Podcasts about Seoul

Today, I'm joined by Jane Newman, an international speaker, entrepreneur, and coach. Jane writes and speaks on the urgent necessity of retaining our humanity in a techno-centric world.   Based in Seoul, South Korea, she travels internationally, working with global thought leaders on reimagining AI and technology. Her message to live joyfully offers a necessary panacea to lives driven by efficiency and productivity.   In this episode, we'll explore: The massive hidden impact AI is having on the climate What happens when technology fails us and there's no human to help Why Gen Z is struggling to envision an optimistic future Simple ways to reduce AI usage and create a rehumanized future Jane's current favorites: Book: The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran, Speaker: Tricia Brouk, and Podcast: What a Stranger Told Me More from Jane Newman Website: https://www.jane-newman.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jane-newman-writer-and-speaker/    More from Tricia  Unlock your potential and grow your speaking business during The Art of The Big Talk, my LIVE Two-Day Virtual Masterclass Join me LIVE for my Free Monthly Workshop Explore my content and follow me on YouTube Follow me on Instagram  Connect with me on Facebook  Connect with me on LinkedIn  Visit my website at TriciaBrouk.com

This week's podcast starts by discussing the U.N. General Assembly's adoption of a resolution condemning North Korea's human rights abuses for the 21st consecutive year. NK News correspondent Jooheon Kim explains the implications of the resolution and Seoul's support, before talking about messages to South Korean President Lee Jae Myung from the families of prisoners of war and abductees trapped in North Korea. Finally, the conversation turns to Hyundai Asan's stated goal of working with North Korea to resume inter-Korean tourism projects, including the commissioning of a vessel to transport South Korean tourists to the North. About the podcast: The North Korea News Podcast is a weekly podcast hosted by Jacco Zwetsloot exclusively for NK News, covering all things DPRK — from news to extended interviews with leading experts and analysts in the field, along with insights from our very own journalists.

Last time we spoke about the Japanese Victory over Changkufeng. Japan's generals hatched a plan: strike at night, seize the peak, then bargain if need be. Colonel Sato, steady as a compass, chose Nakano's brave 75th Regiment, selecting five fearless captains and a rising star, Nakajima, to lead the charge. Ahead, scouts and engineers threaded a fragile path through darkness, while distant Soviet tanks rumbled like distant thunder. At 2:15 a.m., wire breached and soldiers slipped over the slope. The crest resisted with brutal tenacity, grenades flashed, machine guns spit fire, and leaders fell. Yet by 5:15 a.m. dawn painted the hill in pale light, and Japanese hands grasped the summit. The dawn assault on nearby Hill 52 and the Shachaofeng corridor followed, with Takeshita's and Matsunobe's units threading through fog, fire, and shifting trenches. Narukawa's howitzers answered the dawn with measured fury, silencing the Soviets' early artillery as Japanese infantry pressed forward. By daybreak, the Russians were driven back, their lines frayed and retreating toward Khasan. The price was steep: dozens of officers dead or injured, and a crescent of smoke and memory left etched on every face.    #181 The Russian Counter Offensive over the Heights Welcome to the Fall and Rise of China Podcast, I am your dutiful host Craig Watson. But, before we start I want to also remind you this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Perhaps you want to learn more about the history of Asia? Kings and Generals have an assortment of episodes on history of asia and much more  so go give them a look over on Youtube. So please subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry for some more history related content, over on my channel, the Pacific War Channel where I cover the history of China and Japan from the 19th century until the end of the Pacific War. After admitting the loss of Changkufeng and Shachaofeng by dawn on 31 July, the Russian government issued a communique the next day asserting that Soviet troops had "hurled back a Japanese division… after a two-day battle" involving tanks, artillery, and aircraft. Some hours after the Japanese penetration, Soviet regulars rushed to the scene and drove out the invaders. Japanese losses amounted to 400 men; Soviet losses were 13 killed and 55 wounded. On Soviet soil, the Japanese abandoned five cannons, 14 machine guns, and 157 rifles, while the Russians admitted losing one tank and one gun. A Soviet reconnaissance pilot may have fallen into Japanese hands after bailing out. "Both before and during the Japanese attack… Soviet troops did not once cross the Manchukuoan frontier,which deprived them of the possibility of surrounding or outflanking the invaders." By 1 August, Russian ground forces were deployed and the Soviet Air Force took action. Soviet aircraft appeared at 24:30 to reconnoiter. Soon after, more than ten planes flew in formation, launching strikes against forward units. Eight sorties, light bombers and fighters, roughly 120–150 aircraft in flights of two or three dozen, bombed and strafed. Raids were conducted by as many as 30 planes, though no Soviet losses were reported. The Russians also hit targets on the Korean side of the Tumen. The 75th Regiment judged that the Soviet Air Force sought only to intimidate. Russian planes dropped several dozen bombs on the Kyonghun bridge, but the span was not struck; damage was limited to the railway, producing an impression of severity that was misleading. The lack of air cover troubled the troops most. Japanese casualties on 1 August were modest: three men wounded in the 75th Infantry, and one wounded and a horse killed in the 76th. However the three Japanese battalions expended over 15,000 machine-gun and 7,000 rifle rounds that day. The appearance of Soviet air power at Changkufeng drew anxious international attention. Shanghai reports electrified observers, who anticipated that major Russo-Japanese hostilities would transform the China campaign overnight. Some observers were openly dismayed, foreseeing a prolongation of the mainland war with potential benefits to Soviet interests. Japanese Army spokesmen sought to downplay the situation. Officers in Hsinking told correspondents that the raids, while serious, represented only a face-saving measure. The Red Army was reportedly attempting to compensate for losses at Changkufeng and other disputed positions, but aside from the bombings, the frontier remained quiet. If the Russians were serious, observers noted, they would have bombed the vital Unggi railway bridge, which remained untouched; raids focused on minor bridges, with limited damage. In Tokyo, foreign observers believed the appearance of about 50 Soviet heavy bombers over North Korea signaled an extension of the incidents and that the Japanese government was taking urgent measures. Military leaders decided not to escalate but prepared for emergencies. The Korea Army Headquarters denied Soviet bombing of Harbin in Manchuria or Najin and Chongjin in Korea. Regarding retaliation, an American correspondent reported that the Japanese military had no intention of bombing Russian territory. Although Soviet use of aircraft introduced a new dimension of danger, the main efforts remained ground-based on both sides. After Japanese troops cleared Changkufeng and Shachaofeng, the Russians appeared to be redeploying to contract their defensive frontage; no troops or works remained west of Khasan. Four or five Russian infantry companies and ten artillery pieces stood between the lake and Paksikori, while the main forces, with numerous gun sites, were concentrated west of Novokievsk. On the Kwantung Army front in southeast Manchuria, no changes were observed. "The Russians were apparently shocked by their defeat at Changkufeng and must suddenly have resorted to negative, conservative measures." Korea Army Headquarters assessed the situation as of the evening of 31 July: "The enemy must fear a Japanese advance into the Novokievsk plain and therefore is concentrating his main forces in that district. Our interests require that we anticipate any emergency, so we must prepare the necessary strength in the Kyonghun region and reinforce positions at Wuchiatzu."  At 20:45 on the 31st, the 19th Division received a detailed message from the Hunchun garrison commander describing his northward deployments. Suetaka was heartened; he "earnestly desired to bring about the end of the incident as a result of the fighting of 30–31 July but was equally resolved to defend the border firmly, based on Japanese interpretation of the Hunchun pact, in case the Soviet side did not perform intensive self-reflection." First, Suetaka issued instructions from Kyonghun at 8:15 on the 31st via K. Sato: "It is our intention that Changkufeng and the high ground northwest of Shachaofeng be secured, as well as the high ground south of Shachaofeng if possible. Enemy attacks are to be met at our positions, but you are not to pursue far." Second, Colonel Tanaka was instructed not to fire as long as Russian artillery did not bombard friendly forces. "Except for preparing against counterassaults, your actions will be cautious. In particular, harassing fire against inhabited places and residents is prohibited." Suetaka was finally armed with formal authority, received at 22:05 on 1 August. He did not delay in implementing it. At 23:00 he ordered the immediate rail movement of strong reinforcements: the alerted infantry brigade headquarters, as well as four infantry battalions and the remaining mountain artillery battalion. Thus, Suetaka could deploy forward not only the forces he had requested but also a brigade-level organization to assume control of the now sizeable combat elements massed at the front for "maneuvers." Earlier that afternoon he had already moved his division's message center forward to the Matsu'otsuho heights at the Tumen, and he regularly posted at least one staff officer there so that the center could function as the division's combat headquarters. An additional matter of explosive potential was built into the divisional order: provision of Japanese Air Force cover for rail movements forward, although use of aircraft had been prohibited by all higher headquarters; Nakamura intended only ground cover. At the front, Japanese units spent most of their time consolidating their hard-won positions. By 3 on 1 August, a column of Soviet forces with vehicles was observed moving from the east side of Khasan. Late in the day, the division received an extremely important telegram from the 2nd (Intelligence) Section of the Kwantung Army: "According to a special espionage report from our OSS in Khabarovsk city, Red Army authorities there have decided to retake the high ground along Changkufeng." From other intelligence, the Kwantung Army concluded that the Russians were rebuilding in the Novokievsk region. Frequent movements observed immediately to the rear of the Soviet battle zone caused K. Sato to grow apprehensive about a dawn counterattack on the 1st, and he reinforced Changkufeng with the 6th Company. The second of August was marked by continuation of Soviet air attacks and the anticipated Russian counteroffensive. According to Japanese intelligence, Marshal Blyukher had arrived in Khabarovsk, and Lieutenant General Sokolov was in Voroshilov. An offensive buildup, estimated at about 3,000 men plus tanks and guns, was reported in the Kozando area by evening on the 1st. Hirahara, commanding the battalion at Changkufeng, grew concerned about Hill 52. With day's end approaching, he reinforced the defenses further and ordered the battalion medical officer to establish a dressing station at Fangchuanting. Around 15:00 Soviet artillery began firing at forward areas, especially gun positions; the bombardments were described as severe. Japanese artillery sought to conserve ammunition, firing only at worthwhile, short-range targets. Main Russian ground actions focused on the far-right (Hill 52) and far-left (Shachaofeng) sectors, not Changkufeng. In line with Hirahara's orders, two infantry companies and four heavy machine guns were moved by 8:00 from Changkufeng to the heights 800 meters southeast. Soviet heavy artillery pounded the zone between Fangchuanting and Hill 52; observing the enemy became difficult. Russian planes engaged at 9:00 fighters, then bombers, to soften defenses and gun positions. Meanwhile, the Soviets deployed firepower southeast of Khasan, while two infantry battalions and more than ten tanks advanced through the pines on the western slopes. Japanese regimental guns and two machine-gun platoons at Hill 52 attacked the enemy heavy machine guns and neutralized them. By 10:00 the Russians had advanced with heavy weapons to the high ground 800 meters from Hill 52. From Changkufeng, the battalion guns engaged heavy weapons. Hirahara moved with the engineers and battalion guns to the heights to which he had transferred reinforcements earlier, took command, and prepared an assault. Initially, Soviet troops advanced in formation, but after cresting a dip, they dispersed and moved onto the high ground opposite Hill 52. Heavily armed, they drew within 700 meters, with artillery and heavy machine guns providing coverage. By 10:00 Sato requested Shiozawa's mountain guns across the Tumen to unleash a barrage against Hill 52's front. For about half an hour, the battery fired. By 10:30, the Soviet advance grew listless. Believing the moment ripe, Hirahara deployed his men to charge the foe's right wing, ordering rapid movement with caution against eastern flank fire. On the heights north of Hill 52, Inagaki watched the struggle; with the telephone out and the situation urgent, he brought up firepower on his own initiative. Taking the main body of the 1st Machine Gun Company, along with the battalion guns, he moved out at noon, making contact with the 10th Company on Hill 52 around 14:00, where the Japanese machine guns and battalion guns joined the fray. The Russians, losing momentum, were checked by Japanese heavy weapons and by mountain guns from Hill 82. Hirahara's main battalion advanced onto the high ground north of Hill 52 around noon. By 15:00, two enemy companies began to fall back, climbing the western slopes of Hill 29 as the main forces retreated piecemeal to a dip. By 16:00, Suetaka observed that his units were continuing to secure their positions and were "gradually breaking the hostile intention." Despite heat and rain, front-line troops showed fatigue but remained vigilant. Between 11:00 and 16;00, Sato inspected the lines and directed defensive positions, particularly at Hill 52. After a poor initial performance, the Russians awaited reinforcements before attempting another assault on Hill 52. They moved up a mechanized corps, and by 15:00 50 tanks massed east of Maanshan. Around 17:00, the Russians began moving south along the high ground across Khasan. Another two Soviet battalions advanced along the Tumen hills, led by armor. Hirahara anticipated an assault at twilight, especially after 18:00, when nine bombers struck Hill 52. Earlier, Takeshita had received reports from the antitank commander, Lieutenant Saito, that at 17:00 several enemy tanks and three infantry battalions were advancing from Hill 29. Convinced of an imminent Soviet strike, Takeshita ordered the defense to conceal its efforts and to annihilate the foe with point-blank fire and hand-to-hand fighting. He sought to instill confidence that hostile infantry could not reach the positions. Before 19:00, the enemy battalions came within effective range, and Japan opened with all available firepower. Rapid-fire antitank guns set the lead tank alight; the remaining tanks were stopped. Support came from Hisatsune's regimental guns and two antitank gun squads atop Changkufeng. The Russian advance was checked. By nightfall, Soviet elements had displaced heavy weapons about 400 meters from Japanese positions. As early as 16:00, Suetaka ordered a mountain artillery squad to cross the river. Sato told Takeshita at 7:30 that there would be a night attack against Hill 52. Takeshita was to annihilate the foe after allowing them to close to 40–50 meters. The Russians did mount a night assault and pressed close between 8 and 9 p.m. with three battalions led by four tanks. The main force targeted Takeshita; all ten Russian heavy machine guns engaged that side. Japanese machine guns and battalion guns joined the fray. The Russians pressed within 30 meters, shouted "Hurrah! Hurrah!" and hurled grenades before advancing a further 15 meters. The Japanese repelled the first waves with grenades and emplaced weapons, leaving light machine guns and grenade dischargers forward. Soviet illuminating shells were fired to enable closer approaches within 100 meters. Japanese grenade-discharger fire blasted the forces massed in the dead space before the works. While the Hill 52 night attack collapsed, other Russian units, smaller in strength and with one tank leading, moved against the hill on the left that the Japanese had not yet occupied that morning. The Russians advanced along the Khasan slope north of Hill 52, came within point-blank range, and shouted but did not charge. By 22:00, the Japanese, supported by machine guns, had checked the foe. Thereupon, the 6th Company, now under a platoon leader, Narusawa, launched a counterattack along the lake. "The enemy was bewildered and became dislocated. Buddies were heard shouting to one another, and some could be seen hauling away their dead." The Soviet troops held back 300–400 meters and began to dig in. Sato decided artillery should sweep the zone in front of Hill 52. At 21:30, he requested support, but the mountain guns could not open fire. Still, by 23:00, not a shadow of an enemy soldier remained on the Hill 52 front, where the Japanese spent the night on alert. In the northern sector, eight Russian tanks crossed the Japanese-claimed border at 5:25 on 2 August and moved south to a position northwest of Shachaofeng. Around 7 Russian artillery opened fire to "prepare" the Japanese while a dozen heavy bombers attacked. An hour later, the ground offensive began in earnest, with one and a half to two infantry battalions, a dozen machine guns, and several tanks. Supporting Takenouchi's left wing were several batteries of mountain artillery and two heavy batteries. Well-planned counterfire stopped the offensive. There was little change north of Shachaofeng and in the southeast, where Kanda's company held its positions against attack. On Takenouchi's front, Akaishizawa notes 120-degree daytime heat and nighttime chill. Men endured damp clothes and mosquitoes. To keep warm at night, soldiers moved about; during the day they sought shade and camouflage with twigs and weeds. No defense existed against cold night rain. Nocturnal vigilance required napping by day when possible, but the intense sun drained strength. For three days, Imagawa's company had only wild berries and dirty river water to eat. At 6:00 on 2 August, Colonel Tanaka exhorted his artillery to "exalt maximum annihilation power at close range, engage confirmed targets, and display firepower that is sniperlike—precise, concentrated, and as swift as a hurricane." Tanaka devised interdiction sectors for day and night attacks. At 10:30, the artillery laid down severe fire and eventually caused the enemy assault to wither. Around 24:40, Rokutanda's battalion detected a Russian battalion of towed artillery moving into positions at the skirt of Maanshan. When the first shells hit near the vanguard, a commander on horseback fled; the rest dispersed, abandoning at least eight artillery wagons and ten vehicles. Suetaka, observing from the Kucheng BGU, picked up the phone and commended the 3rd Battalion. Japanese casualties on 2 August were relatively light: ten men killed and 15 wounded. Among the killed, the 75th Infantry lost seven, the 76th Infantry two, and the engineers one. Among the wounded, the 75th suffered nine and the 76th six. Infantry ammunition was expended at an even higher rate than on 30–31 July. In Hirahara's battalion area, small arms, machine guns, ammunition, helmets, knapsacks, and gas masks were captured. A considerable portion of the seized materiel was employed in subsequent combat, as in the case of an antitank gun and ammunition captured on 31 July. Soviet casualties to date were estimated at 200–250, including 70 abandoned corpses. Twelve enemy tanks had been captured, and five more knocked out on 1–2 August; several dozen heavy bombers and about 5,000 Soviet ground troops were involved in the concerted offensives.  Nevertheless, reports of an imminent Soviet night attack against Hill 52 on 2–3 August alarmed Suetaka as much as his subordinates. Shortly after 20:00 accompanied by his intelligence officer, Suetaka set out for the hill, resolved to direct operations himself. Somewhat earlier, the division had sent Korea Army Headquarters a message, received by 18:30, reflecting Suetaka's current outlook: 30 to 40 Soviet planes had been bombing all sectors since morning, but losses were negligible and morale was high. The division had brought up additional elements in accord with army orders, and was continuing to strive for nonenlargement, but was "prepared firmly to reject the enemy's large-scale attacks." Impressed by the severity of the artillery and small-arms fire, Suetaka deemed it imperative "quickly to mete out a decisive counterassault and thus hasten the solution of the incident." But Japanese lines were thinly held and counterattacks required fresh strength. This state of affairs caused Suetaka to consider immediate commitment of the reinforcements moving to the front, although the Korea Army had insisted on prior permission before additional troops might cross the Tumen. Suetaka's customary and unsurprising solution was again to rely on his initiative and authorize commitment of every reinforcement unit. Nearest was T. Sato's 73rd Regiment, which had been ordered the night before to move up from Nanam. Under the cover of two Japanese fighters, these troops had alighted from the train the next morning at Seikaku, where they awaited orders eagerly.   K. Sato was receiving reports about the enemy buildup. At 20:10 orders were given to the 73rd Regiment to proceed at once to the Matsu'otsuho crossing and be prepared to support the 75th. Involved were T. Sato's two battalions, half of the total infantry reinforcements. Suetaka had something else in mind: his trump, Okido's 76th Infantry. At 23:40 he ordered this regiment, coming up behind the 73rd, to proceed to Huichungyuan on the Manchurian side of the Tumen, via Kyonghun, intercept the enemy, and be ready to go over to the offensive. On the basis of the information that the division planned to employ Okido's regiment for an enveloping attack, K. Sato quickly worked out details. He would conceal the presence of the reinforcements expected momentarily from the 73rd Regiment and would move Senda's BGU and Shimomura's battalion to Huichungyuan to cover the advance of the 76th Regiment and come under the latter's control. Japanese forces faced the danger of Soviet actions against Changkufeng from the Shachaofeng front after midnight on 2 August. Takenouchi had been ready to strike when he learned that the enemy had launched an attack at 01:00 against one of his own companies, Matsunobe's southwest of Shachaofeng. Therefore, Takenouchi's main unit went to drive off the attackers, returning to its positions at 02:30. The Russians tried again, starting from 04:00 on 03 August. Strong elements came as close as 300 meters; near 05:00 Soviet artillery and heavy weapons fire had grown hot, and nine enemy fighters made ineffective strafing passes. By 06:30 the Russians seemed thwarted completely. Hill 52 was pummeled during the three battles on 2 August. Taking advantage of night, the Russians had been regrouping; east of the hill, heavy machine guns were set up on the ridgeline 500 meters away. From 05:00 on 03 August, the Russians opened up with heavy weapons. Led by three tanks, 50 or 60 infantrymen then attacked from the direction of Hill 29 and reached a line 700–800 meters from the Japanese defenses. Here the Russian soldiers peppered away, but one of their tanks was set ablaze by gunfire and the other two were damaged and fled into a dip. Kamimori's mountain artillery reinforcements reached Nanpozan by 07:15 on 03 August. Tanaka issued an order directing the battalion to check the zone east of Hill 52 as well as to engage artillery across Khasan. A site for the supply unit was to be selected beyond enemy artillery range; on the day before, Russian shells had hit the supply unit of the 3rd Mountain Artillery Battalion, killing two men and 20 horses. The exposed force was ordered to take cover behind Crestline 1,000 meters to the rear. After 09:00 on 03 August, the artillery went into action and Japanese morale was enhanced. Near 09:00, Soviet bombardment grew pronounced, accompanied by bomber strikes. The Japanese front-line infantry responded with intensive fire, supported by mountain pieces and the regimental guns atop Changkufeng. Enemy forces stayed behind their heavy weapons and moved no further, while their casualties mounted. At 11:00 the Russians began to fall back, leaving only machine guns and snipers. One reason the Soviets had been frustrated since early morning was that K. Sato had seen the urgency of closing the gap midway between Changkufeng and Hill 52 (a site called Scattered Pines) and had shifted the 2nd Company from Changkufeng. Between 06:00 and 07:40, the company fired on Soviet troops which had advanced north of Hill 52, and inflicted considerable casualties. A corporal commanding a grenade launcher was cited posthumously for leading an assault which caused the destruction of three heavy machine guns. In the afternoon, the Japanese sustained two shellings and a bomber raid. Otherwise, the battlefield was quiet, since Russian troops had pulled back toward Hill 29 by 15:00 under cover of heavy weapons and artillery. At Hill 52, however, defense posed a problem, for each barrage smashed positions and trenches. During intervals between bombardments and air strikes, the men struggled to repair and reinforce the facilities. Changkufeng was again not attacked by ground troops during the day but was hit by planes and artillery. Trifling support was rendered by the mountain gun which had been moved to the Manchurian side of the Tumen. Japanese infantry reinforcements were on the way. By 23:00 on 02 August, T. Sato had left Shikai. His 73rd Regiment pushed forward along roads so sodden that the units had to dismantle the heavy weapons for hauling. The rate of advance was little more than one kilometer per hour, but finally, at 05:20 on 03 August, he reached Chiangchunfeng with the bulk of two battalions. The esprit of the other front-line troops "soared." K. Sato, who was commanding all forces across the Tumen pending Morimoto's setting up of headquarters for the 37th Brigade, had T. Sato take over the line to the left of Changkufeng, employing Takenouchi's old unit and the 73rd Regiment to cover Shachaofeng. T. Sato set out with his battalions at 06:00 amid heavy rain. By 07:30, under severe fire, he was in position to command the new left sector. According to division orders to Morimoto, this zone was to include the heights south and northwest of Shachaofeng, but, in the case of the former, it was "permissible to pull back and occupy high ground west of the heights south of Shachaofeng." T. Sato contemplated using his regiment to encircle the foe on the north side of the lake, while Okido's 76th Infantry formed the other prong. Most of the day afterward, Soviet artillery was active; the Japanese responded with barrages of their own. Eventually, from 15:30, the entire enemy front-line force in this sector began falling back under violent covering fire. Morimoto's initial operations order, received at 18:00, advised T. Sato officially that he was coming under command of the 37th Brigade. The night of 03–04 August passed with the units uneasy, striving to conduct security and reconnaissance while working on the battered defenses. Total Japanese casualties on 3 August were light again: six men killed and ten wounded, four of the dead and seven of the wounded being suffered by the 75th Infantry, the rest by Takenouchi's battalion. Ammunition was expended at a lower rate than on the preceding day. The Japanese War Ministry reported no significant change since nightfall on 03 August. Thereafter, the battlefield seemed to return to quiescence; Japanese morale was high. In the press abroad, Changkufeng attracted overriding attention. The world was no longer talking of "border affrays." Three-column headlines on page 1 of the New York Times announced: "Soviet Hurls Six Divisions and 30 Tanks into Battle with Japanese on Border, 2 Claims Conflict, Tokyo Reports Victory in Manchukuo and Foes' Big Losses, Moscow Asserts It Won." The startling claim that six Soviet divisions were in action seemed to have been supplied for external consumption by Hsinking as well as Seoul. According to Nakamura Bin, the Russians employed 4,000 to 5,000 men supported by 230 tanks. Although Japanese casualties were moderate, Soviet artillery bombardment had stripped the hills of their lush summer grass. According to the uninformed foreign press, "the meager information showed both sides were heavily armed with the most modern equipment. The Russians were using small, fast tanks and the Japanese apparently were forewarned of this type of weapon and were well supplied with batteries of armor-piercing antitank guns." On 03 August the Russians lost 200 men, 15 tanks, and 25 light artillery pieces. One feature of the fighting was Japanese use of "thousands of flares" to expose fog-shrouded enemy ranks during a Soviet night attack. During the "first phase counteroffensive" by the Russians on 2–3 August, the 75th Regiment judged that the enemy's choice of opportunities for attacking was "senseless"; once they started, they continued until an annihilating blow was dealt. "We did not observe truly severe attacking capacity, such as lightning breakthroughs." With respect to tactical methods, the Japanese noted that Soviet offensive deployment was characterized by depth, which facilitated piecemeal destruction. When Russian advance elements suffered losses, replacements were moved up gradually. Soviet artillery fired without linkage to the front-line troops, nor was there liaison between the ground attacks staged in the Shachaofeng and Hill 52 sectors. Since enemy troops fought entirely on their own, they could be driven off in one swoop. Additionally, although 20–30 Russian tanks appeared during the counterattacks, their cooperation with the infantry was clumsy, and the armor was stopped. Soviet use of artillery in mobile warfare was "poorness personified." "Our troops never felt the least concern about hostile artillery forces, which were quite numerous. Even privates scoffed at the incapability of Russian artillery." It seemed that "those enemies who had lost their fighting spirit had the habit of fleeing far." During the combat between 31 July and 03 August, the defeated Russians appeared to fear pursuit and dashed all the way back to Kozando, "although we did not advance even a step beyond the boundary." On 4 August Suetaka prepared a secret evaluation: the enemy attacks by day and night on 2 August were conducted by front-line corps built around the 40th Rifle Division. "In view of the failure of those assaults, the foe is bound to carry out a more purposeful offensive effort, using newly arrived corps reinforcements." Russian actions on 02 August had been the most serious and persistent offensive efforts undertaken since the outset of the incident, but they were about the last by the front-line corps whose immediate jurisdiction lay in the region of the incident. Consequently, the enemy's loss of morale as a result of their defeat on 30–31 July, combined with their lack of unity in attack power, caused the attacks to end in failure. "We must be prepared for the fact that enemy forces will now mount a unified and deliberate offensive, avoiding rash attacks in view of their previous reversal, since large new corps are coming up." I would like to take this time to remind you all that this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Please go subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry after that, give my personal channel a look over at The Pacific War Channel at Youtube, it would mean a lot to me. In the shadowed night, Japan's Sato chose Nakano's 75th to seize a peak, sending five captains and a rising Nakajima into darkness. At 2:15 a.m., they breached wires and climbed the slope; dawn lit a hard-won crest, then Hill 52 and Shachaofeng yielded to resolve and fire. The day wore on with brutal artillery, fluttering bombers, and relentless clashes. By August's edge, casualties mounted on both sides, yet Japanese regiments held fast, repelling night assaults with grit. 

5 Dinge, die wir dieses Jahr gelernt haben ❤️In dieser Folge von Ungeduldig & Ratlos sprechen wir ehrlich über fünf Learnings, die uns geprägt haben. Von Zeit allein und Solo Trips bis weniger vergleichen, von back to school bis Minimalismus auf 15 Quadratmetern und besseren Ordnungsroutinen. Das Ganze mitten aus unserem Leben in Seoul, inklusive kleiner Anekdoten, die hängen bleiben.Was dich erwartet:✨ Zeit allein genießen, Solo Momente und warum Tokio solo plötzlich Spaß macht✨ Zurück an die Uni, offen darüber reden und neue Wege erlauben✨ Vergleichen loslassen, Abstand gewinnen und aufs eigene Tempo achten✨ Weniger besitzen, 15 m² Alltag, bewusst aussortieren und nur Lieblinge behalten✨ Ordnung und Systeme, Mülltrennung meistern und Chaos schneller drehen✨ Bonus: kleine Beziehungsfacts zwischen Snoring Humor und Verpackungen, die nie sauber aufgehen

Mu'awiya Said Abdullahi, ya yi karatu ne a fannin zanen gidaje da kuma tsara birane. An haifeshi ne a garin Kaduna, sannan iyayensa Lauyoyi ne. Ya fara digirinsa ne daga jami'ar Ahmadu Bello ta Zaria, ya kuma kammala a daya daga jami'o'in kasar Malaysia. Yayi digirinsa na biyu da na uku a Korea ta Kudu, inda yanzu haka ya ke aiki a matsayin shugaban bangaren kula da bangaren tsara biranen kasashen waje a wani babban kamfani a kasar ta Koriya ta Kudu mai suna WithWorks da ke birnin Seoul.

Send us your feedback — we're listeningIsaiah 26:3 — Peace for Overwhelm in the Final Days Before Christmas From London to New York, from Johannesburg to Dubai, from Seoul to Toronto — we pray for supernatural peace as the pressure of Christmas rapidly approaches. Isaiah 26:3 — “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” John 14:27 — “My peace I give you… Do not let your hearts be troubled.” In the final stretch before Christmas, global searches rise sharply around overwhelm, emotional pressure, racing thoughts and fear of not coping. Isaiah 26:3 becomes one of the most-accessed scriptures for calm, mental stillness and spiritual grounding. Prayer  Father, in the mighty name of Jesus, we bring every listener who feels overwhelmed tonight. Calm the mind that is overloaded with tasks, responsibilities, deadlines and emotional strain. Bring peace to those who feel stretched thin, exhausted or unable to keep up with the season's demands. Lord, steady anxious thoughts, slow the racing heart and quiet the unrest within. Lift the pressure from those who fear disappointing others. Let Your perfect peace guard their mind and settle their spirit. Replace fear with trust, chaos with order, and exhaustion with renewed strength. Jesus, centre our hearts on You alone — the Prince of Peace who carries us when we cannot carry ourselves. Prayer Points peace for overwhelm, isaiah 26:3 prayer, christmas stress relief, calm mind prayer, anxiety before christmas, jesus my peace Life Application  Speak Isaiah 26:3 aloud and pause for one minute of stillness. Let God steady your breath, calm your thoughts and anchor you in His peace. Declaration I declare perfect peace fills my mind, and my heart is steady in Jesus. Call to Action Share this prayer with someone feeling overwhelmed this week.24-Hour Arc ConnectorPrevious: —This Episode: 12 A.M. — Peace for OverwhelmNext: 3 A.M. — Healing for Winter FatigueThank you for praying with us today. For more daily devotion, follow us on all social platforms at DailyPrayer.uk. Support this listener-funded ministry for £3 a month: https://buymeacoffee.com/reverendbencooperisaiah 26 prayer, overwhelmed at christmas, perfect peace prayer, christian calming prayer, reverend ben cooper, dailyprayer.ukSupport the showFor more inspiring content, visit RBChristianRadio.net — your home for daily devotionals, global prayer, and biblical encouragement for every season of life. We invite you to connect with our dedicated prayer hub at DailyPrayer.uk — a place where believers from every nation unite in prayer around the clock. If you need prayer, or would like to leave a request, this is the place to come. Our mission is simple: to pray with you, to stand with you, and to keep the power of prayer at the centre of everyday life. Your support through DailyPrayer.uk helps us continue sharing the gospel and covering the nations in prayer. You can also discover our ministry services and life celebrations at LifeCelebrant.net — serving families with faith, dignity, and hope. If this devotional blesses you, please consider supporting our listener-funded mission by buying us a coffee through RBChristianRadio.net. Every prayer, every gift, and every share helps us keep broadcasting God's Word to the world.

Pope Leo appoints Richard Moth as the 12th Archbishop of Westminster in the United Kingdom. Meanwhile, the Archbishop of Seoul previews what's ahead for young pilgrims at World Youth Day 2027. And, we learn more about Saint Alfonso's Christmas song for the shepherds of Italy.

Fluent Fiction - Korean: A Heartfelt Christmas Under Seoul's Snowy Spell Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ko/episode/2025-12-19-08-38-20-ko Story Transcript:Ko: 서울의 겨울은 춥다.En: Winter in Seoul is cold.Ko: 하지만 크리스마스가 다가오면 도시 전체가 따뜻해진다.En: However, as Christmas approaches, the entire city warms up.Ko: 지호는 크리스마스를 좋아하지 않는다.En: Jiho does not like Christmas.Ko: 하지만 그의 여동생 민서에게는 특별한 날이기 때문에 예외다.En: But for his younger sister Minseo, it is an exception because it is a special day.Ko: 지호는 항상 조용하며 생각이 많다.En: Jiho is always quiet and thoughtful.Ko: 그는 여동생 민서를 돌보느라 자신의 꿈을 포기했다.En: He gave up his dreams to take care of his sister Minseo.Ko: 민서는 만성 호흡기 질환으로 고생하고 있다.En: Minseo suffers from chronic respiratory disease.Ko: 그럼에도 그녀는 밝고 낙관적이다.En: Despite this, she is bright and optimistic.Ko: 민서의 소원은 지호와 함께 행복한 크리스마스를 보내는 것이다.En: Minseo's wish is to spend a happy Christmas with Jiho.Ko: 겨울이 되면 지호는 고민이 깊어진다.En: In winter, Jiho's worries deepen.Ko: 민서의 치료비는 점점 더 많이 든다. 그리고 크리스마스 준비도 해야 한다.En: Minseo's medical bills keep rising, and he also needs to prepare for Christmas.Ko: 그는 민서의 크리스마스 소원을 이루어주고 싶다.En: He wants to make Minseo's Christmas wish come true.Ko: 그래서 지호는 추가로 아르바이트를 한다.En: So Jiho takes on additional part-time jobs.Ko: 그리고 밤마다 몰래 스케치를 그려 판다.En: At night, he secretly draws sketches and sells them.Ko: 그렇게 번 돈으로 민서의 치료비와 작은 크리스마스 선물을 준비한다.En: With the money he earns, he prepares for Minseo's treatment and a small Christmas present.Ko: 드디어 크리스마스 이브가 되었다.En: Finally, Christmas Eve arrives.Ko: 지호는 민서를 데리고 남산 한옥마을에 간다.En: Jiho takes Minseo to Namsan Hanok Village.Ko: 고요한 한옥마을은 눈으로 덮여있다.En: The quiet hanok village is covered with snow.Ko: 길에는 반짝이는 불빛들이 걸려 있다.En: Sparkling lights hang along the path.Ko: 한옥 지붕 위로 하얀 눈이 내려 고즈넉하고 아름답다.En: The white snow falls on the rooftops of the hanok, making it serene and beautiful.Ko: 민서는 큰 눈망울을 떼지 못하고 지호의 손을 꼭 잡는다.En: Minseo cannot take her wide eyes off the scene and holds Jiho's hand tightly.Ko: 지호는 민서에게 선물을 건넨다.En: Jiho hands Minseo a present.Ko: 작은 포장지 안에는 그가 그린 그림이 들어 있다.En: Inside the small wrapping is a drawing he made.Ko: 남산 한옥마을을 배경으로 지호와 민서가 웃고 있는 모습이다.En: It depicts Namsan Hanok Village in the background with Jiho and Minseo smiling.Ko: 민서는 눈물을 글썽인다.En: Minseo's eyes well up with tears.Ko: "오빠, 정말 고마워. 나 너무 행복해."En: "Oppa, thank you so much. I'm so happy."Ko: 눈은 계속 내린다.En: The snow continues to fall.Ko: 지호는 민서를 안아준다.En: Jiho embraces Minseo.Ko: 마음 깊숙한 곳에서 처음으로 작은 행복을 느낀다.En: For the first time, he feels a small happiness deep within his heart.Ko: 단순한 순간이지만, 지호는 그것이 얼마나 소중한지 깨닫게 된다.En: Although it is a simple moment, Jiho realizes how precious it is.Ko: 그는 민서의 행복한 모습을 보며 자신도 꿈을 이룰 수 있겠다는 희망을 품는다.En: Seeing Minseo's happy face, he finds hope that he, too, can achieve his dreams.Ko: 크리스마스의 밤, 지호는 하늘을 올려다보며 속삭인다.En: On Christmas night, Jiho looks up at the sky and whispers.Ko: "민서를 위해서, 그리고 나를 위해서."En: "For Minseo, and for myself."Ko: 지호와 민서는 눈 속에서 행복한 순간을 공유한다. 크리스마스의 시대를 초월한 동화 속에서처럼.En: Jiho and Minseo share a happy moment in the snow, like a story from a timeless Christmas fairy tale. Vocabulary Words:approaches: 다가오다exception: 예외thoughtful: 생각이 많다chronic: 만성respiratory: 호흡기optimistic: 낙관적worries: 고민treatment: 치료sketches: 스케치depicts: 묘사하다serene: 고즈넉하다embraces: 안아주다precious: 소중하다timeless: 시대를 초월한struggle: 고생하다unwrap: 포장을 풀다expenses: 비용secretly: 몰래illuminated: 밝히다path: 길fairy tale: 동화whispers: 속삭이다eternal: 영원하다gaze: 바라보다radiant: 광채delicate: 섬세하다compassion: 연민determined: 결심하다fulfill: 이루다cherish: 소중히 여기다

Send us your feedback — we're listeningHebrews 13:3 — Prayer for the Persecuted Church: Strength, Courage, Protection and Endurance for Believers in Hostile Lands. From London to Abuja, from Seoul to Buenos Aires, from Warsaw to Kuala Lumpur — we stand with the persecuted church across the nations. Hebrews 13:3 — “Continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them… and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.” 2 Corinthians 4:9 — “Persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” Persecution searches spike sharply every December as global believers look for strength under pressure. Underground Christians face imprisonment, surveillance, violence and social isolation. Hebrews 13:3 remains the most-accessed persecuted-church scripture worldwide. Prayer  Father, in the name of Jesus, we lift our persecuted family who worship in whispers, gather in secret and follow Christ under threat. Strengthen believers in North Korea, Eritrea, Pakistan and Laos. Protect those hiding Scripture, those watched by authorities, and those suffering for declaring the name of Jesus. Surround the imprisoned with Your presence. Empower pastors leading underground fellowships. Give families courage, provision and supernatural endurance. Let the gospel advance in lands where darkness tries to silence faith. Lord, shield Your people with holy fire. Let hope rise where fear tries to rule, and let every persecuted believer know they are not alone today. Prayer prayer for persecuted church, underground believers, imprisoned Christians, courage under pressure, gospel endurance, global church unity Life Application  Pause today and pray for a specific persecuted nation. Your intercession strengthens believers who cannot speak openly, yet stand faithfully. Declaration We declare: Christ is building His church and the gates of hell will not prevail. Call to Action Share this prayer with someone who carries a heart for mission and global intercession. 24-Hour Arc ConnectorPrevious: 5 A.M. — Healing from Stress SymptomsThis Episode: 9 A.M. — Faith Under FireNext: 12 P.M. — Healing for Seasonal Illness and Physical Weakness Thank you for praying with us today. For more daily devotion, follow us on all social platforms at DailyPrayer.uk. Support this listener-funded ministry for £3 a month: https://buymeacoffee.com/reverendbencooperhebrews 13:3 prayer, persecuted church prayer, fSupport the showFor more inspiring content, visit RBChristianRadio.net — your home for daily devotionals, global prayer, and biblical encouragement for every season of life. We invite you to connect with our dedicated prayer hub at DailyPrayer.uk — a place where believers from every nation unite in prayer around the clock. If you need prayer, or would like to leave a request, this is the place to come. Our mission is simple: to pray with you, to stand with you, and to keep the power of prayer at the centre of everyday life. Your support through DailyPrayer.uk helps us continue sharing the gospel and covering the nations in prayer. You can also discover our ministry services and life celebrations at LifeCelebrant.net — serving families with faith, dignity, and hope. If this devotional blesses you, please consider supporting our listener-funded mission by buying us a coffee through RBChristianRadio.net. Every prayer, every gift, and every share helps us keep broadcasting God's Word to the world.

Send us your feedback — we're listeningPsalm 46:1 — Global Nations Prayer for Protection, Stability, Healing and God's Intervention Amid Worldwide Crisis. From London to Tel Aviv, from Caracas to Seoul, from Khartoum to Port-au-Prince — we lift the nations in turmoil before the Lord. Psalm 46:1 — “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” 2 Chronicles 20:12 — “We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.” THE FOUR ROTATED CRISIS NATIONS  Haiti — escalating gang violence, humanitarian emergency, severe instabilit South Sudan — conflict, displacement, severe hunger, weather-driven crisis Lebanon — deep economic collapse, political paralysis, regional pressure Bangladesh — devastating flooding, displacement, climate-related dangersGlobal searches today show increased anxiety around war zones, political upheaval, humanitarian collapse and climate disasters. Psalm 46:1 is one of the most-searched scriptures when people look for stability and intervention from God in uncontrollable events. Prayer  Father, in the mighty name of Jesus, we lift Haiti, South Sudan, Lebanon and Bangladesh before You. Stretch out Your hand over these lands where fear, instability, hunger and uncertainty rise daily. Bring peace where violence speaks louder than hope. Strengthen communities torn by disaster and conflict. Protect families fleeing danger and those trapped in crisis. Raise leaders who pursue justice, healing and restoration. Provide aid, safety, clean water, medical care and shelter. Let Your presence break into places overshadowed by darkness. Lord, be refuge for the weary, strength for the vulnerable and hope for those who feel forgotten. We declare that no nation is beyond Your reach and no crisis too great for Your intervention. Prayer global nations prayer, Haiti crisis prayer, South Sudan peace prayer, Lebanon stability prayer, Bangladesh flooding prayer, Psalm 46:1 devotional Life Application  Pray for one nation today. Speak Psalm 46:1 over its leaders, families and communities and ask God to intervene where human strength has ended. Declaration We declare the Lord is the refuge and strength of every nation in crisis. Call to Action Share this prayer with someone who carries a burden for world events. 24-Hour Arc ConnectorThank you for praying with us today. For more daily devotion, follow us on all social platforms at DailyPrayer.uk. Support this listener-funded ministSupport the showFor more inspiring content, visit RBChristianRadio.net — your home for daily devotionals, global prayer, and biblical encouragement for every season of life. We invite you to connect with our dedicated prayer hub at DailyPrayer.uk — a place where believers from every nation unite in prayer around the clock. If you need prayer, or would like to leave a request, this is the place to come. Our mission is simple: to pray with you, to stand with you, and to keep the power of prayer at the centre of everyday life. Your support through DailyPrayer.uk helps us continue sharing the gospel and covering the nations in prayer. You can also discover our ministry services and life celebrations at LifeCelebrant.net — serving families with faith, dignity, and hope. If this devotional blesses you, please consider supporting our listener-funded mission by buying us a coffee through RBChristianRadio.net. Every prayer, every gift, and every share helps us keep broadcasting God's Word to the world.

#korea #woodcutter #folktaleIn this story, a woodcutter watches some fairies play a game. When the game is done, he finds that centuries have passed. Will he fit in?Source: Korean Fairy Tales by William Elliot GriffisNarrator: Dustin SteichmannMusic: 자진뱃노래_3대의 가야금을 위한 민요앙상블Sound Effects: Arrowwood Rain by Dustin SteichmannPodcast Shoutout: Bewilderbeasts by M3Listener Shoutout: Balkh AfghanistanPhoto credit: "No Known Restrictions: 'Go-ban' Game in Seoul, Korea, 1904 (LOC)" by pingnews.com is marked with Public Domain Mark 1.0.

Send us your feedback — we're listeningPhilippians 4:7 — Healing for Stress Symptoms, Panic, Chest Tightness and Racing Thoughts Rising in This December Season From London to Seoul, from Lagos to Vancouver, from Dublin to Kuala Lumpur — a global 5 A.M. prayer within the DailyPrayer.uk 24-Hour Devotional Cycle. Scripture (NIV) Philippians 4:7 — “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Isaiah 26:3 — “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast.” Intro  December sees a major rise in searches for stress symptoms, chest tightness, panic, and emotional overload. Many fear their bodies are failing under pressure. This scripture is among the top global searches for calm, grounding and mental peace. Prayer  Father, in the mighty name of Jesus, we pray healing over every stressed mind and overwhelmed heart. Calm racing thoughts. Release the chest tightness that fear creates. Lift panic from the body and quiet the internal storm that feels uncontrollable. Replace spiralling thoughts with steady peace. Let the breath of God slow anxiety and bring holy order. Guard hearts from emotional shock. Guard minds from intrusive fear. Restore balance in the nervous system and bring strength into fragile places. Let Your peace — stronger than symptoms, louder than fear — stand as a shield around every listener today. We pray for healing in mind, body and emotions through the supernatural peace of God. Prayer Points prayer for stress healing, prayer for panic relief, prayer for peace of mind, prayer for calm breathing, prayer for emotional balance, prayer for clarity, prayer for protection Life Application Place your hand over your heart and speak Philippians 4:7 aloud. Invite God's peace to guard your emotions and guide your breathing today. Declaration I declare that God's peace guards my heart and mind today. Call to Action Share this prayer and visit DailyPrayer.uk for global devotional resources. 24-Hour Arc ConnectorPrevious: 3 A.M. — Peace for Night AnxietyThis Episode: 5 A.M. — Healing for Stress and Panic SymptomsNext: 9 A.M. — Faith Under Fire (Persecuted Church)social platforms at DailyPrayer.uk.Support this listener-funded ministry for £3 a month:https://buymeacoffee.com/reverendbencooperphilippians 4:7, stress healing prayer, panic attack prayer, chest tightness prayer, peace of God, reSupport the showFor more inspiring content, visit RBChristianRadio.net — your home for daily devotionals, global prayer, and biblical encouragement for every season of life. We invite you to connect with our dedicated prayer hub at DailyPrayer.uk — a place where believers from every nation unite in prayer around the clock. If you need prayer, or would like to leave a request, this is the place to come. Our mission is simple: to pray with you, to stand with you, and to keep the power of prayer at the centre of everyday life. Your support through DailyPrayer.uk helps us continue sharing the gospel and covering the nations in prayer. You can also discover our ministry services and life celebrations at LifeCelebrant.net — serving families with faith, dignity, and hope. If this devotional blesses you, please consider supporting our listener-funded mission by buying us a coffee through RBChristianRadio.net. Every prayer, every gift, and every share helps us keep broadcasting God's Word to the world.

Send us your feedback — we're listeningLamentations 3:22–23 — Hope for the Coming New Year: A Global Prayer for Renewal, Fresh Mercy and God's Faithfulness for Tomorrow From London to Vancouver, from Dubai to Johannesburg, from Seoul to Buenos Aires — recorded live here in London, England — a global 10 P.M. prayer within the DailyPrayer.uk 24-Hour Devotional Cycle. Scripture (NIV) Lamentations 3:22–23 — “Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed… His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.” Isaiah 43:19 — “See, I am doing a new thing… I am making a way in the wilderness.” As the year closes, global searches rise around fear of the future, new beginnings and hope for the coming year. Lamentations 3:22–23 remains a leading scripture for renewal, reassurance and the promise of God's unfailing faithfulness. Prayer  Father, as we approach a new year, fill our hearts with hope and steady our minds with Your faithfulness. Lift the fear of the unknown and replace uncertainty with confidence in Your promises. Renew our strength, refresh our vision and guide our steps into the days ahead. Heal the disappointments of this year and breathe fresh courage into our spirit. Let new beginnings rise, new opportunities open and new peace settle over our lives. Thank You that Your mercies meet us every morning. Lead us into the coming year with joy, wisdom and bold trust in Your goodness. Great is Your faithfulness, today and forever. Prayer Points prayer for hope, prayer for renewal, prayer for guidance, prayer for courage, prayer for peace, prayer for new beginnings, prayer for trust Life Application  Speak Lamentations 3:22–23 today, reminding yourself that God's mercy meets you daily and His faithfulness carries you into the future. Declaration I declare that God's faithfulness leads me into a new year filled with hope and strength. Call to Action Share this prayer and visit DailyPrayer.uk for global devotional resources. 24-Hour Arc ConnectorPrevious: 9 A.M. — Persecuted Church PrayerThis Episode: 10 P.M. — Hope for the Coming New YearNext: 12 A.M. — Financial Peace Before Christmas (Cycle Reset)“Thank you for praying with us. For more daily devotion, follow us at dailyprayer.uk.” lamentations 3:22 prayer, new year hope prayer, christian prayer for renewal, god's faithfulness prayer, reverend ben cooper, dailyprayer.uk, global prayer podcastSupport Support the showFor more inspiring content, visit RBChristianRadio.net — your home for daily devotionals, global prayer, and biblical encouragement for every season of life. We invite you to connect with our dedicated prayer hub at DailyPrayer.uk — a place where believers from every nation unite in prayer around the clock. If you need prayer, or would like to leave a request, this is the place to come. Our mission is simple: to pray with you, to stand with you, and to keep the power of prayer at the centre of everyday life. Your support through DailyPrayer.uk helps us continue sharing the gospel and covering the nations in prayer. You can also discover our ministry services and life celebrations at LifeCelebrant.net — serving families with faith, dignity, and hope. If this devotional blesses you, please consider supporting our listener-funded mission by buying us a coffee through RBChristianRadio.net. Every prayer, every gift, and every share helps us keep broadcasting God's Word to the world.

Send us your feedback — we're listeningMatthew 11:28 — Strength for Winter Fatigue: A Global Prayer for Renewal, Energy and Rest for the Weary From London to Dubai, from Los Angeles to Nairobi, from Seoul to Lisbon — recorded live here in London, England — a global 12 P.M. prayer within the DailyPrayer.uk 24-Hour Devotional Cycle. Scripture (NIV) Matthew 11:28 — “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Isaiah 40:29 — “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.” Mid-December brings a worldwide surge in searches for exhaustion, burnout and winter fatigue. Matthew 11:28 remains one of the most-accessed verses for renewed strength, restored energy and emotional recovery as people reach the year's final stretch. Father, we bring our tired bodies, weary minds and heavy hearts before You. Breathe new strength into us today. Lift the fatigue that presses on our spirit and restore energy where we feel drained. Refresh our thoughts, renew our focus and steady our emotions. Replace heaviness with hope and discouragement with lightness. Help us to pause, breathe and receive the rest Jesus offers. Strengthen us to face the demands of this season with grace. Let Your presence revive every part of us — physically, emotionally and spiritually. Bring clarity to our decisions, peace to our pace and joy into our day. Thank You that strength rises again when we wait on You. Prayer Points prayer for renewal, prayer for energy, prayer for rest, prayer for emotional strength, prayer for clarity, prayer for calm, prayer for hope Life Application  Speak Matthew 11:28 today and intentionally slow your pace, letting God replenish your strength from the inside out. Declaration I declare that God renews my strength and restores my energy today. Call to Action Share this prayer and visit DailyPrayer.uk for global devotional resources. 24-Hour Arc ConnectorPrevious: 9 A.M. — Rest for Troubled SleepThis Episode: 12 P.M. — Strength for Winter FatigueNext: 6 P.M. — Global Nations Prayer (Haiti, Ukraine, Sudan, Philippines)“Thank you for praying with us. For more daily devotion, follow us at dailyprayer.uk.”matthew 11:28 prayer, winter fatigue prayer, strength for the weary, christian prayer for energy, reverend ben cooper, dailyprayer.uk, global prayer podcastSupport this listener-funded ministry for £3/month at: buymeacoffee.com/dailyprayerukSupport the showFor more inspiring content, visit RBChristianRadio.net — your home for daily devotionals, global prayer, and biblical encouragement for every season of life. We invite you to connect with our dedicated prayer hub at DailyPrayer.uk — a place where believers from every nation unite in prayer around the clock. If you need prayer, or would like to leave a request, this is the place to come. Our mission is simple: to pray with you, to stand with you, and to keep the power of prayer at the centre of everyday life. Your support through DailyPrayer.uk helps us continue sharing the gospel and covering the nations in prayer. You can also discover our ministry services and life celebrations at LifeCelebrant.net — serving families with faith, dignity, and hope. If this devotional blesses you, please consider supporting our listener-funded mission by buying us a coffee through RBChristianRadio.net. Every prayer, every gift, and every share helps us keep broadcasting God's Word to the world.

Ngày 12/12/2025, văn phòng tổng thống Hàn Quốc cho biết đã hồi hương 107 công dân từ Cam Bốt kể từ tháng 10/2025 vì bị tình nghi liên quan đến các mạng lưới lừa đảo trực tuyến. Trong khi đó, công luận Hàn Quốc vẫn chưa quên được hình ảnh 64 công dân đầu tiên bị còng tay, áp giải khỏi máy bay thuê bao xuất phát từ Cam Bốt trở về Seoul sáng 18/10. Vụ hồi hương hàng loạt này diễn ra chỉ vài tháng sau khi một sinh viên Hàn Quốc được phát hiện tử vong ở khu vực núi Bokor, Cam Bốt, buộc thứ trưởng Ngoại Giao Hàn Quốc phải bay khẩn sang Phnom Penh. Cùng thời điểm, Mỹ và Anh đồng loạt áp đặt trừng phạt đối với các tập đoàn và các tội phạm đang hoạt động tại Cam Bốt với cáo buộc dính líu đến mạng lưới tội phạm xuyên quốc gia. Sự việc không chỉ là khủng hoảng bảo hộ công dân, mà còn là hồi chuông cảnh báo về quy mô quốc tế của các tổ chức lừa đảo đang hoành hành tại Đông Nam Á. Những người bị dẫn độ này là nạn nhân hay tội phạm ? Họ là ai ? Tại sao chính phủ Hàn Quốc lại chậm trễ trong việc bảo vệ công dân ? Thông tín viên Trần Công tại Seoul cho biết thêm : Thứ trưởng Ngoại Giao Hàn Quốc đã phải sang Phnom Penh ngày 16/10/2025, bày tỏ quan ngại với chính phủ Cam Bốt sau những vụ công dân Hàn Quốc bị hành hung đến chết tại đất nước Đông Nam Á này, đồng thời đề nghị hợp tác hai bên để chấm dứt tình trạng công dân Hàn Quốc bị lừa đảo tại Cam Bốt. Những người Hàn bị lừa sang Cam Bốt là ai ? Trần Công : Phần lớn người Hàn bị lừa sang Cam Bốt trong các đường dây lừa đảo trực tuyến là người trẻ tuổi, thất nghiệp hoặc đang tìm việc làm ở nước ngoài. Họ bị dụ dỗ qua mạng xã hội với lời hứa “việc nhẹ, lương cao” trong lĩnh vực marketing, đầu tư tiền ảo, hoặc chăm sóc khách hàng quốc tế, được bao vé máy bay và ăn ở miễn phí. Kênh liên lạc chính thường là Telegram, các thông tin như vé máy bay, địa điểm ăn ở đều được trao đổi trên kênh này. Cá biệt có một số nạn nhân bị dụ dỗ sang Cam Bốt vì mối tình trên mạng và hẹn gặp nhau tại Cam Bốt. Khi đến Cam Bốt, họ bị tịch thu hộ chiếu, điện thoại và bị giam trong các khu phức hợp do tổ chức tội phạm điều hành, chủ yếu là những nhóm người Trung Quốc, Hàn Quốc gốc Hoa hoặc Cam Bốt gốc Hoa. Một số nạn nhân bị ép làm việc trong các hệ thống lừa đảo qua mạng, giả danh công tố viên, hoặc điều hành sàn đầu tư ảo. Còn những người không hợp tác thì bị đánh đập, bán cho nhóm khác hoặc buộc lao động nặng nhọc. Riêng đối với phụ nữ, họ cũng bị ép sản xuất các nội dung người lớn để dụ dỗ xin tiền và lừa đảo trên mạng. Tại sao lại có nhiều người Hàn Quốc bị lừa ? Tình trạng người Hàn bị lừa sang Cam Bốt xuất phát từ sự kết hợp giữa khủng hoảng việc làm trong nước và hoạt động chiêu dụ tinh vi của các tổ chức tội phạm quốc tế. Sau đại dịch, nhiều thanh niên Hàn Quốc rơi vào cảnh thất nghiệp hoặc nợ nần, dễ tin vào quảng cáo “việc nhẹ, lương cao tại nước ngoài”. Các băng nhóm tội phạm, phần lớn do người Trung Quốc cầm đầu, lập công ty giả trên mạng xã hội, đăng tuyển nhân viên cho “dự án đầu tư, marketing, tiền ảo, dịch vụ khách hàng toàn cầu”. Họ cung cấp vé máy bay và visa du lịch, khiến nạn nhân tin rằng đây là công việc hợp pháp. Một số khác thì lại bị chính đồng hương tiếp cận với mục đích tuyển phiên dịch, buôn bán hàng thanh lý tại Cam Bốt, nhưng khi tới nơi thì bị bán cho các đối tượng lừa đảo ngay lập tức. Tại sao chính quyền Hàn Quốc để tình trạng này diễn ra quá lâu và mới chỉ can thiệp gần đây ? Việc xử lý chậm trễ các vụ người Hàn bị lừa và giam giữ tại Cam Bốt bắt nguồn từ nhiều nguyên nhân chính trị, hành chính và cả yếu tố khách quan từ phía Cam Bốt, kéo dài suốt hai nhiệm kỳ tổng thống. Dưới thời chính phủ Yoon Suk Yeol (2022-2025), trọng tâm chính sách đối ngoại nghiêng về Mỹ và Nhật Bản, khiến các vấn đề nhân đạo tại Đông Nam Á bị xem nhẹ. Bộ Ngoại Giao Hàn Quốc hai lần đề nghị tăng thêm cảnh sát thường trú tại Đại sứ quán Hàn Quốc ở Phnom Penh, nhưng bộ Hành Chính và An Ninh trong nước từ chối với lý do “hạn chế nhân sự”. Đây cũng có thể là một nguyên nhân dẫn đến số vụ bắt cóc và giam giữ người Hàn tại Cam Bốt tăng gấp 10 lần chỉ trong một năm. Sau khi tổng thống Lee Jae Myung nhậm chức giữa năm 2025, Hàn Quốc mới bắt đầu tái triển khai lực lượng, nâng cảnh báo du lịch và mở điều tra đặc biệt về mạng lưới buôn người. Tuy nhiên, khoảng trống chính sách và sự chồng chéo giữa các bộ ngành trong giai đoạn chuyển giao quyền lực đã khiến hàng trăm vụ việc bị đình trệ. Bên cạnh đó, Cam Bốt bị cáo buộc là môi trường dung túng cho tội phạm có tổ chức. Nhiều khu phức hợp như Prince Complex, Mango, Dara Sakor... nằm dưới sự bảo kê của các doanh nhân và quan chức thân cận với chính quyền, khiến việc điều tra quốc tế gặp nhiều cản trở. Cảnh sát Hàn Quốc không được phép trực tiếp điều tra tại Cam Bốt, còn phía Cam Bốt thường trì hoãn phản hồi, che giấu thông tin hoặc thả nghi phạm có quan hệ chính trị. Đỉnh điểm của vụ việc là một công dân Hàn Quốc đã bị hành hung đến chết tại Cam Bốt vào tháng 08/2025. Sau đó, thứ trưởng bộ Ngoại Giao Hàn Quốc Kim Jin Ah dẫn đầu phái đoàn liên bộ (bao gồm bộ Ngoại Giao, Cơ quan Cảnh sát Quốc gia, bộ Tư Pháp và Cơ quan Tình báo Quốc gia) thăm và làm việc tại Cam Bốt từ ngày 15-16/10/2025. Trong chuyến thăm, bà Kim đã gặp thủ tướng Cam Bốt Hun Manet, bày tỏ quan ngại sâu sắc về tình trạng công dân Hàn Quốc bị lừa đảo, giam giữ và sát hại, đồng thời yêu cầu tăng cường hợp tác điều tra, hồi hương nạn nhân và trấn áp tội phạm mạng. Hai bên thống nhất thành lập “Tổ công tác chung Hàn Quốc - Cam Bốt” (Joint Task Force - TF) để phối hợp phản ứng nhanh tại hiện trường. Ngoài ra, bà Kim đề nghị chia sẻ hồ sơ pháp y, kết quả điều tra vụ công dân Hàn Quốc tử vong ở Kampot, hỗ trợ hoàn tất thủ tục pháp lý, hỏa táng và hồi hương thi hài, cũng như bảo đảm an toàn cho người Hàn đang sinh sống tại Cam Bốt. Vụ việc hiện được quan tâm như thế nào và có đánh động được công luận ở Hàn Quốc không ? Sau vụ 64 người Hàn bị hồi hương từ Cam Bốt ngày 18/10/2025, dư luận Hàn Quốc đang đặc biệt quan tâm đến quy mô thật sự của mạng lưới lừa đảo và buôn người tại Đông Nam Á. Các bản tin trên KBS, MBC và Yonhap đều cho rằng đây là “cuộc hồi hương nghi phạm lớn nhất trong lịch sử”, đồng thời đặt nghi vấn về sự tắc trách của chính phủ tiền nhiệm. Tổng thống Lee Jae Myung đã ra chỉ thị trực tiếp cho bộ Ngoại Giao và Cảnh sát Quốc gia “mở điều tra toàn diện về người Hàn bị giam giữ, mất tích và tử vong tại Cam Bốt”. Một tổ công tác đặc biệt gồm cảnh sát, công tố và chuyên gia tài chính đã được thành lập để truy vết dòng tiền của các tổ chức lừa đảo xuyên biên giới. Tại Quốc Hội, nhiều nghị sĩ yêu cầu điều trần về trách nhiệm của bộ Hành Chính và An ninh trong thời chính phủ Yoon Suk Yeol, khi cơ quan này từng từ chối tăng nhân lực cảnh sát tại Phnom Penh dù tội phạm tăng mạnh. Trên mạng xã hội Hàn Quốc, từ khóa “giải cứu Cam Bốt” và “64 người hồi hương” liên tục đứng đầu xu hướng tìm kiếm. Nhiều người kêu gọi chính phủ tăng cường bảo hộ công dân và trừng trị nghiêm khắc những kẻ tiếp tay cho tội phạm quốc tế, xem đây là “bài học xương máu về khủng hoảng công dân ở nước ngoài”. Những người bị cáo buộc là “nhà tuyển dụng”, “tội phạm” bị xét xử như thế nào ở Hàn Quốc ? Sau vụ 64 người Hàn Quốc bị hồi hương từ Cam Bốt ngày 18/10/2025, toàn bộ những người này đều bị coi là nghi phạm hình sự, chứ không chỉ đơn thuần là người được đưa về nước. Do máy bay thuê bao KE9689 mang quốc kỳ Hàn Quốc được xem là lãnh thổ Hàn Quốc, cảnh sát đã thi hành lệnh bắt giữ ngay khi máy bay cất cánh. Theo Yonhap, mỗi nghi phạm bị 2 cảnh sát áp giải ngay trên máy bay. Khi hạ cánh tại sân bay Incheon, toàn bộ 64 người bị còng tay, chia thành nhóm và đưa về 5 đồn cảnh sát trung ương để thẩm vấn theo Luật Hình sự và Luật đặc biệt về tội phạm mạng - tài chính. Theo Cơ quan Cảnh sát Quốc gia (NPA), các nghi phạm được phân loại thành ba nhóm : Nạn nhân bị cưỡng bức - được xem là nạn nhân của tội buôn người nếu có bằng chứng bị giam giữ, tra tấn hoặc tịch thu hộ chiếu; nhóm người này được bảo vệ, hỗ trợ tâm lý và không bị truy tố ; Đồng phạm hoặc “cố vấn” - những người chủ động tham gia, quản lý người khác hoặc hưởng lợi từ tiền lừa đảo; có thể bị phạt tù 10-20 năm và tịch thu tài sản; hiện đang bị giam tại Seoul, Nambu và Suwon ; Người tự đầu thú hoặc hợp tác phá án - 5 người tự ra trình diện được khoan hồng và giảm án nếu cung cấp thông tin hữu ích về mạng lưới tội phạm. Cảnh sát đang so khớp dữ liệu IP, tài khoản ngân hàng, và tin nhắn Telegram với hồ sơ của Interpol và cảnh sát Cam Bốt để xác định mức độ tham gia. Những ai có bằng chứng thao tác trực tiếp trong hoạt động lừa đảo (scam) sẽ bị truy tố hình sự, trong khi người bị cưỡng bức sẽ được xử lý theo Luật Bảo vệ nạn nhân buôn người. Bộ Tư Pháp Hàn Quốc đang xem xét mở rộng quyền xét xử ngoại lãnh thổ, cho phép truy tố tội phạm Hàn Quốc ở nước ngoài như phạm tội trong nước. Đây là một bước đi nhằm khép lại “vùng xám pháp lý” kéo dài nhiều năm qua.

The year winds down, but our maps are just getting interesting. After a warm reset in Florida, a birthday pilgrimage to Iceland, canyon time in West Texas, an Austin do-over, and a passport-stacking cruise, we took a hard look at what actually made 2025 travel feel good—and what didn't. The frenzy cooled, flight deals quietly returned, and a new mindset emerged: go with intention, spend smarter, and skip the crush.From that lens we reveal seven destinations we're excited about for 2026, all chosen with solo women in mind: Albania's affordable Riviera and rugged Alps, Taiwan's festival-rich culture and flawless transit, Uzbekistan's Silk Road splendor stitched together by high-speed rail, Poland's overlooked mix of medieval squares and Baltic breezes, Slovenia's lakes-and-Alps perfection anchored by walkable Ljubljana, South Korea's Seoul where palaces meet neon and late-night eats, and Mongolia's vast steppe, monasteries, and wild horses that reward guided exploration. Each pick balances safety, value, and texture, offering big experiences without elbowing through the usual lines.We also share why revenge travel finally ran out of steam, how to spot mistake fares without chasing noise, and when shoulder seasons stretch budgets while keeping the magic. If you're ready to trade overdone itineraries for places that still surprise, this guide is your green light. Listen to map your next move, then tell us where you're headed. Subscribe, share with a friend who travels solo, and leave a review with the destination you want us to tackle next.Support the showhttps://www.cherylbeckesch.com hello@cherylbeckesch.com Instagram @solotraveladventures50

Fluent Fiction - Korean: Blueprint of Dreams: Navigating Trust in Seoul's Startups Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ko/episode/2025-12-16-08-38-20-ko Story Transcript:Ko: 서울의 비즈니스 중심가에 있는 스타트업 인큐베이터는 언제나 활기가 넘쳤다.En: The startup incubator located in the business center of Seoul was always bustling with activity.Ko: 겨울의 차가운 바람이 창문을 두드리고 있었다.En: The cold winter wind was knocking on the windows.Ko: 그 안에서는 크리스마스 조명이 따뜻한 빛을 발하며 반짝이고 있었다.En: Inside, Christmas lights were shining warmly, twinkling.Ko: 작은 창고 같은 사무실에서, 준은 깊은 고민에 빠져 있었다.En: In a small, warehouse-like office, Jun was deeply lost in thought.Ko: 그의 프로젝트, 혁신적인 에너지 솔루션의 설계도가 사라졌기 때문이었다.En: His project's blueprint for an innovative energy solution had disappeared.Ko: 준은 사무실 한쪽 구석에서 긴장한 표정으로 서 있었다.En: Jun stood in one corner of the office, looking tense.Ko: 그의 아버지가 남긴 이상을 이룰 중대한 순간이었다.En: It was a crucial moment to realize the ideals his father had left behind.Ko: 하지만 그 설계도가 없으면 중요한 투자자 회의에 나갈 수 없었다.En: However, without the blueprint, he couldn't attend the important investor meeting.Ko: 시간은 얼마 남지 않았다.En: Time was running out.Ko: 준의 곁에는 항상 그를 이끄는 친구 민지가 있었다.En: Beside him was his friend Minji, who always guided him.Ko: 그녀는 항상 침착하고 논리적인 사고로 문제를 해결했다.En: She always solved problems with calm and logical thinking.Ko: 민지는 준을 바라보며 말했다. "준, 우리가 설계도를 어디서 마지막으로 봤는지 다시 생각해보자."En: Minji looked at him and said, "Let's think again about where we last saw the blueprint, Jun."Ko: 둘은 함께 사무실의 구석구석을 뒤졌다.En: Together, they searched every corner of the office.Ko: 하지만 설계도는 어디에도 없었다.En: But the blueprint was nowhere to be found.Ko: 바로 그때, 매력적인 투자자 서진이 들어왔다.En: Just then, the charming investor Seojin entered.Ko: 그는 항상 그럴싸한 미소를 지으며 모든 상황을 꿰뚫어보는 것 같았다.En: He always seemed to be able to see through every situation with a plausible smile.Ko: "무슨 문제라도 있나요?" 서진이 물었다.En: "Is there a problem?" Seojin asked.Ko: 준은 잠시 망설이다가 말했다. "설계도가 사라졌어요. 준비가 안 되면 회의가 헛될 거예요."En: Jun hesitated for a moment before saying, "The blueprint is gone. If I'm not prepared, the meeting will be pointless."Ko: 서진은 묘한 미소를 지었다. "분명히 찾을 수 있을 겁니다. 가끔은 가까운 곳에 있는 것들을 놓치기도 합니다."En: Seojin gave a mysterious smile. "I'm sure it can be found. Sometimes we overlook things that are close by."Ko: 준의 머릿속은 혼란스러웠다.En: Jun's mind was in turmoil.Ko: 서진은 무언가를 숨기고 있는 듯했다.En: Seojin seemed to be hiding something.Ko: 그는 누구를 믿어야 할지 혼란스러웠다.En: He was confused about whom to trust.Ko: 크리스마스의 시간은 그들의 긴장을 날카롭게 만들었다.En: The time of Christmas sharpened their tension.Ko: 마지막으로 실마리를 찾기 위해 둘은 사무실의 크리스마스 장식을 하나씩 살폈다.En: For a last clue, they inspected the Christmas decorations in the office one by one.Ko: 그때 준은 나무 아래 쌓인 선물들 사이에서 익숙한 종이 질감을 느꼈다.En: Just then, Jun felt the familiar texture of paper among the gifts stacked under the tree.Ko: 거기에 있던 것은 다름 아닌 설계도였다.En: What was there but the blueprint itself.Ko: 설계도를 들고 준은 손을 부들부들 떨었다.En: Holding the blueprint, Jun's hands trembled.Ko: 그는 서진을 마주쳤다.En: He faced Seojin.Ko: 서진은 여유로운 미소를 지으며 말했다. "당신이 설계도를 찾을 줄 알았습니다. 정말 근성이 대단하군요, 준."En: Seojin smiled leisurely and said, "I knew you would find the blueprint. Your perseverance is truly remarkable, Jun."Ko: 준은 혼란스러웠지만 곧 이를 깨달았다. "이건 내가 프로젝트에 얼마나 열정을 가지고 있는지 시험하기 위한 거였나요?"En: Jun was confused but soon realized, "Was this a test to see how passionate I am about the project?"Ko: 서진은 고개를 끄덕였다. "당신은 정말 준비되었습니다. 이제 투자를 받을 수 있을 겁니다."En: Seojin nodded. "You are truly prepared. Now you can receive the investment."Ko: 이로 인해 준은 중요한 교훈을 얻었다.En: Through this, Jun learned an important lesson.Ko: 그는 자신의 직감을 믿어야 했다. 그리고 팀워크의 중요성을 깨달았다.En: He had to trust his intuition and realized the importance of teamwork.Ko: 결국, 그는 자기 안에 있는 잠재력과 팀의 지지를 통해 더 나은 미래를 위해 나아갈 수 있었다.En: Ultimately, he was able to move toward a better future through the potential within himself and the support of his team.Ko: 크리스마스의 눈 내리는 날, 준의 꿈은 새롭게 시작되고 있었다.En: On a snowy Christmas day, Jun's dream was beginning anew. Vocabulary Words:incubator: 인큐베이터bustling: 활기가 넘쳤다blueprint: 설계도crucial: 중대한realize: 이룰investor: 투자자plausible: 그럴싸한hesitated: 망설이다가overlook: 놓치기도turmoil: 혼란스러웠다mysterious: 묘한perseverance: 근성remarkable: 대단하군요intuition: 직감teamwork: 팀워크potential: 잠재력advent: 시작되고tensely: 긴장한 표정으로logical: 논리적인inspected: 살폈다texture: 질감familiar: 익숙한perspective: 꿰뚫어보는distraught: 혼란스러웠다amiss: 문제라도enigma: 묘한meticulous: 구석구석recognizing: 깨달았다guidance: 이끄는aspirations: 이상

Fluent Fiction - Korean: Passion & Innovation: A Seoul Startup's Winter Gamble Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ko/episode/2025-12-16-23-34-02-ko Story Transcript:Ko: 추운 겨울날, 서울의 한 스타트업 인큐베이터는 활기차게 돌아가고 있었습니다.En: On a cold winter's day, a startup incubator in Seoul was bustling with energy.Ko: 창문으로 투영된 크리스마스 조명과 구석에 자리잡은 크리스마스 트리는 따뜻하고 희망적인 분위기를 만들어 냈습니다.En: The Christmas lights projected through the windows and a Christmas tree in the corner created a warm and hopeful atmosphere.Ko: 이곳에 모인 수많은 창업가와 투자자들 사이에서, 지수와 민호는 긴장된 마음으로 서 있었습니다.En: Among the numerous entrepreneurs and investors gathered there, Jisoo and Minho stood nervously.Ko: 지수는 혁신적인 기술 아이디어를 갖춘 결단력 있는 창업가입니다.En: Jisoo is a decisive entrepreneur with an innovative technical idea.Ko: 그녀는 마지막 기회일 수도 있는 이번 투자 프레젠테이션에 모든 것을 걸고 있었습니다.En: She was putting everything on the line for this investment presentation, which might be her last chance.Ko: 그녀의 옆에는 신중한 성격의 민호가 있었습니다.En: Next to her was the cautious Minho, who believed in Jisoo's idea but worried about whether this risky plan would lead to actual success.Ko: 프레젠테이션 시간이 다가왔습니다.En: The time for the presentation arrived.Ko: 지수는 아름다운 미소를 지으며 무대에 섰습니다.En: With a beautiful smile, Jisoo took the stage.Ko: "안녕하세요, 저는 지수입니다," 그녀는 말했습니다.En: "Hello, I am Jisoo," she said.Ko: “오늘 저와 민호는 우리의 혁신적인 기술을 소개하고자 합니다."En: “Today, Minho and I would like to introduce our innovative technology."Ko: 지수는 그녀의 열정적인 이야기를 시작했습니다.En: Jisoo began her passionate speech, sharing personal experiences about how technology could improve people's lives.Ko: 지수가 감정적으로 설명할 때, 그녀의 목소리에는 확신이 가득했습니다.En: As she explained emotionally, her voice was filled with conviction.Ko: 그 뒤를 이어, 민호는 재무 예측을 발표했습니다.En: Following her, Minho presented the financial projections.Ko: 그는 계획의 모든 세부 사항을 철저히 설명하며, 아이디어의 실질적인 가능성을 강조했습니다.En: He meticulously explained every detail of the plan and emphasized the practical potential of the idea.Ko: 그의 차분하고 이성적인 이야기는 투자자들의 신뢰를 얻었습니다.En: His calm and rational discourse gained the trust of the investors.Ko: 하지만, 이때 한 투자자가 질문을 던졌습니다.En: However, at that moment, an investor posed a question.Ko: “그런데 이 기술이 진정 실현 가능한가요?” 그는 의심스러운 눈빛으로 물었습니다.En: “But is this technology really feasible?” he asked with a doubtful look.Ko: 순간 방 안은 조용해졌습니다.En: The room fell silent for a moment.Ko: 지수는 잠시 멈췄다가, 깊게 숨을 들이쉬었습니다.En: Jisoo paused, took a deep breath.Ko: “실현 가능성은 도전입니다,” 지수는 조용히 대답했습니다.En: “Feasibility is a challenge,” Jisoo replied softly.Ko: “하지만 저는 이 프로젝트가 우리 모두에게 어떤 영향을 미칠 수 있는지 분명히 보입니다.En: “But I can clearly see the impact this project could have on all of us.Ko: 우리는 문제를 해결하고 사람들의 삶을 변화시킵니다.En: We solve problems and change people's lives.Ko: 그것이 우리의 비전이고, 그 실현을 위해 우리는 최선을 다할 것입니다.”En: That is our vision, and we will do our best to realize it.”Ko: 지수의 열정적인 말이 끝나자, 방 안은 다시 활기로 가득 찼습니다.En: Once Jisoo's passionate words ended, the room was filled with energy again.Ko: 투자자들은 서로 눈빛을 주고받으며 끄덕였습니다.En: The investors exchanged glances and nodded.Ko: 최종적인 결정 후, 그들은 지수와 민호에게 팔을 뻗었습니다.En: After their final decision, they reached out to Jisoo and Minho.Ko: “흥미롭습니다.En: “Interesting.Ko: 더 자세히 알아보고 싶습니다.En: We'd like to know more.Ko: 후속 회의를 요청합니다.”En: We request a follow-up meeting.”Ko: 프레젠테이션이 끝난 후 두 사람은 조용히 컵을 들어 건배했습니다.En: After the presentation, the two quietly raised their glasses in a toast.Ko: 지수는 자신의 열정을 실질적인 데이터와 융합할 수 있다는 걸 배웠고, 민호는 서서히 자신의 신중함에 대한 새로운 관점을 가지기 시작했습니다.En: Jisoo learned that she could merge her passion with practical data, and Minho started to gain a new perspective on his cautious nature.Ko: 크리스마스의 불빛은 두 사람의 얼굴을 환하게 비추고 있었습니다.En: The Christmas lights brightly illuminated their faces. Vocabulary Words:startup: 스타트업incubator: 인큐베이터bustling: 활기차게entrepreneur: 창업가decisive: 결단력 있는innovative: 혁신적인cautious: 신중한feasible: 실현 가능한doubtful: 의심스러운projection: 예측meticulously: 철저히discourse: 이야기rational: 이성적인conviction: 확신challenge: 도전vision: 비전potential: 가능성emphasized: 강조했습니다impact: 영향exchange: 주고받으며perspective: 관점passionate: 열정적인realize: 실현follow-up: 후속projection: 예측meticulously: 철저히discourse: 이야기innovative: 혁신적인calm: 차분하고practical: 실질적인

Last time we spoke about the battle over Changfukeng Hill. In the frost-bit dawn by the Chaun and Tumen, two empires faced a cliff of fate: Soviet and Japanese, each convinced that Changkufeng belonged to them. Diplomats urged restraint, yet Tokyo's generals brewed a daring plan, strike at night, seize the crest, then bargain. Sato and Suetaka debated risk and restraint, weighing "dokudan senko" against disciplined action as rain hissed on the ground. Night fell like velvet. Nakano, a quiet, meticulous regimental leader, gathered the 75th Regiment's veterans, choosing five fearless captains and a rising star, Nakajima, to carry the charge. Scouts and engineers moved ahead, weaving a fragile path across the Tumen: wire-cutters in the dark, signals humming softly, and the thunder of distant Soviet tanks rolling along the shore. At 02:15, after breaches breached and silent men slid through wire, the Japanese surged up the slopes with bayonets glinting, swords ready, and nerves as taut as steel. The crest lunged with savage resistance: grenades flashed, machine guns roared, and leaders fell. By 05:15, dawn broke, and the hill, Course of blood and courage, stood in Japanese hands.   #180 A premature Japanese Victory over Changkufeng Welcome to the Fall and Rise of China Podcast, I am your dutiful host Craig Watson. But, before we start I want to also remind you this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Perhaps you want to learn more about the history of Asia? Kings and Generals have an assortment of episodes on history of asia and much more  so go give them a look over on Youtube. So please subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry for some more history related content, over on my channel, the Pacific War Channel where I cover the history of China and Japan from the 19th century until the end of the Pacific War. On 31 July 1938, dawn seemed to indicate Changkufeng Hill was in Japanese hands. From his command post, Colonel Sato Kotoku, his regimental staff, and most of Hirahara's 3rd Battalion had been anxiously watching the progress of the 1st Battalion's operations since 12:30 on 31 July. Around 03:00, the Japanese infantry commanders issued "heroic orders to charge," audible above the withering fire. Sato expected the crest to fall in little more than an hour; when no signal shell burst over the hill, he grew apprehensive, praying for success with his heart breaking. A mile away on Hill 52, the troops could discern no voices, only gunfire and the spectacular glow of flares and tracers. As one soldier recalled "It was like fireflies," another soldier added "it was like a carnival". To Sasai, on the heights at Kucheng, it was, as he put it, "c'était un grand spectacle." By the way I think its one of the only times I've read a Japanese soldier using French, what he said translates to "it was a large spectacle", I am from Quebec so I speak baguette. The mist moved up Changkufeng Hill, and Japanese troops followed it, fighting for hours. Fearing Nakano's battalion might have been wiped out, Sato's staff prayed for fog. Sato later admitted, "By dawn we were failing to take our objectives."   At the base of Chiangchunfeng, Sato held the 6th Company in reserve, ready to attack Changkufeng from the left. He would have preferred not to commit it, given the danger of an accidental fire-fight with friendly forces. Nevertheless, as combat intensified, Sato decided to push the company into support of the 1st Battalion. After orders at 03:15, Ito moved toward the northwest side of Changkufeng. The Russians laid down heavy fire, especially from a well-placed machine-gun position on the far left. Ito's company, suffering heavy and needlessly casualties, had to hold near the middle of the slope. A runner was sent to the regimental command post requesting artillery support after dawn. By 04:30, Sato could discern the Changkufeng crest, where fierce close-quarters fighting raged between Japanese and Russians on the south edge, while the enemy continually sent reinforcements, troops followed by tanks, up the northern slope. Ito's company was visible on the western slope, bravely bearing a Japanese flag. 10-15 minutes later, grenade-discharger fire began to blast the Soviet positions. At 04:40, Ito, redeploying at dawn, observed elements of the 1st Company near the hill's summit. Contact was established with Inagaki's men. The Russians began to show signs of disarray under the grenade dischargers and the heavy weapons deployed by the reserve battalion at Chiangchunfeng. Thereupon Ito's company charged as well, capturing the northwest corner of Changkufeng roughly concurrently with the main body of the 1st Battalion under Sakata. Ito was wounded and evacuated; two sergeants were later cited in dispatches. Meanwhile, the 10th Company, led by Takeshita of the 3rd Battalion, was to conduct a separate night assault against fire points around Hill 24, about 1,000 meters north of Changkufeng. The aim was to disrupt Russian withdrawal along the slopes to the rear and to hinder reinforcements. At midnight, the company left the skirts of Chiangchunfeng in fog and darkness. Moving stealthily over the undulating terrain, they faced knee-deep bogs and tall vegetation. After evading sentries, they penetrated behind the enemy. By 02:00, five teams totaling 16 men under Sergeant Uchibori were ready to strike Hill 24. Takeshita led the charge from the right and overran the defenders by 02:20. The Russians, numbering 20 to 30 riflemen with one machine gun, fled toward Khasan, leaving four soldiers behind whom the Japanese bayoneted. Takeshita's company continued to consolidate Hill 24, awaiting counterattacks, which soon followed. At 04:00, eight tanks, with headlights on, launched an attack from the Shachaofeng sector, supported by an infantry company . Takeshita reinforced Uchibori's unit with assault teams; the Russian infantry were routed, and five tanks were knocked out. At dawn, about 100 Soviet troops were observed retreating from the direction of Changkufeng, surprised and mowed down by heavy and light machine guns at ranges of about 300 meters. At 06:30, the Soviets attacked again with an infantry battalion and a machine-gun company from north of Khasan. The Japanese allowed them to close, then concentrated the firepower of both infantry platoons plus heavy machine guns. After a 30-minute firefight with heavy casualties on the Soviet side, the Russians fell back. Again, at 07:10, the Soviets struck from the north of Khasan, this time with one company and five tanks. Russian infantry, supported by three tanks, pushed in front of the Japanese positions, but machine-gun and small-arms fire forced them to retreat eastward, the tanks being stopped 50 meters from the lines. Meanwhile, two Japanese enlisted men on patrol near the lake encountered armor; they attacked and, after taking casualties, returned with captured ammunition and equipment. One rapid-fire piece had been providing covering fire behind Takeshita's unit and opened fire on three tanks attacking north of Changkufeng, helping to stop them. As daybreak arrived, Takeshita's company cleared the battlefield, retrieved casualties, and reinforced the defenses. Then an order from the regiment transferred the main body to Changkufeng. Leaving one platoon at Hill 24, Takeshita came directly under Hirahara's command. Takeshita was later officially cited by the regiment. If Hill 52 fell, Changkufeng would be lost. The Russians understood the importance of this constricted sector as well. Their armor could swing south of Khasan, while the terrain to the north was boggier and could be made impassable by the field-artillery battery emplaced on the Korean side of the Tumen. To check hostile reinforcements into this vital region, Sato had dispatched an infantry element to Hill 52 early. Northward, he had 1st Lieutenant Hisatsune emplacement the two 75-millimeter mountain pieces belonging to his infantry gun battery, together with two of 2nd Lieutenant Saito's three 20-millimeter anti-tank guns and the two 37-millimeter infantry rapid-fire guns belonging to 2nd Lieutenant Kutsukake's battalion gun battery. At 23:00 on 30 July, in accord with Nakano's orders, Hisatsune moved these six guns to the ridgeline between Changkufeng and Hill 52. Apart from the guns to the left, defense of Hill 52 was entrusted to the experienced Master Sergeant Murakoshi Kimio, 2nd Platoon leader in Nakajima's company. After the Shachaofeng affair, Murakoshi was ordered to occupy the hill. Moving along the shore on 30 July, his unit encountered neither friendly nor hostile troops. The regimental records note that "some enemy unit came into the dip east of Hill 52 since morning on the 30th, and both sides were watching each other." Murakoshi deployed his three rifle squads, totaling 34 men. After Nakano's battalion jumped off on 31 July, the platoon observed not only the "fireworks display" but also Soviet motorized units with lights aglow, moving on high ground east of Khasan. Later, tanks could be heard clanking toward Hill 52. Around 04:00, Murakoshi organized anti-tank teams and sent them into action. Most accounts emphasize the anti-tank efforts, rather than the fire of Murakoshi's machine gunners. Three privates, carrying anti-tank mines, undertook daring assaults once the terrain obliged the Russian tanks to slow. They laid their mines, but the soil proved too soft, and the attempt failed. In the most publicized episode, Private First Class Matsuo, nicknamed a "human bullet," was badly wounded by machine-gun fire from a tank and knocked from the vehicle, but he managed to reboard with a satchel charge and, it is said, stop the tank at the cost of his life. The platoon leader and his remaining 20 men, having withdrawn 200 meters below their positions, poured torrents of fire at the infantry accompanying the tanks. Flames from the antitank mine assaults provided blazing targets. In concert with Hisatsune's six infantry guns emplaced on the Crestline southeast of Changkufeng, Murakoshi knocked out the remaining two tanks. When the tanks were immobilized, the Soviet troops did not press forward; exposed to Japanese fire, their losses mounted. By daybreak, the Russians had pulled back. Official records describe one Soviet company with four heavy machine guns, led by mounted officers. After hours of intense combat, Colonel Sato and his staff observed that all operations were succeeding by dawn. It was fortunate that Japanese units had posed a threat from the east; only then did the Russians begin to retreat. "But what an incomparably heroic first combat it had been… the scene at Changkufeng was sublime and inspiring. Private feelings were forgotten, and all bowed their heads in respect for the gallant fighting by matchless subordinates." As soon as Sato confirmed that Changkufeng had been occupied, he sent an aide to assess casualties. "When the colonel learned about the death of his capable and dependable officers," a lieutenant recalled, "he… murmured, 'Is that so?' and closed his eyes. The dew glistened on his lids." Meanwhile, in addition to the battle of annihilation at Changkufeng, Major Takenouchi of Okido's regiment was to conduct the dawn assault in the Shachaofeng area. His 1st Battalion and attached elements numbered 379 men; Kanda's company of the Kucheng Border Guard Unit added another 49. An engineer platoon was attached. At 18:00 on 30 July, Takenouchi issued his orders. According to that evening's regimental maps, north of Khasan were two battalions of Soviet infantry and 20 tanks. South of Shachaofeng, the Russians had entanglements and machine-gun nests, with additional emplacements to the rear, west of the lake, and armor moving south toward Changkufeng. Northwest of Shachaofeng lay the main body of Takenouchi's battalion. Signal lines connected his headquarters with Sato's command post. The only Soviet patrol activity noted, as of evening, was in the direction of Matsunobe. Around 02:00, machine guns chattered south of Changkufeng, signaling an increasing intensity of Sato's night assault. On Takenouchi's front, the Russians went on alert, firing illuminating shells and opening fire from the north side of Changkufeng. At 02:30, Matsunobe's unit finished breakfast and moved to the jump-off site. The terrain was difficult and there was considerable enemy tracer fire, but, thanks to effective reconnaissance, the force reached its destination without loss by 04:00. Matsunobe eliminated an outpost unit using rear-area scouts who struck from the rear and gave the enemy little opportunity to respond. Then the Japanese prepared for the main attack as they awaited daybreak. At 04:00, the supporting mountain artillery platoon took position between Matsunobe and Takenouchi. Throughout this period, the sounds of fighting grew more violent toward Changkufeng; machine guns were especially active. At 05:00, three enemy tanks could be seen moving up the northern slope of Changkufeng, but soon after news arrived that friendly forces had seized the crest. With sunrise imminent, the Japanese guns assumed their role. The longest-range support Takenouchi could expect was Narukawa's two 15-centimeter howitzers, emplaced across the Tumen north of Sozan. This battery took position at 04:20, after which the commander went to join Sato just behind the front. Several thousand meters of telephone line had been strung across the river, linking observation post and battery. Narukawa watched the fierce struggle at Changkufeng and prepared to support the dawn assault, while honoring the desperate effort of Ito's company for covering fire. Firing began at 05:10, though range data were not adequate. After little more than ten rounds, the enemy heavy machine guns on the Shachaofeng front subsided. A veteran artilleryman proudly remarked, "These were the first howitzer shells ever fired against the Soviet Army." At 05:20, Takenouchi's own heavy weapons added effective counterfire. Matsunobe and his company had crept to a line 150 meters in front of the Russian positions, taking advantage of dead angles and covered by light machine guns. Three Soviet tanks, however, had pressed forward against the main body. Two Private First Class soldiers, members of a close-quarters team, waited until the lead tank reversed course, then dashed in from the rear and blew it up. Two other soldiers attacked the third tank with mines but could not destroy it because of the tall grass. In a dramatic action that always thrilled Japanese audiences, a Private First Class jumped aboard with a portable mine, while a superior private jammed explosives into the tank's rear and allegedly blew off both treads, though the tank continued firing. While Matsunobe's company laid a smoke screen and prepared to charge, the Soviet tank was knocked out by rapid-fire guns. Master Sergeant Sudo's platoon seized the opportunity to race forward 15 meters and overrun two firing points at 05:40. When the Russians counterattacked with 60 infantrymen and three new tanks, Matsunobe ordered the grenade-discharger squad to fire while he had Sudo pull back to the foot of the hill. Close-quarter teams knocked out the tanks in succession. By this time the Russians had been shaken badly, allowing Matsunobe's main force to surge into two more positions. Five or six remaining Soviet soldiers were wiped out by a combination of Japanese pursuit fire and Soviet gunfire emanating from east of Khasan. After 06:00, the Japanese held the high ground at Shachaofeng. Kanda's unit had achieved a similar result, swinging around Matsunobe and skirting the left of the Soviet positions. Russian artillery opened from the east, but the Japanese used the terrain to advantage and suffered no casualties. Around this time, enemy forces in the Changkufeng area began to retreat, a portion by motor vehicle. Takenouchi had Matsunobe secure the site and, at 06:13, directed the main battalion to advance toward the north side of Khasan. A stubborn four-hour battle then ensued as Soviet forces delayed their retreat and the covering unit occupied the northern edge of the lake. Takenouchi estimated the enemy's strength at two infantry companies, a company of 12 heavy machine guns, and one heavy battery. Several Russian counterattacks were mounted against Matsunobe, while Takenouchi reinforced Kanda. The battalion attacked with great intensity and by 10:30 had managed to encircle the right flank of the enemy defenses at the northwest edge of Khasan. The Russians began to fall back, though one company of infantry resisted vigorously. At 10:50, the Soviet rear-guard company opened fire with machine guns while several tanks delivered heavy machine-gun and cannon fire. Soviet artillery, firing rapidly, also joined the resistance to Takenouchi's advance. Firepower pinned down the Japanese in this sector from late morning until nightfall.    For reasons of necessity as well as doctrine, the night assault on Changkufeng Hill received no artillery support. The dawn assault to clear Shachaofeng, however, required all available firepower, even if limited. Firing diagrams reflect no howitzer fire directed north of Changkufeng; this is understandable since Narukawa had only two pieces to handle numerous targets. A Soviet tank element was driven off, west of the lake, by 03:00 from the skirt of Chiangchunfeng by 3rd Battalion heavy weapons. Sasai, at the Kucheng command post, contends that Japanese artillery scored a significant success: school-tactics were followed, and the battery stood ready in case the night assault by the infantry failed. By dawn, Russian remnants clung to the crest, though the infantry had "peeled the skin" from their defenses. "In the morning, one of our howitzer shells hit near Changkufeng, whereupon the last of the enemy fled." Survivors of the night assault recalled no direct artillery support by Japanese artillery, though firing charts suggest some; Soviet sources dispute this. Regimental records note: "After firing against positions southwest of Shachaofeng, the Narukawa battery fired to cut off the enemy's retreat path from Shachaofeng and to neutralize the foe's superior artillery. Results were great." In the morning, Sato returned to Chiangchunfeng, observed the difficult anti-artillery combat by the Narukawa battery, and commended their performance. He watched howitzer fire disrupt Soviet artillery positions opposite Shachaofeng and estimated enemy strength at a battalion. Sato saw Russian horse-drawn artillery blasted from its sites and pulled back north of Khasan. Narukawa's first targets were positions and tanks south of Shachaofeng. Northeast of the lake, one battery of Russians headed north after dawn. In Narukawa's firing pattern, north of the lake, a Soviet motorized unit of more than ten vehicles withdrew in the afternoon. A new Russian artillery formation moving north of Khasan that afternoon received the heaviest fire from the howitzers. On that day Narukawa's two active pieces fired a total of 74 rounds. The only other Japanese artillery support for the infantry consisted of the half-battery of 75-millimeter mountain guns already forward. The platoon under 2nd Lieutenant Ikue moved west of Shachaofeng, starting from behind Kanda at 04:00, and bombarded Soviet positions to the northeast. Firing a lighter projectile than Narukawa's pieces, Ikue's men fired 162 shells and 37 shrapnel rounds at the Russians. Colonel Tanaka, the artillery regiment commander, reached the front during the night as battle's fury peaked from Changkufeng. Tanaka's mission was to take over Narukawa's battery and support infantry combat from dawn. Upon establishing his headquarters, Tanaka sent a liaison officer to the 75th Regiment. The 3rd Mountain Artillery Battalion completed unloading at Shikai Station in the night, and at 03:40, it entered emplacements on the north side of Nanpozan. Tanaka ordered Rokutanda to repel any enemy attacks that might be staged from Changkufeng and north of Yangkuanping. The battalion made good use of prior surveys and proved helpful in thwarting offensive attempts from the vicinity of Shachaofeng after daybreak. Rokutanda also coordinated with Narukawa to cut off the Soviet retreat route after enemy motorized and infantry forces began to fall back from Shachaofeng.   At Changkufeng, once the last Russians had been routed, two hours of quiet settled over both sides. The Japanese busied themselves with cleaning up the field, retrieving casualties, and bearing the dead to the rear. The few Japanese historians who have worked with 75th Regiment records have argued with a dramatic passage describing dawn: "From 05:15, after the top had been secured by us, the fog began to drift in. At about 05:30 rain started to drench the whole area; therefore, enemy artillery had to stop firing. God's will." Sakata counters that no Russian artillery shelled the peak after his men had cleared it. Sato agrees; only in the afternoon did at least 20 Soviet guns, emplaced north of the lake, open fire at Changkufeng. At first, Russian shells fell harmlessly into a pond nearby; Sato recalls fish splashing out. Thereafter, Soviet gunners gradually corrected their aim, but the Japanese took cover behind rocks and sustained no casualties. Soviet shellfire may have begun at dawn but appeared to be directed mainly toward Shachaofeng, where Soviet defenders were not evicted until an hour after Changkufeng fell. Tanaka, however, argues that when he arrived at the front at 05:00, Russian artillery was firing on objectives west of the Tumen, and several shells struck his men and guns. Japanese firing charts show that Soviet guns initially bombarded Takenouchi's sector at Shachaofeng from two positions north and northeast of Khasan. After these Russian positions were forced to evacuate, the new Soviet gun unit that arrived in the afternoon engaged not only Changkufeng but also the area of the Japanese regimental headquarters. A Japanese military history suggests that Chiangchunfeng, the site of the observation post for the heavy field-artillery battery, was hit early in the morning, just after Takenouchi's ground assault against Shachaofeng had begun. The only other Russian artillery fire noted is the early-morning bombardment of the region of Hill 52. This shelling emanated from a point southeast of the lake but appeared directed primarily against Hisatsune's guns, which pulled back to Changkufeng at 06:00. Takeshita's company, which had jumped off at 02:00 and struck to the rear of Changkufeng toward the heights southwest of Shachaofeng, sustained severe enemy artillery fire after dawn. The main body secured the positions it had captured, while one platoon occupied Hill 24. On Takenouchi's front, intense enemy artillery fire continued after the Shachaofeng district was cleared, but the battalion maintained its position throughout the day. At 20:00, Takenouchi pulled back to the heights northwest of Shachaofeng. Elements of Matsunobe's unit on the right flank clung to advanced positions southeast of Shachaofeng. Regarding the theological allusion to merciful rain at dawn, no interviewee recalled a torrential downpour at Changkufeng. One soldier remembered descending from the crest at 08:30, taking breakfast, and returning for battlefield cleanup an hour later, at which time it began to drizzle. The 75th Regiment's weather record for Sunday, 31 July, simply states, "Cloudy; sunrise 05:08."   At 06:40, Colonel Sato ordered Hirahara's 3rd Battalion to relieve Nakano's mauled 1st Battalion and Ito's company atop Changkufeng. The 1st Battalion was to become the regimental reserve force, assemble at Chiangchunfeng, and collect its dead and wounded. Shortly after 08:00, Hirahara arrived at the crest of Changkufeng. Sakata was still upright, blood-streaked. "It's all right now," Hirahara told him. "You can go down." Sakata limped away with the remnants of the 1st Battalion. At the command post he met Sato, who praised him, promised to replace his damaged sword with one of his own, and told him to head for the hospital. When he protested, Sato bellowed, more in pride than anger, "To the hospital with you!" Sakata went, leaving Kuriyama as acting company commander. That morning, Sato climbed Changkufeng and gave Hirahara instructions. He commended the heavy field artillery battery commander, Narukawa, for his effective support of Takenouchi's dawn attack at Shachaofeng. Before returning to his command post, Sato carefully supervised the collection of Japanese dead. He looked into the face of each man and bade him farewell, a regiment officer recalls. "His sincerity and sorrow inspired reverence in all of us." In the afternoon, Sato sent Oshima back to Haigan to report the victory to forces in the rear, to visit the families of the fallen, and to "exert a beneficial influence on the native inhabitants lest they become confused and upset by the recent fighting." After the Russians had been ousted from Changkufeng and Shachaofeng, information became available to Japanese headquarters concerning the extent of the victory and the price. The 75th Regiment put Soviet casualties at 300 men in each area and claimed a total of 17 tanks knocked out during the operations—seven at Changkufeng, three at Hill 52, seven at Shachaofeng. Assault infantrymen noted that few Soviet bodies were found in the crestline positions, other than those cut down by cold steel; many Russians were presumably wounded by grenades. Colonel Sato asserts that 30 Soviet corpses were picked up in the Changkufeng area after the night attack. Most Japanese survivors judge that Soviet casualties were at least double those incurred by their own forces. The Japanese used much of the materiel they had captured. The price had been grim in the assault units: 45 killed, 133 wounded. In both Colonel Nakano's and Colonel Takenouchi's battalions, about 25 percent of the officers and almost 10 percent of the men were killed or wounded. The main assault waves, chiefly the 1st and 2nd infantry companies and 1st Machine-Gun Company of Colonel Nakano's unit, suffered as many as one-half or two-thirds casualties, down to platoons and squads. Before the night attack, Colonel Nakano's battalion had a total of 401 men. The strength of Shimomura's battalion had diminished by only 17: Hirahara's by 10. Nakano's unit lost over 80 percent of all Japanese killed and wounded in the Changkufeng–Hill 52 sector.  Japanese accounts were lavish in their praise of Colonel Sato's conception and execution of the night-dawn assaults. "Everybody had conducted several inspections of the front, yet only two or three individuals were acquainted with the precise sector where we carried out our assault." The costly lack of comprehensive intelligence necessitated reduction of firing points in succession and made the assault on the peak, the true key, possible only at the end. "This was a rather difficult method. It would have been better to have thrown one small unit against one firing point invariably and to have used the main force to break through the depth of the foe swiftly." On the larger benefits of the night operation, Akaishizawa wrote, "We prevented the main hostile forces, numbering several thousand troops concentrated east of Khasan about 600 or 700 meters behind Changkufeng, from laying a finger on us." Sato regards the night attack as a success: "The Soviets would have taken over the entire region unless checked." But with respect to Suetaka's words of praise for Sato himself, one candid division staff officer does not share what he calls "extravagant laudation." "The night-attack plan had been devised long in advance. I do not see anything particularly brilliant about it. Only in terms of results could one call the assault well done." Sakata concurs but stresses that training paid off: "All the men in my company followed their leaders to the crest and thus displayed their teamwork and unity," despite the unexpectedly severe casualties. The Soviets seemed particularly apprehensive about the possibility of Japanese armored operations. Antitank weapons were deployed on the eastern slopes of Changkufeng, ready to fire against the axis of Hill 52, which theoretically was good tank country. Illuminating shells and flares were employed profusely in concert with heavy machine guns firing blue tracers from the time Japanese troops entered the zone of wire defenses. Tanks supplemented the fire network, as did artillery zeroed in east of Khasan. But it was the grenades, in "heaps and mounds," that troubled the attackers most: "This tactic must be one of the most important aspects of Soviet infantry training, together with snipers. Our night assault unit did not sustain too many casualties until the crest but, since we could not run up into the positions, the foe was able to hurl many milk-bottle-size grenades. Our forces must be given more training with hand grenades".  The first phone call to Seoul did not come until Changkufeng had been assaulted and cleared. Around 05:00 the division learned that victory had been achieved at Changkufeng; the first reports mentioned no Japanese casualties. "Thank God!" was the reaction. Suetaka and the major toasted Sato's victory with sake. "At 06:00, one company of the Sato unit occupied Shachaofeng and expelled the Soviet forces across the border." Not long afterward, the division, like the 75th Regiment, began to learn the extent of the casualties. Although personal sorrow displaced initial elation, there was grim satisfaction that the insolent Russians had been ousted and the dignity of the Imperial Army maintained. It was hoped and expected that the Korea Army would share this view. Seoul had learned of the Japanese assaults only after the fact and in a rather cursory fashion. Nakamura ordered the front-line units to secure the heights and to localize the affair by limiting the strength used in that area and by ensuring cautious action.  Nakamura's orders to not expand upon the victory were criticized heavily. However Tsuchiya recalled "The decision was taken too easily. Perhaps some had covert opposition, but no one spoke up. I think there was some misunderstanding of individual positions. Yet the crisis should have been analyzed carefully. It is too bad that there was no direct supervision by the Chief of Staff." For Tsuchiya, the Korea Army would have been in trouble if the incident had dragged on because of Soviet buildup and Japanese casualties and low mobilization. Although Nakamura likely wished the 19th Division to abandon unnecessary actions regardless of victory or defeat, he did not seem to care; he showed no intention of inspecting the local scene. Yet Tsuchiya felt such a keen sense of responsibility that he was prepared to commit suicide if matters went wrong. Inada argued that Nakamura did not visit the front to avoid expanding the troubles and disturbing the troops. Analyzing the Korea Army's nebulous control, Imaoka notes that Nakamura had only recently arrived in Korea and had little time before fighting began, but something seemed lacking in the army's exercise of command. Thus, Nakamura never met Suetaka until after the incident had been resolved, although the governor-general came from Seoul to visit Suetaka at the battlefront and to express appreciation in person. "It was quite proper to adhere to the policy of nonenlargement, but the Korea Army should have furnished more positive operational guidance in such a case when a subordinate division was in serious trouble." There were important lessons to be learned here, Tsuchiya recalled  "The 19th Division attacked the Russians twice in 36 hours without army orders or approval. How is it that the division commander, a lieutenant general and certainly not an reckless man, could have been allowed so much margin to act independently?" Some suggest that Suetaka tended to violate the spirit of the law, especially in force majeure. Others think that Suetaka was loyal, deliberate, and law-abiding, a worrier who could be expected to follow orders. Why risk one's career—one's life, given that self-censure loomed—when headquarters' decision was available? Military discipline and national interest dictated prior consultation and compliance. Or did Suetaka, like other notable generals, think gambles were justified by the goddess of Victory? I would like to take this time to remind you all that this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Please go subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry after that, give my personal channel a look over at The Pacific War Channel at Youtube, it would mean a lot to me. A daring Japanese night assault, led by Colonel Sato and his bold captains, threaded through fog, wire, and enemy fire. As dawn broke, the crest fell into Japanese hands, after brutal stand-ins on Hill 52 and Shachaofeng. Glinting grenades, roaring tanks, and disciplined infantry forged the victory, at a heavy price: dozens of officers and many men lost.   

VOV1 - Chính phủ Hàn Quốc cho biết nước này và Cộng hòa Dân chủ Nhân dân Lào vừa quyết định nâng cấp quan hệ ngoại giao phù hợp với mức độ phát triển của hợp tác song phương.Tổng thống Hàn Quốc Lee Jae Myung và Chủ tịch nước Cộng hòa Dân chủ Nhân dân Lào Thongloun Sisoulith hội đàm tại Seoul ngày 15-12 (ảnh Yonhap News).

Fluent Fiction - Korean: Building Bonds in Snow: A Team's Journey at Gyeongbokgung Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ko/episode/2025-12-15-08-38-19-ko Story Transcript:Ko: 서울의 겨울은 차갑고도 아름답다.En: Winter in Seoul is both cold and beautiful.Ko: 나는 프로젝트 매니저로서 팀원들과 함께 경복궁에 가기로 했다.En: As a project manager, I decided to go to Gyeongbokgung with my team members.Ko: 우리는 팀 빌딩 여행을 통해 서로를 이해하고 새로울 결속을 다지려고 한다.En: Through this team-building trip, we aim to understand each other and forge a new bond.Ko: 눈으로 덮인 궁궐은 마치 다른 세계처럼 고요하고 장엄하다.En: The palace, covered in snow, is serene and majestic, like another world.Ko: 나는 경복궁의 정원에서 신뢰 쌓기 연습을 준비했다.En: I prepared a trust-building exercise in the gardens of Gyeongbokgung.Ko: 그 날, 하늘은 맑고 공기는 상쾌하다.En: The sky was clear, and the air was refreshing that day.Ko: 내가 두려움을 숨기며 말했다. "모두 여기 모여주세요. 오늘 우리는 서로에게 마음을 열고 신뢰를 쌓아보겠습니다."En: Hiding my anxiety, I said, "Everyone, please gather here. Today, we are going to open our hearts to each other and build trust."Ko: 미소를 띠던 민준이는 나에게 다가와 말했다. "제가 먼저 해볼까요?" 그의 웃음은 따뜻했지만, 나는 그가 요즘 고민이 있는 것을 알고 있다.En: Minjun, with a smile on his face, approached me and said, "Shall I go first?" His smile was warm, but I knew he had been troubled lately.Ko: 우리는 간단한 게임을 시작했다.En: We started with a simple game.Ko: 서로의 이야기를 듣고, 서로를 믿는 연습을 한다.En: We listened to each other's stories and practiced trusting one another.Ko: 윤아는 조금 망설이는 듯했지만, 조금씩 참여하기 시작했다.En: Yuna seemed a little hesitant at first, but she gradually started participating.Ko: "솔직히, 저는 이게 좀 억지스럽다고 생각했어요," 윤아가 말했다. "하지만 진심으로 하면 괜찮을 것 같아요."En: "Honestly, I thought this was a bit forced," Yuna said. "But if we do it sincerely, I think it will be okay."Ko: 시간이 흘러, 우리는 경복궁 안쪽으로 걸어갔다.En: Time passed, and we walked further inside Gyeongbokgung.Ko: 그때 우리 귀에 전통 음악 소리가 들렸다.En: Then we heard the sound of traditional music.Ko: 겨울 소리, 한복을 입은 예술가들이 북을 치고 있었다.En: It was a winter sound, with artists dressed in hanbok playing drums.Ko: 우리는 그앞에 모였다.En: We gathered in front of them.Ko: 음악은 우리의 마음을 녹였다.En: The music melted our hearts.Ko: 나는 팀원들에게 물었다. "각자 내년의 목표가 무엇인가요?" 민준이 자신을 돌아봤다.En: I asked the team members, "What are your goals for next year?" Minjun reflected on himself.Ko: "저는... 제 능력을 더 믿고 싶어요," 그가 조심스럽게 말했다.En: "I want to believe in my abilities more," he said cautiously.Ko: 윤아는 우리에게 고백했다. "저는 동료들에게 더 진심을 전하고 싶어요."En: Yuna confessed to us, "I want to show more sincerity to my colleagues."Ko: 그녀의 말에 우리는 고개를 끄덕였다.En: We nodded at her words.Ko: 나도 용기 내어 말했다. "나는 여러분에게 완벽하지 않아도 괜찮다는 것을 보여주고 싶어요."En: Taking courage, I said, "I want to show you that it's okay not to be perfect."Ko: 마침내 우리는 버스로 돌아갔다.En: Finally, we returned to the bus.Ko: 모두의 표정이 한층 밝아졌다.En: Everyone's expressions were notably brighter.Ko: 나는 가슴 속에 따뜻함을 느낀다.En: I felt a warmth in my heart.Ko: 팀원들이 함께 웃고 이야기를 나누고 있었다.En: The team members were laughing and talking with each other.Ko: 이번 경복궁 방문은 단순한 여행이 아니었다.En: This visit to Gyeongbokgung was not just a simple trip.Ko: 우리는 함께 성장하고, 서로를 이해하게 되었다.En: We grew together and understood one another.Ko: 나에게 팀은 이제 단순한 동료가 아니다.En: To me, the team is no longer just colleagues.Ko: 신뢰와 존중이 가득한 가족 같다.En: It feels like a family full of trust and respect.Ko: 이 겨울, 나는 그 어떤 것보다 소중한 것을 배웠다.En: This winter, I've learned something more precious than anything else. Vocabulary Words:forge: 다지다serene: 고요한majestic: 장엄한anxiety: 두려움hesitant: 망설이는participate: 참여하다cautiously: 조심스럽게sincere: 진심confess: 고백하다notably: 한층precious: 소중한refreshing: 상쾌한gather: 모이다troubled: 고민이 있는exercise: 연습melted: 녹였다colleagues: 동료expressions: 표정bond: 결속trust: 신뢰smile: 미소hearts: 마음sound: 소리reflect: 돌아보다gather: 모여illuminate: 밝아지다goals: 목표courage: 용기artists: 예술가honestly: 솔직히

Liting Cong is Legal Counsel at ASICS, one of Japan's most successful sportswear companies. Liting shares her journey through the lens of Japanese aesthetics, particularly the concept of wabi-sabi or embracing imperfection, impermanence, and incompleteness. If you're considering an in-house career in Japan, curious about human-centric AI, or looking for wisdom on embracing life's uncertainties, you will enjoy the metaphor Liting shares about building a beautiful garden. More on that inside this episode! If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we'd love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Head over to Apple Podcasts to leave a review and we'd love it if you would leave us a message here!In this episode you'll hear:How Japanese martial arts and dance became a source of peace and resilience during challenging timesThe evolution of in-house counsel roles beyond gatekeeping and contract reviewPractical strategies for unlearning perfectionism that Liting uses herself at workWhy ideation is a lawyer's secret weapon in the age of AILiting's favourite book and other fun facts About LitingLiting Cong is a Legal Counsel at ASICS Corporation, where she leads global privacy, AI governance, and digital initiatives in the Legal Department. She graduated from Grinnell College in 2011, and University of Toronto Faculty of Law in 2014. She was admitted to the bar in Ontario in 2015, and in New York in 2019. Before relocating to Japan, Liting gained diverse international experience at King & Wood in Shanghai, Shin & Kim in Seoul, and Stikeman & Elliott in Toronto, and started her own practice as a sole practitioner in Toronto.In addition to her legal credentials, Liting is a data protection professional with multiple certifications from the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP) for European privacy (CIPP/E), privacy program management (CIPM), and artificial intelligence governance (AIGP). With over a decade of experience living and working in Canada and Japan, Liting brings not only legal expertise but also fluency in the languages--English, Chinese, and Japanese--and a deep understanding of cross-cultural business environments. In 2018, as an avid fan of Japanese arts and culture since childhood, Liting relocated to Japan. She joined Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation in Osaka as Legal Counsel, and later SymBio Pharmaceuticals Limited in Tokyo as Legal Manager.In 2023, Liting joined ASICS Corporation in its global headquarters in Kobe. She now serves as the lead in global privacy and AI governance and managing ASICS' digital initiatives across the globe. Liting lives in Osaka with her husband and a cat who enjoys making cameos in Teams calls and supervising all her legal work.  Connect with LitingLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/litingcong/ LinksGokan: https://patisserie-gokan.co.jp/item/ The Cultural Map by Erin Meyer https://amzn.asia/d/9w9muCI Connect with Catherine LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/oconnellcatherine/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawyeronair

Fluent Fiction - Korean: Serendipity in Snow: An Artist and Teacher's Inspiring Encounter Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ko/episode/2025-12-14-23-34-01-ko Story Transcript:Ko: 눈 내리는 겨울 아침, 진수는 남산에 올랐다.En: On a snowy winter morning, Jinsu climbed Namsan.Ko: 하얀 눈으로 덮인 산길이 그를 맞이했다.En: The mountain path, covered in white snow, welcomed him.Ko: 그는 조용히 걸으며 새로운 그림의 영감을 찾고 있었다.En: He walked silently, searching for inspiration for a new painting.Ko: 그런데, 그날 따라 그의 머릿속은 하얗게 비어 있었다.En: However, on that particular day, his mind was completely blank.Ko: 예술가로서 답답함이 밀려왔다.En: As an artist, a sense of frustration overwhelmed him.Ko: 그 시각, 은숙은 일상의 소음을 피해 남산으로 향했다.En: Around the same time, Eunsook headed to Namsan to escape the noise of everyday life.Ko: 교사로서 바쁜 그녀는 잠시나마 평화를 찾고 싶었다.En: As a busy teacher, she wanted to find a moment of peace.Ko: 남산의 맑은 공기와 하얀 세상 속에서 그녀는 자신을 되찾으려 했다.En: In the crisp air and white world of Namsan, she sought to rediscover herself.Ko: 두 사람은 서로 다른 목표를 가지고 같은 산길을 걷고 있었다.En: Both were walking the same mountain path with different goals.Ko: 그러다 진수는 은숙을 보았다.En: Then Jinsu saw Eunsook.Ko: 그녀는 따뜻한 목도리를 두르고, 가방에서 카메라를 꺼내 서울의 겨울 풍경을 찍고 있었다.En: She had a warm scarf wrapped around her neck and was taking out a camera from her bag to capture the winter scenery of Seoul.Ko: 그 모습이 진수에게 은근한 영감을 주었다.En: Her presence quietly inspired Jinsu.Ko: 진수는 잠시 망설이다가 은숙에게 다가갔다.En: After a moment of hesitation, Jinsu approached Eunsook.Ko: "안녕하세요," 그가 말했다.En: "Hello," he said.Ko: "사진이 참 예쁩니다."En: "Your photos are really beautiful."Ko: 은숙은 놀란 표정으로 그를 바라보다가 웃었다.En: Eunsook looked at him with a surprised expression and then smiled.Ko: "안녕하세요. 겨울의 서울은 참 아름답죠?"En: "Hello. Winter in Seoul is truly beautiful, isn't it?"Ko: 침묵이 흘렀다.En: A silence passed between them.Ko: 처음 만난 사람 사이의 어색함.En: The awkwardness of meeting someone for the first time.Ko: 하지만, 둘 다 그 침묵 속에서 편안함을 느꼈다.En: However, both felt a sense of comfort in that silence.Ko: 함께 정상까지 오른 두 사람은 서울을 내려다보았다.En: Having reached the summit together, they looked down on Seoul.Ko: 그 순간, 하늘에서 눈송이가 떨어지기 시작했다.En: At that moment, snowflakes began to fall from the sky.Ko: 테라스에서 눈속에 반짝이는 서울의 야경은 경이로웠다.En: From the terrace, the view of Seoul sparkling in the snow was magnificent.Ko: "여기서 뭘 그리고 싶나요?" 은숙이 물었다.En: "What do you want to paint here?" Eunsook asked.Ko: 진수는 잠시 생각하다가 대답했다. "당신이 찍은 서울처럼요.En: Jinsu thought for a moment and replied, "Like the Seoul you captured.Ko: 이 순간처럼."En: Like this moment."Ko: 은숙은 미소 지었다.En: Eunsook smiled.Ko: "우리 다시 만날래요?En: "Shall we meet again?Ko: 함께 서울의 겨울 축제를 즐기고 싶어요."En: I want to enjoy Seoul's winter festival together."Ko: 그래서 두 사람은 연락처를 교환했다.En: So they exchanged contact information.Ko: 그들은 약속했다.En: They promised.Ko: 진수는 새로운 경험에서 영감을 얻겠다고, 은숙은 더 느긋하게 현재를 즐기겠다고.En: Jinsu would seek inspiration from new experiences, and Eunsook would take more time to enjoy the present.Ko: 눈 오는 남산에서의 만남은 그들에게 새로운 시작을 의미했다.En: Their meeting on snowy Namsan signified a new beginning for them.Ko: 진수는 영감을 되찾았고, 은숙은 마음의 평화를 얻었다.En: Jinsu found his inspiration once more, and Eunsook regained her inner peace.Ko: 그날의 만남은 둘 모두에게 따뜻한 기억으로 남았다.En: The encounter became a warm memory for both of them. Vocabulary Words:snowy: 눈 내리는inspiration: 영감frustration: 답답함overwhelmed: 밀려왔다crisp: 맑은rediscover: 되찾으려scarf: 목도리capture: 찍고hesitation: 망설임expression: 표정awkwardness: 어색함summit: 정상snowflakes: 눈송이terrace: 테라스magnificent: 경이로운sparkling: 반짝이는moment: 순간festival: 축제exchanged: 교환했다contact information: 연락처promised: 약속했다experiences: 경험encounter: 만남signified: 의미했다regained: 되찾았다inner peace: 마음의 평화warm memory: 따뜻한 기억new beginning: 새로운 시작silence: 침묵peace: 평화

When Kim Kardashian shared her Korean beauty treatment results, global interest exploded. Discover why Seoul has become the world's plastic surgery capital and how Korea's strict safety standards and leading-edge technology attract patients worldwide.https://www.lydianclinic.com/blog/kim-kardashian-prp-prf-treatment-korea/ Lydian Cosmetic Surgery Clinic City: Seoul Address: 836 Nonhyeon-ro, Sinsa-dong, Gangnam Website: https://www.lydianclinic.com/

In this week's episode of The Korea Pro Podcast, John and Joon Ha begin by discussing South Korea's deepening domestic downturn, beginning with South Korea's job-to-applicant ratio collapsing to the lowest level since the 1998 Asian Financial Crisis. They assess how the labor freeze intersects with the chaebol capital strike, as nearly 60% of major firms halt 2026 investment plans amid tax, labor and decarbonization pressures. They then discuss Mexico's 35% tariff wall targeting Asian supply chains — a move that directly threatens the logistics model used by Korean automotive and electronics firms for decades. They then discuss the Federal Reserve's quarter-point rate cut, evaluating what impact it may have on South Korea. Turning to defense and security, the hosts review Peru's agreement to purchase 54 K2 tanks and 141 K808 armored vehicles, a deal marking South Korea's largest ground-systems export to Latin America. They also discuss the fallout from the Unification Church scandal, culminating in the resignation of the oceans minister. The episode closes with a look ahead to next week's developments: Laotian President Thongloun Sisoulith's visit to Seoul for a summit focused on economic and security cooperation, and National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac's trip to Washington for high-stakes consultations on nuclear-powered submarines, enrichment capabilities and South Korea's defense spending commitments under the new U.S.-ROK strategic framework. About the podcast: The Korea Pro Podcast is a weekly conversation hosted by Korea Risk Group Executive Director Jeongmin Kim, Editor John Lee and correspondent Joon Ha Park, delivering deep, clear analysis of South Korean politics, diplomacy, security, society and technology for professionals who need more than headlines. Uploaded every Friday. This episode was recorded on Thursday, Dec. 11, 2025. Audio edited by Gaby Magnuson

For review:1. US President Donald Trump's administration is reportedly planning to appoint an American two-star general to command the International Stabilization Force (ISF) in Gaza.2. Taiwan's high-profile Deputy Foreign Minister Francois Wu made a previously unpublicized visit to Israel recently, three sources familiar with the trip told Reuters, at a time when Taiwan is looking to Jerusalem for defense cooperation.3. Iran's foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, said on Thursday that he would travel to Beirut for talks after his Lebanese counterpart had declined a day earlier to visit Tehran.4. The United States has suggested creating a “free economic zone” in parts of the eastern Donbas region from which Ukraine would withdraw under a negotiated peace with Russia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Thursday.5. The Croatian Ministry of Defense has placed an order for 44 Leopard 2A8 tanks, a deal valued at almost €1.5 billion ($1.8 billion).6. Russian and Chinese bombers conducted a joint patrol Tuesday, flying over the East China Sea and Western Pacific, prompting Seoul and Tokyo to scramble fighter aircraft to monitor the flights.7. — South Korea's Hanwha is set to invest in a new $1 billion plant in the United States to produce Modular Charge Systems (MCS) for 155mm howitzer ammunition.8. The House passed the fiscal 2026 defense policy authorization bill, setting up passage in the Senate before Congress goes on holiday break.Lawmakers voted 312-112 to advance the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which authorizes $900.6 billion in defense funds, or about $8 billion more than the White House's request.

On this very special episode, Justin is joined by Stephan Fasold, a German film critic and film festival programmer from Kino Korea, to talk about all the films they watched at The Seoul Independent Film Festival. 

This week, Jun and Daniel catch up on a busy month of events, kicking things off with Daniel's participation in "No Shave November" and the cultural stigma surrounding beards in Korea. The conversation moves to a visit to a US Army base for Halloween, which sparks a debate about cultural differences in fairness and connections highlighted by a specific incident involving a pizza order. Daniel also vents about his frustration with household items constantly breaking in Korea, leading to a broader discussion on consumerism, manufacturing quality, and the "fast fashion" mindset that permeates daily life.If you're interested in hearing a deep dive into why Americans identify so strongly with their driver's licenses compared to Korea's centralized resident ID system, or the sociological flip where Americans trust their neighbors but distrust the government while Koreans generally feel the opposite, this episode is for you. We also discuss the intense fitness culture of HYROX, differing attitudes toward pregnancy and activity, the reality of job stability and layoffs in the AI era, and Daniel's realization that after four years, he finally feels completely settled and comfortable living in Korea.As a reminder, we publish our episodes bi-weekly from Seoul, South Korea. We hope you enjoy listening to our conversation, and we're so excited to have you following us on this journey!Living the Dream with CurveballOn the living the dream with curveball podcast I interview guests that inspire.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Support the showWe hope you enjoy listening to our conversation, and we're so excited to have you following us on this journey!Support us on Patreon:https://patreon.com/user?u=99211862Follow us on socials: https://www.instagram.com/koreanamericanpodcast/https://twitter.com/korampodcasthttps://www.tiktok.com/@koreanamericanpodcastQuestions/Comments/Feedback? Email us at: koreanamericanpodcast@gmail.com Member of the iyagi media network (www.iyagimedia.com)

 Who is The Holy Spirit? 9th World Holy Spirit Ministries International Conference, Seoul, South Korea

SIJIN is an artist from Seoul whose music is rooted in presence & storytelling. There is a spiritual intention behind the work that he shares, the music grounding him in specific moments from the past, enabling him to let go & remain present. The beauty of letting go of these musical creations is that others can then attach their own memories & experiences to the music. This is SIJIN's intention with his Khövsgöl EP - 2 tracks that materialized from a collection of field recordings close to his heart, gathered from the natural soundscapes of the northernmost province of Mongolia, Khövsgöl. The tracks to him serve as memories of a distinct time & place, a time capsule of moments spent amongst the raw beauty of this relatively untouched part of the world. A prolific DJ who has performed at venues such as KHIDI in Tbilisi & KGRn in Tokyo, SIJIN has recently had his focus on self-releasing his own music. In addition to being a DJ & producer, SIJIN curates a platform called SYNTHASIA which showcases underground electronic music in Asia. The SYNTHASIA Open-Air took place a few months ago, a 24-hour journey at a temple a few hours outside of Seoul, with sets from 14 artists including Scøpe, Cobahn, SIJIN himself & many more. Khövsgöl includes 3 re-imaginations from Archypness, EINOX & Minjoon, artists SIJIN invited to remold these stark & beautiful field recordings into their own visions. The first of the EP, Khövsgöl part1, which we're premiering today, is a 170 bpm track made up of field recordings manipulated in Ableton & delicately interspersed amongst steady percussion. You can feel the peace & open space of that vast landscape, reflected in drones & the sounds of birds & flowing water. There is this beautiful full-circle resolution to it, anchored around a soft bell-sounding sample that remains ever so gently in the background throughout the whole track, ending in the same place that it began. Khövsgöl will be released on December 24th @sijin_synthasia https://www.instagram.com/sijin_grei/ Write up by @aspetuck Follow us on social media: @itsdelayed linktr.ee/delayed www.delayed.nyc www.facebook.com/itsdelayed www.instagram.com/_____delayed www.youtube.com/@_____delayed Contact us: info@delayed.nyc

Episode Summary: We're back with a short one, and the last one of 2025! In this week's episode of your favorite Korean Adoptee podcast, the Janchi Boys sit down and talk about whether or not we can trust our origin stories, and have further reflections on the TRC Report — Human Rights Violations in Intercountry AdoptionShow Resources:Full English Language version of the reportPatrick's Substack Reflection (and new podcast, “From the Kitchen Table”)---// Support the Show!Online at janchishow.com / @janchishowSupport the show at janchishow.com/supportJoin our Facebook Group! janchishow.com/afterpartyWatch our Youtube VideosLeave a voicemail! 972-677-8867Write us a note: janchishow@gmail.comThe Janchi Show Quick BioThe Janchi Show focuses on exploring intersectional identities and current events through the lens of adoption, race, lived experience and more. Sometimes we have guests, and sometimes it's just the three of us. Either way, it's always a janchi!// Meet the Janchi Boys!Nathan NowackNathan (he/him) is a transracial Korean American adoptee who was born in Seoul in the 1970s. He was adopted at the age of 5 months old and raised in a small town in Oklahoma along with a non-biological Korean adopted sister.  After going to college in Colorado he later moved to Los Angeles to pursue a digital media career and eventually started 2 photography companies.  He loves spending time with his wife and 3 kids, playing golf, and collecting Lego. He is in reunion with his biological family as the youngest of 7 and has been in contact since 2015.  He currently serves on the Advisory Council for KAAN and helps with the planning of their annual adoptee conference.  In 2021, Nathan and his family moved back to Colorado to be closer to family and start a new chapter in their lives.  Connect with Nathan!Website: http://www.coverve.comInstagram: http://instagram.com/nnowackPatrick ArmstrongPatrick Armstrong (he/him) is a transracial Korean American adoptee, podcaster, speaker, and community facilitator. He is one of the hosts of the Janchi Show, a podcast that explores and celebrates the experiences and stories of Korean adoptees everywhere. He also is host of Conversation Piece with Patrick Armstrong, a podcast where he discusses the missing pieces of the conversations we're already having. He is a cofounder of the Asian Adoptees of Indiana, a group dedicated to creating a safe, engaging community for all Asian adoptees who need it. He is currently based in Indianapolis with his wife and cat. Connect with Patrick!Website: http://patrickintheworld.meLinkedIn: http://linkedin/in/patrickintheworldInstagram: http://instagram.com/patrickintheworldK.J. Roelke (@kjroelke)KJ (he/him) was adopted from Daegu and raised in Dallas, Texas with his two biological, older siblings and his younger sister, adopted from Russia. After spending a decade in the Midwest for college and career, he and his wife are back in Dallas and living large! He has been on his journey of discovery since 2015 and spends his days as a web developer for the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma.Connect with K.J.!Website: https://kjroelke.online/LinkedIn: https://linkedin/in/kjroelkeInstagram: https://instagram.com/kjroelke// Listen to/Watch The Janchi Show on all major platforms:Apple: http://janchishow.com/appleSpotify: http://janchishow.com/spotifyYoutube: http://janchishow.com/youtubeGratitude & CreditsMichelle Nam for our logo and brandingJerry Won for bring us togetherThis show is created and produced by Patrick, Nathan and KJ and is the sole property of the Janchi Show, LLC.

Send us a textToday's episode tells the astonishing true story of Teresa Chong, a mother of four in Seoul who fell into a coma with an aggressive, inoperable brain tumor. Doctors said there was no chance of recovery. Her family prepared for her death.Then a simple photograph of the weeping statue of Akita was placed beneath her pillow… and Heaven moved.Support the showSupport this show and get all future episodes by email atwww.kenandjanelle.com

Who is The Holy Spirit?- 9th World Holy Spirit Ministries International Conference, Seoul, South Korea

Aegon doet het namelijk. Afscheid nemen van Nederland én naam. De verzekeraar verkast binnenkort naar de Verenigde Staten en loost de bedrijfsnaam. Aegon transformeert in Transamerica. Deze aflevering zwaaien we ze uit. Gaan we ze missen? En moeten we ze binnenkort ook als AEX-aandeel missen, gaat de notering ook weg?Hoor je ook meer over de beursgang van SpaceX. Tot de sterren en daar voorbij, want volgend jaar gaat het dan echt gebeuren. Met een gigantische klap, want SpaceX zou maar liefst 30 miljard dollar willen ophalen. De grootste beursgang ooit!Verder spelen we het spelletje Wie van de Drie. Want zoveel serieuze sollicitanten zijn er nog voor de baan van Jerome Powell. Terwijl de baas van de Fed bezig is met het rentebeleid, is president Trump achter zijn rug bezig met zijn opvolging. En je hoort meer over de 'Bono van het bedrijfsleven'. Gaan we die ooit nog terugzien?! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Part 2 of The Rocky Road with Kieran Joyce, Cork's Boxer of the Century, we tell the story of his career from the 1984 Olympics onwards, from Los Angeles to Seoul, where he boxed at his second Games. By then Kieran was a six-time Irish Elite champion and a dangerous man. He'd picked up experience all over the world and had beaten several future world professional champions – including Dublin's Steve Collins. But again – spoiler alert – the dreaded split decision verdict was waiting in the wings for him. Kieran pulls back the curtain on a legendary amateur career, revealing his secrets and stories: why sugar was his weight-loss secret, and how he gave Wayne McCullough his ‘Pocket Rocket' nickname (the bill's in the post, Wayne). We delve into what made his Sunnyside BC coach, Albie Murphy, such a great influence, and the dedication his parents put into his, and his siblings', lives. Kieran also discusses why he hung up his gloves while still a young man, why he probably doesn't get enough credit as a coach, and why a move into the professional ranks just didn't happen. Finally, in a poignant and moving segment, Kieran pays a deeply felt tribute to his beloved daughter, Emma, who tragically died in 2021 after contracting meningitis. This is a must-listen journey through triumph, heartbreak and resilience. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened marginally higher this morning from yesterday's close, at 28,190 on turnover of 3.8-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Tuesday as it followed most other regional markets and closed lower after Wall Street sank overnight as investors await the outcome of Wednesday's meeting of the U-S Federal Reserve and expectations of more interest rate cuts. MOFA protests South Korea listing it as part of China The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is continuing to urge South Korea to amend its electronic entry card system that lists Taiwan as part of China. The ministry says it has yet to receive a direct response from Seoul on the matter after highlighting (突出顯示) the error in its newly launched e-Arrival card system earlier this month. Department of East Asian and Pacific Affairs Director-General Liu Kun-hao is expressing the need for a correction - saying revising the island's designation underscores the importance of longstanding economic, cultural, and tourism exchanges between the two sides. Liu says there are serious concerns about the improper designation and the government is reviewing its overall relationship with South Korea - noting a large and long-standing trade deficit that highlights what he's describing as an unequal relationship. Taiwan raises long-term care tax deduction to NT$180,000 Lawmakers have approved an amendment that will raise the annual long-term care deduction to 180,000 N-T. The deduction previously stood at 120,000 N-T and the amendment to Article 17 of the Income Tax Act is aimed at easing (減輕) the financial burden of households supporting a dependent who requires long-term care. The change will apply retroactively from January 1 of this year and start to take effect in tax filings in May of 2026. Under Article 17 of the Income Tax Act, taxpayers may claim the deduction to taxable income for themselves, their spouses, or dependents officially recognized by the Ministry of Health as requiring long-term care due to physical or cognitive impairment. Zelenskyy refuses to cede land to Russia as he rallies European support Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says his country will not cede (放棄) territory to Russia. AP correspondent Charles de Ledesma reports < Canada Ambassador to US Resigning Next Year Canada's ambassador to the U.S. for the last six years says she's resigning next year as the two major trading partners review the free trade agreement. Ambassador Kirsten Hillman said Tuesday it is the right time to put in place someone who will see a review of the free trade agreement through to conclusion. Canada's free trade deal with the U.S. is up for review in 2026. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney says Hillman “prepared (準備) the foundations for Canada in the upcoming review" of the agreement. Former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau appointed Hillman in 2017. She was the first woman appointed (任命) to the role. Hillman helped lead the trade negotiations during U.S. President Donald Trump's first term and worked with U.S. and Chinese officials to win the release of two Canadians detained in China. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 天氣好冷來不及準備早餐

This isn't the final episode of 2025 for Des and Kara, but this is the last episode of the year with a long list of running results to discuss. Listen in because there was A LOT of running action this past weekend from XC to the indoor track to the marathon. Des and Kara start with updates on their recent travels - Des to Shanghai and Seoul, Kara to snowy Wisconsin. As highlights, we learn Des's nickname in China and get an update on Colt's race at Brooks XC regionals in proper blizzard conditions. Then, they turn to this past weekend's results, starting with Nike NXN and the US XC Champs in Portland. Who showed up and showed out to earn spots on the World XC team for the US?  Plus, holy Hedengren(!) as Jane H ran 14:44 to break the collegiate indoor and outdoor 5K record at BU. That's also the 2nd fastest time ever by an American indoors. She is only 19, but it seems like she is making it look too easy! The sky is the limit for her. Finally, they drill in on the US Marathon Champs at CIM (including Courtney D's near OTQ) and some fast times at the Valencia Marathon in Spain as the fall marathon season finally wraps up. Thanks to Lever Movement for sponsoring the very uplifting Top 5 this week. For 20% off on your Lever system, use code NOBODYASKEDUS at levermovement.com. 

Have you ever had a moment where you thought, “OK, time for revenge”? In this episode, Andrew takes you to the streets of Seoul to talk about participating in the 2025 JTBC Marathon. As you listen, you will hear clear, natural English and pick up useful expressions and storytelling language that can help you understand English more easily and speak it more smoothly. Don’t forget to check out the free interactive transcript and glossary to learn the idioms, phrasal verbs, and vocabulary Andrew uses in this episode that will help you sound more natural and confident when speaking English. Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group speaking class schedule Andrew's Gyeongju Marathon story

Sheena Chestnut Greitens sat down with Ambassador Kang Kyung-wha, the Republic of Korea's ambassador to the United States. Recorded before a live audience at The University of Texas at Austin on December 3, the conversation explores the deepening alignment between Seoul and Washington. Ambassador Kang and Dr. Greitens discuss the implementation of the recent $350 billion Korean government-led investment in the United States, focusing on seven key sectors including shipbuilding, semiconductors, and nuclear energy. The discussion addresses the challenges of workforce training and visa policy following recent immigration enforcement actions in Georgia. The conversation also covers the shifting geopolitical landscape, specifically the implications of deepened military cooperation between North Korea and Russia. Finally, the ambassador outlines priorities for modernizing the alliance, including the transfer of wartime operational control and cooperation on nuclear fuel cycles and nuclear-powered submarines. This event was supported by the Asia Policy Program at The University of Texas at Austin, the Clements Center for National Security, the Strauss Center for International Security and Law, the LBJ School of Public Affairs, and the Korea Economic Institute of America.

In this episode—brought to you by OCUN, engineered for climbing—Kyra Condie and Freddie Kolwey dive into the numbers behind elite bouldering: how many women have climbed V14 or harder, how many men have climbed V16 or harder, and why climbing media still doesn't give women's achievements the attention they deserve. They unpack the shrinking space for stories that aren't tied to being “the first,” and how that pressure shapes which accomplishments make headlines. They also explore the frustrating pattern where a climb seems to lose some of its perceived impressiveness once a woman does it, and how this dynamic can unintentionally pit women against one another. Later, they break down the recent World Championships in Seoul, South Korea, and Kyra shares her experience at a uniquely formatted competition in France. Join our Patreon for free or as little as $3 a month for extra members-only content! patreon.com/circleup And follow us on instagram to show support! https://www.instagram.com/crcleup/

On this episode, Dr. Victor Cha moderates a discussion with Amb. Cho Byung Jae and Dr. Jun Bong-geun on North Korea's nuclear program and the future of diplomacy. The episode explores Pyongyang's constitutional embrace of nuclear weapons, Seoul's E.N.D. initiative to revive dialogue, and President Trump's push for summitry.

On 29th October 2022, 20,000 people were celebrating Halloween in the Itaewon neighbourhood of Seoul in South Korea. One particularly narrow street became very overcrowded, and a huge crush ensued, leading to the deaths of 153 people, with many more injured. A month later, we still don't know exactly what caused the crush.  One of the theories out there is that a rumour spread in the crowd, leading them to believe that a celebrity was in a nearby bar. But a lot of blame has been apportioned to the authorities for poor planning and a slow response to events. A lot of people think that crowd crushes are down to a stampede of people running in panic and crushing others on the floor. Why do things get dangerous in such situations? Are crowd crushes rare or do they happen often? How can I protect myself and others if I end up in an overcrowded area?  In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the latest episodes, click here: ⁠Is Britain the new place to get your wine?⁠ ⁠Why is there such a taboo over the prostate?⁠ ⁠How can I take part in Giving Tuesday?⁠ A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance. First Broadcast: 30/11/2022 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn how to shift savings between retirement and a home down payment without derailing your future. How do you balance big life experiences with long-term financial goals? Is it smart to scale back retirement savings to buy a home sooner? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss wedding budgeting, honeymoon spending, and saving trade-offs to help you think through your own big-ticket plans. Fresh off his San Francisco City Hall wedding and multi-city honeymoon through Japan and South Korea, Sean shares how he saved ahead of time, avoided debt, and still came home with money left over. They talk about budgeting for flights and hotels, deciding when to splurge versus save, the realities of travel fatigue, and how to reset your budget afterward by trimming categories like clothing. Elizabeth also opens up about her “37 to 37” joy challenge, holiday shopping stress around Black Friday and Cyber Monday, and the emotions of planning birthday and Christmas spending. Then, fellow Nerds Dalia Ramirez and Kate Ashford join Elizabeth to discuss whether it makes sense to divert retirement savings toward a home down payment. They walk through how to prioritize savings goals, use age-based benchmarks to see if you're on track, and set a clear end date for any “pause” to protect your future self. They also break down key differences between Roth IRAs and 403(b)s, when it may be smarter to lower 403(b) contributions instead of tapping a Roth, how first-time homebuyers might use up to $10,000 in Roth earnings for a purchase, and the trade-offs of sacrificing compound growth today for the long-term benefits of owning a home. Enter to Win NerdWallet's Debt-Free December Sweepstakes: https://www.nerdwallet.com/m/loans/personal-loans/debtfreedecember  Use NerdWallet's free retirement calculator to check your progress, see how much retirement income you'll have and estimate how much more you should save: https://www.nerdwallet.com/investing/calculators/retirement-calculator  Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: retirement savings, home down payment, diverting retirement savings, saving for a house, Roth IRA withdrawal for home, Roth IRA first time homebuyer, 403b vs Roth IRA, pension and retirement savings, retirement savings benchmark by age, compound interest retirement, emergency fund vs house down payment, balancing savings goals, saving for retirement in your 30s, retirement calculator planning, how much to save for retirement, wedding budget, honeymoon budget, travel budget planning, Japan trip cost, Tokyo travel budget, Seoul travel budget, big life event budgeting, saving for wedding and house, Cyber Monday shopping tips, Black Friday shopping stress, holiday gift budget, birthday spending, joyful spending, government pension retirement planning, high interest debt payoff vs investing, reducing 403b contributions, Roth IRA contributions vs earnings, and first time homebuyer rules Roth IRA. To send the Nerds your money questions, call or text the Nerd hotline at 901-730-6373 or email podcast@nerdwallet.com. Like what you hear? Please leave us a review and tell a friend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

 Nuclear Ambitions in South Korea: Colleague Henry Sokolski reports that South Korea is requesting nuclear-powered submarines and enrichment rights, raising concerns about potential nuclear proliferation, with some arguing this could lead to a confederation with the North or US withdrawal, while others prefer Seoul invest in American nuclear facilities to strengthen the alliance. 1953

SHOW 12-5-25 CBS EYE ON THE WORLD WITH JOHN BATCHELOR 1940 PITTSBURGH THE SHOW BEGINS IN THE DOUBTS ABOUT INFLATION. FIRST HOUR 9-915 Infrastructure Booms and Business Exoduses in the West: Colleague Jeff Bliss reports that high-speed rail construction from Los Angeles to Las Vegas is accelerating in anticipation of the 2028 Olympics, while the Boring Company expands tunnel networks; conversely, California faces corruption scandals and business flights, and Oregon sees companies like Columbia Sportswear struggle with the business climate. 915-930 Milan Prepares for Christmas and the Olympics: Colleague Lorenzo Fiori reports that Milan celebrates St. Ambrose Day with traditional markets and lights, marking the start of the holiday season, as the city prepares to host the Winter Olympics in February 2026, with cultural events including the La Scala premiere of Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk and the enjoyment of Panettone. 930-945 Supreme Court Enables Partisan Gerrymandering: Colleague Richard Epstein discusses the Supreme Court permitting Texas to redraw congressional districts for 2026, favoring Republicans, arguing that lack of oversight allows parties to entrench power, creating extreme polarization where "reds become redder and blues become bluer," making legislative compromise nearly impossible. 945-1000 Scrutiny Over Lethal Strike on Drug Boat: Colleague Richard Epstein examines Defense Secretary Hegseth facing pressure regarding a lethal strike on alleged drug traffickers in the Caribbean, with reports suggesting survivors may have been shot in the water, asserting that murdering surrendered individuals violates the laws of war, regardless of whether the targets were smugglers. SECOND HOUR 10-1015 Lancaster County Shows Consumer Fatigue: Colleague Jim McTague reports that retailers in Lancaster are using deep discounts to attract price-sensitive shoppers, noting that while weekend traffic is decent, weekdays are slow and high-end dining is struggling, with the job market tightening significantly as skilled labor demands vanish, suggesting consumers are "running out of disposable income". 1015-1030 Future Tech and Economic Shifts: Colleague Jim McTague predicts "creative destruction" where old industries fade, expressing bullishness on solar power due to data center demands and envisioning self-driving cars and useful humanoid robots revolutionizing daily life, with rate cuts expected in 2026 as consumers rebuild savings after a period of spending. C 1030-1045 Private Space Sector Challenges and Triumphs: Colleague Bob Zimmerman reports that Jared Isaacman testified that private companies, not NASA, are driving space colonization; a Russian cosmonaut was removed from a SpaceX mission for spying, while China successfully tested a reusable rocket; additionally, Boeing faces legal challenges from crash victims' families, and activists oppose Blue Origin's operations. 1045-1100 New Discoveries Challenge Cosmic Models: Colleague Bob Zimmerman reports that ground-based telescopes have directly imaged exoplanets and debris discs, the James Webb Telescope found a barred spiral galaxy in the early universe defying evolutionary models, scientists discovered organic sugars on asteroid Bennu, and admits solar cycle predictions have been consistently incorrect. THIRD HOUR 1100-1115 The Early Church Headquarters on Mount Zion: Colleague James Tabor discusses archaeology on Mount Zion revealing a first-century foundation beneath a medieval church, likely the headquarters of the early movement, describing this as the home where James led the church and Mary hosted pilgrims, with Mary possibly living long enough to witness James's martyrdom. 1115-1130 The Historical Disappearance of Mary: Colleague James Tabor explains that following the crucifixion, Mary disappears from the biblical record, likely dying before the 70 AD destruction of Jerusalem; while early Christians fled to Pella under Simon's leadership, traditions suggest Mary died on Mount Zion, with Tabor arguing she was "written out" of the story by later traditions. 1130-1145 The Talpiot Tomb and Ossuary Evidence: Colleague James Tabor discusses a tomb discovered in 1980 containing ossuaries with a unique cluster of names, including Jesus, Maria, and Jose, suggesting this could be the Jesus family tomb, supported by statistical analysis and an ossuary inscribed "James son of Joseph brother of Jesus," with new DNA testing underway. 1145-1200 Mary's Influence on Early Christian Teachings: Colleague James Tabor examines the "Q" source containing teachings shared by Matthew and Luke that parallel the words of James and John the Baptist, positing that Mary, as the mother, was the source of this shared wisdom, arguing that historians must reclaim her humanity and influence from theological erasure. FOURTH HOUR 12-1215 The Limits of AI and the Global Quantum Race: Colleague Brandon Weichert explains that current AI models are data crunchers rather than thinking entities, facing limits known as "The Bitter Lesson," while China is "nanoseconds" away from practical quantum computing aimed at decrypting military communications, with Switzerland and Singapore also pursuing sovereign quantum capabilities to ensure digital independence. 1215-1230 Lebanon's Demographic Decline and Political Stagnation: Colleague Hussain Abdul-Hussain reports that Pope Leo's visit highlighted Lebanon's diminishing Christian population, now estimated at perhaps one-quarter, with the government remaining weak and reluctant to disarm Hezbollah, fearing foreign deals that sacrifice national interests; while civil war is unlikely, the country remains dominated by an Iranian-backed militia. 1230-1245 Nuclear Ambitions in South Korea: Colleague Henry Sokolski reports that South Korea is requesting nuclear-powered submarines and enrichment rights, raising concerns about potential nuclear proliferation, with some arguing this could lead to a confederation with the North or US withdrawal, while others prefer Seoul invest in American nuclear facilities to strengthen the alliance. 1245-100 AM audi Arabia Seeks Nuclear Capabilities: Colleague Henry Sokolski explains that Saudi Arabia wants a nuclear power plant but resists signing US protocols allowing inspections; while Washington may view this as a hedge against Iran, a Saudi nuclear capability would threaten Israel's qualitative military edge, and the US has not yet granted advanced consent for enrichment.

This week, Dr. Joëlle Hivonnet joins the podcast to discuss her four-year tenure as the EU's deputy head in Seoul from 2016, a tumultuous era in inter-Korean relations defined by both tensions and diplomacy. Hivonnet talks about how U.S. President Donald Trump's threats against North Korea transformed into summit talks between leader Kim Jong Un, South Korean President Moon Jae-in and Trump, and how those developments ushered in a period of optimism for the EU. She also challenges the notion that Europe has a limited role in the peninsula's affairs, particularly after North Korea's direct involvement in the war in Ukraine. The EU's agenda is being “totally dominated” by the Ukraine-Russia war, and North Korea's deployment of troops and munitions in support of Moscow's invasion is clear evidence that issues involving the DPRK now relate to the 27-member state organization, she said. Hivonnet, now retired, worked in EU postings for over 30 years, including in Geneva and Kathmandu. Prior to working for the EU, she was a senior lecturer at the University of Northumbria in England.  About the podcast: The North Korea News Podcast is a weekly podcast hosted by Jacco Zwetsloot exclusively for NK News, covering all things DPRK — from news to extended interviews with leading experts and analysts in the field, along with insight from our very own journalists. NK News subscribers can listen to this and other exclusive episodes from their preferred podcast player by accessing the private podcast feed. For more detailed instructions, please see the step-by-step guide at nknews.org/private-feed.

Seoul's Dangerous Pivot North — Gordon Chang — Chang warns that South Korea's newly elected leftist presidentthreatens the stability of the U.S.-South Korea security alliance by seeking diplomatic unification with the North, pursuing engagement strategies likely to be rejected by Kim Jong-un. Chang documents that North Korea's Kim Jong-un is simultaneously deepening military-technical cooperation with Russia against Ukraine, creating triangular strategic complications threatening regional stability. Chang emphasizes that South Korea's strategic pivot toward North Koreawill destabilize the American alliance framework in Northeast Asia precisely when Russian-Chinese-North Koreancoordination represents an escalating threat to American regional interests and Pacific stability.

December 2, 2025 - The Smithsonian's National Museum of Asian Art presents Korean Treasures: Collected, Cherished, Shared, the first U.S. exhibition of significant works from the renowned Lee Kun-Hee Collection. On view through February 1, 2026,  Korean Treasures features over 200 works, including a dozen National Treasures designated by the Korean government. The largest and most comprehensive presentation of Korean art ever mounted at the National Museum of Asian Art, the exhibition spans 1,500 years—from ancient Buddhist sculptures and ceramics to paintings, furnishings and modern masterpieces of the 20th century. Donated to the Republic of Korea in 2021 by the family of the late Samsung Chairman Lee Kun-Hee, the collection reflects more than 70 years of generational collecting and comprises more than 23,000 works, a testament to a decades-long commitment to preserving and sharing Korea's artistic legacy and cultural heritage. Korean Treasures presents a remarkable selection from the collection to American audiences for the first time, alongside additional loans from the Leeum Museum of Art in Seoul, Korea, shown exclusively in Washington, D.C. In a conversation with The Korea Society, three curators from the National Museum of Asian Art–Carol Huh, J. Keith Wilson, and Sunwoo Hwang–explore the depth and diversity of Korean art and reflect on the practice of collecting in Korea. For more information, please visit the link below: https://www.koreasociety.org/arts-culture/gallery-talks/2081-korean-treasures-collected-cherished-shared-the-curatorial-roundtable

Last time we spoke about the beginning of a conflict between the USSR and Japan. In the frost-hardened dawns by the Chaun and Tumen, two powers eye a ridge called Changkufeng, each seeing a prize and fearing a trap. On the Soviet side, weary front-line troops tighten their grip, while Moscow's diplomats coaxed restraint through Seoul and Harbin.  As July unfolds, Tokyo's generals push a dangerous idea: seize the hill with a surprise strike, then bargain for peace. Seoul's 19th Division is readied in secret, trains loaded with men and horses, movement masked, prayers whispered to avoid widening the rift. Japanese scouts in white Hanbok disguise, peering at trenches, wire, and watchful Russians. Russian border guards appear as shadows, counters slipping into place, yet both sides hold their fire. On July 29, a skirmish erupts: a platoon crosses a shallow line, clashes flare, and bodies and banners ripple in the cold air.    #178 Night Attacks and Diplomatic Strains: The Lake Khasan Conflict Welcome to the Fall and Rise of China Podcast, I am your dutiful host Craig Watson. But, before we start I want to also remind you this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Perhaps you want to learn more about the history of Asia? Kings and Generals have an assortment of episodes on history of asia and much more  so go give them a look over on Youtube. So please subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry for some more history related content, over on my channel, the Pacific War Channel where I cover the history of China and Japan from the 19th century until the end of the Pacific War. A second troop train was scheduled to depart Agochi for Nanam on the night of 29 July, carrying back the initial elements of the 75th Infantry. At Haigan, regimental commander Sato was pulling on his boots at 16:00 when the division informed him that fighting had broken out near Shachaofeng since 15:00 and that the Russians were assembling forces in that area. Suetaka ordered Sato's 3rd Battalion, which had not been slated to leave until the following night, to proceed to Kucheng; the remainder of the regiment was to assemble at Agochi. After consulting with Division Staff Officer Saito at Agochi, Sato returned to Haigan with the conclusion that "overall developments did not warrant optimism, it was imperative to prepare to move the entire regiment to the battlefield." One of Sato's first actions was to telephone a recommendation to the division that he be allowed to occupy Hill 52, which commanded the approaches to Changkufeng from south of Khasan. Suetaka approved, and at 17:30, Yamada's company was ordered to proceed to Shikai along with Hirahara's battalion. Meanwhile, Suzuki's 15th Heavy Field Artillery Regiment, which had been among the last units ordered to leave, had finished loading at Agochi by about 15:00. Sato recommended to Suetaka that a portion of Suzuki's regiment be attached to him; this was why Suetaka decided to transfer one of the two batteries to the 75th Infantry. The rest of the heavy artillery concentrated at Kyonghun. Suetaka's orders, issued at 18:20, called for Sato to have two of his battalions, the 1st and 3rd, cross the Tumen as soon as possible, with engineer support. Attached was Narukawa's heavy battery. Sato's mission was twofold: to assist Senda and to watch the enemy in the Changkufeng area. Sato arrived at 21:15 in Shikai. There, he assembled a number of his officers, including Yamada, and explained his plan: the 1st Company plus machine guns were to cross the Tumen from Sozan ahead of the other units, occupy Hill 52 with an element, and concentrate the main body at the foot of Fangchuanting to await Hirahara's battalion. A portion of the 19th Engineers would go to Sozan to assist the 1st Company with its river crossing. Amid heavy rain and darkness, the various units set out at 22:15. The platoon sent to Hill 52 arrived before dawn on the 30th, the rest of the forces somewhat later, though Sato had intended to move everybody across the river by the early hours. On the 29th the engineer regiment commander, Kobayashi, had also arrived at Shikai. He ordered Captain Tomura to handle the crossing in the vicinity of Sozan, as well as preparations for a future offensive with the main body. When Kobayashi reached Kucheng, he learned from Hirahara not only about the front-line situation but also about Sato's important plans: "The K. Sato force is going to cross the river tonight, 29–30 July. A night attack will be launched against Changkufeng on the night of 30–31 July." Kobayashi issued orders to his two commanders to assist the crossing by Nakano's infantry unit, 1st Battalion, 75th Regiment at Matsu'otsuho and Sozan, and, in addition, to cooperate with the position attack by Nakano and help in the assault at Hill 52. Most of these young officers, such as Seutaka dishing out orders were performing what the Japanese termed "dokudan senko" or "arbitrary or independent action". Japanese operational regulations actually contained a section dealing with dokudan senko, by which initiative, not imperiousness, was meant. Two elements were involved: control but encouragement of self-reliant thinking. This subject became important in training officers, all of whom, including such infantry experts as Suetaka, were well acquainted with the requirements. Combat missions were stipulated in operations orders, but, if these were not realistic, initiative was to come into play, though only when there was no time to contact superiors. By the same token, commanders had to be ready to assume full responsibility if matters turned out adversely. "We were disciples of the 'Moltke' system of AGS control, with dual authority vis-à-vis the local forces and the chief of staff."  The Korea Army's version of events on 29 July, there was no mention of any report received from the division prior to 17:30. Details did not reach Seoul, in the form of printed divisional intelligence reports and operational orders, until 1 August. The late afternoon report from Kyonghun provided the Korea Army authorities with little solid information, but Seoul had to notify higher headquarters immediately. Kitano sent messages to Tokyo and Hsinking at 19:15. The command and Kwantung Army were told that, in addition to Senda's assault party, 40 Japanese soldiers were deployed west of Changkufeng and at Yangkuanping. The division's main forces had begun the rail pullback from the 28th, leaving behind only two infantry battalions and a mountain artillery battalion for the time being. At 21:20 on 29 July, Korea Army Headquarters received the text of Suetaka's full report, which concluded: "With a view toward a possible emergency, the division suspended movement back of the 75th Regiment and is making necessary arrangements to have them advance instead. The latest affair derives sheerly from the enemy's unlawful challenge. It is my firm belief that the nature of this incident differs completely from the one at Changkufeng and should be handled separately. At present, since communication with the forward lines is not good, Lieutenant Colonel Senda (who is at the front) has been entrusted with command, but I assume entire responsibility for the consequences." Instead of boarding their trains at Agochi, Sato's regiment and supporting engineers moved to the Manchurian side of the Tumen as soon as possible. Suetaka called Sato's 2nd Battalion to Kyonghun as divisional reserve. Subsequent dispatches claimed that: (1) Senda's unit, which had driven off intruders in the Shachaofeng area once, was engaged against new Soviet forces (sent at 18:20, 29th);  (2) Senda's unit had expelled trespassers, and a combat situation had developed near Shachaofeng (22:00, 29th);  (3) fighting was going on in the vicinity of Shachaofeng (06:40, 30th).  Korea Army Headquarters, however, obtained no more important communication concerning the events of 29 July than a report, sent that evening by Suetaka, that revealed his concern about a possible Soviet attack in the Wuchiatzu sector near the neck of the long Changkufeng appendix.  After the clash at Shachaofeng, a general officer, Morimoto, happened to be visiting Colonels Okido and Tanaka in Nanam. Both of them were said to be of the pronounced opinion that no troubles ought to be provoked with the USSR while the critical Hankow operation lay ahead; yet Suetaka apparently had some intention of striking at the Soviet intruders, using the 75th Regiment. They urged that this policy not be adopted and that Suetaka be approached directly; the channel through Y. Nakamura, the division chief of staff, was hopeless. Although in agreement, General Morimoto declined to approach Suetaka; since the latter seemed to have made up his mind, it would be inappropriate to "meddle" with his command. Suetaka was functioning as an operations chief at that time. Apart from the mobilization staff officer, who was not enthusiastic about aggressive action, the only other officer who may have affected the decisionmaking process was the Hunchun OSS chief, Maj. Tanaka Tetsujiro, a positive type who shared Suetaka's views and was probably with him on the 29th as well as 30th. Although developments at Suetaka's command post were known more as the result of silence than of elucidation, we possessed considerable information about thinking at the Korea Army level: "Suetaka contacted us only after his men had driven out the enemy near Shachaofeng. Till then, the front had been relatively quiet and we were of the opinion all or most of the deployed forces were on their way home. We at Seoul had no foreknowledge of or connection with the 29 July affair. Reports came in; we never sent specific orders. Triggered by the affray at Shachaofeng, the division attacked on its own initiative. It was our understanding that very small Japanese forces had been committed to evict a dozen enemy scouts and that, when a platoon of ours got atop the hill, they observed surprisingly huge hostile concentrations to the rear. This was probably why the platoon pulied back, although much has been made of the desire to obey the nonaggravation policy to the letter. We at Seoul felt that this was a troublesome matter—that our side had done something unnecessary. When the division finally made its report, the army had to reach some decision. There were two irreconcilable ways of looking at things. We might condemn what had been done, and the division ought to be ordered to pull out promptly, having arbitrarily and intolerably acted against the known facts that Imperial sanction for use of force had been withheld and Tokyo had directed evacuation of the moved-up units. The opposing, eventually predominant view was that the division commander's course of action ought to be approved. Perusal of small-scale maps of the locale indicated a clear violation of the frontier, something not proved in the case of Changkufeng. We shared the division commander's interpretation. His BGU had its mission, and he was acting with foresight to solve matters positively and on his own, since he was the man closest to the problem. General Nakamura felt that the latest development was inevitable; our units did not cross the Tumen until the Soviets attacked us in force. Therefore, the division's actions were approved and a report was rendered promptly to Tokyo. It could be said that our outlook served to "cover" the division commander, in a way. But if IGHQ had ordered us to desist, we would have".  Nakamura added: "I was of the opinion the only solution was to drive the Soviet troops outside Manchukuoan territory; therefore, I approved the action by the division." Such sanction had been granted on the basis of information supplied to Seoul by Suetaka on the evening of 29 July, again post facto. At 01:20 on the 30th, Nakamura wired Suetaka a message characterized by gracious phrasing that suggested his grave concern: "One ought to be satisfied with expelling from Manchurian territory the enemy attacking our unit on the . . . heights southwest of Shachaofeng. It is necessary to keep watch on the enemy for the time being, after having pulled back to the heights mentioned above, but we desire that matters be handled carefully to avoid enlargement; in case the foe has already pulled back south of Shachaofeng . . . he need not be attacked." Nakamura also sent a wire to the AGS chief, the War Minister, and the Kwantung Army commander. After conveying the information received from Suetaka, Nakamura continued: "In spite of the fact that our troops have been patient and cautious . . . this latest incident [near Shachaofeng] started with Soviet forces' arrogant border trespassing and . . . unlawful challenge. Therefore, I am convinced that this affair must be dealt with separately from the incident at Changkufeng. Nevertheless, I shall endeavor to handle matters so that the incident will not spread and shall make it my fundamental principle to be satisfied with evicting from Manchurian territory the hostile forces confronting us. The Korea Army chief of staff is being dispatched quickly to handle the incident".  The Korea Army, "painfully slow to act," says a Kwantung Army major, was merely the intermediary link, the executor of Tokyo's desires. In the case of remote Shachaofeng, there was an inevitable gap between on-the-spot occurrences and AGS reactions. By then, Arisue, Kotani, and Arao, Inada's observers, had returned to Japan—an important fact, given the "Moltke" system of staff control. Nevertheless, their return must have exerted significant effects on central operational thinking. Kotani remembered that his AGS subsection had given him a welcome-home party on the night of 29 July when an emergency phone call was received from the duty officer. "It was about the clash at Shachaofeng. The festivities came to an abrupt end and I headed for the office. From then till the cease-fire on 11 August, I remained at the AGS night and day." Since the 19th Division had furnished higher headquarters with minimal information, Tokyo, like Seoul, had only a few ostensible facts to act upon. But this had been the first combat test for the Korea Army, which needed all the encouragement and assistance possible. Although Japanese field armies, notably the Kwantung Army, were notorious for insubordination, one could not overemphasize the fact that the Korea Army was meek and tractable. If Nakamura had concluded that Suetaka acted properly (which reports from Seoul indicated), the AGS could hardly demur. It would have been unrealistic to think that Tokyo, although cautious, was "softer" about the Russian problem than front-line forces. There had been no concern over time lags; details were Seoul's province. Reaction took time at every level of the chain of command. Decision making in the Japanese Army had been a many-layered process. The Army general staff had been of the opinion that initial guidance ought to have been provided to the Korea Army soon, particularly since there had been evidence of failure to convey intentions promptly to the front and no high command staff officer remained to direct matters. After hearing from Seoul twice about the Shachaofeng affair, the responsible Army general staff officers conferred at length. Stress had been laid on the indivisibility of the Shachaofeng and Changkufeng incidents. It had also been evident that further information was required. On that basis, a "handling policy for the Shachaofeng Incident" was drafted, and Tada notified the Korea and Kwantung armies accordingly on 30 July. Nakamura had received the telegram at 16:50 and had its contents retransmitted to Kitano, then at Kyonghun: "Shachaofeng Incident is progressing along lines of our policy, leave things to local units, which have been adhering to the principle of nonenlargement. Have them report on front-line situation without fail."  The Army general staff and the Korea Army were calling for prudence, but the division, well down the rungs of the ladder of command, was initiating actions that jeopardized the government's basic policy. Earlier quibbling about restraints on "unit-size" elements crossing into Manchuria had been abandoned after the firefight near Shachaofeng on 29 July. At 15:30, Takenouchi's battalion, part of the 76th Regiment, had been directed to assist Senda near Yangkuanping; at 18:20 Suetaka was ordering the 75th Regiment to head for the Kucheng sector and be ready to assault the Russians in the Changkufeng area. Support was to be provided by Kobayashi's engineers, by Iwano's transportation men, and by Suzuki's heavy guns. Of particular interest had been Suetaka's acceptance of Sato's recommendation that elements be sent to occupy Hill 52, a measure linked with a possible Japanese attack against Changkufeng.   Sato had decided by evening that the new situation required rapid deployment of his forces across the river. At Shikai, he conducted a briefing of his officers. Suetaka's orders conveyed orally by staff officers had stipulated: "The division will take steps to secure the border line immediately, even if the situation undergoes change. The Sato unit will advance immediately to the left shore, reinforce Senda's unit, and maintain a strict watch on the enemy in the Changkufeng area." Around 23:20, the last elements ordered forward arrived at Shikai station. Sato instructed only his headquarters and the Ito company to get off. The rest of the troop train primarily the 1st [Nakano's] Battalion was to move on to Hongui. From there, the soldiers proceeded to the Tumen near Sozan. With his staff and Ito's company, Sato trudged in silence through the mud from Shikai to the shore at Matsu'otsuho, starting at 00:30 and reaching the crossing site at 03:00. Reconnaissance had proved satisfactory, Sato remembered.  At the crossings, the hardworking engineers rowed his 1st and 3rd battalions across, company by company. Near dawn, around 04:30, he traversed the river. The movement had been completed in about an hour. When Sato's infantry finally got across, they proceeded to the skirt of Fangchuanting and assembled in secrecy. Not until about 08:00 did the regimental headquarters, Ito's company, and Hirahara's battalion reach Hill 147, already held by Noguchi's company west of Changkufeng. By then, plans had fallen behind schedule by at least several hours because of difficulties in train movement forward. Sato also remembered torrential rains; other officers mentioned darkness. Members of Nakano's battalion pinpointed a shortage of engineer boats from Kucheng. Engineers rowed some boats downstream during the night, but six of them were kept at Matsu'otsuho. This left only three boats for moving the 400 men of the 1st Battalion, the unit slated to storm Changkufeng, across the river at Sozan. Sato had wanted all of his troops across well before dawn on the 30th. A division staff officer rightly thought that Suetaka had already advised Sato, in secret, to "attack at an opportune time," and that the night of 29–30 July had been intended for the surprise assault. "Perhaps there was not enough time for all the attack preparations." Kobayashi's engineers admitted problems in moving boats to Sozan: "Although the water level had gone up because of daily rains recently, there were still many shallows and the current was irregular. Not only was it hard to move downstream, but dense fog also complicated the work. Nevertheless, the units at both sites were able to accomplish the river-crossing operation approximately as scheduled".  Meanwhile, after reconnoitering Soviet defenses along the Manchurian bank, Suzuki, commander of the 15th Heavy Field Artillery Regiment, crossed the Kyonghun Bridge on 30 July with his 1st Battery and established positions on the edge of Shuiliufeng Hill. Once Captain Narukawa was attached to the 75th Infantry on 29 July, he dispatched his 2nd Battery by train to Shikai that night. Although firing sites had been surveyed northwest of Sho-Sozan, the battery had to traverse two weak, narrow bridges in the darkness. With two 15-centimeter howitzers to haul, plus five caissons and wagons, the unit faced tense moments. The gun sites themselves were worrisome: they were scarcely masked from observation from Changkufeng, and the single road to them from the unloading station ran through a paddy area and was similarly exposed. By 1200 hours on 30 July, Sato exerted operational control over the following units: his own forces, Nakano's battalion east of Fangchuanting; Hirahara's reinforced battalion west of Chiangchunfeng; a platoon from Nakajima's infantry company on Hill 52; and Noguchi's company on Hill 147; and from other forces, Senda's 2nd (Kanda) BGU Company; two reinforced companies from Takenouchi's battalion of Okido's 76th Regiment near Shachaofeng; and a 75-mm half-battery from the 25th Mountain Artillery on the Manchurian side with Sato. On the Korean shore, another half-battery comprising two 15-centimeter howitzers from Narukawa's unit of the 15th Heavy Field Artillery was in place. The 19th Engineers operated near the crossing sites, though one platoon remained at Fangchuanting. Sato said, "We were now deployed at last, to cope with any situation." His command post was set in foxholes on open ground at Chiangchunfeng, a central hill that offered excellent observation and control over actions around Changkufeng to the east and Shachaofeng to the north. Not content with suspending the pullout of units and deploying additional combat troops across the Tumen, Suetaka decided to recall division headquarters, mountain artillery, cavalry, signal, medical, and veterinary personnel from Nanam. At dawn on 30 July, Nanam issued orders for Colonel Tanaka to move 500 men and 300 horses to Agochi by rail; most of the increment came from Tanaka's horse-drawn 25th Mountain Artillery. The colonel reached the Korean side of the Tumen at 05:00 on 31 July. The preceding emergency measures were being implemented by Suetaka, even as he received Nakamura's calming telegram of 30 July enjoining nonexpansion. Changkufeng Hill was not even mentioned. Nakamura's concern was typified by Kitano flying to the front. At 10:00 on 30 July, Kitano sent the division chief of staff a cautious follow-up cable: "Based on the consistent policy for handling the Changkufeng Incident and on the army commander's earlier telegram, kindly take steps to ensure careful action in connection with the affair in the Shachaofeng vicinity lest there be enlargement." At 13:45, Nakamura transmitted another restraining message to Suetaka: "The division is to secure … Chiangchunfeng and … the heights southwest of Shachaofeng, using present front-line units. Unless there is an enemy attack, however, resort to force will depend on separate orders." Several hours later, at 16:50, Nakamura received instructions from Tada: the Shachaofeng case was being left to the local forces, who were pursuing the desired policy of nonenlargement, but prompt reporting was desired. At 19:30, the retransmitted message was received by Kitano, already at the front with Suetaka at Kyonghun. After his units had crossed the Tumen on 30 July, Sato Kotoku ordered a strict watch and directed preparations for an assault based on the plans. He conferred with Senda at Chiangchunfeng and observed the enemy. Even after dawn, the frontline commanders who had crossed the river remained uncertain about when the attack would be staged. While Sato's force conducted reconnaissance to prepare for a daytime offensive, orders arrived around 08:00 indicating, "We intend a night attack, so conceal your activities." Daytime movements were prohibited. Sato then explained the impression he had derived from Senda and the intelligence on which he based his estimates: " Exploiting the impasse in diplomatic negotiation, the enemy side had steadily reinforced front-line offensive strength and trespassed anew near Shachaofeng. They now had a battalion and a half of infantry plus 20 artillery pieces in the area, some south of Shachaofeng and the others at four positions immediately east of Lake Khasan. At least a dozen (maybe 20) tanks were deployed in the sector opposite us. About 300 well-armed, active Russian troops were at Changkufeng. I decided that an attack ought to be staged that night. First of all, we were going to chill the insolent enemy by a courageous night assault—a method characteristic of the Imperial Army. Then all kinds of fire power were to be combined in a surprise attack against the positions. Our intention was to jo lt the Russians, demonstrate the true strength of our combat fire, and, by a combination of night and dawn attacks, cut down losses which our left-flank units would have incurred if a night assault alone were staged. We had considered two plans—a night attack against Changkufeng by the 3rd Battalion from the north, or by the 1st Battalion from the south. On 30 July, I decided to execute the second plan, using my 1st (Nakano's) Battalion, to avoid simultaneous involvement around Shachaofeng where the foe was by now alerted."  The Japanese Army ordinarily favored surprise assaults without supporting guns, since firepower was regarded as secondary in close combat and artillery was in short supply. According to the regimental journal, telephone contacts from the morning of the 30th indicated that the division commander shared the same line of thinking as Sato. By noon, Suetaka made his stance explicit. A phone call from Kucheng conveyed to Sato the gist of a critical division order: first, a detailed briefing on Soviet troop concentrations and dispositions, firing positions, troops, and armor south of Shachaofeng; entanglements and forces at Changkufeng; large concentrations behind west of Khasan; tanks and ground formations moving north of the lake; a heavy concentration near the lake to the northwest; one confirmed and two suspected positions along the eastern shore and another with artillery far to the south. Then the order stated that K. Sato's forces, including the Takenouchi battalion from the 76th Infantry, one mountain artillery platoon, and one engineer platoon were to strengthen their positions and, at the same time, promptly evict from Manchurian territory the intruding and advancing enemy. However, pursuit must not be pushed too far lest the border be crossed. Shortly after noon, Suetaka issued another order to form a new force under Senda, who was to strengthen border security along the Shuiliufeng–Hunchun line. As with Sato, Senda was to eject the intruding and advancing enemy from Manchurian soil but not pursue them across the border. By midafternoon, Sato knew not only what he wanted to do but also Suetaka's intentions. At 15:30, he assembled all subordinate officers at Chiangchunfeng and dictated minute attack instructions. Intelligence indicated that the enemy continued to fortify points of importance along the Changkufeng–Shachaofeng line. Sato's plan was to annihilate hostile elements that had crossed the border north and south of Changkufeng. His concept went beyond a frontal assault. While Nakano's battalion would jump off south of Changkufeng, one reinforced company, Takeshita's 10th was to attack north. Since the sun rose at about 05:00, Sato intended to wipe out the enemy during three hours of darkness. Another battalion, Hirahara's 3rd would be held in reserve, with Ito's 6th Company ready to launch a night attack against Changkufeng from the northwest if necessary. Small forces deployed southeast at Hill 52 were to block the arrival of Soviet reinforcements around the southern shores of Khasan. Only after Changkufeng was secured and fire swept the high ground south of Shachaofeng would a reinforced battalion, Takenouchi's 1st from the 76th Regiment undertake a dawn assault to clear the Russians from that sector. An engineer platoon would assist both the night and dawn assault battalions with obstacle clearing. There would be no artillery support until dawn, when the available guns were to provide maximum coverage. Notably, even the movement of a single antitank gun warranted mention. Sato concluded the attack order by directing that each unit mask its intentions after sunset. Takenouchi was to act to check the enemy as soon as the sun went down. In connection with the dawn barrage against the enemy southwest of Shachaofeng, key personnel were to study the best way to exploit sudden fire described as gale and lightning. They were also to be ready to destroy enemy tanks. A green star shell would be fired to signal the success of the night attack. The code words were shojiki "honesty" and ydmo "bravery". At midnight, the regiment commander would be at the northwest foot of Chiangchunfeng. The order stressed typical night-attack precautions: secrecy and concealment, avoidance of confusion, antitank defense, and flare signaling of success. Sato added his own flair with his daily motto as code words and the reference to "whirlwind" fire. Impending action times were explicitly set when the order was issued at 15:30 on the 30th, more than ten hours before the 1st Battalion was to jump off. The key to success in a night assault lay in an absolute prohibition on firing by their side, and bold, courageous charging. Sato reminded his men that life is granted again after death. Nakano then assembled his company commanders east of Fangchuanting and issued his battalion order at 18:30. A few hours after Sato's briefing of the assault commanders, Suetaka arrived at the 75th Regiment command post. This visit late on 30 July is central to allegations that Sato, not Suetaka, conceived and executed the night attack on his own initiative. Divisional orders giving Sato his core mission had already been conveyed by telephone. After 16:00, Suetaka boarded a motorboat at Kucheng and went to the Manchurian side to verify front-line conditions. Soviet snipers south of Yangkuanping fired several shots, but his craft reached the Matsu'otsuho landing and proceeded to Chiangchunfeng to meet Sato. Sato described the situation: "frontline enemy forces had been reinforced steadily and had begun a vigorous offensive. The foe was provoking us, and the matter had grown very serious. I had already issued orders at 15:30 to take the initiative and deal the enemy a smashing blow." I would like to take this time to remind you all that this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Please go subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry after that, give my personal channel a look over at The Pacific War Channel at Youtube, it would mean a lot to me. On a frost-bitten dawn by the Chaun and Tumen, Russia and Japan lock eyes over Changkufeng. Diplomats urge restraint, yet Tokyo's generals push a bold gamble: seize a hill with a surprise strike and bargain later. Japanese divisions, engineers, and artillery edge toward the border, while Soviet sentries brace for a confrontation that could widen the war. 

Bill Yom ist Gründer und Kreativchef von Jung von Matt Hangang, einer renommierten Werbe-Agentur in Südkorea. Frank spricht mit dem 49-jährigen Hamburger über harte Arbeits-Anfangsjahre in Seoul, über analoges Miteinander und warum er überhaupt Bill heißt. Über den kompetitiven Spirit koreanischer Eltern, mit welchem Spruch quasi seine Werbe-Karriere begann und wie es ist, deutsch geprägt zu sein und mit Koreans zu arbeiten. Über öffentliche Toiletten, Service-Kleinigkeiten – und was man in Deutschland immer dabei haben muss. (04:30) Passkontrolle (06:50) Klischee-Check (10:45) Analoges Miteinander, Neuer Name, Hip Hop (27:10) Berufsfindung: Rebellion, Korean Identity und ein „Why not?!“ (38:00) Arbeiten als „Banane“ in Seoul: Codes, Konflikte und Kaffee mit Agenda (1:12:45) K-Wave, Party und gemeinsames Leiden (1:25:15) Soul 2 Seoul: Toiletten, Seoul Service und Kyopo Community SUPPORT: Halbe Katoffl unterstützen: https://halbekatoffl.de/unterstuetzen/ Paypal: frank@halbekatoffl.de Steady: https://steady.page/de/halbekatoffl/about Überweisung/ Dauerauftrag: Schreib an frank@halbekatoffl.de | Stichwort: KONTO PODCAST WORKSHOP & BERATUNG https://halbekatoffl.de/workshops/ KONTAKT: frank@halbekatoffl.de