The article discusses the transition from Moon Jae-in's presidency to Yoon Suk-yeol's in South Korea, highlighting the stagnant inter-Korean relations and the challenges posed by North Korea's missile tests and nuclear threats. It covers the conservative Yoon's lack of political experience and his firm stance against North Korea, contrasting with Moon's more conciliatory approach. The article also touches on the potential impact of Russia's invasion of Ukraine on the Korean Peninsula and the implications of Yoon's inauguration speech, which offered dialogue and economic incentives to North Korea for denuclearization. Additionally, it mentions the outbreak of COVID-19 in North Korea and the South's offer of vaccine aid.

Following Kim Jong Un's April 12 address to the Supreme People’s Assembly, North Korean media has increased criticism of South Korea, shifting blame from the South Korean military to the authorities. This change indicates a deterioration in inter-Korean dialogue. Despite harsher rhetoric, North Korea has not declared relations with the South as irreparable, suggesting a willingness to keep dialogue open. Pyongyang's complaints center on the belief that reduced military exercises by the US and South Korea are attempts to circumvent agreements, including the US-DPRK Singapore statement.

Aidan Foster-Carter is an honorary senior research fellow in Sociology and Modern Korea at Leeds University. He is also a freelance writer, consultant, and broadcaster who specializes in topics related to both North and South Korea. His work encompasses a range of activities including academic research, writing articles, providing consultancy services, and participating in broadcast discussions, all focused on the sociological aspects and modern developments of the Korean peninsula.

Aidan Foster-Carter is an honorary senior research fellow in Sociology and Modern Korea at Leeds University. He is also a freelance writer, consultant, and broadcaster who specializes in topics related to both North and South Korea. His work encompasses a range of activities including academic research, writing articles, providing consultancy services, and participating in broadcast discussions, all focused on the sociological aspects and modern developments of the Korean peninsula.

Recent claims that Kim Jong Un has taken on a new title as 'the supreme representative of all the Korean people' have sparked speculation that he is asserting leadership over the entire Korean Peninsula. However, this interpretation may be a misunderstanding. The phrase likely relates to North Korea's internal politics, signifying Kim's status within the DPRK's electoral system rather than hegemonic ambitions over South Korea. The article suggests that the choice of words is more about avoiding the oddity of the Supreme Leader representing a single constituency and less about an open challenge to South Korean President Moon Jae-in.

Kim Jong Un focused on consolidating power internally by reining in the Korean People's Army, purging rivals, and restoring the Party's pre-eminence during his first four years in power. From 2016, he shifted his attention to securing North Korea's external position through a series of nuclear and ICBM tests, which solidified the country's defenses but escalated global tensions.

Kim Young-sam, former president of South Korea, has passed away at the age of 87. He was a key figure in the country's struggle for democracy against military dictators from the 1960s to the 80s. Born on Geoje island, he was the youngest member of South Korea's National Assembly at 26 and was re-elected nine times. He opposed dictatorial regimes of Syngman Rhee, Park Chung-hee, and Chun Doo-hwan, enduring hardships such as a hunger strike and force-feeding. Kim's presidency from 1993 to 1998 saw the arrest of former presidents Chun and Roh for extortion, the dissolution of a suspect officers' association, and the country's entry into the OECD. However, his tenure was marred by an economic crisis that led to an IMF bailout. Kim's later years were marked by low public visibility and health issues. He is survived by his wife, Myung-soon, their five children, and five younger sisters.

Lee Myung-bak, South Korea's former president, was known for his active presence and significant projects such as hosting the G-20 and the Four Rivers project during his tenure from 2008 to early 2013.

Yoo Byung-eun, South Korea's most wanted man, is being pursued by authorities for his alleged connection to Chonghaejin Marine, the company responsible for the Sewol ferry disaster that resulted in over 300 deaths. Despite not being formally charged, Yoo and his family have ignored summonses, prompting strong government action to track him down and seize assets. Yoo, who has a complex history involving multiple identities and a religious group, the Evangelical Baptist Church, has been trying to erase his online presence. The article delves into Yoo's past, including his involvement in a mass suicide scandal and his business ventures, highlighting the intertwining of his religious and corporate activities. The government's determination to apprehend Yoo is underscored, with the case raising questions about the intersection of faith, law, and individual responsibility.