Olive Young's U.S. Expansion Highlights the Strength of K-Content The global prominence of Korean content is once again in the spotlight. From films and dramas to K-pop, webtoons, entertainment, gaming, and beauty, the cultural and lifestyle products emerging from Korea have become a global trend. While South Korea was once represented by its semiconductor, automotive, and shipbuilding industries, content has now become a key pillar driving the country's brand and industrial competitiveness. The recent opening of CJ Olive Young's first U.S. store in Pasadena, California, symbolizes this transformation. The store features a wide array of Korean cosmetics, wellness products, and K-lifestyle items, along with skin diagnostic and experiential service areas. Notably, over 80% of the products are from K-brands, yet local consumers continue to show significant interest. Importantly, Olive Young is not merely selling cosmetics; it has created a 'K-Beauty playground' by bringing popular Korean brands and consumer culture to the U.S. As demand grows among American consumers to experience products that are currently trending in Korea, K-Beauty is being consumed as a cultural content. This development clearly illustrates the expanding influence of K-content. In the past, fans might have simply enjoyed dramas and admired actors, but now they are purchasing cosmetics featured in dramas, seeking out foods showcased in variety shows, and trying lifestyle products used by K-pop stars. This creates a virtuous cycle where content drives industry growth, and industry expansion further promotes content dissemination. The power of K-content did not emerge overnight. Just two decades ago, the Korean content industry struggled to break through the barriers of foreign content. Today, the landscape has changed dramatically. Global streaming platforms are competing to secure Korean dramas, while K-pop continues to expand its influence at the center of the global music market. The webtoon, gaming, and beauty industries are also creating new markets by integrating with Korean content. However, the global attention on K-content does not guarantee lasting success. Challenges such as increasing dependence on global platforms, creator rights issues, intellectual property competition, and excessive commercialization remain to be addressed. If the industry becomes complacent with immediate successes, the current wave of popularity could prove to be a fleeting trend. Ultimately, the strength of K-content lies in compelling storytelling, a healthy ecosystem, and the dedication of creators who adhere to fundamental principles. As the world focuses on Korea, it is crucial to maintain these values. More important than flashy achievements is the essence of the content itself. Continuous investment in common sense, principles, and competitive content is the only way to solidify the future of K-content. Just as Japan built its cultural influence through animation and gaming, and the U.S. through Hollywood films and music, trust and affection for K-content will shape national image and drive demand for K-beauty, K-food, K-fashion, and tourism, serving as a powerful economic asset.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-01 11:09:00

KOSPI Surges Past 8,800 Amid Institutional Buying The KOSPI index surged past the 8,800 mark during trading on June 1, driven by strong institutional buying. Starting at around 8,400, the index quickly climbed to a record high within two hours of the market opening, buoyed by purchases of major stocks such as Samsung Electronics, Samsung C&T, and LG Group shares. As of 10:53 a.m. KST, the KOSPI was trading at 8,823.17, up 347.02 points (4.09%) from the previous trading day. The index opened at 8,485.67, up 9.52 points (0.11%), and continued its steep ascent. In the securities market, institutions led the rise by net buying 1.6976 trillion won worth of stocks, while individuals purchased 152.4 billion won. Conversely, foreign investors were net sellers, offloading 1.7467 trillion won worth of shares. Market analysts noted that the surge in Samsung Electronics, along with increased buying in sectors related to artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and power infrastructure, contributed to the overall market momentum. Samsung Electronics saw a rise of over 9%, reaching a new all-time high, while Samsung C&T (up 8.90%), Doosan Enerbility (up 4.36%), Hyundai Motor (up 2.90%), and Samsung Life (up 5.41%) also performed strongly. Other stocks like SK Hynix (up 1.54%), SK Square (up 2.68%), and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (up 1.29%) also showed gains. However, Samsung Electro-Mechanics (down 4.84%) and LG Energy Solution (down 1.64%) faced declines. Notably, stocks in the AI and robotics sectors experienced significant gains, including Doosan Robotics (up 29.95%), LG Electronics (up 27.13%), LG Electronics Preferred (up 25.18%), Samsung SDS (up 24.58%), LG HelloVision (up 23.41%), LG CNS (up 23.20%), and SKC (up 19.74%). Kim Seok-hwan, a researcher at Mirae Asset Securities, commented, “With expectations surrounding Jensen Huang, CEO of NVIDIA, visiting Korea this week, there has been a surge in buying across LG Group stocks such as LG Electronics, LG CNS, and LG Innotek. This aligns with a reevaluation of the physical AI industry’s value, leading to increased interest in the robotics theme.” He added, “The momentum from large overseas orders for power infrastructure companies is also supporting the market’s rise.” Meanwhile, the KOSDAQ index was trading at 1,052.61, down 22.19 points (2.06%) at the same time. Foreign investors net bought 283.2 billion won, while individuals and institutions net sold 267.9 billion won and 8.1 billion won, respectively. Among the top market capitalization stocks, Rainbow Robotics (up 13.39%) and HLB (up 0.39%) saw gains, while EcoPro BM (down 3.69%), Alteogen (down 1.49%), EcoPro (down 4.68%), JUSUNG Engineering (down 6.05%), and Peptron (down 6.64%) faced declines.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-01 11:09:00

South Korea's exports hit record high in May on strong AI chip demand SEOUL, June 1 (AJP) - South Korea's exports surged more than 50 percent from a year earlier to a record high last month, fueled by robust semiconductor shipments, even as uncertainty persisted amid the prolonged war in the Middle East, according to data released by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources on Monday. Exports in May totaled US$87.75 billion, up 53.2 percent from a year earlier, the highest monthly figure on record and the third straight month above $80 billion. Exports have risen for 12 consecutive months since June last year. The growth was led by semiconductor exports, which soared 169.4 percent from a year earlier to a record US$37.16 billion, supported by rising memory chip contract prices amid increased artificial intelligence (AI)-related investment by major U.S. technology companies. Chip exports have now exceeded US$30 billion for three consecutive months. Exports excluding chips also rose, while average daily exports surpassed US$4 billion for the first time, breaking the previous record of US$3.79 billion set in March. Computer exports also rose to $4.18 billion, up 290.7 percent, on stronger demand for AI server SSDs, while wireless communications devices increased 12.6 percent to $1.46 billion on solid new-product sales. Display exports rose 9.4 percent to $1.47 billion. Among consumer goods, cosmetics exports increased 24.2 percent to $1.18 billion, the highest for any May. Agricultural and fisheries food exports rose 4.7 percent to $1.07 billion as processed farm products such as noodles and bread increased, offsetting declines in items such as coffee and seaweed. Exports of petroleum products surged 46.6 percent from a year earlier to $5.25 billion as higher oil prices boosted export unit values, although shipment volumes fell 23.8 percent. Gasoline exports fell 31.1 percent, while diesel and kerosene shipments declined 24.3 percent and 99.9 percent, respectively. Petrochemical exports rose 11.1 percent to $3.7 billion, although export volumes dropped 25.5 percent as producers prioritized domestic supply. Auto shipments declined 5.9 percent to $5.83 billion, hurt by fewer working days and logistics disruptions caused by the conflict in the Middle East. By destination, exports to China rose 80.9 percent to $18.9 billion, led by a 243-percent jump in semiconductor shipments and steady growth in consumer goods. Exports to the U.S. increased 59.1 percent to $15.97 billion. Exports to ASEAN rose 58.4 percent to $15.85 billion, and exports to the EU increased 2.4 percent to $6.19 billion. Exports to the Middle East fell 7.7 percent to $1.27 billion. Meanwhile, imports rose 20.8 percent from a year earlier to US$60.8 billion. Energy imports increased 15.9 percent to US$11.75 billion, led by a 25 percent rise in crude oil imports to US$8.5 billion as import prices climbed. With exports exceeding imports, the trade surplus for May widened to $26.95 billion, up $20.03 billion from a year earlier, extending the surplus streak to 16 months. The January to May cumulative surplus reached $101.91 billion, surpassing the previous annual record of $95.2 billion set in 2017. If this trend continues, exports are likely to surpass the government's annual target of US$740 billion, with officials saying that rising chip volumes and prices could push the total even higher. However, the outlook remains uncertain, with the Middle East conflict and U.S. tariffs still unresolved. "The uncertainty in the trade environment remains," Trade Minister Kim Jung-kwan said, adding that the government will work closely with major trading partners to reduce risks and stabilize export conditions. He also vowed to secure stable imports of key raw materials and strengthen supply chain monitoring. 2026-06-01 11:07:55

Real Estate Trends: Gangnam Faces Transaction Drought While Dongtan Sees Activity Since taking office, the administration of Lee Jae-myung has signaled a clear intention to stimulate the stock market. For the market to thrive, liquidity and transactions are essential. Revisions to commercial law, the abolition of the financial transaction tax, and expectations surrounding retirement pensions have led to an influx of liquidity into the stock market, opening the door for trading. In contrast, the real estate sector has faced a different reality. The government has indicated its intention to end the era of making money through real estate, simultaneously reducing both fuel and oxygen to prevent further spread of speculation. Unlike the past, where excessive taxation merely built market resistance, the current approach tightens liquidity through loan restrictions and curtails transactions via increased capital gains taxes and land transaction permits. The plan to position stocks as an alternative asset to real estate has seen some success. Speculative transactions in Gangnam have noticeably decreased, leading to an increase in urgent sales and a temporary drop in home prices in the area. Notably, the shift in approach—moving away from solely relying on taxes to include finance and supply—has been commendable. In stock market terms, it has effectively halted the short-term surges of overheated stocks, resulting in diverging trends between the two markets. KOSPI Hits 8000, Gangnam Experiences Transaction Cliff While the KOSPI is led by major stocks like Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix, the real estate market's equivalent is the Gangnam area. Over the past year, while the stock market leaders surged with trading volume, Gangnam's three districts moved in the opposite direction. Loan regulations have restricted buyers' access to funds, increased capital gains taxes have diminished sellers' incentives, and land transaction permits have limited investor entry. The number of apartments for sale in Seoul has decreased by about 25% compared to a year ago, with Gangnam showing a trend of urgent sales being absorbed first, followed by a stabilization of asking prices. In stock market terms, Gangnam resembles a leading stock with depleted trading volume rather than a suspended one. Sellers are constrained by taxes, while buyers are hindered by loan and permit restrictions, resulting in thin transaction volumes. In a market with limited supply, even minimal transactions can prevent asking prices from dropping easily. This explains why Gangnam began to show signs of recovery after urgent sales were absorbed in May, just before the end of the grace period. However, a rebound without sufficient transaction volume cannot be definitively seen as a trend reversal. Average price increases in Seoul do not fully capture the market's true condition. Rather than collapsing under pressure or flooding the market with panic sales, some homeowners have opted to withdraw their listings and hold firm. As the grace period for increased capital gains taxes approaches its end, urgent sales were absorbed first, and after the end of the grace period, the reduced supply led to a rise in asking prices. Ultimately, Gangnam's three districts resemble high-quality stocks that have not easily succumbed to demand despite repeated regulations. The current transaction cliff appears more as a correction phase due to external factors rather than a fundamental deterioration. While transaction volumes in Gangnam have dwindled, market demand has not disappeared. Real Estate Demand Persists Despite Stock Market Dynamics This is where real estate diverges from stocks. In the stock market, reduced liquidity and trading quickly cool off overheating. However, in real estate, there remains genuine demand from buyers. The liquidity that has dried up in Gangnam has circulated into areas outside of regulations. With trading restrictions in place for the leading stock of Gangnam, money has not vanished but has returned to stocks free from regulations. The first area to attract this circulating demand is Dongtan in Hwaseong. Not classified as a regulated area under the 10-15 measures, it has relatively loose requirements for actual residence, taxes, and loans, leading to a 112% surge in apartment transactions in Dongtan New Town in the first quarter compared to a year ago. However, it cannot be viewed solely as a speculative theme stock. It is closer to a fundamental circulation driven by performance expectations from the semiconductor belt, anticipation of the GTX-A opening, and a 1.5% internal loan liquidity. Reports indicate that demand from workers in semiconductor companies like Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix, along with the availability of internal loans, has supported the buying momentum in Dongtan. Not all demand that has been stifled in Gangnam has shifted entirely to non-regulated areas like Dongtan. Some buyers have postponed purchases and remained in the Seoul rental market. While waiting for purchases, demand has stayed in the rental market, leading to a reduction in rental listings due to the actual residence requirements and the conversion of rental properties into sales. In the second week of May, Seoul's average rental prices rose by 0.28%, marking the highest increase in about 10 years and six months since November 2015, while rental listings decreased by 23.5% over three months. Focus on Supply and Transactions Rather Than Prices So, what should be the focus? The transaction cliff identified earlier reflects the current market's strength, while supply indicates the strength for the next cycle. Just as stock investors look at trading volume and supply rather than indices, real estate should also focus on transactions and supply rather than prices. However, supply is dwindling. This year, the number of apartment move-ins in Seoul is expected to be around 20,000, half of previous years, and housing permits in the first quarter have plummeted by 62%, from 14,966 units to 5,632 units over the past year. Permits are a leading indicator showing supply capacity three to five years down the line, not immediate move-ins. The combination of this year's shortage of move-ins and a sharp decline in permits indicates that the current rental crisis and future supply gaps are accumulating. The direction to resolve issues through supply is correct, but the challenge lies in the pace. While a promise of 1.35 million units in the metropolitan area by 2030 has been made, it will take time for the market to feel the impact of this supply. Liquidity has not spread uniformly. Just as major growth stocks and neglected stocks diverge, core areas, industrial belts, and peripheral regions have charted different paths. The nationwide apartment quintile ratio widened to a record high of 12.8 times by the end of last year. Additionally, interest rate burdens remain. While interest rates serve as discount rates in stocks, they represent monthly repayment amounts in real estate. If regulations are lifted or interest and loan conditions change in a supply-depleted state, the pent-up demand for purchases could push asking prices higher again. Real Estate Must Be Viewed Through Its Own Lens Real estate is not the same as stocks. A reduction in transactions does not equate to a disappearance of demand, nor does a drop in prices lead to lower housing cost burdens. When purchases are restricted, some buyers shift to non-regulated areas, while others remain in the rental market. When rental options are limited, they may turn to monthly rentals. Supply is not an immediate product that increases upon order; there are years of lag between permits, construction, completion, and move-ins. If the stock market focuses on liquidity and trading volume, the real estate perspective must consider the people and time that remain behind. The government has had some success in curbing speculative transactions in Gangnam. However, the trend of price stabilization has not lasted long. Gangnam has rebounded while holding firm on asking prices, some demand has shifted to Dongtan, and some has remained in the rental market, pushing up housing costs. The government has not fully grasped when and how the next supply gap will return as a burden. Real estate policy should not end with suppressing the market to buy time. If time has been bought with a stock market perspective, housing must be created for people to live in during that time, as real estate ultimately concerns where people reside.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-01 11:06:00

Koo Yoon-cheol: Economic Leap Golden Time Requires Innovation and Structural Reform Koo Yoon-cheol, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance, emphasized the need to advance innovation and structural reform to improve the economy's fundamentals and establish a foundation for a rebound in potential growth rates. During an expanded meeting at the Government Sejong Center on June 1, attended by key officials including the two vice ministers and department heads, Koo stated, "The period after June is a golden time for a significant economic leap that will change our economy's fundamentals and lay the groundwork for a rebound in potential growth rates." He noted, "In conjunction with the first anniversary of the people's sovereignty government on May 20, we have completed a review of our economic performance," and urged the Ministry of Economy and Finance to be thoroughly prepared to take the lead in innovation and structural reform through the upcoming economic growth strategy for the second half of the year. The meeting also featured the '2nd Team Happiness Awards,' recognizing departments with outstanding policy achievements. The Property Tax Division was acknowledged for its analysis and response to issues related to real estate and inheritance and gift taxes, while the Economic Analysis Division received an award for its analysis of recent economic trends and emergency economic responses due to the war in the Middle East. The Innovation Policy Officer was recognized for enhancing organizational innovation capabilities through the operation of an AI education program, the Public Policy Coordination Division for promoting the 'K-Maru' project, a collaboration platform for overseas offices, and the Economic Cooperation Division for expanding economic cooperation between Korea and Uzbekistan during the Asian Development Bank's annual meeting. In May, the Best Small Happiness award went to Jeon Hyung-yong, an officer in the Investment Management Division, who was commended for establishing a legal framework to manage liquid tobacco products that had previously been distributed outside the regulatory system through amendments to the Tobacco Business Act after 37 years. The meeting also showcased the results of a recent AI intensive training program. Koo remarked, "The results of our efforts in AI innovation are gradually becoming evident," and emphasized the need for officials' interest in developing specialized AI agents for the ministry, while also considering advanced training programs.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-01 11:03:00

Korean Fermented Sauces Gaining Global Attention, Says Michelin-Star Chef "Korean sauces are excellent ingredients that enhance the flavor of dishes," said Frédéric Anton, a Michelin 3-star chef and a national certified master chef (MOF) from France, after tasting traditional Korean sauces like soy sauce and doenjang. As European fine dining chefs and other key figures increasingly recognize the quality of Korean sauces, the potential for globalizing K-sauces is growing.On June 1, the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs reported that Anton, along with Michelin 3-star chefs Christian Le Squer and Martin Opner, participated in a culinary experience event at the Korean Food Master Experience Center in Jongno, Seoul, on May 30.The event was led by Master Gisun Do, a culinary expert who has been making sauces using traditional methods for 360 years. During the event, Gisun Do guided the participants in making sauces and showcased dishes that captivated the Michelin-starred chefs.The chefs praised the dishes made with the sauces. Anton remarked, "Korean cuisine is healthy food based on vegetables and enhanced by fermentation."Recently, Korea's sauce culture has gained international recognition for its history and uniqueness. The practice of making Korean sauces was inscribed on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2024. Traditional sauces like doenjang, ganjang, and gochujang embody fermentation techniques and wisdom accumulated over thousands of years, earning recognition as a unique cultural asset.Korean sauces have demonstrated their success in the international market. Popularity for sauces such as gochujang and barbecue sauce continues to soar, particularly in the United States. Last year, sauce exports reached $92.2 million to the U.S., $60.4 million to China, and $4.02 million to the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS).The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs anticipates that sauces will drive K-food exports this year and is promoting export expansion. Since 2016, the ministry has operated the Korean Food Master Experience Center in collaboration with the Korean Food Master Association to widely promote the value of traditional foods and culinary culture.Recently, the center has focused on participatory programs where visitors can make traditional foods themselves. Last year, there were 53 sessions led by food masters and 204 programs conducted by traditional food specialists, all dedicated to showcasing the excellence of Korean culinary culture.Jung Kyung-seok, director of food industry policy at the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, stated, "With our 'sauce-making' culture recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2024, the excellence of our traditional sauces has been highlighted once again on the global stage. We will actively support the continued development of traditional foods and culinary culture."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-01 11:03:00

AI Jobs in High Demand at Global Talent Fair A large-scale job fair aimed at supporting both South Korean youth seeking overseas employment and international students looking for jobs in South Korea has opened. As demand for talent in advanced industries such as artificial intelligence (AI) and semiconductors grows, the event connects domestic and international companies with job seekers.The '2026 Global Talent Fair (GTF)', hosted by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy and the Ministry of Employment and Labor, and organized by the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA), kicked off on June 1 at COEX in Seoul. The event will run for two days, concluding on June 2.This year's fair features a total of 360 companies, including 137 foreign-invested firms, 121 overseas companies, and 100 companies hiring international students. It is the largest event of its kind aimed at supporting the overseas advancement of South Korean youth and the domestic employment of international students.The main focus this year is on employment in AI technology companies. As competition intensifies for talent in the growing AI sector, human resources representatives from global AI firms shared insights on employment trends and hiring strategies. In the advanced technology section, 86 companies from sectors such as semiconductors, secondary batteries, displays, future vehicles, biotechnology, and AI are conducting on-site hiring and consultations.A dedicated 'Global 500 Companies Zone' was also established, featuring 26 global firms, including Lam Research Korea, Bosch Korea, Schneider Electric Korea, and Thermo Fisher Scientific Korea, all seeking to attract young talent. Global companies based outside the capital region, such as Amkor Technology Korea and Aumobiokorea, are also actively recruiting at the event.An AI-based employment support service drew attention as well. The 'AI Job Assistant' booth analyzed job seekers' skills and recommended suitable companies using AI technology. An experience zone for international students was also set up to assess their business Korean language skills using AI.Additional events focused on sharing employment strategies were held concurrently. A job concert featuring employees and recruiters from global companies introduced job trends and employment tips. Sessions on overseas employment shared regional strategies and local experiences, while sessions for international students included company-specific recruitment presentations and information on visa regulations.KOTRA President Kang Kyung-seong stated, "The Global Talent Fair is a platform that connects youth and companies in a borderless business environment. We will strengthen support to ensure that companies find key talent to lead the global market and that youth have opportunities to find competitive jobs."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-01 11:03:00

Global Talent Fair Expands Job Opportunities for Youth in Foreign Investment Firms The government is hosting a job fair to expand employment opportunities for young job seekers at foreign investment and overseas companies. The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy and the Ministry of Employment and Labor announced on June 1 that they will jointly hold the "2026 Global Talent Fair" at COEX until June 2. The fair aims to provide quality job opportunities for young job seekers while allowing foreign investment and overseas companies to recruit talented individuals. This year, approximately 360 companies are expected to participate. Recently, youth employment rates have been on a downward trend. According to data from the National Statistical Office, the employment rate for young people aged 15 to 29 was 43.7% in April, a decrease of 1.6 percentage points compared to the same month last year. This marks the largest decline since August 2024, continuing a 24-month streak of decreases. The number of employed individuals also fell by 194,000. In response, the government is organizing this fair to support youth employment. During the event, around 18,000 job seekers are expected to participate. Starting this year, support for companies returning from overseas and young job seekers will also be strengthened. Korea Kolmar, the first domestic company to return from outside the capital region this year, will seek young talent at the fair and has set up a separate consulting booth to assist global talent with overseas experience in finding reemployment in Korea. To help young people navigate the AI era, the fair will invite industry representatives to share insights on corporate trends and employment strategies. An "AI Employment Assistant" booth will also be established to analyze job seekers' skills and job fit using AI technology, matching and recommending them to visiting booths. The foreign investment company recruitment section will feature around 140 companies, including Amkor Technology Korea and Hitachi Energy Korea. The overseas employment section will host 121 companies, providing both in-person and virtual consultations for young people interested in overseas job opportunities. Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy Kim Jeong-kwan stated, "As investment in securing outstanding talent is essential in the AI era, I hope this fair provides young people with opportunities to expand into a broader world. The government will continue to create favorable conditions for investment and support youth growth." Minister of Employment and Labor Kim Young-hoon remarked, "This is a meaningful occasion for our youth to meet global companies, and the government will provide various support to help them build global careers and grow. I urge companies to open up broad opportunities for young talent to grow alongside them."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-01 11:03:00

New Volleyball Program at Weihai International School Aims to Develop Global Talent Weihai International School, located in Shandong Province, China, has garnered attention for launching a volleyball program that integrates sports, education, and global career development. The school held an inauguration ceremony for its volleyball team on May 22, marking the beginning of its operations. Founded in 2006 and approved by the Chinese Ministry of Education, Weihai International School has been dedicated to providing international and language education to Korean students, fostering global talent. The creation of the volleyball team is notable for its potential to offer diverse career paths in sports, extending beyond just training athletes. The school plans to develop a curriculum that not only prepares students for professional sports but also opens pathways to careers as international referees, sports agents, and other roles within the sports industry. The school has established a system that allows students to pursue both English and Chinese language education alongside their regular studies and sports training, supporting their athletic skills and global competitiveness. The initiative is being developed as Korea's first volleyball study abroad system. Members of the new volleyball team have expressed high satisfaction, noting the positive environment that allows them to interact with international peers while improving their English and Chinese skills, all while balancing sports and academics. Some students are also cultivating aspirations for careers as international referees and sports agents. Moody Lee, the school's founder, stated, "I want to help students look beyond the singular path of being an athlete and explore diverse possibilities on the global stage. We will continue to strive to nurture talent equipped with global sensibilities and character." In light of the current shortage of international referees and sports agents in the domestic volleyball scene, Weihai International School's initiative is seen as a meaningful attempt to provide students with new career options. There is growing interest in how this new model, which combines sports, education, and internationalization, will yield future results.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-01 10:57:00

Yantai Promotes Global Tourism with 'City of Immortals' Brand Yantai has long been known as the "City of Immortals," establishing itself as a premier tourist destination in China. Bongrae, mentioned by the Tang Dynasty poet Li Bai, is a symbolic landmark of Yantai. The mystical phenomena surrounding Bongraegak provide visitors with enchanting experiences. The region is also rich in mountain tourism resources, including Gunyu Mountain and Yunbong Mountain. Its coastal scenery, featuring a blend of shorelines and islands, is regarded as among the best in Northeast Asia. Recently, Yantai has gained attention as a "photogenic city" on social media platforms. The city is leveraging this trend to enhance its global tourism branding. Various international tourism campaigns are being launched alongside ongoing improvements to services for foreign tourists.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-01 10:57:00