter EPA negotiations with Mercosur by this summer. Mercosur consists of Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Bolivia. Japan has already begun strengthening its ties with Mercosur since late last year. In December, the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs launched a "Strategic Partnership Framework" with Mercosur, discussing cooperation in trade, investment, supply chains, digital economy, and energy. Both sides described each other as "one of the most important economic partners" in a joint statement. The Nikkei reported that the Japanese government plans to hold additional strategic talks with Mercosur as early as the end of May, and is coordinating a visit from Brazil's Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira in mid-May. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi also received relevant reports from ministry officials at the Prime Minister's Office on April 28. If negotiations commence, it will mark the first large-scale free trade talks since Takaichi's administration began. Japan's urgency is driven by economic security and trade competition. The combined GDP of the five South American countries is approximately $3.16 trillion, roughly three-quarters the size of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). However, trade between Japan and these countries was only about 2.4 trillion yen (approximately $22.4 billion) last year, less than one-tenth of the trade between the U.S. and ASEAN, indicating significant potential for growth. Japan is particularly focused on South America as a source of resources. Brazil ranks as the ninth-largest oil producer globally, with crude oil production reaching a record high of 4.3 million barrels per day in March. The country also has the second-largest reserves of rare earth minerals. Argentina is a key producer of lithium, a critical material for electric vehicle (EV) batteries. The Nikkei noted that Japan's assessment was influenced by the increased risks of reliance on the Middle East following attacks on Iran by the U.S. and Israel, as over 90% of Japan's oil imports were from the Middle East before tensions escalated. Market of 700 Million People Additionally, the EU's early entry into the market is putting pressure on Japan. The Nikkei reported that the EU-Mercosur free trade agreement has begun provisional application, even though ratification by some member countries is still pending. As a result, tariff reductions on agricultural and industrial products are gradually starting in a market that totals around 700 million people between the EU and Mercosur. The Japanese business community has been advocating for an expedited EPA due to these circumstances. If European companies receive tariff reductions first, Japanese automotive and machinery manufacturers could face disadvantages in price competition within the Mercosur market. Both the Japanese government and businesses view Mercosur as a crucial element for diversifying supply chains, and South American countries are also interested in expanding cooperation with Japan to reduce dependence on China. However, the biggest hurdle remains the issue of Brazilian beef imports. According to the Nikkei, members of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party's agricultural faction expressed during discussions with relevant ministries in late April that "beef imports must be strictly limited." Japan has effectively restricted Brazilian beef imports due to concerns over livestock diseases such as foot-and-mouth disease. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Brazil's beef production reached 12.61 million tons last year, surpassing the U.S. as the world's largest producer. Japan's production for 2024 is projected to be only 350,000 tons, making price competition challenging. Despite this, there is a growing sentiment within the ruling party that outright opposition may not be feasible, considering the need for securing energy and critical minerals. A key party official indicated to the Nikkei that while they must consider the party's position, the final decision should be made from a national diplomatic perspective, hinting at a willingness to pursue negotiations. Balancing agricultural protection, economic security, and trade competitiveness will likely determine the direction of the EPA negotiations with Mercosur.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-11 02:44:34 -
Pop star Dua Lipa files lawsuit against Samsung Electronics over unauthorized use of her Image SEOUL, May 10 (AJP) - Dua Lipa, the British-Albanian pop star known for numerous global hits and multiple Grammy Awards, has filed a US$15 million lawsuit against Samsung Electronics, entertainment news outlet Variety reported on Saturday. According to Variety, Lipa filed the lawsuit the previous day in the Central District of California, alleging that the South Korean electronics giant "used her likeness to sell TVs without paying her and without permission." In the lawsuit, she complained that Samsung used her "image on the cardboard packaging of its TVs beginning last year." The lawsuit also states that "face was prominently used for a mass marketing campaign for a consumer product without her knowledge, without consideration, and as to which she had no say, control, or input whatsoever." Her legal team reportedly demanded that Samsung stop using the image after becoming aware of its use, arguing that Lipa, who is "highly selective in making product endorsements," holds the copyright to it and had never approved its commercial use. Samsung, however, allegedly refused to comply. The image in dispute is known to have been taken backstage at the annal Austin City Limits Music Festival in Texas in 2024. Lipa rose to global fame with her eponymous 2017 debut album and has since become one of the world's biggest pop stars, earning multiple Grammy Awards and a string of chart-topping hits. Samsung has not yet responded to a request for comment, according to Variety. 2026-05-10 18:16:55 -
South Korean inspectors wrap up probe into fire on cargo vessel in Strait of Hormuz SEOUL, May 10 (AJP) - South Korean inspectors have wrapped up their on-site investigation into a cargo vessel that mysteriously caught fire while anchored near the Strait of Hormuz last week, government authorities said on Sunday. Their inspection into the cause of the fire and explosion on shipping and logistics company HMM's Panama-flagged cargo vessel Namu began later last week after it was towed from the strait to a port in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) last Friday. During the investigation, inspectors examined the ship's voyage data recorder (VDR) and surveillance camera footage, and interviewed crew members on board to determine what happened. Later in the day, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs held a press briefing, during which spokesperson Park Il said investigators had confirmed that unidentified flying objects struck the stern of the vessel twice on May 4, roughly one minute apart. According to Park, the objects were captured on CCTV footage, but officials have been unable to identify where they came from and what they were, due to insufficient evidence. The strikes left a hole about five meters wide that extended roughly seven meters into the ship. The fire is believed to have started after the first strike and rapidly intensified following the second one. But the concrete findings of their inspection are expected to be disclosed soon after they return home and complete a review and evaluation with relevant agencies. Further analysis of debris and fragments recovered from the scene would also reveal more details about the incident. A key question had been whether the fire was caused by an external factor such as an attack by Iran or others including a strike by an object like a drifting sea mine or by an internal cause such as a defect in the vessel or a malfunction. Last week, when asked by reporters about his claims that Iran was behind the fire, which Tehran denies, U.S. President Donald Trump avoided answering and, in a somewhat baffling remark, said, "I love South Korea." The fire broke out on May 4, following an explosion on the port side of the engine room while the Namu was anchored in the strait, a critical chokepoint for roughly one-fifth of the world's oil supply. Meanwhile, all 24 crew members including six South Koreans and 18 foreign nationals have disembarked after the vessel was towed to Dubai. But they are reportedly willing to board the vessel again once it is repaired, though they may temporarily return home if repairs take a long time. 2026-05-10 17:05:21 -
Defense minister heads to Washington to push for early transfer of wartime troop control SEOUL, May 10 (AJP) - There will be "no major hurdles" in pushing for the speedy transfer of wartime operational control of South Korean troops to Seoul, Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back said as he left for Washington, D.C. on Sunday for talks with U.S. officials. Speaking to reporters at Incheon International Airport, Ahn said the two countries made "significant progress" through follow-up talks after both sides reached a relevant agreement in 2015, hinting that it would be one of the key topics for his weeklong trip to the U.S. Seoul hopes to regain wartime operational control of its own troops from the U.S. before President Lee Jae Myung's five-year term ends in 2030. During his stay there until Thursday, Ahn is scheduled to meet senior officials, including U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. It is Ahn's first trip to the U.S. since assuming his post in July last year. Ahn is also expected to meet Hung Cao, the newly appointed acting secretary of the Navy as well as ranking members of the Senate Armed Services Committee among others. Seoul and Washington are reportedly planning to tentatively set 2028 as the target year for completing the transfer and to formalize it with specific plans in October, when the two countries' defense ministers meet for their annual Security Consultative Meeting (SCM). As for joint nuclear submarine projects and relevant cooperation between the allies as part of a tariff-related deal reached last fall, Ahn stressed the importance of implementing follow-up steps. When asked whether the long-stalled projects could begin in the first half of this year, he remained positive, saying, "Of course" and adding that they must be resolved "no matter what difficulties arise." Ahn's trip also coincides with a two-day meeting of a defense consultative body between working-level officials from the two countries, known as the Korea Integrated Defense Dialogue (KIDD) earlier in the week. 2026-05-10 15:14:30 -
North Korea makes first appearance at Russia's military parade amid deepening ties SEOUL, May 10 (AJP) - North Korea took part in a parade as part of Russia's World War II victory celebrations, state media reported on Sunday. According to the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), North Korean troops marched in the parade at Moscow's Red Square the previous day marking the 81st anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany in World War II, during which Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his "gratitude." Russian media earlier reported that North Korea participated in the annual parade for the first time, with its leader sending a "message of greeting" to Russian President Vladimir Putin. KCNA carried detailed coverage of the parade along with a slew of photos, highlighting the deepening military ties between Pyongyang and Moscow. Meanwhile, this year's parade was the most scaled down in years amid Russia's prolonged war in Ukraine. Putin, however, suggested the war may soon be resolved, saying, "I think that the matter is coming to an end," while urging continued support from his allies. North Korea has reportedly dispatched around 15,000 combat troops along with military weapons to Russia to support Moscow's war in Ukraine since the two countries signed a mutual defense pact during Putin's visit to Pyongyang in June 2024. Thousands of North Korean soldiers, most of them deployed to Kursk, a southwestern Russian region bordering Ukraine, are believed to have been killed or wounded during the prolonged war. 2026-05-10 14:03:06 -
Lotte Hi-Mart Targets Increased Demand for Cooling Appliances Amid Summer Heat As this summer is expected to bring intense heat, Lotte Hi-Mart is launching a promotion for cooling and washing appliances. On May 10, Lotte Hi-Mart announced that the promotion will focus on air conditioners from major manufacturers such as Samsung Electronics, LG Electronics, and Carrier, offering simultaneous purchase benefits. Customers who buy key air conditioner models, including Samsung's 'Wind-Free Gallery,' LG's 'View Series' and 'Objet Collection Tower,' and Carrier's 'Aero X,' along with Lotte Hi-Mart's private brand PLUX fans or Shinil Electronics fans, will receive cashback and other benefits. The promotion also includes washing appliances. Customers who purchase Samsung and LG combo washing machines along with storage boxes or mini washers using a Lotte partnership card will receive cashback and discounts. To address hygiene needs during the summer, Lotte Hi-Mart is offering cleaning service benefits for appliances. Until the end of this month, customers who purchase air conditioner and washing machine cleaning products will receive up to a 10% discount on cleaning services after one year. The air conditioner cleaning service includes disassembling the unit, high-pressure cleaning of filters and internal components, and UV sterilization. The washing machine cleaning service involves complete disassembly, high-pressure cleaning, steam sterilization, and UV sterilization. Moon Chong, head of Lotte Hi-Mart's large appliance division, stated, "Summer is the peak season for cooling appliance usage, increasing the importance of washing and hygiene management. We have prepared various benefits centered around frequently used products and services." Meanwhile, this summer is expected to be record-breaking in terms of heat. According to the Korea Meteorological Administration's recent three-month forecast, there is a 50% chance that temperatures in May and June will be higher than average, with a 60% chance for July.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-10 13:47:42
