Prime Minister Kim Min-seok Indicates Resignation by Early July
Prime Minister Kim Min-seok stated that support for the president's governance is increasingly necessary from the party rather than the cabinet. He suggested he could resign as early as late June or early July, following the completion of the appointment process for his successor, Han Seung-sook.In an appearance on MBC Radio on June 15, Kim said, "Supporting the president's governance and contributing to its success is a fundamental duty. I believe it has become more necessary and efficient to shift this responsibility from the cabinet to the party."
He explained, "As we approach the midterm of the administration, there will be political challenges, so it is better for the party to provide stable support to the government and the president."
Kim expressed optimism about his successor, Han Seung-sook, stating, "Having worked with her and observed her in cabinet meetings, I believe she has the qualities needed to achieve results in revitalizing the economy and navigating the AI transformation."
JTBC and Central Group Apply for Bankruptcy Amid Liquidity Crisis
Major affiliates of Central Group, including JTBC, have filed for bankruptcy protection amid a liquidity crisis. The situation escalated after JTBC failed to repay a 20.6 billion won liquidity loan, leading to broader concerns involving Central Holdings, Contentree Central, and Megabox Central.On June 15, the Seoul Bankruptcy Court assigned the bankruptcy proceedings for Central Holdings, JTBC, Contentree Central, Megabox Central, and Central P&I to its second division. Each company has been assigned a separate case number, but they will be reviewed collectively by the same court.
JTBC declared default on June 12 after being unable to repay the liquidity loan. Factors contributing to the financial strain include a shrinking advertising market and shifts in the media landscape toward online video services.
Personal Information Commission Launches Investigation into CU Delivery Data Breach
The Personal Information Protection Commission has initiated an investigation into a data breach involving CU convenience store's delivery service. Evidence of hacking that compromised customer information has emerged, raising concerns about the scale of the breach and compliance with safety measures.As of June 15, the commission has been investigating BGF Networks, which operates CU's delivery service, since June 9.
The commission is working to ascertain the specifics of the breach and the extent of the damage. It will also examine whether the company adhered to safety obligations and notification requirements under the Personal Information Protection Act.
Iranian Media Claims U.S. Acknowledges Hormuz Transit Fees
The issue of transit fees in the Strait of Hormuz has emerged as a new point of contention in the U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding (MOU) regarding peace. Iranian media reported that the U.S. has effectively recognized Iran's right to collect transit fees, although President Donald Trump emphasized the importance of keeping the strait open without tolls, leading to differing interpretations between the two sides.According to the semi-official Fars News Agency on June 15, the final draft of the U.S.-Iran peace MOU, set to be signed on June 19, reportedly includes provisions that Iran and Oman will manage future maritime navigation services in the Strait of Hormuz.
Fars cited informed sources who claimed that the issue of sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz was specified during the final stages of negotiations. They argued that the inclusion of the term "maritime services" implies U.S. acknowledgment of Iran's right to collect fees related to vessel transit.
In contrast, President Trump stated in an interview with The New York Times the previous day that the agreement would guarantee permanent toll-free passage through the Strait of Hormuz. He also reiterated on social media his approval of keeping the strait open without tolls.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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