Easy Brief

Military tensions between the US and Iran are escalating. The US took direct action after Iran threatened passing ships and blocked the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global oil route.

The US military bombed Iranian missile bases near the Strait of Hormuz using 'bunker busters.' These special bombs are powerful enough to penetrate deep underground or through solid concrete to destroy hidden weapon depots.

This strait is the main route for most of the world's oil imports. Continued conflict here makes it difficult to transport oil, which can cause oil prices to skyrocket and ultimately drive up the cost of living globally.

With the US continuing its attacks independently without allied support, the world is watching nervously to see how Iran will retaliate.

Amid escalating conflicts with the US and Israel, Iran has blocked the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global maritime route for oil.

Iran is reportedly negotiating with eight countries, offering to open the strait if they trade oil in Chinese Yuan. Since global oil has traditionally been traded in US dollars, this move is intended to weaken US power by promoting the Yuan. In fact, ships from some countries like India and Pakistan have already safely navigated through narrow passages with Iran's permission.

If this route remains blocked or passage conditions become stricter, the cost of imported oil could skyrocket. This is a concerning situation as it could drive up not only gas station prices but also overall inflation.

The US is unlikely to just stand by and watch Iran's actions. We will have to keep a close eye on how the power struggle between the US, Iran, and China unfolds.

As tensions between the US and Iran escalated, Iran blocked the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global oil route. The US launched military action to reopen it.

The US military dropped powerful bombs on an Iranian missile base near the Strait of Hormuz. A bomb also fell near an Iranian nuclear plant, causing alarm, but fortunately, no radiation leaked. Meanwhile, Israel and Iran are exchanging missile strikes, worsening the situation.

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

The armed conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran is unlikely to end soon, which will significantly impact global economy and security for the time being.

Recent severe military clashes occurred between the US and Iran. The US heavily struck Iranian military facilities, but European and other allies were cautious about directly participating in the military operations.

US President Trump stated that since the US has already achieved great military success, it no longer needs help from NATO or allies like South Korea and Japan. He expressed strong frustration that allies do not help when truly needed.

While it won't immediately change our daily lives, there is a high chance the US will pressure allies, including South Korea, to increase defense contributions. We must closely monitor our security and economic situation.

As the US threatens to rethink its relationships with allies, it may adopt a stricter stance in future diplomatic and defense cost-sharing negotiations with South Korea.

South Korea's leading company, Samsung Electronics, held its regular general meeting of shareholders on the 18th [1.1]. It was an event to report last year's earnings to shareholders and explain future plans.

Samsung achieved record-high revenue last year, and its stock price surged, pushing its market cap past 1,000 trillion won. Vice Chairman Jun Young-hyun expressed confidence in securing the absolute top spot in the advanced AI semiconductor market. He also promised generous dividends to reward shareholders for their trust and investment.

When Samsung's performance improves and its stock rises, it boosts the retirement funds and assets of many citizens who own its shares. It is also expected to inject significant vitality into the overall South Korean economy.

Samsung plans to lead the global market based on its technological capability to handle everything from semiconductor design to production at once. Smarter AI home appliances and smartphones will also increasingly appear in our daily lives.

Recently, Iran blocked the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global oil route, in response to US and Israeli attacks. This has caused a major global oil transport emergency.

Iran is reportedly negotiating a special deal with eight countries. The condition is to guarantee safe passage only for ships trading oil in Chinese Yuan. Since global oil has traditionally been traded exclusively in US dollars, Iran is teaming up with China to challenge the US-led economic system. The specific eight countries involved have not yet been confirmed.

Since many countries, including South Korea, heavily rely on Middle Eastern oil, blocking this route could cause oil prices to skyrocket. Higher oil prices lead to increased inflation, significantly raising the cost of living globally.

Iran's actions could further provoke the US, likely prolonging tensions in the Middle East. The world must closely monitor potential disruptions to the global oil supply.

The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial global oil route. Iran recently restricted it due to ongoing tensions with the US.

Iran is discussing allowing only tankers paying in Yuan, not US dollars, to pass. This challenges the dollar-dominated oil trade, aiming to bypass US sanctions and strengthen ties with China.

Disruptions in this strait could cause global oil prices to spike, leading to higher inflation and increased living costs worldwide.

Tensions in the Middle East waterways will likely persist as the US-Iran power struggle continues. Oil price fluctuations require close monitoring.

As US-Iran tensions worsen, the risk of attacks on oil tankers traveling from the Middle East to the rest of the world has increased. In response, the US attempted to form a multinational 'escort coalition' to protect these vessels.

However, forming the coalition has been difficult as allies like the UK and Germany hesitate, fearing involvement in a war. Concerns over blocked sea routes and oil shortages have driven global oil prices well over $100 per barrel.

Since many nations heavily rely on Middle Eastern oil, rising crude prices immediately spike gasoline costs at the pump. Furthermore, increased shipping and electricity costs can lead to a heavy burden on everyday consumer prices.

If the US-Iran conflict is not resolved quickly, high oil prices and inflation could persist for a while, requiring close monitoring of the situation.

Recently, the US and Israel have been engaged in military operations against Iran. US President Trump has emphasized that the war is necessary, claiming Iran poses a significant threat to the US.

However, Joseph Kent, the director responsible for US counterterrorism, suddenly resigned, stating he 'cannot support the Iran war in good conscience.' He revealed that the war was unreasonably initiated due to strong demands from Israel, even though Iran did not pose an immediate threat to the US. Since Kent was a key figure who actively supported President Trump, this revelation is causing an even greater shock.

If the war in the Middle East is prolonged, international oil prices will rise, which can eventually lead to higher fuel costs and inflation globally. As it can affect everyday grocery prices, we need to keep a close eye on the international situation.

With even a close aide to the president stepping down in opposition to the war, voices of criticism demanding an end to the conflict are expected to grow louder within the United States.

Armed conflicts between Israel and Iran have recently intensified. Israel is putting pressure on Iran by continuously attacking its key leaders [1.5].

Israel's Defense Minister announced the elimination of Iran's intelligence minister via an airstrike. Furthermore, the military has been granted full authority to attack high-ranking Iranian officials without seeking additional government approval. This indicates Israel's intent to push forward with its attacks on Iran even more aggressively.

The Middle East is a crucial route for global oil imports. If the war escalates in this region, international oil prices will rise, which could ultimately lead to higher fuel costs and living expenses for everyone.

With Israel signaling continued hardline attacks, the risk of the conflict escalating into a broader war is growing. The world will likely have to watch the situation closely with high tension for the time being.

Military tensions between the US and Iran have recently escalated. President Trump asked allies, including South Korea and Japan, to send warships to protect Middle East sea routes. However, most countries are reluctant to participate for fear of being drawn into a war.

In response, Trump boasted that the US is strong and doesn't need their help. However, media and experts believe this isn't his true intention. He is pressuring allies, implying they benefit from the US but don't help when needed. The hidden message is that if they can't send troops, they should at least clearly declare their political support for the US.

There is no immediate direct impact on our wallets. However, the government's dilemma will likely grow as the US may continue to demand troop deployments or support. Also, if the Middle East situation remains unstable, the price of oil imported to our country could rise.

As tensions rise in the Strait of Hormuz, the US asked European allies to send minesweepers to clear naval explosives.

Trump was furious when European nations refused. He expressed anger that Europe won't even send low-cost minesweepers despite massive US spending on the Ukraine war. He even warned of a US exit from NATO if they don't help.

The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial route for Middle Eastern oil. If it becomes dangerous, oil prices could spike, negatively impacting the global economy and consumer prices.

The US may strongly demand other allies, including South Korea, to send warships, which could deepen diplomatic dilemmas for these governments.

Recently, tensions between Israel and Iran have been extremely high, with Israel assassinating senior Iranian officials. Amidst this, the Israeli Prime Minister told Iranian citizens to freely enjoy their traditional holidays on the streets. This was essentially inciting them to protest against the Iranian government.

However, a shocking fact was revealed through US media. Israeli officials had previously reported to the US that 'if Iranian citizens take to the streets to protest, they will be massacred by Iranian government forces.' He is facing heavy criticism for pretending to support the freedom of the Iranian people while inciting protests, fully knowing it would lead to terrible sacrifices.

While there is no immediate direct impact on our daily lives, if the conflict in the Middle East escalates, the global economy could be shaken, leading to higher oil prices and inflation worldwide. This is why we must keep a close eye on this news.

As armed clashes and psychological warfare between Israel and Iran continue, the unstable situation in the Middle East is unlikely to calm down easily in the near future.

Recent conflicts involving the US, Israel, and Iran have made the Middle East highly dangerous. Concerns are growing that the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial sea route, could be blocked, making the safety of South Korean ships and sailors passing through a top priority.

The government held an emergency meeting with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries. They checked if ships near the Strait of Hormuz have enough food and water, and closely monitored the sailors' health. They are preparing to safely evacuate sailors to nearby ports if the situation worsens.

While there won't be immediate changes to daily life, those with family or friends working in the Middle East might be worried. The government is prioritizing citizens' safety, which should offer some reassurance. However, if this sea route is blocked, oil prices could rise, so the economic impact must be monitored.

The government is monitoring the situation by communicating with the ships daily. If it becomes dangerous, they plan to immediately evacuate the sailors to a safe location.

Amid ongoing military conflicts and war involving the US, Israel, and Iran, Joe Kent, the Director of the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC), has suddenly submitted his resignation.

Director Kent strongly criticized the war, stating that Iran posed no immediate threat to the US. He claimed the war was initiated due to Israeli pressure and that he could not conscientiously support sacrificing young soldiers. This marks a significant rebellion by a key figure who was once a staunch supporter of President Trump.

With anti-war voices emerging even within the US government, global geopolitics are becoming more complex. Instability in the Middle East could drive up global oil prices, negatively impacting the economy and inflation.

The White House refuted Kent's claims, calling Iran a 'clear threat.' However, following such a high-level revelation, domestic controversy over the war's justification is expected to intensify.

Recent wars in the Middle East threaten to block the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial oil transport route, making it very difficult to secure oil globally.

To overcome this crisis, the US and Japan agreed to form an 'oil alliance.' Japan will invest in US oil fields like Alaska to boost production and buy the oil. Japan, which relied on the Middle East for 90% of its oil, secures a safe supply, while the US gains a reliable buyer.

South Korea also imports a lot of oil from the Middle East and could be heavily impacted. Rising oil prices lead to higher inflation, increasing the cost of living.

US President Trump and Japanese PM Takaichi will meet to officially agree on this. South Korea will also need to expand cooperation with other countries to secure stable oil supplies.

Investor expectations grew due to strong earnings from US semiconductor companies and the government's strong will to revive the stock market.

The Korean stock market (KOSPI) surged over 5% in a single day, surpassing 5,900. A 'buy sidecar' was triggered to temporarily halt trading due to the rapid rise. Leading companies Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix led the market, topping 200,000 won and 1 million won, respectively.

This is great news for stock and fund investors, as their assets could grow significantly. Increased valuations of Korea's leading companies can also revitalize the overall economy.

Experts predict the stock market will maintain its positive momentum if Middle East tensions ease and government policies are well executed.

Recently, US President Trump asked several countries, including South Korea, to send warships to protect the Strait of Hormuz. This region is a crucial chokepoint for global oil shipments.

Hearing this, Iran issued a strong, direct warning to South Korea. If South Korea sends warships as requested by the US, Iran will view it as a threat and may respond militarily. Iran urged South Korea not to get involved in US and Israeli conflicts.

There are currently 26 South Korean merchant ships in the surrounding waters. A military clash could endanger the ships and crews, and cause a massive spike in oil prices, which would negatively impact the broader economy.

It remains to be seen what careful decision the South Korean government will make while caught between the US request for deployment and Iran's stern warning.

Due to US-Iran tensions, the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial Middle East oil route, is at risk of closure. US President Trump is strongly demanding allies like South Korea and Japan send troops to protect commercial ships.

Japanese PM Takaichi faces a dilemma ahead of the US summit. Instead of sending troops, she plans to support the US stance on maritime safety while urging a diplomatic solution. This is a minimal compromise to avoid the burden of direct involvement in war.

If Middle East sea routes become dangerous, global oil prices and inflation could surge. Furthermore, since the US is also demanding troop deployment from South Korea, Japan's response will serve as an important reference.

It remains uncertain whether the US will easily accept Japan's compromise. Depending on the summit's outcome, US pressure on South Korea to deploy troops could also intensify.

Recently, Iran has been in turmoil both internally and externally due to the war. The Iranian government is highly tense, fearing that citizens might take advantage of this situation to stage anti-government protests again.

The government is sending threatening texts warning citizens not to post about the war online or take to the streets. They are even searching homes and confiscating 'Starlink' devices used to bypass internet censorship. They are creating an atmosphere of fear to prevent a repeat of the massive protests seen last January.

While not directly related to us, instability in the Middle East can impact the global economy and oil prices. It is important to keep an eye on how the situation in Iran unfolds.

Although large-scale protests are unlikely immediately due to the government's oppressive control, clashes could erupt again at any time if public dissatisfaction continues to build.

Through recent conflicts, the US realized the importance of cheap, efficient weapons. Years ago, they secretly acquired low-cost Iranian suicide drones and have been studying their technology.

The US Department of Defense plans to mass-produce 'Lucas', a new drone modeled after Iranian designs. Costing around $60,000 each, they are far cheaper than multi-million dollar missiles and have a range of over 740km. They are already proving highly useful in actual combat.

While it may not affect daily life directly, it highlights a rapid global shift from large, expensive weapons to small, low-cost drones. This trend serves as a crucial reference for national defense and security strategies worldwide.

The US is expected to significantly increase the production of these affordable drones instead of expensive missiles, saving defense costs while boosting combat capabilities.

Many people get thinner limbs but a bulging belly as they age. It's easy to feel safe if your weight is normal, but a new study shows belly fat can be fatal to heart health [1.1].

According to a US study, people with a thick waistline have a much higher risk of 'heart failure' even if their weight is normal. The reason is 'inflammation' caused by belly fat. Visceral fat releases harmful inflammatory substances that travel through blood vessels and damage heart muscles.

Now, measuring your waistline with a tape measure is more important than stepping on a scale. Controlling your diet and taking light walks regularly to prevent belly fat is the best way to keep your heart strong.

In the future, checking waist circumference and inflammation levels through blood tests during health checkups will likely become an important standard for preventing heart disease.

Liver cancer has a high global mortality rate, making regular screening crucial for those with hepatitis B, C, or cirrhosis. However, early detection using traditional ultrasounds or blood tests is often difficult, especially for patients with seemingly normal blood marker levels.

Seegene Medical Foundation developed a new liver cancer test called 'SeeLiver'. Using precision technology to analyze minute components, it detects early-stage liver cancer much more accurately than previous methods. In a trial of 980 patients, its detection capability was about twice as high as older methods.

Since early detection improves liver cancer treatment outcomes, commercializing this technology will greatly help high-risk individuals get timely care. It is expected to be especially useful in finding hidden cancers in patients who previously tested 'normal'.

As the technology has gained international recognition, the research team plans to prepare for commercialization so patients can easily access the test in hospitals.

The USS Gerald R. Ford is the world's largest and newest aircraft carrier, built for about $13 billion. It was recently deployed to the Middle East to carry out critical operations.

On the 12th, a massive fire started in the ship's laundry room and took 30 hours to extinguish. Fortunately, there were no life-threatening injuries, but over 600 sailors lost their quarters and had to sleep on the floor. Furthermore, broken toilets and extended deployments have caused severe fatigue and stress among the crew.

While it may not directly impact our daily lives, it highlights how even the world's most advanced military assets can be crippled by mundane issues like a laundry room fire or facility breakdowns.

The USS Ford will head to a naval base in Greece for repairs and to allow the crew to rest. It is expected to temporarily withdraw from its current mission to recover.

What do you usually have for breakfast? A recent study showing that a hearty 'traditional English breakfast' with eggs, fish, and meat prevents aging is drawing attention.

An English breakfast often includes egg yolks and oily fish like herring and salmon, which are rich in vitamin D. Vitamin D strongly protects 'telomeres,' which prevent our cells from aging. Studies show that people who consistently consume vitamin D experience much slower cellular aging.

How about adding a fried egg or a piece of oily fish like mackerel to your morning table? Pairing it with a warm cup of black coffee without sugar or cream will protect your heart and brain health, helping you enjoy a younger, more energetic day.

Recently, Iran has been experiencing external conflicts and war. The Iranian government is highly anxious that anti-government protests or uprisings might occur domestically during this chaotic period.

The Iranian government has begun strictly controlling its citizens. They executed a man for allegedly spying for Israel and arrested 500 people for sharing information with the enemy. They also sent warning texts to citizens, telling them not to post about the war online or protest in the streets.

While not directly affecting us immediately, continued instability in the Middle East can impact global prices and oil costs. It is important to monitor the situation through international news.

As the Iranian government's oppression intensifies, citizens' dissatisfaction may grow deeper. We will have to wait and see if internal conflicts escalate into larger protests or remain suppressed by the government's coercive control.

During menopause, as female hormones decrease, many experience forgetfulness or a foggy mind, often called 'brain fog'. A large-scale study was conducted in the UK for those worried about major brain function issues.

A study of over 14,000 women aged 45-55 found that while many felt their memory declined around menopause, actual cognitive test scores showed no significant difference. The brain function itself didn't worsen; it just feels that way temporarily due to depression, anxiety, lack of sleep, and stress.

You don't need to be overly anxious if your memory isn't what it used to be after menopause. Relaxing, reducing stress, and getting a good night's sleep are much more helpful in maintaining a clear mind.

As we age, digestion slows down, making it hard to enjoy processed foods like ramen or bread without health concerns. However, completely avoiding these foods is practically very difficult. Recently, a nutrition expert shared a method to enjoy processed foods healthily with just a little care, drawing much attention.

Processed foods are unhealthy because they are salty and greasy, yet lack protective nutrients. Therefore, it's crucial to supplement these missing nutrients when eating them. For example, when cooking ramen, add plenty of vegetables like cabbage, bean sprouts, mushrooms, or spinach, or add a splash of perilla oil. The beneficial components in vegetables help flush out sodium and prevent sudden blood sugar spikes.

You no longer need to feel guilty when eating ramen or bread. Actively using leftover vegetables at home not only improves the taste but also protects your health. It would be great to build a habit of adding more vegetable side dishes to your daily meals.

Thyroid cancer is often called a 'good cancer' because it is highly treatable. However, this study was conducted to see if metabolic changes after a full recovery could lead to other diseases.

According to Konkuk University Hospital researchers, thyroid cancer survivors have twice the risk of developing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease within 5 years compared to others. The risk increases with higher body weight and is also affected by the dosage of thyroid hormone medication.

If you have overcome thyroid cancer, you must care for your liver health as well as prevent cancer recurrence. It is advisable to exercise regularly, maintain a healthy weight, and get routine liver ultrasounds and blood tests.

Based on this study, new medical guidelines are expected to be established to advise thyroid cancer patients on post-treatment testing and health management.

It was previously known that people with fatty liver are more prone to thyroid cancer. To see if the reverse is true, a Konkuk University research team conducted a large-scale study.

The study showed that thyroid cancer survivors had over twice the risk of developing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease within 5 years compared to non-patients. The risk was even higher when taking lower doses of thyroid hormone medication.

You shouldn't just relax after successfully completing thyroid cancer surgery or treatment. It has become very important to maintain liver health and weight through diet control and regular exercise.

Based on this research, hospitals are expected to provide more meticulous, customized management programs to help thyroid cancer patients prevent metabolic diseases like fatty liver after treatment.

As marriage and childbirth are delayed, the number of mothers diagnosed with gestational diabetes is steadily increasing. Westernized dietary habits are also considered a major cause.

During pregnancy, hormonal changes occur to help the baby grow. If blood sugar is not controlled well during this time, gestational diabetes develops. Since there are no outward symptoms, it is often discovered accidentally during regular check-ups. Starving hinders the baby's growth, so it is crucial to control blood sugar through a healthy diet and light exercise with a doctor's help.

If left untreated, the baby may be born excessively large or suffer from childhood obesity. Mothers also face a high risk of developing type 2 diabetes after giving birth, so continuous blood sugar monitoring and management are necessary even postpartum.

Thyroid cancer is often called a 'good cancer' due to its high cure rate. However, a recent study reveals that patients cannot completely let their guard down even after being declared fully cured.

According to a Konkuk University Hospital research team, thyroid cancer survivors are over twice as likely to develop non-alcoholic fatty liver disease within five years compared to the general public. Hormonal changes and metabolic imbalances during treatment put a strain on the liver. The risk is especially higher with increased weight gain and insufficient intake of thyroid hormone medication.

Even if you have successfully beaten thyroid cancer, you must now look after your liver health. It is highly important to undergo regular liver ultrasound exams, take your prescribed hormone medications properly, and maintain an appropriate weight.

Currently, you have to wait two days (T+2) to receive the actual cash in your account after selling stocks. Recently, President Lee Jae-myung ordered this period to be shortened, asking, 'Why pay the day after tomorrow for stocks sold today?', sparking full-scale discussions.

Plans are underway to reduce the stock settlement period to one day (T+1). However, immediate implementation is difficult because various institutions, including the Korea Exchange and securities firms, must align and safely test complex IT systems. The industry estimates that about 2-3 years are needed for perfect preparation.

Once implemented, you will be able to get cash much faster after selling stocks. This will provide more financial flexibility, allowing you to quickly access funds for urgent medical bills or living expenses.

As we age, grip strength weakens, making it hard to open bottle caps or wring out dishcloths. Recently, an oriental medicine expert recommended 'hanging on a pull-up bar'—an easy exercise to do at a local park or indoors—drawing significant attention.

Grip strength is a crucial indicator of overall muscle and bone health. A decline in grip strength is linked to brain aging, increasing dementia risk, and is closely related to diabetes. To prevent this, hanging on a pull-up bar for 10 to 15 seconds, three times a day, is highly effective. It not only strengthens hand and wrist muscles but also straightens rounded shoulders and backs, reducing spinal disc pain.

Start lightly hanging on a pull-up bar at a local park or indoors today. However, if you have frozen shoulder or a history of torn shoulder tendons, avoid it as it may strain your joints. If your grip is too weak, using tools like resistance bands is recommended for safe exercise.

Ahead of the local elections on June 3, the People Power Party (PPP) is busy selecting its candidates. Initially, the party promised 'innovation and generational change' by introducing new and young faces.

However, the media criticizes the results for contradicting these promises. Instead of new faces, figures close to former President Yoon Suk-yeol or those with strong conservative leanings are mostly being nominated. Furthermore, some senior politicians who failed the screening are strongly protesting, even invoking outdated regionalism, causing significant internal turmoil.

Local elections are crucial for choosing mayors and governors who manage our communities. The welfare and economic policies of our region can change depending on the political leanings of the candidates put forward by each party.

Internal party disputes over candidate positions are expected to continue for a while. How well this conflict is managed will likely be a major variable in the upcoming election.

The South Korean women's football team competed in the 2026 Asian Cup in Australia. They reached the semi-finals aiming for their first-ever title, but faced powerhouse Japan on the road to the finals.

In the semi-final against Japan on the 18th, they unfortunately lost 1-4. They trailed after conceding two goals in the first half. Although Kang Chae-rim scored in the second half, it wasn't enough to turn the game around. This extends their disappointing winless streak against Japan to 11 years.

Although they missed out on the championship trophy, reaching the semi-finals secured their ticket to next year's World Cup in Brazil. Fans can look forward to cheering for the team as they compete on the global stage.

Putting the disappointment of this tournament behind them, the national team is expected to focus on training for next year's World Cup.

Many people panic when told they have a lump (nodule) in their thyroid during a health checkup, worrying it might be cancer or require immediate surgery. Recently, the medical community has provided clear guidelines on how to manage these nodules rather than unconditionally removing them.

Over 90% of thyroid lumps are ordinary, benign nodules, not cancer. Even if diagnosed as cancer, if it's under 1cm, it grows so slowly that doctors often monitor it with ultrasound instead of immediate surgery. However, if a biopsy confirms aggressive cancer, or if the lump is over 4cm and growing rapidly, surgery should be actively considered.

Finding a thyroid lump doesn't mean you should immediately worry about surgery. It's important to avoid unnecessary procedures and receive treatment tailored to your condition. Rather than having vague fears, getting regular ultrasound checkups and consulting your doctor is the smartest way to manage your health.

The 2025-2026 Professional Billiards Association (PBA) season recently concluded, and an awards ceremony was held to honor the players with the most outstanding performances of the year.

Kim Ga-young, known as the 'Billiards Queen,' became the first player in pro billiards history to win the Grand Prize for three consecutive years. She won four tournaments this season alone and swept six awards, including top prize money, highest average score, and most bank shots. In the men's division, Spanish player Daniel Sanchez won his first Grand Prize.

Billiards is a popular indoor hobby, especially among seniors, as it provides light exercise and mental stimulation regardless of the weather. Watching our world-class players compete on TV can be a great way to add some energy and excitement to your daily life.

On a recent TV show, a husband shared his concern about his wife's drinking problem. Since their fourth child turned one, she has been drinking two bottles of soju every day.

Experts analyze that she relies on alcohol due to the regret of quitting her job after childbirth and the severe stress of parenting. She uses alcohol as an emotional escape. However, daily drinking severely damages liver and brain health, leading to a very high risk of alcohol dependence.

If your family or friends use alcohol to relieve stress, you should pay close attention. Engaging in physical hobbies like light walks or exercise instead of drinking greatly helps reduce alcohol consumption.

If she experiences hand tremors or anxiety when not drinking, she may already need medical treatment and should seek help from a hospital or professional immediately.

Ahead of the local elections in June, political parties are busy with 'nominations' to select their candidates. The competition is especially fierce for the Daegu mayoral seat, a traditional stronghold for the conservative party.

People Power Party (PPP) Nomination Committee Chair Lee Jung-hyun essentially advised veteran lawmakers running for Daegu mayor to drop out, asking them to 'make way for juniors.' He meant that since they have long enjoyed support in Daegu, they should now aim for bigger stages like Seoul Mayor or Gyeonggi Governor. However, the lawmakers preparing to run are strongly protesting, calling it 'out of touch with the local region.'

Depending on who becomes the Daegu mayoral candidate, the region's development direction and job policies could change significantly. It is an important process of choosing the leader for the local community, so it is worth paying attention to.

There is a possibility that the party might forcibly eliminate (cut off) veteran lawmakers, so internal conflicts and tension are expected to continue for a while.