SpaceX Worker Dies in Steel Beam Collapse at Starbase; OSHA Investigation Underway A worker from a subcontractor died at SpaceX's Starbase facility in Texas after a steel beam collapsed. Local authorities have ruled the incident an accident, but the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has launched a separate investigation. According to a report from the Cameron County Sheriff's Office confirmed by The Wall Street Journal on May 28, Jose Luis Bautista Jr., an employee of Delta Fabrication and Machine, fell to his death on May 15. The cause of death was blunt force trauma. The accident occurred while modifications were being made to a building designed to house SpaceX's next-generation Starship rocket. Starbase is a corporate city established by SpaceX in 2025 and serves as a hub for Starship development. Bautista was working inside the building with his brother, replacing steel structures at the time of the incident. The report indicates that Bautista was using a scissor lift to ascend approximately 40 to 50 feet. He then secured himself to a steel beam that was about 60 feet high using a safety harness and strap. The beam weighed approximately 7,700 pounds. Shortly after, the beam tilted and collapsed. Bautista fell, striking a metal structure before landing on the concrete floor. He was transported to a hospital but was pronounced dead. The site supervisor stated to authorities that Bautista may have believed the beam was secured to the ground. However, this is merely the account of a site representative and not the final result of the safety investigation. While the sheriff's office has concluded the death was accidental, OSHA's workplace safety investigation is still ongoing. Delta and SpaceX did not immediately respond to requests for comment from The Wall Street Journal. Starbase city officials expressed condolences to the family but noted that issues related to SpaceX's workplace fall outside the city's jurisdiction.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-29 15:06:00

Comedian Maeng Seung-ji Announces Retirement from Stand-Up Comedy Maeng Seung-ji, a former comedian turned actress, has announced her retirement from stand-up comedy. On May 28, Maeng shared on her social media, "I am retiring as a comedian now. I spent two years in public comedy after being recruited, received a rookie award, and enjoyed my time as a comedian on almost all MBC entertainment shows and SBS as well." She continued, "I haven’t done public comedy for over ten years, and it sometimes feels strange to be called a comedian. I think it’s time to retire. Honestly, it’s hard to adapt when I have to force myself to be funny as a comedian on air." Maeng added, "Rather than working as a comedian, I have been focusing more on acting and production. I will continue with my work in acting, broadcasting, and production, and I will strive to bring good energy as much as I can." On the same day, when a fan asked on Instagram if she was no longer a comedian, Maeng replied, "Yes, I haven’t been a public comedian for ten years. In my heart, I have already retired, and I plan to fully retire starting in the second half of this year." She also stated, "I will continue with the acting and broadcasting work I have been doing. Life is long, and I enjoyed being a comedian. I want to enjoy the second chapter of my life moving forward." Maeng Seung-ji debuted as a comedian in 2013 as part of MBC's 20th talent recruitment and gained recognition through shows like 'The Path of Comedy' and 'Section TV Entertainment Communication.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-29 15:02:00

22 Leaders in Film Industry Discuss Holdbacks; Choi Hwi-young Calls for Compromise "As this dialogue has been difficult to establish, we must create meaningful outcomes. Your determination and compromise are both necessary," Choi Hwi-young, Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, stated during the inaugural meeting of the 'Public-Private Council for Improving Korean Film Distribution' held in Jung-gu, Seoul, on May 29. Choi expressed hope that with key figures from the film industry gathered, they could engage in meaningful discussions to achieve a balanced revenue structure and a healthy ecosystem, urging participants to share their perspectives openly and listen to one another. The newly launched council includes 22 influential decision-makers with substantial impact across the entire film distribution process. Participants include Choi, Yoon Sang-hyun, CEO of CJ ENM, Kim Jong-yeol, CEO of Lotte Cultureworks, Lee Eun, representative of the Korean Film Producers Association, Jeong Jong-min, CEO of CGV, and Nam Yong-seok, CEO of Megabox, among others, representing various sectors of production, distribution, and exhibition, as well as TVOD and SVOD. The council was established under government leadership to normalize the revenue structure of Korean cinema amid a rapidly changing industry landscape and to foster a cooperative ecosystem between theaters and online video services (OTT). During the meeting, Choi emphasized the importance of voluntary agreements within the industry. He noted, "The council is the starting point for efforts to restore the revenue structure and cooperative ecosystem of Korean cinema. I hope sustainable solutions can be achieved through voluntary agreements rather than regulations imposed by the government." He added that the government’s role is to facilitate discussions and provide support, ultimately hoping that the industry will take the lead in creating sustainable rules. The council plans to sequentially discuss the establishment of a voluntary agreement regarding appropriate holdbacks (the grace period before films are shown in additional markets after theatrical release) and the industry's demands for improving the exhibition environment. However, significant differences in perspectives among stakeholders are expected to lead to challenges in future discussions. For instance, while the theater industry demands institutional measures to guarantee a certain holdback period to prevent audience attrition, producers and distributors oppose uniform regulations citing the need to recover investments. Choi reiterated the importance of industry cooperation to sustain the recovery of the film sector. "The heart of the film market has begun to beat again," he said, emphasizing that creating a normal and healthy ecosystem is our ultimate goal. He urged all parties to bring the next challenges to the table and collaborate to ensure the revived spark does not extinguish.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-29 14:58:00

Yuhan Corporation Receives Approval for Clinical Trial of MASH Drug 'YH25724' Yuhan Corporation announced on May 29 that it has received approval from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety for its clinical trial plan (IND) for the MASH treatment candidate 'YH25724'. The drug targets metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASH), which is gaining attention as a next-generation growth area following obesity treatments, with an estimated 440 million patients worldwide. YH25724 is a dual-action biopharmaceutical candidate that simultaneously targets fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). It utilizes Yuhan's protein engineering technology and Genexine's long-acting antibody fusion platform (HyFc). Preclinical studies have shown improvements in fatty liver, anti-fibrotic effects, and reductions in hepatocyte damage and inflammation. This clinical trial marks the first phase of YH25724's domestic testing. It will be conducted on adults with a single dose and a 12-week repeated dosing regimen. The company plans to evaluate the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK), and pharmacodynamics (PD) of the drug. Kim Yeol-hong, head of R&D at Yuhan Corporation, stated, "We plan to confirm safety and tolerability across various doses and explore preliminary proof of concept. We expect to begin recruiting clinical trial participants within the year."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-29 14:58:00

Massage Chairs and Healthcare Devices Expand into Comprehensive Wellness Solutions The massage chair and healthcare industry is rapidly evolving into comprehensive wellness solution providers, leveraging sophisticated product designs, medical device certifications, and artificial intelligence (AI) technology. According to industry sources, Seragem has adopted the slogan 'AI Wellness Home' this year, diversifying its portfolio to include spinal medical devices (Master Series), massage chairs (Pause Series), a depression treatment device called 'MindFit', water purifiers, and beauty devices, all aimed at promoting 'whole home wellness'. In response, Bodyfriend is enhancing its 'healthcare robot' concept with new products featuring AI capabilities, such as the '733', 'Da Vinci AI', and 'Quantum AI'. The company is also running a major marketing campaign called 'AI Healthcare Robot Festa', offering discounts on flagship products through partnership cards and family bundles until the end of this month. The financial performance of these expanding companies has shown mixed results. Seragem reported a consolidated revenue of 549.8 billion won last year, a 0.7% increase from the previous year, while its operating profit surged by 1,091% to 25.8 billion won. The company also achieved a net profit of 1.9 billion won, marking a return to profitability. However, Seragem's revenue has not exceeded 500 billion won since peaking at 667.1 billion won in 2021 and 750.2 billion won in 2022, with figures dropping to 584.7 billion won in 2023 and 546 billion won in 2024. A Seragem representative stated, "The massage chair market is currently a red ocean, making it difficult to significantly increase sales. We are preparing to develop and launch follow-up items for 'whole home wellness'." Bodyfriend, on the other hand, recorded a revenue of 422.6 billion won and an operating profit of 11.5 billion won last year, reflecting a 3.3% decrease in revenue and a 49% drop in operating profit compared to the previous year. Over the past five years, Bodyfriend's performance has been as follows: 2021 (revenue 591.3 billion won, operating profit 68.5 billion won), 2022 (revenue 522 billion won, operating profit 24.1 billion won), 2023 (revenue 419.7 billion won, operating profit 16.7 billion won), and 2024 (revenue 436.9 billion won, operating profit 22.6 billion won). After threatening to surpass 600 billion won post-COVID-19, revenue has recently stabilized around 400 billion won. Bodyfriend has identified overseas technology exports as a potential recovery strategy. Since 2023, the company has been exporting advanced robotics technology that goes beyond simple massage functions to directly correct body posture in China. A Bodyfriend representative noted, "After contracts with major Chinese distributors began in 2024, our overseas performance surged from 11.5 billion won in 2023 to 45 billion won last year, thanks to technology exports. We have set an overseas performance target of 80 billion won for this year." Conversely, newer entrants are facing deeper challenges. According to the audit report of Bokjeongjehyung, which operates the Kojima brand, the company recorded revenues of 73.6 billion won and an operating profit of 600 million won last year, marking increases of 8.4% and 13.95%, respectively, from the previous year. The performance trend for Bokjeongjehyung shows revenues of 155.5 billion won and operating profit of 20.1 billion won in 2021, 114.9 billion won and operating profit of 1.7 billion won in 2022, 79.1 billion won with an operating loss of 5.4 billion won in 2023, and 67.9 billion won with an operating loss of 4.3 billion won in 2024. Kojima attributed its return to operating profit last year to its competitive lineup focused on value-oriented products. Since February, the company has actively marketed its high-spec massage chair 'Kaiser X', which features patented technology. A Kojima representative stated, "We are also focusing on developing new product categories, such as an EMS low-frequency massager that aids in muscle recovery before and after exercise, entering the sports recovery market. We aim to introduce a wide range of massage devices that meet consumer needs from value-oriented to premium through continuous research and development." 2026-05-29 14:56:00

WSJ: Hezbollah Drone Attacks Become Key Factor in Lebanon Ceasefire Hezbollah's use of suicide drones has emerged as a critical factor on Israel's northern front. As Israeli military casualties rise, the pressure on the military has intensified, impacting the Lebanon ceasefire and U.S.-Iran negotiations. According to the Wall Street Journal on May 28, Israeli officials report that Hezbollah drones have become the primary concern on the northern front, surpassing traditional weapons such as anti-tank missiles. The Israeli military stated that of the 11 soldiers killed since the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon took effect in April, seven died from drone strikes. Hezbollah is adapting its tactics by utilizing first-person view (FPV) drones and night vision equipment. Recent footage released by the group showed an FPV drone targeting the fuel tanks of Israeli vehicles, employing a method that has been used in the Ukraine conflict to maximize damage through explosions. The increase in casualties has also highlighted vulnerabilities in the Israeli military's defenses. Experts noted instances where troops and vehicles were clustered together or where protective measures were inadequately implemented. Concerns were also raised about equipment, such as munitions, being exposed outdoors. The Israeli military has announced efforts to enhance protective equipment and soldier training while targeting drone production and launch facilities in southern Lebanon. However, soldiers on the ground reported that despite Hezbollah's shift to nighttime operations, they have not received clear response guidelines. Within Israel, calls for a tougher stance have grown. Residents in the north and politicians from both parties are urging Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to take stronger military action. Netanyahu stated this week that Israel is "expanding operations in Lebanon," and the military has conducted successive strikes in southern Lebanon and parts of Beirut. This issue also poses challenges for ongoing negotiations led by the United States. As the U.S. and Iran discuss a peace agreement, Iran insists that a halt to fighting in Lebanon must be part of the terms. Conversely, Israel has conveyed to the U.S. that it should retain the ability to conduct military operations against Hezbollah even after any agreement. While the ceasefire is a result of an agreement between the Israeli and Lebanese governments, there are limitations due to the government's inability to control Hezbollah. Observers warn that if Hezbollah's drone attacks continue, the Lebanon ceasefire and U.S.-Iran negotiations could become increasingly unstable.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-29 14:54:00

Controversy Erupts Over Teacher's Voting Rights Amid Parent-Teacher Exchange A conversation between a parent and a teacher regarding early voting has sparked a debate over parental overreach in schools. On May 29, various social media platforms and online communities shared a dialogue believed to be between a parent and a teacher from a kindergarten or daycare. In the exchange, the parent asked, "Teacher, will there be a closure on June 3?" The teacher replied, "Yes! We also need to vote!" However, the parent responded, "Oh... I will be voting early..." raising questions about the intent behind the inquiry. The original poster expressed disbelief, stating, "What do you mean, ma'am...?" The post quickly gained traction online, with some users suggesting that the parent was pressuring the teacher by implying that since they could vote early, there was no need for a day off on election day. Many interpreted the parent’s comments as an infringement on the teacher's rights to participate in the election, labeling it as a classic case of parental overreach. Comments from netizens included, "Teachers are citizens too; shouldn't they be allowed to vote?" and "Just because one person votes early doesn't mean everyone should have to do so." Others expressed discomfort with the notion that parents feel entitled to dictate teachers' time off, stating, "It feels uncomfortable that parents interfere with teachers' breaks," and noted that this incident reflects the declining authority of educators. Conversely, some argued that the parent was merely inquiring about the closure and that the interpretation of the exchange as overreach might be exaggerated. This incident coincides with growing concerns about parental complaints and excessive demands infringing on teachers' rights in educational settings. Critics have pointed out that the culture of parents attempting to dictate teachers' schedules and personal time is problematic and warrants further discussion.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-29 14:54:00

Jang Dong-hyuk: A Loss by One Vote is Still a Defeat, Urges Voter Participation Jang Dong-hyuk, chairman of the People Power Party, called for voter participation on May 29, the first day of early voting for the June 3 local elections, stating, "A loss by one vote is still a defeat." Speaking at a campaign rally at Jochiwon Station in Sejong, Jang emphasized, "If we do not take action or go to the polls, nothing will happen." He expressed concern about the party's momentum, saying, "Every time I hear that the atmosphere for the People Power Party is improving and the election mood is changing, I feel heavier. Losing by one vote or even 1% is more painful and frightening, as it could lead to greater disappointment for us." Jang criticized the political climate, stating, "Everything is being used politically, and the president is directly intervening in the election by posting on social media even at this moment. If we fail to overcome this barrier, there will be no future for South Korea. In the remaining five days, I urge you to give everything you have to save our country." He also addressed the recent collapse of the Seosomun overpass, saying, "It is right to thoroughly investigate the cause of this tragic incident where citizens lost their lives and to punish those responsible if there are issues. However, as early voting began today, the police raided Seoul City Hall." Jang questioned whether this was a coincidence or a pre-planned action, urging voters to judge the situation politically at the polls if they believe there is a political motive behind it. He further criticized Lee Jae-myung, stating, "On the night the Seosomun overpass collapsed, Lee was at the Jagalchi Market in Busan hosting a sashimi party. This is the same president who was seen on a cooking show during a fire at the National Intelligence Resource Management Agency. Lee has a habit of hosting food shows during disasters."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-29 14:52:00

Prosecutors Raid Semiconductor Material Suppliers Over Price-Fixing Allegations Prosecutors have launched an investigation into allegations of price-fixing involving key semiconductor material suppliers for Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix. According to legal sources on May 29, the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office's Criminal Proceeds Recovery Department, led by Chief Prosecutor So Jung-soo, began raiding MK Electronics, LT Metal, and Duksan Hi-Metal on May 28 for suspected violations of fair trade laws. The prosecutors suspect that these companies coordinated prices and supply volumes for bonding wires and core solder balls used in semiconductor manufacturing. The raids reportedly included searches of corporate offices and the residences of executives. These suppliers provide essential materials to major domestic semiconductor manufacturers, including Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix. Prosecutors are examining whether there was collusion in the process of raising or adjusting product prices. Bonding wires and core solder balls are critical materials used in semiconductor packaging processes. Once the analysis of the seized materials is complete, prosecutors plan to summon relevant individuals to investigate the extent and nature of the alleged collusion.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-29 14:50:00

Seongnam New Housing Project Construction Accelerated by One Year Koo Yun-cheol, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance and Economy, announced on May 29 that the construction schedule for the new housing project in Seongnam, which includes 6,300 units, will be accelerated by integrating planning procedures, moving the start date from 2030 to 2029. He also stated that plans for the 2,800-unit sites in Dongdaemun and Eunpyeong districts will be expedited with early establishment of relocation plans this year. During a meeting of real estate ministers and housing supply promotion ministers at the Government Seoul Building, Koo noted that while the rate of increase in apartment prices in Seoul has slowed, the government will continue to monitor the market closely until a clear stabilization is observed, maintaining a strict policy response. He emphasized that the top priority of government policy is to expand housing supply and accelerate construction, stating, "We are thoroughly managing the entire process to ensure that the supply plan announced on January 29 leads swiftly to actual construction." Koo pledged to eliminate obstacles in housing projects to facilitate rapid construction, expressing concern that approximately 100,000 housing units in the metropolitan area are facing delays of over a year due to issues with project financing, material supply, and rising construction costs. To address these delays, he mentioned that the government will closely inspect the causes of construction delays and provide comprehensive support to resolve issues. He announced the launch of a "Government-wide Housing Supply Field Support Center" today, which will involve the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport and other relevant agencies and local governments. Regarding public sector housing supply, Koo stated that the management of public housing project procedures will be strengthened. He pointed out that uncertainties in compensation and site development have led to delays in housing permits, resulting in increased project timelines and costs. The government will shift its housing supply targets to be based on construction starts and will also manage construction costs based on the start date. Koo assured that the causes of delays in projects such as Namyangju Wangsil, Goyang Changneung, and Seongnam Bokjeong Second District will be thoroughly examined to prevent disruptions. Emphasizing the need to combat illegal real estate activities, he stated that the Ministry of Land is intensively investigating suspected speculative transactions near new housing supply sites included in the January 29 supply plan. Additionally, a comprehensive investigation and verification of suspicious cases of fraudulent applications involving 25,000 units across 43 complexes in regulated areas of the metropolitan area is underway. Koo concluded by stating that spreading false information related to development data and real estate prices is a serious illegal act, and the government will enhance the effectiveness of responses to misinformation through revised real estate transaction reporting laws.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-29 14:50:00