South Korea's Booyoung Group pays 3.6 billion won in birth incentives in 2025 SEOUL, February 05 (AJP) - South Korea's Booyoung Group paid 3.6 billion won ($2.46 million) in birth incentives last year to employees who had children, as part of a program offering 100 million won for each newborn. The company said payments were made for 36 children born to employees last year. Total payouts rose about 29 percent from 2.8 billion won a year earlier. Booyoung said that cases involving multiple births have increased since the program began in 2024. Eleven employees received a combined 200 million won last year after having twins or multiple children. Total payments since the program’s launch have reached 13.4 billion won. Chairman Lee Joong-keun introduced the initiative, saying companies should help address South Korea’s low birthrate. In its first year, the company paid 7 billion won, including incentives covering births between 2021 and 2023 before the program was formally introduced. “In a low-birth crisis that threatens the nation’s future, our program, launched with the belief that companies should act as catalysts, is producing visible results,” Lee said at a company event on Thursday. * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2026-02-05 14:27:43

Police seek arrest warrant for ex-DP lawmaker SEOUL, February 5 (AJP) - Police on Thursday filed arrest warrants for Kang Sun-woo, a former lawmaker of the ruling Democratic Party (DP), and Kim Kyung, a former Seoul city official, over alleged bribery and breach of trust. The move comes about a month after the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency launched their investigation into the case. Kang is accused of receiving 100 million Korean won (US$68,500) from Kim in return for the DP's candidate nominations for the 2022 local elections. The money was allegedly delivered to Kang's former aide, identified only by his surname Nam. During a series of prior questionings, Kang reportedly denied all allegations, although she admitted receiving a shopping bag, claiming that she did not know it contained money. Given the differing statements from the three, police believe that arrest warrants are necessary, as they could destroy evidence. 2026-02-05 14:12:06

Actor Lee Deok-hwa Recalls Being Dragged 50-60 Meters Under a Bus in Crash Actor Lee Deok-hwa has recounted a serious traffic accident he suffered in his 20s. On the Feb. 4 broadcast of tvN’s “You Quiz on the Block,” Lee said people can become less cautious as their careers improve, adding, “The moment you start showing off, an accident happens and something terrible follows.” He said a bus, which he estimated can weigh about 10 tons when full, was on top of a motorcycle — and he was beneath it. Lee said he was pinned by the weight and dragged a long distance. “I was wearing jeans, and only the belt was left,” he said, adding that only the neck portion of his leather jacket remained. He said he was dragged 50 to 60 meters. Lee said he underwent more than 50 surgeries, had more than 1 meter of intestine removed and needed 1,500 stitches. He said doctors told him daily that “today is the critical point,” and that he regained consciousness only after 14 days. Without painkillers, he said, he could not endure even an hour. Lee said he still has lasting effects and was assessed as having a Level 3 disability. He said colleagues who visited thought he would not survive, and later told him they had even collected condolence money and held a moment of silence. Lee also said his father, actor Lee Ye-chun, was already in poor health, and that the shock of the accident led to his father’s early death. Lee said he was too weak to bow even at the funeral."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-02-05 14:12:00

Korean president hints at conscription overhaul in line with demographic changes SEOUL, February 05 (AJP)-South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on Thursday hinted at enabling non-conscription options for science talent as part of an overhaul of South Korea's military service system, citing demographic decline and brain drain caused by two to three years of interruption in studies and research. Speaking at a dialogue with young scientists at the presidential office, Lee acknowledged that mandatory service creates unavoidable career gaps for young men and has become a source of social friction. "Male youths inevitably experience a significant interruption in their lives while fulfilling their national duty," Lee said, adding that the government is considering broader alternative service programs and structural reform of the armed forces. He suggested expanding research-oriented service tracks and establishing research units within the military, as warfare increasingly shifts toward advanced weapons systems and artificial intelligence. "Armed force should be focused on expertise rather than sheer numbers," he said. "Instead of being thought as youth wasted, the conscription period should be utilized for an opportunity to learn advanced defense systems and high tech," he said, adding "here's a thought, why not create R&D units within the military?" ​​​​​​Under South Korea's Military Service Act, all able-bodied male citizens are required to serve between the ages of 18 and 28, with active-duty service typically lasting about 18 months. Limited exemptions are granted to Olympic medalists and Asian Games gold medalists, while some classical musicians and traditional artists who win top international competitions are also eligible for alternative service. The selective nature of these exemptions has fueled long-running controversy, particularly in the cultural sector. The debate intensified around BTS, whose members enlisted despite topping global charts and generating significant economic value. Supporters had called for exemptions, while critics warned against preferential treatment for K-pop stars. A 2018 legal revision, often dubbed the "BTS Law," allowed top artists to defer enlistment until age 30 but did not grant full exemption. Public sensitivity over military service has also been shaped by the case of Yoo Seung-jun, who was banned from entering Korea after obtaining U.S. citizenship in 2002 to avoid enlistment. Alternative service, introduced following a 2018 ruling by the Constitutional Court of Korea, allows conscientious objectors to serve in public institutions instead of military units. Before the ruling, most objectors were imprisoned. However, the system remains controversial because alternative service personnel must serve for 36 months — twice as long as active duty — to deter abuse. Critics argue the lengthy term is excessive and discourages legitimate applicants. Lee's remarks come as South Korea faces declining birth rates and rising demand for high-tech military capabilities, prompting renewed debate over whether the manpower-centered conscription system remains sustainable. The government has said any reform will seek to balance national security needs with fairness and constitutional rights. 2026-02-05 14:07:51

Overseas outlets of Korean dining brands jump 25 percent in 5 years SEOUL, February 05 (AJP) - South Korean dining brands have increased their overseas store count by nearly 25 percent over the past five years, a government survey showed on Thursday. According to the survey, released by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs and the Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corp. (aT), Korean dining companies operated 4,644 stores across 56 countries last year, up from 3,722 outlets in 48 countries in 2020. Over the same period, the number of companies operating overseas fell to 122 from 134, while the number of brands slipped to 139 from 147. The survey suggests companies are concentrating resources in key markets rather than expanding broadly, with many respondents reporting higher overseas sales over the past year. The United States was the largest market, accounting for 1,106 stores, or 23.8 percent of the total, more than double the 528 outlets recorded in 2020. China ranked second with 830 stores, down sharply from 1,368 five years earlier. Vietnam remained the largest base in Southeast Asia with 634 outlets, followed by the Philippines with 294, Thailand with 231 and Taiwan with 196 stores. By sector, chicken chains remained dominant, accounting for 39 percent of overseas outlets, followed by bakery brands at 25.5 percent. Together they made up nearly two-thirds of all stores abroad. The ministry said it plans to strengthen tailored support at each stage of overseas expansion, link restaurant operators with Korean food ingredient exporters and provide more detailed market information by country and region. "Overseas expansion has become an important pillar in boosting the global competitiveness of Korean cuisine and the broader food industry," said ministry official Jeong Gyeong-seok. * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2026-02-05 13:58:34

Polaris Shipping Installs Starlink on 25 Bulk Carriers, Plans Autonomous Navigation Trials Polaris Shipping, a carrier specializing in very large ore carriers and bulk ships, is accelerating its shift to smart shipping. The company said Wednesday it has completed installation of a Starlink-based satellite communications system on 25 of its bulk carriers and is moving ahead with plans to introduce a next-generation autonomous navigation system called HiNAS Control. Polaris Shipping said the rollout gives its bulk fleet stable, ultra-high-speed communications, enabling low-latency, high-speed data links on global routes. The company said the satellite network is intended not only to improve onboard internet access but also to support smart-ship operations, including real-time transmission of navigation data, remote support and integration with safety management systems. To advance autonomous navigation, Polaris Shipping said it will first deploy Avikus’ HiNAS Control system on two vessels for a pilot operation. Avikus is a subsidiary of HD Hyundai Group. The company described HiNAS Control as an autonomous navigation system that goes beyond perception and decision-making to perform actual ship-control functions. Polaris Shipping said the system can set optimal routes without crew intervention to help prevent maritime accidents and can reduce fuel costs by maintaining optimal speed and routing. After verifying performance in real operating conditions, Polaris Shipping said it will review, step by step, whether to expand the system to more ships. The company said it aims to build a data-driven smart-ship operating model by combining Starlink-based connectivity with HiNAS Control autonomous navigation technology. “Building ultra-high-speed satellite communications and introducing autonomous navigation systems are key factors that will determine future competitiveness in shipping,” a Polaris Shipping official said. “Through this project, we will strengthen a safe and efficient operating environment while simultaneously improving crew-centered working conditions and achieving digital-based operational innovation, leading global smart shipping.” 2026-02-05 13:54:17

Samsung's Lee Jae-yong heads to Winter Olympics for global business meetings SEOUL, February 05 (AJP) - Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong has traveled to Italy to attend the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, where he is expected to combine Olympic engagements with meetings aimed at strengthening global business ties. Lee departed for Milan on Thursday, marking his first visit to an Olympic Games since attending the Paris Summer Olympics in 2024. Lee is expected to attend the opening ceremony and hold meetings with political and business leaders on the sidelines of the Games. He is also likely to explore cooperation opportunities with partners connected to Samsung’s European operations, including mobile devices, automotive electronics and semiconductors. Samsung Electronics has been an Olympic sponsor since serving as a local partner for the 1988 Seoul Summer Games. The company signed a global TOP (The Olympic Partner) sponsorship agreement with the International Olympic Committee in 1997 and has extended the partnership through 2028. Lee’s trip continues a recent pattern of using major international events for business diplomacy. In 2024, he visited the Paris Olympics — his first Olympic appearance in 12 years — where he held meetings with global industry leaders, including former ASML chief executive Peter Wennink, and attended a business leaders’ luncheon hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace. Samsung said it will work with the IOC and Olympic Broadcasting Services to film parts of the opening ceremony using its Galaxy S25 Ultra smartphone and broadcast the footage live to global audiences. * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2026-02-05 13:47:58

AP: Mavericks Trade Anthony Davis to Wizards One Year After Luka Doncic Deal The Dallas Mavericks have traded Anthony Davis to the Washington Wizards. The AP reported on Wednesday that Dallas and Washington agreed to a blockbuster deal. Washington received Davis, Jaden Hardy, D’Angelo Russell and Dante Exum. Dallas got Khris Middleton, AJ Johnson, Malaki Branham and Marvin Bagley III, along with two first-round draft picks and three second-round picks. The move drew attention because it includes Davis. In February last year, Dallas sent franchise star Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers and acquired Davis. The deal sparked a stunned reaction at the time. While Davis is an elite player, many questioned the logic of trading the younger, more productive Doncic. Washington has now added Davis after acquiring Trae Young from the Atlanta Hawks last month, giving the Wizards a stronger lineup. Dallas, meanwhile, has effectively hit the reset button and is reshaping its roster around its next star, Cooper Flagg. 2026-02-05 12:51:00

K-Heritage Foundation, Aju Media join hands for K-heritage 5.0 era SEOUL, February 05 (AJP) -The K-Heritage Foundation and Aju Media Group have joined hands to promote the digital preservation and global dissemination of Korea’s national heritage. The K-Heritage Foundation led by President Park Dong-seok, and Aju Media Group headed by President Lee Kwu-jin, signed a comprehensive memorandum of understanding (MoU) on Thursday to cooperate on the digital conservation, video production and international promotion of traditional Korean heritage. The agreement marks a key step in advancing the foundation’s “K-Heritage 5.0” vision. Under its 2026 business plan, the foundation has identified major initiatives including the globalization of a “Top 100 K-Heritage Video Archive” and the hosting of a UNESCO heritage expo in cooperation with countries that participated in the Korean War. Park said the Korean Wave must evolve beyond content consumption toward deeper values and heritage. “The Korean Wave should now move into the 5.0 era, expanding from entertainment into spirit, values and legacy,” Park said. “We aim to build a platform that shares Korea’s history and cultural heritage with global citizens, beyond K-dramas and K-pop.” He added that the video archive project and the UNESCO heritage expo would serve as foundations for systematically documenting Korea’s heritage and strengthening international cooperation. Under the agreement, the two sides will jointly pursue projects including digital recording and archiving of cultural assets, multilingual content production, global distribution platforms and public-interest cultural diplomacy programs. Lee said the K-Heritage 5.0 initiative represents the next stage of the Korean Wave. “This is a highly meaningful direction for the future of Korean culture,” Lee said. “It would be especially significant if this agenda is officially presented at this year’s UNESCO World Heritage Committee meeting in Busan.” He emphasized the role of media in preservation and outreach. “Our responsibility is to document and spread cultural value,” Lee said. “Aju Media will actively work to record disappearing craftsmanship, traditional skills and regional heritage through video and data, and share them with the world.” The partnership will initially run for one year from the signing date, with plans for automatic renewal. The two organizations will continue consultations and jointly develop projects to build a comprehensive global platform for Korean heritage. Through the agreement, the K-Heritage Foundation and Aju Media Group aim to transform Korea’s cultural legacy into a “future asset” to be shared by future generations and global audiences alike. 2026-02-05 12:11:22

FM meets US energy chief to discuss nuclear cooperation SEOUL, February 5 (AJP) - Foreign Minister Cho Hyun met with U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright on the sidelines of a U.S.-led ministerial meeting on critical minerals in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs here, the two sides reaffirmed their commitment to the speedy implementation of a tariff-related bilateral agreement reached in October last year. The agreement includes Seoul's pledge to invest $350 billion in the U.S. as part of a broader deal to reduce reciprocal tariffs from 25 percent to 15 percent. But the deal now faces uncertainty as U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened to raise tariffs again, citing delays in carrying it out. Cho and Wright also agreed to work together to facilitate the implementation of the deal through working-level discussions, with Cho saying he expects that expanded cooperation on the construction of nuclear submarines as well as on uranium enrichment and the reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel will further strengthen strategic ties between the two allies. Wright said he would actively work to achieve tangible outcomes. 2026-02-05 11:24:26