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  • Shift Up Shares Drop 5% After Disappointing Q2 Earnings
    Shift Up Shares Drop 5% After Disappointing Q2 Earnings Shift Up's stock is experiencing a downturn following a significant decline in its second-quarter revenue and operating profit compared to the previous year.According to the Korea Exchange, Shift Up's stock price fell by 1,650 won (4.90%) to 32,000 won as of 1:45 PM on August 12. Investor sentiment has been negatively impacted by the disappointing Q2 earnings report released after the market closed the previous day.The company's Q2 revenue was 55.7 billion won, a 50.4% decrease from the same period last year. Operating profit plummeted by 58.8% to 28.1 billion won, while net profit also fell by 18.7% to 41.7 billion won.Revenue from Shift Up's flagship game, 'Goddess of Victory: Nikke,' decreased by 4% year-on-year to 43.3 billion won in Q2. However, sales of 'Stella Blade,' released last year, saw a dramatic drop of 86.6% to 8.8 billion won, reflecting a high base effect from its successful launch in the previous year.Shift Up is currently developing its next flagship title, 'Project Spirits,' with plans to unveil it in the second half of 2026. A sequel to 'Stella Blade,' titled 'Stella Blade: Blood Rain,' is also in development, but a specific release date has not yet been set.The speed at which new titles can replace the significant revenue contribution from the launch of 'Stella Blade' last year will likely be a key factor influencing the company's stock price in the future.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-12 13:56:00
  • Governments $1.6 Billion AI Data Project Faces Criticism for Waste and Errors
    Government's $1.6 Billion AI Data Project Faces Criticism for Waste and Errors The South Korean government has invested 1.63 trillion won ($1.6 billion) in an artificial intelligence (AI) training data project, but numerous instances of duplicated and unusable data have been identified. Critics argue that inadequate pre-review, quality control, and post-management have led to inefficient spending of taxpayer money.According to an audit report released by the Board of Audit and Inspection on August 12, the Ministry of Science and ICT has been developing AI training data from 2017 to 2024. As of November 2025, 908 types of data have been made available on the AI Hub.In addition, 26 public institutions, including the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, Seoul City, and the Korea Expressway Corporation, have released 313 types of data through their own portals. However, the lack of a system for sharing construction plans or assessing the usability of existing data has resulted in the duplication of similar datasets.The Ministry of Science and ICT initially spent 7.38 billion won to develop four types of data related to wildlife, household waste, concrete cracks, and eggs. Yet, five other institutions, including Seoul City and the Korea Expressway Corporation, spent an additional 610 million won to create similar datasets.In Daejeon, data on household waste showed that 5,200 out of 9,000 images (57.8%) were similar to existing data from the Ministry of Science and ICT. Similarly, about 25,000 out of 60,000 images in the wildlife dataset from the Korea Expressway Corporation were found to be similar to previously collected data.There were also instances where similar data was created by different agencies in the same year without coordination. While the Ministry of Science and ICT invested 23.3 billion won in data related to pills, oral health, and autonomous driving from 2021 to 2023, three other agencies, including the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, separately spent 840 million won on similar datasets.In 2023, the Personal Information Protection Commission developed 1,000 images for oral health, all of which were similar to data created by the Ministry of Science and ICT that same year. Additionally, 1,411 images for pill identification created by both the Ministry of Science and ICT and the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety overlapped.Quality control of the data was also found to be lacking. Among the top 20 public institutions in terms of construction performance, four had no separate quality control standards, and nine did not conduct third-party quality verification before delivery. The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety and Korea East-West Power did not require third-party verification or internal checks by the executing agencies.Of the 114 types of data constructed by five institutions, 96 types (84.2%) lacked a syntax rule specification to assess the accuracy of sentence structure and format, making quality checks impossible.When the Board of Audit and Inspection conducted a sample verification of six datasets constructed by Gyeonggi Province and the Korea Expressway Corporation, one dataset was found to be untestable. The remaining five datasets had format accuracy ranging from 77.3% to 99.2%, falling short of the standard of 99.5%.The 'Road Driving CCTV Training Dataset' constructed by the Korea Expressway Corporation in 2025 lacked bounding box coordinate information for 2,680 images depicting objects like cars, rendering it unusable for training autonomous driving technology.In the 'Large Waste Learning Data' created by Seoul City in 2020, 538 out of 2,303 images (23.4%) had mismatched file names and actual images. For instance, files labeled 'bag' contained images of boxes or tables instead.Issues also arose when construction companies went out of business, leaving data errors uncorrected. The Korea Intelligent Information Society Agency constructed 721 types of data through 1,270 companies from 2021 to 2024, with 213 types (29.5%) coming from 65 companies that either closed or faced internal issues.Despite receiving complaints about errors in 11 types of data, the agency closed the complaints without making corrections or engaging third parties, citing the closure of the construction companies. Data with confirmed errors continued to be publicly available on the AI Hub.The Board of Audit and Inspection has instructed the Ministry of Science and ICT to collaborate with the Ministry of the Interior and Safety to review the potential for alternative use of existing data and to establish a system for sharing and coordinating construction plans among agencies. It also called for the establishment of common quality control standards and procedures for internal checks and third-party verification applicable to public institutions.The Korea Intelligent Information Society Agency has been directed to directly correct errors in data constructed by closed companies or to establish a third-party maintenance system. The Ministry of Science and ICT stated that it would verify the quality of existing data through a comprehensive investigation across ministries and address deficiencies with the help of data and AI specialized companies.The Board of Audit and Inspection noted, “The production of unusable data due to duplicated datasets and inadequate quality control systems has occurred, and post-management has been insufficient. The ongoing complaints from AI companies about the lack of usable data highlight the urgent need for improvements in both the quantity and quality of data to achieve the goal of becoming a leading AI nation.” 2026-08-12 13:56:00
  • Mokpo City Implements Proactive Measures Against Rising Tides
    Mokpo City Implements Proactive Measures Against Rising Tides Mokpo City is activating a proactive emergency response system to secure citizen safety against seawater inflow and flooding in low-lying areas due to rising tides following recent personnel changes.Under the leadership of Kim Sang-moon, the head of the sewage department, the city is preemptively inspecting areas at risk of flooding and actively communicating response plans and on-site conditions through press briefings, enhancing preventive administrative measures.According to the city, significant tidal increases are expected from August 12 to 16. Forecasted levels start at 4.90 meters on August 12, rising to 5.09 meters on August 13, 5.16 meters on August 14, 5.10 meters on August 15, and dropping to 4.92 meters on August 16.To prepare for potential seawater backflow and flooding, the city has designated six areas as flood-prone zones: roads around North Port Noeul Park, the alley next to the former Fisheries Cooperative Auction House, roads near the International Passenger Terminal, in front of Dongmyeong-dong Comprehensive Fish Market, the entrance to Samhakdo Ilwoo Shipyard, and the road in front of Gabbawi Hanyang Chicken.Given the possibility of backflow through storm drains and seawater inundation in coastal areas, the city will enhance on-site patrols and monitoring during high tide periods.The city has also installed banners warning of potential road flooding due to rising seawater levels and is promoting parking restrictions along affected roads to ensure residents are aware of the risks associated with rising tides.Emergency operations will focus on the two hours before and after high tide. On-site personnel will monitor flooding conditions in real-time and check the operational status of stormwater pump stations. In the event of flooding, the city plans to coordinate with police and fire departments to control traffic and guide nearby residents regarding vehicle movement.On August 12, actual water levels reached 5.27 meters, exceeding the forecast of 4.90 meters, prompting a storm surge warning from 1:20 AM to 3:00 AM.In response, Mokpo City deployed 25 personnel, including Kim Sang-moon, to emergency duty from 11:50 PM the previous night until 3:50 AM on August 12, activating stormwater pump stations along the coastal road and in Manho-dong, while conducting vehicle control and on-site monitoring in flood-prone areas.As a result, some seawater entered the six designated flood-prone areas, but natural drainage occurred, and no significant damage or flooding complaints were reported.During this tidal increase period, the city has organized teams for sewage maintenance, sewage facilities, flood prevention, and sewage administration to enhance on-site response capabilities. Staff have been assigned to vulnerable areas such as Gabbawi, the coastal road, North Port, and Samhakdo, with a system established to share real-time updates on conditions through a situation room.Kim Sang-moon, head of the sewage department, emphasized the importance of monitoring actual water levels and seawater inflow rather than solely relying on forecasts. He stated, "We will thoroughly prepare for preemptive inspections in flood-prone areas, ensure the readiness of stormwater pump stations, and enhance public awareness to prevent inconvenience and property damage to citizens."He added, "Particular caution is needed for vehicle traffic and parking in low-lying coastal areas during high tide periods. We will maintain vigilance and respond based on on-site conditions until the tidal increase period concludes."Mokpo City plans to continue monitoring tidal conditions until August 16, focusing on inspections of vulnerable areas, traffic control preparations, and stormwater pump station checks.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-12 13:52:00
  • Special Prosecutors Indict Former Coast Guard Chief Kim Jong-wook Without Arrest
    Special Prosecutors Indict Former Coast Guard Chief Kim Jong-wook Without Arrest The second special prosecutor team, led by Kwon Chang-young, has indicted former Coast Guard Chief Kim Jong-wook and former Planning Coordinator Ahn Seong-sik in connection with allegations of involvement in the emergency martial law on December 3. On August 12, the special prosecutors announced, "We have indicted former Chief Kim and former Coordinator Ahn without detention on charges of conspiracy to insurrection and abuse of power." They are accused of abusing their authority during an unconstitutional and illegal state of emergency to increase personnel at the joint investigation headquarters of the Coast Guard and attempting to provide detention facilities for the Coast Guard. Additionally, they are charged with sending one Coast Guard employee to the Joint Chiefs of Staff as a government liaison, thereby facilitating insurrection activities. Previously, the special prosecutors sought arrest warrants for Kim and Ahn, but the court rejected the request on July 3. The court 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 special prosecutor team investigating related allegations, led by Jo Eun-seok, had previously conducted a search and seizure of Ahn but determined that the evidence was insufficient to warrant prosecution.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-12 13:44:20
  • Hiroshi Okuda, Father of the Prius, Dies at 93
    Hiroshi Okuda, Father of the Prius, Dies at 93 Hiroshi Okuda, the former president of Toyota Motor Corporation who led the early launch of the world's first mass-produced hybrid vehicle, the Prius, and expanded overseas production, passed away on August 8 due to age-related health issues, Japanese media reported on August 12. He was 93 years old.According to the Yomiuri Shimbun, Okuda was born in Tsu, Mie Prefecture, Japan. He graduated from Hitotsubashi University in 1955 and joined Toyota Motor Sales. After spending many years in the accounting department, he was dispatched to the Philippines. Although this was seen as a demotion, he turned it into an opportunity by demonstrating his skills in negotiating the recovery of overdue funds. He was appointed to the board of directors in 1982 by Shoichiro Toyoda, a member of the founding family.When Toyota decided to enter the U.S. market independently in response to trade friction between Japan and the U.S., Okuda joined the North American Business Preparation Office, where he was responsible for selecting factory sites. The Kentucky plant he chose later became a key production base for Toyota in North America.In August 1995, after Shoichiro Toyoda stepped down due to illness, Okuda became president. He was the first non-founder to hold the position in 28 years, marking a significant change since the merger of Toyota Motor Sales and Toyota Motor Corporation in 1982. Upon his appointment, he stated, "I have the pride that if Toyota changes, Japan changes," signaling a major management overhaul.At that time, Toyota was struggling with declining domestic market share and delays in overseas expansion. Okuda diagnosed that the company was suffering from 'big company disease' due to excessive time spent on internal consensus. He encouraged change, stating, "Doing nothing is the worst thing." He established a new sales network targeting younger consumers and introduced the compact car, the Vitz. He also revamped the luxury brand, Lexus, which helped restore domestic market share to the 40% range, excluding mini vehicles.Okuda emphasized 'environment' as a core value for next-generation vehicles. He instructed the engineering team to accelerate the Prius launch schedule by one year, resulting in the world's first mass-produced hybrid vehicle debuting in 1997. The Prius, known for its reasonable price and high fuel efficiency, continues to see increasing sales. The Asahi Shimbun reported that hybrids have become a cornerstone of Toyota's strength as the world's leading automaker.Key Figure in Toyota's Management ReformOkuda broke the closed management practices known as 'Mikawa Monroism,' referring to the inward-looking culture of the Aichi Prefecture, where Toyota's headquarters is located. He established factories in North America, Europe, and Asia, while also strengthening environmental technology development and shareholder-focused management. The Nihon Keizai Shimbun (Nikkei) noted that he laid the groundwork for Toyota's growth into the world's largest automaker by changing its insular corporate culture.As Toyota rapidly increased its sales in the global market, Okuda became a figure that the American automotive industry viewed with caution. During U.S.-Japan automotive negotiations, issues of wiretapping targeting him arose.Okuda became chairman of Toyota in 1999 and served until 2006, during which he became influential in business circles. In the same year, he was appointed president of the Japan Business Federation (Keidanren) and became the first chairman of the Japan Business Federation, formed in 2002 through the merger of Keidanren and the former Economic Organization Federation. His extensive international connections, including friendships with former U.S. Treasury Secretary Robert Rubin and Russian President Vladimir Putin, were cited as factors in his appointment. He also had a close relationship with then-Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi, who advocated for a 'shift from government to private sector.' Okuda participated in key policy decisions, including structural reforms and social security system revisions, as a private member of the Council on Economic and Fiscal Policy, the government's economic policy advisory body. He warned shortly after taking office, "Japan is a runner that is one lap behind. The seriousness of deflation is due to the lack of progress in structural reform." During his four years as Keidanren chairman, he proposed nearly 200 policy recommendations. He criticized the management style of companies that cut staff first in response to performance recovery. In a long-term vision released in January 2003, he addressed sensitive issues such as the need for a consumption tax increase and the acceptance of foreign labor in light of Japan's declining population. The Nikkei pointed out that he transformed the role of Keidanren from one of merely mediating interests to one of actively voicing opinions.In 2008, Okuda received the Order of the Rising Sun, the highest honor from the Japanese government. In 2012, he became the president of the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC), which was separated from the Development Bank of Japan, to support Japanese companies seeking to expand overseas. He concluded his association with Toyota in 2018 when he stepped down as an advisor. His funeral will be a family affair, and details regarding a memorial service have not yet been determined. 2026-08-12 13:40:00
  • Chinese Official Urges Hong Kong Politicians to Improve Mandarin Skills
    Chinese Official Urges Hong Kong Politicians to Improve Mandarin Skills The head of the Chinese government's Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office recently urged Hong Kong lawmakers to "study Mandarin (Putonghua) more". This remark gained attention following the implementation of the National Unity Promotion Law in China last month, which has led to increased calls for Hong Kong politicians to enhance their Mandarin skills.According to local media, Xia Baolong met with a delegation of 88 Hong Kong lawmakers for about five hours in Beijing on July 25. During the meeting, many lawmakers presented their remarks in a hesitant Mandarin mixed with Cantonese accents. In response, Xia encouraged them to "study Mandarin more." Local reports interpreted his comments as a light-hearted encouragement rather than a reprimand.This is not the first time Xia has listened to Hong Kong politicians struggle with Mandarin. Last year, during a visit to Hong Kong, he attended a meeting where Tommy Cheung, a member of the Executive Council and leader of the Liberal Party, spoke entirely in Cantonese. At that time, Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee attempted to ease the situation by stating in Mandarin that he had submitted a speech draft prior to the meeting and thanked Xia for his understanding. However, Xia reportedly did not react.While Xia's comments were made in a joking manner, analysts suggest they reflect the growing importance of Mandarin proficiency in Hong Kong's political landscape, especially as the Chinese government emphasizes integration between Hong Kong society and mainland China.Furthermore, the National Unity Promotion Law, which took effect in July, specifies that Mandarin will be adopted as the primary language for school education and official government business, promoting its widespread use.There are increasing calls within Hong Kong for politicians to actively pursue Mandarin learning. The pro-China newspaper Sing Tao Daily argued in an editorial on August 11 that "Hong Kong lawmakers should strive to learn Mandarin," stating that it is a basic duty of being Chinese and reflects their identity and responsibility. The editorial also criticized lawmakers who struggled to speak Mandarin fluently during meetings, suggesting a lack of enthusiasm.Hong Kong's linguistic environment differs significantly from that of mainland China. Following a "bilingual and trilingual" policy, Hong Kong has utilized two written languages (English and Chinese) and three spoken languages (Mandarin, Cantonese, and English). After being a British colony for over 150 years, Hong Kong only designated Mandarin as a mandatory subject in some primary and secondary schools in 1998, gradually strengthening Mandarin education.In this context, the demand for Mandarin proficiency among Hong Kong politicians is seen as aligned with the changing relationship between Hong Kong and mainland China. Chai Si-hang, a professor at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, noted that lawmakers with significant interests in political and economic exchanges between Hong Kong and mainland China should be fluent in Mandarin. 2026-08-12 13:40:00
  • Kakao Bank Union Launches Compliance Strike, Rejects Overtime and Holiday Work
    Kakao Bank Union Launches Compliance Strike, Rejects Overtime and Holiday Work The Kakao Bank labor union has initiated a compliance strike, rejecting overtime, night, and holiday work amid ongoing disputes over wages and collective agreements.According to the Kakao branch of the National Chemical Fiber Food Industry Workers' Union, the strike began at midnight on August 12.Union members participating in the compliance strike will only work within the limits of an average of 40 hours per week when calculating monthly working hours. They will not engage in night shifts, overtime, or holiday work.After regular working hours, they will not respond to work requests via phone or messaging. They also will not comply with urgent requests that exceed the scope defined in the collective agreement.However, during designated working hours, they will continue to perform their assigned tasks as usual, adhering to existing safety, security, and review procedures.The union asserts that the stable operation of financial services should not rely on the long working hours, constant on-call duties, and personal sacrifices of some members.Seong-wook Seo, the union's branch leader, stated, "This compliance strike is an action to create an environment where members can work sustainably and ensure stable service operations. We will continue lawful industrial actions with our members until the company presents responsible dialogue and practical solutions."Meanwhile, the Kakao Bank union previously conducted a full-day strike on July 31, with over 700 union members taking a day off. This marked the first strike among internet-only banks, highlighting the prolonged conflict over wage negotiations.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-12 13:32:00
  • Trump Secretly Transferred on Military Plane Amid Iran Assassination Threat
    Trump Secretly Transferred on Military Plane Amid Iran Assassination Threat President Donald Trump secretly transferred to a military aircraft while leaving Turkey last month, leaving Air Force One as a decoy amid an assassination threat from Iran.According to the Wall Street Journal on August 11, Israel provided intelligence indicating that Iran could target either President Trump or Air Force One, including the possibility of an attack using surface-to-air missiles.No missile launches occurred, and the reliability of the intelligence has not been specifically confirmed. However, U.S. security officials deemed the situation serious enough to alter the president's travel plans. The WSJ noted, "This is the first time such a deception operation has occurred during Trump's presidency."The operation took place on July 8 at Ankara Airport. President Trump boarded Air Force One in front of the press but secretly exited through a catering vehicle attached to the opposite entrance. He then transferred to a waiting U.S. Air Force C-32A nearby and headed to the UK.The military aircraft flew with its tracking device turned off. Instead of the usual call sign 'Air Force One,' it used the standard military call sign 'Reach 18' to conceal its actual flight path.Meanwhile, the existing Air Force One carrying White House staff and reporters continued to the UK. Passengers believed the president was on the same flight, effectively making Air Force One a decoy.After arriving at the U.S. Air Force base in Mildenhall, UK, Trump transferred back to the original Air Force One and later appeared before cameras to encourage U.S. troops.Trump later acknowledged the secret transfer, explaining it was a precautionary measure based on the assessments of the Secret Service and military officials.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-12 13:32:00
  • Labor Minister Kim Young-hoon Reviews Yellow Envelope Law Regulations
    Labor Minister Kim Young-hoon Reviews Yellow Envelope Law Regulations 김영훈 고용노동부 장관이 노란봉투법(개정 노동조합법)의 사용자성 판단과 노동쟁의 범위를 구체화하기 위해 시행령·시행규칙 등 하위법령 마련을 검토하고 있다고 밝혔다. 메가특구 연구개발(R&D) 인력에 대한 주 52시간제 예외 적용에는 신중하게 접근해야 한다는 기존 입장을 재확인했다. 김 장관은 12일 국회 기후에너지환경노동위원회 전체회의에서 나경원 국민의힘 의원이 노란봉투법의 사용자성과 쟁의 대상이 불명확하다고 지적하자 "시행령이나 시행규칙 등 어떤 방법이 있을지 다각도로 검토하고 있다"고 말했다. 김 장관은 "업무보고 때는 지침으로 하겠다고 보고드렸는데 전날 국무회의에서 대통령이 재차 지시했다"며 "업무 지침으로 충분히 모호성을 해소할 수 있을 것으로 생각했지만 지침보다는 구체적인 제도화를 검토하라고 지시했다"고 설명했다. 노란봉투법은 노동조합 및 노동관계조정법 2·3조 개정안을 일컫는다. 원청의 사용자성 인정 범위와 노동쟁의 대상 확대 등을 두고 노동계와 경영계 간 입장이 엇갈려왔다. 이재명 대통령도 전날 국무회의에서 노동쟁의 대상이 지나치게 넓어질 수 있다는 우려와 관련해 보다 구체적인 기준을 마련할 필요가 있다는 취지로 주문했다. 이에 노동부는 당초 지침을 통해 세부 기준을 제시하려던 방침에서 나아가 시행령이나 시행규칙 등 제도화 방안까지 검토하기로 했다. 나 의원은 "노란봉투법 자체가 모호한 규정으로 돼 있고 사용자성 부분도 명확히 해야 한다"며 "법에 구체적인 위임 규정이 없는데 하위법령으로 했다가 위헌성 논란을 가져올 수 있다"고 지적했다. 김 장관은 영업이익의 일정 비율을 성과급으로 지급하는 이른바 '영업이익 N% 성과급'이 노동쟁의·교섭 대상에 해당하는지에 대해서도 기준을 마련하겠다고 밝혔다. 그는 "영업이익의 몇 퍼센트(%)를 세금도 내기 전에 먼저 분배하는 문제"라며 "어떤 기준으로 쟁의·교섭 대상이 되는지 조만간 발표하겠다"고 말했다. 노동부는 이달 중 관련 지침을 마련할 예정이다. 메가특구 R&D 인력의 주 52시간제 특례에 대해서는 신중한 입장을 유지했다. 김 장관은 메가특구에서 연구직에 주 52시간제 예외를 적용할 것이냐는 질의에 "아직 정부에서 정해진 바는 없다"고 선을 그었다. 이어 주 52시간제 적용 대상에서 일정 연구인력을 제외하는 이른바 '화이트칼라 이그젬션' 등에 대해서도 "주 52시간제 예외는 신중하게 접근해야 한다"며 "기업 생산성과 노동기본권을 어떻게 조화할 수 있을지 고민하겠다"고 말했다. 정부는 반도체·피지컬AI·AI데이터센터 등 3대 메가프로젝트를 뒷받침하기 위한 메가특구특별법의 연내 제정을 추진하고 있다. 정부 내에서는 반도체 R&D 인력 등에 대한 근로시간 규제 완화 방안이 논의되고 있지만 노동계는 장시간 노동으로 이어질 수 있다며 반발하고 있다. 김 장관은 "메가특구가 반드시 성공해야 한다는 데는 이견이 없다"며 "노동자도 보호하고 기업의 생산성도 올릴 수 있는 해법을 고민하겠다"고 강조했다. 그러면서 "노동계와 지속적으로 소통하는 한편 기업과도 충분히 소통해 기업의 요구가 무엇인지 잘 헤아리겠다"며 "궁극적으로 나라 발전에 도움이 될 수 있도록 함께 고민하겠다"고 말했다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-12 13:28:10
  • HLB Panajin to Present PNA Technology at U.S. Oligonucleotide and Peptide Conference
    HLB Panajin to Present PNA Technology at U.S. Oligonucleotide and Peptide Conference HLB Panajin will introduce its proprietary peptide nucleic acid (PNA) technology at the upcoming Oligonucleotides & Peptides Xchange–San Francisco 2026 conference in the United States.The company announced on August 12 that it will deliver the opening keynote address at the event, scheduled for September in San Francisco.The presentation is titled "The Overlooked Oligo: Why PNA Deserves a Closer Look in Your Pipeline." HLB Panajin plans to highlight the technical strengths of PNA and its potential applications in drug development.This conference will gather experts and decision-makers from global pharmaceutical and biotech companies to discuss the latest technologies and business collaboration opportunities in the fields of oligonucleotides and peptide therapeutics.During the presentation, HLB Panajin will showcase the differentiated technical advantages of PNA compared to traditional oligonucleotides, as well as its applications in various fields, including cell and gene therapies (CGT), and outline its potential as a drug development platform.This presentation has been organized in collaboration with ChemGenes, HLB Panajin's U.S. PNA distribution partner. The company aims to expand its collaborations with local research institutions and pharmaceutical and biotech companies, strengthening its global PNA business.Jang In-geun, CEO of HLB Panajin, stated, "PNA is a material with significant potential for various drug development fields due to its high binding affinity and stability. Through this presentation, we aim to raise awareness of PNA's competitiveness among global researchers and pharmaceutical and biotech companies, and to expand research and development collaborations and business opportunities."Meanwhile, HLB Panajin supplies PNA-based research and diagnostic materials and reagents to over 50 countries worldwide, including the United States, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Oceania.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-12 13:28:00