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HLB Chairman Jin Yang-gon Aims to Shed 'Three-time Loser' Label Amid Biotech Challenges While the semiconductor industry thrives, the biotech sector faces ongoing challenges, including reduced investment sentiment and rising funding costs. Amid these difficulties, the upcoming FDA approval decision for HLB's liver cancer first-line treatment, the combination therapy of riboceranib and camrelizumab, is drawing significant attention as a potential turning point for K-Bio. The outcome of this approval could determine the future direction of the group, with market observers wondering if Jin Yang-gon, chairman of HLB, can finally shed the 'three-time loser' label. According to industry sources, HLB has several major events lined up, including the FDA approval for the liver cancer first-line treatment in July, the approval for the second-line treatment for bile duct cancer in September, and clinical results for a treatment for neurotrophic keratitis. The approval of any of these treatments could significantly alter the future trajectory of the entire HLB Group. The most anticipated candidate is the combination therapy of riboceranib and camrelizumab for liver cancer. This treatment is currently under FDA review, with a final decision expected on July 23. Riboceranib is a targeted therapy that blocks growth signals in liver cancer cells, while camrelizumab is a PD-1 inhibitor that activates the immune system to attack cancer cells. Riboceranib inhibits VEGFR-2, which is involved in tumor angiogenesis, thereby restricting nutrient supply to cancer cells and normalizing abnormal blood vessel structures to facilitate immune cell infiltration. When combined with camrelizumab, it releases T-cell immune evasion mechanisms, enhancing the attack on cancer cells. This combination strategy is believed to improve the tumor microenvironment and activate immunity, significantly extending overall survival compared to existing standard treatments. HLB is advancing its development and approval strategy in the U.S. through its subsidiary Elevate Therapeutics. Recently, Elevate confirmed industry expectations for its liver and bile duct cancer drugs, which are set for FDA approval in the second half of the year, at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO 2026), the world's largest cancer conference. Chairman Jin has been buying shares in key affiliates of HLB Group, signaling confidence in the FDA approval process. Between July 2 and 8, he purchased 103,735 shares of HLB Genex, and on July 5 and 8, he acquired an additional 37,109 shares of HLB Innovation. As a result, Jin's holdings in various affiliates have increased significantly: 719,430 shares in HLB Genex, 405,373 shares in HLB Panajin, 359,013 shares in HLB Therapeutics, 221,490 shares in HLB Innovation, and 171,706 shares in HLB Biostep. This move is interpreted as a signal of commitment to long-term growth, even amid increased market volatility and a downturn in the biotech sector compared to the semiconductor boom. Ultimately, the FDA's decision—whether approval or rejection—will be a key variable in shaping HLB Group's future strategy. If approved, HLB would become the only K-Bio company with global competitiveness in the oncology sector, potentially serving as a catalyst for reaffirming the global competitiveness of the Korean biotech industry. It would also establish a revenue base that maximizes profitability through direct sales in the global oncology market. However, if the FDA approval is denied again, the commercialization timeline could be significantly delayed without a clear path forward. This would likely damage market trust, leading to reduced investment sentiment and a decline in corporate value. Concerns are growing that this could hinder HLB Group's funding capabilities and overall strategies for expanding global clinical trials and partnerships. In recent years, while the number of companies with late-stage clinical candidates in the Korean biotech industry has increased, there have been relatively few cases of successful FDA approvals for entry into the global market. An industry insider noted, "The outcome of HLB's FDA approval is not just a corporate challenge; it represents a 'big event' for the K-Bio industry to confirm its independent competitiveness in the global oncology market."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-15 06:03:00 -
Exhibition Captures the Narrative of Everyday Objects The objects in the photographs seem to come alive. The exhibition 'Vibrating Objects' at the International Gallery showcases the thoughts, emotions, and memories of nine photographers, infusing still life with a sense of vitality. While each participating artist tells a different story through various objects, the works evoke the concept of a still moment, a serene pause that precedes the capture of a single photograph. The time spent contemplating with a camera is palpable. Unlike AI-generated images created in an instant, these photographs embody a unique perspective, time, and narrative that cling to the objects. The stillness of these items vibrates at a very low frequency. Koo Bon-chang, the curator of the exhibition, has gathered artists who have long dedicated themselves to still life photography. "I selected those who have consistently worked on still life for 20 to 30 years, focusing on those who have persevered without compromise, even when it was difficult," he said. The exhibition does not chase superficial beauty. Koo explained, "I sought out those who strive to get closer to the essence of hidden objects, who work to find beauty that is not immediately apparent. It’s important to understand that these artists contemplate the narratives of objects, societal issues, and the themes of life and death through everyday items." Koo has also interpreted the subtle sounds of objects through his camera over the years. Referring to the works displayed in the exhibition, he expressed, "I hope viewers appreciate the history, wear, and stories embedded in these objects." Reading the Expressions of Objects Through the Camera For some, common objects can be treasures or friends. For artist Kim Kyung-tae, a brass nut holds such significance. He has focused on the experience of observing both large and small items, capturing tiny nuts with diameters of 8, 11, and 14 mm up close and enlarging them. This is not a result obtained in a single shot. Using a technique called focus stacking, he took hundreds of photographs and combined the sharpest parts from each image. This method allows viewers to see the texture of the nut's surface clearly. The series 'Brass Hex Nut' (2016) reveals that even seemingly identical nuts bear unique traces. Kim Soo-gang captures the expressions of objects with his camera, whether they are stones or paper bags. To convey depth of expression, he employs the 19th-century photographic printing technique known as gum printing, which requires hands-on involvement in every step. The expressions of objects are intertwined with his life experiences. He noted, "When significant events occur, like the death of a family member or the birth of a child, the expressions of objects change very slowly over time." Koo Seung-yeon reveals sticky desires through photography. He meticulously carves dull decorations collected from markets into golden sugar shapes, representing the form of desire. The sweet and sparkling desire ultimately melts away. The artist sees beauty in the moment just before it disappears. "I captured the moment just before it started to melt and flow away, which I believe is the most beautiful moment," he said. Imbuing Objects with Emotion…A Process of Invocation Jung Hee-seung, who enjoys translating poetry, linked the tension between chance and inevitability in the poem 'Throwing Dice' to his photographic work. Jo Sung-yeon expressed the anxiety felt during the pandemic through precarious structures stacked in an uneasy balance. Park Chan-woo borrowed the format of traditional Joseon-era book covers to highlight the accumulation of experiences by photographing expired books in layers. Jeong So-hee added materials like bleach and coffee to photographs of her mother’s back to express changes in memory through wrinkles. For Jeong Jeong-ho, photography is a form of 'invocation.' He recalled a moment when he was trapped in the sea due to misjudging the tide, which reminded him of his grandfather's futile death in war. To summon his grandfather, who left no photographs behind, he reconstructed and photographed objects collected from the beach, his father's military photos, and clothes he wore. He stated, "The process of infusing emotion into still life work felt like an invocation. It felt as if my grandfather had entered me." The exhibition runs until July 19. 2026-06-15 06:03:00 -
Robert Mapplethorpe's 'The Poetics of Form' Exhibition Showcases Classic Aesthetics Robert Mapplethorpe's black-and-white photography resembles smooth porcelain, exuding a classical eroticism reminiscent of ancient Greek black pottery. The perfectly balanced male body radiates youth and tension, accompanied by a subtle sensuality. It is both elegant and provocative, embodying a unique duality. The first artwork encountered in Mapplethorpe's exhibition 'The Poetics of Form' at the International Gallery is a striking image of a black male figure (Thomas) with perfect symmetry. The image of Thomas evokes ancient Greek pottery, where dynamic male forms were illuminated against a glossy black surface. Mapplethorpe skillfully manipulates light in his black-and-white photography to focus on the robust male physique. Within a square frame, the model's body is encircled, showcasing a balance and tension that resembles the vigorous athletes of the ancient Olympic Games. This embodies classical sensuality. There are similarities to Leonardo da Vinci's 'Vitruvian Man', yet while the Vitruvian Man symbolizes ideal rationality constrained by geometric order, Mapplethorpe's perspective is akin to that of an unknown ancient potter. Kang Myung-joo, Deputy Director of the International Gallery, noted, "Mapplethorpe once said that photography is 'the perfect way to sculpt.' He viewed photography not merely as a medium for capturing fleeting moments but as a sculptural act that meticulously constructs light and shadow, proportion and balance." The exhibition runs at the International Gallery Hanok until July 19. 2026-06-15 06:03:00 -
California Elementary Schools Face Decline Amid Falling Birth Rates California, often regarded as the wealthiest state in the U.S., is witnessing a decline in public school enrollment due to falling birth rates. According to a report by local media outlet SF Gate on June 12, the number of public school students from kindergarten through 12th grade in California has decreased by 75,000 this year compared to the previous year. Over the past decade, the total decline has reached 420,000 students. Education experts attribute the primary cause of this decline to the overall decrease in birth rates across the United States. While the situation is not as critical as in countries like South Korea and Japan, Americans are having fewer children. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that the U.S. birth rate has steadily declined since 2007. The Hill, a U.S. congressional publication, reported that the total fertility rate for women of childbearing age in the U.S. is projected to hit a historic low of 1.6 in 2024. This ongoing decline in birth rates is impacting the public school system. Last year, the number of newborns in the U.S. was 3.6 million, down from 4.3 million in 2007. This reduction will be reflected in kindergarten enrollment numbers in about five to six years. The decline in student enrollment is also evident in Silicon Valley, a global hub for IT companies. Reports indicate that the number of graduating students in San Jose is decreasing as well. In 2022, a public elementary school in Oakland, near San Francisco, closed due to declining enrollment, prompting parents and local residents to stage a four-month occupation protest. William Chavez, a social studies teacher at Woodrow Wilson High School in Los Angeles, noted, "Since I started working here, the number of students has been decreasing. While there aren't drastic changes each year, the trend is clear over time." This decline in student numbers is not unique to California. In southern Texas, where many residents have moved due to rising living costs, there was a decrease of 76,000 students in grades K-12 for the 2025-26 school year. Michael Kirst, an emeritus professor at Stanford University and former chair of the California State Board of Education, stated, "This decline is happening everywhere. There are very few areas that are not experiencing this trend." According to a report by The New York Times last month, major U.S. cities, including Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York, are seeing significant drops in student enrollment. The issue is that as student numbers decrease, the funding schools receive also diminishes proportionately. Consequently, some school districts are facing budget cuts, and discussions about school closures are becoming more prevalent. However, the migration of families seeking more affordable living conditions is also contributing to the decline in student numbers. For example, Portland, Oregon, which has 44,000 public school students, is experiencing a drop in enrollment due to both declining birth rates and residents moving to other areas. Kimberly Armstrong, the Portland superintendent, remarked, "People are choosing to raise their children in different areas, often moving to suburbs with more affordable housing." The district is anticipating a budget shortfall of $50 million for the next academic year, which could lead to school closures or staff layoffs, according to the NYT. As of 2023, 80.4% of K-12 students in the U.S. attend public schools, 7% are enrolled in charter schools, and 12.6% are in private schools or being homeschooled.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-15 05:03:00 -
President Lee Addresses Election Irregularities and Voter Rights Concerns President Lee Jae-myung expressed astonishment and concern over the shortage of ballots during the June 3 local elections, stating, "It is shocking and perplexing that such an issue has arisen in a matter fundamental to democracy."While on a European trip, President Lee held a video conference with his aides in Seoul, emphasizing, "Every time I look into this, I see issues, particularly the infringement of voter rights. This situation, triggered by the Election Commission's undeniable ballot mismanagement, leaves a serious blemish on the national dignity of South Korea, which prides itself on K-democracy, advanced industries, and K-culture."He acknowledged, "I fully recognize and accept the legitimate concerns raised by our citizens regarding the infringement of voter rights."However, President Lee criticized those who exploit these issues to promote baseless conspiracy theories, stating, "Spreading claims of election manipulation distorts the essence of the problem and insults the valuable voices of the public, which is a socially harmful act."He noted that some individuals making such claims have threatened police officers on the scene and intimidated nearby citizens, adding, "It seems they occasionally obstruct police operations through unreasonable searches and checkpoints, as well as by blocking access for officers."President Lee asserted, "Those responsible for such actions must be held accountable according to the law and principles. There are clear lines we must uphold, and the most evident of these is the law and the system."He further stated, "To turn the incident of voter rights infringement into an opportunity for strengthening democracy and popular sovereignty, healthy criticism and the establishment of constructive alternatives must be guaranteed. Therefore, it is necessary to expedite thorough and transparent investigations into the matter."President Lee mentioned that the National Assembly's special investigative committee is expected to begin its work as early as this week, urging the Election Commission to fully cooperate with the legislative activities. He also called for the joint investigation team of prosecutors and police to accelerate their efforts in uncovering the truth without any sacred cows.He emphasized, "It is time for all of society to respond to the righteous anger of the youth and citizens with responsible actions."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-14 23:45:00 -
Cyber Attack on Iran Disrupts Banking Services Amid Ongoing US-Iran Negotiations Cyber attack disrupts services at four Iranian banks A cyber attack targeting Iran has led to the temporary suspension of services at several banks amid ongoing negotiations between the United States and Iran for a ceasefire. On June 14, Reuters reported that Iran's Banking Coordination Committee announced a cyber attack on the country's shared communication infrastructure, resulting in service interruptions at four banks, including Mellat, Tejarat, Saderat, and the Iran Export Development Bank. The committee stated that there was no unauthorized access to customer information or data deletion, but recovery efforts are currently underway to restore normal operations. South Korea and Saudi Arabia agree on long-term energy cooperation The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy announced on June 14 that Minister Kim Jeong-kwan met with Saudi Arabia's Minister of Energy, Abdulaziz bin Salman, and signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) regarding cooperation in the oil and gas sector. The ministry detailed that the two countries agreed to collaborate in several areas, including oil reserves, pipeline infrastructure development, technological innovation in energy resources using artificial intelligence and digital transformation, and enhancing environmental and economic sustainability. Previously, Minister Kim visited Saudi Arabia in April as a follow-up to a presidential strategic economic envoy visit, where both sides agreed to ensure the timely supply of agreed quantities of crude oil and naphtha by the end of the year. US and Iran finalize MOU for immediate opening of Hormuz Strait On June 14, Reuters reported, citing a senior Iranian official, that the final draft of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) aimed at ending hostilities between the US and Iran includes provisions for the immediate opening of the Strait of Hormuz. According to the report, Iran has promised to abandon its nuclear weapons program and open the Strait of Hormuz immediately, while the US has agreed to lift maritime sanctions, return frozen funds, and suspend oil sanctions. The final MOU stipulates that Iran will allow all commercial vessels to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, and the US will fully lift its maritime blockade against Iran. Financial Supervisory Service to investigate SpaceX stock allocation issue The Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) is set to investigate the circumstances surrounding the complete reduction of SpaceX shares that were to be allocated to Mirae Asset Securities. According to financial authorities on June 14, the FSS began inspecting Mirae Asset Securities on June 5 regarding the SpaceX public offering and transitioned to a full investigation last week. Following the cancellation of the stock allocation on June 13, the FSS is now focused on determining the exact circumstances. The financial investment industry reported that SpaceX initially planned to allocate 2,314,815 shares from a total of 555,555,555 Class A common shares to Mirae Asset Securities. However, it was reported that Goldman Sachs, the lead underwriter, did not allocate any shares to Mirae Asset Securities during the final allocation process, leading to the cancellation. US and South Korean officials meet to address won's depreciation In light of the recent exchange rate maintaining levels above 1,500 won, senior officials from the US and South Korean foreign exchange authorities have met to discuss strategies to address the depreciation of the won. On June 14, it was reported that Moon Ji-sung, the Deputy Minister of International Finance at the Ministry of Economy and Finance, traveled to Washington, D.C., on June 12 and returned the same day. During his visit, he met with senior officials from the US Treasury to discuss recent trends in the foreign exchange market. Notably, it appears that Moon emphasized during the meeting that the recent depreciation of the won is unjustifiable and excessive, considering the favorable conditions in South Korea's semiconductor industry and the overall fundamentals of the economy.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-14 21:54:00 -
U.S. and South Korea Officials Meet to Address Weakness of Korean Won In light of the recent exchange rate hovering around 1,500 won to the dollar, senior officials from the U.S. and South Korea have agreed to enhance communication to address the weakness of the Korean won. According to foreign exchange authorities, Deputy Minister of Finance Moon Ji-sung departed for Washington, D.C., on June 12 and returned on June 14. During his visit, Moon met with senior officials from the U.S. Treasury to discuss recent trends in the foreign exchange market. Moon emphasized that, considering the solid fundamentals of the South Korean economy, particularly the favorable conditions in the semiconductor industry, the recent depreciation of the won is difficult to justify and appears excessive. Additionally, both sides have agreed to maintain close communication and cooperation to counter the pressures on the won. However, a Ministry of Finance official stated, "We cannot disclose specific details regarding the discussions during the visit."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-14 21:15:00 -
Israel Launches Airstrikes in Beirut Amid U.S.-Iran MOU Talks As the United States and Iran approach a ceasefire memorandum of understanding (MOU), Israel has conducted airstrikes on the outskirts of Beirut, Lebanon. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant announced on June 14 that the Israeli Air Force targeted Hezbollah positions in southern Beirut. In a statement, they said, "The Israel Defense Forces struck Hezbollah terror facilities in the Dahieh area of Beirut in response to attacks directed at Israeli territory." They emphasized, "Israel will not tolerate any attacks aimed at its territory." The Israeli military also released a separate statement confirming precise strikes on Hezbollah infrastructure in southern Beirut, noting that further operational details would be disclosed later.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-14 20:15:00 -
Rookie Kim Min-sol Wins First Major Title at Korean Women's Open Rookie Kim Min-sol won the Korean Women's Open, the first major tournament of the KLPGA Tour season, on June 14 at Lakewood Country Club in Yangju, Gyeonggi Province. The tournament featured a total prize pool of 1.5 billion won. In the final round, Kim recorded two birdies and one bogey for a score of 1-under 70. With a total score of 4-under 280, she edged out Yang Yoon-seo, who finished at 3-under 281, by one stroke to lift the championship trophy. Competing as a rookie this season, Kim previously secured a wire-to-wire victory at the iM Financial Open in April. With this latest win, she became the first player this season to achieve two victories, bringing her total career wins on the regular tour to four. Kim received a prize of 400 million won and a sports utility vehicle valued at 130 million won. Additionally, she earned spots in the AIG Women's Open, a major event on the LPGA Tour, and the Japan Women's Open Championship, marking a significant achievement. Kim also took the lead in various title races, ranking first in season earnings with approximately 776.32 million won, as well as in points for both the Player of the Year (243 points) and Rookie of the Year (1,148 points). Starting the final round tied for the lead, Kim and Yang engaged in a fierce battle for the title. The turning point came amid sudden adverse weather conditions, leading to a 2-hour and 55-minute suspension due to lightning warnings. After the delay, Yang missed a 5-meter par putt on the 14th hole, resulting in a bogey, while Kim maintained par, taking a two-stroke lead. Riding the momentum, Kim made a successful 6-meter birdie putt on the 15th hole, further solidifying her path to victory. Although she recorded a bogey on the final 18th hole, she finished one stroke ahead of Yang to secure the win. No Seung-hee and Kim Min-sol tied for third place with a total score of 1-over 285. Seo Ji-eun and Thailand's Pacharajuta Kongkrapan finished in a tie for fifth at 2-over 286. Shin Ji-ae, competing in the Korean Women's Open for the first time in 18 years and aiming for her third title, concluded the tournament with a total score of 3-over 287, finishing in a tie for seventh. Park Min-ji, who was chasing a record 21st career victory on the KLPGA Tour, finished with a total score of 6-over 290, placing her in a tie for 22nd and postponing her record attempt.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-14 20:12:00 -
Cardinal Yoo Heung-sik: A Listening Heart is Key to Peace Cardinal Yoo Heung-sik emphasized the importance of maintaining a listening heart in the pursuit of peace during a special mass held on June 14 in Rome. He stated, "Even if someone seems impossible to engage in dialogue with, we must seek to meet them with an open heart to open the path to peace."As the Prefect of the Congregation for Clergy, Cardinal Yoo delivered his sermon at St. Paul Outside the Walls, where he noted, "Compassion must replace violence, and communication must fill the void of indifference."He reflected on the ongoing division of the Korean Peninsula, saying, "We still live with the wounds of division, and our brothers and sisters are separated. What greater pain could there be?" He stressed that peace cannot be abandoned for any reason and that we must strive with all our strength to build it.Cardinal Yoo remarked, "Today’s world needs compassion more than ever," expressing concern that indifference and selfishness are prevalent where compassion should exist, and that violence and force are trying to take their place.He added, "Even between dry asphalt, a flower can bloom," emphasizing that hope exists even in the most challenging circumstances.The mass was presided over by Cardinal Yoo, the first Korean to be appointed as the Prefect of the Congregation for Clergy. He expressed his deep support for President Lee Jae-myung's commitment to peace during his year in office, stating, "I not only resonate deeply with your calls for a world where the North and South can truly coexist, but I also pray for it daily."The mass took place at St. Paul Outside the Walls, one of Rome's seven major basilicas, which houses the tomb of Saint Paul the Apostle, with President Lee in attendance.This visit marks the first time a South Korean president has visited the Vatican since former President Moon Jae-in in October 2021.President Lee is scheduled to meet privately with Pope Leo XIII at the Vatican on June 15, followed by a meeting with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican's Secretary of State.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-14 20:12:00