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Korean Shipbuilding Industry to Implement AI Solutions Amid Labor Shortages South Korea's shipbuilding industry, despite a surge in orders, is grappling with chronic labor shortages. In response, the government plans to establish an artificial intelligence (AI)-based production innovation hub in the Daebul Industrial Complex in Yeongam, South Jeolla Province. This initiative aims to create a testing center where small and medium-sized shipbuilding equipment companies can experiment with AI and automation technologies to enhance productivity and improve working conditions.On June 9, the Daebul Free Trade Zone Management Office held a meeting with relevant agencies and a briefing for prospective tenants regarding the establishment of the 'Shipbuilding Industry AX Demonstration Center' at its office in Yeongam.The Shipbuilding Industry AX Demonstration Center is part of the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy's initiative to support the 'Innovation of Shipbuilding and Marine Production Processes (AX)'. Mokpo National University will serve as the lead organization, constructing demonstration and research facilities within the Daebul Free Trade Zone to establish a technology validation and corporate support system in production processes.The Daebul Industrial Complex is a prominent shipbuilding cluster in South Korea, centered around HD Hyundai Samho, with hundreds of shipbuilding equipment companies located there. Although production volumes have increased due to a recent boom in the shipbuilding sector, many companies are struggling to secure on-site labor. This situation has heightened the need for the adoption of AI and automation technologies to improve productivity and working conditions.During the meeting, representatives from HD Hyundai Samho, Mokpo National University, the Jeonnam Daebul Industry-Academic Cooperation Foundation, and Jeollanam-do shared updates on the project's progress and discussed future operational directions and collaboration strategies.Participants agreed to strengthen their cooperative framework to ensure the demonstration center becomes a key hub for the digital transformation of the local shipbuilding industry and to continuously develop support measures to enhance the utilization of local businesses.In a subsequent briefing for prospective tenants, the current status of the project, plans for the center's construction, and future support programs were introduced. Attending companies expressed optimism about the demonstration center's potential to address productivity challenges, labor shortages, and improve working conditions, requesting ongoing communication and information sharing to ensure their needs are adequately reflected in the operational process.An Chang-hyung, head of the Daebul Free Trade Zone Management Office, stated, "We will strengthen cooperation with relevant agencies to ensure that the Shipbuilding Industry AX Demonstration Center becomes a core hub for the digital transformation of the local shipbuilding industry, and we will actively support the project to ensure that tenant companies can experience tangible results." 2026-06-09 11:03:00 -
South Korea Discusses Key Mineral Cooperation with Uzbekistan Ahead of Summit 정부가 오는 9월 서울에서 개최될 예정인 '제1회 한-중앙아시아 정상회의'를 앞두고 우즈베키스탄과 핵심광물 등에 대한 논의에 나섰다. On June 9, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy announced that Bae Jun-hyung, Director of Trade Cooperation, is currently visiting Tashkent, Uzbekistan, where he met with government officials, including the Deputy Minister of Investment and Trade and the Chair of the Reconstruction and Development Fund (UFRD). This visit aims to review the economic cooperation achievements between the two countries ahead of the Korea-Central Asia Summit. During the meeting, Bae discussed ways to expand cooperation in key minerals, artificial intelligence (AI), digital manufacturing, and industrial complexes. He also requested support for projects related to supply chains and advanced industries between the two nations. Uzbekistan, the most populous country in Central Asia, is actively promoting the development of its manufacturing sector and diversifying its industries. With its abundant mineral resources and growth potential, the presence of South Korean companies in Uzbekistan has been steadily increasing. Particularly, Uzbekistan is rich in strategic minerals such as copper, molybdenum, tungsten, and uranium, making it an important partner for South Korea, which is seeking to diversify its supply chains. The strategic value of Central Asia has also risen amid recent export controls on rare earths by China and the acceleration of global supply chain restructuring. On the same day, Bae held a luncheon meeting with South Korean companies operating in Uzbekistan. The discussion focused on addressing challenges faced by these companies, including investment, permits, and infrastructure issues. They exchanged views on supporting stable business operations and improving the investment environment for South Korean enterprises.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-09 11:03:00 -
South Korea Invests 45 Billion Won to Create Livable Fishing Villages The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries is investing 45 billion won to improve living conditions in fishing villages and stimulate local economies, aiming to create more desirable coastal communities. On June 9, the ministry announced the selection of 16 new sites for the 2027 Rural Development Project in Fishing Areas, which includes 10 regional development hubs and six local government capacity-building initiatives. The selected projects will receive tailored funding over one to five years, depending on the type. The Rural Development Project in Fishing Areas is a community-driven initiative designed to enhance income and living standards in fishing villages, allowing residents to plan and operate essential facilities and income-generating projects. Last December, the ministry revised its guidelines to better align with the unique characteristics of each fishing community, enabling the development of necessary infrastructure and income-generating facilities. Proposed projects include multi-purpose centers, solar power installations, shared workspaces, local food sales outlets, and village beautification efforts. For the regional development hubs, 10 locations were selected, including Songhyeon 1-ri in Taean, South Chungcheong Province. These projects are expected to receive approximately 443 billion won in national funding over a five-year period, aimed at improving living conditions and revitalizing fishing communities. The selected local government capacity-building areas include Samcheok City in Gangwon Province, Taean County in South Chungcheong Province, Buan County in North Jeolla Province, Jangheung County in South Jeolla Province, Geoje City in South Gyeongsang Province, and Namhae County in South Gyeongsang Province. These projects will last one year, with each site receiving up to 140 million won in national funding, allowing local governments to implement consulting and training programs. Park Seung-jun, head of the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries' Fishing Village and Port Revitalization Planning Division, stated, "We will support the improvement of living conditions for fishing village residents through the Rural Development Project in Fishing Areas and will continue to promote tailored projects that reflect local characteristics and resident needs."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-09 11:03:00 -
Steel Industry Minister Emphasizes Future Competitiveness Through New Legislation Moon Shin-hak, the Vice Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy, stated on June 9 that "the challenges facing the steel industry are no longer variables but essential competitive conditions that must be met to survive in the market." He emphasized the government's commitment to developing measures to secure the future competitiveness of the steel sector based on the Steel Industry Act. Speaking at the 27th Iron Day ceremony held at the Lotte World Hotel in Seoul, Moon noted, "The steel industry has been a core sector that has supported our economy by supplying essential materials for the country's key industries over the past half-century. However, it now faces a triple challenge of export restrictions due to rising protectionism, increased imports of steel products, and domestic market stagnation, all of which demand innovation focused on low-carbon and high-value transitions." He remarked, "The steel industry has a remarkable history of starting from barren land to achieving world-class competitiveness. The government will spare no policy support to ensure that the industry's continuous challenges and innovations lead to tangible results." Specifically, he stated, "We will focus on research and development (R&D) and tax support for the low-carbon and high-value structural transition of the steel industry." He mentioned plans to invest 780 billion won in hydrogen-reduction steelmaking technology development and 200 billion won in special carbon steel technology development over the next five years, while designating new growth source technologies to support ongoing technological innovation. Additionally, he emphasized the introduction of a certification system tailored to domestic conditions for the low-carbon transition and the establishment of stable market creation measures to expand the related market. He also pledged to focus on improving the quality of scrap metal, a key raw material for carbon neutrality, and to designate and nurture companies specializing in recycling iron resources. Regarding trade policy, Moon stated that the government is actively negotiating to secure as much of the European Union's steel quota (TRQ) as possible, which is set to take effect next month. He added that in response to the spread of global trade barriers, the government will strategically activate various trade channels to ensure competitiveness and will take strict trade remedy measures against unfair imports. Moon also mentioned that to improve the steel industry's structure and competitiveness, the government will support voluntary business restructuring efforts by companies through special provisions in the Fair Trade Act related to joint actions and information exchange as reflected in the Steel Industry Act. He assured that the government would maintain constant communication and support with the industry. During the ceremony, government awards were presented to 31 individuals for their significant contributions to the development of the steel industry. Park Hoon, CEO of Husteel, received the Silver Tower Industrial Medal for his contributions to the advancement of technology in the steel pipe sector, overseas market development, and revitalization of the local economy. The Bronze Tower Industrial Medal was awarded to Kim Dong-hee, Vice President of POSCO, for leading improvements in labor competitiveness through maintaining a tradition of no disputes between labor and management and establishing a cooperative system through social contribution activities. Other awards included the Industrial Medal for Kim Dong-hoon, Vice President of Korea Steel, the Presidential Citation for Kim Yong-hee, Executive Director of Hyundai Steel, and the Prime Minister's Citation for Jo Jin-seok, General Manager of SeAH Changwon Special Steel, and Jeong Ji-in, Senior Researcher at the Korea Industrial Technology Planning and Evaluation Agency.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-09 11:03:00 -
Kindergarten Teacher Who Worked Despite High Fever Recognized for Job-Related Injury 조 A kindergarten teacher in her 20s, who continued to work while suffering from influenza and a high fever, has been recognized as having sustained a job-related injury. According to Yonhap News on June 8, the Private School Teachers Pension Management Corporation held a salary review meeting that day and approved the job-related survivor benefits requested by the family of the deceased teacher, identified as A. The pension corporation had previously postponed its decision during an initial review last month, citing the need for further examination. However, after a re-evaluation, it concluded that A's death was indeed a job-related injury. The family submitted evidence indicating that from October of last year to February of this year, 43 out of 120 students and two teachers at the kindergarten were infected with influenza, along with testimonies from colleagues stating that taking sick leave was virtually impossible. A was diagnosed with type B influenza on January 27 but continued to work for three more days. Her condition worsened, leading to treatment in the intensive care unit, and she passed away from septic shock on February 14. According to the Korean Federation of Teachers' Associations, A was overwhelmed with preparations for a kindergarten performance until shortly before her death. She was responsible for multiple programs, including dance, piano, and traditional drumming, as well as transporting instruments. Additionally, she handled weekly play meetings and various report writing tasks, reportedly continuing to work from home after hours. Even after showing symptoms of a high fever, A continued her duties. After her influenza diagnosis, she messaged the principal, saying, "I will come to work tomorrow wearing a mask," and informed her family, "I’m at work," "I can’t speak," and "I’m still in a meeting." Notably, on January 30, the day before her death, she went to work despite her temperature rising to 39.8 degrees Celsius. She communicated with her family, stating, "I feel really bad," "Today is the worst day at work," and "I have a temperature of 38.7 degrees." She only left work after completing her handover tasks to seek medical attention. A's condition rapidly deteriorated, and she was transported to the emergency room but did not regain consciousness, passing away about two weeks later. The family and the teachers' union have argued that the excessive workload and the difficulty of taking sick leave in private kindergartens contributed to this tragedy, demanding recognition of the job-related injury. The teachers' union issued a statement on the same day, calling the decision a "first step in restoring the deceased's honor" and urged the Ministry of Education to take immediate action to strengthen the public nature of private kindergartens and ensure the health rights of teachers.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-09 10:54:00 -
Pharmgen Science Expands into Regenerative Medicine and Biopharmaceuticals with TS Bio Partnership As the global regenerative medicine market continues to grow, Pharmgen Science is seeking to secure new growth drivers through this sector. On June 9, Pharmgen Science announced that it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with TS Bio to expand its business into regenerative medicine and biopharmaceuticals. This agreement is part of a strategic collaboration aimed at leveraging Pharmgen Science's capabilities in drug development, regulatory approval, and commercialization to broaden its business scope in regenerative medicine and biopharmaceuticals. Founded in 2017, TS Bio is a biotechnology company specializing in research and development of cell therapies and gene therapies based on immune cells and stem cell technologies. The company operates a cell storage business utilizing facilities that meet Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards and is actively engaged in regenerative medicine-related projects, enhancing its technical and business capabilities in the field. The two companies plan to collaborate in various areas, including sharing information on clinical pipelines in regenerative medicine and biopharmaceuticals, joint research efforts, evaluating the feasibility of new drug development and clinical applications, and establishing strategies for commercialization, manufacturing, and distribution. A representative from Pharmgen Science stated, "We will play a leading role in enhancing the practical commercialization potential of our development achievements based on our accumulated experience in regulatory approval and commercialization, thereby strengthening our competitiveness in the fields of regenerative medicine and biopharmaceuticals." The regenerative medicine industry is experiencing rapid growth, with cell therapies and gene therapies serving as key growth drivers. Development of immune cell-based therapies is also progressing vigorously, with thousands of clinical trials reportedly underway globally, and the domestic regenerative medicine market is expanding as well. A Pharmgen Science official remarked, "This agreement marks an important milestone in the company's mid-to-long-term growth strategy, and we aim to create new business opportunities through our expansion into regenerative medicine and biopharmaceuticals."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-09 10:51:00 -
SeeDevice to proceed with defamation case against Korea's public broadcaster SEOUL, June 09 (AJP) - SeeDevice Inc., a California-based developer of advanced image sensor technology, said Monday its defamation lawsuit against Korean public broadcaster KBS and KBS America will proceed to trial in a U.S. federal court. The case, pending before the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California, stems from reports aired and published by KBS and KBS America in August 2024 that SeeDevice alleges falsely portrayed its proprietary imaging technology as fraudulent and incorrectly claimed that government-funded research grants had been recovered. Founded in California in 2017, SeeDevice develops short-wave infrared image sensors based on its proprietary QMOS, or quantum-effect CMOS, technology. The company claims its sensors can capture information beyond the range of conventional image sensors and are designed for applications including artificial intelligence vision systems, medical diagnostics, industrial inspection, autonomous vehicles and semiconductor manufacturing. According to the company, Korean courts previously found no evidence supporting allegations of fraud involving its technology and rejected efforts to recover government research funding linked to the project. SeeDevice is seeking monetary damages and injunctive relief, arguing that the reports caused severe reputational harm and contributed to the collapse of business opportunities worth hundreds of millions of dollars. In a ruling issued in May, the federal court determined that SeeDevice's claims against KBS America would proceed to a jury trial, while claims against KBS would be heard by a judge, according to the company. "We are confident the proceedings will show that KBS and its U.S. affiliate misrepresented our technology and caused significant harm to our reputation and business interests," said Hoon Kim, founder and chief executive officer of SeeDevice. The company said it intends to pursue all available legal remedies and views the case as an important test of accountability for allegedly false reporting that it says damaged its commercial prospects in the United States and abroad. 2026-06-09 10:48:30 -
Jang Dong-hyuk Calls for Special Investigation into Ballot Shortage Jang Dong-hyuk, leader of the People Power Party, proposed on June 9 that he and Democratic Party leader Jeong Cheong-rae meet immediately to discuss advancing a special investigation into the ballot shortage that occurred during the June 3 local elections.At a press conference held at the National Assembly, Jang stated, "Yesterday, Jeong expressed his agreement to the special investigation, and I have heard there has been communication between the leadership of both parties."He criticized the Election Commission's response to the allegations, saying, "Dismissing reasonable and plausible concerns as mere conspiracy theories and accepting the Commission's explanation as coincidence does not help resolve the issue and continues to generate social conflict and costs. Ultimately, a special investigation is the only solution. We must expedite the special investigation law."Jang emphasized that the Democratic Party should not unilaterally push for a special investigator of their choosing, stating, "It should be entrusted to a special investigator recommended by the People Power Party to ensure public trust in the results."He advocated for a nationwide re-election to address the ballot shortage issue fundamentally. "The only way to fundamentally resolve this deprivation of voting rights is through a nationwide re-election," he said. "Every day, new allegations arise. The evidence already available is more than sufficient to warrant a re-election." He added that the Election Commission should acknowledge its mistakes and declare the election invalid before proceeding with a re-election.Jang also identified early voting as a contributing factor to the ballot shortage. He noted, "The various allegations raised clearly include issues related to early voting. If only the main voting had taken place, ballots would have been prepared nationwide in accordance with the turnout. The differing early voting rates and the adjustments made to account for early voters contributed to the ballot shortage."He pointed out that the identical vote counts and percentages for candidates are all due to early voting, asserting, "We must extend the main voting period and eliminate early voting entirely."Additionally, he urged for prompt amendments to election laws to allow for re-elections without early voting. "There should be no attempts to introduce or expand systems like electronic voting or electronic counting that the public finds hard to trust, especially in light of this situation. The People Power Party will not tolerate such actions," he concluded.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-09 10:48:00 -
Elementary Students Experience Universal Design Through Hands-On Learning "How can we make it comfortable for everyone?" Elementary students wear aging glasses while reading and attempt to hold pencils with finger splints. As they struggle with tasks that are usually easy, they begin to ponder, "How can we make this easier?" On June 9, the Seoul Design Foundation announced the expansion of its hands-on 'Universal Design (UD) Education Package' program nationwide. Since its launch in 2023, the UD Education Package has engaged approximately 29,100 students across 291 schools by this year. The education package includes tools such as aging glasses, finger splints, and weight bands. Students use these tools to directly experience the challenges faced by the elderly and people with disabilities, comparing products designed with universal design principles to standard products to explore solutions. Universal design refers to the concept of designing products, spaces, and services that are accessible and usable by everyone, regardless of age, ability, or physical condition. This program is notable not only for its experiential learning but also for its emphasis on design thinking. By comparing standard products with those designed for universal accessibility, students discuss the differences in design and which options are more convenient for a broader audience. They move beyond the idea of simply helping those in need to ask, "Can we create something that everyone can use from the start?" Feedback from educators has been overwhelmingly positive. As of 2025, teacher satisfaction ratings reached 95.9 out of 100. Teachers noted high student engagement and the ease of integrating the program into their lessons without additional preparation. The foundation has recently partnered with the Namwon Education Support Office in North Jeolla Province to further expand the program across the country. This initiative aims to extend the previously metropolitan-focused educational program into regional areas, promoting inclusive design education. The elementary school years are crucial for developing empathy and awareness of others' perspectives, making universal design education an excellent opportunity for future generations to learn and practice the value of inclusivity. Cha Kang-hee, CEO of the Seoul Design Foundation, stated, "Universal design education fosters civic sensitivity in designing cities and environments where everyone can coexist. We aim to spread this educational model, pioneered in Seoul, nationwide, so future generations can learn and practice the value of inclusivity in their daily lives."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-09 10:42:00 -
Shinsegae Shares Rise Over 8% Following Upgraded Price Targets Shinsegae is experiencing strong gains in early trading, driven by a series of upgraded price targets from analysts. As of 10:14 a.m. on June 9, Shinsegae shares were trading at 621,000 won, up 49,000 won (8.57%) from the previous session on the Korea Exchange. At one point, the stock price surged to 640,000 won. Analysts are raising their target prices for Shinsegae, reflecting the wealth effect from the recent bullish domestic stock market and expectations for improved department store performance. Korea Investment & Securities raised its target price for Shinsegae from 700,000 won to 900,000 won, an increase of 28.6%, citing anticipated growth in department store sales this year due to the wealth effect. The firm maintained its 'buy' rating. Kim Myung-joo, a researcher at Korea Investment & Securities, stated, "The factors driving domestic sales in the department store industry are the wealth effect and the fear of missing out (FOMO) phenomenon due to rising luxury jewelry prices. I believe Shinsegae will show the most pronounced sales trends among the three major department stores." Previously, IBK Investment & Securities also raised its target price for Shinsegae from 530,000 won to 780,000 won. Meritz Securities introduced a new target price of 770,000 won on the same day. Kim Jeong-wook, a researcher at Meritz Securities, noted, "The renewal effect of the flagship store and increased foreign sales are contributing to robust growth in the department store sector. Considering the improvement in profitability for the duty-free business and the easing of depreciation costs in the second half of the year, we expect the positive performance trend to continue. Shinsegae has the structure to directly absorb inbound demand most effectively."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-09 10:42:00