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  • Hanwha General Insurance Reports 45.6% Increase in Q2 Net Profit
    Hanwha General Insurance Reports 45.6% Increase in Q2 Net Profit Hanwha General Insurance reported a net profit of 116.4 billion won for the second quarter of this year, marking a 45.6% increase compared to the same period last year, driven by improvements in long-term insurance reserves and increased amortization gains from contract margins (CSM). The new contract CSM also reached a record high for the quarter. The company announced on August 12 that its revenue for the second quarter was 1.9774 trillion won, up 15.4% from 1.7134 trillion won in the same period last year. Cumulative revenue for the first half of the year reached 3.949 trillion won, an 18.9% increase year-on-year. The profitability indicator, new contract CSM, rose to 327.2 billion won in the second quarter, a 24.9% increase from 261.9 billion won in the same period last year. This figure surpassed the previous quarter's record of 302.4 billion won, setting a new quarterly high. As of the end of the first half, the retained CSM stood at 4.4204 trillion won, a 7.2% increase from the previous year. The average monthly new long-term insurance contracts amounted to 7.73 billion won, a 3.5% increase compared to the same period last year. Hanwha attributed this growth to increased sales of its 'Signature Women's Health Insurance' product. The company's solvency indicators remained stable, with the estimated solvency ratio (K-ICS) at 185% before transitional measures and 228% after. A Hanwha General Insurance official stated, "Sales of long-term insurance products are increasing across various sales channels. We will maintain a sales focus centered on CSM in the second half and expand our differentiated product pipeline to ensure continued growth."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-12 11:16:20
  • Suwon City Launches Traditional Hanok Cultural Space Namsuheon
    Suwon City Launches Traditional Hanok Cultural Space 'Namsuheon' Suwon City, led by Mayor Lee Jae-jun, announced that the public hanok cultural facility 'Namsuheon' will officially begin operations on the 14th.Located near the Hwaseong Fortress wall in Namsu-dong (11-453 Namsu-dong), Namsuheon is a multi-cultural space offering hanok accommodations and traditional cultural experiences.The opening ceremony took place on March 27, and the facility has since undergone trial operations to assess and improve its services.Namsuheon spans a total area of 2,644.01 square meters, with one basement level and two above-ground floors. Construction began in April 2023, and the facility was completed in April of this year. The first floor features an open cultural space with a gallery café and a hanok library, accessible to all visitors, while the second floor includes 12 hanok guest rooms for accommodation experiences.The guest rooms are available in various sizes, accommodating 1-2 people, 3-4 people, and 6-8 people. Room rates range from 180,000 to 500,000 won during off-peak seasons. Flexible pricing applies during peak seasons and weekends, with discounts available for Suwon residents on 10% of the rooms.Operation of Namsuheon is managed by Awon Co., Ltd., led by Jeon Hae-gap, which oversees the hanok accommodation, gallery café, program management, and facility maintenance.Reservations for accommodations can be made on the Namsuheon website starting on the 14th. For more details, please refer to the website.Additionally, the Paldal-gu Office and Suwon Hwaseong Museum are located nearby. Attractions such as Hwaseong Haenggung, Haengridangil, and Changryongmun and Yeonmuddae are also within walking distance, making it convenient for visitors to explore the area around Suwon Hwaseong.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-12 11:12:10
  • Lotte Eatz App Streamlines Ordering with UI/UX Overhaul
    Lotte Eatz App Streamlines Ordering with UI/UX Overhaul Lotte GRS announced on August 12 that it has revamped the UI and UX of the Lotte Eatz app to simplify the ordering process and enhance menu navigation.The update consolidates the previously separate steps of cart, order, and payment, reducing the overall ordering time. A reorder feature has also been prominently placed in the app, allowing users to quickly repurchase items they have bought recently.The new 'Eatz's Pick' recommendation feature enables users to order suggested combinations of meals, drinks, and toppings all at once, rather than selecting each item individually. This aims to reduce the time spent on menu selection and improve ordering convenience.The ordering screen has been designed to focus on menu exploration. Users can first choose whether to dine in or take out, and the layout has been adjusted for easier navigation with one hand. The arrangement of categories and product displays has been made more intuitive, and the overall ordering process has been streamlined. Additionally, payment options now include convenient methods like Naver Pay and Toss Pay for easier transactions.Lotte Eatz is an integrated ordering app that allows customers to order from Lotte GRS's dining brands, including Lotteria, Angel-in-us, and Krispy Kreme. Since its launch in 2020, it has surpassed 6 million registered users. In May, it received certification for mobile and web accessibility, further enhancing its usability for a diverse range of customers.A Lotte GRS representative stated, "This Lotte Eatz overhaul focuses on alleviating user inconveniences and enhancing the joy of ordering. We will continue to improve our services to increase customer satisfaction and provide a differentiated experience."The updated Lotte Eatz app is now available for use, although an app update may be required depending on the user's environment.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-12 11:12:00
  • KB Financial Group Expands Support for Firefighters with New Hero Rest Area
    KB Financial Group Expands Support for Firefighters with New 'Hero Rest Area' KB Financial Group is expanding its support for firefighters' treatment and psychological recovery in conjunction with the opening of the National Fire Hospital.On August 12, KB Financial announced plans to enhance welfare infrastructure and operate psychological and emotional programs for firefighters.Located in Eumseong, Chungbuk, the National Fire Hospital is the first specialized hospital in South Korea dedicated to firefighters. It offers specialized medical and rehabilitation services tailored to the unique needs of firefighting, including treatment for burns, rehabilitation, and mental health support.This initiative is part of a support program led by KB Insurance, which has established three 'Hero Rest Areas' within the National Fire Hospital for firefighters and their families. Additionally, 600 sets of 'Warmth Mailboxes' and 'Recovery Support Kits' have been delivered to assist in psychological and emotional recovery.KB Financial has consistently provided support for firefighters. Last year, it supplied dust masks to reduce exposure to harmful substances at fire scenes. Since 2016, KB Insurance has installed 100 mental health stabilization rooms in 119 safety centers nationwide.A KB Financial representative stated, "We will continue to expand our support system for firefighters, standing alongside the heroes who dedicate themselves to public safety."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-12 11:12:00
  • Celebrating Liberation Day, Advocates Push for One Korea Vision
    Celebrating Liberation Day, Advocates Push for One Korea Vision On the 81st anniversary of Korea's liberation, over 500 individuals from civil society, religious groups, displaced persons, North Korean defectors, youth, politics, and academia gathered to discuss the vision for achieving a free and democratic peaceful unification under the banner of 'One Korea.'The '81st Liberation Day One Korea Unification Advancement Conference' took place on the morning of August 11 at the National Assembly's main conference room. Attendees expressed concern over the recent emergence of the 'Two Koreas' theory, emphasizing the need to reaffirm the vision of peaceful unification as outlined in the Constitution of the Republic of Korea, rather than accepting the division as a given.Co-hosting the event, Song Seok-jun, chair of the National Assembly's Foreign Affairs and Unification Committee, welcomed participants by stating, "The Constitution of the Republic of Korea clearly aims for peaceful unification based on a free democratic order. We must not ignore or be deluded by the harsh realities of division, especially with the increasing nuclear threats from North Korea and the worsening international situation."He added, "The spirit of unification as envisioned by the Constitution must not be shaken. I hope this conference serves as a valuable opportunity to explore the direction of peaceful unification that the people desire."Co-host Jang Man-soon, chair of the 10 Million Displaced Families Committee, remarked, "The Kim Jong-un regime has defined South Korea as an enemy state and abandoned the idea of unification, yet discussions that seem to accept the Two Koreas theory continue in some sectors of our society. Article 3 of the Constitution defines the entire Korean Peninsula as the territory of the Republic of Korea, and Article 4 states that the Republic of Korea aims for unification and establishes a peaceful unification policy based on a free democratic order."He expressed concern that recognizing North Korea as a separate state not only contradicts the Constitution but also affects the identity and rights of displaced persons and North Korean defectors."True peace begins with restoring the freedom and human rights of North Korean citizens," he said, emphasizing the need for a nationwide movement to convey the value of freedom to the people of North Korea through action, not just words.The 'Two Koreas' theory posits that, despite a shared historical identity as one nation, the current political, military, and diplomatic realities necessitate recognizing the two Koreas as separate entities and establishing relations accordingly. This perspective has sparked diverse opinions in political and academic circles, as it effectively acknowledges North Korea as a distinct state.Supporters of the Two Koreas theory cite over 70 years of living under different systems, the potential for increased unification costs and conflicts, and the significant differences in the lives and consciousness of the people as reasons for their stance. Opponents argue that this contradicts the spirit of the Constitution and that recognizing North Korea as a separate state would leave South Korea vulnerable to nuclear and military threats.In a keynote speech, former lawmaker Tae Yong-ho stated, "North Korea has removed unification from its constitution and policies, formalizing an adversarial Two Koreas theory, while discussions of a peaceful Two Koreas theory are emerging in our society. This could lead to a permanent division of the Korean Peninsula."Participants raised their voices, declaring that unification is a historical task for the future of the nation.Jeong Dae-cheol, president of the Korea Constitutional Association, stated, "Maturing democracy and achieving peaceful unification on the Korean Peninsula is the historical mission of the Republic of Korea. Unification must be prepared as a national task for the future of the nation, its competitiveness, sustainable development, and prevention of war."Baek Seung-joo, an advisor to the One Korea National Coalition, also emphasized the seriousness of the current unification environment surrounding the Korean Peninsula, urging national leaders to possess a clear philosophy and will regarding democracy and unification as they prepare for the future.Concrete action plans to prepare for the 'endgame' of Korean unification were also proposed.Seo In-taek, representative of the People Practicing Unification, stated, "Unification is not the exclusive domain of a specific faction or political force; it is a historical task that all of South Korea must prepare for together. What moves people is not slogans, but a clear vision that resonates with the public."He added, "Unification is not merely about territorial integration; it is about building a new civilizational state based on the founding ideology of Hongik Ingan, where freedom, human rights, and freedom of belief are guaranteed, and where young people can pursue their dreams. I propose a national awakening movement centered around the 'Korean Dream.'"He emphasized the need to change societal perceptions that take division for granted and view unification as impossible, stating that a national awakening movement to expand public empathy and participation should be the starting point for the endgame of Korean unification. He plans to hold the '2026 Korean Dream Han River Festival' on October 3 at Ttukseom Han River Park, focusing on unification.Additionally, on that day, various representatives, including Kang Gyu-ri, a North Korean defector who crossed the East Sea via a wooden boat in 2023, Pastor Jang Sang-il of the Gyeonggam Jesus Village Church, the head of the Korean Buddhist Patriotic Order, Kang Cheol-hwan, director of the North Korea Strategy Center, and Kenneth Bae, representative of the New Korea Foundation International, took turns announcing their commitment to realizing One Korea.They pledged to expand national solidarity across various sectors for a unified Republic of Korea based on freedom, democracy, and human rights. 2026-08-12 11:08:00
  • Xiaomi Launches Robot Vacuum Cleaner 6 Series in South Korea
    Xiaomi Launches Robot Vacuum Cleaner 6 Series in South Korea Xiaomi announced on August 12 that it will launch its next-generation robot vacuum cleaner, the 'Xiaomi Robot Vacuum Cleaner 6 Series,' in South Korea.The new product, available for pre-order starting on the 19th, features a water-cleaning roller that continuously supplies clean water, AI-based obstacle recognition, and powerful suction to enhance the overall cleaning experience.The series includes two models: the top-tier 'Xiaomi Robot Vacuum Cleaner 6 Max' and the standard 'Xiaomi Robot Vacuum Cleaner 6.'The Max model is equipped with bionic dual robot legs that can pass over thresholds up to 6 cm high. It also features a three-tier expansion system with an extendable side brush, corner cleaning pad, and mechanical roller arm, significantly reducing cleaning blind spots.With a maximum suction power of 35,000 Pa and a real-time roller cleaning function through 16 water spray nozzles, the device can avoid over 280 types of obstacles using a triple-camera-based AI panorama system. Its proprietary AI contamination recognition technology distinguishes between 47 types of dry and wet dirt, automatically adjusting the cleaning method.The standard model has a slim body measuring 90 mm, allowing it to easily access low furniture. It offers a maximum suction power of 30,000 Pa and features a tangle-free dual-blade main brush, along with a 2.5L automatic dust-emptying system that can be used for up to 75 days.The vacuum can be remotely controlled via the 'Xiaomi Home' app, which supports 3D mapping and area settings, as well as voice control through Google Assistant.A representative from Xiaomi Korea stated, "We aimed to expand the cleaning range to areas often overlooked in domestic living environments and provide a refined cleaning experience. We will offer reasonable options based on Xiaomi's technology and AIoT ecosystem."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-12 11:04:10
  • Minister Kim Jung-kwan Focuses on Expanding Industrial Capabilities for Economic Growth
    Minister Kim Jung-kwan Focuses on Expanding Industrial Capabilities for Economic Growth Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy Kim Jung-kwan stated, "We will concentrate our ministry's capabilities on expanding our companies' economic territory and solidifying our industrial foundation with the goal of becoming a powerhouse in ultra-growth, new spaces, and irreplaceable industries." During a meeting of the National Assembly's Committee on Trade, Industry, Energy, Small and Medium Enterprises, and Startups on August 12, Minister Kim emphasized, "It is our collective responsibility to protect and grow the great industrial legacy inherited from our predecessors and pass it on to the next generation." He added, "We will further develop our industry through three major mega projects and the AI transformation (M.AX)," and noted that the ministry will act as an investment project manager to closely support corporate investments. He also highlighted plans to digitize skilled manufacturing techniques and develop full-stack AI factories where AI and robots operate autonomously. Minister Kim expressed his intention to broaden the growth stage of South Korea's industry to local and global markets, stating, "We will establish regional growth engines and mega-special zones to position local areas as new centers of growth and expand our economic territory based on economic strategies." He also outlined plans to diversify energy imports, saying, "We will strengthen the foundation of our industrial authorities, diversify the import of energy and key minerals, and enhance our stockpiling capabilities while fostering an industrial ecosystem where large companies and their partners can grow together. We will ensure that changes are felt on the ground by the public." 2026-08-12 11:04:00
  • Investigation Expands into No Tae-aks Spouse Accompanying Business Trips
    Investigation Expands into No Tae-ak's Spouse Accompanying Business Trips The joint investigation team probing allegations of misconduct within the Election Commission has confirmed that all three overseas trips taken by former Election Commission Chairman No Tae-ak with his spouse were conducted without official invitations from the host countries.On August 12, legal sources reported that the joint investigation team, led by Kim Tae-hoon, deputy chief prosecutor of the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office, plans to question two Election Commission officials as witnesses regarding their involvement in the planning of No's overseas trips and the decision to include his spouse.The investigation team has recently obtained documents from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs indicating that none of the trips involving No and his spouse were scheduled at the request of the host countries. It has also been determined that there was no 'spousal invitation program' from the host nations.The trips in question include visits to Australia and New Zealand in December 2022, Germany and Estonia in November 2024, and Denmark and Sweden in November 2025. No accompanied his wife on all three occasions.His spouse's name was not included on the official travel roster. While some trip planning documents noted 'Chairman's couple accompanying,' this language was reportedly omitted from the publicly released reports for the 2024 and 2025 trips.The investigation team is also examining whether No's spouse performed any official duties during these trips. According to regulations, travel expenses can be covered for non-official personnel accompanying officials if they are engaged in official business.It is reported that No's spouse attended only six official events during the three trips, including luncheons and meetings at diplomatic missions—two in 2022, three in 2024, and one in 2025.Conversely, there are indications that Election Commission staff members facilitated unofficial activities for the spouse. In 2022, two staff members alternated in managing her schedule, while in 2024 and 2025, one staff member was reportedly assigned to this task.Some staff members were listed as attendees in the trip reports, but their presence was not confirmed in on-site photographs. The investigation team has previously secured statements from Election Commission staff indicating that they managed the spouse's unofficial schedule without any official duties being performed.The total expenses paid for the spouse during the three trips amounted to 47,438,900 won. The Election Commission maintains that these expenses were disbursed in accordance with travel regulations, but acknowledged that there were aspects that did not align with public expectations. They have decided to require spouses to cover their own expenses in cases where no spousal invitation program exists in the future.On July 20, No returned the full amount of travel expenses for his spouse to the national treasury, coinciding with the day the investigation team conducted its first search and seizure related to the allegations of luxury trips.The investigation team is currently analyzing financial documents related to the overseas travel expenses obtained during the search. They are also reviewing whether the travel expenses paid to the spouse can be classified as embezzlement.Additionally, the investigation team plans to question the head of the Gangnam District Election Commission regarding the shortage of ballots during the June 3 local elections. They will also summon officials from the Central Election Commission as witnesses in connection with allegations of voter manipulation.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-12 11:04:00
  • National Tax Service Establishes Team to Target High-Value Tax Delinquents
    National Tax Service Establishes Team to Target High-Value Tax Delinquents The National Tax Service (NTS) is establishing a dedicated team to track high-value tax delinquents who hide assets through overseas affiliates or name trusts. A tax management team of 10,000 will be deployed to assess the status of accumulated delinquencies amounting to 130 trillion won, and an artificial intelligence (AI)-based tax service and tax evasion detection system will also be developed.On August 12, the NTS held a meeting of tax office heads at the Government Sejong 2nd Office, where it announced its "2026 Second Half National Tax Administration Operation Plan."The dedicated teams for delinquency tracking and tax investigations will be set up at the Investigation Bureau 4 of the Seoul Regional Tax Office and Investigation Bureau 3 of the Central Regional Tax Office. They will conduct integrated investigations into asset tracking, tax evasion, and irregular tax audits related to overseas tax evasion and corporate fund outflows.Previously, the NTS's collection office conducted surveillance, inquiries, and home searches targeting high-value and habitual delinquents. However, it was challenging to confirm the actual ownership of delinquents' assets when they were obscured through multiple layers of overseas affiliates or when shares of domestic corporations were registered under others' names.The newly established teams will utilize irregular tax audit methods, including overseas information collection and analysis, to verify hidden assets and tax evasion suspicions. They will track transactions between business owners and domestic and foreign affiliates to identify corporations and assets effectively controlled by the delinquents.Park Sang-jun, head of the NTS's Investigation Planning Division, explained, "The teams at the Seoul and Central offices are irregular dedicated investigation units. We are prioritizing these locations based on their capacity to focus on transactions between business owners and affiliates."In the second half of the year, the NTS will operate a tax management team of 10,000 to assess the 130 trillion won in accumulated delinquencies. Currently, 5,500 personnel are active, and about 18,800 candidates applied for the second round of hiring for 4,000 additional team members, resulting in a competitive ratio of 4.7 to 1.The tax management team will verify the payment capabilities of small-scale delinquents via phone and will visit high-value delinquents who avoid contact. Based on their findings, delinquents will be classified into three categories: temporarily unable to pay, willfully avoiding payment, and experiencing financial hardship.For those temporarily unable to pay, the NTS will provide guidance on installment payments. In cases where assets are intentionally concealed, home searches, seizures, and lawsuits to cancel fraudulent transactions will be pursued. Delinquents facing financial hardship will be linked to welfare services and have their payment obligations waived.Starting in 2027, the authority to collect fines and penalties scattered across various government departments will be consolidated under the NTS. The NTS plans to support the passage of the "Law on the Collection and Management of Non-Tax Revenue Delinquencies" within the year and establish a database and integrated management system for each delinquent.Earlier this month, 23 government agencies, including the National Police Agency, the Fair Trade Commission, the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family, and the Korea Forest Service, signed a memorandum of understanding with the NTS. The NTS has begun verifying the status of 2.95 million delinquent individuals with unpaid fines totaling 1.1 trillion won and will expand its scope starting in September to include wage claims from the Ministry of Employment and Labor, environmental improvement fees from the Ministry of Climate, Energy, and Environment, and fines from the Fair Trade Commission.This second half of the year, the NTS will implement AI-based "Home Tax AI Search" and "AI Phone Consultation" services. It is also designing an "AI Tax Evasion Detection System" that combines past tax audit cases, investigative expertise, and big data. The NTS plans to commence the main project in 2027 and gradually roll out major services starting in 2028.The NTS will focus its tax investigations on activities that infringe on public welfare, such as low-priced transfers to avoid multi-home taxation, fraudulent transactions, stock manipulation, private use of corporate assets like luxury homes and supercars, illegal private financing, and false or unfair advertising. It aims to utilize international information exchange and collection cooperation to address overseas tax evasion and hidden assets.To assist 1.03 million individual business owners and young entrepreneurs, as well as 40,000 affected corporations struggling with high exchange rates, high oil prices, and inflation, the NTS will offer extensions on payment deadlines, early refunds, and deferrals of tax audits. It will provide dedicated consultation services and tax deduction and exemption consulting for small and medium-sized enterprises relocating to regional areas, and extend the maximum deferral period for regular tax audits of regionally based companies to three years.During the meeting, NTS Commissioner Lim Kwang-hyun stated, "We have successfully implemented the national tax administration innovation tasks initiated from the voices of the field over the past six months. In the second half of the year, I urge all tax office heads to work together to lead national financial innovation and practice fair taxation, supporting the NTS in its role as a key player in the great leap forward of 'Irreplaceable Korea.'"* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-12 11:00:20
  • Joint Investigation Reveals Low Insurance Rates in Aquaculture and Salt Farms
    Joint Investigation Reveals Low Insurance Rates in Aquaculture and Salt Farms The government has found that insurance enrollment rates at aquaculture and salt farm facilities across the country are below half, indicating an urgent need for improvements in working conditions.The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries and the Ministry of Employment and Labor conducted a safety and health environment survey from March to July this year, covering 250 aquaculture and salt farm facilities. The assessment included quantitative evaluations of employers, workers, workplaces, and equipment, as well as qualitative evaluations of hazardous and risky factors.The survey revealed that the total number of workers across the 250 facilities was 2,791, with an average of 11 workers per facility. Among them, 17% were foreign workers, and 55% were male. Additionally, 52% of the workforce was aged 50 or older, and 30% were self-employed.The average insurance enrollment rate across five types of insurance was 44%, with 70% of the facilities reporting annual revenues exceeding 100 million won. However, salt farms showed a stark contrast, with 68.5% of self-employed individuals, an 8% insurance enrollment rate, and only 2% reporting revenues above 100 million won.The quantitative survey assessed 76 items across three categories: employers and workers, workplaces, and equipment. The average safety and health score in the aquaculture sector was only 1.97 out of 5. By sector, coastal aquaculture scored 2.04, inland aquaculture 1.96, and salt farms 1.88.Qualitative assessments identified common issues such as inadequate risk assessments, insufficient posting of Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), and lack of safety signage. Specific problems included risks of falls and handling heavy materials in coastal aquaculture, inadequate safety covers for mixing machines and risks of suffocation in inland aquaculture, and dangers from extreme heat, falls into waterways, and risks associated with sealed storage tanks in salt farms.In response, experts have called for enhanced safety and health awareness and training for employers and workers in the aquaculture sector, as well as joint safety inspections of facilities to address regulatory gaps. There is also a growing demand for government support to improve safety facilities and equipment.Choi Hyun-ho, head of the Fisheries Policy Office at the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, stated, "We will analyze the results of this survey with relevant departments to reassess and improve the overall safety and health management system in the aquaculture sector. With the establishment of a dedicated department for improving the working environment of fishery workers, we will systematically enhance labor conditions."Lee Min-jae, head of the Industrial Safety and Health Policy Office at the Ministry of Employment and Labor, added, "We will actively manage the identified risk factors in collaboration with the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries. Local governments are also implementing specialized projects to prevent serious accidents in the fisheries sector, and we will work together in various ways." 2026-08-12 11:00:20