Author: Seoul Reporter

A 10% “global general tariff” imposed by the Trump administration is scheduled to expire on February 24th, following a Federal Circuit ruling in February that deemed the tariffs unlawful. This tariff, enacted under Section 122 of the Trade Act, could be applied for a maximum of 150 days. During this period, the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) has been conducting investigations under Section 301 of the Trade Act to determine whether to impose new tariffs on specific countries and industries. Section 301 Investigations and Potential New Tariffs The USTR’s investigations under Section 301 are designed to address…

South Korea is planning a nationwide expansion of permeable pavement, also known as “sponge roads,” to mitigate urban flooding risks exacerbated by increasingly severe rainfall. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport is currently developing a roadmap for the widespread adoption of this technology, which allows rainwater to seep into the ground rather than accumulating on the surface. Rising Flood Risks Amidst Climate Change The initiative comes in response to a significant rise in extreme weather events, particularly heavy downpours. Official meteorological data indicates that the frequency of extreme rainfall events in South Korea has increased by approximately 2.4 times…

In the aftermath of a dramatic World Cup qualifier loss, Argentina’s head coach, Lionel Scaloni, has drawn significant attention for his post-match comments, describing the team’s performance as a “great example of a great defeat.” This statement comes amidst controversy surrounding the conduct of his players immediately following the final whistle. Match Summary and Argentina’s Performance Argentina faced Spain on September 20th (KST) in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier. The match concluded with Argentina succumbing to a 0-1 defeat after extra time. The defending champions struggled offensively throughout the regulation 90 minutes, failing to register a single shot…

GS Retail has officially launched its latest initiative to integrate artificial intelligence into its operations by partnering with five selected AI startups. This move, part of the fourth cohort of its ‘The GS Challenge: Future Retail’ program, aims to tackle tangible business challenges within the retail sector through practical AI solutions. The program, which held its kickoff event on August 16th at GS Tower in Seoul, signifies GS Retail’s commitment to a strategy focused on ‘On-Site Centric AX (AI Transformation),’ where cutting-edge AI technologies are directly applied to resolve real-world issues in the distribution business. Focusing on Practical Application and…

A new seven-member girl group named TUIDE is set to make their debut in the latter half of this year, marking a significant addition to the K-pop landscape. The group is under ABD, a new label established by HYBE Corporation as part of its multi-label strategy. The official unveiling of the group’s name and logo was accompanied by a motion graphic video, signaling the start of their pre-debut promotions. Introducing TUIDE: Meaning and Concept The name TUIDE is a portmanteau derived from the phrase ‘Tune the tide.’ This name encapsulates the group’s ambition to experience and harmonize the diverse currents…

A decision on the fine for KT Corporation regarding its massive personal data leak is anticipated this week, with industry observers keenly watching the potential penalty amount. Following substantial fines levied against SK Telecom and Coupang, expectations are high for the scale of the repercussions KT may face. Personal Information Protection Commission to Review KT Fine Sources indicate that the Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC) is scheduled to discuss the KT data breach case during its plenary session this week. Song Kyung-hee, the chairperson of the PIPC, had previously informed KT of the impending review and was awaiting their official…

The final whistle blew, and Lionel Messi, the legendary Argentine captain, sat slumped on the ground. Around him, Spanish players celebrated their World Cup victory, a stark contrast to the somber scene unfolding on the pitch. Messi’s last World Cup appearance concluded not with the triumph he and his nation had long dreamed of, but with a heartbreaking 0-1 defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final. A Tense Final Falls Short of Expectations The highly anticipated final, held at the New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, saw Argentina fall to Spain after extra time. Spain…

The dynamic between actors Hwang In-yeop and Seo Ji-hye is set to shift in the upcoming episodes of the ENA Monday-Tuesday drama ‘The Return of the Hero’. Ahead of its third broadcast, new stills released by the production team offer a glimpse into the evolving relationship between Woo-bin (played by Hwang In-yeop) and Joo-jae (played by Seo Ji-hye). After reconnecting 15 years later, their past first love is taking an unexpected turn, promising a new chapter in their story. A Playful Past, A Complicated Present The released images capture a playful moment where Woo-bin playfully taps Joo-jae with a pillow,…

In a dramatic turn of events during a fierce battle, the renowned ‘White Horse’ cavalry of General Gongsun Zan suffered a significant setback at Banqiao. The engagement, marked by strategic maneuvers and intense combat, saw Gongsun Zan’s forces initially arrayed with precision, only to be outmaneuvered and ultimately routed by the forces led by Yuan Shao and his formidable generals. Gongsun Zan’s Strategic Deployment Gongsun Zan, known for his distinctive military tactics, divided his army into two wings, resembling a bird with outstretched wings. His cavalry, largely composed of white horses, numbered over 5,000. This preference for white steeds stemmed…

When visiting grand cathedrals and historic churches, travelers often encounter signs or directives stating an area is an ‘active worship space.’ This designation, while sometimes causing confusion for tourists, is crucial for maintaining the sanctity and intended use of these religious sites. Understanding what ‘active worship space’ signifies is key to respecting the traditions and practices observed within these sacred buildings. What ‘Active Worship Space’ Means The term ‘active worship space’ refers to an area within a church or cathedral where religious services, prayers, or worship are currently taking place or are reserved for such activities. Unlike areas designated purely…