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Kim Hyun-bin

Korea Times Digital Media Reporter

Kim Hyun-bin began his journalism career at Arirang TV from 2012 to 2017, specializing in defense, foreign affairs and the economy. In 2018, he joined The Korea Times, covering society and business, and is currently responsible for embassy affairs.

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North Korea

Koryo Tours hints at potential reopening of North Korea’s Rason region

A China-based travel agency specializing in North Korea tours says it has received unofficial information from North Korea that the northeastern Rason region may soon reopen to certain Chinese nationals, raising hopes for a broader resumption of travel to the reclusive state. Koryo Tours, based in Beijing, said on its website that on Monday it received information indicating that Rason would open its borders to “a select number of Chinese passport holders.” “These Chinese nationals are not tourists,” the agency stated, “but those looking to develop partnerships in the tourism industry in Rason.” It stressed that the borders “have not yet opened to tourism,” but called the development “a positive step towards North Korea tourism re-opening and Rason resuming tourism to North Korea.” Rason, a Special Economic Zone on the northeastern coast of North Korea, briefly reopened to foreign visitors in February 2025 for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic. Koryo Tours organized several group tours during the short-lived window. However, the border was abruptly closed ag

Jun 20, 2025By Kim Hyun-bin
Koryo Tours hints at potential reopening of North Korea’s Rason region
Foreign Affairs

Brunei envoy visits Gyeongju to review preparations for APEC summit

Ahead of the 2025 APEC summit, Brunei's ambassador to Korea, Pengiran Hajah Nooriyah binti Pengiran Haji Yussof, paid an official visit to Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang Province, to assess preparations and explore opportunities for bilateral cooperation with the host city on Tuesday. As a member of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum, the ambassador’s visit was intended to assess the city's preparedness for hosting the summit, as well as to foster practical exchanges between Gyeongju and Brunei. During their visit, Ambassador Pengiran Nooriyah and her delegation toured key infrastructure and cultural landmarks related to the summit, including Gyeongju Hwabaek International Convention Center (HICO), Bulguk Temple, Gyeongju National Museum and major accommodation facilities. The ambassador later held an official dialogue with Gyeongju Deputy Mayor Song Ho-jun at Gyeongju City Hall on deepening cooperation. Brunei joined APEC in 1989 and hosted the 8th APEC summit in 2000 in its capital city, Bandar Seri Begawan. The Southeast Asian nation established diplomatic relations with

Jun 20, 2025By Kim Hyun-bin
Brunei envoy visits Gyeongju to review preparations for APEC summit
Foreign Affairs

French ambassador, SNU discuss expanding academic and research ties

Seoul National University (SNU) President Ryu Hong-lim met with the French Ambassador to Korea, Philippe Bertoux, to discuss ways of strengthening academic and research cooperation between the two countries on Monday. During the meeting, Ambassador Bertoux expressed his hope that the relationship between France and SNU would grow stronger, particularly with regard to student mobility, joint research projects and the promotion of French language and culture. Highlighting SNU’s recent participation as an associate member in Horizon Europe — the European Union’s flagship research and innovation program — Bertoux emphasized that the partnership has paved the way for closer collaboration with leading French research institutions, including the National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS). President Ryu noted that SNU researchers are playing a leading role in the development of next-generation technologies, particularly in the fields of artificial intelligence and advanced biotechnology, which are two of the 12 national strategic technologies designated by Korea’s Ministry of Scie

Jun 20, 2025By Kim Hyun-bin
French ambassador, SNU discuss expanding academic and research ties
Society

Korean firefighters hailed for 'swift response' in rescuing crash victim in Colorado

A team of firefighters from Korea, who were taking part in a swiftwater rescue training course in Colorado, sprang into action at the scene of a motorway crash. They were praised by U.S. emergency services for their quick and professional response. According to the National Fire Agency of Korea, five firefighters rescued an unconscious driver who was trapped inside an overturned vehicle following a collision involving two cars near Denver at around 10:50 p.m. local time on June 13. The five firefighters — Lee Ki-pyeong, Pyeon Young-beom, Jo In-seong and Kim Young-jin of the Central 119 Rescue Headquarters, and Kim Goo-hyeon of the South Jeolla Fire Department — had been returning to their accommodations after training when they witnessed the crash. They immediately pulled over their vehicle, called 911 and began a rescue operation. After entering the overturned vehicle through the rear window, they extricated the unconscious driver and performed CPR until local emergency services arrived and took over. Despite their efforts, the driver was later pronounced dead in a hospital. Neverth

Jun 18, 2025By Kim Hyun-bin
Korean firefighters hailed for 'swift response' in rescuing crash victim in Colorado
Foreign Affairs

Japan’s envoy highlights progress on 60th anniversary of diplomatic normalization

Japanese Ambassador to Korea Koichi Mizushima on Monday emphasized that the growing economic and people-to-people exchanges between Korea and Japan over the past six decades represent a new beginning for bilateral cooperation. Speaking at a reception in Seoul on June 16 hosted by the Japanese Embassy to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between the nations, Mizushima highlighted the cultural significance of this milestone, describing it as the completion of a 60-year cycle in East Asian tradition — an occasion representing both reflection and renewal. Mizushima acknowledged that the bilateral relationship has had its ups and downs, but thanks to the consistent efforts of leaders and citizens on both sides, it has grown steadily across a variety of sectors. He pointed to clear data that underscores this progress. For example, Japanese investment in Korea increased from $500,000 in 1965 to $6.12 billion in 2024, establishing Japan as Korea’s largest foreign investor. Over the same period, the number of travelers between the two countries gre

Jun 17, 2025By Kim Hyun-bin
Japan’s envoy highlights progress on 60th anniversary of diplomatic normalization
Foreign Affairs

Almaty earns spotlight at Seoul International Tourism Fair

Almaty, Kazakhstan's vibrant capital, recently brought its rich cultural tapestry and burgeoning tourism allure to the global stage at the Seoul International Tourism Fair (SITF 2025). From June 5 to 8, the exhibition, one of Asia's most influential travel showcases, served as a prominent platform for the city to cultivate new connections with travelers from across the world. The Almaty booth attracted widespread attention from visitors and industry professionals alike, ultimately earning the prestigious honor of “The Best Booth Design of SITF 2025.” The booth’s dynamic and immersive presentation successfully conveyed the spirit and essence of Almaty through a variety of engaging activities. Attendees were treated to live performances and traditional Kazakh melodies. Craft enthusiasts enjoyed embroidery workshops demonstrating the intricate beauty of Kazakh applied arts. Visitors also had the opportunity to don traditional Kazakh costumes at a popular national photo zone, capturing memorable moments to take home. The culinary corner offered a flavorful glimpse into Kazakhstan’s h

Jun 11, 2025By Kim Hyun-bin
Almaty earns spotlight at Seoul International Tourism Fair
Foreign Affairs

Ambassadors' spouses launch cookbook celebrating culinary diplomacy

Breaking diplomatic ground not in policy, but in palate, the spouses of nearly 40 ambassadors stationed in Korea converged this week within a serene hanok, or traditional Korean house, in Seoul. Their mission: to unveil “Tables Around the World,” a cookbook that stitches together the diverse culinary heritage of their respective nations, celebrating global culture through the universal language of food. “We are delighted to be here in this beautiful hanok, launching our first cookbook,” said Natalia Federighi, former president of the Association of Spouses of Ambassadors to Korea (ASAS) and spouse of the Dominican Republic’s ambassador. “It is for those who want to embark on a culinary discovery of the world.” The book, featuring cherished family recipes from diplomatic households, is part of an ongoing mission to foster understanding through food. “We are sharing with you the food recipes prepared by the ambassadors hosted in Korea so that you can fill your homes with exotic aromas and flavors from different cultures,” Federighi said. Kerry Chang, an official with the K

Jun 11, 2025By Kim Hyun-bin
Ambassadors' spouses launch cookbook celebrating culinary diplomacy
Foreign Affairs

Israel celebrates 77 years of independence, reaffirms strong ties with Korea

On a night marked by reflection and hope, Israeli Ambassador to Korea Rafael Harpaz addressed a distinguished gathering in Seoul on Monday to celebrate the 77th anniversary of the founding of the State of Israel. In his remarks, the ambassador emphasized the deep and growing bond between Korea and Israel. “Thank you for joining us this evening to celebrate the 77th anniversary of the independence of the State of Israel,” Harpaz said. “It is an honor to gather here in Korea with friends and partners.” Highlighting the historical parallels shared by the two nations, the ambassador noted, “Israel and Korea share a unique connection. Both our nations were founded in the same year, in the aftermath of historic struggles. And both rose from the ashes of war to become democratic, innovative and resilient societies.” Since establishing diplomatic relations 63 years ago, the partnership between Korea and Israel has flourished. Ambassador Harpaz praised this collaboration, stating, “Our countries have built a dynamic and growing partnership.” Among the milestones he highlighted was

Jun 10, 2025By Kim Hyun-bin
Israel celebrates 77 years of independence, reaffirms strong ties with Korea
Foreign Affairs

Irish agri-food leaders highlight Korea as key growth market

Ireland's commitment to the Korean market is on display this week as Agriculture Minister Martin Heydon and Bord Bia CEO Jim O'Toole lead a trade mission to Seoul, seeking to boost exports of Irish dairy, beef and other food. “We were last here in September of last year, and this visit is another opportunity to build on the close ties between our two countries,” Heydon said during a press briefing in Seoul, Monday. “It also is an opportunity for us to work with Korean counterparts at government level and open up dialogue on continued expansion of Irish food and drink to Korea, particularly dairy and meat products.” Heydon described Korea as “a very important trading partner for Ireland,” noting that Ireland's dairy exports to Korea were valued at €15 million ($17.2 million) in 2024. “Our ambition is to grow our exports from Ireland, which is mainly in the category of Irish dairy and now for Irish beef, which we gained market access for here in Korea in May of last year,” he said. “Our Irish beef exports are targeting opportunities in high-end retail, e-commerce and f

Jun 9, 2025By Kim Hyun-bin
Irish agri-food leaders highlight Korea as key growth market
Foreign Affairs

Kazakh envoy highlights growing tourism ties with Korea

Kazakhstan's top diplomat in Seoul on Wednesday touted his country's burgeoning tourism appeal as a sign of deepening bilateral cooperation with Korea. He also commended Korea's recent presidential election and urged expanded cultural and economic exchanges between the two nations. Speaking at a tourism promotion event in central Seoul, Kazakh Ambassador to Korea Nurgali Arystanov underscored the strengthening ties between Kazakhstan and Korea, highlighting tourism as a “gateway to deeper friendship” and economic growth. “It is heartwarming to see so much interest in the tourism of Kazakhstan here in vibrant Seoul,” Arystanov said. “Today marks a significant milestone in our journey together — one that deepens the bonds of friendship and cooperation between two great nations.” Arystanov expressed gratitude to leaders in Korea’s travel industry — including Hana Tour, Yellow Balloon Tour, Mode Tour and the Korea Tourism Organization — for their growing interest in and commitment to promoting Kazakhstan as an emerging travel destination. “Your genuine interest in our c

Jun 8, 2025By Kim Hyun-bin
Kazakh envoy highlights growing tourism ties with Korea
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CEO & Publisher: Oh Young-jinDigital News Email: webmaster@koreatimes.co.krTel: 02-724-2114Online newspaper registration No: 서울,아52844Date of registration: 2020.02.05Masthead: The Korea TimesCopyright © koreatimes.co.kr. All rights reserved.