After a four-year hiatus due to mandatory military service, K-pop group BTS is making its return to the stage with a world tour kicking off on April 9 in Goyang, South Korea, with 85 concerts planned across Asia, North America, Latin America, and Europe.
North Korea has showcased new advanced weapon systems, including a cluster-bomb missile and electronic warfare capabilities, in what analysts view as a display of military strength.
South Korean stocks experienced a decline of over 1.5 percent, ending a four-day winning streak, as investors reacted to ongoing uncertainties in the Middle East. The Korean won also weakened against the U.S. dollar.
CJ Olive Young is undertaking its largest regional expansion to date, investing 123.8 billion won ($84 million) to develop large-scale stores and logistics infrastructure outside the Seoul metropolitan area, aiming to boost local economies and create jobs.
Singer Jennie's collaboration with Frankies Bikinis has debuted in Korea through a pop-up event at Musinsa Empty Seongs in Seoul, drawing significant attention.
Tickets for K-pop group Enhypen's upcoming Seoul concert, which will kick off their 'Blood Saga' world tour, have sold out through an exclusive fan offering.
North Korea launched several short-range ballistic missiles into the sea, marking its second missile test in two days, hours after a senior Pyongyang official ridiculed Seoul's hopes for improved relations.
Former Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba met with South Korean President Lee Jae-myung in Seoul, confirming their commitment to further develop Japan-South Korea relations through various levels of exchange.
Ropa prudko zlacnela po oznámení dvojtýždňového prímeria medzi USA a Iránom. Trump spojil dohodu s okamžitým a bezpečným znovuotvorením Hormuzského prielivu.
AI K-Pop startup Galaxy is preparing for a potential dual initial public offering in Seoul and New York, aiming to be the first overseas listing by a K-pop agency and create content without human performers.
A 52-year-old Congolese asylum seeker has won a United Nations Human Rights Committee ruling against South Korea after being confined for 14 months in the transit area of Incheon Airport. The UN urged South Korea to compensate him and prevent similar violations.
Seoul Foreign School's British School has been named South Korea's inaugural Forest School Development Center, introducing a structured outdoor learning model that uses natural environments for student development.
K-pop idols Jeno and Jaemin of NCT, forming the subunit JNJM, are set to embark on their 'Duality' fan meeting tour across six Asian cities, starting with Seoul in mid-June.
Seoul's unification minister has urged Brussels to act as a mediator in North-South discussions, but Pyongyang still appears to show little interest in interaction.
Seoul city officials are bringing back a mass nap contest at a riverside park next month to promote rest and outdoor leisure. The event, dubbed the "2026 Hangang Nap Competition," is scheduled for May.
Seoul plans to spend over 100 billion won ($66.4 million) in the next five years to address the growing issue of social isolation among its young residents, with hundreds of thousands estimated to be cut off from work, school, and social life.
K-pop group Wanna One celebrated their reunion after seven years with a fan meet-and-greet event in Seoul, marking the launch of their new reality show.
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Middle East tensions have led to the cancellation of 972 flights at Shahjalal International Airport. In other news, Joseph Antoine Bell has defended Patrice Motsepe, stating he 'forgot to be the dictator we like in Africa,' while Arsenal prepares for their match against Sporting, vowing not to underestimate their opponent.
In the heart of affluent Seoul, residents of a slum, including 85-year-old Lee Chang-wol, are resisting eviction efforts by the city, questioning the definition of habitable places after living there for decades.
North Korea is distancing itself from longtime partner Iran and carefully managing its public messaging to preserve the possibility of a new relationship with Washington after the war, South Korea’s National Intelligence Service has assessed, according to lawmakers briefed by the agency. The NIS told a closed-door parliamentary session that Pyongyang has sent no weapons […]
Seoul is expanding a city-run lifelong learning program, allowing residents to take university courses free of charge at 10 participating institutions, covering subjects such as AI and Chinese cuisine.
Energy Secretary Sharon Garin stated that Iran's agreement to grant safe passage for Philippine-bound energy supplies through the Strait of Hormuz is a government 'risk management' strategy to secure the country's oil supply.
Rangi Gallery from Tanzania is participating in Art OnO, an international art fair in Seoul, bringing East African contemporary art perspectives to the South Korean capital.
A Seoul court dismissed an injunction request filed by Rep. Joo Ho-young against the People Power Party's decision to exclude him from the nomination for Daegu mayor in the upcoming local elections.
The Korea Future eco-Mobility Service Association (KFMSA) and Herald Media Group held the launch ceremony for the Future AI Mobility Summit (FAMS) 2026 in Seoul, aiming to set global service standards.
A Chinese national in his 50s has been referred to prosecutors on charges of attempted murder and aggravated assault following a stabbing attack in Seoul that resulted in the victim suffering severe facial and optic nerve injuries.
Global stock markets, oil futures, and specific company performances are experiencing volatility, while geopolitical uncertainty rises, following developments in the Middle East conflict and former President Donald Trump's statements regarding Iran. Economic forecasts for the war and economy range from bad to much worse, and family offices are stalling deal-making due to the conflict, though megadeals continue.
The US-Iran conflict continues to fuel a global energy shock, with oil prices surging and Asian stocks falling after Trump's vows. The UK is experiencing unprecedented fuel price rises, while Saudi Arabia explores its East-West pipeline as an alternative to the Strait of Hormuz chokehold, all contributing to a broader economic slowdown and inflation.
South Korean Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back met with a bipartisan delegation of US senators in Seoul to discuss alliance issues, including Seoul's proposal to acquire nuclear-powered submarines.
Following President Trump's speech on the Iran conflict, Iran has threatened 'more crushing' actions, leading to renewed surges in Brent crude oil prices and widening escalation risks due to Iran's leverage over global oil routes.
GS Group held a tech collaboration event with AI startups in Seoul, aiming to accelerate its digital transformation and expand into emerging technologies.
The team behind 'KPop Demon Hunters' gathered in Seoul to discuss a potential sequel to the film, an Oscar night mishap, and the meaning of being Korean, with director Chris Appelhans hinting at future developments. The Oscar-winning directors have now promised a 'bigger' and more 'eventful' sequel.
Bangladesh marked its 55th Independence and Martyrs Day in Seoul, honoring the 1971 struggle and highlighting growing economic and strategic ties with South Korea.
Seoul Subway Lines 1 to 8 transported 2.44 billion passengers in 2025, with Jamsil Station on Line 2 remaining the busiest for the third consecutive year. The system averaged 6.69 million daily passengers, a 1.3 percent increase from the previous year.
South Korea is in talks with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) regarding a potential visit by the agency's chief, as Seoul continues its efforts to acquire nuclear-powered attack submarines.
South Korean veteran singer Han Young-ae, known as the 'sorceress of sound,' will hold a concert in Seoul on June 13-14 to mark her 50th debut anniversary.
Former President Donald Trump claims the U.S. is negotiating with Iranian leadership and has made 'progress' on a deal, but simultaneously threatens to destroy Iran's oil wells, Kharg Island, and desalination plants if an agreement is not reached shortly. Gulf allies are reportedly urging him to continue fighting until the Islamic regime falls.
Residents in Seoul are reportedly rushing to purchase rubbish bags, a phenomenon attributed to anxieties and concerns stemming from the ongoing Iran war.
Air China has resumed direct flights between Beijing and Pyongyang after a six-year hiatus, marking another step in the isolated nation's gradual reopening and providing a lifeline for its economy as China is its largest trading partner. The resumption also complements renewed train services between the capitals, though new restrictions apply to passengers.
As spring arrives in Seoul with warmer weather and longer days, the city has released its annual guide to the best places to enjoy blossoms, with cherry blossoms expected to peak around April 10.
South Korea plans an expansionary fiscal policy for 2027, with a budget potentially approaching 800 trillion won ($529 billion), to accelerate a major transition focused on artificial intelligence.
The Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education announced plans to open Seoul Semiconductor High School in March 2027, aiming to train skilled talent for South Korea's crucial chip industry.
The conflict involving Iran has intensified with the Houthi rebels entering the fray, launching attacks on Israel and threatening Red Sea shipping. Meanwhile, Pakistan hosted talks between Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt aimed at ending the war, while Iran issued warnings against a potential US ground invasion.
The city wants to redevelop a shantytown in Gangnam district, where hundreds are defying eviction, fighting for a right to own a home in an area notorious for the exorbitant cost of housing.
South Korea has joined as a co-sponsor of this year's U.N. resolution on North Korean human rights, despite earlier expectations that Seoul might skip the move in line with its conciliatory gestures toward Pyongyang.
Six women in their 50s are defying age stereotypes by regularly gathering in a Hongdae studio in Seoul to pursue hip-hop, demonstrating that the genre is not exclusively for the young.
Taipei has expressed strong disapproval towards Seoul and Copenhagen for using 'China' labels on arrival cards, specifically regarding 'Korea (South)'.
The US Department of Defense has decided to cease publishing its Global Posture Review, a key document detailing global troop deployments, breaking decades of tradition and raising concerns in Seoul over the future of US troop deployments, though immediate impact is deemed unlikely.
Seoul has climbed two spots to 8th place in the latest Global Financial Centres Index, marking its fourth consecutive year in the top 10 for financial competitiveness.
Commuters near Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul faced disruptions as approximately 20 wheelchair activists from Solidarity Against Disability Discrimination staged a boarding protest at bus stops, advocating for disability rights.
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko visited North Korea, where he held talks with leader Kim Jong Un, signed a friendship and cooperation treaty, and exchanged gifts, including Lukashenko presenting an assault rifle to Kim, further solidifying their anti-Western alliance and criticizing Western pressure.
Former President Trump has reiterated his rejection of a ceasefire with Iran, asserting that Iran desires a deal but fears its own people and the US. Meanwhile, oil prices continue to climb past $100, driven by lingering risks of a prolonged US-Iran war, impacting global powers as Trump and Xi pursue energy dominance, with Europe particularly vulnerable.
The 'Fine Viola Museum' exhibition in Seoul will showcase thirty fine Italian violas, offering visitors the unique opportunity to not only observe but also play the instruments.
The Iran war continues to cause a global energy shock, driving fuel prices up and shaking the world economy, with Asia looking to COVID-era playbooks to tackle the crisis from the Strait of Hormuz blockage. Daily life in Asia is disrupted by the fuel crisis, and poor countries face catastrophe as the global economy pays a high price for the conflict.
K-pop sensation BTS's Seoul comeback concert livestream on Netflix drew 18.4 million global viewers, marking their first performance together since October 2022 and continuing to garner impressive viewership figures.
The Korea Herald explores what makes cities like Montreal and Seoul global cultural powerhouses, highlighting their strategies for transforming urban spaces into artistic hubs and leveraging cultural confidence for international expansion.
South Korea's ruling Democratic Party has selected Chong Won-o, former chief of Seoul's Seongdong district, as its candidate for Seoul mayor in the upcoming June 3 local elections after he secured a majority of votes in the primary.
Seoul police are filing a civil lawsuit against a man who made over 100 false emergency reports in nine months, apparently to be sent to prison, now seeking damages instead.
South Korea's Education Ministry announced new measures to regulate private education fees following a probe that uncovered widespread irregular charges at private academies.
Seoul city officials announced plans to replace more than 2,000 public Wi-Fi units this year, investing 2.4 billion won ($1.62 million). The initiative shifts policy from expanding coverage to enhancing the speed and reliability of public internet access.
LG Innotek announced a joint labor-management agreement aimed at enhancing workplace safety and employee well-being, with a signing ceremony held at the company's Seoul headquarters.
Two Korean cafes, one in Busan and one in Seoul, have been named among The World’s 100 Best Coffee Shops 2026, drawing both locals and coffee enthusiasts.
A U.S. expert suggests that Donald Trump might impose additional tariffs on South Korea if Seoul engages with Iran regarding transit through the Strait of Hormuz, indicating potential geopolitical tensions.
South Korea is reviewing its list of priority partner countries for official development assistance, potentially reducing the number from 27 to 25 and excluding Colombia, Myanmar, and Ukraine from its five-year blueprint.
Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway were present at a press event in Seoul for the upcoming film 'The Devil Wears Prada 2', captured in a series of pictures.
The Italian Embassy in Seoul has launched four new Korean-language books focused on Italy, highlighting cultural exchange efforts between the two nations.
Rwanda marked the 32nd anniversary of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi with a solemn ceremony held in Seoul, South Korea. The event, hosted by the Rwandan Embassy, was themed "Remember — Unite — Renew."
Asiana Airlines, South Korea's second-largest carrier, has commenced three weekly direct flights connecting Budapest and Seoul, enhancing travel options to seven days a week between the two capitals.
Bereaved families of two victims in the Seoul motel drug killings have filed a civil damages suit against a female suspect and her parents with the Seoul Northern District Court.
South Korean intelligence indicates that Kim Jong Un's daughter is increasingly being presented in public, particularly at defense events, suggesting an acceleration in building her image as a potential successor.
A Buddhism Expo held in Seoul, featuring elements like EDM parties and hip-hop performances, drew 250,000 visitors, including a significant number of Gen Z and nonreligious attendees, at Bongeunsa temple.
US President Donald Trump on Sunday stepped up his threat to hit Iran's critical infrastructure hard if the country's government doesn’t reopen the Strait of Hormuz by his Monday deadline. Trump punctuated his threat with profanity in a social media post Sunday, saying that Tuesday will be “Power Plant Day, and Bridge Day, all wrapped up in one, in Iran.” He also offered details of the rescue of a “seriously wounded and really brave” US service member he identified as a “respected colonel” who w
Jeremy Allaire, CEO of Circle, issuer of the US coin stablecoin, is scheduled to meet with officials from KB Financial Group in Seoul this month. The discussions will focus on expanding their existing partnership and exploring new avenues for financial cooperation.
Three spectators were injured after a safety fence collapsed during a Super Junior concert in Seoul. The group's agency, SM Entertainment, issued an apology following the incident.
The Seoul Metropolitan Government said Sunday it would provide a monthly cash refund of 30,000 won ($20) for users of the Climate Card, the city’s unlimited public transit pass, over three months…
A recent incident of trash bag theft in Seoul has been attributed to public panic over an anticipated shortage of petroleum-related materials, possibly influenced by the Middle East conflict.
A natto 'competition' was held at Nottodo Natto & Bar in Seoul, bringing together diners to experience and share the unfamiliar flavors of fermented soybeans.
Goyang, a city near Seoul, is gaining popularity among tourists for its scenic spots, K-drama filming locations, and a BTS mural. This guide highlights top attractions for visitors planning a trip.
French President Emmanuel Macron has criticized Donald Trump, advising him to speak less and avoid contradicting his own statements, asserting that Trump is undermining NATO.
Seonjae, a Buddhist nun and temple cuisine master from 'Culinary Class Wars 2', hosted foreign diplomats in Seoul for a meditation session and a traditional Korean temple meal, promoting peace through food.
Seoul Metropolitan Government has been recognized as the best leisure destination in Asia for the second year running at the Global Traveler's Leisure Lifestyle Awards, based on votes from global business travelers.
Yeouido hosts an outdoor concert series amidst cherry blossoms, while a cafe near Seoul Forest offers cozy crafts, creating a lively atmosphere in Seoul this weekend.
The United States has lifted sanctions on Delcy Rodríguez, Venezuela’s acting leader, allowing her to conduct business with U.S. companies and potentially meet with President Trump, with the US Treasury Department confirming the removal of previously imposed restrictions.
A South Korean activist, previously detained in an Israeli prison for boarding a Gaza-bound aid ship, is again attempting to visit the Palestinian enclave. The Foreign Ministry has ordered her to surrender her passport, sparking controversy.
The Seoul Metropolitan Government announced phased traffic controls around the Gwanghwamun area for 24 hours starting midnight Saturday to accommodate the 2026 Easter Parade.
Restaurants in South Korea, such as a barbecue establishment in Seoul, are struggling with increasing operational costs, including a significant rise in wholesale beef prices, attributed to surging global oil prices.
Seoul has established a new policy consultation council comprising top finance officials to enhance cooperation among economic authorities in developing macroeconomic policies amidst global uncertainties.
The global bond market is experiencing its most significant monthly decline in years, as Middle East oil-producing countries reduce their exposure to US government bonds, intensifying fears of a dangerous economic scenario due to the ongoing Middle East war, with the Treasury market now facing the test of rising war costs.
Seoul has implemented measures to turn down the brightness of billboards across the city, aiming to reduce light pollution and improve urban aesthetics.
The Seoul Metropolitan Government has announced the nation’s first comprehensive guidelines to reduce excessive screen brightness from the increasing number of large outdoor LED billboards across the capital.
A new social trend in Seoul sees individuals forming bathing groups through apps like Karrot, turning strangers into friends through shared sauna experiences.
Air Canada CEO Michael Rousseau is set to retire later this year after facing widespread criticism and public backlash for an English-only condolence message following a fatal runway collision, with the airline now emphasizing French fluency in its search for a successor.
European and world stock markets, including Asian equities, are experiencing downward trends for the fifth consecutive week due to intensifying Middle East conflict, which has also caused oil prices to surge towards $117 per barrel and led to a rebound in soybean and corn prices, further fueled by fears of escalation in Iran.
A unique fan experience featuring BTS's new track "Swim" has launched on a Han River cruise, blending music, visuals, and shared moments for fans under Seoul's night sky.
Foreign card spending in the Gwanghwamun area of Seoul surged 74 percent from a year earlier during a BTS concert weekend on March 21, indicating a reshuffling of spending rather than a broad retail boost for local merchants.
A civic group advocating for disability rights staged a protest in Seoul, occupying a bus stop and halting traffic to highlight discrimination in access to public transport.
North Korea's recent characterization of Seoul as an 'eternal enemy' has been dismissed as 'nonsense' by Nikkei Asia, highlighting the ongoing rhetorical tensions between the two Koreas.
The Middle East conflict continues to fuel inflation and impact global economies, leading to growing doubt among UK shoppers and prompting governments like India and Albania to implement measures such as export duties, reduced excise taxes, and price board meetings to stabilize fuel prices. Spanish families are also saving more amidst rising inflation, while European fund managers advise on investment strategies to mitigate risks.
The World Journalists Conference is scheduled to open in Seoul, bringing together approximately 50 reporters from 30 countries. Hosted by the Journalists Association of Korea, the event will run from Sunday to April 3, focusing on the theme of journalism.
A senior conservative lawmaker criticized the Lee Jae Myung administration’s North Korea policy, arguing it emboldens Pyongyang and demanding the immediate removal of the unification minister.
US President Donald Trump has extended the pause on military strikes against Iran's energy infrastructure until April 6, citing positive negotiation progress. This decision, amid renewed Mideast tensions, has caused global markets to react, with oil prices falling and Seoul and Tokyo stocks opening sharply lower.
As spring arrives, Korea offers easy weekend escapes to coastal parks near Seoul, providing fresh sea air. Additionally, cold dishes like Pyongyang naengmyeon are making an early return, typically enjoyed in summer.
The Pentagon has ordered a greater military presence in the Middle East, fueling fears of a risky ground attack on Iran. Meanwhile, Donald Trump continues to claim a deal to end the war is close, despite Iranian officials flatly denying any such agreement is possible and calling U.S. claims a self-negotiated defeat.
Chef Park Jung-hyun, celebrated for leading Atomix to two Michelin stars in New York, has returned to Seoul to open his first restaurant in the city, JP at Louis Vuitton, located within the brand's cultural complex.
Jongmyo Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Seoul, has been chosen as the official symbol for the 2026 World Heritage Committee session to be held in Busan, South Korea, in July.
An international symposium in Seoul, organized by the Korean Federation of Community Credit, discussed solidarity finance as a solution to regional economic decline and population loss in South Korea and other countries.
Seoul Venture University President Kang Jun-mo has been appointed honorary consul of Romania in Korea, a move aimed at expanding industrial and technological cooperation with South Chungcheong Province.
BTS's recent live comeback has achieved significant success on Netflix charts, though its impact on the streets of Seoul has reportedly been less pronounced.
Online posts claiming to reveal the drugs used in the Seoul laced-drink killings, where Kim So-young is suspected of killing two men, are circulating on social media, raising concerns about potential copycat crimes.
Chong Won-o, a former three-term district chief, has been confirmed as the ruling Democratic Party of Korea's candidate for the Seoul mayoral race. He will represent the party in the upcoming June local election.
French premium label Ego Productions, part of Mediawan Group, and Seoul-based Flix Oven have signed a memorandum of understanding to jointly develop and produce films and series. The agreement was formalized during French President Emmanuel Macron's visit.
Galaxy Corp., known as G-Dragon's agency, announced plans to introduce K-pop-dedicated AI glasses by the end of this year, alongside a robot-based concert venue in Seoul.
The Galleries Art Fair 2026 has commenced at Coex in southern Seoul, attracting large crowds and indicating a positive start for the domestic art market, which is cautiously rebounding globally.
K-pop megastars BTS are set to kick off their grandest comeback tour, marking the largest in K-pop history, in Seoul on Thursday after a nearly four-year hiatus.
An appeals court in Seoul is scheduled to hold the final hearing in the corruption trial of former first lady Kim Keon Hee, who faces charges including the acceptance of luxury goods.
A Japanese tourist, arrested on suspicion of assaulting a taxi driver in Seoul, has left South Korea a day after his arrest. Police indicate that his departure could potentially stall the ongoing investigation into the incident.
Photos highlighting South Korean first lady Kim Hea Kyung’s traditional attire during French President Emmanuel Macron’s recent state visit to Seoul have garnered attention on social media. The images were shared by the French leader’s official photographer.
A private lender in Seoul was sentenced to four years in prison after a court ruled that his repeated threats against a single mother in debt led to her suicide.
Tomorrow X Together (TXT) announced a pop-up store will run in Seoul from April 14-26 to mark the release of their eighth EP, '7th Year: A Moment of Stillness in the Thorns'.
Viktor Orbán mal podľa Bloombergu v telefonáte nazvať Vladimira Putina priateľom a ponúknuť mu summity v Budapešti. Hovor sa mal týkať vojny na Ukrajine.
President Trump detailed a daring US rescue of a downed F-15E officer in Iran, who survived nearly 48 hours behind enemy lines despite severe injuries.
South Korea views Pyongyang's response to Seoul's apology for civilian drone incursions into North Korean territory as an 'important step' towards peace and coexistence on the Korean Peninsula.
SM Entertainment has issued an apology after three fans were injured during a Super Junior concert in Seoul, with member Ryeowook reportedly visiting them in the hospital.
A growing number of hikers are embracing barefoot hiking on trails worldwide, from Seoul to Australia. Proponents describe the experience as feeling "quite primal" and connecting with nature.
Seoul-based real estate asset manager Koramco has reshuffled its overseas operations to enhance regional capabilities and expand its end-to-end investment functions.
Cellist and conductor Chang Han-na has been appointed as the new president of the Seoul Arts Center, becoming the first female musician to lead the institution.
A traveler reviewed Korean Air's Prestige Suite 2.0 business-class cabin on a flight from Seoul to Bangkok. The reviewer highlighted the spaciousness and unexpected privacy of the seat, along with various cool perks.
Hundreds of people attended the 'Yeongdeungpo Yeouido Spring Flower Festival' in Seoul, marking the official start of spring with the blooming of cherry blossoms.
Government data reveals that nearly one in every 10 residents of Geumcheon-gu, Seoul, is obese, almost double the rate of the city's district with the lowest obesity rate.
Poland, South Korea, and France are actively participating in or agreeing to join UK-led discussions and efforts aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz for shipping, with over 40 countries now meeting virtually to discuss ways to ensure shipping in the critical waterway. Montenegro's Foreign Ministry also condemned Iran's actions in the Strait as a threat to global stability, while Iran asserts its intent to gain permanent leverage over the Middle East through control of the strategic waterway.
The defense ministers of South Korea and France met in Seoul to discuss regional security and ways to enhance bilateral defense and arms industry cooperation.
The French-Korean Chamber of Commerce and Industry hosted an event in Seoul to discuss strengthening business ties between France and South Korea, coinciding with a summit involving Korean President Lee Jae Myung.
US allies are developing a Plan B for the Strait of Hormuz in case President Trump withdraws, as Trump continues to strongly criticize NATO countries for their unwillingness to deploy militaries to the waterway and threatens to leave the alliance. This comes as Trump's irritation with NATO forces Europeans to confront the realities of the alliance.
Oil prices have shown significant volatility, experiencing retreats as the Middle East conflict is perceived to be easing and markets await clarity on trade policies, while Asian equities have also risen on tentative hopes of a resolution.
South Korean police cracked down on 95 illicit establishments in Seoul during the first quarter, including venues that allegedly marketed sex services to foreign tourists through online platforms.
South Korea is implementing improvements to its travel infrastructure, including luggage-friendly buses and enhanced airport links, to smooth travel experiences beyond the capital city of Seoul.
Video art pioneer Nam June Paik's inaugural work in the medium has arrived in Seoul for the exhibition “Nam June Paik: Rewind / Repeat,” marking a significant moment for the Korean art world.
A significant number of apartments and multi-household buildings in Seoul, nearly half, are reported to lack sprinkler systems, raising safety concerns following recent fires in older complexes.
US President Donald Trump delivered a primetime address on the Iran conflict, asserting that US forces are close to achieving their objectives and defending strikes on nuclear sites, while also threatening escalation but suggesting the war's end is near.
A senior US State Department official emphasized shipbuilding cooperation during a roundtable in Seoul, gaining insights into naval architecture and workforce development, underscoring Washington's efforts to deepen ties.
Iran's Revolutionary Guard has reiterated its warning to US tech firms, explicitly listing 18 companies including Apple, Google, and Meta as targets for 'reciprocal action' starting tomorrow. This follows previous threats against leading American technology companies, which Iran claims are complicit in alleged Israeli-US intelligence-backed strikes.
Consumer goods giant Unilever has reportedly frozen hiring at all levels globally, citing 'significant challenges' and repercussions of the escalating conflict in the Middle East as the reason for the measure.
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Bangladesh has deepened austerity measures and is addressing illegal fuel hoarding and panic buying, while Myanmar is experiencing long queues at petrol stations, as both countries face fuel supply concerns and price pressures exacerbated by the ongoing Middle East war and global energy crunch, with Bangladesh now struggling with rationing and the risk of running out of oil and gas.
An unusual 72-hour performance, "Pavilion 72," presented by the National Theater Company of Korea, unfolded in Seoul, drawing social media attention for offering free overnight stays as part of a sleepless sound experiment.
Centre Pompidou Hanwha is set to open in June at the 63 Building annex in Yeouido, Seoul, featuring works from the French museum's collection and an inaugural exhibition titled 'The Cubist: In', curated with an integration of Korean art history.
The United States and Israel launched a large-scale military campaign against Iran, targeting its leadership, nuclear program, and military infrastructure, with the IAEA now confirming severe damage to Iran's nuclear facilities.
Budapest Airport has commenced its summer schedule, introducing new European destinations, reinstating transatlantic flights, and adding another connection to Seoul, supported by record investments to accommodate growing passenger numbers.
South Korea's energy minister sought to ease fears over shortages of plastic rubbish bags after sales in Seoul jumped nearly fivefold due to energy supply concerns sparked by the Middle East war.
Many residents of Guryong Village in Seoul's affluent Gangnam district, some having lived there for nearly 40 years, are resisting eviction despite city offers to relocate.
Global oil prices jumped above $115 a barrel and Asian stocks fell sharply as the US-Israel war with Iran escalates, following earlier surges after Yemeni Houthis attacked Israel and widened the conflict.
A man in his 30s has been arrested for distributing narcotics by hiding them in residential neighborhoods across Seoul, following a report from a villa resident.
The Seoul Metropolitan Government plans to expand high-speed public Wi-Fi in key tourist hotspots, creating 'data-free zones' to enhance convenience for foreign visitors and boost the city's global tourism appeal.
CJ Olive Young has opened its largest store in Myeong-dong, Seoul, designed to cater to foreign consumers and showcase a comprehensive range of K-beauty products.
The Seoul Children's Museum of History, promoted as the first museum for tweens aged 8-12, has officially opened to the public after several trial runs.
The BTS concert 'BTS The Comeback Live Arirang' garnered 18.4 million viewers worldwide on Netflix and drew over 100,000 fans to central Seoul. Data now shows approximately 1 in 4 attendees at the Gwanghwamun Square concert on March 21 were foreign nationals, with Thailand having the largest share.
During a visit to Japan in January, Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi demonstrated strong rapport, including a live drum duet, signaling enhanced Seoul-Tokyo security cooperation.
The prestigious Asia's 50 Best Restaurants 2026 list has been announced in Hong Kong, with Singapore's Odette ranking 19th, Seoul securing a strong showing with six establishments, and Tokyo earning seven spots, including Osaka's La Cime as Japan's highest-ranked.
The 20th International Security Conference (ISEC 2026) is scheduled for August 11-12 at Coex in Seoul, aiming to gather global cybersecurity leaders to discuss AI-driven autonomous security amidst rapid industry growth and increasing digital threats.
G7 foreign ministers are meeting near Paris to discuss Iran war strategy, with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio seeking to convince allies. Meanwhile, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has angered European leaders by unconditionally supporting Donald Trump's war with Iran.
SK Hynix has confidentially filed for a potential U.S. listing to raise capital for expanding AI memory chip production, with its stock jumping 6% in Seoul as plans move forward.
South Korea has debuted its homegrown KF-21 fighter jet, with President Lee praising it as a significant leap forward that positions the nation among the world's top defense powerhouses and boosts its defense ambitions.
Seoul is widening the designated influence areas around its subway stations, a move aimed at leveraging public transit access to guide urban development and meet high demand for housing near transport hubs.
Busan's luxury real estate market is evolving, with wealthy residents now looking beyond the traditional Marine City high-rises towards uphill properties, indicating a shift in the city's symbol of wealth.