Journalist
Lee Hugh
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For 2026 rematch with Apple, Samsung fields AI photo studio for short-form gen SEOUL, February 23 (AJP) - Familiar scenes were repeated at the 2026 Milan–Cortina Winter Olympics: medalists capturing once-in-a-lifetime moments by flipping open pocket-sized Samsung phones. Despite strong sales of its foldable fleet, Samsung Electronics lost its decade-long position as the world’s top smartphone vendor last year to Apple, buoyed by the popularity of the iPhone 17 lineup. Samsung readies a rematch with the unveiling of its flagship Galaxy S26 series in San Francisco on Thursday. Moving away from traditional hardware specification battles, Samsung is repositioning its top-tier Ultra model — expected to approach 2 million won (about $1,500) — as a fully autonomous “AI Studio” aimed at short-form video creators on platforms such as TikTok and YouTube Shorts. Rather than competing solely on camera sensors, display resolution and processing speed, the company is shifting its focus to software-driven creativity, automation and personalization. The move reflects a long-standing challenge in the domestic market. According to Gallup Korea, more than 60 percent of South Koreans in their 20s use iPhones, while older generations remain more loyal to Galaxy devices. “For younger demographics, a smartphone is a status symbol that must be instantly recognizable,” said Lee Eun-hee, professor emeritus of consumer science at Inha University. “Samsung has historically struggled to match Apple’s strong design identity that creates this sense of pride.” To loosen Apple’s grip on young users, Samsung is positioning the Galaxy S26 as a mobile production suite. Powered by an upgraded neural processing unit (NPU) with a claimed 113 percent performance increase, the device introduces “EdgeFusion,” an on-device generative AI model that allows users to generate images and perform professional-level edits through simple text prompts — without requiring an internet connection. The system enables automatic background generation, lighting adjustment, object removal and style conversion, reducing the need for external editing apps. The Ultra model is also expected to feature an industry-first “Privacy Display,” using Samsung Display’s Flex Magic Pixel technology to restrict side viewing angles. The feature targets young users who frequently consume and produce content in public spaces such as subways, cafés and campuses. Additional upgrades include an improved f/1.4 aperture for low-light photography and a first-ever 60-watt fast-charging system, allowing creators to shoot, edit and upload content throughout the day. “Younger consumers are highly responsive to AI,” Lee said. “Having an autonomous AI agent feels like carrying a personal assistant — or even a digital companion — in your pocket. That appeal could be decisive.” The central question is whether younger consumers are willing to pay the premium. Amid rising global semiconductor and component costs, all S26 models are expected to see price increases of about 99,000 won ($75). Industry estimates suggest the base model will start at around 1.25 million won ($940), with the Plus and Ultra versions beginning at roughly 1.45 million won ($1,090) and 1.8 million won ($1,350), respectively. The top 512GB Ultra model could approach the 2 million won threshold. For many Gen Z consumers, already facing high living costs and stagnant income growth, the higher price point may pose a hurdle. Yet Samsung is betting that advanced AI features will justify the increase by transforming smartphones from communication devices into portable studios. In K-pop, gaming and short-form video culture, smartphones increasingly function as tools for self-branding and content production. Samsung’s strategy reflects an effort to align its flagship devices with this shift. If successful, the Galaxy S26 could help the company reclaim relevance among younger users and narrow the gap with Apple in key markets. If not, higher prices and software-heavy features may struggle to overcome entrenched brand preferences. As the industry watches the San Francisco launch, the Galaxy S26 will serve as an early test of whether consumers are ready to accept higher prices — and what some analysts call a “chipflation tax” — in exchange for next-generation AI capabilities. 2026-02-23 16:50:58 -
BTS Comeback D-26: Jimin — from charts to cultural reference Editor’s Note — As BTS prepares to return as a full seven-member act with a new album set for March 20 and an open-stage performance at Gwanghwamun on March 21, following a near four-year hiatus for rotational military service, AJP revisits the group’s 13-year trajectory. This series reexamines BTS’s history, music, performance identity and enduring appeal. The sixth installment traces the roots and growth of Jimin. SEOUL, February 23 (AJP) - BTS member Jimin has surpassed 2.3 billion cumulative streams on Spotify with his solo track “Who,” according to the platform’s chart dated Feb. 19. The milestone came 581 days after the song’s release on July 19, 2024, making him the first Asian solo artist without a Western collaboration to reach the figure. Even 19 months after release, “Who” continues to chart — ranking No. 54 on Spotify’s Daily Top Songs Global chart and No. 1 in South Korea. His second solo album “Muse” has also crossed 3.8 billion cumulative streams, becoming the fastest Korean-language album to do so and the first Korean solo album to exceed that threshold. In the United States, “Who” spent 33 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100, the longest run for a K-pop male soloist, while “Muse” remained on the Billboard 200 for 34 weeks. The numbers suggest durability. The backstory suggests design. Born in 1995, Jimin (Park Jimin) entered Busan Arts High School as the top-ranked student in its modern dance department despite having trained in contemporary dance for less than a year. In 2012, he passed Big Hit Entertainment’s regional audition as its sole successful candidate from Busan and moved to Seoul. After a six-month trainee period — the shortest among BTS members — he debuted as the group’s final addition. Dance remains foundational to his identity. His control of line, balance and breath — visible in solo stages such as “Lie,” “Filter” and major award-show performances — reflects formal training rarely emphasized in idol narratives. His 2019 solo performance at the Melon Music Awards later inspired visual artworks exhibited at the Seoul Arts Center, while international figure skaters incorporated his choreography into competitive and touring programs. From performance to authorship Jimin participated in writing and composing every track on his first solo album “Face,” released in March 2023. For “Muse,” released in July 2024, he contributed to the majority of the tracks. His 2018 self-composed song “Promise” set a Guinness World Record for the most-streamed track within 24 hours on SoundCloud at the time, and he later became the fastest Korean solo artist to surpass one billion Spotify streams. Beyond charts and credits, his influence has extended outside music. Filmmaker Gus Van Sant once cited Jimin as a potential collaborator, noting his “peaceful” presence. His impact has also reached professional sport. Japanese Olympic champion Yuzuru Hanyu referenced Jimin’s movements from BTS’s “Dynamite” during a 2021 ice show and later said he studied his choreography. At the international Star on Ice tour, ice dancers Misato Komatsubara and Tim Koleto performed to “Filter,” incorporating elements of his styling and gestures. Fashion media have highlighted his gender-neutral styling and blend of traditionally masculine and soft aesthetics as reflective of shifting global beauty standards. Luxury houses have also taken notice. Jimin was named a global ambassador for Dior, while The Business of Fashion included him in its “BoF 500” list in 2019. Jimin enlisted for mandatory military service in December 2023 and was discharged in June 2025. Yet his streaming figures did not decline during his absence. Instead, they largely stabilized. Behind his 2.3 billion Spotify streams lies a path that runs from a dance studio in Busan to global arenas, competitive ice rinks and algorithm-driven charts. As BTS approaches reunion activities, his solo career appears less like a side project and more like a parallel axis — built on technique, authorship and a presence that moves fluidly across disciplines. The next installment will focus on V. 2026-02-23 16:36:44 -
Lee Jaeyong declines to host concert organized by conservative YouTuber Jeon Han-gil Former announcer Lee Jaeyong said he turned down a request to emcee a concert hosted by Jeon Han-gil, a hard-line conservative YouTuber and former Korean history instructor. Lee told Yonhap on the 23rd, “As soon as I recognized the nature of the event yesterday, I contacted the organizer and said I couldn’t host it, and asked to be removed from the poster.” He said that when he first received the request, he was told it was a conservative March 1 Independence Movement commemoration concert and that he would only handle the music portion, “so I heard there would be no problem.” He added, “There was no mention at all that it was an event connected to Jeon Han-gil.” Lee said he generally accepts requests to host concerts or book launch events regardless of political leanings, but added, “Events on the far right or far left are outside my scope, so I don’t do them at all.” He said he would not have accepted if he had been told it had a far-right character or that Jeon was involved. Lee said he has no intention of taking legal action. Earlier, Jung Chan-hee said on social media the previous day, “I hadn’t said anything separately because I decided not to appear in this performance, but I’m posting because so many people have contacted me. I will not appear in this performance.” Jung said he had verbally agreed to appear at a March 1 music event, but learned about the poster when an acquaintance sent it to him two days earlier. “I contacted them and decided not to appear,” he added.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-02-23 16:30:16 -
Samsung Electronics launches high-capacity, AI-powered ice water purifier SEOUL, February 23 (AJP) - Samsung Electronics announced the release of its new "Bespoke AI Ice Water Purifier" for the domestic market, integrating voice recognition and high-capacity ice production into its home appliance lineup. Priced at 2.39 million won ($1,780), the countertop appliance is designed to produce up to 8 kilograms of ice per day—equivalent to approximately 1,000 ice cubes—and can store about 100 cubes simultaneously. The new model focuses heavily on automated hygiene and water safety. It features a four-stage filtration system certified by NSF International, which Samsung states can remove 82 types of harmful substances, including microplastics, heavy metals, and microcystin. To address maintenance, the purifier employs an AI-based sterilization system that learns users' drinking patterns to automatically sanitize its stainless-steel water pipes and ice trays during non-use hours. It also utilizes UV sterilization at the ice dispenser. In a push to expand its smart home ecosystem, Samsung has integrated its voice assistant, Bixby, with a new "Voice ID" feature. The system can distinguish between different family members' voices and automatically dispense water based on their pre-set volume and temperature preferences. Users can save up to 20 custom presets, adjusting water volume in 10-milliliter increments and temperature up to 90 degrees Celsius. The premium water purifier market in South Korea is highly competitive, traditionally dominated by rental-based companies like Coway, alongside archrival LG Electronics. Samsung's integration of voice-recognition AI and heavy-duty ice making in a single countertop unit is a strategic move to capture the growing segment of consumers willing to purchase high-end, smart kitchen appliances outright rather than opting for traditional rental services. 2026-02-23 16:15:10 -
Korean Financial Holding Shares Surge as Employees and CEOs Cash In on Stock Gains As bank stocks climb sharply amid a broader rally that has pushed the Kospi to the 5,800 level this year, more bank employees are selling company shares. Workers who bought employee stock for loyalty reasons or to claim up to 4 million won in annual income deductions are taking profits as prices hit levels they have not seen since joining their firms. Paper gains have also grown for chief executives who bought shares as part of efforts to show management accountability. According to the financial industry on the 23rd, Woori Financial Group’s employee-shareholding ratio fell to 7.78% in December from 7.88% in the third quarter of last year. The ratio is expected to edge down again in the first quarter. Employee shares can be sold after being withdrawn from the employee stock ownership association into an individual brokerage account, and the withdrawn shares are typically sold on the market. The selling is widely attributed to a recent surge in prices as bank stocks have been cited as beneficiaries of the Kospi’s rise to the 5,800 range. KB Financial Group shares rose to 168,700 won on the day from 82,000 won on Feb. 24 last year. Over the same period, Shinhan Financial Group climbed 116% to 101,800 won from 47,200 won, and Hana Financial Group jumped 107% to 129,100 won from 62,500 won. Woori Financial Group advanced to 40,300 won from 17,420 won. Many bank employees buy about 300,000 to 400,000 won worth of company shares each month, often for tax-deduction purposes. With prices soaring, sales have increased, contributing to a decline in employee-shareholding ratios at major financial holding firms, including Woori Financial. “Employee shares are usually intended for long-term holding, and selling at a peak can be treated as income and may mean paying more tax,” a financial industry official said. “Taking that into account, there is movement to sell at an appropriate level.” CEOs who bought shares to underscore accountability have also seen their paper gains swell. Shinhan Bank CEO Jeong Sang-hyeok holds 15,551 shares of Shinhan Financial. He bought 2,000 shares in January last year at 48,400 won per share, for a gain of 106.8 million won compared with the price at the time of purchase. KB Financial Chairman Yang Jong-hee bought 5,000 shares in March 2024 at 77,000 won per share. With the stock topping 160,000 won on the day, his paper gain reached 458.5 million won. Hana Financial Chairman Ham Young-joo bought 5,000 shares in December 2024 at 58,862 won, for a gain of 351.19 million won. Woori Financial Chairman Lim Jong-ryong, who bought 10,000 shares in September 2023 at 11,880 won, posted a gain of 284.2 million won. Financial holding firms expect shares to rise further and plan to step up outreach to overseas investors. Working-level staff at major groups are expected to meet with JPMorgan staff visiting South Korea in early March to present value-up policies and strategies for new businesses such as stablecoins. 2026-02-23 16:15:00 -
National Museum of Korea chief calls for second permanent gallery, deputy director post Yu Hong-jun, director of the National Museum of Korea, said Monday the museum urgently needs to expand both its facilities and its organization as visitor numbers continue to climb. Speaking at a Kwanhun Forum at the Korea Press Center in central Seoul, Yu said the museum should push ahead with building a second permanent exhibition hall. The museum currently operates one permanent exhibition building and two special exhibition halls. The permanent galleries include seven sections and 39 rooms. Yu said the museum, which drew 6.5 million visitors last year, can no longer meet growing demand at its current scale. He said the existing exhibition space was designed for an annual target of 2 million visitors, with a maximum daily capacity of 15,000, but more than 40,000 people enter during peak periods. He also called for creating a deputy director post, saying it is urgently needed in line with international practice. Yu said related ministries, including the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Ministry of the Interior and Safety, share that view and are in close talks. On charging admission, Yu stressed the goal is not to raise revenue. He said the museum is not pursuing paid entry to prevent overcrowding, and “certainly not” to bolster finances, but to maintain order through measures such as reservations and fast-track entry. Yu also said museums and art museums often miss chances to buy needed artifacts because purchasing procedures are complex and accounting rules are strict, suggesting directors should be given more discretion. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-02-23 15:51:18 -
IVE Expands Its Story With Second Full Album 'REVIVE+' IVE said it is moving beyond the self-assured, “me”-centered narrative it has built so far and expanding its focus to “us.” A comeback showcase for the group’s second full-length album, “REVIVE+,” was held Monday afternoon at YES24 Live Hall in Seoul’s Gwangjin district. Rather than a declaration of change, the album is framed as a rekindling — widening IVE’s perspective from “me” to “us.” Leader An Yu-jin introduced the album by saying, “'REVIVE+' carries the meaning of rekindling — lighting the fire again,” adding, “It’s not just about starting over; it reflects our strong ambition to spread the flames that burn under the name IVE even further.” Liz said, “This album includes a lot of new attempts. We took on a range of challenges in both performance and music, so I hope the public will see us with fresh eyes.” The title track “BLACKHOLE” is a shuffle-based song with a cinematic mood inspired by the film “Interstellar.” With expansive sound and film-like textures, it aims for immersion and a strong hook, using the image of a black hole — where disappearance and birth coexist — to symbolically express IVE’s view of the present and a point of change. The album includes 12 tracks. Along with the double title tracks “BLACKHOLE” and “Bang Bang,” it features “Hide-and-Seek (Hush),” “Malware (Stuck In Your Head),” “Fireworks” and “HOT COFFEE.” It also includes solo songs from all members: Jang Won-young’s “8,” Gaeul’s “Odd,” Leeseo’s “Super ICY,” Liz’s “Unreal,” Rei’s “In Your Heart” and An’s “Force.” Gaeul said the decision to include many solo tracks came as the group prepared for concerts. “We thought a lot about how to show new and diverse sides of IVE,” she said. “We believed the impact — and fans’ anticipation — would be big if we showed solo songs that capture each member’s charm. I’m happy so many people seem to be listening and loving them.” Jang added that the group’s concept has broadened. “If our previous albums focused on the subjectivity of ‘me,’ this time, as IVE has grown, we expanded into a worldview of ‘us,’” she said. “It’s a story of ‘us’ that includes not only the members but also listeners. I hope people feel positive energy from it.” Gaeul also pointed to “rekindling” as a key word. “We really wanted to show how we’ve changed and grown,” she said. “We chose the word ‘rekindling’ because we wanted to connect not only with ourselves but also with the public and listeners — and to offer comfort through that shared feeling.” Asked about future goals, Liz said she is prioritizing how the group is seen as artists over numerical achievements. “There’s a phrase I want to hear more than a record I want to beat: ‘an artist that makes you curious about what’s next,’” she said. “We’ve shown a princess-like image each time, but we tried something new this time. If people love these challenges, I think we can try even more in the future.” On measurable goals, Jang said it was too early to speak in detail before full promotions for “BLACKHOLE,” but added, “I want to fully feel the support and love that DIVE sends us. Since this album was made with fans in mind rather than numbers, we’ll promote it with a positive mindset.” IVE’s second full-length album “REVIVE+” will be released at 6 p.m. Monday on major online music platforms.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-02-23 15:48:06 -
South Korean researchers identify brain circuit that senses salt levels to control intake SEOUL, February 23 (AJP) - A research team at Kookmin University has identified a neuroendocrine circuit in the brain that allows animals to dynamically adjust their salt intake based on internal sodium levels. The study, led by Professor Lee Young-seok of the Department of Bio and Fermentation Convergence, reveals how specific brain cells act as internal sensors to maintain salt balance. The findings are scheduled for publication in the weekly issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) on February 24, 2026, following an online release on February 21. While taste is typically associated with receptors on the tongue, the body also possesses internal mechanisms to maintain homeostasis. When internal sodium levels are already high, the body instinctively limits further salt intake to prevent damage. The research team used Drosophila (fruit fly) models to demonstrate that certain neurons in the brain directly monitor the salt concentration of internal fluids to regulate this rejection response. The study highlights two key components: insulin-producing cells (MNCs) and Leucokinin (Lk) neurons, which are the insect equivalent of human Tachykinin. When internal salt levels are high, these neurons remain active to sustain a dislike for high-salt foods, preventing overconsumption. Conversely, when the body lacks salt, the Leucokinin signal stimulates the insulin-producing cells to shift the animal's preference, making it consume high-concentration salt that it would normally avoid. Significantly, the research proves that these neurons function as a central sodium sensor that operates independently of external signals from the tongue or esophagus. This means the brain itself tastes the salt levels within the body's internal environment to dictate behavior. Professor Lee Young-seok stated that the study identifies the endocrine mechanism by which the brain monitors internal salt concentrations and modifies behavior accordingly. He noted that because this principle is similar to how mammals maintain salt balance, the research provides a basis for understanding why patients with hypertension or diabetes might consume high amounts of salt and could point toward new therapeutic targets. The study was supported by the Basic Research Program in Science and Engineering through the National Research Foundation of South Korea. The research team was led by Professor Lee Young-seok, with Puri Sonali and Sang Ji-woon serving as co-first authors. (Paper information) Journal: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) Title: Insulin and leucokinin pathways coordinate adaptive salt appetite in Drosophila DOI: https://bit.ly/4sakqHg 2026-02-23 15:47:55 -
Caps, flowers, and farewells in February commencement SEOUL, February 23 (AJP) -Commencement season has returned. On Sunday, a degree conferment ceremony for February 2026 graduates was held at the open-air amphitheater on the Sinchon campus of Yonsei University. A total of 5,597 students received degrees, including 2,839 undergraduates, 2,252 master’s students and 506 doctoral candidates. Wearing academic gowns and caps, graduates gathered under clear winter skies, marking the formal end of their academic journey. Family members and friends filled the surrounding seats, offering applause, cheers and words of encouragement. Across the venue, crowds paused for photographs. Bouquets were exchanged, and small groups formed around graduates posing in front of campus landmarks. Some parents adjusted gowns and collars, while classmates compared schedules and future plans. The ceremony combined formality with personal moments. As names were called and degrees awarded, students stepped forward one by one, crossing from years of study into professional and personal independence. For many, the event marked both a conclusion and a transition — the end of campus life and the beginning of new careers, further studies or overseas opportunities. 2026-02-23 15:42:05 -
Spring waits indoors at Gwangmyeong flower complex SEOUL, February 23 (AJP) -Cold mornings and sharp winds still signal the tail end of winter. Frost lingers on sidewalks, and heavy coats remain necessary outdoors. Inside the garden shops at the Gwangmyeong flower complex, however, the season looks different. Rows of flowers are already in full bloom under controlled temperatures and lighting. Brightly colored blossoms line shelves and tables, while potted plants are arranged neatly along narrow aisles. Wholesale owners are preparing early for the spring shopping season. Each day, they water plants, adjust humidity and temperature, and inspect leaves and roots. Many begin work before sunrise to manage new shipments and organize displays. The complex supplies more than seasonal flowers. It also handles a wide range of succulents, small fruit trees, herbs and ornamental plants. Gardening tools and decorative items are stacked nearby, ready for customers planning home and balcony gardens. Most visitors have yet to arrive in large numbers. For now, shop owners focus on cultivation and maintenance, anticipating increased demand as temperatures rise. While winter remains outside, these indoor gardens are already set for spring. By the time warmer days arrive, the flowers will be ready — grown, arranged and waiting for shoppers seeking an early taste of the new season. 2026-02-23 15:38:05