2023 CJ LOGISTICS SUPERRACE CHAMPIONSHIP - Asia Motorsports Carnival (Pitstop Race)

The 2023 CJ LOGISTICS SUPERRACE CHAMPIONSHIP continues in Yeongam Korea International Circuit for the Pitstop Race of the Asia Motorsports Carnival event, a celebration of speed and power on the former site of the Korean Grand Prix.

Screengrab from Superrace

Although overshadowed by the return of Carlo Van Damme in SUPERRACE, the third round of the 2023 SUPERRACE season is nothing without a few dramas involved such as an engine failure for Lee Hyo Jun on Lap 21 and an out-of-fuel heartbreak for Jang Hyun Jin as the race nears its climax.

After a 29-lap action in the KIC, Ecsta Racing's Lee Chanjoon is the winner of the race while Brand New Racing's Park Gyu-seung finished 2nd and Seohan GP's Jeong Hoe Won finished 3rd.

The next race will be at Inje Speedium for the Gangwon Night Race this July 8th.

KG Mobility Tivoli - 2024 minor change

Having been on the lineup for eight years running, the Tivoli lineup has received another minor change and things get a little interesting for KG Mobility's baby-SUV range.

2024 KG Mobility Tivoli

2024 KG Mobility Tivoli interior

The Tivoli and its longer Tivoli Air have received another minor change for the 2024 model year, keeping the entry-level SUV lineup from KG Mobility (formerly Ssangyong) ready for more when the opportunity arises.

The most noticeable change for this updated version is the front view and it now dons a styling similar to a Toyota PPV I can't mention here due to search query reasons. This new front view gives the Tivoli a sporty feel on the go and apart from that, a new set of wheels and a mildly revised rear view truly made a statement.

The interior is heavily revised for this latest facelift with the air vents positioned above the dashboard, a new climate control, a new 10.25-inch digital cluster, and a new touch screen with smartphone connectivity and INFOCONN service. While the dashboard layout's new, the comfort for five people and spacing still remains with the Air the most spacious of the Tivoli range.

Both the new Tivoli and the Tivoli Air remained the 1.5L GDi turbo engine mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with the shorter one offered with the 1.6L petrol engine. Sticking to the turbo one, it produces 163PS of power and 26.5kg-m of torque. Fuel economy is good for a combined 12kmpl for FF models.

The shorter Tivoli is only offered with the optional 4WD system that allows this crossover to go everywhere when needed.

In terms of safety, both the new Tivoli and the new Tivoli Air are offered with a DeepControl suite of advanced safety features, seven airbags, 79% rigidity, an Electronic Stability Program, an Anti-Rollover Protection, a Brake Assist System, an Emergency Stop Signal, Hill Descent Control, and Hill Start Assist, among many others.

For a limited time, the Tivoli is priced at 22,090,000 Korean Won while the Tivoli Air is priced at 22,940,000 Korean Won plus taxes and fees.

The recently facelifted Tivoli range shows that they're still on the go for eight years running, like it or not. The improved looks and interior are a sign of things to come for the Tivoli range under the hands of KG Mobility. That's common sense to you.

Photo: KG Mobility

THREATS FROM NORTH KOREA: Evacuation alerts, sirens cause panic in Seoul after North Korea launch

 

Rare wailing air raid sirens and mobile phone alerts calling for evacuations rattled residents of the South Korean capital, Seoul, early on Wednesday after North Korea tried to launch what it said was a satellite.

Nuclear-armed North Korea's sixth satellite launch ended in failure, with the booster and payload plunging into the sea, but not before prompting emergency alerts and evacuation warnings in parts of South Korea and Japan.

"I was so panicked. Nine-one-one lines were busy and the internet was slow," said Lee Juyeon, 33, a resident in the densely populated city of about 10 million who has a 9-month-old child. "So without knowing what was really happening, I was about to head down to a basement wearing a wrap carrier with my baby."

The sirens started in Seoul at 6:32 a.m. (2132 GMT Tuesday) as the city issued a "Presidential Alert" asking citizens to prepare for a potential evacuation.

Then came a second mobile alert, at least 10 minutes later, as the interior ministry said the city's alert was sent in error.

Lee did not evacuate after seeing a television headline saying the alerts related to a North Korean space vehicle flying farther south, but she showed photographs of friends packing bags, readying to leave.

Although residents of Seoul are used to living in the shadow of threats from their nuclear-armed neighbour, an element of complacency has crept in among many in the city about the risks and how to respond.

The two countries are still technically at war seven decades after the Korean War ended in an armistice.

Some office workers in the Seoul's central district said they had considered during their commute how to respond to the alarm, such as by withdrawing cash or hoarding water.

"I understand it was a mistake, but even if it has to be simple, that alert message should have said what went on and where to go," Kim Jong-hyun, 48, said on his way to work after dropping off his child at school.

Later on Wednesday, Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon apologised for confusion over the city's alert but defended the decision to send one as a precaution for public safety. He said the city would improve the wording in future messages and on warning systems.

"Alerts" and "evacuation" were the most trending topics on Twitter in South Korea on Wednesday morning, with confused tweets scrambling to grasp what was going on or to find evacuation areas.

"Hey guys, given Twitter is still working, I guess it is not a war," one user using the handle @Kimisnim__ said.

Source: Reuters

THREATS FROM NORTH KOREA: North Korea informs Japan of upcoming 'satellite launch'

 

North Korea has informed Japan that it is preparing to launch a satellite as early as this week, Tokyo announced Monday but warned it may actually be a sanctions-defying ballistic missile test.

North Korea informed Japan that it will launch a rocket between May 31 and June 11, identifying waters near the Yellow Sea, the East China Sea and to the east of Luzon Island in the Philippines as warning areas, a Japanese coast guard spokesman told AFP.

Such zones are usually designated for falling debris or rocket stages.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida told officials to gather intelligence "on North Korea's notification about the launch of a ballistic missile that it describes as a satellite", his office said in a tweet.

"Even if it's described as a satellite, a launch using ballistic missile technology would be a violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions" and would threaten people's safety, Kishida told reporters.

In 2012 and 2016, Pyongyang tested ballistic missiles that it called satellite launches. Both flew over Japan's southern Okinawa region.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un this month inspected the country's first military spy satellite as it was prepared for launch, and gave the green light for its "future action plan".

In 2021, Kim had identified the development of such satellites as a key defence project for the North Korean military.

Because long-range rockets and space launchers share the same technology, analysts say developing the ability to put a satellite in orbit would provide Pyongyang with cover for testing banned intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs).

Japan's defence ministry issued an order to shoot down any ballistic missile confirmed to be on course to fall into its territory.

South Korea's foreign ministry condemned the launch plan, but officials did not confirm to AFP if Seoul had been directly notified too.

"North Korea's so-called 'satellite launch' is a serious violation of UN Security Council resolutions banning all launches using ballistic missile technology, and is a clearly illegal act that cannot be justified under any pretext," the ministry said.

South Korea and Japan have been working to mend long-frayed ties, including with greater cooperation on North Korea's military threats.

Unusual stance

Meanwhile, Kishida on Monday reiterated that Tokyo is open to talks with Pyongyang.

North Korean state media on Monday published a statement from the country's vice-minister of foreign affairs, appearing to endorse a conciliatory approach to relations with Japan -- an unusual stance from Pyongyang.

If Japan avoids "being shackled by the past, and seeks a way out for improving the relations, there is no reason for the DPRK and Japan not to meet", said the statement from Pak Sang Gil, using the initials of North Korea's official name.

Pak said, however, that Japan needs to move on from sticking points such as the "abduction issue" for ties to improve.

Japan suspects dozens of people who are still missing were abducted by North Korean agents in the 1970s and 1980s to train spies in the Japanese language and culture.

Source: Agence-France-Presse

THREATS FROM NORTH KOREA: Ex-foreign service employee fined for attempt to sell BTS member Jungkook’s lost hat

 

The Seoul Central District Court has fined a former foreign service employee 1 million won ($749) on charges of attempting to sell BTS member Jungkook’s lost hat online, legal sources said Wednesday, May 3.

The employee, whose identity has been withheld, put the bucket hat for sale on an online second-hand market for 10 million won in October, claiming the K-pop star had left it at the foreign ministry building in Seoul when he visited to apply for a passport.

The seller deleted his offer and turned himself in to the police amid the controversy, and prosecutors later summarily indicted him, seeking a 1-million-won fine. 

Source: The Korea Herald

2023 CJ LOGISTICS SUPERRACE CHAMPIONSHIP - Season Opener

Korea's premier racing series, the CJ LOGISTICS SUPERRACE CHAMPIONSHIP, returns for its 2023 season. With new and returning faces aside, the 2023 season promises to be the most intense SUPERRACE season yet. Three venues, eight rounds, demanding rules and regulations for the participants.

The 2023 season kicked off in front of a sold-out crowd at the Yongin Everland Speedway. It's a two-part opener where new and familiar drivers flex their racing muscles inside the V8-powered Toyota GR Supra Super 6000 machines as the season opener will decide who will draw first blood.

Screengrab from Superrace

In the first round, Ecsta Racing's Lee Changuk drew first blood by defeating the two Nexen-Vollgas Motorsports drivers, Kim Jaehyun and Jung Euichul, towards victory lane. In the second round, It was another win for Ecsta Racing with Lee Chanjoon turning his pole position into a victory followed by Nexen-Vollgas Motorsports' Jung Euichul and Hwang Jin-woo from Jun-Fitted Racing.

The next race will be at Yeongam Korea International Circuit for the Asia Motorsports Carnival (Pitstop Race) this June 4th.

THREATS FROM NORTH KOREA: BTS' J-Hope becomes second band member to enlist for military service

 

BTS star J-Hope was set to start his mandatory South Korean military service on Tuesday, local media reported, becoming the K-pop juggernaut's second member to enlist, prompting an outpouring of well-wishes from fans.

The septet has become a global cultural phenomenon, selling out stadiums around the world and dominating key US charts while raking in billions for South Korea's economy and building an international legion of fans known as ARMY.

But all able-bodied men in South Korea must serve at least 18 months in the military, and after a years-long debate about whether BTS deserved an exemption, Jin, the oldest member of the group, enlisted in December.

J-Hope -- whose full name is Jung Ho-seok -- was set to begin his five-week basic training at an army boot camp in Gangwon province on Tuesday, Yonhap News Agency reported.

The 29-year-old posted pictures of himself on Weverse late Monday, with his newly shorn, military-approved buzzcut.

"I love you, ARMY. I'll go and come back safely!" he said.

The post attracted thousands of comments from fans, with many expressing sorrow over the group's ongoing hiatus.

"Be careful and stay healthy. ARMY will do its best to stay positive by streaming and supporting the things you love and enjoy! Say hi to Jin for us, please? We will miss you so much!" one wrote.

"It suits you so well," another wrote of J-Hope's buzzcut. "With much respect, I salute you. For your loyalty, honour, and sense of duty to serve your country."

Band member Jin, who is currently serving in the military, left the comment "D-1♡" on one of J-Hope's Weverse posts on Monday -- a nod to the fact he had one day left before enlistment.

The septet's agency HYBE had confirmed on April 1 that J-Hope would be enlisting, but did not disclose details "to prevent any issues that might occur from crowding".

"Please note that there will be no official event on the day of his entry," the agency said at the time.

"The entrance ceremony is a time to be observed by military personnel and their families only... Fans are advised to refrain from visiting the site."

Source: Agence-France-Presse

THREATS FROM NORTH KOREA: South Korea wildfire forces 500 residents to evacuate, rain helps fight flames

 

More than 500 people evacuated from their homes in South Korea's eastern coastal city of Gangneung as strong winds fanned a wildfire on Tuesday, officials said, but fears of a further spread eased as rain helped firefighters battle the blaze.

The fire, which started at around 8:30 a.m. local time (2330 GMT on Monday) in Gangneung, was mostly extinguished as of 4:30 p.m., after consuming 170 hectares (420 acres) of land and prompting the evacuation of some 550 residents in the city of more than 200,000 people, the Korea Forest Service said.

The fire injured three people, including two firefighters, and destroyed dozens of buildings, the national forestry agency said.

The fire appears to have started after strong winds blew a tree over onto live overhead power cables, igniting flames, officials said.

Firefighting crews had struggled to put out the fast-moving blaze due to strong winds, but rain then tamped it down by the afternoon.

Photos and footage circulating on social media showed fires razing forests and fields, and buildings engulfed by smoke.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol had ordered officials to mobilise all available resources to put out the fire as soon as possible and quickly evacuate nearby residents to minimise casualties, his office said.

Source: Reuters

The vehicles that defined Ssangyong

In case you missed it, Ssangyong is officially dead and gone as South Korea's SUV specialist is now renamed KG MOBILITY. The renaming was made following the car company's takeover by the KG Group late last year. It's been a long time coming for those who are expressing stigma over the Ssangyong name in the world of motoring.

Launched in the summer of 2022, the Torres
is the last vehicle to bear the Ssangyong banner.

With the days of Ssangyong as a car company well and truly over as it now evolved into KG MOBILITY, it's time to jot down the cars that defined Ssangyong since it was renamed from Dong-A motor in the late 80s.

Korando Family (1988-1996) - The Korando Family is an SUV that is the first to don the Ssangyong banner ever since Dong-A Motor was taken over by the now-defunct Ssangyong group of companies. It's essentially a rebadged Isuzu Bighorn and it's powered by a wide range of diesel engines from 2.2L to 2.6L. It was given a minor change in 1992 and 1994 before it was discontinued in 1996.

Musso (1993-2005) - Launched in the summer of 1993, the Musso served as Korea's answer to the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Ford Explorer, and Toyota Land Cruiser. Styled by a Brit, powered by a Mercedes-Benz engine, and the only Korean SUV to conquer the Dakar Rally when it won the diesel class in 1996, it was known to be the offroading legend in Ssangyong's own right. Because of its partnership with Mercedes-Benz, some countries like the Philippines sold the Musso as a Mercedes-Benz. Production of the Musso ended in 2005.

New Korando (KJ, 1996-2005) - Launched in the summer of 1996, the KJ Korando features styling inspired by its KH-7 predecessor, and like its Musso big brother, it's powered by a choice of petrol and diesel engines sourced from Mercedes-Benz.

Istana (1995-2004) - The Istana is Ssangyong's answer to the Kia Pregio and the Hyundai Grace when it was launched in 1995 until production ended in 2004. Powering the Istana is a 2.9L 662 diesel 5-cylinder engine that produces a weeny 95PS of power and 19.6kg-m of torque.

Chairman / Chairman H (1997-2014) - Made in collaboration with Mercedes-Benz, the Chairman is the first and only sedan offered by Ssangyong and it runs on the same mechanicals as the W124 Mercedes-Benz E-Class. In 2003, the Chairman was given a big minor change under the New Chairman moniker, later renamed Chairman H in 2008 to differentiate it from the modern Chairman W. The final facelift was in 2011 under the name Chairman H New Classic until production ended in 2014.

Rexton (2001-2017) - Launched in 2001, the Ssangyong Rexton is a midsize crossover SUV that competes against the Hyundai Santa Fe. Meant to be the successor to the aging Musso, the Rexton runs on a body-on-frame structure, which is rather unheard of for a crossover of its size. During its 16-year lifespan, the Rexton has gone through multiple minor changes with the last one being the Rexton W in 2012.

Musso Sports (2002-2006) - Based on the aging Musso SUV, the Musso Sports (later renamed Musso SUT in 2003) is the first pickup truck made in South Korea.

Rodius (2004-2013) - Launched in the Spring of 2004, the Rodius took over the Istana's role as a people carrier although it's basically a minivan made to compete against the Kia Carnival and the Hyundai Starex. Powering the Rodius is a 2.7L XDi diesel engine mated to a Mercedes-Benz-derived T-Tronic gearbox. It was offered in rear-wheel-drive and 4WD with torque-on-demand, a first for a Korean-made minivan. Although renowned for fitting up to eleven people, the Rodius was heavily criticized for its awkward-looking styling that can embarrass the Pontiac Aztek by a long shot.

Kyron (2005-2011) - Launched in June 2005, the Kyron is dubbed by commercials as "silky driving" due to its sedan riding comfort, which suits rather well for a high-riding crossover running on a body-on-frame structure.

Actyon (2005-2011) - Launched in October 2005, the Actyon is basically a sports utility coupe equivalent of the Kyron. Offered in rear-wheel-drive and 4WD, the Actyon is powered by a 2.0L diesel engine that produces 145PS of power and 31.6kg-m of torque. A year later, a pickup version known as the Actyon Sports was offered, filling up the place left by the Musso SUT.

Chairman W (2008-2017) - Launched in 2008, the Chairman W is the modern take on Ssangyong's flagship premium sedan and it's the direct rival to the Hyundai Genesis sedan. It's the only Ssangyong vehicle that is powered by a V8 engine in the form of a 5.0L. It was given a minor change in 2011 until production ended in 2017, making this the last sedan Ssangyong ever made.

Korando C (2011-2019) - At the start of the 2010s, when Mahindra took control of the ailing Ssangyong Motor Company, the Korando C signaled the car company's renaissance. The Korando C is the first for Ssangyong to run on a front-wheel-drive platform, which behaves in a rather un-Ssangyong-y kind of way, although a 4WD variant was offered. It was powered by an e-XDI200 engine mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed E-Tronic. The Korando C was given two facelifts in 2013 and 2017.

Korando Sports (2012-2018) - The Korando Sports served as the evolution of Korea's first pickup truck since the Musso Sports in 2001 and the Actyon Sports in 2006. It's basically the production version of the SUT-1 concept car but despite the naming, the Korando Sports has no direct relation to the Korando C crossover SUV. It's basically an improved version of the Actyon Sports.

Korando Turismo (2013-2019) - The Korando Turismo is the successor to the already cheesy Rodius minivan that behaves just like it. It was offered in either a nine-seater or an 11-seater and it was powered by the e-XDi200 diesel engine mated to either a 6-speed manual or an E-Tronic 5-speed AT. A Chateau variant was offered and it comes with a high roof, curtains, a refrigerator, a rear entertainment system, and other luxurious features that can give the Alphard Executive Lounge and the Grand Starex Limousine a run for their money.

Tivoli (2015-onwards) - The Tivoli is Ssangyong's compact crossover that slots below the Korando. Available only in front-wheel-drive, the Tivoli is powered by an e-XGi160 1.6L engine that develops 126PS of power and 16kg-m of torque. It is mated to either a 6-speed manual gearbox or a 6-speed automatic sourced from AISIN. A year later, a longer wheelbase version called the Tivoli Air was offered.

G4 Rexton (2017-onwards)  - Launched in 2017, this is the first full model change for the Rexton in 15 years and the most capable Rexton to date. Apart from its modern styling and luxurious interior, the G4 Rexton is powered by a 2.2L diesel engine mated to a 7-speed AT sourced from Mercedes-Benz. The G4 Rexton is packed with ADAS for added safety on the road. A facelift was offered in 2020 by the time Mahindra abandoned Ssangyong for good and apart from its upscaled looks, it features a new 8-speed automatic built by Hyundai.

Rexton Sports (2018-onwards) - Based on the G4 Rexton, the Rexton Sports is a midsize sport utility truck that is the evolution of South Korea's first sport utility truck since the Musso Sports of 2001. It features a rear bed possessing the biggest space than any of the Ssangyong sport trucks of yesteryears, capable of 1,011 liters of boot space. A year after the Rexton Sports was launched, a longer Khan variant was offered.

Korando (2019-onwards) - The Korando crossover has been given a full model change and it's essentially the big brother of the Tivoli. It's available only with a 1.6L e-XDi160 LET diesel engine mated to either a 6-speed MT or an AISIN 6-speed AT with paddle shifters. A fully-electric E-Motion was offered in 2022 and it features a 61.5kWh Li-ion battery pack and an electric motor at the front generating 190PS of power and 360Nm of torque, making this FF-only crossover good for 307km in one full charge.

Torres (2022-onwards) - Launched in July 2022, the Torres is the last hope for the troubled Ssangyong Motor Company and the last vehicle to don the Ssangyong banner. It is a rugged crossover Ssangyong claims it should return to its roots that traced back from the original Korando jeep to the legendary Musso SUV of the 1990s. Powering the Torres is a 1.5L T-GDi engine mated to an Aisin 6-speed AT. This engine produces 170PS of power and 28.6kg-m of torque. It even comes with an ISG system that shuts the engine off when stopped at the red light and then restarts when set off. In FF configurations, it has a combined fuel economy of 112kmpl while AWD variants get 10.2kmpl.

The Torres EVX will be the first vehicle
to don the KG Mobility banner

With the Ssangyong banner now dead and gone, its role as South Korea's SUV specialist will live on under its new KG MOBILITY banner. 

New name, new goals, same formula. South Korea's SUV specialist has been powered up and ready to take on the new normal.

Welcome aboard, KG MOBILITY!

THREATS FROM NORTH KOREA: North Korea unveils new nuclear warheads as Kim orders more weapons-grade materials

 

North Korea unveiled new, smaller nuclear warheads as leader Kim Jong Un called for scaling up the production of weapons-grade nuclear material to expand the country's arsenal, state media KCNA said on Tuesday.

KCNA released photos of the warheads, dubbed Hwasan-31, during Kim's visit to the Nuclear Weapons Institute, where he inspected new tactical nuclear weapons and technology for mounting warheads on ballistic missiles, as well as nuclear counterattack operation plans.

Experts say the images could indicate progress in miniaturising warheads that are powerful yet small enough to mount on intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of striking the U.S.

"It has something more powerful in a smaller space. ... That's worrisome," said Kune Y.Suh, professor emeritus of nuclear engineering at Seoul National University, comparing the new warheads to the 2016 version.

George William Herbert, an adjunct professor at the Middlebury Institute of International Studies' Center for Nonproliferation Studies, said the photos showed "a significant size improvement over prior North Korean nuclear weapons, and possibly design advance."

Kim ordered the production of weapons-grade materials in a "far-sighted way" to boost its nuclear arsenal "exponentially" and produce powerful weapons, KCNA said.

He said the enemy of the country's nuclear forces is not a specific state or group but "war and nuclear disaster themselves," and the policy of expanding North Korea's arsenal is solely aimed at defending the country, and regional peace and stability.

Kim was also briefed on an IT-based integrated nuclear weapon management system called Haekbangashoe, which means "nuclear trigger," whose accuracy, reliability and security were verified during recent drills simulating a nuclear counterattack, KCNA said.

North Korea has been ramping up military tests, firing short-range ballistic missiles on Monday and conducting a nuclear counterattack simulation last week against the United States and South, Korea which it accused of rehearsing an invasion with their military exercises.

North Korea's military simulated a nuclear airburst with two tactical ballistic missiles during Monday's training, while testing underwater strategic weapons systems again on March 25-27, KCNA said in separate dispatches.

All these activities came as a U.S. carrier strike group led by the USS Nimitz is set to arrive at a naval base in South Korea on Tuesday after conducting joint military drills a day earlier.

Seoul officials said the combined exercises were designed to improve U.S. extended deterrence - the military capability, especially nuclear forces, to deter attacks on its allies - amid the North's evolving threats. The carrier's arrival, its first for nearly six years, also marks the 70th anniversary of South Korea's alliance with the United States.

Pyongyang has accused the allies of stoking tensions and using exercises to rehearse an invasion.

A commentary in the Rodong Sinmun, the North's ruling party media outlet, said the drills, especially those involving the aircraft carrier, amount to "an open declaration of war" and preparations for a "preemptive attack" against North Korea.

"The frantic war drills in the puppet region are not just military drills but nuclear war drills for a preemptive strike ... pursuant to the U.S. political and military option to escalate confrontation with the DPRK and finally lead to a war," it said.

DPRK is an abbreviation for North Korea's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

Source: Reuters

THREATS FROM NORTH KOREA: North Korea says it tested new underwater nuclear attack 'drone'

 

North Korea claimed Friday it had tested an underwater nuclear attack drone able to unleash a "radioactive tsunami", as it blamed recent US-South Korea exercises for a deteriorating regional security situation.

Pyongyang carried out drills in response this week, the official Korean Central News Agency said, including testing of the new underwater nuclear delivery system.

"This nuclear underwater attack drone can be deployed at any coast and port or towed by a surface ship for operation," the report said.

The weapon's mission is to "stealthily infiltrate into operational waters and make a super-scale radioactive tsunami ... to destroy naval striker groups and major operational ports of the enemy," it added.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un personally oversaw the tests, KCNA reported, and images released by Pyongyang's Rodong Sinmun newspaper showed a smiling Kim and what appeared to be an underwater explosion.

The agency also said Pyongyang had fired strategic cruise missiles "tipped with a test warhead simulating a nuclear warhead" on Wednesday.

But analysts questioned North Korea's claims.

The idea that Pyongyang has "a nuclear-capable underwater drone should be met with skepticism," said Leif-Eric Easley, a professor at Ewha University in Seoul.

"Pyongyang's claims about a new weapons system are not the same as a credible demonstration of capability," he added.

In a Twitter post, US-based analyst Ankit Panda said it could not be ruled out that the announcement was "an attempt at deception/psyop".

Even so, the claim was "shocking," Cheong Seong-chang of the private Sejong Institute told AFP.

If true, it is hard to see how Seoul "could respond to such a formidable new weapon from North Korea that (it says) can completely destroy the South's major operational ports."

The KCNA statement also indicates "Pyongyang is more than ready to use its tactical nuclear weapons at any time," An Chan-il, a defector-turned-researcher, told AFP.

"This obviously further strengthens Kim's justification for his future nuclear tests."

Nuclear power?

After a record-breaking year of weapons tests and growing nuclear threats from Pyongyang in 2022, Seoul and Washington have ramped up security cooperation.

On Thursday, the two allies completed their largest joint military drills in five years.

Pyongyang views all such exercises as rehearsals for invasion and has threatened "overwhelming" action in response.

On Friday, KCNA described the US-South Korea joint exercises -- dubbed Freedom Shield -- as a drill for "occupying" North Korea.

Pyongyang's "underwater nuclear attack drone" drill had been held "to alert the enemy to an actual nuclear crisis," the agency said.

Leader Kim had also stressed that the North's nuclear capabilities were "being bolstered at a greater speed," KCNA said.

North Korea last year declared itself an "irreversible" nuclear power and Kim recently called for an "exponential" increase in weapons production, including tactical nuclear weapons.

Washington has repeatedly restated its "ironclad" commitment to defending South Korea, including using the "full range of its military capabilities, including nuclear".

South Korea, for its part, is eager to reassure its increasingly nervous public about the US commitment to so-called extended deterrence, where US military assets, including nuclear weapons, serve to prevent attacks on allies.

Friday's statement comes about a week after Pyongyang test-fired its largest and most powerful missile, a Hwasong-17 -- its second ICBM test this year.

Source: Agence-France-Presse

THREATS FROM NORTH KOREA: North Korea fires ballistic missiles, warns of turning Pacific into ‘firing range’

 

North Korea fired two ballistic missiles off its east coast, South Korea’s military said on Monday, February 20, as the powerful sister of leader Kim Jong-Un warned the isolated and nuclear-armed state could turn the Pacific into a “firing range.”

The launches come just two days after North Korea fired an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) into the sea off Japan’s west coast, prompting joint air exercises by the United States and South Korea on Sunday.

North Korea’s state media confirmed it fired two projectiles from a multiple rocket launcher, aiming at targets 395 kilometers (245 miles) and 337 kilometers (209 miles) away, respectively.

“The 600mm multiple rocket launcher mobilized in the firing… is a means of tactical nuclear weapon,” capable of “paralyzing” an enemy airfield, state news agency KCNA said.

Japan’s Defense Ministry said the two ballistic missiles, fired around 2200 GMT, reached a maximum altitude of about 100 km and 50 km, travelling a distance of about 350-400 km before falling outside Japan’s EEZ.

There were no reports of damage to aircraft or vessels.

In a statement, the ministry said it would continue to gather and analyse information in close cooperation with the United States.

“North Korea’s series of actions, including its repeated ballistic missile launches, threaten the peace and security of Japan, the region, and the international community,” the ministry said. “Japan lodged a strong protest and forcefully condemned North Korea.”

Tensions rising

North Korean leader Kim’s sister, Kim Yo Jong, warned against increased the presence of US strategic assets on the Korean peninsula after the United States held joint air exercises with South Korea and separately with Japan on Sunday.

“We are carefully examining the influence it would exert on the security of our state,” she said in a statement. “The frequency of using the Pacific as our firing range depends upon the U.S. forces’ action character.”

She also refuted experts’ assessment of its missile capabilities after some pointed out that it took over nine hours for the “sudden” missile launch to take place following an order from leader Kim, and said South Korea didn’t even fly reconnaissance planes at the time of its launch.

“We have possessed satisfactory technology and capability and, now will focus on increasing the quantity of their force,” she said.

Monday’s missile launch is the North’s third major weapons test this year after Pyongyang threatened an “unprecedentedly persistent, strong” response as South Korea and the United States geared up for their annual military exercises as part of efforts to fend off the growing nuclear and missile threat that the North poses.

Source: Reuters

THREATS FROM NORTH KOREA: South Korea, US to hold nuclear drills amid growing threats from North

 

South Korea and the United States will stage tabletop exercises in Washington next week to improve operations of American nuclear assets as part of efforts to better counter North Korea’s threats, Seoul’s defense ministry said on Friday, February 17.

Nuclear-armed North Korea fired an unprecedented number of missiles last year, including intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) that could strike anywhere in the United States, while resuming preparations for its first nuclear test since 2017.

The drills, called the Deterrence Strategy Committee Tabletop Exercise, are scheduled for February 22 at the Pentagon and will involve senior defense policymakers from both sides, the ministry said.

It would be their first such exercises since the two countries agreed last year to hold them annually, as Seoul seeks to bolster confidence in American extended deterrence – its military capability, especially nuclear forces, to deter attacks on its allies.

The South Korean delegation will be led by Deputy Defense Minister Heo Tae-keun; the US team will be led by Siddharth Mohandas, deputy assistant defense secretary for East Asia, and Richard Johnson, deputy assistant defense secretary for nuclear and countering weapons of mass destruction policy.

“With a focus on North Korea’s nuclear threats, both sides will have in-depth discussions on various measures to strengthen US extended deterrence, including information sharing and consultation procedures,” the ministry said in a statement.

On February 23, the officials will visit the Kings Bay naval base in Georgia that houses key nuclear submarines.

The allies have said they were working to boost joint nuclear planning and implementation as well as information sharing.

In May, both sides’ militaries will stage their own tabletop exercises for the first time, which will be “far more concrete and substantive” than the upcoming programs.

Source: Reuters

Hyundai Kona SX2

Hyundai's kicking off the new year with the arrival of the second-generation Kona crossover, packed with new and improved features fit to become your first ride for the first day of your driving life, whatever the reason.

2024 Hyundai Kona

Priced at 24,680,000 Korean Won (around $25,000) plus additional costs, the all-new, second-generation Kona is the evolution of Hyundai's first-ever compact SUV sold in the Korean market and although no longer as compact as it looks because its youngest brother, the Casper, takes the spot, it's still worth enough to humiliate crossovers like the Nissan Kicks and the Toyota Yaris Cross in a heartbeat.

2024 Hyundai Kona

2024 Hyundai Kona

Beginning with the design, the new Kona adopts the Staria's front face, which is rather unorthodox because with Hyundai took a liking to the Staria's front face, they've decided to plaster it on newer and future models like this and last year's Grandeur GN7. Apart from the face, the sleek side view and the rear lamps inspired by the IONIQ 6 really made a clear statement about the all-new Kona, and when kitted with the N Line variant, it's the first impression in a nut shack.

2024 Hyundai Kona interior

Inside, the new model matches the theme of today's Hyundai interiors while jam-packed with heaps of gadgets to play with. On the driver's side, you will be greeted by the massive split horizontal monitor where the 12.3-inch instrumental cluster and the 12.3-inch touchscreen mean business for the all-new Kona. The gear lever is positioned near the steering wheel rather than below, just like the new Grandeur, it's got dual full-auto aircon, ambient lighting, and other stuff you can find on the new model. In terms of spacing, the all-new Kona is slightly more spacious compared to the previous model thanks to the added wheelbase provided by its new platform. It's packed with smart features such as the Digital Key 2 Touch and the Smart Power Tailgate for added convenience.

2024 Hyundai Kona

Petrol and hybrid are the only powertrain choices offered in the all-new Kona at launch. On the petrol side, it's offered with a choice of a Smartstream G 2.0L and the powerful Smartstream G 1.6T engine. The one with the Smartstream G 1.6T engine produces 198PS of power and 27kgf-m of torque. They're all mated to an 8-speed AT and can be fitted with an HTRAC All-Wheel-Drive system for better driving on and off the road. Handy if you're itching to have a picnic at Hannibal's.

The FF-only Kona Hybrid's Smartstream G 1.6 petrol engine is bolted into a 32kW electric motor and Li-ion battery as well as a regenerative braking system, producing 141PS of power output. The only gearbox offered in the hybrid is a 6-speed DCT. Despite being FF-only, the Kona Hybrid comes with e-Motion Drive and rear multilink suspension for a dramatic driving feel that can upset the Nissan Kicks full stop.

Coupled with the Hyundai Smart Sense and parking assist features, the all-new Kona is by no means the safest compact crossover in its class, which is rather surprising and annoying at the same time for the yuppies behind the wheel.

The second-generation Hyundai Kona truly is all-new from top to toe and it really is a class apart compared to the likes of the Nissan Kicks and the Toyota Yaris Cross. Like it or not, this is the Kona that everybody deserves, and looks like Hyundai is doubling down on the all-new Kona. That's the new normal for you.

Photo: Hyundai Motor Company

Renault Korea XM3 E-TECH Hybrid

Renault Samsung Motors is no more. It's now named Renault Korea Motors and this move is similar to what happened when General Motors dumped the Daewoo name over a decade ago for the creation of the GM Korea company. Name change aside, this is the first vehicle launched under the new company name and it's basically the hybrid version of the popular crossover coupe, the XM3.

2023 Renault Korea XM3 E-TECH Hybrid

With prices starting at 32,350,000 Korean Won plus additional costs, the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid is the hybrid version of the popular crossover coupe sold in Korea, the XM3. Since its Renault Arkana equivalent available worldwide comes with the said hybrid powerplant, the newest addition made them say this should have been implemented when the XM3 was first launched two years ago.

Compared to its petrol equivalent, the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid features a different front face similar to the Renault Arkana sold to Europe but with the signature typhoon badge, the once proud logo of the former Renault Samsung Motors before its name change, slapped all over.

The interior is the same story as well. Drivers are greeted with the 9.3-inch touch screen as well as the longer 10.25 TFT display which takes place from the typical speedos. There are knobs for the air-con as well. On the passenger side, this five-seater is not bad to make a living out of it and the boot space of up to 513 liters with the secret compartment opened means it can carry anything when taken for a family outing or for business in the case of TNVS or deliveries.

The E-TECH Hybrid powertrain saw the 86PS 1.6L GTe engine mated to two electric motors and a 6-speed automatic gearbox. Fuel economy is a combined 17.4km/L, which is less than its main rival, the second-generation Kia Niro.

As expected, the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid, like its petrol equivalent, is front-wheel-drive-only, and because it runs on Megane components, it behaves almost like the Megane in a good way and it's basically not old-fashioned by the way it moves.

In the interest of safety, the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid is packed with a wide array of safety features such as Highway & Traffic Jam Companion, Adaptive cruise control (with Stop & Go), Active emergency braking system, Blind spot warning, Lane departure warning, and lane guard system, and many others.

Although it's not as efficient as the Kia Niro, the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid is the XM3 the Koreans would like to have when it was first launched. Speaking of which, it's hard to accept the biggest change of what was known to be South Korea's motoring rising star now that the Samsung name was removed from the history of Korean motoring. 

Renault Korea Motors...this company name change feels like a sign of things to come and the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid is one of them.

Photo: Renault Korea Motors

THREATS FROM NORTH KOREA: North Korea conducts ‘final-stage test’ for spy satellite: state media

 

North Korea carried out an “important final-stage test” for the development of a spy satellite, which it will complete by April next year, state media said on Monday.

The report comes a day after Seoul’s military said it had detected launches by Pyongyang of two medium-range ballistic missiles, the North’s latest in a year of unprecedented weapons tests.

Analysts say developing such a satellite would provide North Korea with cover for testing banned intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), as they share much of the same technology.

The launches were “an important final-stage test for the development of (a) reconnaissance satellite”, a spokesperson with the North’s National Aerospace Development Administration (NADA) said, according to the official Korean Central News Agency on Monday.

Conducted from Sohae Satellite Launching Ground in Tongchang-ri, Sunday’s test confirmed “important technical indices” including camera operation in space, and data processing and transmission capabilities of communication devices.

State media also said the vehicle carrying the “test-piece” satellite — which included cameras, image transmitters and receivers, control devices and batteries — reached an altitude of 500 kilometres (311 miles) when it was fired at a high angle.

“The NADA said this is an important success which has gone through the final gateway process of the launch of (a) reconnaissance satellite,” the spokesman said, adding that preparations will be completed by April.

Rodong Sinmun, the official newspaper of North Korea’s ruling Workers’ Party, carried two black-and-white photographs that appeared to show South Korea seen from space.

The development of a military reconnaissance satellite was one of Pyongyang’s key defence projects outlined by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un last year.

Pyongyang carried out two launches earlier this year, claiming it was testing components for a reconnaissance satellite, which the United States and South Korea said likely involved components of its new Hwasong-17 intercontinental ballistic missile.

Nuclear state

On Thursday, the North tested a “high-thrust solid-fuel motor” at the Sohae launch site, which analysts say would allow quicker and more mobile launches of ballistic missiles.

All of Pyongyang’s known ICBMs are liquid-fuelled, and solid-fuel ICBMs that can be launched from land or submarines are on Kim’s wish list revealed last year.

Kim, who has doubled down on his banned weapons programmes since nuclear talks collapsed in 2019, said this year he wants the North to have the world’s most powerful nuclear force, and declared his country an “irreversible” nuclear state.

The United States and South Korea have warned for months that Pyongyang is preparing to conduct its seventh nuclear test.

North Korea is under multiple UN Security Council sanctions over its nuclear and missile activity since 2006.

Source: Agence-France-Presse

THREATS FROM NORTH KOREA: North Korea fires 2 ballistic missiles – South Korea military

 

North Korea fired two ballistic missiles towards the sea off the Korean Peninsula’s east coast on Sunday, South Korea’s military said.

Japan’s Vice Defense Minister Toshiro Ino said the North Korean-fired ballistic missiles seemed to have landed outside Japan’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

The missiles flew to an altitude of 550 kilometers (342 miles) and covered a range of 250 kilometerss (53 miles), according to the Japanese Defense Ministry.

Ino said there had been no report of damage from the missiles so far.

The North’s missile launch comes just days after the country tested a high-thrust solid-fuel engine that experts said would allow quicker and more mobile launch of ballistic missiles, as it seeks to develop a new strategic weapon and speed up its nuclear and missile programmes.

The test, overseen by leader Kim Jong Un, was conducted on Thursday at North Korea’s Sohae Satellite Launching Ground which has been used to test missile technologies, including rocket engines and space launch vehicles, the official KCNA news agency reported on Friday.

North Korea has conducted an unprecedented number of missile tests this year, including an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) capable of reaching the U.S. mainland, despite international bans and sanctions.

In November, North Korea test-fired an ICBM that Japanese officials said had sufficient range to reach the mainland of the United States and that landed just 200 kms (130 miles) off Japan

Japan on Friday unveiled its biggest military build-up since World War II with a $320 billion plan that will buy missiles capable of striking China and ready it for sustained conflict.

Source: Reuters

Shinbi's House Movie: The Dimensional Goblin and the Seven Worlds

After an explosive fourth season of the hit TV series that left viewers scratching their heads before the next season arrives very soon, the third Shinbi's House movie has arrived in time for the holidays, and this is going to be the most exciting Shinbi's House movie adventure yet.

Shinbi's House Movie:
The Dimensional Goblin
and the Seven Worlds

The third Shinbi's House movie adventure, The Dimensional Goblin and the Seven Worlds, promises to be the most exciting Shinbi's House movie adventure because of the heroes' multiverse adventure, which feels somewhat familiar.

In this latest movie, Doori and Geumbi stumbled across a mysterious portal which led them to ancient times where they saw suspicious-looking people that looked just like...them. As the disappearance of Doori and Geumbi turned into a race against time and space, the dimensional goblin named Kibi appears and she's ready to help Hari, Shinbi, and Kanglim save the two and also the multiverse against a powerful villain named Another and his minions.

Of course, this latest Shinbi's House movie took the pages from a certain superhero flick that involves alternate universes. Speaking of alternate universes, this movie gave fans the chance to see Shinbi and the gang as they've never seen before because this is a movie about the multiverse, the Shinbi's House way. Having enjoyed witnessing the heroes' alternative sides, the classic Shinbi's House moments are still in this newest movie; supernatural threats, epic fight scenes, tearful moments, and Shinbi's cute moments to stick to your face. 

Besides, the appearance of Kibi in the movie feels like she can be a welcoming addition to Team Shinbi. Let's hope fans deserve more from her in the next season just like the other one.

If you feel like there's "no way home" from the "multiverse of madness" but your gut says you had Shinbi and friends got your back, this is the movie for you. Consider this a run-off to the next Shinbi's House adventure.

THREATS FROM NORTH KOREA: K-pop star Jin from BTS begins military service

 

Jin, the oldest member of K-pop mega-band BTS, has entered military service - the first of the group to do so.

The 30-year-old posted a photo of himself with his new military haircut before enlisting on Tuesday. "It looks cuter than I expected," he said.

As South Korea is still technically at war with its hostile neighbour North Korea, all able-bodied men are required to serve in the army.

Jin has begun five weeks' training at a bootcamp near the North Korean border.

After this, he will reportedly be assigned to a frontline unit. This news sent his millions of adoring fans into a frenzy.

So, what can Jin expect from his time on the frontline?

At the Yeoncheon bootcamp, where Jin has enrolled, recruits sleep on mats on the floor, in rooms with 30 people. They are taught how to handle weapons and fire live ammunition before being put through demanding wartime scenarios.

Cadets told us that the most challenging tasks they faced were being sealed in a gas chamber, to experience the effects of CS gas, and having to detonate a live grenade.

"I was pretty nervous to hold the grenade and shocked to learn how powerful it was," said 22-year-old Yang Su-yeon, who completed his training at Yeoncheon last year.

"It was physically demanding, but mentally it was okay. The drill sergeants were all friendly," Yang said.

After training, Jin will reportedly be stationed near the North Korean border, with a frontline unit.

North and South Korea are separated by a 4km (2.5-mile) wide strip of land, which runs along the length of their border, known as the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). Both sides are fenced off with barbed wire and heavily armed.

Yang spent his service as an out-post guard at the DMZ, with the 5th Infantry Division, which is one of the most frontline positions. He would keep watch through the night, constantly surveying the North Korean soldiers on the other side, using thermal imaging equipment.

"A few times I saw the North Korean soldiers being beaten, either kicked or slapped in the face," he said.

"They had to do manual labour because they didn't have nice equipment like us to help them."

Yang said watching the North Korean soldiers made him feel grateful for his own experience. "When I saw what they had to do, I realised, 'Wow, I am so much more comfortable.' I would feel sorry for them."

But BTS's Jin will have to contend with the cold winter approaching. Yang recalled days spent shovelling snow as temperatures fell below -20C.

"When we went outside, our eyelashes would freeze," he said.

Yang praised the culture of his unit: "Because we carried guns loaded with ammunition, we had to remain calm, so there was no harassment or beatings."

Yang volunteered to be deployed as a frontline guard, as this position comes with perks, including more time off base.

It is more likely Jin will be sent to a base set further back from the DMZ, like 26-year-old Heo Sungyoung, who spent his service with the 6th Corps Command Centre from 2018 to 2020.

For the first six months he guarded the entrance to the command centre.

"It was so long and boring. I had nothing to do but stare at the sky," Heo said. From there, he was moved on to the logistics team, where he was responsible for ordering supplies such as tissues and socks.

South Korea's compulsory military service is a source of grievance for many young men, who begrudge it for taking them away from their studies, work and friends.

For months it was rumoured that the government might allow the members of BTS to skip the service, on the basis they had already served their country by earning it billions of dollars, and it would be more beneficial to allow them to carry on doing so.

But in October, the members of BTS announced they were all planning to enlist, with Jin, as the oldest, going first.

Even so, the reports he was being sent to the front line surprised some fans, who had assumed he would be given a less risky role.

There used to be a special unit for celebrities, where they could continue to work as entertainers and were given privileges. But there was public outcry when some were found abusing the system, by leaving their barracks more often than allowed. In 2013, the two-tier system was abolished.

"If I said it didn't feel like a waste of time, I'd be lying," said Yang who was stationed at the guard post. "If I had the choice again, I wouldn't do it. I could have learnt so much more in 18 months in the real world.

"My advice to Jin is to just bide his time and pray it passes quickly."

But Heo, from the logistics team, had better memories. Initially he said he questioned, like many men in their 20s, why he needed to be there, but ended up learning some valuable lessons.

"At school, I had only mixed with people from the same background, but in the army, everyone was so different. I realised how much bigger and more diverse the world was."

His advice for Jin is to enjoy this experience. "As a top star, he will not have had much opportunity to meet normal people. This will be good for him, I think."

Online, tens of thousands of fans have already messaged Jin to offer their own advice and tell him how terribly they will miss him.

"Please take care and bring enough warm clothes and medicine," wrote Maliah Leah. "I hope your colleagues treat you well. We will be waiting patiently for your comeback."

Source: BBC

THREATS FROM NORTH KOREA: Seoul orders striking truckers in fuel, steel sectors back to work

 

South Korea on Thursday (Dec 8) ordered striking truck drivers in the fuel and steel sectors back to work as a walkout that has caused havoc in Asia's fourth-largest economy prepares to enter its third week.

The strike, which started on Nov 24 over minimum pay, delayed the supply of goods worth an estimated 3.5 trillion won (US$2.65 billion) in its first 12 days, according to Seoul's trade ministry.

The second major industrial action in less than six months, the walkout has triggered concerns about the impact on global supply chains, already strained by Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

"At today's cabinet meeting, the government decided to expand the scope of the order to restart work for transportation deniers to the steel and petrochemical industries," finance minister Choo Kyung-ho told reporters.

Thursday's order to around 10,000 drivers comes after Seoul last week ordered striking cement truck drivers back to work, which President Yoon Suk-yeol said was necessary as their action posed a danger to the economy.

Due to the strike, shipments of steel materials were down to about 48 per cent compared to normal levels, while petrochemical products were shipping at only 20 per cent of normal levels, Choo said.

"Our economy is facing a crisis due to the decrease in exports, inflation, and high-interest rates - we have no time and energy to waste on an unnecessary conflict," Choo told reporters.

Truckers who fail to comply with the order can be punished with jail terms of up to three years or a fine of up to 30 million won and have their licences suspended.

The 25,000-strong Cargo Truckers Solidarity Union told AFP they were working on a statement in response to the government's decision.

With fuel prices rising, the drivers have been demanding the government make permanent a "safe freight rate" minimum pay scheme, which is set to expire at the end of the year.

The government said last month it would extend the programme for three years but truckers say more of them will become vulnerable to overwork and safety risks without a permanent minimum wage guarantee.

South Korea has one of the highest industrial fatality rates for a rich economy, with more than 4,000 work-related deaths reported from 2020 to last year, according to Seoul's labour ministry.

Source: Agence-France-Presse