1 - Tensions heighten ahead of first president-opposition chief meeting
Ahead of their first meeting, tensions escalate between President Yoon Suk Yeol and Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung over pending bills. The ruling party questions the opposition's motives, while the Democrats push for policy shifts and urge cooperation on investigations. With the opposition holding the majority, Yoon must navigate collaboration to avoid a weakened presidency.
2 - Abolition of student rights ordinance triggers protests
The Seoul Metropolitan Council's decision to abolish the Student Human Rights Ordinance has sparked debate. Introduced in 2010, the ordinance aimed to protect student welfare but faced criticism for neglecting teachers' rights. Opposition led to its removal, prompting discussions on education rights. Superintendent Cho Hee-yeon protests the decision, advocating for a revised ordinance.
3 - Korea-Japan diplomatic feud looms large over Naver's Line messenger app
Japan's attempt to exclude Naver from Line's management triggers concerns of a diplomatic feud with Korea. SoftBank's talks with Naver over Line's ownership raise tensions. Politicians from Korea's ruling and opposition parties criticize Japan's move, urging diplomatic resolution. Korean ministries pledge to engage with Naver on the matter. Naver remains silent, while analysts foresee prolonged negotiations.
4 - 'Queen of Tears' shatters tvN drama viewership record with final episode
"Queen of Tears" sets a new viewership record for tvN dramas with its finale, hitting 24.9 percent. The episode's intense plot sees Baek Hyun-woo searching for kidnapped Hong Hae-in amidst a tense confrontation. Despite international success, the finale's reliance on clichés and forced sentimentalism divides viewers. Kim Soo-hyun's return to television receives praise, while Kim Ji-won solidifies her leading status in the industry.
5 - Hanwha Systems to break ground on space center on Jeju Island
Hanwha Systems to establish Jeju Hanwha Space Center, breaking ground on Jeju Island. The facility, spanning 11,000 square meters, will focus on satellite development and manufacturing. Construction of a two-story building with one basement floor to be completed by 2025. Center aims to produce four to eight satellites per month, enhancing South Korea's space industry presence. Hanwha Systems eyes domestic and global expansion in the space market.
6 - 'Cult religion and illegal marketing': HYBE's old skeletons dug up in feud
Amidst the HYBE-ADOR feud, old controversies resurface implicating HYBE in connections to a religious cult “Dahn World” and chart rigging. Allegations involve the exploitation of BTS and other artists to promote the cult's beliefs and instances of blackmail for chart manipulation. HYBE vows legal retaliation against the attacks, while accusations against ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin of shaman consultations add fuel to the fire.
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