Journalist

Stefan Wolff, Tetyana Malyarenko
  • The Boyz Seek Legal Action Amid Allegations Against One Hundred Label
    The Boyz Seek Legal Action Amid Allegations Against One Hundred Label K-pop idol group The Boyz, which boasts a global fanbase, has filed for a temporary suspension of their exclusive contract with their agency, One Hundred Label. This comes as MBC's 'PD Notebook' focuses on various allegations surrounding the company. The Boyz have taken legal action, claiming they have not received settlement payments for several months. This has led to other artists under the same agency, including Lee Mujin, Chen Baekhyun, and Lee Seung-gi, also terminating their contracts, escalating the situation. One Hundred Label is an entertainment company where MC Mong is involved in production, and Chairman Cha Ga-won is the primary investor. Known for amassing significant assets through the construction industry, Chairman Cha entered the entertainment sector in 2023, quickly gaining attention by signing prominent artists like SHINee's Taemin and EXO's Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin. However, beneath its glamorous exterior, the company faces serious allegations regarding unpaid settlements. According to 'PD Notebook,' One Hundred Label and its affiliates received over 115 billion won in advance payments. This money was paid upfront by record distributors and concert planners who believed in the intellectual property value of the artists. Yet, some artists are demanding contract terminations due to not receiving their payments. The production team of 'PD Notebook' claims to have obtained three years' worth of accounting records from an insider who closely managed the company's finances. These documents reportedly indicate that large sums of advance payments were transferred from the company's accounts to Chairman Cha's personal account. While tracing the flow of company funds, 'PD Notebook' also received tips suggesting that some of this money was funneled to MC Mong. The informant alleged that these funds were used for MC Mong's overseas gambling activities. In response, MC Mong strongly denied the allegations during a TikTok live broadcast, stating, "Company funds for illegal gambling? What nonsense is this? Check my accounts!" He directly criticized 'PD Notebook.' However, 'PD Notebook' claims to have captured evidence of tens of billions of won being transferred to Las Vegas through illegal currency exchanges. Allegations have also emerged that MC Mong and Chairman Cha used a private jet provided by a casino and stayed in luxury villas while accessing exclusive gaming rooms. The fallout from the unpaid settlements extends beyond the artists. The production team reported that external staff, including freelance cameramen, costume cleaners, and cleaning assistants for idol accommodations, are also voicing their grievances. Some have reportedly had to sell equipment or have their vehicles seized due to unpaid production costs. The number of confirmed victims is in the hundreds, with the total damages estimated to exceed 10 billion won. Ahead of the 'PD Notebook' broadcast, One Hundred Label announced a firm stance against the spread of false information and malicious posts. The company's legal representative stated, "We are acutely aware of the indiscriminate dissemination of defamatory, false, and insulting posts, and we will take legal action." Chairman Cha Ga-won is also expected to address the large-scale unpaid settlement issue directly in front of the 'PD Notebook' cameras. What has been happening behind the glamorous facade of the K-pop industry? The episode titled 'MC Mong and Chairman's K-pop Trade Secrets' will air today at 10:20 PM.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 21:33:00
  • Jung Cheong-rae: I Did My Best with a Heart to Move Heaven... Now, I Will Encourage Voting
    Jung Cheong-rae: 'I Did My Best with a Heart to Move Heaven... Now, I Will Encourage Voting' Jung Cheong-rae, the leader of the Democratic Party, reflected on his campaign efforts on June 2, a day before the June 3 local elections, stating, "I did my best with a heart to move heaven." He characterized this local election as pivotal for resolving insurrection and shaping the future of South Korea while urging voters to participate. After the conclusion of Jung Won-o's support rally in Seoul's Cheonggye Plaza, Jung told reporters, "The official campaign is now racing toward its final destination. I have worked hard to do everything I could and have given my all." He added, "I moved with a heart to move heaven. I will spend tonight with the mindset of doing my best and leaving the rest to fate," indicating plans to encourage voter turnout through legal means on June 3, when campaigning is prohibited. Jung emphasized the importance of this local election in supporting President Lee Jae-myung and eliminating the remnants of insurrection, asserting that South Korea must move forward toward a brighter future. "This election is about empowering President Lee and clearing away the remnants of insurrection to advance toward the future of South Korea," he said. "We have done our best, and now we await the people's judgment." He also noted that in key battleground areas, the election is expected to be closely contested, and he plans to work to increase voter turnout on the day of the election, June 3. "In competitive regions, the outcome can be decided by a very small margin. Therefore, we must encourage voting tomorrow," Jung stated. "Ultimately, we need as many people as possible to come out to vote. I will conduct a campaign to encourage turnout through legal means."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 21:33:00
  • Oh Se-hoon Appeals for Support in Final Campaign Rally in Sinchon
    Oh Se-hoon Appeals for Support in Final Campaign Rally in Sinchon Oh Se-hoon, the People Power Party's candidate for Seoul Mayor, made a passionate appeal for support during his final campaign rally on June 2, stating, "My dream is to create a Seoul that evokes pride and admiration from people around the world." During the rally held near Sinchon Station in the Seodaemun District, he emphasized, "I will lay the groundwork for Seoul to become one of the top three cities in the world within four years." Taking the stage with clenched fists, Oh declared, "The significance of this election lies in making Seoul a city that ranks third globally in terms of pride. Seoul has risen to sixth place in global city competitiveness. I will repay this change with overwhelming results." Oh's choice of Sinchon for his final rally is seen as an effort to encourage young voters, who have shown strong support for him and the People Power Party but have lower turnout rates. He remarked, "The encouragement and support from young people have given me the most energy during the campaign, which is why I chose Sinchon for my last rally. Every time I visited universities, I returned energized by your support. I have seen a bright future for South Korea." He also highlighted his vision for a 'top three global city' to resonate with young voters. Oh noted that through the 'Seoul Run' program he introduced during his previous term as mayor, over 900 students have enrolled in universities this year, stating, "The ladder of social mobility has begun to be restored." He promised, "If you give me four more years, I will strengthen the ladder of social mobility, ensuring that young people can start from an equal starting line in Seoul." Oh continued to criticize President Lee Jae-myung's administration and the qualifications of his opponent, Democratic Party candidate Jeong Won-o. He stated, "President Lee has lost humility and become arrogant. If this continues, the rule of law and democracy in South Korea will begin to crumble. I urge you to channel your overwhelming support to guide President Lee back on the right path." He added, "Seoul cannot become a practice course for novice drivers. We cannot entrust the city to an unqualified and unprepared candidate. Please protect Seoul." After the rally, Oh announced plans to move to Gwanghwamun Square for a 'Garden of Gratitude' event, inviting supporters to join him, saying, "Please accompany me to Gwanghwamun Square. I want to conclude this campaign with you in the Garden of Gratitude." According to election law, the use of loudspeakers is prohibited after 9 p.m., marking the end of Oh's official rally in Sinchon. However, he plans to continue campaigning until midnight in Jongno and Dongdaemun, appealing for support from citizens.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 21:30:00
  • New Residency Environment Evaluation Committee Holds First Meeting, Expands Resident Representation
    New Residency Environment Evaluation Committee Holds First Meeting, Expands Resident Representation The participation of residents in the evaluation of their training environment is set to increase. According to Yonhap News on June 2, the Ministry of Health and Welfare announced the establishment of the fourth Residency Environment Evaluation Committee, which held its first meeting at the Korean Hospital Association in Mapo-gu, Seoul. The committee was created to review various aspects of the residency training environment. Changes to the committee's composition were made following the amendment of the law aimed at improving the training environment and status of residents in March of this year, leading to the formation of the fourth committee. The committee consists of 15 members, including one representative from the Korean Medical Association, four from the Korean Hospital Association, four from the Korean Association of Resident Physicians, three from the Korean Academy of Medical Sciences, two experts designated by the Minister of Health and Welfare, and one ex-officio member from the ministry. To ensure that residents' opinions are more actively expressed during the evaluation process, the number of representatives recommended by resident organizations has increased from two to four, while the number of representatives from the Korean Hospital Association has risen from three to four. During the meeting, the committee elected Yang Dong-heon, the president of Kyungpook National University Hospital, as its chair and discussed the operational schedule for the year. The ministry plans to discuss various topics with the fourth committee, including the restructuring of the residency training system to strengthen regional, essential, and public healthcare, as well as improving the quality of training education and evaluation. Lee Hyung-hoon, the second vice minister of health, stated, "There is a growing demand for the qualitative enhancement of residency training and the restructuring of governance, as well as the training of personnel for regional, essential, and public healthcare. The government will do its utmost to ensure that related policies are effectively implemented in the training field."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 21:30:00
  • Jung Won-oh Urges Voters to Choose a Mayor Who Keeps Promises
    Jung Won-oh Urges Voters to Choose a Mayor Who Keeps Promises Jung Won-oh, the Democratic Party's candidate for Seoul mayor, encouraged voters on June 2 during his final campaign rally, saying, "Please choose a mayor who not only talks but also takes action and keeps promises." He specifically targeted O Se-hoon, the candidate from the People Power Party, amid recent allegations regarding missing rebar in the GTX-A construction project, questioning, "Does a candidate who neglects safety deserve to be mayor?" At the rally held at Cheonggye Plaza in Seoul, Jung appealed to voters, stating, "By voting, you can choose a Seoul that will succeed alongside President Lee Jae-myung. We can create a Seoul where the dreams of young people are revived and become a bucket list destination for people worldwide." He urged participation in the upcoming vote on June 3. He emphasized, "Please elect a mayor who acts rather than just speaks, one who proves their worth through results and keeps their promises," and added, "Think of it as if we are just three votes short and make sure to encourage your friends to vote." Jung also criticized O Se-hoon for his alleged negligence regarding safety and his failure to fulfill housing and economic promises. He stated, "Protecting life and safety is the most precious and fundamental duty. A candidate who neglects safety does not deserve to be mayor," and asserted, "Just as I made Seongdong safe, I will ensure that Seoul becomes the safest city. Please choose someone who will create a safe Seoul." He pointed out that if O had kept his promise to supply 80,000 housing units annually, the housing crisis would have been resolved. "A candidate who does not keep promises must be replaced," he said. Jung highlighted that Seoul's economic growth rate ranks 11th among the 17 cities and provinces in the country, stating, "The economy in Seoul is dying in every alley. I transformed Seongsu, once an old industrial area, into a global hotspot and created jobs to revitalize the economy of Seongdong." Furthermore, Jung argued that the next mayor of Seoul should be from the ruling party to work alongside President Lee for the city's development. He concluded by questioning, "Can we just sit back and watch O Se-hoon hurl insults at President Lee during cabinet meetings? O is someone who should learn from President Lee, not someone who will hold him back."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 21:21:00
  • NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang to Visit Seoul National University on June 8
    NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang to Visit Seoul National University on June 8 NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang will visit the AI research center and robotics lab at Seoul National University during his trip to South Korea. He has expressed a desire to meet directly with students, in addition to touring the research facilities. According to Yonhap News on June 2, Huang is expected to arrive in South Korea on the evening of June 4 and is coordinating details for his visit to the university on June 8. Faculty members from the research centers will accompany Huang, and demonstrations of key research areas are anticipated. Notably, Huang has indicated his interest in having a separate meeting with students, raising curiosity about the message he might convey to the next generation of researchers in the context of the competitive landscape for AI talent. A university official stated, "The format of the meeting is currently under discussion with NVIDIA." This visit comes about two months after Huang's daughter, Madison Huang, a senior director of robotics marketing at NVIDIA, visited the robotics lab at Seoul National University. During her visit, she observed robot demonstrations and met with researchers. With Huang's direct visit following that of a key executive, attention is focused on whether NVIDIA will strengthen collaboration with academia in the field of 'physical AI,' which the company has identified as a core future business area. Recently, NVIDIA has accelerated the expansion of its physical AI ecosystem by unveiling platforms such as the 'Omniverse' for robot simulation, the 'Isaac' robot development platform, and the humanoid foundation model 'GR00T.' While NVIDIA has developed software for training robots in virtual environments, securing partners with hardware and control technology for real-world validation is considered the final piece of the puzzle. Some speculate that collaboration on joint research or talent exchange with Seoul National University, known for its expertise in robot control technology, may be on the horizon.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 21:09:00
  • Court Denies Kim Se-hees Request for Release in Defamation Case Involving Kim Soo-hyun
    Court Denies Kim Se-hee's Request for Release in Defamation Case Involving Kim Soo-hyun A South Korean court has rejected a request from Kim Se-hee, head of the Garoseyro Research Institute, to review the legality of his detention on charges of defaming actor Kim Soo-hyun. According to Yonhap News, the 8th Criminal Division of the Seoul Central District Court, presided over by judges Cha Seung-hwan, Choi Hae-il, and Choi Jin-sook, dismissed the request on June 2, stating, "There is no reason for the request." Kim filed the request for a detention review five days after his arrest on May 31. This process allows the court to reassess the legality and necessity of the detention. After a one-hour hearing, Kim, whose hands were bound, claimed that his detention was linked to defamation against the late Kim Sae-ron. With Kim's detention upheld, police, who have been investigating the case for over a year, are expected to conclude their investigation into allegations that he pressured Kim Soo-hyun and soon forward the case to prosecutors. Kim is accused of spreading false information that Kim Soo-hyun was responsible for the financial pressures leading to the death of the late Kim Sae-ron, who was a minor at the time of their relationship. He is also alleged to have manipulated artificial intelligence to fabricate statements about their past interactions, further damaging Kim Soo-hyun's reputation.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 20:51:00
  • NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang Offers Bold Remarks on South Korea
    NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang Offers Bold Remarks on South Korea NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang has delivered striking messages aimed at South Korea. On June 2, Huang spoke with South Korean reporters during the Korea Partner Night event at the NVIDIA annual technology exhibition, GTC Taipei 2026, held at the Taipei Music Center in Taiwan. Huang stated, "If South Korea wants, we can hold NVIDIA's flagship event, GTC, in Korea," while also specifically mentioning robotics as a potential area for future investment in the country. Industry experts interpret this not merely as a friendly gesture but as a signal that NVIDIA views South Korea as a key hub for the AI semiconductor and robotics ecosystem. "Huang: GTC Could Be Held in South Korea If Desired" GTC is the largest AI and semiconductor technology event hosted by NVIDIA, showcasing the latest AI chips, data centers, robotics, autonomous driving, and AI agent technology roadmaps. It is often referred to as the "WWDC of the AI industry." If GTC is indeed held in South Korea, it would symbolize the country's recognition as a central player in NVIDIA's global AI strategy, beyond just attracting a conference. Currently, GTC events are primarily held in the United States and Taiwan, with opportunities largely limited to countries that are key players in the AI supply chain. "Investment in South Korea Always Under Review, Focus on Robotics" ​​​​​​​ Huang's comments regarding investment drew particular attention. When asked about NVIDIA's investment plans in South Korea, Huang replied, "Investments in South Korea are always under consideration," noting that the country has excellent infrastructure and outstanding companies. He specifically identified robotics as a promising area for collaboration. He emphasized, "Robotics is a very important industry for South Korea," expressing hope that NVIDIA can contribute to the development of the country's robotics sector. Huang also highlighted South Korea's declining workforce issue, explaining that AI and robotics could maximize the country's economic potential. "Next Frontier: Physical AI" ​​​​​​​ Market analysts believe Huang's remarks about robotics are linked to NVIDIA's emphasis on its "Physical AI" strategy. Physical AI refers to technology where AI interacts directly with real-world machines, robots, factories, and logistics systems. During his visit to South Korea, Huang is expected to hold a private roundtable with local robotics startups and researchers, discussing ways to expand collaboration with companies utilizing NVIDIA's robotics platform. Potential Benefits for South Korean Companies? Following Huang's comments on robotics, South Korean robotics stocks have shown strong performance. Companies like Doosan Robotics and Robostar have experienced significant surges. Additionally, there are expectations that as NVIDIA's interest in robotics expands, companies such as LG Electronics, Hyundai Motor Group, and Naver could benefit in their AI and robotics ventures. However, these are industry forecasts, and no specific investment or collaboration plans have been officially announced. Meanwhile, Huang is scheduled to meet with prominent business leaders in South Korea this week, including Chey Tae-won, chairman of SK Group; Koo Kwang-mo, chairman of LG Group; and Lee Hae-jin, chairman of Naver's board.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 20:42:00
  • Democratic Party Urges Support for Seoul Mayor Candidate Jung Won-o to Strengthen Lee Government
    Democratic Party Urges Support for Seoul Mayor Candidate Jung Won-o to Strengthen Lee Government The Democratic Party is urging voters to support Jung Won-o for Seoul mayor to ensure the success of President Lee Jae-myung's administration, while also calling for the defeat of People Power Party candidate Oh Se-hoon. Jung Cheong-rae, the party leader, emphasized that "this election is about empowering President Lee." Speaking at Jung's final campaign rally in Cheonggye Plaza, Jung stated, "We need to elect a Democratic mayor, a Democratic president, and Democratic district heads to ensure they work in harmony." He further appealed for support, saying, "Winning in Seoul is crucial for winning nationwide." He warned that failing to eliminate the remnants of insurrection could lead to a resurgence of corruption and political turmoil in South Korea. Democratic lawmakers have united in support of Jung's candidacy. Park Jumin, who competed against Jung in the party's primary, joined him at the rally. Park has been actively campaigning for Jung as part of a special support team composed of candidates who lost in the primary. Park stated, "If there are issues with housing, public transport, and welfare in Seoul, who should be replaced? We must remove Oh Se-hoon, who has ruined Seoul, and elect Jung Won-o to develop the city alongside President Lee's government." Seo Young-kyo, chair of the Legal Affairs Committee, referenced allegations against Oh regarding campaign financing and declared, "I will take the lead in the trial against Oh Se-hoon. Please ensure Jung Won-o is elected." Han Jeong-ae, chair of the policy committee, noted, "The KOSPI is rising and exports are strong, but these benefits must come through the Seoul city government. It is outrageous for a mayor to obstruct the work of President Lee, who is serving the people." Former National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-sik remarked, "The insurrection is not over yet. I pushed for constitutional amendments to prevent illegal martial law, and seeing the People Power Party oppose this makes me worry that if they gain power, chaos will return. That is why I am here to support Jung, who has proven his capabilities in Seongdong-gu. President Lee has shown how effective he can be, having served as mayor of Seongnam, governor of Gyeonggi Province, and now as president." 2026-06-02 20:42:00
  • Police Intensify Investigation into Seosomun Overpass Collapse
    Police Intensify Investigation into Seosomun Overpass Collapse Police investigating the Seosomun overpass collapse have begun a thorough inquiry into the construction company involved in the demolition work. According to Yonhap News on June 2, the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency's special investigation unit summoned representatives from Heung-Hwa, the construction firm responsible for the demolition, for questioning. This marks one week since both the police and the Ministry of Employment and Labor launched their investigations following the collapse. During the questioning, investigators are expected to focus on how the demolition work has been conducted, the safety management systems implemented by the construction company, and the circumstances surrounding the incident on the day of the collapse. The police also plan to summon officials from the oversight firm, Seong Engineering, later this week. Additionally, arrangements are being made to question the site manager and safety officers from Heung-Hwa's subcontractors. Four safety management personnel from Heung-Hwa have already been charged with negligent homicide in connection with the incident. Park Jeong-bo, the chief of the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency, stated at a briefing the previous day, "We are meticulously analyzing the materials obtained from the site inspection and search warrants to determine whether those charged bear any responsibility for the fatal incident." As the police continue to investigate the structural issues that may have led to the overpass collapse, there are speculations that the inquiry could expand to include officials from the Seoul city government, who are currently considered witnesses.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 20:30:00