[Remember Daily News]2025.02.07 South Korea News

1. Earthquake Strikes North Chungcheong Province

A magnitude 3.1 earthquake occurred near Yangseong-myeon, approximately 22 kilometers northwest of Chungju in North Chungcheong Province. Residents reported feeling tremors, but no significant damage or injuries have been reported. Authorities are monitoring the situation and assessing any potential structural impacts.

 

2. Prosecutors to Appeal Samsung Chairman's Acquittal

South Korean prosecutors have announced plans to appeal to the Supreme Court following the acquittal of Samsung Electronics Chairman Jay Y. Lee. An appeals court recently found Lee not guilty of charges related to a 2015 merger between two Samsung affiliates, a deal alleged to have been orchestrated to strengthen his control over the conglomerate. Prosecutors aim to challenge this ruling, maintaining that the merger caused financial harm to minority shareholders.

 

3. Demographic Challenges Intensify in Busan

Busan, South Korea's second-largest city, is facing a rapid population decline and an aging demographic, making it the fastest-aging metropolitan area in the country. The city's population has decreased from 3.9 million in 1995 to around 3.3 million in 2023. Factors contributing to this trend include the centralization of economic activities in Seoul, struggles within local industries amid South Korea's shift to a high-tech economy, and the migration of young people seeking better opportunities in the capital. Local mismanagement and centralization policies have further exacerbated the city's decline. Despite its cultural and geographical assets, Busan's economic downturn and youth exodus pose significant challenges to its future.

 

4. North Korean Soldiers Reportedly Withdraw from Ukraine

South Korea's National Intelligence Service has reported that North Korean soldiers deployed to support Russian forces in Ukraine have disappeared from the battlefield since mid-January. The reasons for their withdrawal remain unclear, and the situation is under close observation.

 

5. Legal Developments in Presidential Impeachment

Impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol is facing renewed arrest attempts on charges of insurrection. A leading investigator has vowed to take all necessary measures to breach a security blockade and apprehend the embattled leader. Acting President Choi Sang-mok has urged authorities to prevent any harm to citizens or physical conflicts between government agencies during the execution of Yoon's arrest warrant.

 

6. Controversy Surrounding Far-Right Pastor

Far-right pastor Jun Kwang-hoon is under investigation for inciting insurrection after his followers participated in violent protests defending suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol. Jun's supporters attempted to block Yoon's arrest and later stormed a Seoul courthouse. Jun, a long-time right-wing figure, claims responsibility for Yoon's presidential win and believes his actions have saved South Korea from a North Korean takeover.

 

7. Passing of Trot Singer Song Dae-kwan

Renowned trot singer Song Dae-kwan has passed away at the age of 78. He was celebrated for his contributions to the trot genre and leaves behind a legacy cherished by many fans.

8. Bodybuilder Kim Woon Seo Dies in Accident

South Korean bodybuilder and fitness influencer Kim Woon Seo, aged 38, has died in an accident, leaving his family and numerous fans heartbroken. Kim had a significant following on YouTube with over 120,000 subscribers, known for his fitness content. His younger brother, Kim Ji Hyun, expressed the family's shock and sorrow, describing Kim as always full of energy yet delicately sensitive. Kim's funeral was held at the Gimhae Citizen's Funeral Hall in South Korea. Fans have since expressed their sadness and paid tributes online.

 

9. K-Pop Group NewJeans Faces Turmoil

Popular K-pop group NewJeans is experiencing significant internal conflict involving their parent company HYBE and their label ADOR's former CEO, Min Hee-jin. Following Min's dismissal amid allegations of a hostile takeover, the group demanded her reinstatement. After being ignored, they terminated their contracts with ADOR and rebranded as NJZ, leading to ongoing legal battles as ADOR claims the contracts are still valid. Min Hee-jin has resigned and is preparing for a new venture while continuing to fight HYBE legally. The dispute has brought significant attention to the group's future and challenges within the K-pop industry.

 

10. Security Council to Discuss North Korea's Missile Activities

The UN Security Council is scheduled to discuss North Korea's recent intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) test in closed consultations. The missile flew for approximately 86 minutes before landing in the Sea of Japan, heightening regional tensions. The Council will review the 90-day report on the work of the 1718 Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) Sanctions Committee during these consultations.