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  • BPA Receives Re-Certification as Career Experience Institution from Education Ministry
    BPA Receives Re-Certification as Career Experience Institution from Education Ministry Busan Port Authority (BPA) announced on August 10 that it has received re-certification as a 'Career Experience Institution' from the Ministry of Education. This re-certification allows BPA to maintain its status as a certified institution for three years, from June 24, 2026, to June 23, 2029.The Career Experience Institution certification program evaluates local organizations that provide high-quality, free career experience programs and grants them certification.A key career experience activity offered by BPA is the 'After-School Experience Program,' which began this year in collaboration with the Busan Metropolitan Office of Education. The program runs six times a year, with approximately 50 children participating in each session, featuring lectures by employees and experiences aboard the eco-friendly port tour boat 'eGreen.'A BPA official explained, "While there is no formal agreement, the education office manages the budget, and we support the program with our resources, including employee instructors and the port tour boat."The program has received high satisfaction ratings from participants. According to BPA, despite being newly launched this year, many elementary schools have expressed interest in participating, leading the education office to request an increase in the number of sessions for next year.BPA also outlined its plans to maintain its re-certification status. A BPA official stated, "To keep the certification for three years, we must operate career experience programs at least four times a year. We will coordinate detailed annual plans in consultation with the Ministry of Education and the education office."Additionally, BPA has received the 'Excellent Education Donation Institution Certification' for the 13th consecutive year as of December last year. A BPA official clarified the difference between the two certifications, stating, "The Career Experience Institution certification requires programs that explain actual job roles, while the Excellent Institution certification evaluates overall community education donation activities, regardless of job relevance."Song Sang-geun, BPA President, remarked, "This re-certification is a result of our continuous communication with the community, utilizing the excellent resources of Busan Port and the expertise of our employees. We will continue to work closely with local governments and communities to support children and youth in becoming future talents in the maritime and port sectors."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-10 18:08:00
  • Chinese Memory Firm CXMT Approaches Big Three Status Amid Samsung, SK Hynix Competition
    Chinese Memory Firm CXMT Approaches 'Big Three' Status Amid Samsung, SK Hynix Competition Chinese memory company Changxin Memory Technologies (CXMT) is reportedly closing in on the global DRAM market dominated by Samsung Electronics, SK Hynix, and Micron. Some of its products are now trading at prices comparable to those of Samsung and SK Hynix, causing significant shifts in the global market.According to industry sources, Apple is currently testing CXMT memory for use in iPhones and MacBooks sold overseas, with plans to initially incorporate it into products sold in China. HP and Acer have already equipped some laptops sold outside the U.S. with CXMT memory. The company is also expanding its customer base among global PC manufacturers, indicating its entry into the global supply chain.Product performance is rapidly improving. Recently, Chinese PC component manufacturer Colorful demonstrated CXMT DRAM running DDR5 modules at over 8800MT/s on the AMD X870E platform. Since launching DDR5 at the end of last year, CXMT has been increasing its applications primarily among Chinese memory module manufacturers.However, it is generally acknowledged that CXMT lags behind Samsung and SK Hynix in manufacturing processes. The U.S. export restrictions on advanced equipment have prevented CXMT from using extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography, forcing it to rely on deep ultraviolet (DUV) processes.Market analysts are increasingly viewing CXMT as a viable competitor to the established DRAM leaders. Elly Wang, an analyst at TrendForce, recently described CXMT as a “valid challenger” that could threaten the top three memory companies. She noted that the ongoing supply shortages are prompting customers to diversify their suppliers, providing CXMT with additional opportunities to expand its market presence.Market share data supports this view. According to market research firms, CXMT's global DRAM revenue share rose to approximately 7% in the second quarter of this year. This growth comes as major companies focus on high-bandwidth memory (HBM), allowing CXMT to exploit gaps in the market. The extensive support from the Chinese government and a vast domestic market are also significant advantages.The pricing landscape has also changed. Recent reports indicate that some of CXMT's DDR5 products are trading at prices similar to or even higher than those of Samsung and SK Hynix in the Chinese market. The ongoing supply shortages have created an environment where CXMT can sell its products without significantly lowering prices.CXMT plans to more than double its production capacity by 2028. Industry observers are closely watching how the new production capabilities of Chinese firms will impact the market, particularly in general-purpose DRAM, where competition for pricing and customer acquisition is expected to intensify.Neil Shah, vice president at Counterpoint Research, predicted that if CXMT expands its production capacity and capabilities to meet the demands of major global Tier 1 customers, its market share could look very different in a year.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-10 18:04:20
  • Weather Update: Heat Wave Eases, Tropical Nights Persist
    Weather Update: Heat Wave Eases, Tropical Nights Persist On August 11, the central region of South Korea is expected to be mostly clear, while the southern regions and Jeju Island will be generally cloudy.Although the extreme heat has subsided, some areas may still experience tropical nights until tomorrow, necessitating careful health management. Morning low temperatures are forecasted to range from 19°C to 25°C, with daytime highs expected between 27°C and 34°C.For the time being, morning temperatures will be similar to or slightly lower than the average (19°C to 24°C), while daytime highs will be comparable to or slightly above the average (28°C to 32°C).Wave heights are predicted to be 1.0 to 2.5 meters in the East Sea, 0.5 to 2.0 meters in the West Sea, and 0.5 to 2.5 meters in the South Sea.In the offshore waters (approximately 200 km from the coastline), wave heights are expected to be 1.0 to 2.5 meters in the East Sea and 1.0 to 3.5 meters in the West and South Seas.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-10 18:04:20
  • South Korea Accelerates Mega Projects Amid Industry Concerns Over Infrastructure
    South Korea Accelerates Mega Projects Amid Industry Concerns Over Infrastructure The South Korean government is accelerating its push for three major mega projects, including semiconductor and physical artificial intelligence initiatives. However, industry leaders are voicing urgent concerns about the need for infrastructure to translate large-scale investment plans into actual construction and production. While hundreds of trillions of won are earmarked for investment, challenges such as securing power, water, land, permits, and workforce management remain unresolved.The government's commitment to dismantling bureaucratic barriers and regulations has drawn attention to how effectively these key support measures will be reflected in actual policy.According to industry sources, the semiconductor sector is emphasizing the need for a "stable supply of power and water" as a prerequisite for the mega projects. Advanced semiconductor fabrication plants require substantial electricity and large quantities of ultra-pure water during production. If power transmission networks, substations, and water supply facilities are not established in a timely manner, the completion and operational readiness of these fabs could be delayed.Jong-Hyun Jeon, Vice Chairman of Samsung Electronics' Device Solutions Division, recently stated at a government event, "Power and water are the most critical industrial infrastructures in the AI era," urging for stable national supply and competitive pricing. He also called for measures such as expanding nuclear power, activating power purchase agreements (PPAs), and implementing liquefied natural gas (LNG) combined heat and power generation for reliable electricity supply. Similarly, Noh-Jung Kwak, CEO of SK Hynix, stressed the importance of securing large sites and stable power and water infrastructure, along with timing, for constructing semiconductor production fabs.Swift permitting and land acquisition are also critical challenges. Industry insiders express concerns that issues related to community acceptance and permitting for power transmission and water supply facilities could prolong the timeline for fab construction.In particular, the Honam region, which needs to establish new industrial bases, must simultaneously advance the relocation of military airport functions, land transfer, national industrial complex development plans, various permits, and infrastructure construction alongside fab creation. There are concerns that following existing procedures sequentially could delay the government's targeted investment schedule.Talent acquisition and improving living conditions are also highlighted as challenges. Semiconductor plants require thousands of research and development personnel, as well as workers from materials, components, and equipment suppliers. Without adequate education, housing, and transportation infrastructure, building regional clusters will face limitations.Recently, the issue of regulatory exceptions for the 52-hour workweek has also come to the forefront. Disagreements among relevant ministries have emerged regarding including exceptions for semiconductor R&D personnel in the mega zone law. The industry argues that as China rapidly closes the technology gap in memory through aggressive investment and workforce deployment, improvements in regulations, including the management of R&D personnel, must accompany infrastructure development.In response to these industry demands, the government has promised comprehensive support. President Lee Jae-myung emphasized during the second joint public-private mega project review meeting that "a thorough review is necessary to ensure that issues such as bureaucratic barriers, regulations, and infrastructure shortages do not dampen corporate investment intentions or delay procedures," adding that "at this stage, securing land and infrastructure is of utmost importance." Previously, President Lee had also stated his commitment to providing one-stop administrative support and personally overseeing power and water issues.An industry representative remarked, "Large-scale advanced industrial investments cannot proceed at speed based solely on corporate decisions. It is crucial that power, water, land, permits, and workforce are prepared simultaneously, and how quickly the government can reconcile the interests of various ministries to shorten the actual project timeline will be key."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-10 18:04:20
  • Will the First Semiconductor Special Law Favor Non-Metropolitan Areas? Delays for Yongin Cluster Ahead?
    Will the First Semiconductor Special Law Favor Non-Metropolitan Areas? Delays for Yongin Cluster Ahead? Despite the implementation of the Semiconductor Special Law, the Yongin semiconductor cluster, set to begin operations next year, faces the risk of being sidelined from government support. The clause prioritizing non-metropolitan areas for cluster designation has emerged as a last-minute variable, raising alarms about the timely operation of the Yongin fab, which is currently undergoing final construction with an investment of hundreds of trillions of won.The 'Special Law on Strengthening and Supporting the Competitiveness of the Semiconductor Industry' and its enforcement decree will take effect on August 11. This legislation formalizes government support for the costs of building essential infrastructure such as power and water, fast-tracks permits, and provides tax benefits. It is a comprehensive support measure aimed at securing a competitive edge for the domestic ecosystem amid global competition for AI semiconductor leadership.According to relevant ministries and industry sources on August 10, the first semiconductor cluster designated under the Special Law is increasingly likely to be located in non-metropolitan areas such as Honam and Chungcheong. This follows the government's approval of an enforcement decree on August 4 that states, 'non-metropolitan areas will be prioritized for cluster designation.'Concerns are growing that both SK Hynix, which is set to begin operations at the Yongin fab in the first half of next year, and Samsung Electronics, which plans to complete site development within the year, may fall behind in the infrastructure support ranking. Under the current legislation, if they are designated as lower priority, they will not receive benefits such as the local government’s automatic approval system (which allows for automatic approval after application) and exemptions from preliminary feasibility studies. They will also miss out on various environmental and safety regulation exemptions.As Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix pursue large-scale semiconductor investments in key regional hubs, they may eventually benefit from the government's regional balanced development policies. Samsung plans to expand its next-generation fab in Gwangju and enhance its advanced packaging (AVP) hubs in Cheonan and Asan, while SK Hynix has announced plans to invest tens of trillions of won in building a semiconductor belt in non-metropolitan areas such as Cheongju.The issue at hand is the mismatch in the semiconductor timeline. With a critical focus on the early operation of the Yongin fab in response to the global semiconductor supply shortage, any exclusion from government and local support measures could inevitably disrupt the final connections of essential infrastructure, such as the installation of transmission lines near the high-voltage substation and the integration of water transport pipelines. The LNG combined heat and power plant designated for the Yongin industrial complex, intended to fill the power gap, has yet to break ground due to local opposition and delays in environmental impact assessments and permitting processes.Experts emphasize the urgent need for 'track separation' and 'targeted support' to ensure the rapid development of the Yongin cluster while still promoting balanced development in non-metropolitan areas. They argue that the power and water infrastructure for the already underway mega fab should be classified as a special case for national security, warranting separate budget allocations and administrative support to ensure a seamless process.Park Jae-geun, a distinguished professor at Hanyang University’s Department of Convergence Electronics, stated, "The semiconductor industry is a race where missing the timing for fab operations can result in losing market leadership globally. The fab, which is on the verge of operation and has already seen astronomical investments, should be prioritized for government support and administrative procedures to proceed without delays, distinct from general infrastructure projects."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-10 18:04:20
  • IVI President Park Sang-cheol: Vaccines Are Global Assets, Not National Ones
    IVI President Park Sang-cheol: Vaccines Are Global Assets, Not National Ones The International Vaccine Institute (IVI), established in October 1997 under the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), is the first international organization headquartered in South Korea. It is the only global organization dedicated to developing vaccines for children in developing countries, with 42 countries, including Sweden, India, Finland, and China, as well as the World Health Organization (WHO), having signed its founding agreement.Over the past 30 years, IVI has collaborated with domestic companies to achieve significant global vaccine milestones. Notably, it transferred its technology for an oral cholera vaccine to the domestic venture company, EuBiologics, in 2010. Through partnerships, IVI has supplied over 240 million doses of the oral cholera vaccine to 52 countries, with more than 80% of the vaccine currently produced in South Korea. A typhoid conjugate vaccine developed in collaboration with SK Bioscience has also passed WHO prequalification for commercialization.At the heart of these efforts is the IVI Korea Support Committee, which has led fundraising activities from both domestic and international supporters. The committee plays a crucial role in supporting IVI's growth as a leading global vaccine development organization, with Park Sang-cheol, a distinguished professor known for his expertise in aging and longevity science, serving as its chairman.In a recent interview at IVI's headquarters in Sillim-dong, Gwanak-gu, Seoul, Chairman Park discussed IVI's achievements, challenges, and the value of vaccines. Below are excerpts from the conversation.- What is the International Vaccine Institute (IVI)?"IVI develops and distributes vaccines for children in developing countries, particularly in impoverished areas. We do not just create vaccines in the lab; we also investigate the actual incidence of diseases and develop vaccine candidates. We transfer technology to manufacturers after clinical trials and approvals. We train local researchers and healthcare workers to ensure vaccinations can be administered in developing countries, providing necessary infrastructure such as refrigeration, power, and cold chain support. Simply bringing vaccines is not enough; if there are no refrigerators, we need to provide them, and if there is no electricity, we must establish a power supply."- What are some of IVI's notable achievements?"The development of the cholera vaccine is a key achievement. Cholera primarily affects impoverished regions, but pharmaceutical companies often hesitate to develop vaccines for diseases with low market profitability. Historically, cholera vaccines were administered via injection, requiring medical personnel and posing challenges in transportation and storage. IVI led the development and commercialization of the world's first low-cost oral cholera vaccine. We transferred this technology to EuBiologics in 2010, and as of last year, over 240 million doses have been supplied to 52 countries. This collaboration between domestic manufacturing capabilities and IVI's international clinical and development expertise has positioned South Korea as a central supplier of oral cholera vaccines.The typhoid conjugate vaccine is another significant achievement. IVI spearheaded its development, with SK Bioscience participating in its commercialization, resulting in a vaccine suitable for infants and young children. Last year, we also conducted evaluations of the real-world effectiveness of the mpox vaccine, initiated Phase II clinical trials for a new cholera conjugate vaccine, and began early clinical research for a vaccine against Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (SFTS), among other projects."- What vaccine developments are currently underway?"We are collaborating with domestic companies in the next-generation vaccine field. We are developing an SFTS mRNA vaccine with the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, Seoul National University, and ST Pharm. We are also working with Quad Medicine on microneedle patch technology for measles, rubella, and COVID-19 vaccines. A hepatitis B microneedle vaccine, co-developed with Quad Medicine, LG Chem, and Hallym University Gangnam Sacred Heart Hospital, is currently in Phase I clinical trials. Additionally, we are conducting research with CreoSG and POSTECH to optimize synthetic antigens for rotavirus and dengue virus using AI-based protein design. Our goal is to secure candidate substances and manufacturing technologies while conducting some preclinical trials."- How is IVI preparing for the changing landscape of infectious diseases due to climate change and demographic shifts?"Infectious diseases typically emerge in tropical regions, and climate change alters the habitats of vectors like mosquitoes and ticks. New infectious diseases may arise in areas where they previously did not exist, and it is challenging to predict when and where diseases will emerge. The population is also changing, with an increase in the elderly, chronic disease patients, and immunocompromised individuals, raising the risk of severe illness from the same infections. Urbanization and increased international travel heighten the likelihood of local outbreaks spreading rapidly worldwide.IVI's core mission remains unchanged: to protect impoverished children in developing countries from infectious diseases. However, our research scope has expanded to include preparedness for emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases and pandemics. We are currently focusing on diseases such as Ebola, dengue fever, Rift Valley fever, mpox, and SFTS. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, we are conducting studies on the real-world effectiveness of the mpox vaccine in collaboration with local research institutions. We are also developing mRNA vaccine candidates for Rift Valley fever with Afrigen Biologics in South Africa. Additionally, we are researching vaccines for diseases with insufficient development, such as pneumonia, Group A Streptococcus, and schistosomiasis, to address antimicrobial resistance. Our aim is to establish a system that allows for immediate production and clinical response whenever viral issues arise globally."- Finally, what is the value of vaccines, and why is global collaboration important?"Diseases like cholera, typhoid fever, and schistosomiasis cause significant harm in low- and middle-income countries, but their low commercial viability makes it difficult for private companies to continue vaccine development and distribution. Therefore, governments, international organizations, research institutions, companies, and foundations must share responsibilities and collaborate in the long term. IVI supports the entire cycle of vaccine discovery and development, including preclinical and clinical trials, technology transfer, regulatory compliance, and evaluation of vaccine utility and distribution. We also strengthen local research and manufacturing capabilities and health systems to ensure that production and supply lead to actual vaccinations in the necessary countries.Infectious diseases do not recognize borders. The threat of an outbreak in one region ultimately connects to global health security, meaning vaccines cannot be considered the asset of any single nation. Every person worldwide should be equally protected from preventable diseases. Saving a child in one country ultimately contributes to the safety of the entire world. The international community must work together in vaccine development and distribution."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-10 18:04:10
  • Automakers Expand Hybrid Market with Ethanol in Brazil
    Automakers Expand Hybrid Market with Ethanol in Brazil Ethanol is emerging as a new option in the electrification market, following gasoline and diesel. Major automakers from South Korea, China, and Japan are increasingly focusing on developing hybrids that combine ethanol with electrification technology. If the related market expands, it is expected to benefit domestic parts manufacturers that produce electrification and fuel system components.According to the automotive industry on August 10, Hyundai Motor Company has begun developing ethanol hybrid vehicles aimed at the Brazilian market. This initiative gained momentum after Euisun Chung, chairman of Hyundai Motor Group, visited Brazil last month and instructed local executives to develop hybrid vehicles utilizing local eco-friendly fuels, including ethanol.The ethanol hybrid being developed by Hyundai is expected to combine hybrid technology with a flex-fuel (FFV) engine that can run on both gasoline and ethanol. It is seen as a strategic model to follow the popular HB20 in Brazil.The HB20, a hatchback, is Hyundai's best-selling model in Brazil, equipped with a 1.0-liter flex engine that can use both gasoline and ethanol. Last year, 85,029 units of the HB20 were sold, along with 36,947 units of the sedan version, the HB20S. Hyundai plans to enhance its competitiveness in the local market by addressing the fuel efficiency drawbacks of ethanol compared to gasoline through hybrid technology. The urban fuel efficiency for the HB20 1.0-liter turbo model is 13.4 km per liter for gasoline and 9.4 km per liter for ethanol.Toyota also commercialized the world's first flex-fuel hybrid in Brazil in 2019, applying the technology to its Corolla compact sedan and other models. Chinese automaker BYD introduced the 'Song Pro Super Hybrid Flex Fuel' in the Brazilian market last year, integrating flex-fuel technology into its plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs).The interest of South Korean, Chinese, and Japanese automakers in ethanol hybrids is driven by the market potential in Brazil and India. Brazil is a leading producer of sugarcane, with a well-developed infrastructure for bioethanol production and related fueling stations. India, the world's third-largest automotive market, is promoting policies to increase the ethanol blending ratio in gasoline to reduce its dependence on crude oil imports and foster its domestic biofuel industry. Recently, vehicles with an ethanol content of up to 85%, known as E85, have emerged.According to the Brazilian Electric Vehicle Association (ABVE), sales of electrified vehicles in Brazil reached 223,912 units last year, a 26% increase from the previous year. Among these, 101,364 were PHEVs, and 21,323 were flex-fuel hybrids (HEV Flex) capable of using ethanol.This trend could present new opportunities for domestic automotive parts manufacturers. Hyundai Kefico is developing coating technology to enhance the durability of high-pressure injectors in bioethanol fuel environments. Hyundai Mobis, which produces electrification components such as hybrid battery systems, is also expected to benefit from this shift.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-10 18:04:10
  • Consumers Embrace Bulk Pharmacies for Health Supplements
    Consumers Embrace Bulk Pharmacies for Health Supplements On August 9, at a bulk pharmacy in Yongsan, Seoul, shopping carts were being emptied like those in a large supermarket. Customers entering the store headed straight for the health supplement section. A woman in her 50s spent about 30 minutes comparing products, initially looking for probiotics for her family but ending up with omega-3 and artificial tears in her cart. "Thirty minutes isn't enough," she remarked as she returned to the supplement aisle. Bulk pharmacies, which resemble large supermarkets, display over-the-counter medications, health supplements, and other products, allowing consumers to browse and compare items before purchasing. Since the first bulk pharmacy opened in Seongnam in June 2022, the number of locations has expanded. It was rare to see a customer heading to the checkout with just one item. Carts were filled with supplements, over-the-counter medications, and household goods. A woman in her 30s, who came to buy ointment, ended up adding gift items to her cart after comparing ingredients. Her total exceeded 100,000 won (about $75). One consumer, who drove 40 minutes to the pharmacy, said, "I come about once a month to buy supplements, getting everything I need in one trip." While the store offers a variety of products, including dermatological cosmetics and pet supplies, the focus remains on health supplements. A couple selecting children's vitamins noted, "It's good for comparing options, but there seem to be fewer choices for children's products compared to adult supplements. We hope for more variety." In Dongdaemun, near Cheongnyangni Station, another bulk pharmacy primarily serves local residents. Many customers here also start their visits in the health supplement section, but some regulars only come for medication consultations. A woman in her 60s, who takes blood pressure medication, returned to consult the pharmacist about her prescription before leaving the store. A representative from the pharmacy stated, "Regulars come for consultations, while first-time visitors often just browse." The average spending per visit varies but is around 50,000 won (about $38). Although bulk pharmacies are becoming more familiar, actual visitation remains limited. A survey by Embrain Trend Monitor found that while 87.6% of respondents were aware of bulk pharmacies, only 26.4% had visited one. The most common reason for not visiting was the lack of nearby locations, cited by 66% of respondents. However, 79.1% of those who had visited rated their experiences positively. During the vacation season, many consumers intentionally traveled from outside Seoul to visit these pharmacies. They cited competitive pricing, a wide range of products, and the ability to purchase everything they need in one trip as key advantages. One shopper said, "I can't come often because it's far, but if it were closer, I'd visit more frequently." Despite the competitive pricing and increased selection, there remains a recognition that medications differ from regular consumer goods. Among those who rated bulk pharmacies negatively, concerns about medication misuse were the primary issue. One shopper with a full cart commented, "It's great that I can compare products while receiving medication guidance. Even when I choose items myself, I always double-check with the pharmacist before finalizing my purchase." As the number of consumers visiting bulk pharmacies increases, ensuring accurate medication guidance and safe management of pharmaceuticals remains a challenge. While competitive pricing and convenience attract customers, there is a strong call for a safe environment for medication use. The government is also closely monitoring the market changes and potential impacts on public health due to the rise of bulk pharmacies. 2026-08-10 18:04:10
  • Park Sang-cheol, Chair of IVI Korea Support Committee, Advocates for Ongoing Research and Collaboration
    Park Sang-cheol, Chair of IVI Korea Support Committee, Advocates for Ongoing Research and Collaboration The global outbreaks of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and COVID-19 marked a turning point for the International Vaccine Institute (IVI). Drawing on its experiences from the MERS crisis, IVI has expanded its role following the COVID-19 pandemic, increasing government support and international foundation sponsorship to enhance not only vaccine research but also workforce training, standardization of analytical methods, and international collaboration capabilities.In an interview with Aju Economy, Park Sang-cheol, Chair of the IVI Korea Support Committee, stated, "To prepare for the next pandemic, we need to establish an international cooperation system for research, production, workforce, and data sharing in advance."IVI is broadening its role beyond vaccine development to establish a global vaccine ecosystem. Notable initiatives include the International Vaccine Training Program and the Global Bio Workforce Hub (GTH-B). The International Vaccine Training Program was conducted last year in Seoul, Stockholm, and Kigali, while GTH-B focused on training in vaccine and biopharmaceutical production processes, quality control, and upstream manufacturing. To date, IVI has trained over 8,000 personnel related to vaccines.Park explained, "Countries need personnel capable of developing and producing vaccines to ensure rapid supply during crises."Research capabilities have also been strengthened. IVI has participated in efforts with the WHO and international partners to establish standard materials and analytical systems necessary for vaccine evaluation. The institute has developed immunogenicity analysis methods for emerging infectious diseases, including COVID-19 variants and Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (SFTS), and is working on transferring related technologies to partner organizations.Park emphasized the need to prepare candidate substances, production platforms, and clinical trial networks based on the WHO's list of potential risk infectious diseases. He stated, "If we wait until a pandemic occurs to establish research and production bases, rapid response will be difficult. We must always be prepared for the next infectious disease."Additionally, IVI held a Nordic Vaccine Conference last year with international partners to discuss collaboration strategies for vaccine research, manufacturing, and pandemic preparedness. The aim was to connect the research, industry, and public health capabilities of Nordic countries to enhance crisis response speed.To sustain such international cooperation, stable funding is essential. Park noted, "Significant resources are required to operate the institute," stressing that support from international organizations, foreign foundations, and corporations must be combined.Particularly for vaccines that are crucial for public health but have low profitability, like cholera vaccines, development cannot rely solely on market logic. The oral cholera vaccine, for which IVI transferred technology to Ubiologics, has supplied over 240 million doses to 52 countries. Park explained that long-term support from governments and international organizations is necessary to continue such achievements.He added, "To continue playing a vital role in discovering candidate substances, conducting clinical trials, and supplying them to the international community, we must establish a system of ongoing collaboration among governments, businesses, universities, hospitals, and international organizations."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-10 18:04:00
  • President Lee: Honam Semiconductor Cluster to Rival Japans Kumamoto, Gwangju Military Airport to Relocate Within Two Years
    President Lee: Honam Semiconductor Cluster to Rival Japan's Kumamoto, Gwangju Military Airport to Relocate Within Two Years President Lee Jae-myung directed on August 10 that the Gwangju military airport's functions be temporarily relocated to another military base by mid-2028, allowing the existing air force base to be utilized early for the Honam semiconductor cluster. He emphasized the need for swift execution of the Honam semiconductor cluster's development, comparing its pace to that of Japan's Kumamoto semiconductor complex. Before the military airport's functions are moved, construction of an industrial complex in the vicinity should commence to ensure that land issues do not delay semiconductor investments. During the second joint review meeting on mega projects held at the Blue House, President Lee stated, "In the last meeting, we decided to designate the Gwangju air force base site for the semiconductor cluster." He instructed the Ministry of National Defense to take measures to temporarily relocate the functions by mid-2028 so that the Gwangju air force base can be utilized early for the semiconductor industrial complex. This plan aims to expedite the establishment of the semiconductor cluster without waiting for the permanent relocation of the military airport. However, President Lee did not specify which airport would receive the temporary functions or the details of the permanent relocation. He also called for simultaneous efforts to prepare for the temporary relocation of the military airport and the construction of the industrial complex. President Lee urged, "Even before the temporary relocation, I hope that the industrial complex can begin construction as soon as possible on the land near the military airport." This approach is interpreted as a strategy to advance the timeline for the semiconductor factory's construction by pursuing both the relocation of military functions and the establishment of the industrial complex concurrently. President Lee also ordered that plans for power and water supply to the semiconductor cluster be prepared without delay. He particularly noted, "At this stage, land and infrastructure are of utmost importance," and expressed a desire for the Honam semiconductor cluster to be executed as swiftly as Japan's Kumamoto. He emphasized the need to simultaneously advance related procedures to significantly reduce the time required and to continuously improve regulations, stating, "We must go beyond speed and engage in an urgent battle." President Lee also called for measures to prevent the investment outcomes of mega projects from concentrating on specific companies or regions, a phenomenon referred to as 'K-shaped growth.' He stated, "The ultimate goal of the mega project is to expand the axis of growth across the entire nation and to reshape the map of ultra-gap industries with a focus on local areas." He urged Samsung and SK to actively engage in business activities that would allow investment outcomes to spread to partner companies and the local economy. President Lee remarked, "Once investments are made and factories are built, it will already be too late," and stressed the need to consider ways to foster growth for all from the early stages of the project. He also requested that the next year be viewed as a golden time and urged for increased speed.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-10 18:00:00