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Typhoon Chan-hom Expected to Make Landfall in Eastern Japan Tonight Typhoon Chan-hom is expected to make landfall along the eastern Pacific coast of Japan on the night of August 11. Unlike typical typhoons that approach from the south, this storm is taking an unusual path from the east to the west. Ibaraki Prefecture in the Kanto region, which includes the capital, is a likely landing point, with Fukushima Prefecture in the Tohoku region also being mentioned. Whichever location is hit, it will mark the first time since typhoon statistics began in 1951 that either prefecture has experienced a landfall. The typhoon is forecasted to cross Honshu from east to west and weaken into a tropical depression by August 12 along the Sea of Japan coast in western Japan. According to Japan's public broadcaster NHK, as of 2 p.m. on August 11, Typhoon Chan-hom was located about 130 kilometers southeast of Iwaki City in Fukushima Prefecture, moving southwest at 30 kilometers per hour. The central pressure of the storm is 985 hectopascals, with maximum sustained winds of 23 meters per second and gusts reaching 35 meters per second. Winds of 15 meters per second or more are being reported within 500 kilometers east and 390 kilometers west of the storm's center. In Ishinomaki City, Miyagi Prefecture, maximum gusts reached 23.7 meters per second at 1:30 p.m. The unusual path of this typhoon is attributed to a high-pressure system covering northern Japan, which is blocking its northward movement. The Asahi Shimbun reported that this high-pressure area is centered north of Hokkaido and extends widely to the Sea of Japan. Since 1951, there have only been three instances of a typhoon making landfall on the Pacific coast of the Tohoku region, occurring in 2016, 2021, and 2024. The Japan Meteorological Agency has warned that the typhoon's rare approach could lead to stronger winds and higher waves than usual along the Pacific coasts of Tohoku and Kanto. Wave heights are expected to reach up to 7 meters on August 11. The maximum wind speeds in Tohoku and Kanto, including the Koshin region, are forecasted to be 25 meters per second, with gusts up to 35 meters per second, making it difficult to drive at normal speeds. The warm, moist air brought by the typhoon, combined with cold air aloft, is expected to create unstable atmospheric conditions, leading to heavy rainfall in various areas. By noon on August 12, the expected rainfall over 24 hours is up to 180 millimeters in Tohoku and Kanto, 120 millimeters in the Tokai region, 100 millimeters in the Izu Islands, and 80 millimeters in Niigata Prefecture and Hokuriku. Additionally, another 24-hour period until noon on August 13 is expected to bring up to 150 millimeters in the Tokai region and 120 millimeters in both Tohoku and Kinki regions. The typhoon's approach coincides with the Obon holiday, causing disruptions to transportation and various events. Although Obon is not an official holiday, many businesses close during this time, leading to a surge in travelers. All Nippon Airways (ANA) reported that as of 9:30 a.m. on August 11, 58 flights arriving at or departing from Haneda and Narita airports were canceled, affecting approximately 11,000 passengers. Japan Airlines (JAL) also canceled four flights to and from Narita Airport. East Japan Railway Company announced potential delays and cancellations for the Tohoku Shinkansen. A fireworks festival scheduled for the afternoon of August 11 in Koto, Tokyo, was canceled, and ferry services between Oarai Port in Ibaraki Prefecture and Hokkaido were suspended on August 11 and 12. The Japan Meteorological Agency urged residents in Tohoku, Kanto, and other parts of eastern Japan to prepare for landslides, flooding in low-lying areas, and rising river levels. They also advised caution against strong winds, including gusts and tornadoes. After the typhoon passes on August 12, sudden heavy rain and hail may occur, particularly in southern Kanto due to the influence of cold air aloft.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-11 17:16:00 -
Kim Yong-hyun Claims Innocence in Appeal Over Controversial Phone Delivery Kim Yong-hyun, the former Minister of National Defense, who was sentenced to three years in prison for delivering a secure phone to former Army Intelligence Commander Noh Sang-won under false pretenses, asserted his innocence during the first hearing of his appeal. The Special Prosecutor's team for insurrection, led by Cho Eun-seok, stated that the original sentence was too lenient.The 12-2 Criminal Division of the Seoul High Court (Judges Jo Jin-goo, Kim Min-a, and Lee Seung-cheol) held the first hearing of Kim's appeal on August 11, addressing the charges of obstruction of public duty and evidence destruction. The hearing involved listening to both sides' arguments and rebuttals.The prosecution argued that given the defendant's position, the seriousness of the offenses, and the circumstances following the crimes, the three-year sentence was insufficient. They emphasized that the delivery of the secure phone to Noh, who was not authorized to receive it, resulted in significant harm to the national security system, particularly during a state of emergency.Regarding the evidence destruction charge, the prosecution claimed, "This is a crime that jeopardizes the existence of the state and undermines democratic order. It is incomparable to any other crime and has made it difficult to ascertain the facts."In contrast, Kim's defense team completely denied the allegations. They argued that the initial court's decision, which concluded that the secure phone was provided to a civilian with the intent to conceal its purpose, was incorrect.The defense maintained that there was no misunderstanding or confusion on the part of the responsible officials. They asserted that Kim Seong-hoon, the former deputy chief of the Presidential Security Service, believed Kim Yong-hyun understood the purpose of the secure phone and did not inquire further. They added that Kim Seong-hoon had confirmed with the operational staff that the phone could be provided.The defense also challenged the evidence destruction charge, claiming that Yang, who destroyed documents and devices after the state of emergency was declared, did so without intent. They argued that Yang viewed the actions as routine security measures and that if he had believed the documents would serve as evidence in a criminal case, he would not have acted as he did.The prosecution countered, stating, "After former President Yoon Suk-yeol declared a state of emergency, there was significant public interest, and investigations into the facts and accountability of key individuals were ongoing. Kim Yong-hyun was in a situation where he could potentially be a target of the investigation, and Yang intentionally destroyed evidence."Kim Yong-hyun expressed his dismay at being labeled a liar by the original court and the special prosecutor. He stated, "I did not unilaterally request the secure phone; I inquired with the security service about its availability. I want to clarify that the delivery occurred after I received confirmation that it could be provided." He also urged the court to ensure that no disadvantages befall the security service personnel and his colleagues who are fulfilling their duties.The court plans to hold another hearing on September 1 at 2 p.m. for witness examinations.Kim Yong-hyun was indicted for delivering the secure phone to Noh Sang-won on December 2, 2024, the day before the state of emergency was declared, and for instructing Yang, who served as his secretary, to destroy documents related to the emergency. The original court found him guilty on all charges and sentenced him to three years in prison.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-11 17:16:00
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Samsung brings cross-device gaming lineup to Gamescom 2026 SEOUL, August 11 (AJP) - Samsung Electronics will showcase a gaming lineup spanning PCs, consoles and mobile devices at Gamescom 2026 in Cologne, Germany, as the South Korean tech giant seeks to connect its hardware portfolio across gaming platforms. The world's largest gaming exhibition will run from Aug. 26 to 30, with about 1,500 software, hardware and game content companies expected to participate. Last year's event drew 360,000 visitors, according to Samsung. Samsung's booth will feature products including its Odyssey G8 gaming monitor, 9100 PRO solid-state drive and Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra. The Odyssey G8 supports a dual mode that switches between 6K resolution at 165Hz and 3K at 330Hz, alongside Nvidia G-SYNC compatibility and AMD FreeSync Premium. Visitors will also be able to play Pearl Abyss' open-world action-adventure title "Crimson Desert" on the Odyssey G8, while Samsung will offer gaming demonstrations on mobile devices including the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra and Galaxy S26 Ultra. Samsung will hold the world finals of its PlayGalaxy Cup on Aug. 27 and 28, featuring "PUBG Mobile." Ten teams that qualified from five regions — North America, Latin America, Europe, Southeast Asia and Southwest Asia — will compete in the tournament. 2026-08-11 17:12:52 -
President Lee: Protecting Heroes is Protecting the Nation 이재명 대통령은 11일 대한민국 최초의 소방 전문병원인 국립소방병원 개원을 맞아 “영웅을 지키는 것이 곧 국가와 국민을 지키는 것”이라고 말했다. 이 대통령은 이날 충북 음성군 국립소방병원에서 열린 개원식 기념사를 통해 “국가의 제1책무는 국민의 생명과 안전을 지키는 것”이라며 이같이 밝혔다. 그러면서 “이 위대한 과업을 재난 현장에서 온몸으로 감수해 내는 분들이 바로 소방공무원”이라고 강조했다. 정부는 의료진 기숙사 마련과 소방의학 연구개발(R&D)센터 확충, 24시간 응급의료체계 가동을 지원해 국립소방병원을 소방의료와 충북 지역 공공의료를 함께 담당하는 핵심 공공병원으로 육성할 방침이다. 이 대통령은 “한 치 앞이 보이지 않는 불길과 무너진 건물더미 속으로 가장 먼저 들어가고 가장 늦게 나오는 소방공무원들이 있기에 국민이 안심하고 하루하루를 보낼 수 있다”며 소방관들의 헌신에 감사를 표했다. 특히 이 대통령은 소방공무원들이 구조·구급 현장에서 입은 신체적·정신적 상처에 대해 국가 차원의 체계적인 관리가 필요하다고 강조했다. 이 대통령은 “다른 사람의 생명을 구하기 위해 뛰어든 순간이 정작 소방공무원들의 몸과 마음에는 큰 상처로 남았다”며 “국립소방병원이 소방공무원을 가장 깊이 이해하고 치료하는 든든한 안식처가 되기를 바란다”고 당부했다. 국립소방병원을 소방의학 연구의 중심으로 발전시키겠다는 구상도 내놨다. 세계적 수준의 임상 역량을 보유한 서울대병원의 의료 인력과 소방의학연구소가 축적한 데이터를 결합해 직무 수행 과정에서 발생하는 질병을 선제적으로 예방하고 치료하도록 하겠다는 것이다. 이 대통령은 “서울대병원 의료진이 안정적으로 근무할 수 있도록 기숙사를 마련하고 소방의학 연구와 의료 혁신을 뒷받침할 R&D센터도 확충해 나가겠다”며 “수준 높은 응급의료체계가 24시간 가동될 수 있도록 행정적·재정적 지원을 아끼지 않겠다”고 약속했다. 소방공무원뿐 아니라 충북 지역 주민을 위한 공공의료 기능도 강조했다. 이 대통령은 “국립소방병원이 대한민국의 중심인 충북에서 지역 공공의료의 거점 역할을 충실하게 수행할 것으로 기대한다”며 “제복 입은 영웅들과 지역 주민 모두의 건강을 책임지는 국가 핵심 공공병원으로 자리매김하도록 지원하겠다”고 밝혔다. 이 대통령은 개원식 이후 고압산소치료실과 심폐재활검사시스템실, 통합재활센터 등 병원 주요 시설을 둘러봤다. 고압산소치료 장비에 대한 설명을 들은 뒤에는 “일산화탄소 질식 환자가 치료받을 곳이 많지 않은데 이곳으로 오면 되겠다”고 말했다. 재활치료를 받고 있는 소방관에게는 부상 경위와 근무 기간 등을 물으며 “전문적으로 치료받을 수 있는 곳이 생겨서 좋겠다”고 격려했다. 현대자동차그룹이 기증한 보행재활로봇을 살펴본 뒤에는 지역 주민도 치료받고 있는지 확인하고, 치료 중인 주민에게 빠른 쾌유를 기원했다. 이 대통령은 시찰을 마친 뒤 사진 촬영과 악수를 요청하는 의료진 및 병원 직원들과 일일이 기념사진을 찍었다. 일부 촬영에는 강훈식 비서실장이 직접 나서기도 했다. 국립소방병원은 소방공무원의 화상과 근골격계 질환, 호흡기 질환, 외상후스트레스장애 등 직무 특성에 따른 질병을 전문적으로 진료하는 동시에 충북 중부권 주민을 위한 공공의료 서비스를 제공하게 된다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-11 17:08:00
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Three Tax Deductions You Might Miss That Could Save You Money The income tax withheld from monthly salaries is reconciled during the year-end settlement, allowing taxpayers to receive refunds for overpayments or make additional payments for underpayments. Experts advise that managing tax deduction items now, rather than waiting until the year-end settlement season, can significantly increase refund amounts.The first item to check is the usage ratio of credit and debit cards. Only the amount spent that exceeds a certain percentage of total salary is eligible for deductions, and generally, the deduction rates for debit cards and cash receipts are higher than those for credit cards. This is why consumers adjust their spending plans as the year-end approaches.Contributions to retirement savings and Individual Retirement Pension (IRP) accounts are also key tax-saving tools. Tax credits are available for contributions up to a certain limit, making these popular options among employees. Planning contributions in advance rather than making a lump sum payment at year-end can help reduce financial burdens.Medical expenses, education costs, and donations are also eligible for deductions. Expenses incurred for dependents can also qualify for deductions, so it is advisable to check related receipts and documentation in advance.For dual-income couples, it is important to evaluate who should claim the dependent deduction. Since the same family cannot be claimed for deductions by both partners, considering income levels and deduction items can lead to differences in refund amounts.Housing-related deductions are often overlooked. Rent tax credits for non-homeowners and deductions for contributions to comprehensive housing subscription savings can provide tax benefits if eligibility criteria are met.Experts emphasize that the year-end settlement process is not just about submitting documents in January or February; it is influenced by year-round spending, financial product subscriptions, and management of deduction items. The more prepared individuals are, the higher the likelihood of increasing their refund amounts.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-11 17:04:00
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Construction Companies Face Mixed Results in Overseas Projects Domestic construction companies are experiencing mixed results in their overseas operations. While existing overseas projects supported performance in the first half of the year, the ability to secure large contracts for nuclear power, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and data centers in the second half is expected to determine results for next year.According to the Korea Construction Industry Institute on August 11, the total value of overseas construction orders for the year is projected to reach between $27.57 billion and $30.24 billion. Given that domestic construction companies secured $11.281 billion in overseas orders in the first half, they will need to secure an additional $16.29 billion to $18.96 billion in the second half, representing an increase of at least 44% compared to the first half.In the first half, Hyundai Engineering & Construction led with overseas orders totaling $3.514 billion, largely due to securing major projects like an electric steel mill in the United States. The company plans to expand its overseas operations in the second half by pursuing large nuclear power projects, small modular reactors (SMRs), solar energy, and data centers. The Kozloduy nuclear power plant in Bulgaria has already entered the design phase, and its transition to an EPC contract is seen as a pivotal moment for expanding large nuclear projects.Samsung C&T has seen significant revenue from existing overseas projects. While it has secured new contracts for a semiconductor plant in Xi'an, China, and a data center in Malaysia, revenue recognition from ongoing projects has contributed to its performance. The company cited the ramp-up of high-tech construction and favorable progress in overseas plant projects as key factors for its improved results. In the second half, it plans to expand new orders in Southeast Asia, including data centers, SMRs, and renewable energy projects.Daewoo Engineering & Construction's overseas order backlog could change significantly depending on the outcome of large LNG project contracts in the second half. With increased prospects for securing major projects like the Papua New Guinea LNG and Mozambique's Rovuma LNG, the company has raised its overall new order target for the year from 18 trillion won to 27 trillion won, a 50% increase.GS Engineering & Construction reported an overseas order backlog of 24.9 trillion won at the end of the first half, accounting for about 33% of its total backlog of 75.3954 trillion won, indicating a solid existing overseas pipeline. The contract amounts for projects like the Singapore rail and tunnel have increased, leading to a slight rise in backlog compared to the end of last year. However, new orders for plants and infrastructure have decreased by 80.9% and 56.2%, respectively, compared to the same period last year, leaving the pursuit of follow-up plant and infrastructure orders as a challenge for the second half.DL E&C has a relatively greater need to supplement its overseas workload. The company has extensive experience in EPC for various power plants both domestically and internationally and is currently engaged in a local project in the U.S. The synergy with DL Energy, which has experience in power project development, investment, and operation in the U.S., is also anticipated.The second half is expected to see a competitive race among construction companies for overseas orders in North America and the Pacific. In the first half, orders from the Middle East, a traditional overseas construction stronghold, plummeted to $1.272 billion, a 77.2% decrease compared to the same period last year. In contrast, the North America and Pacific region saw a 165% increase to $7.246 billion, accounting for 64.2% of total orders.A representative from one construction company noted, “By sector, industrial facilities (plants) accounted for $8.474 billion, or 75.1% of total orders,” adding, “There is a noticeable shift in the focus of overseas orders from oil and gas plants centered in the Middle East to manufacturing facilities, LNG, and nuclear power in North America.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-11 17:00:20
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Ruling Party Task Force to Establish Evaluation System for Elected Officials The People Power Party's Task Force on Evaluation Innovation for Elected Officials has decided to conduct extensive field consultations and external research to establish a new evaluation system.During its second meeting held at the National Assembly on August 11, the task force agreed to gather a wide range of opinions from all elected officials affiliated with the party, including local and district heads, local council members, and senior former lawmakers. Additionally, the task force will work on developing a customized evaluation system that reflects the unique characteristics of each elected official through external research.The plan aims to derive a tailored evaluation system that comprehensively measures factors such as individual activity areas and contributions to party affairs, while scientifically addressing regional advantages and disadvantages. This approach seeks to continue the trend of data-driven quantitative assessments and region-specific adjustments established in previous evaluations of elected officials.The task force members particularly emphasized the importance of reflecting the opinions of the public and party members in the evaluation of elected officials, viewing this as a crucial step toward becoming a people-oriented party. Consequently, they agreed to explore practical and transparent methods to incorporate the voices of citizens and party members into the evaluation process.Jeong Hee-yong, the task force chair, stated, "Establishing a transparent system based on objective data and indicators is the starting point for evaluation innovation. We will complete a fair evaluation system that allows us to hear the voices of the public and party members, enabling the People Power Party to stand out as a competent party."On the same day, the task force also compared and reviewed the evaluation systems of its own party and other political parties. Jeong noted, "We have laid some groundwork in the past regarding evaluation systems, and this is a process of enhancing it by referencing examples from other parties. I will listen to various opinions."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-11 17:00:00
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Hanwha bids $1.2 billion for Austal USA to boost US shipbuilding SEOUL, August 11 (AJP) - Hanwha Group is seeking to acquire the U.S. operations of Australian shipbuilder and defense contractor Austal, stepping up efforts to expand its shipbuilding and defense presence in the United States. Hanwha has proposed acquiring 100 percent of the businesses and operating assets of Austal USA at an enterprise value of between $1.05 billion and $1.2 billion on a cash-free, debt-free basis. The move comes after Hanwha built a 19.9 percent stake in Austal Ltd., the Australian-listed parent company, and would give the Korean conglomerate direct control of another major U.S. shipbuilding base alongside its existing Philly Shipyard. According to industry sources Tuesday, Hanwha Defense USA submitted a nonbinding and conditional proposal to acquire Austal's U.S. operations. The proposal does not involve the acquisition of Austal as a whole. Its businesses in Australia, the Philippines and Vietnam would remain outside the transaction. The final purchase price would be determined following due diligence, negotiations on definitive agreements and regulatory reviews. Hanwha is expected to conduct due diligence for about four weeks. The proposal is subject to a series of U.S. regulatory approvals, including reviews by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency and antitrust clearance under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Act. Hanwha also plans to consult with key U.S. government customers, including the Department of Defense, Navy and Coast Guard, before submitting a more definitive proposal. If completed, the deal would give Hanwha two major U.S. shipbuilding hubs: Philly Shipyard on the East Coast and Austal USA's yard in Mobile, Alabama. Austal USA builds vessels for the Pentagon, U.S. Navy and Coast Guard and has produced Littoral Combat Ships, Expeditionary Fast Transport vessels, Coast Guard cutters and other auxiliary ships. It also participates in the production of modules for U.S. nuclear-powered submarines. The company would therefore provide Hanwha with a stronger foothold as it seeks to enter the U.S. Navy's newbuild and maintenance, repair and overhaul markets and expand cooperation between Austal USA and Philly Shipyard. Hanwha's pursuit of Austal dates back several years. In 2024, Hanwha initially sought to acquire Austal in its entirety but abandoned the plan amid regulatory hurdles involving national security reviews in the United States and Australia. It shifted its strategy in 2025 to gradually building a stake in the Australian parent company. Hanwha first acquired a 9.9 percent stake in Austal in 2025 and later received approval from the Australian government in December that year to raise its holding to 19.9 percent. The latest proposal marks a further refinement of that strategy, focusing specifically on Austal USA, a key production base for U.S. naval vessels, while excluding Austal's operations in Australia and other markets. "We have made a nonbinding preliminary proposal to acquire Austal's U.S. business," a Hanwha Defense USA official said. "Any transaction will be determined based on the results of due diligence." "Hanwha's top priority is to make a meaningful contribution to the revitalization of the U.S. shipbuilding industry," the official added. "We are exploring a range of opportunities to expand our business in the United States." AJP Takeaways △ Hanwha has offered up to $1.2 billion to acquire Austal USA. △ The deal would add a second major U.S. shipbuilding base alongside Philly Shipyard. △ Hanwha is targeting deeper access to U.S. Navy, Coast Guard and defense programs. 2026-08-11 16:59:43 -
MainBiz Calls for Tax Benefits for SMEs to Maintain Employment The Korea Management Innovation Small Business Association (MainBiz) has requested increased tax support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to help maintain employment.On August 11, the SME Ombudsman held a regulatory improvement meeting with MainBiz at the Gwanghwamun Building in Jongno, Seoul. The meeting was attended by Choi Seung-jae, the SME Ombudsman, Kim Myung-jin, president of MainBiz, and other executives and representatives from member companies.Kwon Jong-soon, a director at MainBiz, stated, "If the benefits are insufficient, companies will ultimately choose to reduce their workforce when management becomes difficult." He proposed increasing the corporate and income tax deduction rates for SMEs that maintain employment to 20% and 30%, respectively, and extending the application period until the end of 2028.The government currently allows SMEs that adjust wages to maintain employment to deduct a portion of the reduced total wage and the increase in hourly wages from their corporate and income taxes. This program is set to end at the end of this year.Choi Seung-jae noted, "Given that the government recently announced the 2026 tax reform plan, which includes ending this program, it may not be easy to continue it. However, it is essential to first verify whether the program has achieved its original objectives." He suggested conducting a survey among MainBiz member companies to gather relevant data.MainBiz also requested an expansion of the support targets for regional SME development funds. Currently, local governments operate SME development funds to support startups, business stability, and region-specific industries, but the criteria for support and preference vary by municipality, leading to instances where MainBiz companies are excluded.The Ombudsman reported that he has conveyed requests for regulatory improvements to 15 metropolitan governments, including Seoul, and has received positive responses from Incheon and Gyeonggi. He stated that after the 2027 SME development fund operation plans are released by local governments, they will reassess whether management innovation-type SMEs are included in the support targets and whether the conditions for additional points and preferences are adequate.Choi emphasized, "Even if immediate answers to these issues are challenging, accumulating evidence from the field can reopen discussions. We will continue to collaborate with relevant departments to ensure that the suggestions made today lead to tangible improvements that SMEs can feel."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-11 16:56:00
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NCSOFT Reports Strong User Retention for Lineage Classic After 140 Days NCSOFT has expressed optimism about the long-term success of its game, Lineage Classic, as user metrics remain strong even after its launch.During a conference call on August 11, NCSOFT co-CEO Park Byung-moo stated, "The MMORPG market typically sees a surge in user acquisition initially, followed by a sharp decline. However, Lineage Classic has maintained a very solid monthly active user count (MAU) even 140 days post-launch."He added, "Conversations with the development and business teams indicate that we are actually at the beginning of Lineage Classic's life cycle. We expect it to follow a trajectory similar to Lineage M." 2026-08-11 16:56:00