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Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Return to the UK Amid Family Reconciliation Prince Harry, the younger son of King Charles III and fifth in line to the throne, and his wife Meghan Markle are set to return to the UK from the United States, according to reports from local media including the Daily Telegraph and BBC on August 20.According to foreign media, the couple plans to leave their home in Montecito, near Los Angeles, at the end of this month and move to a private residence on the outskirts of London. The primary reason cited for their return is their children's education. Their children, Prince Archie, 7, and Princess Lilibet, 5, have already been registered to attend school in the UK starting in September.The news of the couple's return to the UK was reportedly a surprise to King Charles, who learned of it only on August 16. The BBC reported that the King was unaware of their plans until last week but welcomed the opportunity to meet Harry's family in private and personal settings.Harry and Meghan stepped back from royal duties in early 2020 when they left the UK and settled in California. Since then, they have had public disagreements with the royal family, alleging that senior members raised concerns about the skin color of their child.A pivotal moment leading to their return was King Charles's visit with Harry's family in July, during which Harry visited the birthplace of his late mother, Princess Diana. This marked the first time in over four years that Charles met Archie and Lilibet. However, the Telegraph noted that discussions about Harry's family's return did not take place during this meeting.There is also interest in the ongoing tensions between Harry and his brother, Prince William. The Telegraph pointed out that while Harry has begun to rebuild his relationship with King Charles through phone calls in recent months, the rift with William remains deep. The two brothers have not spoken for several years, and William and his wife reportedly feel deeply betrayed by revelations from Harry and Meghan's book and television interviews.It remains uncertain whether Harry and Meghan will resume any official roles within the royal family. The BBC stated that it is expected there will be no change to their official status, and they will maintain their personal status as non-royals. The couple agreed to stop using the title 'Your Royal Highness' and not to represent the royal family or receive public funding when they stepped back from royal duties in 2020. Instead, they are free to earn their own income.Regarding Archie and Lilibet's enrollment in UK schools, Lucy Powell, the UK Education Secretary, expressed a welcoming stance. She noted that she learned about Harry and Meghan's return through social media and news, and described the children's entry into UK schools in September as a 'great endorsement' of the British education system. However, Powell expressed skepticism about the likelihood of the royal children attending public schools.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-21 05:04:00 -
2026 GGGF to Explore Physical AI Innovations in South Korea The 18th Good Growth, Good Jobs Global Forum (2026 GGGF) will be held from September 2 to 4, organized by Aju Economic Daily. This forum, themed "Korea, State of AI," will provide a significant opportunity to explore the adoption of physical AI by South Korean companies and the global status of Korean AI. The first keynote address will be delivered by Dennis Hong, a professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering at UCLA and director of the Robotics and Mechanisms Laboratory (RoMeLa). He is recognized as a leading scholar in the field of physical AI, and his talk, titled "The Realization of AI Civilization Depends on Physical AI Competitiveness," will offer insights into the future innovations brought by physical AI and the challenges faced by Korean society and businesses. Following this, Lim Jeong-hwan, CEO of Motif Technologies, who has previously challenged the government-led "Dopamo" initiative and the "Everyone's AI" project, will present the second keynote on "K-AI Future Vision Amid U.S.-China Competition." The third keynote will be given by Lee Geum-ryong, chairman of Coglo.com, who previously served as CEO of Auction and successfully led the company's listing and sale. He will discuss "The Popularization of AI and the Future of Youth Employment" in a special lecture. Session 1 will focus on "AX Value Chain Hub, Future Growth Keywords." Yoon Min-soo, CRO of A2Sys and a KAIST chair professor, will present research findings on AI model compression and inference acceleration, which are identified as bottlenecks in the Korean AI industry, and propose ways to enhance the efficiency of Korean AI models to match those of the U.S. and China. Following this, Joo Young-pyo from SK Hynix will speak on "Building an AI Supply Chain Hub Through Semiconductor Superiority." On the second day, September 3, Joo Si-hyun, executive director of robotics intelligence development at Hyundai Motor Company, will open the day with a talk on "K-Physical AI Heading to Global Markets." A special event combining a lecture and discussion on "The Success or Failure of Combining Manufacturing and Physical AI" will also take place, featuring a presentation by Choi Jae-sik, a KAIST professor and CEO of InEasy, followed by discussions with representatives from major domestic physical AI companies and startups on regulatory innovations needed for the development of the physical AI industry. In a special lecture, Kim Soo-yeon, head of the EY AI Center, will share insights on the current status of AI agent development in China and benchmark strategies, comparing and analyzing it with South Korea. In the afternoon, experts from companies like SK Telecom and HD Hyundai Electric will discuss the potential for developing AI data center businesses under the theme "AI Factory, Vanguard of Token Economy." The 2026 GGGF forum will be broadcast both offline and online via YouTube. The forum welcomes participation from businesses, academia, and the general public interested in the event. ■ Date: September 2 (Wednesday) to 4 (Friday) ■ Location: Grand Ballroom, Plaza Hotel, Seoul, and National Assembly Member's Hall ■ Inquiries: Forum Secretariat ■ Hosted by: Aju News Corporation (Aju Economic Daily), Global Economic and Financial Research Institute (GEFRI) ■ Sponsored by: Ministry of Economy and Finance, Ministry of Science and ICT, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of the Interior and Safety, Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Employment and Labor, Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprises and Startups, Financial Services Commission 2026-08-21 05:04:00 -
APCC Director Ha Kyung-ja Promotes Local ESG Initiatives in Centum City The Asia-Pacific Climate Center (APCC) is accelerating its local coexistence management based on a robust ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) solidarity established with public and related organizations in Centum City, Busan.Ha Kyung-ja, the newly appointed sixth director, chose to engage in activities related to veterans and sharing as her first external schedule, reaffirming the center's commitment to social responsibility as an organization responding to the climate crisis.According to the APCC, Ha visited the UN Memorial Park in Nam-gu, Busan, on August 14, just four days after her appointment, to honor the fallen UN soldiers from the Korean War. She then visited Dongsanwon, a children's care facility that the center regularly supports, to deliver gifts and encourage the staff.Ha stated, "The fundamental purpose of the APCC in responding to the climate crisis is ultimately to protect humanity's peaceful and safe life. I will continue to engage in activities that contribute meaningfully to the local community." 17 Organizations Unite for Effective Local ESG NetworkThe APCC's local coexistence efforts are expanding into a 'local solidarity' initiative, creating strong synergies. In addition to supporting Dongsanwon, the center has launched the ESG council 'Eusuk' in collaboration with 16 public and related organizations in Centum City.This council, comprising 17 organizations, shares policies and jointly pursues social contribution projects for the local community.Notable solidarity activities include 'Life Sharing' and 'Building Local Safety Nets.' Since World Blood Donor Day in 2022, council members have actively participated in a group blood donation campaign led by the council to help alleviate local blood supply shortages.Additionally, in collaboration with the Haeundae Police Station, they are conducting campaigns to prevent no-shows and phone fraud that severely impact local small businesses, serving as a strong local safety net.The center's commitment to overcoming the climate crisis is also gaining momentum through eco-friendly practices promoted by the council.Council members participate annually in a campaign to turn off lights and stop air conditioning during lunch hours on 'Energy Day' in August, contributing to significant reductions in power consumption and carbon emissions.Furthermore, they regularly hold 'plogging' events, combining walking and trash collection, in the APEC Naru Park and along the Suyeong River to promote a cleaner local environment.An APCC official stated, "We plan to continue implementing effective ESG management and social responsibility based on the close cooperation system established with local organizations."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-21 00:40:20 -
Everland's Nighttime Ecological Experiences Highlight Fireflies and Wildlife In a captivating display of nature, Everland, operated by Samsung C&T's Resort Division, is drawing visitors with its special nighttime ecological content that showcases the enchanting glow of fireflies and the dynamic nocturnal activities of wild animals. This late summer experience allows guests to fully enjoy the romantic atmosphere of the season.1,300 Fireflies Illuminate the NightSince July 24, Everland has been hosting its 'Midsummer Night Firefly Festival.' The event runs daily from 5 PM to 9 PM at the Lost Valley Education Center and is now completely free of charge, a gesture by Everland to raise awareness about ecological conservation. This lowered barrier to entry has resulted in over 30,000 visitors within just two weeks of its opening.Guests first learn about the life cycle of fireflies in a camping-themed area before moving to a darkened forest experience. As all lights are extinguished, the moment of complete darkness is met with awe as approximately 13,000 fireflies emit their soft green glow, floating in the air.As visitors clap softly in delight, the light becomes brighter and more vivid. The glow of fireflies serves as a warning signal to predators, and they respond to sounds or stimuli by emitting brighter light. Over time, this has evolved into a mating signal.While fireflies engage in a fierce struggle for survival and love, the spectators experience a contrasting sense of tranquility. Gazing at the soft green lights in the darkness calms the mind.To maintain this gentle glow, Everland's zookeepers dedicate an entire year to the process. Fireflies hatch from eggs and spend about ten months in water, feeding on snails before undergoing metamorphosis into adults. However, the period during which they emit light to attract mates lasts only about two weeks.Kim Jin-mok, a zookeeper, stated, "Fireflies are sensitive insects that only inhabit clean, first-grade water and light-free environments. Everland has been creating optimal conditions for them based on 28 years of artificial breeding and rearing expertise since 1998."Awakening of the Wild: Night SafariEverland's summer nights are not limited to serene ecological experiences. As dusk falls, the true wild nature of the animals awakens after nearly 18 hours of rest.The 'Summer Night Safari,' open for free until 9 PM, offers an immersive experience as guests board a special EV bus with low noise levels, accompanied by thrilling music as they venture into the wild. The movements of the nocturnal animals reveal a different side compared to daytime.Entering the Lion Savannah, a unique tension fills the air as larger white lions stand guard over their territory. The lionesses, shedding their daytime lethargy, exude a fierce wildness.In the tiger territory, Bengal tigers can be seen closely pursuing the safari bus. The Korean tiger, measuring 3.3 meters and weighing 370 kg, and the legendary white tiger each display their overwhelming charm. It is said that making a wish when gazing into the blue eyes of a white tiger can make it come true, adding to the thrill of the Night Safari.The endangered Asiatic black bear captures attention as it skillfully retrieves snacks from a container with its paws. The grand finale of the safari features the Eurasian brown bear, which stands 2.8 meters tall and weighs 400 kg. Sensitive to heat, these bears enjoy swimming in their dedicated water playground, 'Caribbean Bear,' providing a unique spectacle.As word spreads about the dynamic nocturnal behaviors of the animals, the Night Safari has attracted 120,000 visitors within just 50 days of its opening, establishing itself as a key attraction for summer nights at Everland. Jeong Dong-hee, the director of Everland Zoo, explained, "Our zookeepers and veterinarians work hard to ensure animal welfare and health while continuously striving to create ecological content that fosters deep connections with visitors."Celebrating the Birth of 'Raon': A Baby Lion After Eight YearsAfter experiencing the wild, visitors can now connect with a charming new life. The star of Everland Zoo is undoubtedly the baby lion 'Raon,' born on June 5 at Safari World, marking the first lion birth at Everland in eight years.The birth was not without challenges. The mother lion tragically passed away during an unexpected complication, leading zookeepers and veterinarians to care for Raon around the clock with bottle feeding. After overcoming this crisis, Raon has grown healthily to over 5.5 kg and is now transitioning from milk to solid food.Currently, Raon can only be viewed through a window, with visiting hours on weekdays from 10 AM to 12 PM and 2:30 PM to 5 PM, and on weekends from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-21 00:04:00 -
Hana Tour Launches 'Hana Free Pack' to Bridge Gap Between Package and Independent Travel Choi Hye-jung, a 40-something office worker, often finds herself in a dilemma when planning overseas trips with her family. While she prefers independent travel over fixed itineraries, the task of booking flights and accommodations, along with arranging local transportation, dining, and entry tickets to attractions, can be overwhelming. This is especially true when traveling with young children or elderly parents, as unexpected health issues or accidents can leave her feeling lost in an unfamiliar place.Choi is not alone in her struggle. Many travelers who favor independent travel also find it challenging to manage all the preparations and local bookings on their own. Hana Tour has recently recognized this demand that lies between package tours and independent travel.In June, Hana Tour introduced the 'Hana Free Pack,' which combines flights and hotels with the option for travelers to select additional local experiences and itineraries based on their preferences.This package allows travelers to book flights and accommodations through the agency while choosing how to spend their time at the destination. It targets those who find both traditional package tours and fully independent travel burdensome.The launch of this product reflects a shift in travel consumption patterns. As independent travel becomes more common, there is a growing demand for travelers to select their own itineraries and experiences, yet the time and effort required for research and bookings remain the responsibility of the traveler. Finding and reserving local transportation, meals, and entry tickets can be daunting, especially for those with limited travel experience or families traveling with children.Hana Tour has leveraged its established local network from its package tours to enhance the Hana Free Pack. Travelers can choose their desired itineraries and experiences, while Hana Tour offers 'Local Tour Plus' for those cumbersome arrangements that require planning and operation.To address potential emergencies during travel, Hana Tour has implemented a 24-hour emergency support service called 'H-Care,' which provides assistance with local hospital referrals, medical transportation, and translation services. This service is designed to help travelers, especially those traveling alone or with young children or elderly parents, in urgent situations.Hana Tour aims to expand its customer base with the Hana Free Pack, targeting not only existing independent travelers but also those who desire the convenience of package tours without the constraints of group schedules. The company anticipates demand will grow among busy professionals, middle-aged travelers seeking flexibility, and families traveling with children or parents.A representative from Hana Tour stated, “This product was developed to address the discomfort experienced by independent travelers overwhelmed by information searches and package travelers feeling constrained by fixed itineraries. It is designed to maintain itinerary flexibility while utilizing local infrastructure and emergency support services.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-21 00:04:00 -
Kyeongsang National University Launches Aerospace Defense College with Full Tuition Support Kyeongsang National University will select 3,729 students, or 80.3% of its total enrollment of 4,644, for the 2027 academic year.The university is launching the country's first Aerospace Defense College and a new AI College, making this incoming class the first cohort for both programs.The breakdown of admissions includes 2,089 students through the academic record-based selection, 1,571 through the comprehensive evaluation, and 69 through performance-based assessments. Specifically, the academic record-based selection consists of 1,860 general admissions and 229 regional talent admissions, while the comprehensive evaluation includes 705 general admissions, 350 regional talent admissions, and 22 for the regional medical selection.Applications will be accepted online from September 7 to September 11 at 7 p.m. The deadline for document submission is September 14, and the first round of successful candidates will be announced on December 18.Starting in 2027, Kyeongsang National University will operate with 18 colleges and 104 academic units across six campuses in Gyeongnam.◆ Aerospace Defense College to Admit 248 Students with Expanded Joint Curriculum with Seoul National UniversityThe most significant change is the establishment of the Aerospace Defense College, which is an expansion of the Aerospace College (CSA) founded in March 2024, with an enrollment capacity of 248 students. The existing Department of Mechanical Engineering will be integrated, and the college will offer five majors: Aerospace Systems Engineering, Aerospace Mobility, Aerospace Defense Systems, Aerospace AI Applications, and Aerospace ICT.The curriculum will adopt a three-semester immersive education model, allowing students to graduate with a bachelor's degree in three years, and will include a five-year integrated bachelor's and master's program, modeled after the French elite education system known as 'grande école.' A contract-based enrollment system will be implemented in collaboration with major companies such as Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI).Additionally, the existing joint curriculum with Seoul National University will be expanded to include more students, evolving into a joint degree program.New students in the Aerospace Defense College will receive substantial benefits, including full tuition coverage and housing fees for dormitory residents. However, this support is funded through the Ministry of Education's 'Glocal University 30 Project' and is limited to the duration of the project, which ends in February 2028. Therefore, the full tuition support for freshmen entering in March 2027 is guaranteed only for their first year.The Aerospace Defense College has an unlimited transfer policy, but the university noted that there is little demand for students to transfer to other colleges from the aerospace program, while there is significant interest from students in other colleges wanting to transfer into the aerospace program.The new AI College, which combines the existing Departments of Computer Engineering, AI Information Engineering, and Software Engineering, will also be established in the 2027 academic year with an enrollment capacity of 153 students. To broaden students' options, the enrollment for the Department of Independent Studies will increase significantly from 41 to 154 students, with no minimum academic standards applied.A notable change in the admissions process is the introduction of the comprehensive evaluation 'Regional Medical Selection' category, which will select 22 students from the pre-med program based on designated medical service areas. The minimum academic standards require a combined grade of 6 across three subjects, with mathematics (choosing between calculus and geometry) and science (average of two subjects) being mandatory. Any school violence incidents (categories 1-9) will be factored into all admissions evaluations as a penalty.The average annual tuition at Kyeongsang National University is 4,084,000 won, which is about 57% of the national average. In the first semester of 2027, a female-only dormitory accommodating 400 students will open on the main campus, and a startup complex hub center will be completed at the Chiram campus in June of the same year.Han Dong-yeop, the head of the admissions office, stated, "The 2027 admissions process focuses on increasing predictability for applicants and reducing their burden. We hope for many applications from students who will be the first participants in the inaugural year of the Aerospace Defense College and AI College."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-20 23:24:20 -
Gijang County Conducts Drone Terror Response Training at Gori Nuclear Power Plant On August 20, Gijang County conducted a ground infiltration response training exercise at the Gori Nuclear Power Plant, simulating a drone terror attack as part of the '2026 Eulji Exercise.' The training involved collaboration among fire, police, and military agencies to assess their response systems, followed by a civil defense evacuation drill with over 100 residents participating.The actual training scenario was based on a pre-established script that assumed a ground infiltration situation. The exercise specifically focused on responding to a drone-based terror threat, allowing agencies to evaluate their roles and on-site response systems. Participants included personnel from Gijang County, fire departments, police, and the military.Starting at 2 p.m., a demonstration evacuation drill took place at the Dahengbokhan Comprehensive Social Welfare Center. The drill commenced with an air raid alert and involved around 100 residents, including participants from community programs and facility users.The drill lasted for 20 minutes, concluding around 2:20 p.m. when the alert was lifted. However, the actual evacuation time was shorter, with the remaining time used for emergency action training for residents at the evacuation site.A total of nine evacuation guides, including five welfare center staff and four county officials, assisted residents in moving through the building's various floors. The county plans to deploy a similar number of guides in real emergency situations.For residents with mobility issues, evacuation guides will assist with stairway evacuations, as elevators may not be accessible during emergencies. No participants with mobility challenges were present during the drill.Evacuation site is a temporary facility; 32 civil defense shelters designatedThe welfare center auditorium used as the evacuation site was not an official civil defense shelter but a temporary facility for training purposes. Currently, there are 32 designated civil defense shelters throughout Gijang County.Prior to the drill, the county conducted promotional activities, including posting informational posters and distributing leaflets at the welfare center starting the previous week. As a result, participating residents were informed about the drill in advance.The resident evacuation drill is conducted annually in August, and there are no additional training plans for this year. The county intends to hold a similar resident evacuation drill during next year's Eulji Exercise.Woo Seong-bin, the mayor of Gijang County, stated, "In emergency situations, prompt and orderly evacuation is crucial," adding, "We will enhance our emergency preparedness capabilities through repeated training and assessments."Meanwhile, the '2026 Eulji Exercise,' taking place from August 18 to 21, involves participation from government, military, police, and fire agencies. During the exercise period, Gijang County is conducting tabletop exercises, discussions on current issues, actual training at the Gori Nuclear Power Plant, and civil defense evacuation drills.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-20 22:56:00 -
Jeonnam Seafood Company Exports 12 Tons of Seaweed to Thailand A seafood company based in Wando, Jeonnam, is expanding its market presence in Southeast Asia by exporting 12 tons of seaweed for gimbap to Thailand, valued at 450 million won. The Jeonnam Bio Promotion Agency's Marine Bio Division announced that the company, Bada Myungga, held a successful export shipment ceremony at its headquarters in Wando on the 14th. The products being exported are specifically seaweed for gimbap, totaling 12 tons with an export value of approximately 450 million won. This export is a follow-up achievement resulting from participation in overseas trade fairs and consultations with local buyers, supported by the '2026 Jeonnam Marine and Fisheries Startup Investment Support Center project.' During the trade fair, Bada Myungga engaged in export consultations with local Thai buyers, securing a market entry into Thailand. This is significant for diversifying export markets for Jeonnam seafood products and expanding distribution networks in Southeast Asia, according to the supporting agency. The shipment ceremony was attended by Jeong Woo-hyeok, head of the Marine Bio Division, and Kim Ja-young, CEO of Bada Myungga, among other officials, who shared updates on the export process and discussed plans for future exports and market expansion. Jeong Woo-hyeok stated, “The export of Jeonnam's marine and fisheries resources by local companies to Thailand is expected to contribute to revitalizing the local economy and expanding into overseas markets. We will continue to provide tailored support in collaboration with relevant agencies to help local marine and fisheries companies secure competitiveness in international markets.” The Jeonnam Marine and Fisheries Startup Investment Support Center project is jointly promoted by the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, Jeollanam-do, and Mokpo City, with the Jeonnam Bio Promotion Agency overseeing the initiative and the Mokpo Seafood Support Center participating. The center provides startup education, initial funding, technology development, investment attraction, overseas market exploration, and participation in domestic and international trade fairs for marine and fisheries companies in the Jeonnam region. In particular, the center aims to support local seafood companies in expanding their overseas markets by ensuring that participation in trade fairs and consultations with local buyers lead to actual contracts and exports.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-20 21:52:10 -
President Lee: We Will Eradicate the Distribution of Illegal Footage 이재명 대통령은 20일 “불법촬영물 유통의 뿌리를 반드시 뽑겠다”며 불법촬영물과 성착취물의 유통·확산 구조를 근본적으로 차단하겠다고 밝혔다. 이 대통령은 이날 페이스북에 ‘불법촬영물 유통의 뿌리를 반드시 뽑겠습니다’라는 제목의 글을 올려 “성평등가족부와 방송미디어통신위원회, 경찰청이 함께 불법사이트를 심층 분석하고 이를 토대로 불법사이트 통합대응 방안을 마련했다”고 말했다. 이 대통령은 그동안 정부가 피해자의 요청에 따라 불법촬영물 삭제를 지원해 왔지만 기존 대응에는 한계가 있었다고 진단했다. 이 대통령은 “삭제 요청에 응하지 않거나 지워진 영상을 다시 게시하고, 사이트를 옮겨 다니며 범죄를 이어가는 행태를 막기에는 한계가 있었다”고 지적했다. 그러면서 단순히 피해 영상과 게시물을 삭제하는 방식에서 벗어나 불법촬영물 유통이 반복되는 구조 자체를 차단하겠다고 강조했다. 이 대통령은 “이제는 방식을 전환하겠다”며 “게시물 삭제에 그치지 않고 범죄가 반복되는 구조 자체를 끊어내겠다”고 밝혔다. 이어 “불법촬영물 유통 사이트를 근본적으로 무력화하고 유통과 확산 전 과정을 차단하는 방향으로 대응을 본격 전환할 것”이라고 말했다. 특히 해외에 서버를 두고 운영되는 불법사이트에 대해서도 끝까지 추적해 책임을 묻겠다는 방침을 밝혔다. 이 대통령은 “결코 예외는 없다”며 “해외에 서버를 두고 수사망을 피해 숨어 있더라도 가용한 모든 수단과 역량을 동원해 끝까지 추적하고 반드시 법에 따라 엄중한 책임을 묻겠다”고 경고했다. 아울러 “타인의 인격과 존엄을 짓밟아 돈벌이로 삼는 파렴치한 범죄가 대한민국에서 더 이상 발붙이지 못하도록 하겠다”고 덧붙였다. 정부는 이날 불법촬영물을 직접 제작하지 않았더라도 유포사이트를 개설한 행위만으로 처벌할 수 있도록 하는 내용의 불법사이트 통합대응 방안을 발표했다. 불법사이트에 유통되는 성착취물을 삭제하고 수사 증거를 확보하기 위해 수사기관의 해킹을 가능하게 하는 방안도 통합대응책에 포함됐다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-20 21:44:00 -
Shinan County Strengthens Human Rights Protection in Island Communities Shinan County is enhancing its human rights protection framework by focusing on village leaders, such as the head of the village, who are closest to the residents. On August 19, Shinan County conducted a 'Mobile Human Rights Education for Village Safety Guardians' at the Imja-myeon office, targeting village heads and relevant stakeholders. The training aimed to raise the human rights awareness of village leaders, who regularly communicate with residents, and to enhance their ability to detect and respond to potential human rights violations in their communities. The session was led by Park Hyun-jung, a human rights officer from Gwangju, who used real-life examples to facilitate the training. The format encouraged dialogue and participation, moving away from a one-sided lecture style to improve understanding among attendees. Particularly, the training addressed common human rights violations that may be overlooked in daily life and provided specific methods for village leaders to implement human rights protections in their communities. Considering the geographical characteristics of the widely dispersed island region, Shinan County is strengthening a field-based human rights protection system by utilizing village heads, women's associations, and community self-governing committees as 'village safety guardians.' The initiative goes beyond mere awareness-raising; it includes practical training on necessary response measures in the event of human rights violations, ensuring that prevention and initial responses can be effectively managed at the village level. This training is part of a series of mobile human rights education sessions that began in February in Jido-eup. The county plans to continue regional training and on-site counseling in the second half of the year, expanding the target audience. Choo Yang-ji, head of the Administrative Support Division, stated, “This training in Imja-myeon has been an opportunity to enhance the human rights sensitivity of village leaders and strengthen their on-site response capabilities. We will continue to expand regional training and on-site counseling in the second half of the year to create a community where all residents are respected.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-20 21:44:00


