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Kim Jong Un Visits Dandong with Key Officials to Strengthen North Korea-China Relations Kim Jong Uns visit to Dandong, China, included a significant delegation of key North Korean officials, such as Jo Yong-won, Choe Son-hui, Kim Song-nam, Kim Duck-hun, and Kim Yo-jong. The presence of leaders responsible for party organization, foreign diplomacy, and economic policy suggests that this visit aimed to strengthen political ties and explore opportunities for economic cooperation between North Korea and China.According to Chinas state-run Xinhua News Agency, Kim met with Wang Huning, chairman of the Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference, and visited the new Yalu River Bridge and a local automobile factory. Kims delegation returned to North Korea on the same day.Jo Yong-won, a prominent figure in the North Korean delegation, serves as the secretary of the Workers Party and a member of the Politburo Standing Committee, as well as the chairman of the Standing Committee of the Supreme Peoples Assembly. He plays a crucial role in overseeing party personnel and organizational operations, supporting internal control and policy implementation under Kim Jong Uns regime.Choe Son-hui, the foreign minister, oversees North Koreas diplomatic policies. As a member of the Politburo and the State Affairs Commission, he has dealt with key diplomatic issues, including relations with the United States. His participation raises interest in potential discussions regarding North Korea-China relations and the situation on the Korean Peninsula.Kim Song-nam, head of the International Department of the Workers Party, is also a member of the Politburo and the State Affairs Commission. He is responsible for managing the party-to-party relationship between the Chinese Communist Party and the Workers Party of Korea, which could facilitate enhanced communication and future exchanges between the two parties.Kim Duck-hun, the first deputy prime minister and a Politburo member, is a senior official in the economic sector who previously served as the prime minister. He is well-positioned to discuss economic cooperation issues, including trade, logistics, and tourism with China. The visits to the Yalu River Bridge and the automobile factory underscore the potential for expanding economic collaboration.Kim Yo-jong, the director of the General Affairs Department of the Workers Party and an alternate member of the Politburo, is a close aide to Kim Jong Un, managing his external schedule and messaging. Her presence highlights the importance of this visit in terms of diplomatic outreach.On the Chinese side, key figures accompanied Wang Huning, including Wang Yi, a member of the Politburo and foreign minister, who oversees Chinas diplomatic policies; Liu Haixing, head of the International Liaison Department of the Chinese Communist Party, responsible for exchanges with foreign parties; Ma Zhaoxu, deputy foreign minister handling diplomatic affairs; and Wang Yajun, the Chinese ambassador to North Korea, managing diplomatic channels in Pyongyang. Their participation signifies a coordinated effort in party-to-party diplomacy and government-level engagement, indicating that this visit was more than a mere display of friendship, addressing both political trust and economic cooperation.* This article has been translated by AI. October 24, 2026 22 -
President Lee Emphasizes Cooperation in Advanced Industry Supply Chains with Japanese Delegation President Lee Jae-myung met with the Japanese delegation at the Korea-Japan Business Meeting on October 23, emphasizing the need for cooperation in advanced industry supply chains and proposing that both governments and businesses work together to expand future-oriented economic cooperation.Kim Seong-wan, a spokesperson for the Blue House, stated in a written briefing that President Lee discussed ways to enhance economic cooperation during the afternoon meeting with Yoshinobu Tsutsui, Chairman of the Japan Business Federation (Keidanren), and other members of the Japanese delegation.President Lee acknowledged that the business communities of both countries have contributed to economic growth through strong ties and cooperation, expressing gratitude for the efforts of business leaders. He stressed that collaboration in the advanced industry supply chain is essential for both nations.He also expressed hope that, similar to the ongoing shuttle diplomacy between the leaders, exchanges between the private sectors would continue to expand for mutual benefit.Chairman Tsutsui noted that personal exchanges between the two countries surpassed 13 million last year, reaching a record high, indicating strengthened ties.He emphasized the growing importance of cooperation among countries with similar positions amid a chaotic international economic order. Despite past difficulties in Korea-Japan relations, he reaffirmed the commitment of both nations business sectors to continue cooperation through the 33rd Korea-Japan Business Meeting this year.President Lee remarked that mutual goodwill between the citizens of both countries is increasing and urged the governments and business sectors of neighboring Korea and Japan to work together to expand economic cooperation in a future-oriented manner.* This article has been translated by AI. October 23, 2026 18
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Lee's approval rating recovers to 40% after weeks of decline SEOUL, October 23 (AJP) - President Lee Jae Myung's job approval rating edged up to 40 percent, recovering after several weeks of decline, pollster Gallup Korea said on Friday. In a survey of more than 1,000 people nationwide conducted earlier this week, some 40 percent said Lee was doing a good job, up 1 percentage point from the previous week and returning to that level for the first time in seven weeks, while 50 percent disapproved of his performance. About 10 percent were undecided or declined to answer. Among those who approved of Lee's performance, 21 percent cited diplomacy as the main reason, followed by the economy and people's livelihoods at 14 percent and communication at 7 percent. Among those who disapproved, real estate-related policies were the top reason they felt he was doing poorly, at 18 percent. In terms of party support, the ruling Democratic Party (DP) and the main opposition People Power Party (PPP) each gained 1 percentage point from the previous week, to 37 percent and 28 percent, respectively. Among the minor parties, the liberal Rebuilding Korea Party garnered 3 percent, followed by the centrist Reform Party at 2 percent and the left-wing Progressive Party at 1 percent. Some 27 percent of respondents said they supported none of the parties. October 23, 2026 11 -
President Lee's Approval Rating Reaches 40% After Seven Weeks President Lee Jae-myungs approval rating has slightly increased, recovering the 40% mark for the first time in seven weeks, according to a poll released on October 23.The Korea Gallup survey conducted from October 20 to 22 among 1,001 eligible voters aged 18 and older found that 40% approved of President Lees job performance. Disapproval stood at 50%, with 10% undecided.The approval rating rose by 1 percentage point from the previous week, while disapproval decreased by 2 percentage points. The gap between approval and disapproval narrowed from 13 percentage points to 10 percentage points.Among those who approved, the most cited reason was diplomacy at 21%. This was followed by economy and livelihood at 14%, communication at 7%, and both generally doing well and working hard at 5% each.Conversely, the primary reason for disapproval was real estate policy at 18%. Other reasons included economy and livelihood at 16%, national defense and security at 10%, and generally doing poorly at 6%.Korea Gallup noted that real estate issues have consistently ranked as the top reason for disapproval since the fourth week of July, and there has been an increase in mentions of economic issues in both approval and disapproval ratings compared to the previous week.Among centrist voters, approval was at 40% and disapproval at 47%. Among those without party affiliation, approval was at 21% and disapproval at 54%.In terms of party support, the Democratic Party of Korea stood at 37%, and the People Power Party at 28%, with both parties gaining 1 percentage point from the previous week. The gap between the two parties was 9 percentage points. The Justice Party received 3%, and the Reform Party received 2%, while the undecided group accounted for 27%.This survey was conducted by Korea Gallup using randomly selected mobile phone virtual numbers provided by the three major telecommunications companies. The response rate was 10.6%, with a margin of error of ±3.1 percentage points at a 95% confidence level. For more details, refer to the Central Election Survey Deliberation Committee and Korea Gallups website.* This article has been translated by AI. October 23, 2026 10
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Korean Minister Calls for Enhanced Role of Business Leaders in Japan-Korea Relations On the evening of October 22, Cho Hyun, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, emphasized the role of the business sectors in both Korea and Japan in promoting exchanges among future generations during a welcome speech at the 33rd Korea-Japan Business Conference, co-hosted by the Korea Economic Association and the Japan Business Federation.According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on October 23, Minister Cho stated that the relationship between Korea and Japan has settled into a stable development trajectory, more than ever, based on active shuttle diplomacy since the inauguration of the Lee Jae-myung administration. He noted that under the mutual understanding of the leaders of both countries, Korea and Japan are advancing concrete cooperation in strategic economic areas such as supply chains, economic security, energy and resources, advanced industries, and science and technology, as well as addressing common social issues like low birth rates, aging populations, and regional growth imbalances.Minister Cho also mentioned that both countries are closely communicating to establish a framework for comprehensive economic cooperation that enhances joint prosperity and economic resilience while contributing to peace in the region and the world.He highlighted that despite the ups and downs in bilateral relations over the past 60 years since the normalization of diplomatic ties, the spirit of trust and cooperation built through long-standing exchanges in the business sectors has played a significant role in maintaining both countries as key partners. He underscored the importance of the Korea-Japan Business Conference in fostering a forward-looking development of Korea-Japan relations.Furthermore, Minister Cho pointed out that last year, the number of visitors traveling between Korea and Japan surpassed 13 million for the first time, indicating a positive trend in human exchanges and goodwill. He urged business leaders from both countries to take an active role in expanding and supporting exchanges among future generations, which are the foundation and hope of the bilateral relationship.In conclusion, Minister Cho expressed his hopes for the successful hosting of the 33rd Korea-Japan Business Conference and urged that, amid the rapidly changing international landscape and challenging domestic and external environments, the conference continues to propose future-oriented cooperation measures for both countries to move toward a better future together.* This article has been translated by AI. October 23, 2026 08
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High-Level Symposium Celebrates 140 Years of Korea-France Diplomatic Relations On October 16, a high-level symposium marking the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and France was successfully held at the French National Assembly, according to the French-Korean Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FKCCI) on October 22.The event, co-hosted by FKCCI, the European think tank KEY, ANAFF-ONU Korea, the France-Korea Forum, and the Monclair Center, featured discussions on the historical roots of the bilateral relationship, the legacy of the Korean War, and geopolitical changes on the Korean Peninsula. Participants engaged in in-depth discussions aimed at expanding political, institutional, and economic cooperation.The symposium also highlighted the expansion of cooperation beyond traditional diplomatic and commercial exchanges into advanced manufacturing and consumer goods. Notably, significant investment agreements were announced, including Air Liquides acquisition of DIG Airgas, valued at approximately 4.6 trillion won, and Opimo Mobilitys purchase of Hyundai Mobis lamp division, worth around 600 billion won.Representatives from major companies and institutions, including Korean Air, Air Liquide, Opimo Mobility, Cosmetic Valley, the Korea International Trade Association (KITA), and MEDEF International, the international cooperation organization under Frances largest business association, MEDEF, attended the event.Notable attendees included Louis Gallois, former chairman of Airbus and SNCF; Philippe Gautier, CEO of MEDEF International; Shim Hyun-jin, head of Korean Airs Paris branch and president of the Paris Korea-France Chamber of Commerce; Philippe Lee, honorary chairman of FKCCI; and David Pierre Jalicon, president of FKCCI, who all contributed to the events significance.Additionally, key political figures, including Kwon Hyun-wook, South Koreas ambassador to France, French lawmakers, and diplomats, were present. Song Young-gil, a member of the National Assembly and special advisor on peace diplomacy to President Lee Jae-myung, and Jean-Noël Barrot, Frances Minister for European Affairs, sent video congratulatory messages that elevated the events profile.This symposium served as a platform for opinion leaders from politics, business, diplomacy, and academia to gather at the French National Assembly, reaffirming the historical trust shared by both nations and confirming their evolution into a stronger next-generation partnership through concrete investments and innovations.During the event, which also celebrated the 40th anniversary of FKCCI, David Pierre Jalicon presented a joint commemorative book titled 140/40 Book to honor the 140th anniversary of Korea-France diplomatic relations and the 40th anniversary of economic cooperation.Furthermore, on October 15, FKCCI signed a new memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Cosmetic Valley, Frances largest cosmetics cluster, to strengthen cooperation in the cosmetics industry between the two countries. Philippe Lee, honorary chairman of FKCCI, and Marc-Antoine Jamet, secretary general of LVMH and president of Cosmetic Valley, indicated that this collaboration would create strong synergies in the beauty sector of both nations.This year marks the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and France, highlighted by reciprocal state visits between President Lee Jae-myung and President Emmanuel Macron, resulting in the elevation of their diplomatic ties to a global strategic partnership for the first time in 22 years.Looking ahead, both countries have agreed to strengthen cooperation in advanced industries such as artificial intelligence (AI) and semiconductors, with FKCCI actively promoting economic exchanges between the two nations. October 22, 2026 15
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Call of Duty's fictional Korean war hits close to home SEOUL, October 22 (AJP) - North Korea’s preparations to resume propaganda broadcasts and its recent missile tests have renewed tensions on the Korean Peninsula, alongside accusations that it planted a border mine that wounded three South Korean soldiers. For South Koreans watching the destruction in Ukraine and the Middle East, the prospect of similar devastation reaching their own streets carries a particular dread. For those who survived the 1950–53 Korean War, it also carries memories. Now a video game is giving that prospect a vivid and unsettling form. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4, which Activision releases Oct. 23, puts players in the boots of a young South Korean marine after North Korean troops overrun Hajin, a fictional South Korean city. Early access to the campaign began Oct. 16, a week before the full release. Among Korean players, the response has mixed enthusiasm for the game with unease at seeing familiar surroundings become a battlefield. "Watching Korea get bombed and soldiers get swept away made me uncomfortable," wrote a Korean-language Steam reviewer using the name "문라바." The reviewer added that civilian massacres in earlier entries had barely registered. Another reviewer, a former marine, said the game brought "a vague fear of war" to the surface amid North Korea’s provocations. Hajin is fictional, but the tension it borrows from is not. A North Korean mine planted south of the inter-Korean border wounded three South Korean soldiers in the Demilitarized Zone on Sept. 21, according to Seoul and the U.N. Command. Pyongyang denies responsibility. Kim Yo-jong, sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, said Thursday that propaganda loudspeakers aimed at the South would be ready "in a matter of days." State media had told border troops a day earlier to take "prompt and resolute action" if threatened. The game draws on that atmosphere while inventing its own city and ruling family. Its plot includes a coup in which the supreme leader’s sister seizes power and has her brother executed. Players have also been sharing a mission in which shooting a portrait of the Supreme Leader gets the player’s character beaten and executed by his own comrades. The campaign trailer has drawn more than 97 million YouTube views since Sept. 17. To promote the release, Activision recreated a Korean back alley from the game, complete with a convenience store, in Los Angeles and London. Under a Korean trailer, one YouTube user wrote that the situation looked "very similar to right before the Korean War." "Imagine you watching football and see this in the commercial break," read the top comment on the same trailer, with about 1,200 likes. For some players, the game’s emotional weight comes from family history as much as present-day tensions. About 92 percent of 6,055 Steam user reviews were positive as of Oct. 22. The most-upvoted review, marked helpful by 866 users, came from a self-described South Korean military veteran using the name "Old Man." He described the game as a fantasy every private has entertained about taking out Pyongyang’s leadership. Then his review turned personal. "My grandfather fled south during the Korean War and was never able to see the family he left behind in the North ever again," he wrote. "I played this game thinking about him." North Korea has appeared as a video-game antagonist before. Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare opened in 2014 with U.S. Marines defending a near-future Seoul against North Korean troops. THQ’s 2011 shooter Homefront went further, imagining a Korea unified under the North occupying the western United States. South Korea banned Homefront, while its Japanese release replaced references to North Korea with "a certain country to the north." Modern Warfare 4 names North Korea outright. Its fictional characters and locations still leave Korean players confronting a recognizable fear: renewed war at home. "Some may simply find it uncomfortable, but it can also serve as a wake-up call," said Lim Jae-cheon, a professor of unification, diplomacy and security studies at Korea University. "It is history that actually happened, and it must never be repeated." The unease over turning war into entertainment extends beyond the Korean Peninsula. Battlefield 1 and Battlefield V revisited the world wars, while Rising Storm 2: Vietnam returned to the Vietnam War. In each, players enter a conflict whose outcome is already known. Historical distance, however, does not settle questions about whose suffering becomes the setting for a game. The Iraq War shooter Six Days in Fallujah drew calls for a ban from a U.S. Muslim civil rights group, which branded it an "Arab murder simulator." Other developers have approached war through the lives of civilians trying to survive it. Kyiv-based Starni Games released Ukraine War Stories in 2022. Its visual novels follow civilians escaping Russian occupation in Hostomel, Bucha and Mariupol, drawing on eyewitness accounts. Among them is that of a team member who hid with his family in a Bucha basement. Modern Warfare 4 depicts a war that has not happened. Yet it unfolds on a peninsula where the last one never formally ended: the 1950–53 Korean War stopped with an armistice, not a peace treaty. For some Korean players, enjoying the campaign has only sharpened their aversion to its premise. One reviewer gave the game 8 out of 10, but said finishing it had reinforced a conviction that extended beyond the screen. "War must never happen on the Korean Peninsula. Never." AJP Takeaways - Activision releases Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 on Oct. 23, 2026. Its campaign centers on a fictional North Korean invasion of South Korea. - The game arrives as inter-Korean tension rises. A Sept. 21 mine blast in the DMZ injured three South Korean soldiers, and Pyongyang said on Oct. 22 that border loudspeakers would be ready within days. - About 92 percent of 6,055 Steam user reviews were positive as of Oct. 22, 2026. The campaign trailer passed 97 million YouTube views. - Earlier Korea-themed shooters were handled more cautiously. THQ’s 2011 game Homefront was banned in South Korea, and Japan removed its North Korean references. October 22, 2026 15 -
One Year of Government Response to Transnational Crime: 'We Will Pursue to the End' The government will mark the one-year anniversary of its comprehensive response to transnational crime on October 23. Officials say that enhanced inter-agency cooperation has transformed the framework for addressing these crimes.On October 22, the government stated, Last year on October 23, President Lee Jae-myung directed a meeting of relevant ministers to consolidate national capabilities in response to serious social issues such as abduction, confinement, and scam crimes targeting our citizens in Cambodia.It added, To systematically address transnational crimes such as scams, drug trafficking, and cybercrime, the Special Task Force for Transnational Crime was launched on December 29 last year. Currently, ten agencies, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Justice, Financial Services Commission, National Intelligence Service, and the National Police Agency, are participating.The government emphasized, By integrating presidential diplomacy into the response to long-standing issues of fugitives abroad, we have established a unified system for tackling transnational crime.It also highlighted its commitment to dismantling the perception among criminal organizations that they can evade South Korean law by establishing bases overseas, stating that it will pursue those committing crimes against South Korean citizens abroad to the end.Among the achievements cited were the repatriation of Park Wang-yeol, known as the drug kingpin in the Philippines, and the capture and extradition of the leader of an illegal gambling site from the UAE.The government noted, The results of our comprehensive response are evident in concrete figures. From January to September this year, the number of arrests in Southeast Asia reached 834, a 2.5-fold increase from 340 during the same period last year. The repatriation of fugitives also rose from 254 to 655, a 2.6-fold increase.Additionally, it reported a significant decrease in reports of abduction and confinement related to Cambodia scams, with cases of voice phishing dropping by 50.2%.To prevent the influx of drugs from abroad, the government established secondary checkpoints at five major postal centers, resulting in the seizure of a total of 1,339 kg of drugs from January to September this year. This marks a record 104% increase compared to the same period last year when considering only seizures intended for domestic distribution.Based on these results, the government plans to intensify its efforts against transnational crime, stating, We will target overseas criminal bases, swiftly apprehend and extradite key figures and core members, trace, freeze, and recover criminal proceeds, and provide protection and support for victims. We will systematically link these efforts with international cooperation with major countries to undermine the human and material foundations of criminal organizations.A government official remarked, The past year has fundamentally changed South Koreas approach to transnational crime by consolidating capabilities that were previously scattered across different agencies. With the presidents strong commitment and the organic cooperation of relevant institutions, we will mobilize all our resources until transnational crimes threatening the lives and property of our citizens are eradicated. October 22, 2026 10
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Busan Celebrates Autumn with Peace and Pet Festivals Busan is set to host a series of autumn events that commemorate the historical significance of peace while creating special memories with pets. The city is also working to stabilize accommodation prices ahead of the fireworks festival.2026 Busan UN Week Opens on the 23rd to Honor VeteransThe city of Busan announced on the 22nd that it will hold the 2026 Busan UN Week from October 23 to November 11. This year marks the seventh iteration of the event, themed From Memory to Participation: Building Peace in Busan Together, featuring a variety of citizen-centered memorial and cultural programs.The opening ceremony will take place at the UN Memorial Park at 11 a.m. on the 23rd, commemorating the 81st anniversary of UN Day. Attendees will include Busan Mayor Jeon Jae-soo, diplomatic representatives from ten countries, heads of foreign missions in Busan, and veterans organizations, all gathering to honor the sacrifices of veterans. A gratitude luncheon for the diplomatic corps in Korea will also be held that day.Throughout the event, various activities conveying messages of peace will occur across the city. From October 22 to 30, flags and chrysanthemums from participating countries will be displayed around the UN Memorial Park, while major landmarks like Gwangandaegyo Bridge and the Busan Cinema Center will be illuminated in blue, symbolizing peace, starting from the 19th.A digital experience called Connecting Peace - ONE PEACE began on October 16 and will welcome participants until November 1. Other events include the 28th UN Peace Festival and the 2026 Busan National Defense Culture Festival from October 23 to 25, educational and cultural activities on the 24th, and the UN PEACE ROAD walking event on November 1.On November 2, a World Peace Forum will be held under the theme Peace Diplomacy Connecting the World through K-Culture, discussing strategies related to hosting the 2028 UN Ocean Conference. The week will conclude with the Turn Toward Busan international memorial service on November 11. Following UN Week, from November 14 to 29, a tour of historical sites in Nam-gu will be conducted as part of the UN Beautiful Oryukdo Nam-gu Veterans Tour.Pet Festival in Underground Shopping Center Features Unique EventsA unique space for pet lovers will open on the 24th at the Pet Station in the underground shopping center between Suyeong Station and Gwangan Station, welcoming visitors to the 2026 Busan Petro Festival starting at 10 a.m.Hosted by Pet Station Co., Ltd. and supported by the city of Busan, this event aims to foster a healthy pet culture by bringing together pet owners and non-pet owners. Activities will include games where dogs and their owners team up, veterinary health consultations, pet product crafting, and an adoption campaign for stray dogs.From 11 a.m. to noon, a Petro Talk Show led by a veterinarian will provide insights on pet nutrition and healthy pet ownership, allowing attendees to ask experts their burning questions. From 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., the Dog Exam will take place, where owners and their dogs will work together to solve problems and complete missions.Following that, from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., Petro Tic-Tac-Toe will engage participants in a game where they complete a game board with their dogs, fostering interaction and enjoyment. From 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., Petro LIVE will offer discussions on daily life with pets and tips for responsible pet ownership.In addition to games and performances, attendees can receive consultations on pet health and behavior issues. The Pet Stations veterinary clinic will provide health consultations, while the grooming salon will offer free hygiene grooming services. There will also be opportunities for behavior correction consultations and crafting pet products. The Stray Dog Adoption Campaign will allow citizens to meet and interact with stray dogs and receive information on the adoption process.A flea market featuring ten local pet-related small businesses will showcase a variety of products, including pet snacks, clothing, and accessories. The Pet Station, which opened in 2024, is a multi-cultural and shopping space for pets, housing a veterinary clinic, pet café, grooming salon, and pet supply store.Pre-registration via the QR code on the event poster and a gift giveaway for visitors will also be available. Interested participants should check the detailed program schedule and participation methods in advance.Busan City Implements Accommodation Price Monitoring Ahead of Fireworks FestivalIn preparation for the Busan Fireworks Festival, the city is taking steps to stabilize accommodation prices. On October 21, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., a Fair Pricing and Hospitality Campaign for Accommodation Facilities Ahead of the Busan Fireworks Festival was conducted in the Gwangalli Beach area.The campaign involved the Busan Tourism Association, the Busan branch of the Korea Hotel Association, and relevant local authorities from Suyeong, Haeundae, and Nam-gu. Participants shared updates on efforts to stabilize accommodation prices at the Suyeong Cultural Center before visiting local lodging establishments to encourage reasonable pricing and transparent business practices.Specifically, they advised against excessive price hikes, the need for advance notice of accommodation prices and conditions, prevention of unilateral cancellations and unjust additional charges, and maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in rooms.Busan City will also utilize a self-developed accommodation price monitoring program. This program is designed to compare and analyze accommodation prices on the day of the fireworks festival and the preceding Saturday to assess the level of price increases during the festival period.Based on the monitoring results, the city plans to identify fair lodging establishments and consider providing promotional support and incentives for those businesses.Na Yoon-bin, Director of the Busan Tourism Content Industry Bureau, stated, The Busan Fireworks Festival is a major tourist event attracting many visitors from home and abroad, so it is crucial to secure tourists trust through fair accommodation prices and friendly service. We urge the accommodation industry and relevant agencies to actively participate in maintaining reasonable pricing and providing friendly and clean services.* This article has been translated by AI. October 22, 2026 08
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South Korea and Japan Hold Second AI Working-Level Meeting to Discuss Cooperation South Korea and Japan discussed cooperation and collaboration related to artificial intelligence (AI) during their second Korea-Japan AI Working-Level Meeting held at the South Korean Foreign Ministry on October 21.The Korea-Japan AI Working-Level Meeting was established as part of follow-up measures from the Korea-Japan summit in September last year, and it was initiated during the 14th Korea-Japan Science and Technology Cooperation Committee meeting held in November after a 16-year hiatus. The first working-level meeting took place in Tokyo in February.The South Korean delegation was led by the Director of International Science and Technology Norms at the Foreign Ministry, and included representatives from the Ministry of Science and ICT, the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the Korean Intellectual Property Office, as well as the National AI Strategy Committee and the AI Safety Research Institute.The Japanese delegation was headed by the Director of Economic Diplomacy Strategy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and included representatives from the Cabinet Office, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, and the AI Safety Research Institute.During the meeting, over 30 officials from both countries analyzed the rapidly changing global AI landscape and shared updates on their respective AI policies. They also explored possibilities for full-stack cooperation in AI and collaboration in AI research. Specific discussions included governance related to AI safety, standards, and intellectual property rights, as well as cooperation in multilateral forums concerning AI.Both countries plan to further expand and strengthen AI cooperation through the regular operation of the Korea-Japan AI Working-Level Meeting.* This article has been translated by AI. October 21, 2026 17
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Ambassador Noh Jae-hun Calls for China's Support in North Korea Dialogue Noh Jae-hun, South Koreas ambassador to China, stated that diplomatic efforts are underway to encourage China to play an active role in ensuring peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.During a National Assembly Foreign Affairs and Unification Committee audit held at the South Korean embassy in Beijing on October 20, Noh said, We are closely monitoring the situation on the Korean Peninsula and changes in China-North Korea relations while continuing discussions with China. He emphasized, We are explaining the South Korean governments vision for peaceful coexistence on the Korean Peninsula and our stance on denuclearization, and we are requesting China to take a constructive role in urging North Korea to cease provocations and engage in dialogue and negotiations.Regarding Korea-China relations, Noh noted that there has been progress in restoring ties, facilitated by exchanges between the leaders of both countries. Following Chinese President Xi Jinpings state visit to South Korea in November last year, President Lee Jae-myung visited China in January, and high-level exchanges continued with former Prime Minister Kim Min-seoks visit to China in June and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yis visit to South Korea in August.Parliamentary exchanges between the two countries have also become more active. Noh explained that there have been 15 visits by South Korean lawmakers to China this year, indicating an expansion of parliamentary diplomacy. In the cultural sector, movements reflecting the resumption of exchanges between the two countries have emerged. The Korea-China co-produced opera Rigoletto was performed in Daegu in April and in Beijing in September, and positive changes related to Korean Wave content have been observed, such as the appearance of singer G-Dragon on large outdoor billboards in major Chinese cities.Noh requested the National Assemblys support for commemorative projects marking the 35th anniversary of Korea-China diplomatic relations next year. He also suggested the need to expand the budget and personnel at the South Korean embassy in China to respond to the growing bilateral relations and exchanges.Human exchanges are also on the rise. According to Noh, 5.02 million Chinese tourists visited South Korea from January to August this year, a 27.4% increase compared to the same period last year. Visa applications submitted at eight Korean visa centers in China also reached approximately 1.24 million, a 43% increase from the previous year. The implementation of a visa-free entry system for Chinese group tourists has coincided with the expansion of tourism and human exchanges between the two countries.* This article has been translated by AI. October 20, 2026 15
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Deputy Minister Kim Dae-hyun Visits Asian Para Games to Support South Korean Athletes Kim Dae-hyun, Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, is visiting the site of the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Para Games to encourage the South Korean national disabled sports team.The ministry announced that Kim will visit the competition site from October 20 to 22 to support the athletes and assess the support situation.On the first day, October 20, he will start at the athletics stadium, and on the 21st, he will visit venues for swimming, wheelchair basketball, wheelchair tennis, and wheelchair fencing where South Korean athletes are competing.Kim will also engage in sports diplomacy. On the evening of October 20, he will attend the Asia Night event hosted by the ministry in collaboration with the Korea Paralympic Committee, welcoming international sports figures.This event aims to gather leaders from the Asian disabled sports community in conjunction with the Asian Para Games. The Asian Paralympic Committee (AsPC) and the BDH Foundation are official sponsors of the event.Approximately 150 attendees will include the AsPC chairperson, executive members of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC), chairs of national Paralympic committees from various Asian countries, and representatives from international sports federations and organizing committees. Kim plans to foster cooperation in disabled sports between South Korea and other Asian nations through interactions with these officials.Additionally, during the event, the Korea Paralympic Committee and the BDH Foundation will sign a memorandum of understanding to support the development of disabled sports in 12 Asian countries. This agreement aims to enhance South Koreas standing in the international disabled sports arena and expand its role as a cooperative nation in advancing disabled sports in Asia.On the 22nd, Kim will visit the headquarters of the Korea Paralympic Committees support team established in Nagoya to review the operation of the situation room.The delegation is staying in 17 hotels in addition to the athletes village. Consequently, the support team is implementing a system that directly visits the locations of the athletes instead of relying on a central hub as in previous competitions. Medical facilities are set up in six regions, with medical personnel providing services such as physical therapy at the athletes accommodations and competition venues. Two officials are dispatched for each sport to assist with team operations on-site and provide meals tailored to the athletes locations and conditions.Kim plans to commend the efforts of the on-site personnel.Kim Dae-hyun stated, The challenge of our athletes, who transcend their limits, is the greatest inspiration. The sweat shed in Nagoya will lead to valuable results, and the government will stand by the athletes until the end.The South Korean delegation has sent 357 members, including 214 athletes, to compete in all 18 events at this tournament. Their goal is to win at least 21 gold medals and achieve a top-six overall ranking.* This article has been translated by AI. October 20, 2026 09
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Trump downplays prospects of meeting North Korea's Kim during APEC SEOUL, October 20 (AJP) -U.S. President Donald Trump is willing to sit down with his Chinese and Russian counterparts to discuss nuclear disarmament on the sidelines of November’s APEC summit in Shenzhen, China, but is uncertain whether his agenda will include a meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. Speaking to reporters at the White House on Monday, Trump welcomed the possibility of talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin while sounding less confident about reviving his personal diplomacy with Kim. “Oh, I don’t know. I don’t know,” Trump said when asked about meeting the North Korean leader during his planned trip. “I’m not sure that anybody’s asking for a meeting.” He nevertheless stressed their personal rapport. “I get along with him very well,” Trump said. “But my relationship with Kim Jong-un is very good.” The remarks tempered expectations Trump himself had helped build. In August, he said he hoped to meet Kim this year. As recently as last Monday, he suggested a meeting could take place during his Asian trip, adding: “That’ll be exciting, won’t it? But I get along with him.” The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit is scheduled for Nov. 18–19 in Shenzhen. A potential Trump-Kim encounter would be separate from the proposed three-way talks with Xi and Putin. The Wall Street Journal reported that Putin had proposed the trilateral gathering to discuss a settlement to the war in Ukraine. Trump said his preferred agenda would instead be nuclear weapons and denuclearization, describing such talks as “a very positive thing for the world.” The proposal comes amid a widening gap in nuclear arms control. The February expiration of New START removed the last legally binding limits on U.S. and Russian strategic nuclear arsenals, while China has repeatedly resisted joining arms-control negotiations. For North Korea, however, Trump’s renewed overtures confront a markedly different diplomatic landscape from his first term. Trump and Kim met in Singapore in June 2018, Hanoi in February 2019 and at the inter-Korean border village of Panmunjom in June 2019. Their diplomacy failed to produce an agreement exchanging sanctions relief for dismantlement of the North’s nuclear program. Since then, Pyongyang has acquired greater strategic value to Moscow through its support for Russia’s war effort, supplying artillery ammunition and ballistic missiles and sending troops to fight in Russia’s Kursk region. A June 2024 treaty committed the two countries to provide military assistance if either came under armed attack. Pyongyang has also warmed its rapport with Beijing, which gained momentum after a Kim-Xi summit in Pyongyang in June this year followed by exchanges or senior delegations in July. October 20, 2026 07 -
Challenges Emerge in U.S.-South Korea Alliance Despite Summit Agreements Lee Jae-myung, the President of South Korea, and U.S. President Donald Trump reached broad agreements on economic and security issues during their summit. However, subsequent discussions have revealed significant differences between the two countries. Concerns have also arisen regarding the potential leak of North Korean nuclear information and allegations of restrictions on U.S.-South Korea intelligence sharing, putting the South Korean Foreign Ministrys ability to manage the alliance and coordinate North Korea diplomacy to the test.On the 19th, some diplomatic analysts emphasized the need for coordination between South Korea and the U.S. on various issues. One point of contention is the allocation of the $350 billion (approximately 468 trillion won) investment in the U.S., where South Korea and the U.S. have differing views. Additionally, comments made by Jeong Dong-young, the Minister of Unification, regarding North Korean nuclear facilities have raised suspicions that the U.S. is limiting information sharing. Reports indicate that South Koreas Ambassador to the U.S., Kang Kyung-wha, has expressed difficulties in communicating with the White House.With less than a month until the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Shenzhen, China, pre-summit coordination between South Korea and the U.S. regarding a potential North Korea-U.S. summit has become a pressing issue. If differences with the U.S. are not resolved, there are concerns that President Lee, who has positioned himself as a facilitator, may be sidelined even if a North Korea-U.S. summit takes place.Furthermore, controversy has arisen over remarks made by U.S. Forces Korea Commander General Jay B. H. Brunson, who stated, South Korea starts at the southern fence line of the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). There is a significant gap between the South Korean Ministry of National Defense, which is pushing for the return of wartime operational control, and General Brunsons stance.Lee Shin-hwa, a professor of political science and diplomacy at Korea University, emphasized in a conversation with Aju Economy that diplomacy between nations is based on predictability and trust, adding that diplomacy is not just about promises between leaders; details are extremely important.Jeon Bong-geun, an honorary professor at the National Diplomatic Academy, acknowledged that short-term disagreements and conflicts between South Korea and the U.S. are inevitable, but noted that if there is domestic consensus, South Koreas negotiating power with the U.S. would be strengthened; currently, the opposite is true.He further suggested that the Foreign Ministry has a responsibility to manage the foundation of the South Korea-U.S. relationship as the primary agency for external relations. He warned that without significantly enhancing the Foreign Ministrys organizational and strategic capabilities in the face of great power politics and a self-reliant era, external relations will become increasingly challenging. October 19, 2026 17
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New Book Explores Geopolitics and the Silicon Shield Geopolitics and the Silicon Shield by Jeong Jae-yong, Barun Books.In an era marked by U.S.-China power rivalry and a transformative shift in artificial intelligence (AI), what is South Koreas survival strategy? The new book Geopolitics and the Silicon Shield finds answers in the K semiconductor sector, represented by Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix. The author emphasizes that semiconductors serve as a silicon shield supporting South Koreas economy and security.The book examines geopolitical conflicts that disrupt international order, including U.S.-China strategic competition, great power politics stemming from the Trump administration, the U.S.-Iran conflict, and the Russia-Ukraine war. It also addresses North Koreas nuclear and missile threats and the foreign policy of the Lee Jae-myung administration.As competition among major powers expands into a struggle for dominance in advanced technologies, the competitiveness of the semiconductor industry is increasingly tied to national security. The book analyzes how the strategic value of semiconductors is growing, especially in the AI era. The author warns, The moment the technological edge of K semiconductors collapses, serious cracks will appear in our K silicon shield, which will mean the collapse of South Koreas security defenses. Protecting and nurturing the semiconductor industry is framed as a national security imperative.Author Jeong Jae-yong has worked as a journalist at Yonhap News for 32 years, serving as political department head, head of the unification and diplomacy department, Hong Kong correspondent, and editorial writer. He holds a Ph.D. in North Korean studies and currently serves as a visiting professor at the Institute of East Asian Studies at Kyungnam University and as an international advisory committee member at Samsung Global Research.* This article has been translated by AI. October 19, 2026 15