What is South Korea’s ‘monster missile’, and what does it mean for relations with the North?

The Bank of Korea has decided to keep its policy rate unchanged for the third consecutive time, signaling a cautious approach amid ongoing financial stability concerns and uncertainties surrounding tariffs. This decision is significant as it reflects the central bank's careful balancing act in navigating economic challenges while aiming to support growth.

Bora Chung's new short story collection, 'Midnight Timetable', dives into the eerie world of horror, blending classic tropes with modern fears. Set in a mysterious research facility, the stories explore themes of isolation and dread, making readers confront their deepest anxieties. This collection is significant as it not only entertains but also reflects on the psychological aspects of fear, resonating with anyone who has ever felt lost in the dark.

North Korea has escalated tensions by launching multiple short-range ballistic missiles, as reported by South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff. This development is significant as it raises concerns about regional security and the potential for further military provocations. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, given the implications for peace and stability in the area.

North Korea has launched multiple short-range ballistic missiles, marking its first missile test in months, just a week before the APEC summit where world leaders, including US President Donald Trump, are set to meet in South Korea. This provocative action raises tensions in the region and could impact diplomatic discussions at the summit, highlighting the ongoing challenges of North Korea's military ambitions.

North Korea has fired multiple ballistic missiles towards the East Sea, raising concerns among experts who warn that such provocative actions could escalate ahead of the upcoming APEC summit in South Korea. This situation is significant as it highlights ongoing tensions in the region and the potential for increased military provocations, which could impact diplomatic efforts and stability.

A tragic incident in South Korea unfolded when a woman attempting to kill a cockroach inadvertently set her apartment block ablaze. The fire led to a devastating outcome, with a neighbor losing their life while trying to escape through a window. This unfortunate event highlights the potential dangers of seemingly minor actions and serves as a stark reminder of fire safety in residential buildings.

South Korean police are taking significant action by seeking warrants for 58 nationals who were repatriated from Cambodia, where they were allegedly involved in 'pig butchering' scams. This move highlights the government's commitment to tackling fraud and protecting citizens from such deceptive schemes. By addressing these issues head-on, authorities aim to deter future scams and promote a safer environment for everyone.

Syrian authorities have successfully negotiated a ceasefire with a jihadist group led by Frenchman Oumar Diaby in northwestern Syria. This development is significant as it may help reduce violence in the region and open pathways for humanitarian aid, reflecting ongoing efforts to stabilize the area amidst the complex conflict.

The Women's Cricket World Cup match between India and New Zealand is currently underway in Navi Mumbai, with India aiming for a semi-final spot. As the game progresses, fans are eagerly watching the performance of players like Smriti Mandhana and Jess Kerr. This match is significant not only for the teams involved but also for the growing popularity of women's cricket, showcasing the talent and competitiveness of female athletes on a global stage.

In a recent court ruling, six men were found guilty of rioting in Ely, a response to tragic e-bike deaths that have sparked community outrage. This verdict highlights the tensions surrounding safety and accountability in the wake of these incidents, emphasizing the need for better regulations and awareness regarding e-bike usage.

King Charles made history by becoming the first British monarch to pray publicly with the Pope in 500 years during a visit to the Vatican. This significant moment not only highlights the evolving relationship between the Church of England and the Catholic Church but also symbolizes a commitment to interfaith dialogue. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is advocating for the European Union to quickly approve a plan to utilize frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine, emphasizing the legality and fairness of the proposal. This dual narrative showcases the importance of diplomacy and unity in addressing both spiritual and geopolitical challenges.

In the second men's one-day international at Adelaide Oval, Australia is chasing a target of 265 runs to secure a win against India. The match is currently underway, with Josh Hazlewood starting strong by delivering a maiden over, showcasing his skill and putting pressure on the Indian batsmen. This match is significant as it highlights the ongoing rivalry between these two cricketing nations and the importance of ODI series in shaping team rankings and player performances.

In a recent statement, Trump expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of talks with Putin, noting that they 'don't go anywhere.' This comes as the US imposes new sanctions on Rosneft and Lukoil, Russia's largest oil companies, in response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. These sanctions are significant as they aim to pressure Russia economically while highlighting the US's commitment to supporting Ukraine during this crisis.