Top headlines in major S. Korean newspapers

SEOUL, Aug. 17 (Yonhap) -- The top headlines in major South Korean newspapers for August 17 highlight key political developments and economic concerns.

Korean-language dailies report that Kim Min-seok secured back-to-back victories, positioning him as a strong contender to become the leader of the Democratic Party. The KOSPI index experienced a volatile year, characterized by both sharp rallies and crashes. According to the Donga Ilbo, Kim leads Jung by 8.4 percentage points, and the Democratic Party will convene to select their leader today. Kim Min-seok also won primaries in the Honam region and the capital, leading the race for party leadership.

Meanwhile, the Chosun Ilbo suggests that parties involved in the Korean War should initiate dialogue to bring an end to the conflict. The JoongAng Ilbo notes that Kim has solidified his lead in the ruling party leadership race with 49.91% support. The Hankyoreh emphasizes Lee's proposal for peace talks to end the Korean War, while the Hankook Ilbo echoes this sentiment, urging dialogue among all parties involved.

English-language dailies address these political developments and economic concerns. The Korea JoongAng Daily reports that President Lee urged peace talks in his Liberation Day address.