Journalist

박세진
Chang Seong-won, Lee Eun-byeol
  • S. Korea-Central Asia cultural heritage cooperation marked by Nowruz book presentation in Seoul
    S. Korea-Central Asia cultural heritage cooperation marked by Nowruz book presentation in Seoul SEOUL, March 18 (AJP) - Diplomatic representatives and cultural officials gathered Wednesday at the Korea Foundation Seminar Room to inaugurate the Nowruz Book. The ceremony celebrated the shared heritage of Eurasia and brought together the Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan embassies. The International Information and Networking Centre for Intangible Cultural Heritage in the Asia-Pacific Region and the Central Asia-Korea Cooperation Forum Secretariat supported the initiative. This effort aims to strengthen ties between South Korea and the five regional partners. This gathering serves as a critical precursor to the high-level South Korea-Central Asia Summit scheduled for September under the administration of Lee Jae Myung. Nowruz represents a millennia-old tradition of renewal and community observed throughout the Silk Road. The newly presented publication explores the meaning of the festival as a symbol of friendship and shared identity between the peninsula and Central Asia. International Information and Networking Centre for Intangible Cultural Heritage in the Asia-Pacific Region Strategic Development Office Director Kim Deok-soon noted that the holiday reflects a 6,000-year history of the "New Day" that transcends modern borders. The holiday remains a vital cultural bridge, particularly for diaspora communities residing throughout the region. Korea Heritage Service Vice Administrator Choi Bo-geun highlighted historical ties by referencing the Afrosiyab murals in Samarkand. He noted that the depiction of Goguryeo envoys in these ancient works provides definitive evidence of early civilizational dialogue. The vice administrator emphasized that these historic connections form the basis for modern diplomatic and cultural partnerships. The official characterized the research as a bridge between the ancient past and the upcoming strategic summit in September. This historical anchor supports current efforts to deepen regional collaboration across multiple sectors. Central Asia-Korea Cooperation Forum Secretariat Executive Director Rhee Jong Kook described the institution as a unique framework for regional engagement. He stated that "the Secretariat is the first of its kind established to foster multidimensional cooperation in six priority areas". The executive director explained that cultural initiatives like the Nowruz Book presentation provide the essential people-to-people foundation for diplomatic progress. Seoul will further this mission during the Central Asia Spring Festival at Seoul Plaza in May. Kazakhstan Ambassador Nurgali Arystanov linked the celebration to the "Just Kazakhstan" and "New Kazakhstan" initiatives. He noted that these reforms focus on political modernization and social justice, gaining overwhelming support in the recent March 15 constitutional referendum. The ambassador stated that "Celebrating Nowruz in Seoul is a testament to our blossoming partnership and shared vision for a prosperous Eurasia". He emphasized that cultural diplomacy remains a core pillar of the strategy employed by his nation. Kyrgyzstan Ambassador Aida Ismailova defined the event as a period of "resurgence" for nature and the birth of new life. Tajikistan Ambassador Kirom Salohiddin Amriddinzoda highlighted the humanitarian aspects of the tradition, including the custom of visiting orphans and the elderly. These remarks emphasized the alignment between regional values and the strategic partnership with Seoul. The ambassadors collectively positioned the publication as a spiritual bridge connecting the two regions. Turkmenistan Ambassador Begench Durdyyev framed the event within the "Year of Independent Permanently Neutral Turkmenistan" while noting the significance of Akhal-Teke horse culture. Uzbekistan Ambassador Alisher Abdusalomov quoted the thinker Alisher Navoi, stating, "The one who sows seeds opens the path to sustenance". The ambassador characterized the book as a significant milestone leading toward deeper regional integration ahead of the planned diplomatic engagements. Kim Deoksoon added that Central Asia and Eurasia account for more than 50 percent of all UNESCO joint intangible heritage inscriptions. The Nowruz Book will be distributed to academic and cultural institutions to facilitate further research into shared Eurasian history. 2026-03-18 17:41:52
  • BLACKPINKs Jennie to headline Lollapalooza Chicago as K-pop presence expands
    BLACKPINK's Jennie to headline Lollapalooza Chicago as K-pop presence expands SEOUL, March 18 (AJP) - The organizers of Lollapalooza Chicago announced the 2026 festival lineup on Tuesday (local time), confirming that South Korean soloist Jennie will headline the four-day event at Grant Park. Scheduled to run from July 30 to August 2, the festival marks a significant milestone for the singer as she transitions from group performances to a solo mainstay on the global circuit. She joins a premier roster of headliners for the summer season including Lorde, Charlie XCX, and The Smashing Pumpkins. The announcement follows her successful appearances at previous international festivals where she garnered critical acclaim for her stage presence and vocal range. This appearance in Chicago is part of a broader summer tour for the performer, who is also slated to headline the Governors Ball in New York this June. Following her engagement in the United States, she will travel to Spain to lead the Mad Cool Festival in Madrid before concluding her summer schedule at Summer Sonic in Japan. These bookings solidify her standing as a primary draw for major Western music events, reflecting a strategic shift toward individual global branding. Her previous experience at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in California served as a precursor to this expansive 2026 festival run. The 2026 iteration of the Chicago festival continues a trend of heavy investment in South Korean talent, with several other prominent acts confirmed for the lineup. The girl groups aespa and (G)I-DLE are scheduled to perform, alongside the rising male quintet Cortis. This collective presence underscores the sustained demand for Seoul-based artists within the American live music market. Each group brings a distinct choreographed style and discography that has already seen substantial commercial success on domestic and international streaming charts. Jennie follows a lineage of South Korean artists who have broken through at the historic Chicago venue since 1991. The trail was blazed by J-Hope in 2022, who became the first Korean headliner at the event, followed by Tomorrow X Together in 2023. Subsequent years saw Stray Kids and Twice take top billing, demonstrating a growing institutional comfort with K-pop as a headline attraction. More than 400,000 attendees are expected to gather in the Illinois city this year to witness the 170 scheduled acts. 2026-03-18 14:47:00
  • Uzbekistan and Tajikistan expand cultural ties through new diplomatic initiatives
    Uzbekistan and Tajikistan expand cultural ties through new diplomatic initiatives SEOUL, March 18 (AJP) - Uzbekistan and Tajikistan have entered a more active phase of cultural cooperation, the Uzbekistan Embassy in South Korea announced on Wednesday, March 18, 2026. This partnership is driven by a surge in festivals, film screenings, and theater tours designed to bring the two nations closer together. The relationship between the leaders of the two states has been a primary catalyst for this growth. Mutual visits and joint participation in cultural events have deepened friendship and mutual respect, providing fresh momentum to long-standing ties between the neighboring countries. A solid legal foundation supports these efforts, starting with an agreement signed on January 16, 1994, between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Republic of Tajikistan. This has been followed by the Cultural Cooperation Programme for 2024–2026 adopted by the ministries of culture of both countries to implement joint projects. Direct communication between high-level officials has become frequent over the last four years. Uzbekistan Minister of Culture and his deputies have visited Tajikistan 11 times, while Tajikistan Minister of Culture and her deputies have made eight visits to Uzbekistan. Flagship events such as the Days of Uzbek Culture in Dushanbe and the Days of Tajik Culture in Tashkent are now held regularly. Tajik performers have also found success at international festivals in Uzbekistan, including the Lola dance ensemble, which recently won an award at the International Dance Festival "Lazgi." Cooperation has also expanded into the film industry through a memorandum between the Cinematography Agency of the Republic of Uzbekistan (CA) and the state institution Tojikfilm. The two organizations are currently finalizing the feature film "Starry Sky: Jami and Navoi," which is in the editing phase. In 2025, the city of Khujand hosted a major Navruz celebration attended by the leaders of Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan. The event featured a joint concert with artists from all three countries, showcasing regional unity through music and performance. Future plans include signing a new cultural cooperation program for 2026–2027. Upcoming initiatives involve theater tours and a gathering for multiple generations titled "Navro'zi olam," ensuring the steady development of cultural relations between the two peoples. 2026-03-18 14:31:09
  • S. Korean researchers find cellular waste clearing process capable of lifespan expansion
    S. Korean researchers find cellular waste clearing process capable of lifespan expansion SEOUL, March 18 (AJP) - South Korean scientists have discovered that clearing molecular debris from cells can significantly slow the aging process and extend lifespan. Researchers at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) announced on March 18, 2026, that they identified a specific protein responsible for removing genetic waste that typically builds up as organisms get older. The study focuses on circular RNA, a type of molecule that essentially acts as cellular trash. Unlike other genetic materials that the body recycles easily, these circular strands are highly resistant to being broken down. As a result, they clutter the cell over time and interfere with normal biological functions. The research team found that a protein called RNASEK serves as a primary cleaning crew for this waste. By studying roundworms, mice, and human cells, the scientists observed that levels of this protein naturally drop with age. This decline allows circular RNA to pile up and form toxic clumps known as stress granules. When the researchers artificially increased RNASEK levels, the test subjects lived significantly longer and remained in a healthier state. The protein works alongside other helper molecules to prevent genetic waste from sticking together and damaging the cell. These results remained consistent across different species, including mammals. "Until now, circular RNA was largely seen as just a byproduct or an indicator of getting older," said Professor Lee Seung-jae. "This research proves that the accumulation of circular RNA actually drives the aging process, and that the RNASEK protein is a vital regulator that can slow this down to promote a healthy lifespan." The project was a collaborative effort involving Professor Lee Seung-jae, Professor Kim Yun-ki, and Professor Lee Kwang-rok. The study included contributions from lead researchers Kim Si-eun, Ham Seok-jin, Bu Seong-ho, and Lee Dong-hun. The findings were published in the scientific journal Molecular Cell on February 24, 2026. (Reference Information) Journal/Source: Molecular Cell Title: Ribonuclease κ promotes longevity by preventing age-associated accumulation of circular RNA in stress granules Link/DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.molcel.2026.01.031 2026-03-18 10:06:36
  • Kookmin University professor develops AI framework for public R&D evaluation
    Kookmin University professor develops AI framework for public R&D evaluation SEOUL, March 18 (AJP) - A research team led by Professor Kim Do-hyung of the KMU International Business School (KIBS) at Kookmin University (KMU) has developed a generative artificial intelligence framework to enhance decision-making in public research and development (R&D) evaluations, the university said Tuesday. The study introduces a systematic approach to bridging the gap between technical capabilities and stakeholder expectations. The research paper, titled "Bridging the maturity-expectation gap: Generative AI in strategic decision-making for public R&D interim review," was published in the international journal Technovation. It addresses the limitations of current public R&D interim reviews, which often depend on the subjective judgment of experts. These traditional methods frequently face criticism for lacking consistency and being prone to evaluation bias. To resolve these issues, the team proposed the Maturity-Expectation Gap (MEG) framework. This model analyzes the difference between the actual maturity of generative AI technology and the performance levels expected by stakeholders. By combining survey data from experts with machine learning-based literature analysis, the researchers quantified how perceptions of AI vary across different groups. The findings revealed that significant discrepancies between expectations and technical maturity can reduce trust and the willingness to adopt AI tools. The study also categorized evaluation areas where generative AI could be easily integrated, as well as those that require additional preparation. This provides a clear roadmap for public sectors to build data-driven decision-making systems. "Generative AI has the potential to increase efficiency and consistency in the public R&D evaluation process," said Professor Kim Do-hyung. "However, if the gap between expectations and actual technical maturity is not managed, it can lead to distrust and resistance during implementation. The MEG framework proposed in this study can be used to diagnose these gaps and establish phased introduction strategies." The project was a collaboration between lead author Professor Kim Do-hyung, co-author Professor Kang Song-hee of the Tech University of Korea, and corresponding author Professor Hong Ah-reum of Kyung Hee University. The researchers expect the framework to contribute to more consistent and objective R&D management in the future. (Reference Information) Journal/Source: Technovation Title: Bridging the maturity-expectation gap: Generative AI in strategic decision-making for public R&D interim review Link/DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.technovation.2024.103110 2026-03-18 08:43:19
  • KAIST researchers develop world first personalized AI semiconductor SoulMate
    KAIST researchers develop world first personalized AI semiconductor SoulMate SEOUL, March 17 (AJP) - Researchers in South Korea have developed a specialized artificial intelligence chip capable of learning a user’s specific speaking style, preferences, and emotions in real time. The Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) announced on March 17 that a team led by Professor Yoo Hoi-jun at the Graduate School of AI Semiconductors has created SoulMate, an ultra-personalized Large Language Model (LLM) accelerator. While popular AI services like ChatGPT can answer general questions, they often lack awareness of a specific user’s daily habits or past conversation contexts. SoulMate overcomes these limitations by functioning as a digital companion that evolves through direct interaction. The system utilizes on-device AI technology, meaning all data is processed locally on the hardware rather than being sent to external cloud servers. To achieve this, the research team integrated Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) to recall past conversations and Low-Rank Adaptation (LoRA) to reflect user feedback instantly. These technologies allow the chip to respond and learn simultaneously in just 0.2 seconds. This speed ensures that the interaction feels natural and fluid for the user, as delays longer than 400 milliseconds typically disrupt the flow of human-like conversation. The semiconductor is designed for extreme energy efficiency, consuming only 9.8 milliwatts of power. This is approximately 1/500th of the power typically consumed by a standard smartphone processor. This low power requirement enables mobile devices to run complex AI learning and inference tasks for 24 hours a day without significantly draining the battery. Privacy is a central feature of the new design. Because all personal data remains on the device, the risk of sensitive information leaking from a server is eliminated. The researchers expect this technology to be integrated into future smartphones, wearables, and personal AI devices to provide secure, tailored services. "This research establishes the technical foundation for AI to become a true companion by mimicking the way humans build friendships," said Professor Yoo Hoi-jun. "Future AI will move beyond being a mere tool to become a "best friend" that understands the user best while perfectly protecting their privacy." The study, featuring lead author and doctoral researcher Hong Seong-yeon, was recognized as a Highlight Paper at the International Solid-State Circuits Conference (ISSCC) held in San Francisco last month. The research team successfully demonstrated the chip at the conference, showing the AI’s speaking style changing in real time based on user reactions. SoulMate is expected to be commercialized around 2027 through the faculty-led startup OnNeuro AI. (Reference Information) Journal/Source: IEEE Xplore / 2024 IEEE International Solid-State Circuits Conference (ISSCC) Title: SoulMate: A 9.8mW Mobile Intelligence System-on-Chip with Mixed-Rank Architecture for On-Device LLM Personalization Link/DOI: https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/11409048 2026-03-17 13:57:22
  • Kazakhstans innovation cluster targets Seoul developers to build Central Eurasian technology corridor
    Kazakhstan's innovation cluster targets Seoul developers to build Central Eurasian technology corridor ASTANA, March 17 (AJP) - Kazakhstan's international innovation cluster, Astana Hub, is actively inviting South Korean developers and startups to help construct a high-technology corridor across Central Eurasia. Operating out of the capital, the state-backed facility offers an absolute zero-tax regime to foreign entities willing to relocate. Director of the Office of International Relations and Investments Daniyar Zhumagulov extended a direct invitation to Seoul's technology sector during a March 13 interview at the center. "South Korean startups should know they can soft land here with their ideas, opening their branches here, and in turn, we can propose to our startups to try to investigate the South Korean market with their solutions," he stated. The facility currently hosts more than 2,000 participating companies and supports a workforce exceeding 30,000 employees. Approximately a quarter of these enterprises were founded by foreign nationals, drawing talents from Azerbaijan, Mongolia, and Eastern Europe. The ecosystem has already proven capable of scaling global enterprises, recently producing its first unicorn startup. In the venture capital industry, a unicorn designates a privately held startup valued at over 1 billion dollars, a rare milestone achieved by the artificial intelligence video generation platform Higgsfield AI late last year. History and operation of the hub Astana Hub was officially launched in November 2018 as a cornerstone of the Digital Kazakhstan state program. According to both the director's presentation and a recent report by The Korea Herald, the center was established using the futuristic pavilions left over from the 2017 international energy exposition, transforming a former event space into a permanent technological nexus. While created by the government and benefiting from state financial backing, it operates with the business-first mindset of a private enterprise. Zhumagulov explained this unique structure by noting their approach is deliberately distinct from traditional bureaucracies. "You see, we are a quasi-state organization because we were created with the support of the government first, but we work with the business and IT community, and we are very flexible," the director said. By eliminating corporate, individual, and value-added taxes until 2029, the facility has attracted significant foreign participation. "We are serving as a bridge every time between big companies and small startups," he added. Shifting away from an extractive economy Historically reliant on its vast mineral and hydrocarbon wealth, the nation is executing a deliberate shift toward a digital economy. This macroeconomic realignment requires legacy sectors to modernize rather than shut down entirely. A national mandate currently forces subsoil operators to allocate 1 percent of their annual revenue to research and development. The hub acts as a central operator connecting these massive mining conglomerates with domestic startups to integrate automation and predictive models. For example, developers are building digital twins, which are highly detailed virtual replicas of physical mines or oil rigs. These digital models allow engineers to run safety and efficiency simulations before deploying expensive equipment in the real world. Backing this nationwide transition is the comprehensive Law on Artificial Intelligence, enacted in January 2026, establishing a strict risk-based classification system for machine learning deployments. Geopolitical alignment with Seoul This legislative framework aligns closely with the technological trajectory currently being charted in South Korea. The administration of President Lee Jae Myung has prioritized the integration of machine learning across all demographics. His government champions an initiative designed to make artificial intelligence accessible to both the youth and the elderly. Both nations recognize that advanced computing infrastructure requires centralized backing rather than relying entirely on private venture capital. Graphics processing units, commonly known as GPUs, are specialized computer chips required to process the massive datasets necessary for training artificial intelligence. Because they are incredibly complex and expensive to manufacture, they have become a major financial bottleneck for independent developers. "I think that in terms of AI, governments must take the lead because, as you have seen, GPU capacity could not be built only with private money," Zhumagulov noted. To bypass this hurdle, the Kazakhstani state deployed a two-exaflop supercomputer cluster near the capital, distributing its processing power evenly across governmental services, scientific research, and the startup community. Cultivating a global workforce Comparing their operational style to neighboring technology parks, the director emphasized their tactical efficiency. "We are the Marine Corps of the IT and AI sector," he said. "We are very agile. Let us do this like professionals." Cultivating a specialized workforce remains the central pillar of the institution's long-term strategy to sustain this operational speed. The administration operates educational facilities, including the TUMO school, which provides tuition-free programming instruction specifically for children aged 12 to 18. For adults, the Tomorrow School model offers peer-to-peer coding education, requiring only a two-year physical relocation commitment to the capital. Zhumagulov explicitly invited international participation in these educational and incubation programs, noting, "We have created it for all the people in the world." The institution aims to utilize these diverse talent pipelines to reach 5 billion dollars in annual technology exports by 2030. 2026-03-17 13:44:46
  • PHOTOS: Living heritage and neon dreams - The parallel shopping worlds of Astana
    PHOTOS: Living heritage and neon dreams - The parallel shopping worlds of Astana ASTANA, March 15 (AJP) -A thirty-minute taxi ride from the hotel leads to the Artyom Market in the older district of Astana. It is a personal routine to visit the traditional markets of any new city to see how people actually live without the filter of tourist attractions. The ground floor of this multi-story building is a dense world of its own, smelling of fresh dough, raw honey, and cold-stored meat. It feels like a space that has aged alongside the city, retaining a certain grit that the newer districts lack. Outside, the temperature hovered at minus 15 degrees with snow falling steadily outside the Soviet-era style building on March 12. Yet inside the market stalls, the sight of vibrant watermelons and peaches offered a startling contrast to the white winter. These colors were especially bright as grandmothers and mothers hurried between vendors to prepare for the evening meals of the Ramadan season. In this part of the world, the holy month is observed with a relaxed cultural grace where life in the markets continues with a steady, quiet energy. The dairy section stood out as a highlight, featuring heaps of fresh butter and artisanal cheeses that are rarely seen in such abundance elsewhere. Sellers often leaned across their counters with a quick smile or a nod, offering a sense of warmth that made the foreign setting feel unexpectedly familiar. Even without the ability to speak the local language, the simple exchange of goods felt like a genuine connection to the heart of the community. It is the kind of place where the history of the city is told through the hands of the people who have lived there for decades. Crossing the river to the left bank on March 15 reveals the other face of the capital at the Mega Silk Way mall. This massive glass complex is currently the largest in the country and feels more like a modern indoor city than a traditional shopping center. On a Sunday evening, the hallways were packed with thousands of residents, shifting the demographic from the grandmothers of Artyom to young families and couples. The air here is filled with the sounds of children playing and the hum of a society moving at a much faster pace. At the Galmart supermarket inside the mall, the transition to a more global lifestyle becomes even more apparent. While the prices are roughly 10 to 15 percent higher than the old town markets, the convenience of ready-made meals like plov and manti draws in a steady crowd. The bright lighting and sleek displays of imported chocolates and deli meats reflect the aspirations of a growing middle class. It is a space where the ritual of shopping has evolved from a necessity into a form of modern entertainment. 2026-03-16 02:51:54
  • Astana braves the frost for a new Kazakhstan
    Astana braves the frost for a new Kazakhstan ASTANA, March 15 (AJP) - A leaden sky hung low over Astana on Sunday morning, stubbornly refusing to deliver the slight thaw promised by the local forecast. Instead, the mercury hovered at a biting -4°C, and the city’s wide avenues were flanked by mounds of snow stained with soot and dust, while footpaths were glazed in a treacherous layer of ice. Despite the chill, the capital’s residents appeared early. Clad in heavy winter coats, citizens moved with a hurried, quick-stepping gait, determined to reach the polling stations without lingering in the biting wind. The brisk movements reflected a city eager to participate in a defining moment for the nation. Kazakhstan, the giant of Central Asia with a population of approximately 20.4 million, stands as the region’s largest economy. By the end of 2026, its nominal GDP is projected to exceed $320 billion, firmly placing it among the world’s top 50 economies. While the nation has historically relied on "old industries" like oil, gas, and minerals, it is now undergoing a massive structural shift.Under a national goal to double its GDP by 2029, Kazakhstan is aggressively pivoting toward "new industries," including high-value manufacturing, artificial intelligence (AI), and digital finance. This national ambition has transitioned into concrete action this year. On January 18, Kazakhstan enacted a pioneering "AI Law," one of the first of its kind globally. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has declared 2026 as the "Year of Digitization and AI," concentrating state resources on technological innovation. Yet, these digital milestones are not merely technical adjustments; they represent the vanguard of a broader new industrial pivot intended to redefine the nation's competitive edge. The Kazakh leadership recognizes that a high-tech economy cannot thrive on an analog political foundation. Consequently, this referendum is targeted at a comprehensive overhaul of Kazakhstan's politics and society, acting as the critical "software synchronization" required to ensure the nation’s institutional architecture is as agile and transparent as the digital systems it is now deploying. Inside the grand, glass-fronted Al-Farabi Palace of Schoolchildren, the atmosphere shifted instantly from the harsh exterior to a scene of quiet, focused civic purpose. Citizens filtered into Polling Station No. 50 to cast a ballot that represents the most significant tectonic shift in the nation’s governance in decades. The referendum is designed to transition the country from a "super-presidential" system toward a more balanced "Presidential-Parliamentary" model, introducing a unicameral parliament known as the Kurultai and restoring the office of the Vice Presidency. Among the early arrivals was Roza, 61, whose bright, observant eyes offered a sharp contrast to the somber weather outside. She didn't see the freezing morning as a deterrent, but rather as a threshold. "Naturally, I believe that today, this new project is necessary for us," she said. "Because times are changing, people are changing, the era itself is changing. Therefore, it is necessary. I think it is only for the better, for the good". Roza’s hopes were grounded in a sense of urgency. "I don't have much time, I'm 61 years old," she remarked, noting that she paid particular attention to the changes that affect her personally—namely medicine, education, and the new direct access to the Constitutional Court. Despite the ticking clock, she remained optimistic: "I think everything will be very good in the near future". She confirmed she was fully informed before casting her vote. The mood took on a more rhythmic, festive energy in the residential suburb of Koshy. Inside Secondary School No. 3, the cold was a distant memory as the percussive strumming of traditional bands echoed through the hallways. The sound of the dombra turned what could have been a dry bureaucratic exercise into something closer to a cultural homecoming. Near the entrance, residents had set up unassuming, improvised stalls to greet the morning crowds. Golden jars of honey and royal jelly sat alongside piles of local confectioneries, turning the polling station into a modest community hub where neighbors paused to chat before heading to the booths. Kaisar Seifullin, the 39-year-old chairman of the precinct referendum commission at the school, watched the flow of families with an approving eye. "Most people are coming with a positive reaction, as you can see for yourself," Seifullin said. "Many Kazakh parents want to show and illustrate to their children how the polling station works". One of those parents was Almas Jexenbekov, 38, who arrived navigating the icy schoolyard patches with his pre-school son. For Jexenbekov, who works in mass media, the referendum is a necessary "upgrade" to the country’s fundamental software. "As for me, the new Constitution is like the upgrade of the Supreme Law of Kazakhstan that will affect the other laws because it is the priority," he explained. He noted that his professional background meant he was well-informed, having translated the discussions surrounding the changes. This sense of high-tech civic duty was echoed by Maksat Muratbekuly Mukhamedjanov, a 35-year-old education professional. To him, the day marked Kazakhstan’s transition from the raw, survival-focused independence of its early years to the maturity of a settled nation. "The first Constitution emphasized independence and our formation as a state. The new one is a big step into the future—not just as the Republic of Kazakhstan, but as a nation," Mukhamedjanov said. He was particularly struck by the inclusion of "digital rights" in the text, calling the legal evolution essential "immunity" for a nation in the age of digitalization. He praised the transformation of the parliament into a unicameral body, arguing that it "emphasizes public democracy" and aligns with models in developed nations. Like his fellow voters, he reported being "100 percent informed" through digital platforms and television. 2026-03-15 17:17:34
  • Kazakhstan prepares for national constitutional referendum
    Kazakhstan prepares for national constitutional referendum ASTANA, March 14 (AJP) - Kazakhstan stands on the threshold of a truly historic stage in its development as citizens prepare to vote in a national referendum on a new draft of the Constitution. Deputy Foreign Minister Arman Issetov stated that the new draft serves as a foundation for the long-term stability of the state and a timely response to global challenges. The reform process involved a Constitutional Commission of 130 members that reviewed more than 12,000 proposals submitted by citizens through state digital platforms. Issetov emphasized that the amendments affected 84 percent of the text, creating a document that is new in terms of its substance and meaning. The strategic goal of the reform is to strengthen statehood and independence and to improve the well-being of citizens. Under the concept of a listening state, the new Constitution establishes that the state exists for the individual, not the individual for the state. New legal protections, including the Miranda rule and the guaranteed right to privacy and personal data protection, have been elevated to the constitutional level. Issetov noted that the section devoted to the protection of human rights and freedoms has become the most extensive, comprising almost one-third of the Constitution. Economic growth remains a pillar of the national strategy, with the GDP reaching 306 billion US dollars last year. This performance allowed the country to enter the list of the 50 largest economies in the world this year. To accelerate growth capabilities, the development of science, education, culture and innovation is defined as a constitutional principle of state activity for the first time. This ambition is reinforced by the transition toward comprehensive digitalization and the development of artificial intelligence, supported by specialized legislation enacted in January. Issetov stated that these measures will create a stable and predictable legal and investment environment in which citizens are protected. The international community has deployed 359 international observers and 206 foreign journalists to monitor the proceedings. Beyond the domestic borders, 71 election commissions have been established at Kazakhstan's diplomatic missions in 54 countries to facilitate the participation of citizens abroad. The deputy foreign minister expressed high confidence that the new Basic Law will become the principal document of a Just, Strong, Safe and Clean Kazakhstan. 2026-03-15 03:51:50