Author: Seoul Reporter

A prominent opposition figure has strongly criticized President Lee Jae-myung’s recent remarks regarding joint military exercises with the United States, questioning the president’s approach to national security in the face of North Korea’s advancing capabilities. Jung Jum-sik, the floor leader for the People Power Party, voiced his concerns on October 21st, stating, “When has any nation’s military commander ever been sidelined by an ally and then offered congratulations?” Scrutiny Over Presidential Remarks Jung’s statement was a direct response to President Lee’s comments made on the evening of October 19th. President Lee had expressed his “respect” to then-U.S. President Donald Trump…

LG Twins’ new foreign pitcher, Jon Kennedy, experienced a difficult outing in his second appearance, struggling with control and allowing multiple runs. After a promising debut where he retired the side on just four pitches, Kennedy’s performance against the KT Wiz on May 20th saw him issue several walks and give up key hits, ultimately contributing to the Twins’ significant loss. His inability to go deep into the game highlighted challenges in his multi-inning relief appearances. Kennedy’s Unique Profile and Debut Promise Jon Kennedy, standing at an imposing 203cm (approximately 6’8″), is a left-handed sidearm pitcher with a distinctive throwing…

Singer Yves is set to embark on her second Asia and Australia tour, titled ‘YVES TOUR 2026 ASIA & AUSTRALIA,’ commencing this November. The announcement was made through official social media channels, accompanied by a striking poster that features a bold red background and captivating typography. This visual, with its unique font and evocative design, hints at the artistic color palette and performance style characteristic of Yves, heightening anticipation for the upcoming shows. Global Reach and Previous Success The ‘YVES TOUR 2026 ASIA & AUSTRALIA’ is scheduled to kick off on November 4th in Singapore. The tour will then proceed…

South Korean boxer Im Ae-ji is setting her sights on a medal at the upcoming 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, marking her third attempt at the continental competition. Having previously faced early exits in her past two Asian Games appearances, the 27-year-old Hwaseong City Hall athlete is determined to reach the finals this time around. Im’s ambition was shared during a media day event held 30 days before the Games at the Chungbuk Jincheon National Training Center. This upcoming Asian Games represents a significant opportunity for Im, who has already made history in Korean women’s boxing. Historic Achievement at the Paris…

E-Mart, a major South Korean retailer, has announced a special promotion for fall blue crabs, offering them at 689 won per 100 grams. This pricing strategy positions the retailer slightly below its competitor, Homeplus, which is offering the same item for 690 won per 100 grams during a concurrent promotional period. The sale commenced on October 21st and is scheduled to run for three days. Aggressive Pricing Strategy for Blue Crabs The current promotional price of 689 won per 100 grams for fall blue crabs is 52 won higher than the price offered during E-Mart’s similar promotion last year, which…

Nvidia, the world’s leading artificial intelligence (AI) chip manufacturer, has categorically denied reports suggesting plans to launch custom-designed chips specifically for the Chinese market. The company stated that its product roadmap does not include any specialized models for China, refuting claims that an AI chip tailored for language processing would be released by the end of the year. Nvidia’s Official Stance on China-Specific AI Chips A spokesperson for Nvidia clarified the company’s position, asserting that the information regarding a China-exclusive chip was inaccurate. The report, which originated from IT publication Deep Information, had suggested that Nvidia intended to release a…

Actress Hwang Jung-eum has ignited a wave of mixed opinions following her recent attempt at idol-style makeup, drawing comparisons to K-pop star Jennie of BLACKPINK. The actress shared a video on her YouTube channel detailing her transformation, which has since garnered a polarized response from viewers. Hwang Jung-eum’s Idol Makeup Challenge In a video titled “The Day I Went Clubbing with Ayumi After Doing Idol Makeup,” released on the 19th, Hwang Jung-eum expressed her desire for a makeup style that was both “innocent yet different from others.” She specifically cited BLACKPINK’s Jennie as inspiration for her desired look, signaling a…

Shared electric scooters are increasingly becoming a nuisance in Seoul, South Korea, with dozens frequently found abandoned on sidewalks, obstructing pedestrian pathways and causing frustration among residents. This growing problem has prompted city officials to consider new regulations, including the ability to fine scooter rental companies for improperly parked vehicles. Sidewalks Become Impromptu Scooter Parking Lots On a recent morning in Seoul’s Seocho District, approximately 40 shared electric scooters were found parked haphazardly on a pedestrian walkway near an exit of Yangjae Citizen’s Forest. This forced pedestrians to navigate around the devices, often in a zig-zag pattern. Residents expressed their…

Sushi, a globally recognized Japanese culinary art, encompasses a variety of forms beyond the familiar nigiri. While often perceived as raw fish atop vinegared rice, the term “sushi” actually refers to the rice itself, which is seasoned with vinegar, sugar, and salt. This preparation method distinguishes sushi from plain rice. In Korea, this dish is commonly called “chobap.” The visual of a chef meticulously shaping rice and placing a slice of fresh fish on top is the quintessential image of nigiri sushi (握り寿司). The Japanese word “nigiru” (握る) means to grasp or squeeze, and the character “握” also appears in…

Walmart’s latest financial report revealed a significant slowdown in its U.S. comparable store sales growth, reaching its lowest point in six years. This performance, which fell short of market expectations, has amplified concerns about the broader health of American consumer spending, leading to a substantial drop in the company’s stock price. U.S. Comparable Store Sales Lag Expectations For the second quarter of fiscal year 2024, which concluded on July 31, Walmart reported a 5.9% increase in total revenue compared to the same period last year. While digital channels, including e-commerce and advertising, showed robust growth with global e-commerce sales up…