ASIATODAY to be a lighthouse in turmoil

Jan 02, 2026, 08:34 am

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Woo Jong-sun, Chairman of AsiaToday.

As the Year of the Red Horse begins in 2026, Woo Jong-sun extended New Year’s greetings to readers, wishing health and happiness to families across the nation.

Reflecting on 2025—the year AsiaToday marked its 20th anniversary—Woo recalled the outlet’s pledge to pursue a “second leap forward” under the banner, “Opening the future with the power of principled journalism.” He cautioned, however, that the reality facing the country in 2026 resembles “a ship navigating a foggy night sea,” amid high exchange rates, elevated prices, and a broad economic slowdown outside a few strong sectors.

Woo criticized entrenched factional strife in politics, arguing that it has pushed bread-and-butter issues to the sidelines and left the public’s anxieties unaddressed. He warned that continued division would only deepen electoral defeats and public disillusionment.

Against this backdrop, Woo outlined AsiaToday’s commitment to serve as a guiding lighthouse in three ways:

First, a lighthouse of truth—cutting through political confrontation and imbalance by practicing independent, principled journalism that scrutinizes power without allegiance to any camp, illuminating facts hidden behind political rhetoric so citizens can make informed judgments.

Second, a lighthouse of vision—helping the nation navigate economic headwinds intensified by renewed global protectionism, including the “America First” approach of a second Trump administration. Beyond headline reporting, the paper will offer in-depth analysis and policy alternatives grounded in pragmatism and the national interest to help restore economic vitality.

Third, a lighthouse of innovation—spotlighting advanced technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, as countries race for leadership. Through focused coverage and special reports, AsiaToday aims to contribute to Korea’s competitiveness in emerging fields.

Reaffirming the publication’s founding values—principled journalism, respect for human dignity, and peace—Woo said these ideals remain an unchanging compass amid rough seas. Expressing confidence in Korea’s resilience under liberal democracy, he pledged that AsiaToday would continue to walk the path of forthright, responsible journalism in 2026, dedicated to national development and public well-being.

“Happy New Year to all,” Woo concluded. “Thank you.”

#Woo Jong-sun #AsiaToday #New Year’s address