AJU PRESS ASIA FIRST NEWS AGENCY

Journalist

&
""
Latest by
  • Controversy Erupts Over Amateur Status and Venue Fees at Park Golf Tournament
    Controversy Erupts Over Amateur Status and Venue Fees at Park Golf Tournament 'Pure amateur tournament' claims surrounding the first Wungbi Paldo Park Golf Tournament are facing scrutiny as issues regarding participant eligibility and venue fees arise, raising questions about fairness and administrative oversight. The tournament guidelines specify that participants from professional teams and affiliated companies are prohibited. However, some participants have raised concerns, stating that a player known to be affiliated with a company not only participated in the tournament but also took part in the drawing for holes in the Perio-style competition, calling into question the integrity of the event. Participants argue, "If a player is ineligible, they should not be allowed to participate in the drawing that could influence the competition," expressing fears that the tournament's fairness is compromised. In response, an official from the organizing committee stated, "We communicated the restrictions on participants from professional teams and companies through the tournament guidelines. It is the responsibility of the participants to ensure their eligibility, and it is practically difficult to verify the affiliation of every participant at the registration stage." However, some participants contend that proceeding with registrations without verifying eligibility and not refunding fees even when ineligible participants are identified indicates a lack of management responsibility on the part of the organizers. The controversy has also extended to the issue of venue fees at the Hampyeong Park Golf Course, where the tournament is being held. The organizers reportedly planned to pay a total of 2.5 million won for venue fees, including four preliminary rounds at 500,000 won each and one final round. However, as of now, Hampyeong County has not finalized the decision on whether to impose or waive the fees, even after two preliminary rounds have been completed. A county official initially indicated that an 80% fee reduction was possible under existing regulations, but after questions arose regarding the validity of this reduction, the official stated, "We will review the relevant regulations again." In a conversation with the county's team leader on August 4, the official mentioned, "I have only been in this position for a day and am still getting up to speed on the work. I heard that the previous official considered a fee reduction to promote participation due to the large number of players in the tournament." The official added, "Currently, there is no document confirming the fee reduction. Although the first and second preliminary rounds have concluded, the fees are generally required to be paid in advance, and no final decision has been made yet." Public sports facilities typically require a fee payment process along with usage permits, leading to criticism regarding the appropriateness of administrative handling, given that the tournament is nearly halfway through without a clear decision on fee imposition or reduction criteria. Meanwhile, further scrutiny regarding the appropriateness of the participant eligibility review process, the fairness of competition operations, and the procedures for imposing fees at public sports facilities is expected to continue.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-05 14:48:00
  • Gwangju City Lowers Barriers for Agricultural Support Programs
    Gwangju City Lowers Barriers for Agricultural Support Programs Gwangju City is taking steps to improve the support programs for agricultural processing companies by lowering barriers that previously hindered participation. Small and medium-sized processing firms with property rights restrictions due to collateral loans will now be able to apply for subsidies if they meet certain criteria.On August 5, Gwangju City announced that the 'Improvement Plan for Agricultural Processing Support Programs' was approved during the proactive administration committee meeting held in July 2026.This improvement is significant as it stems from the department's direct identification of on-site challenges, leading to the proposal of the issue to the proactive administration committee and resulting in regulatory changes focused on field needs.Previously, support for agricultural processing programs was restricted for applicants with property rights limitations, such as mortgages on business sites or buildings. Consequently, small and medium-sized processing companies that relied on loans for facility investments were often excluded from receiving support, prompting ongoing calls for reform.The Agricultural Distribution Division of Gwangju City gathered opinions from food companies and related associations, conducted legal reviews, and developed the improvement plan, which was validated by the proactive administration committee.Under the new plan, guidelines for six agricultural processing support programs, including specialized support projects for cities and counties, will be revised starting in 2027.Going forward, even if there are property rights restrictions due to collateral, companies can apply for support by submitting performance guarantee insurance equivalent to the subsidy amount.Gwangju City expects that this regulatory improvement will expand opportunities for small and medium-sized processing companies that utilize collateral loans to participate in business initiatives.Additionally, the introduction of performance guarantee insurance is anticipated to reduce the risk of subsidy recovery due to bankruptcy or business closure, while establishing a support system centered on actual demand, thereby preventing project abandonment and budget execution delays.The city plans to revise the relevant program guidelines by the end of this month and announce the 2027 projects in September, allowing cities and counties to proactively incorporate them into their main budgets. This approach aims to enhance predictability in project implementation and minimize budget carryovers.Park Sang-mi, head of the Agricultural Distribution Division of Gwangju City, stated, "This case is significant as it connects the resolution of unreasonable regulations in the field to system improvement through proactive administration. We will continue to pursue regulatory innovation that reflects the voices of the field and proactive administration that citizens can feel."Meanwhile, Gwangju City plans to expand field-centered regulatory improvements through proactive administration and continue to implement system reforms that alleviate the management burdens of agricultural companies, thereby strengthening the competitiveness of the local agricultural industry and establishing a stable growth foundation.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-05 14:48:00
  • As Ones Lee Min Passes One Year After Death, Rhymer Remembers
    As One's Lee Min Passes One Year After Death, Rhymer Remembers As the one-year anniversary of Lee Min's death approaches, Rhymer, the former representative of the duo As One, paid tribute to him.On August 5, Rhymer posted on his social media, "It has already been a year since Min-young left us. Please remember his beautiful smile and voice."He also shared a photo featuring Lee Min and fellow As One member Crystal, where all three are seen smiling brightly, adding to the sense of loss.Crystal tagged in the photo also shared Rhymer's post on her social media, honoring their late member.Born in 1978, Lee Min was a Korean-American who debuted in 1999 with Crystal in As One's first album, 'Day By Day.' The duo released numerous hits, including 'You Don't Know,' 'I Want You,' and 'No Way.' In 2013, Lee Min married a Korean man who is two years her senior and worked as an office employee.Lee Min passed away at the age of 46 on August 5 of last year. Reports indicate that her husband discovered her when he returned home and subsequently called for help.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-05 14:48:00
  • Lotte Chilsung Reports 10% Drop in Q2 Operating Profit Despite Revenue Growth
    Lotte Chilsung Reports 10% Drop in Q2 Operating Profit Despite Revenue Growth Lotte Chilsung Beverage continued its revenue growth in the second quarter, driven by strong performance in its alcohol and overseas businesses, despite facing external uncertainties. However, ongoing pressures from raw material costs and logistics expenses led to a decline in operating profit.The company reported a consolidated operating profit of 55.8 billion won and revenue of 1.1129 trillion won for the second quarter, marking a 10.4% decrease in operating profit and a 2.4% increase in revenue compared to the same period last year.For the first half of the year, Lotte Chilsung recorded an operating profit of 103.6 billion won and revenue of 2.0654 trillion won, representing increases of 18.6% and 3.4%, respectively, from the previous year.While profitability in the beverage sector slightly declined, strong sales in key categories contributed to overall growth. The beverage division reported a separate operating profit of 20.5 billion won and revenue of 500.5 billion won in the second quarter, with operating profit down 13.2% and revenue up 1.7%.Sales of sports drinks surged by 8.5% due to early summer heat and increased demand for health beverages. Carbonated drinks benefited from the zero-calorie trend and seasonal effects, growing by 3.1%, while ready-to-drink (RTD) coffee saw a 4.1% increase thanks to market growth and new product launches.Beverage exports also rose by 9.8% year-on-year, driven by strong sales of Milkis, Let's Be, and aloe juice in over 50 countries, including the United States, Russia, Europe, and Southeast Asia.The alcohol segment led the performance improvement, with a separate operating profit of 7.5 billion won and revenue of 195.1 billion won in the second quarter, reflecting increases of 156.6% and 3.2%, respectively. For the first half, operating profit in the alcohol sector reached 23 billion won, up 34.5%.Notably, the growth of RTD products was significant. Following the renewal and expansion of the 'Suhari Jin' product line, RTD sales skyrocketed from 4.4 billion won last year to 10.6 billion won this year, a 143.3% increase. Sales of soju brands 'Cheoeumcheoreom' and 'Saero' rose by 1.9%, while demand for lower-alcohol products increased soju sales by 1.8%, and wine sales grew by 8.8% due to expanded distribution channels.Although the global segment continued to grow, profitability declined. The global division, including overseas subsidiaries, reported second-quarter revenue of 458.5 billion won, a 3.4% increase, while operating profit fell by 27.0% to 26.1 billion won. The company attributed this decline to rising raw material and logistics costs. However, the combined share of global subsidiaries and exports expanded to approximately 47% of total revenue.Lotte Chilsung plans to minimize material cost burdens and focus on improving fixed cost efficiency through expanded sales networks in the second half of the year. The company aims to achieve consolidated revenue of 4.1 trillion won and an operating profit of 200 billion won for the year.A company representative stated, "The second quarter faced challenges in profitability due to rising raw material and logistics costs, but we maintained revenue growth through the expansion of our alcohol business, RTD products, and increased beverage exports. We will establish a stable growth foundation through the development of global brands and a focus on profitability improvement."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-05 14:44:00
  • Trump: Iran Negotiations Progressing Smoothly, Agreement Expected in 48 Hours
    Trump: Iran Negotiations Progressing Smoothly, Agreement Expected in 48 Hours President Donald Trump stated that negotiations with Iran are progressing smoothly and that a decision regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is expected within 48 hours.On August 4, during a meeting with reporters in Los Angeles, Trump said, "The negotiations with Iran are going very well," adding, "We will know in 48 hours."Earlier that day, in an interview with Fox News, Trump claimed, "We are having very good discussions with Iran," asserting that Iran wants an agreement to end the conflict that began with U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Iran on February 28. He emphasized, "What matters is action," and stated, "Iran wants an agreement. We will see what happens next."He also noted, "I have plenty of time," and stressed that the Strait will be opened very soon, warning that if not, Iran would face a strong attack, ultimately leading to the reopening of the Strait.Additionally, Treasury Secretary Scott Vessenet mentioned in an interview with CNBC that "we are negotiating with Iran" and indicated that an agreement on reopening the Strait of Hormuz could be reached today or tomorrow.In related news, Axios reported, citing anonymous regional and U.S. officials, that the U.S., Iran, and Oman are close to a temporary agreement for reopening the Strait. The U.S. is expected to announce the details of the agreement as early as August 5.The proposed agreement includes provisions for Iran and Oman to ensure safe passage for vessels in the Strait of Hormuz for 60 days, with no tolls imposed and the possibility of extending the agreement.There are also discussions about separating shipping routes, where vessels entering the Persian Gulf would use a northern route, while those exiting would take a southern route through Omani waters.However, officials from Qatar and the U.S. clarified that a final agreement has not yet been reached. A spokesperson for the Qatari government stated that they cannot provide a timeline for the agreement and are focused on finding short-term solutions to avoid further conflict.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-05 14:40:00
  • Concerns Rise Over Performance Certification in Physical AI Legislation
    Concerns Rise Over Performance Certification in Physical AI Legislation Discussions on a special law to promote the physical artificial intelligence (AI) industry have begun in the National Assembly, with differing opinions emerging regarding the proposed 'performance certification' system. While industry representatives express concerns that it may lead to new regulations, the office of Representative Hwang Jeong-a of the Democratic Party, who introduced the bill, describes it as a measure to ensure corporate reliability in areas lacking existing safety standards.According to the National Assembly and industry sources, the 'Special Law on the Promotion and Support of Physical AI Development,' introduced by Hwang, was submitted to the National Assembly's Science, Technology, Information, Broadcasting and Communications Committee on July 8. The government is currently gathering and coordinating opinions from relevant ministries. A government official stated, 'We are conveying the government's opinions regarding the bill to the National Assembly.'The bill aims to support the entire process from research and development (R&D) to demonstration and commercialization of physical AI. It includes the establishment of a Physical AI Development Promotion Committee under the Prime Minister, designation of pilot areas, construction of training data, performance certification, and regulatory exceptions. The criteria, targets, and methods for performance certification are delegated to presidential decree.Industry concerns center on the performance certification system. The bill allows the Minister of Science and ICT to certify the safety and performance of physical AI systems. It stipulates that if a system does not meet certification standards or if defects are found, the certification can be revoked or corrective actions mandated.Industry representatives point out that this new certification system could lead to increased burdens on companies. One industry source remarked, 'Physical AI has already been introduced through contracts and agreements among private companies, and if new legal obligations are added, companies will have more factors to consider. It raises questions about whether government intervention in areas that can be judged by the private sector will benefit industrial promotion.'In response, Hwang's office emphasized that performance certification is not a regulation but a voluntary provision. A spokesperson stated, 'Performance certification applies only in cases where there are no existing safety standards and does not impose obligations on all businesses. It aims to provide options for businesses seeking to demonstrate safety and performance.'The office believes it is more appropriate to reflect industry and expert opinions through the Physical AI Promotion Committee to gradually establish sector-specific standards rather than including specific safety standards in the law at this early stage of the industry. Given the rapid pace of technological advancement, specifying detailed standards in legislation could reduce the flexibility of the system, which is why the structure is designed to clarify standards through presidential decree and committee review.Experts advise that the design process for the performance certification system should adequately reflect the characteristics of different industries. Choi Kyung-jin, a professor at Gachon University and president of the Korean AI Law Society, noted, 'Physical AI encompasses a wide range of technologies and applications. It is essential to consider the characteristics and risk levels of various fields such as manufacturing, logistics, and autonomous driving.'He added, 'One of the reasons the automotive industry has been able to develop is due to a strict self-certification system. It is necessary to consider a self-certification approach for physical AI as well.'Choi Jae-sik, a distinguished professor at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), also suggested that to enhance the effectiveness of the bill, the purpose and scope of performance certification need to be clearly defined and meticulously designed.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-05 14:40:00
  • Boy band NEXZs new album teased ahead of release later this month
    Boy band NEXZ's new album teased ahead of release later this month SEOUL, August 5 (AJP) - K-pop boy group NEXZ will release their fourth mini album later this month, returning four months after their single released last spring, their agency JYP Entertainment said on Wednesday. "SAUCIN'," set for release on Aug. 24, combines "sauce" with the suffix "-ing," reflecting the group's idea of bringing their own flavor and style wherever they go. The members then move through the arcade with their own sauce bottles before gathering around a hot dog topped with yellow, white and red sauces. The clip leans into a playful, offbeat energy that fits the group's reputation for throwing itself fully into everything it does. After the album release, NEXZ will perform at Rock in Rio in Brazil in September and appear at "STRAYCITY," a new festival set to take place across three Latin American locations. AJP Takeaways: - K-pop boy group NEXZ will release its fourth mini album, "SAUCIN'," at 6 p.m. on Aug. 24, 2026, marking its first release since the April single album "Mmchk." - JYP Entertainment said the album title combines "sauce" and "-ing," representing NEXZ's goal of bringing its own musical flavor and style wherever the group goes. - The second "SAUCIN'" trailer features all seven NEXZ members — Tomoya, Yu, Haru, So Geon, Seita, Hyui and Yuki — in a playful nighttime sequence centered on sauce bottles and a hot dog. - Following the album's release, NEXZ is scheduled to perform at Rock in Rio in Brazil in September and appear at "STRAYCITY," a new festival spanning three Latin American locations. 2026-08-05 14:36:31
  • Kim Yong-beom and Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon Discuss Housing Supply
    Kim Yong-beom and Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon Discuss Housing Supply Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon and Kim Yong-beom, head of the Presidential Policy Office, held a lunch meeting on August 5 to discuss housing supply strategies.According to the Seoul city government, the agenda for the meeting focused on housing-related issues. It is believed that Mayor Oh and Kim exchanged views on the supply scenarios being prepared by the government.Earlier, on July 19, Kim mentioned housing supply plans during an appearance on KBS's 'Sunday Diagnosis,' stating, "This is not just a problem for Seoul; collaborating with the central government could yield much greater results, so I have arranged to meet with Mayor Oh separately."President Yoon Suk-yeol chaired a 7.5-hour meeting on real estate and stock market assessments on August 3, the day he returned from a trip to the U.S. and South America.During that meeting, President Yoon instructed, "We must secure as many housing units as possible to ensure rapid supply, while also exploring available administrative measures and financial, fiscal, and regulatory relaxations to realize swift supply."Meanwhile, Chief Spokesperson Kang Yu-jeong announced on August 5 that President Yoon will chair a second meeting on real estate policy review, as directed during the August 3 meeting, on August 7 at 2 p.m. in a closed session.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-05 14:36:00
  • Haenams Urban Revitalization Efforts Boost Local Businesses
    Haenam's Urban Revitalization Efforts Boost Local Businesses Haenam County's urban revitalization project is yielding results as it continues to support local small businesses and boost the regional economy through various project selections.According to Haenam County, the urban revitalization initiative has facilitated local small businesses' participation in various projects, leading to selections in marketing, product development, and digital transformation, thereby establishing a foundation for growth.In April, 'Ddangkkut Pumpkin Candy' was selected for a marketing support project for women-owned small businesses organized by Jeollanam-do, securing 9.9 million won in funding. This project aims to enhance brand competitiveness, develop packaging materials, and establish an online marketing foundation.In June, 'Dalkkeut Choco' was chosen for a collaborative project by the Small Enterprise and Market Service, receiving 50 million won in funding. This initiative will focus on developing a joint brand, collaborative marketing, and expanding sales channels to strengthen the collaboration among local small businesses and enhance market competitiveness.The project selections continued in July.Dalkkeut Choco was also selected for the Ministry of SMEs and Startups' '2026 Small Business Lifestyle Culture Innovation Support Project,' allowing it to pursue a project worth 72 million won. This initiative is expected to inject new vitality into the urban market by establishing a differentiated business model linked to lifestyle culture content.In the 'Haenam Seaweed and Sweet Potato Product Development Support Project' led by the Jeollanam-do Bio Promotion Agency, 'Financier' and 'Ddaldalhan Haenam' were each selected, securing 60 million won per company, totaling 120 million won. The plan is to develop high-value-added products using Haenam's representative agricultural and marine products, seaweed and sweet potatoes, to enhance the brand competitiveness of local specialties.The initiative has also achieved success in the digital transformation sector.Eight local businesses, including The Best Seafood, Yeonane Siraegi Soup, Beautiful Bakery, Hwawonyo, Dalkkeut Choco, Ddaldalhan Haenam, Arong Cafe, and Hampyeong Hong-eo, were selected for the Small Enterprise and Market Service's '2026 One-on-One Digital Education Project.'Participating businesses will enhance their digital capabilities through tailored training and consulting linked with professional organizations, focusing on smart store operations, social media marketing, and expanding online sales channels. This is expected to help them adapt to the changing consumer environment and establish a stable sales foundation.Haenam County views these achievements as the result of sustainable market development policies that support small businesses' self-sufficiency, specialized product development, and digital transformation, going beyond mere environmental improvements.The Haenam Urban Revitalization Promotion Team plans to continue supporting local small businesses this year by discovering project opportunities, developing business plans, and providing expert consulting, actively seeking new projects that align with market characteristics.Kim Deok-il, head of the Haenam Urban Revitalization Promotion Team, stated, "We achieved good results by systematically supporting the discovery and participation in project opportunities, believing that the competitiveness of local small businesses is directly linked to the competitiveness of the local economy. In the future, we will continue to nurture brands that reflect Haenam's unique characteristics and support digital transformation and market expansion to inject ongoing vitality into the urban market."Meanwhile, as part of the urban revitalization project, Haenam County is promoting the creation of a chocolate street and expanding cultural content that reflects local characteristics, while focusing on strengthening merchant capabilities, developing specialized products, and supporting digital transformation to foster a sustainable local market.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-05 14:32:00
  • Heat Wave Halts Professional Baseball: KBO Cancels Games on August 5-6
    Heat Wave Halts Professional Baseball: KBO Cancels Games on August 5-6 A heat wave sweeping across the country has led the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) to cancel all professional baseball games for both the first and second leagues on August 5 and 6.According to Yonhap News, the KBO office announced on August 5 that an emergency meeting will be held on August 6 with the general managers of the 10 teams and representatives from the players' association to discuss league operations and safety measures in light of the extreme heat.Concerns about the heat intensified after an incident on August 4 at Incheon’s SSG Landers Field, where a spectator with pre-existing health conditions collapsed due to heat-related symptoms and had to be carried out on a stretcher. As a result, the KBO prioritized the safety of both fans and players, deciding to cancel games on August 5 and 6 until a comprehensive plan is established.On August 4, the KBO had already announced guidelines for operating games during heat waves. Games would proceed normally under a heat advisory, but if a heat warning is issued, the home team could delay the start of the game by up to one hour. If a severe heat warning is in effect, with a forecasted maximum perceived temperature of 38 degrees Celsius or higher, games scheduled before 1 p.m. would be canceled.Following these guidelines, the games between the NC Dinos and Doosan Bears at Seoul’s Jamsil Stadium and the kt wiz and KIA Tigers at Gwangju’s Kia Champions Field were the first to be canceled. This brings the total number of games canceled this year due to the heat to 15, with overall cancellations, including rainouts, reaching 40.Yonhap News predicts that the cancellation of all games will impact the competition for playoff spots. With 67.6% of the season completed, teams vying for standings will need to reassess their strategies due to the cancellations.Teams sending multiple players to the Asian Games next month will face additional pressure. The LG Twins, who have struggled with a record of 3 wins, 1 draw, and 12 losses in the second half, will have time to regroup, while the second-place Samsung Lions, who have also faced challenges in the heat, welcome the break. In contrast, the fourth-place Doosan Bears, who will send Kwak Bin, Choi Min-seok, and Park Jun-soon to the Asian Games, and the fifth-place KIA Tigers, with Kim Do-young, Park Jae-hyun, and Seong Young-tak participating, are concerned about the scheduling burden due to player call-ups.Notably, KIA has not played since their game against NC on July 31, resulting in a five-day break, which is longer than other teams, and they will need to make up for these games in September. The kt wiz, currently leading the league and sending So Hyung-jun, Oh Won-seok, and Park Young-hyun to the national team, will also need to accumulate as many wins as possible before the expected call-up on September 13.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-05 14:32:00