Easy Brief

Tensions in the Middle East have peaked due to the recent US-Iran war. Iran's former supreme leader died, and his son Mojtaba became the new leader.

In a broadcast interview, US President Trump pressured Iran's new leader Mojtaba, saying 'if you are alive, surrender.' The US bombed major Iranian oil facilities and warned of further attacks. Rumors circulate that the Iranian leader is severely injured or dead, but this remains unconfirmed.

A prolonged war in the Middle East could cause global oil prices to skyrocket. Higher oil prices lead to inflation, increasing the cost of living, so the economic situation requires close monitoring.

The US is demanding Iran's unconditional surrender and nuclear disarmament, suggesting the war will not end easily anytime soon.

Recent military clashes between the US, Israel, and Iran have heightened tensions in the Middle East. Despite international efforts to mediate, US President Trump firmly rejected ceasefire proposals.

Trump stated he will not back down even if the war with Iran prolongs. As Iran blocked the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil route, the US asked allies like South Korea to send warships to protect the waterway. Simultaneously, the US is applying economic pressure by launching an investigation into South Korea's trade practices.

A prolonged war in the Middle East will sharply increase oil prices, leading to higher inflation and living costs. Furthermore, there are growing concerns about the potential deployment of South Korean troops to a highly dangerous conflict zone.

With neither the US nor Iran willing to compromise, the conflict is expected to continue for the time being. The South Korean government must make a very careful decision amidst US demands for troop deployment and economic pressure.

For the first time in 8 years since 2018, US cardiology societies released new clinical guidelines for cholesterol management. These guidelines serve as a crucial standard for doctors worldwide in preventing and treating heart disease and stroke.

The most significant change is the recommendation to manage 'bad cholesterol' early, starting at age 30. Previously considered a middle-aged issue, lowering levels from a young age is now seen as vital to preventing major vascular diseases later. It also advises taking a special test at least once in a lifetime for genetic cholesterol risks.

It is important to advise younger family members in their 30s to get regular blood tests and manage their diets, rather than assuming they are safe due to their age. Older adults should also continue to care for their vascular health by reducing greasy foods and exercising regularly.

Hospitals globally will likely reference these new standards for treatment. Cholesterol testing and preventive education for young adults are expected to increase in the future.

Recent clashes between the US, Israel, and Iran have destabilized the Middle East. Iran is threatening to block the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global oil chokepoint.

Amidst this, US President Trump demanded major oil importers like South Korea, China, and Japan send warships to protect the sea route. The US plans to strike Iran from a distance, leaving the countries that actually use the oil to enter the dangerous strait and protect merchant ships. This pressures allies to share the risks and costs.

South Korea heavily relies on Middle Eastern oil, so a blocked strait could cause fuel prices and inflation to spike. However, sending warships risks dragging the country into a dangerous conflict.

The US is highly likely to make a formal request for troop deployment. The South Korean government will need to make a careful decision, weighing the US alliance, public safety, and the economy.

Ongoing tensions between the US, Israel, and Iran in the Middle East have led Iran-backed militant groups to continuously attack US facilities in Iraq.

As the situation worsened, the US government issued an emergency order for all Americans in Iraq to leave immediately. Following recent missile strikes on the US Embassy, the previous advisory was upgraded to a full evacuation.

A broader war in the Middle East could drive up global oil prices and inflation, negatively impacting the global economy and the cost of living.

Tensions in the Middle East are unlikely to subside soon, as the conflict between Iran and the US continues to spill over into neighboring countries like Iraq.

South Korea and the US are currently conducting the 'Freedom Shield' joint military exercise to enhance defense capabilities. North Korea strongly protested this and launched a show of force.

North Korea conducted a drill firing massive 600mm multiple rocket launchers. These weapons have a range of over 400km, putting almost all of South Korea within striking distance. Chairman Kim Jong-un personally observed the drill and threatened to conduct such menacing exercises frequently in the future.

While it doesn't pose an immediate threat to daily life, rising inter-Korean tensions can increase economic and security anxieties. The South Korean military is thoroughly prepared, so there is no need to worry too much.

North Korea is highly likely to continue firing missiles or engaging in threatening behavior until the US-SK joint drills conclude.

The Middle East is highly unstable due to growing military tensions between the US and Iran. Notably, Iran is showing signs of blocking the 'Strait of Hormuz,' a crucial sea route for global oil.

US President Trump specifically demanded five countries, including South Korea, Japan, and China, to send warships to the Strait of Hormuz. It means oil-importing nations should actively protect the sea route while the US leads the effort.

The Strait of Hormuz is the gateway for most of South Korea's oil imports. If it becomes blocked or unstable, gas prices will surge immediately, driving up overall living costs and directly impacting our wallets.

The South Korean government must carefully decide whether to actually send warships following the strong US demand. We must keep watching how Middle East tensions will impact our economy.

The US recently launched military strikes on key Iranian facilities. During this time, multiple warnings surfaced that Iran might block the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global oil transit route.

According to US media, President Trump and his aides decided to attack despite being briefed on these risks. They misjudged that Iran would surrender before blocking the sea route and that oil prices would quickly stabilize. Contrary to expectations, Iran is fiercely retaliating by planting explosives in the sea.

The Strait of Hormuz is a vital chokepoint for global oil shipments. If blocked, oil prices and inflation could surge significantly, causing widespread economic concern.

The US is urgently preparing countermeasures, but if the conflict prolongs, it could lead to a severe global economic burden.

Recent military clashes between the US and Iran threaten to block the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for Middle Eastern oil. Iran has been threatening ships passing through this area.

In response, US President Trump specifically called on South Korea and other oil-importing nations to send warships to protect the route. He pressured countries like China, Japan, and France to deploy ships, making it clear the US won't bear the responsibility alone.

South Korea imports nearly 70% of its oil through this strait. If the route is blocked or becomes unsafe, oil prices could skyrocket, placing a heavy burden on inflation and living costs.

Given the strong US demands, the South Korean government will have to carefully decide whether to deploy its navy to the Middle East to protect its vessels.

Due to recent US-Iran tensions, the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial Middle East oil route, is at risk of being blocked. In response, US President Trump asked countries like South Korea, Japan, and the UK to send warships to protect the waterway.

The South Korean government strongly agrees on the need for maritime safety. However, it is approaching the direct deployment of warships very cautiously. Since there has been no official request from the US yet, Seoul plans to decide carefully through close dialogue with Washington.

Since a significant portion of South Korea's oil imports passes through this route, a blockade could cause a sharp spike in gas prices. Also, the government's decision is critical as it involves sending troops to a dangerous region.

It is highly likely that the US will soon make an official request for warship deployment. We must watch how the government decides to protect national interests and citizens' safety.

The US recently attacked Iran's largest oil export base. In response, Iran immediately retaliated, rapidly worsening the conflict in the Middle East.

Iran attacked the UAE's Fujairah port with drones. This port is crucial for safely exporting oil while bypassing blocked sea routes. The attack temporarily halted oil exports, and the ongoing war has now claimed over 3,000 lives.

If the Middle East war expands and oil export routes are blocked, global oil prices could skyrocket. Higher oil prices lead to increased inflation, raising the cost of living and everyday expenses worldwide.

The US is asking several countries to send warships to protect the sea routes, which will likely deepen the diplomatic dilemma for allied governments.

Recently, the US and Israel have continued intense military attacks on Iran. The US expected that if Iran's leadership collapsed, the Iranian people would surrender in fear.

However, the exact opposite of US expectations is happening. Despite the daily danger of falling bombs, Iranians are taking to the streets shouting 'God is great,' ready to fight to the death. Even young people who usually dislike the Iranian government are uniting to stand against the US.

A prolonged war in the Middle East could destabilize global oil supplies, leading to a sharp rise in fuel prices and inflation. This is a concerning situation as it could directly burden the global economy and living costs.

As US pressure instead fuels the anger of the Iranian people, it is highly likely that the conflict between the two sides will be prolonged rather than ending easily.

Tensions in the Middle East have soared due to escalating military clashes between Israel and Iran.

Iran's core military group publicly threatened to hunt down and kill Israeli PM Netanyahu 'if he is alive.' The phrase 'if he is alive' sparked widespread rumors of his death. Suspicions arose that his recent video was an AI fake due to a scene showing six fingers, but Israel firmly denied this.

An escalating Middle East war could spike global oil prices. Higher oil prices lead to inflation, increasing the cost of living worldwide.

The conflict is unlikely to subside easily, so we must watch how the international community attempts to de-escalate the situation.

Recent US-Iran tensions threaten to block the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial Middle East sea route [1.1]. In response, US President Donald Trump has asked several countries, including South Korea and Japan, to send warships to protect the waterway.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is deeply troubled by this request. While she wants to support the US alliance, Japan's constitution restricts sending troops overseas. Furthermore, public opposition is growing due to fears of being dragged into a war, making an immediate SDF deployment highly difficult.

The Strait of Hormuz is a key chokepoint for global energy transport and the route for most of South Korea's oil imports. If it is blocked or becomes unstable, global oil prices and inflation could surge, making this an issue that affects economies worldwide.

A US-Japan summit is scheduled for March 19. The world is watching closely to see what answer Prime Minister Takaichi will give to President Trump during this meeting.

Recent US-Iran conflicts have shaken global oil prices. Peter Navarro, an economic advisor to US President Donald Trump, has offered a new forecast for future oil prices.

Navarro explained that the world has been paying more for oil due to threats from Iran, calling it a 'terror premium.' He argued that if the Iranian threat is completely eliminated, global oil prices will plummet below $60 per barrel.

For countries relying heavily on oil imports, falling global oil prices help stabilize not only gas station prices but overall inflation. This is welcome news that could ease the burden of living expenses.

While oil prices may fluctuate in the short term due to military conflicts in the Middle East, they are highly likely to stabilize in the long run.

With rising Middle East tensions, Iran threatened to block the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial oil route. In response, US President Trump demanded that five countries, including South Korea, China, and Japan, send warships to protect the waterway.

However, China avoided confirming whether it would send warships. Instead, it effectively rejected the US demand by stating that 'hostile actions must stop immediately.' Since Iran allows Chinese oil tankers to pass safely, China likely sees no reason to assist the US in military operations.

The Strait of Hormuz is a vital chokepoint for global oil imports. If it is blocked or the conflict prolongs, oil prices and inflation could surge significantly, making it a critical situation to monitor.

There is a possibility that the US will officially request South Korea to send warships as well, so we must watch how the government will respond.

Recent tensions between the US and Iran have made the Middle East very dangerous. This created an urgent situation to safely evacuate Korean citizens staying in Saudi Arabia.

The Korean government urgently dispatched military aircraft under Operation 'Light of the Desert'. They secured airspace permissions from over 10 countries in just one day and safely departed for Korea with 211 people, including 204 Korean citizens and foreign nationals.

It is a relief to see that citizens abroad can safely return under national protection. However, instability in the Middle East could affect the global economy, such as oil prices, so we must monitor the news closely.

The flight carrying the evacuees is scheduled to arrive safely in Korea on the afternoon of the 15th. The government plans to continue monitoring the Middle East situation closely, prioritizing the safety of its citizens.

As US-Iran tensions rise, the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global oil chokepoint, faces the risk of closure. In response, US President Trump requested several nations, including South Korea, to send warships to protect oil tankers.

The problem is that the waterway is so narrow that warships entering it are highly vulnerable to Iranian missiles and drones. Military experts call it a 'kill box' where survival is difficult. Consequently, even the US, with the world's strongest military, is hesitant to deploy its own warships.

This strait is a vital route for most of the oil South Korea and the world uses. If it remains blocked, oil prices will soar, inevitably driving up living costs and inflation globally.

As the US is highly likely to officially request South Korea to send warships, the South Korean government will carefully consider whether to deploy troops or find alternative solutions.

US President Trump is demanding countries like South Korea and Japan send warships to protect the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial Middle Eastern sea route. Furthermore, some US troops stationed in Japan have begun moving toward the Middle East.

A US-Japan summit is scheduled for the 19th. Japan's dilemma is deepening as the US is highly likely to pressure them to deploy troops directly. However, it remains unconfirmed if the US will strongly demand this deployment during the summit. Since Japan imports over 90% of its oil from the Middle East, it is in a tough spot, unable to easily refuse the US while trying not to provoke Iran.

This isn't just another country's problem. South Korea is receiving similar deployment requests from the US. If the Middle East becomes unstable, oil prices could rise, impacting our economy as well.

Both Japan and South Korea are expected to carefully navigate between the US and Iran, seeking cautious measures to avoid direct military conflict.

Tensions in the Middle East have surged due to escalating armed conflicts between Israel and the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah. This has displaced hundreds of thousands of people in Lebanon, causing immense suffering.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres visited Lebanon to strongly urge an end to the war. He emphasized that the path to resolving the issue through dialogue and diplomacy, rather than force, is still open. He also requested about $340 million in emergency aid from the international community to help displaced Lebanese citizens.

A prolonged war in the Middle East could drive up global oil prices, leading to higher fuel costs and inflation. While it may not immediately change our daily lives, it can destabilize the global economy, so it requires close attention.

Although the UN and the international community will continue their peace efforts, the deep-rooted conflict makes an immediate end to the war unlikely. We will have to wait and see how the dialogue unfolds.

Recent conflicts in the Middle East have blocked key oil shipping routes [1.1]. This sparked fears of global oil shortages, causing international oil prices to jump over $100 per barrel.

With rising oil prices, US oil companies are expected to earn a massive windfall of about 95 trillion won this year. The US is the world's largest oil producer. While other global giants with Middle East facilities suffer from the war, US-based producers are making huge profits. US President Trump even remarked, 'When oil prices go up, America makes money.'

If international oil prices remain high, import costs will rise, leading to higher gas prices at the pump. Higher fuel costs increase manufacturing and delivery expenses, which can ultimately drive up consumer prices and inflation.

Experts predict that if the Middle East conflict continues into spring, oil prices could exceed $128 per barrel. Inflation stabilization will largely depend on how quickly the war is resolved.

The war between Israel and Iran is prolonging. Israel has heavily relied on interceptor missiles to destroy incoming enemy threats mid-air. Due to fierce battles since last year, this missile stockpile is reportedly running out.

Israel urgently notified the US about its critical shortage of defense missiles. While the US is aware of this, it hesitates to provide immediate support due to concerns over its own weapon inventory. Furthermore, Iran's use of more destructive weapons is putting immense pressure on Israel's defense network.

A prolonged war in the Middle East could drive up global oil prices and inflation. This situation requires close monitoring as it can indirectly harm the global economy, stock markets, and everyday living expenses.

The extent of US military support to Israel will be a crucial variable. If the war does not end soon, global economic instability may persist for a while.

The number of seniors aged 65 and older with dementia in Korea is expected to reach 1 million this year. Depending on the care method, dementia can cost up to 30 million won annually, making early detection crucial before the disease progresses.

Earwax, which we usually discard without a thought, could be a vital clue for early dementia detection. Earwax contains lipids that reflect our body's energy state. Since brain health issues alter earwax composition, analyzing it can help identify those at high risk for dementia.

If commercialized, this method would allow simple at-home dementia risk checks using a cotton swab, avoiding painful blood draws or expensive tests. Early detection improves treatment outcomes and significantly reduces the financial burden on families.

Although still in the research phase, if the earwax testing method is proven effective, we can expect a future where dementia screening is easily accessible at local clinics and public health centers.

Recent wars in the Middle East have heightened global economic anxiety. In such times, people flock to safe assets like the US dollar and gold, causing the dollar's value to soar.

As the dollar rises, the Korean won's value has plummeted. The average KRW-USD exchange rate recently exceeded 1,470, a level as high as during the IMF or global financial crises. Since Korea imports all its oil, rising oil prices from the war hit its economy harder, causing the won to drop more than other currencies.

When exchange rates and oil prices rise simultaneously, imported goods become more expensive, driving up grocery prices. Persistent inflation can also increase loan interest burdens, straining household finances.

Experts predict that if the Middle East war prolongs and global oil prices remain high, the exchange rate could reach the 1,500 won range for the time being.

Recent heavy fighting between Israel and the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah has severely escalated tensions in the Middle East. This has resulted in hundreds of thousands of refugees in Lebanon, with many tragically injured or killed.

To address this severe crisis, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres visited Lebanon in person. He emphasized that military force cannot solve the issue and urged an immediate end to the war through dialogue and diplomacy. He also requested about $340 million in emergency global aid to help the suffering Lebanese people.

The Middle East is a crucial region for global oil supply. If the war prolongs, oil prices could rise, which would ultimately increase inflation and the cost of living worldwide.

Although the UN and various countries are striving for peace, the conflict between the two sides is so deep that it remains to be seen if the war will stop immediately.

The risk in the Middle East has been growing due to the ongoing war between Israel and Lebanon. Fortunately, there are reports that the two countries will soon begin ceasefire talks to stop the war.

Despite ceasefire hopes, the situation remains unstable with Israel attacking Iran and Lebanon. In response, the South Korean government urgently dispatched a military transport plane. 211 Korean nationals staying in four Middle Eastern countries, including Lebanon and Saudi Arabia, safely arrived in Korea aboard this plane.

It is a relief that our citizens in dangerous war zones have safely returned home. We must hope for peace to arrive soon, as stability in the Middle East is crucial to preventing spikes in domestic oil prices and inflation.

Although there are reports of upcoming ceasefire talks between Israel and Lebanon, they have not been officially confirmed. With no specific schedule set, we need to wait and see if true peace will be achieved.

Cheap accommodations in Seoul were crowded with foreign tourists arriving for a major K-pop idol group concert [1.3].

On the evening of the 14th, a fire broke out on the 3rd floor of a 7-story guesthouse in Sogong-dong, Seoul. Ten foreigners were injured, including a Japanese mother in her 50s traveling with her daughter, who remains unconscious. The old building was not legally required to install automatic sprinklers.

Old buildings, cramped gosiwons, and capsule hotels are very difficult to evacuate during a fire. It is crucial to check for emergency exits and proper fire safety facilities when using budget accommodations.

The Seoul Metropolitan Government is providing medical treatment for the injured and temporary housing for the remaining tourists. Fire inspections and safety management for such old lodging facilities are expected to become much stricter.

As recent conflicts in the Middle East escalated into war, airspace was closed and commercial flights were suspended. With Korean residents in danger, the government urgently deployed military aircraft for their safe evacuation.

204 Koreans scattered across Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Lebanon gathered in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. They safely departed for Korea aboard a large Air Force transport plane. The rescue mission was named 'Desert Light' to give hope to the residents.

It is a relief that our families and neighbors, who were in fear abroad, are safely returning home under state protection. This sets a reassuring precedent that citizens abroad can safely return with government help during crises.

The government will continue to check the safety of residents remaining in the Middle East and prepare additional protective measures if necessary.

As the war involving the US, Israel, and Iran spread across the Middle East, the safety of Korean residents was severely threatened [1.1]. Thus, the government urgently launched a rescue operation to bring them home.

The government launched 'Operation Desert Light' and sent a military transport plane to Saudi Arabia. They gathered 211 citizens and family members, secured urgent airspace clearance from over 10 countries, and safely landed at Seoul Airport in Seongnam on the evening of the 15th.

It is a relief that our citizens have safely returned home. However, if the Middle East war continues, it could raise oil prices and impact the global and domestic economy, requiring close monitoring of the situation.

The government will continue to check the safety of remaining residents in the Middle East and may implement additional safety measures or rescue operations if necessary.

Swiss elevator giant Schindler filed an ISDS suit in 2018, demanding 325 billion won from the South Korean government. As a former shareholder of Hyundai Elevator, Schindler claimed it suffered massive losses because the Korean government failed to properly supervise Hyundai's unreasonable stock issuance to defend its management rights.

After about eight years, the international tribunal ruled in favor of the South Korean government. It concluded that Korea's financial authorities and the Fair Trade Commission conducted legitimate investigations and supervision according to the law, meaning the government has no liability to compensate Schindler. It is a 100% victory that completely blocked Schindler's unreasonable claims.

If lost, a massive 325 billion won in taxpayer money would have gone straight into the pockets of a foreign company. Fortunately, not only was precious tax money saved, but the government will also recover 9.6 billion won in legal fees from Schindler, greatly helping national finances.

Following consecutive victories in lawsuits involving Lone Star, Elliott, and now Schindler, attempts by foreign companies to extort money by unreasonably shifting blame to the Korean government are expected to decrease significantly.

The World Baseball Classic (WBC), an international baseball tournament, is currently taking place in the US. As the defending champions, Japan was considered a strong contender.

Japan's national team suffered a 5-8 comeback loss to South American powerhouse Venezuela in the quarterfinals. Although top star Shohei Ohtani hit a home run, the pitchers gave up consecutive homers in the middle innings, overturning the score. Ultimately, Japan was eliminated, failing to reach the semifinals for the first time in history.

With Korea also eliminated in the quarterfinals, Japan's exit means there are no Asian countries left in the tournament. This is disappointing news for baseball fans who were hoping for a strong regional showing.

With global oil prices surging due to the US-Iran war, the government implemented a 'maximum oil price system' on the 13th to cap prices.

Following the policy, nationwide gas and diesel prices have dropped to the 1,840 won range. However, the daily rate of decline is gradually slowing compared to when the system first started.

Drivers will see a slight reduction in fuel costs. The government will conduct a two-week intensive crackdown to ensure gas stations aren't hoarding fuel or overcharging.

Prices may stabilize for a while due to the policy and crackdowns, but they could fluctuate again depending on the war in the Middle East.

The World Baseball Classic (WBC), determining the world's best baseball nation, is being held in the US. Japan was the defending champion and the strongest favorite to win again.

However, Japan lost 5-8 to Venezuela in the quarterfinals on the 15th. Although global star Shohei Ohtani hit a home run, Venezuela hit back-to-back homers to take the lead. Ultimately, Japan failed to reach the semifinals for the first time in history.

With Japan's elimination following South Korea's, all Asian countries have now packed their bags in this tournament. For baseball fans, the underperformance of Asian teams might be a bit disappointing.

Now, Venezuela, Italy, the USA, and the Dominican Republic have advanced to the semifinals to compete for the final championship.

Recent conflicts between the US and Iran have increased the risk of war in the Middle East. This left Korean residents in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait stranded and at risk of isolation.

The government launched Operation 'Desert Light' to rescue its citizens. The Air Force urgently dispatched the 'Cygnus' military aircraft to Saudi Arabia, safely boarding 211 people, including 204 Koreans, for the flight home. It was an urgent mission requiring passage through multiple airspaces.

This reassuring news shows that our families and neighbors abroad are protected by the state and can return safely. The evacuated citizens will soon be reunited with their families.

The government will continue to monitor the safety of other citizens remaining in the Middle East and take additional protective measures if necessary.

The South Korean national team recently concluded their run at the 2026 World Baseball Classic (WBC) after a disappointing loss in the quarterfinals.

Following this game, Ryu Hyun-jin, who has long led Korean baseball, announced his retirement from the national team. Surprisingly, Clayton Kershaw of the US, who was a top pitcher alongside Ryu at the LA Dodgers, also announced his national team retirement on the same day. Two legendary pitchers who defined an era have simultaneously taken off their national team uniforms.

We will no longer see these two players pitching with the Korean and US national team logos on their chests. However, the memories of the excitement and joy they brought to fans who stayed up late to cheer for them will last a long time.

Since 2006, Ryu Hyun-jin led the golden era of Korean baseball, winning an Olympic gold medal. After finishing his MLB career and returning to Korea, he rejoined the national team after 16 years to compete in the recent World Baseball Classic (WBC).

Unfortunately, Korea's tournament ended with a heavy loss to the Dominican Republic in the quarterfinals. After the game, Ryu announced his retirement, saying, 'I think this is my last time on the national team.' Despite the disappointing finale, he leaves behind a legacy of dedication and excellent stats across 16 games.

Many baseball fans are saddened by the news that the hero who brought comfort and joy for so long is stepping down. However, fans can still cheer for him at domestic stadiums as he will continue pitching for his club, the Hanwha Eagles.

Although Ryu is stepping down, the young players who played alongside him are expected to fill his shoes and reliably lead the future of Korean baseball.

The 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Paralympics in Italy have concluded. South Korea's 19-year-old Kim Yoon-ji is making headlines for her incredible performance.

Kim won two gold and three silver medals at this event. This is the first time a Korean athlete has won five medals in a single Olympic or Paralympic Games. President Lee Jae-myung warmly congratulated her, calling her a 'precious asset to disabled sports.'

Kim's story of overcoming physical limits at a young age to reach the top of the world brings great inspiration and hope. Her relentless spirit of challenge will offer warm comfort to many.

Active as a swimmer in summer and a skier in winter, Kim plans to continue challenging herself in various sports. We look forward to cheering on her future endeavors.

Global oil prices recently surged due to the US-Iran war. To ease the cost of living for citizens, the government implemented an 'oil price ceiling' a few days ago to prevent prices from rising above a certain limit.

On the third day of this policy, gas prices at stations nationwide continue to drop. Both gasoline and diesel fell to the 1,840 won per liter range, narrowing their previously wide gap. The decline was sharp initially but slowed down today.

You will feel less financial burden when refueling your car. The price of indoor kerosene used for heating has also dropped significantly, which will be a great help in saving on living expenses.

Domestic gas prices may stabilize for now, but with imported crude oil prices rising again, we need to keep a close eye on future developments.

Nationwide local elections will be held in June 2026. However, the People Power Party (PPP) has been experiencing internal conflicts over its leadership direction. Notably, Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon has intentionally refused to register as a mayoral candidate by the deadline, demanding party reform.

The party's nomination committee decided to give Mayor Oh another chance. Calling him a valuable asset to the party, they officially requested his participation by opening an additional registration day on the 17th. The committee chairman, who had resigned due to conflicts, has also returned to persuade Oh to run.

The Mayor of Seoul is a crucial position that determines policies directly affecting the lives of 10 million citizens. Whether incumbent Mayor Oh runs again or a new candidate emerges could significantly alter the future direction of Seoul's real estate, transportation, and welfare policies.

The biggest question is whether Mayor Oh will accept the party's earnest request and register on the 17th. If he ultimately refuses, the election landscape is expected to experience significant turbulence.

Actress Ha Ji-won recently appeared as a special host on the SBS variety show 'My Little Old Boy' and shared updates on her life.

The 47-year-old actress surprised everyone by revealing she enrolled as a freshman in the Culinary and Food Design Department. Although she usually likes to relax at home, she is very excited to join clubs and go on MTs (membership training trips) with her classmates. She also honestly shared that her last relationship was about 8 years ago, and she feels more comfortable with younger men as long as they communicate well, regardless of the age gap.

Her willingness to take on new educational challenges regardless of her age provides positive inspiration and energy to many people.

Ahead of the June local elections, the People Power Party (PPP) faced internal clashes over candidate selection. Citing difficulties in pushing for reforms, Nomination Chair Lee Jung-hyun abruptly resigned on the 13th.

On the 15th, just two days after resigning, Lee returned to his post. This followed earnest persuasion from Party Leader Jang Dong-hyuk, who promised him full authority over nominations. Upon returning, Lee strongly vowed to break outdated practices and select candidates who meet the public's expectations.

The candidates a party puts forward are the first step in local elections that determine community leaders. As the ruling party accelerates its election preparations, it will be important to watch who emerges as candidates in our neighborhoods.

With Lee holding full authority, there is a high possibility of drastic candidate replacements, including the mass elimination of established politicians.

Singer Kim Ki-tae recently appeared on a television singing competition program and showcased a new performance.

After his performance, Kim Ki-tae confessed the heartbreaking story that he hasn't seen his mother for 20 years since his parents separated. He sang with all his heart, pouring his deep longing and sorrow for his mother into the song.

Longing for family touches everyone's heart. His sincere song and story are providing warm comfort and moving emotions to those who share similar pain.

Actor Park Shin-yang recently appeared on a TV talk show to greet viewers after a long time.

Park Shin-yang delivered the famous line 'Let's go, baby' in the hit 2004 drama 'Lovers in Paris'. He honestly confessed that he felt extremely cringey and embarrassed while acting it out. He also shared difficult memories of filming on crutches due to a spinal injury and revealed that he is currently working as a painter instead of acting.

This news brings back nostalgic memories of a beloved drama by seeing a familiar face after a long time. It's a great opportunity to share a laugh with family while reminiscing about old favorite soap operas.

Actress Hwang Seok-jeong recently showed off her muscular physique on a TV show. Suffering from a bad back, she couldn't refuse a gym owner's suggestion to work out, which sparked this amazing transformation.

Despite being in her 50s, Hwang worked out intensely while eating only chicken and cabbage. She achieved in 1.5 months what usually takes over 6 months, proudly taking 2nd place in a fitness competition. Motivated by people saying 'it's impossible in your 50s,' she wanted to give hope to her peers.

This story provides great courage, showing that with strong determination, you can achieve anything instead of giving up due to age. How about we also start taking care of our health with light walking or stretching?

Local elections will be held this June. The People Power Party (PPP) had internal disagreements over how to select candidates. Nomination Chair Lee Jung-hyun, who wanted new changes, suddenly resigned on the 13th when things didn't go his way.

However, just two days later, Lee announced his return. Party leader Jang Dong-hyuk personally visited and earnestly persuaded him, offering full authority over candidate selection to lead the reform. Lee stated he would take on the heavy responsibility again to overcome the party's crisis.

The candidates a political party puts forward are a crucial standard for electing local representatives. Keeping an eye on what new figures the PPP recommends will be very helpful when you vote.

Since Chairman Lee returned with a promise of full authority, significant and bold changes are expected in the upcoming candidate selection process.