Eight out of 10 South Koreans prefer current state over unification with NK SEOUL, December 11 (AJP) - Nearly eight out of 10 South Koreans prefer sharing the border with North Korea peacefully over a unified Korea, a latest survey showed. According to a survey released Thursday by the Ministry of Unification, 79.4 percent of respondents said that peaceful coexistence without war outweighs the goal of unification. Among them, 37.1 percent strongly agreed and 42.2 percent somewhat agreed. Support was also high for acknowledging the two Koreas as separate states coexisting peacefully, with 69.9 percent backing the idea — including 22.5 percent strongly in favor and 47.3 percent somewhat in favor. Perceptions of North Korea were mixed as 64.6 percent agreed to the regard of North Korea as a separate state, while others disagreed, with 42.6 percent consider the country as a partner for cooperation, 23.8 percent as a threat, 22.6 percent as an adversary, and 8.4 percent as a recipient of aid. Still a combined 62 percent of respondents called unification necessary, with 32 percent saying it is very necessary and 30 percent saying it is somewhat necessary. Public awareness of North Korea’s recently promoted “hostile two-state theory” was high: 80 percent said they were familiar with the concept, and 77.8 percent viewed it negatively. The survey was conducted by Gallup Korea from Dec. 2 to 8, interviewing 1,005 adults aged 18 and older nationwide by phone. The margin of error is ±3.1 percentage points at a 95 percent confidence level. * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-12-11 14:52:42

Laotian president to visit Seoul for summit SEOUL, December 11 (AJP) - President Lee Jae Myung will hold a summit with Laotian President Thongloun Sisoulith next week to discuss bilateral relations. Presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung said Thursday that Thongloun, who is scheduled to arrive in Seoul on Sunday, will sit down for talks with Lee on Monday, followed by a state luncheon. According to Kang, his trip to Seoul comes as the two countries mark the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations and it will be the first bilateral visit in 12 years. The two leaders are expected to discuss a wide range of issues, with a focus on combating rising transnational crimes such as online scams and phishing schemes. "The upcoming summit will strengthen cooperation and improve relations between Seoul and Vientiane," Kang said. * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-12-11 14:51:30

Bank of Korea likely to extend rate freeze despite Fed rate cut SEOUL, December 11 (AJP) - The U.S. Federal Reserve’s third consecutive interest-rate cut is expected to have little immediate impact on South Korea’s monetary stance, with the Bank of Korea likely to keep its policy rate unchanged amid persistent won volatility, elevated housing prices and uncertainty over the U.S. policy path, industry sources said Thursday. The Fed lowered its benchmark range to 3.50–3.75 percent at its Wednesday meeting. Its latest dot plot left the year-end projection unchanged at 3.4 percent, implying only one additional 25-basis-point cut next year. Chair Jerome Powell signaled a more cautious easing trajectory, saying the policy rate is now within a “neutral range.” The Fed has cut rates by 25 basis points in each of September, October and December, shrinking the U.S.–Korea rate differential to 1.25 percentage points. The narrower gap has eased pressure on capital outflows and the won-dollar exchange rate, though foreign-exchange volatility remains significant. The won hit 1,477.1 per dollar on Nov. 24 — the weakest level since April — and has since shown unstable movements. Bank of Korea official Kim Jong-hwa said about 70 percent of recent exchange-rate upward pressure stems from dollar demand related to outbound investments rather than interest-rate differentials alone. BOK Governor Lee Chang-yong has stressed the won’s depreciation is partly driven by increased foreign stock purchases. With the weak currency pushing up import prices and inflation rising to 2.4 percent last month, analysts say the central bank may prefer to maintain its rate at the Jan. 15 policy meeting. Housing market conditions remain another key concern. While prices in the broader Seoul metropolitan area appear to be stabilizing, a Bank of Korea official said certain districts still show declines that warrant continued monitoring. Deputy Governor Park Jong-woo said external risks — including expectations of rate hikes in Japan and ongoing U.S.–China trade tensions — call for a cautious policy stance. “We will closely monitor market conditions and adjust as needed,” he said. * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-12-11 14:45:24

Kookmin University highlights new ERC center on robotic functional skin and hypersensory perception SEOUL, December 11 (AJP) - Kookmin University hosted a K*-Colloquium on December 9 at its Industry-Academic Cooperation Building, where Professor Lim Si-hyung of the School of Mechanical Engineering presented the vision and roadmap of the newly selected Engineering Research Center (ERC) on Robotic Functional Skin and Enhanced Perception. The K*-Colloquium is a regular seminar series organized by the university's Industry-Academic Cooperation Foundation. It serves as a forum for sharing research outcomes and future plans from new faculty members, as well as examining core technologies driving the Fourth Industrial Revolution, including AI, semiconductors and advanced convergence technologies. The "K*" mark reflects Kookmin University's identity and its focus on innovation-driven research. During the session, Lim introduced the center's strategy and research scope following its selection this year by the Ministry of Science and ICT and the National Research Foundation of Korea. The center aims to overcome the limits of conventional vision-dependent robotic systems by integrating functional skin technologies with multisensory perception. The research program is structured around three pillars: a non-visual hypersensory cognition platform combining tactile, auditory and olfactory sensors; multifunctional skin capable of dustproofing, waterproofing, heat resistance and radiation protection; and high-precision nano- and micro-scale surface manufacturing technologies. The long-term goal is to enable robots to "sense, judge and respond" to their surroundings in a manner more similar to biological organisms. By embedding human-skin-like sensory functions into robotic surfaces, the center seeks to develop technologies that could be applied to disaster-response robots, nuclear and industrial plant inspection systems, space and deep-sea exploration platforms, and defense-related unmanned systems. The consortium includes Kookmin University as the lead institution, joined by Seoul National University, UNIST, Kumoh National Institute of Technology and Gachon University. Ten partner companies, including Hyundai Motor, are providing about 1.3 billion won in private-sector investment to support demonstration projects and commercialization pathways. The center aims to establish global research standards, expand technology transfer and promote deep-tech startup efforts as part of a broader strategy to reinforce South Korea's competitiveness in foundational robotics. "This project aims to elevate the most essential elements of robotics — skin and perception — to a world-class level," Lim said. "We hope to create a turning point for South Korea to become a global leader in foundational robotic technologies that function even in extreme environments." Lim received his bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from Seoul National University and a Ph.D. from the University of California, Berkeley. His research covers next-generation sensors and devices, functional robotic materials and high-reliability manufacturing processes. He currently serves as a professor in Kookmin University's School of Mechanical Engineering and has led multiple national research initiatives in related fields. 2025-12-11 14:27:56

Another BTS song hits 700 million views on YouTube SEOUL, December 11 (AJP) - K-pop juggernaut BTS's another music video has racked up over 700 million views on YouTube, their management agency said on Thursday. Released in July 2021, "Permission to Dance" achieved the milestone the previous day, with the septet now having ten such videos under their belt. The upbeat dance-pop track offered comfort during the coronavirus pandemic, encouraging people to find joy and freedom through music. The English-language single debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 at the time of its release and stayed on the chart for seven weeks. It also received a Gold certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for selling over 500,000 copies. All seven BTS members, now reunited after their mandatory military service, are set to return to the stage this spring. * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-12-11 14:19:50

President Lee receives credentials from India's new ambassador in Seoul SEOUL, December 11 (AJP) - South Korea's President Lee Jae-myung received the credentials of India's new ambassador, Gourangalal Das, during a ceremony at the presidential office in Yongsan on Thursday. Das presented his letter of credence to President Lee, who welcomed him, posed for a photo, and exchanged brief remarks before continuing with the session. The event brought together eight newly appointed ambassadors to South Korea. Among them were Eva Marie Lussek of Austria and Khuon Phonrattanak of Cambodia, each presenting their credentials alongside Ambassador Das. The credential ceremony is the step in which a new ambassador officially delivers the document issued by their head of state to the host nation’s president, allowing the envoy to begin carrying out diplomatic duties. 2025-12-11 14:03:51

South Korea, Japan urged to boost semiconductor, battery, AI cooperation SEOUL, December 11 (AJP) - Sohn Kyung-shik, chairman of the Korea Employers Federation, on Thursday called for cooperation between South Korean and Japanese companies in strategic sectors such as semiconductors, electric vehicle batteries and artificial intelligence, citing mounting geopolitical risks and global supply-chain realignments. Speaking at a meeting in Seoul with Japanese Ambassador Koichi Mizushima, Sohn said the 60th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic ties in 2025 presents a key opportunity to deepen economic collaboration. “Next year marks a significant moment to open a new chapter in Korea–Japan relations,” Sohn said. “With both countries facing geopolitical rivalry, supply-chain restructuring, climate change and demographic pressures, these challenges must be addressed together.” He said that, in uncertain global conditions, “close neighbors like South Korea and Japan" should join forces to secure future growth engines, adding that deeper corporate partnerships in next-generation technologies would allow the two economies to drive innovation and remain competitive globally. Business cooperation between the two countries has been expanding in fields such as semiconductors, hydrogen mobility and other advanced technology sectors, with Japanese investment in South Korea also on the rise. Sohn urged both governments to foster a business environment conducive to free investment and corporate expansion. He also highlighted the positive reception of a special fast-track immigration lane introduced for citizens of both countries during June’s 60th anniversary events, calling for the measure to be made permanent. Ambassador Mizushima said strengthening economic ties would yield mutual benefits despite global uncertainties. “Our geographical proximity and shared values create opportunities to maximize complementary strengths,” he said. The Korea Employers Federation has held regular meetings with the Japanese ambassador since 2020 to enhance bilateral business cooperation and support Japanese firms operating in South Korea. This year’s meeting brought together leading South Korean business representatives and Japanese officials. * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-12-11 14:02:04

North Korean leader makes 'important conclusion' ahead of party congress SEOUL, December 11 (AJP) - North Korean leader Kim Jong-un made an "important conclusion" at this week's plenary meeting, state media reported on Thursday. According to the state-run Korean Central News Agency, Kim "made an important conclusion on the agenda items” that were "discussed at the first-day sitting of the plenary meeting," which began earlier this week in preparation for the Workers' Party's key congress scheduled for early next year. But KCNA did not specify what that would mean. Kim also "reviewed the major successes achieved" this year, while assessing budgets and plans for next year, at the year-end meeting, which is often held over several days in mid-December to prepare for the Workers' Party's key congress in the coming year. * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-12-11 13:47:23

Asian markets respond lukewarmly to Fed's widely expected rate cut SEOUL, December 11 (AJP) - Asian markets reacted lukewarmly to the U.S. Federal Reserve’s widely expected rate cut on Thursday, underscoring lingering uncertainty over the future path of U.S. interest rates. In Seoul, the benchmark KOSPI gained 0.7 percent to 4,162.51 and the KOSDAQ advanced 0.3 percent to 937.79 as of 9:40 a.m. As expected, the Federal Open Market Committee lowered the target range for the federal funds rate by 25 basis points to 3.50–3.75 percent overnight. With the December move largely priced in, investors shifted their focus to the Fed’s forward guidance and comments from Chair Jerome Powell. Han Ji-young, an analyst at Kiwoom Securities, said the outcome was “less hawkish than the market feared.” Powell indicated that the current rate is near the upper end of the Fed’s estimate of a neutral range, a remark investors took as leaving room for further cuts. In Seoul, Samsung Electronics rose 1.5 percent to 109,600 won ($74.6), while SK hynix edged down 0.5 percent to 584,000 won. Other gainers included Samsung Biologics, up 1 percent to 1,681,000 won; Hyundai Motor, up 1 percent to 305,500 won; Kia, up 0.8 percent to 124,400 won; Doosan Enerbility, up 1.2 percent to 77,700 won; KB Financial, up 1.8 percent to 126,700 won; Celltrion, up 1.4 percent to 188,300 won; and Samsung C&T, up 2.6 percent to 254,000 won. On the downside, LG Energy Solution fell 0.4 percent to 439,750 won, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries slipped 0.5 percent to 568,000 won, and Hanwha Aerospace declined 1.3 percent to 911,000 won. The KOSDAQ index advanced, but its three largest constituents by market capitalization all declined. Altigen, the largest, fell 0.7 percent to 453,500 won; EcoProBM, the second largest, dropped 1.8 percent to 176,200 won; and ABL Bio, the third largest, slipped 0.5 percent to 202,000 won. In Tokyo, the Nikkei 225 inched up 0.1 percent to 50,645.57. Among major stocks by market capitalization, Toyota, the largest, rose 0.6 percent to 3,134 yen ($20). Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, the second largest, added 0.2 percent to 2,473.5 yen; Hitachi, the fifth largest, rose 0.2 percent to 4,897 yen; Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, the sixth largest, gained 0.8 percent to 4,898 yen; Fast Retailing, the parent company of Uniqlo and the seventh largest, was up 0.3 percent to 56,260 yen; Advantest, the eighth largest, climbed 3.9 percent to 20,935 yen; and Itochu, the tenth largest, advanced 1.4 percent to 9,669 yen. Sony Group, the third largest, slipped 0.5 percent to 4,161 yen. SoftBank Group, the fourth largest, dropped 5.1 percent to 17,710 yen, while Tokyo Electron, the ninth largest, fell 1 percent to 32,800 yen. China’s Shanghai Composite Index inched down 0.02 percent, or 0.67 points, to 3,899.83. 2025-12-11 11:39:08

US House passes annual defense bill maintaining current USFK troop levels SEOUL, December 11 (AJP) - The U.S. House of Representatives on Wednesday passed a defense bill that includes a provision prohibiting a unilateral reduction of U.S. troops stationed in South Korea. The annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which is passed annually by Congress to set defense policy, allocate funding priorities, and provide guidance on key security matters, was approved in a decisive 312-112 vote. The bill, which allocates a record US$901 billion in defense and security for the upcoming fiscal year, will take effect from October this year through September next year, once President Donald Trump signs it following the Senate's approval. It includes a clause preventing the use of defense funds to reduce U.S. troop levels in South Korea below the current 28,500 U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) personnel without congressional approval. The bill also restricts the use of funds for any amendments to the agreed transfer of wartime operational control between the two allies, though changes or objections can be raised within 60 days, provided they align with the interests of both countries. * This article, published by Economic Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-12-11 11:01:43