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  • President Lee Holds Golf Meeting with Ruling Party Lawmakers to Foster Communication
    President Lee Holds Golf Meeting with Ruling Party Lawmakers to Foster Communication President Lee Jae-myung has recently held a series of golf meetings with veteran lawmakers from the ruling People Power Party. According to political sources on August 13, President Lee played golf with lawmakers Joo Ho-young and Park Deok-heum at a location in June, coinciding with the formation of the new National Assembly leadership. Joo, a six-term representative from Daegu's Suseong-gu, previously served as the vice speaker of the National Assembly, while Park, a four-term representative from Chungbuk's Boeun, Okcheon, Yeongdong, and Goeisan, currently holds the position of vice speaker. National Assembly Speaker Cho Jung-sik was also reportedly present at the meeting. This gathering appears to have included invitations extended to both the incoming and outgoing leadership of the National Assembly. It has been reported that lawmakers from the ruling party raised the need for integration in the Daegu and Gyeongbuk (TK) region during the discussions. President Lee's team has previously suggested several golf meetings with People Power Party lawmakers. The Blue House has stated that it cannot confirm the president's private schedule.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-13 11:08:00
  • Korea Exchange Begins Delisting of Low-Value Stocks, Aiming for KOSDAQ Normalization
    Korea Exchange Begins Delisting of Low-Value Stocks, Aiming for KOSDAQ Normalization The Korea Exchange designated 36 stocks as managed stocks on August 12. These companies either failed to maintain a stock price above 1,000 won or did not meet the market capitalization requirements for listing. This marks the first large-scale action under the revised listing regulations that took effect last month. Observers predict that the number of managed stocks could rise to around 100.For a long time, the Korean stock market, particularly KOSDAQ, has operated under a structure characterized by a high number of listings but a low rate of delistings. Over the past 20 years, 1,353 companies have been newly listed, while only 415 have been delisted. The result? Despite KOSDAQ's market capitalization increasing 8.6 times during this period, the index itself has only risen 1.6 times.The presence of failing companies in the market has weighed down the index, making it difficult for investors to expect reasonable returns. The long-standing stigma of the 'Korea Discount' is closely tied to these structural issues.Low-value stocks are a symbolic example of this problem. Stocks with extremely low prices are highly volatile and often become targets for price manipulation, leading to significant losses for individual investors. It is no coincidence that some of the stocks designated as managed were previously associated with themes like inter-Korean economic cooperation. Stocks that fluctuate wildly based on news, regardless of their performance or growth potential, have long eroded market trust. The current measure to filter out stocks that fail to meet market capitalization requirements is a step toward establishing minimal market discipline.However, there are concerns. Recently, single-stock leveraged products, particularly in the semiconductor sector, have drawn significant capital, causing a sharp decline across the index. KOSPI fell over 40% in just over a month, while KOSDAQ dropped about 37%. Some companies designated as managed stocks may feel unjustly treated.Yet, such concerns should not undermine the integrity of the system itself. If some companies are caught unfairly due to market volatility, this can be addressed through individual appeals or review processes, but it should not dilute the core standard of '45 consecutive trading days.'Experience has shown that if standards are lax, companies will find ways to exploit loopholes. In fact, there are already signs that some companies are attempting to evade the requirements through stock consolidations or reductions.Thus, the future is crucial. Authorities and the exchange must continue to refine measures to prevent 'deceptive exits' that merely meet formal requirements. If companies can escape being classified as managed stocks by simply changing their stock price numerically without addressing underlying issues, this reform will be half-hearted.Additionally, it is essential to establish proper thresholds for both 'exit' and 'entry.' As failing companies are swiftly removed, it is equally important for companies with sufficient growth potential and innovation to enter KOSDAQ to create a healthy ecosystem.The recent mass designation of managed stocks and the subsequent delisting procedures may be painful, but expecting change without discomfort is unrealistic. Authorities must steadfastly uphold principles, and listed companies should seize this opportunity to transform into solid enterprises with strong performance and growth potential. This is the first step toward a healthier KOSDAQ. 2026-08-13 11:04:10
  • Osstem Implant Releases Sustainability Report Highlighting ESG Achievements
    Osstem Implant Releases Sustainability Report Highlighting ESG Achievements Osstem Implant has published a sustainability report detailing its environmental, social, and governance (ESG) management achievements and long-term strategies from the past year.The company announced on August 13 that the report includes its vision for sustainable management, strategic direction, key tasks, and a long-term execution roadmap.The report covers activities and achievements across environmental (E), social (S), and governance (G) areas. Osstem Implant explained that it has adopted a 'Double Materiality Assessment' to identify five key tasks: patient health and safety, ethical management, accessibility to dental services, customer communication, and innovation promotion, linking these to key performance indicators (KPIs) for management.Last May, Osstem Implant strengthened its sustainability governance by launching an ESG committee under its board of directors. The company also enhanced its ISO 37301 framework and established a digital dentistry platform based on information security management system (ISMS) and ISO 27001 certification.ISO 37301 is a standard set by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) that is awarded to companies with systems in place to proactively identify and control corruption and compliance risks.In the environmental sector, the company has pursued greenhouse gas reduction, energy efficiency, and resource recycling initiatives. Its Songdo Triple Tower headquarters has received green building certification (G-SEED Excellent 2nd grade) and an energy efficiency rating of 1++. The company has also expanded the recycling of titanium and zirconia metal scraps and introduced eco-friendly packaging materials.As of 2024, the production of renewable energy has increased by approximately 58% compared to the previous year. The introduction of electronic reporting and a paperless office has led to a 62% reduction in paper usage.In the social sector, Osstem Implant achieved zero major accidents through a preventive safety and health management system, reducing its lost time injury frequency rate (LTIFR) by over 46% compared to the previous year. The company has also strengthened compliance with its suppliers' code of conduct and supply chain management while expanding scholarship programs and community contribution activities.An Osstem Implant representative stated, "This sustainability report reflects the international standards of GRI Standards 2021 and ISSB IFRS S1 and S2, expanding quantitative data and disclosure items by approximately 70% compared to the previous year. We will continue to establish ourselves as a leading ESG company in the global dental market based on transparent information disclosure and stakeholder communication."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-13 11:04:10
  • Government Strengthens National Responsibility for Agricultural Disaster Insurance
    Government Strengthens National Responsibility for Agricultural Disaster Insurance The revised Agricultural Disaster Insurance Law and Agricultural Disaster Response Law, aimed at enhancing national responsibility for agricultural damage caused by climate change, will take effect on August 15.The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs announced on August 13 that it has completed the regulatory adjustments for the two agricultural disaster-related laws that passed the National Assembly last year. The revisions were initiated in response to the increasing frequency of large-scale natural disasters, such as heatwaves and heavy rainfall, to reduce the damage to farmers and strengthen recovery support.Under the revised Agricultural Disaster Insurance Law, natural disasters like heatwaves and typhoons will be recognized as extraordinary large-scale disasters if their damage falls within the top 10% of past incidents. Losses incurred from such disasters will be excluded from future insurance premium calculations, thereby reducing the financial burden on farmers.A system has also been established to enhance the reliability of crop damage assessments. Regular training for damage assessment personnel will be strengthened, and the government will create a basis for verifying the appropriateness of assessment results.If an insurance policyholder disputes the damage assessment results, they will be allowed to request a change of the assigned assessment personnel, as related regulations have been revised.The revised Agricultural Disaster Response Law expands the scope of disasters eligible for national recovery support. In addition to heatwaves and heavy rainfall, earthquakes and abnormal high temperatures have been included, along with pest damage caused by abnormal high temperatures.Support for recovery costs for affected farms will also be broadened. Previously, assistance focused primarily on costs for replanting and reseeding, but moving forward, it will cover all or part of the production costs incurred by farms up until the disaster occurs.Kang Dong-yoon, Director of Rural Income and Energy Policy at the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, stated, "Agricultural disasters in the era of climate crisis are at a level that cannot be avoided by individual efforts alone. We will actively support the swift stabilization of affected farms through continuous improvements in the system to strengthen national responsibility for disaster recovery."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-13 11:04:00
  • National Human Rights Commission Chair Calls for System to Replace Prosecutors Investigative Powers
    National Human Rights Commission Chair Calls for System to Replace Prosecutors' Investigative Powers Ahn Chang-ho, the Chair of the National Human Rights Commission, emphasized the need for reforms to protect citizens' rights in light of proposed amendments to the Criminal Procedure Act, which include the abolition of prosecutors' supplementary investigative powers.In a statement on August 13, Ahn expressed concerns that the elimination of these powers could weaken existing oversight functions and make it more challenging to rectify inadequate or insufficient investigations. He stressed the importance of thoroughly discussing a control and rights remedy system to replace the diminished post-investigation oversight capabilities.Ahn noted, "Investigative agencies hold a unique power that can infringe on citizens' rights while also having the duty to uphold those rights. Designing a system that prevents the abuse of power by investigative agencies while ensuring thorough investigations to uncover the truth is directly related to human rights issues." He asserted that regardless of which agency exercises investigative authority, it is crucial to ensure the legality and accountability of that power to prevent human rights violations.He further pointed out that significant changes to the subjects and scope of investigative authority have occurred following amendments to the Criminal Procedure Act and the Prosecutors' Office Act in 2020, as well as additional legal changes in 2022. However, he highlighted ongoing issues such as investigation delays, case backlogs, excessive workloads for investigators, reluctance to work in investigative departments, and a decline in investigative expertise. Ahn argued that if the necessary institutional foundations are not adequately established alongside adjustments to authority, the burden will fall on those involved in cases, leading to delays or neglect in protecting citizens' rights.He concluded by stating that it is essential to carefully examine potential gaps and blind spots in human rights protection that may arise from these institutional changes.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-13 11:00:10
  • Free Certification Training Offered by I Am Solo Star Young-cheol
    Free Certification Training Offered by 'I Am Solo' Star Young-cheol Young-cheol, a participant from the 33rd season of 'I Am Solo,' has garnered significant online support following revelations about his impressive background and inspiring personal story.In the episode aired on August 12, SBS Plus and ENA showcased the 33rd season's participants in a special segment for those who have never been in a relationship, featuring their initial proposals and self-introductions.During the broadcast, Young-cheol shared that he currently works as a firefighter and has previously served in the Dokdo Guard. He demonstrated his physical fitness by performing push-ups on set.According to the show, Young-cheol grew up under challenging circumstances after his mother left when he was 10 years old. He was raised by his father, who worked various odd jobs to support them. After his father tragically passed away in a traffic accident, Young-cheol moved to Sejong for a new job opportunity.Shortly after the broadcast, a viewer shared a heartwarming story about Young-cheol's time in the Dokdo Guard on an online community. The viewer recalled, "When Young-cheol was a senior at the Dokdo Guard, he reached out to me when I was struggling to adjust and took care of me, which I still remember fondly."The viewer also praised Young-cheol, stating, "He provided free scuba diving certification training to fellow soldiers and was genuinely kind and supportive."Other viewers noted Young-cheol's dedication to his family, mentioning that he has a brother with a disability and has faced many hardships. Comments included, "It seems he became a lifelong single due to his circumstances," and "Despite his difficult background, he has such a kind nature. I hope this genuine person finds love through the show."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-13 11:00:00
  • Neptune Initiates Share Buyback with First Stock Cancellation Post-IPO
    Neptune Initiates Share Buyback with First Stock Cancellation Post-IPO Neptune is taking steps to return value to shareholders by canceling its first batch of treasury shares since going public.On August 13, Neptune announced that its board of directors has approved the cancellation of 1,081,286 shares from its total of 1,801,049 treasury shares. The canceled shares represent approximately 2.31% of the total issued shares.This stock cancellation marks the beginning of Neptune's long-term policy aimed at enhancing shareholder value and strengthening corporate value. The company has also laid the groundwork for shareholder returns by transferring a total of 220 billion won in capital surplus to retained earnings from last year to this year.In addition to the stock cancellation, Neptune is accelerating its performance improvements. The company plans to link the results of its main and new businesses to its financial performance starting in the second half of this year to enhance corporate value.Currently, Neptune is advancing its local ad tech platform business through its Indian subsidiary and is also engaged in the development and publishing of hybrid casual mobile games.CEO Kang Yul-bin stated, "The cancellation of treasury shares is significant as it marks the beginning of enhancing shareholder value for those who have believed in and supported Neptune. We will focus on ensuring that the results of our main and new business sectors translate into financial performance and will explore various shareholder return options."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-13 11:00:00
  • Hwacheon County Seeks National Natural Recreation Forest to Boost Local Income
    Hwacheon County Seeks National Natural Recreation Forest to Boost Local Income Hwacheon County in Gangwon Province is pursuing the establishment of a National Natural Recreation Forest in the Moyeon-dong area of Gandong-myeon. The initiative aims to enhance local income by linking abundant forest resources with tourism, recreation, and healing industries.According to Hwacheon County, Mayor Kim Se-hoon visited the Forest Service at the Government Complex Daejeon on August 10 to discuss plans for the proposed "Hwacheon Moyeon National Natural Recreation Forest". During the meeting, he requested active support and interest from the Forest Service for the project.The county plans to finalize the site in the Moyeon-dong area by the end of this year. Next year, it will establish a basic plan and officially propose the creation of the National Natural Recreation Forest to the Forest Service.The candidate site covers approximately 10,000 square meters. The county believes this location is optimal for integrating forest recreation, healing, and experiential functions due to its excellent forest ecosystem and valleys.Improved accessibility to the metropolitan area following the opening of the East-West High-Speed Railway is also highlighted as a strength. The county anticipates that travel time from Seoul to Hwacheon Station will be reduced to under 60 minutes once the railway is operational.Mayor Kim also proposed support for forest tourism projects in Saneum-myeon, including the "Center of the Korean Peninsula Arboretum" in Gwangdeok-ri and the native plant garden "Hanamokwon".The Center of the Korean Peninsula Arboretum is set to be developed over approximately 25 hectares in Gwangdeok-ri from 2028 to 2032, with a total project cost of 6 billion won. It will feature exhibition and viewing facilities, as well as educational and experiential spaces.The county plans to initiate related studies and begin the permitting process for the arboretum as early as this year.Hanamokwon in Saneum-myeon is also scheduled for development from 2028 to 2032, with a budget of 3.5 billion won allocated for exhibition areas for native plants, conservation and propagation facilities, and observation and learning spaces.Hwacheon County covers an area of approximately 909 square kilometers, with about 86% (781 square kilometers) designated as forest land. Nearly half of the total forest area is state-owned, necessitating support and cooperation from the Forest Service for related projects.The 9th elected term of Hwacheon County aims to develop the National Natural Recreation Forest, arboretum, and Hanamokwon as sustainable tourism resources. The strategy is to expand the foundation for forest tourism and connect it with the sale of local agricultural products, as well as lodging, food, and experiential consumption to increase residents' income.Mayor Kim stated, "Hwacheon County will cultivate the forest industry as a core development driver by linking tourism, recreation, and healing. I request the cooperation and support of the Forest Service on behalf of the residents of Hwacheon County."Park Eun-sik, head of the Forest Service, remarked, "Hwacheon is one of the regions with excellent forest resources. Let us work together to ensure that the forest becomes a valuable asset and pride of the community."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-13 10:56:00
  • Seongnam Mayor Shin Sang-jin Emphasizes Citizen Safety Amid Crisis
    Seongnam Mayor Shin Sang-jin Emphasizes Citizen Safety Amid Crisis Shin Sang-jin, the mayor of Seongnam, emphasized on August 13 the importance of protecting citizens' lives and safety in any crisis situation. He announced that the '2026 Eulji Exercise' will take place from August 18 to 21. With increasing uncertainties in international relations and security environments, Mayor Shin stressed the need for practical readiness. Through this Eulji Exercise, the city aims to enhance emergency response capabilities to adapt to rapidly changing security conditions and to strengthen cooperation among civil, military, and police sectors to ensure the safety of its citizens. The Eulji Exercise is a comprehensive emergency preparedness drill designed to review and improve national emergency response plans and verify the cooperative framework among civil, military, and police agencies. This year's training will involve over 1,000 participants, including Seongnam city officials, military personnel, police, and firefighters. The exercises will be centered around the city hall's emergency facilities and district situation rooms, simulating wartime scenarios and conducting response drills. Previously, Mayor Shin chaired a preparatory meeting at the city hall's emergency facilities, where he directly assessed the readiness of all departments for the training. During the meeting, he shared the training plans and response procedures with military units and the Seongnam comprehensive situation room, addressing potential issues and areas for improvement. Mayor Shin reiterated the need for this training to be effective in protecting citizens' lives and safety during actual crisis situations. On August 20, a practical training session will be conducted to allow citizens to experience emergency response processes firsthand. At the Seongnam Civil Defense Safety Experience Center, training will be conducted for vulnerable populations in the Sujeong District, while a demonstration drill will take place at the E-Mart Seongnam store for multi-use facilities. A joint practical training exercise involving civil, military, and police will be held at the main stadium of Tancheon Sports Complex. This training aims to go beyond an administrative response framework, testing on-site cooperation with relevant agencies such as the military, police, and fire services, and helping citizens understand emergency response protocols and the roles of various agencies. Citizens have expressed that this training should not be limited to internal administrative procedures but should serve as an opportunity to verify response systems directly related to their safety in real-life settings. There is significant interest in the training targeting multi-use facilities and vulnerable populations, as it will help citizens understand what actions to take in the event of an emergency. Meanwhile, Mayor Shin noted, "The recent conflicts in the Middle East and the prolonged Russia-Ukraine war, along with new security threats such as cyberattacks and drones, have created a very serious international situation." He urged, "Through this Eulji Exercise, we must enhance our capabilities to respond quickly and effectively to any crisis and ensure that all agencies work closely together to protect the precious lives and safety of our citizens." * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-13 10:52:00
  • Ford Shifts Some Lincoln Production from China to the U.S. in Response to Tariffs and Regulations
    Ford Shifts Some Lincoln Production from China to the U.S. in Response to Tariffs and Regulations Ford Motor Company plans to shift some production of its luxury brand Lincoln from China to the United States. This move is a response to tariffs imposed by the Trump administration and regulations targeting Chinese software and components in connected vehicles, aimed at expanding domestic production.Ford CEO Jim Farley stated in a joint interview with U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo on August 12 that the decision was made as soon as the Trump administration's policies were established. He noted, "We knew exactly what they (the Trump administration) wanted, and we understood what it meant for Ford," explaining that relocating Lincoln production is part of a strategy to increase manufacturing in the U.S.The decision to move production is influenced by the high tariffs on vehicles imported from China. Ford revealed that the tariff rate on its key model, the Lincoln Nautilus, is as high as 52.5%. Additionally, U.S. regulations limiting the use of Chinese automotive parts and technology in connected vehicles are also a significant concern.These connected vehicle regulations were introduced during the Biden administration, citing national security concerns, and target adversarial nations like China and Russia. Starting with the 2027 model year, connected and autonomous vehicles sold and operated in the U.S. will be prohibited from using software from these countries, with hardware restrictions set to take effect for the 2030 model year. Farley indicated that these two factors were crucial in the decision to relocate Lincoln production.Ford is not alone in this shift; General Motors (GM) announced in January that it will move production of its small crossover SUV, the Buick Envision, from China to the U.S. starting in 2028. This trend reflects a broader movement within the American automotive industry to transition vehicle production from China to domestic facilities in response to tariffs and connected vehicle regulations. 2026-08-13 10:48:00