Seoul: The foreign ministry has expressed concerns to Israel regarding allegations made by two activists who claim they were assaulted by Israeli forces after being detained on aid vessels heading to the Gaza Strip. Earlier, Kim Ah-hyun and Kim Dong-hyeon returned to South Korea via Incheon International Airport following their release by Israeli authorities. They had been detained and expelled for attempting unauthorized entry into the Gaza Strip via separate vessels.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) announced the initiation of a project focused on developing interceptor drone systems. This initiative aims to address the threat posed by "suicide drones," which are altering the landscape of modern warfare. The new systems are designed to detect and physically intercept enemy drones.
Meanwhile, the South Korean stock market showed positive momentum, with the Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) closing 32.12 points higher, marking a 0.41 percent increase to end at 7,847.71. This rise comes amid optimism for a diplomatic resolution to tensions between the United States and Iran. However, the local currency experienced a decline against the U.S. dollar.
In the realm of sports, the head coach of North Korea's Naegohyang Women's FC, Ri Yu-il, addressed perceptions of his team's playing style ahead of their clash against Tokyo Verdy Beleza in the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Women's Champions League final. The match is scheduled for 2 p.m. Saturday at Suwon Stadium, with a prize of US$1 million at stake.
Veterans Minister Kwon Oh-eul has publicly expressed regret over Starbucks Korea's controversial marketing campaign on the anniversary of the May 18 Gwangju uprising. Kwon criticized the "Tank Day" promotion and pledged to enhance scrutiny for misinformation related to the pro-democracy movement of 1980.
In corporate news, Samsung Electronics Co. unionized workers began voting on a wage agreement after a last-minute deal was reached, preventing an 18-day strike. Approximately 89,000 union members are expected to cast their votes by next Wednesday on the proposed agreement, which was finalized just an hour before the planned strike.