Author: Seoul Reporter

New York stock markets closed higher on August 21st, defying concerns over rising U.S. Treasury yields. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 517.80 points, or 0.98%, to finish at 53,277.01. The S&P 500 index rose by 33.21 points, or 0.43%, to 7,674.37, while the Nasdaq Composite saw an increase of 113.29 points, or 0.44%, closing at 26,180.46. Market Resilience Despite Yield Worries The recent upward trend in U.S. Treasury yields had previously put pressure on the New York stock market, signaling potential headwinds for equities. However, a combination of renewed buying interest and confirmation of robust expansion in the U.S.…

The LG Twins experienced a devastating collapse on June 21st, squandering a significant lead and ultimately losing 11-15 to the Hanwha Eagles in a game that will be remembered for its dramatic turnarounds. The defeat, which occurred at the Hanwha Life Insurance Baseball Park, saw the Twins relinquish a nine-run advantage, marking one of the largest comebacks in KBO history and dealing a significant blow to their postseason aspirations. A Game of Two Halves: Dominance to Defeat LG started the game with overwhelming dominance, erupting for seven runs in the first inning against Hanwha starter Brody Jimenez. Jimenez was pulled…

Actresses Uhm Jung-hwa and Sooyoung recently shared a glimpse into their relaxed personal lives, showcasing a warm friendship that transcends their professional roles. The two stars, who are currently co-starring in the film ‘Okay Madam 2,’ were seen enjoying a delightful outing together, sparking interest among their fans. A Day Out for Co-Stars On the 21st, Uhm Jung-hwa took to her personal social media account to post a series of photographs from her outing with Sooyoung. The caption accompanying the images read, “A great date with Sooyoung! #OkayMadam2,” hinting at the shared enjoyment of their time together. The photos captured…

South Korean badminton star An Se-young has once again demonstrated her world-class resilience and skill, advancing to the semifinals of the 2026 Badminton World Federation (BWF) World Championships in New Delhi. Despite challenging windy conditions and not being in peak physical condition, An, ranked world No. 3, defeated China’s He Bingjiao, ranked world No. 5, with a decisive 2-0 scoreline in the women’s singles quarterfinals. This victory guarantees An at least a bronze medal, as the World Championships award medals to both semifinal losers. Navigating Difficult Conditions The match against He Bingjiao was not without its struggles. An Se-young admitted…

A unique approach to preparing and enjoying the classic highball cocktail is gaining attention, challenging the conventional wisdom of adding ice. This method, championed by Japanese bartender Maguchi Kazunari, focuses on maintaining the drink’s intended flavor profile from the first sip to the last, by eliminating ice altogether. Instead, all ingredients are pre-chilled to extreme temperatures, a technique he calls “pre-chilling.” The Traditional Highball vs. Maguchi’s Innovation The standard highball, a popular drink often made with Japanese whisky and soda water, typically relies on ice to achieve its refreshing chill. While ice effectively cools the drink and maintains that coolness…

Kim Ho-ryeong, a player for the KIA Tigers, achieved a personal best in single-game RBIs with six, marking a significant performance in the recent KBO League game. This offensive outburst contributed to the Tigers’ dominant 11-1 victory over the Kiwoom Heroes on June 21st at Gocheok Sky Dome, extending KIA’s winning streak to six games. Kim Ho-ryeong’s Career-Defining Game Starting as the number nine hitter, Kim Ho-ryeong delivered a stellar performance, going 3-for-4 with a home run, six RBIs, and two runs scored. His impact was felt throughout the game, helping his team secure a crucial win. Kim’s offensive contributions…

Tensions are escalating between Israel and Turkey over military influence in Syria, marking a significant diplomatic and strategic confrontation between the two regional powers. The dispute centers on alleged Turkish military presence near the Israeli border and underscores the complex geopolitical landscape of post-conflict Syria. Background of the Dispute Israel, a traditional military ally of the United States, has been intensifying its operations within the Middle East. This has led to increased friction with Turkey, another key NATO ally of the U.S. Syria itself is undergoing a complex transition following the collapse of the Bashar al-Assad regime in December 2024.…

South Korean actress Uhm Ji-won has moved out of her penthouse apartment in Yongsan, Seoul. The actress shared details of her relocation in a YouTube video uploaded on July 20th, titled ‘Goodbye Yongsan! I’m really moving. From moving preparations to the first day in my new home, V-log’. Uhm Ji-won’s Moving Experience In the video, Uhm Ji-won described the challenges of moving during the hot summer season. “It seems like this is the end of the view from here,” she stated, appearing tired from packing her belongings overnight. She reflected on her time in the apartment, noting that while she…

An investigation into alleged illicit funds has expanded, reportedly ensnaring the former wife of SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won and the daughter of former President Roh Tae-woo, Roh So-young. The Seoul Central District Prosecutors’ Office is conducting a search and seizure operation related to a ’30 billion won memo’ allegedly authored by Kim Ok-sook, the widow of the late President Roh Tae-woo. This memo was reportedly submitted to the court during the ongoing divorce proceedings between Roh So-young and Chey Tae-won, concerning asset division. Investigation Targets Alleged Embezzlement and Tax Evasion The prosecutors’ office is investigating potential embezzlement and tax…

The Seoul Regional National Tax Service has initiated a special tax investigation into the fashion platform Musinsa. The probe, launched on October 21st, is reportedly focusing on financial transactions and accounting practices related to the founder’s personal company, Rafel. Investigators from the tax service’s Investigation Bureau 4 visited Musinsa’s headquarters in Seongdong-gu, Seoul, to secure relevant tax and accounting documents. Special Tax Investigation Launched Unlike routine tax audits, this investigation is classified as a non-periodic tax audit, typically reserved for suspected cases of tax evasion or other specific tax-related irregularities. The focus appears to be on the dealings between Musinsa’s…