Jung Saem Mool Beauty Selected for K-Export Star 500 Amid Global Expansion Efforts Jung Saem Mool Beauty announced on May 15 that it has been selected for the "2026 K-Export Star 500" program organized by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy. According to Jung Saem Mool Beauty, the K-Export Star 500 meeting for representative companies was held on May 12 in Seongsu-dong, Seoul, with attendance from the Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy, the President of the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency, and Vice President Yoo Jae-woong of Jung Saem Mool Beauty. They discussed global export strategies and shared on-site feedback from companies. The K-Export Star 500 initiative aims to identify domestic small and medium-sized enterprises with export potential and support their overseas expansion. The meeting included representatives from consumer goods, advanced technology, and key industries, with Jung Saem Mool Beauty recognized as a leading company in the cosmetics sector. With this selection, Jung Saem Mool Beauty plans to expand its exports, focusing on markets in the United States, China, Japan, Thailand, and Vietnam. This year, the company aims to accelerate its entry into the Chinese market through participation in the China Beauty Expo (CBE) and local influencer marketing. The company is also pursuing expansion in the North American market. From May 28 to June 2, Jung Saem Mool Beauty will open a pop-up store in Union Square, New York, providing local consumers with opportunities to experience the brand. A representative from Jung Saem Mool Beauty stated, "Being selected for the K-Export Star 500 is a recognition of our global growth potential and brand competitiveness. We will broaden our connections with overseas consumers and strengthen our brand influence in the global market." Meanwhile, according to the Korea Health Industry Development Institute, cosmetic exports reached $3.13 billion in the first quarter of this year, marking a 21.5% increase compared to the same period last year, the highest quarterly figure recorded. Exports of skincare products amounted to $2.43 billion, up 26.5%, while exports to the United States reached $470 million, a 49.1% increase.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-15 21:46:09

Considering Monastic Life? Join Us on May 17 in Jongno If you are contemplating a monastic life, head to Jongno, Seoul, on May 17. The Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism's General Affairs Department announced that it will operate a "2026 Lantern Festival Traditional Culture Booth for Monastic Consultation" from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on May 17 at the Traditional Culture Plaza on Ujeongguk-ro in Jongno. This promotional booth invites anyone curious about the life of a practitioner and Buddhist culture to participate comfortably. The department plans to convey the significance of monastic life and the community of monks through interactive programs, including on-site consultations, distribution of monastic promotional materials, video screenings related to monastic life, Buddhist sentiment sticker experiences, stone meditation, and photo zones. At the booth, monk Hyewon will provide consultations on the process of ordination and life as a monk, while also distributing informational materials and screening videos to help participants better understand monastic life. On May 16, in celebration of Buddha's Birthday, the Jogye Order will host various events. A lantern parade will commence at 7 p.m. in front of Heunginjimun, where 50,000 participants will march with 100,000 colorful lanterns they have created, proceeding through Jongno to Jogyesa Temple. The Traditional Culture Festival is a street festival where attendees can enjoy experiences and performances related to Korean traditional and Buddhist culture, featuring 129 booths and performances from 19 organizations. A representative from the Jogye Order's General Affairs Department stated, "We will continue to operate monastic consultations and cultural experience programs at various events, including the Lantern Festival, Buddhist Exposition, and youth and university student events, to reduce the psychological distance regarding ordination and enhance understanding of the monastic community."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-15 21:42:54

Korea Expressway Corporation Conducts Safety Inspections Ahead of Rainy Season The Korea Expressway Corporation is ramping up its safety management efforts for key highway facilities ahead of the upcoming rainy season.On May 15, Lee Sang-jae, acting president of the corporation, visited the Yul-am Bridge on the Seohaean Expressway in Hwaseong, Gyeonggi Province, to personally inspect bridge structures and the preparedness for severe weather, while encouraging on-site personnel. This inspection is part of the Ministry of the Interior and Safety's '2026 Focused Safety Inspection' initiative.During the focused safety inspection period from April 20 to June 19, the Korea Expressway Corporation has identified a total of 124 disaster-vulnerable facilities with high levels of aging and risk for concentrated management. The inspection targets include 33 bridges, 22 slopes, 7 retaining walls, 13 culverts, and 49 disaster prevention facilities.To enhance objectivity and expertise, the corporation has formed inspection teams in collaboration with private experts from maintenance organizations and relevant academic societies, thoroughly examining risk factors across the highway network.A notable feature of this inspection is the active use of advanced technology in areas that are difficult to assess visually. Drones are deployed to inspect sections that are hazardous for human access, while Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) equipment is utilized for examining bridge deck conditions.GPR emits electromagnetic waves to assess the thickness and deterioration of pavement layers, effectively detecting corrosion or cracks within structures that are not visible externally. The corporation aims to significantly enhance the precision of safety inspections through this technology.Lee emphasized on-site that, "The importance of highway safety management has never been greater, given the combination of extreme rainfall due to climate change and the aging of facilities."He added, "Through this focused safety inspection, we will proactively identify even minor risk factors and take immediate action. We aim to create a highway environment where the public can travel safely at any time and place through thorough maintenance."Meanwhile, in response to prolonged instability in the Middle East leading to high oil prices and construction material supply issues, the Korea Expressway Corporation has entered an emergency management system. The corporation has activated a management task force led by executives to stabilize fuel prices at highway gas stations and implement toll exemptions for buses and freight trucks, while monitoring material supply to minimize construction delays. Additionally, regional responsibility has been assigned to headquarters executives, and a practical 'on-site inspection team' is being operated continuously to enhance management of customer-facing facilities such as rest areas and gas stations.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-15 21:39:50

President Lee Meets Former Teacher on Teacher's Day President Lee Jae-myung met with his former elementary school teacher, Park Byeong-gi, on Teacher's Day, expressing his gratitude.Ahn Gyu-ryeong, deputy spokesperson for the Blue House, announced in a written briefing that President Lee had lunch with Park and fellow alumni from Samgye Elementary School at a restaurant in Andong, North Gyeongsang Province. Park was Lee's sixth-grade homeroom teacher at Samgye Elementary.During the meeting, President Lee pinned a carnation on Park's chest and said, "Thank you so much, teacher," before embracing him.Park expressed his gratitude for the occasion, stating, "I am really thankful for this gathering. Today is truly a happy day." He added, "I am deeply moved. I wonder what kind of teacher gets to experience such honor," as he became emotional.Deputy Spokesperson Ahn reported that President Lee, Park, and the alumni enjoyed a warm atmosphere while sharing memories over a meal that included bulgogi, tofu kimchi, and cabbage pancakes.Park thanked President Lee for "restoring the country to its rightful place," noting that he often hears people saying, 'Lee Jae-myung is doing well,' which makes him feel good. He expressed confidence that Lee would continue to excel, urging him to work hard for the development of their hometown.President Lee replied, "I want to thank you once again, teacher. It was truly a pleasure to see friends here, and I hope we all live healthily in a better world."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-15 21:37:40

Miryang Attracts Tourists with Half-Price Travel Program, Minister Praises Efforts "I can really feel the impact of the half-price travel program here in Miryang," said Choi Hyu-young, the Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, during his visit to the city on May 14-15. Minister Choi attended a Miryang Arirang performance, purchased books at Cheonghak Bookstore, and enjoyed a bowl of pork soup at Miryang Market. He also climbed Yeongnamru to take in the panoramic views of the city, appreciating Miryang's unique charm. Tourism has become a key driver of growth for Miryang's local economy. As population outflows continue to major cities like Seoul and Busan, Miryang's population fell below 100,000 last year. However, the city has focused on attracting tourists by promoting its traditional culture, heritage, and local cuisine, resulting in an increase in visitors. Recently, young entrepreneurs have also begun to capture the attention of younger demographics by developing local specialties like Bupyeon-tteok. The half-price travel program has attracted thrifty tourists, spreading warmth throughout the local tourism sector. Jointly promoted by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the Korea Tourism Organization, and local governments, the program reimburses half of the travel expenses—such as accommodation, meals, and experiences—through mobile local love gift certificates for visitors to declining population areas. The ministry secured additional funding in the recent supplementary budget to expand the number of supported locations from 20 to 30 due to high demand. Indeed, Miryang's applications for the May half-price travel program sold out in just one day. Minister Choi visited Yeongnamru and Miryang Fortress, both certified travel destinations under the half-price program, and found them bustling with tourists even on a weekday morning. Lee Kyung-sook, head of the Tourism Promotion Division in Miryang, stated, "In April, we received 2,000 applicants, and in May, 2,500, all of which filled up in just one day." She noted that immediate reimbursement processing, along with mail delivery of tourism guides and seasonal events, has received positive responses. She added, "There are tourists returning to participate in monthly events, which is helping the local economy." Applications for the June half-price travel program will open on May 28. Although Miryang is classified as a population decline area with its population below 100,000, the impact of the half-price travel program has led to over 100,000 digital resident certificates being issued. The city is promoting local consumption by linking major tourist attractions like Sunshine Miryang Theme Park, Miryang Arirang Space Observatory, and Miryang Ice Valley Cable Car with the benefits of digital tourism resident certificates. The half-price travel initiative appears to be yielding greater results than policies aimed at addressing population decline. On the same day, Minister Choi met with officials involved in the 'Tourism Dure' project, which aims to empower residents to create and operate tourism businesses based on local resources and stories. The ministry plans to nurture over 100 new youth businesses in non-capital areas, backed by a supplementary budget of 3.1 billion won for the 'Youth Tourism Dure' program confirmed in April. One participant from Changwon expressed concern, saying, "Due to a lack of cultural infrastructure and job opportunities, friends interested in culture are leaving for Seoul or Busan." In response, Minister Choi emphasized the need for improved cultural infrastructure and content to retain residents, stating, "Through the 'This is Coming to Our Neighborhood' project, we will ensure that performances and exhibitions are easily accessible in local areas." He promised to create an environment where residents feel that culture is always present in their lives, rather than feeling disconnected from cultural centers.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-15 21:34:44

Solar Stocks Plummet Amid US-China Reconciliation Hopes Following the recent US-China summit, optimism for improved relations between the two countries has led to a sharp decline in solar stocks, which had previously surged. The expectation of benefits from increased US restrictions on China has weakened, resulting in a wave of profit-taking. As of 2:59 PM on May 15, HD Hyundai Energy Solutions was trading at 195,600 won, down 48,400 won (19.84%) from the previous trading day. At the same time, OCI Holdings saw a drop of 80,000 won (21.95%), bringing its stock price to 284,500 won. Recently, solar stocks had been buoyed by the US's efforts to effectively exclude Chinese solar supply chains. On May 8, Reuters reported that Sunrun, the largest residential solar installer in the US, had removed Chinese module manufacturers from its approved supplier list distributed to installation partners. Sunrun cited uncertainties regarding compliance with the tax credit requirements under the US Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) as the reason for restructuring its supply chain to focus on non-Chinese sources. The approved list included only non-Chinese companies such as Silfab, Elin, and REC Group, while Chinese firms like Canadian Solar, JinkoSolar, and Longi Solar were excluded. This development has fueled speculation that the Chinese solar supply chain in the US could collapse rapidly. Starting in 2026, the US plans to tighten the requirements for clean energy tax credits under the Made in America (MACR) standards, which, if not met, will restrict access to the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and Production Tax Credit (PTC). As a result, companies like Hanwha Solutions and OCI Holdings, which have production bases in the US, have emerged as key beneficiaries. However, following the US-China summit, the mood shifted as expectations for cooperation between the two nations grew. Concerns have increased that US restrictions on China may be less stringent than anticipated, leading to concentrated profit-taking in solar stocks that had previously surged on the back of US-China tensions.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-15 21:33:00

Korean Won Surpasses 1500 Against US Dollar Amid Inflation Concerns The won-dollar exchange rate surpassed 1500 won for the first time in over a month. As of 2:50 PM on May 15, the exchange rate in the Seoul foreign exchange market stood at 1504.7 won per US dollar. The rate opened at 1494.2 won, up by 3.2 won from the previous session, and continued to rise throughout the afternoon. This marks the first time the rate has exceeded 1500 won since April 7. The strengthening of the dollar is interpreted as a response to growing global inflation concerns. The dollar index, which measures the dollar's value against six major currencies, rose by 0.31% to 99.19 compared to the previous trading day. In April, the U.S. Producer Price Index (PPI) increased by 6.0% year-on-year, the highest rate since December 2022, largely due to soaring energy prices. Additionally, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for April showed a 3.8% increase from the previous year, marking the largest rise in nearly three years, further heightening inflation fears. The depreciation of the won appears to be influenced by foreign selling. As of 2:54 PM, foreign investors had net sold 5.8553 trillion won in the stock market.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-15 21:30:19

U.S. Secretary of State Rubio: No Change in Taiwan Policy Amid China Tensions The U.S. State Department has reaffirmed that its policy toward Taiwan remains unchanged. Despite discussions on Taiwan during a meeting between President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing, the U.S. has indicated it will maintain its existing stance. On May 14, in an interview with NBC, Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated, "As of today, and based on today's meeting, the U.S. policy on Taiwan has not changed." He added, "They always raise this (Taiwan) issue, and we clarify our position before moving on to other topics." Rubio also drew a line regarding the possibility of China's military unification with Taiwan, warning that such an action would be a "big mistake." He cautioned that any aggressive moves would have repercussions not only from the U.S. but also from the international community. He clarified that the issue of arms sales to Taiwan was not a central topic of the recent meeting. "It is well known that China opposes U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, but this issue was not prominently addressed during the Trump-Xi meeting," he said. He noted, "Arms sales to Taiwan are a matter for the President to decide, and Congress also plays a procedural role." Rubio's comments came shortly after Xi strongly emphasized the Taiwan issue during their meeting, stating that it is the most critical matter in U.S.-China relations and warned that failure to address it properly could lead to conflict and tension between the two nations. However, the White House's briefing materials did not separately mention the Taiwan issue. Taiwan welcomed the reaffirmation of U.S. policy. The Taiwanese Foreign Ministry expressed gratitude for the U.S. emphasis on peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and the maintenance of existing policies. Taiwan criticized the ongoing activities of the Chinese military, stating that Beijing remains a major risk factor for regional peace and stability.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-15 21:28:28

Korea's Lee replaces health and customs deputies SEOUL, May 15 (AJP) - South Korean President Lee Jae Myung replaced the country’s top health and customs officials Friday in a vice-ministerial reshuffle carried out less than a year after both incumbents took office, the presidential office said. Hyeon Su-yeop, spokesperson for the Ministry of Health and Welfare, was named first vice minister of health and welfare, while Lee Jong-wook, vice commissioner of the Korea Customs Service, was appointed customs commissioner, presidential spokesperson Lee Kyu-yeon said Friday. They replace First Vice Health Minister Lee Se-ran and Customs Commissioner Lee Myung-gu, who are stepping down less than a year after assuming office in June and July of last year, respectively. The presidential office dismissed speculation that the reshuffle amounted to disciplinary action. “It has been about a year, and the government believes new appointments are needed to move policies forward more quickly,” spokesperson Lee said, adding that the outgoing officials had helped lay the groundwork for the administration’s key initiatives during its early months in office. New Vice Health Minister Hyeon spent much of her career at the Health Ministry, serving in a broad range of healthcare and welfare policy roles. She previously handled issues involving emergency medical services, pharmaceutical policy, childcare and health technology, before later overseeing population and child policy and serving as ministry spokesperson. New Customs Commissioner Lee Jong-wook was described as a longtime customs official who held several senior posts within the Korea Customs Service, including head of planning and coordination. The presidential office said Lee played a key role in uncovering large-scale illegal export schemes designed to circumvent trade restrictions and tariffs, while also cooperating with Thai authorities to crack down on drug smuggling networks. 2026-05-15 18:00:10

Korea's Cheonghae Unit departs for Gulf of Aden amid Hormuz tensions SEOUL, May 15 (AJP) - The South Korean Navy’s destroyer Wang Geon departed from Busan on Friday to replace the Cheonghae Unit currently operating in the Gulf of Aden, amid speculation that the unit could be deployed near the Strait of Hormuz depending on regional developments. The 4,400-ton Wang Geon, a Chungmugong Yi Sun-sin-class destroyer, left Busan Naval Base at 4 p.m. after a send-off ceremony attended by service members and their families. The 48th rotation of the Cheonghae Unit consists of about 260 personnel, including the ship’s crew, command staff, a UDT/SEAL boarding team, an aviation unit operating a Lynx maritime helicopter, and Marine Corps, medical and maintenance support personnel. The Navy said about 80 members, or roughly 30 percent of the unit, have previous experience serving with the Cheonghae Unit. The unit will carry out anti-piracy operations in the Gulf of Aden, escort vessels and support safe navigation. It is also tasked with protecting South Korean nationals in emergencies and participating in maritime security operations led by the Combined Maritime Forces and the European Union Naval Force Somalia. Under the deployment approval passed by the National Assembly, the Cheonghae Unit’s operational area is limited to waters around the Gulf of Aden. However, speculation has grown that the unit’s mission area could be expanded to the Strait of Hormuz if Seoul decides to join U.S.-proposed military cooperation efforts aimed at reopening the key waterway. Such a move would require parliamentary approval. The 48th rotation has strengthened its counter-drone defense system, reflecting concerns over threats such as explosive drones used during the Iran war. A Navy official said the upgrade was not made with a possible Hormuz deployment in mind, but was intended to prepare for various threats that could arise during the unit’s mission. The currently deployed Dae Jo-yeong destroyer is also known to have established communication channels with South Korean vessels near the Strait of Hormuz and has been checking their safety conditions. The Cheonghae Unit is expected to take three to four weeks to reach the Gulf of Aden and replace the 47th rotation next month. At the ceremony, Navy Chief of Staff Adm. Kim Kyung-ryul said the Cheonghae Unit “symbolizes the strong naval power of the Republic of Korea” and shows the country’s role as a responsible global state. Col. Ahn Woo-jin, commander of the 48th rotation, said the unit would work as “one team” to complete its mission. Oceans Minister Hwang Jong-woo asked the unit to protect South Korean vessels, saying ships flying the Korean flag are “our territory moving across the world.” Launched in March 2009, the Cheonghae Unit has escorted more than 2,400 vessels and supported the safe navigation of about 39,000 ships over the past 17 years. 2026-05-15 17:43:31