Aju Press - Asia News Hub

Journalist

Latest by

Church Teacher Sentenced to 6 Years for Sexual Assault of Minor Student A church teacher in his 30s has been sentenced to six years in prison for committing multiple sexual offenses against a minor student.According to Yonhap News, the Suwon High Court's Criminal Division 1, presided over by Judge Shin Hyun-il, upheld the original sentence on September 16 for A, who was charged with violating laws on the protection of children and adolescents (coercive intercourse).The appellate court acknowledged that the defendant admitted to the crimes during the trial and had deposited 30 million won for the victim, but noted that the victim continues to suffer and has expressed a desire for severe punishment, refusing to accept the compensation.The court stated, "Considering the method, frequency, and duration of the offenses, the nature of the crime is extremely poor," and concluded that there were no circumstances warranting a change in the original sentence, as all factors had already been sufficiently considered.Previously, A was charged with coercively engaging in sexual acts with a 17-year-old high school student from the church where he worked, from August 2019 to June 2020, committing the acts multiple times and attempting similar acts.Investigations revealed that he exploited the victim's vulnerable situation, as she was unable to receive proper care from her parents due to financial difficulties and relied on the church.During the first trial, A maintained that he and the victim were in a loving relationship, denying the charges.However, the first trial court dismissed this claim, citing the victim's diary entries that vividly described the incidents, her emotional distress, and fear of the defendant.The first trial had sentenced A to six years in prison, which was heavier than the prosecution's request of five years, and mandated 40 hours of sexual violence treatment and a five-year employment restriction. 2026-09-17 09:32:20
SpaceX's Upcoming Starship Test Flight Boosts Space Stocks On September 17, shares of space-related companies surged in early trading following the announcement that SpaceX will conduct its first test flight of the Starship spacecraft into Earth's orbit.According to the Korea Exchange, as of 9:20 a.m., Naraspace Technology was trading at 13,730 won, up 28.80% from the previous trading day. This marks the company's fourth consecutive day of gains, reaching the upper limit of its trading range.Naraspace Technology provides a range of services across the space industry, including the development, production, and operation of small satellites, as well as satellite data analysis. The company is also engaged in the development and mass production of low-orbit small satellite platforms to secure high-frequency Earth observation imagery.Kenko Aerospace also saw a significant increase, trading at 11,930 won, up 17.19% from the previous day. Other companies, including Aju IB Investment (up 10.43%), Mirae Asset Venture Investment (up 3.41%), and SensorView (up 18.11%), also experienced gains.Meanwhile, SpaceX announced plans to conduct its 14th Starship test flight on September 22, pending regulatory approval.Unlike the 13th test flight in July, which was a suborbital flight, this upcoming test aims to place the Starship into an orbit approximately 275 kilometers above Earth, where it will complete six orbits before landing in the Pacific Ocean west of Chile after 10 hours.In anticipation of this event, SpaceX's stock rose 5.15% in the previous day's trading on the New York Stock Exchange.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-17 09:32:10
JB Financial Group Partners with Upstage for AI Innovation in Finance JB Financial Group has partnered with AI technology company Upstage to identify innovative AI applications for the finance sector.On September 17, JB Financial announced the establishment of a strategic partnership aimed at collaboration in finance and AI technology.Through this agreement, JB Financial plans to leverage Upstage's large language model (LLM) technology to develop finance-specific AI agents. A collaborative framework will also be established involving group affiliates such as Jeonbuk Bank, Gwangju Bank, and JB Woori Capital.The two companies agreed to expand their cooperation in areas including the discovery and application of finance-specific innovations using AI technology, joint training and personnel exchanges to enhance expertise in finance and AI, the identification of joint AI projects in collaboration with local governments and communities, and participation in related consortiums.This partnership is part of JB Financial's strategy to accelerate its company-wide AI transformation (AX). The initiative aims to cultivate talent in finance and AI integration while contributing to the revitalization of the local AI ecosystem through community-linked projects.Kim Ki-hong, Chairman of JB Financial Group, stated, "By combining the strengths of both companies, we will drive financial innovation and coexistence with the local community. We will also integrate Upstage's AI solutions into our Southeast Asian subsidiaries to create new business opportunities in the global market."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-17 09:32:10
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, 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 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 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 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 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 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