South Korea’s Top 10 Major News Updates in the Last 24 Hours (April 5, 2025)

 

Here are the most significant events in South Korea and international affairs over the past 24 hours, ranked by importance.

1. Constitutional Court Unanimously Upholds Impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol

 

 

South Korea’s Constitutional Court ruled unanimously to remove President Yoon Suk Yeol from office, citing violations of constitutional duties and betrayal of public trust. This marks the second presidential impeachment in the nation’s history, following Park Geun-hye’s ouster in 2017. The court’s 114-page decision emphasized Yoon’s failure to uphold democratic principles, triggering immediate political upheaval and discussions about early elections.

 

 

2. U.S. Imposes 25% Reciprocal Tariffs on South Korean Exports

 

 

The Trump administration announced a 25% tariff on South Korean goods, revising an earlier proposal of 26%. This move has sparked concerns over trade disruptions, particularly in semiconductors and automotive sectors. The KOSPI index initially dropped 2.7% but partially recovered by midday, reflecting market volatility.

3. China Retaliates with 34% Tariffs on U.S. Imports, Restricts Rare Earth Exports

China responded to U.S. tariffs by imposing 34% duties on American products and restricting exports of seven rare earth minerals, including samarium and gadolinium. The measures, set to take effect April 10, threaten global supply chains and escalate trade tensions. China also plans to challenge the U.S. at the WTO.

4. Nationwide Wildfires Spread to East Coast, Prompting Emergency Response

 

 

Wildfires fueled by strong winds and dry conditions have ravaged forests from inland regions to the East Sea coastline. Authorities attribute the rapid spread to climate change and dense pine forests. Emergency crews are battling blazes in coastal areas, with evacuation orders issued for high-risk zones.

5. Samsung Appoints First Foreign Design Chief in Strategic Shift

 

 

Samsung Electronics named Mauro Porcini, former PepsiCo design head, as its new Chief Design Officer. This historic appointment aims to bolster global competitiveness in product innovation, signaling a shift toward prioritizing design-driven growth in tech markets.

6. Medical Students Complete Enrollment but Threaten Boycotts

Despite pressure, 39 of 40 medical schools confirmed student registrations. However, many plan to submit leave-of-absence requests, defying government demands to resume classes. Officials warn that attendance rates will determine disciplinary actions.

7. Myanmar Earthquake Death Toll Exceeds 1,700; Rescue Efforts Stall

A shallow 7.4-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar has killed over 1,700 people, with rescue operations hampered by limited equipment and medical supplies. South Korea is considering humanitarian aid amid calls for international support.

8. Deputy PM Faces Criticism Over U.S. Treasury Bond Purchases

Deputy Prime Minister Choi Sang-mok is under fire for purchasing $150,000 in U.S. Treasury bonds ahead of tariff announcements. Critics accuse him of speculative betting on currency fluctuations, while his office denies wrongdoing.

9. Actor Kim Soo-hyun’s Agency Confirms Past Relationship with Kim Sae-ron

Kim Soo-hyun’s agency acknowledged a past relationship with actress Kim Sae-ron but disputed her claims about its timeline. The public clash has fueled debates over privacy and celebrity culture.

10. Seoul Subway Fare Hike Sparks Backlash

Seoul’s municipal government announced a 15% subway fare increase, citing operational costs. Commuters and advocacy groups criticize the move, warning of financial strain on low-income households.

Conclusion

 

 

 

The impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol dominates South Korea’s political landscape, while escalating U.S.-China trade tensions pose risks to the global economy. Domestic challenges, from wildfires to public discontent over policies, underscore a pivotal moment for the nation. Stay tuned for further updates.