AJU PRESS ASIA FIRST NEWS AGENCY

Journalist

&
""
Latest by
  • Chungnam National University and Kongju National University Finalize Merger Name
    Chungnam National University and Kongju National University Finalize Merger Name Chungnam National University and Kongju National University, which are in the process of merging, have reached a significant agreement on key issues such as the new name and headquarters location. The two institutions will officially begin the process of becoming a major national university under the name 'Chungnam National University,' encompassing Daejeon and Chungcheongnam-do.On August 13, during the third merger committee meeting, the universities announced that they had deliberated and approved adjustments on three major issues: the name of the merged university, the legal address, and the governance structure of the merged headquarters.On August 14, the presidents of both universities and the merger preparation committee held a mid-term announcement at the Sejong Joint Campus Academic and Cultural Support Center to present the results of their discussions.New Name 'Chungnam National University', Legal Address in Daejeon... Dual Structure for HeadquartersThe most anticipated aspect, the name of the merged university, has been confirmed as 'Chungnam National University.' The presidents stated in a joint announcement, "The name 'Chungnam National University' reflects a commitment to nurturing talent and fostering regional innovation across Daejeon and Chungcheongnam-do, rather than being limited to a specific area. We will also inherit and develop the long history and capabilities of Kongju National University as valuable assets of the merged institution."The legal and administrative address has been decided to be 'Daejeon.' However, this does not imply a single location for the headquarters. The merged headquarters will operate under a 'dual structure,' with functions distributed between Daejeon and Gongju.To prevent concentration of functions at any one campus, the president's office and two vice president offices will be established at both campuses. The Daejeon campus will leverage its existing strengths, while the Gongju campus will strategically distribute key functions such as research, international exchange, educational innovation, admissions management, and integrated industry-academia cooperation.Additionally, a 'campus president system' will be introduced to ensure autonomy and accountability at each campus, allowing for specialization that aligns with regional characteristics.“Innovation Through Collaboration, Not Just Expansion”... Submission to Education Ministry Planned for SeptemberThe two presidents emphasized that the essence of this merger is not merely about increasing size but about 'innovation through collaboration.' They envision connecting Daejeon's science and technology research infrastructure with the educational and industrial bases of Gongju, Cheonan, and Yesan to elevate the universities as a leading national institution.With the resolution of these key issues, the merger process is expected to gain momentum. The universities will prepare a draft merger application based on this agreement and hold individual briefings and a joint public hearing in August and September to gather feedback from their members.Following this, a vote will be conducted involving all members of both universities. If the vote is favorable, the final merger application will be submitted to the Ministry of Education in September after review by the academic council and university council.The presidents stated, "Chungnam National University and Kongju National University will responsibly pursue this merger, respecting each other's history and strengths, to develop further and represent both Daejeon and Chungcheongnam-do, leading education, research, industry-academia cooperation, and regional innovation as a national university."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-14 16:44:00
  • Lees disapproval rating outpaces approval rating for 1st time
    Lee's disapproval rating outpaces approval rating for 1st time SEOUL, August 14 (AJP) - President Lee Jae Myung heads into the long Liberation Day weekend on a sour note, as his disapproval rating for the first time outpaces approval, according to a survey released on Friday. Pollster Gallup Korea conducted a poll of about 1,000 adults nationwide earlier this week and found that his disapproval rating rose eight percentage points from the previous poll in the fourth week of last month to 46 percent, the highest since his inauguration in June last year. His dwindling approval rating, in contrast, further slid to 44 percent, down seven points from 51 percent during the same period, dropping below 50 percent for the first time. Some 10 percent remained undecided or refused to give an answer. His predecessor Yoon Suk Yeol's disapproval rating outpaced his approval rating for the first time in July 2022, just two months after taking office and even before his honeymoon period ended, in a phenomenon known as a "dead cross," while other predecessors like Moon Jae-in and Park Geun-hye saw it happen about a year into their terms and hardly recovered afterward. By region, Lee's approval rating fell below 50 percent in all areas except his support base of southwestern Jeolla provinces including Gwangju, where it stood at 71 percent. The rating was 42 percent in Seoul, Incheon and Gyeonggi, and 41 percent in Busan, Ulsan and South Gyeongsang Province, while it was 35 percent in the conservative stronghold of Daegu and North Gyeongsang Province. By age, Lee maintained majority support among those in their 40s at 58 percent and 50s at 56 percent. In contrast, his approval rating stood at around 30 percent among those aged 18-29. Among those who approved of Lee's performance, diplomacy was the most cited reason at 19 percent, while real estate-related policies topped the list among those who disapproved at 30 percent. That appears to reflect mounting discontent with the government's recent revisions to housing and tax policies, under which married couples who jointly own a home could be treated as multiple-home owners and face higher taxes. Long-term homeowners could also lose some tax benefits, among other changes. Meanwhile, Cheong Wa Dae said the public appears to favor constitutional reform allowing a four-year presidential term with the option of one additional term, along with giving the National Assembly more power to check the presidency and maintain a balance of power. It said the current single, five-year presidential system could lead to an "imperial presidency" and stressed that the National Assembly should take the lead in discussions on any constitutional amendment. The remarks came after lawmaker Kim Tae-ho of the main opposition People Power Party said Lee had suggested during a private golf gathering last month that he could pursue constitutional reform even if it meant shortening his term. AJP Takeaways: - Lee Jae Myung's disapproval rating surpassed his approval rating for the first time since he took office in June 2025, according to a Gallup Korea poll released Aug. 14, 2026. - Lee's disapproval rating rose to 46 percent, up eight percentage points from the previous poll, while his approval rating fell seven points to 44 percent. - Real estate and tax policies were the leading reason for dissatisfaction, cited by 30 percent of respondents who disapproved of Lee’s performance, amid criticism of recent housing and tax policy revisions. - Lee's approval rating fell below 50 percent in most regions, with the exception of Gwangju and the southwestern Jeolla provinces at 71 percent. Support was highest among people in their 40s and 50s. - Cheong Wa Dae said it favors constitutional reform to introduce a four-year presidential term with the option of one additional term and strengthen the National Assembly's role in checking presidential power. 2026-08-14 16:38:56
  • Gachon University Collaborates on Food Tech Research Center in Seongnam
    Gachon University Collaborates on Food Tech Research Center in Seongnam Gachon University is launching a collaborative framework with industry, academia, and government to establish a Food Tech Research Support Center focused on 3D food printing in Seongnam. On the 13th, Gachon University announced that it signed a memorandum of understanding with ten organizations, including Seongnam City Hall, Seongnam Industry Promotion Agency, Seongnam Industrial Complex Management Corporation, Seongnam Industry-Academia-Research Food Tech Council, World Food Tech Council, Seoul National University Food Tech Center, Bundang Seoul National University Hospital Biomedical Research Institute, and Korea Chemical Convergence Test Research Institute, to build the Food Tech Research Support Center. The signing ceremony was attended by Park Tae-sik, head of Gachon University's Industry-Academic Cooperation Group, and Lee Dong-hoon, a professor in the Department of Food Biotechnology. This agreement aims to jointly respond to the Food Tech Research Support Center project promoted by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs and to establish a cooperative foundation for the center's construction and operation after selection. Seongnam City aims to attract a research support center in the field of 3D food printing and plans to apply for the project as early as October. The participating organizations agreed to collaborate on various initiatives, including joint research on AI, robotics, and digital technology-based food tech, development and demonstration of 3D food printing technology, shared equipment construction and operation, and prototype production and commercialization. Gachon University's Industry-Academic Cooperation Group will connect the university's research and educational capabilities with industry to support the training of professionals in food tech and the validation of technologies. In particular, the program will link industry-based training with practical demonstrations to ensure that research outcomes translate into real-world applications. 3D food printing is a technology that creates three-dimensional food products based on digital designs. It is gaining attention as a key technology in the future food tech industry, enabling the development of customized food that reflects individual characteristics and needs, as well as new food manufacturing methods. Seongnam residents have expressed optimism about the establishment of the Food Tech Research Support Center, anticipating it will enhance the region's competitiveness in future industries and create new job opportunities. With the collaborative framework involving universities, businesses, and research institutions, there is hope that the initiative will lead to not just research but also technology development, validation, and commercialization, contributing to the revitalization of the local economy. Meanwhile, Park Tae-sik stated, “This agreement will strengthen the industry-academia-research cooperation system centered on Seongnam City, and based on Gachon University's research and educational capabilities in food biotechnology, we will actively support the research, validation, and industrialization of food tech technologies.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-14 16:36:00
  • Taeyoung Construction Offers Up to 80% Discount for Desian Residents and Followers at Inje Speedium
    Taeyoung Construction Offers Up to 80% Discount for Desian Residents and Followers at Inje Speedium Inje Speedium is launching a discount event for residents of Taeyoung Construction's 'Desian' and followers of its official Instagram account.On August 14, Inje Speedium announced a gratitude event for Desian residents and Instagram followers. Accommodation vouchers will be available for purchase from August 17 to 31, with stays permitted from September 1 to November 30.This event allows guests to enjoy up to 80% off the regular prices for midweek stays at Inje Speedium hotels and condos during the off-peak season. In addition to accommodation, guests will receive two hours of free access to the Bro Kids House playground, as well as discounts on facilities and experiences such as the sauna, classic car museum, circuit taxi, circuit safari, and off-road parkour.To take advantage of the accommodation discount, guests can request the Desian promotion when making a reservation by phone or enter the promotion code 'DESIAN' on the website. More details about the event can be found on the official Desian Instagram account.An Inje Speedium representative stated, “Inje Speedium Circuit & Resort features an FIA-certified circuit, allowing guests to enjoy relaxation in nature alongside motorsports and leisure activities. We hope this event provides a special experience at Inje Speedium.”Inje Speedium, operated by Taeyoung Construction, is an automotive theme park that includes a 3.908 km international standard racing circuit, 134 hotel rooms, 118 condos, and various leisure facilities.Meanwhile, Taeyoung Construction reported a consolidated revenue of 354.9 billion won in the first quarter of this year, a 44.2% decrease from 635.4 billion won in the same period last year. However, operating profit for the same period rose to 17.7 billion won, a 14.3% increase compared to the previous year.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-14 16:32:10
  • Korea Paper Reports 131.9% Increase in Q2 Operating Profit
    Korea Paper Reports 131.9% Increase in Q2 Operating Profit Korea Paper announced on August 14 that its operating profit for the second quarter reached 4.7 billion won, a 131.9% increase compared to the same period last year. During the same timeframe, sales rose by 14.8% to 220.4 billion won.For the first half of the year, cumulative sales totaled 419.3 billion won, with operating profit at 9.2 billion won, marking increases of 7.2% and 49.3%, respectively.The company attributed these results to a recovery in the printing paper sector and a return to profitability in the packaging division. A focus on profitability, improved price competitiveness in key markets, and enhanced internal operational efficiency also contributed to the positive outcomes.A representative from Korea Paper stated, "Despite ongoing global uncertainties, we quickly responded to market demands through on-site sales initiatives and process innovations, including customer seminars."Looking ahead to the second half of the year, the company plans to strengthen its market strategy by focusing on high-value products, including eco-friendly packaging materials 'Green Shield' and 'G-Flex,' as well as premium pulp-based packaging paper 'Case Beauty.'The representative added, "We will continue to expand our product range in the packaging sector and enhance our service competitiveness to maintain sales growth, while also solidifying our long-term growth foundation through the development of eco-friendly and high-performance materials like nanocellulose."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-14 16:32:10
  • Youth Housing Crisis: From Abandoned Buses to Goshiwon Bathtubs
    Youth Housing Crisis: From Abandoned Buses to Goshiwon Bathtubs The housing market is challenging, and government policies are no exception.A proposal by Democratic Party lawmaker Hwang Hee to use abandoned buses as temporary housing for young people sparked controversy. Just days later, the government announced plans to lift the ban on installing bathtubs in goshiwon rooms. This announcement came the day after President Lee Jae-myung called for revisions to minimum housing standards and improvements to non-residential living spaces like goshiwon. The following day, the government also revealed plans to provide financial support for quasi-housing projects, including goshiwon.The Democratic Party clarified that the abandoned bus proposal is not an official party policy. However, it cannot be dismissed as merely a personal opinion from a member of the National Assembly's Land, Infrastructure and Transport Committee. While there is no direct link between the bus proposal and the goshiwon policy, discussions about revising goshiwon standards had already begun last month, prior to the controversy and the president's remarks.Nonetheless, both issues raise a critical question: How far can we go in providing spaces instead of homes for young people and low-income individuals amid a housing supply shortage? The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport eases bathtub regulations for goshiwon.On August 12, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport announced an administrative notice regarding amendments to the 'Building Standards for Multi-Use Facilities,' which includes removing the prohibition on installing bathtubs in individual goshiwon rooms. The requirement for study facilities, such as desks, has also been eliminated, although the ban on cooking facilities within the rooms remains in place.The process of removing the desk requirement has not been smooth. The current enforcement decree of the Multi-Use Facilities Act defines goshiwon operations as providing lodging or meals in a space equipped for study. If the obligation for study facilities is removed from building standards, it raises issues of consistency with existing laws.The ministry explained that this change reflects the reality that goshiwon are increasingly used as residences for single-person households rather than study facilities, and it aims to rationalize regulations that are not directly related to safety. It is not mandated that bathtubs be installed, so it is difficult to outright condemn the expansion of options.However, the order of these policy changes warrants scrutiny. When the current standards were established in 2015, the ministry cited concerns that goshiwon could be improperly used as independent housing due to the prohibition of bathtubs, cooking facilities, and balconies. Now, after 11 years, the ministry is effectively removing some of those distinctions, citing that goshiwon are being used as actual living spaces.If bathtubs are to be allowed, it is essential to also examine the necessary conditions for living spaces. With bathtubs permitted, it is crucial to assess whether the ventilation standards for rooms and bathrooms are adequate. However, the current amendment does not include provisions for minimum room size, external windows, or enhanced ventilation performance. While acknowledging the reality of living conditions, the necessary housing standards have not been reinforced.The amendment also lacks a regulatory impact analysis. It was classified as not subject to regulatory review during prior consultations with the Office for Government Policy Coordination. While this may not be procedurally incorrect, it is challenging to ascertain how allowing bathtubs will affect goshiwon design, future supply, and living conditions based solely on the publicly available administrative notice. Minimum living space varies by location, with Seoul at 7㎡ and Daejeon at 14㎡.The poor conditions of goshiwon have already been confirmed through research. A 2020 survey by the Seoul Metropolitan Government found that the average room size in goshiwon was 7.2㎡, with 53% of rooms measuring less than 7㎡. Only 47.6% of rooms had windows that could be used for emergency escape. Residents cited cramped spaces and a lack of natural light and ventilation as major inconveniences and health risks.In response, the Seoul government has since mandated that newly constructed or repurposed goshiwon must have rooms larger than 7㎡. If individual bathrooms are included, the minimum size must be at least 9㎡, and windows that allow for external escape must also be installed.Some metropolitan governments have set even higher minimum standards. Daejeon requires rooms to be at least 14㎡ and mandates the installation of operable windows measuring at least 1㎡. Gwangju stipulates that rooms must be at least 11㎡, and if including a bathroom, the total must be at least 14㎡, with operable windows facing outside. Sejong also requires a minimum area of 11㎡ and windows that allow for natural light, ventilation, and escape.Due to differences in how area measurements are calculated and the applicable targets, it is not straightforward to compare which regional standards are superior. The issue lies in the fact that while local governments have established separate minimum area and window standards, there is no nationwide common minimum for room size and external windows in the national building standards for multi-use facilities. This discrepancy means that the minimum area for goshiwon can vary significantly depending on the region.The current minimum housing standards require that single-person households have a room, a dedicated kitchen, and bathroom and bathing facilities, totaling at least 14㎡. Comparing this to the 7㎡ goshiwon rooms does not necessarily indicate a violation of standards, as goshiwon are not classified as housing under building law, and thus these standards do not directly apply to building permits. This is precisely the problem: while people may reside in goshiwon for extended periods, they remain outside the minimum housing standards due to their classification.Goshiwon are not merely exceptional living spaces. According to a 2022 survey by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, there were 158,374 households living in goshiwon and goshi-tels, the highest number among non-residential living spaces. A 2017 survey found that 97% of goshiwon and goshi-tel residents were single-person households, with an average age of 34.6 years for heads of households. In the 2022 survey, 32.9% reported choosing goshiwon because they could not find cheaper rent elsewhere. The living conditions in goshiwon are closely tied to the housing issues faced by young people and low-income single-person households. Easing regulations and financial support raises questions about accountability.On August 11, President Lee ordered a review of minimum housing standards to address climate-related disasters and improve the living conditions of non-residential spaces like goshiwon, vinyl houses, and shantytowns. The following day, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport announced plans to ease bathtub regulations, and on August 13, it unveiled a supply plan that includes interest support for loans to quasi-housing projects like goshiwon in Seoul and Gyeonggi Province.If construction begins by 2027, the government will subsidize 1 percentage point of the loan interest, and if construction starts by 2028, the subsidy will be 0.5 percentage points. This policy is not exclusively for goshiwon or for young people, as certain project requirements must be met. Nevertheless, the combination of regulatory easing and financial support makes it difficult to dismiss the likelihood of increased goshiwon supply. The inclusion of goshiwon in the supply plan signals that the government recognizes them as a means to address housing shortages.The impact of regulatory easing and affordable financing on supply can be seen in the example of urban-type housing. In 2009, the government relaxed standards for facilities and provided construction funding through the National Housing Fund to quickly increase housing space for one- and two-person households. The number of permits surged from 20,529 units in 2010 to 83,859 in 2011 and 123,949 in 2012.The success in meeting the demand for small housing is evident. However, in some areas, this led to oversupply, unsold units, and issues with parking and management. A fire in an urban-type housing unit in Uijeongbu in 2015 highlighted safety concerns, including narrow access roads and inadequate spacing between buildings. The costs of hastily increasing supply without thorough consideration ultimately fell on the residents.Living accommodation facilities, which can be used for lodging and cooking, have been marketed as residential products, leading to conflicts over illegal housing use and changes in designation. The government is now working to block new illegal uses while supporting the legal use of existing facilities. The allowance of basement living spaces in response to housing shortages has resulted in long-term issues with flooding and inadequate light and ventilation.It is not inherently negative for the number of goshiwon to increase. There are individuals who urgently need affordable rooms, and if goshiwon were to disappear, they could be pushed into even worse living conditions. The real issue lies in the failure to distinguish between increasing supply and institutionalizing low living standards.If the government is to recognize goshiwon as residences for young people and low-income single-person households, it must establish nationwide common standards for minimum area, external windows, ventilation, and fire and escape requirements. Public financial support should also be limited to facilities that meet these standards. If the amendment is finalized as proposed, the new standards will apply to building permits, architectural committee reviews, and changes in building law from the date of the announcement. This does not address the narrow rooms and windowless units of existing goshiwon.Establishing minimum standards does not mean that goshiwon can replace youth housing. These standards should not serve as a license to downgrade living conditions but rather as a baseline to prevent further deterioration. If goshiwon are temporary or supplementary housing, pathways to transition to appropriate housing, such as public rentals, must also be expanded.Even in a rush to increase supply, the minimum standards for living spaces should not be lowered to create more units. The government must address the housing supply shortage, not lower housing standards. What young people need is not just cramped rooms with added bathtubs or abandoned buses, but spaces they can truly call home. The government should respond to where young people want to live, not just the numbers of units supplied.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-14 16:32:00
  • SC First Bank Reports Record Q2 Net Profit of 319.6 Billion Won
    SC First Bank Reports Record Q2 Net Profit of 319.6 Billion Won SC First Bank has reported its highest-ever net profit for the second quarter, driven by increased non-interest income amid a strong stock market. The bank announced on August 14 that its net profit for the second quarter reached 319.6 billion won, a 230.51% increase compared to the same period last year. This surge is attributed to the rise in non-interest income due to favorable market conditions and the reversal of a portion of the provision related to penalties for Hong Kong H-index linked securities (ELS), amounting to 110.2 billion won. For the first half of the year, the cumulative net profit stood at 424.4 billion won, reflecting a 103.45% increase from the same period last year, marking the largest half-year profit in the bank's history. Interest income for the first half was 609.0 billion won, a slight decrease of 0.13% from the previous year. Total loans increased by 3.58% to 44.7661 trillion won, but the net interest margin (NIM) fell from 1.48% to 1.24%, leading to a minor decline in interest income. In contrast, non-interest income rose by 78% to 365.6 billion won, bolstered by an increase in high-net-worth clients and improved performance in the asset management sector due to the strong stock market. As of the end of the second quarter, the bank's total capital ratio under the Basel III framework was 17.77%, with a common equity tier 1 (CET1) ratio of 15.65%.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-14 16:32:00
  • Gwangju Youth Expand Global Perspectives Through International Visits
    Gwangju Youth Expand Global Perspectives Through International Visits Model youth from Gwangju, South Korea, have broadened their global perspectives by visiting independence movement sites and industrial and educational locations in China and the United States.The Gwangju Integrated Special City announced on August 14 that 14 local model youth participated in the '2026 Model Youth Overseas Study Program' at the invitation of overseas associations of Honam expatriates.This overseas study aimed to provide future leaders with firsthand experiences of historical, cultural, and industrial sites abroad, enhancing their international outlook and pride in their hometown.Eight model youth and their chaperone visited Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong as part of the itinerary organized by the Chinese Honam Association.The students explored independence-related sites such as the Whampoa Military Academy and Dongshan Baiyuan, reflecting on the sacrifices made by their ancestors for national sovereignty.They also visited local companies, including Hyundai Motor Group's HTWO Guangzhou, KUKA, and ORANSI, as well as Shenzhen Polytechnic, to observe the rapidly changing industrial and educational landscape in China. In Hong Kong, they engaged in activities to experience the region's history and culture.At the invitation of the American Honam Association, six model youth and their chaperone traveled to the United States, visiting New York, Maryland, and Philadelphia.The students toured prestigious universities such as Yale and Columbia, and visited Wall Street and the United Nations headquarters to gain insights into global politics, economics, and education.They also explored the history of Korean immigration and the independence movement, visiting the grave of Byun Soo, known as the first Korean student abroad, the Korean Empire Consulate in the U.S., and the Seo Jae-pil Memorial Park, reflecting on the significance of their ancestors' overseas activities and Korea-U.S. exchanges.The overseas invitation program by the Honam expatriate associations has been consistently providing international experiences for the future generations of their hometown.The American Honam Association's overseas study program began in 2001 and has seen 306 youth participate over 23 sessions to date. The Chinese Honam Association's invitation program has been conducted three times since 2020, with a total of 25 participants.The World Honam Association Federation is also contributing to the overseas exchange and talent development of local youth. From 2017 to 2025, it has provided a total of 450 million won in hometown love scholarships to 680 individuals.One student who participated in the China visit remarked, "I was very impressed by the rapid development I witnessed in China, and I want to use this experience to pursue my dreams on a global stage."Shin Hyun-gon, the International Cooperation Officer of Gwangju Integrated Special City, expressed gratitude to the overseas Honam associations for providing opportunities for local youth to experience the world and for supporting talent growth through scholarships. He added, "We will continue to expand international exchange opportunities for youth based on our network with overseas Honam associations."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-14 16:28:00
  • SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won Receives 1.75 Billion Won in First Half of 2026
    SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won Receives 1.75 Billion Won in First Half of 2026 Chey Tae-won, chairman of SK Group, received a total of 1.75 billion won in compensation from the holding company SK during the first half of this year.According to SK's semi-annual report released on August 14, Chairman Chey received a salary of 1.75 billion won for the first half of 2026, with no additional bonuses.This amount is the same as last year, when he received an annual compensation of 3.5 billion won.During the same period, SK President Jang Yong-ho received a total of 1.8 billion won, which includes a salary of 1 billion won and a bonus of 800 million won.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-14 16:24:00
  • Kim Hye-kyung Advocates for Natural Adoption of Hanbok in Daily Life
    Kim Hye-kyung Advocates for Natural Adoption of Hanbok in Daily Life 김혜경 여사는 14일 “한복의 유네스코 인류무형문화유산 등재 추진에도 계속 힘을 보태겠다”고 밝혔다. 김 여사는 이날 오전 서울 동대문디자인플라자(DDP)에서 열린 ‘2026 한복상점’ 행사장을 찾아 참가 업체와 전시 공간을 둘러보고 한복산업 종사자들을 격려하며 이같이 말했다. 안귀령 청와대 부대변인의 서면 브리핑에 따르면 올해 9회째를 맞은 한복상점에는 전국 150여개 한복 업체와 교육기관, 협력기관 등이 참가했다. ‘한복을 짓는 시장’을 주제로 120여년간 한복 제작과 유통의 중심 역할을 해온 광장시장 한복주단시장을 조명하는 기획관도 마련됐다. 회색 한복을 입은 김 여사는 녹색 한복 차림의 최휘영 문화체육관광부 장관, 김경배 한국공예·디자인문화진흥원장과 함께 행사장에 들어섰다. 김 여사는 시민들에게 구매한 물건이 있는지 물으며 “저는 오늘 좀 사겠다”고 농담 섞인 말을 한 뒤 약 30개 부스를 차례로 둘러봤다. 시민들이 사진 촬영을 요청하자 일일이 응했고, 망설이는 시민에게는 “사진 찍을까요”라고 먼저 제안하기도 했다. 최 장관도 “그래야 상인들에게 기록이 남는다”며 시민과 상점 관계자들의 휴대전화로 기념사진을 찍었다. 첫 번째 부스에서는 브로치를 직접 착용해 보고 젊은 층에서 옥반지가 다시 유행하고 있다는 설명을 들었다. 업체 관계자가 제품을 선물하겠다고 하자 김 여사는 “선물은 안 된다”며 정중히 거절하고 기념사진을 촬영했다. 전통한복을 현대적으로 재해석한 ‘서담화’ 부스에서는 전통 봉제기법과 현대적인 실루엣을 접목한 한복을 살펴봤다. 김 여사는 한복을 물세탁할 수 있는지 직접 물은 뒤 “한복은 관리하기 어렵다는 이야기도 있는데 이렇게 관리가 편리하다면 많은 사람이 좋아할 것 같다”고 말했다. 이어 “요즘 외국에 나가 보면 현지에서 한복을 구하기 어렵다고 말하는 사람들이 많다”며 해외 판로 확대의 필요성에도 관심을 보였다. 최 장관은 정부도 한복의 해외 판로를 넓히기 위해 노력하고 있다고 설명했다. 행사장에서는 배우 김가연씨와 두 딸을 만나기도 했다. 김씨가 직접 한복 제작 기술을 배우며 해마다 딸들과 행사장을 찾고 있다고 소개하자 김 여사는 한복에 관한 대화를 나누고 함께 사진을 찍었다. 김 여사는 한복 신발 업체 ‘한복신’ 부스에서는 꽃신을 직접 신어본 뒤 “굉장히 푹신하고 편하다”며 소가죽 재질의 꽃신을 구매했다. 그는 “한복을 입을 일이 많은데 꽃신을 찾기가 너무 힘들다”고도 말했다. 버선코의 선을 살린 부츠를 보고는 “한복뿐 아니라 일상복에 신어도 예쁠 것 같다”며 전통 디자인의 활용 가능성에 관심을 나타냈다. ‘리우앤비우’ 부스에서는 여름용 한지 신발을 신어보고 “한지로 만든 신발은 처음 보는 것 같다”며 찬찬히 살펴봤다. 전통 장신구를 현대적으로 재해석한 부스에서는 나비 모양 장신구를 착용했다. 김 여사는 “지난해 경주 아시아태평양경제협력체(APEC) 정상회의 당시 마지막 주제가 나비여서 비슷한 장신구를 여러 차례 착용했다”고 소개했다. 김 여사는 “나비 사세요, 나비 사세요”라고 말하며 직접 제품 홍보에 나섰고, 한 시민의 머리에 나비 장신구를 꽂아주기도 했다. 나비 브로치도 직접 구매했다. 인공지능(AI) 기술을 활용한 스티커 사진을 찍은 뒤에는 “성형수술한 것처럼 주름이 하나도 안 나왔다”고 농담해 주변의 웃음을 자아냈다. 김 여사는 이어 광장시장을 주제로 조성된 기획관 ‘한복을 짓는 시장’을 찾아 원단과 재봉, 자수, 금박 등 한복 제작 과정과 장인들의 기술을 살펴봤다. 광장시장이 동대문시장에서 출발하게 된 유래에 관한 상인회장의 설명도 들었다. 4대째 가업을 이어오고 있는 ‘할머니갑사’ 관계자들에게는 “자랑스럽다”며 전통을 지켜온 노력을 격려했다. 국내 실크의 70∼80%가 경남 진주에서 생산되지만 코로나19 이후 폐백 생략 등이 늘면서 전통 실크 원단 판매가 어려워졌다는 현장의 목소리에도 귀를 기울였다. 한복근무복 전시관에서는 국외 사무·서비스직 등을 위해 개발된 근무복을 살펴보며 한복을 일상과 일터로 확장하려는 시도에도 관심을 보였다. 대학 문화콘텐츠학과와 의상학과, 서울시 기술교육원 부스도 방문해 교육 현황을 살펴봤다. 서울시 기술교육원 중부캠퍼스 한국의상과가 한남동에 있다는 설명에는 “우리 옆집에 있는 것 아니냐”며 “저도 배우고 싶은데 면접에서 떨어질 수도 있느냐”고 농담했다. 벽봉한국장신구박물관 부스에서는 국가무형유산 옥장 김영희 관장의 안내로 장도와 호패, 노리개 등 전통공예품을 살펴봤다. 김 여사는 오랜 시간 전통 기술을 지키고 계승해온 데 대해 “귀한 일을 하고 계신다”며 존경과 감사의 뜻을 전했다. 김 여사는 공식 관람을 마친 뒤에도 DDP 복도에 마련된 상점들을 둘러보며 색동저고리 모양 안경 케이스와 노리개, 미니 에코백, 곱창 머리끈 등을 직접 구매했다. 김 여사는 일정을 마치며 “한복은 오랜 시간 우리의 삶과 함께해온 소중한 문화유산이자 대한민국을 대표하는 문화자산”이라며 “전통 기술을 이어가는 장인들과 새로운 감각으로 한복을 만들어가는 디자이너들의 노력이 우리 한복산업의 경쟁력을 더욱 높여갈 것”이라고 말했다 이어 “K-콘텐츠에 대한 세계인의 관심이 높아지는 만큼 한복도 대한민국을 대표하는 문화산업으로 더욱 성장하고, 국민들이 일상에서 한복을 자연스럽게 즐기는 문화가 확산되기를 기대한다”고 밝혔다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-14 16:24:00