Samsung Medical Center to Build AI Surgical Robot Platform Samsung Medical Center is set to establish a platform to support the development and commercialization of AI-based surgical robots. As the medical AI robot market expands, the hospital aims to accelerate the establishment of a hub that supports everything from clinical validation to product commercialization. Industry observers are keen to see if the combination of the hospital's clinical capabilities and advanced technology can propel the domestic medical robot industry forward.On May 28, Samsung Medical Center announced that it has been selected as the lead organization for the Ministry of Health and Welfare's "AI-Based Surgical Robot Innovation Lab Construction and Utilization Project," which will receive approximately 10 billion won in government funding over the next five years.The hospital plans to establish the "AI-Based Surgical Robot Innovation Lab" and the "AURORA Lab (AI-Unified Robotics & Operative Research Accelerator Lab)," which will identify unmet needs in surgical settings and enable rapid validation and feedback in real clinical environments.Additionally, dedicated research facilities and testing environments for surgical robots will be created, and a specialized team will support the entire product development process, including performance verification, safety assessments, and usability evaluations.The project will involve collaboration with robotics companies such as Rainbow Robotics, E-Rob, and Roen Surgical, as well as institutions like Samsung Convergence Medical Center, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology, Tomorrow Robotics, and Ha Hae-ho. The project will be led by Professor Jeong Yong-ki from the Department of Otorhinolaryngology at Samsung Medical Center.During the first phase of the project, which runs until 2028, the focus will be on establishing specialized research facilities for surgical robots, enhancing AI technology, developing prototypes, and securing patents. In the second phase, from 2029 to 2030, the goal is to elevate the technology readiness level (TRL) to 8. Following this, the plan includes obtaining regulatory approvals from domestic and international agencies and facilitating the introduction of innovative medical technologies into actual healthcare settings.The medical AI robot market is also in a phase of expansion. According to the U.S. market research firm Grand View Research (GVR), the global medical robot market is estimated to reach $25.56 billion in 2023, with an expected annual growth rate of 16.55% until 2030.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-28 11:24:00

Trump Warns Oman Over Iran's Proposed Hormuz Toll Donald Trump, the President of the United States, issued a strong warning regarding Oman’s discussions with Iran about imposing a toll on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, even mentioning the possibility of military action. On May 27, during a Cabinet meeting at the White House, Trump stated, "Oman must act like other countries. Otherwise, we may have to blow them away." He added, "They understand that point. It will be fine." Earlier, Mohammad Aminnejad, Iran's ambassador to France, revealed in an interview with Bloomberg that Iran and Oman were discussing the establishment of a permanent toll system for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz. Politico reported that Trump rejected this proposal and threatened that Oman, a U.S. ally, could face severe consequences. The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz has emerged as a key issue in negotiations aimed at ending the conflict between the U.S. and Iran. The strait, located between Iran and Oman, could be completely blocked if the two nations reach an agreement. Therefore, Oman’s discussions with Iran regarding tolls could be seen as a thorn in the side of the U.S., which is currently pursuing the reopening of the strait through peace negotiations with Iran. Trump reiterated his stance that the Strait of Hormuz should not be under the control of any nation. He stated, "The strait must be open to everyone. It is international waters. No one will control it. We will monitor it, but no one can control it." Oman has played a crucial mediating role in the Iran nuclear negotiations and U.S.-Iran backchannel communications. While maintaining a friendly relationship with the U.S., Oman has not participated in Trump’s Abraham Accords. CNN noted that Trump’s remarks add Oman to the list of countries he has threatened or mentioned as potential targets during his presidency. Since taking office, Trump has conducted military actions in Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Somalia, Syria, Venezuela, and Yemen, and has also mentioned the possibility of attacks on Canada, Colombia, Cuba, Greenland, Mexico, Panama, and Oman. However, CNN pointed out that not all of these threats and actions are of the same nature, with some being limited attacks aimed at specific terrorist groups. Analysts suggest that Trump employs a so-called "madman theory" in his foreign policy, using unpredictable rhetoric to pressure adversaries.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-28 11:24:00

An Kyoo-baek to Attend Shangri-La Dialogue, Hold Bilateral Talks with Japan and Australia Defense Minister An Kyoo-baek will participate in the 23rd Shangri-La Dialogue, scheduled to take place in Singapore from May 29 to 31. According to the Ministry of National Defense on May 28, Minister An will deliver a speech on May 30 addressing "Regional Security Challenges and South Korea's Strategic Response," outlining South Korea's defense policies in response to the rapidly changing security environment. During the event, Minister An is expected to hold discussions with delegations from the United States Congress, as well as defense ministers from Japan, Australia, Norway, the Philippines, and Thailand, focusing on expanding defense and military cooperation. This will mark the first face-to-face meeting between Minister An and Japan's Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi since their bilateral talks in Yokosuka, Kanagawa Prefecture, during An's visit to Japan in January. U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth will also attend this year's Shangri-La Dialogue. However, a bilateral meeting between the U.S. and South Korean defense ministers has already taken place on May 11 during Minister An's visit to the U.S., making another meeting during the Shangri-La Dialogue unlikely. Attention will be on whether the defense ministers of South Korea, the U.S., and Japan will have the opportunity to meet together. The Shangri-La Dialogue is an annual multilateral security conference organized by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) since 2002, bringing together defense ministers, senior military officials, and security experts from major countries in the Asia-Pacific and Europe, including South Korea, the United States, Japan, ASEAN, and the EU. The event has been held annually at the Shangri-La Hotel in Singapore since its inception, hence the name "Shangri-La Dialogue."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-28 11:24:00

Hyundai Mobis joins Eclipse Foundation's open-source SDV project SEOUL, May 28 (AJP) - Hyundai Mobis announced it has joined the Eclipse Foundation's Software-Defined Vehicle working group and will contribute to the S-Core project, a global open-source initiative to standardize the software platforms that underpin next-generation connected vehicles. The S-Core project, launched in late 2024 by a consortium of European firms, aims to build a common middleware layer for SDV systems certified to functional safety standard ASIL-B — the first of its kind built on an open-source foundation. Thirteen companies are currently involved in the effort, pooling resources to reduce duplicated investment and accelerate development of the shared technical base that applications such as autonomous driving depend on. Hyundai Mobis said Thursday it marks the first time the company has opened its proprietary code to outside developers. The company will contribute its container solution technology, which isolates individual software processes running on Linux to prevent interference between them. Through the project, Hyundai Mobis said it expects to collaborate with a broad range of automakers, parts suppliers, and software specialists, while positioning its technologies as candidates for global industry standards. The company added that open-sourcing its code is itself a public demonstration of confidence in its software capabilities. 2026-05-28 11:21:20

Bank of Korea Signals Potential Rate Hikes Amid Economic Pressure The Bank of Korea is expected to shift towards a hawkish stance in its six-month outlook for the benchmark interest rate, indicating the possibility of two rate hikes within the year. According to the dot plot released on May 28, 19 out of 21 projections are set above the current rate until November. This suggests that most members of the Monetary Policy Committee anticipate a rate increase within the next six months. The dot plot includes projections from seven committee members, including Governor Shin Hyun-song, each providing three estimates. The most common projection is 3.00%, with 10 members indicating this rate, while seven members projected 2.75%. Two members suggested rates of 3.25% and 2.50%, respectively. If these projections hold true, the likelihood of a rate increase has risen, with at least three members forecasting two hikes by November. The committee has maintained the current rate during its last six meetings, including those held in July, August, October, and November of last year, as well as January, February, and April of this year. However, given the robust economy and rising inflation pressures due to the conflict in the Middle East, the committee hinted at a tightening monetary policy. In its decision statement, the committee noted, "Future monetary policy will be determined by assessing the extent of inflationary pressures, the trajectory of economic improvement, and financial stability conditions." During the rate decision process, five committee members voted to maintain the current rate, while members Jang Yong-seong and Yoo Sang-dae expressed a minority opinion favoring an increase to 2.75%. Looking ahead, there are four scheduled monetary policy meetings before November, including those in July, August, October, and November. The dot plot, introduced in February, will be released quarterly in conjunction with economic forecasts in February, May, August, and November. Each committee member may project all three estimates at the same rate or distribute them across different levels. In the previous dot plot released in February, 16 out of 21 projections clustered around the current benchmark rate of 2.50%, indicating expectations for a rate freeze. At that time, four projections were at 2.25%, and only one was at 2.75%. The significant shift in this latest dot plot is interpreted as a response to the Middle Eastern conflict and strong semiconductor exports.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-28 11:12:00

Concerns Raised Over Special Prosecutor Bill's Authority to Dismiss Charges The Corruption Investigation Office has expressed concerns regarding a clause in the special prosecutor bill, known as the "manipulated prosecution special prosecutor law," which would allow the special prosecutor to decide whether to maintain charges. The office submitted its opinion to the National Assembly, stating that this provision could violate the principle of separation of powers. On May 28, legal sources reported that the Corruption Investigation Office conveyed its concerns in a written response to Representative Koo Ja-geun of the People Power Party. The office noted that the clause allowing the special prosecutor to take over cases and decide on charge maintenance raises potential issues with the principle of separation of powers, warranting careful consideration. However, the office clarified that the decision on whether a special prosecutor is needed for specific cases should be determined by the National Assembly, which holds legislative authority. This decision should take into account the necessity for an independent special prosecutor, public interest, and various circumstances surrounding the cases. The clause in question is Article 8, Section 7 of the bill, which states that "the special prosecutor shall perform the duties related to the maintenance of charges for the cases received." Previously, the Democratic Party introduced the bill on April 30, aimed at appointing a special prosecutor to investigate allegations of manipulated investigations and prosecutions by the Yoon Suk-yeol administration, the National Intelligence Service, and the Board of Audit and Inspection. The bill includes a total of 12 cases for investigation, such as the Daejang-dong development corruption scandal, the Ssangbangwool North Korea remittance case, and the shooting of a civil servant in the West Sea. Legal experts have pointed out that this clause could effectively grant the special prosecutor the authority to dismiss charges. The Supreme Prosecutors' Office also expressed concerns on April 30, stating that it could unduly influence the independence of the judiciary. The Economic Justice Action has also called for the removal of the clause granting charge dismissal authority. Political disputes continue over the advancement of the bill. The People Power Party has labeled the bill as a "charge dismissal special prosecutor" and has opposed it. In contrast, the Democratic Party has stated that it will gather opinions on the timing and procedures for processing the bill after the local elections.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-28 11:09:00

Park Ji-hyun Reveals Father's Battle with Stomach Cancer Actor Park Ji-hyun has revealed that her father, a doctor, is battling stomach cancer. On May 27, Park appeared as a guest on the tvN variety show "You Quiz on the Block." During the episode, she discussed her role in the Netflix series "Eun-jung and Sang-yeon," stating, "Since my father is a doctor, I sought a lot of medical advice during the preparation for the project," and added, "He was diagnosed with cancer around the time 'The Youngest Son of a Conglomerate' was released." She explained the situation, saying, "At the time when the ratings for 'The Youngest Son of a Conglomerate' were rising, I received a call from my brother. They found pus in his stomach due to food poisoning, and while he was hospitalized at a university hospital, they conducted further tests and discovered cancer." Park continued, "From that point on, his condition worsened, and I felt like something was being taken away from me while I was given something in return." She expressed that her father's illness weighed heavily on her heart. She also mentioned that she asked her father many questions during filming. "While shooting 'Eun-jung and Sang-yeon,' I thought of my father a lot. When I received the script, he was in a much better condition, so I asked him many questions. I asked him what kind of pain he was experiencing, and he said, 'If it weren't for my family, I would have wanted to die.' Hearing that made me understand Sang-yeon's feelings," she said. Despite his battle with cancer, Park's father expressed joy over his daughter's achievements. Park reflected, "I think my father felt proud that I was able to show some success in my acting while he was sick. I saw him liking all the posts fans shared, and I thought that showing a good image through my active work was the best I could do for him."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-28 11:09:00

Privacy Commission Recommends Improvements to Face Recognition System for Mobile Phone Registration The Personal Information Protection Commission has recommended improvements to the face recognition system implemented during mobile phone registration, citing inadequate privacy protections. On May 28, the commission announced that it had approved a set of recommendations regarding the operation of the face recognition system during mobile phone registration at its plenary meeting the previous day. The Ministry of Science and ICT has been piloting the face recognition system since December as part of a government initiative to combat voice phishing. This system compares a photo of the user's ID with their live face in real time. The commission's investigation found that the ministry had not sufficiently considered the sensitivity of biometric data from a privacy protection perspective. Under the Personal Information Protection Act, facial data is classified as sensitive information and can only be processed with the consent of the individual or a clear legal basis. Concerns were raised about the lack of clarity in existing telecommunications laws regarding the use of facial data as a means of identity verification during mobile phone registration. Additionally, the commission noted that users effectively have no choice but to accept face recognition, which undermines their ability to opt out. It also suggested that the scope of data processed by the contractor's system should be minimized. The commission urged the ministry to thoroughly review the necessity, applicability, effectiveness, appropriateness, and proportionality of processing biometric data before formal implementation. It emphasized the need to operate the system according to the principle of privacy by design (PbD) and to clarify legal grounds and protections for individuals' rights. The commission plans to monitor the implementation of these recommendations and support efforts to ensure that government-wide measures against voice phishing are carried out within a framework that protects personal information.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-28 11:06:00

South Korea to Develop Specialized AI Models for Home Appliance Manufacturing Government officials are set to accelerate the transition to manufacturing artificial intelligence (AI) in the home appliance industry by developing specialized AI models. As mixed production becomes essential, the aim is to create AI systems that manage production and logistics schedules. This initiative includes building AI training data and establishing K-AI standards as part of the "Home Appliance M.AX Three Major Tasks." On May 28, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy held the third general meeting of the "Home Appliance M.AX Alliance" at the Electronics Hall, attended by Choi Woo-hyuk, Director of Advanced Industry Policy, and over 80 participating companies and institutions. During the meeting, the ministry outlined plans for the "Home Appliance M.AX Three Major Tasks." The home appliance industry is facing increasing challenges due to global supply chain disruptions exacerbated by recent conflicts in the Middle East. Coupled with fierce competition from companies in rival nations, the domestic and international landscape is more precarious than ever. This risk is reflected in the numbers. According to the Korea Customs Service, home appliance exports fell to $6.9 billion last year, a 17% decrease from the previous year. In the current year, exports have only reached $2.246 billion, marking a 6.2% decline compared to the same period last year. In response, the government plans to fundamentally improve the industry by integrating AI into all aspects of home appliance manufacturing, from production processes to innovative product development, centered around the M.AX Alliance. Specifically, the government will develop specialized manufacturing AI models that reflect the unique characteristics of home appliance production. As consumer preferences diversify, mixed production—where multiple products are manufactured on a single line—has become essential. To accommodate frequent line changes, the government will develop AI models that manage production and logistics schedules autonomously, utilizing automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs). The initiative will also support the rapid and efficient development of innovative AI-powered home appliances. A roadmap for building AI training data will be established, and a survey of corporate demand will be conducted to systematically collect public data for AI training. Alongside data construction, the government will initiate the development of universal modules, including standard hardware and software development kits for AI home appliances, to alleviate the economic and technological burdens on companies. An AI home appliance support center will open in July to assist with the entire development process, from product design to prototype production. To prevent "AI washing"—the misleading practice of claiming AI capabilities for non-AI products—the government will establish standards. The National Institute of Technology and Standards will swiftly prepare national standards for the technical grading of AI home appliances and inter-device security by the end of the year. The goal is to ensure that reliable products that meet quality and security standards can establish a foothold in the market, while also identifying and linking government policy support measures. The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy will operate the Home Appliance M.AX Alliance with a focus on three key functions: manufacturing processes, product innovation and data, and standard cooperation, to execute these three major tasks with urgency. Choi Woo-hyuk stated, "The overall AI transformation of the manufacturing ecosystem is a necessary strategy for survival in fierce global competition. We will concentrate all policy efforts to ensure that the intelligence of home appliances and the AI transformation of manufacturing processes are organically aligned, establishing global leadership for domestic home appliances."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-28 11:06:00

Government to Complete Rare Earth Recycling Certification by August The South Korean government is accelerating its rare earth recycling initiative to reduce dependence on China for its supply chain. The plan includes establishing a domestic production base for rare earths using recycled permanent magnets by the end of the year, with certification procedures expected to be completed by August. On May 28, Lim Ki-geun, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Economy and Finance, visited Seongrim Advanced Industries, a manufacturer of rare earth permanent magnets in Daegu, to assess the progress of the recycling project. This visit was aimed at reviewing strategies for the early implementation of key mineral recycling initiatives included in this year’s main and supplementary budgets. In light of recent global supply chain uncertainties and escalating U.S.-China strategic competition, the government has identified rare earths as a critical national resource and is working to enhance its response capabilities. Rare earths are essential materials used across various industries, including electric vehicles, semiconductors, defense, and artificial intelligence, and disruptions in their supply can significantly impact the broader economy. To support this initiative, the government has allocated 1 billion won for rare earth recycling facility support in the main budget and an additional 6 billion won for raw material procurement and 2.08 billion won for production capacity verification in the supplementary budget. The goal is to secure 100 tons of raw materials for recycling by the end of the year. To expedite the establishment of a collection system for recycled permanent magnets, the government will begin providing financial support for related facilities and equipment starting in June. It also aims to complete preliminary administrative procedures, such as the recognition of recycled resources, by August. The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy will oversee facility and equipment support, while the Ministry of Environment will handle the recognition and designation processes. Seongrim Advanced Industries and its subsidiary, Ecoreon, are recognized as leading companies in South Korea capable of recycling rare earths from used permanent magnets. Based on the supplementary budget, the government plans to initiate production capacity verification within this year. Earlier, on May 21, the government announced measures to reduce import dependence on economically sensitive items from specific countries to below 50% by 2030. Rare earths will be managed as a focus item for concentrated procurement through 2029. Concerns were raised during the visit that a significant number of used permanent magnets are either not being collected or are leaking overseas, highlighting the urgent need for establishing a raw material collection system and improving regulations in the initial stages. Vice Minister Lim stated, "The rare earth recycling project is a newly established initiative aimed at proactively addressing supply chain uncertainties. We will promptly complete the certification process by August and work closely with the Ministries of Trade and Environment to ensure comprehensive support for regulatory improvements and preliminary procedure management."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-28 11:06:00