Stories from South Korea

The Democratic Party candidate Choe Won-hyeong is considered highly likely to win the Pyeongtaek mayoral election. This sentiment is reflected in the local political atmosphere. The election is part of the upcoming June 3rd regional elections.

Hanwha Group's stock price reached a new historical high, reclaiming its position as a market leader.

A survey conducted by Korea Gallup between April 28 and April 30 found that 59% of respondents support raising the age for senior benefits from 65 to 70. The poll included 1,002 men and women aged 18 and older across South Korea. Conversely, 30% of respondents opposed the change, while others remained undecided. The report noted that widespread public awareness of the system and serious social discussion are required. Opponents of the measure accounted for 30% of respondents. Observers noted that serious social discussion regarding the change is required. In a 2013 survey on the same topic, 60% of respondents were in favor. When asked who should primarily care for their own livelihood, 60% of respondents answered they would care for themselves. The government and society accounted for 29%, while children accounted for 4%, according to the survey results.

A fire destroyed one village building and six other structures in South Korea. The blaze originated at a sponge manufacturing factory and spread to the surrounding area.

Seoul Metro is stepping up enforcement following the recording of nearly 160,000 cases of fare dodging on the Seoul subway over the past three years.

South Korean media company CJ ENM has released an AI-hybrid film. The premiere marks a step for the Korean movie industry as it explores artificial intelligence integration.

The Samsung Biologics union is planning a strike starting May 21 and lasting until June 7. Management expects losses of approximately 150 billion won due to labor disputes and demands for codified labor-management agreements.

Kim Ha-yeon, originally from Paju, Gyeonggi Province, was selected as the winner of the 96th Global Chunyang Contest.

National Assembly spokesperson Choi Su-jin stated that certain legislative efforts are intended to cancel the ongoing trial of President Lee Jae-myung. Semiconductor exports specifically rose 173.5 percent to $31.9 billion in April, representing the second-highest performance on record. The government noted these figures amid concerns regarding the prolonged conflict in the Middle East. South Korean exports reached $85.89 billion in April, marking a 48% increase compared to the same month last year. This follows March, which was the first month to surpass the $80 billion threshold. Semiconductor exports reached $30.39 billion, acting as a primary driver for the growth despite Middle East conflict volatility. The report indicates that exports are serving as a pillar for the national economy.

The Jeju Air passenger plane crash victims' bereaved families association has called for further investigation into the mishandling of remains.