South Korean researchers develop virtual simulator for AI servers SEOUL, May 29 (AJP) - Researchers at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology in South Korea have developed a virtual platform to test the performance of large artificial intelligence server setups without building physical systems, the prominent research institute said Friday. Created by a team led by Professor Park Jong-se at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) School of Computing, the software is called LLMServingSim 2.0. It models the complex hardware and software interactions needed to run large language models. The tool allows developers to experiment with different designs and verify performance before buying expensive server equipment. Running large artificial intelligence models usually requires thousands of servers. Testing new chips or system layouts in the real world takes a lot of time and money. The new simulator solves this by copying tasks like data processing, request sorting, and memory use on a regular computer. The technology goes beyond traditional graphics processing units to support newer chips. Users can test neural processing units and memory chips that handle calculations directly within a virtual data center. This helps researchers see if a certain chip will speed up processing, use less power, and stay stable across huge server networks. It can also analyze setups where different server resources are physically separated but connected over a network. The research was led by master's students Cho Jae-hong and Choi Hyun-min. It won the best paper award at the IEEE International Symposium on Performance Analysis of Systems and Software (ISPASS) 2026. The simulation tool has been released to the public as open-source software so businesses and schools can use it freely. "AI service competitiveness is determined not only by the model itself but also by the infrastructure technology that operates it stably and efficiently," Park said. "I hope this simulator will serve as an important foundation for researchers and the industry to develop next-generation AI infrastructure more quickly and efficiently." (Reference Information) Journal/Source: IEEE International Symposium on Performance Analysis of Systems and Software (ISPASS) 2026 Title: LLMServingSim 2.0: A Unified Simulator for Heterogeneous and Disaggregated LLM Serving Infrastructure Link/DOI: 10.1109/ISPASS69572.2026.00012 2026-05-29 15:54:20

KFA chief Chung Mong-gyu to step down after 2026 World Cup SEOUL, May 29 (AJP) - Chung Mong-gyu, president of the Korea Football Association, said Friday he will step down after the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, ending his 13-year tenure at the helm of South Korean football. In a statement released two weeks before the tournament opens, Chung said he intends to resign after the World Cup, calling support for the national team his final duty as head of the association. "I intend to step down as president of the Korea Football Association after this World Cup," Chung said. "I believe my last duty as president is to do my best to support the national team so it can produce meaningful results at the tournament." "I am aware that there have been various controversies and criticisms during my time leading the association," Chung said. "I believe all of this is due to my shortcomings." The KFA said Chung made the decision to urge football fans to give their full support to the national team during the World Cup. It also said he concluded that taking responsibility was necessary for the association to move past the current situation and return to long-term planning for South Korean football. Chung won a fourth term in February last year with 85.6 percent support. He has led the KFA since 2013, when he took office as the association's 52nd president. South Korea, coached by Hong Myung-bo, is preparing for the World Cup finals, which open next month in North America. Chung plans to submit his resignation after the tournament, which is scheduled to conclude on July 19 local time. 2026-05-29 15:49:26

Nike teams up with BTS for customization, tour merchandise collection SEOUL, May 29 (AJP) - Nike has partnered with K-pop legend BTS to launch a Nike By You customization experience and tour merchandise tied to the group's BTS WORLD TOUR "ARIRANG," Nike said Friday. The project combines customized Nike products with tour merchandise, giving BTS fans a way to personalize apparel and accessories connected to the group's upcoming world tour. The Nike By You experience features 10 custom graphics created specifically for BTS. The designs can be used to personalize select Nike apparel and tote bags. Nike said the graphics use bold shapes, fluid movement and custom typography to reflect the group's musical evolution and its connection with fans around the world. The collaboration also includes Nike x BTS tour merchandise, including T-shirts, a hoodie and a Korea-only cap. The items will be sold in select cities on the "ARIRANG" world tour and online in China. The collection references BTS' Korean heritage alongside themes of legacy and creativity. Some Nike By You designs highlight the number seven, representing the seven members of BTS, while others reference musical bars and measures. The Nike By You customization experience will begin June 1 at select Nike stores in Seoul, Busan, Tokyo and Osaka. It will later expand to cities across Asia, Europe and North America through February 2027. Nike x BTS tour merchandise will launch June 12 in Seoul, Busan and Tokyo, followed by releases in major U.S. cities, including Chicago, Boston, San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York City and Las Vegas, on July 5 and in London on July 6. Additional merchandise drops are scheduled for China, Singapore, Taguig, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Toronto, Melbourne and Sydney through February 2027. 2026-05-29 15:48:43

Ruling Party Warns Opposition Candidates of Serious Consequences Amid Election Controversies On May 29, the Democratic Party issued a warning to the opposition amid ongoing controversies surrounding the local elections, specifically addressing allegations of deepfake video production and distribution linked to Park Wan-soo, the People Power Party's candidate for Gyeongnam governor, and accusations of online comment manipulation involving Oh Se-hoon, the party's candidate for Seoul mayor. The party asserted that these issues would lead to serious consequences for the opposition. Kang Jun-hyun, the party's spokesperson, spoke to reporters at the National Assembly, emphasizing the importance of active voter participation on the first day of early voting. "We urge the public to exercise their valuable right to vote," he said, noting that problems related to the People Power Party candidates continue to emerge. Kang highlighted reports from May 28 that raised concerns about illegal AI deepfake election videos being created and distributed by Park's campaign, as well as indications of election interference by Gyeongnam provincial officials. He stated, "If true, this constitutes a serious violation of the Public Official Election Act and is one of the most severe election crimes." He further remarked, "This is also an instance of administrative power being mobilized for electoral purposes. Elections are a stage for the people's choice, not a mud fight where one can win through crime and rule-breaking." Regarding the recent controversy surrounding Oh's alleged comment manipulation, Kang noted, "There are reports that malicious posts were created and systematically disseminated with the intent of causing the defeat of candidate Jeong Won-ho. A representative from Oh's camp even mentioned that they had previously changed the game during the 2021 by-elections through a comment campaign." Kang criticized the People Power Party, questioning whether they take pride in manipulating public opinion. He recalled the remnants of similar tactics from the Lee Myung-bak administration, warning that the unethical approach of prioritizing electoral victory over political integrity would now face severe scrutiny. Additionally, Kang pointed to recent polling data indicating that Lee Won-taek is leading Kim Kwan-young in the race for the Gyeongbuk governor position, suggesting that public sentiment in the region is rallying behind the Democratic Party. He concluded by stating, "What Kim should do now is not to dream of an unrealistic return to the party but to show integrity by apologizing to party members and resigning. I urge the voters of Jeonbuk, who support President Lee Jae-myung, to choose him."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-29 15:45:00

In the Age of AI, Com2us Platform Seizes Quantum Leap Opportunity with B2B Expansion "As game developers adapt fiercely to survive, Com2us Platform sees another opportunity. Our goal is clear: to instill strong trust in the market that 'clients will succeed with Com2us Platform.'" Iru Da, director of Com2us Platform's Technology Business Division, recently shared the company's business objectives in response to changes in the development environment, including artificial intelligence (AI), during an interview with Aju Economy. Com2us Platform, a subsidiary of Com2us Holdings, is expanding its B2B portfolio by developing new businesses in cloud, system integration (SI), and AI integrated services (MaaS), following its core business of the game backend platform, Hive. Hive began as an internal platform to support global game services for the Com2us Group. After validating common functions necessary for game services, such as login, authentication, payment, operations, and community management, Com2us Platform began external commercialization of Hive to third-party game companies in 2021. This decision was based on the belief that the global service know-how gained internally would be in demand by external game developers. Iru Da explained, "Just as Google's Gmail started as an internal product and expanded externally, Hive also began its external opening based on validated product viability." He noted that in the early days of external release, Hive's recognition was low, so they had to start by explaining the platform to clients. Despite having a data separation system, there were initial misunderstandings that game data or business information from the Com2us Group might leak. Hive experienced a turning point in growth in 2022 with the introduction of cross-play functionality, which supports both mobile and PC. Iru Da stated, "MMORPG clients, who had a high demand for PC games, chose Hive because it allows for cross-play implementation with just a few lines of code, which resonated well in the market." After five years of external commercialization, Hive's business achievements are becoming evident. According to the company, Hive is currently applied to over 250 games. This marks an increase from 112 contracted games and 86 partners at the end of the first quarter last year to 145 games and 158 partners this year. Com2us Platform is now broadening its business into infrastructure and system integration. The experience gained from Hive's external commercialization has laid the groundwork for expanding into cloud, SI, and AI businesses. Leveraging its global game service operation experience, Com2us Platform is expanding its cloud and SI business. Starting in 2024, it plans to supply customized infrastructure to domestic and international developers as a global partner of Tencent Cloud, responding to system construction and operational needs through SI and B2B consulting. The experience from Hive's external commercialization is expected to create synergies in cost reduction for developers when utilizing both Hive and cloud infrastructure. According to Com2us Holdings' first-quarter data, revenue from Com2us Platform's cloud business increased by 212% year-on-year and 13% quarter-on-quarter. Additionally, in April, the company expanded its business with the launch of AI integrated services (MaaS - Model as a Service), providing generative AI models to enterprises. Iru Da emphasized, "Companies can freely utilize the latest generative AI models from AI firms like OpenAI, Google, and Anthropic with just a single application programming interface (API) integration. This allows for immediate incorporation of AI technology into services without the substantial costs of building GPU infrastructure or navigating complex contracts with individual model providers." He identified 'efficiency' as the core of the AI business. As the development environment changes with the proliferation of AI tools, he believes that Hive can also evolve to meet the needs of developers using AI, potentially leading to a quantum leap. Iru Da stated, "In the AI era, a developer's competitiveness is not merely about using a lot of tokens. As AI tool usage becomes more common, the ability to consider cost efficiency and operational stability in development is becoming increasingly important." However, challenges remain. The downturn in the gaming industry poses variables for Hive as well. Iru Da noted, "There is a polarization phenomenon in the gaming industry. Indie and mid-sized game companies are struggling with marketing competition and cost burdens." He added, "Hive is a platform that can only thrive if the games succeed, emphasizing that 'our success is tied to our clients' success.'"* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-29 15:45:00

Labor and Industry Ministers Clash Over Excess Profits Ministers Kim Young-hoon of the Ministry of Employment and Labor and Kim Jung-kwan of the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy are at odds over the issue of excess profits generated by large corporations. Kim Young-hoon advocates for using these excess profits to address social polarization through co-prosperity, while Kim Jung-kwan emphasizes the need for reinvestment. On May 29, Kim Jung-kwan stated on his social media that "the world is currently in a race to secure leadership in artificial intelligence (AI) investments," adding that competing nations are preparing for victory in the AI era with unprecedented large-scale investments. He stressed, "Now is a critical time to connect the profits generated by the semiconductor industry to 'productive reinvestment' for the future," and urged the strategic use of the AI boom to secure a growth engine for South Korea's industrial leap. He warned that even a single missed investment could collapse the industrial ecosystem. Kim Jung-kwan further noted, "What is needed now is not hesitation but determination, and not dispersion but concentration." Kim Jung-kwan's remarks are interpreted as a response from the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy to the recent debate on the distribution of excess profits raised by Kim Young-hoon. During a meeting with reporters on May 27, Kim Young-hoon stated, "The only solution to how to socially distribute the excess profits of large corporations is social dialogue," and announced plans to hold a discussion forum soon. However, members of the ruling People Power Party reacted by saying it was like "rolling up sleeves to cut open a goose's belly." This reflects concerns that the concept of excess profits is unclear and that government intervention should be minimized. In response, Kim Young-hoon addressed speculation on his social media the previous day, stating, "There are misconceptions that the government intends to take away and redistribute the profits of large corporations. This misinterprets the government's concerns and the essence of social dialogue. The government has no authority to forcibly intervene in the legitimate profits of companies, nor does it intend to do so." He added on social media, "Someone must be a fence and clean up the mess so that the goose can safely continue to lay eggs. That egg growing into another goose is sustainable growth for all. A company may be small, but its dreams cannot be small." As differences in the ministers' positions on the handling of excess profits emerge within the government, the Blue House sees a need for public discourse. Chief Spokesperson Kang Yu-jung remarked the previous day, "The Labor Minister's comments highlight the necessity of performance distribution from his perspective. If it were the Industry Minister, he would be discussing excess operating profits or profits from the industry's standpoint." She added, "The Blue House also hopes for various opportunities for public discourse through future forums."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-29 15:33:00

Nexon's 'MapleStory' brings fantasy world to life in southern Seoul SEOUL, May 29 (AJP) - Game developer Nexon's iconic game "MapleStory" has taken over southern Seoul with giant monster installations and themed attractions as part of a large-scale event marking its 23rd anniversary. The monthlong event, in collaboration with the Lotte Group, runs until June 21 around Lotte World Tower and Seokchon Lake in Jamsil, bringing the world of the massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) to life. At the lawn of Lotte World Tower, visitors can explore a themed exhibition inspired by Henesys, one of the most recognizable towns in "MapleStory." Giant sculptures of iconic monsters including "Orange Mushroom" and "Slime" are also on display. At nearby Seokchon Lake, game-themed art balloons have drawn crowds of residents, tourists and "MapleStory" fans. The oversized installations stand out against Seoul's urban skyline and have become popular photo spots. Visitors can take commemorative photos, explore interactive exhibition spaces and experience the game's fantasy world in real life, along with augmented reality mini-games, a stamp rally and a pop-up store. 2026-05-29 15:32:29

Early voting begins nationwide for June 3 local elections SEOUL, May 29 (AJP) - Voters on Friday began casting ballots in early voting for the June 3 local elections at 3,571 polling stations across the country. Eligible voters may cast their ballots at any polling station nationwide from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, regardless of their registered address. A valid photo ID, such as a resident registration card, passport or driver's license, is required to cast a ballot. The elections next week will choose about 4,000 officials including metropolitan mayors, provincial governors, local government heads and education superintendents, and fill other vacancies. Details on polling stations and voting information are available on the National Election Commission's website or through its hotline at 1390. 2026-05-29 15:26:12

Financial Sector Faces Growing Burden Amid High Rates and Inflation In the prolonged phase of high interest rates, inflation, and currency fluctuations, the financial sector is effectively acting as a buffer against economic shocks. Beyond supporting vulnerable groups and contributing to policy-driven financial resources, there is increasing emphasis on expanding loans to low- and mid-credit borrowers through internet-only banks, as well as the role of secondary financial institutions like credit cards, insurance, and savings banks in providing financial support to the public. However, indicators of financial health are already showing signs of deterioration, raising concerns about the limits of support capacity. According to the financial sector on May 29, banks and other financial institutions have launched various win-win programs, including lowering loan interest rates for vulnerable groups, interest refunds, fee reductions, and financial support for small businesses. Notably, banks have recently implemented programs such as Small Business 119 Plus, Business Closure Support Loan, and Sunshine Loan 119 to enhance support for small businesses. These programs focus on long-term installment repayment and interest reductions for borrowers before delinquency, low-interest refinancing loans for those who have closed their businesses, and additional funding for diligent repayers. The burden of policy-driven financial resources is also increasing. Shinhan Financial became the first in the sector to contribute an additional 100 billion won to the Microfinance Foundation in March, with KB Financial and Woori Financial each adding 100 billion won as well. Internet-only banks are facing pressure to increase their share of loans to low- and mid-credit borrowers following controversies over 'cherry-picking' high-credit customers. This burden is also spreading to secondary financial institutions. Credit card companies are absorbing the urgent financial needs of low- and mid-credit borrowers and small business owners while managing the dual challenge of delinquency rates in card loans and cash services. According to the Credit Finance Association, the outstanding balance of card loans from nine credit card companies (Samsung, Shinhan, KB Kookmin, Hyundai, Lotte, Hana, Woori, BC, and NH Nonghyup) was 42.983 trillion won at the end of April, slightly down from the record high the previous month but still nearing 43 trillion won. The insurance sector is meeting funding demands through insurance contract loans and household and corporate loans, while savings banks and capital companies, which have a high proportion of low- and mid-credit borrowers, are more sensitive to the impacts of economic downturns. Warnings have already emerged regarding financial health indicators. As of the end of March, the delinquency rate for won-denominated loans at domestic banks was recorded at 0.56%, the highest level in a decade since the first quarter of 2016. The delinquency rate for savings banks remains around 6%, and risks associated with real estate project financing (PF) are leading to increased provisions. Particularly, savings banks, capital companies, and insurers, which have overlapping exposures to PF and low- and mid-credit loans, are assessed to be exposed to compounded risks. Within and outside the financial sector, while win-win financing has the positive function of protecting vulnerable borrowers, there are warnings that repeated support for borrowers whose repayment capacity has not recovered could lead to a 'bad debt hot potato' scenario. A financial sector official stated, “While the financial sector is cushioning the shocks of the high-rate economy, excessive support in a situation where delinquency rates and PF risks are simultaneously rising could exacerbate potential bad debts. A sophisticated policy design is needed to balance the protection of vulnerable borrowers and the resolution of bad debts.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-29 15:26:00

Youth Future Savings Accounts Offer Up to 8% Interest Rates The interest rates for Youth Future Savings Accounts have been announced by various banks. While all participating institutions offer a base interest rate of 5%, the maximum rates vary between 7% and 8% depending on the bank's bonus rates. When factoring in government contributions and tax exemptions on interest income, the effective interest rate for the preferred accounts could reach as high as 19.4% annually. On May 29, the Financial Services Commission reported that the details of the preferential interest rates for Youth Future Savings Accounts were published on the Consumer Portal of the Korea Federation of Banks. This savings product features a fixed interest rate over three years, starting with a base rate of 5% and adding 2 to 3 percentage points in preferential rates from the institutions. The banks offering the highest rate of 8% include the five major banks—KB Kookmin, Shinhan, Hana, Woori, and NH Nonghyup—as well as Industrial Bank of Korea and Korea Post. These institutions provide a maximum interest rate of 8% by adding up to 3 percentage points to the base rate. Other banks, such as Suhyup Bank, iM Bank, Busan Bank, Gwangju Bank, Jeonbuk Bank, Gyeongnam Bank, and Kakao Bank, offer a maximum preferential rate of 2 percentage points, resulting in a top interest rate of 7%. Common preferential rates are also available. Young individuals earning an annual salary of 36 million won or less, or with a total income of 26 million won or less, can receive an additional 0.5 percentage points. Those who complete the 'Financial Counseling for All Youth' program are eligible for an extra 0.2 percentage points. Other preferential rates depend on financial transaction activities such as salary transfers, credit card usage, and automatic payments. Considering government contributions and tax benefits, the actual benefits of the Youth Future Savings Accounts are even greater. According to the Financial Services Commission, the effective benefits of the standard accounts are similar to those of a regular savings account with an annual interest rate of 13.2% to 14.4%. The preferred accounts are estimated to provide benefits equivalent to a regular savings account with an annual interest rate of 18.2% to 19.4%. For instance, if a participant deposits 500,000 won monthly for three years, accumulating a principal of 18 million won, a standard account holder receiving the 8% interest rate would receive a total of 21.38 million won at maturity, including a government contribution of 1.08 million won and interest of 2.3 million won. A preferred account holder would receive a total of 22.55 million won, including a government contribution of 2.16 million won and interest of 2.39 million won. The Youth Future Savings Accounts are set to launch on June 22. Fourteen institutions, excluding Toss Bank, will offer the accounts starting on that date, while Toss Bank plans to launch in December, pending system development. The interest rates for Toss Bank will be announced in accordance with its launch schedule. Applications will be accepted from June 22 to July 3. During the first five business days, from June 22 to 26, applications will be staggered based on the last digit of applicants' birth years. On June 22, those born in years ending in 1 or 6 can apply; on June 23, those with years ending in 2 or 7; on June 24, 3 or 8; on June 25, 4 or 9; and on June 26, 5 or 0. From June 29 to July 3, all applicants can apply regardless of their birth year. After applications are submitted, eligibility and income assessments will be conducted sequentially. The Financial Services Commission and related agencies plan to provide additional information soon regarding the application process, income assessment methods, transitioning from the Youth Jump Account to the Youth Future Savings Account, and necessary preparations before applying.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-29 15:26:00