Ace Bed Launches Hotel-Style Low-Profile Bed 'Opimo III' Ace Bed has launched the 'Opimo III,' a hotel-style bed designed with a low-profile structure to enhance openness in the bedroom. According to Ace Bed, the Opimo III maximizes the sense of space and openness in the bedroom. Its low-profile design ensures that even when paired with a high pillow-top mattress, the overall height of the bed remains manageable, creating a visually spacious effect. The headboard features a dual head cushion that provides optimal comfort by supporting the body's curves while resting. The ends of the headboard are designed with a wing shape. The headboard's top and side panels include approximately 90mm of storage space, making it convenient for storing personal items like smartphones and glasses. Additionally, an integrated LED mood light offers three brightness levels, memory and timer functions, and a Type-C port, creating a customized sleeping environment, according to Ace Bed. The bed incorporates a low-profile T-type two-mattress system, with the lower mattress embedded within the frame for a clean appearance. This dual support structure effectively distributes weight, providing an optimal sleeping environment. Last year, Ace Bed reported sales of 317.2 billion won and an operating profit of 54 billion won, achieving a 17% operating profit margin. An Ace Bed representative stated, "The Opimo III, with its low-profile hotel design and practical features like storage space and LED lighting, meets the needs of modern consumers."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-14 19:02:26

Oasis Market Reports 32% Increase in Q1 Operating Profit Driven by Direct Sourcing and Logistics Efficiency Oasis Market has improved its profitability in the first quarter of this year. The company plans to secure growth momentum through direct sourcing of fresh produce, logistics efficiency, and the advancement of AI-based commerce.On May 14, Oasis Market reported that its operating profit for the first quarter reached 8.3 billion won, a 32.4% increase compared to the same period last year. During the same timeframe, sales rose by 3.2% to 139.3 billion won, with online sales increasing by 8% year-over-year.The company attributed its improved profitability to its direct sourcing network and enhanced logistics operations. It also announced plans to focus on advancing AI commerce starting in the second quarter. The goal is to enhance both online and offline shopping experiences through the AI assistant MAY and the futuristic Route series of stores.Last month, MAY was fully upgraded to provide an interactive shopping service that supports everything from product search to payment. For instance, if a customer says, "Show me antibiotic-free pork belly" in the app, it presents related products and facilitates payment. If asked for a recipe, it recommends all necessary ingredients.In its physical stores, Oasis Market has introduced the Route Mini self-checkout system. Recently installed at the Sangwangsimni Station location, Route Mini automatically recognizes products placed on it and transitions to the payment screen. The compact design has reduced checkout space by nearly 10%, allowing the company to utilize the freed-up area for product displays.An Oasis Market representative stated, "We will build a trusted growth foundation for customers using the AI assistant MAY and the smart Route series as a stepping stone."Meanwhile, Oasis Market has been working to resume operations at TMON, which it acquired last June, but delays in negotiations with credit card companies have left the timeline for service resumption uncertain.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-14 19:00:05

Yoo Seung-jun Urges Against Negative Comments, Denies Rumors of Profanity Singer Yoo Seung-jun addressed those who post negative comments about him in a recent video. On May 13, he uploaded a video titled "Do you still believe I cursed? Yoo Seung-jun finally speaks out. A quiet message for those who still criticize me" on his YouTube channel. In the video, Yoo said, "Please stop posting negative comments. I may not be that mentally weak, but who wouldn’t feel hurt when seeing such comments?" He added, "Even if someone is in a situation where they deserve criticism, it doesn’t mean we should make things harder for them or wish for their unhappiness. That’s not right." He emphasized, "There are words that can uplift people and words that can support them. Why would you mock or insult someone who is trying to carry the weight of their life? It’s not like you want to see their life completely fall apart, right?" Yoo urged, "You don’t have to say those things to me. I hope you choose to speak kindly and wish well for others." He also clarified the profanity controversy that arose during an internet broadcast in 2015, stating, "It was the voice of the producer at that time, not mine." Yoo Seung-jun debuted in April 1997 and lost his South Korean citizenship after obtaining U.S. citizenship following a trip abroad for a performance in 2002.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-14 18:58:13

Trump and Xi Hold 135-Minute Summit in Beijing Amid Tensions "Can the U.S. and China overcome the 'Thucydides Trap'?" <Chinese President Xi Jinping>"It is an honor to meet you again and be friends." <U.S. President Donald Trump>On May 14, Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump met at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing for the first time in six months. Their opening remarks revealed a stark contrast in tone. While Xi emphasized the importance of managing U.S.-China tensions and preventing conflict, Trump focused on praising Xi and highlighting their personal friendship.Xi Calls for Constructive, Strategic, and Stable RelationsDuring the approximately 135-minute summit, both leaders agreed on the need to manage U.S.-China relations in a stable manner and to establish a framework for future cooperation.According to China's state-run Xinhua News Agency, Xi stated, "We have agreed with President Trump to establish 'constructive, strategic, and stable relations' as a new guiding principle for our bilateral ties," adding that this would provide a strategic direction for U.S.-China relations for the next three years.However, U.S. media noted the subtle tension reflected in the leaders' remarks. The Associated Press reported, "While President Trump continued to offer conventional praise, President Xi warned of the potential for conflict." This highlighted the differences in their positions on sensitive issues such as the Iran conflict, trade disputes, and U.S.-Taiwan relations, suggesting that the summit may have prioritized symbolism and protocol over substantive breakthroughs.Xi remarked, "Can the U.S. and China overcome the 'Thucydides Trap,' which refers to the potential for conflict between a rising power and an established one?" He emphasized the need for both leaders to work together to prevent hegemonic competition from leading to conflict. He also stated, "The U.S. and China must maintain a partnership rather than an adversarial relationship, achieving mutual success and common prosperity while paving the right path for great power relations in the new era."Xi has repeatedly referenced the term 'Thucydides Trap' since 2014 to describe U.S.-China relations. The AP noted that Xi's use of this expression at a time when Trump was starting his visit with an optimistic tone was noteworthy.Additionally, Xi warned that the Taiwan issue is the most critical matter in U.S.-China relations, stating that mishandling it could lead to conflict between the two nations.In contrast, Trump's opening remarks were filled with praise for Xi and China. He called Xi a "great leader" and said, "People may dislike me saying this, but I say it because it is true." He added, "It is a great honor to meet you again as friends," and emphasized that U.S.-China relations could reach the best level in history.Xi Meets U.S. Business Leaders, Promises Market OpennessWhile economic and trade issues were significantly addressed during the summit, no immediate outcomes were announced. However, the meeting featured an unusual scene where top officials from both countries were joined by prominent American business leaders. During the summit, Xi met with over ten U.S. business leaders, including Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla; Tim Cook, CEO of Apple; and Jensen Huang, CEO of Nvidia.Trump remarked, "This delegation is made up of great American business leaders who all respect China and look forward to expanding cooperation."Xi also stated, "China's door will open even wider in the future," emphasizing that American companies have deeply participated in China's reform and opening process. He added, "China welcomes U.S. companies to strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation with China."Xinhua reported that American business leaders also expressed high regard for the importance of the Chinese market and their willingness to expand business and strengthen cooperation in China.According to the Wall Street Journal, after the summit, Musk said, "It was excellent. Many good things are happening." Jensen Huang described the meeting as "very well conducted," stating that both Xi and Trump were "incredible." Tim Cook responded to reporters' questions with a thumbs-up.Limited Concrete Outcomes Raise Questions About Summit's EffectivenessHowever, following the summit, no specific agreements were disclosed regarding the previously mentioned establishment of a U.S.-China trade committee and investment committee, the expansion of China's purchases of U.S. agricultural products, aircraft, and energy, or the extension of the trade truce and tariff reductions.Regarding major security issues such as the Iran conflict and North Korea's nuclear program, the Chinese side only briefly stated that "the two leaders exchanged views on international and regional issues, including the situation in the Middle East, the Ukraine crisis, and the Korean Peninsula."While the first day of the summit was filled with grand events and symbolic moments, evaluations suggest that the concrete outcomes were limited.After the meeting, Trump and Xi took a walk together in Beijing's Temple of Heaven, a site where emperors once offered sacrifices to heaven. The two leaders walked for about 30 minutes starting around 1 p.m., accompanied only by interpreters.Later that evening, a state banquet was held at the Great Hall of the People, attended by Xi, Premier Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, Wang Huning, Chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, Cai Qi, a member of the Politburo Standing Committee, Li Shi, Secretary of the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection, and Ding Xuexiang, Vice Premier, among other top-ranking officials from the Chinese Communist Party.On May 15, Xi is expected to invite Trump to Zhongnanhai, the heart of Chinese power, for tea and lunch. 2026-05-14 18:45:16

Lotte Home Shopping Shareholders Reject Motion to Dismiss CEO Kim Jae-gyeom A motion to dismiss Kim Jae-gyeom as CEO of Lotte Home Shopping was rejected at an extraordinary shareholders' meeting held on May 14. Taekwang Industrial, the company's second-largest shareholder, had proposed the dismissal. A representative from Lotte Home Shopping stated after the meeting, "The motion to dismiss the CEO was rejected at the extraordinary shareholders' meeting convened at the request of some shareholders. The company respects the exercise of shareholder rights. We hope shareholders will accept the outcome responsibly and work together for the company's growth." The representative added, "Lotte Home Shopping's management will do its utmost to be a company trusted and loved by shareholders, customers, partners, and employees through responsible management." As a result, Kim will continue in his role as CEO. Taekwang Industrial has criticized Kim's management, citing the approval of internal transactions between Lotte Home Shopping and its affiliate, Lotte Shopping, which was rejected by the board in January but continued nonetheless. In March, Taekwang also opposed Kim's reappointment for similar reasons. The rejection of the dismissal motion reflects the influence of Lotte Shopping, the largest shareholder, which holds a 53% stake in Lotte Home Shopping, while Taekwang holds 45%. The two companies have been in conflict over management rights since acquiring the predecessor of Lotte Home Shopping, Woori Home Shopping, in 2006. Taekwang Industrial is reportedly considering filing for an injunction against Kim's duties and pursuing a lawsuit for his dismissal in court. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-14 18:42:59

Samsung and LG Challenge Netflix with Free Streaming Services Global TV manufacturers Samsung Electronics and LG Electronics are pivoting to ad-supported free streaming services (FAST) as hardware sales face limitations amid a prolonged downturn in the global TV market. The K-TV sector, once a leader in electronics, is evolving into a platform-driven industry.On May 14, industry sources reported that Samsung has made a bold move by replacing its TV business head, signaling an official commitment to expanding its FAST service, 'Samsung TV Plus.' The focus is not just on content delivery but on enhancing ad integration within the platform to create new revenue streams.Additionally, Samsung plans to actively pursue a strategy of 'external sales' by integrating its proprietary Tizen smart TV operating system into TVs produced by other manufacturers, particularly in China, to broaden its platform ecosystem.LG Electronics is also accelerating its shift from hardware to service-oriented operations. After a decade of service, LG has revamped its FAST service, 'LG Channels,' and is expanding its reach beyond North America to Europe and the Middle East. To cater to multilingual markets, LG has enhanced its offerings with a 'multi-audio' feature, allowing users to select their preferred language for content viewing.FAST services allow users to access live channels and video-on-demand (VOD) content for free, provided they watch ads, without the need for subscription fees or additional hardware like set-top boxes. This model contrasts sharply with traditional IPTV and cable TV services that require monthly fees and installation.As global OTT platforms, including Netflix, face 'streaming inflation' with rising subscription costs, FAST is emerging as a compelling alternative. Consumers are increasingly fatigued by subscription fees, making the ability to enjoy high-quality content for free—albeit with ads—an attractive proposition.Moreover, FAST's appeal is bolstered by its 'lean-back' viewing experience, allowing users to switch channels easily, reminiscent of traditional TV watching, without the need for extensive deliberation on what to watch.According to a global FAST report by media tech firm Amagi, viewing hours for FAST channels in the Asia-Pacific region surged by 132% year-over-year as of January last year, followed by North America at 98% and Europe at 83%. Ad exposure also increased by 130%.However, the domestic FAST market in South Korea has yet to experience significant growth. The existing IPTV infrastructure is well-established, offering hundreds of live channels at very low prices through bundled internet services. Additionally, the cost of paid broadcasting is significantly lower than in North America, reducing the incentive for consumers to switch.With mobile OTT consumption centered around smartphones becoming the norm, there are concerns that the living room-focused FAST services may struggle to gain traction.Kim Jeong-seop, a professor at Sungshin Women's University, noted, "The domestic industry still relies heavily on hardware differentiation strategies rather than investing in original FAST content. There should be institutional support to promote premium TV adoption, such as AI smart TVs, to bridge the FAST gap among viewers and reinvest a portion of revenues into FAST content."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-14 18:40:40

Annual rose festival set to open in Seoul this week SEOUL, May 14 (AJP) - A flower festival featuring roses in full bloom is set to open in Seoul's northeastern district of Jungnang this week. According to district officials, the annual rose festival, famous for its 5.45-kilometer flower tunnel, will begin with a walking event on Friday taking a strool along riverside trails and run through May 23. This year's event, now in its 18th year, features some 320,000 roses across 232 varieties, lining walking trails along the Jungnangcheon Stream, one of Seoul's most popular seasonal photo spots. The festival also offers a parade, street performances, flea markets, food booths, and hands-on activities for all ages, with newly-added programs for this year specially tailored to children, youngsters, and older visitors. Rose trails and paths lit up at night are also expected to draw visitors with stunning evening scenery. 2026-05-14 18:36:49

Legal Risks for Companies Expanding Abroad: Solutions Sought at Joint Seminar As uncertainties in the global trade order deepen, a joint legal seminar was held to assist South Korean companies expanding abroad and to enhance their legal risk management capabilities. On May 14, the Ministry of Justice, in collaboration with the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the World Bank, hosted a seminar aimed at presenting the latest international regulatory trends and practical strategies for companies venturing overseas. This seminar was organized to explore effective legal solutions that businesses face on the ground due to geopolitical conflicts and increased regulations in various countries. Approximately 120 attendees, including Kang Jun-ha, Director of the International Legal Affairs Bureau at the Ministry of Justice; Lee Hyung-hee, Vice Chairman of the Seoul Chamber of Commerce and Industry; and Lisa Miller, Director of the Integrity Vice Presidency at the World Bank, showed significant interest in the event. The seminar consisted of four specialized sessions focused on practical information sharing. Key topics included: global compliance standards, recent enforcement trends of the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), critical points regarding changes in U.S. customs and trade policies, and legal risks and response strategies related to the situation in the Middle East, covering the latest international legal issues faced by South Korean companies. In his welcoming remarks, Director Kang stated, "Today, our companies are facing unprecedented uncertainty and crises, but if the government and businesses work closely together, 2026 will be recorded not as an economic crisis but as a new opportunity for South Korea." He emphasized that the Ministry of Justice will be a strong supporter to help South Korean companies thrive on the global stage. The Ministry of Justice plans to strengthen its collaboration with the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry to provide multifaceted support, enabling more companies to adapt flexibly to changes in the Middle East and establish compliance management systems. Through these efforts, the Ministry aims to serve as a practical legal ally for South Korean companies, helping them overcome uncertainties in the international trade order and secure competitiveness in the global market.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-14 18:36:33

UAE and Israel Strengthen Ties Amid Iran Conflict, Netanyahu's Secret Visit Reported The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Israel are deepening their ties amid the ongoing conflict with Iran. Reports have emerged that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a secret visit to the UAE during the war, signaling a new phase in the relationship between the two nations. On May 14, the Israeli Prime Minister's Office announced via social media platform X (formerly Twitter) that "Prime Minister Netanyahu secretly visited the UAE during Operation Lion's Roar and met with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan." The office described the visit as a historic breakthrough in relations between Israel and the UAE. A source familiar with the discussions told Reuters that Netanyahu and President Sheikh Mohammed met on March 26 in the oasis city of Al Ain, near the Oman border, and that the talks lasted several hours. The source also revealed that David Barnea, head of Israel's Mossad intelligence agency, visited the UAE at least twice during the conflict to coordinate military operations. However, the UAE has denied the claims regarding Netanyahu's visit. The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement refuting reports that Netanyahu visited the country or met with an Israeli military delegation. The UAE recognized Israel and established diplomatic relations in 2020 as part of the so-called Abraham Accords, alongside Bahrain. Since then, the two countries have expanded cooperation across various sectors, including economy, technology, and security. The ongoing conflict with Iran has reportedly enhanced security cooperation between the UAE and Israel. The pan-Arab media outlet New Arab noted that the war has brought the two nations closer than ever. During the conflict, the UAE faced concentrated attacks from Iran and felt it did not receive adequate support from neighboring Gulf states and traditional Arab allies, while openly welcoming Israeli assistance. Following the outbreak of war, Israel deployed Iron Dome missile defense systems and personnel to the UAE, marking the first time the Iron Dome has been stationed abroad. New Arab reported that Israel also contributed new laser defense systems and drone detection capabilities to bolster the UAE's air defense. Alex Almeida, a security analyst at Horizon Engage, stated that the war has significantly accelerated defense relations between the two countries. He emphasized that there is a strong perception that Israel stepped up when traditional Arab allies of the UAE failed to do so, proving its value to the UAE. However, experts caution that the close ties may not easily evolve into a public military alliance against Iran. Kyle Orton, a Middle East analyst, told New Arab that the question of whether the UAE-Israel alliance is aimed at Iran is complicated by the ongoing relationship between the UAE and Iran, particularly in the financial sector. Nicholas Heras, a senior director at the New Lines Institute, noted that the relationship with Israel is constrained by popular Arab issues, especially the Palestinian question. UAE May Become a Target for Iran Despite this, there are growing concerns that the UAE could become a primary target for Iran in the future. The Guardian recently reported that the UAE secretly struck Iran in early April, suggesting that if a ceasefire breaks down and tensions between the U.S. and Iran escalate, the UAE could be at risk. Earlier, the Times of Israel cited Bloomberg, stating that the UAE conducted several military strikes against Iran in early April, targeting facilities on Iran's Lavan Island, some of which were coordinated with Israel. Tensions in the region are also spreading to other Gulf nations. Iran has threatened retaliation against Kuwait for detaining members of its Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), escalating tensions between the two countries. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi claimed on X that Kuwait had illegally attacked Iranian vessels and detained four of its citizens with the apparent intent to incite discord. He warned that Iran has the right to respond, stating, "This illegal act occurred near an island used by the U.S. to launch attacks against Iran."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-14 18:34:14

Experts Say Shortening Approval Process Alone Won't Solve Housing Supply Issues Seoul mayoral candidates from both major parties are competing to present promises for redevelopment projects, but experts agree that simply shortening the approval process will not resolve the housing supply crisis. They point out that the proposals lack specific alternatives to address the core issues of regulatory conflicts and rising construction costs. Additionally, both candidates have failed to present short-term measures for non-apartment housing to alleviate the immediate supply shortage, and there is a need for consistency with central government policies from the proposal design stage.On May 14, experts evaluating the real estate policies of the mayoral candidates expressed agreement with the general direction of the proposals but criticized their superficial analysis, noting a significant gap from reality. They emphasized that while shortening the approval process is like starting the engine, it is essential to simultaneously release the brakes of finance and regulation for the supply clock to function properly.Shim Hyung-seok, head of the Woo Dae-bbang Real Estate Research Institute, stated, "In a situation where regulations such as restrictions on the transfer of reconstruction association member status are in place, projects are often delayed due to members being blocked from progressing even if they want to move forward. Shortening the approval process without regulatory relaxation is merely half a measure."Shim also pointed out that substantial incentives for private projects need to be clearly outlined in the proposals, especially amid soaring construction costs. According to the Korea Construction Technology Institute, the construction cost index rose to 134.42 in March, a 0.49% increase from the previous month and more than 30% higher compared to the base year of 2020 (100). The surge in construction costs leads to conflicts between associations and construction companies. Industry voices have consistently called for the introduction of standard contracts from the selection stage of construction companies and for the decisions of dispute resolution committees to have practical enforceability to alleviate this structural bottleneck.Kim In-man, head of the Kim In-man Real Estate Economic Research Institute, criticized both candidates for lacking immediate short-term measures for non-apartment housing that could release supply into the market. He suggested supporting private construction financing to ease the financial burden on small builders and proposed direct development of parking laws and infrastructure as alternatives. He emphasized the need to strengthen oversight to ensure high-quality non-apartment housing is supplied to the market without defects. Kim stated, "Creating an environment where the private sector can supply high-quality non-apartment housing that is livable, even if not at the level of apartments, is a realistic supply measure that the Seoul city government can implement immediately. It is crucial to encourage the private sector to provide high-quality non-apartment housing rather than purchasing existing villas with tax money, which is the key to short-term supply."Concerns have also been raised that without clearly distinguishing between promises that can be implemented solely by the Seoul city government, those requiring legislative action from the National Assembly, and those dependent on cooperation from the central government, the promises may stall during the term due to 'external factors.'Seo Jin-hyung, a professor at Kwangwoon University, noted, "The key to realizing the promises lies in how closely both candidates can cooperate with the central government. Promises that do not differentiate between what can be achieved within the authority of the Seoul city government and what cannot may end up being mere election rhetoric." He added that specific financial initiatives at the city level are needed to address stalled projects due to issues like relocation costs or project financing.Song Seung-hyun, head of Urban and Economy, emphasized that without regulatory relaxation, it is challenging for projects to progress, pointing out that there tends to be a disconnect between policies of the Seoul city government and the central government. He stressed the need for policy coordination and role-sharing with the central government to address economic issues such as construction costs.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-14 18:32:01