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  • Muan County Expands Youth Sports Programs During Summer Break
    Muan County Expands Youth Sports Programs During Summer Break Muan County is expanding youth experience programs by providing opportunities for physical activity and peer interaction through sports during the summer break. Director Jang Young-sun of Muan County's Community Life Division stated that the county aims to continuously discover programs that allow youth to engage in various cultural and sports activities after school. On August 7, the Muan Youth After-school Academy conducted a roller skating experience titled 'Getting Closer Together While Skating' for local youth. This program was designed to increase physical activity among youth during the summer break while providing a chance for them to communicate and cooperate with their peers. Participants received safety training before the main activity, learning the proper use of protective gear. They then practiced basic stances, balance, and safe stopping techniques while roller skating. First-time skaters supported each other in maintaining balance and cheered one another on during the experience. This program not only focused on individual sports but also fostered cooperation and communication among friends. One participant remarked, "It was difficult at first, but it became fun once I got used to it," adding, "It was even more enjoyable because I was with my friends." The Muan Youth After-school Academy supports healthy growth and peer relationship development for youth needing after-school care through learning assistance and various experiential activities. Director Jang emphasized the significance of the program for the diverse experiences and growth of youth. Jang Young-sun stated, "I hope this time allows youth to experience healthy physical activity through sports and enjoy the joy of collaborating with friends," and added, "We will continue to operate various experiential programs to ensure youth can grow healthily and happily." Muan County plans to continuously operate experience programs that reflect the interests and needs of youth, expanding opportunities for after-school activities that allow them to gain diverse experiences.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-11 19:04:10
  • Competition Heats Up to Discover Promising Biotech Startups
    Competition Heats Up to Discover Promising Biotech Startups Global pharmaceutical companies are accelerating their efforts in 'open innovation' to discover and nurture early-stage biotech firms. This approach goes beyond merely acquiring promising technologies; it includes providing research space, specialized personnel, mentoring, and connections to investors to cultivate next-generation drug candidates.According to research firm Vision Life Sciences, the global biopharma licensing market recorded a historic high last year, with 516 transactions generating over $250 billion. Open innovation has evolved into an industrial strategy that supports not only the introduction of technologies but also the research, development, and commercialization of early-stage biotech firms.Among the major global pharmaceutical companies, Eli Lilly's 'Lilly Gateway Labs' stands out. Lilly provides research space and laboratory equipment to early-stage biotech firms, along with mentoring from its research team, collaborative research and development, and support for attracting external investments.Since its launch in 2019, approximately 400 biotech firms have taken residence at Gateway Labs, which has facilitated over $3 billion in cumulative investments for these companies. They are reportedly working on more than 150 drug development programs. Additionally, Lilly plans to establish a Gateway Labs base in South Korea in collaboration with Samsung Biologics.Domestic pharmaceutical and biotech companies are also entering the competition to secure promising startups through collaborative research, technology validation, and investment connections.For instance, Samsung Bioepis has partnered with the Seoul Biohub to discover next-generation drug platforms. This year, Samsung Bioepis selected 'Fraser Therapeutics,' which has a targeted protein degradation (TPD) platform, and 'Bionaut,' which specializes in AI-based chemical proteomics, as participants in its open innovation program.Samsung Bioepis will provide these companies with technology enhancement, mentoring, and commercialization consulting for one year. After the program concludes, they will explore practical collaboration opportunities, including joint research, technology transfer, and strategic investments.Daewon Pharmaceutical is seeking partners in drug delivery technology. This year's program, conducted in collaboration with the Seoul Biohub, has selected OmniaMed and Curiosa BioScience. OmniaMed is developing a drug delivery system (DDS) that targets and releases drugs in response to high concentrations of nitric oxide (NO) found in inflammatory and cancerous tissues. Curiosa BioScience is working on long-acting injectable formulations and peptide oral delivery systems based on its 'SNAP' platform.Additionally, Celltrion is collaborating with AINB, EnbioCell, Imitascience, and Podotherapeutics to develop new antibody technologies. SK Biopharm is focusing on innovative drug development in CNS and aging in partnership with Novarex and Three Brooks Therapeutics. A representative from the Seoul Biohub stated, "We will strengthen support to identify suitable companies based on technology areas, development stages, and collaboration needs, ensuring that follow-up discussions lead to actual joint research, technology validation, and business development."The market observes that the approach to 'finding technology' has changed. An industry insider noted, "In the past, big pharma focused on candidate substances that had entered clinical stages or already validated platforms for technology acquisition and mergers. However, as drug development technologies rapidly diversify and new platforms like AI, TPD, and DDS emerge, it has become crucial to establish relationships with promising companies from the early stages."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-11 19:04:00
  • Kim Yoon-deok: Housing Supply Expansion to Absorb Tax Reform Shock
    Kim Yoon-deok: Housing Supply Expansion to Absorb Tax Reform Shock Kim Yoon-deok, the Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, emphasized the need to expand housing supply to mitigate the impact of tax reforms on the housing market. He proposed a gradual implementation of tax changes to address potential instability in the rental market as non-resident homeowners transition to actual residence, planning to offset any supply shortages with new housing developments.During a National Assembly meeting on August 11, Kim responded to concerns that non-resident homeowners might disrupt the rental market by evicting tenants for personal occupancy. He stated, "I believe it is better to implement various tax issues gradually to reduce market shocks."Regarding the transition to actual residence, he noted, "There will be no changes until the end of next year," and assured that the implementation would be gradual, allowing for adjustments in supply during the transition period.The direction of the tax reform focuses on a housing market centered on actual residence and normalizing real estate taxation. Kim explained that this aims to enhance tax equity and establish a sustainable and rational real estate tax system.Ultimately, the government intends to absorb potential shocks in the rental market during the tax reform process through increased supply.The key to expanding supply is 'speed.' Kim stressed the importance of building more homes in Seoul and the surrounding metropolitan area. He plans to shorten the approval process for private redevelopment projects and expedite the start of the third new town initiative.Kim also left open the possibility of lifting greenbelt restrictions, stating, "I believe we need to supply more housing in the metropolitan area, even if it means releasing greenbelt land." He aims to boost non-apartment housing supply to meet rental demand.Collaboration with Seoul City will also be strengthened. Addressing disagreements over supply volumes, such as in the Yongsan International Business District, he mentioned, "We are seeing significant alignment on opinions and are making adjustments," indicating that the Ministry is actively considering Seoul's requests.The government plans to aggressively purchase rental housing. However, Kim acknowledged that issues raised in the existing rental housing program by the Korea Land and Housing Corporation (LH) would also be taken into account.In response to President Lee Jae-myung's call for improvements to the 'marriage penalty,' Kim noted the potential for relaxing income requirements for policy loans and increasing loan limits, stating, "I think both are interconnected."To continuously inform the public about housing supply measures, the government proposed creating a 'metropolitan housing supply dashboard.' This initiative aims to enhance policy credibility by not only announcing supply targets but also disclosing actual construction and supply progress.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-11 19:04:00
  • Democratic Party Calls for Limits on CEO Reappointments Amid Governance Reforms
    Democratic Party Calls for Limits on CEO Reappointments Amid Governance Reforms As the announcement of governance reforms for financial holding companies approaches, some members of the Democratic Party have urged financial authorities to devise measures to restrict the reappointment of financial holding company CEOs whose terms are expiring. However, the authorities have conveyed that they lack legal means to directly prevent the reappointment of private financial holding company CEOs without clear disqualifying reasons or severe penalties. Consequently, the political pressure appears to be subsiding for now.According to the financial sector on August 11, during a closed briefing held for members of the Democratic Party's Political Affairs Committee at the end of last month, some lawmakers requested the Financial Supervisory Service to prepare measures to limit reappointments.This demand coincides with ongoing discussions regarding governance reforms being pursued by financial authorities. A governance improvement plan is set to be announced this month, nine months after President Lee Jae-myung emphasized the need for modernization in the governance of the financial sector. However, it is challenging to apply the new standards to the ongoing CEO selection process.A member of the Democratic Party's Political Affairs Committee stated, “Even if the improvement plan is announced now, the succession process has already begun, which is disappointing as it will not apply to the current situation. While financial companies are private entities, they have a public nature, so rather than leaving them unchecked, necessary improvements should be made through self-regulation and oversight.”However, the Financial Supervisory Service has communicated to lawmakers that, under current law, it is difficult to directly restrict CEO reappointments without clear disqualifying reasons or severe penalties. The selection of financial holding company CEOs is part of the governance structure of private financial firms, which involves the board of directors and the CEO candidate recommendation committee, making the issue of governance reform and the limitation of specific CEO reappointments separate matters.As a result, a cautious stance regarding the reappointment of financial holding company CEOs is gaining traction within the Democratic Party. This is due to the lack of viable measures that financial authorities can realistically implement, as well as the difficulty in applying new standards to an already ongoing succession process.In the financial sector, it is widely believed that, barring any significant variables, the CEO reappointment process for KB Financial is likely to proceed as planned. KB Financial confirmed a shortlist of six candidates, including Chairman Yang, on July 3. Following in-depth interviews on July 27, the candidate pool will be narrowed down to three, with a final candidate to be selected on September 11. 2026-08-11 19:04:00
  • K-Food Experiences Target Foreign Tourists in South Korea
    K-Food Experiences Target Foreign Tourists in South Korea On a sweltering afternoon in Seoul's Myeongdong district, the first floor of Samyang Foods' headquarters buzzed with foreign tourists seeking respite from the heat. The 'Pepper Lounge,' adorned with the English logo of 'Buldak' and its mascot, welcomed visitors with a unique atmosphere. Inside, tables shaped like oversized Buldak products and comfortable sofas provided a perfect resting spot for tourists.One wall featured an exhibition showcasing Samyang's key ramen products, including Buldak Bokkeummyeon, along with the company's history. A photo booth with a Pepper frame was also popular among visitors. The standout item in the café was the 'Buldak Ice Cream,' a soft milk ice cream topped with Buldak sauce, allowing guests to choose their preferred spice level. Foreign tourists delighted in tasting the ice cream and capturing each other's reactions.A representative from the Pepper Lounge noted, 'Most of our visitors are foreign tourists, and the response to the Buldak Ice Cream has been overwhelmingly positive. We serve as a resting spot near major tourist attractions while promoting the Buldak brand.'As K-food becomes a key component of tourism in South Korea, the food industry is expanding its outreach to foreign visitors. Companies are viewing these tourists as potential consumers who will seek out their brands after returning home, shifting from a sales focus to providing hands-on experiences with cooking processes, food culture, and brand characters.According to industry reports, Kyochon F&B is leading the charge with its experiential program 'Kyochon 1991 School' at its training center in Osan. Participants can try their hand at applying Kyochon’s signature sauces and enjoy the Korean chicken and beer culture, while also experiencing traditional fermentation through 'Fermentation Workshop 1991' and craft beer 'Moon Bear.' So far this year, around 9,600 people from 77 countries have participated in the program.Do Min-soo, team leader of Kyochon 1991 School, stated, 'We aim to help foreigners understand the value of chicken, one of their favorite Korean foods, by allowing them to make it themselves. We plan to expand our infrastructure next year to create a comprehensive K-food experience space.'BBQ is also engaging tourists with its 'Olive Chicken Camp' at the Chicken University in Icheon, Gyeonggi Province, where participants can make and taste chicken. This program is designated as an industrial tourism course by the Gyeonggi Tourism Organization and is utilized as a special product in collaboration with overseas travel agencies. BHC has introduced a 'Ppuring Ppuring Cooking Class' at its training center in Songpa-gu, while also opening a large flagship store near Gangnam Station, an area frequented by foreign visitors.The Kimchi Museum, 'Museum Kimchikan,' operated by Pulmuone, has surpassed 100,000 foreign visitors since its reopening in Insadong, Seoul, in 2015. The museum offers cooking classes using kimchi and experiences related to making kimjang, which have received positive feedback. The proportion of foreign visitors to Museum Kimchikan has remained consistently high, with 45% in 2023, 47% in 2024, 41% last year, and 40% in the first half of this year.Nongshim, a leading brand in Korean ramen, has been attracting tourists with its 'Shin Ramyeon Snack' experience center in Seongsu-dong since June. Visitors can sample Shin Ramyeon products, create their own ramen combinations, and purchase exclusive merchandise. Foreign visitors make up nearly half of all attendees.A Nongshim representative remarked, 'We designed the space considering the local characteristics of Seongsu-dong, where foreign tourists gather. We hope to create special memories for international visitors with Nongshim and Shin Ramyeon, enhancing our global brand recognition.' 2026-08-11 19:00:00
  • RIIZE shines at seoul forest photocall
    RIIZE shines at seoul forest photocall Members of K-pop boy group RIIZE pose for photos during a photocall event at Setter House Seoul Forest in Seongdong-gu, Seoul, Aug. 11, 2026. 2026-08-11 18:58:21
  • Elderly Residents in Haenam Boost Confidence Through Walking Classes
    Elderly Residents in Haenam Boost Confidence Through Walking Classes Elderly residents, who have long endured the physical toll of farming, are straightening their backs and walking confidently through the classroom. This special walking class in Haenam goes beyond simply teaching how to walk; it helps restore proper posture and self-assurance among seniors in rural communities. The 'Silver Wings Model Class,' operated by Haenam County and the Haenam Rural Community Support Center, is designed to promote healthy lifestyles and enhance vitality among elderly residents. The program aims to relieve the stiffness caused by years of repetitive labor in agriculture, teaching participants proper posture and walking habits through community engagement. Classes progress from stretching exercises that alleviate tension to posture correction and walking training. Participants also learn how to incorporate the movements into their daily lives, along with health management techniques. The program began in 2024 with basic courses in Hwawon and Hwangsan. This year, the advanced course was completed in Hwawon, and since July, the 'Wobbly Walking Class' has been offered in Bukpyeong as a foundational course. Notably, participants can observe changes in their posture and walking style before and after the training, which enhances engagement and satisfaction with the program. One participant expressed, "After working in agriculture, my back has straightened, and I feel younger as I walk with confidence," reflecting satisfaction with the changes in their daily life. Haenam County plans to connect the program to increased social participation among residents, moving beyond mere health and exercise education. The county will gradually expand walking training based on local demand and diversify related courses to enable graduates to work as professional senior models. Considering the rapid aging of rural areas, the county will continue to identify cultural and welfare programs that encourage resident participation. Park Mun-kyu, head of the Rural Economy Division's Rural Space Development Team, stated, "Through the Silver Wings Model Class, residents are learning the importance of proper posture and walking, experiencing changes in their lives firsthand. We will continue to operate cultural and welfare programs that enhance residents' health and quality of life."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-11 18:56:00
  • Jangheung County Strengthens Measures to Prevent Livestock Damage Amid Prolonged Heatwave
    Jangheung County Strengthens Measures to Prevent Livestock Damage Amid Prolonged Heatwave As the ongoing heatwave raises concerns about heat stress and mortality among livestock, Jangheung County is intensifying on-site management and damage prevention efforts for local farms. On August 11, the county inspected a broiler farm in Yongsan-myeon, assessing the temperature inside the barn, ventilation systems, and overall farming conditions in response to the heatwave. This inspection was conducted to evaluate the situation on the ground and understand the challenges faced by farmers due to the prolonged high temperatures. Jangheung County Mayor Sa Sun-moon visited the farm, examining temperature control and the operation of ventilation systems. He also discussed the difficulties faced by farmers due to the extended heat and potential preventive measures. The farm raises approximately 110,000 broilers across five barns. The farm received chicks on August 4 and is scheduled to harvest on September 4, making effective management of the summer heat critical. The farm owner, who is also the president of the local poultry association, shared not only the specific challenges of his farm but also the difficulties and suggestions from other poultry farmers in the region regarding heatwave responses. To mitigate livestock damage from the heat, Jangheung County is investing a total of 3.8 billion won this year in related support projects. Key initiatives include providing livestock stress relief supplies, installing heat prevention facilities, implementing thermal insulation for barn roofs, and supporting livestock disaster insurance. The county aims to minimize livestock damage caused by high temperatures through facility improvements and proactive measures. Mayor Sa stated, "As the heatwave continues, we are concerned about heat stress and mortality among livestock. I urge farmers to strictly adhere to heat response guidelines, including ensuring adequate water supply, ventilation, and maintaining appropriate farming conditions." He added, "During this prolonged heat, we will enhance on-site inspections and farmer assessments while swiftly implementing necessary support measures." Jangheung County plans to continuously monitor the heat situation and the impact on livestock farms, maintaining on-site inspections and surveillance activities. In the event of damage, a rapid field investigation and follow-up response system will be in place.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-11 18:52:00
  • Students in Gwangju, South Korea, Win Awards at National AI Education Competition
    Students in Gwangju, South Korea, Win Awards at National AI Education Competition Students from Gwangju, South Korea, showcased their data-driven problem-solving skills by winning multiple awards at a national competition that utilized educational public data and artificial intelligence (AI).The Gwangju Metropolitan Office of Education announced on August 11 that 16 teams from the region received four top awards and 12 excellence awards at the 8th National AI Utilization Competition for Educational Public Data, co-hosted by the Ministry of Education and regional education offices across the country.A total of 1,886 entries were submitted for this year's competition. After a thorough evaluation and public verification process, three grand prize winners, 36 top award winners, 104 excellence award winners, and 10 encouragement award winners were selected, totaling 153 final awardees.The competition focused on solving educational challenges or proposing new content using educational public data and AI technology. It was divided into two categories: 'Creating Promotional Videos for Schools Using AI' and 'AI Utilization Idea Planning.'In the school promotional video category, the 'Hanareum Future Exploration Team' from Hanareum Elementary School, led by student Yoon San, and the 'Rock Badger Team' from Eoryong Elementary School, consisting of students Go Myung-ji and Kim Seon-yu, received top honors.In the AI utilization idea planning category, the 'HOMO LUDENS' team from Jeonnam Science High School, comprising students Kim Ji-an, Jeong Yeo-jin, and Jeong Seon-a, along with the 'Bellman's Compass' team from Bongsun Middle School, consisting of students Lee Seung-yu and Yeom Ji-seong, were also awarded top prizes.Notably, these students did not merely use AI as a content creation tool; they proposed solutions to real educational issues, such as learning environments and educational funding.The 'HOMO LUDENS' team analyzed public data related to youth sleep and mental health using AI to offer a customized timetable that considers each student's learning load and health status, proposing a 'Brainwave (EEG) Integrated AI Learning Routine and User-Customized Management Service.'The 'Bellman's Compass' team presented an 'Educational Resource Allocation Policy Simulator' that combines school budget expenditure public data with AI reinforcement learning. This idea explores budget allocation strategies to reduce financial disparities among schools, extending the use of public data and AI into the realm of educational policy.In addition to these four teams, 12 other teams from Gwangju also received excellence awards, bringing the total number of award-winning teams to 16.Award-winning teams will receive certificates, cash prizes, and additional rewards, including digital badges. The winning projects will be showcased as examples of public data utilization on an educational data platform in the future.Kim Du-seok, head of the General Affairs Division at the Gwangju Metropolitan Office of Education, stated, "The students' exploration of educational issues using data and AI has led to impressive results. We will continue to support various educational activities to help students enhance their data-driven problem-solving skills and AI capabilities."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-11 18:44:00
  • Mokpo City Takes Initiative on Integrated Special City Policies, Identifies 37 Key Projects
    Mokpo City Takes Initiative on Integrated Special City Policies, Identifies 37 Key Projects Mokpo City is taking proactive measures to incorporate key local issues into the policies and promises of the integrated special city of Jeonnam-Gwangju before they are finalized. The city has identified a total of 37 strategic projects, including Mokpo New Port, offshore wind energy, a national medical school, and the K-seaweed industry, with plans to expand them into city-wide initiatives. On August 11, Mokpo City held a strategy meeting on responding to the integrated special city promises, led by Mayor Kang Seong-hwi, to discuss ways to incorporate these 37 projects into future policies aimed at regional growth and balanced development in the southwestern region. The core of this initiative is to move away from the traditional approach of demanding project inclusion only after the promises of the integrated special city are finalized. Instead, the city aims to include Mokpo's key issues from the promise formulation stage. The city analyzed the policy plan released by the Jeonnam-Gwangju Transition Planning Committee in July, selecting 37 projects across seven areas: eight in future industries, six in balanced development, three in agricultural and life sciences, five in basic social services, six in culture and tourism, eight in green policies, and one in citizen sovereignty. Key projects include the establishment of a new industrial complex at Mokpo New Port, the MASGA project for ship maintenance, and the creation of an offshore wind energy industry cluster at Mokpo New Port. Also included are long-standing local issues such as the establishment of a national medical school and university hospital, the construction of a complex transfer center at Mokpo Station, the development of a global K-seaweed industry hub, the building of a regional convention center in the southwestern area, and the establishment of an integrated management system for the Yeongsan River estuary. Mokpo City plans to approach these projects not merely as local issues but as regional initiatives that will drive growth for the entire integrated special city and promote balanced development in the southwestern region. The strategy focuses on linking Mokpo's marine, port, fisheries, and cultural tourism resources to the growth of the integrated special city while enhancing the competitiveness of the southwestern region through improvements in medical, transportation, and industrial infrastructure. During the meeting, discussions centered on how individual projects could align with the promises of the integrated special city, the feasibility and urgency of these projects, and the need for financial and policy support at the regional level. Mayor Kang Seong-hwi stated, "If we wait until the promises of the integrated special city are finalized, it will be too late. We need to establish clear logic for each project now and actively persuade the relevant departments of the integrated special city." He further urged, "Please respond proactively to ensure that Mokpo's key projects are maximally reflected in the promises and policies of the integrated special city." Following this meeting, Mokpo City will begin formal discussions with the relevant departments of the integrated special city regarding the 37 projects. The city plans to continuously monitor the promise confirmation process and policy implementation trends to enhance the likelihood of project inclusion. Once the promises of the integrated special city are finalized in the second half of this year, Mokpo City will reassess the inclusion of the 37 projects. Projects that are included will move forward with securing budgets and establishing execution plans, while those not included will have their necessity and regional impact arguments strengthened for continued policy advocacy.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-11 18:32:00