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  • North Koreas Kim Yo-jong Warns of Military Response to Japans Actions
    North Korea's Kim Yo-jong Warns of Military Response to Japan's Actions Kim Yo-jong, the head of the Workers' Party of Korea's General Department, warned that North Korea would respond militarily to Japan's recent actions, including the test launch of long-range cruise missiles.In a statement released on August 5, titled "Japan's Possession of Preemptive Strike Capability is a Major Threat to International Peace and Stability," Kim criticized Japan's military developments, as reported by the Korean Central News Agency.She referenced the recent test launch of the U.S.-made Tomahawk cruise missile by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and Japan's participation in U.S.-led joint exercises in the Philippines.Kim stated that Japan's military actions demonstrate a shift towards formalizing its preemptive strike capability, which she claimed violates international law and Japan's own constitution prohibiting the right to collective defense and engagement in combat.She specifically mentioned the deployment of anti-ship guided missiles and glide bombs at Self-Defense Forces bases, emphasizing that Japan's military posture is being restructured into a preemptive strike and overseas invasion model across multiple domains, including land, sea, air, and underwater.Kim pointed out that Japan's previous portrayal as a "peace-loving nation" has become increasingly transparent as a cover for its ambitions to militarize.She also highlighted the role of the United States in supporting Japan's military maneuvers, claiming that the U.S. has facilitated the conditions for Japan's recent Tomahawk missile test, which she argued poses a direct threat to North Korea.Kim warned, "We will not overlook Japan's military evolution and will clearly establish additional military options in response to Japan's transformation, as mandated by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea's military and military leadership."Earlier, Japan's Ministry of Defense announced that the Aegis destroyer, the Chokai, conducted a Tomahawk cruise missile test in the Pacific with support from the U.S. Navy on July 28. This marked the first time Japan has actually launched a Tomahawk missile.The Tomahawk is a long-range precision strike cruise missile with a range of 1,600 to 2,500 kilometers, capable of reaching North Korea, Russia, and China.Japan has signed a contract to acquire 400 Tomahawk missiles through the U.S. Foreign Military Sales program, with plans to bring them in between 2025 and 2027, and has sent the Chokai to the U.S. to develop operational capabilities.Yang Moo-jin, a professor at the University of North Korean Studies, noted that while Japan claims its military developments are for defensive deterrence, North Korea interprets these intentions as expansionist. He added that the implications of additional military options mean that Japan's military trends will be recognized as official threats not only to South Korea and the U.S. but also to North Korea.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-05 10:52:00
  • Alteogen Signs $365 Million Licensing Deal for ALT-B4 Technology
    Alteogen Signs $365 Million Licensing Deal for ALT-B4 Technology Alteogen has entered into a licensing agreement worth up to 521.9 billion won ($365 million) with a global pharmaceutical company for its Hybrozyme® platform technology.On August 5, Alteogen announced that it has signed an exclusive license agreement for the development and commercialization of a subcutaneous (SC) formulation of its recombinant human hyaluronidase, ALT-B4, utilizing its Hybrozyme platform technology.Under this agreement, the partner company will gain exclusive rights to develop and commercialize its products using the ALT-B4 subcutaneous formulation.The deal includes an upfront payment and milestone payments for development, approval, and commercialization, totaling up to $365 million. Alteogen will also receive separate sales royalties on net sales generated from the first commercial sale of products incorporating ALT-B4.Chun Tae-yeon, CEO of Alteogen, stated, "We are pleased to have signed this licensing agreement with a partner that has been leading the development of innovative therapies in areas with high unmet medical needs. We will continue to accelerate the growth of our platform business through global partnerships."Meanwhile, Alteogen demonstrated the competitiveness of its platform last year when Merck's (MSD) Keytruda SC, which utilizes its technology, was commercialized. Keytruda SC received a billing code (J-code) in the United States in April.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-05 10:44:00
  • Hanwha Foreena Develops Innovative Play Space Nextflow
    Hanwha Foreena Develops Innovative Play Space 'Nextflow' Hanwha Construction has unveiled a new play space design aimed at addressing climate change. On August 5, Hanwha Construction announced the development of 'Nextflow,' a play space designed to allow outdoor activities year-round, even amid rising temperatures and increased fine dust. Nextflow is designed to provide young children with outdoor playground enjoyment while minimizing the impact of weather and seasonal changes. It combines water play, relaxation, and play functions in a single space, offering residents a new lifestyle experience. A key feature is a water playground integrated with a bridge. This bridge spans a concave play area, enabling three-dimensional space utilization, and combines with a fountain system and slides to create a mini water park environment. During seasons when water play facilities are not in use, the bridge serves as a shelter from rain, snow, and strong sunlight. The hilly terrain can also be utilized for a mini plaza or small performances, serving as a community space for residents. The design incorporates climate-responsive features. A large bridge structure and separate shading facilities block direct sunlight, while densely planted trees provide natural shade. Additionally, various heights of interconnected play structures, including trampolines, hammocks, tunnels, and large pipes, stimulate children's physical activity and curiosity. Nextflow consists of four themes. Depending on the size and characteristics of the complex, themes can be combined or applied individually, allowing for customized play space creation. As outdoor activities become increasingly restricted due to heat and fine dust, the design of apartment landscaping and play spaces is evolving from simple relaxation areas to climate-responsive community facilities. Kim Min-seok, head of the architectural business division at Hanwha Construction, stated, “Nextflow is the result of our efforts to create a space where children can play safely and comfortably, regardless of seasonal and climate changes. We will continue to enhance our brand competitiveness through differentiated landscaping design unique to Hanwha Foreena.” Meanwhile, Hanwha Construction plans to expand the premium design competitiveness of Hanwha Foreena by introducing Nextflow, following the landscape design 'Grand Flow' at the complex entrance, exterior design 'Foreena Vista,' and integrated design for entrance and gate 'Foreena Journey.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-05 10:36:00
  • Suwon City Demonstrates Drone Delivery Service at Gwanggyo Lake Park
    Suwon City Demonstrates Drone Delivery Service at Gwanggyo Lake Park Suwon City, led by Mayor Lee Jae-jun, held a demonstration of its drone delivery service on August 4 at the Gwanggyo Lake Park Drone Delivery Center.The event showcased the entire process of ordering items via a mobile web platform and having them delivered by drone from a delivery hub to designated drop-off points.The city was selected in March for the Ministry of Land's 'Drone Demonstration City Project' and is promoting the 'Gwanggyo Walking Trail Drone Delivery Service' in collaboration with a convenience store.Two delivery hubs and eight drop-off points have been established around Gwanggyo Lake Park and Gwanggyo Reservoir, where safety, public acceptance, and operational models have been comprehensively verified.Users can order items through the mobile web platform 'Suwon Drone Delivery' and receive their orders at designated drop-off points. The drones are programmed to fly along pre-set routes that are separate from pedestrian pathways, and they operate only when weather conditions are suitable, taking into account real-time data on wind and rain.The service will operate on weekends from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. from August to November, starting from the entrance plaza of Gwanggyo Lake Park, the family camping site, and the water promotion center. Plans are in place to expand to a total of eight drop-off points, including Jeamin Field, Jeongdaun Restroom, Birch Tree Restroom, and Gwanggyo Reservoir Park.During the pilot operation in August, there will be no delivery fees, and customers will receive souvenirs with their orders.Attendees at the demonstration included Choi Hyun-joo, Director of AI Smart Policy at Suwon City, Councilman Bae Ji-hwan, Lee Byeong-jin, Chairman of the Suwon Urban Foundation, and representatives from the Suwon Yeongtong Police Station, Suwon Fire Station, Drone School International, and local residents.A city official stated, 'Suwon Drone Delivery is a service that allows citizens to conveniently receive necessary items while enjoying their leisure time. We aim to establish a future-oriented delivery service that is felt in daily life by verifying the safety and convenience of drone delivery.'The items delivered will primarily include beverages, snacks, and picnic supplies, catering to needs while enjoying walks and relaxation in the park or outdoors.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-05 10:36:00
  • South Korea finalizes next years minimum wage at 10,700 won per hour
    South Korea finalizes next year's minimum wage at 10,700 won per hour SEOUL, August 5 (AJP) - South Korea's minimum wage for next year was finalized at 10,700 won (about US$7) per hour on Wednesday, following an agreement reached last month by a 27-member committee comprising nine representatives each from workers, employers and government-appointed independent members. The Ministry of Employment and Labor said the new minimum wage will take effect on Jan. 1 and apply uniformly across all industries and workplaces. For full-time employees, it amounts to a monthly salary of 2.24 million won based on a 40-hour workweek, up 79,420 won from this year. After several rounds of negotiations, the committee agreed on July 14 to raise the minimum hourly wage by 3.7 percent from the current 10,320 won to 10,700 won next year. Even after the deal was reached, both labor and small-business groups had raised objections, calling for broader labor protection. The Federation of Korean Trade Unions (FKTU) called the agreement "deeply disappointing," saying it failed to reflect the struggles of low-wage workers and rising living costs and calling for minimum wage coverage to be extended to contract workers and platform workers including delivery workers and riders. On the other hand, the Korea Federation of Micro Enterprises (KFME) opposed the decision, warning that the increase could hurt small-business owners and result in more job losses. The ministry rejected both objections after deliberation. No minimum wage decision has been returned for reconsideration since South Korea began setting a minimum wage in 1988. Meanwhile, the 3.7 percent increase is the largest since 2023, following increases of 2.5 percent in 2024, 1.7 percent in 2025 and 2.9 percent this year. It also stands 0.9 percentage points above July's annual consumer inflation rate of 2.8 percent, although the actual benefit for low-paid workers will depend on price movements before and after the new rate takes effect. The committee estimates that the increase will directly affect 660,000 workers or 3.8 percent of employees, based on a workplace survey, while a separate economically active population survey puts the figure at nearly 3 million or 13.3 percent of employees. The ministry said it would step up public guidance and workplace inspections to ensure businesses follow the new minimum wage rules. 2026-08-05 10:34:13
  • Samsung C&T Launches Four New Lifestyle Services on Home Platform Homnic
    Samsung C&T Launches Four New Lifestyle Services on Home Platform Homnic Samsung C&T's construction division is introducing four new lifestyle services on its home platform, Homnic. On August 5, Samsung C&T announced that it has partnered with service companies to offer cleaning, car washing, clothing collection, and pet care services through Homnic. The newly launched services include the household cleaning service 'Cheongyeon,' mobile car washing and vehicle management service 'Gatcha,' pet care service 'Wayo,' and clothing collection service 'Pickot.' Following the expansion of pre-move-in services in May, Homnic is now enhancing its post-move-in service lineup. Residents in Homnic-implemented complexes can receive discount coupons or points based on the services they use, with some services available at discounts of up to 50%. The services were first introduced at the 'SK D-Pine Gwang-an' complex in Busan, which began moving in at the end of June. They have since been expanded to all Homnic complexes. Residents of Raemian complexes prior to the implementation of Homnic can also access these lifestyle services by completing a simple registration process. As competition among apartment brands extends beyond community facilities to include post-move-in management services, the scope of construction company platforms is gradually widening. With the launch of these new services, Samsung C&T plans to strengthen its B2B sales to construction companies and enhance the value of its platform through differentiated apartment living service models, aiming to boost revenue. Currently, Homnic is expanding its service ecosystem through strategic partnerships with 19 other apartment brands, including Doosan Construction, HS Hwasung, and SK Eco Plant, starting with a collaboration with Hanwha's construction division in December 2024.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-05 10:32:20
  • Song Young-gil Proposes Impeachment of Chief Justice Cho Hee-dae
    Song Young-gil Proposes Impeachment of Chief Justice Cho Hee-dae Song Young-gil, a candidate for the leadership of the Democratic Party, announced on August 5 that he would push for the impeachment of Chief Justice Cho Hee-dae. He stated that if elected as party leader, this would become the party's official stance.After a press conference at the National Assembly, Song told reporters, "I believe we can no longer delay this, as Chief Justice Cho has been neglecting his duties by failing to recommend a successor for the Supreme Court justices."He further commented on Cho's delay in recommending a successor, saying, "It appears he intends to turn the judiciary into his own organization."Song emphasized, "I believe there was tacit cooperation between the martial law forces on the night of the martial law. What was discussed during the Supreme Court's emergency late-night meeting that night?"He acknowledged that some party members have raised concerns about the impeachment process but asserted, "We will go through a deliberative process to initiate the impeachment of Chief Justice Cho and suspend his duties."Additionally, amid recent discussions about 'dark elections' where voting occurs before campaigning, Song remarked, "Voting should take place after the campaign ends, but this election has seen voting happening after the campaign, which is out of order. Since candidate Jeong Cheong-rae emphasized the principle of one vote per member, I believe providing opportunities for those who have not voted can be positively considered."As calls for Song to unify with fellow pro-Myeong candidate Kim Min-seok continue, he responded, "It seems there is a misunderstanding of the meaning of the preference voting system. If I resign midway, my votes would be counted as invalid." He also indicated his intention to create a turning point as the primary election begins in his political hometown of Incheon on August 8. Currently, Song is polling at about 10% support.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-05 10:32:20
  • SK Biopharm Reports Record Q2 Operating Profit of 97.1 Billion Won
    SK Biopharm Reports Record Q2 Operating Profit of 97.1 Billion Won SK Biopharm achieved its highest quarterly performance to date in the second quarter of this year. The increase in sales of its primary epilepsy treatment, cenobamate (marketed in the U.S. as Xcopri), contributed to double-digit growth in both revenue and operating profit.On August 5, SK Biopharm announced that its consolidated revenue for the second quarter reached 247.4 billion won, with an operating profit of 97.1 billion won. This represents a 40.3% increase in revenue and a 56.9% increase in operating profit compared to the same period last year. The company noted that this quarter's results are the highest ever, excluding one-time service revenues.Prior to this announcement, analysts had projected SK Biopharm's consolidated revenue for the second quarter to be around 238.5 billion won, reflecting a 35.3% increase from the previous year. They also expected operating profit to rise to 88.5 billion won, a 43.0% increase, surpassing market expectations.According to the company, U.S. sales of cenobamate totaled 224.4 billion won, marking a 13.5% increase from the previous quarter and a 45.6% increase year-on-year. Cumulative U.S. sales for the first half of the year reached 422.1 billion won.Prescriptions in the U.S. have also been steadily increasing. In the second quarter, total prescriptions (TRx) reached approximately 143,000, an 8.4% increase from the previous quarter, while new patient prescriptions (NBRx) maintained an average of over 1,800 per month. In June, monthly prescriptions totaled 49,155.SK Biopharm is accelerating the expansion of cenobamate's indications and formulations. In March, the company submitted a New Drug Application (NDA) for a suspension formulation in the U.S. and plans to submit additional applications for primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures (PGTC) and pediatric indications within the year.The company is also expanding into international markets. It has completed launches in South Korea and China, and aims to obtain approval in Japan by the end of the year. In Latin America, a launch in Brazil is scheduled for this month.SK Biopharm is increasing investments in next-generation pipelines, including central nervous system (CNS) drugs, radiopharmaceutical therapies (RPT), and targeted protein degradation (TPD), based on the cash flow generated from cenobamate. In June, the company began a collaborative research project with Insilico Medicine for AI-based drug discovery.Lee Dong-hoon, CEO of SK Biopharm, stated, "It is encouraging that operating profit continues to grow despite increased investments in research and marketing. We will push forward with our strategy to become a 'big biotech' based on the growth of cenobamate."The growth of Xcopri is expected to continue in the second half of the year. Kim Sun-ah, an analyst at Hana Securities, noted, "Based on the second quarter prescription volume, the estimated revenue for Xcopri this year is projected to be $584 million, nearing the upper end of the company's guidance. We also anticipate milestone payments and royalties from the approval in Japan."The expansion of research and development investments is also positive. Kim added, "Starting this year, SK Biopharm is actively pursuing the development of more than five new drugs and increasing R&D investments. The collaboration with Insilico Medicine for the development of next-generation modalities, including radiopharmaceuticals (RPT) and targeted protein degradation (TPD), is strengthening our growth drivers."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-05 10:32:10
  • Deputy Minister Kim Han-seung Inspects Drought Response at Miryang and Unmun Dams
    Deputy Minister Kim Han-seung Inspects Drought Response at Miryang and Unmun Dams Deputy Minister of Climate, Energy and Environment Kim Han-seung stated on August 5 that "ensuring a stable water supply for residents during the drought is our top priority."During a visit to the Miryang Dam in Gyeongnam and the Unmun Dam in Cheongdo, Gyeongbuk, Kim emphasized the need for proactive measures to prevent disruptions in water supply as the drought in the southern region is expected to persist. "We will do our utmost to ensure there are no issues with water supply," he said.This site inspection was conducted amid growing concerns about the supply of water for daily living and agriculture due to the ongoing drought in the southern region.Kim first visited the Miryang Dam, which has been under a drought 'warning' since August 2, to assess the current response measures, including reductions in river maintenance water and agricultural water. He also discussed additional drought response strategies, such as increasing river water intake.Next, at the Unmun Dam, which has been classified under a 'serious' drought level since July 15, Kim reviewed the status of water savings through alternative intakes from the Nakdong River and Kumho River. He also inspected the Kumho River diversion facilities linked to the Unmun Dam and considered operational plans for the diversion in case the drought continues.The Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment plans to strengthen drought response measures to ensure a stable water supply in the southern region through coordinated operations between dams and the utilization of alternative water sources.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-05 10:32:10
  • APR Reports Record Second Quarter Earnings with 1.36 Trillion Won in Revenue
    APR Reports Record Second Quarter Earnings with 1.36 Trillion Won in Revenue Beauty company APR has achieved record quarterly results, driven by rapid growth in the North American and European markets. The company's revenue for the first half of the year approached 90% of last year's total annual revenue, with operating profit also reaching levels comparable to last year's figures. APR announced on August 5 that its consolidated operating profit for the second quarter of this year surged 134.5% year-on-year to 190.6 billion won, marking the highest quarterly performance in its history. Revenue also grew by 134.2% to 767.5 billion won, achieving record results. The operating profit margin reached 24.8%. For the first half of the year, APR's cumulative revenue totaled 1.36 trillion won, the highest ever for a half-year period. This figure represents 89.1% of last year's total annual revenue of 1.5273 trillion won. The operating profit for the first half was 342.8 billion won, accounting for 94.9% of last year's annual operating profit of 361.4 billion won. In the cosmetics and beauty sector, revenue soared 185.5% year-on-year to 648.3 billion won, achieving the highest quarterly performance due to global market expansion, the growth of online and offline channels, and product line diversification. Notably, international sales, particularly in North America and Europe, increased by 178% year-on-year to 704.2 billion won, making up 92% of total revenue. The combined revenue share from North America and Europe jumped from 40% to 68%. Revenue from North America reached 376.3 billion won, a 264.6% increase compared to the same period last year. This growth reflects the continued rise in online sales and the expansion of offline distribution networks through major retailers like Target and Walmart in the U.S. In Europe, revenue skyrocketed 380.3% to 145.1 billion won. The expansion of online distribution networks in key countries such as the UK, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain has positioned Europe as a new growth driver following North America. Revenue in Asia also rose by 14.5% to 121.1 billion won, while other regions, including the Middle East and Latin America, saw a 325% increase in revenue to 61.7 billion won. However, domestic revenue fell by 14.5% year-on-year to 63.3 billion won, impacted by the downsizing of non-core businesses. This suggests that APR's growth strategy is increasingly focused on its overseas cosmetics business in North America and Europe. An APR representative stated, "We plan to continue enhancing our product and brand competitiveness while expanding our global distribution network to sustain growth in international markets."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-05 10:32:00