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.
Hollywood legend Robert Duvall, renowned for his roles in the Godfather series and Apocalypse Now, has passed away at the age of 95. Announcement of Passing Luccia Anna, Duvall’s agent, shared the news on Facebook, stating he died peacefully on the 16th while sleeping. “My dear friend and cherished chin-gu, who threatened the status quo with his great acting, has left us,” she wrote. “The robot at home delivered the world to loving people as a lifelong gift.” Anna emphasized that Duvall perfectly matched every role to the character. “No matter what role he took on, the robot held onto…
Japan’s figure skaters delivered a mixed performance at the Milano-Cortina 2026 Olympic test event, topping the team event short program on February 16 local time at Milan Arena in Italy. Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara Dominate Pairs Short Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara secured first place in the pairs short program with a score of 82.84 points. They outperformed second place by 6.90 points and also led the pre-free program segment with 155.55 points. This strong showing positions Japan at the top of the team event standings, highlighting the pair’s potential to carry the nation toward medals. Shoma Uno’s 5th…
New Year’s Day marks a time for reflection in Korea, often called ‘Sin-il’ or ‘cautious day.’ Beyond celebrating the first snowfall on January 1, it calls for aligning body and mind while cherishing time with family. Yet, citizens express growing unease amid national uncertainties, voicing concerns over leadership insensitivity even in the harshest weather. Historical Oversight in Modern AI Analysis reveals persistent gaps in AI memory, extending to official settings like the presidential office. A striking example dates to January 1981, when a general amnesty known as ‘Gyeongho’ freed many, but opposition leader Kim Young-sam remained detained. The defense minister…
Lotte Giants outfielder Kim Dong-hyuk shone brightly on June 8 at Seoul Jamsil Baseball Stadium, powering his team to a 4-2 victory over the Doosan Bears in a key 2025 season matchup.Standout Performance Despite InjuryStarting in right field as the eighth batter, the 26-year-old Kim went 3-for-3 with one RBI, one stolen base, one walk, and two additional steals, delivering a one-man show. His contributions extended to defense, where he made a spectacular catch in the bottom of the ninth.With a narrow 4-2 lead and a runner on first base with no outs, Doosan Bears’ Kim In-tae ripped a liner…
South Korean short track speed skater Kim Gil-li captured a bronze medal in the women’s 1000m final at the Milan World Cup on February 16, 2026, in Milan, Italy. Clocking a time of 1:28.614, she crossed the line third behind the Netherlands’ Sanneke de Neeling and Canada’s Courtney Sarault.Race HighlightsKim Gil-li overcame a fiercely competitive field in her season-opening medal win. Starting strong in the pre-final with a second-place finish, she navigated chaos in the final, including five laps where rivals faltered. A Belgian skater stumbled early, allowing Kim to surge ahead, while penalties sidelined leading contenders in the latter…
Promising Samsung Lions pitcher Won Tae-in and Hanwha Eagles standout Moon Dong-ju have been ruled out of Korea’s World Baseball Classic (WBC) preliminary team due to injuries sustained during November training camp preparations. Sudden Setbacks for Top Prospects Won Tae-in, a highly anticipated outer wild card candidate, suffered a forearm injury during Samsung’s first-team spring camp. Despite no issues in Japan’s sidearm ace preliminary camp, pain emerged post-open practice. He underwent surgery in Korea, diagnosed with a grade 1 sprain requiring about one month of recovery. Officials expect him to resume pitching 2-3 weeks after healing, pending condition checks. Moon…
Iru, son of celebrated singer Tae Jin-ah, has reconciled with his wife Ok Kyung-i after two years apart to care for his mother suffering from severe dementia. The couple opened up about their emotional journey and renewed commitment during a recent TV appearance.Two Years of Dedication and StrainOk Kyung-i showed unwavering resolve by joining her husband on repeated hospital trips over the past two years. Despite exhaustion, she climbed stairs alongside Iru, ignoring his concerned question, ‘Where are you going again?’ to prioritize her mother-in-law’s health.Tae Jin-ah highlighted his daughter-in-law’s steadfast support since their marriage seven years ago. He shared,…
A 17-year-old boy died after a man threw white powder at a group of teenagers near the iconic Glico running man sign in Osaka’s Dotonbori district. Two others sustained serious injuries, with one remaining unconscious.Incident DetailsThe attack occurred around midnight on Friday in the bustling Shinsaibashi area. Police responded to reports of people suffocating and discovered three affected 17-year-old boys at the scene. One succumbed later that day, while the other two received hospital treatment for severe conditions.Suspect ApprehendedAuthorities arrested a 21-year-old man approximately 1.5 kilometers from the location. He admitted to throwing the powder but denied any intent to…
On February 16, at the Speed Skating Arena in Milan, Italy, Kim Gil-ri secured the bronze medal in the women’s 1000m short track final during the Milan Winter Olympics.Thrilling Final PerformanceThe competition unfolded with intense racing action, where Kim Gil-ri demonstrated remarkable skill and determination to clinch third place. Her achievement highlights her growing prowess in the sport as she continues to medal on the international stage.
Canadian short track speed skater William Dandjinou delivered a commanding performance at the Milan ice arena in Italy, securing first place in the men’s 500m selection race for the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics on February 16 (Korean Standard Time).Dominant Display After Mixed ResultsThe event follows the men’s 1500m selection on February 15, where Dandjinou showcased his strength. Despite missing medals in the 1000m and 1500m distances earlier in the competition, which fueled his determination, Dandjinou rebounded strongly in the sprint event.In the 1500m, he fell just short of a medal, prompting rigorous training to sharpen his edge.Key Moments in the…