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InnoBiz Association Seeks 50 High-Growth Innovative Companies for 2027 The InnoBiz Association announced on November 1 that it is recruiting companies to participate in its '2027 High-Growth Innovative Companies' initiative.This support program aims to foster InnoBiz companies operating in key advanced technology sectors, specifically the 'three megatrends' (semiconductors, physical AI, and AI data centers) and the 'seven seed industries' (SMR, nuclear fusion, renewable energy, quantum technology, aerospace, advanced biotechnology, and advanced supply chains). A total of 50 companies will be selected, with applications due by 5 PM on November 11.Selected companies will receive tailored growth solutions designed to help them advance to the next stage of development, beyond simple financial support.In the first year of the program, a detailed assessment and expert consulting will be provided to establish a long-term growth roadmap for each company. Notably, around 30 of the selected companies will be recommended for the 'Jump-Up 500' program, a flagship support initiative by the Small and Medium Business Administration, allowing them to bypass written evaluations.From the second year onward, comprehensive follow-up support packages will be provided based on annual performance evaluations, linking essential policy infrastructure for corporate growth, including research and development (R&D), policy financing, global export and market development, talent acquisition, and initial public offerings (IPOs).InnoBiz refers to small and medium-sized enterprises with technological competitiveness and growth potential. To qualify, companies must score over 650 points in an online self-assessment, over 700 points in a field evaluation, and achieve a B grade or higher in a technology assessment.Jeong Kwang-cheon, president of the InnoBiz Association, stated, “In the competitive landscape of future advanced industries, it is crucial for technology-driven small and medium enterprises to boldly scale up and become innovative leaders with global competitiveness, which is essential for the sustainable growth of the national economy.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-11-01 14:08:10 -
Shark 'Bukan' Disappears, Experts Suggest Possible Health Recovery The shark known as 'Bukan,' which became a local attraction at Busan's North Port, has vanished, but experts suggest it may be recovering its health.According to relevant authorities, Bukan has not been spotted since October 27, as monitored by the National Fisheries Research Institute.Bukan was first discovered on September 18 in an artificial waterway at the North Port's waterfront park. It remained in the waterway for 33 days before being guided out by authorities on October 21.After leaving the waterway, it was seen near Pier 1 and the International Passenger Terminal, but it has not been sighted since October 27.Experts are paying attention to the recent sharp drop in water temperature. When Bukan was first discovered, the surface temperature of the water in front of the North Port was about 25 degrees Celsius, but it fell below 20 degrees on October 28. The optimal habitat temperature for the blacktip shark, to which Bukan belongs, is known to be between 18 and 26 degrees Celsius.Choi Yoon, an emeritus professor of marine biology at Gunsan University, analyzed that as the water temperature dropped, Bukan likely moved to deeper waters where it is warmer, resulting in fewer appearances at the surface.Considering Bukan's movement patterns, it is possible that it is lingering near Pier 7 or has already ventured into the open sea beyond the North Port.There is also a possibility of health recovery. During its time in the artificial waterway, Bukan was found to have injuries on its fins, and there were no observations of it feeding.In contrast, the open sea provides a more favorable environment for finding prey, such as mullet, and allows for freer movement. Professor Choi also emphasized the likelihood that Bukan has been recovering its health through feeding since leaving the waterway.Bukan's current location and health status remain unconfirmed. The National Fisheries Research Institute has ceased regular field monitoring since October 30 and will check locations based on citizen reports.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-11-01 14:08:00
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Government Innovation Certification Awarded for Child Data Deletion and Error Fund Recovery The Personal Information Commission's public service for deleting child and youth personal data and the Deposit Insurance Corporation's public service for returning erroneous transfers have been recognized as world-first examples of government innovation.On November 1, the Ministry of Interior and Safety announced that it held the '2026 Government Innovation First and Best Certification Ceremony' on October 30 at the SJ Kunsthalle in Nonhyeon-dong, Seoul, awarding certificates to a total of 10 cases.The First and Best Government Innovation initiative aims to identify and certify innovative cases that have improved citizens' lives and those that have achieved excellence in specific fields. Launched in collaboration with the Korea Institute of Public Administration in 2023, this year's theme was 'small but certain innovations' (small innovations that citizens definitely appreciate), selected through an online public vote.This year's certified government innovation cases include two world-firsts, one domestic first, and seven domestic bests.The world-first certified project is the 'Eraser' service (Protecting Our Personal Information), introduced by the Personal Information Commission in April 2023. The Eraser service supports the deletion and blocking of online posts containing personal information of children and adolescents, with a cumulative number of applications processed reaching 50,029 as of August this year.The Deposit Insurance Corporation's erroneous transfer recovery support service also received world-first certification. Since July 2021, the corporation has been directly recovering and returning money mistakenly sent by remitters. This initiative is noted as the first case where the government has actively intervened to recover financial consumer losses. As of July this year, the cumulative number of returns stands at 18,216, amounting to approximately 22.6 billion won.The domestic first case recognized is Seoul's 'Heated Seats at Bus Stops.' This service, which was piloted in October 2009 based on a private sector idea, has been praised as a practical innovation that alleviates the discomfort of citizens waiting for buses in cold weather.The seven domestic best cases were selected through a competition in three areas: experiential youth welfare, prevention of no-shows and support for victims, and regeneration of idle spaces. The selected projects include: ▲ 'Sick Child Care Center' in Nowon-gu, Seoul ▲ 'Dream Art Troupe' by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism ▲ 'Integrated and Proactive No-Show Fraud Prevention System' by the National Police Agency ▲ 'No-Show Damage Prevention Standards' by the Korea Consumer Agency ▲ 'Living House Project' in Gwangsan-gu, Jeonnam ▲ 'Osong Sunhamaru' in Chungbuk ▲ 'Community Coexistence Distributed Fuel Cell Project' by Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power.Yoon Ho-jung, Minister of Interior and Safety, stated, "These first and best cases reflect the careful attention to citizens' small inconveniences and the valuable results of efforts to find better solutions and create change in the field. We will actively support the rapid spread and rooting of small but certain innovations across the country."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-11-01 13:52:00
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FBI Links North Korea to $6.3 Billion Binance Hack The FBI officially identified North Korea as the perpetrator behind the $6.3 billion hack of Binance, the world's largest cryptocurrency exchange, on October 31. Following blockchain analysis by U.S. firms that pointed to North Korean hacking groups, U.S. authorities confirmed the link, raising concerns about North Korea's illegal funding through cryptocurrency theft. President Donald Trump stated he would address the issue with North Korea if they are indeed responsible.In a statement on its website, the FBI said, "North Korea is responsible for the theft of over $6 billion in cryptocurrency from Binance on or around September 29." The agency explained that the attack is linked to 'TraderTraitor,' an elite hacking group from North Korea.The FBI, in collaboration with the U.S. Secret Service and the IRS Criminal Investigation Division, tracked the movement of the stolen assets and observed that North Korean hackers primarily converted the stolen funds into Ethereum (ETH). They warned that there is a possibility of further money laundering attempts using decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms and instant exchange services to convert the assets into other cryptocurrencies.The FBI also released a list of Ethereum (ETH), Bitcoin (BTC), and Solana (SOL) wallet addresses that the hackers may have used. They urged the cryptocurrency industry to block transactions related to these addresses or any transactions originating from them.This incident highlights North Korea's ability to secure substantial illegal funding through cyberattacks, even amid extensive international sanctions related to its nuclear and missile development. As concerns about North Korean cybercrime and illegal funding resurface, it could impact the diplomatic landscape surrounding future U.S.-North Korea talks.However, President Trump, speaking to reporters at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida, refrained from confirming whether North Korea was behind the hack, stating, "I don't know if it's North Korea, but if it is, I will talk to them about it." He had previously expressed uncertainty, saying, "I don't know. We're looking into it." Binance reported that on September 29, hackers exploited a vulnerability in its transaction approval system and hacked an engineer's laptop, resulting in the unauthorized withdrawal of $6.3 billion worth of cryptocurrency. This marks the largest single hack in the history of the cryptocurrency industry.Following the incident, Binance temporarily suspended cryptocurrency deposits and withdrawals and worked with blockchain-related firms to track and freeze approximately $3 billion of the stolen assets. However, recovering all the cryptocurrency, which has already been dispersed across multiple wallets, is expected to be challenging.On October 31, Binance announced on its website that it would fully compensate customers for losses incurred due to the hack. The company stated it has secured sufficient funds to cover over 90% of the stolen assets. Additionally, it confirmed that the cryptocurrency deposit and withdrawal services, which were suspended after the incident, would resume on November 1. 2026-11-01 13:52:00
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Uiwang Mayor Kim Sung-je urges communication at walking event for disabled and non-disabled Kim Sung-je, the mayor of Uiwang, emphasized the significance of the walking event held on October 30, stating, "Today’s walking event is a meaningful occasion for disabled and non-disabled individuals to communicate and come together." Mayor Kim announced that the '2026 Uiwang Mayor's Cup Health Walking Event for Disabled Families' took place successfully at the grassy area of Baegun Lake, with over 500 participants, including both disabled and non-disabled individuals.Organized by the Uiwang Disabled Sports Association, the event aimed to promote health and understanding among participants while fostering a spirit of unity.Attendees included representatives from local disabled sports associations, families, and caregivers, adding to the event's significance.After completing warm-up exercises at Baegun Lake, participants walked along the scenic lakeside trail, sharing health and vitality.Notably, a separate course was designated for wheelchair users, ensuring that all participants could join safely and comfortably, taking into account various disabilities and mobility needs.Throughout the event, participants were seen encouraging one another and matching their pace, creating a supportive atmosphere.Participants expressed their enjoyment, stating, "Walking together is more enjoyable and energizing than walking alone," and "It’s meaningful that everyone can come together as one, regardless of disability." The autumn scenery at Baegun Lake, filled with families and neighbors walking and laughing together, contributed to a warm atmosphere of unity.This event transcended a simple walking activity, broadening opportunities for disabled individuals to engage in sports and promoting an inclusive sports culture where disabled and non-disabled individuals can naturally interact in everyday life.Mayor Kim Sung-je added, "In the future, we will continue to listen to the voices of disabled individuals and create a sports and welfare environment where no one is left behind, building an inclusive city of Uiwang where both disabled and non-disabled individuals can be happy together."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-11-01 13:48:00
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Samsung hosts OpenAI's Sam Altman for AI strategy talks with 50 executives SEOUL, November 01 (AJP) - Samsung Group hosted OpenAI CEO Sam Altman for talks with about 50 senior executives on Saturday, as South Korea's largest conglomerate accelerates efforts to integrate artificial intelligence across its businesses. The meeting, held at Samsung's Human Resources Development Center in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province, brought together executives from its electronics, financial and biotechnology affiliates to discuss how AI could reshape industries and corporate management over the next decade, Samsung said Sunday. The discussions focused on emerging business opportunities, the direction of AI development and the technology's potential impact on corporate decision-making and organizational operations. The gathering also highlighted deepening ties between Samsung and OpenAI, which signed a letter of intent in October last year to cooperate on global AI infrastructure, including the supply of memory chips for OpenAI's Stargate project. Under the agreement, Samsung SDS agreed to collaborate on AI data centers and enterprise AI services, while Samsung C&T and Samsung Heavy Industries planned to jointly develop floating offshore data centers. Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong also visited OpenAI's headquarters in San Francisco in July as the two companies continued to strengthen their relationship. Ahead of Saturday's meeting, Samsung executives underwent hands-on generative AI training, their second such session since June. The program included using AI to organize corporate information and support management decisions. Samsung has been expanding its company-wide AI transformation initiative, known as AX, across research and development, manufacturing, marketing and administrative operations. The conglomerate has launched AI training for approximately 2,300 executives and aims to complete training for all employees by February 2027. It is also establishing dedicated AI teams across its affiliates to develop business-specific strategies and support the deployment of AI models and data systems. 2026-11-01 13:47:32 -
President Yoon to Deliver Budget Address Amid Tensions Over Overseas Trips President Yoon Suk Yeol is set to deliver a budget address on November 2 regarding the 2027 budget proposal. As the government and the ruling People Power Party clash over the direction of budget review, opposition leaders have expressed strong objections to the President's recent social media comments about his overseas trips, leading to ongoing tensions ahead of the budget session. Chief Presidential Spokesperson Kang Yu-jeong announced the schedule for the President's address on November 1. During the speech, President Yoon is expected to explain the rationale behind the proposed budget and request cooperation for its review and approval. With the political disputes that began during the National Assembly's audit still unresolved, it appears challenging for the President's address to foster cooperation between the ruling and opposition parties. The proposed budget for next year totals 820.9 trillion won, representing a 12.8% increase from this year's main budget. The government plans to allocate funds to stabilize livelihoods, secure future growth engines, and promote local-led growth. The Democratic Party is focused on securing funding for key government initiatives, while the People Power Party is pushing for significant cuts targeting the establishment of a future response fund and cash support programs. The National Assembly's Special Committee on Budget and Accounts will conduct comprehensive policy inquiries on November 4 and 5. The debate over overseas trips continues. The People Power Party raised concerns during the National Assembly audit regarding the frequency of President Yoon's trips and the participation of First Lady Kim Keon-hee. In response, President Yoon directly countered these claims on social media on October 31. He stated, "In the eyes of the ministries, they only see their own departments, and just as a pig only sees other pigs, people can only see as much as they know, so please understand." He also mentioned the physical toll of long flights and packed official schedules, noting that he has experienced physical strain, including receiving IV drips and suffering from nosebleeds. President Yoon asserted that the traveling schedules and workloads of former and current presidents, as well as the outcomes, are better understood by the accompanying press corps. In response, People Power Party floor leader Jeong Jeom-sik criticized the President's social media post regarding his trips, stating it revealed a distorted perception of governance. Party leader Jang Dong-hyuk also expressed his discontent on Facebook the previous day, questioning whether the President views all citizens who criticize him as pigs and urging him to refrain from such emotional outbursts. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-11-01 13:44:00
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Jindo County Celebrates 51st Citizens' Day with Community Spirit and Cooperation Jindo County in South Jeolla Province held its 51st Citizens' Day to honor the dedication of residents who have contributed to local development and to reinforce community unity and regional cooperation.The event took place on November 1 at the Jindo Local Cultural Center, attended by over 600 residents and hometown expatriates.Among those present were Jindo County Mayor Lee Jae-gak, National Assembly member Park Ji-won, Jindo County Council Chair Kim Chun-hwa, Jeonnam-Gwangju Integrated Special City Council member Lee Hyun-myung, and Park Un-cheol, president of the Jindo Expatriate Association, along with local agency and community leaders.This year’s Citizens' Day celebration aimed to enhance the pride and patriotism of residents, who are key players in local development, and to foster community harmony across generations and regions.The ceremony began with the reading of the Citizens' Charter, followed by awards for contributions to county governance, the presentation of hometown love donations, speeches, and a community song.Notably, 28 residents and one organization received commendations from the mayor for their contributions to community development and volunteer activities. The county expressed gratitude for the honorees' dedication to their local communities.The event also featured mutual donations of hometown love funds among local agricultural cooperatives, drawing attention.Jindo's advanced agricultural cooperatives and those from Wando, including Nohwa, Soan, Wando, and Cheongsan, each donated 12 million won. Additionally, Jindo Agricultural Cooperative and Haenam Agricultural Cooperative contributed 5 million won each, promoting friendship and cooperation between regions.This donation initiative underscores the importance of neighboring agricultural cooperatives expanding their exchanges through the hometown love donation program and maintaining collaborative relationships for regional development.Mayor Lee Jae-gak expressed his deep appreciation for the dedication and hard work of the residents who have shaped Jindo today, stating, "I hope all citizens unite to create a new leap forward and a hopeful future based on Jindo's proud history, culture, and strong community spirit."He added, "We will continue to listen to the voices of our citizens and strengthen communication and cooperation to enhance regional development and improve the quality of life for residents."Meanwhile, Jindo County plans to use this Citizens' Day celebration to encourage participation from residents and expatriates in local development and to continue fostering communication administration that residents can feel through inter-regional exchanges and cooperation.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-11-01 13:36:00
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Hampyeong Cheonji Hanwoo Captivates Visitors at National Chrysanthemum Festival Hampyeong County in South Jeolla Province showcased its signature product, Hampyeong Cheonji Hanwoo, to visitors at the '2026 National Chrysanthemum Festival,' aiming to promote Hanwoo consumption and enhance brand recognition.The county announced on November 1 that the 'Hampyeong Cheonji Hanwoo Consumption Promotion Tasting Event,' held on October 31 at Hampyeong Expo Park, concluded successfully with positive responses from attendees.Organized by the Hampyeong branch of the National Hanwoo Association, the event aimed to directly introduce the taste and quality of Hampyeong Cheonji Hanwoo to festival-goers and expand local agricultural product consumption.The initiative also sought to connect the tourism benefits of the chrysanthemum festival with local economic revitalization by introducing regional agricultural products to visitors.The event featured a pre-event prize draw that attracted attendees' interest. The tasting session offered prime cuts of Hampyeong Cheonji Hanwoo, including sirloin and tenderloin, allowing visitors to compare flavors and experience the quality firsthand.The county views this tasting event as an opportunity for on-site promotion that connects consumers with local agricultural products.Promoting Hanwoo in conjunction with local festivals is expected to help raise awareness of regional specialties while expanding market access and strengthening consumption for livestock farmers.Lee Nam-o, the mayor of Hampyeong County, stated, "Hampyeong Cheonji Hanwoo is a valuable local asset that embodies the hard work and dedication of our farmers and represents Hampyeong. We will continue to engage in various promotional and consumption-boosting activities linked to local festivals to provide tangible support to farmers and enhance the competitiveness of Hampyeong Cheonji Hanwoo."Meanwhile, the '2026 National Chrysanthemum Festival,' themed 'Mythical Chrysanthemum Mountain,' is being held at Hampyeong Expo Park until November 8. The county is promoting local agricultural products alongside chrysanthemum exhibitions and various experiential events to showcase Hampyeong's attractions and culinary offerings.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-11-01 13:32:00
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Korean Tidal Flats Added to UNESCO World Heritage List The tidal flats of Yeosu, Goheung, and Muan in Jeonnam Gwangju Unified Special City have been newly included in the UNESCO World Natural Heritage list, highlighting the ecological value and conservation importance of the region's tidal flats. With the tidal flats under Jeonnam Gwangju Unified Special City now accounting for approximately 88% of the total area of the 'Korean Tidal Flats' World Heritage site, the role of local governments in the systematic conservation and management of this global natural heritage is expected to increase. On October 29, Jeonnam Gwangju Unified Special City held a ceremony at the Yeosu World Island Expo to commemorate the expanded listing of the 'Korean Tidal Flats' as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site and announced plans to strengthen conservation cooperation with relevant agencies and local communities. This expansion was confirmed at the 48th UNESCO World Heritage Committee meeting held in Busan in July. Previously, in 2021, the tidal flats of Boseong, Suncheon, Sinan, Gochang, and Seocheon were designated as World Natural Heritage sites, and this year, the tidal flats of Yeosu, Goheung, Muan, and Seosan were added. As a result, the components of the World Heritage site have been expanded from four to six, and the total area has increased from 1,284 km² to 1,571 km², an increase of 287 km². This expansion is significant not only for the ecological value of individual tidal flats but also for enhancing the connectivity between them and the overall integrity of the World Heritage site. The Korean tidal flats serve as a major stopover for migratory birds traveling between East Asia and Oceania and are an ecological space inhabited by diverse marine life. They play a crucial role in climate change response and coastal environmental preservation as a blue carbon ecosystem that absorbs and stores carbon. The ceremony was attended by over 200 participants, including Heo Min, head of the National Heritage Administration, Kang Myung-soo, Deputy Mayor of Jeonnam Gwangju Unified Special City, and Seo Young-hak, Mayor of Yeosu, along with officials from central and local governments, community members, and experts. The event began with the presentation of the UNESCO World Heritage certificate, followed by awards for those who contributed to the expanded listing, the presentation of gratitude plaques to community members and experts, and a ceremony to commemorate the listing. Following the expansion of the World Heritage site, maintaining the ecological characteristics of the tidal flats while harmonizing conservation and management with the livelihoods of local residents will emerge as a critical task. Given that tidal flats are feeding grounds for migratory birds, habitats for marine life, and closely linked to the livelihoods of local residents, a balance between ecosystem protection and sustainable use is essential. Jeonnam Gwangju Unified Special City plans to collaborate with the National Heritage Administration, the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, the Korean Tidal Flats World Heritage Promotion Team, relevant cities and counties, and local communities to systematically preserve the outstanding universal value of the World Heritage site and develop utilization plans that reflect local characteristics. Kang Myung-soo, Deputy Mayor of Industry and Economy, stated, “This expansion recognizes the ecological value and conservation importance of Korea's tidal flats on an international level. We will continue to work closely with relevant agencies to systematically preserve this precious natural heritage and promote its value.” Meanwhile, the 'Korean Tidal Flats' was first designated as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site in 2021, and this expansion has increased both the area and the number of protected regions. As Jeonnam Gwangju Unified Special City oversees approximately 88% of the total heritage area, it plans to work with relevant agencies to conserve the biodiversity of the tidal flats and establish a sustainable management system.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-11-01 13:24:00