Photo : The Korea Times

South Korea’s President's approval rating dips by 13 per cent

Korea Reader | 06 December 2024, Friday | Vol.1 Nos. 230
South Korea’s President's approval rating dips by 13 per cent
On 06 December, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol’s approval rating dipped to 13 per cent an all-time low for the President. Gallup conducted the survey with 1,001 adults over the age of 18. The assessment of Yoon’s popularity fell by 3 per cent, which is the lowest since he took office in 2022. The negative assessment rose to a record high of 75 per cent, with 19 per cent of respondents citing economic concerns and the recent debacle by Yoon.  The general support for the People Power Party fell by 5 per cent from the previous week while the opposition party Democratic Party of Korea saw a positive hike of 4 per cent. This shift in mood is owed to the recent action by South Korea’s President, who abruptly imposed Martial Law that was readily revoked in the span of a few hours. The move by Yoon was seen as a desperate power-grabbing attempt that he failed. (“Yoon's approval rating dips to 13% following martial law chaos: poll,” The Korea Times, 06 December 2024)

Korea Reader | 05 December 2024, Thursday | Vol.1 Nos. 229
South Korea’s opposition parties move motion to impeach the President
On 05 December, South Korea’s main opposition party Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) announced that they would push for the impeachment of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol. This comes after Yoon called for an emergency Martial Law to be instated over South Korea which was readily retracted within a few hours of public and government outrage. DPK and other opposition parties have now moved a motion to impeach the President. The opposition argues that Yoon’s action violated the South Korean Constitution and other laws. DPK’s deputy spokesperson Chi Seung-rae informed that they will hold a vote on the impeachment motion, to give the ruling party more time to decide on Yoon’s actions. The motion was moved in South Korea’s National Assembly calling for the impeachment of the President. According to the law, the impeachment motion must be put to vote within 72 hours of moving. To pass the motion a two-thirds majority is required. (“Main opposition seeks vote on Yoon impeachment motion Saturday,” The Korea Times, 05 December 2024)

Korea Reader | 04 December 2024, Wednesday | Vol.1 Nos. 228
American man charged with weapons smuggling to North Korea
On 03 December, a California resident, Shenghua Wen, faced federal charges for illegally shipping weapons and ammunition to North Korea with alleged intentions of supporting a potential surprise military operation. Wen arrived in the US on a student visa in 2012 and remained in the country illegally. According to federal prosecutors, he was contacted by North Korean officials who instructed him to procure military goods. Wen reportedly purchased a firearms business, misrepresented shipments as mundane items like refrigerator parts, and was wired approximately USD 2 million for his operations. The FBI seized 50,000 rounds of ammunition and specialised military devices from his Ontario home. Furthermore, US Attorney Martin Estrada emphasised the importance of protecting the nation from hostile foreign states with adverse interests. (Jaimie Ding And Amy Taxin, “California man charged with shipping weapons to North Korea,” AP News, 04 December 2024)

Korea Reader | 03 December 2024, Tuesday | Vol.1 Nos. 227
North Korea to hold Workers’ Party of Korea’s 11th plenary meeting, reports KCNA
On 03 December, KCNA reported that North Korea is preparing to convene the 11th plenary meeting of its ruling Workers’ Party of Korea (WPK) in late December. This is a crucial gathering traditionally used to outline national policy directions. Leader Kim Jong-un is expected to articulate his strategic stance, particularly concerning potential interactions with the incoming US administration. The meeting aims to review 2024’s policy execution and chart the course for 2025, with important announcements regarding nuclear programs and international relations. Kim’s recent rhetoric suggests continued scepticism towards US diplomacy. This reflects his past assessment of Washington’s “hostile policy” and his commitment to strengthening North Korea’s nuclear capabilities. (“N. Korea to convene key party meeting in late December weeks ahead of Trump's inauguration,” The Korea Times, 03 December 2024)

Korea Reader | 01-02 December 2024, Sunday-Monday | Vol.1 Nos. 225-226
South Korea’s diplomatic setback over Sado Island memorial, says an opinion in The Korea Herald
On 01 December, an opinion in The Korea Herald stated that South Korea’s fallout with Japan over the Sado Island memorial ceremony highlighted missteps and unresolved historical tensions. Seoul had anticipated the event to honour Korean forced labour victims but faced disappointment due to Japan’s late disclosure of details and insufficient cooperation. Critics fault South Korea’s Foreign Ministry for focusing narrowly on securing a senior Japanese official’s attendance while neglecting key priorities such as ensuring victim families’ participation. Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul admitted South Korea had received another “bounced check” from Japan which echoed past failures. This also included the 2015 UNESCO controversy over Hashima Island. The memorial event also fell short of addressing Korean forced labour at the Sado Gold Mines. Victims’ families were informed late, with only a few able to attend, and Japan declined to cover travel costs. Despite media backlash, Seoul continued arrangements until abruptly cancelling on 23 November. Cho said: “We cannot guarantee success,” emphasising the challenges of enforcing UNESCO commitments amid strained relations and lingering mistrust between the two nations. ( Ji Da-gyum, “Inside Korea’s diplomatic failure at Japan’s memorial ceremony,” The Korea Herald, 01 December 2024)

North Korea’s wig trade tied to forced labour in prison camps
On 01 December, The Korea Times reported that a recent report by the Citizens’ Alliance for North Korean Human Rights revealed that approximately 70 per cent of North Korea’s wig exports are produced through forced labour by female inmates in correctional camps. At the Chongori Correctional Camp No 12, located in North Hamgyong Province, 80 per cent of the 1,000 annual inmates are women many of who are repatriated defectors from China. These women endure harsh conditions, including beatings, hazardous work, and limited food, resulting in a 25 per cent mortality rate annually. North Korea partners with Chinese firms, using the Rason Special Economic Zone to export goods like wigs and artificial eyelashes labelled as “made in China,” bypassing sanctions. From 2016 to August 2024, forced labour at Chongori generated USD 1.2 million for the regime. The report highlights this system as state-sponsored human trafficking, with economic gains rooted in exploitation and the global supply chain. (Kim Hyun-bin, “Forced labor drives North Korea's wig exports: report,” The Korea Times, 01 December 2024)

Korea Reader | 30 November 2024, Saturday | Vol.1 No. 224
North Korea reaffirms support for Russia’s Ukraine war 
On 29 November, North Korea’s leader Kim Jong-un met with Russia’s Defense Minister Andrei Belousov and expressed full support for Russia’s military actions in Ukraine. Kim condemned Western missile support to Ukraine, calling it a “direct” military intervention and affirming Russia’s right to self-defence. The meeting underscores deepening military cooperation between the two nations, formalised by a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty signed in June. North Korea has reportedly sent thousands of troops to Russia’s western Kursk region, raising international concerns about expanding the Ukraine conflict. Both countries are exploring expanded strategic and tactical cooperation. Belousov further indicated a willingness to enhance mutually beneficial relations. (“NK leader meets Russia's defense chief, vows continued support for Moscow's war efforts,” The Korea Times, 30 November 2024)

Korea Reader | 29 November 2024, Friday | Vol.1 No. 223
South Korea reveals advanced L-SAM missile defence system to counter North Korean threats
On 29 November, South Korea achieved a significant military milestone by completing its homegrown Long-range Surface-to-Air Missile (L-SAM) system, designed to intercept targets at altitudes of 50 to 60 kilometres. South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol described the development as “groundbreaking progress” in responding to North Korean nuclear threats. The new system will integrate into the Korea Air and Missile Defense (KAMD), a critical component of South Korea’s three-axis deterrence strategy. Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun warned North Korea and stated that any missile provocation would be met with a defence system that would exact a price of “the end of its regime.” (“S. Korea completes development of L-SAM defense system with homegrown technology,” The Korea Times, 29 November 2024)

Korea Reader | 28 November 2024, Thursday | Vol.1 No. 222
South Korea announces USD 10 million policy financing for chip industries
On 28 November, The Korea Times reported that South Korea’s Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy to provide a policy financing package of USD 10 million for the development of chip materials, and equipment manufacturing. The government of South Korea aims to revive and support struggling industries that face trade threats with the election of a new US President. The Ministry also informed that the government also discussing taking over the financial burden of USD 1.2 trillion cost of building underground transmission lines. The Ministry said: “The government will supply the massive policy financing in 2025 to every corner of the industry, so Korea’s chip industry can overcome escalating market uncertainties triggered by the inauguration of the new government in the U.S. and China’s growing rivalry.” The decision came as there are increasing concerns that South Korea’s flagship firms Samsung and SK Hynix may no longer be eligible for subsidies from the US in Trump's second tenure. CHIPS and Science Act started by the Biden Administration gives Samsung USD 6.4 billion for its Texas plant and USD 450 million for the SK Hynix facility in Indiana. This subsidy measure is under threat as Trump has expressed concerns regarding the Act. The Korean Development Bank will also announce low-interest loans for chip industry players. (“Korea to provide $10 bill. of policy financing for semiconductor manufacturers,” The Korea Times, 28 November 2024)

Korea Reader | 27 November 2024, Wednesday | Vol.1 No. 221
North Korea to subjugate internal dissent over deployment in Russia, says South Korea's Ministry of Unification
On 26 November, South Korea’s Ministry of Unification noted that North Korea is doubling down on internal control over the citizens and the military. This is to subjugate any possible dissent that can arise against North Korea’s troop deployment in the Russian war. The Ministry noted the rare hosting of the 4th Conference of Battalion Commanders and Political Instructors of the Korean People's Army. It is believed that the event is aimed at quelling any military and internal unrest, in addition to building hostility towards South Korea. North Korean leaders worry that reports of casualty can harbor discontent against their authoritarian regime. North Korea aims to gain economic and better military and technical access. The Ministry believes that this alliance will be highly beneficial for North Korea as it would aid their upgradation after the war ends. (“NK tightens control to quell unrest over troop dispatch to Russia,” The Korea Times, 27 November 2024)

South Korea’s childbirth hike in September 2024: The biggest in 14 years
On 26 November, Statistics Korea reported that Childbirth in South Korea hiked the most in September in 14 years. The data compiled showed that 20,590 babies were born in September which led to a 10 per cent hike in the birth rate. This marks the largest one-year hike in newborns since January 2011. The statistics noted that the increase is owed to more couple marrying after 2022 as they recovered slowly from Covid. In 2024, the last quarter saw 61,288 babies being born, making it the largest quarterly growth since 2012. Statics Korea official Im Young-il said: “There is a high possibility that the total fertility rate for the whole of 2024 may hover above 0.72 and even reach around 0.74 if the current trend continues throughout the fourth quarter.” (“Childbirths in S. Korea rise by most in 14 years in September,” Yonhap News Agency, 27 November 2024)

Korea Reader | 26 November 2024, Tuesday | Vol.1 No. 220
South Korea to further alliance with the US with the new President in power, says South Korea’s Ambassador to the US
On 25 November, South Korea’s ambassador to the US Cho Hyun-dong noted that they will continue to develop their alliance with the US, in the best way possible with Donald Trump. These statements were concerned with possible diplomatic changes in the US-South Korea relations with the new President. Cho said: “We put the top priority on continuing to develop the best possible South Korea-U.S. alliance, regardless of the change in the U.S. leadership.” They will work closely to ensure combined defense posture through alliance noted Cho. He also noted that this alliance is crucial owing to the increased security environment and the deepening Russia-North Korea alliance. Cho said: “We will, in advance, manage the predictable economic issues, such as tariffs, the IRA and the CHIPS Act, and make every effort we need to create an environment favorable to our companies.” (“S. Korea committed to 'best possible' alliance with US under 2nd Trump term: envoy,” The Korea Times, 26 November 2024)

Korea Reader | 25 November 2024, Monday | Vol.1 No. 219
South Korean opposition party leader to be acquitted for election law violation
On 25 November, the South Korean Opposition leader will be acquitted on charges of getting a mayor’s secretary to make a false court testimony on his behalf. The ruling will also affect his future presidential candidature. Lee Myung is the leader of the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea. The allegation relates to false testimony in his 2019 case over election law violations. Lee was acquitted in the case, but the false testimony helped him avoid charges or acquittal. Lee was accused of framing and forcing the testimony over which he said he only asked the secretary to testify truthfully. If Lee is sentenced to prison term, he will be stripped of the parliamentary seat and barred from ruling for public office and the next presidential race. If he is only fined, Lee will only lose his Parliamentary seat but will not be barred from running for office. Lee also faces trials in four other cases. On the earlier trial, he was suspended and sentenced to one year in prison for violating election laws. (“Opposition leader set for sentence on subornation of perjury charges,” The Korea Times, 25 November 2024)

North Korea- Russia sign protocol for sports exchange in 2025
On 25 November, North Korea and Russia agreed to kickstart sports exchanges from 2025. KCNA reported that the two nations aim to bolster bilateral cooperation in many fields, owing to which they signed a protocol for the initiative. North Korea's Minister of Physical Culture and Sports Kim Il-guk and Russia’s Sports Minister Mikhail Degtyarev signed the initiative in Pyongyang. Both heads discussed ways to further sports exchange and cooperation but the details of the protocol were not disclosed. This year the two countries signed the “Strategic Partnership Treaty,” as they aim to expand bilateral relations, since then they have frequented bilateral dialogue and exchanges. The most recent one is the North Korean troops supporting the Russian army in the war and thousands of North Korean soldiers are sent to take part. (“North Korea and Russia agree to strengthen sports exchanges,” Korea JoongAng Daily, 25 November 2024)

Korea Reader | 23 November 2024, Saturday | Vol.1 No. 218
3,000 professors from 55 Universities in South Korea demand South Korean President’s resignation
On 22 November, over 3,000 professors and 55 universities participated in the protest and came up with a joint declaration demanding the South Korean President’s resignation. The protesters at the Dongguk University said: “We want President Yoon to step down immediately.” The protests are instigated by the public disappointment with Yoon’s administration, noting that many concerns and scandals are unresolved. On Yoon’s public apology, the protestors found his statement “beyond despair.” 177 Yonsei University professor issued a declaration that “What the Yoon Suk Yeol administration showed us during the first half of his term was incompetence, irresponsibility and reckless use of power. From the Itaewon disaster to Corporal Chae’s case, labor and media oppression, history distortion, submissive diplomacy to the U.S. and Japan, hostile North Korean policy, tax cuts for the rich, R&D budget and various cuts in research and development, etc., the government is unfathomable.” (“Over 3,000 university professors demand President Yoon Suk Yeol's resignation,” The Korea Times, 22 November 2024)

Korea Reader | 22 November 2024, Friday | Vol.1 No. 217
North Korean senior officer wounded in Kursk
On 21 November, Kyiv Post reported on WSJ note that a North Korean senior general was wounded in a recent airstrike by Ukraine, in Kursk. This is the first time a casualty has been verified of a high-ranking official from North Korea, as they aid the Russian side in the war. Thousands of North Korean troops are believed to be stationed and fighting alongside the Russian forces. It is estimated that 10,000 North Korean troops are currently deployed and that Russia is being heavily supplied by North Korea. Earlier this month Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy informed that there were casualties after their combat in Kursk, which included North Korean troops. (“First North Korean Officer Confirmed Wounded in Kursk,” Kyiv Post, 21 November 2024)

South Korea completed the vacuum vessel for the nuclear fusion project
On 22 November, South Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT informed that they successfully completed the production of the vacuum vessel for the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) project. The project aims to achieve full fusion power production. Currently, South Korea has completed building four vacuum vessels. South Korea is part of the ITER consortium launched in 2006 with the European Union, Russia, China, Japan, India, and the US. South Korea’s Vice Science Minster Lee Chang-yee said: “Based on the core technologies and manufacturing capabilities for fusion reactors acquired through our participation in the ITER project, we will take the lead in the upcoming nuclear fusion reactor construction market and strengthen our global leadership.” (“Korea completes production of core vacuum vessel sectors for int'l nuclear fusion research project,” The Korea Times, 22 November 2024)

Korea Reader | 21 November 2024, Wednesday | Vol.1 No. 216
South Korea’s global leadership in climate and diplomatic initiatives
On 20 November, South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol at the G20 Summit in Brazil advocated for the transition to clean energy and multilateral cooperation on climate issues. He claimed that South Korea provided the Green Climate Fund with USD 300 million, calling attention to how emerging economies are having a hard time achieving carbon neutrality. Yoon introduced the Carbon-Free Energy Initiative and promised to develop a carbon-free energy certification system. He held bilateral talks with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer regarding military cooperation between North Korea and Russia and strengthened international solidarity. Meeting with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Yoon proposed cooperation in critical minerals and announced the intention to start a Korea-Africa dialogue on critical minerals. His diplomacy touched several South Korea’s committed goals for sustainable development, technological innovation, and global partnerships. (Anna J Park, “Yoon pledges support for climate change action, clean energy transition,” The Korea Times, 20 November 2024)

North Korea and Russia signs a protocol and strengthens bilateral cooperation
On 21 November, North Korea and Russia signed a protocol expanding bilateral cooperation during their 11th Intergovernmental Committee meeting in Pyongyang. External Economic Relations Minister Yun Jong-ho and Russia’s Natural Resources Minister Alexander Kozlov formalised the agreement, focusing on trade, economy, science, and technology. The protocol includes plans to increase charter flight connections between Russian cities and North Korea, expanding beyond the current Vladivostok-Pyongyang route. North Korea’s leader Kim Jong-un hosted Russian delegation head Kozlov in a warm welcome. The alliance followed their June summit and new partnership treaty, which includes a mutual defence clause. The pact occurs at a time when the international community expresses fears that North Korean troops could be aiding Russia in its operations in Ukraine as the two nations deepen strategic cooperation. (“N. Korea, Russia sign protocol on expanding economic cooperation,” The Korea Herald, 21 November 2024)

UN passes its 20th resolution in condemnation of North Korea’s Human Rights violations
On 20 November, the UN General Assembly’s Third Committee passed its 20th resolution in a row this year condemning North Korea's human rights situation unanimously. This presents an important diplomatic declaration against the systematic oppression of the regime. The resolution also underscored recent declarations by North Korea to have abandoned reunification with South Korea and chastised severe curbs on freedom of thought, expression, or religion. They emphasised how the government funds its nuclear and missile programs through human rights violations The resolution demanded the immediate return of abductees and a high-level meeting to discuss the continued abuses. South Korea’s Deputy Ambassador Kim Sang-jin called the situation “crimes against humanity,” while North Korea’s UN Ambassador Kim Song rejected the resolution as a “political plot.” Pyongyang will continue to be pressured internationally to recognise and reform its human rights practices as truly critical in its relations for future peace and reconciliation. (“UN committee adopts resolution on N. Korean human rights for 20th straight year,” The Korea Herald, 21 November 2024)

Korea Reader | 20 November 2024, Tuesday | Vol.1 No. 215
Yoon calls for global action against North Korea-Russia military 
On 19 November, at the G20 Summit, South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol urged an international collective response to unite to stop North Korea and Russia’s military cooperation. Yoon asked G20 leaders to defend the rules-based international order and said: “I strongly urge North Korea and Russia to immediately cease their illegal military cooperation.” His remarks were immediate reactions to a speech by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov which avoided going into details about Russia’s Ukraine invasion or Moscow’s rapport with Pyongyang. Yoon’s condemnation aligned with the sentiments of leaders like US President Joe Biden, Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. He also stressed that South Korea is a bridge between developed and developing nations and that climate and energy challenges are areas open for discussion. At the meeting of the MIKTA, Yoon promised to boost its international influence as South Korea will assume the chairmanship in 2025, advocating for multilateralism and global peaceful endeavours. (Anna J. Park, “Yoon urges global unity against Pyongyang-Moscow ties at G20,” The Korea Times, 19 November 2024)

Korea Reader | 19 November 2024, Tuesday | Vol.1 No. 214
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un calls for “extensive and diversified” ties with Russia
On 19 November, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un stated while referring to the existing cooperation between his country and Russia that the cooperation should become “more extensive and diversified”. He held talks with Russia’s Natural Resources Minister, Alexander Kozlov on the side of the 11th session of the North Korea-Russia intergovernmental committee on trade, economic, scientific, and technological collaboration. Kim said they have strengthened solidarity since their new partnership treaty, signed in June and included a mutual defence clause. He underlined the need to “mutually and powerfully propel co-prosperity” between North Korea and Russia, marking a deepening of relations that have now reached “a new strategic level.” (“N. Korea's Kim urges extensive promotion of relations with Russia: KCNA,” The Korea Times, 19 November 2024)

Korea Reader | 18 November 2024, Monday | Vol.1 No. 213
Kim Jong-un calls for limitless nuclear expansion
On 18 November, at a recent Pyongyang conference, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un ordered the expansion of nuclear capabilities “without limitation” to prepare for what he described as “frantic” military escalations by adversaries. In an address to battalion commanders, Kim stated that his country’s self-defence should be based on nuclear power and indicated no satisfaction with current capabilities. He accused the “critical” trilateral alliance of the US, South Korea, and Japan as a threat to peace on the Korean Peninsula. Kim also claimed that the US and its allies are heightening international conflicts, particularly making Ukraine “shock troops” against Russia. However, he refrained from mentioning that North Korea has deployed troops to Russia, a fact recently confirmed by South Korea and the US. (“N. Korea's Kim calls for bolstering nuclear forces 'without limitation,' completing war preparations,” The Korea Times, 18 November 2024)

Korea Reader | 16 November 2024, Saturday | Vol.1 No. 212
Young American women back the South Korean feminist movement , reports The Guardian
On 15 November, The Guardian reported that young American women supported the 4B movement, a South Korean feminist movement rejecting marriage, childbirth, dating, and sex. The attempt has drawn intense global interest reaching millions of views on TikTok and X titled as women’s rights revolution. However, the feminist movement in South Korea is itself under attack. An office worker in Seoul said: “I had never heard of 4B until recently, I understand where all the anger comes from, but I don’t think avoiding all relationships with men is the solution. Like me, most of my female friends are more focused on their careers than dating right now, but that’s not because of 4B, it’s just the reality of being a young professional in Korea.” (“As 4B takes the world by storm, South Korea is grappling with a backlash against feminism,” The Guardian, 16 November 2024)

South Korea’s Democratic Party Chairman sentenced to one year in prison for violating the election law
On 15 November, Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) Chairman Lee Myung was sentenced to one year in prison by a local court and suspended for two years for violating the election law. Lee would be removed from his parliamentary seat and even banned from running for public office for the next five years, including the 2027 presidential election if the fine exceeds USD 713. Zeitgeist Institute’s director Eom Gyeong-yeong said: “This marks the first decision in Lee’s four ongoing criminal cases. For the DPK, the Nov. 25 ruling on charges of perjury is more important. However, today’s result may prompt the DPK to start a discussion of a Plan B for their presidential nominee for the 2027 presidential election. The change will likely be visible after 2026 local elections.” The court’s decision was made uniquely based on evidence and legal principles. Additionally, Lee is under trial in three cases, meanwhile, his wife was also being fined approximately a thousand USD for allegedly misusing a government credit card for personal use spending, (“Main opposition leader faces biggest crisis in political career after guilty verdict,” The Korea Times, 16 November 2024)

Korea Reader | 15 November 2024, Friday | Vol.1 No. 211
Kim Jong-un supervises suicide attack drones and urges for full-scale production
On 15 November, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un supervised the performance of suicide attack drones and urged the need for full-scale mass production. The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) stated that the suicide drones would use different striking ranges to perform the mission by precisely attacking the enemy targets both on land and sea with an inbuilt tactical means. Kim said: “The competition for using drones as the main means of military capabilities ... is being accelerated in the world, highlighting their expanding range of military applications, low production cost and simple production lines. His country has full possibility and potentiality to produce and introduce various types of drones and would seek the possibility of combining and applying "new and promising tactical methods" as required by modern warfare.” During the year-end party in December last year, the development of powerful unmanned combat equipment like spy and attack drones and the need for electronic warfare was ordered by Kim. However, in July 2023, North Korea flew five cross-border drones across the borders of South Korea, even entering the no-fly zone close to Seoul's presidential office and also unveiled two new reconnaissance and multi-purpose attack drones at an arms exhibition and paraded it. (“N. Korea's Kim orders mass production of suicide attack drones: KCNA,” The Korea Times, 15 November 2024)

South Korea’s Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul and the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held talks at the APEC meeting in Peru
On 14 November, South Korea’s Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul and the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held talks on the plan to subsidies the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting in Peru accompanied by their leaders at the APEC summit. The Duo also discussed bilateral ties between North Korean troops being sent to find the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict, criticising cooperation as an illicit which is deeply threatening both the Indo-Pacific and Europe. The Ministry stated that both have agreed to strictly cooperate with the possibilities of Russia’s military aid to North Korea in return for the deployment. The US State Department in a separate statement said: “They discussed strong concerns over deepening ties between the DPRK and Russia, particularly the deployment of DPRK troops to support Russia's war against Ukraine.”  Additionally, the meeting happened two weeks’ after Cho and Blinken met in Washington, DC for the two-plus-two meeting accompanied by the defence chiefs of both nations. Additionally, Cho sternly voiced out to end North Korea and Russia's military cooperation, stating that such collaboration would not only damage the Asia-Pacific region but also peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and around the globe. (“FM Cho, Blinken discuss concerns over NK troop dispatch to Russia,” The Korea Times, 15 November 2024)

Korea Reader | 14 November 2024, Thursday | Vol.1 No. 210
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol hints at deeper support for Ukraine 
On 14 November, President Yoon Suk Yeol stated the possibility of South Korea considering more backing for Ukraine due to North Korea’s involvement in Russia's war against Ukraine. Both South Korea and the US confirmed the deployment of North Korean soldiers to Russia's western front-line Kursk region to engage in combat against Ukrainian forces. Yoon said: “If they both do not stop their dangerous military adventure, we are prepared to implement appropriate effective measures, including strengthening support for Ukraine, in cooperation with our allies and like-minded countries.” Yoon also warned Russia for sharing military intelligence and technology with North Korea. Additionally, he urged both Russia and North Korea to end the illegal military ties and withdraw North Korean troops. In the APEC and G20 summits, he stated that he would advocate free and open trade with Latin America's growth. (“Yoon says S. Korea could increase support for Ukraine depending on NK-Russia military cooperation,” The Korea Times, 14 November 2024)

Korea Reader | 13 November 2024, Wednesday | Vol.1 No. 209
Korean tech giant Samsung ranked among the worst-performing stocks among global chipmakers 
On 13 November, Korean tech giant Samsung was ranked among the worst-performing stocks among global chipmakers like Nivida and TSMC. Samsung Electronics the world's top memory chipmaker shares fell low after four years amid the US impacts of the new administration. Additionally, Trump announced the imposition of a ten per cent tariff on imports and 60 per cent on Chinese goods, reducing demand for electronics products usage like chips. However, Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol voiced against Trump's threat on Chinese tariffs, that imports could provoke Chinese rivals to slash export prices and challenge Korean chip firms overseas. Furthermore, Samsung shares fell 34 per cent as their annual performance for the last two decades, while the SK Hynix shares rose to 32 per cent this year and the US chipmaker Nvidia has increased 199 per cent. (“Samsung Electronics shares hit 4-year lows on Trump risks, AI chips,” The Korea Times, 13 November 2024)

South Korea, US, Japan to hold second trilateral exercise
On 13 November, South Korea’s Chief of Staff stated that South Korea, the United States, and Japan will start the second trilateral multi-domain exercise aiming to strengthen security cooperation. The trilateral exercise will be conducted on South Korea’s international waters on the Southern Island for four months. The second trilateral exercise will aim to mobilize various warships and aircraft from the three sides, including the US Navy's USS George Washington aircraft carrier, the South's ROKS Seoae Ryu Seong-ryong destroyer and Japan's JS Haguro destroyer. The JCS said: “The three nations have strongly condemned North Korea's provocative acts, including the test launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), that threaten peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and within the region. The exercise reflects the will to deter and respond to such threats.” Additionally, in August 2023, the annual multi-domain trilateral exercises summit was agreed to be held regularly by President Yoon Suk Yeol, then US President Joe Biden and then Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida aiming to deter evolving nuclear and missile threats from North Korea. Similarly, in July 2024, the defence chiefs of all three nations signed the Trilateral Security Cooperation Framework, reinforcing their security cooperation and strengthening cooperation against North Korea's nuclear and missile threats. (“S. Korea, US, Japan to hold 2nd trilateral Freedom Edge exercise this week,” The Korea Times, 13 November 2024)

Korea Reader | 12 November 2024, Tuesday | Vol.1 No. 208
North Korean signs a defence pact with Russia
On 12 November, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un signs a defence pact with Russia. According to the North Korean Central News Agency, the treaty on comprehensive strategic partnership between North Korea and Russia was ratified a day before, while the treaty will be effective after both sides exchanged ratification implements. The treaty signed between both Presidents is committed to mutual military assistance in the event of an attack on either side. In addition, the United States confirmed the presence of ten thousand troops deployed in Russia's front-line Kursk region to engage against Ukrainian forces. South Korea’s Unification Ministry stated that both North Korea and Russia have completed all ratification procedures while only the formal exchange of ratification instruments is still on hold. An anonymous official said: “Exchanging ratification instruments can be done through embassies, or high-level officials may visit for an exchange ceremony.” (“N. Korea's Kim finalizes defense pact with Russia,” The Korea Herald, 12 November 2024)

US and Ukraine officials informed that 50,000 North Korean-Russian soldiers assembled at the Kursk region 
On 10 November, The New York Times reported a joint statement by the US and Ukraine officials that fifty thousand soldiers assembled by the Russian military began an assault on the territories seized by Ukraine in the Kursk region of Russia. The new US assessment confirms that Russia has powered the force without having to pull soldiers out of Ukraine’s main battlefield and allowed Moscow to urge on numerous fronts simultaneously. The Russian-North Korean offensive began after Donald Trump stepped into the White House intending to end the ongoing conflict. However, former President Biden has been supporting Ukraine and has also pushed Congress to approve funds to aid and has ordered the US military and spy agencies to provide intelligence. In addition, an anonymous Ukraine official said: “Ukraine’s surprise incursion into Kursk in August thinned out its forces across the battlefield in eastern Ukraine, leaving them vulnerable to Russian advances.” The Deputy Press Secretary of the Pentagon Sabrina Singh stated that the US expects the DPRK soldiers to enter and engage in combat, while another Ukraine soldier stated that the North Korean forces have been divided into an assault unit and a support unit helping the Russians to provide security inside the territory recaptured from Ukrainian forces. Furthermore, US officials believe that North Korea expects to receive rocket and missile technology from Russia in terms of diplomatic relationship while Ukrainian officials stated that North Korea will battle-harden its troops and understand war tactics in Russia, a few US defence officials said: “They did not know if North Korea would send additional reinforcements. A senior Ukrainian official said Ukrainian intelligence officials had predicted that North Korea could send as many as 100,000 troops.” (“50,000 Russian and North Korean Troops Mass Ahead of Attack, U.S. Says,” The New York Times, 12 November 2024)

Korea Reader | 11 November 2024, Monday | Vol.1 No. 207
South Korea’s President approval rating plummets 
On 10 November, President Yoon Suk Yeol’s government hit a critical juncture in his first half-term after Gallup Korea announced a record-low 17 per cent approval rating. This is followed by controversy surrounding a recorded phone call involving President Yoon and power broker Myung Tae-kyun regarding potential interference in party nominations. Political Commentator Park Sang-byeong described the administration as entering “a vegetative state.” Meanwhile, the Democratic Party filed a bill to pass an investigation by special counsel into First Lady Kim Keon Hee, concerning a variety of allegations, from probable participation in stock manipulation to receiving a luxury Dior bag and election-related wrongdoings. In response, People Power Party (PPP) Chair Han Dong-hoon advocated for an independent inspector general that was abolished in 2016. However, more challenges await Yoon in the South Korea-US alliance due to growing pressure surrounding Donald Trump’s return to the presidency and how this will affect the area. (Jung Min-kyung, “Yoon struggles amid lowest approval rating,” The Korea Herald, 10 November 2024)

Korea and Britain initiate third round of FTA upgrade talks
On 11 November, Korea and Britain started the third round of talks to upgrade their bilateral free trade agreement (FTA) in response to changing world trade conditions. The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy of Korea stated that the four-day talks will focus on services, supply chains, digital trade, and biotechnology. Korea’s chief negotiator Kwon Hye-jin said: “Britain is our key partner and an economically in emerging sectors.” The FTA signed in August 2019 came into effect in January 2021 when Britain left the European Union. (“Korea, Britain launch new round of talks for upgrading FTA,” The Korea Times, 11 November 2024)

Korea Reader  | 08 November 2024, Thursday | Vol.1 No. 207
Series of missile launches from North Korea and South Korea
On 05 November, North Korea fired short-range ballistic missiles and additionally fired a new Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM). On 08 November, South Korea fired a Hyunmoo-II surface-to-surface ballistic missile into the Yellow Sea showcasing its retaliatory power against North Korea’s series of missile launches. South Korean missile unit fired a complete unit of Hyunmoo-II aiming to attack its maritime targets mimicking North Korea’s missile firing. The Joint Chief of Staff said: “Through this live-fire exercise, our military demonstrated its strong resolve to respond to any North Korean provocation as well as the capabilities and posture for precision strikes against the enemy's origin of provocation.” Additionally, the Military stated that it would the situation very closely alongside the US. (“S. Korea holds live-fire ballistic missile drills after NK missile launches,” The Korea Times, 08 November 2024)

Ukraine-North Korean troops in battle for the first time in the Kursk, Russia
On 04 November, Ukraine for the first time fought against North Korean troops in the Kursk region of Russia. Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov stated that a small group of North Korean soldiers were confronted, while Ukraine's leader Volodymyr Zelensky stated that the first battle with North Korea unlocked a new chapter of volatility in the world. South Korea has stated that it did not believe that both troops wouldn’t have engaged in direct combat. Additionally, South Korea, the US intelligence, and NATO stated that they have credible confirmation on North Korean troops being deployed in the ongoing Ukraine War. However, there has been no direct response from Russia and North Korea. Ukraine's top counter-disinformation official Andriy Kovalenko confirmed that North Korean military units had come under fire on 04 November in the Kursk region. South Korean broadcaster KBS, Rustem Umerov said: “They're wearing Russian uniforms, they're undergoing tactical training, and they're being deployed under various commands of the Russian army on the front lines.” Furthermore, a few anonymous analysts stated that North Korea might receive access to Russian military technology in exchange for troops. On 06 November, Russian lawmakers voted for the mutual defence treaty ratification against North Korea. (“Ukraine says it fought N Korean troops for the first time,” BBC, 08 November 2024)

Korea Reader | 07 November 2024, Thursday | Vol.1 No. 206
South Korea’s President expresses “heartfelt regret” over the First Lady scandal
On 07 November, South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol apologised in public and expressed “heartfelt regrets” over the recent controversies that have hounded his administration and First Lady Kim Keon Hee. He spoke on “shortcomings” during his tenure while acknowledging how some policies and issues with those close to him must have caused “discomfort” among the public. Yoon stated that even as she acknowledged that she should have acted “more cautiously” on luxury gifts and influence over government affairs involving Kim, the public concerns were “unquestionably wrong”. Despite opposition calls for the assignment of a special counsel to investigate the allegations, Yoon called the proposal “unconstitutional” and criticised the Democratic Party’s antagonistic stance. With approval ratings dipping below 20 per cent, Yoon promised to restaff his cabinet and continue legislation on healthcare, labour, and education reforms. But he also appealed to the opposition, which has a majority in the National Assembly for cooperation in passing key initiatives. (“Yoon offers apology amid growing controversies surrounding first lady,” The Korea Times, 07 November 2024)

Korea Reader | 06 November 2024, Wednesday| Vol.1 No. 205
Andy Kim becomes the first Korean American Senator 
On 05 November, three-time congressman Andy Kim won a senate seat from New Jersey in the US general election. He becomes the first Korean American to be elected to the upper chamber of Congress. Kim had served at the White House National Security Council and has a prominent foreign policy track record and he has also been a civilian adviser to Gen. David Petraeus and Gen. John Allen in Afghanistan. Kim said: “I hope I can be someone that can be a bridge between the U.S. and South Korea, someone that can try to show how beneficial that relationship is to both countries. It's a win-win.” Additionally, he also stated that his responsibilities would be to uplift the voices and concerns of the Korean-American community. Furthermore, he stated that Koreans have been living in the US for more than a century and their contribution in various fields like entertainment, arts, business, technology, medicine, and law fields has pushed now into politics. However, Kim earned a political science degree from the University of Chicago in 2004 and was awarded the prestigious Rhodes Scholarship and a Harry S. Truman Scholarship which allowed him for a doctorate in international relations from the University of Oxford. (“Andy Kim wins Senate race, becomes 1st Korean American senator,” The Korea Herald, 06 November 2024)

North Korea launches multiple ballistic missiles ahead of the US election
On 05 November, South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) stated that it detected multiple short-range ballistic missiles fired by North Korea just hours ahead of the US presidential election. The launch was detected from the Sariwon area in the western province of North Hwanghae before the missile landed in the sea. The JCS official stated that the launches had North Korea’s KN-25 super-large 600-millimetre multiple rocket launcher which is believed to strike any target in South Korea when fired from Sariwon.  However, South Korean officials have warned North Korea against testing the new Hwasong-19 intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) which is capable of reaching the US. Additionally, North's leader’s sister Kim Yo-jong stated that the missile launch was in retaliation to the combined air drill by South Korea, US, and Japan, which she further stated was the most hostile dangerous, and aggressive nature of the enemy. Furthermore, South Korean officials said: “A nuclear test remains prepared at all times. Activities for nuclear material production have been ongoing for the entire year, and there appear to be more (nuclear materials) than expected at the start of the year.” (“N. Korea fires multiple short-range ballistic missiles just ahead of US election,” The Korea Herald, 06 November, 2024)

Korea Reader | 05 November 2024, Tuesday| Vol.1 No. 204
17th Korea-Central Asia Cooperation Forum brings together South Korea and five Central Asian countries  
On 04 November the 17th Korea-Central Asia Cooperation Forum in Seoul brought together the foreign ministers, vice foreign ministers and chief delegates from five Central Asian countries of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan organised by South Korea’s Foreign Minister Cho Tae-Yul. However, all five Central Asian nations along with South Korea have aimed to forge a stronger bond and regional peace against the escalating tensions between Russia and North Korea’s military cooperation. Cho stated that the forum would be an important podium for South Korea and the five Asian countries at the inaugural Korea-Central Asia Summit. Additionally, the members have identified key sectors like supply chains, environment and climate change, digitalisation and tourism as key themes for the upcoming forum. Cho described the themes as “high-demand areas for collaboration” which will help the implementation of the K-Silk Road initiative. He also stated that North Korea giving weapons and troops to Russia makes the Ukranians prolong their suffering. He also emphasised that the military cooperation of North Korea and Russia would be a danger to South Korea and the world. (“South Korea and Central Asia set stage for first summit,” The Korea Herald, 05 November 2024)
On 02 November, The Korea Times reported that the sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, Kim Yo-jong, attacked the UN over its criticism of last week’s Hwasong-19 ICBM test. She asserted North Korea’s nuclear programme commitment. She responded to Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ criticism as “unfair and prejudiced.” She also questioned whether “peace can be ensured on the Korean peninsula” without the North’s self-defense measures while adding: “sanctions, pressure, and threats have only made us stronger.” Pyongyang’s Foreign Ministry issued a similar response as it criticised “hostile forces” for double standards for condemning North’s plans while failing to act on joint exercises conducted by the US and South Korea. The ministry declared that any additional provocation would face “stronger counteraction”. (“Kim Jong-un's powerful sister condemns UN's criticism of N. Korean ICBM launch,” The Korea Times, 02 November 2024)

North Korea fires short-range ballistic missiles into Korea’s eastern Peninsula
On 05 November, North Korea fired short-range ballistic missiles into Korea’s eastern peninsula ahead of the US presidential election. The South Korean and the US military are probing into the details of the launch. The South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff stated that missiles were launched at around 0730 hours from Pyongyang travelling 400 kilometres before they landed into the waters. The sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un Kim Yo-jong, criticised the US for flying its B-1B bombers with South Korea and Japan as a trilateral sir drill. According to the National Intelligence Service, Russia is believed to have been provided with KN-23 missiles by North Korea to attack Ukraine. Kim Yo-jong stated that this year the US and its followers have played several war games by imitating the usage of nuclear weapons against North Korea, she further said: “Among anti-Pyongyang military exercises cited by Kim were South Korea-US-Japan multi-domain exercise Freedom Edge and South Korea-US tabletop exercise Iron Mace. It is an undeniable reality that the destruction of the balance of power on the Korean peninsula and in the region would mean war.” However, South Korea’s Joint Chief Staff stated that the launches of missiles were illegal and violated the United Nations Security Council Resolutions. (“North Korea fires short-range ballistic missiles: JCS,” The Korea Herald, 05 November, 2024)

Korea Reader | 04 November 2024, Monday | Vol.1 No. 203
South Korean President promises to strengthen security over North Korean troops presence in Russia
On 04 November, South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-soo and President Yoon promised to strengthen security and defence amid security concerns over the North Korean troops being deployed in Russia. The call from the Prime Minister came against the illegitimate military cooperation and the expanding alliance between Pyongyang and Moscow posing a substantial security threat to South Korea. Yoon said: “The recent international security situation and the illegal military cooperation between North Korea and Russia pose a significant threat to our national security. We will thoroughly review all possible scenarios to prepare countermeasures.” However, Yoon’s speech also focused on next year’s budget worth USD 493.65 billion which is a 3.2 per cent rise from the previous year marking the first of its kind in eleven years of a sitting president denying to deliver a budget speech personally. Yoon said: “In the two and a half years since the government was launched, there has not been a single day without significant difficulties both at home and abroad. Our economy has faced severe challenges due to the global complex crisis, including persistently high interest rates, inflation and uncertainty in the financial markets, along with economic slowdowns in major countries that have led to a decline in our exports.” Additionally, Yoon emphasised four developments, i.e. pension, labour, education, and health care stating that these fields are urgent and critical and must be focused more for the nation’s survival, he also stated that the government is devoted to completing all reforms despite any obstacles. (“Yoon calls for thorough countermeasures against 'illegal' N. Korea-Russia military cooperation,” The Korea Times, 04 November, 2024)

South Korea, the US, and Japan conduct trilateral drills
On 03 November, trilateral drills were conducted by South Korea, the United States and Japan with a combined air drill off the east coast of the Southern Peninsula. The combined drill took place after North Korea launched a new intercontinental ballistic missile. The Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said: “During the drills, South Korean, U.S. and Japanese fighter jets escorted the U.S. heavy bomber over waters where the air defence identification zones of South Korea and Japan overlap.” The JCS further stated that the drills were to prove the bomber's capabilities to precision strike and it later confirmed that the drill was a non-live-fire exercise. Additionally, the US, Indo-Pacific command also stated that the exercise is a strong cooperation amongst all three countries to empower an immediate response over the regional security challenges. Furthermore, JCS said: “Amid joint efforts to strengthen trilateral security cooperation against evolving North Korean nuclear and missile threats. This exercise took place in response to North Korea's launch of an ICBM on Oct. 31. Amid gradually increasing security cooperation between the three countries, (we) will strengthen coordination to deter and jointly respond to North Korea's threats.” (“S. Korea, US, Japan stage joint air drills with B-1B bomber after NK ICBM launch,” The Korea Times, 04 November, 2024)

Korea Reader | 02 November 2024, Saturday | Vol.1 No. 202
North Korea-Russia to collaborate on nuclear arsenal development, reports North Korean Foreign Minister
On 01 November, North Korean Foreign Minister Choi Son-hui spoke during talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov about Pyongyang’s resolve to upgrade its nuclear arsenal as tensions escalate. Choi stated that the Korean Peninsula could become “explosive at any moment” due to worries over the nuclear component of the US-South Korea military alliance. She assured complete solidarity with Moscow’s moves in Ukraine and said: “North Korea would always stand firmly next to our Russian comrades.” Lavrov made mention of the proximity between both nations through the military and security services working together very closely. The meeting hints at closer military ties in cooperation between both states and Pyongyang insisted that they will persist with the nuclear weapons development program. (“Pyongyang to bolster readiness against nuclear retaliation: Choe,” The Korea Herald, 01 November 2024)

North Korea defends missile launches against UN criticism
On 02 November, The Korea Times reported that the sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, Kim Yo-jong, attacked the UN over its criticism of last week’s Hwasong-19 ICBM test. She asserted North Korea’s nuclear programme commitment. She responded to Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ criticism as “unfair and prejudiced.” She also questioned whether “peace can be ensured on the Korean peninsula” without the North’s self-defense measures while adding: “sanctions, pressure, and threats have only made us stronger.” Pyongyang’s Foreign Ministry issued a similar response as it criticised “hostile forces” for double standards for condemning North’s plans while failing to act on joint exercises conducted by the US and South Korea. The ministry declared that any additional provocation would face “stronger counteraction”. (“Kim Jong-un's powerful sister condemns UN's criticism of N. Korean ICBM launch,” The Korea Times, 02 November 2024)

Korea Reader | 30 October 2024, Wednesday| Vol.1 No. 201
Impeachment of South Korea’s Defence Minister demanded over plans to send troops to Ukraine
On 30 October, The Korea Times reported that the opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) threatened the impeachment of the Defence Minister for planning to send troops to monitor North Korean forces in Russia. DPK representative Kim Byung-joo threatened impeachment if the government went ahead with the plans without obtaining consent from parliament. The DPK’s Kim Byung-joo said that: “sending even one person overseas is equivalent to the dispatch of the armed forces”. Additionally, a lawmaker said: “If the government sends troops to the battlefields in Ukraine without parliamentary consent, the DPK will take various measures, including the impeachment of the defence minister. This is an extremely dangerous act of volunteering for a proxy war between North and South Korea," he said, suggesting the team could be used for psychological warfare against Pyongyang or interrogating North Korean prisoners of war.” (“DPK says will seek impeachment of defense minister if Seoul sends 'troops' to Ukraine without consent,” The Korea Times, 30 October 2024)

Korea Reader | 29 October 2024, Tuesday| Vol.1 No. 200
South Korean President warns about North Korean soldiers deployed in Russia
On 29 October, The Korea Herald reported that South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol warned about the possibility of North Korean troops being deployed by Russia to the front lines against Ukraine. The European Commission President’s office stated that Yoon had shared intelligence on North Korea’s troop deployments to Russia and discussed the retaliatory measures in a telephonic conversation with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. However, the phone call was followed by a previously held call on 21 October shortly after a high-level South Korean government delegation, led by First Deputy Director of the National Intelligence Service, Hong Jang-won, who gave instructions to NATO’s North Atlantic Council on North Korean troop deployments to Russia. Additionally, Yoon also signalled about his visit to Ukraine and said: “Today, I can confirm that North Korean troops have been sent to Russia and that North Korean military units have been deployed to the Kursk region.” According to the NATO chief statement, over six hundred thousand were killed and wounded in Russian President Vladimir Putin’s war who was unable to sustain his assault on Ukraine without foreign support. He also said: “NATO allies will continue to support a free and democratic Ukraine because Ukraine's security is our security.” (“N. Korean troops may deploy to Ukraine-Russia front sooner than expected: Yoon,” The Korea Herald, 29 October 2024)

Korea Reader | 28 October 2024, Monday| Vol.1 No. 199
Growing evidence that North Korean troops present in Russia-Ukraine combat zone, reports The Korea Herald
On 27 October, The Korea Herald reported that there was growing evidence to support the claim that troops from the North Korean People’s Army were on the verge of being deployed to support Russian war efforts in Ukraine. The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that an intelligence report from the Armed Forces of Ukraine had indicated that the Government of the Russian Federation was expected to deploy the first contingent of North Korean soldiers to combat zones this week. According to the Main Directorate of Intelligence of Ukraine, North Korean troops were already present in the Kursk Oblast of Russia where Ukraine launched an incursion in August. According to officials from the Government of Ukraine and the US Government, the exact role of North Korean troops in Ukraine remains unclear. However, the officials informed that the presence of North Korean troops in Russia would allow the Russian government to retain more of its forces in eastern Ukraine and focus on gaining territory. According to media reports, an estimated 3,000 North Korean troops are present in Russia. Reports also stated that the Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the North Korean People’s Army, Kim Yong-bok was present in Russia to oversee the North Korean troops stationed there. (Ji Da-gyum, “Signs point to N. Korean troops in Russia-Ukraine combat zone,” The Korea Herald, 27 October 2024)

Korea Reader | 26 October 2024, Saturday  | Vol.1 No. 198
North Korea constructs blockades along inter-Korean railways, reports The Korea Herald
On 25 October, The Korea Herald reported that the Government of North Korea was building new blockades along inter-Korean railways running along the eastern and western sides of the Korean Peninsula. A vice-spokesperson for the Ministry of Unification of South Korea, Kim In-ae informed North Korea had already built barriers at the undermined sections of the Donghae lines through additional construction projects. Kim informed that there were indications of similar blockades being built near the Gyeongeui lines as well.  Kim also stated that the Government of South Korea was closely monitoring developments in military cooperation between North Korea and Russia, and would be taking step-by-step measures. (Kim Arin, “Pyongyang erects blockades along inter-Korean railways,” The Korea Herald, 25 October 2024)

Security officials from South Korea, the US, and Japan express concern over North Korean troops dispatched to Russia, reports The Korea Times
On 26 October, The Korea Times reported that top security officials from South Korea, the US, and Japan had expressed their concerns over North Korean troops being dispatched to Russia. The National Security Advisor of the US, Jake Sullivan held a trilateral meeting with the National Security Advisor of South Korea, Shin Won-sik, and the National Security Advisor of Japan, Takeo Akiba to discuss the issue related to North Korea. The White House National Security Communications Advisor, John Kirby informed about the meeting between the three security advisors. Kirby informed further that the three advisors had demanded that Russia and North Korea stop these illegal actions. He also stated that they had reaffirmed their commitment to address common regional and global challenges and to promote security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond. Additionally, the three advisors also committed to continue building a trilateral partnership which would be a force of peace and stability. Shin informed he held bilateral talks with Sullivan; where they discussed possible responses to scenarios that could emerge as military cooperation between North Korea and Russia progressed. Shin also stated that South Korea, the US, and Japan had agreed to combat close ties between North Korea and Russia in tandem with the international community. (“Top S. Korean, US, Japanese security officials voice ‘grave concern’ over NK troop dispatch to Russia,” The Korea Times, 26 October 2024)

Korea Reader | 25 October 2024, Friday | Vol.1 No. 197
South Korea’s President Yoon supports the lethal weapons aid to Ukraine
On 24 October, The Korea Herald reported on South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol's recommendation for acceptance of South Korea’s longstanding policy on silencing lethal weapons aid to Ukraine, framed to be a sign of counterstrategy in response to North Korea’s dispatch of troops to Russia. Yoon said: “We have consistently provided humanitarian aid to Ukraine. However, if North Korea dispatches special forces to Ukraine through its cooperation with Russia, we will consider providing support to Ukraine in phases and take necessary measures to ensure the security of the Korean Peninsula. As a fundamental principle, we have upheld the policy of not directly supplying lethal weapons, but even in this area, we may reconsider our stance more flexibly depending on whether or not the North Korean military is active (on the battlefield).” The Yoon government is now re-evaluating after South Korea's intelligence agency confirmed that North Korea has been sending troops to Russia for training. However, on 23 October, the US and NATO recognized evidence of North Korean troops in Russia but both denied having an opinion on it. Additionally, South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul disagreed with the Yoon administration’s favor of providing lethal weapons, he said: “In the current situation, I believe it is a necessary measure to express a firm stance on taking strong actions and demonstrate the will to respond decisively, to urge a withdrawal and prevent further troop deployments, whether merely announcing considering plans to provide lethal weapons could be interpreted as South Korea’s participation in the Russia-Ukraine war.” (“Yoon signals flexibility in no-weapons policy for Ukraine,” The Korea Herald, 25 October 2024)

North Korea condemns G7 meeting of defence ministers
On 25 October, The Korea Times reported on North Korea condemning the latest G7 meeting by the defence ministers who called North Korea a war contractor group. In a joint statement, they reiterated their strong and stern support towards Ukraine and subsequently criticized North Korea's nuclear programs and its growing military collaboration with Russia. The Korean Central News Agency said: “The more desperately G7, only a 'shadow' of the US, slanders the DPRK's policy of the state nuclear force without any sense of orientation, the more it will reveal its criminal entity as a harasser of peace, confrontation maniac and war merchant.” Additionally, North Korea stated that the G7 has affected the Korean Peninsula issues as a first-class servitor for guaranteeing America’s domination using NATO’s military expansion. The Democratic People's Republic of Korea report said: “Explicitly speaking again, those who seek to deprive the inviolable right of the DPRK will have to pay a high price for it.” (“N. Korea condemns G7 meeting of defence ministers,” The Korea Times, 25 October 2024)

Korea Reader | 24 October 2024, Thursday | Vol.1 No. 196
The US and South Korea have credible evidence of North Korean soldiers stationed in Russia
On 24 October, The Korea Herald reported on the US and South Korean official's statement on having substantial evidence about the North Korean troops sent to Russia for the ongoing conflict. South Korea’s Chief of Spying stated that three thousand North Korean troops were trained to handle equipment like drones before entering the war zone, while US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin during his visit to Rome stated that there was credible evidence of North Korean soldiers presence in Russia. Additionally, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said: “North Korean officers and technical personnel have already been spotted in Russian-occupied territories. He did not specify when. I believe they sent officers first to assess the situation before deploying troops. He has cautioned that the participation of a third country could escalate the conflict into a world war.” Furthermore, Justin Crump, a former British tank commander stated that North Korea has already sent over thirteen thousand containers of artillery, missiles, and other arms to Russia since August 2023 to reload the decline in weapons supplies. (“What would N. Korean troops mean for the war with Ukraine?” The Korea Herald, 24 October 2024)

North Korean trash balloon notes criticize South Korean President and the First Lady
On 24 October, The Korea Times reported that a North Korean trash balloon landed at the presidential compound in Seoul containing leaflets condemning President Yoon Suk Yeol and first lady Kim Keon Hee. The South Korean military stated that North Korea launched a large number of balloons towards Seoul with an indirect warning to fly the trash balloons into the metropolitan area. The Presidential Security Service (PSS) said: “Early this morning, a North Korean balloon filled with trash exploded in the air, scattering debris around the Yongsan presidential compound. The objects posed no danger and had been safely collected.” Additionally, one leaflet accused Yoon of sleep-talking about the regime's end towards nuclear power, while another leaflet criticized the first lady as a modern Marie Antoinette, meaning a French queen associated with extravagance. However, in response, the South Korean military has been booming with anti-North Korean propaganda broadcasts through loudspeakers along the border and shooting down the balloons. (“N. Korean leaflets criticizing Yoon, first lady land in Seoul's presidential compound,” The Korea Times, 24 October 2024)

Korea Reader | 23 October 2024, Wednesday | Vol.1 No. 195
South Korea's support to Ukraine will depend on North Korea’s engagement with Russia, reports The Korea Herald
On 22 October, The Korea Herald reported on defense personnel statements that South Korea expanding its support to Ukraine, including offensive weapons, will depend on North Korea's terms of engagement with Russia. South Korean deputy national security director, Kim Tae-hyo, the said: “All weapons, whether defensive or offensive, can be used to kill. We may consider sending defensive weapons, or even offensive weapons if things get too far, what other options South Korea has may be revealed in time should North Korea and Russia deepen their military alignment, we are crafting a step-by-step plan to respond to the possible varying degrees of North Korean involvement in the war. I will not go further into which cards we hold as it could affect their judgment and calculations. The North Korean regime, which has been preoccupied with nuclear and missile developments while completely ignoring the livelihoods and rights of their people, is sending their youth to die in an unjustified war.” Additionally, the Institute for National Security Strategy, in its report stated that North Korean troops are already losing their life-fighting Russia’s war, the report further said: “The contingencies among North Korean troops could lead to discontent with or backlash against the regime within the North Korean military or among the North Korean general public at large.” (“Seoul to mull more Ukraine support based on Pyongyang’s level of involvement: official,” The Korea Herald, 23 October 2024)

South Korea plans to launch its third military reconnaissance satellite
On 23 October, The Korea Herald reported on South Korea's plans to launch its third military reconnaissance satellite in December aiming to strengthen its surveillance capabilities on North Korea. The SpaceX rocket carrying the satellite is scheduled to lift off in December, the Defence Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) stated that the launch will happen in collaboration with the US company, additionally, launch is a part of Seoul's plan to acquire five spying satellites by 2025 to monitor North Korea with a space-based platform. Furthermore, South Korea's first two spy satellites were launched in December and April, respectively; the first satellite equipped with an electro-optical and infrared sensor to capture detailed images of the Earth's surface, while the second one has synthetic aperture radar (SAR) sensors capable of collecting data regardless of weather conditions. However, the launches for the small satellites are scheduled between 2026 and 2028. (“S. Korea to launch 3rd military spy satellite in December,” The Korea Herald, 23 October 2024)

Korea Reader| 22 October 2024, Tuesday | Vol.1 No. 194
UN Command expresses that anti-Kim loudspeaker propaganda by South Korea encouraged trash ballon attack, reports The Korea Herald
On 21 October, The Korea Herald reported that the US-led United Nations Command statement which said: “South Korea broadcasting anti-Kim Jong-un propaganda through loudspeakers along the border with North Korea have encouraged, rather than deterred, North Korea’s launches of balloons carrying trash toward the South.” The Military Commission of the UN Command on 10 October communicated the conclusion of the investigation to North Korea’s Strategy Division and Joint Chiefs of Staff’s Joint Operations Branch. According to the memorandum, South Korean Minister of National Defense Kim Yong-Hyun said: “The findings by the UN Command were unacceptable, the minister asked that a request be made for the UN Command to reassess the conclusion reached in the special investigation and for ongoing negotiations on other issues to be put on hold for the time being.” Additionally, the memorandum stated that the ministry was attempting to counter the UN’s decision with the logic that the anti-Pyongyang broadcasts to prevent North Korea’s acts of hostility, however, the trash balloons were considered a breach of the settlement as well. Furthermore, on 09 June South Korea announced that it would restart the inter-Korean military agreement, as a response to North Korean interference. North Korea has constantly sent waste-carrying balloons on multiple occasions. After the South Korean broadcasts, North Korea has also begun airing pro-Kim Jong-un broadcasts employing retaliation. (“UN Command finds cross-border broadcasts trigger trash balloons: JCS memo,” The Korea Herald, 22 October 2024)

South Korea plans to monitor North Korean troops deployed by Russia, reports The Korea Times
On 22 October, The Korea Times reported that South Korea is considering send a team of personnel to Ukraine to monitor North Korean troops deployed by Russia. Seoul's spy agency said: “North Korea sent some 1,500 special forces to Russia this month to take part in the war in Ukraine. The North is expected to dispatch a total of 12,000 troops from an elite special force’s unit, according to an intelligence source. There is a possibility that personnel will be sent to Ukraine to monitor the tactics and combat capabilities of North Korean special forces dispatched in support of Russia.” Additionally, the government is also considering giving weapons support to Ukraine, this is a shift in South Korea’s policy where they avoided openly providing lethal aid. An unknown source said quoted by The Korea Times: “While watching signs of North Korea-Russia military cooperation, the response measures will be taken in steps. Rather than lethal weapons, defensive weapons will be prioritized, and even if lethal aid is provided, a way to send them indirectly will be first considered.” (“S. Korea considering sending personnel to Ukraine to monitor N. Korean troops: source,” The Korea Times, 22 October 2024)

Telegram photo shows Russia and North Korean flags together on the battlefield, reports The Korea Times
On 22 October, The Korea Times reported on a pro-Russia Telegram account with a photograph showing the Russian and North Korean flags side by side on a Ukrainian battlefield, an understanding of North Korea’s supporting Russia in the ongoing war. The photograph was posted by a blogger named @rvvoenkor_bot on 21 October and stated that the North Korean flag has recently been raised on a hill at the mine near the city; the suspected region where North Korean soldiers are believed to be stationed. Additionally, the North Korean envoy to the United Nations disapproved of the allegations from South Korea and Ukraine being blamed for sending their soldiers to fight beside Russia in the ongoing war. However, on 21 October, Russian Ambassador to South Korea Georgy Zinoviev told First Vice Foreign Minister Kim Hong-kyun that: “The cooperation with North Korea is not directed against South Korea's security interests and claimed that the cooperation is carried out within the framework of international law.” (“Russian, N. Korean flags displayed together on Ukraine battlefield,” The Korea Times, 22 October 2024)

Korea Reader | 21 October 2024, Monday | Vol.1 No. 193
North Korean troops spotted in Russia’s Far East region, reports The Korean Herald
On 20 October, The Korea Herald reported on evidence of the North Korean troop's presence in Russia's Far East region. The intelligence authorities of Seoul and Kyiv stated that North Korea is formulating to deploy its soldiers to the front line in the ongoing Ukraine War, termed to be Pyongyang's first major involvement in an international conflict. Ukraine's Centre for Strategic Communication and Information Security on 19 October released an audio-visual showing North Korean soldiers lined up and receiving uniforms and equipment, while CNN revealed surveys with uniforms and gear written in the Russian and Korean languages. Additionally, South Korea's National Intelligence Service also spotted that the soldiers were transported via seven Russian naval vessels between 08 to 13 October, eventually issuing fake identification documents and disguising them as Russian nationals from Siberian regions. A high-ranking North Korean official stated that he spotted a missile launch near the Russia-Ukraine war front line. At the same time, the US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin said: That he could not immediately confirm the media report, but Washington would look into the case further. I can't confirm those reports at this point, if that's true, it's serious, (it's) something that we'll continue to watch. We know that (Putin) continues to lose a lot of people, reiterating his earlier estimate that at least 350,000 people have been killed or wounded since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. (“Evidence points to NK's looming troop deployment in Ukraine war,” The Korea Herald, 21 October 2024)

North Korean diplomat criticizes the new multilateral sanctions led by US officials
On 20 October, Yonhap News Agency reported that North Korea's top diplomat criticized the new multilateral sanctions by the United States as unlawful and illegitimate and also warned that the participating countries would pay a price. North Korea's Foreign Minister Choi Sun-hui condemned the sanctions regime after South Korea, the US and Japan announced the launch of the monitoring mechanism would be held on 17 October with eight other countries after Russia's veto ended a UN monitoring panel's mandate in April. Additionally, Choi said: “The monitoring team is unlawful and illegitimate and constitutes a denial of the U.N. Charter. The forces involved in the smear campaign against the DPRK will have to pay a dear price for it.” He furthermore, criticized the US for its dominating attitude and warned of unavoidable reactions in response to harm to North Korea's sovereignty. However, the monitoring team is expected to monitor and report violations of UN sanctions, exclusively designed to prevent Pyongyang from advancing its nuclear and missile programs. (“N. Korea warns countries joining U.S.-led sanctions monitoring team will pay 'dear price',” Yonhap News Agency, 21 October 2024)

Korea Reader | 16 October 2024, Wednesday| Vol.1 No. 192
US calls on North Korea to stop engaging in provocative actions, reports Yonhap News Agency
On 16 September, Yonhap News Agency reported that the US Government had urged the Government of North Korea to stop actions that increased the risk of conflicts erupting. The US statement came after the North Korean government destroyed roads and land routes connecting North and South Korea. The roads were once seen as a symbol of inter-Korean cooperation. The spokesperson for the US State Department, Matthew Miller stated the US encouraged the North Korean government to return towards diplomacy and dialogue and reduce tensions. The spokesperson stated North Korea had taken steps which increased tensions, and encouraged it to take the opposite path towards reducing tensions. Miller also expressed concern over reports that North Korea was sending troops in support of Russia to Ukraine. (Song Sang-ho, “U.S. urges N. Korea to stop actions that raise conflict risk after blowing up of cross-border roads,” Yonhap News Agency, 16 September 2024)

North Korean youth petition to join and rejoin Army, reports Yonhap News Agency
On 16 October, Yonhap News Agency reported that millions of youth in North Korea had petitioned to voluntarily join or rejoin the Korean People’s Army Ground Force or North Korean Army. According to the North Korean government-controlled Korean Central News Agency, over 1. 4 million youth across North Korea signed the petitions. The petitions come amidst increasing tensions at the border between North Korea and South Korea. (“N. Korean youths’ petitions to join, rejoin Army,” Yonhap News Agency, 16 October 2024)

Korea Reader | 15 October 2024, Tuesday  | Vol.1 No. 191
Kim Jong-Un meets top security officials to discuss South Korean infiltration, reports Yonhap News Agency
On 15 October, Yonhap News Agency reported on Kim Jong-un’s meeting with top security officials to discuss South Korea's infiltration of drones and military action plans. North Korea stated that South Korean drones carrying anti-North Korea propaganda leaflets were detected over Pyongyang thrice, however, North Korea's military stated that it has ordered front-line artillery units to be fully ready to open fire. Kim insisted on carrying out immediate military action and recommended important tasks to be achieved in the operation of the war deterrent along with the right to self-defence for safeguarding national sovereignty. Additionally, Yang Moo-jin, president of the University of North Korean Studies said: “North Korea appears to have used the meeting to raise military tensions and security alertness while tightening social discipline and bolstering its internal solidarity.” Furthermore, Kim Yo-jong, the powerful sister of the North's leader, issued stern warnings to South Korea accusing it of flying drones into Pyongyang and alleged drone infiltration. (“N.K. leader holds security meeting to discuss S. Korea's alleged drone flights over Pyongyang,” Yonhap News Agency, 15 October 2024)

Korea Reader | 14 October 2024, Monday | Vol.1 No. 190
North Korea's military requires artillery units to open fire along the border of South Korea, reports The Korea Times
On 14 October, The Korea Times reported that North Korea's military requires artillery units along the border with South Korea to be fully ready to open fire. According to the Korean Central News Agency’s statement, it said: “The Korean People's Army issued a preliminary operation order on 12 October to the combined artillery units along the border and the units taking on an important firepower task to get fully ready to open fire, the military ordered eight artillery brigades fully armed in a wartime mode to be on standby to open fire and reinforced anti-air observation posts in Pyongyang. We warn repeatedly that we will take action according to our judgment, regarding any drones to be spotted again as the ones from the ROK and deeming it a declaration of war.” Additionally, on 12 October, Kim Yo-jong the sister of the North Korean leader warned that South Korea would face a horrible disaster if it flew drones into North Korea. She issued a back-to-back statement calling on South Korea's military to avoid the repetition of violating North Korean airspace. Furthermore, Koo Byoung-sam, spokesperson at the ministry said: “Whatever North Korea's intentions are, the North will not gain what it wants through intimidation and provocations, last week, North Korea announced it will cut off all roads and rail links connected to South Korea, its primary hostile state and invariable principal enemy and build front-line defence structures.” (“North Korea says it ordered front-line artillery units to fully prepare to open fire,” The Korea Times, 14 October 2024)

30 per cent of Koreans aged between 18 and 49 support the abolition of the national pension system, reports The Korea Times
On 14 October, The Korea Times reported that about 30 per cent of Koreans aged between 18 and 49 supported the abolition of the national pension system. When questioned if the government should increase the premium rate from the current 9 per cent of income, about half of people did not support the idea. However, the objection rate was much lower among people in their 50s (42.5 per cent), 60s (28.5 per cent) and 70s (22 per cent). In addition, the government is pressing to reform the system to make it more sustainable and reliable. The Ministry of Health and Welfare stated that it was seeking to increase the pension premium rate to 13 per cent of income and the replacement rate from 40 per cent to 42 per cent. Furthermore, the nation’s pension fund, one of the world’s largest with USD 850 billion in assets, is expected to be depleted by 2055. When asked to choose between the pension’s financial soundness and benefits for recipients, 55.5 per cent stated that the former should be considered first before expanding benefits when compared with 33 per cent who chose at the end. (“30% of young Koreans support abolition of the national pension system: poll,” The Korea Times, 14 October 2024)

Zelenskyy accuses North Korea of sending soldiers to assist Russia, reports Aljazeera
On 14 October Aljazeera reported on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused North Korea of sending weapons and soldiers to help Russia in its war against Ukraine. Zelenskyy said: “We see an increasing alliance between Russia and regimes like North Korea. This is no longer just about transferring weapons. It is actually about transferring people from North Korea to the occupying military forces.” He further stated that the front line needs more support in the ongoing Ukraine War with greater long-range capabilities more decisive supplies and increased pressure on the invader. He said: “True peace can only be achieved through strength and the entire next week will be dedicated to working with our partners for the sake of such strength, for the sake of true peace.” Additionally, South Korea’s Minister of National Defense Kim Yong-hyun said: “There was a high possibility of North Korea sending soldiers to help Russia on the battlefield in Ukraine and it was highly likely that reports that North Korean officers had been killed in a Ukrainian attack on Russian-occupied territory were true.” (“Zelenskyy accuses North Korea of sending soldiers to help Russia in war,” Aljazeera, 14 October 2024)

Korea Reader | 12 October 2024, Saturday | Vol.1 No. 189
South Korea to provide Myanmar humanitarian aid, reports The Korea Times
On 11 October, The Korea Times reported that the Government of South Korea had promised USD 23 million to help alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Myanmar. The President of South Korea, Yoon Suk Yeol promised the aid during the East Asia Summit. Yoon stated the conflict in Myanmar was a test of the problem-solving capabilities of the rules-based regional order; and that peace negotiations must begin immediately in Myanmar. Yoon also urged collaborations between countries on the release of hostages and a ceasefire to combat the humanitarian crisis in the Middle East. The South Korean President stated conflicts in the Middle East were closely linked to peace and security in the Indo-Pacific as well. Yoon also informed the South Korean government would try to ensure the restoration of peace through dialogue and cooperation amongst the involved parties in the conflicts. Other key points raised by Yoon at the summit included the threat posed by the nuclear activities of North Korea and its collaboration with Russia. Yoon stated the North Korean actions posed a threat to peace across the Indo-Pacific region. Yoon also met the Prime Minister of Australia, Anthony Albanese, and promised to increase cooperation between the two countries. (Anna J Park, “S. Korea to provide $23mil.to help alleviate humanitarian crisis in Myanmar,” The Korea Times, 11 October 2024)

South Korean envoy informs government will push for nuclear facility control, reports The Korea Times
On 12 October, The Korea Times reported that the Ambassador of South Korea to the United States, Cho Hyun-dong had stated the Government of South Korea would try to secure a facility for reprocessing spent nuclear fuel. Cho stated the South Korean government would treat this as a priority issue after the swearing-in of a new US government in January. The reprocessing facility is used for recycling nuclear fuel but can also be utilized to extract plutonium used for building nuclear weapons. Under a nuclear energy pact signed between South Korea and the US in 2015, the South Korean government cannot engage in nuclear energy reprocessing or uranium enrichment. The South Korean government has wanted the right to reprocess nuclear fuel amidst escalating nuclear and ballistic missile tests by  North Korea. However, Cho stated the South Korean government would not create its own nuclear weapons for the purpose of national security. (“S. Korea will seek to secure nuclear reprocessing facility in diplomacy with new US gov’t: Seoul envoy,” The Korea Times, 12 October 2024)

Korea Reader | 11 October 2024, Friday | Vol.1 No. 188
North Korean man crosses de facto maritime border into South Korea, reports Yonhap News Agency
On 11 October, Yonhap News Agency reported on a North Korean citizen crossing the de facto western maritime border into South Korea, aboard a wooden boat. However, South Korea's military monitored his activities and later assisted him when he crossed the Northern Limit Line near South Korea's border island of Baengnyeong in the Yellow Sea in the wee hours of 17 September. The evacuation took place normally from the initial stages without providing any further details on the man’s identity and the operation. Additionally, “North Korea's military said: “It would permanently shut off and block the southern border in what Adm. Kim Myung-soo, chairman of South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff, said in an attempt to prevent people from defecting from North Korea. After North Korean leader Kim Jong-un defined inter-Korean relations as those between "two states hostile to each other late last year the North has taken steps to close inter-Korean land.” Furthermore, In August, a North Korean soldier crossed the inter-Korean land border while another North Korean resident defected by crossing the neutral zone of the Han River estuary. North Korea has launched thousands of trash balloons as a tit-for-tat move against anti-Pyongyang leaflets sent across the border by activists. (“N. Korean man crosses into S. Korea in 3rd defection in 2 months,” Yonhap News Agency, 11 October 2024)

Korea Reader | 10 October 2024, Thursday | Vol.1 No. 187
South Korea elected to UN Human Rights Council, reports Yonhap News Agency
On 09 October, Yonhap News Agency reported that South Korea was elected to the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) for the sixth time. The UN General Assembly elected South Korea to the 2025-2027 term of the UNHRC through a direct and secret ballot conducted at the body headquarters. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of South Korea stated the election of the country to the UNHRC was an outcome of the active and across-the-board diplomacy practiced by the Government of South Korea, and showed its efforts to enhance human rights at home and abroad. The foreign ministry also informed the South Korean government would actively participate in discussions about international human rights issues, such as North Korea, and the endeavors of the international community to protect and enhance human rights. After its election to the UNHRC, South Korea holds membership in three key UN bodies including the Security Council and the Economic and Social Council. (Song Sang-ho, “(LEAD) S. Korea elected to U.N. Human Rights Council for the sixth time,” Yonhap News Agency, 09 October 2024)

Korea Reader | 09 October 2024, Wednesday | Vol.1 No. 186
South Korea parliamentary committee approves bill against deep fake sexual content, reports CGTN
On 25 September, CGTN reported that South Korea’s parliamentary committee approved a bill imposing prison sentences for the possession or viewing of deep fake sexual content. The committee also increased revisions to the act protecting children from sexual crimes and introduced stricter punishments for those who blackmailed minors. The bill is in response to rising public concern over digital sex crimes, particularly after the AI-generated deep fake pornography featuring female students and staff was shared. Additionally, a university student Ines Kwon said: “I've always been careful regarding personal information or photos, but with so many crimes these days involving AI and deep fake technology, I am even more guarded.” In addition to Ines's statement, another anonymous victim of deep fake said: “Six years have passed since I was a victim of AI-generated deep fake pornography. As I transitioned from a student to a working professional, it would be a lie to say the incident hasn't left its mark on me. However, when I think about other women who might suffer the same or even more severe harm, a fire ignites within me to become stronger and stand up against it.” Furthermore, the general secretary of Korean Women's Associations United Oh Kyung-Jin stated that the fundamental problem lay in the culture of misogyny where women were treated merely as sex targets rather than equal citizens. (“South Korea approves bill targeting deep fake sexual exploitation,” CGTN, 09 October 2024)

North Korea announces to cut off rail and road connections with South Korea, reports Yonhap News Agency
On 09 October, Yonhap News Agency reported on North Korea's military statement that it would cut off all roads and railway connections to South Korea and build strong defence structures in the areas in which it could respond to South Korea - US military manoeuvres. The North Korean People's Army said: “For our army to permanently shut off and block the southern border with the ROK, the primary hostile state and invariable principal enemy, in the current situation is a self-defensive measure for inhibiting war and defending the security of the DPRK, referring to South and North Korea by the acronyms of their formal names.” Additionally, North Korea stated that it was taking a more determined and stronger measure in response to the critical military situation on the Korean Peninsula. (“N. Korea to cut off roads, railways connected to S. Korea,” Yonhap News Agency, 09 October 2024)
 
South Korea and Singapore leaders agree to ensure a resilient supply chain
On 08 October, The Korea Herald reported on the agreement between the leaders of South Korea and Singapore to ensure resilience in the supply chain by signing a new bilateral arrangement to withstand supply chain crises, especially in advanced manufacturing, biotechnology and energy. In a press conference, Yoon said: “The two leaders agreed to address supply chains for strategic goods through close cooperation,” as they resolved to confront growing global economic instability. The bilateral ties between Korea and Singapore will continue to grow from strength to strength. In this dangerous, more volatile and more troubled world, partnerships between like-minded countries are more important than before.” Additionally, both countries have been signed by the trade authorities and have agreed to hold an emergency meeting within five days of a global supply chain disorder. The Senior Presidential secretary for economic affairs further said: “signing of the new arrangement was a step forward from the multilateral supply chain agreement signed by 14 partners of the US-led Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity, which had served as the basis for supply chain cooperation until now.” Furthermore, South Korea and Singapore aim to establish a strategic partnership next year, which would stimulate the growth of the two economies, including AI and start-ups. (“S. Korea, Singapore seal supply chain agreement,” The Korea Herald, 09 October 2024)