South Korea's Ministry of Trade Accelerates AI Adoption with New Expert Hires The Ministry of Trade is accelerating the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in its internal administrative processes by hiring private sector experts dedicated to planning and implementing AI initiatives. On May 22, the ministry launched an AI Innovation Advisory Group composed of external experts and held its first kickoff meeting. The ministry aims to promote AI transformation (AX) to create an efficient industrial and trade work environment, focusing on building AI governance, introducing customized AI services, and enhancing the AI capabilities of its staff. While the government has recently intensified its AX efforts, security concerns have posed significant limitations. To address this, the Ministry of Trade plans to hire private sector experts to oversee the planning and execution of AI governance. This move is interpreted as a step toward establishing an organizational framework for AI innovation. Additionally, the ministry will form and operate an AI Pioneer Group consisting of practical staff members leading AI innovation. Regular meetings of the advisory group will be held to explore ways to expand AI adoption. Considering the separation between internal administrative networks and external internet networks, the ministry will set up a private AI portal that provides the latest AI models and services used by private institutions on the external network. On the internal network, the ministry plans to introduce the intelligent work management platform, OnAI, which will be gradually distributed by the Ministry of the Interior and Safety in the first half of the year. Starting next year, the ministry will also pursue the development of an AI platform tailored to its specific functions, including industry and resources, trade, standards, and certification. To enhance the AI capabilities of its internal staff, the ministry will regularly hold practical AI training sessions and lectures by external experts to improve employees' understanding and skills in utilizing AI. Oh Seung-cheol, head of the Planning and Coordination Office at the Ministry of Trade, stated, "To enhance productivity and innovate work methods, it is essential to expand AI functionalities centered around internal employees, increasing their participation and utilization. We aim to create an AI work environment that ultimately improves the quality of services for citizens and businesses."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 16:07:32

Emro Unveils Agentic AI at Global Supply Chain Event to Target Procurement Automation Market Software company Emro is accelerating its global market strategy by showcasing agentic artificial intelligence (AI)-based procurement automation technology at the world's largest supply chain event. Emro announced on May 22 that it participated in the Gartner Supply Chain Symposium & Expo held in Orlando, Florida, and Barcelona, Spain, where it presented AI-driven procurement innovations and its SRM software-as-a-service (SaaS) solution, Cadencia. The event attracted around 5,000 supply chain executives from major global companies and over 180 supply chain solution providers. Emro has participated for three consecutive years, aiming to secure a global client base. Amid increasing supply chain uncertainties and cost pressures in the global manufacturing sector, there is a growing demand for automating procurement processes with AI. Emro is focusing on enhancing its agentic AI-based supply chain automation technology in line with this trend. At this year's event, Emro introduced features that automate the entire direct procurement process, from product design to raw material sourcing and settlement, under the theme of "Accelerating Direct Procurement Processes Using AI Technology." The AI-based bill of materials (BOM) management feature garnered significant interest from local companies. Cadencia digitizes complex BOM data and applies agentic AI throughout the new product introduction (NPI) process, supporting real-time change management, cost optimization by component, and quality verification. A demonstration of the automated procurement process using AI agents was also conducted. When a procurement officer inputs requests in natural language into the AI workspace, the AI agent automatically handles the entire process, from drafting purchase requests (PR) and request for proposals (RFx) to recommending suppliers and issuing purchase orders (PO). Emro expects this technology will enhance the speed and efficiency of procurement operations. An Emro representative stated, "According to Gartner, the agentic AI-based supply chain management software market is projected to grow to $53 billion by 2030. We aim to connect the global customer demand identified at the event to actual references, strengthening our leadership in the global market."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 16:06:00

Over 80% of Diabetic Patients in Their 30s in South Korea Are Obese More than 80% of diabetic patients in their 30s in South Korea are reported to be obese. This shift from the previously prevalent 'thin diabetes' to 'obesity-related diabetes' in recent years indicates a concerning trend. Experts emphasize the growing need for integrated treatment that combines blood sugar management with weight loss. Kangbuk Samsung Hospital announced on May 22 that a research team led by Professor Park Se-eun from the Department of Endocrinology published an analysis of the current state of diabetes in South Korea in the March 2026 issue of the Diabetes & Metabolism Journal. The research team conducted a detailed examination of obesity among adult diabetes patients based on the Diabetes Fact Sheet 2025. The findings revealed that 52.4% of adult diabetes patients in South Korea are obese (with a BMI of 25 or higher). The obesity rate was particularly high among younger patients, with 81.3% of those in their 30s and 76.7% in their 40s classified as obese. This is more than double the obesity prevalence of 38.3% among diabetes patients aged 65 and older. Abdominal obesity is also a significant concern. Among all adult diabetes patients, 61.1% were found to have abdominal obesity, with rates of 78.4% in patients in their 30s and 73.1% in those in their 40s. Abdominal obesity is known to increase insulin resistance, complicating blood sugar control and raising the risk of complications such as cardiovascular disease. Professor Park stated, "The increase in young diabetes patients can be attributed to a Westernized diet and decreased physical activity leading to obesity. When obesity-related diabetes begins at a young age, the duration of exposure to complications can be longer and more severe." He further emphasized that integrated treatment, which addresses both blood sugar levels and weight loss, is essential. As the trend of diabetes combining with obesity becomes more pronounced among younger populations, treatment paradigms are shifting. Approaches that manage not only blood sugar but also weight, dietary habits, exercise, and metabolic disorders are expected to gain importance in the future. Meanwhile, the obesity treatment market is rapidly expanding. According to global healthcare market research firm IQVIA, the global obesity treatment market, valued at approximately $30 billion in 2024, is projected to grow to $200 billion by 2030. The domestic market is also experiencing rapid growth, recording a 51% increase in the first half of last year compared to the same period the previous year, reaching a size of 270 billion won. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 16:03:29

Minister Kim Yoon-deok Inspects GTX Samsung Station Construction Site for Rebar Issues Minister Kim Yoon-deok of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport directed a thorough investigation into the cause of rebar omissions at the GTX Samsung Station construction site. The ministry reported that Kim visited the construction site of the underground complex development project on Yeongdong-daero in Seoul on the morning of May 22 to inspect the area where construction errors occurred. This site is part of the underground complex development project being implemented by the Seoul Metropolitan Government. The 1-kilometer section of the GTX Samsung Station is being constructed under the supervision of the Korea National Railway Corporation, which has been entrusted by the city. The Seoul government commissioned the construction project. Following the formation of a special inspection team on May 18, the ministry expanded it into a government joint inspection team starting May 21. The team plans to focus on the overall construction project, examining safety conditions, construction practices, quality control, and project management. After receiving a report on the construction status and reinforcement plans, Minister Kim confirmed the safety management practices at the site where the construction errors occurred and the follow-up measures taken. Kim stated, "The occurrence of rebar omissions in the GTX line, which residents in the metropolitan area will use daily, is a very serious matter directly related to public safety." He emphasized the need to thoroughly identify the causes of construction deficiencies and to ensure that no safety issues remain by verifying reinforcement measures. Kim also instructed that all necessary reinforcement measures should be considered based on the inspection results. Meanwhile, the issue of rebar omissions at GTX Samsung Station has sparked controversy over the adequacy of construction management and reporting systems. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport and the Ministry of the Interior and Safety decided to include not only the section where construction errors were confirmed but also all facilities under construction along Yeongdong-daero in the inspection scope. Private experts and related agencies will also participate in the inspections.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 16:00:42

Lee pays respects to former President Roh in Bongha Village SEOUL, May 23 (AJP) - President Lee Jae Myung attended a memorial ceremony for former President Roh Moo-hyun in Bongha Village in Gimhae, South Gyeongsang Province, on Saturday. Lee made the remarks marking the 17th anniversary of Roh’s death, saying he would push ahead with reforms regardless of pushback from vested interests. “Beyond mourning you, I now feel the heavy responsibility and weight as president of the Republic of Korea, and I seek to carry on your will,” Lee said. Referring to the Oct. 4 South-North Summit Declaration, which included efforts toward denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and the establishment of a peace regime, Lee said he would continue Roh’s vision. “I will steadily walk the path of peaceful coexistence and shared growth, inheriting the will of the president who turned the line of division into a path of peace and achieved the declaration,” Lee said. Lee said Roh envisioned a Korea where no one is driven to give up on life over making a living, and where people are treated with dignity. Lee also drew applause when he said, “After you left us, countless Roh Moo-hyuns were born again on this land. I am one of them.” It marked Lee’s first attendance at Roh’s memorial ceremony as a sitting president. Lee, who took office in June last year, attended the ceremony on May 23 last year as a presidential candidate. 2026-05-23 15:59:20

Financial Services Chair Lee Ok-yeon Joins National Growth Fund Financial Services Chair Lee Ok-yeon promoted the newly launched National Participation Growth Fund by signing up for it on May 22. According to the Financial Services Commission, Lee visited the NH Nonghyup Bank branch in Seoul on the morning of the launch to enroll in the fund. He experienced the entire enrollment process, including investor profiling and verifying key fund details, to assess the convenience and challenges of the procedure. "The National Participation Growth Fund offers citizens an attractive investment opportunity to share in the growth of future strategic industries while providing essential funding to companies in advanced strategic sectors," Lee said. He added, "In the context of fierce global competition in advanced strategic industry technologies, the National Growth Fund serves as an investment platform to overcome the structural challenges facing our economy. The public's valuable investments will be the seeds for nurturing future growth engines." As the fund's sales have officially begun, Lee urged participating firms to ensure strict internal controls to prevent any instances of improper sales. He also stated that the government would monitor the enrollment process in real-time to minimize public inconvenience and quickly address any issues that arise. "We will thoroughly review the fund's management and investment execution to ensure that the National Participation Growth Fund can swiftly provide funding to the advanced strategic industry sector," Lee stated. The National Participation Growth Fund will be available for purchase for three weeks starting from May 22, with a total size of 600 billion won. The fund will be established by pooling 600 billion won from public funds and 120 billion won from the government, which will then be invested in 10 sub-funds. It is classified as a high-risk investment product, requiring a suitable investor profile for enrollment.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 15:57:53

Why 'Solo 25' Participant Youngja Did Not Join 'Nasol Four Seasons' Live Broadcast Youngja, a participant from the 25th season of 'I Am Solo,' addressed questions regarding her absence from the 'Nasol Four Seasons' live broadcast. On May 22, she stated on her social media, "Although I was unable to participate in the solo reaction and live broadcast, it seems that this experience has provided me with invaluable lessons and insights." Previously, Youngja became a final couple with Youngsik from Season 20 during the broadcast of 'Nasol Four Seasons' on May 21. However, her absence from the subsequent live broadcast on 'Chonjang Entertainment TV' raised eyebrows. In response, the production team clarified in a pinned comment that "Youngja's participation in the live broadcast was restricted due to a contract violation and breach of participant obligations," which many interpreted as related to her contract with a creator agency. Youngja then provided her perspective on her absence, explaining, "If I had participated in the live broadcast, I would have wanted to share my thoughts, especially regarding my creator agency. I was contacted by the agency in February and, after much consideration, signed a contract on March 1." She continued, "I viewed this as an extension of my personal activities to continue my artwork and content creation. I intended to gradually showcase the content related to my work after the show ended, but the information became public sooner than expected. I take seriously that this could lead viewers to question the authenticity of the show." Youngja also addressed her involvement in managing three guesthouses, stating, "I had no ownership stake, and my public title was that of a manager. It was not a solo operation. There were aspects of my explanation that may have been unclear for the sake of simplicity on the show." She emphasized, "This is not a 'party guesthouse' aimed at facilitating romantic encounters, and I do not reside or participate in the space. I have never engaged in hunting, nor do I smoke, and the stories about my father are also untrue." Meanwhile, Youngsik, who was Youngja's final partner, shared during the live broadcast that they had seriously gotten to know each other after filming but could not remain a couple. He requested that viewers refrain from negative comments, saying, "Thank you for your interest. I am currently single."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 15:55:32

AWS Korea CEO Ham Gi-ho: 'Physical AI is the Next Frontier for Korea' Amazon Web Services (AWS) is positioning 'Physical AI' as a key growth area, expanding beyond the digital realm into the real world, and is actively supporting the robotics industry in South Korea. This initiative comes as the era of AI operating in real industrial settings, including robotics, autonomous production, logistics, and healthcare, begins to take shape. During his keynote address at the 'AWS Summit Seoul 2026' on May 20 in Samsung-dong, Seoul, Ham Gi-ho, CEO of AWS Korea, stated, "AI is evolving from generative AI and agent AI to the physical AI stage, which extends into the physical world." On the same day, AWS unveiled the 'Physical AI Frontier Program' aimed at supporting domestic physical AI companies in technology development and international expansion. A dedicated AWS technical team will assist throughout the entire process, from data collection to model training, simulation, and edge inference. AWS plans to facilitate collaboration among domestic companies and connect them to global markets. Ham assessed that South Korea has significant potential in the field of physical AI. He noted, "South Korea has a dynamic physical AI ecosystem, ranging from AI semiconductor startups to robotics foundation model companies, and industries such as manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and defense. The government is also accelerating the nurturing of related industries with the goal of becoming the world leader in physical AI by 2030." AWS is currently providing cloud infrastructure to major companies like HD Hyundai Robotics and Doosan, as well as domestic AI startups such as Config and RealWorld, to support physical AI development. Ham emphasized AWS's strength in practical robotic operations, stating, "Over 1 million robots are already operating in Amazon's logistics centers. The end-to-end service connecting data collection to edge inference and our real operational experience are AWS's unique competitive advantages." At the event, AWS also set up a dedicated exhibition area to showcase technology demonstrations from domestic physical AI companies. Demonstrations included autonomous production systems, collaborative robots, and autonomous delivery and patrol robots, highlighting the integration of cloud-based data processing and AI model training technologies in real industrial settings. John Felton, AWS Chief Financial Officer, remarked, "Agent AI and physical AI represent a transformative change in the AI industry structure. This presents a significant economic opportunity, especially for South Korea, which has a strong manufacturing competitiveness."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 15:52:46

AI, Nuclear Power, and Defense Industry Drive New Growth in South Korea's Economy The foundation of South Korea's economy is gradually shifting. A new industrial axis is emerging on top of the traditional manufacturing sectors, which have been dominated by semiconductors, automobiles, and shipbuilding. This new axis includes artificial intelligence (AI), nuclear power, and the defense industry. These three sectors share a commonality beyond being promising industries; they are strategic sectors intertwined with the global reordering of power. This convergence of technology, security, and energy signifies a critical national agenda. AI is no longer just a tool for specific industries; it has become a foundational infrastructure that influences productivity and competitiveness across all sectors. The AI ecosystem, which connects data centers, semiconductors, and power grids, is expanding into a national-level competition. As the United States and China clash over AI supremacy, South Korea finds itself in a position where it cannot delay its decisions. Building an AI infrastructure based on semiconductor competitiveness is one of the few opportunities we have and a card we cannot afford to miss. Nuclear power is being re-evaluated as a practical solution to address both energy security and carbon neutrality. While the expansion of renewable energy is an inevitable trend, issues of intermittency and grid stability remain unresolved. The role of nuclear power as a baseload energy source is becoming increasingly significant. Furthermore, expectations for nuclear power exports to countries like the Czech Republic and Poland are adding to its potential as an export industry, extending beyond mere energy production. The defense industry is benefiting from a time of heightened geopolitical uncertainty. With a surge in demand for weapons, particularly in Europe and the Middle East, the competitiveness of South Korean arms is rapidly gaining recognition. The balance of price and performance, quick delivery times, and stable production capabilities have already been validated in the global market. The defense sector is no longer a 'secondary industry' but has established itself as a core industry driving both exports and technological accumulation. However, a significant concern remains: these three sectors are still largely confined to 'declarative expectations.' Without the establishment of inter-industry connections and ecosystems, there is a high risk that achievements will be short-lived. AI requires an integrated infrastructure involving power, data, and semiconductors, while nuclear power is a long-term industry that needs consistent policy and financial support. Similarly, the defense industry must align with diplomatic strategies, export financing, and technology transfer to ensure sustainable growth. Ultimately, all three sectors must operate on the common denominator of a 'national strategy.' A more fundamental question arises: Can this new growth axis transform the structure of the South Korean economy? Until now, we have relied on the boom of specific industries to elevate growth rates. However, AI, nuclear power, and defense demand a shift not just in individual industry performance but in the overall industrial structure. Comprehensive approaches are needed, including workforce development, regulatory innovation, and financial support. The current changes present both opportunities and challenges. As the global supply chain becomes more fragmented and technology and security intertwine, the choices South Korea makes will significantly influence its growth trajectory over the next decade. The three axes of AI, nuclear power, and defense have already begun to move. What remains is the speed and direction of this movement.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 15:51:29

Korea Aims for Major Leap in Defense Industry with $60 Billion Canadian Submarine Bid When the Jangbogo submarine was commissioned in 1993, South Korea was the 43rd country in the world to operate submarines. In just over 30 years, the nation has entered the competition for Canada’s next-generation submarine project, valued at 60 trillion won. This is not merely participation; South Korea has formed a competitive duo with Germany's ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS). Given the historical challenges faced by South Korea's shipbuilding and defense industries, this marks a significant transformation.Currently, the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project (CPSP) has narrowed down to a two-way competition between the Hanwha Ocean and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries 'one team' and Germany's TKMS. Both the government and industry insiders view the odds as essentially '50-50.' Germany is a leading submarine nation and provided technological assistance during South Korea's early submarine development, which is why Chief of Staff Kang Hoon-sik described the situation as 'not easy.' The final contractor selection is expected to be announced next month, marking a crucial turning point in South Korea's defense history.Some analysts suggest that South Korea has an advantage. The competitiveness of K-defense, demonstrated through systems like the K9 self-propelled howitzer, Cheonmu, FA-50, and KF-21, has been validated in the global market. Additionally, South Korean submarines are highly regarded for their operational capabilities, delivery timelines, and cost-effectiveness. Notably, Canadian naval officials have participated in training with South Korean submarines to assess their performance.This bidding process reflects the recent trends in the global defense market. Defense procurement is no longer just a business-to-business (B2B) transaction; it is evolving into a government-to-government (B2G) industry. This shift signifies a complex interplay of military power, security, supply chains, and diplomacy.In fact, the outcome of the Canadian submarine project will not be determined solely by performance. Local industrial cooperation, offset agreements, supply chain investments, and job creation are emerging as key variables in the 'package proposal.' The involvement of Hyundai Motor Group Chairman Chung Eui-sun as part of the special envoy is significant. The Canadian government has requested cooperation in the automotive and hydrogen sectors, prompting Hyundai to provide support, with other industries like Korean Air also joining in. If South Korea succeeds in securing the Canadian submarine contract, the implications extend beyond a mere 60 trillion won in revenue. It would elevate the country to a status where it exports submarines, often referred to as the 'ultimate weapon,' alongside ground weapons, missiles, and fighter jets. This could symbolize South Korea standing shoulder to shoulder with global defense powerhouses like the United States, Germany, and France.It is only natural that the government is fully supporting this endeavor. Chief of Staff Kang Hoon-sik has personally visited Canada in a special envoy capacity, and the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, along with the Defense Acquisition Program Administration and industry players, are working in concert. This is a necessary action from the perspective of national strategic industries. The government must also consider additional support measures, including financial assistance and diplomatic channels.However, there are cautionary points to consider. An overemphasis on export-driven policies that impose excessive sacrifices on companies unrelated to the project is not advisable. While offsets are important, it is crucial that not all companies are coerced into 'semi-mandatory support.' In national strategic projects, balancing market principles with corporate autonomy is vital.The opportunity now before South Korea was unimaginable during the introduction of the Jangbogo submarine. A strategic approach that maintains principles and balance while fostering public-private collaboration is essential. The results of the Canadian submarine project, to be announced next month, are anticipated to be a historic turning point for K-defense.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 15:48:51