[Remember Daily News]2025.02.08 South Korea News

1. North Korea's Leader Vows to Enhance Nuclear Capabilities

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has criticized the trilateral military cooperation between the United States, Japan, and South Korea, accusing them of escalating regional tensions. In response, he has pledged to further develop North Korea's nuclear forces as a countermeasure. Kim condemned the deployment of strategic nuclear assets and joint military exercises, asserting that these actions disrupt the regional security balance. He reiterated North Korea's policy of continuous nuclear force development during a visit to the defense ministry commemorating the Korean People's Army's anniversary. Additionally, Kim expressed unwavering support for Russia in its conflict with Ukraine.

2. Busan Faces Accelerated Population Decline

Busan, South Korea's second-largest city, is experiencing a rapid population decrease and aging demographic, making it the fastest-aging metropolitan area in a country already grappling with the world's lowest fertility rate. The city's population has declined from 3.9 million in 1995 to approximately 3.3 million in 2023. Factors contributing to this trend include the centralization of economic activities around Seoul, local industrial struggles 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.

3. President Yoon Suk Yeol Faces Renewed Arrest Attempts

Impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol is confronting a renewed and potentially more forceful attempt to arrest him 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.

4. Air Busan Plane Catches Fire at Busan Airport

An Air Busan Airbus aircraft caught fire at Busan's Gimhae International Airport. The incident occurred during maintenance, and no passengers were on board at the time. Emergency services promptly extinguished the fire, and no casualties were reported. Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire to prevent future occurrences.

5. South Korea Considers Supplementary Budget to Stimulate Economy

The South Korean government is contemplating the introduction of a supplementary budget in early 2025 to address declining consumer spending and slowing economic growth. The proposed additional expenditures aim to boost domestic demand, support underprivileged communities, and tackle income and educational inequalities. This move marks a shift from the administration's prior emphasis on fiscal discipline, reflecting a response to significantly changed economic conditions since the 2025 budget plan was drafted.

6. 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.

7. Legal Developments in Election Interference Case

The Seoul High Court has overturned the convictions of former Ulsan mayor Song Cheol-ho and former city police chief Hwang Un-ha. They were previously accused of orchestrating an investigation against a rival during the 2018 local elections. This ruling marks a significant turn in a high-profile political case, potentially impacting future election-related legal proceedings.

8. Upcoming EAFF E-1 Football Championship

Sports enthusiasts are looking forward to the 2025 EAFF E-1 Football Championship, scheduled from July 7 to 16. Both men's and women's tournaments will be held, with South Korea set to host the events. Preparations are underway to welcome teams and fans from across East Asia, highlighting the nation's commitment to promoting regional sportsmanship.

9. South Korea's Demographic Challenges Intensify

South Korea continues to grapple with demographic challenges, including a declining birth rate and an aging population. These trends pose significant implications for the nation's workforce, economic growth, and social welfare systems. The government is exploring various measures to address these issues, including policies to encourage higher birth rates and initiatives to support the elderly population.

10. Cultural Events Mark Lunar New Year Celebrations

South Korea recently celebrated the Lunar New Year, known as Seollal, with various cultural events and family gatherings. The holiday, which fell on February 1 this year, is one of the most significant in Korean culture, marked by traditional rituals, ancestral rites, and festive activities. Despite modern influences, many South Koreans continue to observe these age-old traditions, reflecting the enduring importance of cultural heritage in contemporary society.

These developments underscore the multifaceted challenges and dynamic events shaping South Korea as of February 8, 2025, highlighting the nation's political tensions, economic strategies, and cultural vibrancy.