POSCO E&C Unveils AI Innovations at Company-Wide Challenge POSCO E&C has launched a company-wide AI challenge aimed at discovering innovative applications of artificial intelligence (AI) to transform construction site operations. Notably, an AI model for automating work report creation has been highlighted for its potential to save hundreds of hours of labor annually. On May 17, POSCO E&C announced the conclusion of its "Company-Wide AI Challenge," which began on March 24. The competition involved all employees, including field staff, who engaged in learning and applying AI technologies directly to their work. The challenge featured four categories: video, reports, AI agents, and a golden bell quiz, with nearly half of the workforce, totaling 1,887 participants. The standout achievement was the top entry in the AI agent category, the "Work Report Automation AI Agent." Previously, employees from partner companies communicated work details via social media, requiring site managers to manually compile these into daily reports. This AI agent automates that process, reducing repetitive tasks that previously took over 90 minutes each day. POSCO E&C estimates that this translates to approximately 375 hours of labor saved per site manager annually. In the report category finals, participants were tasked with using AI in real-time to produce executive-level reports without prior topic disclosure. POSCO E&C stated this approach validated practical AI application skills among employees. A company representative noted, "The greatest achievement of this competition is that employees have begun to see AI not as a technology unrelated to them, but as a 'colleague that changes their work.' We have laid the groundwork for a smart work culture that reduces repetitive tasks and allows for a focus on more essential duties through AI-driven innovation." However, challenges remain in training AI due to the prevalence of informal language, jargon, and typographical errors in the unstructured data typical of construction sites. To improve the quality of AI training data, efforts are needed to standardize scattered site data, along with the establishment of government guidelines.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-17 17:54:09

DL E&C Proposes 10-Month Construction Timeline Reduction for Apgujeong 5 District As the selection of a construction company for the highly competitive Apgujeong 5 District reconstruction project approaches, DL E&C is intensifying its efforts to win over union members by emphasizing a shortened construction timeline and financial benefits, leading to a fierce bidding war with Hyundai Construction. According to Yonhap News on May 17, DL E&C announced on May 16 during a briefing at the joint promotional center for the Apgujeong 5 District reconstruction project in Gangnam, Seoul, that it proposed a construction period of 57 months, reduced from the previous timeline. A DL E&C representative stated at the briefing, "By shortening the construction period by 10 months, we aim to lower financial costs and project expenses, resulting in savings of approximately 100 million won per household for union members." The Apgujeong 5 District is a key redevelopment project along the Han River, transforming the area into a large complex with 1,397 units across eight buildings, ranging from five underground floors to 68 above ground. It is considered one of the most significant projects in this year's reconstruction market due to its excellent educational district and river views. Union members attending the briefing reportedly expressed high interest in the potential for improved project viability and the maintenance of construction quality due to the shortened timeline while examining the model of the complex. DL E&C also unveiled project conditions and financial support options during the event. They highlighted a 0% interest rate on project financing, a 150% loan-to-value ratio for relocation loans, and a maximum seven-year deferral for payment of contributions to alleviate financial burdens. The company also presented its design and view specialization strategy. The 'Acro Apgujeong' project is planned with a three-row structure for each building. Buildings 101-103 in the first row will feature low-rise designs to maximize Han River views, while the second row will consist of the high-rise 'Regent Triple Tower' to enhance symbolism and openness. The third row will include south-facing residential spaces and a central garden. In competition, Hyundai Construction is proposing the name 'Apgujeong Hyundai Galleria' to emphasize brand significance. Their strategy aims to build a large 'Hyundai brand town' by inheriting the historical and identity aspects of the existing Apgujeong Hyundai Apartments, following their previous contracts for the Apgujeong 2 District and selection as the preferred bidder for the 3 District. The final decision on the construction company for the Apgujeong 5 District will be made at the union's general meeting scheduled for May 30.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-17 17:48:24

Alteogen Enters $13 Billion Eylea Biosimilar Market Alteogen has received domestic approval for its Eylea biosimilar, Izenpiju, marking its entry into a market estimated at approximately 13 trillion won ($10 billion). This development is expected to intensify competition among domestic companies, including Samsung Bioepis, Celltrion, and Samchundang Pharm, who have already entered the market.According to industry sources on May 17, Alteogen recently obtained approval from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety for Izenpiju. This approval follows last year's authorization in Europe, signifying a significant step for Alteogen in translating its research and development capabilities into the commercialization of biosimilars.Eylea is a blockbuster treatment for major eye diseases, including age-related macular degeneration, and is considered a cash cow due to stable and ongoing demand driven by aging populations and long-term treatment needs.Samsung Bioepis was the first to act in the domestic market, securing approval for its Eylea biosimilar, Apilibu, and establishing a co-marketing system with Samil Pharmaceutical. Celltrion has also entered the market with its product, Idenselt, collaborating with International Pharmaceutical to expand its ophthalmic sales network. With the addition of Samchundang Pharm's Vigenpri, the Eylea biosimilar market has transitioned from mere approval competition to a full-scale commercialization battle over sales networks and prescription channels.However, industry experts caution that the high sales figures of the original Eylea may not directly translate into profitability for biosimilar companies. Biosimilars typically expand their market share based on lower prices compared to the original, making the timing of launch, reimbursement listings, and securing prescription networks critical factors for success. New entrants without differentiation may face intense price competition, and delays in capturing initial market share could quickly diminish expected profit margins.Despite these challenges, the ophthalmic disease sector is viewed as a key battleground for biosimilar companies due to steady market formation driven by aging populations and long-term treatment needs. Ophthalmic indications have a broad patient base and long treatment durations, providing revenue stability through repeat prescriptions once established in the market.While Alteogen has been recognized as a platform technology company, this approval demonstrates its capability in commercializing its own developed biosimilars. The company plans to leverage this approval to push for domestic launch while simultaneously developing follow-up candidates for new age-related macular degeneration treatments. Industry analysts interpret Alteogen's entry not merely as an addition of a product but as a strategic shift to broaden its portfolio from a technology platform-focused business to include the ophthalmic disease sector.A pharmaceutical industry official stated, "The competition in ophthalmic diseases is expected to heat up further. The key will be who can establish themselves in the market more quickly, with securing sales networks and reimbursement strategies being crucial factors for future success."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-17 17:46:59

Eduwill Reports Profits for Two Consecutive Years Under Yang Hyung-nam's Leadership Eduwill has maintained profitability for two consecutive years since the return of Chairman Yang Hyung-nam, solidifying its performance rebound. Despite challenges posed by demographic changes and stagnation in the education market, the company's focus on operational efficiency and diversification of new business strategies has yielded positive results. According to Eduwill's 2025 audit report released on May 17, the company recorded annual revenue of approximately 82.3 billion won last year. Operating profit reached 6.4 billion won, marking a nearly 30% increase from the previous year’s 4.9 billion won, with an operating profit margin of 7.8%, demonstrating a stable profit trajectory. This marks the second consecutive year of profitability since 2024. This success is attributed to the rigorous management efficiency initiatives and cost-cutting measures implemented since Chairman Yang's return, along with a restructuring of the portfolio to focus on high-value educational content. Eduwill has declared this year as the 'Year of Rebound,' with a central focus on 'AX (AI Transformation)' for operational innovation. During a recent company-wide town hall meeting, Eduwill presented its new management direction emphasizing 'AX Execution.' The initiative aims to maximize internal productivity and invest the resources gained into enhancing the quality of its content. The goal is to provide students with more refined and personalized learning experiences, thereby solidifying its market dominance. The company is also committed to securing future growth opportunities in response to rapidly changing demographics. Eduwill has established three key strategic pillars: AI, Senior Market, and Global Expansion. First, it plans to aggressively target the senior market, which has emerged as a viable alternative due to declining school-age populations. Eduwill aims to significantly expand its professional training programs to assist the 50-60 age group with re-employment and personal development after retirement, positioning itself as an essential educational platform for this demographic. The company is also formalizing its overseas market entry. Building on its unique expertise in adult education accumulated domestically, Eduwill is establishing a business model centered on local partnerships to capture global educational demand, positioning itself as a leader in 'K-Edu.' Following its entry into Laos in 2024, Eduwill is intensifying its efforts in Southeast Asia and pursuing market expansion in the U.S., India, and Kenya through its AI-based educational platform. An Eduwill representative stated, "Since Chairman Yang's return, we have recorded profits for two consecutive years, fully restoring our foundational strength for growth beyond normalization. We aim to present an innovative model in the education industry through internal innovation via AX and the expansion into new territories of seniors and global markets."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-17 17:43:03

Weather Forecast: Clear Skies and Early Summer Heat with Highs Reaching 34°C On Monday, May 18, clear skies are expected across the country, with daytime temperatures exceeding 30 degrees Celsius, leading to hot weather conditions. According to the Korea Meteorological Administration on May 17, the morning low temperatures on May 18 are forecasted to range from 12 to 20 degrees Celsius, while the daytime highs will reach between 24 and 34 degrees Celsius. These temperatures are above the seasonal averages of 10 to 15 degrees in the morning and 21 to 26 degrees during the day, with most regions expected to see highs above 30 degrees Celsius. With the significant rise in temperatures, it is advised that vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, take special care when engaging in outdoor activities. The expected morning low temperatures in major cities are as follows: Seoul 16°C, Incheon 15°C, Chuncheon 14°C, Gangneung 20°C, Daejeon 16°C, Daegu 18°C, Jeonju 15°C, Gwangju 15°C, Busan 18°C, and Jeju 17°C. The forecasted daytime highs are: Seoul 30°C, Incheon 28°C, Chuncheon 32°C, Gangneung 31°C, Daejeon 30°C, Daegu 34°C, Jeonju 31°C, Gwangju 32°C, Busan 27°C, and Jeju 25°C, with a significant temperature difference of around 15 degrees Celsius expected, especially in inland areas. The skies nationwide will generally be clear, but clouds will increase in the evening. The fine dust levels are expected to be at a 'good' to 'moderate' level across the country. Sea conditions will see waves of 0.5 to 1.0 meters in the East Sea, and around 0.5 meters in the West and South Seas, while offshore wave heights are predicted to be 0.5 to 1.5 meters in the East and West Seas, and 0.5 to 1.0 meters in the South Sea.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-17 17:42:00

Top 10 Securities Firms Report Combined Q1 Profit of 4.3 Trillion Won The dominance of banks in South Korea's financial market is being challenged as securities firms report record profits. Following a strong stock market rally that began in the second half of last year, the top 10 securities firms achieved unprecedented earnings in the first quarter of this year. Their combined net profit surpassed 4 trillion won for the first time, narrowing the gap with the five largest banks to just 1.1 trillion won.According to data from the Financial Supervisory Service's electronic disclosure system, the combined net profit of the top 10 securities firms (based on equity capital) for the first quarter was 4.33 trillion won, a significant increase of 2.3 trillion won (113.65%) compared to 2.07 trillion won during the same period last year.The gap with the five largest banks has also narrowed significantly. The combined net profit of these banks for the first quarter was 4.44 trillion won, leaving a difference of only about 1.1 trillion won. This marks a substantial shift in the financial landscape, as securities firms grow to challenge the long-standing supremacy of banks.Leading the securities sector, Mirae Asset Securities and Korea Investment & Securities outperformed NH Nonghyup Bank (5.58 trillion won) and Woori Bank (5.31 trillion won). Mirae Asset Securities reported a record net profit of 1.01 trillion won for the first quarter, a staggering 288% increase from the same period last year, marking the first time any domestic securities firm has exceeded 1 trillion won in quarterly net profit. Korea Investment & Securities also posted a net profit of 784.7 billion won, driven by increased brokerage revenue and improved performance in the investment banking sector.Kiwoom Securities ranked third with a net profit of 477.4 billion won, while Samsung Securities achieved a record quarterly profit of 450.9 billion won. Most of the top 10 securities firms, including KB Securities (350.2 billion won), Shinhan Investment Corp. (288.4 billion won), Meritz Securities (254.3 billion won), Daishin Securities (145.5 billion won), and Hana Securities (103.3 billion won), reported strong performances.The share of net profit from securities firms compared to banks is also rising rapidly. In 2022, the net profit of securities firms accounted for 27.8% of that of banks, but this figure increased to 36.3% in 2023, 42.9% in 2024, and reached 50.0% last year. The annual combined net profit of the top 10 securities firms was 7.67 trillion won, nearing half of the 15.33 trillion won reported by the five largest banks. Analysts attribute the accelerated narrowing of this gap to the rising stock market and increased trading volumes this year.The increase in trading volumes and a recovery in investor sentiment are key factors behind the improved performance. As the KOSPI index continues to hit record highs, individual investors have poured significant funds into the stock market, accompanied by foreign investments, leading to a surge in brokerage revenue. The recovery in the corporate finance (IB) market, including initial public offerings (IPOs) and corporate bond issuances, has also contributed to profitability. Jeong Tae-jun, a researcher at Mirae Asset Securities, noted, "As the stock market has been on an upward trend since last year, changes are also occurring in household asset composition. We expect the trend of improving performance among securities firms to continue in the future."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-17 17:40:04

Mama Chicken Shifts Focus to Delivery and Takeout, Expands Franchise Business Mama Chicken, the chicken brand of Korea's Papa John's, is set to expand its franchise business by focusing on delivery and takeout-oriented store models. On May 17, Mama Chicken announced that it will restructure its operating strategy to center around delivery and takeout specialized stores, based on data accumulated from three years of operating company-owned locations. Launched in 2023, Mama Chicken entered the market with an American-style chicken concept, featuring signature items like Cajun fried chicken and buffalo wings. The brand has tested various formats, including restaurant-style and delivery-focused outlets, to assess operational efficiency and customer demand in different markets. In this process, Mama Chicken has noted the shift in the chicken market towards delivery platforms and the growing demand for takeout. With increasing delivery app fees, the company has determined that cooking speed, turnover rates, and quality are directly linked to profitability, prompting a focus on developing new store models. The newly introduced delivery and takeout specialized stores will operate in a small format, designed with optimized workflows and operational systems for takeout orders. The menu composition, cooking methods, and packaging have also been redesigned to enhance order processing efficiency. Some adjustments will be made to the store operation strategy. The Mapo location, which has been run as a casual pub, will close, while the Independence Gate and Korea University locations will continue to operate in formats tailored to their respective market characteristics. A representative from Mama Chicken stated, "The delivery and takeout specialized stores reflect our accumulated operational know-how and will serve as a standardized model for future franchise expansion." According to market research firm Euromonitor, delivery accounted for approximately 35% of the domestic dining market in 2024. This share is expected to grow to 37% by 2029, reaching levels similar to dine-in sales.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-17 17:24:48

Pulmuone Launches Eco-Friendly Hiking Campaign in Jirisan National Park Pulmuone announced on May 17 that it conducted a 'Healthy Food, Healthy Hiking' campaign in collaboration with the National Park Service at the Nogodan shelter in Jirisan National Park, located in Gurye, South Jeolla Province. The campaign aimed to encourage visitors to practice environmental protection voluntarily and reduce food waste and single-use items during their hikes. Pulmuone has been engaged in ecosystem restoration activities since signing a memorandum of understanding with the National Park Service last year to promote conservation and ESG initiatives in Jirisan National Park. The event on May 15 was attended by Pulmuone's Chief Planning Officer Kim Jong-heon, Eastern Regional Headquarters Director Song Dong-joo of the National Park Service, officials from the Jirisan National Park offices in South Jeolla, North Jeolla, and South Gyeongsang provinces, as well as volunteers. During the event, Pulmuone provided food supplies to employees of the Jirisan National Park office who are dedicated to conservation efforts and distributed summer and winter hats to volunteers. The company also offered food packages made from its products to local residents as a gesture of gratitude. On-site activities included educating visitors on eco-friendly practices such as leaving no trash behind, reducing single-use items, and ensuring safe hiking without alcohol or smoking. Snacks were provided in reusable containers to encourage waste reduction. Pulmuone's hiking club members began their journey at Nogodan and visited four major shelters along the Jirisan trail over a two-day, one-night schedule. They conducted a ceremony displaying signs promoting eco-friendly hiking and 'Leave No Trace' principles, attaching related promotional materials at key hiking points. Kim Jong-heon, Pulmuone's Chief Planning Officer, stated, "We plan to continue various collaborative activities for the sustainable conservation of Jirisan and the promotion of proper hiking culture." According to the National Park Service, a total of 4,440 tons of trash have been collected from national parks across the country in the past five years. Jirisan accounted for the highest amount at 677.55 tons, followed by Bukhansan with 484.86 tons and Hallyeohaesang with 312.26 tons.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-17 17:21:59

Controversy Erupts Over '21st Century Great Lady' Historical Distortion; IU Vows Greater Responsibility MBC's Friday-Saturday drama '21st Century Great Lady' concluded on May 16 amid controversy over historical distortion. Following an apology and commitment to revisions from the production team, lead actress IU expressed her intention to take greater responsibility in front of fans. The upcoming script book is also expected to include some revised expressions.On the show's final day, IU held a group viewing event at CGV Yongsan I-Park Mall in Seoul, where she celebrated her birthday with fans while watching the last episode. After the screening, she addressed the recent controversy, saying, "I've been thinking a lot lately. I could have done better. As someone who receives your love, I will strive to do better and show a more responsible side of myself, making sure not to waste a moment of time."She added, "I believe that everything you say has a reason, and I should accept it. If there are areas where I fall short, please let me know, scold me, and push me so that I can work hard to become a better person."While IU did not directly mention '21st Century Great Lady,' her comments were interpreted as a reflection on the recent historical distortion controversy, especially given the timing of her remarks right after the final episode.Set in a constitutional monarchy in 21st-century South Korea, '21st Century Great Lady' is a romantic alternate history drama. The controversy erupted following the broadcast of the 11th episode on May 15, which featured a scene where courtiers shouted 'Cheonse' instead of 'Manse' during the coronation of the character Lee An-dae-gun, who wore a Goryeo-style crown instead of a Joseon-style one. This led some viewers to accuse the show of historical distortion.In response, the production team stated, "We take seriously the viewers' concerns that the scene with the king wearing a 'Goryeo crown' and the courtiers shouting 'Cheonse' undermines our country's sovereignty." They issued an apology, acknowledging that they had not carefully examined how Joseon customs evolved throughout history.They further explained, "While '21st Century Great Lady' is a romance and an alternate history drama, it required careful and profound consideration of the intersection between the fictional world and historical context. We recognize that we fell short in refining the worldview and paying closer attention to these aspects."The production team committed to promptly correcting the audio and subtitles in replays, video-on-demand (VOD), and online streaming services.The controversy also extended to the script book. Ahead of its release on May 18, publisher Open House Studio Audrie announced on May 16 via official social media that they are in discussions with the production team regarding the planned revisions of certain ceremonial expressions related to the drama.The publisher stated, "We take this matter seriously" and will provide a separate notice to pre-order customers, indicating that the revised expressions will be reflected in future editions. For books that have already been produced and shipped, they plan to send corrected PDF files and physical correction stickers.Despite the historical distortion controversy, '21st Century Great Lady' ended with its highest viewership ratings, recording 13.8% nationwide according to Nielsen Korea. While the drama concluded with high ratings, the historical accuracy debate and the production team's subsequent actions remain significant points of discussion.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-17 17:08:02

Trump Suggests Weapon Sales to Taiwan Depend on China Negotiations Donald Trump, President of the United States, indicated that the issue of arms sales to Taiwan could be used as a bargaining chip in negotiations with China following a recent U.S.-China summit. In an interview with Fox News' Bret Baier aired on May 15, Trump responded to a question about whether he would approve additional arms sales to Taiwan, stating, "I have not approved it yet. I could approve it, or I could not approve it." He added, "I am holding off on the arms sales to Taiwan, and that depends on China. It’s a very good negotiating chip for us. $12 billion worth of arms is a lot of weapons." Trump emphasized the geographical distance between the U.S. and Taiwan in relation to Taiwan's defense. He noted, "When you look at the situation, China is a very, very powerful country, and Taiwan is a very small island," pointing out that Taiwan is 59 miles (about 95 km) from mainland China, while the U.S. is 9,500 miles (about 15,000 km) away. However, Trump expressed a preference for maintaining the status quo in the Taiwan Strait, stating he does not want war. He remarked, "I don’t want a situation where someone says, ‘Let’s declare independence because the U.S. is backing us.’" He added, "I think while I’m in office, they (China) won’t do anything, but honestly, when I’m not there, they might attack (Taiwan)." Trump also voiced strong dissatisfaction with Taiwan's semiconductor industry, saying, "I would love to see all the semiconductor manufacturers in Taiwan come to the U.S. It would be a great thing to do given the urgency of the situation." He expressed hope that by the end of his term, 40-50% of the global semiconductor industry would be based in the U.S. He claimed that previous administrations allowed Taiwan to grow in the semiconductor sector without tariffs, stating, "They (Taiwan) have stolen our semiconductor (industry) for many years." He added, "We lost the semiconductor industry, but it’s all coming back." When asked whether Taiwanese people should feel safer or less safe following the U.S.-China summit, Trump responded, "Neutral," indicating there would be no change in policy toward Taiwan. He reiterated, "I don’t want someone to declare independence and have us go to war 9,500 miles away. I hope both Taiwan and China exercise restraint." Additionally, Trump mentioned that he raised the issue of the release of Jimmy Lai, a pro-democracy media tycoon imprisoned in Hong Kong, with Chinese President Xi Jinping, noting that Xi's response was "not positive." He quoted Xi as referring to Lai as a "nightmare." This interview took place on May 15 in Beijing, the day after Trump's summit with Xi.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-17 17:06:00