IAEA: No Damage to Sendai Nuclear Plant After Japan's 7.1 Magnitude Earthquake A 7.1 magnitude earthquake that struck Kyushu, Japan, has not caused any damage to the nearby Sendai nuclear power plant, which is operating normally.The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reported on July 28 that it received confirmation from Japan's Nuclear Regulation Authority (NRA) that there were no safety issues or damage at the Sendai plant, located approximately 100 kilometers from the earthquake's epicenter in Uki City, Kumamoto Prefecture.In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), July 28, 2026

SK D&D Plans $1.36 Billion Capital Increase to Repay Debt SK D&D, a KOSPI-listed company, is moving forward with a capital increase of approximately 136.7 billion won, with all funds allocated for debt repayment. The company plans to improve its financial structure through this significant capital increase, which exceeds double the number of existing shares.On July 28, SK D&D announced in a public disclosure that its board of directors approved a shareholder allocation capital increase, issuing 44,681,000 common shares. The planned issuance price is se July 28, 2026

Controversy Arises Over Current President's Re-election Comments by National Assembly Speaker Joo Chung-sik, the Speaker of the National Assembly, stated that the issue of re-election for the current president is ultimately up to the will of the people. During his first press conference since taking office on July 28, Joo responded to a question about the possibility of a constitutional amendment extending the current president's term, saying, "The issue of re-election related to the restructuring of power is ultimately a matter of public opinion and the choice of the people." This state July 28, 2026

7.1 Magnitude Earthquake in Japan's Kyushu Causes Tremors in South Korea A 7.1 magnitude earthquake in Japan's Kyushu region has triggered tremors in South Korea, prompting the Ministry of the Interior and Safety to verify any potential impact on citizens.As of 7:30 PM on July 28, the ministry reported a total of 789 tremor reports received from local governments and fire authorities nationwide. Most reports came from the southern regions, with many citizens expressing concerns about the shaking.Regionally, Busan recorded the highest number of reports at 291, followe July 28, 2026

Champions City Project to Donate Three Bridges in Addition to $589.9 Million Contribution The Champions City project, a large-scale mixed-use development on the site of the former Jeonnam Textile and Ilshin Textile factories, is set to contribute 589.9 billion won ($589.9 million) in public contributions and donate three additional bridges connecting to areas outside the project zone. The city of Gwangju is currently conducting a revision of its urban management plan and is moving forward with the bridge installation based on the results of a traffic impact assessment.According to th July 28, 2026

Factional Conflicts Emerge in Democratic Party Amid Allegations of Shincheonji Involvement As allegations of Shincheonji involvement surface, factional conflicts within the Democratic Party are intensifying. On the first day of voting for party leadership on July 28, lawmakers Song Young-gil and former leader Jeong Cheong-rae sought support in the Chungcheong region, while former Prime Minister Kim Min-seok focused his campaign in the Gyeongsang area. All three candidates aim to gain an early advantage in the race.On the morning of July 28, Song held a meeting with party members in Ch July 28, 2026

Major Shopping Mall Collapses After 7.1 Magnitude Earthquake in Kumamoto, Japan A 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck Kumamoto Prefecture, leading to the partial collapse of the Aeon Mall Kumamoto. Reports indicate that several people are trapped inside the building. According to NHK, at around 6 p.m. local time, multiple calls were received reporting an explosion and white smoke rising from the mall located in Kashima Town. The Japan Fire and Disaster Management Agency reported that part of the second floor of the shopping mall collapsed, trapping several individuals inside. A July 28, 2026

Korean Defense Industry Thrives Amid Global Conflicts The Korean defense industry is experiencing a surge as conflicts in Russia, Ukraine, the U.S., and Iran continue to escalate. The combined operating profit of five defense companies surpassed 1.5 trillion won in the second quarter, setting a new record for quarterly performance. However, the companies faced mixed results due to gaps in export volumes.According to the Financial Supervisory Service and industry sources, the consensus for the second-quarter operating profit of Hanwha Aerospace, Hyu July 28, 2026

Furniture Industry Competes for Summer Apartment Move-In Market The furniture industry is ramping up its marketing efforts to target the large-scale apartment move-in market for the second half of the year. With a surge in demand for furniture and interior design expected as major apartment complexes in Seoul prepare for occupancy, companies are launching various initiatives, including discount events, 3D space consulting, and move-in expos.According to Zigbang and Real Estate R114, a total of 14,342 apartments are set to be occupied nationwide in August, a July 28, 2026

Next Year's Standard Median Income to Increase by 6.7%, Reaching 6.92 Million Won for Four-Person Households The standard median income, which serves as the benchmark for various welfare programs, will see its largest increase ever at 6.7%. This decision reflects the government's commitment to better protect the most vulnerable populations suffering from rising living costs amid deepening income polarization. On July 28, the Ministry of Health and Welfare held the 80th Central Living Security Committee meeting, where it was decided to raise the standard median income by 6.7% for 2027. The standard medi July 28, 2026