South Korea's ambassador-designate to Australia, former defense minister Lee Jong-sup, is under investigation for allegedly interfering in a probe into a marine's on-duty death, posing a threat to the ruling party's prospects in upcoming elections.

South Korea's central bank has proposed bringing in foreign care workers and paying them less than the minimum wage to address economic challenges associated with the aging population. This proposal, if implemented, would be a significant shift from the current employment standards for foreign workers in South Korea, who are currently entitled to the same minimum wage as local workers.

Thousands of trainee doctors in South Korea, including Na, have resigned in protest against the government's plan to increase medical school admissions by 2,000 students, a 67% rise. The walkout, driven by concerns over pay and working hours, has led to a standoff with President Yoon Suk Yeol's administration, which is facing criticism for its healthcare policies.

South Korea conducted a live-fire exercise in response to North Korea's shelling, which led to the evacuation of two frontline South Korean islands in the Yellow Sea. This incident marks an escalation in tensions between the two Koreas, whose leaders have recently exchanged harsh rhetoric.

South Korea conducted a live-fire drill in reaction to North Korea's shelling near two South Korean islands in the Yellow Sea, which led to evacuations. This incident marks an increase in tensions between the two Koreas, whose leaders have recently exchanged strong rhetoric.

The U.S. announced that Russia has used ballistic missiles and launchers supplied by North Korea, indicating a new level of cooperation between the two authoritarian states. National security spokesperson John Kirby revealed that Washington has new intelligence confirming North Korea's recent provision of these military assets to Russia, potentially giving Moscow an advantage in the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Tensions escalated in Seoul as crowds gathered outside an emergency room where a prominent South Korean opposition politician was taken after being stabbed in the neck. Supporters clashed with news crews and YouTubers, leading to intermittent shouting matches as police tried to manage the situation.

South Korean historical blockbuster '12:12: The Day' dramatizes the assassination of President Park Chung-hee and the subsequent coup led by General Chun Doo-hwan, highlighting the political turmoil and battle for control in the country. The film features veteran actor Hwang Jung-min as Chun Doo-hwan.

South Korea's Justice Minister Han Dong-hoon has announced a proposal for a legal amendment to screen asylum seekers for any history of terrorist acts or associations with terrorist groups. This represents a shift in Han's stance, as he has previously been an advocate for integrating outsiders. The amendment aims to address the current lack of legal grounds for denying refugee status to terrorists, thereby ensuring national security.

South Korea's birthrate has reached an all-time low of 0.70 for the third quarter, matching the previous quarter's record low. This decline has raised concerns about the country's economic future, with the annual birthrate recorded at 0.78 in 2022 and 0.81 in 2021. The statistics have sparked existential questions and fears among observers.

North Korea announced the successful launch of a military reconnaissance satellite into space on Tuesday night, a claim that was reported earlier by South Korea's military. The Korean Central News Agency confirmed the satellite's placement in orbit early Wednesday, while Japan's Defense Ministry has not confirmed this.

Teachers in South Korea are advocating for stronger legal protections amid a growing movement against what is perceived as an increasingly tense school environment. They are pushing for revisions to the Child Welfare Act, which currently includes a clause against 'emotional abuse' that could leave teachers vulnerable to legal action from parents.

Kim Min-young, a researcher at South Korea's Rural Development Agency, is working on developing smart farming robots. The agency is part of a network of government-funded research institutions that have been crucial to South Korea's technological and economic development since the Korean War.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol vetoed significant legislation on unions and broadcasters, which was proposed by the opposition Democratic Party and passed by the National Assembly. This decision is expected to exacerbate tensions between Yoon's party and the opposition, as well as with labor and media groups.

South Korea is making a determined push to host World Expo 2030 in Busan, competing against Italy and Saudi Arabia. The South Korean government has allocated $5.7 billion for the bid, less than Italy's $10.9 billion and Saudi Arabia's $7.8 billion. The host city will be elected on November 28 during the general assembly of the Paris-based Bureau International des Expositions.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has emphasized his commitment to market-oriented improvements and fiscal sustainability in a budget speech. However, experts suggest that the government may need to continue or increase spending to stimulate growth and avoid political consequences.

North Korea's Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui arrived in Moscow to meet Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, following North Korea's claim of a successful test of a new solid-fuel hypersonic missile. The visit and missile launch underscore Pyongyang's focus on enhancing its weapons capabilities and strengthening ties with Cold War-era allies like Russia.

South Korea is seeking alternative graphite supplies following China's tightened export controls, aiming to mitigate the impact on its EV battery production sector. The South Korean industry ministry is actively working to prevent shortages, holding meetings with major battery manufacturers and trade associations to address the issue.

Seoul is preparing for a somber Halloween, marking one year since the Itaewon disaster. The tragedy occurred in the Itaewon neighborhood, a popular nightlife area in the South Korean capital, during the first Halloween without social distancing restrictions since the COVID-19 pandemic. Lee Ju-hyun, who was present during the event, reflects on the anticipated large crowds.

South Korea's economy sustained its growth rate at 0.6% in the third quarter, consistent with the second quarter's performance, buoyed by a 3.5% increase in exports. This rebound was largely attributed to the semiconductor and machinery sectors, as reported by the Bank of Korea.

The United Nations Command in South Korea has initiated communication with North Korea regarding an American soldier who recently crossed into the country. Lt. Gen. Andrew Harrison confirmed the outreach but did not disclose whether North Korean authorities had responded.

The Bank of Korea maintained its growth projection at 2.1% for the year, citing persistent high inflation and household debt as challenges. The central bank also kept its key rate steady at 3.5% for the ninth consecutive session and maintained its inflation projection at 2.6%.

South Korea has appointed Kim Yung-ho, a conservative professor known for his critical stance on North Korea, as the new head of the Ministry of Unification. This move by President Yoon Suk Yeol signals a more confrontational approach towards North Korea, particularly concerning human rights issues.

Top officials in South Korea and Japan have highlighted potential economic risks from the Middle East conflict, particularly the possibility of higher energy prices. South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol's office emphasized the need for caution and announced plans to monitor the real economy and prepare response measures.

Lee Jae-myung, leader of South Korea's main opposition Democratic Party, was stabbed during an official appearance in Busan. The attack occurred while he was visiting a future airport site, and the incident was reported by national broadcaster KBS.

A U.S. nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, the USS Carl Vinson, docked in Busan, South Korea, as part of an agreement to increase American military presence to deter North Korean aggression. This follows the docking of the USS Ronald Reagan a month earlier. The deployment comes amid reports of North Korea's plans for another satellite launch.

The leaders of Japan and South Korea held a summit in Seoul, marking the full restoration of reciprocal diplomatic visits. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol emphasized the benefits of deepening cooperation in security and the economy for both nations, contributing to global peace and prosperity.

Indonesia's Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi, speaking at the ASEAN meetings in Jakarta, warned that the Indo-Pacific region is exhibiting signs of a 'Cold War in hot places.' She emphasized the significance of the ASEAN forum, which includes all key Indo-Pacific countries, in addressing these geopolitical tensions.

South Korea announced new sanctions on North Korea, targeting four individuals and three entities involved in missile development. This move reflects Seoul's increasingly hard stance towards Pyongyang, coinciding with a potential diplomatic encounter at a key regional forum.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol returned to Seoul after a significant diplomatic breakthrough with Japan, where he held a bilateral summit with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. Despite the progress in addressing bilateral issues, Yoon faces a disgruntled public and criticism from political opponents back home.

South Korea conducted a live-fire exercise in response to North Korea's shelling, which led to the evacuation of two frontline South Korean islands in the Yellow Sea. This incident marks an escalation of tensions between the two Koreas, whose leaders have recently exchanged harsh words.

South Korean lawmakers voted in favor of a motion to arrest Lee Jae-myung, the leader of the Democratic Party and a prominent opposition politician, who is currently on a hunger strike. The motion, which passed with 149 votes in favor and 136 against, will lift Lee's immunity from arrest as a sitting lawmaker. Additionally, lawmakers passed a separate motion to dismiss the prime minister.

South Korea's president has directed officials to share details of a failed North Korean satellite launch with Japan and the U.S., following a recent trilateral summit agreement. North Korea's state media confirmed the unsuccessful launch, citing a problem in the rocket's third stage and plans for another attempt in October.

South Korean semiconductor shipments experienced a significant decline in July, with a 31.2% drop from the previous month, highlighting the impact of China's economic slowdown on export-oriented economies in Asia. Additionally, exports of electronic components fell by 22.7%, according to data from the official statistics agency.

South Korean lawmakers voted to approve a motion that could lead to the arrest of Lee Jae-myung, the leader of the Democratic Party, who is currently on a hunger strike. The motion, which passed with 149 votes in favor and 136 against, will lift Lee's immunity from arrest as a sitting lawmaker. Additionally, lawmakers passed a separate motion to dismiss the prime minister.

The U.S. and South Korea have revised their deterrence strategy against North Korea for the first time in a decade, reflecting growing concerns over Pyongyang's military capabilities and its increasing ties with Russia. The updated 20-page strategic document was approved during an annual security consultative meeting in Seoul by U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and South Korean Defense Minister Shin Won-sik.

South Korean lawmakers voted to arrest opposition leader Lee Jae-myung, who is on a hunger strike, and passed a motion to dismiss the prime minister. The motion to arrest Lee, leader of the Democratic Party and a close runner-up in the last presidential election, passed with 149 votes in favor and 136 against, lifting his immunity from arrest as a sitting lawmaker.

North Korea's attempt to launch the Chollima-1 satellite failed due to a rocket malfunction, with the satellite crashing into the sea. The failure was attributed to issues with the rocket's engine and fuel systems, as reported by the Korean Central News Agency.

North Korea's attempt to launch the Chollima-1 satellite failed early Wednesday morning due to a rocket malfunction, resulting in the satellite crashing into the sea. The failure was attributed to issues with the rocket's engine and fuel systems, as reported by the Korean Central News Agency, which did not specify the crash location.

South Korea's Minister of Unification, Kim Yung-ho, urged China to treat North Korean escapees as refugees deserving protection under international law, rather than repatriating them to face potential torture and imprisonment. This call highlights the ongoing human rights concerns and diplomatic tensions between South Korea and China regarding the treatment of North Korean defectors.

Fertility rates in Singapore and South Korea reached record lows in 2023, with Singapore's average number of births per woman dropping below 1.0 for the first time to 0.97. Governments in both countries are struggling to encourage higher birth rates.

North Korea's attempt to launch the Chollima-1 satellite failed due to a rocket malfunction, with the satellite crashing into the sea. The Korean Central News Agency reported issues with the rocket's engine and fuel systems but did not specify the crash location.

South Korean opposition leader Lee Jae-myung was discharged from the hospital following a knife attack. His release comes amid increasing political challenges, highlighted by significant departures from his party. Lee expressed gratitude to the public for their support during his recovery.

North Korea's attempt to launch the Chollima-1 satellite failed due to a rocket malfunction, resulting in the satellite crashing into the sea. The failure was attributed to issues with the rocket's engine and fuel systems, as reported by the Korean Central News Agency.

North Korea's failed satellite launch is seen as a minor setback in its quest to become a technological and military power. Analysts, including Bruce Bennett from RAND Corp., suggest that while the failure is not significant, it highlights North Korea's lag behind South Korea, which is likely to cause concern for leader Kim Jong Un.

South Korea's recent alignment with the U.S. and Japan has strained its relationship with China, further complicated by the full operation of the THAAD missile defense system. The South Korean defense and environment ministries announced the completion of an environmental impact assessment for the THAAD site, located in central South Korea, which has been criticized by Beijing.

South Korea showcased its military strength in a rare parade in Seoul, marking the 75th Armed Forces Day. The event, the first in a decade, featured tanks and thousands of troops, underscoring the current administration's security focus and the nation's growing role as an arms exporter.

China, Japan, and South Korea will hold their first trilateral summit since 2019, marking a resumption of diplomatic efforts among the East Asian nations. High-ranking diplomats from the three countries agreed to work towards organizing the summit at the earliest convenient time, aiming to rekindle trilateral cooperation disrupted by the coronavirus pandemic and other issues.

North Korea announced the successful launch of a military reconnaissance satellite into space, a claim confirmed by South Korea's military but not yet verified by Japan's Defense Ministry. The Korean Central News Agency reported the satellite's successful placement into orbit.

North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un is reportedly abandoning the country's long-standing goal of establishing normal diplomatic relations with the U.S. due to the isolation caused by international sanctions. Siegfried Hecker, an expert on North Korea's nuclear program, attributes this shift to the increasing financial restrictions imposed by the U.N. and individual countries, prompting a fundamental change in North Korea's diplomatic approach.

Lee Jae-myung, leader of South Korea's main opposition Democratic Party, was stabbed during an official appearance in Busan. The attack occurred while he was visiting a site for a new airport. The incident was reported by national broadcaster KBS.

South Korea's state auditor has uncovered widespread graft in the cram-school industry, revealing that public school teachers with access to university entrance exams sold practice questions closely based on the actual tests to private test preparation institutes. The findings, presented by the Board of Audit and Inspection, have intensified concerns over corruption in the multibillion-dollar sector.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol met in Tokyo to enhance economic and security cooperation, marking the first bilateral visit by a South Korean leader to Japan since 2011. The leaders agreed to accelerate collaboration in economic security, advanced science and technologies, finance, and foreign exchange, aiming to move past historical tensions.

The leaders of Japan and South Korea held a summit in Seoul, marking the full restoration of reciprocal diplomatic visits. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol emphasized the benefits of deepening cooperation in security and the economy for both nations, contributing to global peace and prosperity.

A team of South Korean nuclear experts returned to South Korea after inspecting nuclear facilities in Fukushima, Japan. The team, led by Yoo Guk-hee, observed conditions and requested data for further analysis. Yoo stated that the team would analyze the information and release their conclusions later, indicating ongoing cooperation between Seoul and Tokyo.

South Korea will maintain its decade-long ban on seafood imports from Japan's Fukushima Prefecture due to ongoing concerns about food safety and radiation contamination following the 2011 nuclear disaster. This decision follows a historic summit in Tokyo two weeks ago.

A debate has emerged in South Korea over comments made by Choo Kyung-ho, the deputy prime minister and minister of economy and finance, regarding the price of instant noodles. Choo subtly criticized noodle producers for not lowering prices despite global declines in wheat prices, highlighting broader concerns about rising essential costs and the government's plans to reduce economic intervention.

Workers in New Delhi erected a tarp to hide small shops like Komal's ahead of the G20 summit, reflecting the Indian government's attempt to project a strong, fast-growing image. This move has left many of India's poor feeling excluded from the vision of inclusion promoted by the summit.

World leaders are set to gather in New Delhi, India, for the G20 Summit to discuss global economic, security, and climate issues. This marks the first time the summit is held in India, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi aiming to showcase India's influence on global affairs and its role as a mediator between industrialized nations and the Global South.

President Yoon Suk Yeol and other South Korean government officials are dining on seafood all week at the presidential office, including sea squirts, roasted mackerel, and raw fish soup. This comes amid a divisive debate in South Korea over the discharge of treated radioactive water from Fukushima.

South Korea's president has directed officials to share details of a failed North Korean satellite launch with Japan and the U.S. This decision follows a recent summit agreement. North Korea's state media acknowledged the unsuccessful launch, citing an issue in the rocket's third stage, and plans to attempt another launch in October.

China has suspended all seafood imports from Japan following the release of treated water from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the Pacific Ocean. China's customs cited the need to protect Chinese consumers' health, while the foreign ministry condemned Japan's actions as selfish and irresponsible.

China announced the suspension of all seafood imports from Japan following the release of treated water from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the Pacific Ocean. China's customs cited the need to protect Chinese consumers' health, while the foreign ministry condemned Japan's actions as selfish and irresponsible.

China has suspended all seafood imports from Japan following the release of treated water from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the Pacific Ocean. China's customs cited the need to protect Chinese consumers' health, while the foreign ministry condemned Japan's actions as selfish and irresponsible.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has been emphasizing the benefits and dismissing the risks associated with the recent trilateral summit with Japan and the U.S. The summit, which concluded with a statement named the Spirit of Camp David, represents a significant step in cooperation between Seoul, Tokyo, and Washington.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol advocated for real-time nuclear and missile information sharing with Japan and the U.S. during South Korea's Liberation Day. He emphasized the shared values of freedom, democracy, and a rules-based international order between the countries, highlighting the need for cooperation to counter the nuclear threat from North Korea.

On the anniversary of the Korean War armistice, North Korea strengthens ties with Cold War-era allies China and Russia. Kim Jong Un showcased ballistic missiles and heavy weaponry to Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu in Pyongyang, signaling the ongoing influence of the war's legacy on the diplomatic and security stances of the two Koreas.

The South Korean government has approved Japan's plan to release wastewater from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, stating it meets international standards and will not significantly affect ecosystems off South Korea's coasts. The release is scheduled for later this summer, despite opposition from political parties and environmental groups in South Korea, China, and other Asian countries.

Japan will restore South Korea to its list of preferred export destinations, lifting the final trade restriction from a longstanding dispute. This change, announced by Japanese Trade Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura, will take effect on July 21, simplifying the export process for companies dealing with South Korea.

North Korea's recent failure to launch a satellite into orbit is seen as a minor setback in its aspirations to be recognized as a technological and military power. Bruce Bennett from RAND Corp. views the malfunction as predictable and a source of frustration for North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, who is keen to surpass South Korea's capabilities.

The Group of Seven summit in Hiroshima, Japan, brought together leaders from seven advanced economies and guest countries, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy being a significant attendee. The summit focused on various international relations topics, including strategies to 'de-risk' China.

The leaders of Japan and South Korea, Yoon Suk Yeol and Fumio Kishida, held their third bilateral summit this year, marked by a symbolic joint visit to a World War II-era monument in Hiroshima. This visit signifies the warming relationship between the two nations. Yoon, attending the Group of Seven summit as a guest, praised Kishida's visit to the Korean memorial in Hiroshima as a 'brave act'.

The leaders of Japan and South Korea, Yoon Suk Yeol and Fumio Kishida, held their third bilateral summit of the year in Hiroshima, marking a significant step in improving relations between the two countries. They jointly visited a World War II-era monument, including a memorial for Koreans who died in the 1945 atomic bombing, highlighting the ongoing efforts to mend their historically fractious relationship.

At the Group of Seven summit, Japan, South Korea, and the U.S. will explore ways to enhance their collective approach to trade, supply chains, and challenges posed by China. The talks aim to build on recent diplomatic efforts and create effective mechanisms for cooperation. Andrew Yeo of the Brookings Institution highlighted the need for U.S. coordination with allies to effectively compete with China.

South Korea's deputy prime minister and finance minister, Choo Kyung-ho, highlighted liquid natural gas (LNG) as a key area for potential cooperation with Japan, citing the similarities in their energy needs. This comes as both nations work on mending their bilateral relations.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, on his first official visit to the U.S., addressed speculation about South Korea potentially developing its own nuclear weapons. Amidst North Korea's new weapons tests, Yoon and other conservative politicians have suggested that South Korea cannot solely rely on American protection and should consider an independent nuclear arsenal for national security.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, during his first official trip to the U.S., addressed speculation about South Korea developing its own nuclear weapons. Conservative politicians, including Yoon, had argued that North Korea's weapons tests necessitated South Korea's own nuclear arsenal to ensure public security, as reliance on the U.S. alone might not be sufficient.

South Korea's economy grew by 0.3% in the first quarter of the year, avoiding a technical recession. This follows a 0.4% contraction in the previous quarter. The growth exceeded the average forecast of 16 economists polled by Reuters, which predicted a 0.2% increase.

Yoon Suk Yeol aims to use his first visit to Japan as South Korea's president to accelerate cooperation on regional issues such as supply chains and North Korea. He anticipates significant collaboration among South Korea, Japan, the U.S., and Taiwan, particularly in the semiconductor industry, to secure global supply chains.

South Korea's conservative government proposed a plan to compensate Korean laborers forced to work for Japanese companies during World War II. This move, involving a government foundation using private donations to compensate 15 victims who won legal cases in 2018, is seen as an effort to improve relations with Japan.

South Korea announced a plan to compensate Korean laborers forced to work for Japanese companies during World War II, aiming to resolve historical tensions with Japan. The compensation will be managed by a government foundation using private sector donations, targeting 15 victims who won legal cases against Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Nippon Steel in 2018.

Kim Jong Un's public display of affection towards his daughter Ju Ae during North Korea's 75th army anniversary parade suggests she is being groomed as his successor. Ju Ae's presence at such events indicates a strategic move to ensure a smooth leadership transition and maintain the Kim family's control. The article highlights the ongoing commitment of North Korea to its nuclear weapons program, signaling that this focus will continue into the next generation. The narrative underscores the contrast between the regime's investment in military capabilities and the neglect of its people's welfare.

South Korea's largest trade union, the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions, has been raided by the National Intelligence Service on allegations of illegal contact with North Korean agents. The government's actions are seen as an attempt to suppress the labor movement, with historical references to past administrations using similar tactics. Gig worker Kim Joo-hwan is organizing for better working conditions and criticizes the government's divisive approach towards workers. The labor movement's left-wing activism and opposition to certain government policies are highlighted, as well as recent controversies involving President Yoon Suk-yeol.

Kim Joo-hwan, a gig worker in South Korea, is part of a growing movement of platform-based workers organizing for better conditions. The conservative government led by President Yoon Suk-yeol has been accused of using anti-communist tactics to suppress unions, including recent raids on the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU) over alleged North Korean contacts. Critics argue that the National Security Law is being misused to stifle left-wing activism, while unions claim the government is scapegoating them to divert attention from its own controversies. The KCTU continues to advocate for workers' rights amid these political tensions.

The US's efforts to strengthen its semiconductor industry and counter China's technological progress have caused concerns in South Korea and Taiwan, both of which have significant economic ties to China. The Chips and Science Act, signed by President Joe Biden, aims to boost domestic chip manufacturing and includes measures to prevent companies from expanding in China. South Korean and Taiwanese companies, leaders in the global chip market, are facing challenges due to these US policies. South Korea's government has responded by increasing tax credits for tech investments, while in Taiwan, there are worries about the potential impact on the local industry. Despite these concerns, TSMC, Samsung, and SK Hynix are planning investments in new US facilities. The situation reflects the complex interdependencies in the global semiconductor industry and the geopolitical tensions between the US and China.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol announced in a New Year's address that South Korea and the U.S. will complete a strengthened defense posture in the first half of the year to counter North Korea's nuclear and missile threats. The speech also covered topics such as housing, education, and the economy.

Workers at Coupang, South Korea's leading e-commerce firm, are protesting for better working conditions, including adequate air conditioning and rest time, amidst record-setting summer temperatures. The physically demanding work has led to health concerns and worker deaths, with labor groups citing strenuous conditions as factors. Coupang, which is the country's third-largest employer and has faced losses despite rapid growth, claims to meet government standards for worker health and has installed cooling units. However, workers argue these measures are insufficient. The company's financial outlook is further challenged by South Korea's economic situation, characterized by slow growth and high inflation.

In Seoul, South Korea, food delivery drivers like Park Jung-hoon are struggling with the cost-of-living crisis, exacerbated by record-setting summer heat and high petrol prices. Drivers are paid per delivery, with fees determined by an algorithm, but have not seen rates increase despite rising fuel costs. Park, who also operates Rider Union, highlights the dangers and financial pressures faced by drivers, who are classified as independent contractors without legal protections such as a minimum wage or accident insurance. The food delivery market has seen explosive growth, yet drivers are not reaping the benefits. President Yoon Suk-yeol has acknowledged the severity of the crisis and is seeking solutions. Park's activism includes advocating for better working conditions and educating drivers about their rights, while considering the impact of the crisis on his personal life and potential future family.

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen advocates for 'friend-shoring' of supply chains to mitigate inflation and shortages, urging US allies like South Korea and Japan to enhance trade cooperation. Yellen's Asia trip, including visits to Japan and G20 meetings in Indonesia, emphasizes the need to counteract economic threats from Russia and China. The strategy aims to build trade networks among friendly nations, though some economists warn it could disrupt free trade. Yellen's visit to South Korea includes discussions on a price cap on Russian oil and meetings with key officials, amid South Korea's economic challenges and political dynamics.

Edward, a taxi driver in Manila, faces rising gas prices and a lack of safety nets despite recovering demand post-COVID-19. Gig workers in the Philippines, already vulnerable, fear further challenges under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, who may not support labor rights and could suppress critics. Experts and advocates call for government and companies to provide better protections and benefits for gig workers. Startups like Gigacover offer private insurance solutions, while Grab has its own insurance program. Marcos Jr faces economic challenges, including inflation and national debt, requiring balanced growth strategies.

The Philippines faces ongoing infrastructure challenges as Ferdinand Marcos Jr prepares to assume the presidency. Despite efforts by the previous Duterte administration to improve infrastructure through the Build, Build, Build initiative, many Filipinos still lack basic amenities. Political analysts are uncertain how Marcos Jr will govern and whether he will continue Duterte's infrastructure drive. The country's history of corruption and inefficient project execution casts doubt on future improvements. The article reflects on the past experiences of Edgardo Perea, an engineer who worked on a water project that was never completed due to political upheaval.

South Korea's minimum wage debate intensifies under the new conservative administration of Yoon Suk-yeol, with workers and employers at odds over wage increases amid rising living costs and economic challenges. While the previous administration under Moon Jae-in significantly raised the minimum wage to combat inequality, Yoon's market-driven approach signals a potential shift. Labour groups demand further wage hikes to match inflation, whereas employers argue that small businesses cannot bear additional financial burdens. The contentious negotiations highlight the broader economic and social implications for South Korea's workforce.

In Seoul, South Korea, logistics workers are protesting against CJ Logistics, demanding better working conditions and adherence to a previously agreed-upon deal. The protest highlights the harsh conditions faced by delivery drivers, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and increased competition from companies like Coupang. The issue has gained political attention ahead of the presidential election, with candidates Lee Jae-myung and Yoon Seok-yul offering contrasting views on labor rights. The article underscores the need for collective bargaining and better communication between workers and management.

South Korea's new Serious Disasters Punishment Act holds CEOs and management legally accountable for workplace accidents, with penalties including prison time and hefty fines. The law aims to shift responsibility to business leaders for ensuring safety, but faces criticism for its ambiguous provisions and potential negative impact on small businesses and foreign investment. Labor advocates argue the law is necessary to address long-standing safety issues, while business owners fear it will stifle economic activity. The law's introduction follows a history of high-profile industrial accidents in South Korea, highlighting the need for improved workplace safety standards.

South Korean President Moon Jae-in's tour of the Middle East highlights South Korea's expanding influence in entertainment, energy, and military sectors. Key developments include a $3.5 billion missile deal with the UAE and efforts to boost South Korea's export-reliant economy. The trip underscores South Korea's strategic partnerships in the region, with a focus on arms sales, cultural diplomacy, and energy cooperation. Despite challenges in domestic economic growth and stalled North Korea relations, Moon aims to solidify South Korea's international standing before his term ends in May.

North Korea's ethnic Chinese minority, known as hwagyo, are facing increased scrutiny and restrictions from North Korean authorities. Traditionally benefiting from easier travel to China and access to goods, hwagyo are now subjected to higher costs for travel documents and fines for non-participation in political events. This crackdown reflects broader economic challenges in North Korea, exacerbated by international sanctions and a struggling economy. Despite attempts to spur growth through relaxed commercial controls, the regime of Kim Jong-un is tightening its grip on economic activities to maintain stability. The situation indicates a decline in hwagyo's economic influence and worsening conditions in North Korea.

Bong Joon-ho's film 'Parasite' highlights the stark social inequality in South Korea through the story of two families, one rich and one poor. The film's success, including a Golden Globe win, comes amid growing concerns about social mobility and economic disparity in the country. The narrative resonates with many South Koreans facing high costs of living and limited job prospects. Experts discuss the film's portrayal of poverty and the challenges faced by the working class, while also critiquing the government's efforts to address these issues. The film underscores the persistent divide between the wealthy and the poor, suggesting limited opportunities for upward mobility.

Tokyo Korean Junior and Senior High School, the largest of the 70 Joseon schools in Japan, faces an existential crisis due to its association with North Korea. Despite providing a similar quality of education as Japanese schools, these institutions have lost government subsidies and students due to their loyalty to North Korea. The Japanese public and government view these schools with suspicion, exacerbated by North Korea's missile threats and historical grievances. The Zainichi community, which remains stateless and loyal to North Korea, uses these schools to maintain their identity amidst growing anti-Korean sentiment in Japan.

The Odd Family: Zombie On Sale, a South Korean horror film, uses a unique twist on the zombie genre to explore social commentary on class divisions and government ineptitude. The film follows a family exploiting a zombie's rejuvenating bite for financial gain, reflecting broader societal issues. Similar themes are present in other Korean zombie films like Train to Busan and Rampant, which critique government responses to disasters and social inequalities. Despite mixed critical reception, The Odd Family has secured international sales, indicating the genre's growing global appeal.