Innovation Party Appeals for Support Ahead of Local Elections The Justice Innovation Party appealed for voter support on June 2, one day before the local elections, urging citizens to vote for its candidates to uphold the efforts and values of the democratic camp. The party also called for a decisive judgment against the conservative People Power Party and others, emphasizing the need to prevent illegal martial law. Lee Hae-min, the party's secretary-general, addressed reporters at the National Assembly, stating, "In just a few hours, the official campaigning for the local elections and the National Assembly by-elections will conclude at midnight. During this critical and urgent time, all of our candidates and party members are igniting their final efforts in a 63-hour blue relay across the nation." On June 1, Lee noted that the party's candidates were earnestly greeting citizens despite heavy rain, urging them to vote for candidate No. 3, the Justice Innovation Party, to protect their efforts and values. He emphasized, "You can mark candidate No. 3 and then vote for the democratic camp candidates." Lee argued that the local elections are an opportunity to hold accountable the People Power Party and other conservative factions that have claimed illegal martial law and fraudulent elections. "There are still forces that trample on democracy by mobilizing the military simply because they do not like the results, spreading extreme conspiracy theories that deny election outcomes," he said, referring to candidates Oh Se-hoon and Yoo Yi-dong from the People Power Party, as well as independent candidate Han Dong-hoon and Hwang Kyo-ahn from the Liberty Korea Party, who he claimed are not free from the failures of the Yoon Suk-yeol administration. He added, "The true judges of these candidates are the citizens. I earnestly request that you decisively judge them through your votes tomorrow, with a heartfelt desire to prevent illegal martial law." Additionally, Lee reiterated his call for support for candidate Justice in the key battleground of Pyeongtaek, which has long been marginalized in the political landscape. "Pyeongtaek has been pushed back in the political interests for a long time and has faced reverse discrimination," he said. "It has potential but has not seen any growth. To develop Pyeongtaek, we need a significant political figure." He concluded, "Justice is a person who can truly change the future of Pyeongtaek. If Justice is elected, Pyeongtaek will grow. He can be the strongest and only bridge to unite the divided democratic camp. I urge everyone to come out to the polls tomorrow and show the power of the people."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 11:00:00

SK Bioscience Secures First Contract with UNICEF to Supply 640,000 Flu Vaccines SK Bioscience announced on June 2 that it has been designated as a supplier of flu vaccines for UNICEF this year, beginning shipments for countries in the Southern Hemisphere. The company plans to start supplying doses for the Northern Hemisphere in September, aiming to deliver approximately 640,000 doses of the flu vaccine in accordance with vaccination schedules in various countries throughout the year. Notably, SK Bioscience has been selected as the sole supplier for the Southern Hemisphere, while also being recognized as a major supplier for the Northern Hemisphere. This contract marks SK Bioscience's first collaboration with UNICEF, establishing a foothold in the global public procurement market following its previous engagement with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). The company successfully secured its first contract for chickenpox vaccines with PAHO in 2022, which has since been extended through 2027, reaffirming its competitive edge. The flu vaccine, Skycellflu, has demonstrated excellent immunogenicity and safety through clinical trials and is the first cell-cultured flu vaccine to receive prequalification from the World Health Organization (WHO). The cell culture method is known to reduce the risk of viral mutations during production, resulting in a higher match rate with circulating viruses. In addition to supplying flu vaccines through PAHO, SK Bioscience has been expanding its global health initiatives in collaboration with organizations such as the International Vaccine Institute (IVI) and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI). Recently, the company received product approval for its chickenpox vaccine, Skyvaricella, in Vietnam and obtained new flu vaccine approvals in Moldova, Eastern Europe. SK Bioscience plans to broaden its global business base by expanding product approvals in several countries, including Thailand, Malaysia, Mongolia, Pakistan, and Chile. SK Bioscience CEO Ahn Jae-yong stated, "This first contract with UNICEF represents a significant achievement in expanding our entry into the global public procurement market. We will strengthen our collaboration with international organizations to contribute to global infectious disease response and public health improvement."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 11:00:00

Samsung Publishing's $10 Million Stock Buyback Drives Shares to Limit Up Samsung Publishing's announcement of a 10 billion won stock buyback plan sent its shares soaring to the daily limit. After a month of declining stock prices, the company's commitment to enhancing shareholder value has significantly improved investor sentiment. According to the Korea Exchange, as of 10:49 a.m., Samsung Publishing's shares were trading at 7,930 won, up 1,830 won (30.00%) from the previous trading day. The stock opened at 6,250 won but quickly surged to the upper limit as buying interest surged. The company's market capitalization is approximately 79.3 billion won. The sharp increase in stock price appears to be influenced by the company's announcement made after the market closed the previous day regarding the stock buyback decision. Samsung Publishing disclosed that it has entered into a trust agreement for a 10 billion won stock buyback. The contract period runs from June 1 to November 30, and the brokerage firm handling the contract is Daishin Securities. The company stated that the purpose of the buyback is to "stabilize stock prices and enhance shareholder value." The planned number of shares to be acquired is 153,139, based on the previous day's closing price of 6,530 won, although the actual acquisition amount may vary depending on future stock prices. Market analysts suggest that the buyback plan has stimulated expectations for improved supply and demand, especially given the lack of clear stock price momentum in recent times. Indeed, Samsung Publishing's stock had fallen 6.58% the previous day and had been on a downward trend for the last five trading days. The stock price had dropped over 33% from 9,130 won at the end of April to 6,100 won the day before the announcement. In this context, the company's proactive approach to stabilizing its stock price has attracted significant buying interest from investors. The stock buyback trust agreement involves entrusting funds to a securities firm to purchase the company's own shares over a specified period. This is often interpreted as a signal of the company's commitment to reducing market supply and returning value to shareholders. On this day, trading volume exceeded 145,019 shares, with trading value approaching 1.1 billion won, significantly surpassing typical levels.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 10:57:00

Pamtech Shares Surge Following Acquisition of Robotics Firm TIS Pamtech has seen its shares hit the daily limit for the second consecutive trading day following news of its acquisition of TIS, a company specializing in industrial robots. As of 10:40 a.m. on June 2, shares of Pamtech rose by 419 won (29.99%) to 1,816 won. The previous day, shares also closed up by 29.95%, marking two days of limit-up trading. The acquisition of 100% of TIS is seen as a move to enhance Pamtech's semiconductor process automation equipment business, boosting investor sentiment. Pamtech announced on June 1 that it had completed the acquisition of TIS. The company plans to leverage TIS's technology to secure industrial robot expertise and develop wafer transfer robot technology for semiconductor manufacturing and post-processing. Pamtech aims to advance its semiconductor logistics automation equipment business, including wafer transfer modules (EFEM) and sorters, using TIS's technology. EFEMs are pre-processing equipment that automatically supply and retrieve wafers to and from processing equipment, while sorters inspect and classify wafers. With the recent expansion of the artificial intelligence (AI) semiconductor and high-performance computing (HPC) markets, the importance of advanced packaging technology has grown, leading to increased expectations for the glass substrate equipment market. Glass substrates are known to have a higher risk of breakage compared to traditional silicon wafers, making precise transfer and alignment technology essential. Pamtech plans to combine its existing automation equipment design and manufacturing capabilities with TIS's precision robot technology to capture the market for automation equipment for glass substrates. Pamtech develops and manufactures automation equipment for camera modules, semiconductors, smart factories, and mobility sectors. Last year, the company reported consolidated revenues of 38.7 billion won and an operating loss of 4.1 billion won.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 10:57:00

Researchers discover natural substance capable of slowing down cancer cell growth SEOUL, June 02 (AJP) - Scientists from South Korea and the United States have discovered that a natural substance produced when the body breaks down dietary fats can directly block a key protein responsible for cancer cell growth, the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology said Tuesday. The joint study, led by Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) Professor Kim Se-yoon and Korea University Professor Byun Young-joo, identified that a fat byproduct called 13-HODE acts as a natural brake on the mTOR protein. The mTOR protein regulates normal cell growth and energy use, but it becomes abnormally hyperactive in cancer cells, driving rapid tumor growth and spread. The human body creates the 13-HODE molecule when an enzyme called ALOX15 processes linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid commonly found in plant oils. Using computer simulations and mass spectrometry, the research team found that 13-HODE physically attaches itself to the active part of the mTOR protein, completely shutting down its ability to function. Researchers noted that 13-HODE levels are severely depleted in breast and colon cancer cells because the tumors suppress the ALOX15 enzyme needed to make it. During laboratory tests, artificially increasing the production of both the enzyme and the fat byproduct successfully lowered mTOR activity and stopped cancer cells from multiplying. "This research is meaningful in that it reveals a fat metabolite produced within the human body can directly inhibit mTOR, a core protein in cancer growth," Professor Kim Se-yoon said. "It could be utilized not only for new anticancer treatment strategies using fat metabolism in the future but also for developing treatments to regulate mTOR overactivity seen in inflammation and aging processes." Professor Byun Young-joo said the research identified the interaction between a protein and a fatty acid metabolite at the molecular level through the convergence of biology and pharmacy. "It will serve as an important foundation for the development of innovative new drugs in the future," Byun said. Professor Jie Chen of the University of Illinois, a leading researcher in the mTOR field, evaluated the findings in a journal preview, describing the work as an exceptional discovery that presents a new breakthrough in controlling cancer cells. The research involved collaboration with scientists from Gachon University College of Medicine and the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy. The study, co-authored by Dr. Park Seung-ju and doctoral student Kim Se-ra of KAIST, was published as a cover paper in the journal Cell Chemical Biology on May 21, 2026. (Reference Information) Journal/Source: Cell Chemical Biology Title: Mechanism by which a linoleic acid metabolite suppresses cancer cell growth by inhibiting mTOR Link/DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chembiol.2026.04.004 2026-06-02 10:56:34

Celltrion Establishes First Labor Union, Calls for Performance Pay and Staffing Discussions Celltrion has established its first labor union, marking a significant milestone 25 years after the company's founding. The union is advocating for transparency in performance pay criteria, improvements to the wage system, and the hiring of regular staff. Union representatives argue that discussions on a compensation system commensurate with the company's expected record performance are necessary. According to the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions' Chemical, Textile, and Food Industry Workers' Union, Celltrion employees launched the 'Unitrion' branch of the union on June 1. This is the first union formed since the company was founded by Chairman Seo Jung-jin in 2002. The union announced its official establishment through a declaration but did not disclose the number of members. In its founding declaration, the union stated, "We demand transparent compensation and respect that reflects our dedication." Key demands include the disclosure of criteria for excess profit-sharing bonuses and the establishment of a wage determination system based on negotiations. The union is also calling for the hiring of regular staff in compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), improvements to rotating work schedules, enhanced employee welfare, and the rejection of unilateral work directives. These demands are seen as closely related to the company's recent growth. Celltrion has been experiencing performance growth due to the expansion of biosimilar sales and the establishment of a direct sales system. Additionally, with the launch of its new drug business, the company has set a revenue target of 5.3 trillion won for this year. The union believes that with record performance anticipated, both performance pay and the wage system should be improved accordingly. Labor issues are increasingly spreading across various industries. In the pharmaceutical and biotech sectors, discussions are ongoing. The union at Samsung Biologics conducted a five-day strike last month and continues to engage in lawful protests demanding wage and treatment improvements. In response to the union's formation, Celltrion stated, "The company respects the rights guaranteed by law regarding the establishment of labor unions and plans to respond sincerely in accordance with laws and regulations as related procedures progress." The company added, "We will do our utmost to ensure stable operations and continuous growth through communication with employees and responsible management."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 10:54:00

Korea Expressway Corporation Introduces Fuel Assistance Service for Vulnerable Road Users The Korea Expressway Corporation announced on June 2 that it will implement a "QR Call Fuel Assistance Service" to reduce the inconvenience faced by vulnerable road users, including people with disabilities, the elderly, and pregnant women, at highway gas stations. This service will be available at 218 self-service gas stations across the country. Out of 226 gas stations on the expressways, 218 operate on a self-service basis, accounting for 96%. Previously, vulnerable users had to use assistance devices like call buttons to request help, which required them to exit their vehicles. The new service allows users to request assistance without leaving their cars through a contactless call system. By scanning a QR code attached to the gas pump, the request is sent to the gas station staff. If scanning the QR code is not feasible, users can call the gas station office using the contact number provided below the QR code. Once the request is received, a staff member will come to the vehicle to assist with the entire fueling process. The Korea Expressway Corporation believes this service will enhance both the safety and accessibility for vulnerable road users. Current legislation defines vulnerable road users as individuals who experience mobility difficulties in daily life, including people with disabilities, the elderly, pregnant women, caregivers with infants, and children. A representative from the Korea Expressway Corporation stated, "This service goes beyond simple fuel assistance; it is a public service that guarantees mobility rights. We will continue to improve systems on-site to ensure that all citizens can safely and conveniently use highway services."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 10:54:00

Korea's National Railroad Corporation Wins $13 Million Rail Project in Peru The National Railroad Corporation announced it has secured a contract for the design review and construction supervision of the "Huancayo-Huancavelica" railway improvement project, commissioned by Peru's Transportation Infrastructure Investment Supervisory Agency. The project is valued at approximately $13 million (about 19.2 billion won). This initiative aims to modernize a 128.7-kilometer stretch of aging railway in the central Andes region of Peru, which operates at altitudes exceeding 3,600 meters. The corporation's consortium will oversee the supervision of construction and operational phases over the next five years. The Huancayo-Huancavelica railway, also known as the "Tren Macho," began operations in October 1926 and features seven stations, 20 stops, 15 bridges, and 38 tunnels. The modernization project will include the introduction of new vehicles and improvements to signaling and control systems. The corporation formed a global consortium that includes domestic engineering firms and local companies. It outperformed competitors from Spain and Japan in all aspects of technical and price evaluations. Lee An-ho, acting president of the National Railroad Corporation, stated, "This contract demonstrates our technological prowess in K-Rail by competing with advanced countries in the global railway sector. We will continue to elevate the status of Korean railways and expand overseas markets in collaboration with domestic companies."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 10:51:00

Korean Navy to join RIMPAC, take first command role in multinational maritime exercise SEOUL, June 02 (AJP) - South Korea’s Navy said Monday its Aegis destroyer Jeongjo the Great will depart for the Rim of the Pacific exercise (RIMPAC), marking the first time the service will assume a major command role in the U.S.-led multinational maritime drill. The 8,200-ton destroyer left Jeju Naval Base on Monday and will join the exercise, which will take place in waters off Hawaii from late June through July, according to the Navy. It will be the first RIMPAC participation for the Jeongjo the Great, which was commissioned in December 2024. The 3,000-ton submarine Dosan Ahn Chang-ho and the P-8A maritime patrol aircraft will also take part in the exercise for the first time. The Dosan Ahn Chang-ho, along with the frigate Daejeon, will move to Hawaii after completing a combined cooperation exercise with Canada. The landing ship Cheonjabong is also set to head to Hawaii after conducting a search and rescue exercise, or SAREX, with Japan’s Aegis destroyer Kongo in international waters southeast of Jeju on June 7. RIMPAC is a biennial multinational naval exercise hosted by the U.S. 3rd Fleet to enhance participating countries’ ability to protect sea lines of communication, respond jointly to maritime threats and improve interoperability and operational capabilities among allied and partner forces. This year marks the 30th edition of the exercise. South Korea first joined RIMPAC in 1990 and will be participating for the 19th time this year. During this year’s exercise, the South Korean military will serve for the first time as the Combined Force Maritime Component Commander, or CFMCC. South Korea will become the fourth country to take on the role and the first Asian country to do so. The Navy said the exercise is expected to provide an opportunity to strengthen South Korea’s military capabilities ahead of the planned transfer of wartime operational control from Washington to Seoul. Rear Adm. Kim In-ho, commander of the Republic of Korea Navy’s Maritime Task Flotilla and the officer who will serve as the CFMCC, said the assignment marks a shift in South Korea’s role from a participating country to a command nation. “Taking on the command role for the first time means we have moved beyond being a participating country and have advanced to the position of a command nation,” Kim said. 2026-06-02 10:48:20

Consumer prices hit 26-month high as fuel prices soar SEOUL, June 2 (AJP) - South Korea's consumer prices rose 3.1 percent in May from a year earlier, the Ministry of Statistics and Data said on Tuesday. Consumer prices, which serve as a key gauge of inflation, rose above 3 percent for the first time in 26 months since February 2024, fueled by sharp increases in petroleum and industrial product prices. An index measuring the prices of daily necessities also rose to 3.3 percent, the highest level since March 2024, suggesting that households continue to feel the pressure of rising prices. Petroleum products were a major driver of inflation, with prices rising 24.2 percent year-on-year. Diesel recorded the largest increase at 33.3 percent, while gasoline prices rose 23.1 percent. Costs in the service sector also rose 2.8 percent from a year earlier. Prices of agricultural and fishery products also climbed 2.2 percent as hot weather constrained supply. The core inflation measure used by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), which excludes food and energy, rose 2.5 percent, marking its highest level since February 2024. 2026-06-02 10:44:31