President Lee Sends Respectful Message on Teacher's Day President Lee Jae-myung expressed his deep respect and gratitude to all teachers across the nation on Teacher's Day, stating, "I extend my heartfelt appreciation to all teachers who are sweating it out in schools and classrooms at this very moment."In a Facebook post titled "To the Great Teachers Who Teach the Present and Shape the Future," President Lee emphasized that the existence of today's South Korea is due to the efforts and dedication of teachers.He quoted, "While I received life from my parents, I learned how to make that life meaningful from my teachers," describing teachers as those who give wings to children's dreams, provide encouragement to rise again, and often watch their growth from a closer position than parents.Reflecting on his own childhood, he recalled, "Thanks to the warm encouragement of my teacher, I gained the courage to move forward," adding that a single word from his teacher continues to support him to this day.President Lee noted, "I learned through my teachers that sincere interest and belief from someone can change a person's life," and he believes this experience is a cherished memory for many citizens as well.He acknowledged that "each day in the classroom is never light," stressing the need to understand the feelings of children who struggle to express themselves and to not overlook even the smallest words, but to grasp their underlying meanings.The president recognized that there will be moments when teachers share in the pain and tears of their students, stating, "I am well aware that the difficulties and responsibilities that teachers face in a rapidly changing educational environment are also increasing."He promised, "I will do my utmost to create a better environment where our teachers can fully dedicate themselves to education," vowing to continuously provide practical support and changes to ensure that teachers' passion and sense of mission do not fade away.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-15 09:42:00

KOSPI Surpasses 8,000 Points for the First Time in History The KOSPI index, which had fluctuated around the 8,000-point threshold throughout the week, finally broke through this milestone during trading on May 15. This achievement comes just seven trading days after the index surpassed 7,000 points. According to the Korea Exchange, as of 9:15 a.m., the KOSPI was up 29.41 points (0.37%) at 8,010.82. The index opened lower at 7,951.75, down 29.66 points (0.37%) from the previous trading day, but quickly turned upward to exceed the 8,000-point mark. Market attention was focused on the potential for the KOSPI to break 8,000, buoyed by strong performance in U.S. markets. The previous night, the New York Stock Exchange saw a rally led by technology stocks, with all three major indices closing higher. The sentiment among investors was further stimulated by the reaffirmation of cooperation between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping during a summit held in Beijing. On the New York Stock Exchange, the Dow Jones Industrial Average closed at 50,063.46, up 0.75%. This marks the first time the Dow has surpassed the 50,000 mark since February 11. The S&P 500 and the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite also rose, gaining 0.77% and 0.88%, respectively, both reaching new all-time highs. In the Korean stock market, individual investors drove the index's rise with a net purchase of 792.6 billion won. In contrast, foreign and institutional investors sold off shares, with net sales of 748.5 billion won and 53.5 billion won, respectively. Among large-cap stocks, the performance was mixed. Samsung Electronics (-0.17%), Doosan Enerbility (-0.34%), and Samsung C&T (-1.36%) saw declines, while SK Hynix (0.81%), SK Square (0.60%), Hyundai Motor (3.79%), LG Energy Solution (3.51%), and Samsung Electro-Mechanics (8.79%) posted gains. The KOSDAQ index started the day with gains but later turned downward. At the same time, the KOSDAQ was down 1.11 points (0.09%) at 1,189.98, having opened at 1,197.23, up 6.14 points (0.52%). In the KOSDAQ market, foreign investors were net buyers of 57.5 billion won, while individuals and institutions sold off shares, with net sales of 33 billion won and 1.9 billion won, respectively. Among large-cap KOSDAQ stocks, performance varied. Alteogen (0.65%), Rainbow Robotics (4.88%), Juseong Engineering (0.18%), and Rigakem Bio (0.82%) saw increases, while Ecopro BM (-1.20%), Ecopro (-1.05%), Kolon TissueGene (-2.27%), Samchundang Pharmaceutical (-4.44%), Lino Industry (-4.73%), and HLB (-1.69%) experienced declines.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-15 09:39:00

The Evolution of Guanxi: Values Take Precedence Over Drinks in China In China, dinner gatherings often feature unfamiliar faces. The host typically provides a brief explanation: "They are ziziren (自己人, 'one of us')." This single phrase clarifies the reason for their presence and their respective positions.The term 'ziziren' goes beyond mere familiarity; it serves as a marker of trust. In China, friends do not require lengthy introductions through mutual acquaintances. The term ziziren suffices, a concept that may seem somewhat rude in South Korea.Many still perceive China's guanxi (关系, 'relationships') as a framework based on drinking and camaraderie, believing that friendship leads to successful business dealings. While this approach was once effective, the current dynamics are much more pragmatic. Even while sharing laughter and clinking glasses, individuals simultaneously assess each other's abilities, resources, reputations, influence, and potential value. If the balance of value is off, mere familiarity will not drive business forward.Thus, introducing someone as a ziziren is not a trivial favor; the introducer stakes their own credibility. Such recommendations are only possible after thoroughly evaluating the other person's capabilities and risks. Consequently, the term ziziren functions more like a strong endorsement than a casual label. While many may share a drink, few earn the recognition of being a ziziren.The network formed by these verified ziziren is known as quanzi (圈子, 'inner circle'). Within this network, information, opportunities, capital, and influence are exchanged among individuals whose value and trustworthiness have been established. In China, issues are often resolved more swiftly within a quanzi than through official channels. Many transactions and business opportunities are initially connected through this network.The operational dynamics of quanzi are also evident in corporate growth structures. Internal trust networks observed in large companies like Trip.com and Pinduoduo are mirrored in emerging tech firms such as DeepC and Unitree. Connections are first made among individuals verified through academic, regional, or professional networks, reducing decision-making costs and accelerating execution speed. The principles driving corporate organizations and individual business environments are fundamentally similar, regardless of scale.This shift represents more than just a change in interpersonal relationships; it is altering the very structure of opportunity in the Chinese market. Previously, having many acquaintances was advantageous, but now, being part of a specific quanzi is more critical. Information arrives late for those outside, and opportunities are often organized elsewhere. The nature of connections has shifted from quantity to quality, emphasizing where one is connected rather than how many connections one has. This structure is not limited to elite groups; it operates similarly in local communities and small business environments. The significance of the term ziziren transcends social hierarchies in China.The adage, "To do business with Chinese people, first become friends," remains relevant. However, today's friends are not merely those met over drinks; they are individuals recognized as ziziren. Guanxi has not disappeared but has been restructured into a system of verification. What operates in China today is 'verified guanxi.'- Choi Yeo-jin, CEO of MaxValue Capital, Ph.D. candidate in International Communication at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-15 09:36:00

ASIA INSIGHT: Summer arrives earlier amid changing climate across Asia SEOUL, May 15 (AJP) - South Korea is beginning to feel like summer much earlier than usual. This week, temperatures in and around the capital hovered around 30 degrees Celsius in mid-May, a time when spring weather would normally still be mild. The temperatures felt more like late July than the weeks before the annual monsoon season. The heat itself may not seem shocking in a country with four distinct seasons, known for humid summers, but what stands out is how early it arrived. As the country begins to feel more like subtropical Asia before summer officially starts, such weather no longer feels incidental and is becoming the new norm. And South Korea is not alone. Across Asia, unusually warm weather has been arriving earlier and more frequently in recent years. Countries including China, India and Thailand have all experienced stronger heat waves and longer summer seasons. The Philippines and Thailand have issued repeated public health warnings as temperatures soared. In China, provinces have swung between drought and sudden flooding with growing frequency. Japan has also recorded unusually warm conditions, continuing a pattern that is becoming harder to dismiss as a seasonal irregularity. In Seoul, the changes can seem small at first. Spring feels shorter. Warm nights arrive earlier. People search for shade in May instead of June. What once felt unusual is slowly becoming normal. Cherry blossoms bloom earlier almost every year, only to fade more quickly in bursts of unusual heat. Meteorologists have long warned that climate change would make extreme weather more common across the region, and many Asian cities are now beginning to feel that shift in everyday life. Climate change does not mean every hot day is caused by global warming. But it does increase the likelihood of extreme temperatures occurring more often and with greater intensity. In other words, the weather is becoming less predictable and more extreme. The danger is not simply hotter days. It is the growing unpredictability. Seasons are becoming less reliable, less familiar and less tied to the rhythms people once trusted. Spring shrinks. Summers lengthen. Extreme weather arrives earlier and lingers longer. For many Asians, climate change is no longer just a scientific concept measured in polar ice or projections. It is something felt in daily life. Perhaps the most alarming part is how quickly the unbearable is becoming ordinary. Asia is warming faster than many other parts of the world, and densely populated cities are especially vulnerable. Concrete buildings and roads trap heat, making urban areas feel even hotter during periods of unusually warm weather. For many people, climate change is no longer something distant or theoretical. It is being felt through changing seasons, uncomfortable nights and earlier summers. People are beginning to adjust to conditions that would once have seemed abnormal. When temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius in May no longer surprise anyone, it may be a sign of how fast the climate itself is changing. 2026-05-15 09:35:16

SK Magic's New Water Purifier Ad Featuring Byun Woo-seok Surpasses 10 Million Views SK Magic announced on May 15 that its new water purifier campaign video, released in April, has surpassed a combined total of 12.8 million views on YouTube and Instagram within a month. The MEGA ICE segment garnered approximately 3.8 million views, while the Two Water segment reached around 9 million views.This response aligns with current summer consumer trends. As highball and home café cultures become deeply ingrained this summer, 'large ice' has emerged as a new consumer keyword. What was once exclusive to whiskey bars and premium cafés is now being recognized as a key element of the home beverage experience.SK Magic's new product, the MEGA ICE water purifier, directly targets this trend. It offers the largest ice size in the industry at 25 grams and features a post-freezing ice dispensing system that provides freshly made ice sequentially. The design allows consumers to enjoy café-quality beverages at home, including highballs, iced coffee, and carbonated drinks.In addition to its ice-making capabilities, the product emphasizes hygiene. It can produce up to 5.7 kg of ice per day in mega mode and is equipped with a large ice room with a capacity of 1.1 kg. This design ensures a stable supply of ice during the peak summer season when cold beverage consumption surges.Furthermore, an 'all stainless steel direct water line' is applied to all pathways, enhancing hygiene management throughout the water flow. The system includes a 'five-layer safety care' setup, featuring triple UV care for the ice room, UV care for the dispensing area and faucet, electrolyzed water care for the direct water line, and circulation care for the pathways.Jang Kyung-hoon, a professor of future content research at Halla University, commented, "It is rare for an advertisement's copy to simultaneously convey product functionality, model image, and seasonal sensibility. The structure where consumers first perceive the copy sensibly and then connect it to the product will work very favorably for brand recognition this summer season."Byun Woo-seok also shared his thoughts, stating, "I was impressed by the MEGA ICE when I saw it for the first time during filming; the ice really does not melt easily. I hope everyone enjoys a cool summer with the MEGA ICE water purifier."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-15 09:31:50

Elon Musk Misses Final Arguments in OpenAI Trial Amid Trump’s China Visit Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, did not attend the final arguments in the OpenAI trial. He is reportedly accompanying President Donald Trump on his visit to China. On May 14, Musk's lead attorney, Steven Molo, apologized to the jury for Musk's absence during the final arguments held at the federal court in Oakland, California. Molo emphasized that Musk is passionate about the case and that his absence does not indicate a lack of interest. The trial stems from a lawsuit Musk filed against OpenAI co-founders Sam Altman and Greg Brockman. Musk alleges they violated their promise to keep OpenAI a nonprofit organization and gained unfair advantages during the restructuring of the company. The controversy surrounding Musk's absence has intensified in light of his legal status. CNBC reported that Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers previously designated Musk as 'subject to recall,' meaning he could be summoned back to court on short notice if necessary. Musk had already testified during the first week of the trial. Typically, witnesses must seek court permission to travel long distances, and it is unclear whether Musk received such permission for his trip to China, according to a court spokesperson. Musk's legal team did not respond to inquiries regarding the court's approval. Musk joined Trump on his visit to China just before the final arguments began. Trump met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing. The delegation also included Jensen Huang, CEO of NVIDIA, and Tim Cook, CEO of Apple. OpenAI quickly seized on Musk's absence as a point of contention. OpenAI attorney William Savitt stated during the final arguments, "Musk is not here today. My clients are here because they take this matter seriously." Both Altman and Brockman were present in court. OpenAI's legal team directly countered Musk's claims. Savitt and attorney Sarah Eddy presented evidence, arguing that Musk had previously sought to transition OpenAI into a for-profit entity but only intended to pursue this when he could control the company or merge it with Tesla. Eddy claimed that Musk's initial donations to OpenAI came with specific conditions, but he failed to provide proof of this. He pointed out that testimonies from Musk's associates and former OpenAI director Siobhan Gilly did not support Musk's claims.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-15 09:27:54

Samsung Workers Plan Nationwide Strike Amid Ongoing Labor Dispute The labor dispute at Samsung Electronics is escalating toward a nationwide strike. The National Labor Relations Commission's mediation efforts have failed, prompting the Samsung Electronics Labor Union to announce a strike starting on the 21st. The disagreement centers around the formalization of a performance bonus system. However, the current situation at Samsung extends beyond mere wage disputes, raising significant concerns about potential impacts on South Korea's semiconductor industry and the broader national economy. At the heart of the conflict is the performance bonus system. The union demands that a certain percentage of operating profit be enshrined in a collective bargaining agreement as a source for performance bonuses. Yet, the semiconductor industry is characterized by extreme volatility, with boom and bust cycles that can shift within a few quarters. Indeed, Samsung Electronics has recently experienced a significant downturn in performance amid a semiconductor industry slump, only now beginning to enter a recovery phase. Demands to institutionalize performance bonuses as fixed costs, disregarding the industry's structural realities, are difficult for the company to accept. The timing of the strike is particularly concerning. Global competition in the semiconductor sector has reached a critical level. The United States is pouring substantial subsidies into reshaping its domestic supply chain, while China is fiercely pursuing semiconductor self-sufficiency. Taiwan's TSMC is accelerating investments in expanding production capacity and advanced processes. With the growth of the AI market, the competition for semiconductor dominance is now pivotal to national competitiveness. If a nationwide strike at Samsung Electronics materializes, the repercussions will extend beyond the company itself. Disruptions in semiconductor production could lead to decreased exports, harm to partner companies, and reduced investment. Samsung is a cornerstone of South Korea's manufacturing sector, and any instability within the company will inevitably affect the national economy. It is difficult to view the union's aggressive stance, ignoring these implications, as a responsible approach. Particularly alarming is the increasingly militant direction of recent union actions. The company has even filed for a court injunction to prohibit illegal strike activities, reflecting this backdrop. Semiconductor manufacturing differs from general manufacturing; maintaining cleanroom standards and production line stability is crucial. Any production disruptions or safety issues can lead to long-lasting damage that is hard to rectify. Escalating conflicts surrounding critical national industrial facilities is not desirable. While it is valid to argue that Samsung should not remain entrenched in an authoritarian organizational culture, it is clear that the company has changed from the past. It recognizes the union as a legitimate negotiating partner, and its wage and welfare levels are among the highest in the country. Notably, despite the downturn in the semiconductor market last year, the company has maintained employment stability without large-scale restructuring. Demanding unilateral concessions without considering the sustainability of the business and industrial competitiveness is not a realistic solution. Labor rights must be respected. However, these rights should be exercised in a manner that acknowledges industrial realities and social responsibilities, especially for a company like Samsung Electronics that significantly impacts the national economy. What is needed now is not a battle for justification or a confrontational stance, but a practical compromise that preserves industrial competitiveness while establishing a reasonable compensation system. The government must also clarify its principles. In a situation where significant disruptions to a key national industry are anticipated, it should actively engage in necessary mediation and management. Striking a balance between the principle of labor rights protection and the reality of maintaining industrial competitiveness is crucial. A nationwide strike at Samsung would be a battle with no winners. If the company falters, workers will also be at risk, and if the industry wavers, the national economy will inevitably suffer. Now is not the time to escalate confrontations; it is time to view the reality with a clear perspective.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-15 09:24:27

North-South Women's Football Match in Korea Sells Out in 12 Hours North Korea's My Hometown Women's Football Team's visit to South Korea has generated significant interest, leading to the complete sellout of tickets for the semifinals of the 2025-2026 Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Women's Champions League (AWCL) within just half a day. According to the Korea Football Association, tickets for the AWCL semifinals, which went on sale on May 12, sold out within approximately 12 hours, with 7,087 of the total 9,000 seats being purchased. The AWCL semifinals will be held in a single-elimination format. The match between South Korea's Suwon FC Women and North Korea's My Hometown Women's Football Team is set for May 20 at 7 PM at Suwon Sports Complex. This marks the first time since December 2018 that a North Korean team has participated in a sports event in South Korea. Notably, this is also the first visit by the North Korean women's football team to South Korea in 12 years since the 2014 Incheon Asian Games. The South Korean government has officially approved the North Korean team's visit. On May 14, the Ministry of Unification announced, "We have approved the visit of My Hometown Women's Football Team to South Korea for the 2026 AWCL." The approved delegation consists of 27 players and 12 staff members, totaling 39 individuals, who will stay from May 17 to May 24. They are expected to enter South Korea through Incheon International Airport on May 17, holding certificates for their visit in accordance with the Inter-Korean Exchange and Cooperation Act. A large-scale joint cheering event will also take place during the match. Approximately 200 organizations, including the Council of Civil Organizations for Inter-Korean Cooperation, the National Council for Reconciliation and Cooperation, the Coalition for Peaceful Unification, and the Hankyoreh Foundation for Unification Culture, have recently formed the '2026 AFC-AWCL Women's Football Joint Cheering Squad.' In support of the civilian cheering efforts, the government has decided to allocate approximately 300 million won from the Inter-Korean Cooperation Fund. The Ministry of Unification stated, "About 3,000 participants are expected to cheer for both teams, emphasizing support for all players. We have also provided guidance on the 'prohibited items' under AFC regulations and the ban on political and religious messages in the stadium." The joint cheering squad noted, "Considering this is a club competition, we plan not to use the national names. If necessary, we will refer to North Korea (Chosun) in conjunction with the match." Cheering slogans such as 'Go Suwon, Keep it Up My Hometown' and 'We Support Suwon FC Women, Welcome My Hometown Women's Football Team' are expected to be used.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-15 09:22:29

Hana Financial Becomes Major Shareholder in Dunamu with $1 Billion Investment Hana Financial Group has made a significant investment of 1 trillion won (approximately $1 billion) in Dunamu, positioning itself as the fourth-largest shareholder in the company. This investment is seen as a culmination of the long-standing trust between Hana Financial Chairman Ham Young-joo and Dunamu Vice Chairman Kim Hyung-nyeon.On May 15, Hana Financial announced that the Hana Bank board approved the acquisition of 2,284,000 shares of Dunamu from Kakao Investment for about 1.03 trillion won. With this purchase, Hana Bank now holds a 6.55% stake in Dunamu, securing its status as the fourth-largest shareholder.This investment marks the largest ever by a domestic commercial bank in a virtual asset company. Following this transaction, Hana Financial has quickly ascended to become the fourth-largest shareholder in Dunamu. As of last year, the largest shareholder in Dunamu was Chairman Song Chi-hyung (25.51%), followed by Vice Chairman Kim Hyung-nyeon (13.10%) and Woori Technology Investment (7.20%). Kakao Investment, previously among the top three shareholders, has seen its stake reduced and has lost its major shareholder status.The two companies have previously collaborated on projects, including proof of concept for overseas remittance services utilizing blockchain technology. This stake acquisition is expected to enhance synergies not only between Hana Financial and Dunamu but also with Naver Financial, which is set to exchange shares with Dunamu.Chairman Ham stated, "This equity investment is a strategic decision to accelerate financial innovation based on digital assets. We will focus all our capabilities to lead the creation of the K-blockchain ecosystem with Dunamu and help the domestic digital asset industry reach a global leadership level."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-15 09:19:58

Artists Struggle with Lengthy Process of Arts Activity Certification Illustrator Jeong So-hee took over two years to pass the Arts Activity Certification process. Despite having over 20 exhibitions to his name, he faced repeated rejections and requests for additional documentation before finally receiving approval this year. He stated, "I had to invest more energy in writing a report to prove I am an artist than in creating my work."The controversy surrounding the Arts Activity Certification is spreading throughout the cultural and artistic community. Artists point to the unclear evaluation criteria, prolonged delays in the review process, and administrative standards that are disconnected from reality as issues that need addressing.On November 6, 2010, Lee Jin-won, a solo indie band member of 'Moonlight Fairy Home Run,' was found dead at his home in Yeongdeungpo, Seoul. A few months later, on January 29, 2011, screenwriter Choi Ko-eun was discovered dead at her residence in Seoksu-dong, Anyang. Both artists were well-known in the indie music and film industries but struggled with financial difficulties due to unfair contract structures and unstable incomes. Their deaths prompted the enactment of the 'Arts Welfare Law' on November 18, 2012, which led to the establishment of the Arts Welfare Foundation the following day.The Arts Activity Certification system aims to provide a minimum social safety net and access to welfare for struggling artists. It is considered a necessary qualification for applying to various government and public institution support programs, including creative grants, rental housing, employment insurance, and loan programs.However, artists on the ground express a lack of guidance regarding the system.Visual artist Shin Yoon-jung applied for the Arts Activity Certification four times but was rejected each time. He said, "I was at a loss about how to prepare because I couldn't understand the criteria for sincerity. Even trying to guess based on the experiences of other artists, the standards kept changing."Shin also eventually passed the review but has yet to receive a clear explanation from the welfare foundation regarding the reasons for his approval. He expressed concern about not being able to endure the same process if he were to be rejected in the next review.The review period has also been problematic. Artists, including Jeong and Shin, reported waiting at least three to six months for the results of their re-evaluations.Han Mo, 31, who has worked in stage direction, shared, "I received a 'not approved' notice while on my way from a logistics center to the theater. It felt pointless after waiting four months."Discrepancies between the review criteria and reality have also come under scrutiny.A flat painter pointed out that participation in art fairs, which are auction-style exhibitions, is not recognized as artistic activity. "The fastest way to establish a long-term relationship with a gallery and hold a solo exhibition is to pay to participate in an art fair," the artist explained. Despite submitting a history of participating in a prominent art fair known for showcasing emerging artists for several years to prove 'continuity,' he received a response stating, 'it cannot be recorded.'He added, "It doesn't make sense that even major art fairs like Kiaf/Frieze, which the First Lady has attended, cannot be recorded as they are not considered 'solo exhibitions.'"As dissatisfaction grew within the arts community, a discussion on the Arts Activity Certification was held on April 22, organized by lawmaker Son Sol at the National Assembly's Culture, Sports and Tourism Committee. Participants criticized the lack of clarity in evaluation criteria, poor communication, and the opacity of the review process.Installation artist Lee Seung-hyun stated, "We are not asking for the threshold to be lowered indiscriminately; we want to know what the problems are and what criteria lead to rejection."Calls for transparency in the review process were also voiced. Actor Oh Se-gon, who participated in the initial design task force for the Arts Activity Certification system, emphasized the need to clarify who the committee members are and whether there were offline discussions and debates.A survey conducted by artists themselves revealed similar sentiments. About 63.6% of respondents deemed the current evaluation criteria inappropriate, and 53% reported a lack of feedback regarding reasons for rejection.The Ministry of Culture and the welfare foundation also had their perspectives. Kim Ga-jin, head of the planning and coordination team at the Korea Arts Welfare Foundation, stated during the discussion, "We need to verify whether individuals are truly pursuing art as a profession, whether their results can be documented, and whether their works have been consumed and distributed to the public." She explained that the increasing number of applicants who do not meet all three criteria has made rejections unavoidable.Regarding delays in the review process, she noted, "The number of applications has surged, but we lack sufficient personnel to handle them," adding that currently about ten staff members are responsible for the reviews.As of March 2026, there are five full-time and five contract workers involved in the Arts Activity Certification review process. With 43,419 applicants' documents being reviewed by just over ten people, the lack of established criteria and delays are understandable, according to their explanation.However, there are voices on the ground that find these explanations insufficient.A notable example is the 'Youth Artists' Arts Activity Savings Account' program, which began last year. This initiative allows young artists to save a certain amount, with the government matching that amount. The program saw a large influx of applicants.However, as of February 4, 2026, the application period closed within half a day due to being 'first-come, first-served.' Critics point out the contradiction in explaining that the review process takes a long time due to a shortage of reviewers while support program applications close within a day.This year, the total budget for the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism is approximately 7.8555 trillion won, an 11.2% increase from last year. Of this, the Arts Welfare Foundation's share is around 200 billion won. However, how that money is spent remains unclear.Artists emphasize that understanding the actual creative environment is more important than simply increasing the budget. Jeong, who previously spoke to the media, questioned, "I want to ask if the current criteria truly serve artists who are solely dedicated to creation," stressing the need for a broader understanding of artists' creative activities.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-15 09:17:31