BMW 220i Active Tourer Offers Sedan-Like Driving with SUV Versatility The BMW 2 Series '220i Active Tourer (M Sport Design Trim)' resembles a sports utility vehicle (SUV) but delivers a sedan-like driving experience. Positioned as a niche model, it aims to balance practicality and driving performance in a market dominated by SUVs.Upon first encountering the vehicle, which was tested on May 28, it gave an impression closer to a small SUV. Although classified as a hatchback, its height and width felt substantial. However, it is not overly large for beginner drivers, consistent with BMW's compact segment models. The exterior features sharp LED headlights and a low roofline, contributing to a sporty aesthetic.Driving from Jung-gu, Seoul, to Gapyeong, a distance of about 70 kilometers, the route combined urban and national roads. The first noticeable aspect during the drive was the expansive visibility. The elevated body provided a sense of openness in the front, and the side mirrors offered a relatively wide field of view.The smooth ride throughout the journey evoked the feel of a sedan. Even on sections with numerous speed bumps, the vehicle absorbed shocks effectively, and at high speeds, it maintained stability on the road. Notably, during cornering, the body control was firmer than expected, likely due to the 'Adaptive M Suspension' feature included in the M Sport Design Trim. The vehicle did not sway excessively on winding roads near Gapyeong.In areas without traffic, the vehicle accelerated quickly with just a light press on the gas pedal, allowing for a lively driving experience. The 220i Active Tourer can go from a standstill to 100 km/h in just 7.5 seconds. However, it is more about smoothly increasing speed rather than explosive performance.The spacious interior is another appealing feature. The second row offers ample space, even for adult males, with enough legroom and headroom. A center armrest with cup holders is integrated for convenience, making it suitable as a family vehicle.For long trips, the infotainment options can keep children entertained. By connecting a smartphone using a QR code displayed on the 10.7-inch screen, the smartphone can function as a console for gaming within the vehicle. This is made possible by the standard BMW Operating System 9.Additionally, the generous trunk capacity further supports its viability as a family car. With a base capacity of 470 liters, it expands to a maximum of 1,455 liters when the rear seats are folded down, making it suitable for camping or outdoor activities. Ultimately, the 220i Active Tourer appears to be an ideal choice for consumers seeking both the practicality of an SUV and the driving feel of a sedan.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-28 18:02:00

LG Chem Accelerates Future Portfolio Transition with Four Growth Drivers LG Chem announced on May 28 that it is accelerating the restructuring of its future business portfolio centered around four growth drivers: eco-friendly products, battery materials, pharmaceuticals, and high-value specialty businesses. The company aims to triple its revenue from these sectors, which stood at 5.8 trillion won last year, by 2030. In the battery materials sector, LG Chem is enhancing the development of next-generation cathode materials, including high-voltage mid-nickel (HV Mid-Ni), lithium manganese-rich (LMR), and lithium iron phosphate (LFP). The company is also working on sodium-ion battery (SIB) materials while focusing on optimizing its production base in Tennessee, North America, to secure price competitiveness. The company is also pursuing global expansion in its oncology pharmaceuticals business. Clinical trials are underway for treatments targeting head and neck cancers and immuno-oncology therapies, with plans to explore adjacent areas such as women's health and osteoporosis. In the eco-friendly sector, LG Chem is strengthening its low-carbon materials business based on PCR (post-consumer recycled) plastics and bio-based raw materials. The company is accelerating the development of next-generation low-carbon technologies, including biofuels derived from used cooking oil (HVO), sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), dry reforming of methane (DRM), and e-SAF. The specialty business is being restructured around high-performance materials, including high-heat ABS, ultra-high molecular weight SSBR, and high-purity IPA for semiconductors. LG Chem is also aiming to expand its high-value product lineup, targeting PVC for electric vehicle fast-charging cables, aerogels, and SAN for cosmetic containers.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-28 18:02:00

70% of South Korea's Top 1,000 Companies Are Based in the Capital Region A recent report reveals that 70% of South Korea's top 1,000 listed companies are headquartered in the capital region. Despite discussions about relocating public institutions and businesses to provincial areas since the launch of the Lee Jae-myung administration, the concentration of corporate headquarters in Seoul and Gyeonggi Province remains strong. Notably, larger companies tend to be more concentrated in Seoul, while the Busan-Ulsan-Gyeongnam (BULG) area shows relative strength among non-capital regions.According to the Korea CXO Research Institute's analysis of the locations of the top 1,000 listed companies by revenue in 2025, 700 of these companies are based in the capital region, which includes Seoul, Gyeonggi, and Incheon.The analysis focused on the top 1,000 listed companies based on individual and separate revenue figures from last year, using the corporate addresses listed in their business reports.Within the capital region, the concentration in Seoul is particularly pronounced. Of the top 1,000 companies, 405 are headquartered in Seoul, while 263 are in Gyeonggi Province and 32 in Incheon. This means that nearly 40% of South Korea's major companies are based in the capital.The trend of larger companies being more concentrated in Seoul is evident. Among the 40 companies in the '10 trillion club,' which reported revenues exceeding 10 trillion won last year, 30 are headquartered in Seoul. Hyundai Motor and Kia are based in the Seocho district of Seoul, while Posco International and Hyundai Mobis are located in the Gangnam area.However, some of the country's leading manufacturing firms are headquartered in Gyeonggi and Incheon. Samsung Electronics, the top company by revenue and market capitalization, is based in Suwon, Gyeonggi Province, while SK Hynix is located in Icheon, Gyeonggi. Hyundai Steel is also headquartered in Incheon. This reflects the characteristics of the manufacturing sector, which often aligns with production sites despite the overall trend of concentration in the capital region.In non-capital regions, the BULG area shows the strongest presence, with 111 of the top 1,000 companies headquartered there, accounting for about 11% of the total. Among the metropolitan areas, Gyeongnam has the third-highest number of companies, with 50.In Gyeongnam, companies in the shipbuilding, defense, and machinery industries play a central role. Hanwha Ocean is based in Geoje, while Changwon is home to major defense and heavy industry firms such as Hanwha Aerospace, Hyundai Wia, Doosan Enerbility, and Hyundai Rotem. Changwon has the highest number of top 1,000 company headquarters among non-capital cities, with 25.Busan has 37 companies headquartered there, including HJ Heavy Industries, Seongwoo Hightech, and Hwasung Industry. Recently, HMM, one of the largest shipping companies in the country, officially announced its relocation to Busan, raising the possibility of further corporate clustering in the city. Busan is accelerating its strategy to attract businesses in the maritime and logistics sectors.In Ulsan, companies such as HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, Lotte Fine Chemical, and Gyeongdong City Gas are located, reflecting the city's traditional manufacturing base.In the Chungcheong region, a total of 87 companies are headquartered, with 35 in South Chungcheong, 31 in North Chungcheong, 14 in Daejeon, and 7 in Sejong. Notable companies in South Chungcheong include Coway, Dongwon Systems, and Hanamicron, while North Chungcheong is home to Hyundai Elevator, HK InnoN, and Simtech. Daejeon features KT&G and Hanon Systems among its leading companies.The Daegu-Gyeongbuk region has 59 companies headquartered there, with 33 in North Gyeongsang and 26 in Daegu. Pohang is home to Posco Holdings and Posco Future M, while Hanwha Systems is located in Gumi. In Daegu, Korea Gas Corporation, L&F, and SL are leading companies driving the local economy.The Honam region has relatively fewer company headquarters, totaling 29, including 13 in North Jeolla, 9 in South Jeolla, and 7 in Gwangju. However, the presence of Korea Electric Power Corporation in Naju, South Jeolla, is significant. Other companies such as KEPCO KPS and Kumho Construction are also based in Naju.Gangwon and Jeju regions have 8 and 6 companies headquartered, respectively. Gangwon Land is the largest revenue-generating company in Gangwon, while Kakao and Jeju Air are notable firms in Jeju.At the municipal level, Gangnam District in Seoul has the highest number of headquarters, with 89 companies. It is followed by Seongnam City in Gyeonggi Province and Jung-gu in Seoul, each with 63. Seocho District in Seoul has 47, Yeongdeungpo District has 46, and Hwaseong City in Gyeonggi has 41, all identified as areas with a high concentration of corporate headquarters.Gangnam District is home to Hyundai Mobis, Posco International, DB Insurance, and GS Retail, while Seongnam City hosts KT, Naver, Samsung Heavy Industries, and SK Gas. Yeongdeungpo District houses major LG Group affiliates, including LG Electronics, LG Display, and LG Chem.Despite recent government initiatives aimed at balanced regional development and discussions about relocating businesses, analysts suggest that the preference for the capital region among companies is unlikely to change easily. Factors such as access to top talent, transportation and business infrastructure, supplier networks, and financial accessibility remain concentrated in the capital.As large corporations increasingly rely on connections to investment, finance, legal, and consulting services, the preference for Seoul is particularly pronounced. In contrast, provincial areas often serve primarily as manufacturing sites, limiting incentives for relocating headquarters.Oh Il-seon, head of the Korea CXO Research Institute, stated, "The ongoing concentration of major corporations in the capital region continues to widen the socio-economic gap with non-capital regions across various indicators. When companies relocate to provincial areas, there needs to be a premium and long-term support strategy in terms of taxation, location, and talent acquisition that can be practically felt."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-28 18:02:00

Korean Shipbuilders Gather at Posidonia 2026 for Major Deals The world's largest shipbuilding and maritime exhibition, Posidonia 2026, is set to open in Athens, Greece, next month, attracting a significant presence from South Korean shipbuilders. The event provides a platform for direct engagement with global shipowners, raising the possibility of major deals. According to industry sources on May 28, HD Hyundai Chairman Chung Ki-sun, Samsung Heavy Industries CEO Choi Sung-an, and HJ Shipbuilding CEO Yoo Sang-cheol will participate in the Posidonia event from June 1 to 5 (local time). Posidonia is recognized as one of the top three maritime exhibitions globally, alongside Norway's Nor-Shipping and Germany's SMM. Chairman Chung plans to aggressively promote liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers, eco-friendly ships, autonomous navigation technology, and AI-based smart ship solutions. This year, key subsidiaries including HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, HD Hyundai Samho, HD Hyundai Marine Solutions, Avikus, and HD Hyundai Electric will join the event, bolstered by the presence of Vice Chairman Lee Sang-kyun of HD Hyundai Heavy Industries. Hanwha Ocean will also emphasize its competitiveness in LNG carriers and maritime defense technology, focusing on securing new contracts. Samsung Heavy Industries will have CEO Choi Sung-an personally travel to Athens to explore expanding its global shipowner network. The company has recently strengthened its bidding competitiveness in floating LNG production facilities (FLNG) and LNG and eco-friendly ships, planning to leverage its technological expertise to penetrate the market. HJ Shipbuilding, which is enhancing its presence through eco-friendly and specialized vessels, will also attend the event. CEO Yoo Sang-cheol aims to broaden connections with global shipowners. Industry experts believe that this year's Posidonia will serve as a crucial stage to gauge the ordering trends of global shipowners and the future direction of the shipbuilding market. One industry insider noted, "With growing interest in eco-friendly ships, autonomous navigation, and AI-based smart ship technology, domestic shipbuilders are increasingly committed to participating in the event."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-28 18:02:00

POSCO International to Import North American LNG Amid Middle East Tensions As tensions in the Middle East rise due to instability stemming from Iran, POSCO International is set to advance its plans to import liquefied natural gas (LNG) from North America. This move reflects a broader trend among South Korean energy companies to reduce dependence on Middle Eastern energy sources and diversify supply chains. According to industry sources on May 26, POSCO International plans to start importing North American LNG from Cheniere Energy by the end of this year. The annual import volume is expected to be 400,000 tons, secured under a 20-year contract. If final procedures are completed by October, the imports could begin as early as December. The company will utilize the HL Fortuna for transportation. The HL Fortuna, unveiled in May 2025, is POSCO Group's first dedicated LNG vessel, measuring 299 meters in length and 46.4 meters in width, with a capacity of 174,000 cubic meters. It can carry over 78,000 tons per trip, enough to supply South Korea's needs for approximately 12 hours. By combining long-term import volumes with its own transportation capabilities, POSCO International aims to stabilize its supply chain beyond simple trading. The push to secure North American LNG comes at a critical time, as heightened tensions between Israel and Iran have increased uncertainties surrounding oil and LNG logistics through the Strait of Hormuz. South Korea's high dependency on energy imports means that disruptions in Middle Eastern supply chains could lead to increased electricity costs and manufacturing expenses. North American LNG is viewed as a viable alternative to mitigate these risks. U.S. LNG is relatively insulated from maritime transport risks associated with the Middle East and offers greater predictability through long-term contracts. With rising domestic electricity demand driven by the expansion of AI data centers and advanced manufacturing facilities, securing stable LNG supplies has become increasingly important for both corporate and national energy security. Other energy companies are also accelerating their supply chain diversification efforts. SK Innovation's E&S division is expanding its LNG procurement through the Barossa gas project in Australia, which aims to develop a gas field off the northern coast and connect it to the Darwin LNG facility, thereby securing long-term supply sources outside the Middle East. POSCO International is also pursuing participation in an LNG project in Alaska, which could potentially provide 1 million tons of LNG annually over 20 years. Industry insiders believe that if POSCO International's North American LNG imports are confirmed, it could alleviate domestic supply concerns amid growing Middle Eastern risks. If the imports commence as planned by the end of this year, they could serve as a crucial buffer during the winter months when electricity and gas demand typically rises. However, specific contract terms and the exact timing of the imports have not yet been publicly disclosed. Actual delivery schedules may be adjusted based on international LNG prices, shipping costs, domestic demand forecasts, and contract details. Should the North American LNG imports proceed as scheduled, POSCO International is expected to emerge as a leading example of supply chain diversification that mitigates risks associated with Middle Eastern energy dependence. An industry official stated, "As tensions in the Middle East escalate, energy companies are compelled to broaden their procurement channels and reduce transportation risks. POSCO International's North American LNG imports represent a significant move not only for short-term supply stability but also for long-term energy security." 2026-05-28 18:02:00

Blue House Encourages Public Discussion on Redistribution of Corporate Excess Profits On May 28, the Blue House expressed hope for various opportunities for public discourse regarding the social distribution of excess profits from large corporations, in light of an upcoming discussion hosted by the Ministry of Employment and Labor.During a briefing at the Chunchugwan, Chief Spokesperson Kang Yu-jung responded to a question about whether the discussion is a continuation of comments made by Policy Chief Kim Yong-beom regarding excess tax revenue. Kang stated, "Labor Minister Kim Young-hoon has mentioned the need for public discourse on the distribution of excess profits from semiconductor companies, and it seems he is emphasizing the necessity of social dialogue on performance distribution." She added that Industry Minister Kim Jeong-kwan could also address excess operating profits or earnings from the industry's perspective.Kang noted, "As various social issues and tasks that need to be discussed have been raised in this process, it appears that the Labor Minister believes these are matters that our society should openly discuss."The day before, Labor Minister Kim Young-hoon stated during a meeting with reporters, "The only solution for the social distribution of excess profits from large corporations is social dialogue. We plan to hold an urgent discussion on June 1, led by the Ministry of Labor."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-28 18:00:00

LS Cable and Daehan Cable Dispute Over Undersea Cable Technology Escalates The dispute between LS Cable and Daehan Cable over technology leaks has escalated beyond a simple criminal case, reflecting intensified competition for dominance in the domestic undersea cable market. As global investments in offshore wind and power networks increase, undersea cables have emerged as a key growth area in the wire and cable industry, heightening tensions between industry leader LS Cable and challenger Daehan Cable. On May 28, the Southern Gyeonggi Provincial Police Agency referred 13 individuals, including an executive from Daehan Cable, as well as three corporations—Daehan Cable, Gaun Architectural Firm, and a construction company—to prosecutors for violating laws on unfair competition and trade secret protection. This development is expected to further escalate the conflict between the two companies. According to industry sources, LS Cable has effectively led the domestic market in the undersea cable sector. High-voltage undersea cables require significant investment in large-scale facilities and extensive production and construction experience. Competing in this market involves more than just manufacturing products; it requires expertise in cable design, insulation technology, operation of manufacturing facilities, quality verification, and experience in offshore installation. As a result, it has been viewed as a market where latecomers struggle to gain a competitive edge in a short time. Daehan Cable has recently expanded its investments, positioning undersea cables as a future growth driver. The company has established a production base for undersea cables in Dangjin, South Chungcheong Province, and has entered the global bidding competition, directly challenging LS Cable. Industry analysts suggest that the movement of personnel from LS Cable and the use of related technologies have sparked tensions as Daehan Cable accelerates its entry into the undersea cable market. To support its entry into the undersea cable market, Daehan Cable has made substantial investments. Following the establishment of its first undersea cable factory near the Godeabu Pier in Dangjin, the company is also pursuing additional investments aimed at producing high-voltage direct current (HVDC) undersea cables. Daehan Cable has been working to secure dedicated cable-laying vessels and expand international certifications, striving to broaden its foundation for winning global projects. However, if the ongoing investigation leads to prosecution and subsequent trials, it could burden Daehan Cable's accumulated investment achievements and credibility in securing contracts. LS Cable has raised concerns that Daehan Cable's expansion into the undersea cable business may infringe upon its core technologies and know-how. The company argues that information related to the design and production processes of undersea cable factories is not merely documentation but trade secrets accumulated over years of trial and error. In contrast, Daehan Cable contends that it has pursued its business through independent investments and technology development. In response to the referral to prosecutors, LS Cable claimed it has suffered damages amounting to billions of won due to the situation, while Daehan Cable has reportedly denied the allegations, asserting that the contested information does not qualify as trade secrets. Industry observers note that the fundamental reason for the ongoing conflict is the expanding market itself. Undersea cables are critical infrastructure connecting offshore wind farms to onshore power grids. Demand for power network expansion is growing not only in Europe and the United States but also in Asia, making this a market that domestic wire and cable companies cannot afford to overlook. Securing a supply record can influence subsequent project bids, making technological leadership and trust essential in the competition. There are concerns that this dispute could become an unexpected variable in the government's energy highway policy. The energy highway aims to expand large-scale power networks connecting renewable energy generation sites with power demand areas, with undersea cables and high-voltage transmission networks as key components. If the technological dispute between domestic companies drags on, it could raise concerns about supply stability and impact decisions on project orders, certifications, and delivery timelines. The possibility of a prolonged legal battle between the two sides is also being discussed. This could involve ongoing police investigations, prosecutorial judgments, civil claims for damages, and further disputes over trade secret violations. A key issue will be determining the extent to which undersea cable technology is considered a trade secret and how to distinguish between accumulated experience and company-owned technology during personnel transitions. If the conflict continues, it could impose burdens on the entire domestic undersea cable industry. In the global market, European and Chinese companies are competing for large projects. A prolonged legal battle between domestic firms could raise questions about technological stability and supply reliability in bidding processes. An industry insider remarked, "Undersea cables are set to become the most important growth market for the wire and cable industry, so the clash between leading and emerging companies was somewhat anticipated. This issue has escalated beyond the question of specific personnel or document leaks to encompass the leadership of the domestic undersea cable market and the stability of the national power grid project."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-28 17:58:00

Candidates Clash in Negative Debate for Busan North District Busan's North District by-election candidates faced off in a televised debate that was marked more by negative exchanges than policy discussions. Ha Jung-woo of the Democratic Party and Park Min-sik of the People Power Party launched concentrated attacks on independent candidate Han Dong-hoon regarding the controversy surrounding the party's member board and his involvement in the investigation of former President Park Geun-hye.During the debate organized by the National Election Commission at Busan MBC on May 28, Ha questioned Han about the 30-year prison sentence sought for Park, asking, "Even if you did not directly influence the sentence, can it not be said that you contributed significantly?"In response, Han acknowledged his role, stating, "I worked as a dispatched prosecutor in the team led by Yoon Seok-yeol at that time and was involved in that trial. I do not deny it," adding, "I fulfilled my duties as a public servant. I have also served as a prosecutor under other administrations and faced oppression during the Moon Jae-in administration." He expressed regret, saying, "While I did what I had to do, I feel sorry for former President Park. I appreciate the encouragement and advice she gave me during the last general election."Ha also questioned Han about the member board controversy, asking, "Is the news about identity theft true? If not, why haven’t you filed a complaint?" Han retorted, "I have been accused of spreading false information," and added, "While I would expect Park to raise the issue of the member board, I did not expect you to bring it up."Park joined in the criticism of Han, calling the member board controversy "a significant wound to the conservative support base" and questioned the legitimacy of the 30-year sentence sought for Park Geun-hye, asking, "Do you think that was justified, especially when compared to heinous criminals like Yoo Young-chul?" Han replied, "I feel personally sorry for former President Park," and criticized the debate for focusing on a former president instead of discussing the future of North Busan.Han then turned to Ha, referencing the controversy over President Yoon's decision to drop charges against Lee Jae-myung, asking, "Do you support or oppose the dismissal of charges? The citizens of Busan have already expressed their opposition to granting such authority, so what more needs to be said?" He also criticized the Busan Global Hub City Special Law, stating, "When President Yoon called it populism, you did not dare to oppose him."Ha shot back, saying, "Is this a prosecutor's interrogation room? This is why people say you can't shake off your prosecutor habits." He emphasized that regarding the dismissal of charges, he would focus on gathering public opinion in the National Assembly and concentrate on the residents of North Busan.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-28 17:56:00

Daehan Cable Denies Allegations of Technology Theft from LS Cable Daehan Cable has denied allegations of technology theft related to LS Cable, stating that the investigation's initial findings do not confirm any illegality or liability. In an official statement on May 28, Daehan Cable said it is currently verifying specific details regarding the investigation into its submarine cable Plant 1. The company asserted that it did not utilize or conspire to use any trade secrets from other companies during the construction of the plant.Daehan Cable emphasized its commitment to clarifying the facts and legal issues in future judicial proceedings. The company noted that various specialized firms participated in the construction of the submarine cable plant, and it selected partners through proper procedures based on relevant experience and expertise. Daehan Cable argued that the mere fact that some participating firms had experience in previous projects does not imply that it acquired or used trade secrets from others.The key issues at stake include whether the information in question qualifies as legally protected trade secrets and whether Daehan Cable obtained or used them improperly. These matters will require thorough legal examination and judgment in upcoming judicial processes.In response to concerns about similarities in plant structure, Daehan Cable stated, "The construction of Plant 1 was based on a comprehensive consideration of our business plans, site conditions, production products, equipment specifications, and logistics flow." The company contended that common process flows or equipment layout elements in the industry do not necessarily indicate the use of another company's trade secrets.Daehan Cable also clarified that the current issues are related to the construction of Plant 1 and are separate from the ongoing development of Plant 2 and the HVDC submarine cable project. The company assured that its existing operations, product manufacturing, delivery, overseas contracts, and future business initiatives are proceeding normally.The possibility of significant damages claims was dismissed by Daehan Cable as an unfounded assertion. The company stated, "The actual liability and extent of damages will be determined through strict judicial scrutiny," adding that interpreting the reported amounts as guaranteed is an exaggerated interpretation.Daehan Cable concluded by affirming its commitment to responsibly engage in the relevant procedures and indicated it would consider necessary actions against the spread of false or exaggerated reports that could significantly impact its business and shareholder value.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-28 17:56:00

Pre-Election Campaigns Heat Up Ahead of Local Elections in South Korea As South Korea approaches the June 3 local elections and National Assembly by-elections, Jung Cheong-rae, leader of the Democratic Party, and Jang Dong-hyuk, leader of the People Power Party, campaigned in Seoul and the Chungcheong region on May 28. Jung called for support to work alongside the administration of President Lee Jae-myung, while Jang urged voters to prevent government overreach. Jung emphasized the need to choose a 'strong' Democratic Party to ensure collaboration between President Lee and local governments during his visit to key districts in Seoul, including Gangdong, Gwangjin, and Mapo. He argued that the election of candidates such as Kim Jong-mu for Gangdong District Mayor, Moon Jong-cheol for Gwangjin District Mayor, and Yoo Dong-kyun for Mapo District Mayor is crucial for local development. He also expressed concern over the recent support for People Power Party candidates from former Presidents Lee Myung-bak and Park Geun-hye, indicating a consolidation of conservative forces. During his campaign in Gangdong, he stated, "Please support President Lee Jae-myung to help stabilize the government. If they (the conservatives) unite, we must unite even more. Show that we support this president more strongly." Jung, who has been actively engaging with voters across the country, has been focusing more time in the capital region as the elections approach. He had campaigned in Yeongdeungpo, Gyeonggi Province, and Incheon on May 26-27. After halting his campaign following the collapse of the Seosomun Overpass on May 26, Jang resumed his activities on May 28, visiting Nonsan in Chungcheongnam-do and Daejeon. At Nonsan Central Market, he criticized President Lee, stating, "Before becoming president, he said, 'If a president commits a crime, he should go to prison.' Now that he is president, he wants to halt all his trials and erase them." He urged Nonsan citizens to hold him accountable. Jang also pointed out the government's recent promotion of a boycott against Starbucks, questioning, "Is it acceptable for a country to interfere with what the president drinks?" He warned that while we still enjoy freedom, our children may live in a South Korea where even their ability to breathe is controlled. In conjunction with Jang's visit to the Chungcheong region, the People Power Party announced tailored pledges for cities and counties in the area, aiming to develop Chungcheong as a hub for advanced industries and enhance infrastructure like transportation networks to invigorate the region. Jang has been focusing on the Chungcheong region, having kicked off his official campaign on May 21 at Daejeon Station. This area is often regarded as a bellwether, with the saying, "The party that wins in Chungcheong wins the overall election." The People Power Party views Daejeon and Chungcheongnam-do as competitive regions, prompting their targeted efforts ahead of early voting. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-28 17:56:00