Seoul in the headlines as Korea’s culture engine and political drama swirl—home to BTS, K-culture surge, and ongoing regional tension. Capital of South Korea.
South Korea's National Assembly is set to approve a bill establishing a public investment vehicle, amid US pressure over delays in a trade deal. The legislation aims to manage US investments in sectors like semiconductors and shipbuilding, following negotiations and threats of tariffs. The move reflects ongoing tensions in US-South Korea trade relations.
BTS held a free concert at Gwanghwamun Square, Seoul, performing songs from their new album 'ARIRANG' after a four-year hiatus. The event celebrated Korean heritage and culture, drawing tens of thousands of fans and emphasizing the group's global influence and cultural significance.
On March 20, 2026, BTS released 'Arirang,' their first full album since completing South Korea's mandatory military service. The album sold nearly 4 million copies on its first day and topped charts in the UK, Australia, and Germany. On March 21, BTS performed a historic comeback concert in Seoul's Gwanghwamun Square, streamed live on Netflix to 18.4 million viewers worldwide.
Seoul's highly anticipated BTS concert drew thousands of fans and extensive security measures, but actual attendance was lower than expected. Fans traveled from around the world, many waiting hours for tickets, while local businesses faced disappointing foot traffic amid the event's elaborate preparations. The event highlights BTS's cultural influence and the city's economic ambitions.
The US government is advancing its AI strategy with significant industry backing, including a new $100 million initiative led by the Innovation Council Action, which aims to influence policy and support Trump-aligned efforts. Meanwhile, AI's role in military and ethical debates continues to grow.
South Korea is increasing its defense cooperation with allies, including expanding military industry partnerships and supporting vessels stranded in regional waters. The moves follow recent high-level visits and ongoing regional security concerns, with a focus on strengthening deterrence and regional stability.
Ramsey Khalid Ismael, known as Johnny Somali, has been found guilty in Seoul of multiple charges, including creating sexually explicit deepfake content and disrupting public order. The court has ordered his immediate detention, citing flight risk. His actions have sparked widespread outrage and legal action since 2024.
The Seoul High Court has convicted the former president on obstruction of justice and related charges tied to his December 2024 martial-law bid, after a sequence of trials and appeals that followed his impeachment and removal. Prosecution seeks longer terms and holds others, including the former first lady, to account.
North Korea has opened a memorial in Pyongyang for soldiers who fought for Russia in the Kursk campaign and has hosted a high-level Russian delegation including Defence Minister Andrei Belousov and Duma speaker Vyacheslav Volodin. Kim Jong Un has pledged continued support for Russia and both sides have agreed to deepen military cooperation for 2027–31.
North Korea’s Naegohyang Women’s FC is set to face Suwon FC Women in the AFC Women’s Champions League semifinal in Suwon on May 20, the first inter-Korean women’s club match in the South since 2018. A North Korean delegation will travel with 27 players and 12 staff, while South Korea restricts flags and national anthems under security rules.
Kim has undergone a cosmetic procedure in Seoul as part of CNN’s K-Everything series, which explores Korea’s rise through food, cinema, beauty and music. The show debuts on CNN International and is available on CNN and HBO Max, featuring Kim’s personal journey and interviews with notable Korean figures.
North Korea has overseen tests of ballistic missiles and other weapons systems, including AI-guided cruise missiles and ultra-precision artillery rockets, according to KCNA. Seoul has reported a missile launch about 80 km from the DMZ, marking another stage in a year of rapid weapons development as Kim Jong Un seeks to modernize forces and push back on international norms.
Chinese dissident Dong Guangping has been detained by South Korea’s coast guard after arriving in a rubber boat off the western coast. Authorities are investigating immigration-law violations; Dong has a history of fleeing China and seeking asylum in other countries, including Taiwan, Vietnam and Canada. His fate now hinges on refugee-status review and potential deportation decisions.
Voters have faced ballot-paper shortages at polling stations during local elections, prompting apologies and investigations. The ruling party is facing mixed results nationwide, with Seoul and Busan outcomes carrying symbolic weight. By-elections and constitutional reforms are shaping the political landscape as parties respond to turnout and logistics challenges.
The NHTSA has issued recalls for Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator (2018–2022) and Kia Telluride (2027) seat belts due to locking failures. Remedial actions include free inspections and replacements, with owners receiving notifications and possible reimbursements. The recalls cover safety concerns and reflect ongoing regulatory oversight.