Only the rich with 'gold spoons' get into top Korean universities?

SKY: Seoul National University, Korea University, Yonsei University

Kim Sang Gon, Education Minister

In order to get to the top universities in Korea, there's a comprehensive student record screening you have to prepare for.  It includes grades, introduction, list of awards, creative extracurriculars, volunteer work, research and essays.  It was introduced to help showcase individual student talents but it's just become a playing field for those with money and information.

A mother of a student preparing to enter university said, "It's seen as an investment.  You can spend over $35,000 in 10 months but if you can use money to change your kid's life, then of course people who have the means will use it.  That's why poor kids can't succeed in this kind of model."

Parents will spend thousands of dollars for elite high schools, tutors, extracurriculars and hagwons to embellish their kids' student records with the hopes of getting them into the top schools.  Elite high schools offer special programs to help with this.  For instance, they'll have experts coach students on high level research topics like 'analyzing chest CTs for lung cancer diagnosis' which they can then put on their record to help with admissions.  

Other parents team up to gather the latest information on what academics or extracurriculars to focus on to get into a top university.  They'll then build a curriculum using that information, hire the best private tutors and 'purchase' extracurriculars to gain admission. That's why this comprehensive student record screening is known as the gold spoon screening among many parents and students.

Kim Sang Gon said, "I will restore the education ladder that has crumbled, for equality of education opportunities."  One of President Moon Jae In's promises was to get rid of elite private high schools to promote education equality which has sparked controversy.

Naver: It all depends on how powerful your parents are?... 'The comprehensive student admission screening is a gold spoon screening'

(t/n: Naver recently made some changes in their comment system.  If I've marked a * before a comment, it means the original comment was "hidden due to the request of multiple users.")

*1. [+5638, -616] Normalize public education!!! I hope for this to happen, fighting!

*2. [+4286, -524] I support normalizing public education

3. [+3411, -353] Let's get rid of private schools and their corruption

*4. [+1658, -238] Make getting into university easy but harder to graduate from it. This is the answer.

*5 [+3197, -838] Is there a way for students to record that they're ilbe users on their admission screening?  I'm worried since they're people who could potentially become criminals...

6. [+811, -125] Extracurriculars only benefit those with gold spoons so it'd be nice if there was a limit on that ㅋㅋ

*7. [+2189, -598] The comprehensive screening didn't expand what I can show, it just limited me even more ugh

*8. [+838, -161] Normalize public education

9. [Deleted by user]

*10. [+892, -211] Let's just add more to what the comprehensive screening is lacking.  You say extracurriculars are advantageous to those with gold spoons but Moon Jae In's government pledged to lessen it
- [+122, -4] It's not that we need to get rid of the comprehensive screening because it benefits rich people, it's because we're driving children into an infinite battle with each other! It's truly an inhumane system which is why it needs to go
- [+96, 0] The comprehensive screening doesn't just have 1 or 2 problems. It's a complete mess. Nothing will change by just changing a couple of things. The biggest problem is the students involved are plunging into the temptation of immoral corruption.
- [+95, 0] Comprehensive screening = gold spoon screening... if we're being honest isn't this completely true?

SOURCES:
Naver: It all depends on how powerful your parents are?... The student admission screening is a gold spoon screening
The Korea Times: Elite high school controversy heats up
The Hankyoreh: For prestigious university admissions, S. Korean students and parents in a war for information
The Korea Times: Monthly tuition at children's English academies exceed $1000

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Heightened tension after North Korea's ICBM launch

Estimated Range of North Korea's ICBM (Source: allthingsnuclear)

- On the 4th of July, North Korea launched an intercontinental ballistic missile.  Theoretically, a missile of this kind can reach US territory, which is raising tension internationally. 

- A technological advancement like the ICBM is currently putting pressure on negotiations and what their next step should be.

SOURCES:

NPR: Secretary of State confirms North Korea missile an ICBM, calls for global action

The Wall Street Journal: Launch Pattern, why North Korea could now threaten the US

NPR: Calm in Seoul as the North Korea question grows more urgent

Washington Post: Trump warns of 'severe' consequences for North Korea as Russia, China balk at tough US talk

Naver: ICBM realistically difficult to intercept with THAAD... 24 times the speed

Reuters: South Korea's Moon says it is time for North Korea to decide: dialogue or not

The Korea Herald: Moon says willing to to meet North Korean leader; wants no regime change

NPR: After North Korea's ICBM launch, now what?

Brookings: Dealing with a nuclear-armed North Korea, rising danger, narrowing options, hard choices

Naver: A dialogue with the North, sanctions if refused... meaning to the speech in Berlin

International Atomic Energy Agency: Promotes peaceful use of nuclear energy and inhibits nuclear weapons

Naver

1. [+6024, -190] The US should now revoke putting limits on South Korea's missile development

2. [+4798, -193] What's even more difficult is we have no way to stop conventional and biochemical missiles..

3. [+5974, -1427] When Roh Moo Hyun said we should develop nuclear powered submarines, the long standing forces were against developing our own self defence!!

4. [+3234, -710] Honestly for a lowly country to successfully make an ICBM, imagine how proud and boastful they must feel.. it's just like a success for them.. but are we just going to do nothing and watch..

5. [+467, -56] For the good of the country, we have to know how to say 'no' when it comes to it whether it be US, China, or the North

6. [+366, -26] Shouldn't our country be making something too?  I want to make my kids forget the word 'war'

Naver

1. [+1719, -171] Listen carefully you bastard pig Kim Jong Un

2. [+1425, -136] Kim Jong Un, clean out your ears and listen~

3. [+1506, -170] "We hope the North doesn't cross the line to no return" Jong Un, you better listen

4. [+1555, -301] War cannot happen... let's stop this one now

5. [+1499, -282] They'd be the first ones to dig an underground tunnel if a war was to start

6. [+385, -36] Come out to the negotiations table while we're being nice you North pig.

피드백은 언제든 환영이니 말씀해 주세요.

Feedback is always welcome so please let me know if there are any mistakes.

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'Blind hiring', no more photos or school names on Korean applications

On July 5th, President Moon Jae In and the Ministry of Employment and Labour announced a new policy regarding applications for all public jobs.  

- Any information unrelated to the job can no longer be requested (incl. photos, name of school, hometown, and family background) 

- Currently, the policy doesn't include private sectors and >52% said they are not willing to adopt the new system

Naver

1. [+3146, -231] It's really great and all that they won't look at schools but if we're going to do that, might as well make it so they're not allowed to see our GPA.  A 3.0 would be the same 3.0 for someone else then

2. [+2519, -296] Please conceal age and sex too.  In that way, skill will be put upfront.  You're not sitting there to pick the young guy who will drink with you 'till the end or a pretty girl to look at.

3. [+1968, -138] They'll still ask this at the job interview but at least documents are one less thing to be frustrated about.  While we're at it, it'd be great to get rid of age and sex too.

4. [+1512, -76] It's only right that they shouldn't be demanding unnecessary information.  This is great for job seekers that shell out almost $200 for their application photos.  Those that already got their application photos taken must feel like it's unfair but that's just how it is

5. [+1308, -96] What about age??

6. [+368, -25] Photo, sex, age.  Get rid of it, just like how it is internationally.

 7. [+326, -12] Honestly speaking I don't understand why we need to include our family members' occupation. Ugh. What does that matter?

8. [+302, -12] Our application photos aren't even our real faces.  It's good that they'll be able to see what we look like at the interview instead.  I support this.

Daum

1. [+1278, -151] This is what a country should be Geun Hye~~

2. [+1112, -31] They also need to look into public workers getting hired through special application processes.  They should exclude participation from internal employees as judges.  

3. [+884, -64] Good

4. [+319, -13] What about age?? Isn't age #1 when it comes to job discrimination?

5. [+285, -4] There are even public institutions that take note of your parents' academic background.  Isn't that insane? Seriously

6. [+238, -5] Get rid of places that look for your elementary, middle and high school background, your parents' occupation and wealth.

7. [+233, -20] What's the point if they'll still ask this during the interview

8. [+189, -16] Please, it's not too late to go through this properly.  In order for us to be judged solely on skill, this goal needs to be accomplished.

SOURCES:

'Blind hiring' for public jobs, no more photos and school names on applications

Naver: Starting this latter half of the year, no more photos on public sector job applications

Daum: 'Blind hiring' for public sector jobs.. no more photos or school names on applications

Korea Times: Korea begins 'blind hiring' for all public jobs

Quartz: South Korea's president wants to ban photos, and questions about your parents, in job applications

Naver: School, hometown, photos... concealing flashy qualifications

YouTube: [Weekly Moon Jaein Ep. 4] A resume without unnecessary qualifications

피드백은 언제든 환영이니 말씀해 주세요.

Please let me know if there are any mistakes.

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Park Geun Hye officially removed from office, first SK president to be impeached

The court unanimously voted to impeach Park Geun-hye and South Korea now has 60 days to elect a new leader.  Judge Lee Jung-mi read the verdict live on television this morning, "President Park Geun-hye has been dismissed.  Her actions betrayed the country's confidence, democracy, and the rule of law, which cannot be tolerated."  Park Geun-hye now has to immediately forfeit executive immunity to criminal indictment.  

Yonhap News via Naver: 'Currently, President Park Geun-hye officially removed from office... unanimous decision by the court

1. [+43,901, -514] South Korea, manse!

2. [+32,572, -439] Everyone, we've won

3. [+31,060, -379] Justice is alive!!!!!!!!!!!!

4. [+26,713, -371] Hooray for South Korea~~~~~

5. [+20,697, -285] Justice has come to us!

6. [+7167,-115] I'm really in tears!  Now let's properly vote for the next president!

7. [+7271, -243] This is the difference between President Roh Moo-hyun and Park Geun-hye

(t/n: Former president Roh Moo-hyun was embroiled in a corruption scandal and later committed suicide by jumping from a cliff. He left a note apologizing for making many people suffer.)

8. [+6008, -108] Huge celebration!!  Park Geun-hye is removed from office

9. [+5714, -91] I'm crying.  Judge Lee Jung-mi's remarks today are so refreshing

News 1 via Naver: Currently "Court unanimously decides for impeachment"

1. [+45,008, -347] Manse South Korea!!!!!!!!!!!!

2. [+28,648, -234] Manse

3. [+27,570, -280] That's the end for her!  South Korea, hurrah!

4. [+21,801, -212] Nice!!!

5. [+17,761, -232] Ohㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ

6. [+6308, -52] I agree with impeachment~!!!!  Scream it with me~~!!!ㅋㅋㅋㅋ

7. [+6117, -46] I'm crying!!  Spring is coming..

8. [+5916, -44] Korea, the court, everyone, you've all worked hard!!!!

Source: Yonhap News via Naver

1. [+18,377, -185] Thank you for the unanimous decision.

2. [+16,198, -186] Lee Jung-mi.. this must be what a girl crush is... 

3. [+12,219, -180] Park Geun-hye divorced South Korea and remarried to prison!!!!

4. [+9666, -122] Those are the right words!

5. [+7620, -103] Good

6. [+2568, -23] Lee Jung-mi looked very nervous at first... this must be that push and pull...

7. [+1713, -28] Justice is alive

8. [+1450, -19] What a breath of fresh air

Source: Herald Economy via Naver

1. [+10,562, -121] Manse...

2. [+8259, -98] Justice wins!

3. [+7801, -92] South Korea, manse

4. [+6975, -83] What a great result, kindness is alive!!!!

5. [+6935, -82] Now let's pick a proper president!

6. [+1187, -16] Cheers South Korea!!!!

7. [+1140, -21] Now let's lock her up

8. [+1117, -24] JTBC's the one who got her to be impeached...

Source: Yonhap News "Park Geun-hye dismissed... judges decide for impeachment 8-0"

1. [+43,561, -474] Hurray South Korea

2. [+34,166, -439] It was 8-0 Geun-hye-yaㅋㅋㅋ

3. [+25,639, -412] ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ

4. [+24,852, -371] Everyone make some noise~~~~

5. [+23,487, -361] Manse

6. [+5512, -73] Justice is served.

7. [+5206, -70] South Korea, manse

8. [+4931, -66] This is a historical day for South Korea, let's remember this day

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Court turns down request to arrest Woo Byung-woo, denies involvement in Choi Soon-sil scandal

The investigation team is pursuing Woo Byung-woo, Park Geun-hye's former senior secretary for civil affairs, and investigating whether he obstructed an investigation into the deadly sinking of the Sewol ferry in 2014 for Park Geun-hye's political benefit.

Woo Byung-woo denied any involvement in the scandal at a court hearing after a 19-hour questioning session.  Park Young-soo of the investigation team asked the court to issue an arrest warrant against Woo Byung-woo but the Seoul Central District Court turned down the request stating the allegations against him are debatable.

He flatly denied involvement in the scandal and said that he did not know who Choi Soon-sil was until after the scandal broke out.  Meanwhile, the deadline of the investigation is next week on Feb. 28.

JTBC via Naver: [Breaking] Woo Byung-woo, "All of it was President Park's orders... I only acted as the mediator"

1. [+35,508, -652] This seems to be these beasts' final look with no worries~ rot in jail when you get arrested~~~~~

2. [+32,447, -718] Of course Park and Choi gave him orders.  He played the role of Choi Soon-sil's dog managing government affairs.

3. [+28,791, -576] The one who's great at lying and acting ㅋㅋㅋ Woo Byung-woo, get ready to go to jail.  If you respect them so much, hold their hands and go to jail together.

4. [+23,779, -502] Yeah we got it, now rot in jail forever.

5. [+6485, -133] Kya~ he's cornered~~~ he's screwed now

6. [+4805, -101] Wow!  Now he's using Park Geunh-hye as a shield!

7. [+4698, -110] If that's true, then it's only right to impeach Chicken Head Geun-hye!

Yonhap News via Naver: Woo Byung-woo's arrest a 'misfire'... hard to find the truth to son's preferential treatment and other allegations

1. [+18,863, -1044] Let's request for it again on the 26th to 27th before the final deadline, I hope in the end we'll finish with Woo Byung-woo's arrest... Please convict Woo Byung-woo for being a devil

2. [+17,207, -812] Get an extension for the investigation team, search the Blue House and arrest both Park Geun-hye and Woo Byung-woo.

3. [+16,361, -724] Woo Byung-woo, this law twister, we need to arrest him for sure... we must arrange for the day when he won't be able to glare at anyone anymore

4. [+12,775, -648] Citizens, you are watching the last attempts of survival by Soon-sil's camp~ investigation team, stay strong~ fighting to you guys~

5. [+3206, -151] The Department of Justice is so corrupt, it's a situation where we need to rid of him too

6. [+3082, -171] The name of the judge is Oh Min-seok.

7. [+2613, -150] Let's request again and catch him..

News1 via Naver: "This will be the last time if he's arrested"...  Woo Byung-woo glares at a civilian class

1. [+29,868, -473] The way he looks at everyone else as if we're all under his feet!

2. [+27,184, -377] Exactly as he's always been...

3. [+25,984, -436] Rude bastard!

4. [+17,298, -322] Laser eyes

5. [+16,320, -320] Woo Byung-woo's true self...

6. [+4737, -62] Is it his habit to look down on people?

7. [+4332, -69] His eyes are just like a snake's, evil and haughty ugh

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Citizens angered at Park Geun Hye's last attempt to drag out the impeachment trial

The Constitutional Court has held 14 sessions since December 9th when the National Assembly voted to impeach Park Geun Hye.  Throughout the months, Park Geun Hye's side has done all it can to drag out the proceedings.  As a last resort, they have again asked the Constitutional Court to postpone the final hearing to March 2-3 saying that they need more time to prepare their final statements and to decide whether Park Geun Hye will appear at the hearing.  Their chances of stalling this time around are slim as the court dismissed their requests and asked them to submit their final statements by Thursday.

Yonhap News via Naver: President's side "post-pone the final impeachment trial until March 2~3"

1. [+26,198, -482] They're just doing all that they can now huh.. can't help it.  Let's hurry and impeach her already and put her behind bars..

2. [+24,889, -415] Oh stop it.  You coward~~ you've already delayed it long enough, haven't you??

3. [+24,442, -356] What have they been doing all this time that they want to delay it again?  How much longer do we have to take your grumbling?

4. [+22,292, -338] Is this a criminal trial?  We're deciding whether she is qualified to still be the present so why do we keep arguing back and forth about whether she's committed a crime or not?  Do that separately!  It's obvious that she is not qualified to be the president so why are we dragging it out like this?
> [+301, -5] At the same time the President's side announced their statements, some celebrities I've never even seen or heard of kept the #1 spot on the real-time searches..;;; Is Naver a part of the Blue House...
> [+280, -3] Refreshing ㅋ It's not even a criminal trial so what's this ㅋ
> [+237, -4] All of the citizens want her to step down but she still wants to be the president ㅡ ㅡ Crazy bitch

5. [+17,446, -302] Screw off, stop trying to hide behind a smoke screen

6. [+5656, -101] Looks like these losers are trying to get their pay for March too.

7. [+5557, -92] They're really planning on dragging it out until the end... if they're confident, why would they need that?

8. [+5501, -93] No way.  We must condemn her with the 8 members.  If they push it until March, it'll be after Judge Lee Jung Mi's retirement. I think that's what they're aiming for.
(t/n: Lee Jung Mi's six-year term ends on March 13.  At least seven judges of the nine-member panel are required to take part in the ruling and at least six of them need to support the impeachment.  If one of the seven judges is unable to take part, the impeachment ruling will be indefinitely suspended.  If the court were to appoint new judges at this point, the ruling is expected to be delayed.)

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Samsung's Lee Jae Yong arrested on bribery charges

Recap: 01/19/17 Court dismisses arrest warrant for Samsung's CEO, Lee Jae Yong released from detention

Lee Jae Yong was arrested early on Feb. 17 on charges that include bribery in connection with the corruption scandal surrounding Park Geun Hye and Choi Soon Sil.  Prosecutors suspect that Lee Jae Yong gave approximately $36.3 million USD worth of bribes to Choi Soon Sil in return for the government's backing of a merger of two Samsung affiliates.

The investigation counsel has also requested an extension of their investigation.  They were initially given 70 days and they only have 12 days left until the Feb. 28 deadline.  The investigation can be extended for a month with the consent of the acting President and Prime Minister Hwang Kyo-ahn.

Yonhap News via Naver: Investigation counsel's retrial leads to Lee Jae Yong's arrest... makes a 'big wave' in the investigation of President Park

1. [+27,931, -1432] Awesome !!!

2. [+27,383, -1734] Judge Han Jung-suk, you're great.  Without a doubt, you've made a good choice and someday your decision will be the stepping stone for a better and cleaner world.  With this, Park Geun Hye's pretty much done for bribery charges and they can't deny a thorough investigation and a search of the Blue House anymore.  Let's push through with it again, fighting to the investigation counsel!!

3. [+21,907, -913] Woo Byung-woo, the secretaries, and those members involved plus one more left to be caught.

4. [+20,055, -1167] Wow! Today's a national holiday!

5. [+18,107, -1002] Please give these devils the punishment that they deserve~~~~

6. [+6853, -353] Judge Han Jung-suk, your supporter isn't Samsung, the 45 million citizens are here to back you up.  Furthermore, your courage and righteous judgment will be of value to our future generations.  You've worked hard and I thank you.  Following this, impeachment is pretty much 100% confirmed and also I'm anticipating for at least more than 10 years of imprisonment.

7. [+6573, -309] Justice is still alive!  Thank you investigation counsel!!

8. [+6189, -285] Judge Han Jung-suk, thank you!  Hope the investigation counsel gets approved an extension and fighting to the team!

9. [+5944, -243] Then Park Geun Hye who accepted the bribe should be punished!~~ Also PM Hwang who has been protecting Park Geunhye needs to permit a search warrant now that the bribery has been revealed and an extension should be approved.

10. [+5597, -258] Investigation counsel you've worked hard!

Yonhap News via Naver: [Lee Jae Yong's Arrest] The investigation counsel flies high and goes over Samsung... heading for President Park

1. [+15,200, -471] Our goal for tomorrow is an extension of the investigation team.  Let's meet at Gwanghwamun Square.

2. [+13,443, -410] Good job!!!  The investigation team's freaking cool!!!

3. [+12,088, -334] We desperately want this~ please bring down punishment~ on these wicked people~~~~

4. [+11,650, -384] Lee Jae Yong's arrest!!!!!  The country brought back justice.  Equality is still alive in the law.

5. [+9834, -342]  Today's a national holiday!

6. [+2828, -120] A big round of applause to the investigation team!  Give them what they deserve, clap clap clap!

7. [+2746, -107] ParkSaMo "Oh no...who will give our allowances now.." ㅋㅋ

Asia Economics via Naver: Lee Jae Yong caught by investigation team, investigation extension under discussion

1. [+8356, -290] Park Yeong-soo!!!  I'm really proud that you guys exist.  We need to lay down justice!!!  Please deal a heavy blow to these corrupt forces!!

2. [+7702, -284] If they don't extend it, Old Fox-Hwang, you're so dead!!!

3. [+6783, -184] Of course they have to prolong it, they've only just begun the fire

4. [+6451, -174] Fighting to the team

5. [+5847, -155] Extend it for 6 more months!

6. [+1542, -43] They didn't stop working over the holidays too, honestly you have all worked so hard

7. [+1394, -44] They've got to extend it, we have to reveal all the happenings

8. [+1324, -47] Hwang Kyo-ahn accept the extension!

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North Korea's Kim Jong Nam assassinated using poison needles in Malaysia

Kim Jong-nam (half-brother of current North Korean leader Kim Jong-un) was assassinated at Kuala Lumpur airport by two female agents with poison needles.  Kim Jong Nam was exiled and lived outside of North Korea since 2003.  He was known to be a critic of the family's regime and an advocate for reform.  It is speculated that he was assassinated by North Korean agents.  He has been targeted for assassination in the past but many question North Korea's motivation for the attack as he was not a threat to the leadership.

Yeonhap News via Naver: 'Attacked with poison -> convulsions -> death'... North Korea's Kim Jeong Nam killed

1. [+15,427, -345] A terror attack in an international airport.......... Moreover, if this occurred in an international airport which is maintained by strict security, then North Korea's definitely a terror country.  North Korea should be acknowledged as such and planes and ships going in and out of airports and ports should be banned and North Koreans should be restricted from entering.  Kim Jong-un is a fool.  It's because a person like him is the leader... tsk tsk I feel bad for North Korean people.  North Korea isn't even a country.

2. [+11,303, -143] Just what was he so scared of that he would savagely murder his hyung that wasn't even able to go to his own country...

3. [+7518, -285] Let's not get our country swayed by this kind of incident...

4. [+4890, -151] Wow... this country is filled with strange happenings.... It's like a real-life Tropico game;;

5. [+5779, -852] Let's get all the commies

6. [+1173, -28] Those female agents will have by now been killed by other agents 'for security reasons'

7. [+1058, -14] I can't understand Kim Jong-un.  He got his hyung killed, he's more closed off for someone who studied in Switzerland, talking about shooting off missiles... I'm curious about the state of his mind

8. [+926, -18] That woman is most likely dead now too

9. [+845, -16] Kim Jong-un killed his uncle, his dad's nephew, and as if that wasn't enough he killed off his own hyung tooㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ I'd like to roast this pigㅋㅋㅋㅋ

10. [+740, -11] Kim Jong-un ㅋㅋㅋ Don't know what to do with this guy, he really killed off his family ㅋ

(Later reports found that a woman named Đoàn Thị Hương with Vietnamese travel documentation was identified in the CCTV photo and was later believed to be arrested.  Police are still looking for a other suspects connected to the case.)

Yeonhap News via Naver: "Dark lipstick and handbag" additional CCTV photos released of Kim Jong-nam's killer

1. [+12,161, -276] Are you sure it isn't a man dressed up as a woman?

2. [+6424, -165] I bet she has already been killed under Kim Jong-un's direction...

3. [+6144, -227] Totally an old guyㅡㅡ; Maybe they picked a transgender as a spy

4. [+4119, -182]  Poor her!!  Under directions, she'll be killed tsk tsk tsk

5. [+4253, -495] Similar to how high school kids do their make-up these days... gray face and super red lips that stand out..ㅋㅋ

6. [+841, -26] That person's definitely a man, look at his jawbone it's weird, definitely a man

7. [+772, -21] There's a possibility it's a guy dressed up as a girl

8. [+717, -11] Just by looking at her body frame, she's definitely a spyㅋㅋㅋ

Yeonhap News via Naver: Malaysian pathologists, poison to Kim Jong-nam's tilted head... "We have to investigate if he died of natural causes as well"

1. [+714, -83] Natural causes?  Looks like there are people everywhere who don't realize the full situation and try to water it down

2. [+479, -44] It's a big mistake if they're only thinking of one or two possible poisons.. There are drugs used in the hospital that can take you out in one go... Chemical and biological terror weapons are extremely scary... it's like they're saying they're ignorant of this... do they only know of cyanide poisoning..ㅋ

3. [+523, -62] These bastards, looks like they got money from North Korea and are trying to simmer down the situation.  It's obviously a murder no matter who looks at it

4. [+395, -41] First time I'm hearing that "other poisons should take 1~3 days to kill someone"... Have they not seen how a Putin critic died?

5. [+418, -61] Can they not even do an autopsy properly?  It was obviously because of poison and the suspects have been caught too, so what are they saying

6. [+171, -13] Malaysia, that's what the spies were trained to doㅎㅎ

7. [+146, -8] Natural causesㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ

8. [+109, -9] You're wrong

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Whistleblowers to the Choi Soon Sil scandal feel a threat to their safety

Park Heonyoung, "I didn't want to reveal anything to the media.  I was scared of Choi Soon Sil.  I thought I couldn't handle a person who holds as much power as she does.  Presently, the citizens and the investigation team are focused on the matter, but what will happen once the world forgets?" Park helped expose one of the large companies operated by Choi.  Whenever he is on his way home, he carefully checks the doors of emergency exits in fear of someone hiding behind them. "Right now, Choi Soon Sil is in detention so she can't keep her eyes on me, but when the time comes, I'm sure they won't let me off so easily.  I'm scared of what the years ahead have in store for me."  The death of chairman Park Jiman's secretary sparked this fear even further.  The police concluded that the death was due to natural causes but there were doubts and rumours that it was a murder case.

Those who have exposed Choi are experiencing a threat to their safety.  Just recently, Ko Young Tae revealed that he felt as if someone was following him around.  Others are suffering from anxiety as they report cars following them around prompting them to install safety measures like putting up CCTVs inside and around their houses.

Hanguk Ilbo via Naver: Park Heonyoung "I feel a threat to my own safety... I have been frightened for many years"

1. [+26,819, -873] Protect them, seriously

2. [+17,251, -589] Let's keep Choi locked up for life

3. [+15,524, -391] We're looking at it from a third-person perspective so to us, we support them revealing all that they can but if you look at it from their perspective, that's a really brave thing for them to do.. If it was me, I don't think it would've been easy to become a 'whistleblower'

4. [+12,895, -770] Don't be afraid and report it right away~~

5. [+3208, -84] Our country needs a witness protection program, what is the National Assembly doing?  You should make a witness protection program and law as soon as possible!!

6. [+3204, -106] We definitely need to protect the witnesses.  Who would reveal anything in this situation?  What a dirty country that leaves you to fight for yourself

7. [+3032, -117] The way to protect this person is to keep Soon Sil and Geun Hye behind bars until they die

8. [+2797, -87] It was thanks to them that the country got to know what happened.  Imagine how anxious they must've have been.  They deserve personal protection.

9. [+2691, -83] I think that we need to make a department that can protect private information and still keep the public's interest on the matter.

10. [+2415, -79] He's someone who risked to be in danger to reveal what happened.  The country should protect him.

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3 million copies of fake news defending Park Geunhye spread all over the country

"The media's report of the number of people attending the candlelight rallies are false."

"The Sewol Ferry incident was ordered by North Korea."

"The tablet that JTBC found was fabricated."

"The claim that Park Geunhye received a cosmetic procedure on the day of the Sewol incident is false.  It is a manipulated image using another person's skin." 

The above are fake news delivered and spread throughout the country not just in the form of social media but also through physical fabricated newspapers and flyers.  JTBC found that during the holiday, people found these fake newspapers in apartment complexes all over the country including Busan and Daejeon.  It's been reported that 'ParkSaMo' printed and spread 3 million copies of these throughout the country during the Lunar New Year holidays.  Pro-park supporters also used these materials in their rally against the impeachment.  

JTBC via Naver: 'Fake news', newspapers delivered all over the country... by pro-park supporters

1. [+20,437, -703] This is no different from North Korea's propaganda against the South.  It's like we're going back in time.  This is definitely something I would expect to come from those bird-brains.

2. [+17,985, -661] The cancer of this country is ParkSaMo

3. [+16,210, -525] If you've got the money to do this, might as well help out your neighbours!!! Don't spend it on useless things like spreading lies!!!!

4. [+15,522, -495] Isn't this a civil war?

5. [+12,977, -446] Crazy people believe these kind of trash news but refuse to believe the media then they believe in Choi Soon Sil's lies that don't match up but refuse to believe in the investigation counsel's reports... that's why they're crazy, but please don't try and bother the people around you

6. [+3434, -103] I wonder who did that... whose money did they use, that's what we have to reveal

7. [+3064, -107] In the future, can they not wave the Korean flag but wave Park Geunhye's face instead?  I'm so embarrassed to see them using the Korean flag.  Anyway, they don't follow the law or have any common sense so they're pretty much Park Geunhye's cult right?

8. [+3135, -173] Without JTBC, this dirty situation would have just been buried in the sewers.  Fighting to Son Sukhee announcer

9. [+2848, -92] This is exactly at the level of North Korean propaganda ㅋㅋㅋ They're trying to spread false information like a North Korean head official in a situation where all the information is already out through articlesㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ Park Geunhye and ParkSaMo are really something else ㅋㅋㅋㅋ

10. [+2761, -84] Please investigate whose money they used to do this.  Journalists, please do a proper search on this and reveal it.

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Pyo Chang Won suspended for controversy over nude painting of Park Geun Hye

Last month, Pyo Chang Won hosted an art exhibition in the lobby of the National Assembly building.  A painting titled "Dirty Sleep" which shows President Park Geun Hye in the nude lying next to Choi Soon Sil was featured in the exhibition and is said to be a parody of Edouard Manet's "Olympia". 

Conservative supporters of Park were arrested by police at the exhibition on the chargers of damaging property as they took down the painting and threw it on the floor.  The opposition and ruling party were critical of Pyo with some saying the painting "sexually objectified" women and called for the Democratic Party to apologize.

In the face of criticism, Pyo Chang Won said the exhibition should be respected in terms of freedom of speech, but that he will take responsibility for the controversy.  "It surely does not suit my taste.  But I believe it is within the boundary of the freedom of arts.  I do not intend to intervene, obstruct, oppose, or disrupt mockery, caricature, parody, or satire against me.  In the same manner, we should respect criticism and satire of public figures including the president, politicians and other people with authority."

The artist, Lee Ku Young, defended the work and said in a radio interview, "A president of a country is an obvious target of satire".  The exhibition was planned by 20 artists who were on an arts blacklist for their opposition to the government. (Source)

YTN via Daum: Democratic Party suspends Pyo Chang Won for six months over 'nude painting controversy'

1. [+13,091, -848] This isn't right.  Why is the Democratic Party still being wary of the Saenuri Party.  Pathetic of them

2. [+10,778, -558] Aigoo... they've gone crazy..

3. [+10,316, -597] Venus de Milo is banned for display because of "sexually objectifying" women. Is this what you call a country? They seem to be living in a country to themselves.  How funny.

4. [+4042, -171] For a problem that will just flow right through the Saenuri members, I don't understand why they have to take it as far as to giving a disciplinary action.  Is the Democratic Party just following their orders?  What's the reason for them being pushed around by the Saenuri Party every time?????????

5. [+3936, -177] Gae-nuri doesn't even have near 100 seats, do they really have to watch out for them?  Let's kick out Kim Jintae for good.

6. [+3519, -163] Such bullshit... This is something that wouldn't even be a controversy in other countries... It's the presidential elections so I'm not going to write a hate comment.

7. [+3492, -162] This is unfair, retract the disciplinary action!!

8. [+3146, -139] What crime has he done?

9. [+2892, -129] Ah fuck, this is crazy!  What are they trying to do?

10. [+2720, -112] What bullshit is this

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Choi Soon Sil makes a big scene in front of reporters, claims investigators verbally abusing her

When Choi Soon Sil was being brought in for questioning by the investigation counsel, she put on a bizarre performance.  She shouted at the reporters claiming that she was "being forced to make confessions" and that the investigators are abusing their power (e.g. screaming at her, threatening her, putting a lot of pressure on her) and "defaming" her family.  Choi was brought in under a new arrest warrant after she refused to be summoned six times, claiming she was ill and accusing officials of 'repressive investigation'.

Investigators said she was quiet during the ride to the investigation office and her outburst upon her arrival seemed to be intended to tarnish the investigation. Choi refused to answer questions during the investigation because she felt the questions were biased against her.

It's unclear whether Choi was having a mental breakdown or whether her outburst is a deliberate attempt to stall the investigation.  Lee Kyu Chul, spokesperson of the investigation counsel, told reporters, "We will not be swayed by Choi's groundless comments and proceed with our investigation.  Her refusal to answer questions will be used as evidence against her."

Video of the outburst: (Starts at 0:41)

Newsis via Naver: Choi Soon Sil claims the special investigation team abuses her, argues misconduct... out to destroy her family, reveals all

(t/n: The Korean word used here was 'samjok' which can mean three generations/families, or could refer to one's spouse, siblings, parents, family on your father's side or mother's side, or your spouse's family.  I used family for the translations below but just keep in mind it refers to more than just immediate family members.)

1. [+44,-389, -859] If that's how the investigation counsel really treated her, I think we need to give them an award.

2. [+36,384, -633] They were too nice on her.  I think they should be even harsher

3. [+34,204, -610] If the investigation counsel was like that to her, the citizens of the country appreciate it, of course.  We're still a democracy so that's why we're keeping a bastard like you alive still.

4. [+28,103, -489] Please write news headlines more accurately~ there's no proof so how can you call it a "reveal"?  You should call it a one-sided claim

5. [+24,829, -447] A family tree worse than a dog's~~~

6. [+7579, -129] Isn't the investigation team too democratic?  Catch Lee Kyung Jae too (t/n: Choi Soon Sil's attorney)

7. [+7487, -116] But isn't it true that her whole family should be punished since they all committed a big crime

8. [+6890, -123] Only her family? Put all her relatives on the list too

9. [+6761, -113] Please if you can, punish her family too

10. [+6211, -119] There should be a law where we can punish all the family members involved too... we're all for it

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Seoul Metro sparks anger for telling passengers to 'stay and wait' during subway fire

A Seoul subway train caught fire leading to an evacuation of 100 passengers.  The fire is presumed to have been caused by a power failure.  Seoul Metro is facing criticism as testimonies showed the operator requested passengers to stay inside the train initially at the outbreak of the fire.  Some passengers said they escaped by opening the emergency door after seeing smoke.  A passenger said, "We did not hear any announcement about evacuating the train, passengers escaped by themselves after seeing the smoke and saw the fire after evacuating the train."

Yeonhap News via Naver: 'Wait' when there's a fire on the subway... Seoul Metro 'safety concerns' controversy

1. [+12,264, -101] After what happened with Sewol, if you hear "wait where you are", you have to put your life on the line and get out immediately.

2. [+6891, -86] Did they forget what happened in the Daegu subway fire already? Nothing's changing in this country...
(t/n: In the 2003 Daegu fire, an arsonist set fire killing 192 people and injuring 151 people.  Inadequate emergency plans and actions contributed to the disaster.  The operator made 3 announcements telling the passengers to 'stay seated' until the operator was advised 'to just hurry and run'.  The operator opened the doors and ran away but he removed the master key which trapped the train doors and locked the passengers inside.  Later reports said that 79 passengers remained trapped and died due to this.  This incident sparked anger throughout SK.)

3. [+6535, -106] Can't put my trust on anyone in this country.....

4. [+6185, -248] Mayor Park Won Soon stop focusing on the mayor candidates and focus on correcting operations so that there won't be anymore problems on the metro.  At least arrange a proper security measures manual.  Think about this as this is the path of being a mayor.

5. [+4085, -260] Looks like these people are turning similar to Park Geun Hye.

6. [+878, -24] At Hell Joseon, whenever there's an incident they always say to "wait"ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ

7. [+752, -30] Am I the only one who got reminded of Sewol ferry after reading the announcement they made?

8. [+699, -29] Park Won Soon, someone who has 3% approval rate, stop talking about the elections and take some interest in the citizens' safety

9. [+611, -8] I have trauma just hearing the words 'wait'.  I feel like I really won't believe it in any kind of situation anymore even if the right thing to do would be to wait.

10. [+526, -13] Were they trying to make a second Sewol accident??  Do they think the citizens would believe those announcements

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