Author: Seoul Reporter

In the midst of spring training in Okinawa, Japan, KIA Tigers veteran right-hander Lee Tae-yang expressed deep resolve. “I never imagined spending a year keeping the team on edge with anxiety,” Lee stated earnestly, highlighting his commitment to regaining precise command on the mound.Career Highlights and Return AttemptsLee, born in 1990, traded from Hanwha Eagles to SK Wyverns (now SSG Landers) in 2020. He secured a four-year, 2.5 billion won FA contract with Hanwha in 2023, fulfilling his dream of returning home. However, challenges arose, leading Hanwha to leave him unprotected in the secondary draft. KIA selected him in the…

Actress Lee Se-Young has sparked excitement by announcing her modeling debut on the runway next month. She shared striking teaser photos on her personal social media, showcasing a transformed physique from gym workouts.Eye-Catching Gym SelfiesIn the images, Lee Se-Young poses in a mirror selfie wearing a crop top paired with hip-up leggings, which she personally launched. The outfit highlights her defined waistline, toned silhouette, and hints of abs, drawing immediate attention to her slimmed-down figure.Runway Ambitions and Body PrepShe revealed plans to step onto the runway as a model in March, stating, “I will stand on the runway as a…

SHINee’s Taemin showcased extraordinary generosity by personally covering group gifts for his entire concert staff during preparations for his career’s largest tour.Hands-On Support Amid Tour PrepAt the venue, as final adjustments unfolded, Taemin worked directly with the team to select and fund these gifts from his own resources. This initiative highlights his proactive leadership during a pivotal career phase.Industry observers point out that companies usually handle such bulk purchases by negotiating with suppliers. Taemin’s personal involvement addresses the precarious work conditions many staff face, marking a rare display of direct support.Firm Commitments and LoyaltyTaemin fully funded his exclusive contract with…

Hanwha Galleria recorded sales of 575.2 billion won and an operating profit of 9.4 billion won last year. These figures mark a 6.8% increase in sales and a remarkable 177.7% jump in operating profit compared to the previous year.Key Financial ImprovementsNet profit reached 3.3 billion won during the same period, achieving a turnaround from prior losses. The company highlighted strong performance across its segments.Drivers of GrowthA company official stated, “Luxury goods demand surged in the second half, while increased foreign visitors boosted department store sales. Food and beverage operations also saw revenue growth.” The official added, “Operating profit improved further…

Yusei Kikuchi, a leading candidate to start for Japan against Korea in the 2026 World Baseball Classic (WBC), completed his first bullpen session with the national team on February 24. The 35-year-old LA Angels pitcher threw 17 pitches to Seattle Mariners minor leaguers during training in Miyazaki.Impressive Velocity and Early MomentumKikuchi showcased his signature power during the session, with onlookers including Yu Darvish of the San Diego Padres. Freshly added to the roster, Darvish observed as Kikuchi ramped up intensity ahead of the WBC preliminaries.Prior to joining the team, Kikuchi dominated in Angels spring training on February 21. He pitched…

On February 24, 2026, at Kadena Stadium in Okinawa, Japan, KIA Tigers players Jared Dale and Harold Castro held a focused team meeting immediately after their exhibition game against the Korean national baseball team.Post-Game Team Huddle Highlights Tigers TraditionThe gathering underscores the players’ commitment to KIA Tigers’ longstanding culture of unity and reflection. Despite the competitive matchup during spring training preparations, Dale and Castro prioritized post-game discussions to strengthen team bonds.This exhibition served as valuable preparation for both squads, with the national team sharpening skills ahead of upcoming challenges.

Major Korean cosmetics original design manufacturers (ODMs) have achieved combined sales exceeding 6 trillion won, driven by robust overseas demand. Companies including Kolmar Korea, Cosmax, Cosmecca Korea, and Cien International recorded a total of 6.0503 trillion won in sales last year, marking an 11.5% year-over-year increase. Record-Breaking Performance Across the Board The four firms collectively posted operating profits of 541.1 billion won, up 18% from the previous year. This surge underscores their growing dominance in international markets amid a saturated domestic landscape. Kolmar Korea Leads with Strong Gains Kolmar Korea reported sales of 2.7224 trillion won and operating profit of…

Kim Nam-jun, a key confidant to Lee Jae-myung and former presidential campaign spokesperson, met with Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) spokesperson Jeong Cheong-rae on the 24th at the National Assembly. During a one-hour discussion, Kim accused party leaders of fielding only second-tier candidates from the Lee Jae-myung faction for upcoming races.Sharp Criticism During National Assembly TalksKim pressed Jeong on nominations for the June 3 by-elections and local elections. He stated, “The party has sent second-rate faction members to run.” Jeong acknowledged the concerns, noting he took Kim’s words to heart.Kim elaborated that a prominent party heavyweight—referring to post-2022 presidential election…

The National Sports Promotion Corporation, under President Ha Hyung-ju, partners with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, led by Director Choi Hwi-young, and other government agencies to introduce the 2026 Sports Dream Tree Special Talent Incentive Program. This initiative aims to identify elite student athletes and provide structured support for their development.Proven Track Record of SuccessSince its inception in 2019, the Sports Dream Tree program has supported 15,400 young athletes across 96 disciplines, including taekwondo, archery, and tennis, delivering substantial results in talent cultivation.Expanded Support for 1,800 Elite AthletesThe Olympic Training Center plans to select 1,800 top performers for…

Investigators from the Seoul Southern District Prosecutors’ Office Financial and Securities Crime Joint Task Force launched extensive search and seizure operations at Daisin Securities headquarters in central Seoul and other sites. The raids target suspicions of executives colluding with stock price manipulation networks to rig markets. Raid Details Emerge The operations began early on Feb. 24, focusing on key locations linked to the firm. Authorities aim to uncover evidence of coordinated efforts to artificially influence stock prices using illicit methods. Former Employee at Center of Probe A former department manager, identified as Mr. A, previously stationed at a Daisin Securities…