The Minute to Read (Weekdays) series provides a quick overview of significant events in Korea everyday, conveniently condensed into a one-minute read. Here’s a recap of what happened yesterday: Mar. 30.
DPK moves to force court pick, warns of cabinet impeachments
South Korea’s main opposition Democratic Party (DPK) has threatened to impeach acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo if he does not appoint Ma Eun-hyeok to the Constitutional Court by March 30, aiming to bolster its influence ahead of President Yoon Suk-yeol’s impeachment trial. The party also warned that any cabinet minister replacing Han must appoint Ma immediately or face impeachment. Analysts view the move as a bid to secure the six votes needed to remove Yoon, as the court is reportedly split 5-3 in favor of impeachment. With two liberal justices set to retire in April, the DPK is pushing legislative changes to extend their terms, fearing a delayed ruling could weaken its case. The opposition’s actions have sparked concerns over political maneuvering to paralyze the cabinet, potentially obstructing government functions, while legal experts warn of a “legislative dictatorship” undermining constitutional principles.
Seoul plans $7.4B supplementary budget to tackle sildfires, trade tensions
South Korea’s government plans to propose a 10 trillion won ($7.4 billion) supplementary budget to address wildfire recovery, trade risks, and economic challenges, Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok said on March 30. The move signals a shift from the administration’s earlier preference for a bipartisan approach. Choi emphasized the urgency of recovery efforts following the country’s worst wildfires, which destroyed 48,000 hectares of forest and left 75 dead or injured. The budget will also support trade and AI competitiveness while providing relief for small businesses struggling with weak domestic demand. Choi urged lawmakers to pass the budget swiftly, warning that delays due to political disputes could weaken its impact. The government had initially sought bipartisan talks but decided to act preemptively given the pressing nature of the crisis.
Samsung weighs new DX chief after co-CEO Han’s sudden death
Samsung Electronics is considering candidates to lead its Device eXperience (DX) division following the sudden death of co-CEO Han Jong-hee, leaving a leadership gap in its consumer electronics business. Industry insiders view Roh Tae-moon, head of the Mobile eXperience (MX) division, as a strong contender, though his expertise is primarily in mobile. Samsung is also weighing alternatives, including maintaining a single CEO structure under semiconductor chief Jun Young-hyun or appointing an external candidate. The company is expected to expedite its decision-making following Chairman Lee Jae-yong’s return from China, with broader organizational restructuring likely as part of the leadership transition.
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