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  • BHC Breaks New Ground with First Flagship Store in Gangnam
    BHC Breaks New Ground with First Flagship Store in Gangnam A three-story building adorned in BHC's signature yellow has opened in the heart of Gangnam, marking the launch of the brand's first flagship store, the 'BHC Flagship Store Gangnam Station.' This comes as the chicken franchise, operated by Dining Brands Group, prepares to celebrate its 30th anniversary next year after three years of development.On August 11, Dining Brands Group held a media event to discuss the background of the flagship store's opening and its future expansion strategy. This flagship store will serve as a key hub to transform existing chicken consumption patterns and gather customer feedback on new menu items and services.The core concept of the flagship store is 'All-Day Chicken.' Traditionally enjoyed in the evening, BHC aims to expand chicken consumption to include lunch, afternoon snacks, and dinner gatherings, making it a complete meal option regardless of the time or number of diners. The company has been preparing for the flagship store's opening by considering meal-oriented chicken menus and dedicated spaces for about three years.In line with this strategy, the store is divided by floor according to the time of day and purpose of visit. The first floor, 'Pick & Start,' focuses on quick orders and takeout, featuring an automated cooking robot, 'Frybot,' to enhance efficiency and provide an engaging experience. The second floor, 'Pick & Stay,' is designed for casual dining, optimized for nearby office workers seeking lunch, solo meals, or small gatherings. The third floor, 'Pick & More,' offers a space for gatherings and parties, where customers can enjoy chicken alongside K-food snacks like spicy rice cakes, fish cake soup, and seasoned whelk.The menu also breaks away from the traditional 'whole chicken' ordering model. The signature menu item, 'Crispic,' allows customers to customize their order by choosing from various cuts, frying styles, sizes, seasonings, and sauces, resulting in over 3,000 possible combinations. Additionally, to cater to solo diners, options like rice boxes, salad boxes, crispy bun boxes, and Crispic burgers are available, along with platters for 2-3 people.Yum Eun-mi, head of the R&D Center at Dining Brands Group, stated, "We developed our menu strategy to allow chicken to be enjoyed in various situations, such as lunch, afternoon snacks, and evening gatherings. We moved away from the traditional model of sharing a whole chicken to offering individual portions that reflect personal preferences."Menu items that receive positive feedback at the Gangnam Station location will be considered for expansion to other stores, with burgers currently showing the most promise. BHC is already testing burgers at some company-owned locations, while decisions on other menu items will be based on sales performance, consumer response, and operational efficiency.BHC plans to actively use the flagship store as a testing ground for global market entry and new formats. Since its opening on August 4, about 30% of visitors to the Gangnam Station store have been foreigners, with notable numbers of tourists from China and Japan. International buyers and stakeholders have also shown keen interest in this flagship store model. BHC intends to adapt the verified new menu items and operational models from the flagship store for its global business. The company also plans to expand its store formats into key commercial areas where traditional chicken specialty stores have struggled to enter, such as department stores and shopping malls.Kim Hyo-sun, executive director of marketing at Dining Brands Group, remarked, "Chicken has already become deeply integrated into our lives, beyond just being a late-night snack or appetizer. As a leading chicken brand in South Korea, we feel a responsibility to discover new market demands and will continue to introduce various store formats tailored to customer needs, starting with the Gangnam Station location."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-12 11:00:00
  • Typhoons Dolphin and Chan-hom Impacting Korean Peninsula Weather
    Typhoons Dolphin and Chan-hom Impacting Korean Peninsula Weather Typhoon 13, known as Dolphin, is moving toward eastern China while bypassing the Korean Peninsula. Meanwhile, Typhoon 15, Chan-hom, is expected to traverse the Japanese archipelago and potentially enter the East Sea. Although the likelihood of Chan-hom making landfall is low, its accompanying easterly winds and moisture could bring rain to the eastern coast of Korea, alleviating the ongoing heat wave.According to the Korea Meteorological Administration on August 12, a weakened tropical depression from Typhoon Dolphin is located west of Shanghai, China, while Typhoon Chan-hom is positioned to the east. Dolphin has moved over the southern waters of the Korean Peninsula without directly impacting the country, but Chan-hom is anticipated to follow a path through northeastern Japan into the East Sea, likely affecting the eastern coast and southeastern regions of Korea.Chan-hom is drawing attention due to its potential to bring easterly winds into Korea, depending on its position and rotation. In the Northern Hemisphere, typhoons and other low-pressure systems rotate counterclockwise. If Chan-hom settles east of the Korean Peninsula, it could create a structure that allows easterly winds to flow toward Korea.These easterly winds will pick up moisture from the East Sea and, upon encountering the Taebaek Mountains, will rise and produce rain along the eastern coast. The air descending from the mountains will be relatively dry and warm, potentially leading to a Föhn effect. As a result, while the eastern coast may experience rain, the inland areas west of the Taebaek Mountains might not see significant temperature drops or could even warm up.Current forecasts indicate that rain is expected primarily in the eastern coastal and mountainous regions of Gangwon and the northeastern areas of Gyeongbuk. By August 14, expected rainfall amounts are 30 to 80 mm for Ulleungdo and Dokdo, 20 to 60 mm for the eastern coast and mountainous areas of Gangwon and Gyeongbuk, 10 to 40 mm for the southern coast of Busan, Ulsan, and Gyeongnam, and around 5 mm for the mountainous regions of Jeju.Notably, rain is expected along the Gyeongnam coast and eastern inland areas from the afternoon to night of August 13, with additional rain anticipated in the mountainous regions of Jeju starting the night of August 14.Another reason for the interest in Chan-hom is its potential to alter the pressure systems that have contributed to the recent heat dome over the Korean Peninsula. A strong high-pressure system that had been dominating the area has weakened, leading to a temporary reduction in the heat wave. On August 10, Seoul recorded a low of 24.8 degrees Celsius, breaking a two-day tropical night streak, while Daecheong in Gangwon dropped to 17.6 degrees Celsius.Chan-hom's approach could complicate these pressure changes further. As the typhoon moves east of the Korean Peninsula, it may disturb the edges of the high-pressure system and strengthen the easterly winds, potentially pushing some of the hot air aloft out of the region and temporarily alleviating the heat wave.However, it is difficult to assert that Chan-hom will completely break the heat dome. The typhoon's center is expected to remain far from the Korean Peninsula, and its impacts are likely to be concentrated on the eastern coast and surrounding seas.In drought-affected areas, the rain brought by Chan-hom could be welcome news. However, as the easterly winds meet the Taebaek Mountains, there is a possibility of concentrated rainfall in specific regions. Therefore, Chan-hom should not be viewed solely as a 'savior typhoon' for drought relief. The amount of rainfall and areas of heavy downpours will depend on the typhoon's position, speed, and moisture influx, necessitating close monitoring of the latest forecasts.At sea, Chan-hom's effects are expected to be more direct. Strong winds and high waves are anticipated in the East Sea, particularly in the central and southern regions, where rough seas may develop. The southern seas of the West Sea may also experience increased winds due to the weakened tropical depression from Dolphin.Currently, the timing coincides with a spring tide, which could lead to flooding along the coast due to rising sea levels during high tide. There is a risk of strong swells along the southern coasts of Jeonnam, Gyeongnam, and Jeju, so it is advisable to avoid activities such as watching waves from breakwaters or rocky shores.Even if the typhoon does not make landfall, the winds, moisture, and high waves surrounding it can create dangerous conditions. Additionally, it remains to be seen whether the heat wave will completely dissipate after Chan-hom's influence. Although the high-pressure system may weaken temporarily due to the typhoon, if a high-pressure system reestablishes itself around the Korean Peninsula after the typhoon passes, temperatures could rise quickly again.Historically, there have been instances where typhoons have temporarily alleviated heat waves, only for high pressure to expand again, leading to a resurgence of heat. Therefore, it is more appropriate to view Chan-hom as a short-term variable that disrupts the pressure system over the Korean Peninsula rather than a definitive end to the heat wave.The Korea Meteorological Administration urges the public to stay updated on the latest typhoon information and weather advisories, as the path and intensity of the typhoon may continue to change.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-12 11:00:00
  • Jung Jeom-sik: Party Members May Have Different Opinions on Leadership Changes
    Jung Jeom-sik: Party Members May Have Different Opinions on Leadership Changes Jung Jeom-sik, the floor leader of the People Power Party, stated on August 12 that while party members may have differing opinions regarding leadership changes, it is unfortunate that they express their views through factionalism.During an appearance on Channel A's YouTube program 'Political Signal,' Jung emphasized that having a diverse spectrum within a political party is actually a sign of a healthy organization.He noted that the lack of consensus within the party regarding the results of the June 3 local elections has led to ongoing controversy surrounding the position of Jang Dong-hyuk. However, he warned that the situation could reignite conflicts at any moment, urging for a swift resolution to stabilize the party.To win the upcoming general election, Jung stressed the need to gain support from moderates, residents of the metropolitan area, and young voters. He pointed out that at least a year of preparation is necessary in the metropolitan area, questioning how effective campaigning could be if candidates are chosen just before the election.He expressed optimism about the possibility of a merger with the Reform New Party, stating that if a consensus is reached among members, a 'conservative unification' could lay the groundwork for victory in the general election.Regarding the party's ethics committee, Jung proposed that any disciplinary actions should receive broad support from members. He acknowledged that the ethics committee operates independently but expressed hope that appropriate disciplinary measures would be determined in future proceedings.Jung also voiced criticism of the government and ruling party regarding tax reform proposals and the abolition of supplementary investigative powers. He highlighted issues with recent real estate tax reforms, stating that loan regulations have prevented people from buying homes, while increased property taxes have forced them to sell. He lamented that the lack of clarity on housing direction is problematic for citizens.In response to President Lee Jae-myung's directive to review the tax reform plan, Jung remarked that it is concerning for the head of state to question why policies were announced without proper review, suggesting that the criticism should be directed at himself.He announced plans to file a constitutional complaint regarding the proposed amendments to the Criminal Procedure Act, which would abolish supplementary investigative powers, as early as this month. He argued that it is unconstitutional to allow prosecutors, who cannot conduct investigations, to apply for warrants, stating that this undermines the constitutional framework.Additionally, Jung revealed plans to finalize the appointment of a new policy committee chair as early as this week.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-12 11:00:00
  • SK Hynix Set to Launch Unified Labor Union to Enhance Bargaining Power
    SK Hynix Set to Launch Unified Labor Union to Enhance Bargaining Power SK Hynix is on the verge of launching a unified labor union that will encompass both production and technical office workers. The goal is to secure over half of the workforce, approximately 18,000 members, to establish a majority union. The union aims to consolidate member voices on key issues, including the principle of cash distribution of excess profit sharing (PS), to enhance its bargaining power with management. According to industry sources, the upcoming 'Hynix Unified Labor Union' has surpassed 1,250 members as of today. The union establishment committee submitted its application for union formation on August 8, and it is expected to officially launch today. The push for a unified union stems from the dilution of bargaining power caused by the existing multiple union system. Currently, SK Hynix has three unions: the Icheon and Cheongju production unions and a technical office union, each negotiating separately with management. The unified union believes that the division of unions by job type and region makes it difficult to consolidate member demands, which can weaken negotiation power with management. To address this, they plan to create a single union that includes both production and technical office workers. The primary objective is to achieve majority union status. With approximately 35,000 employees at SK Hynix, the plan is to secure over 18,000 members. Attaining majority status would enhance their influence in negotiations with management based on representative member status. Currently, the unified union is operating under a temporary organization called the 'Establishment Task Force' until a formal chairperson and executive board are established. Another distinguishing feature is the intention to operate as an independent union, not affiliated with higher-level organizations such as the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions or the Federation of Korean Trade Unions. Additionally, the union plans to disclose negotiation processes and meeting minutes to members with specific figures, and major issues will be decided through member voting. They also intend to establish regulations to immediately impeach any chairperson or executive board member who engages in political activities on behalf of the union. The issue of performance bonuses is expected to be a key focus for the unified union after its establishment. They are committed to maintaining the principle of cash distribution in response to the company's potential move to issue PS in stock. The unified union is also open to the possibility of solidarity with other corporate unions. They have sought advice from the Samsung Electronics Super Corporate Labor Union regarding union establishment and operations and are reportedly considering future collaboration. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-12 10:56:00
  • SK hynix workers move to unify union to up bargaining power
    SK hynix workers move to unify union to up bargaining power SEOUL, August 12 (AJP) - Workers at SK hynix are moving to establish a new union spanning production and office employees, with organizers seeking majority representation to strengthen bargaining power at the world's leading high-bandwidth memory maker. The proposed SK hynix Integrated Labor Union had attracted more than 1,250 members as of Wednesday after its organizing committee filed for official registration on Aug. 8, according to industry sources. The union could formally launch as early as Wednesday. Organizers aim to recruit about 18,000 members, more than half of SK hynix's roughly 35,000 employees, in an effort to secure majority-union status. SK hynix currently operates under a multiple-union structure, with three existing unions separately representing production workers in Icheon and Cheongju and technical and office employees. Organizers of the new union argue that the fragmented structure has weakened employees' bargaining leverage with management. The new group plans to remain independent of South Korea's two major umbrella labor organizations and give individual members equal voting rights on major decisions. It also pledged greater disclosure of negotiations and restrictions on political activities by union leadership. Profit-sharing is expected to be a key issue. Organizers said they would seek to preserve cash payments under SK hynix's profit-sharing, or PS, scheme and oppose attempts to replace them with shares if such changes require collective employee consent under labor law. The union has also sought advice from a cross-company union at Samsung Electronics and is considering future cooperation as workers respond to potential changes in profit-linked compensation schemes. Its immediate influence, however, could be limited. SK hynix is already conducting this year's wage and collective bargaining negotiations with its three existing unions, making it uncertain whether the new organization will be able to formally join the current round of talks. Organizers said that if direct participation is not possible, they plan to seek observer access to negotiations, disclosure of bargaining developments and other channels to relay employee views. 2026-08-12 10:53:45
  • Jung Cheong-rae: Kim Min-seok and Song Young-gil Share Common Defeat in Seoul Mayor Race
    Jung Cheong-rae: Kim Min-seok and Song Young-gil Share Common Defeat in Seoul Mayor Race Jung Cheong-rae, a candidate for the leadership of the Democratic Party, stated on August 12 that both Kim Min-seok and Song Young-gil share a commonality in their defeats in the Seoul mayoral election, asserting that he should be the party leader. He emphasized the need to restore the sentiments of the traditional core support base to quickly boost President Lee Jae-myung's approval ratings.During a press conference at the National Assembly, Jung questioned, "Can those who have lost in direct elections lead the upcoming Seoul mayoral election and the Gangneung by-election to victory?" His comments came in response to Kim's declaration on August 10 that he would ensure victory in the Seoul and Gangneung by-elections and would seek re-endorsement as party leader to restore responsible political ethics.Recently, Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon was sentenced to a disqualification ruling in the first trial, and former People Power Party lawmaker Kwon Seong-dong lost his seat following a Supreme Court ruling. However, when asked if he would seek re-endorsement, Jung replied, "Is there a need for me to follow?"Additionally, Jung addressed the recent decline in President Lee's approval ratings, stating, "We are sensing a departure from the traditional core support base," and predicted that his election as party leader would lead to an immediate 5-point increase, with the potential to raise it by 10 points in a short time.In response to Jung's remarks, Song appeared on KBS Radio's 'Current Affairs' program the same day, criticizing, "The current decline in the president's approval ratings seems to stem from issues related to real estate and leveraged ETFs. Claiming to restore the sentiments of the core support base is akin to a quack doctor's prescription." 2026-08-12 10:52:00
  • SSG.com Sees 151% Increase in Quick Delivery Orders
    SSG.com Sees 151% Increase in 'Quick Delivery' Orders SSG.com is enhancing its grocery shopping competitiveness by improving its delivery system and leveraging synergies with Emart's products and promotions.According to SSG.com, the sales of its reservation delivery service, 'Weekly Delivery,' which operates from Emart stores, increased by 17% in the second quarter compared to the same period last year. This growth is attributed to the segmentation of delivery time slots and an increase in delivery volume, with last month's sales growth nearing 30%.The immediate delivery service is also on the rise. Orders for 'Quick Delivery,' which delivers products within approximately one hour within a 3-kilometer radius of stores, surged by 151% in the second quarter compared to the first quarter. Last month, a pilot program for 'Two-Hour Delivery' began at Emart's Yangjae and Hanam locations, allowing customers to quickly receive large grocery items.SSG.com plans to expand the two-hour delivery service to over ten stores in major areas of Seoul, Busan, Gyeongnam, Daegu, and Daejeon by the end of this year, with a goal of reaching up to 50 stores.The synergy with Emart's products and marketing is also increasing. In the second quarter, more than 60% of customers who purchased fresh products under the 'Fresh Guarantee System' repurchased fresh items within the same quarter. The average daily online sales during Emart's signature event, 'Gorae-it Festa,' also rose by 20% compared to the previous quarter.The membership program 'SSG7 Club,' which offers a 7% reward on grocery purchases, has a retention rate exceeding 90%. Members' average spending is over 90% higher than non-members, and their purchase frequency is nearly double.Choi Taek-won, CEO of SSG.com, stated, "We will continue to improve our delivery competitiveness while enhancing operational efficiency to boost profitability."Meanwhile, SSG.com is running a summer discount event, 'Summer Finale,' for fashion and beauty category products until the 14th of this month.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-12 10:48:20
  • Dongwha Pharmaceutical Launches Special Campaign for Independence Activists Descendants
    Dongwha Pharmaceutical Launches Special Campaign for Independence Activists' Descendants Dongwha Pharmaceutical is launching a special campaign to commemorate the history of its product, Hwalmyungsoo, which supported the independence movement during the Japanese occupation.The campaign, which runs until August 24 on the Naver brand store, aims to assist the descendants of independence activists. The theme is 'Vitality Filling Everyday Life in Korea,' reflecting on the company's history of using Hwalmyungsoo sales to support the independence movement.Dongwha's predecessor, Dongwha Pharmacy, served as a key communication hub for the provisional government through a secret network known as the 'Seoul Communication Bureau.' It is reported that the first president, Min Gang, and other employees contributed sales funds from Hwalmyungsoo to the independence movement.During the campaign, Dongwha Pharmaceutical will donate 1% of the sales revenue from key products such as 'Gas Hwal,' 'Soda Hwal,' and 'Comfort Hwal Strong' to the Korea Habitat's 'Housing Improvement Project for Descendants of Independence Activists.'Customers who purchase products will receive a limited-edition goodie, the 'Memory Keycap Keyring.' This keyring, shaped like the letter 'ㄱ,' features the South Korean flag, the typography of 'Republic of Korea,' the hibiscus flower, and the Dongwha logo.A representative from Dongwha Pharmaceutical stated, 'We organized this campaign to remember the noble spirit of independence activists and to provide assistance to their descendants. We hope the limited-edition goods will serve as a reminder of the meaning of liberation in everyday life.'Founded in 1897, Dongwha Pharmaceutical has strengthened its leadership under CEO Yoon In-ho, the fourth generation of the founding family, following a board and executive restructuring. CEO Yoon holds 6.43% of Dongwha Pharmaceutical's shares and 15.22% through his 60% stake in the holding company, DWPH Holdings. Including friendly shares from the Gasong Foundation and Dongwha Development, the total shareholding of related parties is 33.81%.CEO Yoon led the acquisition of the spinal implant company 'MediSay' in 2020. Since being incorporated into Dongwha Pharmaceutical, MediSay has continued to grow as a key part of the company's new business, achieving an average annual revenue growth of 9% over the past five years. Last year, it reported consolidated revenues of 28.3 billion won, operating profits of 4 billion won, and net profits of 3.3 billion won.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-12 10:48:00
  • Used Goods Platform Jungonara Reports Record Revenue and Profit in First Half of 2026
    Used Goods Platform Jungonara Reports Record Revenue and Profit in First Half of 2026 Jungonara achieved a record high in transaction volume and revenue in the first half of 2026, marking a turnaround to operating profit.The company reported that its total revenue for the first half of the year rose by approximately 42% compared to the previous year. The transaction volume and number of transactions using the secure payment system increased by 131% and 162%, respectively, compared to the same period last year. Both transaction volume and revenue set new records for any first half.During the same period, the number of secure payment buyers more than doubled (up 110%) compared to the previous year, expanding the user base.Profitability improvements are also ongoing. Jungonara achieved its first monthly break-even point (BEP) in January and has recorded consecutive quarterly operating profits in the first and second quarters. The average monthly active users (MAU) of the Jungonara app and website increased by over 40% compared to the previous year in the first quarter.Recently, Jungonara completely revamped its app, enhancing personalized product recommendations and feed-style browsing features. It also introduced a 'Secure Transaction Index' that allows users to verify transaction reliability based on their transaction history and activity information, along with a new coupon system. Additionally, the limit for secure compensation was increased from 1 million won to 2 million won, and the limits for sales postings and transactions were also raised, improving the overall transaction experience from product search to transaction reliability and sales convenience. In the future, the company plans to accelerate the enhancement of its technological capabilities for a safer and more convenient trading environment, including AI-based fraud detection and a self-inspection system.The organizational structure has also been reorganized. In June, Jungonara appointed Kong Ja-yoon as CTO and Choi Chung-kyu as CFO, establishing a new leadership team to drive technological innovation and financial strategy. CTO Kong Ja-yoon will oversee the advancement of core service technologies such as AI and data-based fraud detection and personalized recommendations, as well as the company-wide transition to AI-native operations. CFO Choi Chung-kyu, a financial expert who previously served as CFO at Handys, will be responsible for establishing Jungonara's mid- to long-term financial strategy and supporting performance management and key decision-making for major businesses.Choi In-wook, CEO of Jungonara, stated, "The first half of this year has been a significant period where we confirmed meaningful results with an expansion in transaction volume and user base, along with improved profitability. In the second half, we will focus more on user-centered service improvements and technological advancements to maintain a stable growth foundation."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-12 10:44:10
  • Hyundai Accelerates AI Transformation, Reduces Review Time by 90% and Saves $4.2 Billion Annually
    Hyundai Accelerates AI Transformation, Reduces Review Time by 90% and Saves $4.2 Billion Annually Hyundai Motor Group is accelerating its AI transformation (AX) as it transitions from an automotive manufacturer to a future mobility and physical AI company. The group is focusing on embedding an AI culture throughout its organization, moving beyond merely implementing generative AI in its operations. The company has demonstrated its competitiveness by integrating AI across all areas, from manufacturing to after-sales service.On August 12, Hyundai Motor Group held the 'AX Performance Announcement (Beyond AI, Transforming the Way We Work)' at its headquarters in Yangjae, Seoul, where it unveiled plans for its digital transformation (DX) and AX initiatives that have been gradually implemented since 2019.The event aimed to showcase how Hyundai Motor Group has prepared the groundwork for AX through digital transformation even before AI technologies became mainstream, highlighting key achievements and future directions. The company explained that as the mobility industry shifts from a manufacturing-centric model to one focused on data and software competitiveness, it is strengthening the internalization of AX across its organization.Jin Eun-sook, President of ICT at Hyundai Motor and Kia, stated, "AI is an important technology, but ultimately it is a tool that companies must utilize. The speed at which we understand and apply new technologies, including AI, to our work and business is crucial for organizational competitiveness. Therefore, Hyundai Motor Group is expanding AX by internalizing intelligent technologies, including AI, based on DX."To innovate the way employees work, the company introduced several collaborative platforms in 2022, including JIRA, Dooray, and Confluence, which supports document co-authoring and knowledge sharing. Since the implementation of these platforms, employees have been able to quickly check the status of company-wide operations and major project progress, enhancing transparency in collaboration and information sharing across departments.In 2022, the group also adopted Microsoft's cloud-based collaboration platform, Microsoft 365 (M365), to enable global operations to collaborate in a unified work environment. M365 allows companies to access necessary services through the cloud instead of installing and operating software individually, connecting email, calendar management, document creation, and video conferencing into a standardized collaboration system across global sites.Notably, research and development teams in autonomous driving and hydrogen sectors, which previously could not use external collaboration tools due to security regulations on key national technologies, are now able to utilize the same platform thanks to expedited guidelines from government agencies. This has allowed for the sharing and accumulation of information that was previously scattered across the organization, establishing a foundation for continuously securing digital assets that AI can utilize.In the data sector, the group operates a 'Global One Data Pipeline' that standardizes and connects data dispersed across the entire value chain, including research and development, production, quality, and sales. As a result, information generated during the development process is utilized in production and quality management, creating a virtuous cycle where data collected in sales feeds back into product development and process improvement.Additionally, the in-house generative AI platform, 'H Chat Pro,' is being used to expand the AI culture throughout the organization. H Chat Pro is Hyundai Motor Group's dedicated AI platform that allows employees to select and utilize various external generative AI models, such as ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude, in a secure environment. Since last year, it has been available for all employees to use freely in their work. As of last month, there were 30,000 users of H Chat Pro, accounting for about 80% of Hyundai and Kia employees in general and research positions.During the event, representatives shared examples of how H Chat Pro has enhanced work productivity and cost efficiency. For instance, the 'Collision Safety AI Assistant' is an AI-based research and development system that integrates and searches research information previously scattered across various systems, such as past collision test results, test images, and interpretation materials, enabling quick comparison and analysis of similar cases.Hyundai Motor Group has built an environment where engineers can connect research information using AI, allowing them to analyze and reference not only the test conditions and vehicle structures of similar collision cases but also the causes of injuries and improvement measures. This has enabled engineers to reduce the time spent on data collection and review by approximately 90%, allowing them to apply the saved time to high-value tasks such as interpreting analysis results, improving designs, and developing testing strategies.In manufacturing, AI is being utilized to enhance quality control and operational efficiency in production processes. The 'AI Automation Recognition Service' is a vision AI-based solution that verifies and cross-references vehicle identification numbers (VIN) in real-time against the vehicle information registered in the system. Previously, workers had to manually verify vehicle information, but with AI image recognition technology, VINs can be automatically read, allowing for early detection and response to operational errors. This service has been implemented across all Hyundai and Kia factories and 70 global production sites in the U.S., Europe, India, and the Asia-Pacific region, achieving an annual cost-saving effect of 5.24 trillion won.There is also 'Trolley Alignment Optimization Technology,' which optimizes the complex movement paths occurring in the trolley process that supplies parts to the production line. Previously, if the trolley order was disrupted due to equipment errors, workers had to manually determine and restore the movement path. However, by combining AI technology, the optimal path is automatically derived, reducing unnecessary production downtime by approximately 86%.AI utilization is also expanding in the service sector. In overseas maintenance sites, the LLM-based 'Maintenance Support AI Service' allows technicians to quickly identify the causes of issues and response measures without complex maintenance manuals. By inputting vehicle error codes or symptoms in natural language, the AI analyzes relevant manuals and past maintenance records to provide optimal diagnostic results, reducing maintenance response time by about 42%.Hyundai Motor Group defines AX not merely as the adoption of technology but as an organizational culture innovation. The company explains that the proactive AX transformation is driven by an internal culture that swiftly embraces new technologies and translates them into actual work innovations. Building on its accumulated data assets, operational experience, and AI utilization capabilities, the group plans to expand innovations in vehicles, robotics, and physical AI.Furthermore, based on its AX experience and know-how, the group will actively promote the spread of AI transformation across the domestic industry and support small and medium-sized enterprises in their AX efforts. Jin, the ICT head, stated, "Hyundai Motor Group's goal is not to be the company that uses AI the most, but to be the company that utilizes AI the best in the world. We will continue to strengthen our capabilities to learn new technologies the fastest and apply them in the field to connect customer value with business results."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-12 10:44:00