KAIST researchers solve solar cell dilemma by achieving 25% efficiency and long-term stability SEOUL, March 24 (AJP) - Researchers at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) have addressed a long-standing trade-off in solar technology where increasing energy efficiency often leads to a shorter lifespan. The team succeeded in developing a high-efficiency perovskite solar cell that maintains performance over time by precisely controlling the internal structure of a protective surface layer. KAIST announced Tuesday that a joint research team led by Distinguished Professor Seo Jang-won from the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering and the Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT) developed a design for a two-dimensional (2D) protective film. This technology simultaneously enhances both the power conversion efficiency and the operational reliability of the cells. Perovskite solar cells are considered the next generation of high-efficiency photovoltaics due to their low production costs. However, their tendency to degrade when exposed to heat, humidity, or prolonged sunlight has remained a significant barrier to commercial use. To combat this, researchers typically apply a 2D layer on top of the primary 3D perovskite structure to reduce surface defects, but these layers often lack the structural integrity needed for long-term durability. The research team introduced a more robust 2D structure known as the Dion-Jabocson (DJ) phase. In this configuration, organic molecules act like strong adhesive, binding the perovskite layers tightly together. By carefully adjusting heat treatment temperatures and timing, the researchers were able to control the "n-value," or the number of stacked layers within the film, to create a more organized and stable internal arrangement. This precise control allowed for smoother charge movement, which boosted the cell's efficiency. The team confirmed through experiments that the structural rearrangement at the interface during heat treatment is what allows the 2D film to be customized for maximum performance. This process also ensures that the manufacturing results are highly reproducible. The resulting solar cells achieved a power conversion efficiency of 25.56 percent. Furthermore, the devices maintained high performance levels even under extreme testing conditions of 85 degrees Celsius and 85 percent relative humidity. The researchers also confirmed that the technology is effective when applied to large-area modules, signaling strong potential for mass production. "This study demonstrates that the conventional dilemma of choosing between efficiency and longevity can be solved through the structural design of a surface protective film," said Distinguished Professor Seo Jang-won. He added that because the technology remains stable despite minor changes in processing conditions, it will be highly beneficial for large-scale commercial manufacturing. The study, co-authored by KAIST doctoral student Lee Jae-hee and KRICT researcher Moon Chan-su, was published in the journal Joule on February 24, 2026. 2026-03-24 16:21:56

NH NongHyup Financial Adopts Five-Day Vehicle Rotation to Save Energy NH NongHyup Financial Group said on the 24th it has immediately introduced a groupwide five-day vehicle rotation system as the government raised its resource security alert due to the prolonged war in the Middle East. With uncertainty growing over energy supplies as Middle East conditions deteriorate, the government raised the resource security alert for crude oil to the “caution” level as of 3 p.m. on the 18th. Starting at midnight on the 25th, the public sector will begin a five-day passenger-car rotation system that restricts driving by day of the week based on the last digit of a vehicle’s license plate number. NongHyup Financial said it will apply the policy from the 24th to all affiliates, including the financial holding company, in line with the government’s energy-saving measures for public institutions. The rule covers both corporate vehicles and employees’ commuting vehicles. Exemptions apply to electric and hydrogen vehicles and to cases where travel is difficult, including people with disabilities, pregnant women and vehicles carrying infants. The group said it is also stepping up energy-saving and carbon-reduction efforts by turning off lights in office areas, shutting down unused electronic devices and encouraging stair use. Chairman Lee Chan-woo said the group has maintained an emergency response system for financial markets since the outbreak of the Middle East war. “All employees will join in saving energy and take the lead in overcoming this national crisis,” he said.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-03-24 15:39:00

High schoolers sit for nationwide test to gauge their academic levels SEOUL, March 24 (AJP) - Over a million high school students nationwide took a test to assess their levels of academic achievement. According to the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education, some 1.22 million students from 1,948 high schools across 17 metropolitan and provincial cities sat for the test on Tuesday. The nationwide test is conducted several times a year in a format similar to the annual university entrance exam later in the year, often considered a life-deciding test in a country where admission to a prestigious university is a key factor to success. First introduced in 2002 to reduce reliance on private crammers, the test is intended to help students prepare for university admission. 2026-03-24 15:38:59

Korean Cultural Center in Hong Kong previews works from Art Basel Hong Kong 2026 galleries The Korean Cultural Center in Hong Kong said it will present a group exhibition of Korean contemporary art, “From Korea to Hong Kong: Expanding Horizons,” from March 24 through May 30. The show, tied to “Art Basel Hong Kong 2026,” was organized in cooperation with 11 leading South Korean galleries participating in the fair. It brings together works by 11 artists spanning generations and genres. Participating artists are Lee Manna (Sun Gallery), Michael Joo (Kukje Gallery), Kim Jae-yong (Hakgojae Gallery), Won Seongwon (Arario Gallery), Kang Kanghoon (Johyun Gallery), Shin Kyungchul (Rian Gallery), Choi Sujin (G Gallery), Lee Jaeseok (Gallery Baton), Lee Yujin (Wooson Gallery), Kim Mooyoung (N/A) and Lee Jonghwan (Cylinder). The center said the exhibition is notable for bringing together, in one venue, works selected directly by each gallery. It said the space was arranged to highlight each artist’s distinct approach while allowing visitors to experience the show as a cohesive whole, reworking messages and aesthetic directions presented at Art Basel within the center’s galleries. Visitors will be able to see how different visual languages align, and how styles intersect from emerging artists to midcareer artists active internationally, the center said. Director Choi Jaewon said this year’s edition aims to present “expanded horizons” by broadening the participating galleries, linking the timing to the fair, and widening the range of generations and genres. He said he hopes it will be remembered as a signature program that offers a chance to encounter Korean contemporary art around the same time each year. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-03-24 15:27:37

Hana Financial to Move Headquarters to Incheon’s Cheongna in September; Hanwha Life Extends Outside Director Terms Hana Financial Group said it will relocate its group headquarters to Cheongna, Incheon, in September and secured funding for tax-free dividends, a move expected to strengthen shareholder returns. Hanwha Life Insurance, meanwhile, extended the term of outside directors from two years to three to bolster board expertise. Hana Financial on Monday approved at its annual shareholders meeting a proposal to reduce its capital reserve by 7.4 trillion won to enable tax-free dividends. The decision allows the company to transfer 7.4 trillion won from the capital reserve to retained earnings and use it as dividend funding. If dividends are paid from this source, individual shareholders can receive payouts without paying dividend income tax. Hana Financial said it plans to begin tax-free dividends starting with its dividend for this year’s fourth-quarter results. Shareholders also approved an amendment to the articles of incorporation to move the group headquarters to the Cheongna International City area of Incheon. The plan advances the long-discussed “Hana Financial Town” concept, envisioned after Kim Seung-yu, a former chairman of Hana Financial, visited Banco Santander’s Santander City near Madrid in 2007. The Cheongna Hana Financial Town is planned to cover 128,474 square meters and is expected to serve as a future financial hub. Hana Financial said it plans to begin the headquarters relocation on Sept. 30. The board lineup was partly reshaped. Shareholders considered proposals to appoint Vice Chairmen Lee Seung-yeol and Kang Seong-muk as inside directors. Choi Hyun-ja, a consumer rights specialist and professor in Seoul National University’s Department of Consumer Science, joined as a new outside director. Hana Financial also approved a charter change to reorganize its board-level Consumer Risk Management Committee into a Consumer Protection Committee, underscoring a groupwide push for consumer-focused management. The meeting also established a basis to introduce electronic shareholders meetings in line with the Commercial Act revision set to take effect in January next year. Park Dong-moon, chairman of Hana Financial’s board, said in a letter to shareholders, “We will closely check the faithful implementation of the corporate value enhancement plan and strengthen overall governance, including internal controls and consumer protection.” He added, “Even in a rapidly changing financial environment, we will pursue long-term shareholder value through responsible decision-making and sustainable management.” Hanwha Life Insurance expanded the term of outside directors from two years to three years. Shareholders also approved the reappointment of outside directors Park Soon-cheol and Jung Soon-seop and the new appointment of Yoo Chang-min, head of the investment division, as an inside director. Hanwha Life CEO Kwon Hyuk-woong said, “We aim to secure the industry’s top AI competitiveness by fully applying artificial intelligence technology across our business.” He added, “Based on the results and foundation we have built, we will continue stable growth and responsible management and do our best to meet expectations.” 2026-03-24 15:20:38

Samsung Electronics showcases joint HVAC solutions with newly acquired FläktGroup at MCE 2026 SEOUL, March 24 (AJP) - Samsung Electronics unveiled its latest heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) solutions jointly with FläktGroup at the MCE 2026 exhibition in Milan, Italy, on Tuesday. The event marks the first joint showcase since Samsung's acquisition of the climate control firm in November. Samsung is displaying a centralized HVAC system that connects FläktGroup's five indoor units with its own outdoor units, such as the DVM S2+, managed through a Building Management Solution (BMS) platform. The companies are targeting high-value industrial sectors, including data centers and clean rooms. Commercial products on display include FläktGroup's 'CAIRplus' Air Handling Unit (AHU) and the compact 'Geko' Fan Coil Unit (FCU). For the residential market, Samsung introduced the 2026 'AI Wind-Free Combo Pro' wall-mounted air conditioner and the 'EHS All-in-One' system. Targeting European regulations and demand for energy efficiency, the EHS and DVM S2+ lineups utilize R32 refrigerant, which features a 68 percent lower Global Warming Potential compared to conventional R410A. The systems also incorporate AI-driven energy-saving modes and waste heat recycling technologies. The biennial MCE exhibition, which features around 1,900 participating companies this year, runs from March 24 to 27. 2026-03-24 15:19:54

Tottenham Slips Toward Relegation Zone After Son Heung-min Exit, Winless Run Grows Tottenham Hotspur’s slump has deepened into a relegation fight in the English Premier League, with local media pointing to a leadership vacuum after captain and star Son Heung-min left for Los Angeles FC and to criticism of the club’s top management. After 31 league matches, Tottenham sits 17th at 7-9-15 for 30 points, just one point above 18th-place West Ham United (7-8-16, 29). In the EPL, the teams finishing 18th through 20th after 38 rounds are relegated to the Championship. The recent form is worse. Tottenham is winless in 13 straight league matches (5 draws, 8 losses) and has not won since a 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace on Dec. 29. The club has not won a league match this year, its longest winless run in 91 years. Home results have been especially poor. Tottenham has only two home league wins in 16 matches (4 draws, 10 losses). The Independent reported that, excluding second-division Sheffield Wednesday, which was docked points for financial issues, it is the worst home record across England’s top four professional divisions. The season did not begin this way. Tottenham started under then-coach Thomas Frank and picked up notable wins, including against Manchester City. But results collapsed from November, and Frank was fired on Feb. 11. Interim coach Igor Tudor has failed to lift the mood, going 1 draw and 4 losses in five league matches since taking over. British outlets have cited the loss of a team focal point. The Guardian, in a March 12 analysis of what it described as a growing defeatist mood in the squad, said Tottenham has failed to replace players who “truly loved the club” and connected teammates and fans, including Son, Harry Kane (Bayern Munich) and Eric Dier (AS Monaco). Questions have also followed the new captain. Romero, a central defender, has been unable to anchor the back line because of frequent dismissals and disciplinary bans. Tottenham has conceded 50 goals in 31 league matches (1.61 per game), the league’s fourth-worst defensive record by that measure. Injuries have compounded the problems. Midfield playmaker James Maddison tore an anterior cruciate ligament during a preseason friendly at Seoul World Cup Stadium in August and was ruled out for the season. More key players later went down, and seven regulars missed the March 22 match at Nottingham Forest, a 3-0 loss, because of injuries. Criticism of the club’s leadership has intensified. The Guardian faulted what it called an obsession with commercialization, writing that even as the team slid, the stadium video boards flashed ads for revenue-generating events such as the Skywalk attraction, rugby, the NFL and pop concerts. It also argued that frequent coaching changes have taken a toll, saying players who repeatedly heard they were steeped in a “culture of failure” since Mauricio Pochettino eventually began to play that way. The Independent also criticized Daniel Levy, identified as the club’s previous chairman, and majority owner ENIC Group. In a March 23 report, it said “years of underinvestment, shortcuts and poor management” had caught up with Tottenham, and singled out the appointments of CEO Vinai Venkatesham and sports director Johan Lange as among the club’s worst hiring decisions.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-03-24 15:19:29

Hirst and Sehgal Draw Crowds With Opposite Approaches: Exposure vs. No Photos Bare it all, or keep it tightly hidden. Two exhibitions drawing attention in Seoul are doing so in opposite ways: a Damien Hirst solo show at the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Korea, leans into exposure, while a Tino Sehgal solo show at the Leeum Museum of Art draws curiosity by refusing it.  Online posts on the 24th have focused on “Damien Hirst: There Is No Truth, Everything Is Possible,” now on view at MMCA Seoul.  The show has been closely watched since before it opened, after debate over whether MMCA should mount a solo exhibition for Hirst, whom some critics describe as past his peak or as a star artist aimed at box-office appeal. Images and reviews of the exhibition have followed.  Hirst, whose name functions as a brand, is known for actively using the media, audiences and social platforms. In the 1990s, he drew explosive attention with shocking works, including a dead shark displayed in a glass tank filled with formaldehyde. His unconventional moves, including producing work with a large team of assistants, helped elevate him to celebrity status.    At a recent news conference, Hirst did not take questions but posed in various ways for photographers. The MMCA exhibition also highlights personal details, including music he says he listens to regularly and a space designed to recreate his London studio.     Hirst is also an active social media user, with more than 1.04 million Instagram followers. In 2018, he posted a photo of himself in his studio wearing only underwear and offered a free artwork to the follower who wrote the wittiest caption. The post drew about 10,000 comments. In 2022, through his project “The Currency,” buyers were told to choose between an NFT and a physical artwork. After collectors chose the NFT version, Hirst burned more than 1,000 of the original works. The burning was livestreamed on social media, and the destroyed works were valued at about 10 million pounds (about 17 billion won), according to assessments at the time.    Sehgal, by contrast, keeps his distance from social media. Britain’s The Guardian has described him as an “Instagram users’ nightmare.” His exhibitions leave no photos or videos behind. At Leeum, photography and video recording are banned, and the work is meant to be carried forward only in visitors’ memories.  Sehgal, who pursues what he calls “de-production,” urges visitors to put down smartphones and cameras and stay with the present moment. Asked at a news conference in February whether he regretted being unable to promote his work through social media, he said, “My work is about asking what we can do beyond objects.”  He added, “In a way, I think I benefit in the screen era,” citing growing research on the negative effects of screen activity. “I don’t think you can say my work only loses out,” he said. He also said teenagers often described as “digital natives” are realizing screen time is not always positive and are paying more attention to real experiences.   2026-03-24 15:18:21

DAY6's Wonpil to release solo EP "Unfiltered" on March 30 SEOUL, March 24 (AJP) - K-pop band DAY6 member Wonpil has treated fans on Tuesday by offering an unexpected gift, a glimpse at this upcoming solo album scheduled to be released on March 30. The track preview for the 31-year-old's new album called "Unfiltered" was released through a video uploaded through the group’s official social media channels. The teasers featured snippets of all seven songs on the album, including the title track "Love Ward." Six other songs included in the EP are -- "Toxic Love," "Becoming an Adult," "Up All Night," "Step by Step," "Not a Million Roses," and "Piano." Wonpil's agency JYP Entertainment said that the artist participated the creation of the songs. Day6 is a Korean pop rock band under JYP Entertainment, known for its members’ involvement in songwriting and production. The band is known for songs such as "You Were Beautiful" and "Time of Our Life." Wonpil, born April 28, 1994, is a vocalist and keyboardist of the band. The release marks his first solo project in four years, following his solo debut album "Pilmography" in February 2022. 2026-03-24 15:02:36

Gov't mulls export restrictions on naphtha amid supply disruptions SEOUL, March 24 (AJP) - The government is considering imposing restrictions on exports of naphtha amid supply shortages as the ongoing conflict in the Middle East drags on. At a press briefing at the government complex in the administrative city of Sejong on Tuesday, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy said, "We are discussing with relevant ministries steps to take, which would include restrictions on exports and a ban on hoarding." Naphtha, a primary raw material for petrochemical products, is produced domestically by refiners, accounting for about 55 percent of domestic supply, with the remainder imported. Disruptions to supply chains in the Middle East have prompted some petrochemical companies to halt operations. The remarks came just a day after LG Chem decided to halt operations at its plant in Yeosu, South Jeolla Province, which has an annual ethylene capacity of 800,000 tons. Yeochun NCC, an industrial complex in the same southern province, also halted its olefin conversion process to adjust output after the operating rate of its naphtha cracker declined. The ministry said, "Export restrictions alone would not be enough to resolve the shortage, so we are also preparing emergency supplies through a supplementary budget, as well as importing substitutes." But it added, "Exports of naphtha are not that large in volume, so we may prioritize supplies for petrochemical companies to help them maintain operations while restricting others." Despite rising prices of naphtha, the ministry said it has no plans to directly control prices, adding that any increase would have a limited impact on consumers. 2026-03-24 14:57:27