The Korea Forest Service conducts water supply operations in Miryang, South Gyeongsang, as hot weather grips the country on Aug. 5.YONHAP
It's Hump Day once again! Hope you're having a great week so far. Here are the stories you need to know in Korea!
In today's news, satellite imagery showing North Korea's fortifications and a tactical road are heightening concerns that Pyongyang is pushing closer and closer to the military demarcation line. Meanwhile, as locals spend less on activities after dark, tourists are continuing to part with their cash, helping the nighttime economy. A video showing a person cycling outdoors in Seoul only in their underwear has sparked debate online.
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Today's top story
KOREA
As North Korea fortifies the DMZ, new border works near Yeoncheon test the line and the armistice
North Korea's border fortifications have pushed to within tens of meters of the military demarcation line (MDL), and in one stretch a North Korean tactical road appears to have crossed it.
Northeast of Typhoon Observatory in Yeoncheon, Gyeonggi, on July 30, satellite imagery shows a North Korean tactical road on the southern side of the line. Roughly 160 meters (525 feet) of it sits south of the MDL, and at the deepest point the road runs 57 meters past the line.
As locals spend less after dark, tourists keep Seoul nightlife buzzing
From Jongno to Myeongdong, foreign visitors have taken the late-night spending mantle from locals as shops, street stalls and convenience stores stay lit later to help tourists lighten their wallets.
Too little gear? Video of underwear-clad cyclist sparks debate.
However, since the cyclist's underwear covered their intimate body parts, their decision to ride a bicycle in their underwear does not necessarily constitute indecent exposure under the law.
Gov't sets 2027 minimum wage at 10,700 won per hour
The hourly minimum wage will rise 3.7 percent to 10,700 won next year after the Labor Ministry rejected objections from unions and small business groups.
Apartment blackouts spread as scorching heat drives power use to brink
Affected regions included Seoul, Gyeonggi and Incheon, and some residents spent the night in their cars or at nearby public facilities as they waited for power to be restored.
As Grammy submissions near, K-pop companies must weigh whether to skip the awards, avoid the new Asian pop category or embrace it despite the backlash.
