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  • SM Entertainment Confirms All NCT Dream Members Have Renewed Contracts
    SM Entertainment Confirms All NCT Dream Members Have Renewed Contracts All members of NCT Dream have successfully renewed their contracts with SM Entertainment.On August 20, SM released an official statement confirming that members including Haechan, Renjun, Jeno, Jaemin, Chenle, and Jisung have signed new contracts based on their deep trust in each other and unwavering affection for the team.SM noted, "Since their debut, NCT Dream has delivered messages of hope and positivity with their refreshing energy and passion, turning countless dreams into reality over the past decade."The company expressed gratitude to the members for their remarkable journey as icons of growth and representative K-pop artists, as well as to the fans who have always provided strong support.SM promised to continue supporting NCT Dream's future activities, stating, "We will remain a steadfast partner, providing generous support to ensure NCT Dream's limitless potential shines even brighter."They also encouraged fans to look forward to the diverse activities planned for NCT Dream in the second half of the year and to continue their unwavering support.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-20 10:24:10
  • People Power Party Calls Impeachment Demands Against Chief Justice Unconstitutional
    People Power Party Calls Impeachment Demands Against Chief Justice Unconstitutional 국민의힘은 20일 조희대 대법원장의 대법관 후보 서면 제청을 두고 여권에서 사퇴 및 탄핵 주장이 나오자 "대법원장의 임명 결정권을 대통령의 지명권으로 강탈하려고 한다"고 맞섰다. 장동혁 대표는 이날 국회에서 열린 최고위원회의에서 "대법원장 탄핵을 거론한다면 결국 위헌적인 탄핵 사유"라며 이같이 말했다. 장 대표는 "대한민국 헌법은 사법부의 독립을 지키기 위해 대법원장이 대법관을 제청하도록 만들어 뒀다"며 "대통령이 그 권한을 빼앗아서 사법부의 독립을 침해하고 대법관을 자신의 입맛에 맞는 사람으로 임명한 종착역이 대통령의 무죄 판결이라면 분명히 위헌적인 작태"라고 비판했다. 이어 "지금 이 모든 것을 벌이고 있는 것이 대통령이라고, 대통령의 뜻을 따라서 김민석 더불어민주당 대표가 이런 말도 안 되는 막말을 한다면 결국 이 대통령의 탄핵 사유가 분명하다"고 강조했다. 아울러 "사법부 독립을 위해서 대법관 제청만큼은 대법원장의 고유한 권한으로 남겨둬야 한다"며 "이렇게 조 대법원장 탄핵을 운운하는 것은 결국 온갖 무리수를 둬가면서 대법관 임명 22명 할 수 있도록 대법관 수를 늘렸는데 결국 대통령 입맛에 맞는 대법관 임명을 안 해줬기 때문"이라고 주장했다. 그는 "사법부 독립은 스스로 지켜야 한다. 대법원장이 대법관 제청을 함에 있어 대통령실과 사전 조율을 하지 않았다면 그것이 바로 사법부의 독립을 지키는 제대로 된 모습"이라며 "사법부가 스스로 사법부의 독립을 지키기로 결심했다면 이재명 대통령의 재판을 재개하는 일부터 다시 시작해야 한다"고 촉구했다. 정점식 원내대표도 "조 대법원장은 끝까지 청와대와 원만하게 조율하기 위해 노력했다고 알고 있다"며 "오히려 정상적인 협의를 거부하고 대법원장의 고유 권한인 임명 제청권을 무시한 것은 청와대"라고 목소리 높였다. 정 원내대표는 "대법원장이 감히 대통령께 보고하지 않았다며 탄핵 사유라고 주장하는 것 자체가 삼권분립과 민주주의를 통째로 부정하는 발상"이라며 "사법 쿠데타를 일으킨 것은 조 대법원장이 아니라 이 대통령이고, 해방 이후 최악의 집권 여당은 민주당"이라고 강조했다. 김 신임 대표를 향해서도 "아무리 친명(친이재명) 당 대표라지만 집권 여당의 당 대표 취임 첫 일성이 민생 메시지가 아닌 '조희대 물러나라'는 기가 막히고 실망스럽다"며 "첫날부터 대법원장에게 공갈 협박이나 늘어놓는 모습이 정청래 전 대표와 뭐가 다르냐"고 꼬집었다. 그러면서 "민생보다 대통령 심기 경호가 먼저인 신임 당 대표는 필연적 실패의 길로 나아갈 수밖에 없다"고 덧붙였다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-20 10:24:00
  • K-Entertainment Show K-Entamerabo Celebrates 6th Anniversary with Live Broadcast
    K-Entertainment Show 'K-Entamerabo' Celebrates 6th Anniversary with Live Broadcast The Korean entertainment information program 'K-Entamerabo: Furuyama Masayuki's Hallyu Research Institute' celebrated its 6th anniversary with a successful live broadcast event titled 'Gather! K-Drama Research Society,' the Korea Creative Content Agency announced on August 20.This event marked the first live broadcast of 'K-Entamerabo,' designed to engage directly with viewers who have followed the program. More than 300 local attendees participated, with over 1,200 people applying, demonstrating the strong interest in K-content in Japan.Since its debut in 2020, 'K-Entamerabo' has been co-produced by the Korea Creative Content Agency's Tokyo Business Center and the Korean Cultural Center in Japan. The program is led by Furuyama Masayuki, a prominent Hallyu expert and Korean pop culture journalist, who introduces the latest trends and attractions of Korean content, including dramas, films, and music, tailored to Japanese audiences.To date, over 200 episodes have been produced, accumulating more than 3 million views. The program goes beyond simple introductions of new releases, featuring direct participation from local distributors and industry experts to provide in-depth insights into the background and local reactions to the works. This approach has broadened Japanese viewers' understanding and interest in Korean content, serving as a communication channel between the two countries' content industries.During the live broadcast, local industry representatives involved in the distribution and marketing of Korean dramas in Japan shared insights into the process of bringing a drama to Japanese audiences. Additionally, invited singer Song Ha-ye performed, connecting with the audience through K-drama soundtracks.Park Young-hye, director of the Korean Cultural Center in Japan, stated, “Recently, K-content in Japan has expanded beyond K-pop to encompass food, beauty, fashion, and the overall K-lifestyle. We will continue to promote the diverse appeal of K-content to further enhance interest and exchange in the local market.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-20 10:24:00
  • Saemaul Geumgo Sells 3.5 Trillion Won in Non-Performing Loans in First Half of Year
    Saemaul Geumgo Sells 3.5 Trillion Won in Non-Performing Loans in First Half of Year Saemaul Geumgo is accelerating its recovery efforts. Amid ongoing burdens from loan loss provisions due to a sluggish real estate market, the organization aims to reduce losses through the management of non-performing loans (NPLs) and operational efficiency, with a goal of achieving profitability by 2028.According to the Saemaul Geumgo Central Association, 1,251 Saemaul Geumgos across the country sold a total of 3.4783 trillion won in non-performing loans in the first half of this year.Of this amount, 3.1881 trillion won was sold through MG Asset Management Company (AMCO), which specializes in managing non-performing loans and was established in July of last year. The remainder was handled through NPL funds, the Korea Asset Management Corporation (KAMCO), and asset securitization.As the cleanup of non-performing loans has intensified, the delinquency rate has begun to decline. The delinquency rate for Saemaul Geumgo rose to 8.37% at the end of June last year but fell significantly to 5.08% by the end of the year.Saemaul Geumgo is also collaborating with the financial sector to address non-performing loans. In May of last year, it established an NPL fund worth 217.2 billion won in partnership with four regional banks, including Busan Bank and Gwangju Bank. This initiative aims to address troubled businesses held by Saemaul Geumgo and regional banks by next year. In December, it formed a mutual finance NPL fund worth 132.5 billion won with the National Credit Union Federation of Korea, which will operate until the end of this year.Restructuring efforts are also gaining momentum. In the first half of this year, Saemaul Geumgo merged 21 credit unions and aims to merge a total of 51 by the end of the year.A representative from the Saemaul Geumgo Central Association stated, "Saemaul Geumgo is fully committed to managing soundness to restore trust both internally and externally." 2026-08-20 10:20:00
  • Ulsan City Intensifies Efforts to Attract Second Round of Public Institution Relocations
    Ulsan City Intensifies Efforts to Attract Second Round of Public Institution Relocations As the competition among local governments intensifies for the second round of public institution relocations, Ulsan City is actively engaging with the National Assembly to attract institutions in the energy and new industry sectors, as well as the headquarters of integrated power companies. On August 20, Ulsan announced that Shin Min-sik, the Deputy Mayor for Economy, and Song Yeon-joo, the Director of the Decentralization and Population Policy Bureau, visited the National Assembly to meet with lawmakers Park Sung-min, Yoon Jong-o, and Seo Beom-soo to request cooperation and support for Ulsan's bid for the second round of public institution relocations. This visit follows an emergency meeting held the previous day, chaired by Ulsan Mayor Kim Sang-wook, to strategize on attracting these institutions. The city aims to establish a collaborative response system with local political leaders. The government has announced plans to begin the second round of public institution relocations in 2027. The specifics of the relocation targets and placement principles are expected to be significant factors in the upcoming competition. Ulsan is focusing its efforts on the energy and new industry sectors. Recently, institutions such as the Korea Oil Management Corporation, the Korea Energy Technology Evaluation Institute, and the Korea Energy Foundation have been mentioned as potential targets for relocation. Ulsan's emphasis on the energy sector is linked to the first round of public institution relocations. During that round, ten public institutions related to energy and labor welfare, including the Korea National Oil Corporation and Korea East-West Power, were relocated to Ulsan Innovation City. The city plans to attract additional institutions in the second round to enhance the synergy between existing industries and public institutions. This time, Ulsan is also implementing a two-track strategy to attract the integrated headquarters of power companies, which the government is pursuing separately from the second round of public institution relocations. Currently, there is interest not only from Ulsan but also from regions like Chungcheongnam-do and Gyeongsangnam-do, where existing power company headquarters are located, indicating potential fierce competition among regions. Ulsan aims to establish a "complete national energy value chain" by linking the second round of relocated institutions with existing energy public institutions like Korea East-West Power and the Korea National Oil Corporation. During the visit, Deputy Mayor Shin Min-sik plans to explain the government's direction for the second round of relocations, Ulsan's progress, key areas of focus, and the rationale for targeting specific institutions, while also delivering related proposals to local lawmakers. The city is also broadening the scope of its efforts beyond the political realm. In early September, Ulsan plans to launch a committee for attracting public institutions, which will include representatives from various sectors such as industry, labor, and youth. Joint discussions with local lawmakers and advocacy activities directed at the government and the National Assembly are also in the works. Deputy Mayor Shin Min-sik stated, "Attracting the second round of public institutions and the integrated headquarters of power companies presents an opportunity to enhance Ulsan's future industrial competitiveness. We will work as a team with local lawmakers to actively advocate for our case and persuade the government and the National Assembly to achieve tangible results." 2026-08-20 10:20:00
  • Inje County to Provide Rent Support for Young Adults Aged 35-49
    Inje County to Provide Rent Support for Young Adults Aged 35-49 Inje County, Gangwon Province, is set to alleviate the housing cost burden for young adults aged 35 to 49 by providing rent support of up to 2.4 million won.According to Inje County on August 20, applications for the "2026 Inje County Youth Rent Support Program" will be accepted until September 4.A total of 20 individuals will be selected for the program. Those chosen will receive up to 200,000 won per month for 12 months, totaling a maximum of 2.4 million won. This support is available only once in a lifetime.This initiative is notable for its age range, targeting individuals between 35 and 49 years old. The program aims to fill the support gap that has emerged as previous rent assistance primarily focused on younger individuals aged 19 to 34.Eligible applicants must be registered residents of Inje County and head of a household without housing, aged 35 to 49. They must have a rental contract in their name and be registered at the corresponding address.Income must be at or below 60% of the median income. Applicants must also meet the criteria for being without housing, and if they have no income, the income of their dependents will be considered.Applicants can visit the local administrative welfare center in their jurisdiction to apply. If in-person visits are difficult, they can submit a proxy application with the necessary documents.The county will verify the eligibility of applicants before selecting and notifying them individually. If selected individuals purchase a home, move to another area, or participate in other housing support programs, their assistance may be terminated.This program is part of Inje County's broader youth settlement policy. The county is also implementing a youth job support program this year to encourage local settlement by providing job opportunities. Additionally, separate support is available for young farmers, including a farming settlement fund and agricultural infrastructure development. In July, the county announced a basic plan for a youth rural housing project.Notably, the Inje youth farming settlement fund offers monthly support of 900,000 to 1.1 million won for up to three years, depending on the years of independent management, targeting individuals aged 19 to 49. This policy aims to reduce youth outmigration by supporting both housing costs and job creation.However, the county faces structural challenges in attracting young residents. Inje County expanded its youth job support program to include older age groups after experiencing low participation from young applicants. The effectiveness of housing support and job creation in attracting and retaining young residents will be crucial for the success of these policies.For more details on required documents and other information, please refer to the announcements on the Inje County website or contact the county's urban development department or the local administrative welfare center.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-20 10:16:00
  • Dongwha Pharmaceutical Launches Hwalmyungsoo in the U.S. After 129 Years
    Dongwha Pharmaceutical Launches 'Hwalmyungsoo' in the U.S. After 129 Years 국내 첫 신약으로 꼽히는 동화약품의 '활명수'가 129년 만에 미국 시장 공략에 나선다. 1897년 탄생해 국내 대표 소화제로 자리 잡은 활명수가 해외 소비자를 겨냥해 글로벌 시장에 도전장을 내밀었다. 동화약품은 20일 활명수의 해외 시장 진출을 위한 신제품 '활명수1897액'(K.O.D, Korea Original Digestive)을 론칭하고, 국내 아이돌 그룹 코르티스(CORTIS)를 신규 모델로 선정해 글로벌 캠페인을 전개한다고 밝혔다. K.O.D는 이달 중 국내 약국과 면세점에서 먼저 선보인다. 이후 9월부터 미국 내 마트와 약국, 올리브영 등에서 판매를 시작할 계획이다. 아마존에서도 K.O.D 브랜드관을 직접 운영해 온라인 판로도 함께 넓힌다. K.O.D는 활명수의 129년 헤리티지를 기반으로 해외 소비자의 기호와 특성에 맞게 맛과 성분을 업그레이드한 제품이다. 'Korea Original Digestive'의 머리글자를 조합한 이름으로 국내 대표 소화제라는 브랜드 정체성을 직관적으로 담았다는 게 회사 측의 설명이다. 동화약품은 'K-푸드를 즐기는 새로운 문화 코드'를 핵심 캠페인 메시지로 내세우고 한식을 즐긴 뒤 K.O.D를 찾는 새로운 식후 문화를 제안한다는 방침이다. 동화약품 관계자는 "K.O.D는 활명수의 129년 역사를 바탕으로 한식과 자연스럽게 어우러지는 새로운 식후 경험을 제안하는 제품"이라며 "글로벌 모델 코르티스와 함께 'K-Food엔 K.O.D'라는 메시지를 널리 알리겠다"고 말했다. 한편 활명수는 1897년 궁중 선전관을 지낸 민병호가 궁중 비방에 서양 의학을 접목해 만든 대한민국 최초의 양약(신약)이다. 계피, 정향, 건강, 육두구, 창출, 아선약, 현호색, 진피, 후박, 멘톨, 고추틴크 등 11가지 생약 성분을 배합해 만들었다. 같은 해 민병호는 아들 민강과 함께 서울 중구에 동화약방(현 동화약품)을 세우고 활명수를 내놨다. 이때 만든 상표 '부채표'는 국내 최초의 등록상표로 활명수는 국내 최장수 브랜드 중 하나로 꼽힌다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-20 10:12:00
  • Hyun Jeong-eun Gifts Summer Health Food to 6,590 Employees
    Hyun Jeong-eun Gifts Summer Health Food to 6,590 Employees Hyun Jeong-eun, chairwoman of Hyundai Group, has sent summer health food gifts to all employees, expressing appreciation for their hard work during the heat.On August 20, Hyundai Group announced that Hyun Jeong-eun dispatched health food gifts, including samgyetang and beef, to 6,590 employees around the time of the summer heat wave. The gifts, totaling approximately 40,000 servings, were delivered to 5,469 employees in South Korea and 1,121 employees abroad.In a letter included with the gifts, she expressed her gratitude, stating, "I deeply appreciate everyone who is fulfilling their duties in their respective positions despite the ongoing heat. The growth of the company and the trust of our customers ultimately begin with your health."She also acknowledged the employees' dedication, saying, "Thanks to your commitment and efforts, Hyundai Group continues to move forward steadily even in challenging business environments, achieving meaningful results in various business sectors."This summer health food gift initiative marks the 21st year of the program, reflecting Hyun's employee-centered management philosophy.Hyun has consistently prioritized employee health, communication, and workplace improvement. Recently, she established a multi-purpose relaxation space called 'H-Harmony' to facilitate natural communication and interaction among employees. Last year, she improved the 'Maternal Protection Room,' a dedicated recovery and relaxation space for female employees, further expanding employee welfare initiatives.A Hyundai Group representative stated, "We believe that a company's sustainable competitiveness ultimately comes from its people, and we will create an environment where members can work joyfully and grow together. We will continue to strengthen a positive corporate culture through various systems and programs."Meanwhile, Hyundai Group is nurturing its core elevator business and focusing on smart logistics as a future growth pillar, with Hyundai Mobis leading efforts to expand domestic and international operations in logistics automation and elevator safety systems.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-20 10:12:00
  • Deckers Appoints E-Land as New Distributor for HOKA in South Korea
    Deckers Appoints E-Land as New Distributor for HOKA in South Korea Global running shoe brand HOKA will have a new distributor in South Korea, as Deckers, the American company that owns HOKA, has officially appointed E-Land as its new distribution partner in the country. However, the existing distributor, Joyworks, has been contesting the termination of its contract with Deckers, leading to international arbitration. The resolution of this dispute over domestic distribution rights is being closely watched. On August 20, E-Land Group announced that Deckers has officially selected it as the new distributor for the HOKA brand in South Korea. In a formal statement, Deckers said, "We are pleased to announce E-Land as the new distributor for the HOKA brand in South Korea. We look forward to a partnership that will enable HOKA to continue its growth in the Korean market and will strive to provide authentic service to Korean consumers." E-Land emerged as the final choice in the competition for HOKA's domestic distribution rights, which has been ongoing since early this year. The company had been consistently mentioned as a strong candidate alongside Musinsa, Shinsegae International, and LF. E-Land's experience in growing global sports brands into major players in the domestic market is seen as a significant advantage. The company has operated New Balance's domestic business since 2008 and achieved over 1 trillion won in sales for New Balance in 2024. Industry attention is now focused on the dispute between Joyworks and Deckers. Deckers notified Joyworks of the termination of their distribution contract shortly after the revelation of an assault incident involving former Joyworks CEO Cho Sung-hwan in January. In response, Joyworks filed for arbitration with the International Centre for Dispute Resolution (ICDR) under the American Arbitration Association (AAA). During a press conference on August 10, Cho claimed that the assault incident was part of a scheme to take away HOKA's distribution rights. In contrast, Deckers has made its intention clear by naming E-Land as the new distributor in its official statement. Looking ahead, key issues will include the actual start date of E-Land's operations, the management of existing inventory, stores, and distribution networks held by Joyworks, and the outcome of the international arbitration process. E-Land Group stated, "We will announce specific business plans and details related to HOKA distribution once discussions between the two companies are completed." 2026-08-20 10:12:00
  • Annual festival in Wonju to showcase cultural diversity
    Annual festival in Wonju to showcase cultural diversity SEOUL, August 20 (AJP) - The provincial city of Wonju will host its annual cultural festival next month, offering food, games and other activities from around the world, organizers said on Thursday. Now in its fourth year, the festival, known as the WOW Festival, will take place Sept. 5 at the Wonju Dancing Performance Hall in Gangwon Province, featuring booths showcasing traditional games, clothing, food and cultural programs from around the world. Food booths and trucks will offer French, German, Hawaiian, Italian and North Korean dishes, while other programs will introduce traditional Korean culture. Visitors can also join hands-on craft programs including gem soap and keyring making, plaster clay art, resin crafts, sugar candy or dalgona making, bead bracelet making and hanji crafts. Other activities will include airbrush tattoos and more. Launched in 2023, the festival aims to give locals an opportunity to experience different cultures and promote greater mutual understanding. Lee Ji-hee, who oversees the festival, said she hopes the event will give visitors a chance to experience different traditions and gain a better understanding of cultural differences. AJP Takeaways · Wonju will hold the fourth Wonju World Culture Festival or WOW Festival on Sept. 5. · The event will take place at the Wonju Dancing Performance Hall in Gangwon Province. · The festival will feature food, games, clothing and cultural programs from different regions. · Food booths and trucks will offer German, Hawaiian, French, Italian and North Korean food. 2026-08-20 10:10:47