National News

Seoul, South Korea - Starting January 10, 2025, foreign residents in South Korea can embrace a more convenient and secure form of identification as the government rolls out its new mobile foreigner registration card. In a move that underscores the country’s commitment to digital innovation, the mobile version will offer the same legal validity as the traditional physical card, making it a game-changer for over 2.5 million foreigners living in South Korea. The introduction of the mobile foreigne

South Korea's culinary prowess has achieved an unprecedented milestone. In 2024, the nation’s K-Food+ exports soared to over $13 billion, marking a 6.1% year-on-year growth and cementing its place as a formidable force in the global food market. This remarkable achievement, spanning agricultural goods and related industries, speaks to more than just economic success; it is a testament to the growing international appetite for Korean flavors and innovation. At the heart of this success lies a co

For decades, the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) has been a linguistic barometer of global cultural shifts, capturing the evolution of the English language with precision. In its latest update in December 2024, the OED once again turned to South Korea, a cultural powerhouse, adding seven new Korean words to its lexicon. From food to familial relationships and traditional arts, these words underline the influence of "K-Culture" on the world stage, marking yet another milestone in the global embra

As South Korea strides into 2025, the Ministry of Environment has unveiled a comprehensive suite of policies designed to address the pressing climate and environmental challenges of our time. From enhancing carbon trading mechanisms to providing greater incentives for electric vehicles, these measures underscore the government’s determination to pursue sustainability while navigating economic and social complexities. However, while the breadth of these policies reflects ambition, they also rais

On the morning of December 29, 2024, Jeju Air Flight 7C2216 crash-landed in South Korea, marking one of the most devastating aviation incidents in recent memory. The Boeing 737-800, en route from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport to Muan International Airport, carried 181 people. After encountering technical difficulties during landing, the aircraft collided with a rigid concrete structure beyond the runway, resulting in a fire that claimed 179 lives. Only two survivors, seated in the tail section,

Changnyeong, South Korea — The much-anticipated Changnyeong-Miryang Expressway officially opened on December 28, marking a transformative milestone in Gyeongsangnam-do’s transportation network. This new route is set to significantly reduce travel times, enhance connectivity, and boost regional tourism and economic activity. The 28.5-kilometer stretch of highway, part of the Hamyang-Ulsan Expressway, links Changnyeong County to Miryang City, providing a safer, faster alternative to the historica

Seoul, South Korea - South Korea has once again demonstrated its leadership in maritime innovation, with the Cabinet approving the enforcement decree for the 「Autonomous Ship Act」 on December 24, 2024. As the world’s first legislation dedicated to autonomous ships, this landmark decision paves the way for a future where intelligent, AI-driven vessels revolutionize global shipping. With the law taking effect on January 3, 2025, South Korea positions itself as a key player in the race to dominate

The Ships for America Act, introduced in December 2024, signifies a transformative effort by the United States to reclaim its long-diminished shipbuilding industry. The act represents an ambitious attempt to rebuild the capacity of U.S. shipyards, expand the nation’s maritime workforce, and strengthen national security by reducing reliance on foreign-built ships. While the act’s immediate focus lies in domestic revitalization, its broader implications resonate across the global shipbuilding indu

Changwon, Gyeongnam -Gyeongnam Province in South Korea has completed the nation’s first offshore testbed for LNG (liquefied natural gas) bunkering transfer systems, a landmark achievement that underscores the country's commitment to sustainable maritime innovation. The facility, which began operational testing on December 19, 2024, provides an essential platform for supporting domestic companies seeking to develop and commercialize LNG bunkering equipment for global markets. LNG bunkering is th

Seoul, December 18, 2024 — Actress Kim Tae-ri, celebrated for her commanding presence on screen, is stepping into a new role: a cultural ambassador for hanbok, Korea’s traditional attire. Through a global campaign spanning New York’s Times Square, Paris' Citadium, and an upcoming exhibition in Seoul, Kim Tae-ri aims to share the elegance and timeless beauty of hanbok with the world. The initiative is part of the “Hanbok Wave Project,” spearheaded by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism i

South Korea finds itself at a pivotal moment in its democratic history. Following the impeachment of President Yoon Suk-yeol, a groundswell of political engagement, driven by the nation’s youth and women, has captured global attention. Their efforts, fueled by online platforms and K-pop fandom culture, have spotlighted a new generation’s ability to drive change. Yet, as their activism reshapes the political landscape, critical questions remain: Can this unprecedented movement bridge the nation’s

South Korea is navigating an unprecedented political and constitutional crisis, sparked by President Yoon Suk-yeol’s controversial declaration of martial law and subsequent allegations of insurrection against top officials. Recent arrests of key figures and growing public protests underscore the deep divisions within the country. As opposition leaders push for impeachment and government figures debate leadership transitions, constitutional scholars warn that bypassing established legal processes