National Tax Service to Track Cryptocurrency Wallet Addresses with New System The National Tax Service (NTS) has officially begun developing a dedicated computer system for tracking and analyzing cryptocurrency transactions. On May 11, the NTS announced that the Seoul Regional Tax Office's Information Center and Nanal SMI held an inauguration ceremony for the 'Integrated Analysis System for Virtual Assets' on May 8. The project aims to be completed by the end of December this year, with a total budget of 2.99 billion won (including value-added tax, excluding procurement fees). The NTS's initiative is driven by the structural characteristics of virtual assets. Due to their anonymity and decentralization, cryptocurrencies have increasingly been misused for illegal activities such as money laundering, irregular gifting, and offshore tax evasion. Additionally, starting in 2027, cryptocurrency businesses will be required to submit individual transaction data to the NTS, making it urgent to establish a systematic computerized foundation for utilizing large volumes of transaction information in tax audits. The core of the system will be divided into three main components. First, it will create a foundation for the continuous and systematic integration of cryptocurrency transaction information and blockchain transaction data. The system will periodically collect transaction statements and summaries submitted by cryptocurrency businesses to the NTS, allowing for integrated queries linked with existing tax data for reporting, tax assessments, and audits. For each taxpayer, it will provide information on transaction overviews, changes in virtual asset holdings, and current balances, while enhancing transaction tracking by visualizing identified wallet addresses alongside blockchain transaction data. The system will go beyond simple data collection. It will include features designed to analyze and verify transaction flows suspected of tax evasion, such as money laundering and unreported inheritance or gifting. An analytical framework will also be established to proactively detect unusual transaction patterns and suspicious individuals using AI machine learning and statistical techniques. User convenience and information security have been prioritized in the design principles. The system will automate manual tasks and connect data from various sources while implementing a control system to ensure that transaction information is used only within the necessary scope through access management and log tracking. The NTS stated, "By systematically managing vast amounts of cryptocurrency transaction data, we expect to enhance the efficiency of related operations and strengthen the infrastructure for virtual assets. We aim to contribute to tax fairness and justice by blocking illegal transactions such as money laundering, irregular gifting, and offshore tax evasion, as well as analyzing suspected tax evasion cases."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-12 04:27:39

What Should Humanity Achieve After AI? Captain Kang Sang-bo Discusses 'Meaning Civilization' As artificial intelligence (AI) rapidly reshapes production methods and social structures, the role and value of humanity face fundamental questions. Captain Kang Sang-bo, author of The Master Key and a civilization designer, stated in a recent interview that "the key transition in the AI era is not the enhancement of technological capabilities, but rather humanity's shift from 'method' to 'meaning.'" He emphasized the need to build a new form of civilization through this transition. Kang has long researched and created around the concept of 'meaning civilization,' attempting to combine philosophical thought, personal growth, and the content industry. In his representative work, The Master Key, he systematically presents pathways to personal success and life direction. He identified 'direction setting' as the most lacking capability in humans today. He warned that if people perceive AI merely as a tool, they risk missing structural changes and essence. "In a situation where AI can perform almost all tasks, if humans fail to set their own direction, they may become mere parts of the system," he said, adding that both individuals and social structures must be able to provide direction. He introduced the concept of 'meaning civilization,' distinguishing it from existing information and technological civilizations. While technological civilization focuses on 'what to create,' the AI era necessitates a shift to the question of 'should we create it at all?' He explained that technology should operate in a way that brings it closer to human essence, moving from a 'technology-human-technology' structure to a 'human-technology-human' cyclical structure. In terms of values, he presented 'meaning, vivid dreams, responsibility, and LOVE' as core areas unique to humanity. He stated, "AI and robots ultimately exist to help humans get closer to these four values," asserting that these elements will become new criteria for judgment. He also proposed an absolute formula for success: 'BTS × LOVE = SUCCESS.' Here, BTS represents Body, Talent, and Spirit, while LOVE signifies connection and empathy among humans. He noted that in the AI era, traditional success criteria based on speed, efficiency, and results are rapidly being replaced by a focus on creating deeper connections and generating meaning. From a generational perspective, he defined those aged 10 to 30 as '1030 young stars' and labeled them as 'civilization designers.' He emphasized that unlike the older generation, which grew up under efficiency, growth, and capital-centered logic, these young individuals would struggle to gain an advantage if they compete with AI on the same terms. The key, he stressed, is to shift from competition in efficiency to creating direction. On the institutional front, he introduced the concepts of 'meaning finance' and 'meaning education.' He remarked that in the AI era, economic systems could operate without direct human participation, suggesting that finance should shift from a production-centered approach to one that invests in human and value-centered areas, namely meaning, vivid dreams, responsibility, and LOVE. However, he added that such changes would require gradual guidance from media, institutions, and government rather than individuals. In the field of education, he pointed out that existing systems remain stuck in 'pre-AI' methods. Kang stated, "Knowledge acquisition should be left to AI, while humans should focus on exploring meaning and direction." He called for a shift in history education from rote memorization to experiential understanding, advocating for teachers to transition from being 'providers of answers' to 'askers of questions.' At the same time, he warned of the risk that 'meaning' could be further diminished in a discourse centered on efficiency, growth, and capital. He cautioned that if society prioritizes results alone, individuals may lose their ability to judge 'why they do what they do.' He concluded, "Today's younger generation stands at a crucial crossroads. Whether they become the architects of civilization or remain consumers within the system is a matter that transcends individual choice and will influence the direction of future society." “In the AI era, the competition is not about speed, but about direction.” * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-12 04:25:09

Han Deok-soo Appeals 15-Year Sentence for Role in Coup-Related Charges Han Deok-soo, sentenced to 15 years in prison for his involvement in the December 3 martial law declaration and related coup duties, has filed an appeal against the ruling. According to legal sources on May 11, Han's legal team submitted the appeal to the Seoul High Court's Criminal Division 12-1, which presided over his case. On May 7, the appellate court sentenced Han to 15 years, reducing his initial 23-year sentence by eight years; however, it maintained guilty verdicts on most of the key charges. The court determined that Han had suggested holding a cabinet meeting to create the appearance of proper procedure during the martial law declaration and led the signing of related documents afterward, which constituted significant involvement in the coup. Additionally, the court found him guilty of concealing legal flaws by signing and then discarding the declaration document, as well as perjury for claiming during the Constitutional Court impeachment trial that he had not seen the martial law declaration. Following the appellate ruling, Han's legal team stated that they found the verdict "unacceptable in terms of factual and legal aspects" and indicated they would consider appealing. As a result, the Supreme Court is expected to engage in a rigorous legal debate over whether Han's actions during the martial law period constituted essential participation in the coup or merely complicity.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-12 04:23:09

Korea Racing Authority Discusses Relocation of Headquarters and LetsRun Park In line with the government's second phase of public institution relocations, the Korea Racing Authority (KRA) is undergoing organizational restructuring, intensifying discussions about relocating its headquarters and LetsRun Park. However, the selection of a new site, funding, and regional conflicts present significant challenges that may delay the actual move. According to the public institution management information disclosure system, Alio, KRA's board of directors approved the establishment of a new "Future Strategy Headquarters" on April 30. This headquarters, which will consist of about 100 personnel, is set to launch on May 13 and will handle key functions including planning, coordination, budgeting, performance management, and overseeing the relocation of the headquarters and LetsRun Park. Alongside the organizational changes, KRA is also expanding its regional offices. The existing Busan-Gyeongnam Regional Headquarters will be restructured into the Yeongnam Regional Headquarters, with plans to increase staffing by about 40 personnel. This move is in preparation for the upcoming opening of the Yeongcheon Racecourse later this year. The head of the regional headquarters will be a senior-level employee. This restructuring is seen as a response to increasing pressure to relocate LetsRun Park, particularly in light of the government's housing supply policies in Gwacheon. The site of LetsRun Park in Gwacheon has been frequently mentioned as a potential location for new housing developments due to its prime location in the metropolitan area. Consequently, there are growing concerns within KRA about the lack of viable alternatives to relocation. A KRA official stated, "While the government emphasizes the need to relocate LetsRun Park, there has been insufficient discussion regarding the constraints of the horse racing industry and operational realities. We plan to explore necessary support and realistic alternatives through the Future Strategy Headquarters during the relocation process." Currently, the most discussed scenario involves separating the relocation of the headquarters and LetsRun Park. The headquarters may move to a regional area such as Yeongcheon or Jeju, while LetsRun Park could relocate to another area within Gyeonggi Province, considering accessibility to the metropolitan area. However, industry consensus suggests that separating the two locations poses challenges due to the need for large spectator turnout and transportation accessibility. In this context, competition among local governments to attract the horse racing venue is intensifying. In some southern Gyeonggi areas like Siheung and Ansan, local election candidates are pledging to attract a racetrack, while in Uijeongbu, proposals have emerged to locate LetsRun Park at Camp Stanley, a former U.S. military base. The active involvement of local governments is driven by the substantial tax revenue potential. In 2023, LetsRun Park contributed approximately 315.7 billion won in leisure taxes and 126.3 billion won in local allocation taxes to Gyeonggi Province. Notably, under current local finance laws, a portion of the leisure tax is distributed to municipalities where racetracks and off-track betting locations are situated, making successful relocation a pathway to stable local financial resources. There is a growing sentiment within and outside KRA that Siheung City is a realistic candidate for relocation. Its excellent accessibility from the southwestern metropolitan area and the potential for securing a large site are key factors. One industry insider noted, "The northern Gyeonggi area faces significant risks for race operations due to winter cold snaps and ground freezing issues. Considering accessibility and climate conditions, the southern Gyeonggi area is more practical, with Siheung appearing to be the most promising option." * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-12 04:20:54

Kim Jin-il Recommended as New Member of Bank of Korea's Monetary Policy Committee The Bank of Korea announced on May 11 that Kim Jin-il, a professor at Korea University, has been recommended as a new member of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC). Recommended by the Bankers Association, Kim, born in 1967, graduated from Seoul High School and earned both his bachelor's and master's degrees in economics from Seoul National University. He obtained his Ph.D. in economics from Yale University. Kim has previously worked as an economist at the Federal Reserve Board (FRB), an adjunct professor at Georgetown University, an assistant professor in the economics department at the University of Virginia, and a senior economist at the FRB. Since 2010, he has been a professor in the economics department at Korea University. The MPC is the policy-making body that deliberates and decides on key matters related to the Bank of Korea's monetary and credit policies. It consists of seven members, including the governor and deputy governor of the Bank of Korea. Kim is expected to succeed Shin Seong-hwan, who is retiring on May 12. Excluding the governor and deputy governor, the five remaining members are appointed by the president based on recommendations from the Minister of Economy and Finance, the governor of the Bank of Korea, the chairman of the Financial Services Commission, the chairman of the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the chairman of the Bankers Association. The term is four years.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-12 04:19:26

Companies Struggle with AI Transition: Redesigning Operations is Essential Despite ongoing attempts by South Korean companies to transition to artificial intelligence (AI), many are stalling at the implementation stage and failing to achieve tangible results. Most failures stem from treating AI as a mere tool, highlighting the need for a fundamental redesign of work processes around AI. According to the Korea Artificial Intelligence and Software Industry Association (KOSA), the utilization rate of AI in South Korea's manufacturing sector remains at just 17.9%. The primary reason for the lack of AI adoption is the difficulty in identifying areas and processes suitable for AI implementation, cited by 41.6% of respondents. A recent report from the Super Large AI Promotion Council identified four main reasons for failures in AI transitions: unclear responsibility and roles (R&R), lack of operational monitoring, unaddressed data discrepancies on-site, and governance issues that hinder implementation. While proof of concept (PoC) projects may succeed, unclear responsibilities during actual operations often lead to a lack of trust on the ground, resulting in projects being abandoned. The report succinctly states, "PoC is a snapshot, but validation is a four-season process," meaning that success at one point in time does not guarantee effective operations in changing conditions. Unique factors contributing to failures in the South Korean corporate environment have also been identified. In a case study from a knowledge and office sector company, an engineer noted, "The issue wasn't that AI couldn't write; it was that when data came in HWP format, half of the project shifted from generation to input processing." This highlights the warning that if the initial parsing pipeline is not designed to recognize HWP as a file format rather than a language, operational costs will continue to rise. The predominance of HWP format in public documents presents a significant barrier to AI adoption in South Korean companies. Similar patterns have been observed in the trade and logistics sectors. In a joint project between LabelUp and Team Reboot, an engineer remarked, "Don’t assume PDFs will be neatly formatted text." Effective automation of unstructured documents requires simultaneous design of structuring, validation, and recommendation stages; if the extraction fields are unstable, the reliability of subsequent recommendations collapses. Conversely, companies that have redesigned their operational processes are seeing clear benefits. Company B reported a reduction of up to 73% in full-time equivalent (FTE) staffing after implementing AI agents, while increasing its internal AI productivity index by 35%. LabelUp and Team Reboot reduced document processing time by over 60% on average and achieved a 99.2% accuracy rate in HS Code classification during final validation, which included human review loops. In terms of optimizing AI infrastructure, companies have cut GPU training costs by approximately 80% compared to AWS on-demand services, tripling development productivity and increasing GPU utilization from 20% to over 85%. Analysis indicates that the criteria for success in AI transitions hinge not on model accuracy but on the completeness of operational design post-deployment. Key elements such as monitoring systems, incident response procedures, user training, and standardization of R&R are essential for translating efforts into tangible business outcomes. Successful companies have commonly applied five design patterns: task decomposition and agent delegation, assetization of unstructured data, real-time edge analysis, optimization, and the integration of security and governance. The Super Large AI Promotion Council concluded that the true determinants of success in AI transitions lie not in the initial implementation but in the subsequent operational design, accountability structures, and governance frameworks.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-12 04:17:42

Voter Apathy in Gyeonggi Province Ahead of Local Elections As the June 3 local elections approach, the political atmosphere in Gyeonggi Province remains subdued. Many citizens are unaware of the candidates vying to lead the province for the next four years. A taxi driver in his 50s, encountered in Suwon, remarked, "There aren’t many banners on the streets, and the election atmosphere is lacking. I almost forgot there was an election coming up." Similarly, a 43-year-old man in Uijeongbu stated, "I have no interest in politics, so I don’t know who is running. I’ll probably vote for the candidate from the party I usually support when I get to the polling station." With the election atmosphere failing to heat up, voters are expressing fatigue with politics and seem more focused on assigning blame for conflicts between parties rather than evaluating candidates. A 73-year-old woman at Uijeongbu Jeil Market said, "Politicians are always fighting, so I have no interest. I don’t like any of the candidates, and I don’t even know who is running for governor of Gyeonggi Province," but she added, "I think the ruling party shouldn’t have unchecked power, so I’m considering voting for the People Power Party." Conversely, a 27-year-old man from Suwon expressed skepticism about Choo Mi-ae, the Democratic Party candidate, saying, "Even if she wins, I don’t think she’ll pay much attention to provincial issues, only responding to central political issues." He also criticized the People Power Party for not adequately distancing itself from former President Yoon Suk-yeol and for lacking reflection on past actions. A recent poll conducted from May 4 to 5 among 802 voters in Gyeonggi Province indicated that Choo Mi-ae garnered 50.8% support, significantly ahead of Yang Hyang-ja from the People Power Party, who received 31.5%. Cho Eung-cheon from the Reform Party was supported by 6.6% of respondents. This survey was conducted by JoWon C&I using an automated response system (ARS) and has a margin of error of ±3.5 percentage points at a 95% confidence level (for more details, visit the Central Election Survey Deliberation Commission website). However, analysts caution that, based on past election results in Gyeonggi Province, the outcome may remain uncertain until the votes are counted. In the previous election, the margin of victory was just 8,913 votes (0.15 percentage points). At that time, Kim Eun-hye of the People Power Party led in districts like Bundang in Seongnam and Cheoin and Suji in Yongin, but Kim Dong-yeon of the Democratic Party secured enough support in Bucheon, Hwaseong, and Siheung to narrowly win. In fact, many voters encountered on the streets expressed hesitation in choosing whom to vote for, indicating they would decide after thoroughly reviewing the candidates' capabilities and policies. Residents of Gyeonggi Province particularly emphasized the need for policies related to housing and transportation that directly affect their daily lives. A 56-year-old woman from Dongtan, who has not yet chosen a candidate, commented, "Since the GTX line opened, it’s quick to get from Dongtan Station to Seoul, but it still takes a long time to travel within Dongtan. I hope transportation within Dongtan improves." A 31-year-old man living in Bundang expressed a desire for the next governor to effectively address practical issues like transportation and housing prices. In northern Gyeonggi Province, there are also complaints about policies and investments being concentrated in the south. A 38-year-old woman from Goyang stated, "I hope this election focuses more on the economy and people’s livelihoods rather than negative campaigning. It feels like policies are only directed at southern Gyeonggi, and I hope there is consideration for all residents of Gyeonggi Province."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-12 04:14:48

34 Copyright Infringing Sites, Including 'New Toki,' Blocked by Government The government has officially implemented an emergency blocking system for copyright infringement sites, taking its first action on May 11. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism notified internet service providers of the "first emergency blocking order" for copyright infringement sites. A total of 34 sites are included in this emergency block. The emergency block is a measure that fundamentally prevents users from accessing illegal sites and is considered the fastest and most effective administrative response to copyright infringement. The ministry explained that the 34 sites targeted for blocking meet the criteria of clear illegality as defined by copyright law, the urgency of preventing damage, and the absence of alternative measures. Notably, the site 'New Toki,' which has repeatedly closed and reopened, is among those blocked. New Toki has been illegally distributing webtoons and web novels and announced on April 27 that it had ceased operations, stating, "We have no plans to resume services in the future." However, a site with the same name has since reappeared, complicating efforts to eradicate illegal content distribution. Minister Choi Hwi-young visited the Korea Copyright Protection Agency on the same day to express his commitment to a strong response against illegal sites and to encourage on-site staff. He stated, "We recognize that operators of illegal sites are unlikely to easily give up the profits they have gained illegally, despite the government's firm stance and new response system. Even if it becomes an ongoing battle, we will strive to shorten the lifespan of illegal sites as much as possible through swift blocking measures." Meanwhile, following the closure of illegal webtoon sites, positive changes have been observed, such as improved usage metrics for legal platforms like Naver Webtoon. According to Mobile Index, the average number of new installations for Naver Webtoon from April 27 to May 1 was 15,537, a 31% increase compared to the average of 11,853 installations from April 20 to 26.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-12 04:12:53

Veterans Group Partners with Daebon Korea for Economic Empowerment The Korea Special Mission Veterans Association and Daebon Korea are embarking on a partnership based on shared social responsibility. The initiative aims to support the economic independence of veterans while expanding corporate social responsibility through a collaborative model. The Korea Special Mission Veterans Association announced that it signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Daebon Korea on May 7 at Seorae Naru in Banpo Hangang Park. The two organizations will focus on a "capital-free startup support program" to assist veterans' families in achieving self-sufficiency. This initiative aims to reduce the financial burden of starting a business and establish a stable foundation for operations. Additionally, they plan to collaborate on public interest projects, including eco-friendly energy and ESG management practices. The partnership is rooted in a connection formed in the past. Baek Jong-won visited the veterans association's training center while obtaining his yacht license. During this visit, he shared homemade kimchi with an instructor who was battling cancer, a gesture that gained attention online as a heartwarming story. Kim Yong-deok, the association's president, stated, "Baek Jong-won's sincere actions toward veterans' families have instilled deep trust among our members. We are now moving beyond a relationship of receiving help to becoming partners in driving corporate growth and realizing social value together."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-12 04:11:15

Seoul Mayoral Candidates Focus on AI and Housing Issues In the lead-up to the June 3 Seoul mayoral election, Jung Won-o of the Democratic Party unveiled AI-related policy proposals on May 11, aiming to capture the support of young and moderate voters. Meanwhile, Oh Se-hoon of the People Power Party focused on housing supply, a key issue in the election, to dominate the real estate narrative. Jung announced his 'AI G2 (Global 2nd City) Seoul' initiative on his social media, following a visit to LG's AI research center in Magok-dong, where he observed a demonstration of large-scale AI technology and held a policy meeting. This initiative follows his announcement on May 8 to develop Yongsan into a 'Global AI Governance Hub' for discussions on AI diplomacy, safety, ethics, and international standards. Jung also pledged to transform the relatively underdeveloped Guro and Gasan Digital Complex into a center for physical AI demonstration economies. He aims to connect AI research capabilities in Yangjae with the industrial base in Guro and Gasan to establish a 'Seoul-style physical AI ecosystem' that operates in real-world industrial settings. The city plans to become the first customer for AI companies, expanding projects to develop and test related services. It will also operate a hands-on AI academy for youth and middle-aged individuals to support job creation and industrial transition. AI will also be utilized for citizen safety and administration. Plans include safety AI to address stalking and nighttime risks, disaster AI to predict flooding and fires, and small business AI to assist with sales, inventory, and customer service. The city aims to establish a direct AI complaint system and an AI administrative support platform to better identify and respond to citizen issues. Jung stated, "For South Korea to lead in the global AI competition, the entire city must become an innovation platform. We will set global AI standards in Yongsan and create jobs and business growth in Guro and Gasan to usher in the AI G2 era." Oh, on the other hand, focused on addressing public concerns about real estate. He held a press conference for the 'Citizens' Countermeasure Meeting on Real Estate Hell' in Gaebong-dong, Guro-gu, and later convened a meeting with representatives from various urban planning and redevelopment associations in Jongno-gu. At the press conference, Oh highlighted issues such as the surge in jeonse (long-term lease) prices, rising monthly rents, increased property taxes, and lending restrictions, stating, "Both homeowners and those without homes are deeply concerned. All Seoul citizens are expressing their pain." He attributed the 'real estate hell' to the failures of the Lee Jae-myung administration's housing policies, asserting, "Many voters are desperately seeking solutions, and I will actively listen to the voices of residents across Seoul, especially the youth." Meanwhile, the two candidates continued their back-and-forth over the possibility of a one-on-one debate. Oh pressed Jung, stating, "A multi-candidate debate is scheduled by the election commission, but I propose a one-on-one debate on Seoul's various policies." In response to Jung's criticism that Oh had previously rejected debate proposals during the People Power Party's primary, Oh argued, "At that time, the other candidates had not yet formulated their pledges." He insisted that Jung should not use the past as an excuse to avoid a one-on-one debate, adding, "Now that both of us have put forth our pledges, it is our duty and responsibility to debate." Jung, appearing on CBS Radio's 'Park Seong-tae's News Show,' referenced the earlier primary debate and stated, "Changing one's stance based on the situation leads to a loss of trust," effectively signaling his refusal to participate in a one-on-one debate.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-12 04:08:23