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  • Record Heat Wave Triggers Emergency Measures in Industry
    Record Heat Wave Triggers Emergency Measures in Industry The ongoing record heat wave has raised alarms across various industries. While the electronics sector, which relies heavily on indoor production, is relatively less affected, companies in steel and shipbuilding, which involve significant outdoor work, are intensifying their response to the increased risk of heat-related illnesses.According to industry sources, heavy industries such as steel and shipbuilding are among the most impacted by the heat wave. High-temperature processes like blast furnaces and steelmaking are difficult to halt, and outdoor work is prevalent, often resulting in perceived temperatures that exceed actual temperatures.Domestic shipbuilders HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, Hanwha Ocean, and Samsung Heavy Industries are currently observing their regular summer vacations, allowing workers to recharge. With forecasts indicating that the heat wave will persist post-vacation, these companies are focused on implementing safety measures for extreme heat.HD Hyundai Heavy Industries has been operating a system to extend rest periods during heat-related work since last year, becoming the first in the shipbuilding industry to do so. This year, from July to September, when the perceived temperature exceeds 33 degrees Celsius, rest periods will be increased from 10 minutes to 20 minutes. Hanwha Ocean and Samsung Heavy Industries are also extending rest times and providing cooling supplies, rest areas, and nutritious meals to prevent heat-related illnesses.The steel industry, which operates blast furnaces 24 hours a day, is applying its own rest standards that are stricter than government guidelines. POSCO has implemented a policy of 15-minute breaks after 45 minutes of work when the perceived temperature exceeds 35 degrees Celsius, and 10-minute breaks after 50 minutes of work when it exceeds 31 degrees Celsius. This is a more stringent standard than the newly established occupational safety and health guideline requiring a 20-minute break every two hours when the perceived temperature is above 33 degrees Celsius.Hyundai Steel also provides at least 10 minutes of rest within an hour when the perceived temperature exceeds 31 degrees Celsius, and more than 15 minutes when it exceeds 35 degrees Celsius. Dongkuk Steel Mill has designated a special management period for heat-related illnesses from August 3 to 14, offering breaks of at least 20 minutes every two hours when the perceived temperature exceeds 33 degrees Celsius.The automotive industry is also taking steps to manage working conditions in response to the prolonged heat wave. Hyundai Motor Group has entered its summer vacation from August 3 to 7, temporarily halting operations at major production sites, including the Ulsan plant.At the Ulsan plant, Hyundai is providing ice cream and nutritious meals to workers, while Kia's AutoLand Gwangju is operating cooling systems for each production line and regularly measuring and managing temperature and humidity in the workplace.Similarly, the aviation and defense sectors, which involve significant outdoor work, are facing similar challenges. Korean Air has introduced large mobile circulators for workers at international airport cargo terminals and aircraft maintenance facilities, while Korea Aerospace Industries is conducting company-wide summer vacations until August 7. Hanwha Aerospace is providing electrolyte drinks and ice treats to production workers as part of its heat management efforts.In contrast, the electronics sector faces a relatively low risk of direct production disruptions due to the heat wave. Semiconductor plants maintain consistent temperature and humidity levels in clean rooms, and most mobile and home appliance production equipment operates indoors.However, the increase in power consumption and the management of heat-related illnesses at new semiconductor construction sites have emerged as new challenges. Samsung Electronics is applying a 'Galaxy Watch-based heat stress management system' at its Pyeongtaek semiconductor production facility, developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Employment and Labor. This system analyzes on-site temperature, humidity, and workers' heart rates and activity levels to provide alerts and rest recommendations based on heat wave levels.SK Hynix is enhancing safety inspections and applying smart safety technologies at its Icheon and Cheongju sites, while LG Electronics is focusing on preventing heat-related illnesses in the workplace in response to increased demand for air conditioning and HVAC systems.An industry insider noted, "The recent heat wave has become a management risk directly linked to safety in production sites, surpassing mere seasonal variables. Particularly in sectors like steel and shipbuilding, where halting work is challenging, there is a growing trend to strengthen on-site responses during extreme heat periods."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-06 19:04:20
  • One in Five Workers in South Korea is Self-Employed: How It Differs from the U.S. and Europe
    One in Five Workers in South Korea is Self-Employed: How It Differs from the U.S. and Europe South Korea's proportion of self-employed individuals is nearly double that of major developed countries like the United States and Europe. A lack of quality jobs and early retirements have led to self-employment effectively serving as a 'second labor market.'According to the National Data Agency, as of June this year, the number of self-employed individuals reached 5.804 million, accounting for 19.9% of the total workforce of 29.154 million.This figure surpasses that of the U.S. (6.1%), Germany (8.6%), Japan (10%), and the OECD average (approximately 15-16%). Typically, as economies develop, the number of small self-employed businesses decreases while corporate employment and professional services increase; however, South Korea continues to maintain a high proportion of self-employment.The primary reasons cited for this trend include a shortage of quality jobs, early retirements, and necessity-driven entrepreneurship. The lack of a robust re-employment market for retirees, combined with a surge in startups in sectors with relatively low entry barriers—such as restaurants, cafes, and convenience stores—has led to self-employment taking on the role of a 'second labor market.'In contrast, developed countries like the U.S. and those in Europe have well-established social safety nets, including stable wage employment, health insurance, pensions, and unemployment benefits, which reduce the incentive for necessity-driven entrepreneurship. The service industry in these regions is often dominated by large chains and corporations, and the regulatory burdens related to labor, safety, and hygiene, along with high labor costs, make it difficult for individual entrepreneurs to enter the market.In South Korea, the significant wage gap between large and small businesses, along with the difficulty of finding stable employment after early retirement in one's 50s, also contributes to the rise in self-employment. Many retirees use their severance pay as startup capital, and as the number of establishments grows faster than consumer demand, excessive competition in sectors like restaurants and cafes is intensifying.The aging population is also contributing to a rapid increase in the proportion of older self-employed individuals. As the first baby boomer generation (born between 1955 and 1963) retires, the number of older self-employed individuals has risen from 1.42 million in 2015 to 2.1 million in 2024. The Bank of Korea projects that as the second baby boomer generation (born between 1964 and 1974) begins to retire, the number of self-employed individuals aged 60 and over could reach 2.48 million by 2032, representing about 9% of the total workforce.The Bank of Korea has analyzed that the influx of unprepared retirees into self-employment could pose a burden on economic growth. Self-employment among older individuals often yields lower productivity and profitability compared to other age groups, potentially exacerbating the issues of oversaturation in self-employment and slowing economic growth.Experts note that while self-employment has served as a buffer for workers not absorbed by businesses and the labor market, it also acts as a structural factor that intensifies low productivity and excessive competition. Kim Sang-bong, a professor of economics at Hansung University, stated, "The high proportion of self-employment in South Korea is largely due to historical factors where self-employment rapidly increased in the distribution and service sectors during industrialization. The government's continuous support through financial aid and tax benefits has prevented proper market restructuring."He added, "Policies should shift towards supporting business closures and re-employment, particularly encouraging young people to pursue quality jobs in the industrial sector rather than self-employment."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-06 19:04:20
  • Hanmi Group Enhances AI Capabilities with Company-wide Program
    Hanmi Group Enhances AI Capabilities with Company-wide Program As the use of artificial intelligence (AI) expands among companies, more organizations are establishing training systems to enhance their employees' AI skills. Hanmi Group has announced the launch of a company-wide program aimed at improving employees' AI capabilities and promoting a culture of digital-based business innovation.On August 6, Hanmi Group revealed that it will implement the 'Hanmi AI Boost Program' for employees across all its subsidiaries, including Hanmi Science and Hanmi Pharmaceutical. The program is designed to support the creation of tangible results through the use of AI and digital technologies.This initiative goes beyond simple AI application; it is a bottom-up program focused on voluntary execution that aims to improve actual work processes, apply ideas from the field, and disseminate results within the organization. The goal is to establish a performance-oriented culture of AI utilization by systematically supporting the entire process of discovering, implementing, and sharing ideas. This approach is intended to create a virtuous cycle where practical experiences in the field lead to AI innovation throughout the organization.Notably, cases that demonstrate visible results in improving work efficiency, automation, productivity enhancement, and cost reduction will be recognized and rewarded through monthly excellence awards, monthly communication awards, and an annual innovation award.A representative from Hanmi Science stated, "The AI Boost Program is an execution-focused initiative that goes beyond technology adoption to create results in real work environments and accumulate these as organizational assets. We will continue to actively support employees' voluntary participation and creative attempts, spreading innovative cases to strengthen Hanmi Group's unique AI-based business innovation culture."Meanwhile, Hanmi Pharmaceutical is also actively utilizing AI in drug development. The company's AI platform, 'HARP-pSAR,' has led to the identification of an obesity drug candidate, 'HM17321,' which is currently undergoing Phase 1 clinical trials in the United States.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-06 19:04:10
  • Extreme Heat Threatens South Koreas Economic Recovery, President Calls It a National Climate Disaster
    Extreme Heat Threatens South Korea's Economic Recovery, President Calls It a National Climate Disaster 역대급 폭염이 회복 흐름을 보이는 한국 경제의 새로운 복병으로 떠올랐다. 무더위가 노동생산성을 떨어뜨리는 동시에 냉방비와 먹거리 물가를 끌어올리면서 민간소비와 기업투자를 위축시키고 경제성장까지 갉아먹을 수 있다는 우려가 커지고 있다.특히 폭염이 갈수록 장기화·일상화하면서 일시적인 계절 충격을 넘어 경제 전반을 압박하는 상시적 위험으로 번지고 있다. 정부도 국민 안전과 경제 전반에 미칠 피해를 최소화하기 위해 대응 수위를 최고 수준으로 끌어올리고 있다.이재명 대통령은 6일 정부서울청사에서 '폭염·가뭄 대처상황 점검회의'를 주재하고 "지금은 사실상 국가적인 기후 재난 상황"이라며 "그 어느 때보다 높은 긴장감을 갖고 정책 대응 수준과 범위, 속도를 최대치로 끌어올려야 한다"고 밝혔다.이 대통령은 야외 작업장에서 가장 더운 시간대의 작업 중지와 휴식이 제대로 이행되는지 철저히 점검하고 농축수산물 피해 예방과 전력 수급, 사회기반시설 관리에도 만전을 기해 달라고 주문했다.기상청에 따르면 이날 수도권과 전남을 중심으로 낮 기온이 39도 안팎까지 올랐다. 주말 비 소식이 있지만 다음 주에도 북태평양고기압의 영향으로 무더위가 이어질 가능성이 크다. 폭염 속 온열질환 추정 사망자도 나흘 연속 발생해 올해 누적 사망자는 21명으로 잠정 집계됐다.폭염은 생산 차질과 비용 증가를 거쳐 경제적 손실로 이어진다. 알리안츠리서치 보고서에 따르면 기온이 32도에 이르면 신체 노동 능력은 평소보다 약 40% 떨어지고 38도에서는 감소 폭이 3분의 2까지 확대된다. 32도 이상의 폭염이 경제에 미치는 생산성 충격은 반나절간의 파업과 맞먹는 것으로 분석됐다.에너지 소비도 가파르게 증가한다. 극한고온이 35도에 이르면 기온이 1도 추가로 오를 때 1인당 에너지 소비는 약 1.2% 늘어나는 것으로 나타났다. 2014년 이후 각국에서 발생한 극한고온을 1991~2010년 평균 기후와 비교한 결과 한국은 중국·스페인·브라질 등과 함께 1인당 에너지 소비가 4~5% 이상 증가하는 국가군에 포함됐다.이 같은 에너지 소비 증가는 국내 전력 수요 증가로도 이어지고 있다. 전력 당국은 폭염이 장기화하고 흐린 날씨까지 겹치면 이달 셋째 주 최대전력수요가 98.8GW까지 올라 2024년 기록한 역대 최고치 97.1GW를 넘어설 것으로 내다봤다. 정부는 공급능력 107GW를 확보해 최대 수요가 발생해도 예비력 8.2GW를 유지한다는 방침이다.늘어난 에너지 사용은 가계와 기업의 비용 부담으로 이어진다. 냉방비 등 필수지출이 증가하면 가계의 가처분소득이 줄어 외식·의류·여가 등 비필수 소비가 위축될 수 있다. 기업도 에너지 비용과 근로자 보호 비용이 늘고 노동생산성이 떨어지면서 투자 여력이 약해진다.폭염은 먹거리 물가도 자극한다. 한국은행은 기온이 일시적으로 1도 오르면 농산물가격 상승률은 0.4~0.5%포인트, 전체 소비자물가 상승률은 0.07%포인트 높아지는 것으로 분석했다. 냉방비에 식료품비까지 오르면 가계의 실질 구매력이 약해져 내수 회복에도 부담이 된다.생산성 저하와 비용 상승이 반복되면 성장과 투자에도 장기적인 충격이 발생할 수 있다. 알리안츠리서치는 과거 가장 더웠던 5개 연도가 2026~2030년 강도를 높여가며 반복될 경우 폭염 노출도가 높은 국가의 누적 국내총생산(GDP) 손실이 기준선 대비 5~7%, 고정자본투자 감소 폭은 평균 8%에 달할 것으로 추산했다.전문가들은 폭염을 일시적인 계절 재난이 아닌 상시적인 경제 위험으로 보고 경제 전망과 정부 정책에 기후변수를 적극적으로 반영해야 한다고 지적한다.홍종호 서울대 환경대학원 교수는 "폭염은 먹거리 가격을 끌어올리는 '기후 인플레이션'을 유발하는 구조적 위험"이라며 "정부와 한은은 기후변수를 경제·물가 전망에 상시 반영하고 기후적응 정책과 관련 예산을 대폭 강화해야 한다"고 강조했다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-06 19:04:10
  • Yongin Mayor Lee Sang-il Discusses Youth Volunteer Program with Da Nang Officials
    Yongin Mayor Lee Sang-il Discusses Youth Volunteer Program with Da Nang Officials Lee Sang-il, the mayor of Yongin, visited the Quang Phu District Office in Da Nang on August 6, where he met with Secretary Bui Ngoc An and Chairman Huynh Ngoc Ba to discuss plans for sending a youth volunteer group from Yongin to Quang Phu.In his opening remarks, Mayor Lee expressed gratitude for the warm welcome from the Quang Phu community, stating, "It seems that the relationship between our two cities is becoming stronger over time," and he thanked them for effectively operating the Yongin Public Digital Library in Quang Phu.Secretary Bui responded, saying, "The Yongin Public Digital Library in Quang Phu is a valuable space that provides new inspiration to local residents and significantly contributes to nurturing local talent. I hope that based on the valuable achievements we have made, our two cities can become precious partners in creating value and a future together."Mayor Lee also introduced the Yongin youth volunteer group that will be dispatched to Da Nang and Quang Phu next year, urging for interest and cooperation from the Quang Phu community.As part of the 'K-On Gi Village Project,' Yongin plans to send about 20 youth volunteers to Da Nang for ten days from late July to early August 2027 to support youth participation in international exchange and sharing activities.Mayor Lee remarked, "This will be a great opportunity for the youth of both cities to meet and share friendships," and expressed hope for mutual growth through various exchange programs, including the dispatch of the Yongin youth volunteer group.The youth volunteers will engage in service activities such as painting murals at the 'Yongin Public Digital Library in Quang Phu' and promoting Yongin's representative character, 'Joayang.' They will also conduct activities to introduce Korean culture, including operating a K-pop academy, performing joint shows with local residents, and showcasing traditional Korean games.Following this, Mayor Lee visited the 'Yongin Public Digital Library in Quang Phu,' located within the International Lotus Village Comprehensive Welfare Town, to review its operational status.The 'Yongin Public Digital Library in Quang Phu' is Yongin's first international development cooperation project. The library, built on a site of approximately 1,686 square meters (about 510 pyeong), includes digital learning spaces, reading rooms, and a promotional area for Yongin City.The International Lotus Village Comprehensive Welfare Town, established by the International Lotus Village Association in 2015, is a Korean-style welfare village that includes a vocational training center, a Korean language school, a daycare center, and a nursing home for the elderly.Mayor Lee expressed pride that Yongin's first international development cooperation project has been completed as a library, providing practical assistance to the residents of Quang Phu. He hopes that children and youth visiting the library will cultivate greater dreams through its resources.Meanwhile, the International Lotus Village Association, the parent organization of the International Lotus Village, was established in August 1989 and is based in Baegam-myeon, Yongin. It currently operates the Yongin Senior Welfare Center, which is entrusted to it by Yongin City.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-06 19:04:10
  • Boryung Reports Record 535 Billion Won in First Half Revenue Amid Global Expansion
    Boryung Reports Record 535 Billion Won in First Half Revenue Amid Global Expansion Boryung has achieved its highest-ever first-half performance, driven by the expansion of its global business.The company reported consolidated revenue of 535 billion won and an operating profit of 44 billion won for the first half of the year, as announced on August 6. Compared to the same period last year, revenue increased by 42.9 billion won (8.7%), and operating profit rose by 7.7 billion won (21.1%). Gross profit also grew to 199.2 billion won, up by 15.1 billion won (8.2%). The operating profit margin improved to 8.2%, reflecting an increase from the previous year.This performance was bolstered by stable growth from existing products and the addition of revenue from global operations.Sales from the cytotoxic anticancer drug Taxotere (generic name docetaxel), acquired from France's Sanofi last year, began to contribute to global revenue starting in June. Boryung has secured global rights, including distribution, licensing, production, and trademark rights for Taxotere, covering markets worldwide, including South Korea.Additionally, the company commenced contract development and manufacturing (CDMO) services for cytotoxic anticancer drugs from its Yeongju campus in the first half of the year, further diversifying its revenue structure. Boryung is leveraging this foundation to expand its business from a domestic prescription-focused model to the global pharmaceutical market.New product successes also contributed to the results. The hypertension and dyslipidemia treatment Canavjet (pimasartan, atorvastatin, and ezetimibe), launched in May, achieved initial sales of 3.7 billion won in the first half.Since launching Canav, South Korea's first hypertension new drug, Boryung has continued to release products in the Canav family. Notably, despite the impact of a price reduction for the hypertension drug Canav (generic name pimasartan), which was reflected in provisions, the Canav family recorded second-quarter sales of 38.8 billion won. Excluding provisions, this represents a 23% increase compared to the same period last year.A Boryung official stated, "Since the acquisition of Taxotere, we have begun to see global sales, and the combination of CDMO supply and new product launches is driving our growth. The results confirm the success of our business structure transformation and demonstrate the structural stability of our portfolio."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-06 19:04:00
  • Mokpo City Announces August Deadline for Resident Tax Filing and Payment
    Mokpo City Announces August Deadline for Resident Tax Filing and Payment Mokpo City is accepting filings and payments for resident taxes throughout August, with a deadline of August 31.The city announced on the 6th that it is sending out resident tax notices and payment forms in phases, enhancing guidance for taxpayers to ensure timely filing and payment.Resident taxes are divided into individual and business categories.The individual resident tax is set at 11,000 won for heads of households residing in Mokpo as of July 1, 2026. However, those receiving basic living assistance, minors, and unmarried heads of households under 30 are exempt from taxation.The business resident tax applies to corporations with a business location in Mokpo and individual business owners whose value-added tax taxable amount exceeded 80 million won in the previous year.To facilitate payment, the city is sending out payment forms that include tax amounts and deadlines. If the information on the payment form matches the actual business status, taxpayers can pay without additional filing. However, if there are discrepancies, they must correct their filings through the WeTax system or the city’s Tax Division before making a payment.Resident taxes can be conveniently paid at all national financial institutions and post offices, as well as through CD/ATM machines, WeTax, internet payment systems, smart WeTax, local tax revenue accounts, virtual accounts, and ARS.The payment period for individual resident taxes is from August 16 to 31, while business taxes can be filed and paid from August 1 to 31.Park Yoon-hee, the Tax Division Chief, stated that resident taxes are crucial for supporting citizen welfare and local development. She emphasized the city’s commitment to enhancing taxpayer convenience and fostering a culture of diligent tax payment. The city is providing support through the issuance of notices and various non-face-to-face payment systems to make it easier for citizens to pay local taxes.Park Yoon-hee remarked, "Resident taxes are valuable resources for enhancing citizen welfare and local development. I urge everyone to ensure they file and pay by the August 31 deadline, and we will continue to improve taxpayer convenience through citizen-centered tax services."For more details on resident tax filing and payment, visit the Mokpo City Hall website or the WeTax platform.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-06 19:04:00
  • Haenam County Mayor Calls for Urgent Establishment of National Agricultural Climate Change Center
    Haenam County Mayor Calls for Urgent Establishment of National Agricultural Climate Change Center Haenam County officials visited central government ministries on August 6 to advocate for securing national funding.Mayor Myung Hyun-kwan and county officials met with the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, and the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment to request government support for pressing issues, including the establishment of the National Agricultural Climate Change Center. During their visit to the Ministry of Agriculture, the county emphasized the urgent need for support in establishing and operating the National Agricultural Climate Change Center in Haenam, particularly in light of this year's prolonged heatwave and the worsening climate crisis over recent years.Mayor Myung stated, "The increasing frequency of extreme weather events is having the most significant impact on agriculture and fisheries. We need to activate the National Agricultural Climate Change Center as a control tower for climate change response and operate it as a national-level response organization."The National Agricultural Climate Change Center is set to begin construction in the second half of this year, with completion expected in the first half of 2029. It is being expedited compared to other public projects due to the urgency of climate change response. The center will serve as a key institution overseeing the establishment of national strategies for climate change response, impact prediction, and the development of response technologies in the agricultural sector.Mayor Myung added, "In just 2 to 3 years, climate change has progressed to a level that poses a significant crisis for agriculture and fisheries. For the center to fulfill its role as a control tower, it is essential that it operates under the National Agricultural Climate Response Headquarters, which should be established under the Ministry of Agriculture to oversee policy coordination."On August 4, a bill titled 'Law on Climate Crisis Response and Carbon Neutrality Implementation in Agriculture and Rural Areas' was jointly proposed by 13 lawmakers, including Im Mi-ae, Park Ji-won, Lee Gae-ho, Jo Gye-won, and Moon Geum-joo. The bill includes provisions for establishing the 'National Agricultural Climate Response Headquarters' under the Ministry of Agriculture to oversee and coordinate related policies, with plans to house the headquarters in the center to integrate climate change research, technology development, and policy coordination.Following this, Mayor Myung visited the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport to request that the location of the Haenam Interchange (IC) on the Wando (via Haenam) to Gangjin highway be adjusted closer to Haenam County. He also urged for the expansion of National Route 18 from the Haenam Songun Intersection to the Gangjin Gyeora Intersection to be pursued in conjunction with the highway construction. During the visit to the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment, the county proposed that the planned Green Convergence Cluster and Carbon Neutral Education Center in Haenam be promoted as national projects with full funding from the national government. The county aims to develop the Green Convergence Cluster as a key hub for research and development in the climate and environment sector, fostering new carbon-neutral industries in South Korea. The Carbon Neutral Education Center is envisioned as a representative space for education and experiences to enhance climate crisis response capabilities and promote a culture of carbon neutrality.Consequently, the county is requesting that the entire project cost be covered by national funding, as it is a project requiring a national-level response to climate change and carbon neutrality. Mayor Myung Hyun-kwan stated, "Addressing the agricultural crisis caused by climate change, expanding transportation networks, and establishing a carbon-neutral foundation are essential tasks that must be resolved to improve the quality of life for our residents and secure Haenam's future competitiveness. We will continue to work closely with the central government and Congressman Park Ji-won, as well as the Jeonnam Gwangju Special City, to secure national funding for local projects without any setbacks." * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-06 19:00:20
  • Kolon Industries Raises Interim Dividend from 600 to 900 Won to Enhance Shareholder Value
    Kolon Industries Raises Interim Dividend from 600 to 900 Won to Enhance Shareholder Value Kolon Industries has announced a 50% increase in its interim dividend to enhance shareholder value.On August 6, Kolon Industries held a board meeting and resolved to raise the interim dividend from the current 600 won to 900 won.Last May, the company established a policy to distribute a minimum annual dividend of 1,300 won per common share to strengthen shareholder-friendly management. The dividend policy consists of an interim dividend of 600 won and a year-end dividend of 700 won plus additional amounts, with the decision on extra dividends made based on the return resources and basic dividend principles during the year-end payout. The resources are capped at 30% of the annual consolidated net profit.This board resolution reflects the company's commitment to returning solid earnings from the first half of the year to shareholders, with the increase determined by the company's financial capacity and performance improvements. Kolon Industries reported a 130% increase in operating profit for the first quarter of this year, reaching 61.9 billion won, and is expected to continue this positive trend into the second quarter.To ensure stable shareholder returns, Kolon Industries has maintained a medium-term dividend policy since 2023, targeting a payout ratio of 20-40% of its actual net profit, excluding one-time gains and losses.Additionally, the company actively supports shareholder rights through a proxy voting system and has been providing English disclosures on the Korea Exchange for foreign shareholders since 2022. In March of last year, it introduced an electronic voting system at its regular general meeting to enhance the convenience of exercising shareholder rights.A Kolon Industries representative stated, "The increase in the interim dividend is aimed at early sharing of the integrated corporation's performance with the expanded shareholder base following the ENP merger. We will continue to pursue responsible shareholder return policies and transparent communication."Meanwhile, as policies to enhance corporate value gain traction, competition among listed companies to return value to shareholders is intensifying, with movements to increase dividends and buy back shares continuing.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-06 19:00:20
  • When Seoul melts, its children splash back
    When Seoul melts, its children splash back SEOUL, Aug. 6 (AJP) — South Koreans have joined Europeans and Americans in sweating through one of the world's hottest summers. But to borrow an old saying, if you can't beat the heat, join it. Across Seoul, children have declared war on the thermometer. Instead of hiding indoors as temperatures flirted with 40 degrees, they cannonballed into pools, sprinted through fountains and chased water jets across the city. Under a relentless sun, the season that often feels unbearable became something to celebrate. At Gwanghwamun Square, where office workers usually weave through crowds beneath the watchful gaze of King Sejong, summer arrived carrying buckets of water instead of briefcases. The 2026 Seoul Summer Beach transformed the heart of the capital into an oversized playground complete with an eight-meter water slide, swimming pools, fountains and a stretch of imported sand. Children raced barefoot between splashes, leaving wet footprints across stone plazas better known for protests and parades. Office towers shimmered in the heat while squeals of laughter briefly drowned out traffic. For a few hours, downtown Seoul traded its suits for swimsuits. Further east, at Gwangnaru Hangang Park, the city's famous river did what it has done for generations — offered Seoul a place to breathe. Children darted through shallow pools beneath wide blue skies while parents stretched out in the riverside breeze. Cyclists rolled past, joggers slowed to watch, and water drifted through the air with every gust of wind. Unlike Gwanghwamun's urban beach, Gwangnaru lets the river become part of the scenery. The skyline still towers in the distance, but the water makes the city feel miles away. In northern Seoul, Hwarangdae Railway Park swapped trains for torrents. The former rail yard now echoes with children racing down a 50-meter inflatable slide, floating along a lazy river and scrambling through climbing pools. Each splash at the bottom was followed by the same routine: a sprint back to the top for another turn. Tracks that once carried passengers now carry the soundtrack of summer vacation. Not every summer memory needs a tropical island or an expensive resort. Sometimes it is a temporary pool in a city square. Sometimes it is a fountain beside a river. Sometimes it is an inflatable slide built where trains once ran. The pop-up playgrounds remain open through August, with the Seoul Summer Beach at Gwanghwamun operating through Aug. 9, the Honey Jam Water Park at Hwarangdae Railway Park through Aug. 16, and the Gwangnaru Hangang Park water playground through Aug. 30. As another sweltering day settles over Seoul, the city keeps finding new ways to cool itself. Water rises between skyscrapers, drifts across the Han River and splashes through old railway tracks. For a few precious hours, the hottest city in the country becomes its biggest water park. 2026-08-06 19:00:19