AJU PRESS ASIA FIRST NEWS AGENCY

Journalist

&
""
Latest by
  • Anyang Sam Hospital Receives Top Rating in Patient Experience Evaluation
    Anyang Sam Hospital Receives Top Rating in Patient Experience Evaluation Anyang Sam Hospital, part of the Hyosan Medical Foundation, has received a top rating in the fifth national patient experience evaluation conducted by the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service. According to the hospital on August 14, this evaluation assessed the medical services experienced by hospitalized patients, focusing on communication with medical staff, explanations of treatment processes, patient participation, nursing services, hospital environment, and patient safety. Notably, this fifth evaluation introduced a grading system to make it easier to understand the results for each medical institution. The evaluation was conducted from August to December 2025, involving 376 general hospitals nationwide, with mobile surveys administered to hospitalized patients aged 19 and older within eight weeks of discharge. Anyang Sam Hospital achieved a comprehensive score of 90.36, earning a first-grade rating. This score is 6.47 points higher than the average of 83.89 for all participating institutions and 7.51 points higher than the average of 82.85 for general hospitals. The hospital received high marks across various categories, including 92.52 in nursing, 91.78 in patient safety and hospital environment, and 91.67 in overall evaluation. To create a patient-centered care environment, Anyang Sam Hospital has implemented training for medical staff on listening and empathetic communication, enhanced explanations of medication and treatment processes, and initiatives to ensure a safe and comfortable hospital environment. This result highlights the importance of not only the quality of care provided by medical institutions but also the actual experiences and communication patients encounter during their hospital stay as key evaluation criteria for medical services. The news of the first-grade rating in the patient experience evaluation is expected to be met with positive reactions from the community. Patients and caregivers who prioritize not only medical capabilities but also the quality of explanations, responses, nursing services, and safe environments when choosing a hospital may find this evaluation result to be a valuable reference. A local resident stated, "In times of illness, how well medical staff explain treatment methods and how attentively they listen to patients is crucial. I find it noteworthy that the hospital received a high rating based on actual patient experiences." Kwon Deok-joo, the hospital director, remarked, "Receiving a first-grade rating in the patient experience evaluation is a testament to the efforts of all staff in providing patient-centered medical services. We will continue to listen to patients' voices and work to improve any discomfort experienced during treatment to become a more trusted hospital." Meanwhile, Anyang Sam Hospital plans to continuously incorporate feedback from patients and caregivers into improving medical services and to create an environment where patients can receive care with peace of mind.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-14 09:36:00
  • KOSPI Fluctuates Around 7000 Mark with Early Gains; KOSDAQ Rises Over 1%
    KOSPI Fluctuates Around 7000 Mark with Early Gains; KOSDAQ Rises Over 1% The KOSPI index surged over 2% in early trading, fluctuating around the 7000 mark. The KOSDAQ also showed a rise of over 1%.According to the Korea Exchange, as of 9:06 a.m., the KOSPI was trading at 6976.33, up 162.99 points (2.39%) from the previous trading day. The index opened at 6995.67, up 182.33 points (2.68%), and reached a high of 7010.86 early in the session.In the securities market, individual and foreign investors were net buyers, purchasing 470.5 billion won and 201.7 billion won, respectively. Meanwhile, institutions were net sellers, offloading 667.7 billion won.Most of the top market capitalization stocks showed strong performance. Hyundai Motor rose by 6.93%, followed by SK Hynix at 5.78%, Samsung Life at 5.32%, Samsung Electro-Mechanics at 3.33%, Kia at 3.28%, SK Square at 2.78%, Samsung Electronics at 1.68%, Samsung C&T at 1.51%, LG Energy Solution at 0.82%, and Samsung Biologics at 0.32%. In contrast, Hanwha Aerospace fell by 1.86% and KB Financial dropped by 0.59%.At the same time, the KOSDAQ was trading at 874.34, up 12.97 points (1.51%) from the previous day. The index opened at 868.07, up 6.70 points (0.78%), and continued its upward trend.In the KOSDAQ market, individual and institutional investors were net sellers, selling 12 billion won and 16.9 billion won, respectively. Conversely, foreign investors were net buyers, purchasing 26.7 billion won.Most of the top KOSDAQ stocks also experienced gains. IOTechniques rose by 4.89%, followed by Juseong Engineering at 3.18%, Rainbow Robotics at 2.82%, EcoPro BM at 2.71%, EcoPro at 2.28%, HLB at 2.11%, Alteogen at 0.63%, and ABL Bio at 0.58%. Rino Industrial remained flat, while Wonik IPS fell by 2.08%.Han Ji-young, a researcher at Kiwoom Securities, stated, "Despite profit-taking pressures following recent consecutive gains and cautious sentiment ahead of the holiday, the domestic stock market is expected to show a strong trend, supported by relief over the U.S. Producer Price Index for July and positive news from SanDisk."He added, "While there may be adjustments due to profit-taking pressures during the session, considering the improved market resilience and quality of supply and demand compared to the past, the market is likely to continue on a recovery path, consistently raising its lows."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-14 09:32:10
  • Rain Expected on East Coast and Showers Elsewhere as Liberation Day Holiday Approaches
    Rain Expected on East Coast and Showers Elsewhere as Liberation Day Holiday Approaches On August 14, the day of Malbok, rain is expected to continue on the East Coast, while other regions will experience scattered showers. On Liberation Day, August 15, the central region will see showers, and rain will fall in the southern regions and Jeju, providing relief from drought conditions.According to Yonhap News, Typhoon Chan-hom, now weakened into a low-pressure system, is located over the East Sea. The accompanying low-altitude clouds are causing overcast skies nationwide, with the East Coast directly affected by easterly winds from the low-pressure system.Ulleungdo and Dokdo are expected to receive 5 to 20 millimeters of rain, while the eastern coastal areas of Gangwon and mountainous regions of Jeju will see an additional 5 to 10 millimeters of rain through the afternoon and evening.Starting August 15, a low-pressure system weakened from Typhoon Dolphin will approach from Shanghai, China, bringing rain. Jeju will see rain on the 15th, with precipitation beginning in the southern regions by the afternoon. This rain is expected to expand nationwide by the early morning of the 16th and gradually taper off starting the night of the 17th.Rainfall is forecasted to be between 50 to 100 millimeters in Busan, Ulsan, and Gyeongnam (with some areas along the southern coast and near Jirisan receiving over 150 millimeters), 30 to 80 millimeters in Honam, Daegu, Gyeongbuk, and Jeju (with some areas along the southern coast and near Jirisan receiving over 120 millimeters, and mountainous areas of Jeju over 150 millimeters), 20 to 60 millimeters in Chungcheong, Ulleungdo, and Dokdo, 5 to 30 millimeters in the metropolitan area, the five islands of the West Sea, Gangwon inland, and mountainous areas of Gangwon, and around 5 millimeters on the eastern coast of Gangwon.This rain is expected to be a welcome relief for the drought-stricken southern regions.The daytime high temperatures are expected to range from 27 to 34 degrees Celsius.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-14 09:32:00
  • Chinas Top Foundries SMIC and Huahong Report Triple-Digit Profit Growth
    China's Top Foundries SMIC and Huahong Report Triple-Digit Profit Growth China's leading foundry companies have reported significant increases in net profit, prompting both to accelerate expansion plans.On the night of August 13, SMIC (Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation), the country's largest foundry, announced that its second-quarter revenue reached $3.056 billion, marking a 36.1% increase year-over-year and a 20% rise from the previous quarter. This is the first time SMIC's quarterly revenue has surpassed $3 billion.SMIC's net profit for the second quarter was $479.2 million, a staggering 261.7% increase compared to the same period last year. The company's factory utilization rate rose to 93.7%. SMIC forecasts a revenue increase of 2% to 4% in the third quarter compared to the previous quarter. Capital expenditures for the second quarter were $1.8357 billion, up from $1.5628 billion in the first quarter.SMIC stated, "We expect broad demand for semiconductor manufacturing to continue, and we will quickly expand new production capacity to alleviate supply chain shortages."Similarly, Huahong Grace Semiconductor Manufacturing Corp., China's second-largest foundry, reported a second-quarter revenue of $717.5 million, which is a 26.8% increase year-over-year and an 8.6% increase from the previous quarter. Its net profit was $38.6 million, reflecting a 385.9% increase compared to last year. Huahong's factory utilization rate was 102.8% in the second quarter, and the company invested $356.6 million in capital expenditures during the same period.Huahong also announced plans to steadily expand production capacity while enhancing specialized process technologies.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-14 09:28:00
  • Russian Opposition Politician: Putin Aware of War Fatigue
    Russian Opposition Politician: Putin Aware of War Fatigue Recently escaped Russian opposition politician Boris Nadezhdin, 63, claimed that the prolonged war has increased fatigue among the Russian populace, and that President Vladimir Putin is aware of this.In an interview with CNN on August 13, Nadezhdin stated, "President Putin and his inner circle know that they must stop the war to regain public support." However, he expressed uncertainty about whether Putin would actually end the conflict.Nadezhdin asserted that voices calling for peace are growing not only in Russian society but also among the elite and Putin's closest allies. He attributed this to rising prices, declining living standards, and drone attacks on Russian territory by Ukraine, which have fueled discontent.Recent polls reflect this shift in sentiment. According to the independent Russian polling agency Levada Center, support for military action in Ukraine dropped to 66% last month, the lowest level since the invasion began in 2022. However, he noted that strong media control and suppression of anti-war sentiment limit the accurate assessment of public opinion.Putin's approval ratings have also declined this year. A survey by the state-owned polling agency VTsIOM indicated that his approval rating for governance fell to 65.6% in April, the lowest since the start of the conflict.Nadezhdin attempted to challenge Putin in the 2024 presidential election on a platform of peace but was denied candidate registration due to issues with gathering endorsements. He also planned to run in the upcoming September parliamentary elections, but Russian authorities designated him as a 'foreign agent,' preventing his candidacy. He left Russia earlier this month.Nadezhdin predicted that while a ceasefire agreement may be possible, establishing long-term peace between Russia, Ukraine, and the West would be challenging in the short term.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-14 09:24:00
  • Cheongyang Jeongsan Hyanggyo Cheongaru Designated as National Treasure
    Cheongyang Jeongsan Hyanggyo Cheongaru Designated as National Treasure The Cultural Heritage Administration announced on August 14 that it plans to designate 'Cheongyang Jeongsan Hyanggyo Cheongaru' (referred to as Cheongaru) as a national designated cultural heritage (treasure).There are no records indicating the exact date of Cheongaru's construction. However, it is believed to have been relocated to its current site in the early 17th century, based on a record from 1630 requesting the establishment of the Hyanggyo and inscriptions found on roof tiles recovered from the site. An analysis of the aging of key structural components in 2023 confirmed that materials harvested in 1640 were used in its construction. The presence of physical evidence supporting the construction date enhances its historical value.Cheongaru serves as the entrance gate to the Hyanggyo. Built as a multi-story structure, it reflects the authority and dignity of the Hyanggyo while fulfilling various functions, including education, Confucian rituals, and rest. The name is derived from the Confucian classic 'Shijing,' meaning 'the joy of nurturing talent.'It features a two-story structure with five bays in the front and one bay on the side, forming a '一' shape. This is larger than the typical three-bay front and two-bay side structures found in Hyanggyo buildings in the Chungnam region. However, the upper structure is quite simple and unadorned.The three central bays on the lower level are used as the entrance. The central bay has double doors, flanked by single doors, serving as the main entrance. The outermost bays on either side contain a storage area and stairs, while the upper level is utilized for lectures and study, as well as a space for students to rest and cultivate their minds and bodies. This illustrates the multifunctional role of the Hyanggyo gate.Additionally, the window frames of Cheongaru feature 'yeongsangchang,' a type of window found in buildings predating the mid-Joseon period. Yeongsangchang refers to window frames that have a post in the middle of a pair of double windows. The intricate joinery techniques evident in the wooden doors and beams reflect the architectural methods of the mid-Joseon period.The Cultural Heritage Administration stated, 'Cheongaru has significant historical symbolism as a center for education and moral instruction, and a substantial portion of the original materials remains. The building's form also relatively preserves its original appearance, making it highly valued for its historical authenticity and architectural significance.'After a 30-day period for public feedback, the Cultural Heritage Committee will make a final decision on the designation of the treasure.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-14 09:20:00
  • Korea Agricultural Technology Promotion Agency to Hire Eight New Employees
    Korea Agricultural Technology Promotion Agency to Hire Eight New Employees The Korea Agricultural Technology Promotion Agency announced on August 14 that it will publicly recruit new employees to drive the practical application of research and development achievements in agricultural science and technology. A total of eight positions will be filled, including three professional roles and five public service roles. Details regarding the responsibilities and qualifications for each position can be found on the agency's official website. The recruitment process will utilize a blind evaluation method, excluding factors unrelated to job performance such as gender, age, and educational background. The agency plans to focus on assessing candidates' expertise and job competencies based on job descriptions. Applications will be accepted online from 10 a.m. on the 21st to 2 p.m. on the 31st through the agency's dedicated recruitment website. Detailed recruitment schedules and procedures can be checked on the agency's official site under 'KoAT News - Recruitment Announcements.' Lee Seok-hyung, the head of the agency, stated, "To lead innovation in agricultural technology and the growth of the agricultural industry, it is essential to secure talented individuals with expertise and passion. We look forward to receiving applications from outstanding candidates who will help shape the future of our organization through a fair and transparent recruitment process."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-14 09:16:10
  • Final Resolution Possible in Choi Tae-won and Noh So-youngs Asset Division Case
    Final Resolution Possible in Choi Tae-won and Noh So-young's Asset Division Case The long-standing asset division lawsuit between Choi Tae-won, chairman of SK Group, and Noh So-young, director of Art Center Nabi, may reach a conclusion today. If both parties forgo an appeal, a ruling from the Supreme Court will require Choi to pay Noh 944 billion won. However, if either side files an appeal, the case will return to the Supreme Court for further judgment.According to legal sources, today marks the final day for both parties to appeal the Supreme Court's ruling on the asset division case. If no appeal is submitted by 11:59:59 PM, the ruling requiring Choi to pay Noh 944 billion won will become final at midnight on the 15th.Once the ruling is finalized, Choi will be required to pay an annual late interest of 5% until the full amount is settled, which amounts to approximately 47.2 billion won per year, or about 1.3 billion won per day. There is some debate in the legal community regarding the start date for late interest, with some suggesting it should begin on the 15th, while the prevailing interpretation is that it will start on the 16th, the day after the ruling is finalized.As of today, neither party has publicly disclosed their stance on whether they will appeal. However, legal experts believe that since the Supreme Court's ruling is seen as a victory for Noh, the likelihood of her appealing is low.Conversely, there are speculations that Choi's side may choose to appeal to reduce the burden of late interest and secure more time to arrange the cash. Nonetheless, some analysts suggest that Choi may accept the ruling to alleviate legal risks and focus on business operations.If the Supreme Court's ruling is finalized, it will mark the end of a legal dispute that began in 2017 when Choi filed for divorce.Choi and Noh married in September 1998 and have three children, but their relationship deteriorated over time. In 2015, Choi publicly acknowledged the existence of an extramarital child, and in 2017, he filed for divorce, which was unsuccessful, leading to formal litigation in February of the following year. Noh filed a counter-suit in 2019, agreeing to the divorce.In the initial trial, the court ordered Choi to pay Noh 100 million won in alimony and 665 million won in asset division, ruling that Choi's SK shares were not subject to division as they were considered separate property.In the second trial, the court recognized Noh's contributions to the growth of SK Group, including a 30 billion won slush fund linked to former President Roh Tae-woo, and increased the alimony to 200 million won and the asset division amount to 1.38 trillion won.However, in October of last year, the Supreme Court upheld the 200 million won alimony but ruled that the 30 billion won slush fund could not be considered illegal funds contributed by Noh, sending the case back to the Seoul High Court.On June 24, the Supreme Court's ruling stated that Choi's shares were acquired during the marriage and that both Choi and Noh contributed to their formation and value increase, thus classifying the SK shares as divisible assets. Consequently, the court ruled that Choi must pay Noh 944 billion won.The valuation date for the divisible shares was set for April 16, 2024, the conclusion date of the fact-finding trial in the divorce case. The court rejected Noh's argument to use June 26, the conclusion date of the Supreme Court's ruling, but the significant increase in stock prices between the two dates was reflected in the asset division calculation.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-14 09:16:00
  • Shinhan Bank Unveils New Shinhan Love for Country Card Ad Featuring ITZYs Yuna
    Shinhan Bank Unveils New 'Shinhan Love for Country Card' Ad Featuring ITZY's Yuna Shinhan Bank has released a new advertisement for its 'Shinhan Love for Country Card,' featuring Yuna from the girl group ITZY, along with actors Gong Min-jung and Lim Sung-jae.The bank announced that the ad, produced by the content creation company Dolphin Kidnappers, will be showcased starting August 14 on YouTube and major digital media platforms.Set against the backdrop of the filming location, the advertisement captures Yuna's transformation as she becomes increasingly immersed in her role, evolving into a 'soldier to the core.' Gong Min-jung, playing the role of the client, and Lim Sung-jae, portraying the director, react with surprise to Yuna's transformation, delivering a message of respect and support for military personnel through a surprising narrative twist.The 'Shinhan Love for Country Card' is a debit card that offers financial and lifestyle benefits throughout the military service process, from military service examinations to active duty and reserve forces. Benefits include discounts at military marts (PX), public transportation, and free accident insurance during service.In addition to the main advertisement, Shinhan Bank plans to release related digital content, including interviews with the cast, a military song music video, and shorts. The bank will also expand its campaign by presenting military-related content offline in conjunction with online advertising.From August 14 to 20, a pop-up store themed 'Military Supply Store' will operate at the Yongsan Station concourse in Seoul. The store will offer limited-edition merchandise in collaboration with model Yuna and host various on-site events.A Shinhan Bank representative stated, "Through creative and unpredictable content, we aim to familiarize the public with the Love for Country Card while expressing our respect and support for South Korean soldiers. We will continue to expand benefits and services that provide practical assistance to military personnel's financial lives."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-14 09:12:00
  • Seoul Apartment Land Transaction Permit Applications Decline for Three Consecutive Months
    Seoul Apartment Land Transaction Permit Applications Decline for Three Consecutive Months The number of land transaction permit applications for apartments in Seoul has decreased for three consecutive months, dropping 47.5% from the peak in April. Demand remains strong in the northern and southwestern areas compared to Gangnam and Yongsan.On August 14, the Seoul city government reported that the number of new land transaction permit applications for apartments in July totaled 4,681.According to the city, the July applications represent a 47.5% decrease from the year's peak of 8,911 applications in April. This figure also marks an 11.7% decline from June's 5,304 applications. The trend has continued downward from April's peak of 8,911 to 6,021 in May, 5,304 in June, and now 4,681 in July.The average daily applications in July were 212.8, down 15.8% from June's 252.6, marking the lowest level this year. As of the end of July, the cumulative number of applications since the implementation of the land transaction permit system across Seoul reached 53,114, with 51,698 (97.3%) processed.The city analyzed that the decline in applications is a result of a combination of factors, including a surge in so-called 'last-minute transactions' in April and May before the end of the tax exemption for multiple homeowners, leading to a lock-up of listings and a wait-and-see approach from buyers and sellers ahead of the announcement of the August 3 tax reform plan.Regionally, all areas saw a decrease in permit applications. Notably, Gangnam and Yongsan experienced the largest drop, with applications falling from 691 in June to 542 in July, a decrease of 21.6%. Their share of total applications also fell from 13.0% to 11.6%.The seven districts along the Han River saw applications decrease from 1,168 to 1,033, a drop of 11.6%. The ten districts in North Gangbuk saw a decline from 2,450 to 2,185, a decrease of 10.8%, while the four districts in the southwestern area dropped from 995 to 921, a 7.4% decline.However, the share of applications from North Gangbuk increased from 46.2% to 46.7%. The southwestern area also rose from 18.8% to 19.7%. The Han River belt saw a slight increase from 22.0% to 22.1%, while Gangnam and Yongsan's share decreased from 13.0% to 11.6%.The city noted that the wait-and-see attitude was particularly pronounced in the high-priced areas of Gangnam and Yongsan, ahead of the announcement of lending regulations and tax reforms. In contrast, demand in North and Southwestern areas remained strong, particularly for apartments priced around 600 million won, which are eligible for policy loans, attracting first-time buyers and newlyweds. The shortage of rental properties also contributed to some rental demand shifting to purchases.Applications for exemptions from the mandatory residence requirement for properties with tenants also decreased. In July, there were 211 applications, accounting for 4.5% of total permit applications, down 23.6% from 276 in June, with its share of total applications falling from 5.2% to 4.5%.Regionally, North Gangbuk had the highest number of applications at 96, followed by the Han River belt with 53, and both Gangnam and Yongsan and the southwestern area with 31 each.The city believes that the government's ongoing policy to expand the temporary exemption from the mandatory residence requirement in land transaction permit zones will have a limited impact on the real estate market.Alongside the decline in applications, the rate of increase in application prices has also slowed. In July, the average application price for land transaction permits in Seoul rose by 1.41% compared to the previous month, a significant decrease from June's 2.67% increase.Regionally, Gangnam and Yongsan saw a modest increase of 0.38%, while the Han River belt rose by 0.63%. In contrast, North Gangbuk experienced a 1.78% increase, and the southwestern area rose by 2.29%, continuing a relatively high growth trend.The city analyzed that the temporary trading impact from the end of the capital gains tax exemption for multiple homeowners has mostly dissipated, leading to stable general trading activity. As demand continues to focus on real needs amid lending regulations, the overall price increase in Seoul has slowed. Notably, in North and Southwestern areas, the demand for mid-priced apartments has resulted in higher growth rates compared to Gangnam.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-14 09:08:00