Liberation Day Diplomacy: South Korea’s President Lee Jae-myung used Liberation Day to call for talks with North Korea to replace the armistice with a “peace regime,” while also pushing dialogue to curb Pyongyang’s nuclear program and build safeguards against escalation. North Korea Tensions: The same speech framed peace as a duty, as ties remain frozen and Pyongyang has criticized Seoul’s plans and US-South drills. Trade Shock in Seoul: South Korea abruptly dismissed top trade negotiator Yeo Han-koo amid ongoing US investment and tariff-related negotiations, with the ministry citing no specific reason. US Alliance Message: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio marked Liberation Day by calling South Korea an “indispensable partner,” highlighting cooperation on defense, shipbuilding, and critical minerals. Japan Shrine Row: Japan’s defense minister visited Yasukuni Shrine on the WWII surrender anniversary, while Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi sent a ritual offering instead of attending—another flashpoint for Seoul and Beijing. Housing Pressure: Seoul plans to expand housing supply, including new sites and additional homes, as political debate over the pace and cooperation with Seoul continues. Pet Care Costs: The government launched a survey to identify which pet illnesses drive the highest medical bills, aiming to guide future research priorities. Finance & Markets: Reuters also reported younger wealthy Koreans are shifting toward safer assets like deposits and bonds as wealth grows, signaling a more structured approach to managing and transferring fortunes.