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President Lee Jae-myung: My Term is Constitutionally Limited, Restraint Needed When Energy Abounds President Lee Jae-myung: My Term is Constitutionally Limited, Restraint Needed When Energy AboundsPresident Lee Jae-myung stated on September 9 that his term is clearly limited by the constitution, emphasizing the need to act quickly to maximize its benefits. Speaking at a luncheon with expatriates in Paris, during the final leg of his state visit to France, he noted that establishing good relationships in the latter part of his term may lead to limited opportunities. He added that meetings between heads of state and diplomatic engagements provide South Korea, known as an open trading nation, with valuable opportunities for trade, investment, economic cooperation, and security collaboration. Lee remarked, The countries I have visited as part of my initiatives have seen significant increases in export growth, and there has been a rise in private exchanges and corporate cooperation, as well as revitalization within the expatriate community.Court Rules on Kwon Hyuk-bins Divorce Case: 2.5 Trillion Won Asset DivisionThe Seoul Family Court ruled on September 9 that Kwon Hyuk-bin, Chief Vision Officer of Smilegate, must divide 35% of his shares in the company and pay 65 billion won in cash as part of his divorce settlement. The court dismissed claims for alimony from his spouse, determining that Kwon was not responsible for the breakdown of the marriage. The ruling came nearly three years after the case was filed in November 2022. The court assessed Kwons net worth at approximately 73.375 trillion won, with the value of his Smilegate shares accounting for about 99.8% of that total. The court decided to divide the shares in kind rather than in cash, considering that Kwon holds 100% ownership of the company, thus posing no risk to his control over it.Political Parties Clash During Government Q&A on Constitutional AmendmentsOn September 9, lawmakers began a four-day government Q&A session in the National Assembly, focusing on political issues. The Democratic Party called for the inclusion of the spirit of the May 18 Democratic Uprising in the constitution, while the People Power Party raised concerns regarding allegations against Minister of Justice nominee Kim Seung-won and Minister of Gender Equality and Family nominee Yong Hye-in. Democratic Party lawmaker Lee Hae-sik stated, It is unacceptable to destroy democracy in the name of democracy, urging that the spirit of May 18 be enshrined in the constitution to prevent the erosion of freedom. He criticized the People Power Party for not taking action against lawmaker Lee Jin-sook, who hosted a forum that distorted the May 18 movement. In response, Prime Minister Han Seung-sook expressed disbelief at the events occurring in the National Assembly and emphasized the need for appropriate measures against actions that undermine democratic values.Foreign Ministry: Nepal Relief Team to Return on 11th, Second Team Being DeployedThe first team of the Korea Disaster Relief Team (KDRT), dispatched to assist in the aftermath of severe flooding in Nepal, is set to return on September 11 after ten days of search and rescue operations. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the team, which was sent on September 1, will return aboard a KC-330 multi-purpose air refueling transport aircraft. The team began preparations to withdraw two days before the scheduled return date, as the Nepalese government shifted its focus from search and rescue to recovery efforts, significantly reducing support such as helicopter assistance. Additionally, with no signs of life detected for nine missing South Koreans two weeks after the flooding began on August 26, the government decided to proceed with the return. The KC-330 will also carry relief supplies, including blankets, clothing, and tents donated by civic groups and domestic companies.Prime Minister Han Seung-sook: Listening Closely to Public Concerns Amid Declining Approval RatingsPrime Minister Han Seung-sook addressed the recent decline in President Lee Jae-myungs approval ratings on September 9, stating, We are seriously listening to the voices of the public. During the government Q&A session, she responded to a question from People Power Party lawmaker Yoon Jae-ok regarding the survey results, emphasizing the need to accurately assess what is being done well and what needs improvement. She attributed the decline in approval ratings to the governments failure to meet public expectations and the need for better communication regarding its successes. Regarding recent cabinet reshuffles, she noted that any allegations or issues raised should be addressed through hearings and that it is essential to follow democratic procedures that align with public expectations.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 2 -
President Lee Jae-myung: My Term is Constitutionally Limited, Restraint Needed President Lee Jae-myung stated on September 9 that his term is clearly limited by the Constitution, so it is essential to start quickly to enjoy its benefits for a long time.During a luncheon with expatriates at a hotel in Paris, part of his state visit to France, he noted, Even if good relations are established in the latter half of my term, the opportunities to utilize them will inevitably be limited. His comments regarding term limits were made in the context of explaining his proactive approach to diplomatic engagement since taking office.President Lee emphasized that meetings between heads of state and diplomatic engagement provide South Korea, known as an open trading nation, with valuable opportunities for trade, investment, economic cooperation, and security collaboration.He added, The countries I have visited as part of my initiatives have seen a significant increase in export growth, and noted that private exchanges have increased, corporate cooperation has flourished, and the expatriate community has become more active.President Lee has expressed his intention to expand meetings with local expatriates during his overseas trips.I want to hear the voices of our expatriates, he said, adding, If necessary, please submit notes, and I will review them individually and inform you of the results.He also assured that the government will continuously address issues affecting the expatriate community, such as dual citizenship, overseas voting, and immigration and adoption matters, promising to engage in thorough dialogue between the French authorities and the South Korean government regarding the living conditions of expatriates.Furthermore, he remarked, South Korea is undergoing tremendous changes as of the night of December 3, 2024, experiencing revolutionary transformations, while cautioning that the French Revolution also faced backlash when the situation was pushed too far in the process of creating a new system.He stressed the need for restraint during times of abundant energy, stating, We must move in a desirable direction while minimizing pain and resistance with the consent of many people.He added, We must not repeat the mistakes of the past, emphasizing the importance of being cautious.Regarding South Koreas international standing, he noted, There are significant changes occurring in advanced industries, cultural arts, and international status, akin to a transformation of the heavens and the earth, assuring that he will work diligently to ensure that expatriates do not have to worry about South Korea.On Korea-France relations, he remarked, It is a remarkable achievement that the South Korean president is visiting France shortly after President Macrons state visit to South Korea, highlighting the many areas of mutual interest between the two countries.He also referenced the joint hosting of a summit on the film and video sectors by the two leaders, stating, This not only showcases the international status of South Korean culture and arts but also indicates where France and South Korea will focus their efforts moving forward. September 9, 2026 2
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Debate Over Constitutional Reform Gains Momentum in South Korea There is a growing consensus in South Koreas political arena about the need to amend the current constitution, which has been in place for nearly 40 years since 1987. However, substantial discussions have yet to make significant progress. The core issue revolves around restructuring the power dynamics, particularly how much authority should be decentralized from the presidency. Experts highlight that the key to successful reform lies in both major parties finding a common greatest common divisor and expanding that consensus among the public.◇Consensus on Need for Reform, but Disagreements on Power StructureAccording to reports from September 9, both ruling and opposition parties generally agree on the necessity of constitutional amendments. The People Power Party, which has been somewhat passive about reform, does not oppose the idea of amending the constitution itself. A national survey conducted by the National Assembly in February revealed that 68.3% of 12,000 respondents supported constitutional changes, indicating a significant public consensus on the issue.However, the situation changes when it comes to the critical aspect of restructuring power. Various proposals, including a dual executive system and a parliamentary system, have been discussed, but recent conversations have focused on maintaining the presidential system while redistributing the concentrated powers of the presidency.President Lee Jae-myung mentioned last month on X (formerly Twitter) that there should be adjustments to the powers of the president and the National Assembly, suggesting a shift to a four-year term limit or a re-election system. The People Power Party also proposed a constitutional amendment last April to change the presidential term to a four-year limit and introduce a responsible prime minister system.The challenge lies in the ambiguity surrounding the concept of decentralization as discussed by lawmakers. While there is agreement on the need to reduce presidential powers, there are differing opinions on what specific powers should be transferred, to whom, and to what extent.Proposals include having the National Assembly recommend the Prime Minister or sharing some of the presidents appointment powers with the Assembly. While this could provide checks on the presidents authority, critics argue that overly diminishing presidential powers could undermine the intent of the current system, where the president is directly elected by the people. Ultimately, the key task is to find an appropriate level of decentralization that maintains direct presidential elections while enhancing checks and balances.Kyung Hee University law professor Jeong Tae-ho explained in a conversation with Aju Economy that in decentralized systems abroad, presidents are directly elected by the public, yet their actual powers differ significantly.Professor Jeong, who supports maintaining the presidential system, cautioned against changing the form of government based solely on a few academic arguments and comparative legal studies. He suggested that a weighted voting threshold could be applied to positions requiring neutrality, rather than fully transferring the presidents appointment powers to the National Assembly, thereby strengthening checks on specific appointments.Conversely, political commentator Park Sang-byeong proposed a more proactive decentralization model where powers are shared between the president and the prime minister. He argued that the president should retain authority over foreign affairs, security, and unification, while the prime minister, representing the majority party, should manage administration, safety, land, and transportation, creating a hybrid system of presidential and parliamentary governance.◇Expanding Constitutional Issues: Bicameral Legislature, Emergency Control, and Balanced DevelopmentIn addition to power structure discussions, several other issues are expected to be on the constitutional reform agenda. One prominent proposal is the introduction of a bicameral legislature similar to those in the United States or Japan. Proponents argue that a bicameral system would enhance regional representation in the National Assembly and create a political structure that allows for thorough deliberation.However, there are counterarguments. Park noted that a bicameral system could become burdensome, suggesting instead increasing the number of proportional representatives to 100 and lowering the threshold for negotiating groups from 20 seats to encourage more diverse representation.Additionally, discussions are likely to include measures to establish checks on the National Election Commission, especially following controversies over voter rights during the 6-3 local elections. Proposals to strengthen National Assembly oversight of emergency powers and to more clearly enshrine regional balanced development in the constitution are also being considered. There have been ongoing calls to include the spirit of democracy from events like the May 18 Gwangju Uprising and the Busan Democratic Uprising in the constitutional preamble.Ultimately, the success of constitutional reform hinges on how far both parties can find common ground among the various issues. Attempting to resolve all contentious points at once could complicate negotiations and risk derailing the reform process altogether.Experts emphasize that for reform to become a reality, the ruling Democratic Party must actively engage in negotiations with the opposition. Since amending the constitution requires a two-thirds majority in the National Assembly, pursuing changes without opposition agreement is practically unfeasible.Korea University law professor Cha Jin-ah stated, If the Democratic Party is serious about constitutional reform, it must engage in discussions with the People Power Party. Without such negotiations, there will be suspicions that the push for reform is merely a tactic to shift focus due to declining presidential approval ratings.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 2
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Korea-U.S. defense ties shift from one-sided to industrial partnership SEOUL, September 09 (AJP) - Defense industrial cooperation between South Korea and the United States largely ran one way for decades, with Seoul buying American weapons and relying heavily on U.S. military technology. The once-skewed relationship is becoming more reciprocal as Washington increasingly looks to Korean artillery, shipbuilding expertise and manufacturing capacity to fill gaps of its own. Hanwha Defense USA's entry into a U.S. Army artillery program has provided the clearest example yet of the shift, while growing U.S. interest in Korean shipbuilding is opening another avenue for the two allies to move from a traditional buyer-seller relationship toward joint development and production. "We now need to think about what Korea and the United States can develop and build together," Rep. Yu Yong Weon of the main opposition People Power Party said Wednesday, calling for a model in which the allies "develop together, produce together and maintain together." Yu, a member of the National Assembly's National Defense Committee and a longtime defense specialist, said South Korea has transformed from a major importer of U.S. weapons technology into a global defense exporter supplying countries including Poland and increasingly seeking a role in the U.S. market. "There are an enormous number of areas where the two countries can work together," he said. The comments came at the 2026 AMCHAM-National Assembly Policy Seminar, titled "The Future of U.S.-ROK Defense Industrial Cooperation," hosted by the American Chamber of Commerce in Korea and Yu's office at the National Assembly in Seoul on Wednesday. The seminar focused on moving bilateral defense ties beyond arms sales into co-development, co-production, maintenance, repair and overhaul, or MRO, sustainment and integrated supply chains. It was AMCHAM's first National Assembly policy seminar dedicated to bilateral defense industrial cooperation. The shift has gained momentum since the U.S. Army selected Hanwha Defense USA last month to supply prototypes for its Mobile Tactical Cannon program. The $100.3 million initial agreement covers six K9-based wheeled self-propelled howitzer prototypes. Options could expand the program to as many as 18 systems and raise its cumulative value to $262.9 million. The contract marked the first time a domestically developed South Korean weapons system entered a U.S. military acquisition program. Kim Il-dong, vice minister of the Defense Acquisition Program Administration, said the significance was difficult to overstate after more than three decades in the defense industry. "In more than 30 years working in the defense industry, this is the first time I have seen a completed Korean weapons system enter the U.S. market," Kim said. Brent Ingraham, the U.S. Army's top acquisition official, visited Hanwha Aerospace's production facility in Changwon on Aug. 26, inspecting the K9 production line and discussing cooperation related to U.S. Army modernization, according to the company. The development represents a reversal from the earlier decades of the alliance, when South Korea depended heavily on imported U.S. weapons and technology as it built its domestic defense industry. Korean companies are now seeking not simply to sell finished weapons to the United States but to become part of its defense production base. AMCHAM Chairman and CEO James Kim said the alliance, built over more than seven decades, is increasingly extending into defense, aerospace and industrial cooperation. "By combining Korea's manufacturing strength and growing global reach with American technology and innovation, our two countries can strengthen readiness, unlock investment and enhance shared economic security," Kim said. He said AMCHAM would seek to serve as a "trusted bridge" between policymakers and industry. Shipbuilding puts U.S. needs in sharper focus If the K9 represents the changing relationship on land, shipbuilding could prove a much larger test of how far the new industrial partnership can go. The United States is seeking to rebuild naval capacity while confronting shortages in domestic shipbuilding infrastructure, workforce and production capacity. South Korea, home to some of the world's largest and most technologically advanced shipyards, has increasingly emerged as a potential partner. Kim Il-dong cited the MASGA, or "Make American Shipbuilding Great Again," initiative, Korea's U.S. investment framework and the Korea-U.S. Shipbuilding Partnership Center as platforms that could turn political support for cooperation into concrete projects. South Korea and the United States opened the Korea-U.S. Shipbuilding Partnership Center in Washington on July 23 to support Seoul's planned $150 billion investment in the U.S. shipbuilding sector. The two sides also signed 15 memoranda of understanding covering supply chains, workforce development, joint research and other areas. Korean shipbuilders are already performing MRO work on U.S. naval vessels. HD Hyundai Heavy Industries completed maintenance on the U.S. Navy logistics vessel USNS Alan Shepard and secured another MRO contract this year involving the USNS Cesar Chavez. The opportunity is growing as Washington looks for ways to overcome constraints in its domestic yards. The U.S. Navy said in May that it operated 291 battle-force ships, below the 355 ships required under U.S. law. Earlier force-structure plans have called for 381 crewed battle-force ships and 134 large unmanned surface and underwater vessels, bringing the total to 515 naval platforms. The Trump administration has also created a potential route for foreign shipbuilders to participate more directly. President Donald Trump on Aug. 13 directed the Pentagon to apply what the administration calls the "Finland Model" to as many as three ship classes. Under the approach, a foreign shipbuilder making substantial investment in U.S. yards, training American workers and transferring shipbuilding techniques can temporarily build the first two vessels at its overseas parent yard before subsequent ships are constructed in the United States. The policy is aimed at addressing near-term U.S. capacity shortages while rebuilding the domestic shipbuilding industry. For South Korean shipbuilders, the model potentially creates a role that goes considerably further than repairing U.S. vessels or exporting ships. It could allow Korean companies to bring their production methods, workforce training and supply-chain expertise directly into the rebuilding of America's maritime industrial base. Aerospace looks toward propulsion Aerospace executives at the seminar pointed to another area where the relationship could become more deeply integrated. Kim Young-je, president of GE Aerospace Korea and general manager for Asia Pacific Defense & Systems, said South Korea is one of the company's key markets in the Asia-Pacific region. According to Kim, GE Aerospace works with more than 70 Korean companies and procures about $130 million worth of parts and components from Korean suppliers. He identified advanced propulsion as a potential area for the next stage of Korea's aerospace industry. Developing advanced engines requires capabilities spanning materials, thermal management, power systems, manufacturing, testing and validation, Kim said. GE Aerospace invests about $3 billion annually in research and development and has supplied more than 30,000 military engines to roughly 300 customers worldwide, including the U.S. Air Force, Army and Navy, according to his presentation. "Korea's aerospace industry has reached an important inflection point," Kim said, adding that GE could combine its technology and global experience with Korea's engineering and manufacturing capabilities. Lee Won-ik, country executive for Korea at Lockheed Martin, traced the company's relationship with South Korea from U.S.-built aircraft used during and after the Korean War to more recent industrial programs. He cited the KF-16, T-50 advanced trainer, KF-21 fighter, UH-60 helicopter and Aegis destroyers as examples of how bilateral defense cooperation has evolved. "Going forward, we will continue leveraging Korea's exceptional industrial capabilities and Lockheed Martin's technological leadership to create new opportunities for the defense sectors of both nations," Lee said. Sikorsky's Dylan Landis also outlined potential cooperation involving the X2 next-generation helicopter, including co-development, production and possible exports to third countries. The next step, participants said, will require overcoming barriers that remain between the two defense industries, including procurement rules, export controls, technology security, certification, access to technical data, skilled labor and the need for predictable long-term demand. They also discussed developing South Korea into a regional hub for MRO and military sustainment in the Indo-Pacific. Such a role would push the alliance further beyond the model that defined it for much of the past seven decades: one country supplying weapons and technology and the other buying them. Increasingly, both sides are looking at what each can build for — and with — the other. AJP Takeaways - Korea-U.S. defense industrial ties are becoming more reciprocal after decades dominated by U.S. weapons and technology transfers to Seoul - Hanwha's K9-based artillery system becomes the first domestically developed Korean weapon to enter a U.S. military acquisition program - U.S. shipbuilding constraints are opening another major avenue for Korean yards, investment and manufacturing know-how September 9, 2026 1 -
Semiconductor Industry Faces Challenges Amid Global Competition There is a growing call for South Korean semiconductor companies to strengthen their position within the global ecosystem to maintain their competitive edge. Concerns have been raised about potential technology leaks and domestic job losses as Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix expand overseas, but experts emphasize that strategic territorial expansion is urgent.According to industry sources, TSMC announced in January plans to increase its overseas production base from 15% in 2030 to 20% by 2036. Micron has also diversified its key production lines beyond the U.S. to locations in Taiwan, Singapore, and Hiroshima, Japan.In contrast, most of South Korean companies core memory production lines remain concentrated domestically. While Samsungs advanced foundry in Taylor, Texas, and SK Hynixs packaging facility in Indiana are underway, overseas memory production sites are limited to general products and backend processes in Xian and Wuxi, China. The critical front-end production for next-generation advanced memory processes is still entirely handled by domestic campuses in Pyeongtaek, Icheon, and Yongin.Plans for overseas expansion by these companies are also hindered by concerns from the government and political circles. In June, then-Prime Minister Kim Min-seok stated, The priority should be finding ways to make it work in Korea, rather than saying if it doesnt work in Korea. He criticized SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won’s comments about considering overseas investments due to challenges like power and water shortages in Korea.However, experts warn that an approach characterized by semiconductor isolationism, which insists on domestic production citing potential technology leaks, could weaken competitiveness. They argue that such a stance may lead to isolation during the global supply chain restructuring.According to the Korea International Trade Association and the Bank of Korea, the domestic localization rate of semiconductor equipment is only about 20%, with reliance on imports from the U.S., Japan, and the Netherlands exceeding 70% for key equipment. In a situation where it is difficult to independently establish the entire process of materials, equipment, and packaging, simply increasing domestic fabs without collaboration with global hubs has clear limitations.Yoon Jeong-hyun, a senior researcher at the Institute for National Security Strategy (INSS), explained, If the state and companies become overly nationalistic about technology, they will prioritize strengthening domestic capabilities over cooperation, which risks leading to exclusive protectionism.This is also a timely opportunity for South Korean semiconductor companies to boldly expand their overseas territories. As of the first half of this year, the combined cash and cash-equivalent assets of Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix approached 278 trillion won, marking the highest level of financial resources available. Unlike in the past, when financial difficulties hindered overseas investments, they now have the capacity to secure global hubs.Major countries are also extending significant incentives. The U.S. is actively attracting advanced fabs with high tariffs and subsidies, while Japan is offering cash support covering up to 50% of factory construction costs to draw global semiconductor companies.Ahn Gi-hyun, executive director of the Korea Semiconductor Industry Association, stated, Expanding territories by leveraging overseas subsidies and favorable location conditions is a strategy to enhance global market dominance, not a risk of technology leakage. It is time to make policy decisions to break free from the frame of protectionism and strengthen ties with the global ecosystem.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1
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Hyundai Group Unions to Strengthen Joint Actions on Bonuses, AI, and Retirement Age Hyundai Motor Groups major affiliate unions are set to meet again after nearly four months. They are expected to discuss various labor issues, including retirement age extensions. This meeting marks a significant opportunity for enhanced joint responses, as there has not been a regular meeting among the affiliate unions previously. According to industry sources on September 9, the Kia Motors union is pushing for a gathering of union representatives from major affiliates, including Hyundai Motor, Hyundai Steel, Hyundai Rotem, and Hyundai Wia, after the Chuseok holiday. While the final list of attendees has not been confirmed, it is anticipated that most affiliates will participate. This will be the first time since June that the group of affiliate unions has convened. At that time, the Kia Motors union sent a notice to 38 union branches and chapters regarding the 2026 Struggle Victory and Discussion on 100,000 Union Workers initiative, which included not only affiliates but also parts suppliers, leading to actual meetings. During the upcoming meeting, the unions plan to evaluate the overall process of joint responses regarding this years wage and collective bargaining negotiations, as well as discuss future labor issues comprehensively. Key agenda items include job security related to the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) and robots, extending the retirement age to 65, and increasing performance bonuses. A representative from one of the affiliate unions stated, There was a suggestion to meet and discuss directly among the major affiliate unions. It seems we will gather key representatives after Chuseok. Industry observers suggest that this meeting could strengthen the alliance among unions within Hyundai Motor Group, potentially raising the level of joint responses. In June, the primary and subcontractor unions began to unite, but some affiliates entered individual negotiations, preventing large-scale joint actions. In this years negotiations, some of the unions initial demands were either omitted or scaled back. For instance, the demand for a performance bonus equivalent to 30% of last years net profit was ultimately agreed upon at 400% and 12.7 million won. The extension of the retirement age was also confirmed to be contingent on legal amendments, rendering it effectively uncertain. This underscores the need for stronger joint responses among the affiliates. Currently, the Hyundai and Kia unions are conducting internal evaluations regarding the final agenda for this years negotiations, with results expected soon. A union representative commented on the possibility of regularizing this meeting format, saying, We need to meet and discuss first. There has not been a regular meeting among the group affiliates yet. This situation is likely to impact Hyundai Motor Groups rapidly advancing robotics business. The group plans to deploy the humanoid robot Atlas at its factory in Georgia, USA, starting in 2028. In June, it also opened the Robot Metaplant Application Center (RMAC) for robot training. Consequently, the Hyundai union has strongly opposed any robot deployment in production sites without labor-management agreements, stating, Not a single robot can enter the production site without an agreement between labor and management.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1
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Army Appoints 239 Reserve Sergeants to Enhance Mobilization Resources The Army held a ceremony on September 9 at the Army Infantry School in Jangseong, South Jeolla Province, where Chief of Staff Gen. Kim Gyu-ha presided over the appointment of 239 reserve sergeants. Approximately 400 attendees, including the newly appointed reserve sergeants and their families, as well as military officials, were present at the event.The appointment system for reserve sergeants was introduced to ensure a stable supply of mobilization resources needed during wartime and to establish a reserve force centered on non-commissioned officers. This initiative was supported by amendments to relevant laws in 2023, with the first appointment of 143 individuals occurring last year. Candidates are selected from among reserve corporals based on their conduct and potential during their active service.Among those appointed this time are Jang Neung-in, a part-time professor at Ulsan University who has been active as a support reserve after completing his mandatory service, Park Chan-woo, who graduated from law school and is preparing for the bar exam, and Yoo Chung-seong, who is currently serving as a standing reserve in the 60th Divisions artillery brigade.Gen. Kim emphasized the importance of the newly appointed reserve non-commissioned officers in enhancing the Armys reserve capabilities, urging them to fulfill their assigned duties with pride and responsibility.The Army plans to continuously secure and develop excellent reserve officer resources to prepare for changes in the security environment.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1
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Seoul weighs coalition role in Hormuz amid U.S. pressure, Iran warnings SEOUL, September 09 (AJP) - South Korea is keeping its options open on a possible military contribution to the Strait of Hormuz, but President Lee Jae Myung's talks in Paris risk sending the impression to Washington that Seoul is placing greater weight on a French-British multinational mission. The framework could offer Seoul a middle ground between mounting U.S. pressure for support and Iran's warnings against military involvement. “The broad direction for international cooperation has been set, but details are still under review and nothing has been decided,” a presidential official said Tuesday following Lee's summit with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris. The official stressed that the discussion should not be interpreted as a decision to send South Korean forces to the region. Lee, however, made clear that Seoul sees stability in the strategic waterway as an important national interest. “South Korea and France will continue close cooperation to restore freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and stabilize global supply chains,” Lee said after the summit. The presidential office said Lee approached the talks on the principle that South Korea's contribution should be determined based on national interests and public consensus. Macron raised the prospect of cooperation under a broader international framework. “The multinational mission is peaceful,” Macron said, adding that France and South Korea could cooperate once the necessary agreements are in place. France and Britain have been leading efforts to establish an independent, defensive multinational mission aimed at restoring safe navigation through Hormuz. South Korea has already backed that framework politically. It endorsed an April leaders' statement establishing the initiative and was among the countries supporting a subsequent multinational mission statement in May. Neither commitment, however, amounted to a decision to deploy South Korean forces or military assets. France has maintained a cautious line since the early months of the Iran war, supporting diplomatic efforts to end the conflict while keeping the proposed Hormuz mission separate from direct U.S. military operations against Tehran. Such stance has at times put Paris and London at odds with Washington, with Trump publicly criticizing NATO allies including France and Britain for failing to provide greater support for the U.S. war effort against Iran. Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in April co-hosted a Paris conference bringing together around 50 non-belligerent countries and backing a strictly defensive multinational mission once security conditions allowed. The proposed force was designed to protect commercial vessels, restore confidence among shipowners and insurers and conduct mine-clearing operations rather than take part in combat against Iran. Macron reiterated that approach at the G7 summit in June, describing the French-British initiative as “multinational, independent and defensive” and saying around 20 countries had expressed a firm commitment to contribute. France has said the mission could protect merchant shipping and support mine-clearing once conditions in the strait permit. The government recently sent a Defense Ministry fact-finding team to the United Arab Emirates to assess conditions in and around the strait, but the presidential office said the move was only “part of the review process” and did not presuppose a deployment. Asked whether the issue could be discussed at a National Security Council standing committee meeting on Sept. 17, the official said it was difficult to discuss a schedule because “nothing has been decided.” Seoul's caution comes as pressure intensifies from both Washington and Tehran. A White House official said Sunday that the United States was “still waiting” for South Korea to commit resources to the region, after U.S. President Donald Trump repeatedly singled out Seoul over its reluctance to support U.S. efforts surrounding Hormuz. Trump has pressed countries heavily dependent on Middle Eastern energy, including South Korea and Japan, to contribute to securing the waterway since the war with Iran began on Feb. 28. Iran, meanwhile, has warned Seoul against military involvement. “Military presence or participation in operations in the Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz would inevitably be seen as directly supporting the aggressor,” Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said, warning of “serious consequences.” Iran’s judiciary chief Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Ejei abruptly canceled a planned visit to Seoul next week, as South Korea weighs a possible Hormuz deployment. The reason was not officially disclosed. “We told them that the matter is under review and nothing has been decided,” the presidential official said. The competing pressure leaves the Lee administration with a difficult calculation: how far to support its U.S. ally and help secure a waterway vital to South Korea's energy supplies without becoming directly entangled in the Iran war. Defense experts say months of caution may have brought Seoul to the point where a limited contribution deserves serious consideration. “We have reached a point where it is time to consider a deployment,” Choi Ki-il, a professor of military studies at Sangji University and head of the Korea Defense Industry Research Institute, told AJP. Choi said any mission should focus on protecting South Korean vessels and crews and supporting freedom of navigation rather than taking part in direct combat against Iran. “Even if we deploy, our role should be limited to protecting our own ships,” Choi said. Possible assets reported in recent days have included P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft, the Navy's 11,000-ton ROKS Soyang fast combat support ship and mine-clearing capabilities. The government has stressed that none has been selected. One potential middle ground would be participation in the French-British multinational mission rather than an independent South Korean operation. “If South Korea participates, it should not do so independently, but as part of a coalition force,” Kim Hong-yoo, a professor at Kyung Hee University and a policy committee member of the Korea Defense Industry Association, told AJP. Kim said such a framework could allow Seoul to take on logistics or other support functions rather than lead a separate Korean operation. He also argued that Washington's requests are difficult for Seoul to ignore because the United States, South Korea's treaty ally, is directly involved in the conflict. “For the government, this is a very difficult decision,” Kim said. Kim said an NSC discussion would become more relevant if the government decides to deploy forces, as Seoul would then have to determine which military assets could be spared without weakening its defense posture on the Korean Peninsula. For now, the presidential office is drawing a line between supporting international efforts to secure Hormuz and committing South Korean forces to them. Seoul's eventual choice will have to balance its U.S. alliance and the economic importance of keeping Hormuz open against military readiness on the Korean Peninsula, relations with Iran and domestic public opinion. AJP Takeaways - Seoul says no decision has been made on deploying military assets despite deeper talks with France and other partners. - French-British defensive mission offers potential middle ground between U.S. demands and Iran's warnings. - South Korea has already backed the multinational framework politically, leaving the scale and form of any operational contribution unresolved. September 9, 2026 1 -
South Korea Weighs Limited Deployment to Hormuz Amid U.S. Pressure The South Korean government is reviewing options for contributing to maritime safety in the Hormuz Strait, moving from international discussions to local assessments. As it becomes increasingly difficult to ignore U.S. requests for support, if South Korea decides to participate, a limited deployment focused on support roles appears to be a compromise. This would provide a political message of alliance to the U.S. while minimizing South Koreas direct combat involvement and domestic opposition.For several months, South Korea has been discussing the potential deployment to the Hormuz Strait. The Ministry of National Defense attended a video conference on May 12 regarding a multinational military mission led by the United Kingdom and France. The ministry has stated that it is considering realistic contribution options based on international law, maritime safety, the South Korea-U.S. alliance, the security situation on the Korean Peninsula, and domestic legal procedures.In August, the government publicly mentioned the possibility of military contributions. On August 17, the Blue House explained that it was discussing practical and military contribution options with the U.S., taking into account the readiness posture on the Korean Peninsula and domestic legal procedures. This coincided with President Donald Trumps expressed dissatisfaction with South Koreas contributions related to Iran and his directive to reduce joint military exercises with South Korea.By September, discussions began to focus on specific deployment capabilities and procedures. Reports on September 3 indicated that the government was considering sending reconnaissance aircraft and logistical support vessels, but both the Ministry of National Defense and the Blue House stated that no decisions had been made. A Blue House official explained on September 4 that there are various ways to contribute, including non-combat and reconnaissance roles, but emphasized that this did not imply a specific option had been chosen.On September 8, the Ministry of National Defense officially confirmed the dispatch of a local investigation team to the United Arab Emirates. However, it clarified that this was to assess the regional situation and safety, and not a prelude to actual deployment. Reports that the U.S. requested the dispatch of South Korean military assets by November were also denied.In the early hours of September 9, discussions on international cooperation for safe navigation were announced during a summit between South Korea and France. The Blue House stated that the two countries discussed practical contribution options but emphasized that this should not be interpreted as a decision to deploy troops. The dispatch of the investigation team is also part of the review process.The governments openness to military contributions while drawing a line on final decisions is seen as a strategy to secure diplomatic negotiation space and gauge domestic public opinion. This approach allows for time to adjust the scale and mission of any potential deployment while withholding a final judgment on participation.In this context, South Korea may look to the defensive multinational mission being pursued by the U.K. and France. This involves positioning forces in the surrounding area while determining the actual start of operations based on local conditions. If South Korea decides to participate, it is expected to consider a phased approach, focusing on support missions such as surveillance and reconnaissance.The U.K. has emphasized the defensive and independent nature of its mission, proposing contributions such as mine countermeasure unmanned systems, specialized personnel, fighter jets, and destroyers. It has also specified that actual operations would only commence when conditions permit, indicating that the deployment of forces does not immediately lead to operational participation, which is a point of consideration for South Korea.The background for a limited support-focused participation as a compromise lies in the political effects anticipated by the U.S. With the midterm elections approaching in November, the Trump administration seeks to highlight international support for its Iran policy and maritime safety activities through the participation of allies like South Korea, showcasing a shared burden among allies.From this perspective, the scale of the military assets South Korea may provide, as well as its military capabilities, are significant, but the mere act of participation itself holds important implications for the U.S. For South Korea, sending a small contingent to perform limited support missions could address the demands of its ally while reducing the burden of direct combat involvement.Discussions about reducing the scale of the deployment also align with this compromise potential. The plan involves focusing on specialized forces such as reconnaissance aircraft and explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) units, excluding the previously mentioned logistical support vessels. If South Korea decides to participate, it may limit its mission to surveillance and reconnaissance or support maritime safety through specialized personnel. The option of positioning forces in the region under the pretext of protecting citizens abroad and supporting evacuation in emergencies is also being considered.Shin Jong-woo, Secretary General of the Korea Defense Security Forum, stated, “In a situation where a war with Iran lacks international support, even a small deployment from South Korea could send a political message domestically and internationally for the U.S.” He added, “As U.S. pressure for deployment intensifies, it is time for a realistic review for national interests. Given the potential for prolonged conflict and instability in Gulf countries, approaching the deployment as a means to support evacuation operations for citizens abroad could secure justification for the deployment.”* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1
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Yoon Young-kwan: South Korea Should Approach Hormuz Deployment as a Package Deal Yoon Young-kwan, former Minister of Foreign Affairs, stated on September 9 that South Korea should approach the U.S. request for troop deployment in the Hormuz Strait as a package deal, demanding corresponding security commitments in return. Yoon, who served as the chief diplomat during the 2003 Iraq deployment, made these remarks at an international conference held at the Seoul Press Center.During the event, titled Geopolitical Changes in the Indo-Pacific Region, Climate and AI Governance, and Building Regional Order, Yoon noted that the government likely assessed that the risks of not deploying troops outweigh those of deployment. He emphasized the need to clarify the purpose of the deployment, linking it to the provision of international public goods, such as freedom of navigation, and South Koreas economic security.Yoon also suggested that the duration of the deployment should be specified, recommending a clear timeframe of six months to one year. He referenced the international coalition proposed by France and the United Kingdom for stabilizing the Strait of Hormuz, advising that coordinated action under international frameworks would be beneficial.The conference included five former foreign ministers, including Yoon Young-kwan, Yoon Byung-se, Song Min-soon, Yoo Myung-hwan, and Park Jin.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1
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New Agreements Needed for CPTPP Membership "If Mexican agricultural products come in, our farmers will face even more difficulties. While it is said to be necessary for the development of the Korean economy, I fear that the measures for farmers will be mere window dressing, just like during the Korea-China Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations."This was the sentiment expressed by an agricultural industry representative during a recent meeting. The agricultural sector is closely monitoring the governments push for membership in the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). Following a press conference attended by hundreds of farmers, large-scale protests are also being considered.The discussion was ignited by Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy Kim Jeong-kwan, who stated during a presidential briefing on August 4 that the government would consider joining the CPTPP to secure new markets in ASEAN and Mexico and to expand exports of K-content. He further formalized the discussion at a forum, asserting, "It is rather strange for a trading nation like Korea not to join the CPTPP."The agricultural sector, which had felt relieved after successfully blocking agricultural imports during tariff negotiations with the United States, was taken aback. Joining the CPTPP could allow agricultural and fishery products from countries without an FTA with Korea to enter at lower tariffs. Since Korea has not signed an FTA with countries like Mexico among the CPTPP members, there are concerns that products such as Mexican peppers and avocados could enter Korea duty-free.The potential acceleration of market opening during the CPTPP membership process is also heightening farmers concerns. The CPTPP has a higher rate of tariff elimination for agricultural products among member countries compared to existing FTAs, and it is more challenging to set exceptions. This raises fears that the impact on farmers could be greater than that of past bilateral FTAs.The concerns of the agricultural sector regarding CPTPP membership appear to be valid. Recent analyses suggest that the decrease in agricultural production could be greater than during the 2022 discussions on CPTPP membership, as the number of member countries and the scale of trade have both increased since then. Additionally, the fact that the fund for rural cooperation established during the Korea-China FTA negotiations only raised about 30% of its target amount remains a significant concern. This has led to widespread skepticism in the agricultural community about the effectiveness of any proposed measures.However, many experts believe that Koreas membership in the CPTPP is inevitable. Free trade agreements are seen as one of the avenues to maximize exports. Notably, Mexico is a key export market for major Korean products such as automobiles, auto parts, steel, and machinery, and it could serve as a gateway for Koreas entry into North America. This could signal a new direction for the Korean economy in search of growth engines beyond semiconductors.The economic benefits are also expected to be substantial. The Korea Institute for International Economic Policy (KIEP) previously analyzed that joining the CPTPP could increase Koreas real GDP by 0.33% to 0.35% and consumer welfare by $3 billion. The Korea Institute for Industrial Economics and Trade also projected that Koreas net exports could increase by an average of $600 million to $900 million annually over 15 years if it joins.Nevertheless, there should be no agreements that sacrifice the agricultural sector unilaterally, as it is a vital national industry responsible for the countrys food supply. Practical safety measures must be established to minimize the damage to farmers from market opening. The previous voluntary contributions to the rural cooperation fund have proven ineffective.There needs to be a new agreement that can be legislated. Currently, the United States is pushing for the Farm, Food, and National Security Act to elevate agriculture as a national industry. The Korean government can learn from this. If it pursues legislation and corresponding policies, persuading farmers may not be as difficult as it seems.Some experts emphasize the need to treat farmers like quasi-public servants. Given the importance of agriculture in the era of climate crisis, the government should more actively support their livelihoods, with suggestions including increasing direct payments.The significance of agriculture is growing in the context of the climate crisis. It is widely recognized that enhancing food self-sufficiency is crucial to avoid being swayed by external variables. If trade is restricted to protect farmers, economic growth could be hampered. It is essential to devise new measures for the development of the agricultural sector while also ensuring the creation of national wealth. Membership in the CPTPP is no longer a matter of avoidance or delay.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1
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South Korea Addresses Discussions on Potential Deployment to Hormuz Strait The South Korean government is working to clarify discussions surrounding the potential deployment of troops to the Hormuz Strait, stating that these talks have advanced beyond the governments review stage. The administration emphasized that contributing to freedom of navigation in the region does not necessarily equate to a decision to deploy troops, and any final judgment will be made following discussions at the National Security Council (NSC). Seong Gi-hong, the Chief of Public Communication at the Blue House, appeared on the YouTube program Mae Bul Show on September 9, stating, The government has not yet made a final decision and is proceeding with caution. Seong pointed out that fragmented information from various government sectors has led to discussions suggesting that a deployment has already been decided. He clarified, We are in the stage of reviewing various options, and noted that there is a difference between reported deployment plans and actual government discussions. Regarding the agreement between President Yoon Suk Yeol and French President Emmanuel Macron to cooperate on freedom of navigation in the Hormuz Strait, Seong cautioned against overinterpretation. He stressed that contributions to freedom of navigation should not be equated with troop deployment. As for the decision-making process moving forward, Seong explained that opinions from relevant ministries and various levels will be consolidated at the NSC, after which President Yoon will make the final decision. He noted that individual review opinions have not yet been officially reported to the president or compiled into a unified government stance. Seong also addressed speculation linking the deployment issue to trade negotiations with the United States. He acknowledged that the U.S. is seeking cooperation from various countries but asserted, The decision will be made based on the autonomous judgment of the South Korean government. On domestic political issues, Seong assessed that conflicts within the progressive camp have impacted the recent decline in presidential approval ratings. He remarked that the heated competition leading up to the Democratic Partys national convention after the local elections has revealed fractures within the support base, stating, We view this very seriously. In response to criticisms that the governments reform commitment has weakened, Seong acknowledged that the Blue House is aware of this perception. He emphasized the need to faithfully reflect the presidents reform intentions in policy formulation and execution, and to communicate this sincerity to the public. Regarding the possibility of constitutional amendments, including the presidents re-election, Seong reaffirmed the existing position that a constitutional amendment allowing re-election for the sitting president is not feasible, stating, There is no change in this regard, and noted that President Yoon will listen to relevant opinions before making a judgment. Concerning Kim Ji-yong, the nominee for the inaugural head of the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency, who has a history of opposing prosecutorial reforms, Seong indicated that the nominee will clarify his stance and attitude in line with the responsibilities he will assume during the National Assemblys confirmation hearing. September 9, 2026 1
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U.S. Treasury Secretary Warns of Consequences if China Wins AI Race U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Besant warned that if the United States loses the artificial intelligence (AI) competition with China, it could have serious consequences for national security and the economy. His comments come amid growing concerns in the U.S. over the rapid emergence of Chinas open-weight AI models.According to a Bloomberg report on September 9, Besant stated at a Breitbart News event in Washington the previous day, If China wins the AI competition, there will be no tomorrow, adding, If China gets ahead of us in AI, nothing else will matter. He also noted that even with significant defense spending, the U.S. would fail to protect itself if it falls behind China in the AI race.Besants remarks appear to reflect recent opposition in the U.S. regarding the construction of AI data centers. Former President Donald Trump has also warned that domestic backlash against data center construction could threaten the economy and ultimately risk ceding AI leadership to China.This concern is contrasted with Chinas rapid development of AI data centers in sparsely populated areas in the north and northwest, far from major cities.The growth of Chinese open-weight AI models is further fueling U.S. anxiety. Unlike the closed models led by U.S. companies such as OpenAI and Anthropic, open-weight models allow users and developers to download and modify the models weights. Chinese firms are increasingly releasing competitively priced models that approach the performance of U.S. models.According to the AI-focused newsletter Interconnects, downloads of Chinese open-weight AI models exceeded 328 million last month, more than double that of U.S. models. This surge is attributed to the release of powerful new products like Moonshot AIs Kimi K3 and DeepSeeks updated V4 Pro.The U.S. government has also raised suspicions that Chinese AI companies are engaging in large-scale distillation activities to acquire technology from leading U.S. AI models. Distillation refers to a technique that enhances the performance of one AI model by utilizing the output results of a more advanced model.On September 8, the National Security Agency (NSA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) jointly released a cybersecurity document claiming that Chinese AI companies have been conducting industrial-scale distillation activities targeting advanced models from U.S. firms like Anthropic, OpenAI, Google, and SpaceX. The document also suggested that these activities likely occurred with the knowledge of the Chinese government.In response, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning urged the U.S. on September 9 to stop its baseless accusations and slander against China, emphasizing the need for both countries to strengthen cooperation as AI powers.Meanwhile, ahead of the scheduled U.S.-China summit on September 24, both countries are preparing to discuss AI safety issues, as reported by Reuters. This will mark the first time since the start of the Trump administrations second term that the two nations will engage in official bilateral talks focused solely on AI. September 9, 2026 1
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Chugye University Hosts 'Odyssey' Fusion Education Event at 4D Theater Chugye University of the Arts has launched a unique fusion humanities project by renting out an entire cinema to enhance students foundational academic skills and career exploration. The event, held on September 3, invited not only students and faculty but also the often-overlooked facility support staff and local residents, fostering a warm sense of community.The university announced that the 2026 Fusion Humanities Concert: Experiencing the Classic Odyssey and the Film Odyssey for My Nostos (Return Home) took place at the Lotte Cinema World Towers Super MX4D theater. Approximately 220 attendees, including current and former students, faculty, and staff, participated in the event. Additionally, about 10 local residents from the nearby Chung-hyeon-dong area joined the viewing group.This project aims to lower the barriers to understanding classical literature and connect with students real academic concerns.The university drew parallels between the narrative of Odysseuss return to Ithaca and the lives of modern college students, encouraging them to reflect on their current challenges and future career goals. The initiative seeks to help students actively redefine their life roadmaps.Furthermore, the program integrated excerpts from Homers Odyssey with the 2026 film Odyssey, exploring literature, philosophy, history, and cinematic language to cultivate critical thinking skills.Before the film screening, Professor Jeong Jae-min from the College of Liberal Arts delivered a special lecture titled Youth! Row Towards Ithaca (Your Goal)! adding academic depth to the program. Attendees then experienced the film in a 4D environment enhanced with motion seats, wind, and scents, allowing them to see how classical texts are translated into visual language.The event included follow-up programs, such as the My Career Nostos (Return Home) Contest, where students will write reflection journals and create AI-assisted short films. The university aims to support students in expanding the questions posed in the works into their own career development stories.Most importantly, the event highlighted the warm consideration of the university community beyond educational achievements. Professor Jeong noted, We invited the facility support team, including security and cleaning staff, to this screening. It was heartwarming to see them enjoy the experience like schoolgirls on a picnic. He added, Since they were all adults, the theater was unfamiliar to them, and they had difficulty finding their seats, so I enjoyed guiding them around.Additionally, the university did not forget to engage with the local community by inviting residents from the Chung-hyeon-dong community center.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1
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Traffic Restrictions in Seoul for Korea-Central Asia Summit on September 16 This month, traffic will be restricted in certain areas of Seoul during the 2026 First Korea-Central Asia Summit. The Security Control Division announced on September 9 that traffic control will be implemented on September 16 around Sowol-ro and Euljiro 1-ga to ensure the smooth conduct of the summit and the safety of the attending leaders. Sowol-ro will experience intermittent full lane closures approximately 6 to 7 times from noon to 9 p.m. on that day, coinciding with the leaders movements. Additionally, some lanes on Euljiro 1-ga near the summit venue will be restricted before and after the event. To minimize inconvenience for citizens, the Security Control Division has convened a traffic coordination meeting involving the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Seoul Metropolitan Government, the Seoul Police Agency, and the Korea Road Traffic Authority to establish control measures and a multi-agency information system. Starting from September 10, information about the traffic restrictions will be communicated through various channels, including the KT Building Gwanghwamun Square, the Seoul City Hall electronic billboard, and the official YouTube channel of the Security Control Division. Signage will be placed on major roads to inform drivers of the restrictions, and relevant information will also be provided on T-map, KakaoMap, and Naver Maps. Hwang In-gwon, head of the Security Control Division, stated, The traffic control is unavoidable to ensure the successful hosting of this nationally significant event and the safety of the state guests. We urge the public to refrain from using personal vehicles during the control period and to utilize public transportation such as subways instead.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1