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  • Hanwha Targets Austal USA and KAI for Expansion in Defense and Aerospace
    Hanwha Targets Austal USA and KAI for Expansion in Defense and Aerospace Hanwha Group, led by Vice Chairman Kim Dong-kwan, is rapidly expanding its territory in the defense, maritime, and aerospace sectors. The company is pursuing the acquisition of Austal USA, a shipbuilder for the U.S. Navy, while also increasing its stake in Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) to over 15%, signaling an interest in gaining control.According to industry sources, Hanwha has made a non-binding conditional offer to acquire the business and operational organization of Austal USA, with the proposed acquisition price estimated between $1.05 billion and $1.2 billion.This acquisition proposal aims to enhance the competitiveness of the MASGA project. Austal USA has delivered 34 vessels to the U.S. Navy and has been involved in the construction of Littoral Combat Ships (LCS) and Expeditionary Fast Transport (EPF) vessels. In 2022, it also produced modules for nuclear-powered submarines and continues to manufacture various vessels for the U.S. Coast Guard, including towing, rescue, and landing craft.The scope of the acquisition is limited to Austal USA's shipyards in the United States and does not include its publicly traded shares in Australia or key shipbuilding operations in Australia and Asia. The Austal board will review the proposal and has granted Hanwha a four-week due diligence period to negotiate specific acquisition terms. However, the deal is still subject to U.S. government approval and formal contract signing.Hanwha Group's acquisition of KAI's management rights is also within reach. The day before, Hanwha Systems announced it had secured a 4.98% stake in KAI, bringing the group's total stake above 15%. Hanwha will soon initiate the merger notification process. Under fair trade laws, acquiring more than 15% of a listed company requires a merger notification within 30 days. The Fair Trade Commission will review the potential impact on market competition and may require a reduction in stake if issues arise. However, industry experts believe Hanwha is likely to pass the review since it is not the largest shareholder of KAI and the core businesses of both companies do not overlap significantly.KAI is considered a key piece in Hanwha Group's aerospace puzzle. While Hanwha Aerospace handles aircraft engines and Hanwha Systems manages radar and avionics equipment, the group currently lacks the capability to design and produce complete aircraft. Securing management rights in KAI would enable the establishment of a comprehensive aerospace defense value chain, connecting engines and avionics to complete aircraft.Significant investments in the space sector are also anticipated. Vice Chairman Kim Dong-kwan announced last month at a national report meeting on advanced industrial development in the Yeongnam region that Hanwha plans to invest 55 trillion won in aerospace and artificial intelligence (AI) by 2040. Hanwha Aerospace is set to invest approximately 23 trillion won in the development and production of launch vehicles and testing infrastructure, while Hanwha Systems plans to allocate around 20 trillion won for low Earth orbit satellites, space AI data centers, and satellite communication networks.In July, during a presentation of the AI space power strategy in Jinju, Gyeongnam, Kim stated, "South Korea should no longer view space and aviation as separate industries. When space and aviation, AI and defense are interconnected, we can truly leap forward as a leading AI space power."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-11 17:40:00
  • First Test Voyage on Arctic Route: Will U.S. Negotiations Conclude Successfully?
    First Test Voyage on Arctic Route: Will U.S. Negotiations Conclude Successfully? The South Korean government is in the final stages of preparations for the country's first test voyage on the Arctic route, aiming to depart from Busan on the 22nd. Progress has been made in negotiations with the U.S. and other relevant countries regarding sanctions related to navigation in the Russian Arctic Sea Route (NSR), allowing the government to proceed with the planned test voyage.According to industry sources on the 11th, the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries is currently discussing potential sanctions issues that may arise during the Arctic route test voyage with the U.S. and other stakeholders. A ministry official stated, "We are in discussions with relevant countries regarding sanctions issues that may occur during navigation in Russia, and we expect a positive conclusion. While we cannot disclose the details of diplomatic discussions, we have shared relevant information with the shipping company, and we are preparing for departure on the 22nd as planned."The container ship Mombasa, which will be used for the test voyage, is currently undergoing modifications to meet the safety standards for polar navigation, known as the Polar Code, and is completing certification procedures at Busan. Previously, Panstar acquired the 2,758 TEU Mombasa from HMM to participate in the government’s test voyage.The shipping company conducting the test voyage has completed the request for navigation permission from Russia for the Northeast Passage. Since the Northeast Passage runs along the Russian coast, it requires navigation permission and weather and icebreaking support from Russia. The shipping company has proceeded with the necessary procedures with Russian authorities, while the government continues discussions with the U.S. and other relevant countries to minimize the risks of sanctions during the voyage.Industry experts have identified the risk of sanctions against Russia as the biggest challenge for the test voyage. Since the government announced the test voyage plan in April, there have been ongoing concerns that ensuring compliance with the international sanctions framework is the most critical task, alongside selecting a shipping company and securing cargo.Even if the government supports the operating costs, analysts have pointed out that the structure makes it difficult for private shipping companies to participate easily. In fact, Panstar is the only company participating in this test voyage. As Panstar primarily focuses on international passenger ferries and cruise operations, its exposure to the impacts of sanctions against Russia is relatively lower compared to larger shipping companies that heavily depend on global routes or the U.S. market.The economic viability of the Arctic route remains a significant issue to address. The route from Busan to Rotterdam offers a 30% shorter sailing distance compared to the Suez Canal, but seasonal navigation restrictions, high insurance costs, and expenses related to polar navigation equipment and personnel are seen as burdens. Additionally, limited intermediate ports make it challenging to achieve the transshipment and cargo loading efficiency typical of regular container routes. In fact, the world's largest container shipping company, Maersk, stated after a test voyage in 2018 that it does not view the Arctic route as a commercial alternative to existing east-west routes.Experts agree that the sustainability of a business model following this test voyage is more important than the departure itself. As the government promotes the Arctic route as a national agenda, the first voyage holds significant symbolic value, but future success will depend on economic viability, cargo acquisition, and management of international sanctions risks to transition to a privately operated regular route.One industry expert noted, "While this test voyage is a significant project, there is a concern that policy initiatives are advancing without verifying commercial viability. More important than the first voyage is creating a market where private shipping companies can independently assess the viability of participation." 2026-08-11 17:36:00
  • Journalist Han Myung-kyu Releases First Poetry Collection The Weight of a Person is Measured by Scent
    Journalist Han Myung-kyu Releases First Poetry Collection 'The Weight of a Person is Measured by Scent' What can measure the weight of a person? It could be their title, the length of their life experiences, or the magnitude of their achievements in the world. However, these factors do not fully explain a person's true weight. Ultimately, what endures are the memories and emotional imprints they leave behind, or, one might say, the 'scent' they exude. Han Myung-kyu, vice president of JTV Jeonju Broadcasting, has published his first poetry collection, 'The Weight of a Person is Measured by Scent' (Shin-A Publishing). The title reflects the thoughts of someone who has deeply contemplated a person's life.Han Myung-kyu is described by various titles: journalist, administrator, entrepreneur, and broadcasting executive. Born in Jeong-eup, North Jeolla Province, he graduated from Jeonju High School and the Law School of Jeonbuk National University, later studying at the Graduate School of Journalism at Korea University. After serving as a visiting scholar at UC Berkeley in the United States, he began his career as a newspaper reporter. He recorded the flow of the times and people's lives while serving as the editor-in-chief of the Maeil Business Newspaper and led the founding of the World Korean Business Convention. He later served as the vice governor for political affairs in North Jeolla Province, overseeing the local economy and the Saemangeum project, and spent seven years as vice president of the Lao Korao Group, meeting people and markets in a foreign land. After returning to Korea, he became the CEO of JTV Jeonju Broadcasting. His life has traversed journalism, administration, business, and broadcasting. Looking back, this poetry collection did not suddenly begin at a certain point in that long journey; rather, it is the culmination of countless people and landscapes he has seen, heard, and experienced over time, finally flowing into sentences.What is intriguing about his background is not just the glamour of his titles. While working as vice president of a company in Laos, he also operated a gallery café in his hometown of Jeonju, showcasing Laotian art. In broadcasting management, he demonstrated remarkable leadership by significantly growing JTV, gaining national attention. A journalist observes and records the world, while a manager makes choices and takes responsibility for outcomes. Han Myung-kyu has experienced both roles throughout his life. Thus, reading his poetry is not merely following a poet's reflections; it is akin to peering into the inner world of a person who has navigated reality with the eyes of a newspaper reporter and the hands of a manager.The poetry collection is divided into four sections: 'Peeling the Shell', 'Things That Came and Went', 'Standing Firmly', and 'Rewriting Myself'. It includes 95 poems and two song lyrics, accompanied by photographs taken by the author, creating a 'reading poetry collection' as well as a 'visual poetry collection'. The songs 'Did You Forget?' and 'Recollection', created in collaboration with composer Kim Jeong-ho, can also be listened to via QR codes. The format blends poetry, photography, and music, but what stands out more than the format is the depth of life contained within.In the preface, Han Myung-kyu writes, “Poetry feels like a late-arriving guest.” He suggests that the poetry he had long postponed, believing it was not the right time, has finally been welcomed. He describes writing poetry as a reunion with the dreams of his youth, a way to embrace the time he has lived, and a quiet means of expressing gratitude, regret, and longing that he had not previously conveyed. This clarifies the nature of this poetry collection. It is not a book to showcase newfound literary talent but rather a careful unveiling of the stories that a person has kept in their heart over many years.Thus, his poetry exhibits a restraint that seems to peel away the layers of life. Rather than explaining life with grand rhetoric, he draws meaning from the small landscapes of daily life, observing people, time, and nature without hastily reaching conclusions. At times sharp, at times lyrical, his work is infused with wit and satire. Above all, it is simple and honest, yet the perspective on life remains positive. A close acquaintance who read the collection remarked, “It shows sharp insights into life while maintaining a sense of ease, being lyrical yet restrained, with wit and satire, and a positive, honest demeanor.” This comment reflects the lingering impact of the collection, as readers express a desire to savor it slowly after initially rushing through.Poet Heo Yeon also noted in his foreword that Han Myung-kyu's poetry embodies “the aesthetics of realization and transcendence.” He described the collection as filled with aphorisms that provoke nods of agreement, infused with humor and insight into the fundamental values and beauty of life. The wisdom gained from a long life differs from the knowledge of youth. One learns what is truly important and realizes how much lighter what once seemed significant becomes in the face of time. Han Myung-kyu's poetry embodies this sense of time. It acknowledges the weight of life without being crushed by it, maintaining warmth toward humanity while observing the world with a discerning eye.One acquaintance shared that reading this collection was like “swiftly traversing the panorama of the past 40 years and being deeply moved.” This statement holds significant meaning in understanding Han Myung-kyu's poetry. While his poems do not record specific events or experiences, they are imbued with the time spent as a newspaper reporter navigating the world, as an editor handling countless sentences, as an administrator contemplating the future of the region, and as a business leader encountering unfamiliar cultures and people in Laos. The emotions he could not express in articles or quantify as a business leader are now articulated in the language of poetry.The language of a journalist differs from that of a poet. A reporter must convey facts clearly, while a poet does not need to explain everything. Instead, a poet leaves space behind each line for the reader to bring their own experiences to complete the meaning. Han Myung-kyu has spent his life working with words. As a reporter and editor, he recorded numerous issues and assessed the value of language, and as a broadcasting executive, he experienced the power of words and images on people. As a poet, he chooses to be more economical with words. This restraint comes from having seen much and the ease that comes from meeting many people.The title of the poetry collection, 'The Weight of a Person is Measured by Scent', can also be understood in this context. A person's weight cannot be measured solely by the numbers of their career. What matters more is how they have lived, and how they are remembered by others, rather than the heights they have reached. Scent is invisible but lingers. So too do people. Some become clearer after they have left, and it may take time to realize their true essence. The 'scent' the poet refers to may well be the traces of a person's life left behind after the passage of time.In this sense, this first poetry collection represents not just another achievement for Han Myung-kyu, who has a wealth of experience, but a new way of looking at his life. If the accomplishments of his youth were about moving forward into the world, the poetry that has come in the latter part of his life is about returning inward. As suggested by the title of the final section, 'Rewriting Myself', it is not about erasing the past but embracing all that time and rewriting it in a new language. The time spent as a newspaper reporter, as an editor, as a vice governor and corporate vice president, the seven years in Laos, and the time in his hometown of Jeonju, as well as his time managing JTV, are all encapsulated within.One acquaintance remarked that the publication of this poetry collection is a “great achievement in life.” This sentiment underscores the significance of a first poetry collection becoming another major accomplishment for someone who has already achieved much in society, illustrating how the meaning of success changes as one moves into the later stages of life. It is a shift from proving something to others to sharing what has long been held within oneself, which may represent a deeper achievement in life.'The Weight of a Person is Measured by Scent' thus marks a late literary debut for a journalist and a quiet reckoning of the time a person has lived. The 95 poems reflect the traces of someone who has tirelessly pursued the world and now pauses to reflect on themselves. The book's format, enhanced by photographs and songs, ultimately aims to capture moments of life rather than letting them slip away.If poetry is a late-arriving guest, it may have been quietly walking alongside Han Myung-kyu for a long time. Even during his time as a newspaper reporter observing the world, as a businessman navigating unfamiliar markets, and as a manager contemplating the fate of an organization, poetry likely resided quietly within him. He has now opened the door to welcome it.And the title of his first poetry collection conveys a profound message: the true weight of a person cannot be measured solely by the titles on their business cards or the achievements left in the world. Ultimately, what remains of a person is the scent of the life they have lived.That he has captured this scent in a book may be the most beautiful achievement Han Myung-kyu has gained in the latter part of his life.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-11 17:36:00
  • Koreas won, bonds buck global trend after stocks dominate H1
    Korea's won, bonds buck global trend after stocks dominate H1 SEOUL, August 11 (AJP) - The KOSPI and chip stocks sucked up capital and attention in the first half, but as the second half gets under way, it is the Korean won and bonds that are bucking the global trend and gaining ground. Whether that strength can last is less certain. Their divergence from U.S. markets rests partly on short-covering in bonds and expectations of corporate dollar conversions supporting the won — forces that could prove temporary. The U.S. 10-year Treasury yield rose from 4.562 percent on July 10 to 4.713 percent on Aug. 10, an increase of 15.1 basis points. Over the same period, the equivalent yield rose 4.7 basis points in Japan and just 2.0 basis points in Korea. The currency move was even more striking. USD/KRW fell 5.8 percent over the period, while USD/JPY declined 2.0 percent, meaning the won appreciated nearly three times as much against the dollar as the yen did. That marks a sharp reversal from the first half, when the greenback gained 7.7 percent against the won, more than double its 3.5 percent advance against the yen. The rise in U.S. Treasury yields reflected mounting concerns over inflation, oil prices, the fiscal deficit and debt supply. The 30-year Treasury yield climbed to around 5.25 percent on Aug. 10, near its highest level in 19 years. Korea did not escape those pressures. But a sharp reversal in domestic positioning prevented them from feeding fully into Korean government bond yields. After the Bank of Korea raised its base rate from 2.50 percent to 2.75 percent on July 16, foreign investors initially positioned for further tightening. They subsequently reversed course, making net purchases of 137,410 three-year bond futures contracts over 12 consecutive sessions from July 23 through Aug. 7. The three-year Korean government bond yield fell from 3.959 percent to 3.669 percent during that period even as U.S. Treasury yields headed higher. The move points largely to short-covering rather than a fresh wave of long-term bond buying, leaving the market vulnerable once investors finish unwinding positions built around expectations of additional BOK tightening. Korea’s phased inclusion in the FTSE World Government Bond Index, which began in April, has provided a more durable source of demand and helped cushion the bond market. But foreign net investment in Korean bonds slowed to 0.8 trillion won in July from 4.5 trillion won in June, suggesting WGBI-related demand alone cannot explain the recent resilience. BOK research also indicates that much of the overseas passive money tracking bond indexes is currency-hedged, weakening the direct link between WGBI inflows and won appreciation. The currency has instead drawn support from Korea’s swelling export income. The country posted a record $49.73 billion current-account surplus in June, lifting the first-half surplus to $191 billion. Exporter dollar sales have been reinforced by expectations that part of the $26.5 billion raised through SK hynix’s U.S. American depositary receipt offering will eventually be converted into won to finance investment at home. No specific SK hynix conversion has been confirmed. But expectations of additional dollar supply were strong enough to help offset $4.6 billion of Korean retail purchases of U.S. stocks in July and 8.8 trillion won of foreign selling in Korean equities. The mystery is that money has been flowing out through overseas stock purchases and foreign equity selling, yet the won has strengthened sharply. The next complication comes from the BOK. Senior Deputy Governor Ryoo Sang-dai said Tuesday that another rate increase was likely unless an extraordinary shock intervened, arguing that stronger domestic demand would generate gradual but persistent inflation pressure. The remarks were explicitly his personal view. Ryoo is also due to retire on Aug. 20, before the BOK’s Aug. 27 policy meeting, meaning he will not vote on the next decision and limiting the remarks' direct policy weight. Markets nevertheless took notice without treating them as a new shock. The three-year Korean government bond yield closed 3.6 basis points higher at 3.812 percent but remained below its intraday high of 3.831 percent, suggesting Ryoo largely confirmed expectations already embedded in the market. Pressure was greater at the long end. The 10-year yield gained 6.2 basis points to close near its session high at 4.303 percent as higher U.S. yields and oil prices exerted greater pressure, steepening the Korean yield curve. The won strengthened as far as 1,412.24 per dollar before giving back some gains to trade around 1,417 late Tuesday. For Korea’s bond and currency markets, the question is now whether a move born partly from positioning and expectations can turn into something more durable. U.S. inflation and oil prices will test the global side of that divergence, while the BOK’s Aug. 27 meeting will test the domestic side. ___________________________________________________________________________________ AJP Takeaways • South Korea’s market momentum shifted from KOSPI and semiconductor stocks in the first half to the Korean won and government bonds in early second-half trading. • From July 10 through Aug. 10, Korea’s 10-year government bond yield rose just 2.0 basis points, compared with increases of 15.1 basis points in U.S. Treasuries and 4.7 basis points in Japan, while the won appreciated nearly three times as much as the yen. • Korean government bonds were supported by foreign short-covering in three-year futures and phased FTSE World Government Bond Index inclusion, although weaker July bond inflows suggest that support may fade as positions normalize. • The won drew strength from Korea’s record $49.73 billion June current-account surplus, exporter dollar sales and expected conversions of SK hynix’s $26.5 billion ADR proceeds, rather than mainly from currency-hedged WGBI inflows. • Ryoo Sang-dai reinforced expectations of another BOK rate increase, but his Aug. 20 retirement and the limited three-year yield reaction reduced the remarks’ direct market impact, leaving U.S. inflation, oil prices and the Aug. 27 BOK meeting as the next tests. 2026-08-11 17:29:33
  • Korea Exchange Faces Setbacks in Extended Trading Plans
    Korea Exchange Faces Setbacks in Extended Trading Plans The Korea Exchange's ambitious plans to extend trading hours are facing significant setbacks. The introduction of a pre-market has been postponed until the end of next year, and the launch of ETF trading in the aftermarket next month is now in jeopardy. This development diverges sharply from the original goal of establishing a 24-hour trading system by the end of 2027 to enhance competitiveness with global exchanges.According to financial industry sources on August 11, the Korea Exchange convened asset management firms on August 10 to gauge their interest in participating in aftermarket ETF trading. However, all firms reportedly expressed their intention to abstain. The exchange had previously sought to confirm demand for aftermarket ETF trading in March, July, and again in August, but the latest feedback indicates a lack of interest.Concerns regarding aftermarket ETF trading first emerged during a meeting of asset management executives on July 28, which focused on single-stock leveraged ETFs amid rising market volatility. Industry experts voiced that the timing for aftermarket ETF trading might be premature. Conversely, the Korea Exchange had anticipated that if larger asset managers showed interest, others would likely follow suit to maintain competitiveness. Initially, some firms had indicated a willingness to participate, but growing concerns over market volatility have shifted the landscape.Additionally, the decision by the Korea Exchange not to provide real-time indicative net asset values (iNAV) for ETFs traded in the aftermarket has added to the apprehension. Managing the disparity between the underlying asset value and market price is crucial for ETFs, and with limited trading of underlying assets after regular hours, determining fair prices becomes challenging. If the exchange does not provide iNAV, liquidity providers will need to independently calculate fair values and submit bids. The asset management sector has expressed worries that a widening gap between ETF prices and actual values during low liquidity periods could increase investor protection risks.The Korea Exchange finds itself in a difficult position. Its competitor, Nextrade, plans to expand its trading offerings to include ETFs by the end of the year. If the aftermarket ETF trading fails in September, the exchange risks losing the opportunity to dominate after-hours trading in ETF products.The challenges do not end there. Earlier this year, the Korea Exchange had announced plans to implement a 12-hour trading system starting June 29, with a pre-market from 7 to 8 a.m. and an aftermarket from 4 to 8 p.m. However, due to opposition from the securities industry labor union and concerns from the sector, the implementation was postponed to September 14, and in June, the pre-market launch was pushed back to the end of next year.Industry insiders are now questioning the feasibility of the vision presented by Jeong Eun-bo, chairman of the Korea Exchange, for a 24-hour trading system by the end of 2027. With the pre-market delayed until next year, there are doubts about whether the original timeline for achieving a 24-hour trading system can still be met. The initiative to extend trading hours, aimed at enhancing global competitiveness, appears to be stalling due to insufficient preparation and consensus among market participants.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-11 17:24:10
  • Special Prosecutors Charge Former Fire Chief Heo Seok-gon Without Detention
    Special Prosecutors Charge Former Fire Chief Heo Seok-gon Without Detention Former Fire Chief Heo Seok-gon and former Deputy Fire Chief Lee Young-pal have been indicted for their involvement in the emergency martial law declared on December 3, following orders from former Minister of the Interior and Safety Lee Sang-min to cut off power and water to media outlets.The second comprehensive special prosecution team, led by Special Prosecutor Kwon Chang-young, announced on the afternoon of August 11 that they have charged Heo and Lee without detention for their roles in important duties related to insurrection.Heo is accused of receiving instructions from Lee to cooperate with police in cutting off power and water to MBC, JTBC, Hankyoreh, Kyunghyang Shinmun, and Kim Eo-jun's News Factory shortly after the martial law was declared. He allegedly relayed these orders to Lee.Subsequently, Lee reportedly called the Seoul Fire and Disaster Headquarters, asking them to cooperate if police requested assistance regarding the proclamation.Previously, the insurrection special prosecution team, led by Special Prosecutor Jo Eun-seok, indicted Lee for his orders to media outlets, charging him with important duties related to insurrection. Both the first and second trial courts found him guilty, and the case is currently awaiting a decision from the Supreme Court's full bench.The insurrection special prosecution team had investigated Heo and Lee for abuse of authority but concluded the case with a non-prosecution decision. However, the comprehensive special prosecution team has reopened the investigation, believing that the charges against them could be substantiated given the court's findings against Lee.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-11 17:24:00
  • Typhoon Chan-hom Expected to Make Landfall in Eastern Japan Tonight
    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 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
  • Samsung brings cross-device gaming lineup to Gamescom 2026
    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
    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