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President Lee: 'We Should Have Met Italy in the World Cup' President Lee Jae-myung expressed disappointment on June 12, local time, that South Korea and Italy did not meet in the World Cup finals. During an expanded luncheon meeting at the official residence of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Rome, Lee made the remark after Meloni congratulated the South Korean national soccer team on their first victory in the tournament. He noted, "Italy and Korea share similar sentiments and get along well." This was the third meeting between Lee and Meloni, and Lee expressed his pleasure at seeing her again, saying, "It has been three days since I arrived in Italy, and it feels very nostalgic." Lee emphasized the importance of a rules-based international order, stating, "We discussed this last time, and I hope we can work together to advance cooperation in areas like free trade and multilateralism. It seems necessary to establish a new framework for cooperation, making the development of our bilateral relationship even more meaningful." The two leaders assessed that Korea and Italy are maintaining closer cooperation than ever and agreed to expand the current level of people-to-people exchanges, which stands at about one million annually, to 1.5 million by 2034, the 150th anniversary of diplomatic relations. During the state visit, the two countries elevated their relationship to a "special strategic partnership" and adopted the "2026-2030 Korea-Italy Strategic Action Plan" to deepen mutual cooperation. They also signed four memorandums of understanding (MOUs) covering cooperation in science and technology, ICT, social solidarity economy, and small and medium-sized enterprises. Lee stated, "We are in a complementary relationship, and I believe we can create synergy through our cooperation. Recently, we had detailed discussions on defense, artificial satellites, space, and advanced industries, and I think we can do more to support each other." He added, "There is much we can do to help each other. I hope we can create a Korea that can assist Italy and an Italy that can assist Korea." Lee expressed gratitude for the swift response of Italian authorities and parliament regarding the impact of Italy's super depreciation system on Korean companies, which he raised during Meloni's visit to Korea in January. He noted that recent measures have alleviated unfavorable conditions for Korean businesses. He evaluated this action as a proactive example of how high-level consultations between the two countries can prevent negative impacts on businesses, demonstrating the strong will and trust between the two governments. The two leaders also agreed to continue developing mutually beneficial cooperation based on their strengths through the "Semiconductor Cooperation MOU" and the "Advanced Science and Technology ICT Cooperation MOU" signed during this visit. Lee expressed hope that the recently concluded "Film Co-Production Agreement" in the cultural and human exchange sector would lead to synergy through the excellent cultural capabilities of both countries. Additionally, he expressed a desire for enhanced friendly exchanges between the two nations through the launch of Korean audio services at Rome's historic site, the Roman Forum, and the signing of an MOU between the National Museum of Korea and the Uffizi Gallery. Both leaders agreed on the need for Korea and Italy to pool their wisdom to address geopolitical challenges as responsible members of the international community and to deepen cooperation in responding to global issues. They also shared the view that closer cooperation is necessary to overcome supply chain crises stemming from recent conflicts in the Middle East and to promote energy security together. Furthermore, they expressed expectations that the newly signed "Korea-Italy Development Cooperation MOU" would further solidify their partnership in development cooperation projects in Africa.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-13 03:39:00 -
President Lee: South Korea and Italy Are Optimal Partners for Innovation President Lee Jae-myung stated on June 12, local time, that "South Korea and Italy are indeed optimal partners." During his state visit to Italy, he made these remarks at the 'Korea-Italy Business Roundtable' held at a hotel in Rome, expressing a desire for both countries to navigate global economic uncertainties together based on their complementary cooperation. President Lee noted, "The AI revolution is intensifying competition for technological supremacy, and the reconfiguration of supply chains is rapidly changing the international economic order." He added, "As uncertainty increases, networks with reliable partners will determine corporate competitiveness and, ultimately, the industrial and technological competitiveness of the nation as a whole." He emphasized that collaboration between Italy, a stronghold of basic sciences with design capabilities, and South Korea, a leader in advanced manufacturing, could create synergies in designing new industrial orders and innovation ecosystems. He pointed out that Italy is South Korea's fourth-largest trading partner in the European Union, suggesting ample room for future trade and investment growth considering the economic scale and manufacturing capabilities of both nations. President Lee identified cooperation in strategic advanced industries such as AI, semiconductors, and aerospace as key tasks for future growth. He also highlighted the importance of building robust supply chains in energy and infrastructure to support these advanced industries. He remarked, "Both countries have a very high mutual affinity for culture. This mutual appreciation will be a significant asset for cooperation between our nations," and expressed optimism about collaboration in consumer goods sectors such as biohealth, cosmetics, and food. Addressing the attendees, President Lee said, "I am pleased to meet business leaders who play a pivotal role in the Korea-Italy relationship. The future of our industrial and economic development rests in your hands. I hope we can share experiences and wisdom felt on the ground and seize new opportunities for collaboration." He also expressed his happiness to discuss future cooperation in Italy, a country that has achieved a leap in civilization through the combination of art, science, creativity, and reason, stating, "When we combine our hearts, I am confident that one plus one will not just equal two, but something greater." Notably, the event was attended by prominent figures from the Korean side, including Lee Jae-yong, chairman of Samsung Electronics; Koo Ja-eun, chairman of LS Group; Cho Hyun-joon, chairman of Hyosung Group; and other key business leaders from advanced strategic industries and manufacturing, such as Sung Kim, president of Hyundai Motor Company; Kim Dong-chun, president of LG Chem; Choi Soo-yeon, CEO of Naver; Moon Jae-young, president of HD Construction Machinery; and Kim Jong-chul, president of Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI).* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-13 03:18:00 -
Global Business Leaders Gather in Italy for Korea-Italy Roundtable Domestic aerospace and defense companies are expected to engage more actively with Italian firms in new industrial sectors.Italy, the world's third-largest satellite launch country and a leader in aerospace, presents opportunities for joint ventures in the global satellite market.The Korea Economic Association hosted a Korea-Italy Business Roundtable on June 12 at the Westin Excelsior Hotel in Rome, in collaboration with the Italian Business Association. The meeting took place during President Lee Jae-myung's state visit to Italy and was attended by 42 participants, including senior government officials and business leaders from both countries.This meeting was significant as it aimed to solidify the cooperation agenda discussed during Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's visit to Korea in January and expand it to the economic sector.Italy is a manufacturing powerhouse in Europe, actively enhancing its competitiveness in new industries such as biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, aerospace, and defense, beyond traditional sectors like clothing, fashion, and agriculture.The modernization of Italy's power grid infrastructure, driven by the surge in AI data centers, is also expected to create more contracting opportunities.Notable attendees from Korea included Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong, LS Group Chairman Koo Ja-eun, and Hyosung Group Chairman Cho Hyun-joon, along with other key figures from major companies such as Hyundai Motor, LG Chem, Naver, HD Construction Equipment, and Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI). To foster cooperation in the expanding K-food and fashion sectors in Europe, Samyang Foods Chairman Kim Jung-soo and Fashion Group Hyungji Chairman Choi Byung-oh also participated.From the Italian side, high-ranking officials included Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, along with Giorgio Marciani, Vice President of the Italian Business Association and Chairman of aerospace company Sabelt, among other industry leaders.The roundtable also saw participation from major global companies in luxury and cosmetics, including the renowned sports car brand Ferrari and Kiko Milano, which operates over 1,000 stores worldwide, indicating strong interest in economic cooperation between the two nations.During the keynote session, representatives from both sides shared their insights. Ryu Jin, chairman of the Korea Economic Association, emphasized the synergy potential between Italy, a country known for its foundational contributions to modern science, and Korea, which boasts advanced manufacturing capabilities. He noted, "This year, with two meetings between the leaders and the elevation of our relationship to a 'special strategic partnership,' economic cooperation is entering a new phase," and proposed expanding collaboration across advanced industries such as AI, renewable energy, and aerospace.Ryu added, "Just as all roads lead to Rome, I hope today's meeting paves the way for our economies to explore future opportunities and global markets together."Giorgio Marciani, Vice President of the Italian Business Association, highlighted the commonalities between Korea's entrepreneurial spirit and Italy's family business culture, suggesting that both countries' economies work together to create a long-term vision for advanced industry development.The roundtable addressed cooperation in three areas: strategic and advanced industries, energy and infrastructure, and promising future industries (biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics).In the first session, companies like Samsung, Hyundai Motor, Naver, and KAI discussed ways to generate synergies in strategic and advanced industries, including semiconductors, AI, and defense. The domestic aerospace sector is reportedly expanding partnerships for joint market entry and next-generation component development based on the advanced technologies of both countries. KAI shared plans to combine satellite technologies with Thales Alenia Space Italy to jointly enter the global satellite export market.KAI is also actively pursuing technological development cooperation with Italy for the localization of the power transmission device for the Korean Utility Helicopter Surion.The energy and infrastructure session focused on cooperation opportunities between the two countries' companies in response to the demand for Europe's green energy transition and smart infrastructure modernization. LS Group, which became the first non-European company to win a contract with Italy's state-owned transmission company Terna in 2014, recently secured an additional contract for an overhead transmission line project worth 80 million euros (approximately $140.5 million), continuing its success in the European power infrastructure market.LS shared plans to contribute to energy transition in Europe, centered around its research and development center in Italy.Following the diplomatic progress made since January, companies also commented on the improved trade environment. HD Construction Equipment expressed gratitude for the Italian government's recent removal of restrictions on EU production related to the super depreciation system, stating, "We appreciate the efforts of both governments to improve the local market conditions for Korean machinery and equipment. We will continue to provide innovative products such as smart equipment and contribute to the development of the construction and infrastructure industries in both countries."The final session on promising future industries discussed collaboration across production, technology, and branding in high-value sectors such as biotechnology, cosmetics, and fashion. In the biotechnology sector, Italy's competitive edge as a production hub, accounting for 23% of the European pharmaceutical and biotech contract development and manufacturing market, was highlighted. Korean biotech startup Cureverse shared its success in technology exports worth $306 million with Italian pharmaceutical company Angelini Pharma, outlining potential collaboration in developing and commercializing new treatments for difficult-to-treat brain diseases.In the cosmetics sector, Cosmax announced plans to lead the expansion of K-beauty in the European market by establishing a local production base through the acquisition of Italian ODM company Chemnova.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-13 02:54:00 -
Kim Hye-kyung: World Youth Conference Should Embrace Young People Kim Hye-kyung held a meeting on June 12 in Rome with clergy preparing for the 2027 Seoul World Youth Conference, discussing the significance, expectations, and challenges of the event.During her state visit to Italy with President Lee Jae-myung, Kim visited the Korean Theological Seminary in Rome and stated, "The Seoul World Youth Conference is a meaningful festival where young people from around the world, regardless of nationality, language, or culture, come together to share a message of peace and hope. I hope this event will be a warm time for South Korea to embrace young people from around the world as family and friendly neighbors."She recalled her own experience attending a large gathering at the age of 20, saying, "I still remember the city and the prayer topics that were close to my heart."Kim expressed her understanding of the concerns raised by the clergy, noting, "When foreign young people come to a place where they are not familiar with the language or culture, it is important for Korea to have a positive image."While she acknowledged that she does not directly oversee administrative matters, she promised to convey any difficulties or areas where government support is needed.The World Youth Conference is a large-scale Catholic event held every two to three years across different continents for youth pilgrimage and fellowship. The next conference is scheduled for August 2027 in Seoul, with Pope Leo XIV expected to attend.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-12 23:33:00 -
South Korea and Italy Elevate Strategic Partnership in Security and Development President Lee Jae-myung held a summit with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on June 12 in Rome, discussing extensive cooperation in economic, diplomatic, and security matters as the two nations elevated their relationship to a "special strategic partnership."The leaders agreed on a "Strategic Action Plan for 2026-2030," which includes initiatives for Africa development cooperation, advanced scientific research, maritime security, and defense industry collaboration.This meeting, which took place five months after Meloni's visit to South Korea in January, resulted in the signing of four memoranda of understanding (MOUs) covering development cooperation, advanced technology and ICT collaboration, social solidarity economy, and support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).The "Development Cooperation MOU" outlines joint projects in Uganda, Ethiopia, Egypt, and Côte d'Ivoire. Meloni is advancing the "Mattei Plan" starting in 2024 to address illegal immigration, diversify energy supplies, and expand regional influence, with South Korea agreeing to participate in this African partnership.The two leaders also committed to strengthening cooperation in future strategic technology areas, including artificial intelligence (AI), quantum technology, biotechnology, and space technology, aiming to make digital and advanced technology collaboration a cornerstone of their special strategic partnership.The "Social Solidarity Economy MOU" includes joint research on policies in the social solidarity economy sector and support for enhancing social finance. The "SME and Small Business Cooperation MOU" focuses on facilitating dialogue and institutional exchanges related to policies for SMEs.During his state visit to Italy, President Lee is also scheduled to attend a "Korea-Italy Business Roundtable" at a hotel in Rome, where he will discuss economic cooperation between the two countries.In his keynote address, Lee is expected to emphasize the importance of economic collaboration amid increasing uncertainties in the international order due to the AI revolution and supply chain restructuring.The event will see participation from over 30 business leaders from both countries, along with government officials and representatives from various associations. Notable attendees from South Korea include Ryu Jin, chairman of the Korea Economic Association, Lee Jae-yong, chairman of Samsung Electronics, Koo Ja-eun, chairman of LS, Cho Hyun-joon, chairman of Hyosung, Kim Jung-soo, chairman of Samyang Foods, and others.From Italy, attendees will include Vice President Marciai of the Italian Business Association, Giampiero Massolo, chairman of Fincantieri, and other prominent business leaders.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-12 22:54:00 -
Uzbekistan hosts Tashkent International Investment Forum SEOUL, June 12 (AJP) - Uzbekistan will host the fifth Tashkent International Investment Forum from June 16 to 19 as the country establishes itself as the primary economic and investment hub for Central Asia, the Embassy of Uzbekistan in the Republic of Korea said Friday. The four-day event serves as a sustainable mechanism to transition high-level political dialogue into concrete commercial solutions and cross-border cooperation. The upcoming gathering aims to expand upon the framework of the previous session, which drew more than 8,000 delegates from 97 countries. That event concluded with signed business agreements totaling 30.5 billion US dollars, representing one of the largest outcomes among regional investment platforms. The program features a plenary session with heads of state alongside panel sessions, thematic pitch presentations, and an expanded exhibition showcasing national industrial potential. Organizers have structured dedicated business-to-business and business-to-government meetings to facilitate direct interaction between global financiers and local decision-makers. A unique concentration of political and corporate capital will assemble at the venue, including government leaders from Central Asian and European nations. Major institutional participants include the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the European Investment Bank, the Asian Development Bank, and the International Finance Corporation. International financial leaders noted that ongoing domestic regulatory adjustments have significantly strengthened corporate confidence in the local market. Nobumitsu Hayashi, the governor of the Japan Bank for International Cooperation, stated that the economic reforms are creating a predictable and attractive environment for long-term investments. The economic diversification efforts coincide with the strategic integration of the country into international capital markets. Wang Bo, the chairman of the Chinese company CAMCE, stated that the developing economy represents a unique opportunity for foreign investors, particularly in light of the World Trade Organization accession process. 2026-06-12 22:52:00 -
Golf Practice Amid Voting Paper Shortage Sparks Outrage 6.3 local elections and a by-election for the National Assembly have been marred by a shortage of voting papers, leading to controversy after a staff member at the Daegu Jung-gu Election Commission was seen practicing golf swings in the building. The Daegu City Election Commission has initiated disciplinary procedures against the employee involved. According to a report by Yonhap News on June 12, the Daegu City Election Commission confirmed that on June 10, an employee, referred to as A, was practicing golf swings on the fourth-floor staircase of the Jung-gu Election Commission building. Footage of A's actions was captured from outside the building and quickly spread on social media, prompting outrage among netizens. The city election commission plans to refer A to a disciplinary committee. However, it remains unclear whether A was practicing during work hours. A reportedly explained that he was practicing during his lunch break. Meanwhile, on the same day, the joint investigation team of the police and prosecutors imposed a travel ban on former Central Election Commission Chairman Noh Tae-ak and former Secretary-General Heo Cheol-hoon, among other election commission officials. Investigations into lower-level staff have been completed, and inquiries into higher-ups are expected to follow. A national investigation into the voting paper shortage is also set to take place.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-12 21:36:00 -
Joint Investigation Team Bans Travel for Former Election Officials Amid Ballot Shortage Probe Joint Investigation Team Bans Travel for Former Election Officials Amid Ballot Shortage Probe On June 12, a joint investigation team comprising police and prosecutors imposed travel bans on former National Election Commission Chairman Noh Tae-ak and former Secretary-General Heo Cheol-hoon as part of their inquiry into the ballot shortage incident during the June 3 local elections. The team had conducted searches the previous day at seven locations, including the Central Election Commission in Gwacheon and local election offices in Songpa, Seocho, Gangnam, Gwangjin, and Dongjak, applying charges of violating the Public Official Election Act, dereliction of duty, and embezzlement. Following the questioning of local election office staff, investigations into higher-ranking officials, including Noh, are expected to proceed. Korea Defeats Czech Republic 2-1 in World Cup Opener The South Korean national soccer team, led by coach Hong Myung-bo, secured a 2-1 victory against the Czech Republic in their opening match of Group A at the North and Central America World Cup. This marks Korea's fourth win in a World Cup group stage match and their first in 16 years. With this victory, Korea currently ranks second in the group, enhancing their chances of advancing to the knockout stage. Yoon Suk Yeol Appeals 30-Year Sentence for Drone Incursion Charges Former President Yoon Suk Yeol has filed an appeal against his 30-year prison sentence handed down for charges related to a drone incursion in Pyongyang. According to legal sources on June 12, Yoon's legal team submitted the appeal against the ruling that found him guilty of treason and abuse of power. Earlier, the Seoul Central District Court's Criminal Division 36, presided over by Judge Lee Jeong-yeop, acknowledged all charges against Yoon and imposed the 30-year sentence sought by the special prosecutor's team for insurrection. Bloomberg: U.S. and Iran May Sign Peace MOU in Geneva on 14th Reports indicate that the United States and Iran may sign a memorandum of understanding outlining a peace roadmap as early as June 14 in Geneva, Switzerland. Bloomberg cited a senior official from the Group of Seven (G7) who referenced comments from an Iranian official regarding the potential agreement. Geneva is being considered as the likely location for the signing, although some speculate that it may take the form of a memorandum of understanding rather than a final agreement. 2026-06-12 21:33:00 -
Genesis Makes Debut in Hypercar Class at 24 Hours of Le Mans Genesis announced on June 12 that it will participate for the first time in the hypercar class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, taking place at the Circuit de la Sarthe in France from June 13 to 14 (local time). The 24 Hours of Le Mans is the premier endurance race organized by the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) and is a key round of the World Endurance Championship (WEC). Established in 1923, it boasts over a century of history as the most prestigious endurance race in the world. The winner is determined by the team that covers the longest distance on a track measuring approximately 14 kilometers over 24 hours. The race tests the durability of the cars and the stamina and focus of the drivers, making completion a significant achievement. Genesis's dedicated motorsports team, Genesis Magma Racing, aims to set a new milestone in Korean motorsports history with this participation while proving the brand's competitiveness in the global market. Jose Munoz, President of Hyundai Motor Company, stated, "Genesis has grown the fastest among luxury automotive brands, and the 24 Hours of Le Mans is an important stage to validate performance in extreme conditions. The experiences gained from the race will be reflected in the development of Magma performance vehicles and overall business operations." He added, "The process of the team collaborating closely and finding creative solutions amid various variables over 24 hours aligns with Genesis's direction to provide the best vehicles, technology, and customer experiences, even in uncertainty." Genesis Magma Racing, participating in the WEC for the first time this year, has already demonstrated competitive capabilities beyond expectations in its debut season. Last month, the team secured points at the WEC's second round, the 6 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps in Belgium, quickly proving its stable driving and operational capabilities. Building on this experience, the team plans to complete the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Executive Vice President Lee Si-hyuk of Genesis said, "The 24 Hours of Le Mans is a stage where a Korean brand challenges for the first time and an important starting point for Genesis to validate new possibilities in global motorsports. Through this testing ground for technological innovation, we aim to accumulate experiences and data that are difficult to obtain in the typical vehicle development process, which we will later expand into high-performance production models." Previously, Genesis Magma Racing unveiled the special livery to be applied to its two GMR-001 hypercars participating in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The livery features a gradient from magma orange at the front to deep red at the rear, inspired by magma. This gradient visually expresses the speed and strong energy of a high-performance race car. The sides of the vehicle feature Hangul lettering for "Magma," and the design contrasts red and magma orange to clearly showcase the color changes from front to rear. At the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the 'Magma GT Concept' interior design and 'Magma GT3 Concept' were also revealed. Luke Donkerwolke, Chief Creative Officer, explained, "The Magma GT Concept and Magma GT3 Concept showcase Genesis's performance direction in different domains. While the Magma GT Concept embodies luxury and dynamism on the road, the Magma GT3 Concept maximizes performance, efficiency, and purpose for the racing environment." During the driver parade in Le Mans, two concept models evolved from the previously unveiled 'Genesis X Gran Convertible Concept' were showcased. These models are characterized by a more intense evolution of the existing concept, based on an architecture study of the G90, enhanced with magma design elements. Each reintroduced Genesis X Gran Convertible Concept presents the brand's sensibility, where the energy of racing coexists with refined luxury through materials, colors, and spatial arrangements. Notably, Genesis brand ambassador and racing advisor Jackie Ickx and reserve driver Jamie Chadwick drove the vehicles during the parade. Meanwhile, Genesis is accelerating its global growth strategy and strengthening its brand presence by expanding its sales base in Europe alongside its motorsports activities. Following its presence in the UK, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, France, the Netherlands, and Spain, the company plans to enter Poland, Austria, Portugal, and Denmark next year, establishing sales bases in 11 European countries. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-12 21:03:00 -
Fire Chief Kim Seung-ryong Dismissed Amid Travel Controversy Kim Seung-ryong, the chief of the Fire Agency, has been dismissed just three months after taking office amid allegations of inappropriate overseas travel. According to Yonhap News on June 12, President Lee Jae-myung processed Kim's resignation request that day. The Blue House had initiated an investigation into the allegations against Kim three weeks prior. While the Blue House did not disclose specific reasons for the dismissal, reports indicate that Kim faced accusations of misusing emergency vehicles for personal purposes and taking questionable overseas trips. However, the Fire Agency stated that all allegations against Kim had been clarified. A spokesperson noted, "If there had been insufficient clarification, we would have pursued disciplinary action rather than accepting a resignation. He applied for resignation due to personal reasons." As a result, Choi Yong-cheol, the acting head of the Gyeonggi Fire and Disaster Headquarters, has been appointed as the new deputy chief of the Fire Agency. Choi, who was promoted from fire inspector to fire chief, will begin his duties on June 15. Choi, originally from Boeun County in Chungbuk, joined the fire service in 1999 as part of the 10th class of fire officer candidates. He has held various positions, including head of the Sejong Fire Headquarters and the Jeonnam Fire Headquarters, and is recognized for his effective leadership and operational capabilities. 2026-06-12 21:00:00