Author: Seoul Reporter

Lee Kang-in, the South Korean midfielder who recently transferred to Atlético Madrid, is generating significant attention as he undergoes individual training sessions in his home country. Images of Lee in his new club’s uniform have been widely shared, sparking considerable interest among fans and media alike. This unique preparation phase is a direct result of his military service obligations, which have kept him in South Korea. The midfielder is currently training with a physical coach from Atlético Madrid, preparing for his integration into the first team. This arrangement allows him to maintain his fitness and familiarize himself with the club’s…

Justice Minister Jung Sung-ho has voiced significant concerns regarding the recent amendment to the Criminal Procedure Act, which abolishes the supplementary investigation rights of prosecutors. Speaking candidly, Minister Jung expressed apprehension about potential issues arising from this legislative change, particularly concerning the practical implications for ongoing and future investigations. Concerns Over Abolishing Supplementary Investigation Rights During a press briefing held on the 4th at the Supreme Court in Seocho-gu, Seoul, following a deliberation by the Supreme Court Candidate Recommendation Committee, Minister Jung articulated his worries. He stated, “Many problems

U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin indicated on October 4th that an agreement regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz with Iran could be reached within the next two weeks. Speaking on CNBC, Mnuchin stated that President Donald Trump had made a decision to pursue such an agreement, which is now the subject of ongoing negotiations with Iran. Potential Breakthrough in Strait of Hormuz Negotiations Mnuchin expressed optimism, suggesting that an accord could be finalized imminently, potentially as early as the current or next day. The primary objective of such an agreement would be to normalize passage through the vital…

Justice Minister Jeong Seong-ho has voiced significant concerns regarding the recently revised Criminal Procedure Act, particularly its implications for prosecutorial investigation rights. He stated on April 4th that the changes, which effectively abolish the prosecutor’s right to initiate investigations in certain cases, are likely to lead to numerous problems. Minister Jeong suggested that if prosecutors are unable to complete investigations adequately due to the altered legal framework, judges would need to re-examine cases and conduct their own investigations. Concerns Over Revised Criminal Procedure Act The revised Criminal Procedure Act was deliberated and passed by the National Assembly on the same…

Kim Min-jae has achieved a significant milestone in the world of Korean traditional wrestling, ssireum, by securing his 18th career Baengdu Jangsa (White Head Champion) title. This victory places him in esteemed company, drawing a parallel with ssireum legend Lee Man-gi, who also holds 18 Baengdu Jangsa titles. The triumph occurred on September 4th at the WIDUS Jeju 2026 Minsok Ssireum MunGyeong Omisa Jangsa Ssireum Tournament, held at the MunGyeong Civic Gymnasium in Gyeongbuk Province. Kim Min-jae Dominates to Reach Championship Milestone Competing in the Baengdu class, which caps

Actor Matt Damon, accompanied by his wife, struck a pose together at the red carpet event for the film ‘Odisey’ held at Times Square in Yeongdeungpo, Seoul, on August 4th. The event celebrated the upcoming release of the epic historical drama. About the Film ‘Odisey’ ‘Odisey’ is a grand-scale narrative that chronicles the arduous journey of the hero Odysseus, portrayed by Matt Damon. Following his triumph in the Trojan War, Odysseus faces the wrath of the gods and must battle his way back home. The film is a cinematic adaptation of Homer’s ‘Odyssey,’ widely regarded as a pinnacle of ancient…

A significant reform proposal has been unveiled for the election of the Korea Football Association (KFA) president, suggesting an expanded electorate of approximately 20,000 individuals. This proposal, put forth by the KFA’s 5th Reform Committee, aims to enhance the democratic process and inclusivity in selecting the head of South Korean football. Expanding the Electorate: A Move Towards Greater Democracy The Reform Committee, following an extensive deliberation, presented a detailed plan to broaden the base of eligible voters for the KFA presidential election. The core of the proposal is to move away from a system perceived as potentially exclusive or based…

A recent exchange during a National Assembly session has brought attention to the income tax brackets and the threshold for the highest tax rate. The discussion, which involved President Lee Jae-myung and former Deputy Prime Minister for Economy Gu Yoon-cheol, highlighted a misunderstanding regarding the income level at which the top marginal tax rate applies. The President emphasized the need for parity between income tax on wages and capital gains tax on real estate transactions. Understanding Income Tax Brackets During the session, President Lee Jae-myung questioned Gu Yoon-cheol about the income level that triggers the highest marginal tax rate. Gu…

A new national investigation agency, set to launch in October, has revealed its organizational structure and staffing plans. The agency will operate with a total of 2,874 personnel, divided between a central headquarters and six regional offices. Its mandate will cover seven major categories of serious crime, including economic offenses, corruption, and drug trafficking. Notably, the agency will also absorb existing joint investigation units that have been operating under the prosecution service. Structure and Mandate of the New Agency The agency’s preparatory team has finalized draft regulations outlining its organizational framework, staffing levels, and personnel management. These proposals are open…

Ukraine’s defense industry is undergoing a significant transformation, marked by an increased capacity to strike deep within Russian territory. This evolution is largely driven by private Ukrainian companies that have developed the capability to produce long-range drones and missiles. Among these innovative enterprises, Fire Point (FP) has emerged as a prominent player, led by its 35-year-old CEO, Iryna Terekh. Fire Point’s Advanced Weaponry Fire Point is manufacturing a range of sophisticated weaponry designed to challenge Russian military infrastructure. This includes the FP-1 and FP-2 long-range drones, capable of reaching targets between 1,000 and 2,700 kilometers away. The company has also…