Journalist

Wolfgang Preiser, Cheryl Baxter, Jean Nachega
  • KAIST and Hanwha Solutions develop bio-platform to replace naphtha with waste glycerol
    KAIST and Hanwha Solutions develop bio-platform to replace naphtha with waste glycerol SEOUL, May 19 (AJP) - Researchers from Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) in South Korea and Hanwha Solutions have developed a bio-platform capable of mass-producing sustainable raw materials for plastics and textiles using waste resources. The newly secured technology aims to replace petroleum-derived naphtha, KAIST said Tuesday. The technology uses waste glycerol, a byproduct of biodiesel production, as a primary raw material. The joint research team engineered a microorganism to efficiently produce 1,3-propanediol (1,3-PDO), a core material used in plastics and cosmetics, while optimizing the overall fermentation process. The researchers maintained high productivity in a 300-liter pilot plant, demonstrating that laboratory-scale results can be replicated in large industrial settings. The team also implemented an antibiotic-free process and utilized computer simulations to design the metabolic pathway of the microorganism, lowering production costs and mitigating environmental regulatory risks. The development comes amid rising prices and supply instability for naphtha, an essential component in the petrochemical industry. It is the result of a decade-long collaboration between the university and the chemical company aimed at securing supply chain stability. The findings were published on May 12, 2026, in the journal Nature Chemical Engineering and will be featured as the cover article. "This research is significant in that it confirmed the possibility of replacing existing petrochemical processes by utilizing bio-based raw materials," Kim Jung-dae, head of Hanwha Solutions Future Technology Research Center, said. "We expect it to serve as an important foundation for sustainable chemical material production and industrial application in the future." "This research is a case showing that microorganism-based chemical production can be sufficiently expanded beyond the laboratory to an actual industrial scale," Lee Sang-yup, distinguished professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering at KAIST, said. "It will contribute to producing various chemical materials in a more environmentally friendly manner in the future." (Reference Information) Journal/Source: Nature Chemical Engineering Title: High-titer, antibiotic-free, pilot-scale production of 1,3-propanediol by engineered Corynebacterium Link/DOI: https://bit.ly/4nI5kYu 2026-05-19 16:40:53
  • Tway Holdings Hits Upper Limit Following Name Change to Trinity Airlines
    T'way Holdings Hits Upper Limit Following Name Change to Trinity Airlines T'way Holdings recorded a surge in stock prices following the announcement of T'way Airlines' name change. Market analysts interpret this as a sign that the restructuring of the airline business under the Daemyung Sonogroup (now Sonotrinity Group) is gaining momentum. According to the Korea Exchange, as of 2:40 PM on May 19, T'way Holdings shares rose by 71 won (29.96%) to 308 won. The stock hit the upper limit and continued to attract buying interest. The upper limit is seen as a result of expectations surrounding the name change and the group's restructuring efforts, which have alleviated financial concerns. Until recently, T'way Holdings was viewed as a company in need of significant financial restructuring. On May 12, the stock fell to 230 won, marking a 52-week low. T'way Airlines announced the previous day that it had received a license from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport to change its name to 'Trinity Airlines.' The approval process was completed about two months after the name change proposal was passed at the regular shareholders' meeting in March. The Ministry reportedly required measures to prevent consumer confusion, maintain safety operations, and complete approvals from foreign aviation authorities during the approval process. Consequently, the actual launch under the new name will occur sequentially after obtaining approvals from foreign authorities. Until then, the airline will continue to operate under the T'way Airlines name, airline code (TW), and flight numbers. The market perceives this name change not merely as a rebranding but as a significant step in the restructuring of the Sonotrinity Group's airline business. Currently, the largest shareholder of T'way Holdings is Sonointernational, which holds a 46.26% stake. Trinity Airlines (formerly T'way Airlines) is also primarily owned by Sonointernational, which holds 41.95% of its shares. T'way Holdings is the second-largest shareholder of Trinity Airlines, with a 17.29% stake. Sonotrinity Group acquired a 26.77% stake in T'way Airlines from JKL Partners for approximately 176 billion won in the second half of 2024, becoming the second-largest shareholder. In February of last year, it successfully secured management rights of T'way Airlines by purchasing a 46.26% stake in T'way Holdings from Yerimdang for about 250 billion won. Industry experts view this as a significant move by the Sonogroup to enter the aviation sector, which has long been a goal. The strategy aims to maximize synergies between its existing hotel and resort businesses and airline routes through travel packages and membership services. The speed of expansion for Sonotrinity Group's airline business will likely depend on future fleet expansion, route strategies, and service restructuring. Notably, if the strategy of combining airlines, hotels, and resorts into a comprehensive travel platform materializes, it could create a differentiated business structure compared to existing domestic leisure companies. The name change to 'Trinity Airlines' is also seen as an extension of this strategy, aiming to move away from the low-cost carrier image and strengthen the group's identity while establishing a new global brand presence. Meanwhile, T'way Holdings decided on April 22 to consolidate its common shares at an 80% ratio, merging five shares into one, as part of its financial restructuring efforts to cover losses. Following the consolidation, the number of issued shares will decrease from 113.16 million to 22.63 million, and its capital will reduce from 56.5 billion won to 11.3 billion won.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-19 16:40:02
  • KB Financial Group Partners with Agriculture Ministry to Support Lunch Costs for SMEs
    KB Financial Group Partners with Agriculture Ministry to Support Lunch Costs for SMEs KB Financial Group is joining an initiative aimed at reducing the lunch cost burden for employees of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The program is designed to enhance employee welfare while also stimulating the local economy.On May 19, KB Financial announced its participation in the "Substantial Lunch for Workers" initiative, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs and local governments.The Substantial Lunch for Workers program aims to alleviate the meal expenses of SME employees and support small food service businesses. This initiative is a partnership between the Agriculture Ministry, local governments, and KB Financial, which has prioritized inclusive finance this year by expanding its community-focused financial support programs.Local governments will select eligible companies within their regions, while KB Financial will act as a private sponsor, covering a portion of the lunch dining costs.Eligible participants include employees of SMEs as defined by the Small and Medium Enterprises Basic Act, who receive lunch subsidies from their companies. Selected employees can receive a 20% discount when dining at participating restaurants, cafes, and bakeries during weekdays between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. The maximum support per person is 40,000 won per month.SMEs interested in participating can refer to the program guidelines on the website and apply through their local government. Employees of selected companies can access the discount benefits through card companies or digital meal voucher platforms.A KB Financial representative stated, "This initiative is significant as it creates a win-win model that enhances employee welfare while boosting sales for small businesses. We will continue to expand our community-focused financial support that can be directly felt in the field."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-19 16:37:41
  • After Schools Nana Faces Home Invasion Case as Prosecutors Seek 10-Year Sentence
    After School's Nana Faces Home Invasion Case as Prosecutors Seek 10-Year Sentence A 34-year-old man has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for breaking into the home of actress Nana, formerly of the girl group After School, and attempting to rob her. On May 19, the Namyangju branch of the Uijeongbu District Prosecutors' Office requested the court impose a 10-year sentence for the defendant, identified as Kim. The prosecution stated, "The defendant unlawfully entered the residence with a weapon, threatening female victims, which necessitates a severe punishment. He has denied the charges and shown no remorse, while the victims continue to suffer psychologically." Kim was charged with breaking into Nana's home in Achun-dong, Guri, at around 6 a.m. on November 15, 2025, and threatening Nana and her mother with a weapon in an attempt to steal money. During the incident, Nana and her mother managed to subdue Kim after a struggle and called the police. The key issues in the case are whether Kim possessed a weapon and whether the charges of robbery causing injury are valid. Kim's defense attorney argued, "He entered the home at night with the intent to steal, but there was no intention to commit robbery. There is no evidence that he carried a weapon during the break-in." Kim himself acknowledged the unlawful entry and attempted theft but maintained that he did not engage in robbery. In contrast, Nana and her mother testified in previous hearings that Kim had entered with a weapon. During a court session on April 21, Nana stated, "I heard a commotion and came into the living room to find the defendant choking my fallen mother, and a weapon was nearby." Nana's mother also claimed that Kim had a weapon when he entered through the balcony. Following the incident, Kim filed a counterclaim against Nana, alleging attempted murder and aggravated assault, claiming he was injured while being subdued. However, police determined that Nana and her mother's actions constituted self-defense and did not file charges against them. Subsequently, Nana's side filed a counterclaim against Kim for false accusations. Nana expressed in previous witness statements that she has been suffering from trauma since the incident. In court, she remarked, "My home no longer feels like a safe space," and expressed concern that the prolonged trial is causing her further emotional distress. The sentencing hearing for Kim is scheduled for June 9 in the same court.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-19 16:36:00
  • Drivers Can Get Toll Refunds for Wrong Highway Exits if They Re-enter Within 15 Minutes
    Drivers Can Get Toll Refunds for Wrong Highway Exits if They Re-enter Within 15 Minutes Starting in October, drivers who mistakenly exit a highway can receive a refund of the base toll if they re-enter the same toll plaza within 15 minutes. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport announced on May 19 that it plans to implement a 'highway wrong exit toll reduction' policy, which will waive the base toll for drivers who mistakenly exit and then re-enter the same toll plaza within 15 minutes. Each vehicle will be eligible for this refund up to three times per year. This initiative follows recommendations made during last year's parliamentary audit, which highlighted the need for improvements (including consultations with the Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission). During the audit, Representative Son Myung-soo of the Democratic Party noted, "When driving on the highway, if you mistakenly exit, you can quickly re-enter, but you are still charged the base toll again. There are situations where drivers need to exit urgently due to the long distances between rest areas, especially when running low on fuel." He added, "Looking at Japan's example, they use Hi-Pass technology to waive tolls for drivers who exit near distant rest areas." The new policy will apply to closed sections of national highways managed by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport and the Korea Expressway Corporation. It will be available to vehicles using electronic payment methods that mistakenly exit and re-enter the same toll plaza within 15 minutes. Previously, drivers who exited incorrectly had to pay the base toll again, even for short distances. The Ministry and the Korea Expressway Corporation will begin developing the necessary systems for this policy starting in May. The Ministry estimates that approximately 90.2% of re-entering vehicles are cases of mistaken exits occurring within three attempts per year. Once implemented, this policy is expected to result in an annual toll reduction of about 7.5 million cases and a total of 6.8 billion won based on 2025 figures.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-19 16:33:21
  • U.S. Intensifies Pressure on Cuba Amid Sanctions and Legal Actions
    U.S. Intensifies Pressure on Cuba Amid Sanctions and Legal Actions The U.S. is ramping up its pressure on Cuba through sanctions, legal actions, and security measures. As tensions continue in the Middle East, Cuba has emerged as another target for the Trump administration. On May 18, the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced the addition of the Cuban Intelligence Directorate (DI) and nine high-ranking Cuban officials to its Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) list. This group includes ministers from the communications, energy, and justice departments, as well as military and intelligence personnel. Those sanctioned will have their U.S. assets frozen and will be prohibited from engaging in transactions with U.S. individuals and businesses. This action follows an executive order signed by President Donald Trump on May 1, which allows for sanctions against foreign financial institutions and companies that engage with key Cuban state-owned enterprises, effectively putting third-country businesses at risk of sanctions as well. Legal pressure is also on the horizon. The U.S. Department of Justice is reportedly preparing to indict Raúl Castro, the former President of the National Assembly, in connection with the 1996 shootdown of a civilian aircraft belonging to the humanitarian group Brothers to the Rescue. Raúl, the brother of Fidel Castro and a symbolic figure of the current regime, is at the center of this legal scrutiny. In the security realm, concerns about Cuba's military capabilities are being highlighted. Axios reported that Cuba has acquired over 300 military drones from Russia and Iran since 2023. There are indications that Cuban military authorities have discussed drone tactics targeting U.S. military bases in Guantanamo Bay and naval vessels, as well as Key West, Florida. U.S. intelligence agencies do not believe an attack from Cuba is imminent or that any plans for an actual attack are in the execution phase. However, the U.S. is framing Cuba's drone capabilities and its ties to Russia and Iran as a security threat in the Western Hemisphere, using this rationale to support sanctions and legal actions. The U.S. strategy aims to pressure Cuba's external financial networks, reinforce the narrative of security threats, and target the regime's historical significance. This pressure coincides with Cuba's internal energy crisis, exacerbating the situation. The country is facing significant power shortages due to fuel shortages and aging power plants. The Cuban Electric Union (UNE) has projected a power deficit of 2,080 megawatts, which accounts for 65% of the total power needed. Cuba has responded strongly. President Miguel Díaz-Canel stated on X (formerly Twitter) that "Cuba poses no threat to any country." He warned that if a military attack from the U.S. materializes, it would lead to "bloodshed" and incalculable consequences for regional peace. Carlos Fernández de Cossío, Cuba's Deputy Foreign Minister, also criticized the U.S., claiming that the anti-Cuba campaign in the U.S. is making baseless accusations to justify military action.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-19 16:30:46
  • Xi Jinping Suggests Putin May Regret Ukraine Invasion During Trump Meeting
    Xi Jinping Suggests Putin May Regret Ukraine Invasion During Trump Meeting Chinese President Xi Jinping reportedly suggested during a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump last week that Russian President Vladimir Putin might regret his invasion of Ukraine. The Financial Times, citing sources, reported this on May 18, drawing attention as it comes ahead of Putin's visit to China. According to the report, Xi made the comments while discussing various issues with Trump, including the ongoing war in Ukraine. The remarks are notable given that the conflict has now surpassed four years, with Ukraine's effective counterattacks prolonging the war, as noted by the FT. The tone of Xi's comments regarding the Ukraine war appears to have escalated compared to previous discussions. A source indicated that during a meeting with former President Joe Biden, Xi had engaged in "frank and direct" conversations about the war but did not assess Putin's actions. The Biden administration has criticized China for allegedly supplying dual-use goods to Russia. While the Trump administration also expressed similar concerns, the frequency of such criticisms has decreased, according to the FT. Xi's remarks are particularly significant as they come just before Putin's scheduled visit to China, where he is expected to meet with Xi on May 20. In a video address on May 18, Putin expressed optimism about the visit, stating, "Russia and China are ready to support each other on a wide range of issues, including national unity and sovereignty protection." Notably, Putin had visited China three weeks before the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, where he and Xi announced a "no-limits friendship" between their countries. Meanwhile, Trump reportedly argued during his meeting with Xi that the leaders of the U.S., China, and Russia should collaborate against the International Criminal Court (ICC). Trump has long criticized the ICC for allegedly disregarding U.S. sovereignty and judicial authority. Currently, Putin is subject to an arrest warrant issued by the ICC.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-19 16:28:19
  • Korean Finance Minister Discusses Capital Market Reforms with HSBC and Schroders
    Korean Finance Minister Discusses Capital Market Reforms with HSBC and Schroders Koo Yun-cheol, the Minister of Economy and Finance, met with top executives from global financial institutions in London to discuss reforms in South Korea's capital markets and ways to enhance cooperation in the fields of artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced industries. On May 19, the Ministry of Economy and Finance announced that Koo held discussions with executives from HSBC and Schroders during the 'Korean Economy Investment Briefing' in London on May 18. They exchanged views on the growth potential of the South Korean economy and ways to expand cooperation. During his meeting with George Elhedery, CEO of HSBC, Koo outlined the South Korean government's policies for modernizing the foreign exchange and capital markets, as well as strategies for collaboration with global financial institutions. "We are focusing on making the capital market a key platform for economic growth and are committed to advancing the foreign exchange and capital markets," Koo said, emphasizing the importance of active participation from financial institutions with global networks like HSBC. Elhedery welcomed South Korea's ongoing efforts to reform its foreign exchange and capital markets, noting that the country is enhancing its openness and international connectivity in financial markets, thereby strengthening its role in the global economy. He added, "Having maintained ties with Korea since 1897, HSBC will expand cooperation in areas that drive future growth, such as AI infrastructure, energy transition, and advanced industries, while supporting the international expansion of Korean companies and investors in the long term." In his meeting with Richard Oldfield, CEO of Schroders, Koo discussed the achievements of South Korea's capital market reforms and investment opportunities in AI and advanced industries. He stated, "Reforming the foreign exchange and capital markets is not a short-term event but a structural and ongoing challenge, making collaboration with global investment institutions crucial. I hope to see increased participation from long-term investment capital like Schroders in new growth areas such as AI and advanced industries." Oldfield responded that the commitment to improving corporate governance, enhancing shareholder returns, and addressing the 'Korea Discount' is key to structural change. He expressed a desire to continue long-term cooperation with South Korea in areas such as renewable energy, energy transition infrastructure, and venture capital.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-19 16:23:49
  • South Korea launches AI humanoid project as Asias bipedal race intensifies
    South Korea launches AI humanoid project as Asia's bipedal race intensifies SEOUL, May 19 (AJP) - South Korea has launched a five-year, state-led drive to develop a homegrown artificial intelligence (AI)-powered humanoid platform, joining a broader Asian race to commercialize bipedal robots, even as the country's largest factories teeter on the brink of a paralyzing strike. The Ministry of Science and ICT held a meeting at the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) in Seoul on Monday, the starting point for what officials describe as a so-called "sovereign humanoid" platform worth 50.4 billion won ($33.4 million). The platform, dubbed the "K-Moonshot" initiative, will draw 35.4 billion won from state coffers and 15 billion won from private investors and partners through 2030. The KIST will lead a consortium that includes LG Electronics, LG Energy Solution, and KAIST. The humanoid will be built on KAPEX, a platform developed domestically by KIST, with LG Electronics developing a mass-production model and LG Energy Solution supplying solid-state batteries. More than 20 units will be deployed in care settings for field trials. "This project is a starting point for building South Korea's flagship AI humanoid platform by integrating AI, humanoid robotics, batteries, mass-production technology, and demonstration capabilities," said Kim Seong-su, director general for the office of R&D policy at the ministry. "We will do everything we can to ensure South Korea plays a leading role in the global AI humanoid market," he added. The initiative comes as Kia President and CEO Song Ho-sung used investor roadshows in Hong Kong and Singapore last month to sharpen the commercial case for Boston Dynamics' Atlas humanoid. Song reportedly told investors that Kia would deploy Atlas at its U.S. plant in Georgia in 2029, following an initial rollout at the Hyundai Motor Group's Metaplant America in 2028. Atlas will first handle physically demanding processes before being deployed to overseas factories with similar layouts. China and Japan, Asia's two largest economies, are pursuing starkly different humanoid strategies. China is doubling down on scale, as Hangzhou-based Unitree Robotics filed in March for a 4.2 billion yuan Shanghai IPO after shipping about 5,500 humanoids in 2025, according to its prospectus. UBTech Robotics plans to ramp production of humanoid robots to 5,000 units in 2026 and 10,000 in 2027. Leju Robotics opened a 10,000-unit-capacity factory in Guangdong in late March. Japan, by contrast, leans on its precision-components heritage and a safety-first commercialization path. Honda's P2 humanoid was named an IEEE Milestone in April, while Toyota has steered its humanoid research toward elder care and household environments rather than industrial-scale deployment. Kawasaki Heavy Industries unveiled its Kaleido 9 humanoid at the iREX 2025 exhibition in Tokyo last December, a model suited for disaster response. Tokyo will also host the inaugural Asian edition of the Humanoids Summit, an annual technology conference dedicated to advancing humanoid robotics, next week. In the meantime, South Korea's humanoid ambitions are unfolding against a tense labor backdrop. Samsung Electronics' largest union has threatened an 18-day strike from Thursday, with as many as 50,000 workers expected to walk out amid disputes over wages and performance bonuses following massive profits driven by an unprecedented artificial intelligence (AI)-driven semiconductor supercycle. The Suwon District Court on Monday partially granted Samsung's injunction request but stopped short of banning the strike. Even more hostile, unionized workers at automaker Hyundai Motor, meanwhile, declared that "not a single robot" would enter the workplace without a labor-management agreement, framing Atlas as a direct threat to jobs. Whether the K-Moonshot initiative closes that gap may hinge less on engineering than on whether Korean factories can absorb humanoids without triggering the kind of confrontation now playing out at the electronics giant's main plant in Suwon. 2026-05-19 16:22:50
  • PGA Tours CJ Cup to Kick Off on May 22 with Scheffler, Koepka, Kim, and Im
    PGA Tour's CJ Cup to Kick Off on May 22 with Scheffler, Koepka, Kim, and Im CJ Group is sponsoring the PGA Tour's full-field event, the CJ Cup Byron Nelson, which will take place from May 22 to 25 at TPC Craig Ranch in McKinney, Texas. With a total prize purse of $10.3 million, the tournament will feature 144 players. The winner will receive 500 FedEx Cup points, a two-year tour exemption, and eligibility to participate in signature events for that year. Additionally, they will earn entry into the next season's Players Championship and major tournaments. The trophy, a symbol of the CJ Cup, is inspired by the Jikji, the world's oldest extant metal type book, and is crafted in Hangul. The names of past winners, including Tiger Woods, Sam Snead, Jack Nicklaus, and Ernie Els, are engraved in Hangul. ◆ Scheffler Aims for Back-to-Back Titles; TEAM CJ Players Ready to Compete The main focus of this year's tournament is whether defending champion and current world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler can defend his title. With 20 career PGA Tour victories, Scheffler recently won the American Express and has made the cut in all ten tournaments this season, finishing in the top five six times. He has expressed admiration for Byron Nelson, the legendary golfer from Dallas, where he grew up and made his PGA Tour debut at this event. Expectations are high for TEAM CJ players. Si Woo Kim, who has made the cut in every tournament this season and has recorded one runner-up finish and two third-place finishes, leads the charge. He recently tied for fourth at the Cadillac Championship and achieved the best result among Korean players at last year's CJ Cup, finishing tied for 15th. "I am satisfied with my overall performance and condition this season. Since this is the host tournament, I feel a greater sense of responsibility and motivation," he said, vowing to maintain his strong momentum. Im Sung-jae, who had a slow start to the season, turned things around with a tie for fifth at the Truist Championship on May 11. Lee Kyung-hoon, who made history as the first Korean to defend a PGA Tour title with consecutive wins in 2021 and 2022, returns to reclaim his honor after missing last year due to a back injury. Brooks Koepka, a five-time major champion who won THE CJ CUP @ NINE BRIDGES in 2018, will also compete. Pearson Cudi, the first foreign player sponsored by CJ Group this year, is another player to watch. A former world No. 1 amateur, Cudi finished tied for second at the Farmers Insurance Open this season. Hailing from Texas, he will have the support of local fans. Additionally, Baek Yong-jun, who is active on the Korean PGA Tour, has also earned a spot in the tournament to compete against top players worldwide. ◆ Expanded 'House of CJ' and Commitment to Community Engagement The CJ Cup continues to serve as a global sports culture platform promoting K-food and K-culture. Last year, it received the 'Best Title Sponsor Award' from the PGA Tour for effectively reflecting the sponsor's brand identity and philosophy. CJ Group will expand the 'House of CJ' at the gallery plaza to approximately 750 square meters, a 20% increase from last year. This year, it will feature various interactive content under the themes of 'taste, style, and fun,' including augmented reality interactions and digital challenges. Attendees can enjoy a range of experiences, including a showcase of Bibigo products, K-beauty experiences from CJ Olive Young, CJ ENM music content, ScreenX screenings, K-cocktail tastings, and samples from Tous Les Jours bakery, along with merchandise giveaways and photo opportunities. CJ Foodville plans to introduce the 'Durumi' brand at this tournament to gauge reactions to K-street food, following a successful birthday party event for Tous Les Jours last year. This initiative is expected to serve as a promotional hub for K-lifestyle, similar to the Korea House operated in Milan during the 2026 Winter Olympics. Bibigo concessions will be available for players and fans at the 7th hole and the signature 17th hole of the CJ Cup. At the 7th hole, a 'Chef's Dining' concept will feature daily collaborative menus with star chefs, while the 17th hole will offer special menus highlighting popular Bibigo products and spicy flavors. Scheffler noted last year, "It was a tough day with a lot of rain, but Korean food helped me power through." The tournament will also continue its CSR initiatives aimed at nurturing young golf talent and contributing to the community. The 'Bridge Kids' program, now in its ninth year, involves 16 junior golfers selected from the Northern Texas PGA and Dallas area junior golf academies. They will participate in mentoring programs, including one-on-one lessons from PGA Tour players and experience Bibigo lunch boxes. Notable mentors have included K.J. Choi, Im Sung-jae, Si Woo Kim, and Tommy Fleetwood. Additionally, a new community outreach program, the 'NTPGA Scholarship,' will provide $10,000 scholarships to five high school graduates in Texas this year. At the 17th hole, a 'Birdie Campaign' will reward $1,000 for each birdie made. Funds raised through this initiative will be donated to the Momentous Institute, which supports mental health for children and families in the Dallas area. Last year, 104 birdies were recorded, generating approximately $104,000 in donations, continuing the charitable philosophy of the Salesmanship Club of Dallas, which has hosted the tournament since 1968. A CJ Group representative stated, “CJ Group is continuously expanding the positive changes that sports can create through the CJ Cup, based on our ‘Dream Maker’ philosophy. We plan to further our efforts in community engagement and nurturing future talent to develop a sustainable global sports platform.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-19 16:22:03