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K-pop boy band Stray Kids to release 'RUN IT' ahead of world tour SEOUL, June 24 (AJP) -Eight-member K-pop boy group Stray Kids will release a new digital single, "RUN IT," JYP Entertainment said Wednesday. The song was written and produced by 3RACHA, the group's in-house production unit comprising Bang Chan, Changbin and Han. Built around brass, marching drums and world-beat rhythms, the track captures the group's drive and confidence as they head into a new tour cycle. Stray Kids earned their eighth No. 1 on the Billboard 200, the weekly U.S. album chart, with "DO IT" in late 2025, the most by any K-pop act. The single shares its name with the group's upcoming world tour, which opens with five concerts at KSPO Dome in Seoul on July 25, 26 and 29 and Aug. 1 and 2. The tour will continue at the National Stadium in Tokyo, followed by stops in Nagoya, Osaka, Fukuoka, Hong Kong, Taipei, Bangkok and Singapore. It follows the group's "dominATE" tour, which concluded on October of 2025 after 56 performances across 35 locations. "RUN IT" will also appear on Stray Kids' upcoming EP, "THIS & THAT," due Aug. 7. The release will be the group's first album of 2026 and its first in about nine months since "DO IT." Further details, including the track list, will be announced later. 2026-06-24 10:27:16 -
'Teach You a Lesson' tops Netflix for 3rd week; 'Husbands in Action' No. 2 SEOUL, June 24 (AJP) - Korean drama series "Teach You a Lesson" remained No. 1 on Netflix's non-English TV chart for a third consecutive week, while action comedy "Husbands in Action" debuted at No. 2 among non-English films, according to data released by Netflix on Wednesday. Teach You a Lesson drew 11.8 million views and 126.2 million viewing hours during the latest tracking period. Netflix calculates views by dividing total viewing hours by a title's running time. The series ranked No. 1 in 19 countries, including South Korea, Vietnam, Taiwan, Singapore, the Philippines and Malaysia, and made the Top 10 in 85 countries. Released June 5, the series went straight to No. 1 in its first week and has held the position since. Starring Kim Moo-yul, Lee Sung-min, Jin Ki-joo and Pyo Ji-hoon, Teach You a Lesson centers on a fictional government agency created to intervene in schools facing violence against teachers and disruptions to students' right to learn. The adaptation faced scrutiny before its release because the webtoon on which it is based had previously drawn criticism over its depictions of gender and race. The series' popularity has also revived interest in "Juvenile Justice," a 2022 Netflix drama directed by Hong Jong-chan and starring Kim. The earlier series returned to the non-English TV chart at No. 10, four years after its release. Meanwhile, "Husbands in Action," starring Jin Sun-kyu and Gong Myung, entered the non-English film chart at No. 2 in its first week. The action comedy follows a man and his wife's ex-husband as they reluctantly join forces to rescue her after she is kidnapped by a criminal organization. 2026-06-24 10:26:38 -
South Korea's Justice Ministry Discusses ASEAN Cooperation for 15 Million People Exchange The Justice Ministry has initiated discussions to achieve the goal of 15 million people exchanges agreed upon at the 26th Korea-ASEAN Summit last October. On June 23, the ministry held a meeting with the ASEAN diplomatic corps in South Korea to review cooperation between Korea and ASEAN and discuss ways to expand people-to-people exchanges. The ASEAN diplomatic corps consists of ambassadors from 11 countries, including Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Vietnam, Brunei, and Singapore. Cha Yong-ho, head of the Immigration and Foreign Policy Bureau at the Justice Ministry, welcomed the attendees, stating, "The exchange of people is rapidly increasing through K-content and tourism, and the role of ASEAN youth is becoming more significant." He emphasized the need to broaden the scope of exchanges beyond tourism, education, and culture to include artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced technology. ASEAN ambassadors reaffirmed that South Korea is an important partner for people-to-people exchanges and expressed agreement on the necessity of collaboration in various fields. Both sides agreed on the importance of preventing illegal stays to ensure legal and safe movement of people, and they discussed mutual interests, including the protection of foreign workers' rights and the immigration and settlement of South Korean nationals residing in ASEAN countries. A Justice Ministry official stated, "We will continue to strengthen cooperation with the ASEAN diplomatic corps on immigration and visa policies to promote mutual development with key countries and enhance the convenience of overseas travel and residence for our citizens and expatriates." 2026-06-24 10:24:00 -
Jung Cheong-rae Resigns as Leader of Democratic Party Ahead of Convention Jung Cheong-rae, the leader of the Democratic Party, resigned from his position on the 24th, ahead of the party convention scheduled for August 17. His resignation is seen as a move to express his intention to seek re-election. During a Supreme Council meeting at the National Assembly, Jung stated, "I will do my best for the success of the Lee Jae-myung administration." He added, "I am the one who will protect President Lee until the end," emphasizing their shared political fate and unity. He highlighted his role as the chair of the Legal Affairs Committee during the emergency martial law on December 3, which led to the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk-yeol. Jung also remarked, "Even if the path is thorny, I will trust only in public sentiment and the party's will and continue on my path," suggesting his intention to challenge for re-election. However, party spokesperson Kang Jun-hyuk stated after the meeting that Jung would express his position on candidacy directly, indicating a cautious approach. Reflecting on his tenure, Jung noted, "I raised the banner of a strong reformist leader, and despite facing resistance both inside and outside the party, I worked diligently." The upcoming convention is expected to see challenges for party leadership from figures including Jung, Prime Minister Kim Min-seok, and former leader Song Young-gil. 2026-06-24 10:24:00 -
Extra 4 ships run by Korean carriers exit Hormuz, 26 Koreans aboard SEOUL, June 24 (AJP) - Four more ships operated by South Korean carriers have passed through the Strait of Hormuz following a U.S.-Iran agreement aimed at ending the war, Seoul’s Oceans Ministry said Wednesday. The vessels, which had been waiting inside the strait, completed their passage and are now sailing normally, the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries said. A total of 26 South Korean crew members are aboard the four ships. One of the vessels is bound for South Korea. The latest departures came after two other ships run by South Korean carriers left the strait under the U.S.-Iran agreement, reducing the number of Korea-related vessels remaining inside the waterway to 18. A total of 108 South Korean seafarers remain in the area, including 75 aboard ships operated by South Korean carriers and 33 aboard foreign vessels. The ministry said it would continue providing the remaining 18 vessels with updates and transit information to help shipping companies draw up their own sailing plans and ensure safe passage. Ships stranded in the area because of the Middle East war have begun leaving the Strait of Hormuz following the U.S.-Iran agreement, with more Korea-operated vessels expected to follow in stages. The two ships that earlier left the strait were identified as HMM’s 16,000-TEU container ship Daon and the very large crude carrier Universal Glory. HMM said Wednesday that both ships had safely cleared the strait and were continuing their voyages. The Universal Glory, carrying 2 million barrels of crude oil, is expected to arrive at Yeosu Port in mid-July. 2026-06-24 10:22:25 -
Incheon Issues Ozone Alert as Summer Pollution Rises, Advises Caution for Outdoor Activities Clear skies do not guarantee safety. Intense summer sunlight can elevate ozone levels, posing a threat to respiratory health. According to Air Korea, the ozone forecast for Incheon on June 24 indicates a "bad" level, while other regions are expected to be at a "normal" level. Ozone is a gas composed of three oxygen atoms. While stratospheric ozone acts as a protective barrier against ultraviolet rays, high concentrations near the ground can be harmful. Excessive ozone in the troposphere, within 10 kilometers of the surface, can irritate the eyes, nose, and respiratory system, and negatively impact ecosystems. Ozone is particularly challenging to manage with masks, similar to fine dust. On days with high ozone levels, reducing exposure time is a more practical response than relying on protective gear. An ozone alert is issued when the one-hour average ozone concentration exceeds 0.12 parts per million (ppm). An ozone warning is declared at levels above 0.30 ppm, and a serious ozone warning is issued at levels above 0.50 ppm. The most critical times for ozone exposure are typically in the afternoon when sunlight is strongest. Ozone forms when pollutants from vehicle emissions and industrial discharges react with sunlight. Therefore, even on days with low fine dust levels and relatively clear skies, ozone concentrations can rise during midday. On days with high ozone levels, it is advisable to avoid prolonged outdoor activities and strenuous exercise. Vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with respiratory or heart conditions, should limit outdoor time and refrain from outdoor exercise. Air Korea recommends that the general public restrict long or strenuous outdoor activities when ozone levels are rated as "bad," while sensitive groups should avoid such activities altogether. If you experience eye irritation, a scratchy throat, coughing, or difficulty breathing while outdoors, seek shelter indoors immediately. If symptoms persist, visiting a healthcare provider is advisable. Individuals with respiratory conditions such as asthma should carry their inhalers or necessary medications if outdoor exposure is unavoidable. Reducing car use can also help lower ozone levels. Ozone is not emitted directly from chimneys or exhaust pipes; rather, it forms when nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds react in sunlight. Using public transportation, minimizing unnecessary vehicle trips, and reducing idling are practical ways to decrease ozone formation.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-24 10:20:00 -
Kiwoom Leverage Semiconductor ETN Drops 49% Amid Liquidity Issues On the previous day, the Kiwoom Leverage Semiconductor TOP10 ETN experienced a premium exceeding 100% compared to its underlying value. However, during the price normalization process, it plummeted nearly 50% in early trading. According to the Korea Exchange, as of 10:06 a.m. on June 24, the Kiwoom Leverage Semiconductor TOP10 ETN was trading at 194,090 won, down 185,910 won (48.92%) from the previous trading day. The ETN had closed the previous day at 380,000 won, having surged 135,925 won (55.69%). However, the indicative intraday value (IIV) was only 185,060.37 won, indicating that the market price was more than double the actual value. This resulted in a premium of 105.33%, significantly exceeding the 1% disclosure standard for domestic underlying asset ETNs. Kiwoom Securities explained in a public notice that the premium arose due to extremely low liquidity during the closing auction process, where orders were executed at prices that did not reflect the market. They noted that in a low-volume trading environment, some orders were filled, leading to an abnormally high closing price. The premium serves as an investment risk indicator, reflecting the difference between the market price of the ETN and its indicative value. A high premium suggests that the market price is significantly detached from the actual value of the underlying assets, which could lead to investment losses as prices converge to normal levels. Kiwoom Securities cautioned, "Investing at prices significantly deviated from the indicative value may result in not achieving the expected investment performance, even if the underlying index rises. Investors should be aware that losses may occur as market prices converge to the indicative value." * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-24 10:20:00 -
Dongkuk Holdings Secures 581.1 Billion Won for Dividends, Initiates M&A and New Ventures Dongkuk Holdings is accelerating its efforts to enhance shareholder value and secure future growth drivers. The holding company of the Dongkuk Steel Group held an extraordinary general meeting on June 24 at its headquarters in Ferum Tower, Jung-gu, Seoul, where it approved the agenda item regarding the reduction of reserves and the transfer of retained earnings as originally proposed. Through this meeting, Dongkuk Holdings completed a five-month capital restructuring process, ensuring sustainable dividend funds from a long-term perspective. Despite the downturn in the steel industry, the company expressed a firm commitment to enhancing shareholder value. Shareholders will also benefit from tax advantages related to the reduced dividends. The key aspect of this restructuring is the conversion of previously non-distributable reserves into distributable funds. With the approval of the agenda, Dongkuk Holdings converted 480.8 billion won in non-distributable capital reserves and 100.3 billion won in profit reserves, totaling 581.1 billion won, into retained earnings, making these funds available for future shareholder returns. This amount is the maximum allowed under the Commercial Act. Dongkuk Holdings converted the entire excess amount into funds with shareholder consent, in accordance with Article 461-2 of the Commercial Act, which allows for the reduction of reserves exceeding 1.5 times the capital stock. The company also secured tax benefits related to the reduced dividends. With the approval of this agenda, Dongkuk Holdings has completed its four-phase capital restructuring initiated in February. The phases included share buybacks (Phase 1), par value reduction (Phase 2), stock splits (Phase 3) to enhance liquidity and accessibility for shareholders, and finally, the transfer of the entire excess amount to retained earnings (Phase 4), preserving shareholder value without altering total capital. Future dividends are expected to increase. The enhanced minimum dividend criteria established in February will be applied. Additionally, Dongkuk Holdings plans to continuously review further shareholder return measures, including dividend increases, in line with improved performance and cash generation. Having completed its capital restructuring, Dongkuk Holdings will also focus on its primary role of discovering new growth drivers for the group. Earlier, during the regular shareholders' meeting in March, the company indicated it was considering establishing joint ventures, pursuing mergers and acquisitions, and forming strategic alliances in promising sectors this year.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-24 10:16:00 -
Bohai Brewery Shares Surge Despite Investment Warning Amid Semiconductor Hopes Bohai Brewery is experiencing a strong performance, hitting its upper price limit early in the trading session. According to the Korea Exchange, as of 10:03 a.m. on June 24, Bohai Brewery shares rose by 910 won (29.93%) to 3,950 won. The stock price surged to the maximum limit shortly after the market opened and has maintained that level. Recent market discussions have highlighted the potential for semiconductor industry investments in the Gwangju and Jeonnam regions. Observers suggest that Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix are considering investments in semiconductor production facilities in the Jangseong Advanced 3 District, drawing attention to related stocks. Bohai Brewery's ownership of real estate assets in the Gwangju and Jeonnam areas has attracted investor interest. There is growing optimism that if large-scale industrial complexes are developed, the value of these assets could increase, leading to a surge in buying activity. However, the rapid rise in stock prices has raised caution in the market. The Korea Exchange designated Bohai Brewery as an investment warning stock following the previous day's market close. Despite this, investor sentiment remains strong, with the stock showing gains for five consecutive trading days from June 18 to today. It is important to note that the discussions regarding semiconductor factory investments have not yet been officially confirmed. Analysts suggest that the volatility of the stock price may increase depending on the specifics of any investment plans that may be announced.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-24 10:16:00 -
Samsung C&T Shares Surge Over 12% as Investors Buy the Dip Samsung C&T is experiencing a strong rebound in early trading as investors take advantage of the recent drop of over 12% in its stock price. As of 9:28 a.m. on June 24, the company’s shares were trading at 511,000 won, up 56,000 won (12.31%) from the previous trading day. The stock opened at 477,000 won and briefly surged to 514,000 won before giving back some of its gains. Analysts attribute the rise to bargain hunting and renewed interest in the value of Samsung Electronics shares. Market analysts are optimistic about the outlook. Mirae Asset Securities has raised its target price for Samsung C&T from 370,000 won to 680,000 won, maintaining a 'buy' rating. Kim Gi-ryong, a researcher at Mirae Asset Securities, stated, "The increase in share value due to Samsung Electronics' surge and expectations for enhanced shareholder returns are driving this upward trend. The indirect benefits from Samsung Life Insurance's stake in Samsung Electronics are also significant." Additionally, the diversification of the company's business portfolio is seen as a long-term factor contributing to its increased corporate value. Kim noted, "This year, the construction sector is expected to benefit from a rise in orders and performance driven by high-tech projects, along with increased visibility in nuclear power momentum. The high-tech sector is likely to see growth in performance and orders, particularly with Samsung Electronics' capital expenditure expansion and developments at the Pyeongtaek P4-P6 site and the potential start of construction at the Taylor 2 plant in the U.S." He added, "In the overseas nuclear power sector, large-scale projects are being pursued to hedge risks through Team Korea (in Vietnam, etc.), and collaborations with various technology firms, including GF Burnova and Hitachi (GVH), are underway to enter the European small modular reactor (SMR) market."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-24 10:16:00