Author: Seoul Reporter
The Seoul Reporter is an independent news platform uncovering untold stories from the heart of Korea. Our team of journalists and contributors expose corruption, highlight innovation, and bring unfiltered truth to readers worldwide from Seoul’s power corridors to its underground culture.
Gmarket introduces MXN, a dedicated platform offering direct access to overseas luxury brands across all categories. This service leverages a database of 20 million luxury item sales to recommend top overseas brands to shoppers.Authenticity and Security FeaturesMXN guarantees genuine products through strict verification, along with secure overseas distribution and logistics channels. Transactions remain safe even for individual deals without direct oversight, eliminating common risks.Launch Promotion DetailsGmarket aggressively promotes the MXN rollout with a week-long event starting March 1, called “Discover Direct Overseas Luxury Purchases.” All customers receive an 8% discount coupon on regular-priced items site-wide and a 10% coupon for…
The Trump administration frequently invoked Section 301 of the Trade Act as a key tool in trade disputes, targeting unfair practices by various nations. During his first term, investigations led to measures against one major case on China and six others, though most resolved through negotiations rather than sustained duties. China Remains the Primary Target China stands out as the most significant ongoing Section 301 case. In August 2017, the United States launched a probe into China’s intellectual property practices, technology transfers, and steel exports. The U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) announced unfair trade findings in March 2018, imposing tariffs by…
Today marks the 16th anniversary of the passing of Bae Sam-ryong, one of South Korea’s most beloved comedians, known for pioneering slapstick humor that brought joy to generations.Tragic Health Battle Ends Iconic CareerBae Sam-ryong died on February 23, 2010, at the age of 84, after a prolonged fight with lung cancer. He had been receiving treatment for pneumonia and frontotemporal dementia when complications arose. In June 2007, the comedian suffered a stroke and spent the next three years in the hospital, enduring significant health challenges.A Pioneer of Korean Slapstick ComedyDuring the 1960s and 1970s, Bae Sam-ryong rose to fame with…
A fierce forest fire in Hamyang County, South Gyeongsang Province, intensifies as flames spread more aggressively despite suppression efforts. As of 5 a.m. on October 23, the extinguishment rate for the blaze in Maecheon Township stands at 32 percent.Suppression Challenges Amid Adverse ConditionsProgress advanced to 66 percent overall by afternoon, but strong winds and steep terrain hinder firefighting operations, allowing the fire to reignite and expand. Officials report the total scorched area now reaches 189 hectares, surpassing the combined damage from 58 wildfires across the nation since January, which totaled 179.91 hectares.Elevated Response Measures DeployedThe Korea Forest Service escalates to…
Comedian Park Na-rae, celebrated for her vibrant energy in broadcasting, recently sparked concern after a daring rooftop jump while intoxicated. A popular YouTube video titled ‘Narack’s Rooftop Jump After Drinking’ highlighted the episode, drawing widespread attention.Details of the January IncidentOn January 23, Park Na-rae visited a makgeolli brewing academy in central Seoul. There, she climbed to the rooftop with the academy owner, a university president, after consuming alcohol. Despite her inebriated state, she vaulted over the railing and descended safely. Video creator Jin-hoon clarified that the act stemmed from alcohol-induced doubt, not content creation or self-promotion.Jin-hoon noted that Park Na-rae…
As a dedicated onsen enthusiast, recent visits reveal the allure of Japan’s premier hot springs. Steaming pools draw crowds for their therapeutic waters, especially when skin feels tight from travel. Locals emphasize that national treasures like these demand gentle handling to preserve their purity. Blind tastings confirm their superior quality. Efforts to commercialize them falter, underscoring their elite status. Japan’s Three Major Beauty Onsens Ureshino Onsen in Saga Prefecture stands out among Japan’s top three beauty hot springs—alongside Tamatsukuri Onsen in Shimane Prefecture and Gero Onsen in Gifu Prefecture. These sites feature sodium bicarbonate-rich waters that deeply cleanse skin, leaving…
Actress Go Won-hee recently delighted fans by sharing intimate camping photos on her personal social media, radiating a bright smile and relaxed charm.Cozy Campsite MomentsOn February 22, Go Won-hee posted several snapshots from a picturesque campsite atmosphere. She captioned the images: “Liberate, love, 20-year friends + my little bro.”The photos show her seated by a portable stove, holding a drink and savoring leisurely time. Dressed in comfortable knitwear and denim with loose hair, her striking facial features and warm grin stand out vividly.Side-angle shots highlight flawless skin and an elevated aura. Selfies capture a gentle smile and more serene expressions,…
Son Heung-min has once again pulled in a massive audience in the United States, teaming up with Lionel Messi to create electric buzz at a Major League Soccer preseason matchup.The clash at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum featured LAFC against Inter Miami, with LAFC securing a convincing 3-0 victory. Fans packed the stands, totaling 75,673 spectators eager to catch a glimpse of the soccer icons.Star Power Fuels Historic TurnoutDenis Bouanga opened the scoring for LAFC in the 38th minute, thanks to a pinpoint assist from Son Heung-min. The South Korean star delivered a precise pass during a swift counterattack, setting…
A man in his early 20s armed with a pistol illegally breached the security perimeter at former President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida and was fatally shot by U.S. Secret Service agents and local law enforcement, officials confirmed on Saturday.Details of the BreachThe intruder entered the restricted area around the Palm Beach County property, prompting a swift response from Secret Service personnel and a Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office bomb squad investigation team. Authorities reported that the suspect carried what appeared to be a shotgun and a fuel container upon detection at a perimeter entrance.Secret Service Chief stated, “This…
Former People Power Party leader Han Dong-hoon, recently expelled from the party, launches a nationwide tour on the 25th starting in Daegu to reconnect with conservative voters.Focus on Conservative Sentiment in DaeguHan plans to visit Daegu’s bustling Seomun Market on the 25th, marking the kickoff of his tour aimed at gauging and bolstering conservative support. This move follows his recent speech where he outlined intentions to engage directly with regional communities.Call to Restore Nation and Rebuild BaseAmid a high-profile first-trial life sentence for a ringleader in an alleged insurrection linked to former President Yoon Suk-yeol, Han delivered a rallying message:…