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  • Rental Car Registrations Exceed 1.2 Million Amid Summer Demand
    Rental Car Registrations Exceed 1.2 Million Amid Summer Demand The number of registered rental cars in South Korea has surpassed 1.2 million for the first time. This growth is attributed to an increasing number of consumers opting for long-term rentals and subscription services instead of purchasing vehicles, coupled with a surge in short-term rental demand during the summer vacation season.According to the Korea Rental Car Business Association, the total number of registered rental cars reached 1,211,645 in the second quarter of this year, an increase of 42,510 vehicles, or 3.6%, from the previous quarter's 1,169,135.Among rental cars, domestic models accounted for 1,152,487 units, making up 95.1% of the total. The most popular model was the Avante (CN7) with 68,707 units, followed by the Genesis G80 (51,613 units) and the Kia New Ray (57,16 units).The growth of the rental car market is driven by rising costs associated with vehicle ownership and changing consumer preferences. There is a growing demand from individuals looking to reduce initial purchase costs and maintenance burdens, while companies are increasingly utilizing long-term rentals instead of buying vehicles, contributing to the market's expansion.During the summer vacation season, rental car demand peaks, leading to high vehicle utilization rates. Lotte Rental, the leading rental car company in South Korea, analyzed vacation data from the past three years and found that rental car utilization rates in Jeju averaged in the high 80% range. During the peak season from late July to early August, rates surged to the mid-90% range.A representative from Lotte Rental stated, "During peak season, we must wash and inspect vehicles immediately after they are returned to ensure they are ready for the next customer. Popular models like the Avante and Carnival are experiencing shortages due to high demand."Over the past three years, the most rented vehicle at Lotte Rental's Jeju Auto House was the Avante, accounting for 18% of rentals, followed by the Carnival (10%) and Sonata (9%).Long-term rentals are a key driver of stable growth in the rental car industry. Unlike short-term rentals, long-term rentals typically involve using a vehicle for three to five years. The steady increase in demand for corporate fleet vehicles and personal long-term rentals is boosting the overall market size. Lotte Rental's long-term rental share rose from 53% in 2022 to 56% last year, while short-term rentals slightly decreased from 11% to 10%.Experts predict that the shift in automotive consumption from ownership to usage will continue to drive growth in the long-term rental market for the foreseeable future. Moon Hak-hoon, a professor at Osan University specializing in future electric vehicles, noted, "By utilizing rental cars instead of purchasing them, companies can reduce vehicle management and cost burdens, leading to a steady increase in long-term rental usage. Considering the domestic market size, it is likely to stabilize after reaching a certain level of growth." 2026-08-05 16:40:20
  • The Dangers of Echo Chambers for Leaders
    The Dangers of Echo Chambers for Leaders Power does not change people; rather, it alters what they choose to hear. As power grows, the desire to hear flattering words increases, while the willingness to hear uncomfortable truths diminishes. Eventually, leaders may find themselves unknowingly trapped in an 'echo chamber,' a space where their thoughts are merely repeated back to them. This term emerged in the era of democracy, but the underlying issue was recognized by political thinkers in China over 2,000 years ago.Han Feizi, a prominent figure in Chinese Legalism, warned that the greatest threat to a ruler is not the enemy but the sycophantic minister. Since a ruler cannot verify all information personally, they rely on reports from their subordinates. When these reports are tailored to please the ruler's mood, governance is built on illusion rather than reality. Han Feizi cautioned that when a ruler only hears what they want to hear, the state is destined for decline. History has repeatedly proven this point.One of the most revered emperors of the Tang Dynasty, Emperor Taizong, had a minister named Wei Zheng, who boldly told the emperor, 'Your Majesty, that is a mistaken judgment.' He often criticized the emperor so openly that it sometimes embarrassed Taizong, who would become angry. However, once his anger subsided, Taizong would reflect on Wei Zheng's words. After Wei Zheng's death, Taizong lamented, 'If I use a bronze mirror, I can correct my attire; if I use a historical mirror, I can understand the rise and fall of states; if I use a person as a mirror, I can recognize my own mistakes. Now that Wei Zheng is gone, I have lost a mirror.' This illustrates that a leader's most valuable asset is not a loyal follower but someone who speaks the truth.Today, this phenomenon is referred to as an echo chamber in politics. People tend to gather around those in power, but not everyone is a trusted advisor. Many are individuals seeking positions, promotions, nominations, business opportunities, or expanded networks. They have little reason to upset the powerful. Consequently, frank advice disappears, leaving only applause.Initially, this change is subtle. Phrases like 'You are doing well,' 'The public is pleased,' and 'There is no need for concern' become repetitive. As these affirmations accumulate, leaders begin to trust reports over reality and their inner circle over public sentiment. At that moment, the echo chamber is complete.Politics is not confined to boardrooms. It exists in press rooms, market alleys, and social gatherings. Veteran politicians value these spaces because they contain unrefined public sentiment.Journalists can sometimes serve as the most uncomfortable mirrors for politicians. Through journalists, politicians can see a world they might otherwise miss. Similarly, long-time friends, rivals, and even critics are necessary mirrors for leaders. As power strengthens, leaders need more mirrors to reflect reality.This principle applies globally. In 1961, the Kennedy administration in the United States faced a catastrophic failure with the Bay of Pigs invasion. Most advisors aligned with the president's views, and dissenting opinions were not adequately voiced. To avoid repeating this mistake, Kennedy changed his approach to meetings. During the Cuban Missile Crisis, he intentionally sought out opposing views and engaged in extensive discussions, which ultimately helped the world step back from the brink of nuclear war.Contrary to popular belief, dissenting opinions do not weaken power; they can actually prolong it. This holds true in democracies as well. Winning an election does not equate to winning the hearts of the public. High approval ratings are not permanent. Politics is an ongoing process of interpreting shifting public sentiment. There is no guarantee that yesterday's supporters will make the same choice today.Therefore, leaders must constantly examine their surroundings. While politicians should look to the sky and articulate their vision, they must also keep their feet firmly on the ground. They need to continually assess where their feet are planted and in which direction public sentiment is moving. If there is no one nearby to inform them of this reality, leaders are living in a world of their own making rather than the actual world.The decline of power often begins not with a strong enemy but at the moment a leader closes their ears. Thus, leaders should surround themselves with those who offer frank advice rather than yes-men. The public does not seek a perfect leader; they desire a leader who can first acknowledge their own mistakes. The courage to break free from the echo chamber is a leader's ultimate competitive edge.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-05 16:40:20
  • Children Left Behind in Ceuta: 1,000 Unaccompanied Minor Migrants Adrift
    Children Left Behind in Ceuta: 1,000 Unaccompanied Minor Migrants Adrift Nearly a week after a massive influx of migrants into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta, approximately 1,000 unaccompanied minors remain in the area, according to a report by the Associated Press on August 4.Spanish Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska estimated that around 72,000 migrants crossed the border, with 70,000 having returned. However, a local official in Ceuta stated that it is difficult to determine the exact number of remaining migrants, estimating between 3,000 and 5,000.Grande-Marlaska also raised the death toll to 75, most of whom drowned while attempting to reach Ceuta. Eleven additional fatalities reported by Moroccan authorities are not included in the Spanish statistics.The AP reported the case of a 17-year-old girl from Tangier, who witnessed her 8-year-old brother drown while trying to escape chaos near the breakwater during the peak of the migration surge on July 30. Separated from her mother, she now survives by begging on the streets of Ceuta. The AP chose not to disclose her identity due to her vulnerable status.Through an interpreter, she recounted, "I saw people stepping over corpses. Now we are just children begging on the streets."In the Moroccan border town of Fnideq, parents anxiously await news of their children. One mother reported that she lost contact with her son after he left home with friends to reach Ceuta. "I wait here every day, but there is no news. Some friends from the same neighborhood have returned home, but I have heard that many have died," she said.On August 3, AP journalists witnessed Spanish troops escorting a Moroccan boy back to the border, despite protests from residents and reporters who argued he was a minor. A Spanish army colonel halted the forced return and transferred the boy to the Spanish National Police. However, other unaccompanied minors were seen being sent back across the border.Under Spanish law, adult migrants can apply for asylum, and if denied, face deportation. In contrast, unaccompanied minors are entitled to protection and care.On August 4, the Spanish government announced it would allocate €25 million to support unaccompanied minors in Ceuta. The Spanish National Police also announced the opening of a missing persons reporting center at the border, along with an email submission option.Grande-Marlaska stated to reporters in Madrid, "In Spain, the fundamental rights of vulnerable minors are respected just like those of adults."The AP noted that among the adult migrants remaining in Ceuta are many fleeing civil war from Sudan, Palestinians from Gaza, and Afghans.Food shortages are severe, prompting authorities to implement rationing late on August 3. A 25-year-old Moroccan man reported that he had not eaten for two days before returning, stating, "Those trying to get to Ceuta will only suffer. All the grocery stores are closed, and no one wants to sell us anything."Ceuta's migrant facility, designed for 600 people, is already at capacity, forcing many to sleep on the beach and hills, gazing toward the European mainland shrouded in mist.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-05 16:40:00
  • Gwangju City Council Criticizes Mayor Min Hyung-baes Autocratic Leadership
    Gwangju City Council Criticizes Mayor Min Hyung-bae's Autocratic Leadership The Gwangju City Council has strongly criticized Mayor Min Hyung-bae regarding issues including organizational restructuring. On August 5, the council issued a statement through its spokesperson, asserting that "there is a gap between the mayor's explanations and the facts," and claimed that "cooperation has disappeared." The council noted that during a recent press conference, Mayor Min stated that he was preparing for organizational restructuring, personnel changes, and budget matters without any issues, and that he was sharing and discussing the restructuring plan with the council. However, the council confirmed that no draft of the restructuring plan had been delivered to the council's operating committee or the planning and finance committee, indicating that the mayor was not truthful. The council emphasized that organizational restructuring is not solely the responsibility of the executive branch and must involve sufficient explanation and consultation with the council. Additionally, the council pointed out that regarding the personnel hearing for the local deputy mayor, the executive branch must clearly explain how the advertised duties relate to the statutory duties and what criteria should be used to prepare for the hearing, stating that the lack of such explanations shows a disregard for the council. The council further claimed that major issues such as the promotion of the semiconductor industry, the relocation of Gwangju Military Airport, and the establishment of a national medical school are not being adequately shared or discussed with the council. "Instead of genuinely consulting with the council on major policies, the administration has resorted to merely providing explanations after the fact, leading to a breakdown in cooperation," the council stated. The Gwangju City Council remarked, "President Lee Jae-myung has emphasized speed and execution in governance, but speed cannot be achieved by the executive branch alone. If the council is viewed as merely a recipient of notifications rather than a partner in policy-making, then no matter how fast the administration moves, it is not cooperation but autocracy."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-05 16:36:00
  • Labor Ministry Launches Campaign to Respect Migrant Workers in South Chungcheong
    Labor Ministry Launches Campaign to Respect Migrant Workers in South Chungcheong The Ministry of Employment and Labor is promoting a workplace culture that addresses migrant workers by their names. The initiative aims to change the practice of not treating migrant workers as equal colleagues due to differences in nationality and language, thereby expanding a culture of labor respect across various industries.On August 5, the ministry held a 'Migrant Workers Labor Respect Campaign' in Asan, South Chungcheong Province, in collaboration with four labor rights foundations and the provincial government. The event was attended by over 150 participants, including business representatives and migrant workers from the region.During the event, migrant workers received safety helmets engraved with their names. The ministry explained that the helmets symbolize respect for each migrant worker as a valuable colleague in the workplace.This campaign follows a memorandum of understanding signed in April by the Ministry of Employment and Labor and four labor rights foundations, including the Public Cooperation Fund, the Financial Industry Public Interest Foundation, the Ubuntu Foundation, and the Jeon Tae-il Foundation. The goal is to foster a culture of addressing migrant workers by their names instead of using informal terms like 'hey' or 'you,' thereby promoting equal respect.Since launching in Ulsan in April, the ministry and labor rights foundations have continued the campaign in various locations, including Gwangju in May and Yecheon in June. They plan to maintain these efforts nationwide to further promote a culture of labor respect.At the event, labor and employer organizations in South Chungcheong also issued a joint declaration to respect the rights of migrant workers. The declaration emphasizes cooperation between labor and management to ensure that migrant workers are treated with dignity, work safely, and receive fair labor conditions, while committing to ongoing monitoring and implementation in daily practices. It also expresses a commitment to building an inclusive local community.Kim Young-hoon, the Minister of Employment and Labor, stated, 'Migrant workers are not just a source of labor but valuable members and colleagues who contribute to our society. Addressing them by their names is the most fundamental practice of recognizing their existence and respecting their dignity as workers.' He added, 'We will continue to strive to create workplaces where all workers are respected and not marginalized.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-05 16:32:10
  • President Lee Calls for Integration of Military Academies to Prevent Coups
    President Lee Calls for Integration of Military Academies to Prevent Coups Lee Jae-myung, the President of South Korea, stated on August 5, "How many military coups have there been in South Korea? They have all occurred within the Army, haven't they?" He questioned whether any accountability has been assigned to those from the Army Academy who were involved in these events.During a work report meeting at the Blue House with the Ministry of National Defense and other agencies, President Lee made these remarks while discussing the integration of the Army, Navy, and Air Force academies.He noted, "What percentage of high-ranking generals come from the Army Academy? As you go higher up, they almost completely dominate the ranks, don't they? Despite committing acts that fundamentally undermine constitutional order, they still hold overwhelming positions of power, don't they?"He continued, "If we separate the branches of the military and allow one specific branch to dominate for an extended period, occasionally leading to coups that disrupt the nation, should they not be held accountable? Integrating the academies could reduce such possibilities, don't you think?"President Lee specifically referenced the recent emergency martial law situation under the previous administration, saying, "Could anyone have imagined that Army generals would support a military coup in a country that has democratized and become a developed nation in the eyes of the world?"He emphasized the need to eliminate the potential for such actions, stating, "The majority of soldiers are loyal to the nation and fulfill their military duties, but a few engage in unforgivable acts. We must eliminate the potential for this."An Kyoo-baek, the Minister of National Defense, responded, "We will pursue integration with a sense of responsibility. We will seek to persuade the public until they say, 'That's enough,' and will continue to make progress." In response, President Lee urged, "Act quickly and decisively. The discussions have been slow to yield results."The Ministry of National Defense reiterated its plans to verify the Full Operational Capability (FOC) of the Future Combined Command and decide on the timeline for the transfer of wartime operational control during the upcoming South Korea-U.S. Security Consultative Meeting (SCM) this fall.President Lee also pointed out that negotiations for the return of U.S. military bases are taking too long, stating, "We spent over 10 trillion won just on land costs for the Pyeongtaek base. Yet, we are still facing various excuses for delays in the handover, and even after the handover, there are issues preventing us from using the land. This is a serious problem."During the work report from the Ministry of Unification, President Lee remarked, "The lack of response from North Korea may make the Ministry feel like it is shouting into a void. It can be quite challenging. However, we must continue our policy of peace and coexistence, even if it is difficult."Chung Dong-young, the Minister of Unification, suggested that both sides should start by addressing each other by name, stating, "We must stop using confrontational and hateful language towards each other, including terms like 'enemy.'" President Lee responded, "I think we need to seriously consider this."He added, "Acts done in good faith can be distorted and exaggerated, becoming a justification for counterattacks, and can turn into weapons against unification and peace. If we get caught up in political disputes over expressions, it could lead to a worse situation." 2026-08-05 16:32:10
  • People Power Party Nominates Kim Yong-kwan, Cha Jin-ah, and Choi Chang-wook for Election Commission Special Prosecutor
    People Power Party Nominates Kim Yong-kwan, Cha Jin-ah, and Choi Chang-wook for Election Commission Special Prosecutor 국민의힘은 5일 선거관리위원회 특별검사를 추천할 야당 몫 국민추천위원에 김용관·최창욱 변호사와 차진아 고려대학교 법학전문대학원 교수를 선정했다. 김승수 원내운영수석부대표는 이날 국회에서 기자들을 만나 "오늘 국회의장으로부터 국민 참정권 침해 의혹 진상규명 특검 후보 국민추천위 위원 추천 요청 공문이 내려왔다"며 이같이 말했다. 김 원내운영수석부대표는 인선 배경에 대해 "학식과 덕망이 있고 각계 전문 분야에서 경험이 풍부한 사람을 위원으로 모셨다"며 "법관 경력을 가진 공정한 판단력, 검사 경력의 수사 전문성, 헌법학자의 제도적 통찰을 갖춘 전문가들로 구성했기 때문에 국민이 신뢰할 수 있는 특검 추천에 가장 적합한 조합"이라고 강조했다. 국민추천위는 모두 6명으로, 더불어민주당이 3명, 국민의힘이 3명을 추천한다. 국민추천위는 대한변호사협회와 법학전문대학원협의회로부터 특검 후보를 각 3인씩 추천받고, 이 가운데 2인을 선정한다. 김 원내운영수석부대표는 "수사 전문성과 역량을 갖춘 특검이 빨리 선정돼 국민들의 선관위에 대한 의혹이 해소될 수 있길 희망한다"며 "최대한 관련 절차가 빠르게 진행될 수 있도록 노력하겠다"고 밝혔다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-05 16:32:00
  • Samsungs Galaxy Z Fold8 Surges to 1.44 Million Pre-Orders, Extends Activation Period
    Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold8 Surges to 1.44 Million Pre-Orders, Extends Activation Period Samsung Electronics' new foldable phones, the Galaxy Z Fold8 and Flip8 series, have seen such strong pre-order demand that the activation period for pre-order customers has been extended until the end of this month. On August 5, Samsung announced on its website that the pre-orders for the 'Fold 8 Ultra 1TB' and 'Fold 8' models exceeded the available stock, prompting the extension of the pre-activation period to the end of this month. The initial pre-activation period was set from August 4 to August 7. With this extension, pre-order customers who complete their activation by the end of the month will still receive the same benefits as before, including the 'Double Storage' offer. Samsung is offering a promotion where customers who purchase the 256GB model will receive a 512GB model for free. Additionally, customers who buy the 512GB model can upgrade to the 1TB model for an additional payment of 310,700 won. As the official launch on August 7 approaches, the Fold/Flip 8 series has surpassed 1.44 million units in domestic pre-sales, breaking the previous record set by the Galaxy Note10 in 2019. The Fold8 model accounted for 70% of the total pre-orders, driving the impressive sales figures.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-05 16:32:00
  • HMM Finalizes Lease for Temporary Office in Busan, Relocation Set for October
    HMM Finalizes Lease for Temporary Office in Busan, Relocation Set for October HMM is accelerating its relocation efforts to Busan by finalizing a lease for a temporary office. The transfer of headquarters functions, including the CEO's office, is expected to begin in October. However, the specific teams and personnel moving to Busan have yet to be determined, presenting challenges ahead.According to industry sources on August 5, HMM signed a lease agreement on July 31 for four floors of the DB Insurance building in Bujeon-dong, Busanjin-gu.Earlier, HMM approved the relocation of its headquarters to Busan during its regular shareholders' meeting in April and completed the registration of the new headquarters address on June 20. With this lease agreement, HMM has secured the physical foundation for its move to Busan, allowing the relocation process to gain momentum.The building HMM has chosen is a newly constructed DB Insurance office that was completed on August 2. It has a total floor area of 44,769.84 square meters, spanning from eight underground levels to 24 above ground. Located in the bustling Seomyeon area, it is directly connected to the Seomyeon subway station, enhancing accessibility.As part of this agreement, the CEO's office and other Seoul-based teams will gradually relocate to Busan starting in October. However, the specific teams and personnel moving from Seoul to Busan have not yet been finalized. Given that discussions regarding government support and labor negotiations are still ongoing, the relocation is likely to occur in phases.Industry analysts believe the scale of the move will not be substantial. Currently, HMM occupies nine floors in the Park One Tower in Yeouido, Seoul, housing about 1,000 employees. In contrast, the temporary office in Busan consists of only four floors. Considering that around 100 employees from HMM's sales and operations team in Busan will also be moving in, the capacity will be limited.Meanwhile, the securing of the temporary office is expected to accelerate HMM's relocation efforts to Busan. As the transfer of the CEO's office begins in October, discussions regarding the scale of employee relocations and support measures are anticipated to intensify.One industry insider noted, "Negotiations between labor and management are ongoing, but it is currently difficult to reach a concrete conclusion as the number of relocating personnel and government support measures have not been determined. Once the government support plan is established, discussions about the relocation will likely gain further momentum." 2026-08-05 16:28:00
  • Seoul aims to make public education free from age 3 to university
    Seoul aims to make public education free from age 3 to university SEOUL, August 05 (AJP) -South Korea will extend free preschool to all three-year-olds from next year and may introduce full scholarships for students at regional national universities, widening state-funded education from early childhood to higher education. The measures form part of the Education Ministry's policy roadmap for the second half of 2026, reported to President Lee Jae Myung on Wednesday, as the government seeks to build what it calls a "basic education society" while narrowing regional disparities and investing in future talent. Beginning next year, children aged three will become eligible for free childcare and preschool education, expanding the current program that covers four- and five-year-olds. The government plans to complete universal free early childhood education for all children aged three to five by 2027. The ministry aims to raise the share of children using public childcare services to 55 percent by 2030 from 45.8 percent in 2025. It also plans to improve teacher-to-child ratios beyond infant classes to include two-year-olds by 2028 and expand support for children with disabilities and those from migrant families. The government will continue its nationwide after-school care initiative for elementary students. A 500,000 won ($360) annual voucher for after-school programs, introduced this year for third graders, will be expanded to fourth graders from next year. The government aims to ease the concentration of young people in the Seoul metropolitan area by expanding financial support for students studying outside the capital. A new "regional balance scholarship" will broaden existing aid beyond regional national universities to include high-achieving students attending regional private universities. Separately, the Education Ministry is considering providing full scholarships to students entering the country's 30 regional national universities as early as next year. The ministry estimates the additional annual cost at around 200 billion won ($144 million), arguing that the relatively modest budget reflects the fact that many students already receive substantial government scholarships. The scale and timing of the expanded scholarship program will be finalized later this month as the government completes next year's budget. To better align universities with local industries, the ministry also plans to introduce a regional enrollment quota system and a fast-track talent program that would allow universities to respond more quickly to corporate demand for skilled workers. Vocational high schools specializing in professional qualifications will also be introduced, enabling students to earn advanced national technical certifications before graduation. Korea's education roadmap also placed artificial intelligence at the center of public education. All 20 science high schools and eight gifted schools will establish advanced AI research programs to identify and nurture talented students at an earlier stage, while giving them access to university researchers and facilities. Universities will also expand AI education for students outside computer science by broadening pilot programs that currently operate at 20 institutions. To lower costs, the government plans to support joint AI subscription services across universities, allowing students to use commercial AI tools without additional financial burden. The ministry also aims to introduce an AI-assisted assessment system by 2029 as schools increasingly adopt essay-based and written evaluations. At the same time, it plans to strengthen the fairness of school assessments through improved monitoring and a new national certification system for assessment specialists. A dedicated center overseeing school examinations and the national College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT) is also under consideration. Beyond domestic reforms, the government plans to broaden the global reach of Korean education. It aims to expand Korean-language programs overseas to 70 countries by 2030 and increase annual applicants for the Korean-language proficiency test to one million through an AI-based overhaul of the examination system. The ministry also said it would redirect more education funding across the entire learning cycle—from early childhood to higher and lifelong education—as part of a broader overhaul of local education financing. The proposal would require provincial education offices to disclose spending performance on key national policy initiatives while reducing earmarked funding for elementary and secondary schools. Education offices could also face financial penalties of up to 10 billion won ($7.2 million) for cash welfare programs deemed inconsistent with national education priorities. The package reflects the Lee administration's broader effort to treat education as a lifelong public investment—extending state support from preschool through university while using schools to address demographic decline, regional imbalances and the growing demand for AI-skilled workers. AJP takeaways South Korea will extend free preschool education to all three-year-olds from 2027, expanding state-funded early childhood education from the current coverage of four- and five-year-olds. The government is considering full scholarships for students at the country's 30 regional national universities from next year to encourage young people to study outside the Seoul metropolitan area. The Education Ministry's roadmap aims to expand public investment across the entire education cycle—from preschool through university—as part of President Lee Jae Myung's "basic education society" agenda. The plan also includes wider AI education in schools and universities, earlier AI talent development, and greater use of AI in teaching and student assessment. The education overhaul is intended to address South Korea's low birth rate, regional population decline, workforce shortages and long-term economic competitiveness. 2026-08-05 16:26:38