New Book Chronicles Kim Dae-jung and Lee Hee-ho's Imprisonment Kim Dae-jung Lee Hee-ho Imprisonment Records=Planned by Yonsei University Kim Dae-jung Library, published by Hangilsa. A new book reflecting on the political life of former President Kim Dae-jung has been released. Following Kim Dae-jung's Oral Memoirs and Kim Dae-jung's Exile Diary, this book includes the imprisonment records of Kim Dae-jung and his wife, Lee Hee-ho. The book focuses on the years from 1976 to 1982, during which Kim was imprisoned due to the March 1st Democratic Declaration and the 1980 conspiracy case. It vividly conveys the tense atmosphere of the time through Lee's notes, letters, international rescue efforts, and court records. As Kim's political partner, Lee sent letters to the international community advocating for her husband's human rights and release. Twenty documents, including his prison visitation notes and letters sent to domestic and international figures, are published for the first time in this book. Lee served as a 'window' connecting Kim Dae-jung with the outside world during his imprisonment. During his incarceration, she was allowed only one 10-minute visit per month, during which she summarized international news and current events. Lee provided Kim, who had no access to newspapers or magazines, with crucial information on inflation rates, international oil prices, loan issues, and diplomatic matters, helping him maintain a sense of the era and reality even while imprisoned. Additionally, she worked tirelessly to inform the international community about Kim's situation, seeking ongoing support from foreign political leaders such as U.S. Senator Edward Kennedy and Japanese Prime Minister Takeo Miki, as well as international human rights organizations. Park Myung-rim, director of the Kim Dae-jung Library, stated at a press conference on May 14, "Every time we investigated records from President Kim's imprisonment, Lee Hee-ho's name was always mentioned. Therefore, the title of the book had to be 'Kim Dae-jung and Lee Hee-ho Imprisonment Records.'" He added, "Her regular communication with the U.S. Embassy and her sharp, high-level information and judgment were remarkable. Lee Hee-ho's English skills, deep knowledge of international affairs, and Christian network made this possible." Kim Gi-man, head of external cooperation at the Kim Dae-jung Political School, recounted, "When Lee visited Kim Dae-jung in Gwangju Prison in 1980, she told him, 'If you kneel to Chun Doo-hwan, I will divorce you.' Kim later confessed, 'That statement became my outlook on life.'" "In 1981, the economic situation: 1) GNP grew by 7.1%, per capita income was $1,636 (the same level as 1979) 2) Inflation rate: wholesale 11.8%, retail 12.6% 3) Money supply increased by 25.2% 4) Exports totaled $21 billion, imports $26.3 billion, trade deficit $5.3 billion 5) Total external debt reported at $33 billion. Oil import cost $7 billion (11%), external debt principal and interest repayment $3.5 billion (6.3%), grain imports $2.1 billion (3.3%)." January 20, 1982, Lee Hee-ho's prepared prison visitation notes (page 293) Accumulation and Dissemination=Written by Shin Soo-jung, published by Woongjin Knowledge House. The author, a former vice president of KT, presents 'accumulation and dissemination' as the key to making a difference in work and life. The essence is that one should not only focus on quietly building skills through 'accumulation' but also actively showcase their capabilities to be discovered by others through 'dissemination.' The author emphasizes the need to move away from vague expectations that opportunities will come on their own and instead strategize to create opportunities. Above all, the author advises, 'Start lightly.' By taking some risks and opening oneself to the world, one can discover and address their weaknesses. The cycle of accumulation and dissemination is achieved through small actions and adjustments. This process can elevate potential in both work and life. The book conveys this message along with various books and examples, presenting the mindset and strategies needed in a changing era. "Set your intentions and make plans. However, do not blame yourself if plans go awry. Keep an open mind with curiosity, optimism, perseverance, and flexibility, and take some risks. By continuously learning, experimenting with various possibilities, meeting people, and giving first, the likelihood of unexpected opportunities and connections increases. When opportunities arise, you can adjust your plans accordingly. In the rapidly changing future, a compass that indicates direction is more important than a detailed map." (page 30) 2026-05-18 18:30:00

EU Moves to Diversify Supply Chains Beyond China, Potentially Benefiting South Korea The European Union (EU) is moving to reduce its dependence on China by mandating the diversification of supply chains for critical components. This shift could present opportunities for South Korean companies in the European market. The Financial Times reported on May 17 that the EU is developing a plan requiring European companies to source critical components from at least three different suppliers. According to EU officials familiar with the matter, the new regulations are being considered for key sectors such as chemicals and industrial machinery. The proposed legislation is expected to include limits on the percentage of components that can be purchased from a single supplier. The limit is projected to be set between 30% and 40%. The remaining components must be sourced from at least three different suppliers, and these suppliers cannot all be from the same country. This initiative is seen as a move to disrupt the China-centric supply chain structure. The EU's push for supply chain diversification follows China's export controls on key components like rare earth magnets last year, which halted some European automotive production lines. Valdis Dombrovskis, the EU's Executive Vice President for Trade, has emphasized the need to address the EU's external trade deficit, which amounts to about 1 billion euros (approximately $1.07 billion) daily, and to respond to China's 'trade weaponization.' Dombrovskis is also reportedly advocating for punitive tariffs to counter the surge in imports of Chinese chemicals and industrial machinery that have harmed European manufacturers. An EU official stated, "In various sectors, we are increasingly dependent on exports from China. This dependence comes with costs, so we must intensify our diversification efforts." However, the EU's supply chain diversification plan is not solely focused on China. Another EU official pointed out that there is excessive reliance on a few countries for certain raw materials and chemical inputs. For instance, helium supplies are concentrated in the U.S. and Qatar, while cobalt comes mainly from the Democratic Republic of Congo and Indonesia. In addition to diversifying supply chains, the EU is also strengthening trade defense measures. Previously, the EU proposed raising steel tariffs to 50% and halving the quota for low-tariff imports to protect its steel industry, which has been severely affected. EU officials are considering allocating more steel quotas to reliable partner countries while significantly reducing quotas for others, aiming to further restrict the influx of Chinese steel. Potential Benefits for South Korean Companies If these measures are implemented, South Korean companies could see increased opportunities. As the EU seeks to expand its sources for critical components beyond China and reduce reliance on single suppliers, demand for alternative supply chains in sectors like chemicals, industrial machinery, and steel may rise. The EU plans to leverage its network of free trade agreements with over 70 countries to establish new investments and supply chains. This could lead to increased collaboration with major manufacturing nations, including South Korea, as European companies look for suppliers outside of China. However, it remains uncertain whether South Korean companies will benefit immediately. EU officials have indicated that the plan is still in its early stages. The proposal is set to be discussed at an EU Commission meeting addressing China on May 29, and if approved by the commissioners, specific recommendations could be ratified at the EU summit at the end of June.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-18 18:28:06

Ruling Party Urges Oh Se-hoon to Address GTX-A Rebar Omission Issue Directly Members of the Democratic Party's Administrative Safety Committee criticized Oh Se-hoon, the People Power Party's candidate for Seoul mayor, on May 18 for allegedly hiding behind attachments regarding the rebar omission during the construction of the GTX-A Samsung Station. This response came after a city official claimed during a committee meeting that they had reported to the Korea Railroad Corporation monthly. During a press conference at the National Assembly, including committee member Yoon Geon-young, the Democratic lawmakers stated, "The People Power Party claims that the Seoul city government has already reported this through official documents, but the evidence presented consists of just a few pages from a 400-500 page monthly construction management report." They further criticized the city for being aware of the issue but failing to adequately share it with relevant agencies for immediate action. "Although the city conducted joint inspections and progress meetings several times after recognizing the problem, there is no evidence that they officially discussed or actively communicated the structural defect that directly impacts citizen safety." They emphasized, "If significant structural issues were managed internally for months, this is not merely a case of administrative negligence. Claiming 'we already reported it' while burying critical safety issues in hundreds of pages of documents is not a responsible administrative stance. Oh must answer directly." In response to the People Power Party's announcement of plans to file complaints against the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport and MBC, Yoon remarked, "What the People Power Party is trying to do is protect Oh Se-hoon and divert attention. They seem afraid that the public will see Oh's performative administration that disregards the safety of Seoul citizens." Democratic lawmaker Ko Min-jeong also stated, "This is about protecting Oh rather than ensuring the safety of 10 million citizens." When asked whether the Democratic Party would take legal action against Oh, lawmaker Oh Gi-hyung replied, "Legal measures could be taken after confirming the facts." Oh Se-hoon previously attributed the controversy to the construction company, Hyundai Engineering & Construction. At a seminar on the evaluation of the real estate policies of the Lee Jae-myung administration, he remarked, "Isn't it the Democratic Party that feels a sense of crisis as their support rates fluctuate? It seems they are determined to use the rebar incident as a campaign issue." He added, "As mentioned in the committee meeting this morning, this is an absurd situation. We handled it according to the manual and principles, but it turned into a misunderstanding as they tried to frame it as a cover-up."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-18 18:25:29

Jung Won-oh Proposes Housing Solutions for Youth and Newlyweds Jung Won-oh, the Democratic Party's candidate for Seoul mayor, announced on May 18 that he plans to reduce initial costs for newlywed housing and expand rent support for young people. During a press conference in front of Seoul City Hall in Jung-gu, Jung unveiled his "Three Major Housing Stability Measures for Youth and Newlyweds." According to his proposal, 10,000 affordable homes for newlyweds and 30,000 public rental units will be made available. The affordable homes will include equity accumulation, profit-sharing, and land lease types to lower initial costs. The equity accumulation model allows buyers to pay 15-25% of the equity upfront and then acquire the remaining shares over 20-30 years while adjusting rent and lease terms as needed. An additional budget of 800 billion won will increase the number of youth eligible for rent support from 20,000 to 50,000. This funding will be sourced from cuts to projects initiated by Oh Se-hoon’s administration, such as the Han River Bus and the audit of the city’s workforce. Furthermore, Jung plans to provide 50,000 housing units for young people, including 7,000 university dormitories, 20,000 affordable shared housing units with reduced rent, and 23,000 public rental homes. He stated, "We operate a shared housing facility near Hanyang University in Seongdong-gu, which is well-received by students, landlords, and residents alike. We plan to expand this model throughout Seoul." To address the ongoing rental crisis, Jung aims to accelerate housing supply. By next year, he plans to complete the construction of 67,000 units, including 60,000 from redevelopment projects and 7,000 from public rental housing reconstruction, along with 20,000 new purchase rental homes. After the announcement, Jung spoke to reporters regarding the missing rebar issue in the GTX-A section at Samsung Station, asserting, "There is evidence that Oh Se-hoon, the candidate from the People Power Party, is responsible." He criticized attempts to dismiss the issue as a "rebar myth," stating, "Avoiding and hiding from the problem reflects a lack of safety awareness, which is why accidents occur."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-18 18:20:36

Jung Won-oh Promises 87,000 Housing Units by Next Year Amid Housing Crisis Jung Won-oh, the Democratic Party's candidate for Seoul mayor, unveiled a comprehensive housing stability plan targeting youth and newlyweds on May 18, directly addressing the city's housing challenges. The key components of the plan include expanding rent support for young people, providing tailored public housing for newlyweds, increasing the supply of rental housing for youth, and committing to the early construction of 87,000 housing units by 2027. At a press conference in front of Seoul City Hall, Jung stated, "We will ensure that the youth and newlyweds of Seoul no longer have to postpone their futures due to housing issues," adding that he aims to rectify the housing administration that has faltered under the current mayor, Oh Se-hoon. A notable aspect of this pledge is the emphasis on immediate support for young people and the expansion of public-led housing supply. Jung announced plans to increase the scale of rent support for young people from the current 20,000 beneficiaries per year to 50,000, providing 200,000 won per month for 12 months. This initiative will target a total of 200,000 individuals during his term. For newlyweds, the plan includes the provision of 10,000 affordable homes using shared equity, profit-sharing, and land lease models, along with 30,000 public rental units. The shared equity model allows residents to pay only 15% to 25% of the initial sale price and acquire the remaining equity over time. In terms of housing for youth, Jung outlined plans for 7,000 university dormitory units, 20,000 shared housing units, and 23,000 public rental units, totaling 50,000 units. He also proposed expanding the shared housing model he initiated during his tenure as the head of Seongdong District to all of Seoul. This model involves cost-sharing between the city, schools, and local governments to reduce rental burdens for young people. A significant focus of this pledge is the redefinition of the role of the Seoul Housing and Communities Corporation (SH). Jung remarked, "SH's involvement in projects like the Seoul Ring and Han River Bus has diluted its housing welfare functions. We will restore it as a specialized housing welfare agency." This statement is seen as a clear differentiation from Oh Se-hoon's emphasis on expanding private redevelopment and reconstruction projects. While Oh has prioritized private supply through rapid integrated planning and easing reconstruction regulations, Jung is focusing on expanding public housing and tailored supply for youth and newlyweds. However, there are concerns regarding the feasibility of these policies. Jung has promised to supply 87,000 units by next year, but many of these are based on the commencement of construction rather than completion. The plan includes targeting early construction of 60,000 units from redevelopment projects and 7,000 units from the reconstruction of aging public rental housing, with an additional 20,000 units to be supplied through newly acquired rental housing. The challenge lies in the timeline for actual supply. Redevelopment and reconstruction projects require complex processes, including resident consent, association management, review procedures, relocation, and construction, which typically take several years. The reconstruction of permanent rental complexes also faces challenges related to resident relocation plans and financial issues, making rapid progress difficult. Given that SH is central to this initiative, its financial capacity and project execution ability remain critical variables. SH is already engaged in both public housing supply and urban development projects. Jung's team stated, "We will manage housing administration based on construction commencement to accelerate supply speed," but there are calls for more detailed explanations regarding where, when, and how the supply will occur. While this pledge has clarified the policy direction and distinctiveness aimed at youth and newlyweds, the ambitious target of supplying 87,000 units by next year will likely face scrutiny regarding administrative feasibility and execution capability.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-18 18:18:00

President Lee Promises Constitutional Inclusion of May 18 Spirit and New Registration System President Lee Jae-myung pledged on May 18 to include the spirit of the May 18 Democratic Movement in the Constitution and to establish a new registration system to address the gaps for democratic heroes. He reiterated the government's unwavering responsibility towards victims of state violence.President Lee made these key policy announcements during the 46th anniversary commemoration of the May 18 Democratic Movement held at the May 18 Democracy Square in front of the former Jeonnam Provincial Office in Gwangju.In his commemorative speech, President Lee emphasized the need to enshrine the spirit of May 18 in the Constitution.He urged bipartisan cooperation, stating, "This is a promise to the people that transcends political interests, and I earnestly ask for the cooperation and determination of both ruling and opposition parties." He stressed, "The democratic ideals of the May 18 Democratic Movement must be firmly inscribed in the Constitution of the Republic of Korea."President Lee also announced the introduction of the 'May 18 Democratic Heroes Registration System' as part of veterans' policies. He referenced the case of the late Yang Chang-geun, who was not recognized as a hero due to the absence of direct family members to apply for registration, saying, "We will establish a registration system to ensure that not a single sacrifice is overlooked."He declared, "From now on, the government will become a family for each victim of state violence," and assured, "The state will fulfill its responsibilities to the end."The President also outlined government support for symbolic spaces related to May 18. He referred to the recently restored former Jeonnam Provincial Office as "the last bastion of citizen resistance against illegal state violence" and vowed to make it a living shrine of K-democracy where citizens from around the world can learn and remember.President Lee identified the 'May spirit' as a source of strength to overcome the complex crises currently facing South Korea, including weakened growth potential, deepening inequality, upheaval in international order, and regional decline.He remarked, "I see hope in Gwangju, where joy was shared even under the oppressive rule of a dictatorship armed with guns and swords."The President's speech connected the resistance in Gwangju in 1980 to the preservation of constitutional order by citizens during the December 3, 2024, martial law crisis.He stated, "The December 3 insurrection was still an unanswered question from May," and noted, "Just as the citizens of Gwangju confronted the martial law troops in May 1980, the people of South Korea in 2024 stood against armed martial law troops with their bare hands."He emphasized, "In 1980, in that fleeting moment when the unjust power withdrew, Gwangju gathered all its strength to bloom the 'Great Unity World,' which in 2024 revived as the 'Light Revolution' protecting democracy through the warmth of each other on that harsh winter night."This year's May 18 commemoration was only the second held in front of the former Jeonnam Provincial Office since the government designated the day as a memorial in 1997. Approximately 3,000 people attended the ceremony, including May 18 Democratic heroes, their families, government officials, and citizens.Before the event, President Lee and First Lady Kim Hye-kyung visited the National May 18 Democratic Cemetery in Gwangju. The couple paid respects at the graves of martyrs Park In-bae, Yang Chang-geun, and Kim Myung-sook, comforting grieving family members.After the ceremony, they visited the restored former Jeonnam Provincial Office to celebrate its opening and view a special exhibition.The former Jeonnam Provincial Office is a symbolic site of the May 18 Democratic Movement, where citizens of Gwangju fought to protect democracy in May 1980. Throughout the exhibition, First Lady Kim showed special consideration for Kim Gil-ja, the mother of the late Moon Jae-hak, who inspired the novel 'A Boy Comes.'President Lee then visited the mayor of Namgu in Gwangju, listening to the voices of citizens and merchants over lunch. The Namgu mayor highlighted the traditional market centered around the former Namgwangju Station, known for its fresh seafood arriving every dawn from the southwestern coast.The presidential couple enjoyed a meal of dried radish and cod fish at a market restaurant, engaging with the merchant association president, Son Seung-ki, about the local economy and market conditions.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-18 18:12:38

Iran stays silent on HMM Namu in call with Seoul SEOUL, May 18 (AJP) - Iran’s foreign minister blamed the U.S. and Israel for instability in the Middle East during a phone call with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun, while Tehran made no mention of a recent attack on a Korean vessel in the Strait of Hormuz, according to Iran’s foreign ministry. The call, reportedly requested by Seoul, was the first between Cho and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi since the HMM Namu was attacked near the Strait of Hormuz in early May. It marked their fourth phone conversation since the U.S.-Iran war broke out in February. Iran’s Foreign Ministry said on Sunday via its official Telegram account that Araghchi held talks with Cho and explained Tehran’s view of the situation in the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz. The ministry said Araghchi referred to the history of friendly relations between the two countries and stressed the importance of developing bilateral ties. It also said Araghchi briefed Cho on current conditions in the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, arguing that instability imposed on the Middle East and its global consequences were caused by what it called acts of aggression by the U.S. and the “Zionist regime,” referring to Israel. South Korea’s Foreign Ministry said earlier that Cho asked Iran to state its position on the recent attack on the HMM Namu in the Strait of Hormuz. Cho also explained that Seoul is conducting an additional investigation into the incident and emphasized the importance of the safety of all vessels, including Korean ships, and freedom of navigation in the strait. The HMM Namu had been anchored near the Strait of Hormuz in early May when two unidentified flying objects struck the port side near the stern of the vessel twice, about one minute apart, according to South Korean authorities. Debris from the flying objects that struck the HMM Namu later arrived in South Korea from Dubai last Friday for additional examination. Iran’s Embassy in Seoul has denied involvement in the incident. 2026-05-18 18:10:52

Seonggeumwon Eases Debt Repayment Burden for Sunshine Loan Borrowers 서민금융진흥원이 햇살론 구상채무자의 재기를 돕기 위해 분할상환 조건을 한시적으로 완화한다. Seonggeumwon announced on May 18 that it will temporarily ease the repayment conditions for borrowers of the Sunshine Loan to assist them in their recovery. The "Sunshine Loan Debtor Support Special Campaign" will run until June 26. The program targets borrowers who have been unable to repay their principal and interest on the Sunshine Loan, for whom Seonggeumwon has made payments to banks and other financial institutions. However, those currently undergoing personal rehabilitation, bankruptcy proceedings, or debt adjustment through the Credit Recovery Commission are excluded from this support. During the campaign, applicants for installment repayment will see a reduction in the initial payment burden. Previously, the minimum amount required at the start of an installment repayment agreement was 100,000 won, but this will be lowered to 50,000 won during the campaign period. The repayment period will also be extended from a maximum of 10 years to 12 years. Seonggeumwon aims to support debtors who may struggle to gather a large sum of money immediately by allowing them to establish a feasible repayment plan. Once an installment repayment agreement is signed, information regarding subrogation will be immediately released, and no penalty fees will be charged during the repayment period. For those already using installment repayment but facing difficulties, a readjustment process will allow them to maintain their agreement. If the agreement is canceled due to delinquency, credit assessment information may be re-registered, but by applying for readjustment, borrowers can modify their repayment period and amounts without canceling the agreement. Kim Eun-kyung, head of Seonggeumwon, stated, "In the current challenging economic conditions, the debt burden on vulnerable groups is increasing. Through this campaign, we aim to reduce the burden on those who have the will to repay but have found it difficult to obtain opportunities, helping them return to economic activity as soon as possible."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-18 18:09:53

Differences Between Memorial Day and Constitution Day Holidays Interest is growing regarding the application of holidays surrounding Memorial Day in June and Constitution Day in July. This year, Memorial Day falls on a Saturday, but a substitute holiday will not be observed. In contrast, Constitution Day has been designated as a public holiday for the first time in 18 years, allowing for a three-day weekend from Friday, July 17, through Sunday. It is important to examine the legal nature of these two days and the applicability of substitute holidays. Memorial Day, observed annually on June 6, is a statutory holiday; however, it does not generate a substitute holiday when it coincides with the weekend. The current regulations regarding public holidays do not apply substitute holidays to all holidays but rather specify that a substitute holiday is granted only when certain conditions are met for designated holidays. According to the regulations, substitute holidays apply to national holidays such as Independence Day, Liberation Day, National Foundation Day, Hangeul Day, Children's Day, Buddha's Birthday, and Christmas when they fall on a Saturday or Sunday. The Lunar New Year and Chuseok holidays can also lead to substitute holidays if they overlap with a Sunday or another public holiday. The law distinguishes the applicability of substitute holidays by specific provisions. The exclusion of Memorial Day is related to the nature of the holiday itself. Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for those who sacrificed their lives for the country. Since June 6 falls on a Saturday this year, it does not qualify for a substitute holiday, meaning June 8 will not be a day off. On the other hand, Constitution Day has been reinstated as a public holiday starting this year. The Ministry of Personnel Management announced that a revision to the regulations regarding public holidays, designating Labor Day and Constitution Day as public holidays, was approved at a Cabinet meeting on April 28. As a result, Labor Day and Constitution Day are now recognized as public holidays, with Constitution Day returning after being removed from the holiday list in 2008. Constitution Day commemorates the promulgation of the Constitution of the Republic of Korea. Even if it coincides with a weekend or another public holiday, it is guaranteed a substitute holiday. However, since Constitution Day falls on Friday, July 17, this year, it will create a three-day weekend from July 17 to 19 without a separate substitute holiday.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-18 18:07:36

AstraZeneca's New Hypertension Drug Approved in the U.S., Expected to Generate $7 Billion in Annual Revenue AstraZeneca's new hypertension treatment has been approved in the United States. This combination therapy is intended for patients whose blood pressure remains uncontrolled despite taking multiple medications. It is considered a new treatment option as it targets a hormone that raises blood pressure. On May 18, The Wall Street Journal reported that AstraZeneca received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its hypertension drug, Baxfendy, which was previously known as baxdrostat during development. The approval is aimed at adult hypertension patients. It is not a standalone treatment but is used in conjunction with other blood pressure medications. Late-stage clinical trials confirmed that adding Baxfendy to patients already taking two or more blood pressure medications resulted in a reduction in blood pressure. Baxfendy targets aldosterone, a hormone involved in regulating sodium and fluid levels in the body. When it acts excessively, it can raise blood pressure. Baxfendy works by inhibiting this action to lower blood pressure. AstraZeneca is promoting Baxfendy as a "new approach to treatment." Hypertension affects a large number of patients, and it is not uncommon for individuals to fail to reach their target blood pressure despite using multiple medications. Rud Doever, AstraZeneca's Vice President of BioPharmaceuticals, stated, "We are providing a new treatment option for a condition that has seen limited progress in treatment over the past 20 years." This approval is also significant for AstraZeneca's revenue structure. The company’s key product in the cardiovascular, renal, and metabolic disease sectors, the diabetes drug Farxiga, recently lost patent protection in the U.S. Farxiga has been AstraZeneca's best-selling drug. Baxfendy is seen as a key candidate in the company's strategy to develop new revenue sources following the expiration of Farxiga's patent. Baxfendy was acquired by AstraZeneca when it purchased Syncor Pharma in 2023. The company is expanding its lineup of new drugs in the cardiovascular, renal, and metabolic disease sectors, including Baxfendy and the obesity treatment under development, Elecoglifron. AstraZeneca anticipates that Baxfendy could generate annual sales exceeding $5 billion (approximately 7.4 trillion won). The company aims to achieve $80 billion (approximately 118.4 trillion won) in revenue by 2030, planning to launch 20 new drugs before then.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-18 18:04:59