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  • Juyun Tech Shares Drop 4% Amid Delisting Concerns, Halving Value This Month
    Juyun Tech Shares Drop 4% Amid Delisting Concerns, Halving Value This Month Juyun Tech is facing a decline as concerns grow over its potential delisting due to failing to meet market capitalization requirements. As of 9:26 a.m. on September 17, Juyun Tech's shares were trading at 495 won, down 4.26% (22 won) from the previous trading day, according to the Korea Exchange. The stock has been on a steep decline this month, falling from 1,084 won on September 1 to 495 won today, a drop of 54.3%. Compared to the closing price of 1,115 won on August 31, the decline amounts to 55.6%. Investor sentiment is reportedly being weighed down by fears of delisting. The Korea Exchange announced the day before that it had issued a warning regarding Juyun Tech's potential delisting due to insufficient market capitalization. Juyun Tech was designated as a management issue on July 21 after failing to meet the market capitalization threshold for 30 consecutive trading days. If the company does not maintain a market capitalization above the threshold for at least 45 days within a 90-day period following this designation, it will face delisting. The market capitalization threshold, effective from July this year, is set at 30 billion won. As of the close of regular trading on September 16, Juyun Tech had been under management issue designation for 40 trading days, but it has not met the 30 billion won market capitalization requirement for even a single day. The exchange stated that if the number of days below the market capitalization threshold reaches 46, the company will not meet the requirement for 45 consecutive days, triggering delisting procedures. Founded in 1988, Juyun Tech is a first-generation PC manufacturer in South Korea and was listed on the stock market in 2006. Its main business includes the manufacturing, distribution, and sale of PCs and peripherals such as desktops, laptops, and monitors.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-17 09:32:00
  • Im Eun-jung Questions Kim Ji-yong on Stance During Kim Hak-eui Investigation
    Im Eun-jung Questions Kim Ji-yong on Stance During Kim Hak-eui Investigation Im Eun-jung, the head of the Seoul Eastern District Prosecutors' Office and a prominent advocate for prosecutorial reform, publicly questioned Kim Ji-yong, the nominee for the inaugural head of the Serious Crime Investigation Agency, about his stance during the investigation into the travel ban of former Justice Ministry official Kim Hak-eui.On September 17, Im posted on Facebook a public inquiry directed at Kim Ji-yong, stating, "I have consistently communicated my concerns to the Minister of Justice and others via text and email during troubling times. However, considering the gravity of this matter, I must, as a citizen and complainant, make this public inquiry."Previously, Kim faced pressure to resign due to allegations of favoritism towards pro-Yoon (supporters of President Yoon Suk-yeol) prosecutors and his opposition to the complete abolition of prosecutorial investigative powers. In a statement on September 14, he reflected on the circumstances that led to the abolition of the prosecution, asserting, "My opposition to the reduction of investigative powers was based on a belief in protecting victims, and despite my consistent stance during controversial investigations, it was not upheld."Im challenged Kim's statement, asking, "What consistent positions did you express during the Channel A case and the investigation into Kim Hak-eui's travel ban, and what efforts did you make to uphold them? Did you exercise your right to object?"She further questioned, "When concerns about protecting crime victims arose, why was there no action taken when superiors made incorrect decisions during the 'protecting one's own' era in 2018? Were you protecting the victims or the prosecution?"Im also criticized Kim's accountability, stating, "What responsibility does Kim Ji-yong bear for the loss of public trust that led to the prosecution's abolition? If he could not handle the responsibilities from his past roles as head of the inspection division at the Supreme Prosecutors' Office, deputy chief of the Seoul High Prosecutors' Office, and head of the criminal division at the Supreme Prosecutors' Office, how can he manage the significant responsibilities of the Serious Crime Investigation Agency?"She added, "During his tenure as head of the inspection division and other prosecutorial roles, he prioritized organizational logic over legal obligations, failing to fulfill his duties of inspection and investigation. If he becomes the head of the Serious Crime Investigation Agency, can he comply with the law? This is a question many concerned citizens would like to ask in this public inquiry."With the launch of the Serious Crime Investigation Agency set for next month, President Yoon Suk-yeol nominated Kim Ji-yong, a former prosecutor, as its first head on September 7. However, following the nomination, controversies surrounding Kim's past actions during his time in the prosecution emerged, leading to increased opposition from within the ruling party. Recently, former Justice Minister Choo Mi-ae compared Kim to a 'Nazi' and a 'collaborator,' urging President Yoon to withdraw his nomination.As the controversy continues, President Yoon has reportedly instructed his staff to conduct further vetting. However, Minister of the Interior and Safety Yoon Ho-jung stated on September 15 during a National Assembly meeting that Kim's nomination has not been put on hold.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-17 09:32:00
  • Samsung, Apple, Google face US patent probe
    Samsung, Apple, Google face US patent probe SEOUL, September 17 (AJP) -Samsung Electronics has joined U.S. tech giants Apple and Google as targets of a U.S. patent investigation over allegations that certain electronic devices infringe audio technology patents held by a California company. The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) said Wednesday it had opened a Section 337 investigation into certain electronic devices with audio technologies following a complaint by California-based BoomCloud 360 Inc. BoomCloud alleges that products imported and sold by Samsung Electronics, Apple and Google infringe certain claims in its audio technology patents. Samsung Electronics America was also named as a respondent. The company has asked the commission to issue a limited exclusion order, which could block affected products from entering the United States, as well as cease-and-desist orders restricting their sale in the country if infringement is ultimately found. The USITC stressed that its decision to open the investigation does not constitute a finding of patent infringement. An administrative law judge will hold an evidentiary hearing and make an initial determination, which will be subject to commission review. The commission will set a target date for completing the investigation within 45 days. Samsung and the other respondents must file responses to the investigation notice within the next 20 days. Samsung has yet to comment on the complaint. Section 337 investigations mainly deal with alleged intellectual property violations involving imported goods. If the commission ultimately finds a violation, it can order U.S. Customs and Border Protection to block affected imports and issue cease-and-desist orders against respondents. AJP Takeaways - The U.S. International Trade Commission has opened a Section 337 patent investigation into Samsung Electronics, Apple and Google over allegations involving BoomCloud 360’s audio technologies. - BoomCloud is seeking a limited exclusion order and cease-and-desist orders, potentially restricting imports and U.S. sales of affected devices if infringement is ultimately found. - The probe is at an early stage: the USITC has made no determination on infringement, and a final ruling will follow an administrative law judge’s initial decision and commission review. 2026-09-17 09:31:40
  • South Korea and U.S. Strengthen Energy Security Cooperation
    South Korea and U.S. Strengthen Energy Security Cooperation South Korea and the United States are enhancing their energy security cooperation, focusing on power grids and small modular reactors (SMRs). The two countries have agreed to hold the 'Korea-U.S. Energy Cooperation Dialogue' promptly and to formalize it through a memorandum of understanding (MOU). The South Korean government also proposed a 'Resilient Power Grid Partnership' at the G20 to establish a stable supply chain for key power equipment. The Ministry of Climate Energy and Environment announced that Deputy Minister Lee Ho-hyun attended the G20 Energy Ministers' Meeting in Houston, Texas, from September 14 to 16, where he discussed energy cooperation with major countries, including the U.S. During the meeting, Deputy Minister Lee proposed expanding cooperation in areas such as power and SMRs with U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum and Deputy Secretary of Energy Kyle Housebait. He emphasized that South Korean companies in the power equipment and energy storage system (ESS) sectors are increasing investments in the U.S., positioning South Korea as a key partner in the modernization of the U.S. power grid. The two nations agreed to quickly hold and regularize the 'Korea-U.S. Energy Cooperation Dialogue' between the U.S. Department of Energy and the Ministry of Climate Energy and Environment, and to pursue an energy cooperation MOU to support this initiative. Beyond bilateral cooperation, the South Korean government proposed a G20-level collaboration on power grid and equipment supply chains. During the 'Energy Security' session on September 15, Deputy Minister Lee presented the challenges posed by the increasing global demand for electricity, focusing on capacity, connection, and supply chain—referred to as the '3Cs.' He noted that even with the expansion of renewable energy and nuclear power facilities, delays in connecting power grids and issues with the supply of key power equipment hinder the construction of power networks. He stressed the need for a joint response among countries to establish a stable supply chain for materials and equipment required for transformers, batteries, and wires. Deputy Minister Lee proposed sharing investment plans for power grids among G20 member countries and establishing a 'Resilient Power Grid Partnership' involving governments, power companies, grid operators, and equipment manufacturers. The government plans to detail related cooperation measures with the U.S., U.K., and others as it prepares to assume the G20 presidency in 2028. The G20 meeting also addressed issues related to the supply chain of critical minerals and industrial water. Member countries acknowledged the need for a stable and diversified supply chain for critical minerals and discussed cooperation measures such as information sharing, technological innovation, promoting a circular economy, and increasing mineral investments. Deputy Minister Lee introduced domestic policy examples of reusing treated wastewater from sewage treatment plants or factories as industrial water to address the rising demand for industrial water due to the growth of advanced industries like AI data centers and semiconductors. During his visit to the U.S., he also sought collaboration with American energy companies and research institutions. He visited ExxonMobil to discuss cooperation on low-carbon lithium development, carbon capture and storage (CCS), and low-carbon projects involving hydrogen and ammonia. At Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy, he discussed the situation in the Middle East and the outlook for the global energy market, proposing to expand exchanges with the Korea Energy Engineering University. At AMOGY, an energy startup, he reviewed the commercialization status of ammonia cracking technology, which converts ammonia into hydrogen for fuel cells. AMOGY is participating in a specialized area for distributed energy in Pohang and is establishing production facilities in Busan, with plans to export its initial production to Singapore by the end of this year. On September 14, Deputy Minister Lee held a meeting with South Korean energy companies operating in Houston to listen to their insights on trends in the U.S. energy market and the challenges they face. He stated, "The government will play an active role in building a system to collaborate with various stakeholders, including the U.S. government and power companies, to reduce uncertainties in the U.S. market and minimize risks for our companies." * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-17 09:28:20
  • Busan International Film Festival Reveals Competition Jury Members, Led by Zhang Yimou
    Busan International Film Festival Reveals Competition Jury Members, Led by Zhang Yimou The 31st Busan International Film Festival has announced the seven members of its competition jury. On September 17, the festival appointed director Zhang Yimou as the jury chair for the competition section. Joining him are directors Bikan and Jeong Joo-ri, actress Samal Yeslyamova, director Ishikawa Kei, producer Tran Thi Bich Ngoc, and actress Choi Hee-seo. Zhang Yimou is a prominent Chinese director known for winning the Golden Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival, the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival, and the Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival. He will lead the jury in evaluating 13 films selected for the competition. Director Bikan gained attention with his feature debut 'Kylie Blues' and 'The Last Night on Earth.' Last year, he was invited to the Busan International Film Festival's competition section with 'The Era of Wilderness,' where he received the Artistic Contribution Award.Kazakh actress Samal Yeslyamova won the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival for her role in 'Ayka.' Director Ishikawa Kei made waves at the Venice Film Festival with 'The Record of a Fool' and won eight awards, including Best Picture at the Japan Academy Awards for 'A Man.' Director Jeong Joo-ri has had all three of her films, 'Dohuiya,' 'Next Sohee,' and 'Dora,' invited to the Cannes Film Festival. Vietnamese producer Tran Thi Bich Ngoc has showcased her works at international film festivals in Berlin, Toronto, and Tokyo, and oversees the project market and talent project at the Da Nang Asian Film Festival. Choi Hee-seo has worked not only as an actress but also in directing and producing. She directed the short film 'Bandi' in the anthology 'Unframed' and starred in and produced 'Bedford Park,' which will be screened at this year's Busan International Film Festival.The competition section of the Busan International Film Festival was introduced last year. This year, the jury is composed of individuals active in the Asian film industry, including directors, actors, and producers. The winners of the competition section will receive the 'Busan Award.' There are five award categories: Grand Prize, Best Director, Jury Special Award, Best Actor, and Artistic Contribution Award, with a total prize money of 110 million won. The 31st Busan International Film Festival will take place from October 6 to 15 at the Busan Cinema Center.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-17 09:28:10
  • KOSPI Opens 0.9% Higher Amid Feds Hawkish Stance, Foreign Investors Sell
    KOSPI Opens 0.9% Higher Amid Fed's Hawkish Stance, Foreign Investors Sell The KOSPI opened 0.9% higher as the U.S. Federal Reserve raised interest rates for the first time in over three years and hinted at the possibility of further increases this year. Despite a broad decline in U.S. stocks overnight, the domestic market showed gains, driven by semiconductor stocks such as Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix.As of 9:08 a.m. on September 17, the KOSPI was up 38.86 points (0.58%) at 6756.83. The index started at 6779.02, up 61.05 points (0.91%) from the previous close, before giving back some of its gains.In the securities market, individual and institutional investors bought a net 90.1 billion won and 52.2 billion won, respectively. In contrast, foreign investors sold a net 200.4 billion won.Among the top market capitalization stocks, Samsung Electronics rose 0.99%, SK Hynix increased by 0.91%, and Hyundai Motor gained 0.55%. However, LG Energy Solution fell by 0.27% and KB Financial dropped by 0.28%.The KOSDAQ index also showed an upward trend. At the same time, the KOSDAQ was trading at 822.53, up 6.55 points (0.80%) from the previous day. It opened at 820.16, up 4.18 points (0.51%), and then increased further.In the KOSDAQ market, individual and institutional investors bought a net 27.5 billion won and 2.3 billion won, respectively, while foreign investors sold a net 28.9 billion won.Among the top KOSDAQ stocks, Alteogen rose 0.39%, EcoPro increased by 0.49%, and JUSUNG Engineering gained 0.99%. Conversely, EcoPro BM fell by 0.19%, Rainbow Robotics dropped by 0.24%, and Wonik IPS decreased by 1.42%.Overnight, U.S. stocks fell sharply following the Fed's interest rate hike and the potential for further tightening. On September 16, the Dow Jones Industrial Average closed down 631.21 points (1.21%) at 51,461.90. The S&P 500 index fell by 33.92 points (0.45%) to 7551.81, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite dropped 3.15 points (0.01%) to 25,978.43.U.S. stocks initially rose but reversed course after the Fed's interest rate decision. The Fed raised the benchmark interest rate by 0.25 percentage points to a range of 3.75% to 4.00%, marking the first increase in about three years and two months.All 12 members of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) unanimously supported the rate hike. With the Fed leaving the door open for additional rate increases this year, market concerns about the intensity of future tightening have grown.U.S. Treasury yields also rose, with the benchmark 10-year Treasury yield surpassing 5% during the session. The dollar strengthened, with the dollar index (DXY) rising 0.6% to 100.21 against a basket of six major currencies.International oil prices fell. After a sharp rise in previous days, oil prices retreated as news emerged of Saudi Arabia's diversion of oil supplies. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) for October delivery settled at $102.43 per barrel, down 3.21% from the previous day.Han Ji-young, a researcher at Kiwoom Securities, stated, "We should prepare for the possibility of one more rate hike this year," adding that the domestic market is likely to experience increased volatility as it digests the hawkish signals from the September FOMC.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-17 09:28:00
  • Korean Authors Gather for Literature Week 2026 Opening
    Korean Authors Gather for Literature Week 2026 Opening The works of prominent Korean authors will be showcased through readings, performances, and discussions over five days.The largest literary festival in South Korea, 'Literature Week 2026: Glance,' officially opened on September 16 at the ARKO Arts Theater with a ceremony hosted by the Arts Council Korea (ARKO) and supported by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism.The opening ceremony honored the late poet Heo Su-gyeong, a beloved figure in Korean lyric poetry. The program, titled 'Heo Su-gyeong is a Wonderful Name,' featured a talk with six planning committee members, including poet Kim Hyun, and was moderated by actress Go Ah-sung, who serves as the festival's ambassador.During the opening performance, poet Lee Min-ha read a letter and poem dedicated to Heo Su-gyeong, while poets Hong Ji-ho and Kim Ji-sun presented a duet. Singer-songwriter Kwak Joo-na performed an original song inspired by Heo Su-gyeong.Chairman Lee Beom-hun welcomed attendees, stating, "This year's Literature Week 2026: Glance has become a vibrant program connecting readers and literature through collaborations with various organizations and local bookstores. I hope everyone enjoys this five-day literary experience."From September 16 to 20, a total of 38 diverse programs will take place in Daehakro, including Marronnier Park and ARKO spaces.Highlights include 'Ventriloquism in the Air,' featuring the poetic works of world-renowned poet Kim Hye-soon, and a tribute reading where fellow poets will read selections from the debut poetry collection 'Thus, One Day, Love' by Choi Seung-ja, who debuted in 1979. Programs such as 'Kim Ae-ran's Glance' will provide deeper insights into the authors' works. There will also be discussion programs categorized by themes like youth, queer, and Antarctica, as well as workshops for readers to engage with literature.At the ARKO Museum, a picture book exhibition titled 'L’œil du monde' will be held in collaboration with the Modern Children's Book Museum, while Marronnier Park will feature interactive outdoor booths and a book lounge.On the weekend of September 19-20, family-friendly programs will include an educational art program related to the picture book exhibition and a musical gala show by the Blue Lion and Nini, catering to children and youth.The festival will conclude on September 20 with a closing ceremony titled 'In the Case of Novels,' featuring novelist Choi Jin-young, who is celebrating her 20th anniversary since debut, alongside the band 9 and Numbers. This special performance is inspired by Choi's fondness for the band's music while writing her novel 'The Proof of the Sphere.'All major programs during 'Literature Week 2026: Glance' in the Daehakro area are free of charge. Attendees can also participate in programs with remaining seats on-site. Detailed schedules and participation methods can be found on the Literature Week website and official social media.Literature Week is an annual nationwide literary festival organized by ARKO, allowing authors and readers to enjoy literature through readings, discussions, performances, and exhibitions.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-17 09:28:00
  • President Lee Meets IEA Chief to Discuss Energy Supply Chain Cooperation in Asia-Pacific
    President Lee Meets IEA Chief to Discuss Energy Supply Chain Cooperation in Asia-Pacific President Lee Jae-myung will meet with Fatih Birol, the Executive Director of the International Energy Agency (IEA), on September 17 to discuss strengthening the resilience of energy supply chains in the Asia-Pacific region. The meeting is scheduled for 2 p.m. at the Blue House and aims to elaborate on the energy supply chain cooperation proposal that President Lee suggested during the G7 summit in June. This encounter is seen as a step to bolster energy security in the Asia-Pacific region while preparing for supply uncertainties stemming from the Middle East. During their discussions, President Lee and Birol will review the current international energy market and industry trends amid escalating energy and climate crises, including the recent situation in the Middle East and the severe flooding in Nepal. They will also exchange views on enhancing global energy security in the electrification era and explore new directions for energy cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region. Birol has led a coordinated release of 400 million barrels of emergency oil reserves among IEA member countries in response to the energy crisis caused by the conflict in the Middle East. The IEA is also collaborating with South Korea in the areas of energy security and climate change, and they plan to co-host the International Climate Industry Expo starting in 2024. The IEA, established in 1974 in response to the oil crisis of 1973-1974, is an autonomous agency under the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) that coordinates collective responses to energy supply crises. Its scope has expanded beyond oil to include electricity, natural gas, renewable energy, critical minerals, and climate change. South Korea became a member in 2002.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-17 09:24:20
  • SK Telecom Expands Chat+ PC Version for Text Messaging
    SK Telecom Expands Chat+ PC Version for Text Messaging SK Telecom (SKT) is launching a recommendation and installation event for its 'Chat+ PC version' from September 17 to October 16. The Chat+ PC version is a text messaging service developed jointly by SKT and Samsung Electronics. SKT customers using Samsung Galaxy smartphones (models supporting One UI 6.0 and above) can send and receive text messages on their PCs using their existing phone numbers, regardless of whether the recipient is subscribed to the service. SKT is offering a total of 20 million won in prizes as part of the recommendation and installation event. Participants can join by sharing a personalized URL obtained from the event page with new customers. If the referred customer enters the installation event and completes the installation of the PC program and phone synchronization, it will count as a referral. Among customers who refer 15 or more people, prizes will be awarded based on referral performance: first place will receive a Galaxy Z Fold 8 (1 winner), second place will receive a Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 (2 winners), and third place will receive a 100,000 won Naver Pay point mobile coupon (10 winners). Additionally, through a lottery, those who refer 7 or more people will have a chance to win a 50,000 won Olive Young mobile gift certificate (50 winners), those who refer 3 or more will be eligible for a 10,000 won GS25 mobile gift certificate (100 winners), and those who refer at least 1 will have a chance to win a 2,000 won MegaMGC coffee mobile amount (1,000 winners). The installation event is open to new users of the Chat+ PC version. Participants who enter the event and complete the installation and phone synchronization will be eligible for a lottery. Prizes include a Galaxy Book 6 (16-inch) (1 winner), a 500,000 won Shinsegae Department Store gift certificate (2 winners), a 50,000 won Olive Young mobile gift certificate (30 winners), and a 5,000 won GS25 mobile gift certificate (200 winners). The functionality of the Chat+ PC version will also be enhanced. By the end of this month, a 'text style' feature will be added, allowing users to apply text formatting such as bold and italics, as well as schedule messages. Kim Ji-hyung, head of SKT's Digital Platform Business, stated, "The Chat+ PC version is a service that naturally extends the familiar text messaging experience to PCs for our customers. We will continue to enhance the convenience and value that customers can feel in their daily lives."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-17 09:24:00
  • U.S. Rate Hike Strengthens Dollar, Pushing Exchange Rate Above 1370 Won
    U.S. Rate Hike Strengthens Dollar, Pushing Exchange Rate Above 1370 Won The won-dollar exchange rate rose to the upper 1300s following the U.S. central bank's tightening measures.As of 9:05 a.m. on September 17, the exchange rate in the Seoul foreign exchange market was 1377.3 won per U.S. dollar. The rate was trading at 1377.0 won as of 6 a.m., an increase of 8.4 won from the previous day's closing rate of 3:30 p.m.The rise in the exchange rate is attributed to the strong dollar following the Federal Reserve's interest rate hike and hawkish comments from Fed Chair Kevin Warsh.On September 16, the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) raised the benchmark interest rate by 0.25 percentage points to a range of 3.75% to 4.00%. This marks the first tightening since July 2023, a span of two years and two months.In a press conference, Warsh emphasized the Fed's commitment to price stability, stating, "Inflation has been too high and persistent for too long."The New York stock market also experienced a decline. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed down 631.21 points (1.21%) at 51,461.90.The S&P 500 index fell by 33.92 points (0.45%) to close at 7,551.81, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite dropped 3.15 points (0.01%) to finish at 25,978.43.The value of the dollar increased, with the Dollar Index (DXY), which measures the dollar against six major currencies, rising by 0.619% to 100.255, the highest level since July 31.International oil prices fell following news of Saudi Arabia's diversion of oil supplies. November Brent crude futures dropped by 2.69% to $105.83 per barrel, while October West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude fell by 3.21% to $102.43 per barrel.At the same time, foreign investors were seen selling in the domestic stock market. Early in the trading session, foreign investors had a net sell of 271.7 billion won in the securities market.The exchange rate is expected to rise due to risk-averse sentiment. Min Kyung-won, an economist at Woori Bank, stated, "The strong dollar resulting from the Fed's rate hike and risk aversion will likely exert upward pressure on the exchange rate."He added, "As major currencies trend weaker, the risk-averse sentiment stemming from deteriorating investor confidence is likely to transfer to the won. The influx of offshore long positions following the strong dollar and continued foreign selling in the domestic market will be the main drivers of the exchange rate increase."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-17 09:20:00