SpaceX Successfully Tests Next-Gen Starship V3 Ahead of IPO SpaceX has successfully conducted a test launch of its next-generation spacecraft, Starship V3, ahead of its upcoming initial public offering (IPO). The mission, which included key objectives such as spaceflight and ocean landing, is expected to positively influence investor sentiment as the company prepares to go public. On May 22, SpaceX broadcasted the launch and flight of its 12th Starship rocket, Starship V3, via its official social media platform X. Launched from SpaceX's Starbase in Texas, the rocket completed a suborbital flight and successfully landed in the Indian Ocean. During the flight, it successfully deployed 22 model satellites and streamed the entire process live. This successful test is seen as a significant achievement for SpaceX ahead of its planned Nasdaq listing next month. Market analysts predict that the company's valuation could reach approximately $1.75 trillion (about 2,658 trillion won) following the IPO. Starship V3 is a next-generation launch vehicle developed to support NASA's lunar exploration project. In its recent IPO filing, SpaceX stated, "Starship is the most powerful launch system ever developed, capable of carrying up to 100 tons of cargo, with plans to double its payload capacity in future models." However, some technical challenges were noted. The first-stage booster, Super Heavy, successfully separated but failed to land upright in the ocean due to ignition issues with some engines. Additionally, one of the six engines on the Starship experienced an ignition failure, but the flight continued thanks to adjustments made to the remaining engines. SpaceX had initially planned to attempt the launch a day earlier but postponed it by a day due to issues detected in the hydraulic system of the launch tower.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 20:55:29

Sunny and Mild Weather Expected for Buddha's Birthday On Buddha's Birthday, Sunday, May 24, clear and mild weather is expected across the country. Rain that fell in various regions the previous day is forecast to mostly cease by morning, making it a suitable day for outings during the holiday.According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, the weather will start cloudy but gradually clear up by the morning. However, Jeju Island will remain overcast throughout the day. Morning low temperatures are predicted to range from 11 to 16 degrees Celsius, while daytime highs are expected to reach between 21 and 28 degrees. The temperature difference between day and night, particularly in inland areas, may reach around 15 degrees, so residents are advised to take care of their health. Fine dust levels will be at 'good' to 'moderate' levels nationwide, indicating fair air quality. Waves in the coastal waters are expected to be 0.5 to 1.5 meters in the East and South Seas, and around 0.5 meters in the West Sea. Offshore wave heights are forecasted to be between 0.5 to 2.0 meters in the East and South Seas, and 0.5 to 1.0 meters in the West Sea. Looking ahead to early next week, rain is again expected nationwide. The Korea Meteorological Administration predicts that rain will begin in Jeju Island on the afternoon of May 25, spreading to the Jeolla region and western South Gyeongsang Province by night. Expected precipitation amounts are 5 to 30 millimeters in Jeju, 5 to 20 millimeters in Gwangju and South Jeolla, and 5 to 10 millimeters in North Jeolla and western South Gyeongsang. The rain is expected to expand nationwide on May 26 and mostly cease by May 27, although some areas in Gangwon Province, Gyeongsang regions, and Jeju may continue to see rain into the morning. Temperatures next week are expected to remain around normal levels. On May 25, morning lows are forecasted to be between 12 and 18 degrees, with daytime highs ranging from 22 to 29 degrees. On May 26, when rain is expected, morning temperatures will be between 16 and 20 degrees, and daytime highs will be between 20 and 26 degrees. Following this, early summer-like weather with morning lows of 13 to 20 degrees and daytime highs of 21 to 29 degrees is anticipated.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 20:54:00

U.S. Deploys Dozens of Refueling Aircraft at Israeli Airport Amid Iran Strike Concerns The United States has reportedly stationed dozens of refueling aircraft at Israel's Ben Gurion Airport, raising speculation about preparations for a potential resumption of strikes against Iran. According to a report by Yonhap News on May 23, citing the Financial Times (FT), satellite imagery analysis revealed that at least 50 U.S. military refueling aircraft have been observed at Ben Gurion Airport this month. The number of refueling aircraft at the airport has steadily increased since late February, just before the U.S. and Israel were poised to launch attacks on Iran. The count rose from about 36 in early March to 47 by early April, coinciding with the onset of a ceasefire, and has now reached 52 this week. Ben Gurion Airport, located near Tel Aviv, serves as Israel's primary civilian aviation hub. The FT noted, "Gray military aircraft belonging to the U.S. Air Force, particularly refueling planes, are filling the airport's tarmac, making them easily visible to both civilian passengers and motorists on nearby highways." Refueling aircraft are considered essential for long-range strike operations, as they enable fighter jets to receive fuel in midair, significantly extending their operational range and flight time. During the previous U.S. operation against Iran, known as 'Operation Grand Fury,' KC-135 and KC-46 refueling aircraft were deployed throughout the Middle East to support long-range missions by U.S. and Israeli fighter jets. This increase in refueling aircraft may also indicate preparations for a renewed campaign against Iran. While negotiations for a ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran are ongoing, President Donald Trump has maintained that military options remain on the table. Recently, there has been a growing sentiment that if negotiations remain stalled, the U.S. and Israel could resume strikes against Iran within days. The FT also reported concerns within Israel that Ben Gurion Airport is effectively being used as a U.S. military base. The influx of military aircraft has led to space shortages for Israeli airlines, with some flights reportedly being redirected to foreign airports.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 20:51:21

Park Geun-hye Supports Choo Kyung-ho in Daegu Market Visit Former President Park Geun-hye, often referred to as the "queen of elections," visited the traditional Chilseong Market in Daegu on May 23 to rally support for Choo Kyung-ho, the People Power Party candidate for mayor. According to Choo's campaign committee, Park and Choo toured the market together at 2 p.m., where Park engaged with local merchants and shoppers, urging them to support Choo. Earlier, on May 4, Choo visited Park's residence in Daegu's Dalseong County for a 40-minute conversation. During that meeting, Park encouraged Choo, saying, "Work hard in this election and make sure to win. Our citizens will make a wise decision," as reported by Choo. Meanwhile, Choo is in a tight race with Kim Boo-kyum, the Democratic Party candidate. A recent poll conducted by KBS Daegu and commissioned by Korea Research from May 16 to 20 showed Kim with 40% support and Choo with 39% among 800 Daegu voters. The poll utilized a telephone interview method with virtual numbers, achieving a response rate of 19.2%. The margin of error is ±3.5 percentage points at a 95% confidence level. For more details, please refer to the website of the National Election Survey Deliberation Commission.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 20:49:27

Rep. Min Byung-deok: 'Won Stablecoin is a Strategic Asset for South Korea's Economy' The debate surrounding the digital asset market is intensifying. Once viewed as symbols of 'speculation' and 'gambling,' virtual assets are now being discussed as strategic industries related to national financial order, monetary sovereignty, and payment infrastructure in the AI era. The United States, Europe, Japan, and Hong Kong are already accelerating the establishment of regulations related to stablecoins and digital assets, and voices in South Korea are growing louder, urging that action can no longer be delayed. At the center of this movement is Min Byung-deok, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea. Recently, he has garnered attention both inside and outside the political arena by introducing the 'Digital Asset Basic Law.' Min defines digital assets not merely as investment products but as a 'future financial infrastructure.' He emphasizes the need to develop the won stablecoin as a new growth engine for the South Korean economy. Throughout the interview, Min stressed the importance of 'leadership that understands the pace of change.' He stated, 'Payments in the AI era will inevitably move toward digital assets,' adding that 'sovereign AI and the won stablecoin are key components of South Korea's future security and economic strategy.' 'Transforming Coins from Speculation to Industry... Regulation is Key' — You graduated with a degree in political science and worked as a lawyer before entering politics. What motivated your recent active involvement in the digital asset sector? 'During my university years, I was involved in poverty movements in demolition zones and hillside neighborhoods. We advocated for permanent rental housing for tenants in redevelopment areas. That experience highlighted the importance of regulation. Without a system, the public suffers. The same applies to digital assets today. The phenomenon is already massive, but the lack of regulation is causing confusion.' — Were you initially positive about digital assets? 'Honestly, I used to think of coins as akin to gambling. However, upon closer examination, I realized that with regulation, this could become an industry. It has the potential to create significant jobs and economic opportunities, yet we had been neglecting it.' — You often refer to yourself as a 'people's politician.' 'Ultimately, politics is about taking responsibility for people's lives. During the COVID-19 pandemic, self-employed individuals suffered immense losses due to gathering bans, yet no one discussed compensation. I protested in front of the Blue House and pushed for loss compensation laws. I believe that addressing people's livelihoods is not just talk; it requires commitment until solutions are found.' — Do you view digital assets as a livelihood issue as well? 'Absolutely. It represents a future economic opportunity, and neglecting it will harm the public. We risk missing out on the chance for industrial growth.' 'The Digital Asset Basic Law is a Blueprint for Financial Infrastructure' — What is the core of the Digital Asset Basic Law? 'In short, it aims to shift coins from the realm of speculation to that of regulation. Until now, they have been left unattended. However, if regulated as stablecoins, they can become payment methods and financial infrastructure. I believe it serves as the foundational law for designing South Korea's future financial system.' — Why do you believe now is the right time for legislation? 'The world is already moving forward. Hong Kong, Singapore, and the United States are all tokenizing real-world assets (RWA). Payment and remittance infrastructures are being restructured around digital assets. Meanwhile, we are still deliberating whether to proceed. The technology is already sufficient, but the regulation is lagging.' 'Assessing South Korea's Digital Asset Competitiveness' — How do you evaluate South Korea's competitiveness in digital assets? 'South Korea ranks as the third-largest market globally, following the United States and China. We are certainly not lagging behind. The issue lies in regulation. The U.S., Japan, and Hong Kong are all advancing, yet we still lack rules. Despite this, we maintain our position as the third-largest market.' — Is there significant interest from foreign companies? 'Absolutely. Once regulations are established, many companies are eager to operate in South Korea. The country has a high level of acceptance for digital assets.' 'Changing the Perception from 'Virtual Assets' to 'Digital Assets' — You emphasize the term 'digital assets' instead of 'virtual assets.' 'Referring to them as virtual assets makes them seem non-existent and unrealistic. However, these are actual assets functioning in the digital space. Think of them as digital gold. It's not just a matter of terminology; it's about changing perceptions.' — The public perception still leans heavily toward speculation. 'That's because many haven't tried it. Once people use it, they find it convenient and low-cost. Ultimately, as regulations are established and various use cases emerge, perceptions will naturally shift.' — The bill also includes provisions for fully allowing ICOs. 'Until now, we have been caught between prohibition and neglect. I advocate for orderly permission. We should allow participation in line with global standards while clearly regulating activities.' — This will significantly impact the startup ecosystem. 'Absolutely. Fundraising will become much easier. It's akin to laying down the tracks for a railway. We are establishing the rails for the future financial payment system.' 'The Core of Stablecoins is Reserve Assets' — You have set the capital for issuing won stablecoins at 500 million won. 'Setting it too low or too high poses problems. The key is not the capital size but how securely we can manage and redeem the reserve assets.' — Can you explain the concept of reserve assets simply? 'For example, to issue one coin, you would need to hold 1,000 won in actual reserves. If cash is needed again, it can be exchanged for 1,000 won at any time. Ultimately, stability comes from managing reserve assets and the redemption system.' — Are there concerns about a bank run? 'There can be no bank run if we hold 100% of the reserve assets. While banks keep only a portion as reserves, stablecoins are structured to hold the full amount.' — You proposed establishing a Digital Asset Committee directly under the President rather than under the Financial Services Commission. 'This is not an issue that the Financial Services Commission can handle alone. It connects with the Bank of Korea, the Ministry of Science and ICT, tax, and trade issues. Given that this is a national strategic industry that will shape the future financial order, it should be under the President's direct oversight.' 'The Bank of Korea as a Defender... Innovation Should Be Led by the Private Sector' — The Bank of Korea and financial authorities are somewhat conservative. 'I understand the conservatism of central banks. However, in the field of innovation, we need an approach that manages risks rather than eliminates them. We cannot ban cars just because they are dangerous.' — Why do you oppose a bank-centered structure? 'Officials from Hong Kong's financial authorities have expressed similar sentiments. Banks are defenders, not attackers. Innovation should be led by the private sector, while banks can play a role in ensuring stability.' — What changes do you anticipate if the bill passes? 'Talent and technology that have gone overseas will return. There is a high likelihood that global companies will flock to South Korea. Nearly 30% of the population has experienced digital assets. We have one of the highest levels of acceptance in the world.' — Ultimately, this is a strategy for becoming a financial hub. 'Exactly. While the U.S. will continue with a dollar-based system, we can pursue a won stablecoin strategy based on content and platforms. The country that dominates the payment system will control the future.' 'Sovereign AI and the Won Stablecoin as a Unified Strategy' — You have defined digital assets as a national strategic industry. 'Payments in the AI era will inevitably transition to digital assets. Therefore, I view sovereign AI and the won stablecoin as a unified strategy. This is not just about finance; it is a matter of national security strategy.' — What kind of leadership does South Korea need? 'Leadership that understands the direction and pace of change. We must boldly foster areas that need growth and listen and coordinate to address areas requiring distribution. Future industries like digital assets should be nurtured, while existing industries must establish fair distribution structures.' Min Byung-deok is a member of the Democratic Party of Korea, having graduated from Seoul National University with a degree in political science. After passing the 40th National Bar Examination, he worked as a lawyer. He has been active in the field of economic justice through the Lawyers for a Democratic Society and later entered politics, currently serving as a two-term representative for Anyang Dong-nan. He has focused on financial and livelihood policies in the National Assembly's Political Affairs Committee, actively pursuing legislation related to loss compensation during the COVID-19 pandemic and consumer protection in finance. Recently, he has taken the lead in policies regarding digital finance and stablecoins by introducing the Digital Asset Basic Law. He defines digital assets not merely as investment products but as 'the future financial infrastructure of South Korea,' emphasizing the need to develop the won stablecoin as a strategic asset for national security in the AI era.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 20:39:40

President Lee: Excessive Collection of Management Fees is Illegal President Lee Jae-myung stated on May 23 that the excessive collection of management fees in shared buildings such as apartments, officetels, and commercial properties is now illegal. In a post shared early that day on X (formerly Twitter), President Lee emphasized that "everyone has the right to request details of management fees." He added, "From now on, all irregularities in South Korea will be normalized." Earlier, on May 21, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport announced measures to eradicate corruption related to management fees. The proposed reforms include increasing criminal penalties and abolishing exceptions that allowed audits to be waived with tenant consent. During a Cabinet meeting in February, President Lee criticized the practice of raising management fees to evade rent regulations, stating that concealing management fee details is akin to fraud and embezzlement.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 20:37:00

Weather Forecast: Cloudy Saturday with Light Rain Expected On Saturday, May 23, the weather across the country is expected to be mostly cloudy, with light rain in some areas during the day. Temperatures are forecasted to return to seasonal averages, easing the early summer heat. According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, light rain of less than 5mm is anticipated in most regions from morning into the afternoon. While the rainfall is not expected to be significant, it may temporarily make roads slippery in some areas, necessitating caution for drivers. After the rain, skies will gradually clear, leading to generally sunny weather across the country starting Sunday morning, May 24. However, Jeju Island is expected to remain mostly cloudy. The highest temperatures on May 23 are predicted to range from 17 to 24 degrees Celsius. Major cities are forecasted to see temperatures of 23 degrees in Seoul, Incheon, and Daejeon, 24 degrees in Gwangju, 22 degrees in Daegu, and 20 degrees in Busan and Ulsan. On May 24, morning lows are expected to be between 11 and 16 degrees, with daytime highs ranging from 21 to 28 degrees. While it may feel warm during the day, temperatures are expected to be cooler in the mornings and evenings, leading to a temperature difference of around 15 degrees in inland areas. On May 25, a public holiday for Buddha's Birthday, the weather is expected to start off mostly clear but will gradually become cloudy by the morning. Temperatures are projected to rise slightly compared to the weekend, with daytime highs reaching between 22 and 29 degrees, slightly above seasonal averages. Rain is expected to begin in Jeju on the afternoon of May 25, spreading to the Jeolla region and western South Gyeongsang Province by night. Rainfall is anticipated to continue across most of the country on May 26. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 20:36:00

Pep Guardiola Steps Down as Manchester City Manager After 10 Years Pep Guardiola has announced his departure from Manchester City after a decade at the helm. Leading the team through a golden era, he cited "exhaustion" as the reason for his decision to part ways. On May 23, Manchester City confirmed that Guardiola's final match will be against Aston Villa on May 25, marking the end of the 2025-2026 season. The game will take place at the Etihad Stadium. This announcement comes as a surprise, especially since Guardiola had signed a contract extension with the club last November, committing to the 2026-2027 season. However, it is reported that he has expressed a need for a long break. Guardiola joined Manchester City in 2016, succeeding Manuel Pellegrini, and has since rewritten the club's history. He achieved a record 100 points in the Premier League during the 2017-2018 season and completed a historic treble in the 2022-2023 season by winning the Premier League, FA Cup, and UEFA Champions League. Notably, he led the team to four consecutive league titles in the 2023-2024 season, a first in English top-flight history. During his tenure, Guardiola secured six Premier League titles, three FA Cups, five League Cups, and one UEFA Champions League title, totaling 17 major trophies. This season, however, the team finished as runners-up to Arsenal in the league.To honor his achievements, Manchester City plans to name a stand after Guardiola and erect a statue in his likeness. Enzo Maresca, a former Chelsea manager and past City coach, is considered a leading candidate to succeed him. Guardiola will take a break from coaching before assuming the role of global ambassador for City Football Group (CFG), where he will assist with the operations and technical advice of its affiliated clubs. According to the BBC, Guardiola stated at a press conference, "Ten years is a very long time," and emphasized that the team needs a new manager and fresh energy. He added, "I felt I could no longer maintain the drive to stand in front of the players and compete for victory in every match."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 20:33:28

U.S. and Israel Prepare for Possible Strikes on Iran Amid Stalled Negotiations Reports indicate that the United States and Israel are preparing to resume strikes on Iran within days if negotiations show no progress. In response, mediating countries such as Qatar and Pakistan are reportedly intensifying efforts to extend a ceasefire and establish a framework for further negotiations. According to a report by Yonhap News on May 23, citing the Wall Street Journal, the current goal of the negotiations is to extend the unstable ceasefire that has been in place since May 8, rather than to reach a formal peace agreement. The aim is to sign a Letter of Intent (LOI) or a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to facilitate future discussions. The Trump administration insists that any agreement must include restrictions on Iran's nuclear program. Conversely, Iran argues that the focus should first be on ending the war, lifting restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz, and easing financial sanctions. The two sides have reportedly been unable to narrow their differences on which issues should be included in an immediate agreement and which should be deferred to future negotiations. If even a limited agreement fails, there is a possibility that the U.S. and Israel will conduct short-term strikes targeting Iran's energy infrastructure and other economic facilities. This would be a measure to increase pressure on the Iranian regime, but Iran has warned that it would respond with extensive retaliation if new attacks occur. Mediators are also acting swiftly. General Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff of Pakistan, visited Tehran on May 22, and a Qatari negotiating team is reportedly staying in the region to continue mediation efforts. Saudi Arabia has also warned Iran that failing to reach an agreement could escalate the situation further. The U.S. maintains that Iran must agree to a long-term halt of its uranium enrichment program and the transfer of nuclear materials close to weapons-grade levels. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on May 22 in Brussels that while there has been “some progress,” the U.S. position remains unchanged: it cannot accept Iran possessing nuclear weapons. Reports suggest that President Trump has repeatedly warned of the possibility of resuming attacks on Iran if negotiations break down, and if military action is taken, Israel is likely to join. Concerns have also been raised within Israel that President Trump might agree to a deal that does not sufficiently curb Iran's nuclear program and missile capabilities.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 20:31:13

Voter Common Sense Needed Amid AI Misinformation in Local Elections The local elections on June 3 are approaching their final stages. However, the dominant issues in the election are not visions for regional development or livelihood policies. Instead, AI-generated misinformation, extreme political attacks, historical controversies, and smear campaigns are only increasing voter fatigue. Concerns are growing that the local elections are becoming a battleground for central politics, rather than a forum for discussing the future of the region. This election marks a significant entry into the 'AI political era' for South Korea. Authorities have recently launched investigations into AI-manipulated posts and false articles that distort and demean the May 18 Democratic Uprising. Fake articles, misleading images, and distorted videos generated by AI are spreading through social media and YouTube, exacerbating social confusion. This is not merely a case of misinformation; it undermines the very foundation of democracy, which relies on a 'shared reality.' More concerning is that this phenomenon is increasingly being used as a tool for political mobilization. Past elections relied on organization, funding, broadcasting, and street campaigning. Now, the competition has shifted to algorithms and view counts. YouTube Shorts, sensational videos, extreme claims, and conspiracy theories spread much faster than policy discussions. This is due to the profit structure of platform companies, which favors anger and sensationalism. Short, emotionally charged content generates more clicks and increases advertising revenue. From an economic perspective, this is a typical example of 'attention economy.' The core asset of platform companies is not factories but human time. The problem is that the content that captures human attention the longest is not always truthful or balanced. Ultimately, democracy is being pushed out of the deliberative process and into a race fueled by emotions. Similar phenomena are occurring globally. In the United States, ahead of last year's elections, AI robocalls mimicking President Joe Biden's voice spread messages urging people not to vote. Early in the Ukraine war, deepfake videos circulated showing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky declaring surrender. In India and the Philippines, AI avatars and voice replication of politicians have been used in campaigns. While technological advancements can make democracy more open, they can also serve as far more dangerous tools for incitement. The safety debates surrounding this local election also prompt a reflection on the essence of politics. Democratic Party candidate Jeong Won-oh visited the site of the 10th anniversary of the Guui Station disaster and criticized his opponent, Oh Se-hoon, for creating a "structural problem born from safety indifference." He connected this to the controversy over missing rebar in the GTX-A Samsung Station project, placing safety issues at the forefront. In contrast, Oh's camp has countered that this is a political attack. Safety should not be a tool for political conflict but a fundamental responsibility of administration. South Korean society has repeatedly paid the price for a safety indifference that assumes, "It will be fine." Yet, during election seasons, accidents are consumed as political fodder for attacks against one another. What matters is not who can criticize the other more forcefully, but what systems can be put in place to prevent accidents and improve conditions. The moral issues within politics are also fueling voter disappointment. TV Chosun reported allegations that Democratic Party candidate Kim Yong-nam operated a loan business under a proxy name. While Kim's camp has categorically denied these allegations, it is hard to deny that this incident highlights a broader crisis of trust in politics. A politician discussing the economy and high interest rates while embroiled in a high-yield loan controversy leaves voters feeling deeply cynical. The greatest crisis in South Korean politics today is not the ideological divide itself but the collapse of 'trust capital.' Citizens are increasingly finding it difficult to discern what is true and whom to trust. Politicians attack each other with accusations of falsehood, YouTube thrives on sensational videos for clicks, and AI endlessly produces fake images and false articles. In such a structure, only extremes and hatred survive. Democracy was originally a system that trusted human reason and common sense. However, in the age of AI and platforms, instincts are stimulated faster than human emotions. When politics shifts from policy competition to a competition of anger, the ultimate victims are the citizens. Real issues such as local economies, jobs, transportation, safety, housing, and welfare are pushed aside. Therefore, what is most needed in this local election is ultimately voter common sense. Voters must calmly assess what policies benefit the region without being swept away by AI misinformation, conspiracy theories, and extreme political attacks. The political sphere must also move away from election strategies that rely on clicks and sensational messages. Local elections should not be proxy battles for central politics but a stage for civic life that determines the lives of citizens. Technology will continue to advance. AI is likely to become more sophisticated, and the influence of platforms will grow. The issue is not the technology itself but what rules, ethics, and democratic principles will be established on top of it. This local election is not merely about who will be elected. It serves as a test of whether South Korean democracy will follow a path of common sense and deliberation or sink deeper into algorithm-driven and anger-fueled politics.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 20:28:52