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Check Your National Pension Contributions Instantly via KakaoTalk Chatbot Users can now easily check their National Pension contribution history through KakaoTalk without needing to install a separate application or visit a website. The National Pension Service (NPS) has introduced a chatbot service utilizing artificial intelligence (AI), enhancing accessibility to public services.On September 17, the NPS, led by Commissioner Kim Sung-joo, announced the launch of a new KakaoTalk-based service linked to the 'AI National Secretary' platform promoted by the Ministry of the Interior and Safety. The 'National Pension Contribution History Inquiry' service is now available, and by the end of September, a 'Voluntary Enrollment Application' service will be gradually introduced for individuals not required to enroll, such as housewives and students.The 'AI National Secretary' service allows citizens to conveniently access public services through a widely used private messaging platform. With this integration, National Pension subscribers can quickly check their pension information without the hassle of complicated authentication processes or navigating through menus.Using the service is straightforward. Users can access KakaoTalk (More tab ➔ click on AI National Secretary icon) and simply request, 'Check my National Pension contribution history' or 'I want to apply for voluntary enrollment' in everyday language.The system identifies the user's intent in real-time and guides them to the necessary services. After a simple verification process (consent and authentication for third-party provision), users can immediately view detailed information, including total months of contribution and contribution amounts.Previously, accessing pension-related services required visiting the NPS website or downloading a dedicated mobile app to navigate through various menus. The NPS stated, 'In the future, everyone will be able to use the services they want more easily and quickly just by starting a conversation in a familiar messaging app used nationwide.'Commissioner Kim Sung-joo remarked, 'Now, citizens can check their National Pension contribution history and apply for voluntary enrollment conveniently, just like chatting with a friend on KakaoTalk. We will continue to lead the transition of public institutions to AI by providing more convenient and reliable pension services using AI technology.' 2026-09-17 14:52:00 -
Defense Committee Adopts Report on Kang Shin-cheol Amid Opposition Walkout The National Assembly's Defense Committee adopted a report on Kang Shin-cheol, the nominee for Minister of National Defense, on September 17, led by the Democratic Party. The opposition parties, including the People Power Party and the Reform Party, boycotted the vote, citing unresolved allegations regarding Kang's involvement in special housing provisions for evicted residents.During the committee's meeting, Democratic Party lawmaker Kim Byeong-joo, the committee's secretary, stated, "Kang has been deemed the most suitable candidate for the position of Minister of National Defense through the confirmation hearing," and urged for a swift adoption of the report.In contrast, Lim Jong-deok, the secretary for the People Power Party, criticized Kang for failing to thoroughly address the allegations related to the special housing provisions and issues concerning the integration of military academies. Lim remarked, "Kang is indecisive and incompetent. He is unqualified to serve as Minister of National Defense." Cheon Ha-ram, a member of the Reform Party, also expressed opposition, questioning the necessity of the confirmation hearing if the National Assembly was merely going to approve the report without proper scrutiny.Members of the People Power Party left the meeting before the vote on the report and held an emergency press conference. They asserted that Kang's unsuitability for the role of Minister of National Defense was proven during the previous day's confirmation hearing, stating, "We cannot entrust the defense of our nation to a candidate lacking qualifications and policy knowledge, who is merely catering to the Blue House's preferences."They warned, "If the Democratic Party unilaterally adopts the confirmation report, we will expose the unfitness of this unqualified nominee to the public and hold them accountable."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-17 14:48:00
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Impact of Federal Reserve Rate Hike on South Korean Economy The U.S. Federal Reserve has raised interest rates for the first time in over three years, increasing the burden on the South Korean economy. The Bank of Japan is also expected to raise rates, indicating a coordinated tightening among major economies that could significantly impact exchange rates, prices, and the cost of financing for households and businesses.On September 16, the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) raised the policy interest rate by 0.25 percentage points, from 3.50-3.75% to 3.75-4.00%. This marks the first increase since July 2023, with all 12 committee members voting in favor. Among the 18 members who submitted projections, 16 anticipated further increases by the end of the year.The robust economy and slow inflation were cited as reasons for the hike. The Fed raised its U.S. growth forecast for the year to 2.3%, an increase of 0.1 percentage points, and also adjusted its personal consumption expenditures (PCE) inflation forecast to 3.7%, up by 0.1 percentage points. The median forecast for the policy rate by the end of next year rose from 3.6% to 4.1%, suggesting a prolonged period of high rates.Fed Chair Kevin Warsh stated that current financial conditions cannot be considered tight, describing the rate increase as a move to remove some of the accommodative stance. The market interpreted this as a signal for potential further increases, leading to a rise in U.S. Treasury yields and a drop in stock prices following the announcement.Japan is also expected to join the tightening trend. The Bank of Japan will hold a monetary policy meeting on September 18, where it is likely to raise rates from the current 1% to 1.25%. The anticipation of Japan's rate hike has been prevalent even before the Fed's decision, highlighting the possibility of synchronized tightening.As a result of this increase, the interest rate gap between South Korea and the U.S. has widened to 1 percentage point based on the upper limit of U.S. rates. The Bank of Korea raised its benchmark rate to 3.00% last month. The higher U.S. rates may enhance the investment appeal of dollar assets, exerting downward pressure on the won. However, actual exchange rates will vary based on the current account balance, foreign investment, and the dollar supply from exporting companies.Continued depreciation of the won could increase the costs of importing oil and raw materials, adding pressure to domestic prices. Additionally, rising Japanese rates could alter the demand for overseas bonds by Japanese investors and the cost of yen financing, necessitating a close watch on global capital flows.Households and businesses may feel the impact through market interest rates. If rising U.S. Treasury yields lead to higher domestic bank and corporate bond rates, the costs of loans and refinancing will increase. This could particularly burden borrowers with variable-rate loans or those facing upcoming maturities, reducing their capacity for consumption and investment.The government's fiscal management may also face challenges. As market interest rates rise, the interest costs for newly issued or maturing government bonds will increase. Prolonged high rates could limit the fiscal capacity for economic response and support for vulnerable groups, making it crucial to manage the timing and volume of bond issuance to control financing costs.The impact on exports is twofold. Strong U.S. consumption and investment support demand for South Korean products, but prolonged tightening could dampen spending, posing challenges for exports. Consequently, the Bank of Korea must assess the effects of domestic prices and household debt alongside the tightening measures of major economies on the economy and financial markets.The government believes the immediate shock will be limited. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance Ku Yun-cheol held a macroeconomic finance meeting with Bank of Korea Governor Shin Hyun-sung, stating that the market had already priced in the rate hike and that overall financial market conditions remain stable.However, if excessive concentration occurs in the bond market, the government plans to implement market stabilization measures and may need to supplement support for vulnerable borrowers as necessary. Continuous monitoring of the Fed's potential further rate hikes, as well as monetary policy decisions in Japan and the UK, along with international oil prices and capital flows, will be maintained. 2026-09-17 14:48:00
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Han River ferry marks 1st anniversary with more than 600,000 riders SEOUL, September 17 (AJP) - Seoul's water ferry service along the Han River has carried more than 600,000 passengers in about a year after its launch last fall, the Seoul Metropolitan Government said on Thursday. According to the city government, the cumulative number of passengers stood at 603,293 as of early this week, with the service set to mark its first anniversary this Friday after beginning operations on Sept. 18 last year. The milestone comes after a rocky start, with technical glitches and safety concerns causing several service disruptions and temporary halts during the first few months before full-route service resumed in March this year. Most passengers were satisfied with the service. In a survey of about 3,500 riders conducted in June and July, 97.3 percent said they were happy with the service. Some 93.2 percent of them said they would ride it again, while 95.4 percent said they would definitely recommend the service to others. The service has also had an impact on nearby businesses and passenger traffic. According to the city government, average monthly passenger traffic around a pier in Yeouido increased by 20.9 percent in May compared with the same month before the service began. Card spending at restaurants in the area also rose 15.5 percent over the same period. The city government also plans to promote tourism by linking the service with scenic waterfront areas along the river as part of its long-term strategy. Meanwhile, a special event celebrating the service's first anniversary will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. in Yeouido on Friday. Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon said the service could become more than just a means of transportation by connecting the Han River with nearby neighborhoods. "Over the next five to 10 years, we will continue to improve safety, add more piers and make the service more convenient so that Seoul residents can use it as part of their daily lives," Oh said. AJP Takeaways - Seoul's Han River water ferry service carried 603,293 passengers by mid-September 2026, reaching more than 600,000 riders approximately one year after launching on Sept. 18, 2025. - Passenger satisfaction with the Han River water ferry service remains high: a Seoul Metropolitan Government survey of about 3,500 riders conducted in June and July 2026 found that 97.3 percent were satisfied, 93.2 percent said they would ride again, and 95.4% said they would recommend the service. - The Han River water ferry service has coincided with increased activity around Yeouido: average monthly passenger traffic near a Yeouido pier rose 20.9 percent in May 2026 compared with May before the service launched, while restaurant card spending in the area increased 15.5 percent. 2026-09-17 14:44:23 -
Gwangju City Advances Influenza Vaccination Amid Early Outbreak Gwangju City has decided to advance its national vaccination schedule due to an earlier-than-usual influenza outbreak this year.An influenza outbreak advisory was issued on September 11, more than a month earlier than last year.In response to the spread of influenza, which poses a significant risk of severe complications such as pneumonia for high-risk groups including the elderly and children, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency has urgently adjusted the national vaccination schedule.Vaccinations for children aged 6 months to 14 years and pregnant women will begin on September 21.Notably, children who were originally scheduled for a single dose starting on September 28 will now also be able to receive their vaccinations starting September 21, in line with those requiring two doses.To prevent initial crowding and ensure safe vaccinations, the schedule for seniors aged 65 and older will also be moved up by about a week.Seniors aged 75 and older (born on or before December 31, 1951) will begin vaccinations on October 6, those aged 70 to 74 (born between January 1, 1952, and December 31, 1956) on October 12, and those aged 65 to 69 (born between January 1, 1957, and December 31, 1961) on October 15.Vaccinations can be received at designated medical institutions regardless of the individual's residence.Individuals must bring identification for vaccination.Before visiting, it is advisable to check with the medical institution regarding vaccine availability and operating hours.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-17 14:44:00
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K-LNG Technology Shines at Gastech as Samsung E&A and Hanwha Ocean Showcase Innovations In response to the expanding global liquefied natural gas (LNG) market, South Korea's plant and shipbuilding industries are enhancing their LNG technology portfolios. Samsung E&A has unveiled a modular package designed to shorten construction periods for LNG liquefaction plants, while Hanwha Ocean showcased new technologies related to standard floating LNG production facilities (FLNG) and LNG-powered vessels.According to industry sources, Samsung E&A and Hanwha Ocean presented their latest LNG technologies and development achievements at Gastech 2026, the world's largest gas and energy exhibition, held in Bangkok, Thailand.Samsung E&A introduced its 'LNG Module Package,' specifically designed for LNG liquefaction plant construction. This solution combines Honeywell Technologies' AP-SMR liquefaction technology with Samsung E&A's modular design and execution capabilities, targeting small to medium-sized LNG liquefaction plants.The package features pre-designed and modularized key processes, which aim to reduce the duration of the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) phases from the initial development stage. Samsung E&A estimates that this approach could shorten overall project timelines by approximately 20%.This year, Samsung E&A has restructured its business portfolio to focus on chemical, advanced industries, and new energy, identifying LNG as a key growth area. The company has since secured contracts for the basic design of an LNG plant in Indonesia and conceptual design projects in North America.A Samsung E&A representative stated, "By combining proven process technologies with our modular execution capabilities, we aim to reduce project timelines and lower uncertainties in project execution. We will actively respond to the growing demand for modularization in LNG plants and strengthen collaboration with clients from the early stages of projects to expand our participation in the LNG sector."Hanwha Ocean also made significant announcements at Gastech regarding its technological advancements in FLNG and LNG-powered vessels. The company received concept approval (AIP) for its standard FLNG design from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) and the Norwegian classification society DNV. The goal is to enhance project execution efficiency by utilizing a repeatable standard platform to reduce initial engineering timelines.Additionally, Hanwha Ocean's high-manganese steel cargo tank 'Mactive,' designed for 100,000 cubic meter very large ethane carriers (VLEC), has received AIP from Lloyd's Register (LR). The company also completed a joint development project with DNV for next-generation high-pressure LNG fuel tanks, increasing the allowable pressure for LNG-powered container ship fuel tanks from a maximum of 0.7 barg to 2.0 barg.Furthermore, Hanwha Ocean is pursuing new research and development initiatives related to LNG. The company is collaborating with LR to extend the internal inspection cycle for LNG carrier cargo tanks from the current five years to a maximum of 7.5 years, and has begun developing an 18,000 cubic meter LNG bunkering vessel with the Korean Register (KR).A Hanwha Ocean representative remarked, "We are continuously expanding our technology portfolio to respond to diverse market demands. Based on our differentiated research and development and engineering capabilities, we will provide optimal future marine solutions."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-17 14:44:00
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Prosecutor Impersonator Arrested as Leader of Voice Phishing Ring that Stole $42 Million Police have arrested members of a voice phishing organization that impersonated prosecutors and financial institutions to steal hundreds of millions of won.According to Yonhap News, the Busan Metropolitan Police Agency's Special Investigation Unit apprehended 67 individuals, including a 30-year-old Chinese national identified as A, on September 17 for violating the Telecommunications Fraud Act, with 17 of them being detained.Police stated that A is the leader of the group that previously impersonated 'Prosecutor Kim Min-soo' to commit voice phishing against job seekers in their 20s.From August 2015 to July 2021, A and his associates allegedly set up call centers overseas, including in China, and impersonated officials from the prosecution and the Financial Supervisory Service to defraud victims of approximately 5 billion won.The group attracted members through high-paying job advertisements on social media, dividing roles among call center operators, recruiters, and cash collectors.They deceived victims by claiming that their names were linked to illegal bank accounts and that they needed to transfer their funds, or by offering low-interest refinancing loans.During their impersonation, they presented forged official identification and false documents detailing case summaries to avoid raising suspicion among victims.Police believe this organization is also linked to a previous case involving the impersonation of 'Prosecutor Kim Min-soo.' In that incident, on January 20, 2020, they allegedly tricked a job seeker in their 20s into withdrawing 4.2 million won by claiming they were involved in a large-scale financial scam.It was later reported that the victim took their own life a few days after the incident.A police official noted that there was no specific reason for choosing the alias 'Kim Min-soo.'Regarding A, the official stated, 'He partially admitted to his involvement in the crimes but denied being the leader, showing little remorse.'Police are currently seeking 33 accomplices believed to have fled abroad, requesting Interpol red notices and extradition.Authorities plan to further investigate the specific roles of the arrested suspects and the scale of the criminal proceeds while continuing to track down the fugitives.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-17 14:44:00
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Han Byeong-do Calls for Policy-Focused National Assembly Audit Han Byeong-do, the floor leader of the Democratic Party, emphasized on September 17 that "it is time to accelerate efforts for the people's livelihood" and urged that next month's National Assembly audit be transformed into a 'policy audit.' He also expressed a firm stance against the opposition's political maneuvers aimed at obstruction.During a party meeting held at the National Assembly, Han stated, "As I have stressed since before the regular session began, we must tighten our legislative efforts with a wartime mindset."He noted, "Yesterday, the confirmation hearings for cabinet members concluded with the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport and the Ministry of National Defense. However, some members of the People Power Party and other opposition lawmakers have fixated on irresponsible allegations and personal attacks, dragging the confirmation hearings into a quagmire," expressing regret over the politicization of the hearings.Han urged for a focused and thorough operation of the standing committees to expedite legislation for the people's livelihood, stating, "This National Assembly audit must be a policy audit. We must respond firmly to the opposition's political maneuvers aimed at obstructing the audit and to any wasteful political disputes."He also mentioned that there are movements within some standing committees to summon several heads of large corporations as witnesses, asserting, "The Democratic Party cannot agree to witness summons aimed solely at shaming individuals. I ask the committee members to ensure that witness selections are handled appropriately and not in a way that seeks to embarrass anyone." He concluded by urging everyone to work together to ensure that the audit serves as a platform for policy alternatives focused on the people's livelihood.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-17 14:40:20
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Reconstruction of Apgujeong Hyundai Apartments: Building a New Future The reconstruction of Apgujeong is not a single project. The areas from Misung Apartments near the Han River Bridge to Hanyang Apartments in Cheongdam-dong are advancing with different associations and timelines for districts 1 through 6. This follows the Seoul city government's 2016 announcement of a district unit plan that grouped 24 apartment complexes in the Apgujeong area into six reconstruction project units. Apgujeong was designated as an apartment district in 1976. This designation aimed to quickly supply large-scale apartments by dividing a wide area into residential, central facility, school, road, and park zones. While it contributed to alleviating housing shortages, limitations became apparent over time. The separation of complexes and commercial areas, along with the massive apartment walls, disrupted the urban landscape. There was also a lack of pedestrian pathways connecting Apgujeong Road to the Han River. Reconstructing aging apartments individually could exacerbate these issues. If a single complex focuses solely on its own land for building and entrances, it may not connect well with surrounding roads and parks. This could lead to a chaotic skyline along the Han River and complicate the allocation of responsibilities for schools, transportation facilities, and access routes to the river. To address these challenges, the Seoul city government proposed transitioning the existing apartment district to a district unit plan in October 2016, grouping adjacent complexes into six special planning zones. The divisions were based on road and land boundaries, existing living areas, and the potential for integrated reconstruction, rather than the names of complexes or construction phases. However, the announcement in 2016 did not immediately lead to legal confirmation, as the plan underwent long-term adjustments through resident feedback, urban planning reviews, and policy changes. A turning point came in 2023 when the Seoul city government finalized the rapid integration plan for districts 2 to 5, presenting a vision to connect the areas as a single urban entity. Key elements included a creative skyline along the Han River, waterfront leisure and cultural hubs, public pedestrian pathways, and connections to Seongsu and Seoul Forest. In November of the same year, the district unit plan for the Apgujeong apartment area was officially decided and announced. Currently, the pace of the projects varies by district. District 2, composed of Shin-Hyundai 9, 11, and 12, has selected Hyundai Construction as its contractor and became the first among districts 2 to 5 to conditionally pass the integrated review by the Seoul city government in July 2026. The plan includes a maximum of 66 floors and 2,381 housing units, and it is progressing through the project approval process. The largest project, District 3, has also selected Hyundai Construction, while District 4, consisting of Hyundai 8 and Hanyang 3, 4, and 6, has chosen Samsung C&T, and District 5, made up of Hanyang 1 and 2, has selected Hyundai Construction as well. Districts 1 and 6 are in the early stages of preparing for association establishment. The six-district framework is not intended to fragment Apgujeong into six pieces. While the projects will be pursued by district, the goal is to connect roads, green spaces, the Han River landscape, and pedestrian systems at the overall Apgujeong level. The challenge ahead will be how to coordinate the pace and interests of each district to create 'six projects, one city.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-17 14:32:20
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Are Special Planning Zones Favorable Areas? Balancing Development and Public Contribution The term 'special planning zone' can easily be misunderstood as a privileged area with relaxed regulations. However, in urban planning, a special planning zone is designated for areas that are large or of significant urban importance, making it difficult to develop them under standard building codes. The city of Seoul establishes the overarching framework for special planning zones. This includes zoning, floor area ratio, building height, parks and roads, public pedestrian pathways, schools, and landscape principles. Within this framework, development associations must create specific building plans and detailed development plans, which require approval from the city of Seoul and Gangnam District. Being designated as a special planning zone does not automatically permit reconstruction or the construction of high-rise buildings. Relaxed height and floor area ratios can enhance the feasibility of projects by allowing for more housing units. In return, development associations are required to provide roads, parks, public facilities, and access routes to the Han River. This is referred to as public contribution. Ultimately, special planning zones are a system that exchanges and manages development potential and public responsibility within a single plan. The key issue in Apgujeong is not simply whether it is a matter of 'privilege or regulation,' but whether the increased development benefits are actually returned to the citizens in the form of public contributions.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-17 14:32:10