S. Korean president apologises over foreign adoptions of stolen children

The president of South Korea has issued an apology for a foreign adoption scheme that began after the Korean War, which aimed to remove mixed-race children from society. This program has been criticized for violating human rights, and the apology marks a significant step towards acknowledging past injustices. It matters because it reflects a growing recognition of the need to address historical wrongs and promote healing within society.

The Guardian's Young Country Diary series is inviting children aged 8-14 to share their experiences with nature this autumn. This initiative not only encourages young writers to express their thoughts and observations but also fosters a deeper connection with the environment. By publishing these articles, The Guardian aims to highlight the importance of nature in children's lives and inspire a new generation to appreciate and protect the natural world.

The inquiry into the Southport killings revealed that the perpetrator, at just 15 years old, had asked crossbow sellers about age verification and delivery options. This troubling detail highlights the need for stricter regulations on weapon sales to minors, raising concerns about public safety and the effectiveness of current laws.

A recent Senate inquiry, led by the Greens, has raised serious concerns about the waiting lists in aged care, labeling them a 'calculated denial of services' that could have fatal consequences. The inquiry argues that the system should be demand-driven, countering the Labor party's dissenting opinion that such a shift could lead to unintended issues. This debate is crucial as it highlights the urgent need for reform in aged care services, which directly impacts the well-being of vulnerable seniors in Australia.

Slovakia has taken a significant step backward in LGBTQ+ rights with a recent constitutional amendment that recognizes only male and female sexes, effectively making adoption nearly impossible for same-sex couples. This move has been labeled a 'dark day' by LGBTQ+ advocates, who argue it reflects a broader trend of diminishing human rights and rule of law in the country. The implications of this decision are profound, as it not only affects the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals but also signals a worrying shift in societal values.

Anne's recent visit to Ukraine highlights her commitment to supporting children affected by the ongoing war. By meeting with displaced children and visiting a memorial for young victims, she brings attention to their plight and the need for continued support. This visit not only raises awareness but also emphasizes the importance of compassion and solidarity in times of crisis.

On September 30, British Columbia commemorated the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day dedicated to remembering the children who never returned home from residential schools. Premier David Eby emphasized the importance of this day in acknowledging the painful history and the ongoing impact of these institutions on Indigenous communities. This observance is crucial for fostering understanding and healing, as it encourages reflection on the past and promotes a path toward reconciliation.

A recent UK inquiry revealed that children were often prevented from playing outside during the Covid pandemic because their play was perceived as 'too much like fun.' Alice Ferguson, director of the campaign group Playing Out, emphasized that outdoor play is crucial for children's health and wellbeing. This situation highlights the negative impact of strict restrictions on children's freedom to engage in essential activities, raising concerns about their physical and mental health during such challenging times.

A groundbreaking study has revealed that living in an unequal society can lead to structural changes in children's brains, affecting their development regardless of their family's wealth. This research, involving over 10,000 young people in the US, highlights the urgent need to address inequality as a public health issue. By understanding the detrimental effects of inequality on brain development, we can advocate for policies that promote equity and improve the well-being of future generations.

South Korea has raised its national cyber threat level to 'caution' following a significant fire at a government datacentre that disrupted critical digital infrastructure. This incident has sparked fears that hackers might exploit the ensuing chaos to launch cyberattacks. The urgency to restore government systems is paramount, as the intelligence agency works to safeguard against potential threats. This situation highlights the vulnerabilities in digital security and the importance of robust measures to protect essential services.

The UK inquiry into the impact of Covid school closures reveals alarming consequences for children, highlighting how the pandemic has disrupted their childhood. Counsel Clair Dobbin KC shared that evidence from thousands of stories indicates many children faced exposure to harmful content and significant emotional distress without the protective environment of schools. This inquiry is crucial as it sheds light on the long-term effects of the pandemic on young people's development and well-being.

In a recent public inquiry, the Southport dance teacher who organized the class where three children tragically lost their lives stated that locking the door would not have prevented the attack. She emphasized that multiple organizations had the opportunity to intervene and potentially stop the killer. This revelation highlights the systemic failures that allowed such a horrific event to occur, raising important questions about safety measures and accountability in community settings.

Paloma Shemirani's tragic death highlights the dangers of rejecting conventional cancer treatments like chemotherapy. Diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma, she chose to forgo chemotherapy, influenced by her mother's anti-chemo beliefs. This situation raises critical questions about the impact of personal beliefs on health decisions and the importance of seeking professional medical advice.

The ongoing murder trial of Soldier F has brought renewed attention to the events of Bloody Sunday, particularly the testimony of a man who was shot in the face during the tragic incident in Londonderry in 1972. This trial is significant as it seeks to address the long-standing questions surrounding the violence of that day and the accountability of those involved. The testimonies are crucial for the victims and their families, as they navigate the complex legacy of this historical event.

In a recent political discussion, Kemi Badenoch criticized fellow Tory leader Jenrick, suggesting that his ideas were merely her own thoughts repackaged. Badenoch also highlighted the financial struggles of the Tory party, claiming it was on the brink of bankruptcy when she assumed leadership last year. This conversation comes as a YouGov poll reveals that voters trust the Green party the most on environmental issues, a significant insight as the Greens prepare for their autumn conference. This matters because it reflects shifting voter sentiments and the challenges faced by traditional parties in addressing climate concerns.

At the recent European Political Community summit in Copenhagen, Danish Prime Minister warned that Russia's aggressive actions will continue unless they face significant opposition. The summit gathered over 45 leaders, highlighting the importance of unity in addressing regional security concerns. Notably, European Council President António Costa praised Moldova for its pro-European election results and acknowledged the peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts in promoting stability in Europe.

Tesco's CEO Ken Murphy has made a strong statement urging the government to avoid imposing additional costs on businesses, advocating for a 'pro-growth' Budget. This call to action is significant as it highlights the challenges businesses face in the current economic climate and emphasizes the need for supportive policies that can foster growth and stability. Murphy's remarks resonate with many in the business community who are looking for relief and a more favorable environment to thrive.

Israel's interception of a Gaza flotilla has sparked international criticism, particularly from South Africa and Turkey. Activists, including prominent climate advocate Greta Thunberg, were detained during the incident in international waters. This situation raises concerns about freedom of expression and the treatment of activists, highlighting ongoing tensions in the region.