THREATS FROM NORTH KOREA: South Korea police raid Jeju Air, airport over fatal crash

 

South Korean police on Thursday raided the offices of Jeju Air and the operator of Muan International Airport as part of the probe into the fatal crash of a Boeing 737-800 plane that killed 179 people.

The flight was carrying 181 people from Thailand to South Korea on Sunday when it issued a mayday call and belly-landed before slamming into a barrier, killing everyone aboard except two flight attendants pulled from the burning wreckage.

Authorities carried out search and seizure operations at the Muan airport where flight 2216 crashed, a regional aviation office in the southwestern city, and Jeju Air's office in the capital Seoul.

South Korean and US investigators, including from Boeing, have been combing the crash site since the disaster to establish a cause, with both black boxes found and decoding work ongoing.

"In relation to the plane accident... a search and seizure operation is being conducted from 9 am (0000 GMT) on January 2 at three locations," police said in a statement sent to AFP.

"The police plan to swiftly and rigorously determine the cause and responsibility for this accident in accordance with the law and principles."

Police told AFP the search warrant was issued, and Yonhap reported it was approved on charges of professional negligence resulting in death, citing officials.

South Korea has also announced it will inspect all Boeing 737-800 aircraft operated by its carriers, focusing on the landing gear, which appears to have malfunctioned during the Sunday crash.

South Korea's acting president, Choi Sang-mok, said Thursday that "immediate action" must be taken if that probe uncovered any issues with the aircraft model.

Authorities have previously said 101 aircraft of the same model were in operation by six different airlines.

"As there's great public concern about the same aircraft model involved in the accident, the transport ministry and relevant agencies must conduct a thorough inspection of operation maintenance, education, and training," Choi said Thursday.

"If any issues are found during the inspection, please take immediate corrective action," he added.

The accident is the worst-ever aviation disaster on South Korean soil.

South Korean authorities have completed the initial extraction of data for the cockpit voice recorder, but the flight data recorder was damaged and was to be sent to the United States for analysis, officials said Wednesday.

Officials initially pointed to a bird strike as a possible cause of the disaster, and have since said the probe was also examining a concrete barrier at the end of the runway.

Dramatic video showed the plane colliding with it before bursting into flames.

The land ministry said in a statement that the country's airports were also being inspected "to evaluate the installation locations" around their runways.

As the investigation continued, families travelled to the crash site for the first time to pay their respects on Wednesday and some returned the following day with cardboard boxes to collect their loved ones's belongings.

On Thursday at the airport, a monk led prayers close to the crash site, while inside the airport, the stairs were covered in colourful post-it notes left by mourners.

"Honey, I miss you way too much," one of them said.

"Even if you faced lonely and painful moments in death, may you now soar like a butterfly," another read.

Relatives also left flowers and food near the site including tteokguk —- rice cake soup traditionally enjoyed in South Korea on New Year's Day —- as they said their goodbyes, many in tears.

Local media reported on a handwritten note, seemingly written by the pilot's brother, that was placed alongside gimbap -- a popular Korean dish -- and a drink cup near the crash site.

"I feel heartbroken when I think about the struggles you faced alone (in your last moments)," it read.

"You were truly amazing and did so well, so I hope you can now find happiness in a warm place. Thank you, and I'm sorry."

On Wednesday -- a public holiday in the South -- hundreds of people queued up to pay their respects at an airport memorial altar set up to honour the victims.

So many people came to the memorial that the queue stretched for hundreds of metres and the local cell phone network was overloaded, local media reported.

Other altars for the victims have been set up nationwide.

Source: Agence-France-Presse

THREATS FROM NORTH KOREA: Seoul to Inspect All Boeing 737-800 Aircraft in Country following Jeju Air Crash

 

The government said Monday it plans to conduct a safety inspection of all Boeing 737-800 aircraft operated by domestic airlines following a Jeju Air Co. plane crash that claimed 179 lives the previous day.

In Sunday’s Jeju Air crash in the southwestern county of Muan, it is believed that all three landing gears had failed to operate properly. The aircraft involved in the accident was a Boeing B737-800.

A transport ministry official said the government plans to thoroughly examine whether various regulations of the Boeing model are being properly followed by airlines, which would check their aircraft utilization rates, flight inspections and maintenance records.

The Boeing 737-800 is widely operated by domestic low-cost carriers. Jeju Air operates the largest number of this model, with 39 aircraft in its fleet. Other operators include T’way Air with 27 aircraft, Jin Air with 19 and Eastar Jet with 10.

The ministry, in particular, plans to conduct rigorous safety inspections of Jeju Air following repeated landing gear issues.

Earlier in the day, a separate Jeju Air flight of the same aircraft model made a return after taking off from Gimpo International Airport due to a landing gear issue that was found similarly in Sunday’s crash. It was of the same Boeing B737-800 model involved in the accident.

“We plan to implement rigorous aviation safety inspections in response to the (landing gear) incidents,” Joo Jong-wan, aviation policy chief at the transport ministry, said during a briefing at the Sejong government complex.

Joo noted that Jeju Air was known for its high aircraft utilization rate, which some observers have pointed to as a possible factor in Sunday’s crash.

Following the landing gear issue reported on Monday, the ministry dispatched safety inspectors to the company to investigate the latest case.

Meanwhile, one of the two flight recording devices recovered from the crash site has been found with external damage, according to Joo. It has been transported to Gimpo International Airport for further analysis.

The ministry official also said the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board will participate in the investigation into the crash. Boeing and engine manufacturer CFM International have also been approached for cooperation.

Source: Yonhap/Korea Bizwire

THREATS FROM NORTH KOREA: 179 feared dead in worst aviation disaster in South Korea

 

A tragic plane crash at Muan International Airport on Sunday morning has claimed at least 124 lives as of 3:30 p.m., with authorities warning the death toll could rise to 179 in what is South Korea's worst domestic aviation disaster to date.

The Jeju Air flight 7C2216, a Boeing 737-800, carrying 181 passengers and crew, was attempting to land when it veered off the runway. Two minutes after the pilot called mayday, the plane collided with the perimeter fence and burst into flames, according to the Transport Ministry.

According to the Jeonnam Fire Services Headquarters Wednesday, most of those onboard were likely deceased, leaving two survivors, which are reported to be crew members, one male and one female. The passengers on the crashed plane included 173 South Koreans and two Thai nationals, according to authorities.

No additional survivors had been found among the passengers, and the condition of the wreckage suggested that hopes for more survivors were slim, fire authorities said in a briefing to families of those on board.

The aircraft's fuselage was completely destroyed in the crash, making the identification of victims extremely difficult. Rescue teams were continuing their efforts to locate the remains of missing passengers, while temporary mortuaries had been set up to house the bodies recovered.

Many of the remains were severely damaged, complicating the process of identification, authorities added.

President of Jeju Air Co Ltd. Kim E-bae expressed his sympathy and apologized to the passengers who lost their lives and their bereaved families in the aftermath of the tragic crash of a Jeju Air flight at Muan International Airport, pledging full cooperation with the government to uncover the cause of the accident.

Taking responsibility as the airline’s top executive, Kim added, “Regardless of the cause, I deeply feel my responsibility as CEO. Jeju Air will do everything in its power to expedite recovery efforts and provide full support to the families of the victims.”

Kim stated that the cause of the crash remains unclear and emphasized that the airline is awaiting official investigation results from government authorities. “At this point, it is difficult to determine the cause of the accident, and we must wait for the official findings from the relevant government agencies,” he said.

A Jeju Air representative also noted that the crashed aircraft, a 15-year-old Boeing 737-800, had no prior history of accidents. The airline was working to identify the precise cause of the crash and clarify the circumstances surrounding it, the representative said.

Meanwhile, Acting President Choi Sang-mok, who also serves as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance designated Muan as a special disaster zone.

Choi emphasized the gravity of the situation, noting the extensive loss of life and the urgent need for a coordinated response. “The government has activated the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters and will deploy all necessary resources. We will officially declare Muan as a special disaster zone to ensure effective relief and recovery efforts,” he stated.

The designation of a special disaster zone, as outlined under the Framework Act on Disaster and Safety Management, allows for enhanced administrative, financial and medical support in affected regions. This includes emergency relief, disaster recovery plans, and financial aid for victims and their families.

Under this designation, joint investigation teams comprising disaster management agencies will conduct assessments and draft a recovery plan tailored to the severity of the disaster. These measures aim to expedite both immediate relief and long-term rehabilitation for affected individuals and communities.

Authorities remained focused on recovery operations and the identification of victims as investigations into the cause of the tragedy continue. Some 720 officials, including personnel from the airport, fire fighters, police, military and coast guards were deployed to the scene.

The aircraft departed from Bangkok at 1:30 a.m. and was scheduled to land in Muan at 8:30 a.m. During its first landing attempt on runway No. 1, the plane failed to land and performed a go-around, a flight maneuver where a pilot chooses to abort a landing and return to the air to fly round and try again.

On its second attempt, the landing gear malfunctioned, leading to an emergency belly landing near the runway's end, according to authorities. A belly landing, also known as a gear-up landing, is an emergency landing where an aircraft lands on its underside, or belly, without its landing gear fully extended.

Unable to decelerate fully, the plane struck airport perimeter fences at speed, resulting in its destruction and instant fire, according to the authorities.

Emergency personnel, including 80 firefighters, were immediately deployed to the site. The fire was first controlled within 43 minutes, and rescue efforts began from the rear of the aircraft. Two survivors were rescued, but authorities feared that more dead would be discovered as they continued to search the wreckage.

Initial investigations pointed to a "bird strike" as the likely cause of the landing gear malfunction. This occurs when an aircraft collides with a flock of birds or when birds enter the engine.

Source: The Korea Herald

THREATS FROM NORTH KOREA: South Korea votes to impeach acting president Han Duck-soo

 

South Korea has voted to impeach its acting president Han Duck-soo, two weeks after parliament voted to impeach its President Yoon Suk Yeol.

A total of 192 lawmakers voted for his impeachment, more than the 151 votes needed for it to succeed.

Prime minister Han took over the role after President Yoon was impeached by parliament following his failed attempt to impose martial law on 3 December.

Han was supposed to lead the country out of its political turmoil, but opposition MPs argued that he was refusing demands to complete Yoon's impeachment process.

Chaos erupted in parliament as the vote was held on Friday.

Lawmakers from Yoon and Han's ruling People Power Party (PPP) protested after National Assembly speaker Woo Won-shik announced that only 151 votes would be needed to pass the impeachment bill.

This meant that, unlike the 200 votes required for Yoon's impeachment, no votes from ruling lawmakers would be needed this time for Han to be impeached in parliament.

Ruling party MPs gathered in the middle of the voting chamber chanting, "invalid!" and "abuse of power!" in response, and called for the Speaker to step down. Most of them boycotted the vote.

Han will be suspended from his duties as soon as he is officially notified by parliament.

The opposition first filed an impeachment motion against Han on Thursday after he blocked the appointment of three judges that parliament had chosen to oversee Yoon's case.

Korea's Constitutional Court is typically made up of a nine-member bench. At least six judges must uphold Yoon's impeachment in order for the decision to be upheld.

There are currently only six judges on the bench, meaning a single rejection would save Yoon from being removed.

The opposition had hoped the three additional nominees would help improve the odds of Yoon getting impeached.

This is the first time an acting president has been impeached since South Korea became a democracy.

Finance minister Choi Sang-mok is set to replace Han as acting president.

Like Yoon, Han's impeachment will need to be confirmed by the constitutional court, which has 180 days to rule on whether the impeachment should be upheld.

"I respect the decision of the National Assembly," Han said Friday, adding that he "will wait for the Constitutional Court's decision."

He also said that he would suspend his duties to "not add to the chaos".

On 3 December, Yoon took the country by surprise as he declared that he was imposing martial law, citing the need to protect the country from "anti-state" forces.

Hours later he reversed the order after 190 MPs voted it down, with many of them climbing fences and breaking barricades to get into the voting chamber.

Yoon later apologised but said he had sought to protect the country's democracy.

Since then, Yoon and his allies have been dogged by the political and legal repercussions of the short-lived martial law order.

Top officials from Yoon's government have been arrested and indicted on allegations of insurrection, while Yoon is facing an impeachment trial. However, the suspended president, who is banned from leaving the country, has been defying summons from investigating authorities.

On Friday, the Korean won plunged to its lowest level against the dollar since the global financial crisis 16 years ago - with both parties blaming each other for the chaos.

Han's removal will likely intensify the political gridlock and uncertainty the country is currently grappling with.

Source: BBC News

THREATS FROM NORTH KOREA: Yoon Suk Yeol says he will never succumb to impeachment

 

President Yoon Suk Yeol said Saturday that he would never succumb to the threat of impeachment, after the National Assembly voted 204-85 in favor of a motion that could eventually dethrone the incumbent president.

"I will never surrender," he said in his fifth address to the nation in the past two weeks since his imposition of martial law on Dec. 3.

"I will cherish any reprimand, encouragement and support you show to me, and I will do my best for the country until the end," he added, in a speech delivered in his official residence in Hannam-dong of Yongsan-gu, central Seoul.

Recounting past achievements such as the handling of economic problems he said stemmed from misdeeds of his liberal predecessors, a U-turn from the nuclear phaseout that led to the Czech Republic's selection of a South Korean consortium as a preferred bidder in a nuclear power plant project and a revival of trilateral ties between Seoul, Washington and Tokyo, Yoon said, "I pause my journey here for a while, but our journey with the people over the past 2 1/2 years toward the future must not stop.

Yoon also asked public officials to gather strength in difficult times and show support for Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, who serves as acting president for the time being.

Yoon's duty as the president was suspended at 7:24 p.m. under the National Assembly Act, hours after the parliament voted in favor of the impeachment motion. This came as a secretary in the presidential office received an original copy of the impeachment resolution delivered by representatives of the legislative body led by former three-term lawmaker and the National Assembly secretary-general Kim Min-ki.

As Yoon faces an impeachment trial at the Constitutional Court, Yoon's legal representatives will begin working to defend the 63-year-old conservative president from accusations of insurrection through his martial law imposition on Dec. 3. Presidential security will remain in place at his official residence during his trial, which is to not last for more than six months.

Yoon's spokesperson could not immediately be reached for comment.

Saturday's speech follows a prior one on Thursday, in which he sought to justify his attempt to wield military power to take control of the opposition-controlled National Assembly and election authorities. Yoon then claimed his martial law declaration was a high-caliber political decision by the president and it had been made within the constitutional framework.

Hundreds of wreaths with plastic flowers, presumably from Yoon's avid supporters, lined the wall outside the presidential office in Yongsan on Saturday. Ribbons on the wreaths read, "You are the patriot who saved the country," "We must protect President Yoon Suk Yeol," "Cheer up President Yoon Suk Yeol," "Justice will prevail" and "Death sentence to election fraudsters," among others.

Source: Korea Herald

THREATS FROM NORTH KOREA: TV cancellations and changes for Saturday due to schedueld National Assembly Vote

 

With the National Assembly scheduled to vote on a second motion to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol on December 14, many TV shows have announced cancellations and changes to their broadcast schedules.

MBC’s “Music Core” will not air on Saturday for the second week in a row. Instead, the music show will air on Sunday, December 15 at 2:05 p.m. KST. MBC’s variety show “How Do You Play?” has also cancelled its December 14 broadcast.

JTBC’s variety show “Knowing Bros” (“Ask Us Anything”) and drama “The Tale of Lady Ok” will not air new episodes on December 14. “The Tale of Lady Ok” will return on December 15 at 10:30 p.m. KST, when it will air Episode 4.

Channel A’s drama “Marry YOU” will also take the night off on December 14, with Episodes 9 and 10 now scheduled to air consecutively on December 15 at 7:50 p.m. KST.

KBS 2TV will not air Episode 2 of its variety show “Moving Voices in Germany” as previously scheduled. Instead, it will air “Moving Voices Special – From Majorca to München” during the show’s usual time slot on December 14.

Source: soompi

THREATS FROM NORTH KOREA: S Korea's President Yoon vows to 'fight to the end'

 

Embattled South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has defended his shock decision to declare martial law last week, saying he did it to protect the country's democracy.

In a surprise televised address on Thursday, he said the attempt was a legal decision to "prevent the collapse" of democracy and counter the opposition's "parliamentary dictatorship".

Yoon has suggested that he would not step down ahead of a second vote to impeach him in parliament on Saturday.

"I will stand firm whether I'm impeached or investigated," he said. "I will fight to the end".

The president and his allies are facing investigations on insurrection charges, and he and several of them have been banned from leaving South Korea.

On Thursday, the opposition-led parliament voted to impeach police chief Cho Ji-ho and justice minister Park Sung-jae. The two officials have been immediately suspended.

Unlike impeachment motions against presidents, which require 200 votes in the 300-strong National Assembly to be passed, other officials can be impeached with 150 votes.

In his address, his first since his apology over the weekend, Yoon denied that his martial law order was an act of insurrection, claiming that his political rivals were creating "false incitement" to bring him down.

Yoon repeated many of the same arguments that he used on the night he declared martial law: that the opposition was dangerous, and that by seizing control, he had been trying to protect the public and defend democracy.

However, Yoon added that he would not avoid his "legal and political responsibilities".

Last Saturday, an attempt by opposition lawmakers to impeach the president failed after members of his own ruling People Power Party (PPP) boycotted the vote. But opposition members are set to hold another impeachment vote this weekend and have vowed to hold one every Saturday until Yoon is removed from office.

The floor leader of the PPP, Choo Kyung-ho, stepped down after the failed impeachment attempt, and on Thursday the party elected Kwon Seong-dong, a Yoon loyalist, as his replacement.

Kwon told reporters on Thursday that he would hold discussions with PPP lawmakers on whether they should continue opposing Yoon's impeachment.

Yoon's party had been hoping to convince the president to leave office early, rather than force him out.

Minutes before Yoon spoke, his party leader Han Dong-hoon appeared on television saying it had become clear that the president was not going to step aside. Han then urged members of the party to vote to remove him from office this Saturday.

The opposition tabled another impeachment motion on Thursday, setting the stage for a vote at 17:00 local time (09:00 GMT) Saturday.

If South Korea's parliament passes the impeachment bill, a trial would be held by the Constitutional Court. Two-thirds of that court would have to sustain the majority for Yoon to be removed from office permanently.

Yoon has been a lame duck president since the opposition won the April general election by a landslide - his government has not been able to pass the laws it wanted and has been reduced to vetoing bills proposed by the opposition.

Yoon also accused North Korea sympathisers of trying to undermine his government when he declared martial law on the night of 3 December.

The announcement plunged the country into political turmoil. Protesters faced off against security forces in front of the National Assembly building while lawmakers scrambled to vote down Yoon's order.

Yoon withdrew his martial law order hours after it was blocked by lawmakers.

Since then, the country has remained on edge. There have been huge protests and strikes calling for Yoon's impeachment, and the presidential office was raided on Wednesday as Yoon faces multiple investigations on charges of insurrection and treason.

Meanwhile, ex-defence minister Kim Yong-hyun, who resigned and took responsibility for announcing martial law, attempted suicide while in detention on Tuesday, officials said. He is in a stable condition.

Source: BBC News

THREATS FROM NORTH KOREA: Joint investigation team on Yoon launched

 

A joint investigative body was formed on Wednesday to investigate President Yoon Suk Yeol's short-lived declaration of martial law, amid concerns over overlapping investigations into the high-profile case that deals with allegations of insurrection of a sitting president.

The Korean National Police Agency's National Office of Investigation said it would work together with the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials and the Defense Ministry "to leverage the strengths of each institution and eliminate confusion and inefficiencies." The joint team excludes the prosecution which has been competing with the police and the CIO to take the lead in the insurrection investigation.

The police previously declined the prosecutors' request for a joint investigation last week.

The announcement comes hours after the police arrested Korea National Police Agency Commissioner Cho Ji-ho and Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency Head Kim Bong-sik without a warrant on charges of insurrection early Wednesday, detaining the top two police officials simultaneously for the first time. Both officials were placed under a travel ban as of Tuesday.

The police officials were placed under emergency arrest at 3:50 a.m. following lengthy interrogations lasting up to 11 hours for Cho and 10 hours for Kim.

Both Cho and Kim are accused of directing police officials to block access to the National Assembly when martial law was declared on Dec. 3 to prevent lawmakers from entering the parliament to repeal the martial law decree. Cho is also suspected of sending police personnel to the National Election Commission to assist the military in carrying out orders issued under martial law.

A police official told Yonhap News Agency that the emergency arrests were made considering that insurrection charges are “serious offenses which are punishable by death” and because there were “concerns regarding the possibility of evidence tampering.”

Through additional investigations, police officials plan to decide whether to request arrest warrants for Cho and Kim. Both chiefs will be released if such warrants are not filed or granted within 48 hours.

With both leading police officials absent for the time being, Lee Ho-young, the Deputy Commissioner of the KNPA, will serve as the acting commissioner, while Choi Hyun-seok, the Chief of the SMPA’s Life Safety Division, will take over as the acting head.

Source: Korea Herald

THREATS FROM NORTH KOREA: Motion to impeach Yoon Suk Yeol scrapped

 

The motion to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol for his declaration of martial law earlier this week was scrapped Saturday, after his ruling party defended the embattled leader by refusing to vote.

Even if Yoon has officially avoided impeachment, political turmoil is projected to continue, with the main opposition pledging to repeatedly submit impeachment motions until Yoon is suspended.

The motion was defeated in Saturday's plenary session, after failing to secure the required two-thirds majority, support from 200 out of the 300 members, in the National Assembly.

Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik apologized to the people on "behalf of the parliament" as he announced the Assembly's failure to pass the motion.

Most ruling People Power Party lawmakers left the chamber shortly after voting against a bill to launch a special counsel investigation into first lady Kim Keon Hee. People Power Party Rep. Ahn Cheol-soo, who previously said he would vote in favor of the motion if Yoon refused to step down, remained in the chamber to cast his vote. Reps. Kim Yea-ji and Kim Sang-wook left the chamber at first but returned to participate in the vote.

Democratic Party of Korea lawmakers could not hide their disappointment as ruling party lawmakers walked out of the chamber to protest the vote.

The ruling party, which holds 108 seats in the Assembly, maintained an official stance of voting against the impeachment motion, despite few of its members having expressed willingness to vote in favor, both openly and indirectly, in recent days.

This marked the third time the National Assembly submitted a motion to impeach the president.

The previous two were passed by the Assembly in March 2004 and Dec. 9, 2016 against late President Roh Moo-hyun and former President Park Geun-hye, respectively. The Constitutional Court ultimately rejected the motion against Roh, while confirming Park's impeachment.

The main opposition, around noon, revealed plans to “repeatedly” draft and submit impeachment motions against Yoon if the proposal fails to pass the Assembly on Saturday.

“We will repeatedly float (the impeachment motion until it is passed in the Assembly),” main opposition leader and Democratic Party Rep. Lee Jae-myung said in a press briefing.

The next motion would be submitted and put to vote on Dec. 11, during an extraordinary plenary meeting, according to Democratic Party Floor Leader Park Chan-dae. The opposition coalition has accused Yoon of committing treason when he had troops break into the Assembly under martial law.

Hundreds of thousands took to the streets around 3 p.m. to either call for the ouster of Yoon or for the Assembly to vote against the impeachment motion.

While Yoon has dodged impeachment for the time being, the ruling bloc is expected to try to come up with a solution to stabilize the political situation, which observers said could include measures to loosen the current president's grip on state affairs.

Yoon, in a brief televised address aired Saturday morning, said that he would “leave it up to” his party to “take steps to stabilize the political situation,” including the issue of his term in office. He also apologized to the public for causing concerns due to his surprise martial law decree.

Around noon, the ruling party leader held an 80-minute meeting with Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, who would serve as the country’s leader in an acting capacity if the president resigned.

The two sides have decided to closely communicate and oversee the economic issues concerning the people’s livelihoods, according to the ruling party chief.

People Power Party Chair Han Dong-hoon told reporters in the morning that “it is inevitable for the president” to step down from his position earlier than expected after Yoon’s apology to the public was televised. He cited the president’s inability to carry out his duties as president behind his claim.

But he did not provide details on how Yoon should step down such as impeachment or constitutional amendment that would cap the presidential term to four years instead of the current single five-year term. The proposed amendment would allow a president to be elected for a total of eight years, or two four-year terms. This would end Yoon's term early, in May 2026, and he would technically not have the option of reelection.

Several in the conservative ruling bloc in recent days have floated ideas of bolstering the constitutional power of the prime minister. The “pro-Han Dong-hoon” faction ruling party lawmakers pushed for a constitutional amendment to change the limit of the presidential term as a key resolution as another solution.

On top of the main opposition's plan to continue floating impeachment motions, Yoon is expected to be subjected to multiple investigations from law enforcement agencies.

Two law enforcement agencies announced they would form separate investigation teams looking into Yoon’s martial law decree as of Friday, with observers saying the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials could carry out its own investigation.

The Supreme Prosecutors’ Office announced Friday that it had formed a special investigative unit for the “cases tied to martial law decree.” The team will be led by Park Se-hyun, chief of the Seoul High Prosecutors Office, and will be jointly conducted with military prosecutors, the top prosecution office explained.

Police said earlier in the week they established a designated investigation team of some 120 personnel to look into four complaints accusing Yoon and others of treason, mutiny and abuse of power in connection with his martial law decree.

The revote on a bill that mandates special counsel investigation into multiple scandals surrounding first lady Kim Keon Hee, including her alleged involvement in a stock manipulation case that unfolded more than a decade ago, was held before the vote on the impeachment motion. The bill was scrapped in the revote, with 102 voting against and 198 voting in favor. In a revote, a bill requires at least two-thirds of the Assembly to vote in favor to pass.

The bill, which marks the third of its kind targeting the first lady, was passed by the opposition-led Assembly on Nov. 14, in a simple majority, and was vetoed by Yoon on Nov. 26.

Yoon’s popularity, which has been steadily falling since he first took office in May 2022, fell to a record low of 13 percent, according to the survey conducted by Gallup on 1,001 adults aged over 18 from Tuesday to Thursday. It was down by 6 percentage points on-week.

Source: Korea Herald

THREATS FROM NORTH KOREA: Dramas and Variety Shows announce broadcast schedule changes and cancellations amid political turmoil

 

Amid escalating political unrest in South Korea, major changes to TV programming have been announced, affecting both variety shows and dramas.

MBC announced that several of its popular variety programs, including “Music Core,” “Home Alone” (“I Live Alone”), “How Do You Play?,” and “The Manager” will not air to accommodate extended coverage of “News Desk” and special news reports.

Similarly, JTBC has confirmed the cancellation of its flagship variety show “Knowing Bros” (“Ask Us Anything”) for this week.

Dramas are also seeing significant schedule changes. MBC’s drama “When the Phone Rings” will not air its 5th and 6th episodes this week—originally set to air on December 6 and 7—due to special news broadcasts. Episode 5 will instead air next week on December 13.

SBS stated, “Episode 9 of ‘The Fiery Priest 2’ will air as planned tonight (December 6), but Episode 10, scheduled for December 7, will be postponed due to special news coverage.” SBS’s music show “Inkigayo” will also not air on December 8.

JTBC’s “The Tale of Lady Ok” will not air its 3rd episode on December 7, but will instead air the episode on December 8 at 10:30 p.m. KST.

Channel A’s weekend drama “Marry YOU” will skip its December 7 airing and instead air a back-to-back broadcast of Episodes 7 and 8 on December 8 at 7:50 p.m. KST.

The changes in these TV schedules follow a series of dramatic political events in South Korea. On December 3, President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law in an emergency address. However, just two hours later, the National Assembly passed a resolution demanding the revocation of martial law, prompting President Yoon Suk Yeol to issue a statement at 4:30 a.m. KST announcing its termination.

Despite the lifting of martial law, the political aftermath continues to unfold, with opposition parties intensifying efforts to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol. A vote on the impeachment motion is scheduled for December 7.

Source: soompi

THREATS FROM NORTH KOREA: Opposition parties submit motion to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol

 

South Korea's six opposition parties on Wednesday submitted a motion to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol over the martial law declaration the previous day.

The six parties - the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea, and minor oppositions Rebuilding Korea Party, Reform Party, Jinbo Party, Basic Income Party and Social Democratic Party - plan to put the motion to the plenary session on Thursday, and to put it to the vote on Friday or Saturday.

The main opposition had hinted at such a move hours after opposition parties hinted at proceeding with an immediate impeachment of President Yoon shortly after he agreed to the parliament's request to lift martial law.

A group of over 40 lawmakers from opposition parties declared that the Assembly should impeach Yoon, calling him "the mastermind of a treasonous act of state mismanagement."

Hwang Un-ha, floor leader of the Rebuilding Korea Party, said, "The president committed an act tantamount to treason by mobilizing the military. It is clear that he cannot remain in office even for a moment longer. Therefore, we must urgently pass an impeachment motion."

Hwang urged each party to propose the impeachment motion on Wednesday. Such a motion must be voted on within 24 to 72 hours after its proposal.

"The National Assembly should focus on approving the impeachment as quickly as possible to immediately suspend the president's duties," he said.

Earlier, Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung criticized the martial law declaration as unconstitutional and illegal. Speaking to reporters shortly after a National Assembly resolution demanding the lifting of martial law was voted, he said, "President Yoon’s proclamation of martial law utterly failed to meet the substantive requirements stipulated by the Constitution and the Martial Law Act."

"President Yoon has betrayed the people. His illegal declaration of martial law is null and void. From this moment, Yoon Suk Yeol is no longer the president of the Republic of Korea."

Source: The Korea Herald 

Kia EV6 GT - 2025MY Minor Change

Following the arrival of the minor change to the normal Kia EV6, the range-topping high-performance version, the Kia EV6 GT, is now following suit, better and more stylish than before.

2025 Kia EV6 GT

2025 Kia EV6 GT interior

The new Kia EV6 GT is yours for 76,050,000 Korean Won plus additional costs, which is more expensive than the previous model. Despite the price hike, the latest improvements will make you fall in love with it even more, even those who regret driving the pre-facelift model a few moments ago.

Like the normal EV6, it features new G-shaped headlamps conjoined to the return of the signature Kia Tiger Nose grille, refreshed taillights, new wheel designs, not to mention the Civic Type R-styled rear bumper. To differentiate the EV6 GT from the vanilla EV6 GT-Line model, it's been fitted with lime-colored brakes, which became Kia's signature color for electric GT models.

The same goes for the interior. It features a new steering wheel, a revised 12.3-inch display panel, a revised dashboard, ambient lighting, and a revised Qi wireless charging pad. In addition to a new software update, it has a walk-away auto lock, powered steering wheel adjustment, a 12-inch head-up display, photocatalytic sterilization for the air conditioning, a digital rear-view mirror, and a built-in dash cam. Adding the GT button on the steering wheel and the lime accents on the seats sums it up.

The EV6 GT's high-performance electric drivetrain has been recalibrated with the use of the 84kWh battery pack. Thanks to its improved electric drivetrain, at the push of the GT button, it now produces 650PS of power and 770Nm of torque, capable of a 0-100kph sprint of 3.5 seconds. That's IONIQ 5N territory in the performance figures. As for the driving range, it's now good for a combined 355km in one full charge, depending on road conditions.

The increased power enhances the driving experience thanks to its sport-tuned dynamics, e-LSD (electronic limited-slip differential), and electronically controlled suspension. The e-diff lock actively manages the distribution of power to all wheels, improving handling performance and compensating for loss of traction when turning at high speeds. Meanwhile, the electronically controlled suspension ensures a stable ride and exceptional handling based on the selected driving mode.

As always, The New Kia EV6 GT comes with new safety features such as the revamped remote parking assist, lane keeping assist, and low-speed autonomous braking.

The harbinger of the silent movement is still cloaked in silence but promises to be the best EV6 GT ever made. Those who had the old EV6 GT, your time is up. Make the switch to the improved version. Modernization rules.

Available Colors: Snow White Pearl, Aurora Black Pearl, Runway Red, Wolf Gray, and Yacht Matte Blue.

Photo: Kia

Kia Sportage (NQ5) - 2025 Minor Change

The fifth-generation Kia Sportage received a minor change for the 2025 model year and what an improvement this crossover has gained having been on the road for three years.

2025 Kia Sportage

Starting at 28,360,000 Korean Won plus additional costs, the facelifted Kia Sportage is packed with a bolder exterior revision and a new interior, and by surprise, the diesel variant from the pre-facelift model was removed, leaving only a choice of a 2.0L LPG, a 1.6L turbo, and a 1.6L turbo-hybrid.

2025 Kia Sportage

The 2025 Kia Sportage features an enlarged grille and an EV3-styled nose that some people think is too obvious. In addition, they also redesigned the wheels and tail lights to further enhance the vehicle's aesthetics. The pre-facelift model's high-end Gravity variant has been replaced with the first-ever X-Line variant that features a black badging, vertical slanted front grille, a slightly longer but more macho front bumper, 19-inch wheels, premium steering wheel, and suede headlining.

2025 Kia Sportage interior

The interior has given a significant revision for the recent minor change as hinted by the new Kia steering wheel design lifted from the EV3, a slightly bigger touch screen with a next-generation infotainment system, new air vent designs, and a fingerprint authentication system, among others. 

The Kia Sportage maintains its class-leading cabin room. The longer wheelbase provides more legroom, and there is enough space for plenty of luggage in the boot.

2025 Kia Sportage

As said before, the diesel variant from the pre-facelift model was removed, leaving only a choice of a 2.0L LPG, a 1.6L turbo, and a 1.6L turbo-hybrid. The LPG and the petrol variant are mated to an 8-speed AT while the hybrid is mated to a 6-speed AT. 

The 146PS 2.0L LPG variant has a fuel economy of 8.8km/L while the 180PS 1.6L turbo petrol engine has 12.3km/L of fuel economy, and the Sportage Hybrid, now with an improved 47.7kW electric motor, gets 16.3km/L.

Underneath, the Sportage still comes with front MacPherson struts, rear multilink suspension, and front ventilated disc brakes. Come front-wheel-drive, it behaves like a normal car, but with the 4WD drivetrain, it's capable of getting things dirty, almost. Thankfully, the Sportage Hybrid can be offered with the 4WD drivetrain, so it's not afraid of going under the weather. Coupled with e-handling and e-ride, the Sportage Hybrid drives slightly well.

The 2025 Kia Sportage has eight airbags, steering wheel grip detection, and a Driver Forward Attention Warning Camera. It also has Highway Driving Assist 2, navigation-based smart cruise control, Lane Keeping Assist 2, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Rear side collision avoidance assist, rear parking collision avoidance assist, rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist, side parking distance warning, Remote Smart Parking Assist, and Safe Exit Warning.

The Kia Sportage is a common-sense crossover for those who are wise to drive one but with the latest minor change, common sense just took a slightly bolder approach in style, comfort, capability, and technology. Need to say more?

Available Colors: Snow White Pearl, Heritage Blue, Wolf Grey, Gravity Grey, Vesta Blue, Fusion Black, Shadow Matte Grey, and Jungle Wood Green.

Photo: Kia Corp.

2024 O-NE SUPERRACE CHAMPIONSHIP FINALE

Since renaming to O-NE SUPERRACE CHAMPIONSHIP for the 2024 season, it brought some noticeable additions apart from the name change such as the Prius PHV Class, the Alpine Class, and the Korea Trofeo, among others. The top-tier Super 6000 class got a shakeup as well, yet it still showcased some intense racing action for drivers behind the wheel of the Super 6000 GR Supra racers.

With Jang Hyun-jin and Kim Jung-gun now 24 points between them, who will be crowned the 2024 champion? It's time to find out in this action-packed season finale at Yongin Everland Speedway.

The first race saw Jung Eui Chul of Seohan GP emerge the winner, beating the two One Racing drivers, Oh Han Sol and Lee Jung Woo. In the final race packed with dramatic turns, table-turning spins, and of course, the last corner drama when the #38 car got spun, One Racing driver Choi Kyung Bin is the winner but second placer Jang Hyun-Jin is coronated champion of the 2024 season. Seohan GP is officially crowned Team Champion and Nexen Tire is still the tire king of Superrace.

Screengrab from Superrace

Congratulations to Jang Hyun-jin for being the 2024 O-NE SUPERRACE Champion!

And that is the end of the 2024 O-NE SUPERRACE CHAMPIONSHIP. See you next year.

THREATS FROM NORTH KOREA: S. Korea marks 2nd anniversary of Itaewon tragedy

 

President Yoon Suk Yeol expressed his condolences as South Korea on Tuesday marked the second anniversary of the Itaewon crowd crush that claimed 159 lives in October 2022.

"Today marks the second anniversary of the Itaewon tragedy," Yoon said at a Cabinet meeting he presided over at his office. "I feel sorry for those who tragically lost their lives and I express my condolences for the bereaved families who live in sorrow."

Yoon said that making people feel safe in everyday life is the most earnest way of expressing condolences to people who died in the crowd crush in the back alleys of the nightlife district of Itaewon in Yongsan-gu, Seoul amid Halloween festivities.

Yoon ordered the Cabinet to monitor and complement safety measures in public places such as crowd management. The Ministry of Interior and Safety previously announced plans to dispatch public safety personnel to prevent crowd congestion and to put a medical emergency response system in place from Oct. 25 to Nov. 1 in 12 locations across the country, including Seoul's Itaewon, Hongdae in Mapo-gu, Myeong-dong in Jung-gu and Seongsu-dong of Seongdong-gu.

The presidential office did not disclose either Yoon's or his aides' attendance at an event outside of his office, as of press time. Last year Yoon observed the first anniversary of the Itaewon disaster during a memorial service at a church in Seongbuk-gu, Seoul.

Meanwhile, the National Assembly held a memorial service with bereaved family members on Tuesday. Some 60 lawmakers from both the ruling People Power Party and the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea, as well as National Assembly Speaker Rep. Woo Won-shik, paid their respects while donning purple scarfs.

Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon noted in a Facebook post on Tuesday that he had the City Hall lit up in purple in memory of the 159 victims of the crowd crush. He also thanked the city's residents for cooperating with authorities' crowd control measures, adding that no major incident occurred despite estimates that over 100,000 people had gathered in Seoul nightlife areas in Hongdae, Itaewon, Gangnam and Seongsu.

Source: The Korea Herald 

My GT7 Log: Beyond Competition

Japan and South Korea are known as “frenemies.” They have a checkered past since Japan split Korea into two. This past did not stop the two countries from jointly hosting the 2002 FIFA World Cup, which was a true display of frenemies. The same goes for present-day WRC when Toyota Gazoo Racing and Hyundai N clash for dirt supremacy.

In honor of the recent Hyundai N x Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival, we celebrate the rivalry between the two Far East motoring superpowers by comparing the two Vision Gran Turismo concepts from Hyundai and Toyota.

The Hyundai N 2025 Vision Gran Turismo is a concept car that paved the way for Hyundai’s high-performance division. This hybrid race car has a hydrogen fuel cell system that delivers 871 horsepower through four independent motors. This fuel cell and motor combination allows the Hyundai N 2025 to have a phenomenal driving experience.

The FT-1 Vision Gran Turismo is what happens when the FT-1 Concept, which served as the blueprint for the Supra revival project, transformed into a race car. It's a futuristic version of the Toyota Supra used in the JGTC (Super GT) races in the past, but it's not a JGTC car. While it's just a concept, the FT-1 VGT proves Toyota has a lot of potential and passion for motorsports.

After a quick introduction of the cars from Toyota and Hyundai, let's pit these Far East rivals around Suzuka Circuit, which is considered the sacred ground of Japanese motorsports. Let's roll the tape.

Here are the results...

FT-1 VGT - 2m05.872s

N 2025 VGT - 1m46.484s

It's a huge shocker of a result, judging by the fact that Hyundai's investing heavily in the world of electrification while Toyota's lagging behind and sticking to its old-school principles. Either way, while Hyundai has the upper hand against the Japanese motoring giant, the results don't really matter because this comparison is a demonstration of how capable these two Far East motoring giants are.

Hyundai and Toyota are known for shaking things up. They are both creating fun-to-drive cars as hinted by their high-performance divisions; Hyundai N and Toyota Gazoo Racing. While the N cars stick to the "never just drive" mantra, the TGR cars are all about "pushing the limits for better."

They've raced as competitors. But when they meet, a new thrill begins.

Beyond competition, united by passion.

THREATS FROM NORTH KOREA: BTS’ J-Hope to be discharged from military; agency urges fans to stop visiting site

 

BTS’s J-Hope is set to be discharged from the military on October 17, and his group’s label. BigHit Music, urged fans to refrain from visiting the site where he will be released from service.

BigHit made the announcement in a statement on the fan community platform Weverse on Monday, October 14, saying J-Hope is “close to completing his active service” while reiterating that no special events are planned.

“We are excited to bring you the news of J-Hope’s upcoming military discharge. He is close to completing his active service in the army and will soon be discharged. Discharge day is a day shared by many service members. No special events are planned on the day of his discharge,” it said.

The agency reminded fans to send their “warm regards and encouragement” to the BTS member through different means, and not by visiting the military site.

“To prevent any issues arising from overcrowding, fans are strongly advised to refrain from visiting the site. Please convey your warm regards and encouragement in your hearts,” it said.

In its statement, BigHit also thanked fans for expressing their support toward the “Pandora’s Box” singer throughout his enlistment.

“We are always grateful for your unwavering love and support for J-Hope. Our company will continue to put our utmost effort into supporting our artists. Thank you once again for your continued love and support for BTS,” he said.

Born Jung Ho-seok, J-Hope is the second BTS member to be discharged from the military after Jin. He began his mandatory service in April 2023.

Despite his enlistment, J-Hope filmed content in advance, including his special album “Hope on the Street Vol. 1” and the dance show “Hope on the Street” in March 2024, both of which are based on the BTS member’s passion for street dance.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer 

2024 O-NE SUPERRACE CHAMPIONSHIP - Jeonnam GT

The 2024 O-NE SUPERRACE CHAMPIONSHIP continues with the penultimate event of the season known as The King of Korean Motorsports; Jeonnam GT.

Set in the backdrop of Korea International Circuit, which used to host the Korean Grand Prix of Formula 1 from 2010 until 2013, the headliner Super 6000 class race was joined by other class-specific races such as the TC1600 class, the Sports Bike 400 class, and the Sports Prototype class.

Screengrab from Superrace

Focusing on the Super 6000 class, Superrace veteran Hwang Jin-woo of Jun-Fitted Racing is unanimously this race's winner while Brand New Racing's Park Gyu-seung finished 2nd, and Seohan GP's Kim Jung-gun finished 3rd.

With Jang Hyun-jin and Kim Jung-gun now 24 points between them, who will be crowned the 2024 champion? Find out in the 2024 O-NE SUPERRACE CHAMPIONSHIP finale this November 2-3, 2024. Don't miss it!

2024 O-NE SUPERRACE CHAMPIONSHIP - Inje Night Race

The Summer Racing Season trilogy of the 2024 O-NE SUPERRACE CHAMPIONSHIP concludes with the Inje Night Race. Drivers are wrapping up the summer season with intense night-racing action that fans watch all night.

Fans who visited Inje for the last night race of the season are treated to pre-race events such as the Prius PHEV Cup, the Korea Trofeo, the second round of Superrace's first Alpine Class, the mixed GT and GT4 Class race, and musical performances by Han Yohan and BBGirls. As night falls, the Super 6000 fighters came out for one last Saturday drive fever of the season.

Screengrab from Superrace

Although the last night race of the season witnessed three drivers throwing in the towel due to mechanical issues, Choi Kwang Bin of One Racing edged O-NE RACING's Kim Dong Eun and Seohan GP's Jang Hyun Jin to win the Inje Night Race.

Summer Racing Season's finished but there are three races left this season and the next one will be at Korea International Circuit this October 12-13, the Jeonnam GP.

KGM Actyon (J120)

Long before the BMW X6, there was the Actyon. Launched in the autumn of 2005, the Actyon is the world's first sports utility coupe. Hot on the heels of its 20th anniversary, the Actyon returns as the coupe version of the Torres.

2025 KGM Actyon

Starting at 33.95 Million Won plus additional costs, the Actyon is back as the coupe version of the Torres, the crossover that made Ssangyong born again as KGM.

2025 KGM Actyon

Beginning with the design, the Actyon is nearly identical to the Torres but with an illuminating front grille reminiscent of the lines from the South Korean flag, showing its nationalism on four wheels. Although the Torres-esque looks is the tip of the iceberg, the rear view can be broadly mistaken for today's Range Rover Evoque. Can't blame them.

2025 KGM Actyon interior

The all-new Actyon's interior, like the exterior itself, is also a resemblance of the Torres but the differences are the steering wheel and the center console. On the driver's side, you are greeted with a panoramic wide screen with two 12.3 inch screens with the first half as the cluster and the latter half a touchscreen with INFOCONN that takes charge of the car in terms of airconditioning, telematics, entertainment, smartphone connectivity, and so on. It can be nerve-wracking for first-timers but it takes time to get used to it.

With the rear seats folded down, the all-new Actyon has up to 1,568 liters of boot space, which is less than the Torres because of its coupe formation.

2025 KGM Actyon

The all-new Actyon is powered by the same 1.5L T-GDi engine from the Torres mated to an Aisin 6-speed AT. This engine produces 170PS of power and 28.6kg-m of torque. It even comes with an ISG system that shuts the engine off when stopped at the red light and then restarts when set off. In FF configurations, it has a combined fuel economy of 11kmpl while AWD variants get 10.1kmpl.

The all-new Actyon has front MacPherson struts and rear multilink suspension. The front brakes are ventilated discs and the rear brakes are discs.

Sturdy bodywork and eight airbags aside, the all-new Actyon features DeepControl, a suite of ADAS such as Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Detection warning, Blind Spot Detection Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Assist, and Safety Exit Warning.

The all-new Actyon is no longer the one you've been familiar with since your high school days. It's now a muscular sports utility coupe that blends its Korean nationalism, the KGM way. After all, isn't what KGM's slogan is all about? Korea Great Mobility. Although not as great as the X6 and the Evoque, it's the bargain of the season.

Available Colors: Royal Copper, Royal Copper 2 Tone, Grand White, Grand White 2 Tone, Latte Greige, Latte Greige 2 Tone, Iron Metal, Iron Metal 2 Tone, Forest Green, Forest Green 2 Tone, Dandy Blue, and Space Black.

Photo: KGM