-
On December 3, 2024, South Korea declared martial law under then-President Yoon Suk Yeol, sparking a political crisis. The anniversary is marked by protests, legal proceedings, and reflections on the country's democratic resilience. President Yoon was impeached and is facing criminal charges, while current President Lee Jae Myung emphasizes the people's role in stopping the crisis.
-
North Korea has introduced Russian as a compulsory subject from 4th grade, amid growing ties with Russia. Over 600 students study Russian, and the countries are deepening military and educational cooperation since 2022, including North Korea sending troops to support Russia's Ukraine war.
-
North Korea deployed over 12,000 troops to assist Russia in Ukraine, focusing on mine clearing in Kursk. Kim Jong-un praised their heroism, honoring nine soldiers killed during the 120-day mission. The deployment highlights North Korea's close military ties with Russia amid ongoing conflict.
-
South Korea's president, Yoon, along with five Cabinet members, has been indicted on insurrection charges after a six-month investigation led by special prosecutor Cho Eun-seok. The indictment includes 24 individuals, highlighting concerns over power consolidation and political motives amid ongoing unrest.
-
South Korea's former President Yoon Suk Yeol is facing multiple criminal charges, including rebellion and obstruction of justice, following his martial law declaration and impeachment. An independent counsel has demanded a 10-year sentence amid ongoing legal proceedings, with verdicts expected early next year.
-
North Korea is set to hold its first major Workers' Party Congress in five years, with Kim Jong Un emphasizing regional development and military strengthening. The congress will likely focus on advancing nuclear capabilities and economic goals, amid recent missile tests and military activities.
-
As of early January 2026, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has praised the country's 2025 military and economic progress, including the near-completion of an 8,700-ton nuclear-powered submarine and multiple missile tests. He reaffirmed commitment to nuclear weapons development and sent New Year greetings to North Korean troops fighting alongside Russia in Ukraine, emphasizing the Pyongyang-Moscow alliance ahead of a key party congress.
-
Kim Keon-hee, wife of former President Yoon, is under investigation for accepting bribes and valuables, with prosecutors seeking a 15-year sentence. Kim denies wrongdoing, while her legal team emphasizes procedural fairness amid ongoing trials. Meanwhile, Yoon faces separate charges related to his actions during his presidency.
-
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung is in China for a four-day trip, his first since June, aiming to strengthen economic and diplomatic ties. The visit occurs as North Korea tests hypersonic missiles and regional tensions rise over Taiwan and Japan. Leaders signed cooperation agreements on trade, technology, and regional security.
-
Kim Ju Ae, believed to be around 13, has appeared increasingly in state media, fueling speculation she may be North Korea's future leader. Her recent visit to Kumsusan Palace ahead of the Workers' Party Congress suggests a possible formalization of her succession, though experts remain divided on her role.
-
North Korea launched several ballistic missiles early Sunday, flying about 560 miles toward eastern waters. The launches occurred ahead of its Workers' Party congress, with South Korea and the US closely monitoring. The event coincides with South Korea's president visiting China to seek regional stability.
-
North Korea launched multiple missile tests, including hypersonic weapons, just before South Korean President Lee Jae Myung’s visit to China. Kim Jong Un emphasized the tests as a demonstration of its nuclear deterrent amid regional and international crises. The tests follow recent provocations and regional tensions.
-
South Korea's President Lee Jae Myung met with Chinese President Xi Jinping during a visit to China, urging China to mediate in North Korea's nuclear issues. Both leaders emphasized patience and the importance of regional stability amid North Korea's missile tests and diplomatic isolation.
-
On January 27, 2026, North Korea launched two ballistic missiles into the East Sea, marking its second missile test this month amid rising tensions with South Korea. The launches followed accusations by Pyongyang of South Korean civilian drone incursions, which Seoul denies. South Korea and Japan have increased defense cooperation, while the U.S. urges Seoul to take a leading role in regional security.
-
North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un condemned recent drone flights from South Korea, emphasizing that provocations will lead to severe consequences. South Korea denies military involvement, attributing the drones to civilians, and promises a thorough investigation amid ongoing tensions.
-
Kim Jong Un dismissed Vice Premier Yang Sung-ho during a ceremony at the Ryongsong Machine Complex, citing irresponsible officials and project delays. The move aligns with preparations for the upcoming Workers' Party congress, emphasizing discipline and economic reform.
-
The Pentagon's new 2026 Defense Strategy emphasizes US homeland security and the Indo-Pacific, reducing commitments in Europe and Russia. It advocates for allies to take more responsibility for their defense, reflecting a broader shift towards prioritizing US interests and a softer stance on China and Russia.
-
The Pentagon has published its first comprehensive strategy since 2022, emphasizing a shift towards burden-sharing with allies, focusing on deterring Russia and China, and asserting U.S. interests in the Western Hemisphere. The strategy criticizes allies for reliance on past U.S. support and calls for a more assertive approach.
-
Recent investigations reveal Bangladeshi migrant workers in Russia were deceived with false promises of civilian jobs, only to be coerced into combat roles in Ukraine. Many faced threats, violence, and imprisonment, with some escaping after months of forced service. The story highlights migrant risks amid regional conflicts. Today’s date: Tue, 03 Feb 2026.
-
Recent reports reveal a surge in state-sponsored cyber-espionage targeting defense companies and personnel across Europe, the US, and Ukraine. Hackers impersonate employees, exploit vulnerabilities in hiring processes, and conduct targeted attacks, raising concerns over national security and industrial integrity amid geopolitical tensions.
-
On February 10, 2026, South Korea announced a phased increase in medical school admissions from 3,058 in 2026 to 3,548 in 2027, reaching 3,871 by 2030. The plan aims to address regional healthcare shortages, especially in rural areas, following a healthcare crisis triggered by trainee doctor strikes in 2024-2025 over previous proposed increases.
-
North Korea warns of severe retaliation if drone provocations continue, following recent incidents involving South Korean drones. Kim Yo Jong emphasized that any violation of sovereignty will trigger responses beyond proportionality, amid ongoing investigations into drone flights and tensions with Seoul. The story highlights escalating military tensions in the region.
-
As of February 2026, 15 South African men lured into fighting for Russia in Ukraine have returned home, with two still in Russia. Many African nationals from 36 countries, including Nigeria and Ghana, have been deceived into joining Russian forces, often without military training. Investigations and diplomatic efforts continue amid rising concerns over illegal recruitment and exploitation.
-
North Korea's Kim Jong Un appears to be grooming his 13-year-old daughter, Kim Ju Ae, as his successor amid signs of a potential power struggle with his sister, Kim Yo Jong. Public appearances and increased political visibility suggest her future leadership, raising questions about dynastic succession in the secretive regime.
-
North Korea has deployed thousands of troops to support Russia in Ukraine, with an estimated 2,000 casualties. Kim Jong Un unveiled a new street in Pyongyang, symbolizing military sacrifice and political loyalty, amid preparations for a major party congress.
-
North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un re-elected as party secretary-general during a five-yearly congress, with his sister Kim Yo Jong promoted to a full department director. Kim emphasized nuclear development and economic growth, while the congress showcased military displays and political loyalty. Kim Ju Ae, his daughter, remains a focus as heir apparent.
-
Russian-Australian historian Andrei Lankov was detained and expelled from Latvia while preparing to give a lecture on North Korea. Latvia's authorities reportedly blacklisted him, citing concerns over his views. Lankov, who lives in Seoul, believes his objective analysis of North Korea led to his ban. He is now in Estonia.
-
Kim Jong-un announced plans to expand North Korea's nuclear and missile arsenal, including ICBMs and AI-driven weapons, while dismissing dialogue with South Korea and emphasizing hostility towards the US. He also hinted at potential future talks, depending on US policies, amid regional tensions.
-
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un signaled willingness for dialogue with the US, contingent on Washington respecting North Korea's nuclear status. This comes amid speculation of a potential meeting with Donald Trump during a visit to China in late March or early April. Kim reaffirmed his country's nuclear stance at the recent Workers’ Party congress.