Consumer prices increase at fastest rate in nearly 24 years in July
![](https://image.ajunews.com/content/image/2022/08/02/20220802164950409123.jpg)
[Yonhap Photo]
According to figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, consumer prices increased by 6.3 percent last month compared to a year ago, picking up speed from a 6 percent increase in June.
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S. Korea adds some 111,700 new COVID cases
![](https://image.ajunews.com/content/image/2022/08/02/20220802165119928943.jpg)
[Yonhap Photo]
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BTS may still perform abroad while fulfilling mandatory military service
![](https://image.ajunews.com/content/image/2022/08/02/20220802165238769649.jpg)
[Courtesy of Big Hit]
"I think there is a way to offer BTS a chance to keep performing for the good of the country," Lee remarked. "I think there will be a mechanism to allow kids to prepare and join international concerts if they join the military."
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J-Hope performs at Lollapalooza as first S. Korean artist
![](https://image.ajunews.com/content/image/2022/08/02/20220802165555954033.png)
[Courtesy of Big Hit]
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Girl band BLACKPINK to release new album in September
![](https://image.ajunews.com/content/image/2022/08/02/20220802165718531334.jpg)
[Courtesy of YG Entertainment]
[This article was contributed by Aju Business Daily reporter Joseph Kwak]