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  • Investigation Launched into Alleged Visa Information Leak Involving NewJeans Hani
    Investigation Launched into Alleged Visa Information Leak Involving NewJeans' Hani The police have begun a formal investigation into allegations that Ador, the agency representing the girl group NewJeans, leaked visa information of member Hani, an Australian of Vietnamese descent. On August 10, Kim Seong-soo, a cultural critic who filed the complaint against Ador and its employees for violating personal data protection laws, was represented by attorney Park Kang-hoon from the law firm Kangseong, who appeared at the Yongsan Police Station in Seoul.Kim previously claimed that Ador leaked Hani's personal information, including the type of her E-6 visa, its expiration date, and the status of her visa extension application, to the media during a dispute over her exclusive contract.During the investigation, attorney Park argued, "The personal data protection law does not only protect information that cannot be verified through any means. If information belonging to an individual's private domain is disclosed outside of legitimate channels, it constitutes a violation of the law." He also added that a small number of Ador employees allegedly provided this internal information to certain journalists.Park stated, "The agency should have managed the residency status, which is crucial for foreigners, but instead used it as leverage. It is essential to determine who facilitated the transfer of this information to the media."Previously, Hani declared the termination of her exclusive contract due to the agency's failure to fulfill its obligations, coinciding with the expiration of her existing visa.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-10 20:28:00
  • South Korea Delays Decision on 52-Hour Workweek Exemption for Mega Projects
    South Korea Delays Decision on 52-Hour Workweek Exemption for Mega Projects The South Korean government has postponed its decision on whether to apply exemptions to the 52-hour workweek for research and development personnel in mega project zones. Amid differing views between the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy and the Ministry of Employment and Labor regarding industrial competitiveness and labor rights, the Blue House stated that the success of mega projects is not directly linked to the relaxation of the 52-hour workweek, emphasizing the need for discussions and agreement with local communities and labor groups.A senior official from the Blue House said during a briefing following the second joint inspection meeting on mega projects, chaired by President Lee Jae-myung, "The success of the mega project is not directly related to the 52-hour workweek." He added, "We are considering that this matter requires discussions and agreement with local communities and labor groups."The Ministry of Trade argues that flexible working hours for R&D personnel are necessary to enhance the global competitiveness of advanced industries such as semiconductors and artificial intelligence (AI). They contend that concentrated work is unavoidable during the technology development and production facility stabilization phases, thus necessitating special exemptions for mega project zones.Conversely, the Ministry of Employment is cautious about broadly recognizing exceptions to the 52-hour limit based on specific industries or regions. There are concerns that exemptions could lead to longer working hours and prompt other industries to seek similar exceptions.Considering the disagreements between ministries and the backlash from labor groups, the government has decided not to unilaterally pursue exemptions to the 52-hour workweek. However, the introduction of exemptions has not been completely withdrawn, indicating that it may resurface as a contentious issue during future discussions and the legislative process for the special law on mega project zones.Separately from the 52-hour workweek exemptions, the government plans to expedite the establishment of a regulatory framework to support mega projects. It aims to enact a special law for mega project zones by the end of the year to shorten the approval and environmental assessment periods and to quickly supply infrastructure such as electricity, water, and transportation.The Blue House will establish a dedicated organization for mega projects, and the Prime Minister's Office will set up a "Mega Project Intergovernmental Support Council" to coordinate issues related to approvals and infrastructure across various ministries, preventing delays in corporate investment schedules due to administrative procedures.During the meeting, President Lee emphasized the need for comprehensive checks to ensure that issues such as bureaucratic barriers, regulations, and infrastructure shortages do not dampen corporate investment intentions or delay procedures. He instructed Prime Minister Han Seung-soo to directly oversee related matters.He also stressed the importance of simultaneously advancing related procedures to significantly reduce the time required and to continuously improve regulations, stating, "We need to go beyond speed and engage in a decisive battle."Investment execution by region is also set to intensify. In the Chungcheong region, six companies, including SK Hynix and Samsung Electronics, are set to begin construction or expand facilities on a 246 trillion won project this year.In the Yeongnam region, eight companies, including SK, Samsung Electronics, and Hyundai Motor, will initiate a 107 trillion won investment project this year. Additionally, a separate 57 trillion won research and development project is underway. The total investment amount from companies starting this year in the Chungcheong and Yeongnam regions is expected to reach 353 trillion won.Progress is also being made on the relocation of the Gwangju military airport, a key factor in establishing a semiconductor cluster in the Honam region. President Lee has directed that the functions of the Gwangju military airport be temporarily relocated to another military airport by mid-2028, allowing the existing air force base to be utilized for the semiconductor industrial complex as soon as possible.The government plans to complete the relocation of military facilities on the 2.5 million pyeong site of the Gwangju military airport by the second half of 2028. Even before the airport functions are moved, the government will first prepare the site designated for the ammunition depot to support the early construction of semiconductor fabs. Discussions are also ongoing between South Korea and the U.S. regarding the relocation of U.S. military-related facilities.President Lee urged that even with the temporary relocation, efforts should be made to ensure that industrial complexes can begin construction early on the land near the military airport. He expressed a desire for the Honam semiconductor cluster to be executed as swiftly as that in Kumamoto, Japan.The government has also outlined a schedule for supplying the necessary infrastructure for the semiconductor cluster. It plans to provide electricity to the Honam semiconductor industrial complex by the end of 2028 and secure 650,000 tons of water daily by 2030. The Yongin semiconductor cluster will receive a phased supply of 14.7 GW of electricity by 2041.To spread the benefits of large-scale investments to partner companies and local communities, the government is pursuing a win-win strategy. It will invest 1 trillion won over the next decade in a "Together Growth Project" that fosters collaboration between large and small enterprises from technology development to mass production.Additionally, a 5 trillion won win-win trade finance initiative will be established to alleviate the financial difficulties of export materials, parts, and equipment companies, along with a separate 5 trillion won semiconductor fund.In the field of physical AI, the government reported plans to purchase over 700 humanoid robots and more than 1,000 quadruped robots by 2030 to create an initial market. President Lee directed that the planned purchase scale be significantly expanded, stating that it is "insufficient to create an initial market."President Lee cautioned against the risk of the mega project benefits concentrating on specific companies or regions, a phenomenon referred to as "K-shaped growth," stating, "It is already too late once investments are made and factories are built." He urged that solutions for inclusive growth be considered from the early stages of the project, emphasizing that the next year should be viewed as a golden time to accelerate efforts. 2026-08-10 19:48:00
  • Hanssem Reports 5-Fold Increase in Q2 Operating Profit, Marking 13 Consecutive Quarters of Profit
    Hanssem Reports 5-Fold Increase in Q2 Operating Profit, Marking 13 Consecutive Quarters of Profit Hanssem announced that its operating profit for the second quarter of this year reached 11.3 billion won, a fivefold increase compared to the same period last year, marking 13 consecutive quarters of profitability.The company attributed its success to enhanced competitiveness in B2C products and the strengthening of its unique brand value, which allowed it to expand its market dominance. As a result, even during the traditionally slow second quarter for the home interior industry, operating profit surged by 400% year-on-year. However, sales decreased by 9.2% to 417.2 billion won, and net profit fell by 85.2% to 4.8 billion won.Notably, sales in the Rehouse division increased by 13% compared to the same period last year, following growth in the first quarter, contributing significantly to the overall performance improvement, according to Hanssem.Looking ahead, Hanssem acknowledged ongoing external uncertainties, including fluctuations in the housing market and rising raw material and shipping costs. Nevertheless, the company plans to maintain its growth trajectory by consistently implementing proven core strategies, such as enhancing product competitiveness focused on higher-grade items, refining distribution and channel strategies, and continuing to elevate brand value alongside targeted marketing of key products.In the first quarter, Hanssem reported an operating profit of 10.1 billion won, a 56% increase from the previous year, while sales fell by 9.9% to 39.94 billion won.A company representative stated, "While external risks will persist in the second half of the year, we will solidify our position as an industry leader by consistently enhancing the competitiveness of our core products, improving customer experiences through distribution and channels, and elevating brand value alongside focused marketing of key products."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-10 19:44:10
  • Gyeongnam Province Revives Jisimdo Island as a Healing Eco-Tourism Destination
    Gyeongnam Province Revives Jisimdo Island as a Healing Eco-Tourism Destination Gyeongnam Province is moving forward with the 'Jisimdo Sanmaru Cultural Playground Project,' aimed at transforming Jisimdo Island into a stay-type tourist destination that combines its historical significance from the Japanese colonial period with its ecological resources, particularly the camellia forest.On August 10, Gyeongnam Province announced plans to conduct an architectural design competition in the second half of this year related to the project. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Gyeongnam Province, and Geoje City are investing a total of 18.3 billion won, with a completion target set for the end of 2028.This year, 6.582 billion won will be allocated to the project, consisting of 3.291 billion won (50%) from the national budget, 987 million won (15%) from the provincial budget, and 2.34 billion won (35%) from the city budget. Approximately 36% of the total project budget is designated for this year's design competition phase.A Gyeongnam official explained the high budget allocation before the design is completed, stating, "This budget is not solely for design but also secures funds for the construction phase that will follow the design process. It signifies that we have secured national, provincial, and city funds."Before construction begins, civil engineering design work commenced last August. Based on this, the architectural design competition will take place in the second half of this year to outline the project. However, with only about two years and four months remaining until the planned completion in late 2028, concerns have been raised about the tight schedule, especially considering the unique challenges of transporting materials by sea to the island. Gyeongnam Province responded, stating, "We have already included the costs and time required for maritime transport of materials in our project schedule."Jisimdo Island, which resembles the character for 'heart' when viewed from above, is often referred to as the 'Island of Love.' It is also well-known for its dense camellia forest. However, it carries a painful history, having been forcibly evacuated during the Japanese colonial period in 1936 and used as a military fortress.After liberation, the Ministry of National Defense managed the island for military purposes until ownership was transferred to Geoje City in 2017, paving the way to utilize its neglected historical, cultural, and ecological resources for tourism.The project includes the development of a themed garden, a playground in the camellia forest, wellness facilities, hiking trails, and rest areas. The long-vacant former Defense Science Research Institute building will be remodeled into an educational facility for learning about nature and history, while the accommodation building will be transformed into a lodging facility for tourists. A trekking course will also be established to allow visitors to explore the scenic coastal views of the South Sea and the military relics from the Japanese colonial period.Kim Sang-won, director of tourism development at Gyeongnam Province, stated, "Jisimdo is a treasure of an island that has preserved its ecosystem, untouched due to its long management as a military facility. We aim to develop it into a healing tourism destination where history and ecological resources harmonize, making it a representative tourist attraction of the South Coast."The planned development area for this project is approximately 338,000 square meters, which has expanded due to the inclusion of the trekking course. Regarding concerns about potential damage to trees, a provincial official noted, "We understand that removal is not possible, and the area is designated as a protected zone." The project will proceed with remodeling existing buildings, allowing construction without harming the trees.Given the large area involved, the project must also pass an environmental impact assessment. A provincial official commented on the assessment, saying, "It appears to fall within the scope of the assessment based on the area, and we will proceed with the detailed design alongside it. The determination of whether it is subject to the assessment will be made by Geoje City." As of now, the consultation process has not yet begun.It remains unclear whether a public briefing for residents will be held. Some residents live on Jisimdo, and a provincial official mentioned, "When we visited the site, the residents were aware of the project. However, we need to confirm whether Geoje City has held a separate official briefing." They added, "It would be difficult to proceed without a briefing before construction begins."This detailed execution plan for the Jisimdo project is part of the 'Southern Regional Tourism Development Project (Phase 1, 24 projects)' being pursued by Gyeongnam Province in collaboration with Busan, Ulsan, Gwangju, and Jeonnam.This year, Gyeongnam Province plans to invest a total of 117.5 billion won in this regional project, including 58.8 billion won from the national budget. The province emphasized that this is the largest budget in history, based on figures from the past three years since the project began. In fact, the budget for this project was approximately 7 billion won in 2024 and about 27 billion won from the national budget in 2025.Due to the geographical limitations of being an island, addressing emergency medical situations at night remains a challenge. Specific safety measures for stay-type tourists, such as increasing ferry operations or nighttime maritime transport, have not yet been established, highlighting the need for a clear safety net as the project progresses.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-10 18:56:00
  • Oh Se-hoon: Focus on Redevelopment Over New Land Acquisition
    Oh Se-hoon: Focus on Redevelopment Over New Land Acquisition As the Lee Jae-myung administration prepares housing supply measures for the metropolitan area, Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon reiterated that accelerating ongoing redevelopment and reconstruction projects is a realistic solution to the city's housing issues.In an interview on KBS's 'Sasa Geon Geon' on August 10, Mayor Oh stated that there has been "almost no concrete practical discussions" regarding potential housing supply sites in Seoul that the government is reviewing. He recently met with Kim Yong-beom, head of the presidential office's policy office, and Kim Yun-deok, Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, to convey Seoul's position, but there were no practical discussions about the sites or the scale of supply.He firmly opposed the development of Yongsan Park and additional greenbelt areas, citing that apartment construction is prohibited by special law in Yongsan Park and that Seoul lacks sufficient green spaces for residents' daily use.Regarding the release of additional greenbelt land, he stated, "I agreed to supply about 20,000 housing units in the Seoripul area during the Yoon Suk-yeol administration, and I made it clear that this would be the last such agreement." He argued that existing projects are not progressing properly due to resident consultations and that it is essential to execute existing plans before damaging new green spaces.Mayor Oh identified redevelopment and reconstruction as key sources for housing supply in Seoul. He directly countered President Lee Jae-myung's perception that housing supply through maintenance projects is insufficient, calling it "completely misinformed."A recent comprehensive survey by the Seoul city government of maintenance projects completed in the last three years revealed that the number of housing units increased by an average of 44% for reconstruction and 27% for redevelopment compared to existing homes.Oh noted that approximately 400 maintenance projects are currently underway in Seoul, and if they proceed as scheduled, 310,000 housing units could begin construction by 2031. He explained that about 220,000 existing homes will be demolished, and 310,000 new units will be built, resulting in a net increase of approximately 87,000 units.He emphasized that the 87,000 units that will be added through maintenance projects would be more beneficial for market stability than the 50,000 new units the government is discussing, urging the government to provide support in terms of finance and taxation.While he acknowledged that rental prices may rise during the relocation process of maintenance projects, he argued that blocking these projects would make long-term supply increases impossible and could actually stimulate housing prices due to supply shortages.He also highlighted the achievements of the rapid integrated planning initiative. The Seoul city government stated that it has reduced the designation period for maintenance zones from the usual five years to about two and a half years by integrating urban planning, architecture, transportation, and environmental reviews that were previously conducted separately. The goal is to shorten the overall maintenance project duration from an average of 18 years and six months to 12 years through additional system improvements.In response to criticism from the ruling party regarding the decrease in construction starts, he countered that the impact of the cancellation of 389 maintenance zones, which involved about 430,000 housing units during former Mayor Park Won-soon's tenure, is now being felt. He also noted that the decline in non-apartment construction due to rising material and labor costs and interest rates is a nationwide phenomenon.He stated that underutilized industrial areas, aging residential neighborhoods, and transit-oriented developments should also be utilized. The Seoul city government has increased the floor area ratio in industrial areas around Yeongdeungpo, Guro, and Geumcheon, creating conditions for the supply of about 27,000 housing units, and is also promoting urban public complex projects involving LH and SH, targeting about 20,000 units.Mayor Oh remarked, "While it is necessary for the Seoul city government to assist the government's efforts, I hope the government will support the redevelopment and reconstruction initiatives that the Seoul city government is pursuing." He argued that accelerating the construction of existing public land, third-phase new towns, and Seoul's maintenance projects would be more effective for market stability than announcing new supply numbers.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-10 18:56:00
  • Hanwha Acquires 15.89% Stake in KAI, Aiming for Comprehensive Defense Expansion
    Hanwha Acquires 15.89% Stake in KAI, Aiming for Comprehensive Defense Expansion Hanwha Group has secured a 15.89% stake in Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), signaling its ambition to become a comprehensive defense company across land, sea, and air. As the second-largest shareholder, Hanwha plans to expand business collaboration with KAI and enhance its competitiveness in the aerospace sector. With its stake exceeding 15%, Hanwha is expected to apply for a merger review with the Fair Trade Commission (FTC).According to the Financial Supervisory Service's electronic disclosure system on August 10, Hanwha Systems recently acquired 3.45% of KAI shares in the market over the past month. This brings Hanwha Group's total stake in KAI to 15.89%, comprising 9.90% from Hanwha Aerospace, 4.98% from Hanwha Systems, and 1.01% from Hanwha Aerospace USA.Currently, the largest shareholder of KAI is the Export-Import Bank, which holds a 26.41% stake. With Hanwha acquiring more than 15% of KAI's publicly traded shares, it is required to file for a merger review with the FTC.Hanwha's strategy with this stake increase is to secure sovereignty in space and enhance its export competitiveness in the aerospace and defense sectors.Hanwha possesses technological and manufacturing capabilities in areas such as aircraft engines, guided weapons, radar, satellites, and land and maritime defense, while KAI has comprehensive system capabilities for fighter jets, helicopters, and drones. Industry observers believe that collaboration between the two companies could establish a comprehensive aerospace and defense system covering land, sea, and air.In fact, Hanwha has unveiled a long-term strategy to invest 55 trillion won by 2040 to become an 'AI space power.' This includes developing independent launch vehicles and satellites, as well as establishing space AI data centers, low-orbit communication networks, and defense AI data centers to secure infrastructure that encompasses both space and defense.Kim Dong-kwan, Vice Chairman of Hanwha Group, stated at the recent 'AI Space Power' strategy announcement in Jinju, Gyeongnam, "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 an AI space power."With Hanwha acquiring more than 15% of KAI's shares, it has triggered the FTC's merger review process. Under the Fair Trade Act, acquiring more than 15% of a publicly traded company's shares necessitates a merger notification. If the FTC finds that Hanwha's market dominance increases significantly after acquiring KAI shares, potentially limiting market competition, Hanwha may need to reduce its stake to below 15%.However, industry experts believe that since Hanwha is not the largest shareholder of KAI and the businesses of the two companies do not overlap, the likelihood of the FTC intervening is low.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-10 18:20:00
  • Election Commissions Special Committee Faces Deadlock Over Recount Schedule
    Election Commission's Special Committee Faces Deadlock Over Recount Schedule The National Assembly's special committee investigating the voting paper shortage during the June 3 local elections faced a deadlock on August 10 while discussing the schedule for a recount at the Olympic Park ballot counting center.The committee convened a full meeting in the National Assembly to agree on a specific timeline for the recount, but disagreements between the Democratic Party and the People Power Party prevented any consensus.The Democratic Party argued that since both parties had tentatively agreed to conduct the recount on August 18, a final agreement should be reached to proceed with the recount at Olympic Park. In contrast, the People Power Party insisted that the recount should be conducted in conjunction with the special prosecutor's investigation, which is set to begin soon.The Democratic Party maintained that the special prosecutor and the special committee are distinct entities, emphasizing that the recount should proceed independently. Yoon Geon-young, a member of the ruling party, stated, "The entity responsible for the recount is the special committee. The special prosecutor and the recount are unrelated," urging the People Power Party to cooperate.Kim Yong-man, another committee member, questioned the sudden change in schedule, noting, "We already decided to proceed on the 18th; why change the timeline now?" He suggested that a vote should be held based on the principle of majority rule. Kim Nam-hee added that if the recount is conducted under the special prosecutor's office, it would likely be confidential due to the nature of investigations, stating, "If we do not conduct a public verification at the National Assembly, there is no point in proceeding with the recount."The People Power Party countered that the agreement made by the party leaders included conducting the recount alongside the special prosecutor's investigation, insisting that the recount should be linked to the prosecutor's timeline. Seo Beom-soo, the opposition's secretary, emphasized that the specific timing of the recount should be discussed after the special prosecutor is established.Choi Bo-yoon also remarked, "The timing is not as important as ensuring the recount is conducted properly," asserting that the People Power Party should clarify facts without any suspicion to reform the electoral system. Joo Jin-woo pointed out that the integrity of the Olympic Park issue has been compromised, suggesting that the Election Commission's server should be publicly verified to uncover the truth.Amid the ongoing disputes, the committee, led by Chairman Yoon, failed to reach an agreement during a meeting between the party secretaries, resulting in the People Power Party proceeding with a solo hearing. Later that afternoon, members of the Democratic Party and the Justice Reform Party held a press conference at the National Assembly's communication center, collectively condemning the People Power Party.Yoon stated, "We said we would accept any date the People Power Party wanted, but they rejected our proposals until the end. If they are willing to continue discussions for an agreement on the recount, we will respond. However, an apology from floor leader Jeong Jeom-sik and Chairman Yoon is a prerequisite."He also mentioned the possibility of the committee members, excluding the People Power Party, proceeding with the recount independently. Kim Yong-man noted, "The attitude shown by the People Power Party today indicates that we can now make individual decisions," but added that they would need to review whether to proceed alone, emphasizing that the responsibility for today's events lies with the People Power Party.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-10 18:12:00
  • Hampyeong County Mayor Lee Nam-o Inspects Safety Ahead of Nabit Park Opening
    Hampyeong County Mayor Lee Nam-o Inspects Safety Ahead of Nabit Park Opening Hampyeong County Mayor Lee Nam-o conducted a safety inspection at Nabit Park, an ecological education and experiential play space for children, ahead of its opening. Given that the park is primarily for children, he thoroughly examined not only the play and experience facilities but also the electrical and fire safety systems, visitor pathways, and emergency response protocols, urging prompt corrections of any deficiencies before the opening. The county announced that a pre-opening safety inspection was carried out on August 10, with Mayor Lee and relevant officials participating. This inspection aimed to identify and eliminate potential hazards throughout the facility, ensuring a safe environment for children and family visitors. During the inspection, Mayor Lee checked the safety management of play and experience facilities and assessed whether key safety systems, such as electrical and fire safety, were functioning properly. Visitor pathways and convenience facilities were also included in the inspection. Special attention was given to ensuring that a system was in place for rapid response in case of accidents or emergencies. Considering that children are the primary users of Nabit Park, the county emphasized a preventive approach focused on identifying and eliminating risks before incidents occur. Any issues identified during the inspection will be addressed before the park opens on August 15. Mayor Lee stressed to officials that ensuring visitor safety takes precedence over adhering to the opening schedule, urging thorough pre-opening management of the facilities and operations. "Nabit Park is a space for children to experience and enjoy, so safety is our top priority," Mayor Lee said. "We will create an environment where both residents and visitors can use the park with peace of mind through thorough inspections before the opening." Nabit Park, set to open on August 15, is designed to allow children to enjoy play and experiential learning based on ecological education. It will operate three sessions daily from Tuesday to Sunday, with access available through online reservations.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-10 18:12:00
  • Monami Launches BP153 Edition to Celebrate 81st Anniversary of Liberation, Donates Proceeds
    Monami Launches 'BP153 Edition' to Celebrate 81st Anniversary of Liberation, Donates Proceeds Monami announced the launch of the 'BP153 Liberation 81st Anniversary Edition' on August 10, with all proceeds from sales to be donated to support descendants of independence activists.This product is based on Monami's signature BP153 ballpoint pen. The hexagonal body features engraved phrases and icons symbolizing independence activists, enhancing its collectible value.The set includes five pens: four representing the spirits of poet Yun Dong-ju, independence activist Ahn Jung-geun, poet Lee Yuk-sa, and martyr Yu Gwan-sun, along with one commemorating Liberation Day. Each pen carries a meaningful phrase, such as 'The awaited dawn brightens with starlight' for Yun Dong-ju, 'Devotion to the country, deeply engraved in the heart' for Ahn Jung-geun, 'Crossing the wilderness to greet a blue morning' for Lee Yuk-sa, and 'The roar of that day becomes today's light' for Yu Gwan-sun. The Liberation Day pen features the inscription 'South Korea regains its light 1945.08.15.'All proceeds from the sale of this product will be used to support descendants of independence activists.Monami will also host various events to raise awareness about independence activists and allow consumers to experience the historical significance of liberation in their daily lives. By commenting on Liberation Day-related posts on the Instagram accounts of Monami, the Ministry of Veterans Affairs, or the Independence Hall, participants will have a chance to win this product, and items will be donated to the Ministry's public participation events.A Monami representative stated, 'In celebration of the 81st anniversary of liberation, we planned this edition to help people cherish the noble spirit of the independence movement in their daily lives. We will continue to create products that embody historical value and engage in socially responsible activities as a leading stationery company in South Korea.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-10 18:12:00
  • Jangheung County Intensifies Efforts to Attract Public Institutions Amid Gwangju Integration
    Jangheung County Intensifies Efforts to Attract Public Institutions Amid Gwangju Integration As the administrative and public institution restructuring follows the integration of Gwangju and Jeonnam, Jangheung County has identified 11 key institutions as targets for attraction efforts.The county plans to strengthen its recruitment activities directed at the Gwangju Integrated Special City, political circles, and relevant agencies, emphasizing that the central region should not be overlooked during the relocation of major public facilities, including the integrated government and council offices.Jangheung County views the integration of Gwangju not merely as an administrative reorganization but as an opportunity to establish a new growth axis for the central region of South Korea. The county is preparing strategies and policy proposals to attract public institutions.The core argument for the county's recruitment efforts is 'balanced distribution by region.'If major administrative functions and public institutions concentrate in specific areas during the launch of the integrated administrative system, it could reduce access to administrative and public services for residents in the central region. Therefore, a balanced development approach in the placement of institutions is necessary.Jangheung County also plans to align its industrial base with its public institution attraction strategy.The county presents its strengths, including eco-friendly agriculture, abundant marine resources, a bio-industry centered on natural products and traditional medicine, and ecological and cultural tourism resources.Based on these strengths, the county has selected 11 institutions that can be linked to regional specialized industries, including marine and agricultural life, energy and environment, culture and arts, and social services.Moving forward, the county plans to analyze the functions of each institution and the industrial and locational conditions of Jangheung to develop tailored recruitment strategies.Preparations for the relocation of public institutions are also underway. The county will review available land and locational conditions for potential sites and will gradually establish support measures for employees to settle in the area, including transportation, living infrastructure, and residency support.Jangheung County emphasizes that attracting public institutions is not just about relocating one entity but can lead to job creation, population growth, and revitalization of the local economy.If public institutions and related industries cluster in the central region, it is expected to create jobs for young people, attract new residents, increase local consumption, and enhance the competitiveness of existing specialized industries such as marine, agricultural life, and bio.The county will also strengthen its recruitment activities directed at political circles and relevant agencies.Jangheung County plans to establish a cooperative system with the Gwangju Integrated Special City, local lawmakers, and relevant agencies, continuously advocating for the principle of 'balanced distribution in the central region' during the relocation of major public facilities such as the integrated government and council offices.In anticipation of the second phase of public institution relocations to be promoted at the government level, the county aims to proactively respond by promoting Jangheung's locational conditions and industrial competitiveness while developing tailored recruitment arguments for each institution.Jangheung County Mayor Sa Sun-moon stated, "The integration of Gwangju is a significant turning point in creating a new growth axis for the central region of South Korea beyond just the local administrative system. We will actively voice our concerns to ensure that the central region is not overlooked in the placement of public institutions and will make every effort to attract institutions linked to Jangheung's marine, agricultural life, and bio-specialized resources."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-10 18:08:00