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  • Major Korean Brokerages Report Record Profits Amid Stock Market Boom
    Major Korean Brokerages Report Record Profits Amid Stock Market Boom Major securities firms in South Korea achieved record results in the first half of this year, driven by a booming stock market. The net profit of the top 10 brokerages surpassed 10 trillion won for the first time, fueled by increased trading volumes and brokerage revenues.According to the Financial Supervisory Service's electronic disclosure system on August 16, the combined net profit of the top 10 securities firms (Mirae Asset, Korea Investment, Kiwoom, NH Investment, Samsung, KB, Shinhan, Meritz, Daishin, and Hana Securities) reached 10.2697 trillion won for the first half of the year. This marks an increase of approximately 129% compared to 4.4858 trillion won during the same period last year.In just the first half of this year, these firms have already exceeded their total net profit from the previous year, which was 9.9102 trillion won. They earned about 1.26 trillion won more than last year in just six months. Three firms—Mirae Asset Securities, Korea Investment Securities, and Kiwoom Securities—each reported net profits exceeding 1 trillion won, while eight out of the ten firms set new records for half-year performance.Mirae Asset Securities reported the highest net profit of 2.9072 trillion won, a 338% increase from the same period last year. In the second quarter alone, it earned 1.9052 trillion won, marking two consecutive quarters with net profits exceeding 1 trillion won. The significant growth was attributed to the expansion of its brokerage and wealth management (WM) divisions, along with gains from investments in companies like SpaceX.“While these results are historic, it is important to note that a significant portion of the net profit comes from investment asset valuation gains, so we need to distinguish between recurring earnings and one-time factors,” said Lim Hee-yeon, a researcher at Shinhan Investment Corp. “For the time being, fluctuations in SpaceX's stock price will inevitably increase profit volatility.”Korea Investment Securities followed with a net profit of 1.7311 trillion won for the first half, achieving record results across its key business segments, including brokerage, WM, investment banking (IB), and asset management. Kiwoom Securities also joined the '1 trillion club' with a net profit of 1.1580 trillion won.NH Investment Securities and Samsung Securities reported net profits close to 1 trillion won, with NH Investment Securities at 965.2 billion won and Samsung Securities at 939.1 billion won. KB Securities reported 801 billion won, Shinhan Investment Securities 577.7 billion won, Meritz Securities 514 billion won, Daishin Securities 403.3 billion won, and Hana Securities 273.1 billion won.The key driver behind the strong performance of these brokerages was the brokerage segment. The domestic stock market showed strong performance in the first half of the year, leading to a significant increase in stock trading and corresponding growth in brokerage commission revenues. The combined brokerage commission revenue of the five major firms—Mirae Asset, Korea Investment, Samsung, NH Investment, and Kiwoom—totaled 4.1988 trillion won, a 174.9% increase from the same period last year.In addition to brokerage, growth in WM, IB, and asset management segments also supported the improvement in overall performance. While there are differences based on each firm's business portfolio, the stock market boom has increased customer assets and expanded revenues from financial product sales and asset management, enhancing the overall revenue base.Looking ahead to the second half of the year, the flow of trading volumes in the domestic stock market is expected to be a key variable influencing the performance of securities firms. Given the sharp increase in brokerage revenues in the first half, a slowdown in trading volume growth could limit the expansion of related revenues. Therefore, the profitability of non-brokerage segments such as WM and IB, as well as diversification of business portfolios, are anticipated to play crucial roles in determining the performance of individual securities firms.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-16 08:00:20
  • Foreign Tourists to Enjoy Easier Mobility in Korea
    Foreign Tourists to Enjoy Easier Mobility in Korea Foreign tourists visiting Korea will soon be able to call taxis and book express and intercity bus tickets through the Wowpass app without needing to install separate transportation apps. This development is expected to lower the barriers for visitors struggling with domestic payment and transportation services. Orange Square, the operator of Wowpass, announced on August 16 that it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Tmoney Mobility to collaborate on mobility and payment services for foreign visitors. Under this agreement, TmoneyGO's transportation services will be gradually integrated into the Wowpass app. Initially, users will be able to access taxi calls, express and intercity bus bookings, as well as personal mobility options like electric bicycles and scooters, and charter bus reservations through Wowpass. Once the services are integrated, foreign tourists will be able to avoid the hassle of installing multiple apps for different modes of transportation. The goal is to allow taxi calls directly through Wowpass without the need for a separate app. The app will also support user registration, identity verification, payments, and multilingual guidance. This collaboration aims to reduce the inconveniences faced by foreigners when using transportation services in Korea. Some taxi calling and express/intercity bus booking services have been criticized for their limited multilingual support and restrictions on foreign payment methods, making them difficult for visitors to use. Wowpass has expanded its business from payment and currency exchange to include shopping and delivery services in K-beauty, food, and fashion. In the past three months, the app has averaged about 600,000 monthly active users. In line with the expansion of transportation services, Orange Square plans to develop a dedicated mobility interface within the Wowpass app and establish an operational system and new services tailored for foreign users. Lee Jang-baek, CEO of Orange Square, stated that as the number of Wowpass users among foreign visitors has increased to one in ten, the company aims to expand services so that users can manage payments, shopping, and transportation all within a single app. Cho Dong-wook, CEO of Tmoney Mobility, expressed that this collaboration will enhance the convenience of transportation for foreigners in Korea while continuing to expand partnerships with global platforms. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-16 08:00:20
  • LG Electronics Hosts Home Lifestyle Fair Featuring 1.1 Million Home Enthusiasts
    LG Electronics Hosts Home Lifestyle Fair Featuring 1.1 Million Home Enthusiasts At the 'Lifezip' exhibition held at COEX in Samseong-dong, Seoul, visitors were greeted by rooms decorated with distinct themes. From vibrant artworks and lush plants to cozy rooms filled with charming decor, and workspaces equipped with instruments, speakers, and lighting, the exhibition featured five themes: 'Rest, Creation, Relationships, Collection, and Exploration.' The spaces felt like a personal home, inviting guests to explore.Attendees moved seamlessly from room to room, admiring how furniture and decor complemented each other, often pausing to take photos in their favorite spaces. The 'Exploration House' was designed like a personal workspace, complete with a wooden desk, keyboard, plants, and walls adorned with photos and posters, reflecting an individual's unique taste. Touring the exhibition felt akin to visiting someone's home to admire their interior design and personal style.The event, titled '2026 House Archive: Home Digging Fair,' is LG Electronics' first standalone home lifestyle fair under the Lifezip community. Running from August 13 for four days, the fair attracted approximately 3,000 visitors on its opening day, with LG Electronics anticipating around 13,000 attendees throughout the event.The 670-pyeong exhibition space was divided into five 'houses' representing the themes: 'Rest House' for creating personal routines, 'Creation House' where work and play blend, 'Relationship House' for social gatherings, 'Collection House' for favorite items, and 'Exploration House' connecting with nature. This reinterprets the concept of a home beyond just a place to sleep, encompassing spaces for relaxation, creativity, socializing, and discovering new hobbies.As visitors moved through the exhibition, the eclectic tastes of home enthusiasts captured attention. Tables filled with ceramics, art prints, stationery, plants, and crafts showcased the diversity of items. About 70 brands participated, with over 30 Lifezip members selling items they created or collected at table markets. LG Electronics aimed to create an event where users, who have been active in the online community, could also participate as content creators offline.In addition to visual displays, interactive experiences were available throughout the venue. The 'Rest House' offered experiences with scents, tea, and sleep, along with a meditation space. Many attendees were seen sitting on cushions, participating in meditation programs. There was also a space to try out massage devices for body posture and shape management.Notably, LG Electronics' products were subtly integrated into the exhibition rather than prominently displayed. Unlike typical appliance shows where products are lined up for demonstration, LG's offerings were naturally placed throughout the venue.A prime example is the 'LG Tiun Mini,' a plant-based home appliance positioned among yellow flowers and green plants, emphasizing the lifestyle of nurturing plants at home. Other products, such as the portable lifestyle screen 'LG StanbyME2 Max,' wireless speaker 'LG Xboom 360,' and table-type air purifier 'LG PuriCare AeroFurniture,' were showcased in environments resembling real living spaces. This approach allowed visitors to discover products organically while exploring tastefully decorated homes.This strategy aligns with how LG Electronics engages customers through Lifezip. Instead of showcasing appliances first and encouraging purchases, the focus is on understanding what people want to do at home, their preferred spaces, and how they relax and enjoy life.At the heart of this initiative is the Lifezip community. Launched in 2022 with 450 members, Lifezip has grown to 1.1 million members and approximately 300,000 monthly active users, sharing various home activities like cooking, interior design, gardening, and pet care.Home enthusiasts who initially connected online are now transitioning to offline interactions. LG Electronics opened its first pop-up store, 'Lifezip Housewarming,' in Seongsu-dong, Seoul, in 2024, followed by participation in the Seoul Living Design Fair last year. This year, the fair has expanded to more than double the size of the previous pop-up store, creating a community where users who shared their tastes online can now participate as sellers, while other members explore and purchase their creations in a physical space.Jae-woong Jeong, head of LG Electronics' Customer Value Innovation Division, stated, "Lifezip is expanding customer touchpoints through various offline activities, from online communities to pop-up stores and this fair. We will continue to create a differentiated customer experience while building a new home lifestyle culture with our customers."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-16 06:04:00
  • U.S. Steps Up Efforts to Prevent Illegal Transshipments of Chinese Goods
    U.S. Steps Up Efforts to Prevent Illegal Transshipments of Chinese Goods The U.S. government is intensifying efforts to block illegal transshipments of Chinese products, prompting heightened vigilance within the domestic automotive industry. Concerns are growing that the increasing use of Chinese components could complicate supply chain management.According to reports from foreign media on August 16, the U.S. White House's Office of Trade and Manufacturing Policy released a report on August 14, highlighting that Chinese products are being illegally transshipped to the U.S. through over 40 countries.The report classified South Korea, along with Japan, Canada, Mexico, and the European Union, as 'Tier 1' countries at high risk for transshipment of China-linked goods.The U.S. plans to utilize artificial intelligence (AI) technology to more accurately detect instances where these countries process Chinese products or alter their origin before exporting them to the U.S.This crackdown is driven by significant tariff revenue losses. The White House estimates that the scale of illegal transshipment of Chinese products ranges from approximately $34.2 billion to as much as $303 billion annually.According to the Associated Press, the increased enforcement against transshipments is linked to the Chinese government's export support policies, which are destabilizing the automotive, metal, and electronics industries in the U.S. and Europe.The domestic automotive industry is closely monitoring the U.S. government's actions, especially as mid-sized automakers are rapidly increasing their use of Chinese platforms and components.Last year, Renault Korea's purchases of vehicles, parts, and technology from China's Geely Group totaled 952.7 billion won, an 82% increase from the previous year. Of this amount, 901.9 billion won was spent on vehicle and parts purchases. KGM has also reportedly paid $84 million (approximately 120 billion won) to China's Chery Group this year.Given the nature of the automotive industry, the burden of enhanced origin verification is expected to be significant. It is estimated that internal combustion vehicles contain about 30,000 parts, while electric vehicles have over 10,000 parts. As the scope of U.S. verification becomes more detailed, the number of components companies must manage will inevitably increase.However, analysts caution that it is too early to predict the impact on the domestic automotive industry, as specific application standards and enforcement scopes have yet to be established.Kim Pil-soo, a professor at Daelim University’s Department of Future Automotive Engineering, stated, "Since a significant number of parts in vehicles are produced in other countries, we need to observe how specific standards are developed."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-16 06:04:00
  • Shooting at Virginia State University Injures Five Ahead of New Semester
    Shooting at Virginia State University Injures Five Ahead of New Semester A shooting occurred at Virginia State University in Petersburg, Virginia, injuring five people, one of whom is in critical condition.According to local media, including NBC News, the incident took place at 1:28 a.m. on August 14 near a dormitory. Freshman Julia Lewis, who was asleep in her dorm at the time, told the local newspaper Progress-Index, "I woke up to the sound of gunfire. When I opened the window, I saw people and police running in the street." Following the shooting, police closed the campus but lifted the lockdown at 8:22 a.m., allowing scheduled student move-ins to proceed. Authorities have maintained a significant police presence on campus for safety.All five victims were transported to nearby hospitals, with one in critical condition. The university reported that one of the four individuals with non-life-threatening injuries is a student who has since been discharged. The Chesterfield County Police Department is leading the investigation, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Hanover County Sheriff's Office, according to NBC. No arrests have been made in connection with the incident.The shooting occurred on the day designated for returning students to move into dorms. Classes are set to begin on August 17. New students moved in on August 7 and 8, while returning students moved in on the 14th. The university also held a "New Trojan Experience" orientation program from August 10 to 14. Additionally, a professional wrestling event is scheduled for August 15 at the campus multipurpose center, raising concerns about safety.Virginia State University, located about 200 kilometers south of Washington, D.C., has an enrollment of 5,700, primarily undergraduate students. It is recognized as the first four-year historically Black college in the U.S. to receive full state funding.Following the incident, Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger expressed her condolences to the shooting victims on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), stating, "I am praying for the swift recovery of those injured in the shooting at Virginia State University this morning," and extended her thoughts to the university community.Messages from parents and alumni flooded the university's official Facebook page. One parent shared that they had dropped their daughter off at the dorm just hours before the shooting, emphasizing the need for enhanced security during the school year. An alumnus reminisced about visiting the campus with his wife, noting that such incidents prevent students, faculty, and visitors from fully enjoying the peace he once experienced.The Guardian reported, citing the nonprofit Gun Violence Archive, that there have been 300 mass shooting incidents in the U.S. this year, defined as events with four or more casualties. The shooting at Virginia State University falls under this classification.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-16 05:00:20
  • Hong Sang-soos In Front of Your Face Wins Three Awards at Locarno Film Festival
    Hong Sang-soo's 'In Front of Your Face' Wins Three Awards at Locarno Film Festival Hong Sang-soo's 35th feature film, 'In Front of Your Face,' won three awards at the 79th Locarno Film Festival.The film received the Best Director award, Best Acting award, and the Ecumenical Jury Award during the festival's closing ceremony held on August 15 in Locarno, Switzerland. Hong Sang-soo was honored with the Best Director award, while lead actress Kim Min-hee received the Best Acting award.'In Front of Your Face' tells the story of Sang-hee, a daughter from a divorced family, who travels to Jeju Island in search of her mother, whom she last met ten years ago. The film features performances by Kim Min-hee, Choi Myung-gil, Kwon Hae-hyo, Shin Seok-ho, and Park Mi-so.In this project, Hong took on multiple roles, including producer, screenwriter, director, cinematographer, sound engineer, editor, and composer. Kim Min-hee not only starred in the film but also served as the production manager.This marks the fifth time a film by Hong has been invited to the Locarno Film Festival. His previous works include 'Our Sunhi,' which won the Best Director award in 2013, and 'Right Now, Wrong Then,' which received the Golden Leopard and Best Acting awards in 2015. 'Hotel by the River' won the Best Acting award in 2018, and 'In Front of Your Face' won the Best Acting award in 2024.Kim Min-hee, who won the Best Acting award at the 77th Locarno Film Festival in 2024 for Hong's 'In Front of Your Face,' has now received the same award at the festival for the second time. This year's Best Acting award was shared between Kim Min-hee and Italian actress Monica Bellucci.Since 2023, the Locarno Film Festival has combined the Best Actor and Best Actress awards into a single Best Acting award.The Ecumenical Jury Award, which 'In Front of Your Face' also received, is an independent award given by a jury from the Swiss Protestant and Catholic churches. It honors works that convey messages about human life and dignity, social values, peace and human rights, and spiritual dimensions.The film features Kwon Hae-hyo, Shin Seok-ho, and Park Mi-so, who have appeared in several of Hong's previous works. Choi Myung-gil, primarily known for her work in dramas, collaborated with Hong for the first time in 'In Front of Your Face.'Hong and Kim attended the film screening and a Q&A session with the audience. Kim shared, "This is the first film I shot after having a baby. During filming, I brought my baby to the set, and I was busy preparing for the film while also taking care of the baby, including breastfeeding and making baby food." She added, "I think I was in a healthy state of mind, having completed all the preparations for the baby before focusing on the film."Hong expressed his joy in being able to discuss his film with the audience, stating, "In the past, I used to have such opportunities in Korea, but due to personal circumstances and various reasons, these occasions have become rare."The Golden Leopard, the top award at the 79th Locarno Film Festival, was awarded to Romanian director Florin Serban for 'You Do Not Belong Here.' The Jury Special Award went to the Brazilian-German co-production 'The Riverbank,' directed by Mateus Parias and Enock Carvalho.'In Front of Your Face,' which premiered at the Locarno Film Festival, is set to be released in South Korea in the second half of this year.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-16 00:52:00
  • Reflections on Liberation Day: A Call for Cultural Sovereignty in Music
    Reflections on Liberation Day: A Call for Cultural Sovereignty in Music On Liberation Day, I attended the 81st anniversary celebration in Seongnam. Despite the rain, the enthusiasm of the citizens filling the seats was heartening. This was the same venue where, two years ago, I composed the independence musical 'Pechika,' and the songs 'Jangbuga' and 'Chuljeongga' resonated powerfully, bringing tears of determination and joy to the audience.However, as I listened to Elgar's grand 'Pomp and Circumstance March,' a poignant question crossed my mind. Why, on this sacred altar where we celebrate the restoration of our nation's light, must we borrow the melody that embodies the expansion and hegemony of the British Empire to honor our liberation? This very piece faced fierce criticism and debate from local intellectuals and the cultural community in 2020 during the UK's largest classical festival, 'BBC Proms,' for being an anachronistic anthem praising colonial rule and slavery.Throughout the music, I was reminded of the countless independence fighters and patriots who bled and perished in the harsh winds of Manchuria and Primorye. What they sought to protect was not a foreign symphony but the songs of their homeland, imbued with the scent of the earth and the essence of our people, blending the sorrows and joys of the marketplace.Before this strange and shameful scene, akin to placing British food on the ceremonial table for our patriots, I painfully realized that we have long lost the rightful questions we should have been asking, hidden behind the cowardly name of 'familiarity' and the powerless silence of 'tradition.'◆ The Shadow of K-Culture: National Music and Cultural Sovereignty IgnoredHow can we deny the noble value of Western classical music? I do not intend to blame specific local governments or arts organizations. Rather, this reflects a regrettable self-portrait born from a historical lack of awareness and uncritical practices in the music industry. Public symphony orchestras and conductors funded by taxpayers should, at the very least, research and perform a robust repertoire of national compositions on Liberation Day as part of their public duty.Yet today, national music has been pushed out of the public arts and cultural foundations, precariously relying on the tearful sacrifices of small private artists. As the world revels in K-Culture, our roots and soul—national music—remain coldly marginalized in the darkest corners behind the dazzling lights of K-Pop. A tree with withered roots cannot bloom for long. We must no longer tolerate this contradiction of the K-Culture era in the name of cultural sovereignty.However, we cannot solely blame the system and environment. I humbly acknowledge that performances dealing with national spirit have been dismissed as 'boring and stiff.' Therefore, creating dynamic and sophisticated stages that anyone, regardless of age or gender, can cheer for is the true responsibility bestowed upon today's artists.◆ Breaking the Silence Before the National Anthem: A Complete Liberation Through 'Discerning Intelligence'Whenever we confront the national anthem, entangled with the controversies surrounding composer Ahn Ik-tae's pro-Japanese stance and the allegations against lyricist Yoon Chi-ho, we are met with a heavy wall of silence.This is not a call to immediately deny and overturn everything. I only hope that with each time we sing the national anthem, we awaken our 'discerning intelligence.' If this does not lead to a 'transformative intelligence' that breaks the old familiarity and corrects practices, the day we dream of complete independence, liberation, and cultural freedom will never come.◆ Reflection Beyond Conflict and Defense: The Courage of Future Generations to Advance HistoryThe recurring controversies in the entertainment industry regarding family ties to pro-Japanese collaborators reveal that the scars of unresolved history continue to shake us today. We cannot hold descendants accountable for the burdens of a lineage they did not choose.However, moving beyond silence and defense to leave a proud legacy for future generations is an urgent task of our time. If the descendants of pro-Japanese collaborators find the courage to participate in the great journey of cultural independence and liberation, it would mark the true beginning of historical healing and reconciliation. This would be the most moving stage of reconciliation our society could face and a significant advancement in history.◆ The Unyielding Melody of K-Spirit: The First Step Toward the Centennial of LiberationLast year, for the 80th anniversary of liberation, I planned a symbolic performance with an 80-member orchestra, investing 20 million won of my own money, but I was met with indifference. This year, I prepared 30 million won to apply for a project, but only received cold rejections.Recalling the dedication of our independence fighters who bled and perished in the harsh snowfields, the despair and loneliness of today do not justify halting my steps. Moreover, I believe it is my duty and calling as an educator to show my students an unwavering spirit in the face of any trials.As the Year of the Red Horse approaches, before the 81st anniversary of liberation comes to a close, I wish to awaken the spirit and vitality of our nation, obscured by foreign influences, and dedicate a grand stage of liberation infused with our unique breath and the essence of Arirang to the spirits of our forebears. On this exhilarating journey toward the 100th anniversary of liberation, I eagerly anticipate the joyful participation of the K-Culture independence fighters of this era, proclaiming, 'Here are the independence fighters.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-15 22:52:00
  • President Yoon Proposes New Vision for Peace and Opportunity on Liberation Day
    President Yoon Proposes New Vision for Peace and Opportunity on Liberation Day President Yoon Calls for New Liberation Focused on Hope, Opportunity, Balance, and PeacePresident Yoon Suk-yeol on August 15 proposed a journey to end the war and transform the Korean Peninsula's unstable armistice into a peace regime. He urged the initiation of discussions among the parties involved to conclude the long-standing conflict.In his speech at the 81st Liberation Day ceremony, President Yoon outlined three key principles for his policy on the Korean Peninsula: "inclusive peaceful coexistence," "stable peaceful coexistence," and "responsible peaceful coexistence." He stated, "Today, one year later, I want to present a blueprint to move beyond principles to practice," emphasizing the need for mutual respect and an end to unnecessary confrontations between the North and South.He called for a reduction of hostility in perceptions, norms, and institutions, expressing hope that both sides would sit down together for peaceful coexistence and joint growth. He stressed that this is not about concessions but the beginning of coexistence.President Yoon also promised to establish institutional safeguards to control military tensions and prevent accidental clashes. He stated, "We need to create systems to manage tensions and conflicts, and take proactive and continuous peace measures while comprehensively reviewing the security situation around the Korean Peninsula."He expressed his intention to encourage North Korea's response to create a stable Korean Peninsula, hoping that their steps would lower military tensions in border areas and serve as a foundation for building trust and stability.President Yoon remarked, "Peace on the Korean Peninsula will promote stability and cooperation in Northeast Asia and serve as a milestone toward a world without nuclear weapons," suggesting that discussions should begin among the parties to end the long-standing war and to find effective ways to halt North Korea's nuclear capabilities.In terms of South Korea-Japan relations, he expressed a desire to expand practical cooperation based on a sincere acknowledgment of historical issues. He noted that over the past year, the two countries have built a foundation of trust through shuttle diplomacy and have broadened cooperation in supply chains, energy, and advanced industries. He also mentioned the expansion of exchanges between future generations.President Yoon introduced a new national vision of an "irreplaceable South Korea" and a "new liberation." He stated, "We need a new liberation that will elevate South Korea to the next level, a country that the world needs, a nation that all countries want to cooperate with, and an irreplaceable South Korea that no other country can substitute."To achieve this, he announced plans to completely reallocate national resources and capabilities and to redraw the growth map. He aims to expand growth hubs concentrated in the metropolitan area across the entire country and to enhance growth potential through active investment in future industries.He emphasized, "When the results of innovation and opportunities for future growth are evenly distributed, a bold vision will illuminate every corner of the people's lives and foster courage for new challenges."Kim Min-seok Achieves Majority Vote in Honam, Expanding Lead Over Jeong Cheong-raeKim Min-seok, a candidate for the leadership of the Democratic Party, continued his winning streak by securing a majority of votes in Honam, a region expected to influence the party convention's outcome, significantly widening the gap with rival Jeong Cheong-rae. Before the Honam primary, the difference between the two candidates was only 1.48 percentage points.On August 15, So Byeong-hoon, head of the Central Party's Election Management Committee, announced the results at the Wonkwang University gymnasium. Kim received a total of 139,307 votes in Jeollanam-do and Jeollabuk-do, surpassing Jeong's 79,033 votes. Song Young-gil received 23,749 votes.Regionally, in Gwangju, Kim garnered 57.04% (86,558 votes), while Jeong received 31.84% (48,324 votes), and Song received 11.12% (16,874 votes). In Jeollabuk-do, Kim achieved 58.39% (52,749 votes), Jeong 34.00% (30,709 votes), and Song 7.61% (6,875 votes).Before the vote counting, the candidates emphasized their connections to Honam and appealed for support by referencing the late former President Kim Dae-jung, a symbol of Honam politics. Kim stated, "I worked as the secretary to the party leader during President Kim's administration 20 years ago. The Honam AI Mega Project is my dream and a historic gamble for President Yoon, and I will ensure its success." He added, "With President Yoon's firm commitment to the development of Jeollabuk-do, I will independently create a mega plan for Jeollabuk-do and become Mr. Saemangeum."Jeong introduced himself as "the son-in-law of Honam, with my mother born in Jeollabuk-do," and highlighted the advancements made possible by the internet established by Kim Dae-jung, stating, "Thanks to the internet, we became an internet powerhouse, and with a cultural policy of support without interference, we became a cultural powerhouse with BTS. The convergence of President Kim's internet and President Yoon's AI presents a golden opportunity for the rise of South Korea." He asserted, "Once betrayed, one will betray again. I am confident that I, Jeong Cheong-rae, will be the one to remain loyal to President Yoon until the end."Song appealed, "Please hold the hand of a son of Honam, and I will become the new center of Honam politics following President Kim." He emphasized his experience as the first young recruit brought in by President Kim, serving as a secretary to the late President Roh Moo-hyun, the head of the overall election campaign for former President Moon Jae-in, and the head of the overall election campaign for President Yoon. He declared, "With the end of judicial reform, Jeong is no longer needed; I will now lead judicial reform."The Democratic Party will conduct a primary in Seoul and Gyeonggi Province on August 16, followed by a party convention in Daejeon on August 17 to establish a new leadership. The final election results for the party leader will reflect 70% of votes from party members and 30% from public opinion polls.People Power Party Demands Explanation for Dismissal of Trade ChiefThe People Power Party criticized President Yoon Suk-yeol's dismissal of Yeo Han-goo, the head of the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy's Trade Negotiation Headquarters, as "irrational governance."In a statement on August 15, party spokesperson Jo Yong-sool questioned, "Is it acceptable to leave a key position responsible for negotiating with foreign countries vacant without even providing a specific reason?"Jo pointed out that the Yoon administration had promised a $350 billion investment in the U.S. without public consensus last year and is now facing pressure from the U.S. to expedite that commitment. He criticized the administration for abruptly dismissing the person responsible for those negotiations without any explanation.He added, "The government remains silent, citing the judgment of the appointing authority without revealing specific reasons for the dismissal. What secret are they trying to hide? The Yoon administration must clearly explain to the public why they replaced the trade chief in the midst of U.S. trade negotiations without an alternative plan."Lee Jun-seok, leader of the Reform Party, also commented on Facebook, "While reports indicate that the Trump administration is applying pressure regarding U.S. investments, the government dismissed Yeo Han-goo. Regardless of the reasons for the dismissal, the U.S. is bound to misunderstand this action."Lee urged the immediate appointment of a successor to ensure there is no gap in U.S. negotiations, warning that any disruption in U.S. diplomacy could have a more significant impact on the South Korean economy than the recent turmoil in the stock market.According to the Ministry of Industry, President Yoon dismissed Yeo at midnight on the same day. This unilateral dismissal of a civil servant is an unusual move in political appointments, but specific reasons for the dismissal have not been disclosed.Government Expresses Disappointment Over Japanese Officials' Yasukuni Shrine VisitsOn August 15, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticized the Japanese political figures' offerings and visits to the Yasukuni Shrine, stating, "We cannot contain our disappointment."The Ministry of National Defense summoned Takeshi Nagayoshi, the Japanese defense attaché in South Korea, to express its protest against Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi's visit to the shrine, the first by a sitting defense minister in two years.In a statement, the Foreign Ministry expressed, "The government is deeply disappointed by the actions of responsible Japanese leaders who continue to glorify Japan's past invasion wars and visit a shrine that enshrines war criminals, repeating outdated acts that disregard history."The Ministry urged Japanese leaders to confront history and demonstrate genuine reflection and remorse through their actions, emphasizing that this is a crucial foundation for building a future-oriented South Korea-Japan relationship based on trust.Kim Hak-jo, the International Policy Director of the Ministry of National Defense, summoned Nagayoshi to the Ministry of Defense to strongly protest Koizumi's visit to the Yasukuni Shrine, expressing deep regret over the action.He stated that the visit contradicts efforts to establish a future-oriented relationship based on trust between South Korea and Japan and conveyed serious concerns regarding the matter.On this day, which marks both Korea's Liberation Day and Japan's defeat, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi did not visit the shrine but offered a monetary donation as the president of the Liberal Democratic Party. However, four current ministers, including Koizumi, visited the shrine, and key officials from the ruling party also participated in an unusual group visit.Prime Minister Han Seung-soo Urges Preparedness for Heavy Rain Forecasts in Southern CoastPrime Minister Han Seung-soo ordered proactive preparedness measures on August 15 in anticipation of heavy rain forecasted for the southern coast.According to the Prime Minister's Office, Han instructed, "Given that heavy rainfall is expected during the vulnerable nighttime hours of the holiday period, ensure thorough preemptive checks, controls, and evacuations."He emphasized the need for thorough pre-checks and monitoring of vulnerable areas such as camping sites, underground roads, and low-lying homes, ensuring the safety of visitors and residents.Han also urged the swift dissemination of evacuation notices using available resources such as village broadcasts and sirens, and to pay attention to safety management in coastal and adjacent low-lying areas, considering rising sea levels.He instructed that relevant agencies maintain a state of emergency readiness and share information, while ensuring the safety of personnel responding on-site.The Korea Meteorological Administration forecasts rainfall from August 15 to 17, estimating 20 to 60 mm in Daejeon, Sejong, Chungnam, and Chungbuk (with some areas in Daejeon and southeastern Chungnam expected to exceed 80 mm), 50 to 100 mm in Gwangju and Jeollanam-do (with eastern Jeollanam-do's southern coast expected to exceed 200 mm), 30 to 80 mm in Jeollabuk-do, and 100 to 200 mm in the western southern coast of Gyeongnam (with some areas exceeding 250 mm).In Busan, Ulsan, and central Gyeongnam's southern coast, rainfall is expected to be between 50 to 150 mm (with some areas in Busan and central Gyeongnam exceeding 200 mm), 50 to 100 mm in Daegu and Gyeongbuk (with some areas exceeding 120 mm), and 50 to 100 mm in Jeju (with mountainous areas exceeding 200 mm and mid-mountain areas exceeding 120 mm).Magnitude 7.7 Earthquake in Indonesia's Flores Island Leaves at Least 20 DeadA magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck near the coast of Flores Island in eastern Indonesia, resulting in at least 20 fatalities and six injuries, according to AFP on August 15 (local time).According to Yonhap News, AFP reported that the earthquake occurred on the northern coast of Flores Island in the East Sunda Islands, resulting in 20 deaths across four villages, as confirmed by local rescue authorities.A representative stated, "According to reports, six people were injured, and two remain trapped under the rubble."Authorities plan to focus on locating the trapped victims, but rescue operations are facing difficulties due to landslides blocking many roads.The earthquake struck at 5:58 a.m. local time, followed by 52 aftershocks ranging from magnitudes 3.6 to 6.2. Tremors were felt across most areas of Flores Island, and local rescue teams are conducting operations throughout the island.Indonesia is located on the "Ring of Fire," a seismically active region prone to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-15 21:52:00
  • Seventy-Year-Old Woman Dies After Receiving 11 Implants at Gangnam Dental Clinic
    Seventy-Year-Old Woman Dies After Receiving 11 Implants at Gangnam Dental Clinic A 75-year-old woman died after undergoing surgery to receive 11 dental implants at a clinic in Gangnam, Seoul. Her family was reportedly shocked after reviewing CCTV footage of the incident.According to MBN, the woman, referred to as A, went into cardiac arrest just 16 minutes after receiving anesthesia. She was transferred to a university hospital but ultimately passed away. After her funeral, the family requested the CCTV footage from the clinic, but the clinic refused to provide it, citing privacy concerns, allowing only for the footage to be viewed on-site.The family noted in their records that at 4:18 p.m., the attending physician began administering medication, with three doses given within the first minute. After the ninth dose, A suddenly raised her hands, prompting the medical staff to strap her wrists to the chair.Emergency room records indicate that the clinic used 16 doses of the local anesthetic articaine on A. While articaine is commonly used in dental procedures, the maximum single dose is 7 mg. A weighed 54 kg, meaning the maximum allowable dosage would be approximately 380 mg. However, A received 16 doses, totaling 1,088 mg, which is three times the safe limit.The National Forensic Service has reportedly suggested that A's death was likely due to toxic reactions from the articaine.On August 3, a 60-year-old man, referred to as B, also suffered cardiac arrest and died while undergoing implant surgery at the same clinic.According to police, B, who lived in Jincheon, visited the clinic after seeing advertisements for implants priced between 250,000 and 350,000 won each. During his first surgery on June 29, he had 17 teeth extracted and received eight implants. He was scheduled for a second surgery on August 3 to receive ten more implants but went into cardiac arrest after the sixth implant was placed.Medical records indicate that B was administered 3 cc of the sedative midazolam, 1 cc of the anesthetic ketamine, and 7.5 ampoules of the local anesthetic lidocaine.Despite the incident involving A, the clinic continued to operate until B's death.The clinic has been known for its low implant prices, reportedly quoting A between 250,000 and 350,000 won per implant. According to an analysis by the Ministry of Health and Welfare and the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service, the average cost of implants at 70,268 medical institutions nationwide last year was 1,188,000 won.The Korean Dental Association has raised concerns about so-called 'dumping clinics' that lure patients with low prices and then perform excessive procedures, disrupting the quality of dental care.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-15 20:56:00
  • Prime Minister Han Seung-soo Urges Preparedness for Heavy Rain Forecast in Southern Coast
    Prime Minister Han Seung-soo Urges Preparedness for Heavy Rain Forecast in Southern Coast Prime Minister Han Seung-soo has called for proactive measures in response to forecasts of heavy rain in the southern coastal region. According to the Prime Minister's Office, Han instructed officials on the 15th to ensure thorough preparations for monitoring, control, and evacuation, considering that rainfall is expected to be concentrated during vulnerable nighttime hours over the holiday period. He emphasized the need to ensure the safety of visitors to campgrounds and residents, urging thorough pre-checks and monitoring of landslide-prone areas, underpasses, and low-lying homes. Han also advised the swift dissemination of evacuation information using available resources such as village broadcasts and sirens, and he stressed the importance of managing safety along coastlines and adjacent low-lying areas, taking into account rising sea levels. He urged related agencies to maintain a state of emergency readiness and to share information effectively while ensuring the safety of on-site response personnel. The Korea Meteorological Administration has forecasted rainfall from the 15th to the 17th, estimating 20 to 60 mm in Daejeon, Sejong, Chungnam, and Chungbuk (with some areas in Daejeon and southeastern Chungnam expected to exceed 80 mm), 50 to 100 mm in Gwangju and Jeonnam (with eastern Jeonnam coastal areas expected to exceed 200 mm and western Jeonnam coastal areas and Jirisan region expected to exceed 150 mm), 30 to 80 mm in Jeonbuk, and 100 to 200 mm in western Gyeongnam coastal areas and near Jirisan (with some areas exceeding 250 mm). In Busan, Ulsan, central Gyeongnam coastal areas, and inland Gyeongnam (excluding areas near Jirisan), rainfall is expected to be between 50 to 150 mm (with some areas in Busan and central Gyeongnam expected to exceed 200 mm), 50 to 100 mm in Daegu and Gyeongbuk (with some areas exceeding 120 mm), and 50 to 100 mm in Jeju (with mountainous areas expected to exceed 200 mm and mid-mountain areas exceeding 120 mm). * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-15 20:32:00