Journalist
Kim Dong Young
davekim0807@ajupress.com
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Korean makers bet on ultra high-nickel batteries to challenge China's supremacy SEOUL, March 06 (AJP) - South Korea is positioning ultra high-nickel batteries as its trump card in the global battery war, betting that a widening technology gap with China and fresh regulatory tailwinds from Europe will reshape the competitive landscape for premium electric vehicles and humanoid robots. The push comes at a pivotal moment, with the European Union this week unveiling its Industrial Acceleration Act (IAA) — a policy framework that effectively erects a double-layered protective barrier around Europe's clean-technology industries. The Middle East conflict, now entering its second week, has also introduced an unexpected variable. Brent crude has surged more than 36 percent this year, a shock that could accelerate the global shift toward electrification and sharpen demand for the high-density batteries in which Korean manufacturers specialize. The technology gap At the center of Korea's strategy is ultra high-nickel cathode technology — batteries in which nickel content exceeds 94 percent. These cells deliver 30 to 40 percent higher energy density than the widely used NCM 811 standard, translating into longer driving ranges for electric vehicles and extended operational hours for robots. South Korean cathode maker L&F became the first company in the world to mass-produce cathode materials with 95 percent nickel content late last year, and is now pushing toward 97 percent. Chinese battery giants CATL, CALB and EVE Energy, by contrast, have yet to overcome yield challenges above 90 percent nickel. Korean battery executives estimate the technology gap at more than two years — a margin that widens further when combined with Korea's head start in 46-series cylindrical cell formats. Tesla and the humanoid robot catalyst Tesla's decision to adopt ultra high-nickel cells for its premium lineup has handed Korean suppliers a powerful tailwind. The U.S. automaker has been scaling back its in-house battery production efforts and increasingly sourcing finished cells from partners. The shift effectively ended Tesla's direct cathode procurement from L&F but redirected demand through LG Energy Solution. LG Energy Solution began shipping batteries made with L&F's ultra high-nickel cathode materials to Tesla in the second half of last year, with the cells powering the Model Y Long Range and other premium variants. Tesla also plans to equip its Optimus humanoid robot with high-nickel cells, adding a new layer of demand. The arrangement has reshaped traditional supply hierarchies. LG Energy Solution selected L&F over its own parent company LG Chem as a cathode supplier, because L&F was the only producer capable of delivering ultra high-nickel materials at commercial scale. The humanoid robot market could amplify that advantage. TrendForce forecasts global shipments of humanoid robots will exceed 50,000 units this year, representing more than 700 percent year-on-year growth, with high-nickel ternary lithium batteries expected to dominate the segment. By contrast, LFP batteries, which dominate the low-cost EV market, lack the energy density required for bipedal machines that must fit batteries into compact torso or backpack compartments. That limitation gives Korean NCM battery makers a natural advantage — even in China's fast-growing robotics market. Europe tightens the screws The EU's Industrial Acceleration Act adds another strategic dimension. Under the legislation, industries in which a single non-EU country holds more than 40 percent of global manufacturing capacity face strict investment conditions — a provision widely interpreted as targeting China. Korea's big three battery makers — LG Energy Solution, Samsung SDI and SK On — all operate production facilities in Europe, putting them in a stronger position than Chinese competitors facing dual regulatory scrutiny. Korean manufacturers once held roughly 80 percent of Europe's EV battery market in 2022, but that share has since dropped to about 35 percent. Industry observers say the IAA could trigger a supply-chain reorganization that allows Korean players to reclaim part of the lost ground. "Hyundai, Kia and Korean battery makers with European plants are expected to expand their market share, and exports from Korean factories are also likely to increase," said Chang Jung-hoon, analyst at Samsung Securities. "Unlike the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act, the IAA treats FTA partner countries on equal footing with EU members. Companies simply need to keep sourcing from any single country — namely China — below 40 percent," Chang said. "The legislation also requires EU-origin battery cells, which will pressure Chinese firms seeking to expand capacity in Europe but benefits Korean companies that have already established meaningful local production." Middle East war and the bigger picture The escalating Middle East conflict adds another layer of uncertainty. The Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly 20 percent of globally traded crude oil flows, has become an active flashpoint. China, India, Japan and South Korea together account for nearly 70 percent of shipments through the strait. Historically, rising oil prices strengthen the economic case for electrification. But the conflict may also dampen China's EV export momentum. Lithium prices in China have fallen sharply amid weakening demand expectations, even as Morgan Stanley forecasts a global lithium supply deficit of about 80,000 metric tons this year. Still, the near-term picture remains challenging for South Korea. Data released by SNE Research showed global EV battery usage reached 71.9 gigawatt-hours in January, up 10.7 percent year-on-year, but Korea's three major battery makers all recorded negative growth. Their combined global market share fell 4.3 percentage points to 12.0 percent, dragged down in part by a 30.2 percent slump in U.S. EV sales after purchase subsidies under the Inflation Reduction Act expired in late September. Supply volumes from SK On and Samsung SDI fell 21.3 percent and 24.4 percent respectively. By contrast, CATL expanded installed capacity by 25.7 percent, lifting its market share to 45.2 percent for the month. Despite China's dominance in volume, some analysts say the longer-term trajectory could look different. SNE Research argues the battery market is shifting away from a pure volume-driven competition toward a phase where price competitiveness, product value and supply-chain stability must be balanced — a dynamic that could ultimately favor Korea's strength in premium high-density batteries. Market projections point in the same direction. The global high-nickel cathode materials market is expected to expand from $7.27 billion in 2025 to $22.26 billion by 2034, according to Precedence Research. "The high-nickel market is in a bit of a lull right now. LFP still dominates segments such as energy storage, where cost and stability matter most," said Kim Ki-jae, professor of battery science and engineering at Sungkyunkwan University. "High-nickel cells could come into their own once the humanoid robot market opens up in earnest — but the real game has not started yet." 2026-03-06 14:07:01 -
Seoul issues strong verbal intervention after two-day rout, markets rebound SEOUL, March 05 (AJP) -Seoul authorities issued a strong verbal intervention to calm markets Thursday, signaling readiness to deploy large-scale liquidity if needed after the country’s stock market suffered its steepest two-day rout on record following the outbreak of war in the Middle East. Officials reassured investors that Seoul stands ready to tap a 100 trillion won ($75 billion) market stabilization program should financial volatility intensify, as the benchmark KOSPI plunged more than 20 percent in two sessions, rattled by soaring oil prices and geopolitical risks stemming from U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran. President Lee Jae Myung urged financial authorities to swiftly execute the stabilization package if needed during an emergency Cabinet meeting in Seoul. “The crisis in the Middle East is worsening the global economic and security environment,” Lee said. “I ask that the 100 trillion won market stabilization program prepared to preempt instability in funding markets be executed and managed promptly and appropriately.” Lee instructed ministries to draw up contingency plans and actively respond to heightened volatility in financial markets, including equities and foreign exchange. Financial Services Commission Chairman Lee Eok-won said regulators have already convened multiple financial market monitoring meetings and reiterated that authorities are prepared to operate the stabilization program “at full readiness.” “We have delivered preemptive stabilization messages to the market and will actively operate a market stabilization program worth 100 trillion won plus additional measures if needed,” he said. “Given the high level of uncertainty, we will maintain maximum vigilance to stabilize financial markets and minimize spillover effects on the real economy.” Separately, the Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) held an emergency meeting with market experts to assess the recent spike in volatility and review the outlook for domestic equities. Participants — including strategists from global investment banks, brokerage research heads and analysts from the Korea Capital Market Institute — said the latest market swings were driven largely by geopolitical risks from the Middle East crisis and short-term profit-taking after the market’s strong rally earlier this year. Despite the sharp correction, experts broadly agreed that the underlying fundamentals of South Korea’s equity market remain intact and that the shock could prove temporary. They noted that corporate earnings remain solid and the government’s push for shareholder-friendly policies has strengthened market conditions in recent months, suggesting that excessive declines could form meaningful support levels. Before the Middle East conflict erupted, analysts had been steadily revising upward their 2026 KOSPI forecasts, citing improving corporate profitability and structural reforms in the capital market. FSS Senior Deputy Governor Hwang Sun-oh said regulators are reviewing a range of contingency measures and stand ready to implement phased responses under emergency stabilization plans if necessary. “We are closely examining various response options with the highest level of vigilance,” Hwang said. Authorities also warned that they would take a zero-tolerance approach to misinformation and market manipulation during the period of heightened volatility. “Criminal acts such as the distribution of fake news or price manipulation that exploit public anxiety must be thoroughly blocked,” President Lee said. “Those attempting to profit by causing confusion in the national economy will be held strictly accountable.” The stock and currency market sharply rebounded Thursday. The KOSPI is up 10 percent and KOSDAQ 12.6 percent higher as of 11:30 a.m.. The dollar is quoted at 1,463.80, down from Wednesday close of 1,476.6. 2026-03-05 11:33:41 -
LG CNS launches modular AI data center deployable in six months SEOUL, March 05 (AJP) - LG CNS unveiled a container-based AI data center called "AI Box" that can be built in about six months, aiming to capture growing demand for rapid AI infrastructure deployment. The modular system shown Thursday houses up to 576 graphics processing units in a single container with 1.2 megawatts of server power capacity. Traditional data centers typically require about two years to construct, making the shortened timeline a potential advantage for enterprise customers seeking quick expansion of AI computing capabilities. The company said the standardized design allows customers to start with a single container and scale up to hyperscale capacity by combining dozens of units. AI Box integrates technologies from multiple LG Group affiliates, including cooling distribution units and air conditioning systems from LG Electronics and battery systems for uninterruptible power supplies from LG Energy Solution. "AI Box, which provides integrated AI servers, power, cooling and operations, will lead a new paradigm in the data center business," said Cho Heon-hyeock, Datacenter Business Unit Vice President at LG CNS. "We will expand the business to global markets including Southeast Asia and North America based on successful cases in the domestic market." The company plans to deploy its first AI Box at its Busan Global Cloud Data Center site and eventually build a campus of about 50 units on the 27,179-square-meter property to serve domestic AI infrastructure demand. 2026-03-05 10:24:33 -
World-OKTA to host K-pop charity concert marking 45th anniversary SEOUL, March 05 (AJP) - The World Federation of Overseas Korean Traders Associations (World-OKTA) will hold a K-pop charity concert on April 1 at KBS Arena Hall in Seoul to mark its 45th anniversary, the organization said. The event, titled "OK Live Concert," represents the trade group's first official cultural project since its founding in 1981. World-OKTA operates about 140 chapters across 70 countries and has focused primarily on supporting Korean businesses abroad and fostering next-generation business leaders. "K-pop has become a global cultural language that connects young people around the world," an event organizer said. "We aim to present a new international exchange platform that combines economy and culture on the occasion of our 45th anniversary." The concert will feature performers spanning multiple genres, including trot singer Song Ga-in, K-pop vocalist Hyolyn, and hip-hop duo Dynamic Duo. World-OKTA said the lineup reflects its goal of bridging senior business leaders with younger generations through cultural engagement. The organization has positioned the event as a hybrid platform combining live performances with networking programs and brand partnership opportunities. The trade group said it is exploring the possibility of expanding the concert into a global tour in major cities. Sponsorship and partnership models are also under consideration. World-OKTA was founded in 1981 to build economic networks among overseas Korean entrepreneurs and support Korean small and medium-sized enterprises seeking international expansion. 2026-03-05 10:06:08 -
Middle East Crisis: Korean industries grapple with renewed oil shock SEOUL, March 03 (AJP) - The widening Middle East crisis, triggered by U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran and Tehran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz, is poised to ripple across South Korea's industrial landscape — compounding pressure on the struggling petrochemical sector while opening fresh prospects for defense exporters. The joint U.S.-Israeli airstrikes on Iran, launched on Feb. 28, killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and triggered retaliatory Iranian missile and drone strikes against U.S. military assets across the Gulf and multiple Arab states. As of Tuesday, fighting had entered a third day with no ceasefire in sight, and U.S. President Donald Trump outlined a four- to five-week timetable for the campaign. Brent crude surged more than 6 percent in Monday trading, briefly approaching $80 a barrel, while European gas prices spiked nearly 40 percent after Qatar halted LNG output at a major facility following intercepted drone threats. Analysts warn that a sustained disruption to Hormuz traffic could push oil above $100 a barrel. The strait carries about 20 percent of the world's crude oil and one-fifth of global LNG. South Korea's exposure is acute as the country imports 70.7 percent of its crude oil and 20.4 percent of its LNG from the Middle East, according to the Korea International Trade Association. Should detour routes become necessary, maritime freight rates could climb 50 to 80 percent, with insurance premiums surging as much as sevenfold akin to the levels of past Gulf crises. The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries said Sunday it would raise output by 206,000 barrels per day in April, but that increase amounts to only a fraction of the roughly 15 million to 20 million barrels per day that normally transit the strait. For now, experts say the risk of a drawn-out conflict remains limited. "Predictions of a prolonged war are not widespread, given Iran's missile-launch capacity and other constraints," said Yoon Jae-sung, an analyst at Hana Securities. "The possibility of a short-term disruption to South Korea's crude oil procurement is limited." Yoon cautioned, however, that a full Hormuz blockade would have far more severe consequences than the energy shock triggered by the Russia-Ukraine war. "Massive supply disruptions would be inevitable not only for crude oil, petroleum products, gas and fertilizer, but also for petrochemicals, and short-term price spikes would follow," Yoon said, pointing to S-Oil, SK Innovation, Unid and Lotte Fine Chemical as companies relatively better positioned to weather volatility. Petrochemicals hit at worst possible timing The conflict arrives at one of the worst possible moments for South Korea's petrochemical industry, the world's fourth-largest producer of ethylene and propylene. The sector has been mired in losses since 2021, battered by Chinese overcapacity and chronically weak margins. Spot cash margins for naphtha-fed steam crackers in Northeast Asia stood at minus $293 per metric ton as of mid-February, according to Chemical Market Analytics by OPIS. South Korea is one of the world's largest importers of naphtha, the crude oil derivative that serves as the primary feedstock for its petrochemical complexes. About 80 percent of ethylene's selling price is tied to naphtha procurement costs. When oil rises, naphtha follows — but producers cannot pass on higher costs in a global market flooded with Chinese supply. The government approved its first major restructuring project just last week. On Feb. 25, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy signed off on the "Daesan No. 1" plan, merging Lotte Chemical and HD Hyundai Chemical operations with a 2.1 trillion won ($1.43 billion) support package. Lotte Chemical's 1.1-million-metric-ton-per-year ethylene cracker will be shut over three years. The deal marks the first consolidation under a broader roadmap targeting a national reduction of up to 3.7 million metric tons of cracking capacity across the Daesan, Yeosu and Ulsan complexes. The restructuring was designed for a low-price, oversupply environment — a sudden crude spike upends those calculations entirely. Freight shock amplifies cost pressure Fuel volatility has already triggered sharp spikes in charter rates for very large crude carriers (VLCCs). Following the U.S.-Israeli strikes, VLCC charter costs surpassed $400,000 per day. Rates that had hovered in the low $200,000 range nearly doubled within days as Iran escalated threats to Hormuz. Projections suggest that if a blockade materializes, charter fees could climb as high as $800,000 per day. According to freight indices for the Middle East–to–East Asia route, the Worldscale index reached 410.44 on Monday, translating into a Time Charter Equivalent of $423,736 per day. That represents more than a twofold increase from Feb. 27 — just before the conflict erupted — when the index stood at 224.72 and TCE at $218,154. Compared with January levels, when TCE averaged $78,793, tanker freight costs have surged more than fivefold in roughly a month. Defense emerges as the clear industrial upside The sole industrial upside from widening armed conflict lies in defense. Korea's defense exports to the Middle East tripled from $241 million in 2019 to $747.5 million in 2024, according to the Export-Import Bank of Korea. The broader Middle East and North Africa region accounted for 27 percent of global arms imports between 2020 and 2024, with regional defense spending projected to reach $255.8 billion by 2029. "Even if the war ends early, weapons imports in the Middle East could increase over the mid- to long term as countries hedge against follow-up Iranian attacks and lingering uncertainty," said Chae Woon-sam, an analyst at Hana Securities. "Not only U.S. defense firms, but Korean defense companies are also expected to benefit from rising regional demand." The conflict has exposed Gulf states' vulnerability to missile and drone strikes, with attacks hitting airports, military bases and residential areas across Qatar, Jordan, Kuwait and Bahrain. That exposure is likely to accelerate demand for the air defense and missile interception systems South Korean firms have been actively marketing. Hanwha Aerospace signed a $3.2 billion Cheongung-II air defense contract with Saudi Arabia in November 2023 and a $3.5 billion missile system deal with the UAE in January 2022. On Feb. 8, Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back traveled to Riyadh for talks during the World Defense Show 2026, where 40 Korean firms showcased hardware and the two countries signed a new memorandum of understanding on joint defense research and development. Hana Securities said the recent wave of missile strikes has heightened the urgency of regional air defense stockpile replenishment, placing LIG Nex1 in a strong position. The Cheongung-II, often referred to as "Korea's Patriot," could emerge as a competitive mid-tier alternative to the U.S.-made Patriot system, which faces supply constraints and carries a higher price tag. "The Cheongung-II's cost-effectiveness and delivery timelines position it as a viable complement to the Patriot for mid-tier air defense," Chae said. "The unit cost of its interceptor missiles is less than half that of the Patriot's." Experts at the Washington Institute have noted that South Korean defense systems appeal to Middle Eastern buyers seeking to counter Iran's expanding drone and missile capabilities while diversifying beyond sole dependence on U.S. suppliers. Korean systems are designed to integrate with U.S.-supplied command-and-control networks, offering Gulf states redundancy without undermining existing alliance structures. The near-term outlook remains complicated. Iranian strikes on Gulf infrastructure have forced Korean firms to scale back on-the-ground operations. Hanwha, which employs about 123 workers at its Bismayah New City construction project in Iraq, activated emergency safety protocols. Korean Air suspended its Incheon–Dubai route, while shipping companies HMM and Pan Ocean prepared contingency detour plans. Any prolonged closure of Gulf airspace and sea lanes would delay deliveries, joint ventures and research cooperation — even as strategic demand for Korean defense systems grows. 2026-03-03 14:55:09 -
Hyundai Motor Group unveils autonomous robot for high-risk firefighting SEOUL, March 03 (AJP) - Hyundai Motor Group released a video showcasing a new autonomous firefighting robot designed to penetrate high-risk disaster zones where human entry is restricted. The "physical AI" solution revealed Tuesday targets environments with collapsing structures, toxic gas, or extreme heat to secure the "golden time" for fire suppression. Developed with the National Fire Agency, the robot features an advanced 6X6 in-wheel motor system that allows for 360-degree rotation on the spot. It moves at about 50 km/h—roughly twice as fast as a running human—and can scale 300mm vertical obstacles or steep warehouse ramps. To overcome blinding smoke, the unit utilizes AI-enhanced thermal imaging and infrared cameras to transmit high-definition data to operators in real-time. It also deploys a high-pressure photoluminescent hose that glows in the dark, serving as a literal lifeline for firefighters to find their way out. "The true value of this robot is not merely its heat resistance or fire suppression power, but its role as a ‘Physical AI’ that operates in actual disaster sites," said Kim Seung-ryong, acting commissioner of the National Fire Agency. He added that the technology marks a "great transition" toward a hybrid era where humans and robots overcome their respective limits. The robot saw its first combat deployment during a factory fire in Eumseong, North Chungcheong Province, on Jan. 30. Beyond active suppression, the platform functions as a mobile data hub, capturing smoke density and temperature levels to refine its machine-learning algorithms. Hyundai Motor Group plans to evolve the system into a fully autonomous "firefighting response platform" capable of analyzing fire origins and calculating the most efficient suppression methods independently. The group said it remains committed to developing technologies that support "uniformed heroes" and ensure public safety. 2026-03-03 13:31:30 -
South Korea's February exports surge 29% to record high on semiconductor boom SEOUL, March 01 (AJP) - South Korea's exports jumped 29.0 percent in February from a year earlier to $67.45 billion, marking the highest tally for the month on record, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy said Sunday. The result was especially striking given that the Seollal, or Lunar New Year, cut working days by three compared with the same month last year, a factor that typically weighs on shipment volumes. On a daily average basis, exports soared 49.3 percent to $3.55 billion, breaching the $3 billion threshold for the first time. Semiconductors powered the rally. Chip exports rocketed 160.8 percent to $25.16 billion, an all-time monthly record fueled by surging demand for artificial intelligence infrastructure and a sharp run-up in memory prices. The benchmark price for 8GB DDR4, a standard PC memory chip, leapt to $13.00 from $1.35 a year ago, while 16GB DDR5 climbed to $30.00 from $3.79. 128GB NAND flash memory prices jumped to $12.67 from $2.29. Semiconductor shipments have now topped $20 billion for three consecutive months, climbing from $15.7 billion in October through $20.8 billion in December to $25.2 billion in February, extending a streak of nine straight months of record exports stretching back to June last year. Computer exports rose 221.6 percent to $2.56 billion on robust solid-state drive demand, while wireless communication devices gained 12.7 percent to $1.47 billion, buoyed by new handset launches. Shipbuilding exports advanced 41.2 percent to $2.2 billion and bio-health shipments edged up 7.1 percent to $1.31 billion. However, the holiday drag hit manufacturing-heavy sectors. Automobile exports fell 20.8 percent to $4.81 billion and auto parts declined 22.4 percent to $1.45 billion as production volumes shrank. General machinery slid 16.3 percent, petrochemicals dropped 15.4 percent amid a global supply glut, and petroleum products dipped 3.9 percent as weak crude prices offset higher shipment volumes. By destination, exports to the United States climbed 29.9 percent to a February record of $12.85 billion, led by chips and computers. Shipments to China rose 34.1 percent to $12.75 billion, driven by a 141 percent spike in semiconductor exports. Exports to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations surged 30.4 percent to $12.47 billion, also a February record, while European Union-bound shipments gained 10.3 percent to $5.6 billion. Imports rose 7.5 percent to $51.94 billion, producing a trade surplus of $15.51 billion — the largest monthly surplus on record and an increase of $11.55 billion from a year earlier. The trade balance has now stayed in the black for 13 consecutive months. The ministry cautioned that external uncertainties remain elevated, citing heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and U.S. tariff policies as persistent risks. Minister of Trade, Industry and Resources Kim Jung-kwan said the government would "closely monitor export and import trends to minimize the impact of geopolitical risks originating from the Middle East" and maintain close communication with Washington to safeguard the conditions secured under a bilateral tariff agreement. Kim added that Seoul would push for swift parliamentary passage of a special law on U.S.-bound investment and pursue a cross-ministry export expansion plan unveiled last month, aiming to propel South Korea into the ranks of the world's top five exporters this year. 2026-03-01 14:43:54 -
Blackpink's Rosé becomes first K-pop artist to win at Brit Awards with 'APT.' SEOUL, March 01 (AJP) - Rosé of K-pop group BLACKPINK made history on Sunday, becoming the first K-pop artist to claim a trophy at the Brit Awards, one of Britain's most prestigious music ceremonies. The New Zealand-born South Korean singer took home the International Song of the Year award for "APT.," her chart-topping collaboration with Bruno Mars, at the 46th Brit Awards held at Co-op Live Arena in Manchester. "Give a shoutout to BLACKPINK. Jennie, Jisoo and Lisa; I love you guys so much. Thank you for always inspiring me," said Rosé after receiving the trophy in Manchester, naming her fellow group members. She also expressed gratitude to Bruno Mars, calling him her "greatest mentor and closest friend." "APT.," a pre-release single from Rosé's debut studio album "rosie," became a global sensation after its October 2024 release. Inspired by a popular Korean drinking game, the track logged a 45-week run on the Billboard Hot 100 — the longest ever for a K-pop song — peaking at No. 3. The win adds to a remarkable awards streak for Rose. In September 2025, the track earned her two trophies at the MTV Video Music Awards, including Song of the Year. It was also nominated in three categories at this year's Grammy Awards, though it did not secure a win there. Rosé is also the only K-pop artist to have been nominated at the Brit Awards twice — once as a member of Blackpink and once as a solo act. K-pop's presence at the ceremony extended beyond Rosé's win, as performers EJae, Audrey Nuna and Rei Ami took the stage to perform "Golden," the theme song from the Netflix original series "KPop Demon Hunters." 2026-03-01 11:08:12 -
S. Korea's Lee calls for peace, reconciliation on March 1st Independence Movement anniversary SEOUL, March 01 (AJP) - South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on Sunday called for peace and coexistence on the Korean Peninsula and beyond, as he marked the 107th anniversary of the March 1st Independence Movement at a ceremony held at the COEX convention center in southern Seoul. Lee personally presented awards to independence movement meritorious persons at the ceremony before delivering his address. The following is the full text of President Lee's commemorative address: Respected citizens of Korea and 7 million compatriots overseas, and independence movement meritorious persons and their families, 107 years ago today, the powerful cries of "Long live Korean independence!" rang out to the world. On that day, everyone was one. There were no differences of class or status, no differences of age or gender. Yeongnam and Honam were one, and there was no distinction between left and right. From Pyongyang, Seoul, Busan and Sinuiju — truly, from Mount Halla to Mount Baekdu, the entire country was filled with the sound of hurrah. Our forebears stood against Japanese imperial suppression through active resistance at home, and armed and diplomatic struggle abroad, carrying that spirit forward into the establishment of the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea. Because they united as one for a greater cause beyond small differences, the March 1st Revolution was at last able to bear fruit in the joy of liberation. On the occasion of the 107th March 1st Independence Movement Day, I offer infinite respect and wholehearted tribute to the patriotic forebears who gave their lives for the independence of our nation. I also extend my deepest gratitude to the four surviving independence movement meritorious persons and their families. Had it not been for our forebears who threw everything aside for the independence of the motherland and for the hope of tomorrow in which their descendants would live, the free and prosperous Republic of Korea we enjoy today could never have existed. Therefore, honoring and paying tribute to the devotion of our forebears is a special reward for a special sacrifice, and the minimum measure necessary for the maintenance of our community. As I announced on Liberation Day, I will take special care to expand the discovery and commendation of undecorated independence movement meritorious persons, and to more substantially support their bereaved families. I will designate the area around Hyochang Park as the "National Hyochang Independence Park," and establish a broad plan for the utilization of the Shanghai provisional government building, so that the spirit of independence of our forebears may be honored for generations to come. Furthermore, in this year that marks the 150th birth anniversary of Baekbeom Kim Gu, I will carry on his noble aspirations through commemorative projects in which all citizens can participate together. I will surely build a fair nation where common sense prevails — where the self-deprecating saying "three generations are ruined if you join the independence movement" disappears, where those who devoted themselves for the nation are respected, and where acts of betrayal against the community are sternly judged. Respected citizens, The world a century ago, when the March 1st Revolution broke out, was an era of upheaval in which the strong preyed upon the weak. Korea and many other nations suffered the pain of losing their sovereignty and enduring colonial rule. Only after experiencing the devastation of the World Wars did the international community establish new norms to mediate disputes between nations and manage peace. However, a century later today, the world is once again entering a period of upheaval. The international norms established over the 80-plus years since the World War II are being seriously threatened by the logic of force. In order not to repeat the same mistakes, we must seek lessons from history. The spirit of the March 1st Revolution of our forebears offers great teachings to us and people around the world today. The March 1st Revolution was a declaration of independence and a declaration of peace, a compass that pointed to the future of peace and coexistence toward which we must advance. Through the March 1st Declaration of Independence, our forebears lamented "the loss of the opportunity to contribute to world culture with new technology and originality." Upon achieving independence, they also expressed their grand aspiration that they would "illuminate the dawning light of a new civilization in human history with the humanitarian spirit cultivated over thousands of years." They dreamed of a democratic republic in which the people would be the true masters, and they dreamed of a peaceful world of great harmony — not one that exploited other nations through force, but one in which people understood and supported each other, stood together in solidarity, and lived together in harmony. This is why, in this era of crisis in which democracy and peace are once again under threat, we must all deeply reflect on the spirit of the March 1st Revolution. In 1919, we were a powerless colonial people, but the citizens of the Republic of Korea in 2026 are becoming a people with the power to move the hearts of people around the world and with infinite potential to change the world. The Republic of Korea is the only nation among those liberated from colonialism to have simultaneously achieved industrialization and democratization. Our great citizens of the Republic of Korea achieved industrialization after liberation through the "Miracle on the Han River." Even under the oppression of dictatorship, we realized democracy through the April 19th Revolution, the May 18th Democratization Uprising, and the June 10th Democracy Uprising, and we astonished the entire world by illuminating the light of popular sovereignty through the Candlelight Revolution and the Revolution of Light. Our Republic of Korea, equipped with a top-10 global economic power "sufficient to enrich the lives" of our people and a top-5 global military strength "sufficient to repel the invasions of others," is making the dreams of our forebears into reality — expanding the breadth of understanding and empathy and spreading peace — with our "strength of high culture" that ranks 7th in world influence. What made this possible was the spirit of the March 1st Revolution that has been continuously passed down through the blood of our people. The spirit of the March 1st Revolution — which our forebears championed and our people have carried forward — is surely a bright light that will guide the people of the world living through this era of crisis, in which democracy and peace are shaking, toward a new world of hope. Respected citizens, Let us begin realizing the dream of peace and coexistence that our forebears so earnestly desired, starting here and now, on the Korean Peninsula. Building a peaceful Korean Peninsula that grows together — through coexistence and cooperation rather than hostility, on the foundation of trust rather than distrust — is the path to fully inheriting the spirit of the March 1st Revolution. Let us never turn away from the firm lesson of history that hostility and confrontation bring no benefit to either side. Let us bring an end to this era of conflict and confrontation that has continued for well over half a century, and advance boldly toward a Korean Peninsula of peace, coexistence, and shared prosperity. As I have made clear on numerous occasions, our government respects the system of the North, and will neither engage in any hostile acts nor pursue any form of absorption unification. Just as we have proactively taken various measures to reduce military tensions between the two Koreas and restore mutual trust through actions rather than words, we will consistently pursue the necessary steps for peace on the Korean Peninsula and the restoration of inter-Korean trust. The drone infiltration incident last year, which occurred entirely contrary to the intentions of this government, was a grave criminal act that threatens peace on the Korean Peninsula and something that must never happen. Any act that provokes tension and conflict on this Korean Peninsula where both Koreas live together cannot be justified by any excuse. So that such a thing never happens again, we will thoroughly investigate the truth, hold those responsible accountable, and establish institutional preventive measures. We will continue efforts to resume dialogue with the North. As a "pacemaker," we will communicate with the United States as well as neighboring countries so that North Korea-U.S. dialogue can resume at the earliest possible time. We will do everything in our power to transform the armistice regime into a peace regime through substantive reduction of inter-Korean tensions and cooperation with relevant nations. As the North is also establishing and implementing a new five-year plan, we hope it will come to the table for dialogue without delay, leave behind the dark past, and draw a new future together. We hope that the mansei cries of our forebears, who yearned for world peace, will ring out again as a shared pledge between North and South toward a Korean Peninsula of peace and shared prosperity. Relations with Japan must also be developed on the basis of the March 1st spirit, which pursued peace and shared prosperity. The two countries of Korea and Japan have shared a turbulent history. Throughout our society, painful traces of that history still remain, and there are victims and bereaved families who continue to suffer. In the past, the two nations opened the door to the normalization of diplomatic relations for the sake of a future of good neighborly friendship and cooperation, even while carrying unhealed pain and wounds. Over the past 60 years, Korea and Japan have deepened their cooperation in all areas — diplomacy, economy, society, and culture — and have developed their relationship as close neighboring countries sharing a front yard. Now, as we face a harsh international situation, is precisely the time for Korea and Japan to respond to reality and open the future together. The people's sovereignty government will make efforts through practical diplomacy to face the past squarely, resolve current challenges together, and advance toward the future together. We will continue shuttle diplomacy with Japan and actively support both nations' citizens to further feel the effects of relationship development and open new opportunities together. We expect the Japanese government to respond in kind so that the two countries can open a "new world of good relations based on genuine understanding and empathy." In order to wisely respond to an era of upheaval, harmony in Northeast Asia is more important than ever. The late patriot Ahn Jung-geun, through his "Theory of Peace in the East," argued that cooperation among Korea, China, and Japan is the path to contributing to world peace. Reflecting on the significance of peace and harmony in Northeast Asia, I have visited China and Japan in succession since early this year, emphasizing that the three nations of Korea, China, and Japan must find common ground, communicate, and cooperate. We will not stop our efforts for harmony and prosperity, as our forebears who sought to carry the peace of Northeast Asia to the peace of the world wished. Respected 52 million citizens of the Republic of Korea and 7 million compatriots overseas, Our forebears transcended small differences, united as one, achieved independence, and laid the foundations of the Republic of Korea. If our great citizens of the Republic of Korea, who have inherited that spirit, pool our strength together and fully exercise the potential we possess, there is no reason we cannot make the peaceful world our forebears dreamed of into reality. Let us together build the advanced democratic model nation, the peaceful Korean Peninsula free from the fear of war, and the Republic of Korea where culture blossoms and prosperity flourishes — the very things our martyred forebears and patriotic independence fighters gave their lives wishing for. With the spirit of the March 1st Revolution, let us together open the path of peace and democracy, mutual prosperity and shared benefit. Together with the great citizens of the Republic of Korea, I will advance toward that light — the light our forebears longed for without ceasing. Thank you. 2026-03-01 10:42:22 -
S. Korea enters era of 1 million foreign patients, moves to regulate medical fees SEOUL, March 01 (AJP) - South Korea's medical tourism boom shows no signs of slowing, with the number of foreign patients having surpassed the 1 million mark for the first time in 2024 and no meaningful reversal in sight — prompting the government to tighten oversight of fees charged to overseas visitors. The Ministry of Health and Welfare recently announced proposed amendments to the enforcement decree and rules of the Act on Supporting Overseas Expansion of Medical Services and Attraction of International Patients, establishing a clearer legal basis for investigating fees and medical charges at facilities catering to foreign patients. Under the existing law, the ministry is authorized to examine commission fees — payments that medical institutions make to brokers for attracting foreign patients — as well as the medical charges levied on those patients. However, the scope of duties that could be delegated to its supporting agency, the Korea Health Industry Development Institute (KHIDI), had remained ambiguous until now. Ministry officials say the law had long allowed for such investigations but that the delegation framework under the enforcement decree lacked clarity, adding that the revised rules would also require medical institutions to report commission fees and medical charges when submitting their annual performance records. The ministry noted that the amendments do not impose new mandatory obligations and that reporting systems were already in place, meaning significant changes on the ground were not expected. Authorities said they hope the clearer mandate will help generate reliable policy statistics on the foreign patient attraction market. According to a statistical report by the KHIDI, the number of unique foreign patients treated in South Korea in 2024 — excluding repeat visits — reached about 1.17 million, surging 93.2 percent from the previous year. It marked the first time the figure has crossed the 1 million threshold since the medical tourism program began in 2009, when just about 60,000 foreign patients were recorded. Among foreign visitors that year, about 919,000 patients who used overseas-issued cards spent a combined 1.4 trillion won ($972 million) on medical services, averaging about 1.5 million won per person. 2026-03-01 09:48:54