[Remember Daily News]2025.02.16 South Korea News

1. Tragic Passing of Actress Kim Sae-ron

Renowned South Korean actress Kim Sae-ron was found deceased in her Seoul residence, with authorities ruling her death as a suicide. Kim, celebrated for her role in "The Man from Nowhere," had faced public scrutiny following a 2022 DUI incident, which adversely affected her career. Her untimely passing has ignited discussions about the intense pressures of celebrity life and the pervasive impact of online criticism in South Korea.

 

2. Stray Kids' Han Addresses Tattoo Revelation

During the SKZ 5'CLOCK fan meeting held from February 14 to 16 at Incheon's Inspire Arena, Stray Kids' member Han briefly unveiled his tattoos during a solo performance. The unexpected reveal became a hot topic among fans. Han later mentioned that he was 'scolded' for the brief display. Additionally, member Felix was absent from the final performance due to a minor car accident and a pinched nerve.

 

3. Airline Investigates Cabin Crew's Unauthorized Photos

An airline has launched an investigation into several flight attendants who were photographed on the wing of a plane at Cheongju International Airport. The incident occurred during Eastar Jet Flight 703's delay due to heavy snow. While the crew had opened an emergency exit for a training exercise, they were not authorized to take photos on the wing. The airport’s status as a military facility means photography and filming are forbidden, with violators facing severe penalties.

 

4. Security Council Reviews North Korea Sanctions

Members of the United Nations Security Council convened to discuss the 90-day report on the activities of the 1718 Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) Sanctions Committee. The closed-door consultations aimed to assess the current sanctions regime and explore potential adjustments in response to North Korea's ongoing activities.

 

5. South Korea's Export Decline Amid Global Uncertainties

South Korea's exports experienced a decline for the first time in 16 months, attributed to uncertainties surrounding U.S. tariffs and a slowdown in the technology sector. This downturn underscores the vulnerabilities of trade-dependent economies to global trade policies and market fluctuations.

 

6. President Yoon Suk Yeol's Defiant Stance Amid Legal Challenges

As 3,000 riot police surrounded his residence, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol met with party loyalists, expressing concerns that the country's legal system had been compromised by leftist forces. This development highlights the intense political climate and ongoing legal challenges faced by the administration.

 

7. February Tourism Highlights in South Korea

February in South Korea offers a range of winter activities and destinations for travelers. Despite the cold, visitors can enjoy cultural festivals, winter sports, and scenic landscapes, making it an appealing destination for winter tourism.

 

8. Maritime Incidents Impact Fishing Industry

The South Korean fishing industry has been impacted by several maritime incidents, including vessels running aground and fires, leading to casualties and missing crew members. These events have raised concerns about maritime safety and the need for stringent regulations to protect those working at sea.

 

9. Government Suspends Chinese AI App Over Data Concerns

The South Korean government has suspended the local service of the Chinese artificial intelligence application DeepSeek, citing concerns over data collection practices. This move reflects growing apprehensions about data privacy and security in the use of foreign AI technologies.

 

10. Cultural Events and Festivals Amid Winter Season

Despite the winter chill, South Korea hosted various cultural events and festivals, attracting both locals and tourists. These events showcased traditional performances, culinary delights, and artistic exhibitions, highlighting the nation's rich cultural heritage.