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South Korea’s Constitutional Court to rule on President Yoon’s impeachment verdict on 04 April

Korea Reader Daily Wire | 31 March - 01 April  2025, Monday- Tuesday | Vol.2 No. 71 & 72
South Korea’s Constitutional Court to rule on President Yoon’s impeachment verdict on 04 April
On 01 April, The Korea Times reported that the Constitutional Court will deliver its ruling on President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment on 04 April in the grand courtroom. This decision follows his impeachment by the National Assembly on December 14 last year, 111 days ago, after his December 3 declaration of martial law. The justices began daily deliberations 38 days ago after completing 11 hearings on 25 March. Live broadcasts and public attendance will be permitted on the day of the ruling. This trial is now the longest impeachment process in Korean history, exceeding the durations of former President Roh Moo-hyun’s 63-day and former President Park Geun-hye’s 91-day cases. (Anna J. Park, “Constitutional Court to announce ruling on Yoon's impeachment on Friday,” Korea Times, 01 April 2025)

South Korea’s wildfire causes immense damage, reports The Korea Herald
On 21 March, The Korea Herald reported that Wildfires in southeastern South Korea resulted in 75 casualties, including 30 deaths, and burned up to 48,239 hectares, destroying 3,285 homes. A total of 34,746 people were evacuated, with 29,969 returning home and about 4,700 still in shelters. Acting Interior Minister Ko Ki-dong described the damage as the “greatest” in Korea’s history regarding casualties and property loss. The government is converting public institution training centers into lodging facilities, setting up temporary modular homes, establishing 106 temporary shelters, and providing 4,462 instances of mental health support. In Uiseong-gun, where 12,821 hectares were burned, survivor Ma Bu-jin said: “If my house had just been flooded, I could have at least tried to bail out the water. But instead, it’s completely collapsed, and there’s nothing I can do.” In Yeongdeok-gun, recovery is delayed due to ongoing power, water, and communication outages. Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok announced that the government would request a supplementary budget of 10 trillion won to offset the economic fallout and external instabilities. (Lee Jung-Joo, “Long road to recovery begins in wake of South Korea's worst-ever wildfires,” The Korea Herald, 30 March 2025)

Korea Reader Daily Wire | 29 March 2025, Saturday | Vol.2 No. 70
North Korea’s illegal arms trade to Russia threatens South Korea, says acting President
On 28 March, South Korea’s acting President and Prime Minister, Han Duck-soo, claimed that North Korea’s illegal arms trade with Russia has enabled the regime to “plot new forms of provocations by upgrading its weapons system aimed to threaten us.” Speaking at the 10th West Sea Defense Day ceremony at the national cemetery in Daejeon, Han noted that North Korea’s “most degenerate regime on earth” continues to threaten peace on the Korean Peninsula and the world. He emphasized that South Korea maintains a full readiness posture, with “young soldiers” prepared to respond “immediately and overwhelmingly” to provocation. The remarks come as international sanctions ban arms trade with Pyongyang, while Moscow has expanded its military ties with North Korea. Reports indicate North Korea has deployed at least 3,000 additional troops to Russia in the first two months of this year. (Jung Min-kyung, “Acting president slams North Korea's 'illegal arms trade' with Russia,” Korea Herald, 28 March 2025)

Samsung’s Chairman met China’s President at the China Development Forum
On 28 March, Samsung Electronics Executive Chairman Lee Jae-Yong met with China’s President Xi Jinping during a meeting with global business leaders in Beijing. Lee participated alongside executives from Qualcomm, BMW, AstraZeneca, FedEx, and Saudi Aramco at the follow-up China Development Forum. Lee’s ongoing China trip also included meetings with CEOs of BYD and Xiaomi, where discussions focused on Samsung Group’s car component business, particularly in automobile semiconductors and panels. Samsung Electronics is already investing heavily in China, with its China-bound exports reaching 65 trillion won in 2024. The company currently operates a NAND memory plant in Xi’an, which accounts for approximately 40 per cent of its total output, and a chip packaging plant in Suzhou. While major new investments in Chinese chip plants are unlikely under the US CHIPS Act, facility upgrades remain possible under a waiver. (Nam Hyun-woo, “Samsung pushes for rebound through China ties,” Korea Times, 28 March 2025)

Korea Reader Daily Wire | 27 March 2025, Thursday | Vol.2 No. 68
Wildfires in South Korea claim 26 dead and burn 36,009 hectares of land
On 27 March, The Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters reported that the wildfires in South Korea’s southeastern region have claimed at least 26 lives and injured 30 people since its onset from 14 March. Authorities estimate that 36,009 hectares have been damaged across 10 regions, with the largest fire in northern North Gyeongsang Province burning about 33,204 hectares. A firefighting helicopter pilot died in a crash while responding to the fires. In total, 37,185 residents have been evacuated, and 325 facilities, including homes, factories, and historic sites like Gounsa Temple, built in 681 ADS, have been destroyed. The Korea Forest Service stated that fires in North Gyeongsang Province were 44.3 per cent contained overall, with varying containment rates in different areas. 5 millimeters of rain is expected, though unlikely to impact firefighting efforts. (Yoon Min-sik, “Over 36,000 ha scorched, 26 dead in largest forest fire, drizzle unlikely to help,” The Korea Herald, 27 March 2025) 
 
North Korea sends an additional 3000 military troops to Russia, informs the South Korean JCS
On 27 March, South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) reported that North Korea dispatched at least 3,000 additional soldiers to Russia in January and February, adding to a total of approximately 11,000 soldiers previously sent, with 4,000 casualties. The military noted that North Korea continues to supply missiles, ammunition, and artillery equipment to Russia, including a considerable amount of short-range ballistic missiles, around 220 pieces of 170 mm self-propelled howitzers, and 240 mm rocket launchers. The JCS also stated that North Korea appears to be making technological upgrades to launch another military spy satellite and is closely monitoring possible provocations, including launches of a solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile, a hypersonic missile, and a submarine-launched ballistic missile. (Yonhap, “N. Korea presumed to send at least 3000 more troops to Russia: JCS” The Korea Herald, 27 March 2025) 
 
TRC reveals past South Korean government’s failures in the abuse of overseas adoptions 
On 27 March, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) found that past governments are responsible for human rights violations in overseas adoptions from the 1960s to the 1990s. It noted that this was due to falsified records, legislative gaps, and inadequate oversight. The report was based on complaints from 367 adoptees sent to 11 countries, including Denmark, Norway, the United States, and France. It concluded that the government prioritized intercountry adoption as a cost-effective alternative to domestic child welfare and granted private agencies full authority without proper supervision. The TRC urged the government to formally apologize, provide remedies, and support reunions between adoptees and their birth families. Kim Yoo-ree, a Korean adoptee to France, said: “The Korean government and private adoption agencies are flying high, while victims of illegal adoption are left to crawl. I beg you to put an end to this disgraceful situation.” The commission’s announcement covered 56 of the 367 cases, with plans to review the remaining cases. (Lee Hyo-jin, “South Korean government blamed for human rights abuses in overseas adoptions,” Korea Times, 27 March 2025)

Korea Reader Daily Wire | 26 March 2025, Wednesday | Vol.2 No. 67
Eighteen dead as South Korea faces worst wildfire in its history, says acting President
On 26 March, South Korea’s acting President and Prime Minister, Han Duck-soo, announced that they were confronting the worst wildfire in its history. He said: “We are confronting the worst wildfire in our history using all available personnel and equipment, but the situation is not looking good,” and urged, “All efforts must be concentrated on wildfire containment for the remaining days of the week.” Han reported that 128 helicopters, 1,144 military personnel, 3,135 firefighters, 1,186 fire suppression specialists, and 4,652 public officials have been deployed. Strong winds have hindered containment, allowing the fire to consume 17,000 hectares of forest and destroy 209 homes and factories. At least 18 people have died and 19 injured, with over 20,000 residents evacuated as the blaze, which began in Uiseong-gun, North Gyeongsang Province, spread eastward to several towns and cities. Fire officials reported a containment rate of 68 per cent as of 9 AM on Wednesday, with the affected area spanning about 15,158 hectares. (Lee Si-jin, “South Korea battling worst wildfire in its history: acting president,” The Korea Herald, 26 March 2025) 

South Koreans call for the removal of impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol
On 25 March, Korean literary figures, including Nobel laureate Han Kang, called for President Yoon Suk Yeol’s removal as the Constitutional Court’s impeachment decision was delayed. Han said: “I believe in the values of life, freedom, and peace, which must never be compromised. Removal is about safeguarding universal values.” He, among 414 other prominent authors, each issued a statement. Novelist Jung Bo-ra declared, “I wish to live in a democratic world,” while Eun Hee-kyung demanded, “Punish the ringleader of rebellion and build a society of equality,” and literary critic Oh Youn-kyung wrote, “Delayed justice is not justice. Impeach Yoon Suk Yeol immediately.” In addition, the Writers Association of Korea, with 2,487 signatures, issued an emergency declaration emphasizing that the delay has intensified societal conflict, threatened economic stability, and damaged Korea’s international reputation. The association’s secretary-general, Poet Song Kyung-dong, who has been on a hunger strike since March 11, was rushed to the hospital after his health deteriorated. (Park Ga-young, “Han Kang and other writers urge immediate impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol,” The Korea Herald, 25 March 2025)

Korea Reader Daily Wire | 25 March 2025, Tuesday | Vol.2 No. 66
Samsung co-CEO Han Jong-hee passes away
On 24 March, Samsung Electronics Vice Chairman Han Jong-hee died due to a heart attack at the age of 63. He had held numerous key positions at Samsung including head of the LCD TV Lab, vice chairman, and co-CEO, and in charge of the Device Experience division.  He joined Samsung in 1988 rose through the ranks for years, and was appointed as the CEO in 2022. Samsung issued that: “Our deepest condolences are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.” (Jo He-rim, “Samsung CEO Han Jong-hee passes away at 63,” The Korea Herald, 25 March 2025)

Korea Reader Daily Wire | 22-24 March 2025, Saturday-Monday | Vol.2 No. 64 & 65
Constitutional Court reinstates impeached Prime Minister Han Duck-soo
On 24 March, Han was immediately reinstated as Prime Minister and acting President, taking over from Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok. The impeachment motion by the National Assembly against Prime Minister Han Duck-soo was dismissed by the Constitutional Court. Five of the eight justices voted against the motion, one voted to uphold it, and two dismissed the case. The impeachment motion was initiated 87 days after the Assembly accused Han of playing a role in President Yoon Suk Yeol’s 03 December martial law imposition and other actions, including rejecting nominees for Constitutional Court justices and vetoing a bill to appoint a special counsel. The court found no evidence that Han took active steps to justify martial law, and although his delay in appointing justices violated certain laws, it did not breach public trust. Han welcomed the ruling, describing it as a “wise decision.” (Anna J. Park, “Constitutional Court rules to reinstate PM in impeachment trial,” Korea Times, 24 March 2025)
 
Wildfires in South Korea damage 6300 hectares of forest, reports Korea Forest Services
On 23 March, the Korea Forest Service reported four people dead and six injured in a series of wildfires in South Korea. Over 9,000 staff and 105 helicopters were deployed to combat the fires. The fires damaged residential buildings and a temple and wiped out about 6,300 hectares of forests. More than 1,500 residents have taken shelter. Acting President Choi Sang-Mok said: “I request that the Korea Forest Service pay special attention to securing the safety of personnel in charge of extinguishing wildfires in the air or on the ground,” as he vowed to use all available resources to stop the fires. Three of the four fatalities were firefighters, and one was a public servant. (“At least four people dead in South Korea's wildfires,” Reuters, 23 March 2025)

Violence increases in South Korea due to delay in impeachment verdict, reports The Korea Herald
On 21 March, The Korea Herald reported an increase in violence and threats as the impeachment verdict for President Yoon Suk Yeol is continually delayed. Violent activities include the self-immolation of a 79-year-old Yoon supporter on 07 March near Seoul City Hall and the egging of opposition lawmaker Rep. Back in Hye-ryun on 20 March in front of the Constitutional Court. Back called the attack on her “an unacceptable act in a democratic society” and promised strong legal action. Opposition leader Rep. Lee Jae-myung criticized acting President Choi Sang-mok for not appointing the ninth justice, while the ruling party accused him of “inciting terrorism.” Professor Park Won-ho urged politicians and citizens to “exercise self-restraint” to avoid worsening societal divisions. (Lee Jung-Joo, “Impeachment ruling delay fuels surge in violent rhetoric, actions,” The Korea Herald, 21 March 2025)

Korea Reader Daily Wire | 21 March 2025, Friday | Vol.2 No. 63
North Korea’s Missile Administration launches multiple surface-to-air missiles
On 20 March, the Korean Central News Agency reported that North Korea’s Missile Administration test-fired its latest surface-to-air missile system from the western port city of Nampho. North Korea’s leader Kim Jong-un, oversaw the test alongside key Korean Central News Agency members of the party’s Central Military Commission. The test of the mass-produced missile system demonstrated the anti-aircraft missiles combat-fast response as “advantageous” and “highly reliable.” Kim stated that the army will have “another major defense weapons system with laudable combat performance.” South Korea’s military reported in real time the launch of multiple surface-to-air missile launches, which took place before South Korea and the United States announced the completion of their annual springtime Freedom Shield exercise.  (Yonhap, “N. Korea successfully test-fired latest anti-aircraft missile system,” Korea Herald, 21 March 2025)
 
Democratic Party of Korea calls for the impeachment of acting President, for holding off the appointment of Justices of the Constitution Court
On 21 March, the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) announced an impeachment motion against acting President Choi Sang-mok over his non-appointment of a ninth justice at the Constitutional Court. In late December, Choi appointed two justices but held off on the appointment of opposition-recommended Justice candidate Ma Eun-hyuk, citing the need for a bipartisan consensus. The DPK criticized Choi, noting that the Constitutional Court ruled his non-appointment of the candidate as “unconstitutional” and an infringement on the National Assembly’s rights. The impeachment motion will be submitted to the National Assembly at 2 p.m. The move comes as the court delivers its ruling on Prime Minister Han Duck-soo’s impeachment next Monday. (Yonhap, “Main opposition party to propose impeachment motion against acting President Choi,” Korea Times, 21 March 2025)
 
Russia’s Security Council Secretary to meet with North Korea’s leader Kim Jong-Un
On 21 March, Tass reported that Russia’s Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu arrived in Pyongyang and will meet with leader Kim Jong-un and other officials. The visit marks another step in growing ties as Pyongyang deploys thousands of troops to support Moscow in its war against Ukraine. Earlier this month, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko travelled to Pyongyang and met with North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui to arrange “political contacts at the high and top levels.” South Korea’s National Security Adviser Shin Won-sik speculated that a reciprocal visit by Kim to Russia could not be ruled out, similar to Putin’s visit in June last year. The visit also comes amid potential shifts in the Russia-Ukraine war following a phone agreement between Trump and Putin on a temporary halt to strikes on Ukrainian energy infrastructure. (Yonhap, “Russia's top security official arrives in N. Korea for meeting with Kim Jong-un: report,” Korea Times, 21 March 2025)
 
South Korean court reviews arrest warrant of detainees for attempted obstruction of investigation on Yoon
On 21 March, a Seoul Western District court reviewed arrest warrants for two Presidential Security Service (PSS) officials accused of obstructing investigators’ attempt to detain President Yoon Suk Yeol on 03 January. Acting PSS chief Kim Seong-hoon and the chief of the PSS's bodyguard division Lee Kwang-woo, are accused of obstructing the execution of an arrest warrant for Yoon, taking unjust personnel measures against disobedient PSS officials, and instructing subordinates to delete records of phone conversations between Yoon and military commanders involved in his 03 December martial law declaration. Kim said: “I was taught and trained that the highest honor for a security guard is to dedicate my life to the president’s safety.” The prosecution filed the warrants after a warrant review panel sided with the police’s repeated requests. (Yonhap, “Court reviews arrest warrants for 2 presidential security officials,” Korea Times, 21 March 2025)

Korea Reader Daily Wire | 20 March 2025, Thursday | Vol.2 No. 62
Parties agree on pension reform plans
On 20 March, the ruling People Power Party (PPP) and the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) agreed to reform the nation’s ailing pension system. The agreement was signed by floor leaders from the PPP Representative Kweon Seong-dong and the DPK Park Chan-dae. Their joint statement stated that the pension contribution rate is set at 13 percent and the nominal income replacement rate at 43 percent. The agreement followed a meeting arranged by National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik and comes after lawmakers and Health Minister Cho Kyoo-hong agreed on pending issues the previous day. The reform is aimed at addressing concerns that the younger generation may not receive pension benefits, as the current system is projected to go into deficit in 2041 and run out in 2055. (Yonhap, “Rival parties set for last-minute negotiations on pension reform plans,” Korea Times, 20 March 2025)
 
South Korea’s overall debt reaches USD 4.27 trillion, reports Bank for International Settlements
On 19 March, the Bank for International Settlements revealed that the combined debt of the government, companies, and households in South Korea reached USD 4.27 trillion at the end of the third quarter. According to the data, this figure marks a 4.1 per cent increase from a year earlier and a 0.9 per cent rise from the previous quarter, amounting to 247.2 percent of nominal GDP. Of the total debt, corporate debt reached 2,798 trillion won, up 2.9 percent on-year, household borrowing grew 2.1 percent on-year to 2,283 trillion won, and government debt surged 11.8 percent on-year to 1,141 trillion won. (Yonhap, “S. Korea's total debt hits record high of over W6,200tr,” Korea Times, 20 March 2025)

Korea Reader Daily Wire | 19 March 2025, Wednesday | Vol.2 No. 61
Acting South Korean President urges the US to remove ‘sensitive country’ designation
On 18 March, Acting President Choi Sang-mok urged his government to get an exclusion from the US “sensitive country” list in the energy sector. The designation was listed by the US Department of Energy (DOE) and could weaken bilateral ties and reveal a lack of diplomatic coordination. Industry Minister Ahn Duk-Geun is expected to visit the US Energy Secretary Chris Wright to discuss the removal. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is working to ensure the listing does not affect cooperation in science and technology. The DOE linked the designation to a security breach at the Idaho National Laboratory and broader security concerns.  US Charge d’Affaires Joseph Yun downplayed implications for bilateral cooperation and stated he was unaware of the situation until recently. (Lee Hyo-jin, “South Korean government goes all out to overturn US 'sensitive country' designation,” The Korea Times, 18 March 2025)
 
UN report reveals 46 per cent of North Korea’s population undernourished
On 18 March, a report presented to the UN Human Rights Council revealed nearly 46 per cent of North Koreans are undernourished. The report by UN special rapporteur for North Korean human rights Elizabeth Salmon showed 11.8 million people suffering from undernourishment between 2020 and 2022. The UN defines undernourishment as habitual food consumption that is “insufficient to provide the dietary energy levels that are required to maintain a normal active and healthy life.” The report noted that the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) faces chronic food insecurity due to “old infrastructure, capacity gaps in technology and skills, natural disasters, and a lack of investment.” The government has shifted from accommodating “jangmadang” or local markets to reasserting control over food distribution by restricting private commercial activities. In addition, inadequate hygiene and sanitation, a drop in national immunization from over 96 per cent to below 42 per cent, and challenges in vaccinating children and pregnant women are exacerbating the crisis. (Kwak Yeon-soo, “46% of North Koreans undernourished, UN report says,” The Korea Times, 18 March 2025)

Korea Reader Daily Wire | 18 March 2025, Tuesday | Vol.2 No. 60
President Yoon urged to accept the verdict on impeachment, says The Korea Times
On 17 March, The Korea Times reports a public outcry for Yoon to publicly pledge that he will accept the Constitutional Court’s impeachment verdict to prevent potential unrest. Yoon, who was recently released from 52 days of detention over his imposition of martial law, remained silent on whether he would honor the court’s decision. Political experts argue that Yoon’s acceptance of the ruling is critical to maintaining constitutional principles and averting violent protests from both supporters and opponents. A political science professor at Incheon National University Lee Joon-han said: “As the head of state, he must uphold constitutional principles, which he vowed to do when he took office. The president should announce that he will accept the court's decision, or risk plunging the nation into deeper turmoil.” A recent poll conducted by Embrain Public, K-Stat Research, Korea Research, and Hankook Research shows 42 per cent of respondents are unwilling to accept a court decision that differs from their views. While ruling party leaders and Yoon’s legal team have expressed willingness to respect the ruling, Yoon himself has only promised political reform if reinstated. (Lee Hyo-jin, “Yoon urged to promise to accept impeachment ruling,” The Korea Times, 17 March 2025)
 
Korean conglomerate Hanwha to invest in Australian subsidiary 
On 18 March, a Korean conglomerate Hanwha announced plans to invest USD 232.9 million to boost its global market position in its Australian subsidiary, HAA No. 1 PTY LTD. This investment includes 202.7 billion won from Hanwha Systems and 64.2 billion won from Hanwha Aerospace and is aimed at expanding into Australia and the United States. The move comes after Hanwha expressed interest in acquiring Australian shipbuilder Austal after a previous purchase effort failed last year. The acquisition would be consistent with Hanwha's objective of securing warship contracts and providing maintenance, repair, and overhaul services globally. (Yonhap, “Hanwha to invest $233 mil. in Australian subsidiary, eyeing Austal acquisition,” The Korea Times, 18 March 2025)

Korea Reader Daily Wire | 14-17 March 2025, Friday- Monday | Vol.2 No. 57-59
Opposition Democratic Party of Korea gains more approval rating of 44 per cent, reports Realmeter
On 17 March, a Realmeter poll showed the main opposition, the Democratic Party of Korea (DPK), had a 44.3 per cent approval rating. DPK’s rating surpassed the ruling People Power Party, which fell to 39 per cent. The survey was conducted among 1,510 adults with a 2.5 per cent margin of error, found that 55.5 per cent support a DPK-led administration change, and a 40 per cent favor maintaining conservative rule. A snap presidential election is to be held within 60 days, if the Constitutional Court upholds President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment over his failed martial law bid in December. (Yonhap, “Approval rating for main opposition party rises to 44.3% ahead of Yoon's impeachment ruling,” Korea Times, 17 March 2025)

South Korea seeks to maintain US Energy Cooperation, says acting President
On 17 March, Acting President Choi Sang-mok instructed the government to engage with the US to prevent negative impacts on energy cooperation. This decision was taken after the Biden administration designated Korea as a “sensitive” country in January. The designation followed President Yoon Suk Yeol’s brief imposition of martial law in December amid nuclear weapons discussions. Choi directed agencies to explain the situation to the US and ordered the industry minister to meet his US counterpart this week for consultations. The DOE confirmed Korea’s addition to the lowest category of its sensitive country list. (Yonhap, “Choi urges efforts to prevent fallout from US designation of Korea as 'sensitive' country,” Korea Times, 17 March 2025)

South Korea’s chips sales to China plunges by 31.8 per cent
On 17 March, SCMP reported that South Korea’s Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy informed that their chip sales fell from 31.8 per cent since last year. South Korea’s semiconductor export to China saw a decline last month, parallel to the imposed tariffs on tech sales to China. This plunge is said to have been affected by the tariffs. SK Hynic and Samsung are the biggest memory Chip makers that also operate through plants in China. China used to receive two/fifth of the sales, but this has reduced exponentially. The Minister noted that this decline is owed to lower prices on conventional chips, and technological transition. (“South Korea semiconductor exports to China sink as US tightens tech restrictions,” SCMP, 17 March 2025)

Korea Reader | 11 March 2025 | Vol. 2 No. 54 
South Korea’s acting President warns against civic unrest over former president's impeachment ruling
On 11 March, South Korea’s acting President, Choi Sang-mok, informed that they have zero tolerance for any act of violence. This comes as the constitutional court is set to deliver a verdict on the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol. Choi said: “The government will guarantee the right to hold lawful and peaceful rallies to the fullest extent.” He also said: “However, any illegal or violent demonstrations, as well as any challenges to public authority, will be dealt with strictly by the law, without exception.” Choi asked the public to uphold civic consciousness and the status of the nation, as the international community closely monitors it. South Korean police also informed that they will gather all resources to curb concerns of unrest. (“Acting president vows 'zero tolerance' for any violence amid imminent ruling on Yoon's impeachment,” The Korea Times, 11 March 2025)

Korea Reader | 08  March 2025 | Vol.2 No. 53
South Korea’s women demand greater equality and inclusion from the next government after Yoon
On 08 March, the Korea Times reported that a 34-year-old office worker, Park, is awaiting the Constitutional Court’s final verdict on President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment. She explained she had been attending almost all impeachment rallies. She complained that it was doubtful whether any presidential candidate in a possible upcoming early election this spring would truly represent her interests. A university student, Song, expressed similar concerns to those of Park. She had also led a campus protest last week in support of impeaching the president. Both women worried about the alarming rate of violence and discrimination against women in their daily lives, which sharply contradicts Yoon’s claims that structural gender discrimination no longer existed in the country. Park, Song, and several speakers at the impeachment rallies shared their expectations that the next government will build a society where social minorities, including women, can live safely and freely without facing discrimination. To achieve this, they added that a comprehensive anti-discrimination law, which Korean politicians have ignored for over a decade, needs to be implemented. A professor of cultural anthropology at Yonsei University Kim Hyun-mee, said, “The new government should set gender equality and gender justice in its agenda for Korean society after impeachment, knowing who acted to develop democracy in Korea," Park also commented that, “We will criticize and monitor whether they properly reflect women's voices in the presidential election after the impeachment verdict, We will exercise our rights to vote properly."(Lee Hae-rin, “Korean women demand greater equality, inclusion as post-Yoon Suk Yeol era looms,” Korea Times, 08 March 2025) 

South Korean accidental fighter jet bombing of civilians affected migrant workers the most
On 07 March, two South Korean KF-16 fighter jets mistakenly dropped eight MK-82 bombs on a civilian area in Pocheon, injuring 15 civilians and 14 soldiers, including 6 migrant workers. The bombs were dropped during a live-fire drill conducted by South Korean and U.S. forces for their annual Freedom Shield exercise. Son Joy, a Bangladeshi worker living a 20-minute walk from the affected village, expressed concern for migrant workers, many of whom are from the Philippines, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. He worried about the lack of compensation for injured workers. Rev. Kim Dal-sung, head of the Migrant Workers Center in Pocheon, demanded an end to military training in or near areas where foreigners live, along with a thorough investigation and proper compensation. The incident also shocked the Royal Thai Embassy in Seoul after four Thai nationals were injured, prompting the Thai Ambassador to plan a visit to an injured victim. The residents also reported significant property damage and disturbances in their daily farming practices. They also expressed concern for the migrant workers who worked on their farms and were essential. (Kwak Yeon-soo, “Migrant workers reel from accidental airstrike northeast of Seoul”, Korea Times, 07 March 2025) 

Korea Reader | 07 March 2025 | Vol.2 No. 52
South Korea and US to formulate a North Korea policy
On 06 March, South Korean National Security Advisor (NSA) Shin Won-sik remarked that South Korea and the US would coordinate the formulation and implementation of North Korea Policy. His comments come after he meets with US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz. They also reaffirmed their shared goal of the “complete denuclearisation of North Korea.” The two agreed to promote bilateral cooperation in the shipbuilding industry and bring peace and stability to the Korean peninsula and the broader Indo-Pacific region. They concurred to strengthen “extended deterrence” to deter North Korean nuclear threats. (Yonhap, “S. Korea, US agree to closely coordinate on NK policy formulation, implementation: senior Seoul official,” The Korea Times, 07 March 2025)

Polish President seeks to buy K2 tank from South Korea
On 07 March, the South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported that Polish President Andrzej Duda expressed hope for progress in finalising a contract with South Korea to buy K2 battle tanks. On 06 March, the Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul met with Duda as part of a courtesy call in Warsaw. The two countries signed a USD 12.4 billion agreement in July 2022, where South Korea was to supply K2 tanks, K9 self-propelled howitzers, FA-50 light attack aircraft, and Chunmoo multiple rocket launchers. During Cho’s visit, he also met Polish Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz. Both countries hoped to foster mutually beneficial defense cooperation. (Yonhap, “Polish president voices hope for swift progress in K2 tank deal with Korea: Seoul,” The Korea Times, 07 March 2025) 

Korea Reader | 06 March | Vol.2 No. 51
South Korea’s acting President calls for “national unity” on the 106th anniversary of the Independence movement
On 01 March, South Korea’s acting President, Choi, in a ceremony commemorating the 106th anniversary of the March 1 Independence Movement, called for “greater national unity.” His remark came amid the deepening division with South Korea risking the nation's stability. He pointed out ideological disputes, generational tensions, regional disparities, and economic inequalities as core challenges undermining South Korea's unity. Choi said, "To overcome the current crisis and establish a nation future generation can proudly inherit, restoring national cohesion must be our top priority." He also called for increasing relations with Japan given the rapidly changing and unstable international realm. (Yonhap, “Acting President Choi emphasizes 'national unity' amid deepening political, ideological division,”  The Korea Herald, 01 March 2025)

Seven people were injured in an accidental bombing by fighter jets in South Korea
On 06 March, seven people were injured when two Air Force KF-16 fighter jets accidentally dropped eight bombs during live-fire drills in Pocheon. The bombs were “abnormally” released outside a training range, injuring seven individuals with minor injuries and two seriously, and caused damage to a church, six buildings, and a cargo vehicle. The Air Force apologised and promised compensation. They launched an investigation led by Vice Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Park Ki-wan. Earlier in the day, South Korea and the United States conducted joint live-fire drills near the inter-Korean border in a show of force against North Korean threats. (Yonhap, “7 injured after KF-16 fighter jets accidentally drop bombs outside training range,” The Korean Times, 6 March 2025)

Captured NK soldier reveals mock-ups of South Korean facilities in Pyongyang training camps
On 06 March, a captured North Korean soldier, identified by his surname Ri, revealed that North Korea’s training camps included mockups of South Korean facilities and buildings. According to Rep. of the People Power Party Yu Yong-weon, Ri described that the Armed Forces Training Ground in Koksan Country was designed to simulate raids on South Korea. The buildings were modeled after Seoul’s Jongno District, Busan, Daegu, Jeonju, and Jeju Island. Yu added that while similar facilities have been noted before, replicating Jeju Island is a new revelation, and such sites exist in multiple locations. In response to a question, Yu said, “The training camps can be seen as training in preparation for contingencies.” Another captured soldier stated he was simply following orders to “help Russia” as they were allies. (Yonhap, “Captured NK soldier says mockups of Seoul, Jeju facilities in North's training camps,” The Korea Times, 6 March 2025)

South Korea’s National Security Adviser expects “good” outcome from tariff talks with the US
On 06 March, South Korea’s National Security Adviser, Shin Won-sik, anticipated a “good” outcome from consultations with US officials over tariffs and other trade issues. The talks covered security, economy, shipbuilding, and other areas. This came after Trump claimed that South Korea’s tariffs are four times higher than those of the US. Shin noted that discussions on stationing costs for the 28,500 US troops in Korea have not yet taken place. North Korea, South Korea, and Japan’s potential participation in the Alaskan natural gas pipeline project are on the agenda. (Yonhap, “Top S. Korean official expects 'good' outcome from tariff talks between Seoul, Washington,” The Korea Times, 6 March 2025)

Korea Reader | 04 March | Vol.2 No. 50
PMI rating shows decline in South Korean factory activity
On 04 March, S&P Global released a Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) for manufacturers in South Korea, which reported a decline in factory activity due to uncertainty over economic conditions domestically and overseas. Economist at S&P Global Market Intelligence Usamah Bhatti said, "Another muted month of data provides evidence that domestic industrial activity remained subdued midway through the first quarter." The survey showed output and new orders rose marginally in February, and new export orders also rose mildly with sub-indexes at 50.5 and 50.1, respectively per cent. Employment and stock input prices fell in the last four months. (Jihoon Lee, “S.Korea factory activity shrinks as demand concerns weigh, PMI shows,” Taiwan News, 04 March 2025)

Korea Reader | 03 March | Vol.2 No. 49
North Korea launches Strategic Cruise Missile, reports KCNA
On 28 October, Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported that a missile unit of the Korean People’s Army test-fired strategic cruise missiles in its west coast. The test was supervised by North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, and he was accompanied by a member of the Central Military Commission of the Workers’ Party of North Korea, Kim Jong-sik, and director of the Missile General Bureau Jang Chang-ha. The missiles reportedly precisely hit their targets after travelling a distance of 1587 kilometers in 7,961 to 7,973 seconds. Kim said: "What is guaranteed by powerful striking ability is the most perfect deterrence and defense capacity." The Joint Chiefs of Staff of South Korea and South Korea’s military responded, claiming it had detected these tests beforehand and it was closely monitoring various North Korean activities. A senior researcher at the Korea Institute for National Unification, Hong Min, said, “It’s a counteraction message against the North Korea policy that has been taking shape under the Trump administration,” This launch took place ahead of a springtime military exercise between South Korea and the United States, named Freedom Shield. (Jung Min-Kyung, “North Korea fires strategic cruise missiles from its west coast this week,” The Korea Herald, 28 February 2025)