The Minute to Read (Weekend) series provides a quick overview of significant events in Korea from the week, conveniently condensed into a one-minute read. Here’s a recap of what happened this week: Mar. 24-28.
S. Korea grapples with wildfire destruction, casualties
A wildfire that began in Uiseong, North Gyeongsang, on March 22 has spread to Andong, Cheongsong, Yeongyang, and Yeongdeok. According to the government on March 28, the disaster has claimed 28 lives and injured 37 people. Nearly 30,000 residents have evacuated, while the fire has scorched an estimated 33,204 hectares, equivalent to 46,500 soccer fields. Gounsa Temple, a significant Buddhist cultural heritage site, was completely destroyed. Authorities have relocated 500 inmates from North Gyeongsang’s Cheongsong prison to a correctional facility in Daegu. Firefighters are deploying dozens of helicopters to contain the blaze, but dry conditions and strong winds are complicating efforts.
Opposition leader acquitted in election law violation appeal
Lee Jae-myung, leader of the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea, was acquitted on March 26 in his appeal trial for violating the Public Official Election Act. The ruling overturned the initial verdict, which had sentenced him to one year in prison with a two-year suspended sentence. Legal experts are divided, with some criticizing the ruling for disregarding context and breaking down statements into fragments to justify acquittal. Others argue the case allowed for different interpretations, and the court’s decision to rule in favor of the defendant is reasonable. Meanwhile, the Democratic Party is preparing for the possibility of a presidential impeachment ruling and an early election.
Samsung faces leadership void after co-CEO Han Jong-hee’s death
Samsung Electronics is facing a leadership crisis following the sudden death of Vice Chairman Han Jong-hee from a heart attack on March 25. Han was transported to Seoul’s Samsung Hospital on March 22 after collapsing, but he passed away. Han played a key role in Samsung’s success as the head of the Device eXperience (DX) division, overseeing the home appliances and TV business. Under his leadership, Samsung maintained its position as the global leader in TV sales for 15 consecutive years. He was promoted to vice chairman in 2021, overseeing the integration of Samsung’s IT, mobile, and consumer electronics divisions. His unexpected death has prompted the company to search for a successor, though finding a suitable candidate is expected to be challenging.
Naver founder Lee Hae-jin returns as chairman after 7 years
Naver founder Lee Hae-jin, 58, has returned as chairman of the board after a seven-year absence, signaling his intent to lead the company in AI competition against global tech giants. At the annual shareholders’ meeting on March 26, Lee was reappointed as an internal director, and CEO Choi Soo-yeon was re-elected. In his speech, Lee emphasized that Naver’s success has stemmed from its unique approach to innovation and competition with global firms. A startup insider noted that Lee has been deeply contemplating his return and will now focus on empowering management to drive bold AI strategies.
Hyundai to invest $21bn in U.S. over 4 years
Hyundai Motor Group announced a $21 billion investment plan in the United States over the next four years during a White House event attended by U.S. President Donald Trump on March 24. The investment will allocate $8.6 billion to automotive manufacturing, $6.1 billion to steel and parts logistics, and $6.3 billion to future mobility and energy sectors. Following Hyundai’s move, major South Korean conglomerates, including Samsung, SK, LG, POSCO, and Hanwha, are expected to increase U.S. investments. Trump praised Hyundai as a “truly great company” and personally acknowledged Hyundai Executive Chairman Chung Eui-sun and Vice Chairman Chang Jae-hoon.
S. Korean parties unite against China’s maritime expansion
South Korean lawmakers from both the ruling and opposition parties are stepping up criticism over China’s unauthorized construction of a large steel structure in the Provisional Measures Zone (PMZ) of the West Sea (Yellow Sea). Even the opposition Democratic Party, which has traditionally taken a more conciliatory stance toward Beijing, has voiced concern and called for an on-site investigation. Lawmakers warn that China may be employing the same tactics used in the South China Sea—building artificial structures to assert territorial claims and restrict foreign access. The PMZ is a maritime area where South Korea and China have agreed to temporarily suspend unilateral jurisdictional claims until a formal boundary is established.
NewJeans announces indefinite hiatus amid contract dispute
K-pop girl group NewJeans has announced an indefinite hiatus after releasing a new song under the name NJZ, following a court ruling barring independent activities outside its agency Ador. The decision reflects the group’s determination not to return to Ador, despite the setback. Ador expressed regret over the situation and hopes for communication with the members soon. The Seoul Central District Court ruled on March 21 in favor of Ador’s request to prohibit independent activities and third-party contract deals, restricting NewJeans from engaging in activities outside the agency until a verdict is reached in the main lawsuit.
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