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Lee Chang-dong's 'Possible Love' Wins Jury Prize at Venice Film Festival Director Lee Chang-dong's latest film, 'Possible Love,' has won the Jury Prize (Silver Lion) at the 83rd Venice International Film Festival.According to Yonhap News, 'Possible Love' was announced as the recipient of the Jury Prize during the festival's closing ceremony held on September 12 in Venice, Italy. This marks the first time a Korean film has received the Jury Prize in the competitive section of the Venice Film Festival.This is Lee's first award at the Venice Film Festival in 24 years, following his win for Best Director (Silver Lion) for 'Oasis' in 2002.'Possible Love' is Lee's first film in eight years since 'Burning,' featuring actors Jeon Do-yeon, Seol Kyung-gu, Jo In-sung, and Cho Yeo-jeong. The film tells the story of two couples from different social backgrounds—a pair of laid-off workers and a documentary filmmaker couple—who confront life and desire.In his acceptance speech, Lee expressed gratitude to the four actors, stating, "This award belongs to you." He added that he created the film to question what cinema can do in an era where labor and human relationships are fading, interpreting the award as a call to continue asking that question.Additionally, 'Possible Love' also received the International Federation of Film Critics Award (FIPRESCI) prior to winning the Jury Prize.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-13 06:32:00
Yemen's Mocha Port Falls to Houthi Forces, Raising Global Concerns Mocha Port, located on Yemen's northwestern Red Sea coast, has recently come under the control of the Iran-aligned Houthi forces, drawing international attention due to its potential impact on Saudi Arabia's oil exports via the Red Sea route, which avoids the Strait of Hormuz. In response, Saudi Arabia has conducted airstrikes in the Mocha region.According to the New York Times on September 12, Mocha Port was a thriving trade hub during the 16th to 18th centuries, serving as a major source of coffee supply and fostering a vibrant coffee shop culture.Coffee is believed to have flourished in Yemen since the 1400s. Scholars suggest that Yemenis began drinking coffee during this period, with Arab Sufi monks possibly consuming it to stay awake for nighttime prayers. Following the Ottoman conquest of Yemen in the 1530s, coffee culture spread further. This tradition eventually led to the creation of the 'café mocha' drink, which combines espresso with chocolate and is now popular in many coffee shops. However, the role of Mocha in the global coffee market diminished after coffee cultivation began in Indonesia and the Caribbean in the 1720s.In an interview with the newspaper, Allen Mikhail, a professor of Middle Eastern history at Yale University, emphasized the strategic importance of Mocha Port, noting its proximity to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, where the Red Sea meets the Indian Ocean. Blocking this strait would hinder the export of oil produced at Saudi Arabia's Yanbu Port to Asia and Europe. Additionally, exports from Asia to Europe via the Suez Canal would also require passage through this strait. Mocha Port is located about 80 kilometers from the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.Since the outbreak of the Iran conflict, tensions have escalated between Saudi Arabia, a U.S. ally, and the Houthi forces backed by Iran. According to Deutsche Welle, Yemeni government forces, supported by Saudi Arabia, lost control of Mocha Port to the Houthis on September 10. The Houthis also captured Perim Island, a strategic location in the middle of the strait, on September 11. Compounding the situation, Saudi Arabia's 1,200-kilometer-long oil pipeline connecting the east and west was shut down following a drone attack, which analysts attribute to Iranian-backed militias in Iraq. Observers warn that the closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait by Houthi forces could disrupt global oil supply. CNN reported that commanders of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps are assisting in the closure of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.Yemen has been embroiled in a civil war between Houthi forces and government troops for over a decade, resulting in a per capita GDP of just $471 (approximately 630,000 won) this year, effectively rendering it a 'failed state,' according to National Interest. There have been international efforts to revive the coffee culture in the Mocha region and provide job opportunities for residents. Initiatives have connected Yemeni coffee farmers with overseas buyers. However, as the war intensifies, the dreams of farmers to restore Mocha's former coffee glory have been dashed, the New York Times reported.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-13 05:04:00
Seongnam Mayor Shin Sang-jin Seeks Economic Cooperation with Uzbekistan's Namangan Region Shin Sang-jin, the mayor of Seongnam, is actively pursuing expanded cooperation with Uzbekistan's Namangan region in the fields of smart cities and advanced industries, aiming to strengthen global exchanges for Seongnam. On September 10, Mayor Shin met with Shavkat Abdurasakov, the governor of Namangan, to share key policies and industrial developments from both regions and discuss practical cooperation measures. This meeting was organized to explore the potential for collaboration as the Namangan delegation examined Seongnam's smart city policies and advanced industrial landscape. During the meeting, Mayor Shin expressed his intention to expand the existing friendly relations with Namangan City to the regional level, emphasizing the need to strengthen practical cooperation across various sectors, including economy, industry, culture, education, and human exchanges. Citizens also voiced their hopes that this exchange would not be limited to a mere international event but would serve as a catalyst for connecting Seongnam's industrial and corporate competitiveness with overseas markets. One resident stated, “Seongnam has industrial strengths that are hard to find in other regions, such as advanced companies and the Pangyo Techno Valley. It is essential to actively connect these strengths with foreign cities. I hope this leads to tangible results, such as actual business exchanges or youth education programs, rather than just photo opportunities and greetings.” Another resident emphasized, “For Seongnam to grow as an international innovation city rather than just competing domestically, cooperation with foreign cities is crucial. I hope the discussions with Namangan lead to concrete projects that elevate Seongnam's status.” Mayor Shin Sang-jin welcomed the Namangan delegation, noting their rich human resources and growth potential. He added, “I hope this visit will solidify our existing friendly relations with Namangan City and broaden our cooperation into various fields, including economy, industry, culture, and education.” Looking ahead, Mayor Shin plans to continue expanding exchanges with cities and regions worldwide, aiming to establish mutually beneficial partnerships that enhance Seongnam's status as a global innovation city. 2026-09-12 22:52:00
Gwangju City Sets Minimum Wage at 11,970 Won for 2027 Gwangju City has set the minimum wage for next year at 11,970 won per hour. According to the city on the 11th, this marks an increase of 730 won from this year, representing the largest increase since the introduction of the minimum wage system. The city confirmed the minimum wage for 2027 during a recent meeting of the Minimum Wage Advisory Committee. This amount is a 6.5% increase from this year's hourly wage of 11,240 won. Based on a 40-hour work week and 209 hours per month, the monthly salary for workers eligible for the minimum wage next year will be 2,501,730 won, an increase of 152,570 won from this year. Compared to the government's set minimum wage of 10,700 won for 2027, the new minimum wage is 1,270 won higher. The decision on the minimum wage took into account projections for consumer prices, Gwangju City's financial conditions, workers' living standards, and the impact on the local economy. The minimum wage is a wage standard set by local governments to help ensure the actual living stability of workers, which cannot be met by the legal minimum wage alone. The confirmed minimum wage will apply to Gwangju City employees, workers at city-owned investment and public institutions, and employees of organizations and companies that have contracts with the city starting January 1 of next year. Citizens express hope that the increase in the minimum wage will help alleviate household burdens, while also emphasizing the need for ongoing wage policies that consider rising prices. One citizen stated, "In a situation where living costs such as food and transportation continue to rise, even a slight increase in wages would help reduce the actual burden on households." Another citizen remarked, "While wage increases are important, if prices rise simultaneously, the real impact may not be significant. I hope policies that workers can truly feel continue to be implemented." Meanwhile, Mayor Park Kwan-yeol expressed hope that the increase in the minimum wage will contribute to the stability of workers' lives and improve their quality of life, adding, "We will continue to strive for the improvement of working conditions for non-regular workers and the enhancement of public services."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-12 22:32:00
Anyang City Integrates AI with CCTV for Real-Time Flood Monitoring A disaster monitoring system based on artificial intelligence (AI) is being tested in Anyang to quickly assess and respond to flooding during heavy rainfall. On September 11, Anyang City officials reviewed the pilot application of the Ministry of Interior and Safety's 'Flood Detection AI Model' at the Smart City Integrated Center and discussed future technology enhancements. According to the city, Park Hyung-bae, head of the Safety Prevention Policy Office at the Ministry of Interior and Safety, visited the site to observe the project's progress and the operation of the integrated center. The city is participating in the government's disaster prediction and monitoring system enhancement project by utilizing approximately 8,000 CCTV cameras installed in security, traffic, and safety sectors, along with the integrated center's video management capabilities. Since being selected as a demonstration site in May, the AI-based flood detection model has been undergoing field verification since June. The system analyzes incoming CCTV footage in real-time using AI. The key feature is its ability to quickly alert monitoring personnel when abnormal situations related to flooding, such as rising river levels or water accumulation on roads, are detected. Previously, monitoring personnel had to manually check multiple screens to assess risk situations. With AI video analysis, the system can simultaneously analyze numerous CCTV feeds to identify anomalies. This early detection is crucial, especially during heavy rainfall, as it allows for timely road closures and resident evacuations. The city plans to continue verifying the model's accuracy, focusing on flood-prone areas, and strengthen its integration with actual disaster response systems. During the review, explanations were provided regarding the operation of the Smart City Integrated Center and the application of the AI flood detection model. The Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information (KISTI) presented trends in AI technology research and future enhancement directions, sharing the potential for utilizing video information in disaster situations. Citizens have responded positively to the establishment of the AI-based flood monitoring system, while also emphasizing the importance of its effectiveness in real disaster scenarios. In particular, there is a consensus that if AI can identify risk signs and alert monitoring personnel before a sudden heavy rainfall occurs, it will help reduce response times. Meanwhile, Deputy Mayor Lee Gye-sam emphasized that "speed and accuracy are crucial in disaster response" and stated, "We will continuously develop disaster response technologies based on the Smart City Integrated Center to ensure citizen safety."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-12 22:16:10
Anyang City Integrates AI with CCTV for Real-Time Flood Monitoring A disaster monitoring system based on artificial intelligence (AI) is being rigorously tested in Anyang to quickly assess and respond to flooding conditions on roads and rivers during heavy rainfall. On September 11, Anyang City officials reviewed the pilot application of the Ministry of Interior and Safety's 'Flood Detection AI Model' at the Smart City Integrated Center and discussed future technology enhancements. According to the city, Park Hyung-bae, head of the Safety Prevention Policy Office at the Ministry of Interior and Safety, visited the site to observe the project's progress and the operation of the integrated center. The city is participating in the government's disaster prediction and monitoring system enhancement project by utilizing approximately 8,000 CCTV cameras installed in security, traffic, and safety sectors, along with the integrated center's video management capabilities. Since being selected as a demonstration site in May, the field validation of the AI-based flood detection model has been underway since June. The system analyzes CCTV footage in real-time using AI. The key feature is its ability to quickly alert monitoring personnel when abnormal situations related to flooding, such as rising river levels or water accumulation on roads, are detected. Previously, monitoring personnel had to manually check multiple screens to assess risk situations. With AI video analysis, the system can simultaneously analyze numerous CCTV feeds to identify anomalies. This capability is particularly crucial during heavy rainfall, as early detection of flooding can lead to timely road closures or evacuations. The city plans to continue verifying the model's accuracy, focusing on flood-prone areas, and strengthen its integration with actual disaster response systems. During the review, explanations were provided regarding the operation of the Smart City Integrated Center and the application of the AI flood detection model. The Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information (KISTI) presented trends in AI technology research and future enhancement directions, sharing the potential for utilizing video information in disaster situations. Among citizens, there is a positive response to the establishment of the AI-based flood monitoring system, along with calls for ensuring its effectiveness in real disaster scenarios. It is believed that if AI can identify risk signs and alert monitoring personnel before they manually check all CCTV feeds during sudden heavy rainfall, it will help reduce response times. Meanwhile, Deputy Mayor Lee Gye-sam emphasized that "speed and accuracy are crucial in disaster response" and stated, "We will continuously develop disaster response technologies based on the Smart City Integrated Center to ensure citizen safety." 2026-09-12 22:16:00
BRICS Adopts 'New Delhi Declaration' Unanimously, Opposes Unilateral Sanctions BRICS, a group of non-Western emerging economies led by China and Russia, has issued a joint statement opposing unilateral sanctions and trade restrictions that violate international law. Amid the prolonged conflict in Iran, the group called for restraint in the Middle East and emphasized energy security and the increased influence of the Global South in international affairs.On September 12, BRICS leaders unanimously adopted the '2026 New Delhi Declaration' during the 18th summit held in New Delhi, India, according to reports from Russian news agency RIA Novosti and Reuters.Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated, "No member country raised any objections," confirming the unanimous adoption of the declaration.The leaders expressed opposition to unilateral sanctions that violate international law and urged relevant countries in the Middle East to exercise restraint. They also voiced concerns over the growing nuclear threats and risks of conflict worldwide.The statement did not specify any particular country as responsible for sanctions or the Middle Eastern conflict. However, given the ongoing war between the U.S. and Iran, the declaration signifies BRICS' formal stance on Middle Eastern issues.In the realm of trade, the leaders expressed serious concerns about the increasing unilateral tariffs and non-tariff measures that distort trade and violate World Trade Organization (WTO) regulations. They focused on the need for adherence to multilateral trade order and WTO rules without directly mentioning the tariff policies of specific countries.Energy supply chains were also a key agenda item. The leaders emphasized the need to strengthen energy security and ensure stable and smooth energy supplies, particularly in light of the heightened uncertainty in the international oil market due to deteriorating conditions in the Middle East.The leaders called for reforms in international organizations to enhance the representation of emerging countries in the global economic and security order. Prime Minister Modi likened the current global cooperation framework to a 'pyramid' where power and decision-making are concentrated in a few countries, asserting that UN Security Council reform can no longer be delayed.He stated, "Countries in the Global South are at the forefront of global crises but are lagging in decision-making processes," emphasizing the need to restructure global cooperation around representation, responsiveness, and rule-making.Russian President Vladimir Putin also supported the need for expanding the UN Security Council, stating that increasing the representation of Asian, African, and Latin American countries would enhance the UN's functionality.The summit was attended by key leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping and President Putin. Reports indicate that Prime Minister Modi, President Xi, and President Putin engaged in informal discussions during their travels.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-12 21:36:00
North Korea Launches Ballistic Missile One Day After US-South Korea-Japan Drills North Korea fires ballistic missile a day after US-South Korea-Japan drills North Korea launched a ballistic missile into the East Sea on September 12, a move analysts suggest is a response to recent joint military exercises conducted by the United States, South Korea, and Japan. The Joint Chiefs of Staff reported that multiple ballistic missiles were detected being launched from the Wonsan area at approximately 5:20 a.m. They added that military readiness has been heightened in anticipation of further launches, with the three nations sharing information closely regarding North Korea's missile activities. This missile launch occurred just one day after the conclusion of the Freedom Shield exercises, which took place from September 7 to 11 in the waters southeast of Jeju. Analysts view this as a direct reaction to those drills. The Freedom Shield exercises, first held in June 2024, are designed to address North Korea's nuclear and missile threats and enhance interoperability among the three nations. North Korea has criticized these drills as a demonstration of US-led aggression. This marks North Korea's first ballistic missile launch since August 20, coinciding with the ongoing Ulchi Freedom Shield (UFS) exercises conducted by US and South Korean forces. This year alone, North Korea has launched ballistic missiles 13 times. Concerns grow within Democratic Party over youth support for candidate Yong Hye-in The Democratic Party of Korea is grappling with internal concerns regarding the nomination of Yong Hye-in as Minister of Gender Equality and Family. There are growing fears that appointing her could further alienate young voters, especially as the party's support among this demographic has been declining. Spokesperson Jo Gye-won stated during a briefing on September 12 that the party is closely monitoring public sentiment, particularly among the youth, and emphasized the need for a response to the rising discontent. When asked about the possibility of resolving Yong's candidacy soon, Jo acknowledged various opinions within the party and suggested that leadership may soon address the issue. The Democratic Party is set to hold a high-level meeting on September 13, where discussions regarding this matter are expected to take place. Jo reiterated the importance of assessing public sentiment and discussing appropriate measures. Kim Seung-won addresses questions on Lee's indictment cancellation On September 12, Kim Seung-won, the nominee for Minister of Justice, responded to inquiries about whether he would direct the Ministry of Justice or the prosecution to review the cancellation of criminal charges against President Lee. He stated, "I will ensure that the ministry operates fairly according to laws and regulations, and I will thoroughly supervise the prosecution to maintain its political neutrality and fairness." According to Yonhap News, Kim made these remarks in a written response to a question from Joo Jin-woo, a member of the National Assembly from the People Power Party, during a session of the National Assembly's Legislation and Judiciary Committee. Kim's past involvement as a co-representative of a group advocating for the cancellation of charges against President Lee has raised concerns. He clarified that he would separate his political activities as a lawmaker from his duties as a minister, ensuring that his previous positions do not influence case handling or personnel decisions. Kim, who led the push for amendments to the Criminal Procedure Act to abolish the prosecution's supplementary investigation powers, reiterated his stance that it is appropriate to completely separate investigation and prosecution and to focus on the prosecution's primary role of initiating and maintaining charges. As he prepares to assume office, Kim is tasked with minimizing the negative impacts of abolishing the prosecution's supplementary investigation powers. He stated that he would ensure thorough follow-up measures, including the revision of relevant laws, and actively collaborate with related agencies to establish a new criminal justice system. BRICS Summit Opens Amid Ongoing US-Iran Conflict Leaders of the BRICS nations, a group of emerging economies led by China and Russia, gathered in New Delhi, India, as the conflict between the United States and Iran continues for over six months. Chinese President Xi Jinping called for a permanent ceasefire, opposing "sovereignty violations" and "interference in internal affairs." Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi also attended, drawing attention to the joint message BRICS may deliver to the US. The 18th BRICS summit commenced on September 12 at the Bharat Mandapam International Convention Center in New Delhi and will run for two days until September 13. This year marks the 20th anniversary of BRICS, with both Xi and Putin attending in person. Raisi, currently engaged in conflict with the US, also made the trip to New Delhi. The three leaders met again following the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, at the end of last month. Key topics at this summit include the Iran conflict, trade, food and energy security, and supply chain development. On the first day, leaders held a closed-door meeting focused on "inclusive global cooperation and strengthening multilateralism." In his speech, Xi emphasized Middle Eastern issues, stating, "We must oppose Cold War mentality and bloc confrontations, as well as violations of other countries' sovereignty and interference in internal affairs. BRICS will play a proper role in achieving peace and stability in the Middle East and Gulf region." He added, "The Middle Eastern conflict has caused serious harm to the people of the region and does not align with the common interests of the international community," urging all parties involved to adhere to a political resolution and pursue a permanent and comprehensive ceasefire. Although he did not directly mention the US, his remarks were interpreted as aimed at the US, which is currently engaged in conflict with Iran. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-12 21:24:00
Korean Gen Z takes to streets to protest U.S. call for Hormuz support SEOUL, September 12 (AJP) - On most Saturdays, Gwanghwamun Square belongs to tourists, families, street performers and the assortment of political groups that regularly claim a patch of downtown Seoul for their causes. This Saturday brought another one: opposition to President Donald Trump’s repeated demands that South Korea help secure the Strait of Hormuz as the United States confronts Iran. Many in the crowd were not the veteran anti-American or progressive activists familiar from demonstrations past. They were young Koreans, part of Gen Z that has become an increasingly visible political force across Asia. By 5 p.m., the plaza facing the U.S. Embassy was still filled with families browsing a flea market and foreign tourists taking photographs. Then another sound pushed through the weekend crowd. “Stop the war of aggression.” “Stop considering troop deployment.” “Reject pressure to deploy troops.” Hundreds of protesters moved down Sejong-daero, past shoppers and tourists and the U.S. Embassy, their chants carrying through the center of Seoul as they headed toward Cheong Wa Dae. An hour earlier, the “Citizens’ March Against the Hormuz Deployment” had begun in Jongno. The march was organized by a coalition of about 540 civic groups opposed to South Korea sending military personnel or assets to the Strait of Hormuz. The rally came as President Lee Jae Myung’s government weighs whether, and how, South Korea should contribute to efforts to secure one of the world’s most important energy waterways amid mounting pressure from Washington. But before the march began, many of those taking the microphone asked a simple question - Who would actually be sent into danger? Ko Geon introduced himself as “a young worker who will be attending reserve forces training the day after tomorrow.” “I feel a deep sense of betrayal and anger that the Lee Jae Myung government, which was born out of the ‘Vigil Candlelight Revolution,’ is considering an overseas troop deployment that even Yoon Suk Yeol did not dare undertake,” Ko said. Then he raised his voice. “Did we hold light sticks in Gwanghwamun and Hannam-dong in that freezing cold just to see this?” Cheers rose from the crowd. “Was the ‘New World’ we dreamed of in ‘Into the New World’ really a world like this?” he asked. For many younger South Koreans, the references needed little explanation. The “Candlelight Revolution” is a term used by Lee’s ruling Democratic Party and its supporters for the civic resistance that followed former President Yoon Suk Yeol’s Dec. 3, 2024, declaration of martial law and ultimately led to his removal from office. Young protesters became one of the defining images of those demonstrations, many carrying glowing light sticks normally reserved for K-pop concerts. The Democratic Party has described Lee’s administration as a government born from the “Light Revolution.” Among the songs closely associated with the demonstrations was Girls’ Generation’s 2007 debut single “Into the New World.” For Ko, those memories made the prospect of another overseas military deployment particularly bitter. Addressing Lee directly, he said: “Please do not send troops, so that this country, where I will live for decades to come, does not get swept into a war.” Yoo Eun-bi, an activist with the Korea YWCA, also focused on the generation that would bear the consequences. “The people who will have to carry the weight of a deployment are our young people,” Yoo said. “Where are the young people at the table where they are deciding whether to send troops?” Sitting in the front row was Ha Ji-won, a 23-year-old philosophy student at Soongsil University. “I had been watching this war of aggression without justification and thinking that something completely absurd was happening,” Ha said. “Then talk began about our country sending troops to the Iran war. I came here today because I wanted to add my voice to the opposition.” A few seats away was Lee A-ran, 24, who had come with three friends. She had already joined a weekday peace march opposing deployment and said she was frustrated by the way police had handled demonstrators. “I took part in a peace march against the deployment during the week, but the police obstructed the march while trampling on rights guaranteed under the Assembly and Demonstration Act,” Lee said. “I thought a small number of people would not be enough, so I came today to help make this march bigger.” She was also troubled by what she saw as attempts to extract economic or political benefit from a war. “I have a problem with the government trying to put its spoon into a war and profit from it,” Lee said. For those who support sending South Korean forces to Hormuz, she had a more direct message. “If you want to go to Hormuz and fight a war that badly, don't send young people. You go.” The anger extended beyond students and people in their 20s. Heo Woo-jin, 34, and his wife, Song Hwa, 35, sat together at the rally. The self-employed couple said they had come because they wanted the government to see that opposition was real and visible. “We came out to show the government that there are many people who oppose sending troops,” they said. Song said she was disturbed by arguments that deployment could be justified in the national interest. “I thought it was violent to drive citizens onto a battlefield on the grounds that it would benefit the national interest,” she said. “I'm worried because there seem to be far too many people around the world now who defend war or say that war is necessary.” Her husband pointed to what he saw as the fundamental imbalance behind decisions to go to war. “The people who decide on war and the people who actually fight in it are not the same people,” Heo said. “The people who would actually have to pick up guns in the Iran war are young people. Considering a deployment is far too irresponsible.” For Lee Sang-hoon, 41, the argument was also about the image South Korea has built abroad since its political upheaval. “What kind of country is South Korea in the world today?” he asked. “It is a country where citizens, through the Light Revolution, drove an unjust government from power and gave democratic inspiration and courage to people around the world. A country like that must not participate in a war of aggression.” He turned next to another source of Korean influence: its culture. “At a time when Korea is spreading its style and spirit around the world through the Korean Wave, if it sends troops to the Strait of Hormuz, young people around the world who listen to BTS and BLACKPINK, who dream and find comfort through their music, will be enormously disappointed in Korea,” Lee said. “Think especially about the pain young people in the Middle East would feel.” He said he was ashamed that deployment was even under consideration. “I am ashamed that there is talk of sending troops in our country,” Lee said. “If South Korea becomes an accomplice in this illegal war, peace on the Korean Peninsula will also be put at risk.” A war thousands of kilometers away On the streets of Seoul, the arguments were emotional and direct. Inside government, the calculation is more complicated. The U.S.-Israeli war with Iran began on Feb. 28 and has gone through ceasefires, lulls and renewed fighting. The Strait of Hormuz has become a focal point of the conflict as commercial shipping faces threats and U.S. and Iranian forces repeatedly confront one another in and around the waterway. Washington has pressed Seoul to help secure freedom of navigation. Trump has publicly criticized South Korea for declining to join U.S. efforts, while Iran has warned Seoul of serious consequences if South Korean forces take part in U.S.-led operations. For South Korea, which relies heavily on energy supplies moving through the strait, the stakes are unusually high. Seoul has not made a final decision. A South Korean government assessment team sent to the United Arab Emirates to examine military bases, ports, logistics and security conditions returned Thursday. The government has said possible contributions could include maritime patrol aircraft, mine-clearing capabilities, search-and-rescue forces or other noncombat assistance. Cheong Wa Dae has also stressed that technical assistance without deploying personnel remains an option. Any overseas military deployment would require approval from the National Assembly. The issue has divided the public. A National Barometer Survey released Thursday found 45 percent of respondents opposed sending assets such as maritime patrol aircraft or logistics support vessels to Hormuz. For one man at Saturday’s rally, however, the war was not a matter of polling percentages, alliance management or shipping lanes. Tehran is home Siavash Saffari, a professor of West Asian studies at Seoul National University’s Department of Asian Languages and Civilizations, stood among the protesters with a deeply personal reason for being there. His parents, both in their 70s, live in Tehran. Early in the war, a police station on their street was bombed. Saffari called the war an “illegal, illegitimate and destructive war” and urged South Koreans to oppose their country’s participation. Iran is suffering from serious shortages of medicine, he said, and he worries constantly about whether his parents, who need heart medication, will be able to get it. The war has also struck places woven into his memories of home. The police station hit on March 18 stood along the route his mother regularly took to a nearby park — the same walk Saffari had taken with her during his last visit to Tehran in 2017. Other places hit in the fighting were part of his childhood: Ferdowsi Square, where his family went shopping, and an area near Mehr Hospital, where he was born. His mother had already lived through one war. During the Iran-Iraq War in the 1980s, Saffari recalled, many people fled Tehran. She stayed. When a bomb struck the police station near her home two days before Nowruz, the Persian New Year, she eventually managed to call her son in Seoul. Rather than dwell on the bombing, she told him about the food she had prepared and the holiday she and her husband had celebrated. Her message was simple. Life goes on. Six months into another war, her son was standing thousands of kilometers from Tehran, asking the country where he teaches not to move any closer to it. Two hours to say no Among the youngest protesters was 21-year-old Hur Sun-yu. He had left Wonju in Gangwon Province earlier that day, taking an express bus and then the subway for about two hours to reach Jongno. An international relations major, Heo said he hoped a larger anti-deployment movement would force the government to reconsider. “I came here to pressure the government through public opposition to the deployment,” he said. Like several young protesters around him, he returned to the question that had run through the afternoon. Who would pay the price? “The only people who suffer from troop deployment are young people,” Heo said. “It is a deployment with neither justification nor practical benefit.” Then the speeches ended and the crowd began to move. The protesters left the rally site and filled Sejong-daero, marching through Seoul’s political center. They passed the U.S. Embassy, their chants bouncing between the buildings around Gwanghwamun Square, and continued north toward Cheong Wa Dae. The flea market stayed open. Tourists kept taking photographs. Buses rolled through downtown traffic. For a few hours, the rhythms of an ordinary Seoul Saturday and a war thousands of kilometers away occupied the same street. By evening, the march was over. Heo headed back toward the bus terminal, preparing to retrace the two-hour journey he had made from Wonju that morning. Before leaving, the 21-year-old had one final message for the president. “I hope the Lee Jae Myung government will make a decision for young people and for peace.” Then he boarded his bus home. 2026-09-12 21:21:46
BRICS Summit Opens Amid Ongoing US-Iran Conflict China and Russia are hosting the BRICS summit in New Delhi, India, as the conflict between the United States and Iran continues for over six months. Chinese President Xi Jinping called for a permanent ceasefire, opposing 'sovereignty violations' and 'interference in internal affairs.' The presence of Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has drawn attention to the potential joint message BRICS may deliver towards the U.S.According to reports from AP and Reuters, the 18th BRICS summit commenced on September 12 at the Bharat Mandapam International Convention Center in New Delhi and will run for two days until September 13.This year marks the 20th anniversary of BRICS, with both Xi and Putin attending in person. Raisi, whose country is currently at war with the U.S., also made the trip to New Delhi. The three leaders gathered again following the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, at the end of last month.Key topics at this summit include the Iran conflict, trade, food and energy security, and supply chain development. On the first day, the leaders held a closed-door meeting focused on 'inclusive global cooperation and strengthening multilateralism.'In his speech, Xi emphasized the Middle East issue, stating, "We must oppose Cold War mentality and bloc confrontations, as well as violations of other countries' sovereignty and interference in their internal affairs." He added that BRICS should play a proper role in achieving peace and stability in the Middle East and the Gulf region.He further stated, "The war in the Middle East has caused serious harm to the people of the region and does not align with the common interests of the international community," urging all parties involved to adhere to a political resolution and pursue a permanent and comprehensive ceasefire. Although he did not directly mention the U.S., his remarks were interpreted as aimed at the country engaged in conflict with Iran.There is also significant interest in a joint response from BRICS. Reuters reported, citing multiple sources, that member countries have agreed to adopt a joint statement. This statement is expected to condemn unilateral wars without naming specific countries.However, differing interests among member states present a challenge. The United Arab Emirates (UAE), a BRICS member, has faced missile attacks from Iran since the war began following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran in late February. Crafting language on Middle Eastern issues that both Iran and the UAE can accept is seen as a key task for this summit.Raisi reaffirmed Iran's stance at a separate event in New Delhi, stating, "The Iranian people will not surrender to the U.S." Putin also criticized Western nations, including the U.S., during the BRICS Business Forum, saying, "Western countries are using all means to regain their past dominance."In the economic and technological sectors, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a new area for cooperation. Xi proposed the 'BRICS AI-based New Industrialization Initiative' and suggested expanding cooperation on AI and industrial and supply chains among member countries. He also requested BRICS nations to participate in the global AI cooperation organization initiated by China.Xi announced that China will assume the BRICS presidency next year and host the 19th summit. He emphasized that BRICS should continue to deepen cooperation in trade, investment, finance, and science and technology, and expand its role in safeguarding the common interests of the Global South.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-12 20:48:00