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  • LS Electric Secures Certification from Canadian Standards Association, Streamlining North American Market Entry
    LS Electric Secures Certification from Canadian Standards Association, Streamlining North American Market Entry LS Electric is accelerating its entry into the North American power market by obtaining certification as an accredited testing laboratory through the Canadian Standards Association (CSA).On August 13, LS Electric's Power Testing & Technology (PT&T) announced that it has received CSA's 'Membership of Certification Body (WMTL)' accreditation. Under CSA membership, PT&T will conduct product specification tests for electrical equipment and issue CSA certificates directly.CSA is a crucial third-party testing and certification body for entering the North American market, which includes Canada and the United States. It provides product certifications equivalent to those from global organizations such as UL and TÜV, as designated by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).The North American electrical equipment market is emerging as a global investment hub due to the growing demand for AI data centers, renewable energy integration, and aging power grid replacements. Securing certifications that meet the stringent safety and quality standards required in North America is seen as essential for market entry and competitive bidding.LS Electric anticipates that this accreditation will significantly reduce the time and costs associated with certification. PT&T is the only private power testing laboratory in South Korea equipped with high-power and high-voltage testing facilities, allowing for a comprehensive process from testing to certification and quality verification from the development stage.A representative from LS Electric stated, "The testing and certification capabilities of PT&T have been reaffirmed in the global market. We will enhance our responsiveness to North American customers and strengthen our competitive edge in the power infrastructure supercycle market."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-13 08:52:20
  • Korean Indie Game Showcase Supported by KOCCA at BIC and Gamescom
    Korean Indie Game Showcase Supported by KOCCA at BIC and Gamescom The Korea Creative Content Agency (KOCCA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, is set to host the 'Korea Indie Game Showcase.' This initiative aims to enhance the competitiveness of domestic indie games and expand their reach in international markets through major exhibitions in the second half of the year.On August 13, KOCCA announced its support for participation in the 'Busan Indie Connect Festival 2026 (BIC 2026),' the largest indie game festival in Korea, and the global gaming exhibition 'Gamescom 2026.'The Korea Indie Game Showcase is designed to promote the achievements of domestic indie games and provide multifaceted support for their entry into overseas markets. KOCCA is assisting indie game developers from the production stage to release and international expansion by facilitating participation in both domestic and international exhibitions.Earlier this year, KOCCA operated the '2026 Korea Indie Game Showcase at BitSummit' during Japan's largest indie game exhibition, BitSummit Punch, held in Kyoto in May.According to KOCCA, the number of business consultations at BitSummit Punch more than doubled compared to the previous year. Additionally, the number of interest registrations for products on the Steam platform, which can lead to actual sales post-launch, also increased.Last year, the Korean pavilion at Gamescom saw the number of participating companies rise from 13 to 16, with 513 on-site consultations and an estimated economic impact of around $14 million. Gamescom B2C exhibition participation was supported for the first time last year, with participant NeoJPL securing approximately $2 million in investments.KOCCA will operate the '2026 Korea Indie Game Showcase at BIC' from August 14 to 16 at BEXCO in Busan, featuring five outstanding domestic indie games: Diving Studio's 'The Newspaper of That Day,' Sun Games' 'Light Odyssey,' Odysseyer's 'Belaster,' Oblikon's 'Net Raiders,' and Project Morum's 'Lone Chef.'Following this, the '2026 Korea Indie Game Showcase at Gamescom' will take place at the Korean pavilion in Cologne, Germany, later this month.The Korean pavilion at Gamescom 2026 will showcase ten games, including MapleFly's 'Project Revenant,' Scanopener's 'Dungeon Settlers,' Studio BibiBibi's 'MonoWave,' Steam Flask's 'Alchemist,' Silophone's 'Irony,' Outdoor Operation's 'Blackout: Zero Point,' Urban Oasis' 'Hellpunk: Purgatorium,' Yeb Studio's 'The Planetarian,' JoYu Studio's 'Katuva's Poacher,' and Project Morum's 'Lone Chef.'KOCCA will provide participating companies with pre-event promotional strategy analysis and tailored promotional support based on these insights. The agency also plans to host on-site events to attract visitors to the Korean pavilion at international exhibitions.In December, KOCCA is set to hold the '2026 Korea Indie Game Showcase,' featuring the final 20 selected works from the indie game development competition 'Korea Indie Game Dev Camp.'Kim Sung-jun, head of KOCCA's Game New Technology Division, stated, "We hope this event, linked to major indie game exhibitions in the second half of the year, will provide an opportunity for outstanding domestic indie games to communicate directly with users, enhance their competitiveness, and solidify their foundation for international expansion. We will actively support domestic indie game developers to achieve tangible results in overseas markets through diverse support tailored to the characteristics of each event."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-13 08:52:00
  • Samsung Electronics Opens New HVAC Production Line in India to Boost AI Data Center Strategy
    Samsung Electronics Opens New HVAC Production Line in India to Boost AI Data Center Strategy Samsung Electronics is accelerating its entry into the artificial intelligence (AI) data center market with the establishment of a new heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) production line in India. As demand for high-performance cooling solutions grows due to the expansion of AI data centers, the company aims to enhance local production capacity to meet the needs of India and the Asia-Pacific region.On August 12, Samsung Electronics held a ceremony to inaugurate the new production line in Pune, Maharashtra, attended by Vice President Kim Cheol-ki, head of Samsung's DA division, and David Dorney, CEO of FlaktGroup, along with over 100 executives and key partners.The Pune facility will serve as a critical production base for supplying HVAC solutions to India and the Asia-Pacific region, complementing the existing production site in Noida. The expansion aims to quickly respond to the rapidly increasing demand for data centers while improving supply chain accessibility for customers.Pune is a region experiencing rapid growth in data centers and industrial infrastructure. Its proximity to the Mumbai port provides a strategic advantage for supplying products not only to the domestic market but also to the broader Asia-Pacific region.The new facility spans 13,826 square meters (approximately 4,190 pyeong) and includes production lines, offices, and auxiliary facilities. Samsung and FlaktGroup began setting up equipment and machinery earlier this year and achieved mass production capabilities in about six months. Once fully operational, the factory can produce up to 6,500 HVAC units annually.The products manufactured will focus on high-performance cooling solutions needed for AI data centers. The Pune production line will produce key FlaktGroup products, including air handling units (AHUs), fan wall units (FWUs), and computer room air handling units (CRAHs).AHUs cool the air inside data centers and large commercial buildings using chilled water, maintaining optimal air quality. FWUs are installed on walls to circulate air, while CRAHs precisely manage temperature and airflow in server rooms to ensure the stable operation of IT equipment.The establishment of the Pune production line is expected to significantly enhance supply capabilities in the Asia-Pacific region. By adding the Pune site to the existing Noida facility, Samsung has secured a production base that can quickly respond to local customer demand. Additionally, the geographical advantage of being close to the Mumbai port will facilitate expanded supply to nearby Asia-Pacific markets.Vice President Kim Cheol-ki stated, "The inauguration of the Pune production line is a significant milestone in expanding HVAC supply beyond India to the Asia-Pacific region. We will combine Samsung's AI platform technology with FlaktGroup's HVAC expertise to provide the best value to various customers, including AI data centers."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-13 08:52:00
  • Director Ahn Pan-seok of White Tower and Secret Affair Passes Away
    Director Ahn Pan-seok of 'White Tower' and 'Secret Affair' Passes Away Director Ahn Pan-seok, known for his work on dramas such as 'White Tower,' 'Secret Affair,' and 'Something in the Rain,' has passed away at the age of 64.The production team of ENA's new Monday-Tuesday drama 'Love Doctor' announced on August 12 that Ahn had died on August 12, 2026. He reportedly succumbed to complications from a recent cerebral hemorrhage while receiving treatment in the hospital.The production team expressed their sorrow, stating, "We are saddened to share this heartbreaking news. The bereaved family wishes to conduct the funeral privately to have a quiet farewell with the deceased." They added, "We extend our deepest condolences and pray for the peace of the departed soul."'Love Doctor,' set to air in October, will be Ahn's final work. The drama stars actors Choo Young-woo and Kim So-hyun, depicting a romance that blossoms between two individuals in a robotics lab. According to the production team, filming and editing have been completed, and the show will air as scheduled.Born in 1961, Ahn began his career in drama direction after joining MBC in 1987. He made his debut in 1994 with the MBC Best Theater production 'Greeting of Love' and left a significant mark on the broadcasting industry over nearly 40 years.His notable works include 'Couple,' 'White Tower,' 'The Wife's Credentials,' 'Secret Affair,' 'Heard It Through the Grapevine,' 'Something in the Rain,' 'Graduation,' and 'The Art of Negotiation.' Renowned for his lyrical direction that delicately captures the psychology of men and women, he was often referred to as a 'melodrama master.' He was also praised for his sharp social satire that examined class, power, and human desires.Ahn also ventured into film, directing the 2006 movie 'The South of the Border' starring Cha Seung-won.His accolades include the Baeksang Arts Awards for Best Director in the TV category for 'White Tower' in 2007 and 'Secret Affair' in 2014. In 2018, he received a presidential citation at the Korea Content Awards for his contribution to the broadcasting and video industry with 'Something in the Rain.'The sudden news of his passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues in the entertainment industry. Broadcaster Baek Ji-yeon, who joined MBC in 1987 alongside Ahn, wrote on her social media, "I pray for the repose of his soul. Rest in peace. He was a wonderful director and a great friend."Actress Kim Hye-eun expressed her sorrow, saying, "I was honored to work on 'Secret Affair' with you, Director. I wanted to make you proud. It pains me that we couldn't complete the last project together. I will cherish the lessons you taught me. May you rest peacefully in heaven."The funeral will be held at the Seoul National University Hospital's funeral hall, with procedures starting on the 13th and the burial scheduled for 9:30 a.m. on the 15th at the Seoul City Crematorium.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-13 08:48:00
  • Zhu Rongjis Role in Chinas WTO Membership and Economic Reform
    Zhu Rongji's Role in China's WTO Membership and Economic Reform Zhu Rongji, the former Premier of the State Council of China, passed away on August 12 at 11:06 a.m. local time in Beijing due to illness. He was 98 years old. Among his many achievements, his most significant contribution to Chinese economic history is the country's accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO) in December 2001.The WTO membership allowed China to fully overcome the economic hardships marked by the Tiananmen Square incident and inflation, paving the way for over 20 years of rapid growth. After the Tiananmen Square protests in 1989, China faced isolation due to Western sanctions and subsequently encountered another crisis in the 1990s, with inflation rates exceeding 20%, threatening the very achievements of its reform and opening-up policies. Zhu Rongji was the key figure who managed to control this crisis.Beginning his bureaucratic career in economic planning, Zhu became the mayor of Shanghai in 1988. With the trust of Deng Xiaoping and Jiang Zemin, he was appointed Vice Premier in 1991 and a member of the Politburo Standing Committee in 1993. As Vice Premier, he gained nationwide trust by implementing stringent fiscal policies and financial controls to curb rampant inflation.Upon becoming Premier in 1998, Zhu's primary focus was on securing WTO membership. At that time, China was heavily protecting its domestic market with high tariffs and various non-tariff barriers. Additionally, Chinese products faced high tariffs when exported, and numerous regulations hindered foreign companies from entering the Chinese market. China's tariff barriers exceeded 40%, state-owned enterprises had never experienced market competition, and the financial sector was closed to foreign capital. To gain the support of the U.S. and other Western nations for WTO membership, these issues needed to be addressed.Zhu aggressively pushed for the restructuring of inefficient state-owned enterprises, consolidating many of them. This decision resulted in millions of workers losing their jobs, a gamble that could undermine the legitimacy of the Communist Party's rule. He established asset management companies to deal with non-performing loans in struggling state-owned banks and restructured them into commercial banks. Tariffs were reduced to below half, and sensitive sectors such as agriculture, telecommunications, and automobiles were brought to the negotiation table. Each of these measures faced fierce resistance from domestic vested interests and posed significant political risks due to rising unemployment. Any misstep could have derailed the entire reform process.External circumstances were also challenging. In April 1999, Zhu visited Washington and reached a bilateral agreement, but a month later, relations between China and the U.S. soured following the NATO bombing of the Chinese embassy in Yugoslavia, complicating the accession process.Despite these challenges, Zhu's leadership, charisma, and unwavering belief in the necessity of reform enabled these efforts to be completed swiftly. His decisive action, technical expertise, and steadfast conviction that China must integrate into the global economic order were crucial; without them, the reforms of state-owned enterprises, financial liberalization, and tariff reductions could have faltered or failed.After joining the WTO in December 2001, China underwent a dramatic transformation. With lower tariff barriers and an influx of foreign investment, the country quickly emerged as the world's factory. According to the World Bank, China's trade growth rate accelerated from an average of 13.9% from 1979 to 2001 to 21.6% after joining the WTO, while foreign direct investment (FDI) increased nearly tenfold during the same period.Exports surged, and foreign exchange reserves ballooned. The shadows of the Tiananmen Square incident and inflation faded rapidly amid the heat of rapid growth. China's manufacturing competitiveness also strengthened significantly. As foreign companies flooded into China, their expertise was transferred directly to the country, further driving market-oriented reforms.The manufacturing foundation established during this period has led to China becoming the world's leading producer of smartphones, electric vehicles, and batteries. This growth has fostered the rise of IT companies like Alibaba, Tencent, and Huawei, creating an industrial environment conducive to the emergence of AI firms like DeepMind.Today, the foundation laid by Zhu's push for WTO membership underpins the ongoing U.S.-China competition for global economic dominance. A reformer of his era has passed away, but the wave of openness he championed is far from over. Even as the U.S. and China vie for supremacy in the global economy, the starting point of that competition lies in the door to the WTO that Zhu opened 25 years ago.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-13 08:44:10
  • Bitcoin Stalls Around $63,000 Amid U.S. Rate Hike Concerns and Middle East Tensions
    Bitcoin Stalls Around $63,000 Amid U.S. Rate Hike Concerns and Middle East Tensions 비트코인이 6만3000달러대에서 횡보하며 뚜렷한 방향성을 찾지 못하고 있다. 미국 중앙은행(Fed)의 연내 기준금리 인상 우려가 이어지는 가운데 중동 긴장까지 다시 고조되면서 투자심리가 위축된 것으로 풀이된다. 13일 글로벌 가상자산 시황 사이트 코인마켓캡에 따르면 비트코인은 이날 오전 8시 기준 전일 대비 0.36% 하락한 6만3349달러에 거래됐다. 주요 알트코인도 약세를 보였다. 같은 시각 이더리움은 0.15% 내린 1875.79달러, 솔라나는 1.09% 하락한 75.40달러를 기록했다. 리플(XRP)은 1.53% 하락한 1달러에 거래됐다. 시장에서는 미국의 인플레이션 둔화에도 연내 금리 인상에 대한 우려가 이어진 점이 투자심리에 영향을 미친 것으로 보고 있다. 미국의 7월 소비자물가지수(CPI)가 예상치에 부합하면서 9월 금리 인상 가능성은 다소 낮아졌지만, 연내 추가 인상 가능성은 여전히 남아 있다는 분석이다. 최근 미국과 이란의 협상이 교착 상태에 빠지면서 중동 정세가 다시 악화한 점도 부담으로 작용하고 있다는 평가다. 트럼프 대통령은 12일(현지시간) 자신의 소셜미디어 트루스소셜에서 "미국은 호르무즈 해협을 완전히 장악하고 있다"며 "난 우리가 이것을 계속 유지하리라 생각한다"고 말했다. 이어 미국의 대이란 해상 봉쇄가 "모든 이들에게 '강철의 벽'이라 불리고 있으며, 이란은 이에 대해 아무것도 할 수 없다"고 강조했다. 트럼프 대통령의 이 같은 발언은 호르무즈 해협을 둘러싸고 이란과 중동 중재국 간 협상이 이어지는 가운데 나온 것이다. 해협의 실질적인 통제권을 주장하는 이란을 겨냥해 미국이 압박 수위를 높이며 신경전을 이어가는 것으로 풀이된다. 한편 같은 시각 국내 원화 거래소 빗썸에서는 비트코인이 전일 대비 0.29% 오른 8968만1000원(약 6만3200달러)에 거래됐다. 국내외 비트코인 가격 차이를 나타내는 이른바 '김치 프리미엄'은 -0.17% 수준을 나타냈다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-13 08:44:10
  • Government to Enhance Local Investment Support for Returning and Foreign Companies
    Government to Enhance Local Investment Support for Returning and Foreign Companies The government is set to promote local investments by returning companies and foreign investment firms. Starting next year, the subsidy system for returning companies will undergo a complete overhaul, with increased support for investments in non-capital regions and advanced industries.On August 13, Kang Gam-chan, head of the Trade and Investment Bureau at the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, visited Daegu to assess the investment status of returning company Daedong and foreign investment firm Valeo Mobility Korea, as well as to listen to the companies' concerns.Daedong, a mid-sized agricultural machinery manufacturer selected as the third returning company this year, has recently decided to liquidate its overseas operations and invest approximately 80 billion won to expand its factory in Daegu.The company plans to introduce an artificial intelligence (AI) factory in the expanded facility and establish production lines dedicated to AI-based autonomous tractors.During a subsequent meeting, representatives from Daedong, Guyeong Tech, Iljin, and Isu Petasys, among other returning companies in the Daegu and Gyeongbuk regions, attended. They requested support to ensure that investments proceed smoothly amid increasing external uncertainties, such as global supply chain restructuring and the rise of protectionism.In response, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy plans to accelerate follow-up measures to the 'Reestablishment and Promotion Plan for Returning Companies' announced in May. A revised enforcement decree for the Returning Companies Act (Domestic Return Support Act), which was announced for legislative notice last month, is expected to be implemented as early as October after going through the necessary procedures.Following a revision of the guidelines within the year, the subsidy system for returning companies will be completely revamped starting next year. A 'negotiation' method will be introduced for large-scale and strategic investments, and support will be differentiated based on factors such as investments in non-capital regions, youth-centered employment, and advanced strategic technologies. The existing fixed limit method will be changed to a maximum subsidy ratio method.Kang also visited Valeo Mobility Korea, a foreign investment company. Valeo Mobility Korea, established by the French automotive parts manufacturer Valeo, produces and develops advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) components and control systems at its production plant in Daegu and R&D center in Gyeongsan.Valeo Mobility Korea plans to collaborate with local universities, companies, and research institutions to promote the localization of key components for future vehicles and to develop Korea as a core production hub for ADAS in Asia, thereby expanding exports.Kang stated, "In response to the spread of AI and external uncertainties, strategic investments by companies have become crucial, and local areas must become the center of these investments. We will provide comprehensive support to ensure that capable companies can invest and grow in local regions." 2026-08-13 08:40:10
  • Samsung Securities Raises Target Price for Kolmar Korea to 170,000 Won
    Samsung Securities Raises Target Price for Kolmar Korea to 170,000 Won Samsung Securities announced on August 13 that it has raised its target price for Kolmar Korea from 132,500 won to 170,000 won, an increase of 28.3%, while maintaining its investment rating at 'buy.'In a report released that day, analyst Jeong Dong-hee noted that Kolmar Korea reported second-quarter sales of 861.3 billion won and operating profit of 110.3 billion won, exceeding market expectations. He explained that the Korean subsidiary, benefiting from peak season performance in sun care, achieved 430.4 billion won in sales and 70.8 billion won in operating profit, with its largest customers growing over 80% for two consecutive quarters, leading to expanded operating leverage.He also added that the performance of the packaging subsidiary, Yongwoo, improved as it secured orders for pump containers from major clients, resulting in 91.1 billion won in sales and 7 billion won in operating profit, surpassing previous breakeven estimates.Samsung Securities anticipates continued growth in the second half of the year. Jeong stated that while there will be an impact from a decrease in domestic working days (approximately -8%) compared to the second quarter, the order volume is expected to exceed that of the second quarter. He projected that even with a shift in the sales mix from sun care to skin care in the third quarter, overall margin improvements across basic categories (estimated in the mid-10% range) and growth through pure volume leverage are likely.He further noted that with the current headquarters operating rate at 81% and the new factory in Sejong set to begin operations in the second half of 2027, the constraints on medium-term growth are related to capacity and working days rather than demand. He assessed that in a situation where common growth among ODM companies is confirmed, investors can comfortably enjoy the stable performance of subsidiaries and headquarters growth.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-13 08:40:00
  • Court Denies Arrest Warrant for Former Intelligence Officials in VIP Anger Cover-Up Case
    Court Denies Arrest Warrant for Former Intelligence Officials in VIP Anger Cover-Up Case The leadership of the Defense Intelligence Command, accused of covering up the so-called 'VIP anger' related to the death of Corporal Cha Su-geun, has avoided arrest. According to legal sources on August 13, Lee Jong-rok, a senior judge at the Seoul Central District Court, dismissed the arrest warrant request for former Defense Intelligence Command Chief Hwang Yu-seong after a hearing the previous day. He stated, "There is room for dispute regarding the criminal charges, and considering the progress of the investigation, it is difficult to see a risk of evidence destruction or flight." The arrest warrant for Moon Yeon-cheol, former head of the Marine Corps Intelligence Unit, was also rejected for similar reasons. Both are accused of intervening in the handling of the Corporal Cha incident after July 20, 2023, by obstructing the collection of information related to the VIP anger. The 'VIP anger' refers to an incident on July 31 of the same year, during a meeting of senior secretaries at the presidential office, where former President Yoon Suk-yeol expressed significant anger and reprimanded officials after receiving a report regarding those responsible for the Corporal Cha incident. This has been cited as the starting point for allegations of investigative pressure. At the time of the incident, Hwang was in charge of the Defense Intelligence Command, while Moon was dispatched to the Marine Corps Command to handle related information collection. Hwang was found to have communicated with former Defense Minister Lee Jong-seop and former National Security Office Chief Cho Tae-yong shortly after Corporal Cha's death, which came to light during the investigation by the Special Investigation Team for the deceased Marine and led to his being summoned for questioning. The comprehensive special investigation team, which is currently investigating remaining allegations from the three major special investigations, has been considering the possibility that the Defense Intelligence Command was systematically involved in covering up the VIP anger. However, with the failure to secure the two individuals' custody, the related investigation has faced setbacks. The special investigation team has less than two weeks left before the end of the investigation period, making it difficult to reapply for arrest warrants.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-13 08:40:00
  • Toss Place Partners with Carrot to Boost Small Business Sales
    Toss Place Partners with Carrot to Boost Small Business Sales Toss Place, a subsidiary of Viva Republica (Toss) that supplies payment terminals and POS solutions, is teaming up with Carrot, a local community platform with around 20 million users, to expand services for small businesses by connecting online and offline channels.On August 13, Toss Place announced that it has signed a strategic business partnership agreement (MOU) with Carrot.The two companies will integrate Carrot's business profile with Toss POS. Merchants using Toss POS will be able to register their store information, menu, and customer reviews on Carrot without needing a separate management screen. They can also promote their stores through Carrot's neighborhood map and top section.This partnership will also reduce advertising costs for business owners. Stores that link their Carrot business profile with Toss POS will receive 30,000 points that can be used for Carrot advertising. Business owners who previously used Carrot without Toss POS will no longer need to switch between different management screens, as they can handle all store operations through Toss POS.Order management features will also be gradually integrated. The system will connect Toss POS to allow merchants to directly check and process reservations, orders, and takeout requests received through the Carrot app. This integration is expected to help businesses manage orders from multiple channels in one place, reducing order omissions and increasing additional sales.The collaboration will also expand in the offline payment sector, with Toss Place planning to support Carrot Pay payments through its all-in-one payment terminal, Toss Front.With this agreement, the two companies aim to increase the distribution of Toss POS and Toss Front, and expand their collaboration through joint marketing targeted at small businesses.A representative from Toss Place stated, "We will continue to provide practical support for small business operations through our collaboration that connects online and offline channels."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-13 08:40:00