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Sangmidang Holdings Delivers Health Packages and Water to Vulnerable Communities Sangmidang Holdings conducted a charitable initiative to support vulnerable communities during the heat wave.On August 4, Sangmidang Holdings delivered 200 health packages and 2,000 bottles of water to the Seoul Station Goshiwon Counseling Center in Yongsan, Seoul, the company announced on August 5.The health packages included easy-to-eat items such as samgyetang, herbal medicine, soup, and nuts, along with sports cooling towels. Employees from the company participated in assembling the packages. The donated items will be distributed through 'Onggi Warehouse,' a store that provides tailored essential goods for residents of goshiwon, which are small, low-cost rooms. Residents can use allocated credits to choose the items they need.A representative from Sangmidang Holdings stated, "We hope this initiative provides some relief to goshiwon residents struggling with the heat. We will continue to engage in community support activities involving our employees in the future."Since 2024, Sangmidang Holdings has been supporting vulnerable communities near the goshiwon and Hangangno areas by providing bottled water as part of its summer heat relief efforts.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-05 11:16:10
Dabang Wins Max Summit Award for Real Estate for Third Consecutive Year Dabang, a domestic real estate platform, has been recognized for the success of its "Dabang Hanaro Kkeut!" campaign, winning the Real Estate category at the "Max Summit Award 2026," marking its third consecutive year of accolades. On August 5, Dabang announced that it was selected as a winner in the Real Estate category at the "Max Summit Award 2026," hosted by digital ad tech company Mobidays. Now in its 12th year, the Max Summit Award is a digital marketing conference in South Korea that honors brands and platforms that have achieved outstanding marketing results over the past year, as determined by industry experts. Dabang received high praise for effectively conveying its core values of "coexistence and trust" through its TV advertising campaign "Dabang Hanaro Kkeut!" launched last November. The campaign, which utilized a summit meeting concept, emphasized collaboration with certified real estate agents while delivering the message that "Dabang is sufficient for real estate brokerage." Notably, Dabang's exclusive model, Hyeri, played a significant role in enhancing the campaign's appeal by taking on multiple roles. She has been the brand model since the 2015 "When Looking for a Room, Choose Dabang!" campaign, maintaining the longest partnership in the proptech industry. Dabang is also focused on building a "trust ecosystem" based on coexistence with real estate agents. The company provides technology-based services to enhance agents' competitiveness while offering data-driven information to users, creating a more rational transaction environment. Additionally, Dabang is expanding brand awareness and customer engagement through integrated marketing communications (IMC) that link various channels, primarily centered around TV advertising. The company aims to strengthen its position as a comprehensive real estate platform beyond just a property search service. Previously, Dabang received recognition at the Max Summit Award for its campaigns in 2024 and 2025, including "Everyone Sees a Room, Dabang!" and offline brand marketing at the Busan International Rock Festival. Jang Jun-hyuk, head of Dabang's marketing department, stated, "It is very meaningful that our TV advertising campaign, which embodies Dabang's philosophy of coexistence with agents, has been recognized by a reputable award. We will continue to enhance our brand competitiveness while supporting agents' expertise and competitiveness, and we will continuously develop data-driven services to help users make rational housing choices, creating a real estate ecosystem where everyone can grow together." Meanwhile, according to Dabang's recently released "Dabang Yeojido" on July 28, the average monthly rent for one-room apartments in Seoul fell by 8.2% last month, reaching its lowest level this year. However, in Gangnam District, rents increased by 5.1% to 1.02 million won, the highest among Seoul's 25 districts.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-05 11:16:00
Poll: 62.5% of Koreans Support Prosecutors' Supplementary Investigation Powers A recent poll shows that more than 60% of South Koreans believe prosecutors should retain supplementary investigation powers, following the Cabinet's approval of a bill to abolish these powers entirely on August 4.According to a survey conducted by Hankyoreh Research from August 1 to 3, which sampled 1,000 adults aged 18 and older, 62.5% of respondents indicated that they believe supplementary investigation powers are necessary. In contrast, 31.8% said they are not needed, while 5.8% were unsure.Support for the necessity of supplementary investigation powers crossed party lines, with 53.8% of supporters of the Democratic Party and 73.0% of supporters of the People Power Party agreeing on the need for these powers. Among those who felt they were unnecessary, 39.5% identified as Democratic Party supporters, while 22.4% were from the People Power Party.When broken down by political ideology, 52.0% of progressives and 69.9% of conservatives agreed on the need for supplementary investigation powers. Notably, 70.5% of moderates also expressed support.However, opinions were nearly split regarding trust in the prosecution as an investigative body. The survey found that 48.1% of respondents trust the prosecution, while 48.4% do not, a difference of just 0.3 percentage points. In comparison, trust in the police, who will gain full investigative authority under the new criminal procedure law, stood at 41.4%, with 55.2% indicating they do not trust the police.On July 31, the National Assembly, led by the ruling party, passed a bill to completely abolish the prosecution's investigative powers. This bill was also approved by the Cabinet during a meeting chaired by President Lee Jae-myung the following day. As a result, the prosecution will be restructured into the Public Prosecution Service and the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency in October, with prosecutors prohibited from conducting any investigations and limited to handling prosecutions.The survey utilized a random digit dialing (RDD) method, with 3.6% of responses collected via landline interviews and 96.4% through a mobile automated response system (ARS). For more details, please refer to the website of the National Election Survey Deliberation Commission.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-05 11:12:00
Jeju Power Demand Hits Record High Amid Heatwave, Surpassing 1186 MW Jeju has recorded its highest power demand ever due to the ongoing heatwave. However, the supply reserve remains sufficient, ensuring stable power supply.According to the Jeju branch of the Power Exchange, the maximum power demand in the region reached 1186.3 MW as of 7 p.m. on August 4. This figure surpasses the previous summer peak of 1178.6 MW recorded on August 5, 2024.On that day, the highest temperature in Jeju City rose to 32.4°C, significantly increasing the use of cooling devices. The temperature remained at 28.9°C even at 7 p.m., contributing to the rise in power demand.The Power Exchange anticipates that if the heatwave and tropical nights continue during the vacation season, maximum power demand could reach new highs.Despite the surge in maximum power demand, the supply reserve stood at 433.6 MW, with a reserve rate of 36.6%, indicating that the power supply remained stable.The Jeju branch of the Power Exchange stated that it will take comprehensive measures to manage power supply during the summer supply period, from June 29 to September 18, in preparation for extreme heat, the Jeju-mainland interconnection line, and unexpected generator outages.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-05 11:12:00
Concerns Rise Over Lee Seung-gi's 10.5 Billion Won Security Deposit Amid Landlord's Arrest Interest is growing over the return of singer and actor Lee Seung-gi's 10.5 billion won security deposit as the expiration of his lease approaches, coinciding with the arrest of his landlord, Cha Ga-won, CEO of One Hundred Label, on fraud charges.Cha was arrested on August 3 for allegedly violating the Act on the Aggravated Punishment of Specific Economic Crimes. He is accused of receiving a prepayment of 24.2 billion won from Nomore Co. under the pretense of proposing a business utilizing the intellectual property rights of affiliated entertainers, but failing to carry out the actual business. Cha's representatives deny the allegations.This arrest is not directly related to Lee Seung-gi's lease agreement. Being arrested in a criminal case does not eliminate a landlord's obligation to return the security deposit, nor does it automatically lead to the seizure of their assets.Lee signed a lease for a villa in Hannam-dong, Yongsan District, Seoul, owned by Cha and his wife in 2024 for a security deposit of 10.5 billion won. Lee's representatives claim they were asked for a higher deposit than initially indicated, and that Cha promised to cover loan and interest burdens but failed to do so.Cha's side contends that the security deposit was set after an appraisal and that Lee was aware of and agreed to the contract procedures, citing messages as evidence. Given the conflicting claims, it cannot be definitively concluded that the contract constitutes a lease fraud at this stage.Lee has reportedly completed the leasehold registration to protect his deposit. According to reports based on real estate registration records, Lee established a leasehold right for the 10.5 billion won deposit on the property in August 2024.Unlike general lease rights protected by a change of residence report and a confirmed date, a leasehold right is a registered property right. If the return of the security deposit is delayed after the contract ends, the leaseholder can request an auction of the property.However, establishing a leasehold right does not guarantee the full return of the security deposit. The actual amount recoverable depends on the registration priority of the leasehold, any senior mortgages, tax claims, and the auction price of the property. As the latest registration details have not been confirmed, it is currently uncertain whether Lee will recover the full 10.5 billion won.For general tenants who have not established a leasehold right, the approach differs. It is advisable to communicate the intent to terminate the contract and request the return of the deposit through methods that leave a record, such as text messages or certified mail.If a tenant has not received their deposit after the lease has ended, they should not vacate the property or change their residence report without completing the leasehold registration. If moving is unavoidable, they should apply for a leasehold registration order at the competent court and confirm that the registration has been recorded before moving to maintain their existing rights and priority for repayment.If there is a concern that the landlord may dispose of their assets, the tenant may consider applying for a provisional seizure of real estate or deposits. If there is little dispute over the obligation and amount of return, a payment order can be requested, and if the landlord objects, the matter may proceed to civil litigation.If the property goes to auction, tenants should verify their rights and the deadline for claiming distributions. Generally, tenants with a confirmed date must file their rights and distribution claims within the specified period.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-05 11:08:00
Hyundai Motor Group appoints former US official to head Washington office SEOUL, August 5 (AJP) - Hyundai Motor Group has appointed a former U.S. State Department official as head of its Washington, D.C. office, the automaker said on Wednesday. Michael Kleine is expected to bring more than 25 years of diplomatic experience, having held senior positions at the U.S. Department of State and key posts across the Asia-Pacific region. He previously served as U.S. chargé d'affaires to Indonesia and as minister-counselor for economic affairs at the U.S. Embassy in Seoul, where he supported efforts to conclude and ratify the Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement (FTA). The automaker said Kleine's background in diplomacy, trade policy and international relations will help further strengthen its cooperation with the U.S. government. "Kleine will advance U.S. government engagement and oversee all public policy, strategic advisory and government affairs activities," it said. The move comes as the automaker seeks closer cooperation with U.S. policymakers amid ongoing tariff pressures under U.S. President Donald Trump, as it aims to expand production in the United States and localize its supply chain as part of its major investment plans. Kleine, who fills a vacancy left by the previous head of government relations after about a year in the role, will lead the automaker's "engagement with U.S. federal government stakeholders and oversee all public policy, strategic advisory and government affairs activities across the U.S." His appointment "reflects our deep commitment to the U.S. and our vision to strengthen ties between Hyundai Motor Group and U.S. institutions and stakeholders. His distinguished career and proven track record in navigating complex trade and policy matters make him an invaluable addition to our team as we continue to expand our footprint in America," the automaker said. AJP Takeaways: - Hyundai Motor Group appointed Michael Kleine, a former U.S. State Department official with more than 25 years of diplomatic experience, as head of its Washington, D.C. government affairs office, the company announced on Aug. 5, 2026. - Michael Kleine previously served as U.S. chargé d'affaires to Indonesia and as minister-counselor for economic affairs at the U.S. Embassy in Seoul, where he supported efforts to conclude and ratify the Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement (FTA). - In his new role, Michael Kleine will lead Hyundai Motor Group's engagement with U.S. federal government stakeholders and oversee all public policy, strategic advisory, and government affairs activities across the United States. - Michael Kleine fills a vacancy left by Hyundai Motor Group's previous head of government relations, who held the role for about a year. - The appointment comes as Hyundai Motor Group seeks closer cooperation with U.S. policymakers amid tariff pressures under U.S. President Donald Trump, as the company expands U.S. production and localizes its supply chain under its investment plans. 2026-08-05 11:07:13
Kookmin University wins 9-year Seoul AI mobility grant SEOUL, August 05 (AJP) - Seoul will bankroll a Kookmin University plan to knit self-driving cars, delivery robots and air taxis into a single artificial intelligence system for the capital, committing up to 8 billion won, about $5.6 million at current exchange rates, over as long as nine years. Kookmin University said Tuesday that its Automotive Convergence College had been selected for the Seoul Anchor 10 Challenge, one of the funding tracks in the city's 2026 regional talent development system. The system, known by the English acronym ANCHOR, is the Ministry of Education's rebranded version of RISE, the framework that hands central government money for university funding to provincial and metropolitan governments to spend on their own priorities. The ministry announced the reorganization in April, saying the earlier version had produced regionally tailored projects without results that students could feel. The Anchor 10 Challenge is the long-horizon research piece of that structure. Universities pick their own target rather than answering a government-written brief, and the money is meant to run through to patents and commercial licensing rather than stopping at published papers. Nine years of funding is not guaranteed at the outset. Seoul's public notice for the program set an initial phase running to February 2028, with the extension going to the top half of participating universities at a mid-term review. Kookmin University will run the work through a unit it calls the AI-SAT Mobility Project Group, led by Shin Sung-hwan, a professor in the Automotive Convergence College. The acronym stands for sense, act and trust, covering a system that reads the city's traffic environment, decides how to move through it, and does so in a way residents are willing to accept. The technical goal is a platform the university has named AI-Defined Mobility, or ADM, which would place autonomous vehicles, mobile robots and urban air mobility aircraft under one decision-making layer instead of leaving each to operate on its own logic. Urban air mobility refers to the small electric aircraft, often described as air taxis, that South Korean transport planners expect to begin carrying passengers over cities within the next several years. Researchers plan to use the platform to work through five problems the city has flagged: traffic congestion, accident risk, urban noise, restricted movement for elderly and disabled residents, and public distrust of autonomous systems. Testing will happen on Seoul streets rather than in a laboratory. The university said it would gather data with the metropolitan government and district offices in congested areas, accident hotspots and neighborhoods that generate frequent noise complaints. Among the technologies to be validated is vehicle-to-everything communication, or V2X, the system that lets cars exchange information directly with traffic signals, road sensors and one another. The project also covers communication security for urban air mobility aircraft and robots, along with a testing environment designed to track public willingness to use the technologies over an extended period. Joining Shin on the research team are professors Yang Ji-hyun, Kim Jong-chan, Lim Se-jun, Song Kyo-won, Jeon Sang-hoon, Lee Seung-mok and Kim San-min. For Kookmin University, the award lands in its 80th anniversary year and slots into KMU VISION 2035: EDGE, the mid-to-long-term strategy the school proclaimed last October. Mobility is one of eight fields the university has designated for concentrated investment, alongside automotive engineering, software and autonomous driving research. Other Seoul universities picked for the same track this year are pursuing sharply different targets. Dongguk University is working on optical semiconductors for AI applications, while Sookmyung Women's University is pursuing anti-aging therapies aimed at extending healthy lifespan by a decade. "This selection came on the strength of the convergence research capacity Kookmin University has built up in automotive and mobility engineering and artificial intelligence," Shin said. "We will carry out the project so the results connect to patents and technology commercialization, and contribute to the growth of Seoul's future mobility industry." --- AJP Takeaways: ● Kookmin University said Tuesday its Automotive Convergence College was selected for the Seoul Anchor 10 Challenge, a city research track funding up to 8 billion won, about $5.6 million, over as long as nine years. ● The AI-SAT Mobility Project Group, led by Kookmin University professor Shin Sung-hwan, will build a platform called AI-Defined Mobility that places autonomous vehicles, mobile robots and urban air mobility aircraft under a single decision-making layer. ● Field testing will run on Seoul streets with the metropolitan government and district offices, covering congested areas, accident hotspots and neighborhoods with frequent noise complaints, and validating vehicle-to-everything communication and communication security for aircraft and robots. ● Funding is not guaranteed for the full term. Seoul's public notice set an initial phase running to February 2028, with the extension going to the top half of participating universities at a mid-term review. 2026-08-05 11:06:54
Gwangju Mayor Park Kwan-yeol Emphasizes Field-Based Administration Park Kwan-yeol, the mayor of Gwangju, emphasized on August 5 that "administration must find answers not at the desk but in the field," highlighting the importance of direct governance. Mayor Park is operating a 'Direct Mayor's Office' by visiting disability welfare sites to communicate directly with citizens, continuing his focus on field-centered public administration. On this day, he opened a 'Direct Mayor's Office' at the Welfare Administration Town, where he listened to the concerns of disability organizations and welfare centers, discussing ways to improve the situation in the disability welfare sector. This initiative is part of the core philosophy of his administration, '100 Days of Direct Field Engagement,' aimed at implementing field administration by having the mayor visit places where citizens are present. During his visit to the disability welfare center on the 3rd and 4th floors of the Welfare Administration Town, Mayor Park toured rehabilitation therapy rooms and program operation sites, meeting with users and staff to assess facility operations and welfare services. He also visited the offices of disability organizations on the 2nd floor, openly listening to the inconveniences faced during facility use and areas needing system improvements. Notably, the meeting took place at a disability cafe on the 1st floor of the Welfare Administration Town, where participants enjoyed beverages made by disabled workers, drawing attention. The informal setting allowed for natural exchanges of opinions, with attendees expressing satisfaction, stating, "We could talk comfortably with the mayor," and "It was a meaningful opportunity to convey the voices from the field as they are." During the meeting, disability organizations presented various policy proposals, including improvements to welfare facility usage, expanded support for disabled individuals' independence, and enhancements to welfare services. Mayor Park responded, saying, "We will carefully review the opinions raised in the field with the relevant departments to ensure they lead to practical improvements." He added, "Listening directly to the small voices of socially vulnerable individuals, such as those with disabilities, and reflecting them in governance is the core value of direct administration," emphasizing that the goal of his administration is to create a Gwangju where everyone can feel changes in their daily lives and be happy. This Direct Mayor's Office is being recognized as a new model of 'field communication administration,' where the mayor sits down with citizens to hear problems and seek solutions together, going beyond simple site visits. Local citizens have also reacted positively, noting, "I felt sincerity in the mayor coming directly to listen rather than waiting in the office for administration." Welfare center users expressed hope, saying, "If the mayor listens to even the smallest inconveniences, we expect welfare administration to change," and "We hope the Direct Mayor's Office that communicates directly with citizens continues to operate." Mayor Park concluded, "I will continue to approach citizens more closely and swiftly connect their opinions to policies, promoting citizen-centered administration." Meanwhile, Mayor Park plans to expand field-centered communication administration through '100 Days of Direct Field Engagement,' visiting various citizen life areas, including welfare, economy, safety, and transportation, to quickly reflect citizens' voices in governance. 2026-08-05 11:04:00
Lotte Foundation Provides Customized Assistive Devices to 144 Individuals with Severe Disabilities The Lotte Scholarship Foundation and the Lotte Welfare Foundation are providing customized assistive devices worth 300 million won to 144 individuals with severe brain and physical disabilities. On August 4, the Lotte Foundation held the '2026 Lotte Foundation Assistive Device Delivery Ceremony' at the Irum Center in Yeouido, Seoul. This year, the recipients include 97 adults and 47 children and adolescents. The support includes 57 types of assistive devices across four areas essential for daily life: mobility, seating, standing, and walking. Each recipient will receive devices valued at approximately 2.5 million won, tailored to their level of disability, physical capabilities, and living environment. After delivery, experts will visit homes to provide training on how to use the devices and offer free follow-up support for two years. The foundation selected the recipients in collaboration with 17 assistive device centers and welfare centers for the disabled across the country, including the Seoul Northeast Assistive Device Center under the Korean Cerebral Palsy Welfare Association. A notable aspect of this year's initiative is the expanded support for adults. Last year, 142 individuals under the age of 34 received 56 types of assistive devices, but this year, the age limit has been raised to 45, increasing the number of recipients and types of devices to 144 and 57, respectively. This change aims to address the gap in support for assistive devices that often occurs after individuals reach adulthood. The 'Shin Kyuk-ho Lotte Assistive Device Support Project' was launched in 2017 to assist individuals with severe brain and physical disabilities in mobility and daily living, while also alleviating the caregiving burden on families. To date, the foundation has provided assistive devices worth approximately 2.3 billion won to 1,553 individuals. Satisfaction with the program has been high. A follow-up survey conducted last year among recipients revealed an overall satisfaction score of 4.51 out of 5. Additionally, 94.1% of respondents reported a reduction in daily living difficulties after using the assistive devices. The delivery ceremony was attended by Jang Hye-seon, Chairperson of the Lotte Scholarship Foundation, Jo Han-bong, Chairperson of the Lotte Welfare Foundation, and Hwang Jeong-hee, Secretary General of the Korean Cerebral Palsy Welfare Association. Chairperson Jang stated, “As children grow, parents age, and the caregiving burden increases, it becomes increasingly difficult to receive support once children become adults. This year, we have increased the proportion of adult recipients and expanded the support age to 45.” She added, “I have heard that many individuals are unaware of such programs and miss the opportunity to apply, which is very upsetting. Even if it is a small spark, the foundation will continue to work hard on this project, and I hope you do not give up.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-05 11:04:00
Audience Reactions to Christopher Nolan's 'The Odyssey' in IMAX Christopher Nolan's latest film, 'The Odyssey,' premiered in South Korea on August 5, and early audience reactions are flooding in. As of 10 a.m. on the release day, the first early morning screening at the Yongsan IMAX theater had concluded, leading to a wave of positive reviews on Naver from local viewers.Audience members expressed their enthusiasm, with comments such as, "Christopher Nolan + Matt Damon = 100 points," and "I am grateful to live in the era of Nolan again." Others noted themes of humanity, repentance, and the journey home, stating, "Ultimately, the focus is on humanity," and "Isn't Nolan a god?" One viewer remarked that the film's emotional impact in the latter half prompted them to reflect on their own life.International viewers shared a common sentiment that it is not necessary to have an in-depth understanding of the original work. Many agreed that having a basic knowledge of Odysseus, the Trojan War, and key figures like Agamemnon is sufficient to grasp the film's narrative. Some suggested that knowing too much about the original could lead to disappointment in the film's condensed storytelling.Viewer A noted, "Homer's original 'Odyssey' also begins in the middle of the story and reflects on the past. Embracing Nolan's unique temporal structure makes for a more enjoyable viewing experience." Viewer B, who watched the film in 70mm IMAX in the U.S., commented, "Before its release, there was a buzz that this film must be seen in IMAX 70mm, but ultimately, the core lies in the story and its message." They added, "If you don't have a large IMAX theater nearby or find it difficult to travel, watching it in a regular theater poses no issues for understanding the story. However, if you want to experience Odysseus's journey fully, IMAX is definitely different. The massive screen and overwhelming sound create an immersive feeling, as if you are floating on the sea, and the film's warm color palette is impressive."Viewer C, who saw the film in Singapore, stated, "The visual beauty alone makes it worth leaving the theater. I felt as if I were in the midst of Bronze Age Greece. Odysseus's journey felt like my own." They praised the performances, saying, "All the actors were excellent, and any casting controversies or historical accuracy issues were hardly noticeable while watching. If you enjoy serious and weighty stories, I highly recommend it. I plan to watch it again with friends."Viewer D, who watched the film at the Chinese Theater in Hollywood, remarked, "The IMAX shines brightest during the sequences at sea," adding, "The film's color palette is truly beautiful." They noted that the film is closer to works like 'Oppenheimer' and 'Dunkirk,' which delve deeply into human emotions and the scars of war, rather than being an action blockbuster like 'The Dark Knight' or 'Inception.' They praised Nolan's signature style of mixing timelines and building tension as still being outstanding.They also mentioned, "The intervention of mythological gods feels realistically reinterpreted, and the film focuses more on human anguish and the theme of returning home rather than action." However, some viewers pointed out that while 70mm IMAX offers the best viewing experience as intended by Nolan, the characteristics of older theaters, such as seating, sound, and screen distance, can lead to mixed opinions on the viewing environment.Meanwhile, 'The Odyssey' saw a surge in pre-bookings when special screenings began last month, causing delays due to high traffic at the CGV Yongsan IMAX. Prior to its release, advance ticket sales surpassed 500,000, and most screenings at Yongsan IMAX were sold out for about two weeks. Some prime seats were even resold at a premium on secondary markets, reflecting the high interest in the film. 2026-08-05 11:00:20