Celltrion Establishes First Labor Union, Calls for Performance Pay and Staffing Discussions Celltrion has established its first labor union, marking a significant milestone 25 years after the company's founding. The union is advocating for transparency in performance pay criteria, improvements to the wage system, and the hiring of regular staff. Union representatives argue that discussions on a compensation system commensurate with the company's expected record performance are necessary. According to the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions' Chemical, Textile, and Food Industry Workers' Union, Celltrion employees launched the 'Unitrion' branch of the union on June 1. This is the first union formed since the company was founded by Chairman Seo Jung-jin in 2002. The union announced its official establishment through a declaration but did not disclose the number of members. In its founding declaration, the union stated, "We demand transparent compensation and respect that reflects our dedication." Key demands include the disclosure of criteria for excess profit-sharing bonuses and the establishment of a wage determination system based on negotiations. The union is also calling for the hiring of regular staff in compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), improvements to rotating work schedules, enhanced employee welfare, and the rejection of unilateral work directives. These demands are seen as closely related to the company's recent growth. Celltrion has been experiencing performance growth due to the expansion of biosimilar sales and the establishment of a direct sales system. Additionally, with the launch of its new drug business, the company has set a revenue target of 5.3 trillion won for this year. The union believes that with record performance anticipated, both performance pay and the wage system should be improved accordingly. Labor issues are increasingly spreading across various industries. In the pharmaceutical and biotech sectors, discussions are ongoing. The union at Samsung Biologics conducted a five-day strike last month and continues to engage in lawful protests demanding wage and treatment improvements. In response to the union's formation, Celltrion stated, "The company respects the rights guaranteed by law regarding the establishment of labor unions and plans to respond sincerely in accordance with laws and regulations as related procedures progress." The company added, "We will do our utmost to ensure stable operations and continuous growth through communication with employees and responsible management."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 10:54:00

Korea Expressway Corporation Introduces Fuel Assistance Service for Vulnerable Road Users The Korea Expressway Corporation announced on June 2 that it will implement a "QR Call Fuel Assistance Service" to reduce the inconvenience faced by vulnerable road users, including people with disabilities, the elderly, and pregnant women, at highway gas stations. This service will be available at 218 self-service gas stations across the country. Out of 226 gas stations on the expressways, 218 operate on a self-service basis, accounting for 96%. Previously, vulnerable users had to use assistance devices like call buttons to request help, which required them to exit their vehicles. The new service allows users to request assistance without leaving their cars through a contactless call system. By scanning a QR code attached to the gas pump, the request is sent to the gas station staff. If scanning the QR code is not feasible, users can call the gas station office using the contact number provided below the QR code. Once the request is received, a staff member will come to the vehicle to assist with the entire fueling process. The Korea Expressway Corporation believes this service will enhance both the safety and accessibility for vulnerable road users. Current legislation defines vulnerable road users as individuals who experience mobility difficulties in daily life, including people with disabilities, the elderly, pregnant women, caregivers with infants, and children. A representative from the Korea Expressway Corporation stated, "This service goes beyond simple fuel assistance; it is a public service that guarantees mobility rights. We will continue to improve systems on-site to ensure that all citizens can safely and conveniently use highway services."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 10:54:00

Korea's National Railroad Corporation Wins $13 Million Rail Project in Peru The National Railroad Corporation announced it has secured a contract for the design review and construction supervision of the "Huancayo-Huancavelica" railway improvement project, commissioned by Peru's Transportation Infrastructure Investment Supervisory Agency. The project is valued at approximately $13 million (about 19.2 billion won). This initiative aims to modernize a 128.7-kilometer stretch of aging railway in the central Andes region of Peru, which operates at altitudes exceeding 3,600 meters. The corporation's consortium will oversee the supervision of construction and operational phases over the next five years. The Huancayo-Huancavelica railway, also known as the "Tren Macho," began operations in October 1926 and features seven stations, 20 stops, 15 bridges, and 38 tunnels. The modernization project will include the introduction of new vehicles and improvements to signaling and control systems. The corporation formed a global consortium that includes domestic engineering firms and local companies. It outperformed competitors from Spain and Japan in all aspects of technical and price evaluations. Lee An-ho, acting president of the National Railroad Corporation, stated, "This contract demonstrates our technological prowess in K-Rail by competing with advanced countries in the global railway sector. We will continue to elevate the status of Korean railways and expand overseas markets in collaboration with domestic companies."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 10:51:00

Korean Navy to join RIMPAC, take first command role in multinational maritime exercise SEOUL, June 02 (AJP) - South Korea’s Navy said Monday its Aegis destroyer Jeongjo the Great will depart for the Rim of the Pacific exercise (RIMPAC), marking the first time the service will assume a major command role in the U.S.-led multinational maritime drill. The 8,200-ton destroyer left Jeju Naval Base on Monday and will join the exercise, which will take place in waters off Hawaii from late June through July, according to the Navy. It will be the first RIMPAC participation for the Jeongjo the Great, which was commissioned in December 2024. The 3,000-ton submarine Dosan Ahn Chang-ho and the P-8A maritime patrol aircraft will also take part in the exercise for the first time. The Dosan Ahn Chang-ho, along with the frigate Daejeon, will move to Hawaii after completing a combined cooperation exercise with Canada. The landing ship Cheonjabong is also set to head to Hawaii after conducting a search and rescue exercise, or SAREX, with Japan’s Aegis destroyer Kongo in international waters southeast of Jeju on June 7. RIMPAC is a biennial multinational naval exercise hosted by the U.S. 3rd Fleet to enhance participating countries’ ability to protect sea lines of communication, respond jointly to maritime threats and improve interoperability and operational capabilities among allied and partner forces. This year marks the 30th edition of the exercise. South Korea first joined RIMPAC in 1990 and will be participating for the 19th time this year. During this year’s exercise, the South Korean military will serve for the first time as the Combined Force Maritime Component Commander, or CFMCC. South Korea will become the fourth country to take on the role and the first Asian country to do so. The Navy said the exercise is expected to provide an opportunity to strengthen South Korea’s military capabilities ahead of the planned transfer of wartime operational control from Washington to Seoul. Rear Adm. Kim In-ho, commander of the Republic of Korea Navy’s Maritime Task Flotilla and the officer who will serve as the CFMCC, said the assignment marks a shift in South Korea’s role from a participating country to a command nation. “Taking on the command role for the first time means we have moved beyond being a participating country and have advanced to the position of a command nation,” Kim said. 2026-06-02 10:48:20

Consumer prices hit 26-month high as fuel prices soar SEOUL, June 2 (AJP) - South Korea's consumer prices rose 3.1 percent in May from a year earlier, the Ministry of Statistics and Data said on Tuesday. Consumer prices, which serve as a key gauge of inflation, rose above 3 percent for the first time in 26 months since February 2024, fueled by sharp increases in petroleum and industrial product prices. An index measuring the prices of daily necessities also rose to 3.3 percent, the highest level since March 2024, suggesting that households continue to feel the pressure of rising prices. Petroleum products were a major driver of inflation, with prices rising 24.2 percent year-on-year. Diesel recorded the largest increase at 33.3 percent, while gasoline prices rose 23.1 percent. Costs in the service sector also rose 2.8 percent from a year earlier. Prices of agricultural and fishery products also climbed 2.2 percent as hot weather constrained supply. The core inflation measure used by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), which excludes food and energy, rose 2.5 percent, marking its highest level since February 2024. 2026-06-02 10:44:31

Justice Ministry Defends Air Conditioning Installation in Prisons The Justice Ministry has clarified that the recent decision to install air conditioning in prisons is aimed at protecting inmates vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. On June 2, the ministry issued a statement explaining that the cooling systems will be installed in the hallways of housing units, providing indirect cooling to mitigate rising temperatures. They anticipate that this will also improve working conditions for correctional officers. The ministry stated, "We are focusing on enhancing cooling systems in housing units where elderly, disabled, and ill inmates reside, as they are particularly susceptible to heat-related illnesses." It also noted that some women's housing units were included in the plan after considering overcrowding, physical characteristics, and living conditions. Additionally, the ministry emphasized its ongoing efforts to combat heat and prevent heat-related illnesses, which include operating cooling shelters and providing ice water. The installation of air conditioning is seen as a necessary measure to protect vulnerable inmates. A representative from the Correctional Headquarters told Aju Economy that they provide inmates with two 500ml bottles of ice water daily, but do not offer special treats like ice cream or fruit punch. They urged the public to understand that the enhancement of cooling systems is a minimal necessary measure to ensure the safety and well-being of inmates sensitive to extreme heat. Earlier this year, the Justice Ministry announced a budget of 1.2 billion won to improve cooling systems in correctional facilities. However, the announcement has sparked criticism online, with comments on portal sites expressing concerns such as, "Tax money is being used to install air conditioning for criminals," and, "There are people living without air conditioning in goshiwons (small rooms)," as well as calls for increased air conditioning in military barracks for soldiers protecting the country. 2026-06-02 10:42:00

President Yoon Calls for Review of Repeated Workplace Accidents President Yoon Suk Yeol addressed the recent explosion at the Hanwha Aerospace factory in Daejeon on June 2, urging officials to identify workplaces where similar accidents have repeatedly occurred. During a Cabinet meeting and emergency economic review at the Blue House, President Yoon instructed Vice Minister of Employment and Labor Kwon Chang-jun to expedite safety inspections at other similar facilities. He emphasized the need for thorough investigations into the causes of accidents and the establishment of effective measures to prevent their recurrence, stating, "It is a serious issue when the same type of accident continues to happen in the same workplace." President Yoon remarked, "We must remember that everyone works to sustain their lives and lead happy lives with their families. However, the workplace, which should be a place of safety, can sometimes become a site of death." He raised concerns about whether society truly respects and values human life, questioning, "Do we hold life in higher regard than money? Do we respect the lives of others as much as our own?" He added, "The life of one person is like another universe, and I sometimes wonder if they are treated equally." President Yoon extended his condolences to the deceased and wished for the swift recovery of the injured, noting, "While it seems that workplace fatalities have decreased recently, it is still unfortunate that they continue to occur."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 10:36:00

Legal Battles and Attacks Dominate Seoul Education Superintendent Election With just one day to go until the June 3 local elections, the race for the Seoul education superintendent is mired in legal disputes and personal attacks rather than policy discussions. Both progressive and conservative factions have failed to unify, resulting in eight candidates competing for the position. As the election devolves into ideological battles and negative campaigning, concerns are growing over the uncertainty surrounding education administration in Seoul. According to reports from the education sector, tensions have escalated between conservative candidates Yoon Ho-sang and Jo Jeon-hyeok in the final stretch of the campaign. Yoon has called for Jo to withdraw from the race, citing Jo's past history of school violence, while Jo's camp has labeled this as a refusal to accept the primary results. Similarly, in the progressive camp, Jeong Geun-sik and Han Man-jung have filed mutual complaints over alleged violations of election laws, overshadowing any opportunity for policy comparisons among candidates. Currently, there is a prevailing sentiment that the essence of education has been lost in the Seoul education superintendent election due to candidates' ideological biases and provocative issues. To attract voter attention in a multi-candidate race, some candidates have resorted to sensational slogans, such as opposing homosexuality, which are far removed from the core issues of education administration. As a result, critical macro-level challenges facing Seoul's education, such as enhancing public education infrastructure to respond to future industries and addressing educational disparities, have been sidelined amid the noise of the election. The deepening apathy among voters and media regarding the election is also cited as a major factor contributing to the chaotic atmosphere. With an increasing number of households either not having children or having already raised them, the proportion of voters directly interested in educational issues has sharply declined. Major media outlets have also given less coverage to debates and policy verifications related to the education superintendent election compared to the mayoral race, exacerbating the situation of voters being unaware of candidates and their pledges, leading to a so-called "blind election." This absence of policy focus could have significant economic repercussions, as it may disrupt the continuity of the Seoul education administration, which manages an annual budget of 11 trillion won. Analysts warn that if the election results lead to drastic shifts in educational policies, it could result in administrative chaos in schools and a decline in public trust in the entire education system. Historical trends indicate that when the consistency of public education is compromised, there is a tendency for consumers to shift towards private education, thereby increasing the financial burden on families. Education experts point to a "system error" as the fundamental cause of the recurring mudslinging in education superintendent elections. They argue that applying existing election laws, designed for party-based politics, to elections without party nominations creates structural contradictions. The proposed running mate system, which has been suggested as an alternative, is criticized for potentially allowing political parties to exert direct influence over education, leading candidates to adopt more extreme ideological pledges or biased policies, which could negatively impact the future of education in South Korea. Ultimately, to minimize the adverse effects of the election, a responsible citizenship from voters is essential. Park Nam-ki, an honorary professor at Gwangju National University of Education, stated, "The issue of the election being a blind one is not just the candidates' problem; voters and the media also bear significant responsibility for not even checking the election materials. Reading the election pamphlets delivered to each household carefully and actively verifying the sustainability of policies is the first step in changing the future of education in South Korea."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 10:36:00

NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang to Appear on Popular Korean Variety Show NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang, who is visiting South Korea on June 4, will meet with popular television host Yoo Jae-suk.According to the production team of tvN's "You Quiz on the Block" on June 2, "Jensen Huang will appear on 'You Quiz on the Block.'"Huang is credited with transforming NVIDIA from a graphics chip company into a key player in the generative AI era, recognized for his influence in both technology and management as the founder and a visionary in the industry.As this marks his first appearance on a variety show, there is significant interest in how he will present himself on "You Quiz." During his visit, Huang will complete the recording for the show, which is expected to air later this month.Nam Seung-yong, a management leader at CJ ENM, stated, "His life story, from a boy washing dishes to becoming the CEO of the world's top market capitalization company, will showcase his fierce determination, insights into the trends of the AI era, and the qualities needed for future talent."Meanwhile, Huang is also expected to meet with several prominent figures, including SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won, LG Group Chairman Koo Kwang-mo, Hyundai Motor Group Chairman Chung Eui-sun, Doosan Group Chairman Park Jung-won, and Naver Board Chairman Lee Hae-jin. There are discussions about a gathering over pork belly in Seongsu, and he is anticipated to throw the first pitch at a Doosan Bears baseball game on June 7.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 10:33:00

Rising Oil Prices Drive Consumer Inflation to 26-Month High The impact of rising oil prices due to the conflict in the Middle East has led to a significant increase in consumer inflation, reaching its highest level in 26 months. The surge in fuel prices has spread to transportation and travel services, raising overall living costs. According to the National Data Agency's report on consumer price trends for May 2026, the consumer price index rose to 119.92 (2020=100), marking a 3.1% increase compared to the same month last year. This is the first time the inflation rate has reached the 3% range since March 2024 (3.1%). Inflation rates have steadily increased this year, rising from 2.0% in February to 2.2% in March, 2.6% in April, and now 3.1% in May. Analysts suggest that the breach of the 3% mark indicates that the prolonged conflict in the Middle East is beginning to affect domestic prices significantly. In May, fuel prices soared by 24.2% compared to the previous year, contributing 0.92 percentage points to the overall inflation rate. This marks the highest increase since July 2022 (35.2%). Gasoline prices rose by 23.1%, while diesel prices jumped by 33.3%, both recording their largest increases since July 2022. The rise in fuel prices has also pushed up costs in transportation and travel-related services. Transportation prices increased by 11.6%, and international airfares surged by 33.5%, the highest rate since records began in 1995. Prices for overseas group travel, domestic airfares, car rentals, and hotel accommodations have all risen, adding to inflationary pressures. A representative from the National Data Agency stated, "The increase in fuel prices has been significantly influenced by the war, and the rise in travel demand during the May holidays has further pushed up travel-related service prices. This inflation reflects the impact of supply-side shocks." The living cost index, which reflects the cost of living, rose by 3.3% compared to the same month last year, the highest level since April 2024 (3.6%). Excluding food, the living cost index increased by 4.2%, further straining consumer budgets. Conversely, prices for vegetables and fruits stabilized, leading to a 1.4% decline in the fresh food index. Agricultural products fell by 0.8%, but prices for livestock and seafood rose by 5.8% and 5.0%, respectively, resulting in an overall increase of 2.2% for agricultural and marine products. The National Data Agency noted that the impact of rising fuel prices has not yet spread to dining out or processed foods. A representative commented, "Unlike during the Russia-Ukraine conflict, we are currently facing a situation where demand is subdued while supply shocks are occurring. We need to monitor whether the rise in fuel prices will transfer to other items in the second half of the year." The government estimated that without measures such as price caps on fuel and reductions in fuel taxes, inflation in May would have risen by 3.7% compared to the previous year. These measures are believed to have lowered last month's inflation by 0.6 percentage points. Despite these efforts, inflation rates are expected to remain around 3% for some time. The Bank of Korea held a meeting on inflation trends, forecasting that inflation rates will likely stay in the 3% range for the foreseeable future. Lee Ji-ho, head of the Bank of Korea's research department, stated, "The inflation rate for June is expected to be similar to May due to sustained high fuel prices. The increase in consumer prices in May was driven by rising fuel costs and higher service prices, particularly in travel-related sectors, compared to April. The inflation rate for living costs has also risen to the mid-3% range, increasing the financial burden on vulnerable groups that spend a larger portion of their income on necessities." The government plans to strengthen its commitment to maintaining price stability amid uncertainties stemming from external factors such as the Middle East conflict. This includes measures to stabilize fuel prices, implement tariff allocations, expand supply, and proactively manage agricultural and marine product supplies in anticipation of extreme weather conditions. 2026-06-02 10:33:00