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  • SK Telecoms A.X K2 Evolves from Reactive to Proactive AI
    SK Telecom's A.X K2 Evolves from Reactive to Proactive AI "The most significant change in A.X K2 is the shift from a 'reactive AI' to a 'proactive AI' that can plan and execute tasks on its own," said Kim Tae-yoon, head of SK Telecom's (SKT) foundation model division, on August 4 in a statement released through the company's newsroom. He noted that the model's reasoning capabilities have been greatly enhanced to align with the era of agentic AI, expanding the overall model size to 688 billion parameters while maintaining an active parameter count of 33 billion during inference to improve efficiency.SKT emphasized its focus on performance improvements tailored for AI agent services. By applying its proprietary Sparse Gated Attention (SGA) structure, the model can reliably handle long contexts, demonstrating superior performance in throughput and latency compared to its predecessor, A.X K1, especially as input length increases. In environments processing documents over 300 pages long, throughput improved by 67.7% compared to the previous version.In addition to text-based models, SKT unveiled derivative models that support visual and audio capabilities. The vision model, A.X K2 VL Light-Preview, integrates a self-developed vision encoder, A.X VE, enabling analysis of manufacturing blueprints, documents, and charts. In the audio domain, SKT introduced its audio language model, A.X K2 ALM, along with A.X K2 Raon-Speech, developed in collaboration with Krafton. Kim stated, "The industrial field does not operate solely on text; AI that encompasses various modalities is necessary for practical applications."SKT is already applying A.X K2 in real industrial settings. It is conducting a pilot project for a manufacturing-specific AI agent with KG Steel and automotive parts company Conec, developing a system that learns from production line defects to analyze causes and propose solutions. A lightweight model is also being utilized in SK Hynix's internal AI tool, LLM Chat, for semiconductor knowledge searches and information organization.Looking ahead, SKT plans to release its proprietary AI model under a free license to support commercial use by developers and startups, and will facilitate service commercialization through an accelerating program. Future models are expected to expand to a trillion-parameter scale and continue research into agentic reinforcement learning, cybersecurity capabilities, and next-generation AI architecture.Kim concluded, "A.X K2 demonstrates the potential for a model developed with domestic technology to reach the highest levels in mathematics and Korean language fields. We aim to translate this technology into tangible value that customers and industries can experience."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-04 14:32:00
  • LabGenomics Hits Upper Limit on Expectations of U.S. Business Expansion
    LabGenomics Hits Upper Limit on Expectations of U.S. Business Expansion LabGenomics is experiencing a surge in stock prices following news of strengthening its sales system for expanding its diagnostic testing business in the United States.According to the Korea Exchange, as of 2:27 PM, LabGenomics shares rose by 173 won (29.93%) to 751 won compared to the previous trading day.The company announced that it held a National Sales Meeting in New Jersey last month, attended by sales personnel from across the U.S., which is believed to have boosted investor sentiment.This event marked the first company-wide sales meeting since the recent integration of two U.S. clinical laboratory certification (CLIA) facilities under the single brand 'LabGenomics.' Sales representatives from 27 states gathered to share sales cases and expertise in key testing areas, including cancer diagnostics, digital pathology-based tests, skin pathology tests, and blood-based Alzheimer’s diagnostics with 'Lumipulse.'LabGenomics plans to expand its sales scope for general diagnostic and cancer diagnostic tests nationwide, targeting large hospitals and clinics for cross-selling and expanding test menus.A LabGenomics official stated, "In the second half of the year, we expect to see significant revenue growth and improved profitability in our U.S. operations, driven by Team Murray's sales strategy and the performance of the sales personnel who joined earlier this year."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-04 14:32:00
  • Eco-friendly vehicles make up nearly 60% of new car registrations in South Korea
    Eco-friendly vehicles make up nearly 60% of new car registrations in South Korea SEOUL, August 4 (AJP) - Six in 10 newly registered vehicles in South Korea in the first half of this year were eco-friendly models, amid a decline in registrations of internal combustion engine vehicles, the Korea Automobile & Mobility Association (KAMA) said on Tuesday. The number of newly registered vehicles during the first six months rose 1.3 percent from a year earlier to 850,636, with eco-friendly vehicles including electric, hybrid and fuel cell vehicles, accounting for 57.8 percent of new registrations, up from 46.1 percent from a year earlier. Amid high interest rates, purchases by individual motorists fell 3.3 percent from a year earlier, while purchases by corporate and rental operators rose 10.5 percent to 296,747 units, helping support domestic demand. The proportion of newly registered internal combustion engine vehicles fell to 42 percent from 53.7 percent a year earlier, while diesel vehicle registrations plunged 59.5 percent over the same period due to the discontinuation of passenger-car models and supply constraints affecting some models. KAMA said the early implementation of government subsidies amid skyrocketing oil prices due to the prolonged conflict in the Middle East, appeared to encourage more consumers to switch to eco-friendly vehicles. Registrations of imported vehicles rose 30 percent from a year earlier, accounting for 22.7 percent of the domestic market. As more China-made Tesla models and electric vehicles from China-linked brands such as BYD and Polestar became available in South Korea, Chinese-made imports accounted for 41.2 percent of the imported vehicle market here, while German brands, which had long dominated the market, saw their share fall to 42.2 percent. KAMA said the rapid influx of China-made EVs could benefit consumers by offering more options at lower prices, but also increase pressure on South Korea's manufacturing base, requiring measures to strengthen the price competitiveness of domestically produced vehicles and support the broader industry ecosystem. 2026-08-04 14:31:13
  • Ecopro Reports 2nd Quarter Operating Profit of 32.9 Billion Won Amid Semiconductor Boom
    Ecopro Reports 2nd Quarter Operating Profit of 32.9 Billion Won Amid Semiconductor Boom Ecopro continued its profitable trend in the second quarter, driven by growth in its environmental business and improved profitability in its lithium operations due to a booming semiconductor market.The company reported consolidated sales of 820.8 billion won and an operating profit of 32.9 billion won for the second quarter. While sales decreased by 11.9% compared to the same period last year, operating profit surged by 102.7%, indicating improved profitability. Compared to the previous quarter, sales increased by 0.3% from 818.3 billion won, but operating profit fell by 41.7% from 56.4 billion won.Increased metal prices and rising exchange rates contributed to higher sales in the recycling sector and improved profitability in the lithium business. However, heavy rainfall in Indonesia temporarily reduced the operating rate of nickel smelters, leading to a slight decline in profitability. The company stated, "The recovery work at the smelters is nearing completion, and we expect performance to rebound in the second half of the year."Looking at the performance by subsidiary, Ecopro BM, which produces cathode materials, recorded consolidated sales of 576.7 billion won and an operating profit of 18 billion won in the second quarter. Although sales and operating profit slightly decreased due to stagnation in the European electric vehicle market, demand from artificial intelligence (AI) data centers and power applications supported the results.Ecopro Materials, responsible for precursor business, increased sales to external customers, achieving 178.8 billion won in the second quarter, up from 166.5 billion won in the previous quarter. However, it reported an operating loss of 10.6 billion won due to a temporary decline in the operating rate of the Green Eco Nickel (GEN) smelter in Indonesia caused by heavy rains. Nevertheless, the recent recovery in the GEN smelter's operating rate suggests that profitability may improve in the medium to long term.Ecopro HN, which operates eco-friendly materials, reported second-quarter sales of 51.5 billion won and an operating profit of 5.8 billion won, with both figures rising compared to the previous quarter. The semiconductor market boom has led to increased order fulfillment, and stable supply to overseas liquefied natural gas (LNG) power plants is gradually expanding sales.Additionally, the lithium business saw improved profitability as the rise in lithium prices was reflected in selling prices. The recycling business also continued its upward trend in sales due to the effects of rising metal prices and exchange rates. Ecopro plans to enhance its business portfolio by securing raw materials and expanding its recycling operations, focusing on developing next-generation batteries and semiconductor materials.Following its nickel smelting operations in Indonesia, the company is advancing the BNSI smelter project to expand its core mineral supply chain and strengthen its lithium procurement base through the Nevada lithium project and North American supply chain collaboration.Furthermore, Ecopro aims to expand its battery recycling and urban mining businesses while continuously developing next-generation battery materials such as cathodes for all-solid-state batteries, solid electrolytes, and lithium metal anodes, as well as semiconductor materials.Ecopro is accelerating its future business expansion. The company is pursuing the development of next-generation battery materials, including cathodes for all-solid-state batteries, solid electrolytes, and lithium metal anodes, while also strengthening its semiconductor materials business centered around Ecopro HN.Ecopro CEO Song Ho-jun stated, "Despite ongoing uncertainties in the business environment, we are proceeding with plans to strengthen supply chain competitiveness and invest in future growth businesses as scheduled. We will establish a sustainable growth foundation through stable operations of existing businesses and the creation of new business results."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-04 14:28:00
  • Apple Temporarily Removes Telegram from App Store After Child Exploitation Material Found
    Apple Temporarily Removes Telegram from App Store After Child Exploitation Material Found Apple confirmed the discovery of child exploitation material and temporarily removed the messaging app Telegram from its App Store. After Telegram deleted the problematic content and blocked the user responsible, the app was restored.According to Bloomberg on August 3, users in the U.S., India, Australia, and Singapore were unable to download Telegram from the App Store for a period. The app is now available again in all regions.An Apple spokesperson stated, "During the review process, we found content that violated App Store guidelines prohibiting child exploitation material. Telegram quickly deleted the content and blocked the user, allowing the app to be restored."Telegram explained, "Apple reported a user who shared child exploitation material, and we immediately blocked that account." The company added, "This year, we have closed over 300,000 groups and channels related to child exploitation material."This action comes amid ongoing controversy regarding Telegram's responsibility for managing illegal content.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-04 14:28:00
  • Military Confirms Approval of Drone Operations Amid Misunderstanding Claims
    Military Confirms Approval of Drone Operations Amid Misunderstanding Claims The Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) clarified on August 4 that the military had approved the operation of a drone, which was mistakenly identified as an enemy drone, prior to the issuance of the 'Crane' alert on August 3. This statement came in response to claims made by Seong Il-jong, a lawmaker from the People Power Party.In a text announcement, the JCS stated, "The drone flight in the northern Gyeonggi Province on August 3 was approved in advance by the 1st Corps, and the relevant operational units were aware of it."The JCS further explained that the drone was part of a new military capability evaluation project being conducted by the Army Test and Evaluation Command, which had planned civilian drone flights for preparatory purposes. The drone was authorized to fly below 500 feet in the morning and afternoon, but it exceeded the approved altitude in the afternoon.Additionally, the JCS noted that the 1st Corps conducted standard operational procedures to comprehensively verify and assess whether the drone was an approved or unapproved one.They expressed concern that the exposure of normal operational procedures of frontline units could impact military readiness and troop morale.Earlier, during a press conference at the National Assembly, Seong claimed, "Another major incident occurred in the 1st Corps yesterday, where our drone was mistaken for an enemy drone, nearly leading to it being shot down and the issuance of the 'Crane' alert."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-04 14:24:00
  • Taxpayer Funds Used for Cancun Trip During World Cup; Nine K-League Officials Reported to Police
    Taxpayer Funds Used for Cancun Trip During World Cup; Nine K-League Officials Reported to Police During the 2026 FIFA North and Central America World Cup, representatives from taxpayer-funded K-League clubs who traveled to the resort city of Cancun, Mexico, have been reported to the police by civic groups.On the morning of August 4, at a press conference held at the National Assembly's communication hall, Kim Jae-won, a member of the National Assembly from the Justice Party, announced that nine representatives from local soccer clubs were reported to the National Police Agency for allegations of breach of duty, embezzlement, and violations of local subsidy management laws.The individuals reported include Kwon Il, general manager of Gimpo FC; Kim Tae-joo, general manager of Gangwon FC; Lee Heung-sil, CEO of Gyeongnam FC; Jang Young-bok, general manager of Daegu FC; Kim Seong-nam, general manager of Bucheon FC; Jang Won-jae, CEO of Seongnam FC; Kim Jeong-taek, general manager of Ansan Greeners; Lee Woo-hyung, general manager of FC Anyang; and Joo Kwon-do, CEO of Incheon United.This controversy arose from the K-League's '2026 K-League Academy-CEO Course' held from June 18 to 26. According to civic groups, a total of 25 individuals, including K-League executives and representatives from 21 clubs, traveled to Mexico for the World Cup. The total cost of the trip, shared equally between the league and the clubs, amounted to approximately 710 million won.The official itinerary provided to the clubs initially included attending three group stage matches of the Korean national soccer team; however, the actual schedule included a two-night stay in Cancun, a popular tourist destination. Participants reportedly utilized their free time in the afternoons after morning seminars for sightseeing at historical sites. The Cancun stay was not mentioned in the official documents distributed beforehand.Particularly controversial was the use of expensive business class tickets by representatives of taxpayer-funded clubs. Despite prior notifications from the league indicating that choosing economy class could save about 6 million won, the nine reported representatives opted for business class tickets costing 15,924,000 won each, charged to club budgets. The difference from the economy class fare of 9,995,000 won amounted to an additional 5,929,000 won per person, totaling over 53 million won in extra expenses for these nine individuals.In contrast, Kim Jin-hyung, general manager of Yongin FC, and the secretary general of Suwon FC, who was not eligible for business class under travel regulations, opted for economy class, highlighting a stark contrast in budget adherence. Civic groups pointed out that it was entirely possible to execute budget expenditures in compliance with regulations.The civic groups have requested a thorough investigation by the police into the travel expense regulations of each club, the sources of funding (contributions and subsidies), the circumstances surrounding the Cancun itinerary through the event management travel agency and the league, and the recovery of improperly spent funds.Additionally, they are considering filing a request for a resident audit with the relevant local governments, separate from the criminal complaint.Earlier, on July 30, during a National Assembly Culture, Sports and Tourism Committee hearing on the Korea Football Association, Kim Jae-won first raised the issue, stating, "While there is a shortage of funds for players and youth development, the club representatives did not hesitate to spend taxpayer money on business class tickets and a stay in Cancun. This is not merely a moral hazard but a serious matter of wasting public resources for private gain."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-04 14:20:00
  • Hyundai Engineering Deploys Water-Spraying Drones at Demolition Sites to Reduce Dust and Enhance Safety
    Hyundai Engineering Deploys Water-Spraying Drones at Demolition Sites to Reduce Dust and Enhance Safety Hyundai Engineering has introduced water-spraying drones at apartment demolition sites to enhance environmental and safety management. The drones are designed to reduce airborne dust and minimize the risk of accidents for workers in hard-to-reach areas.On August 4, Hyundai Engineering announced the successful completion of a demonstration project utilizing water-spraying drones for dust reduction at the Gwacheon Jugong 8 and 9 complex reconstruction site.This demonstration was conducted in a real demolition environment, where Hyundai Engineering assessed the drones' performance, flight stability, and operational integration.While dust suppression is essential at demolition sites, the process carries risks of accidents such as slips, electrocution, and collisions with heavy machinery. High-rise areas or structurally unstable sections pose challenges for workers and equipment, making adequate dust suppression difficult.During the demonstration, the drones were deployed to dust-prone areas, spraying 50 liters of water per minute within a radius of 12 to 15 meters under calm conditions. The drones were directly connected to power cables and water hoses, reducing limitations on flight time and water supply.Another notable feature is the ability to adjust the spraying location and range in real-time based on dust generation points. Operated remotely, the drones lessen the burden on workers who would otherwise need to enter hazardous zones.Hyundai Engineering anticipates that the flexibility in spraying locations will enhance both dust reduction effectiveness and operational efficiency compared to traditional water trucks or fixed dust suppression systems.As urban redevelopment projects increase, managing dust and safety during demolition has become a key issue to address complaints from nearby residents and reduce site risks.Building on this demonstration, Hyundai Engineering plans to explore the potential applications of water-spraying drones in various sites and demolition processes. The company is also advancing the use of smart construction technologies, including wearable robots, material transport robots, and cleaning robots.The HMG Construction Technology Research Institute, a joint research and development organization of Hyundai Engineering and Hyundai Construction, is developing construction technologies utilizing AI, robotics, automation, and digital technologies. Currently, they are enhancing worker safety and operational efficiency using ground-controlled tower cranes, four-legged robots known as 'Spot,' and unmanned drone stations.A Hyundai Engineering official stated, “This demonstration confirmed the applicability of water-spraying drones in demolition sites. We aim to create a safer and more sustainable construction environment by applying these drones in various sites and demolition processes.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-04 14:20:00
  • Central Group Bond Victims Lawyers Demand Clarity on Accounting Discrepancies
    Central Group Bond Victims' Lawyers Demand Clarity on Accounting Discrepancies Central Group's bond investment victims' legal team has called for an investigation into contradictory conclusions regarding impairment losses on new capital securities issued by JTBC. In a statement on August 4, the legal team, which includes Lee Bok-hyun Law Office and Law Firm Changcheon, explained the issue of 'unrecognized impairment losses' outlined in their audit request. According to the materials presented by the legal team, a complex flow of funds occurred within Central Group in 2024. The holding company, Central Holdings, directly acquired 20 billion won worth of the 34th series of new capital securities issued by JTBC in March 2024. In May, it lent 40 billion won to its affiliate, Dabo Central, which then used those funds to acquire 54 billion won worth of the 35-1 series of new capital securities from JTBC.The problem lies in the fact that the accounting treatment for the two affiliates diverged in the 2024 financial statements. Central Holdings fully recognized an impairment loss on the 20 billion won worth of JTBC's new capital securities, citing 'accumulated losses' as the reason, reducing its book value to zero. This acknowledgment raised serious doubts about the recoverability of the securities issued by JTBC within the group.The legal team pointed out, "Central Holdings treated one asset as fully impaired while the other was recorded in full without any allowance for bad debts, despite both being linked to JTBC's repayment capacity in the same accounting year."They also noted that Dabo Central recognized an impairment on a small equity security worth about 600 million won in the same 2024 financial statements, suggesting that this was unlikely to be a mere oversight.Furthermore, the legal team criticized Central Holdings for not setting aside any allowance for bad debts on the 40 billion won long-term loan to Dabo Central, asserting that the only source for Dabo Central to repay Central Holdings' loan was through the repayment of principal and interest from JTBC's new capital securities.The legal team highlighted that both companies were audited by the same external auditor, 'Our Accounting Firm.' They argued that despite having the same accounting year, foundational facts, and external auditor, the contradictory accounting results created a distorted structure.The legal team suspects that the background of this accounting treatment may involve an intention to conceal capital impairment. They believe that if consistent standards had been applied to recognize impairment on Dabo Central's 54 billion won in new capital securities and Central Holdings' 40 billion won loan, Central Holdings' consolidated total capital (2.29 billion won) would have turned negative, resulting in a 'severe capital impairment' status.They emphasized, "The unrecognized impairment loss is a typical type of accounting violation frequently detected in financial authorities' audit practices. A thorough audit by the Financial Supervisory Service is necessary to determine whether an actual impairment review was conducted and the basis for such contradictory judgments."Meanwhile, the Seoul Rehabilitation Court has accepted JTBC's application for the Autonomous Restructuring Support (ARS) program, and the extension of the deferral period for the commencement of rehabilitation proceedings suggests that the financial risks and accounting controversies surrounding the group are likely to continue for the time being.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-04 14:16:00
  • Yongin Mayor Lee Sang-il Visits Da Nang to Strengthen Cooperation
    Yongin Mayor Lee Sang-il Visits Da Nang to Strengthen Cooperation Lee Sang-il, the mayor of Yongin, South Korea, is visiting Da Nang, Vietnam, from August 4 to 8 at the official invitation of the city, with which Yongin has a friendship agreement.Upon arrival in Vietnam on August 4, Mayor Lee and his delegation, including City Council Chair Jang Jeong-soon and council members Shin Na-yeon and Kang Young-woong, visited the Consulate General in Da Nang to meet with Consul General Han Jeong-il and KOTRA Da Nang Trade Office Director Jo Joo-yeon.On the morning of August 5, they will meet with Nguyen Dinh Bin, chairman of the Da Nang Fatherland Front, to discuss local governance between the two cities.In the afternoon, the delegation plans to visit FPT Group, Vietnam's largest information and communication technology (ICT) company, to explore the country's semiconductor industry ecosystem at the FPT High-Tech and Semiconductor R&D Center.On August 6, they will visit the 'Yongin Public Digital Library in Da Nang' to review its operations. This library was established as part of an Official Development Assistance (ODA) project, covering an area of 1,686 square meters (approximately 510 pyeong) within the International Lotus Village Welfare Town in Quang Phu District.Following this, they will move to the Quang Phu District Office to hold discussions with Party Secretary Bui Ngoc An and People's Committee Chairman Huynh Ngoc Ba regarding the dispatch of a youth volunteer group as part of the 'K-Warm Village Project,' aimed at promoting Korean culture and local volunteer activities.On August 7, the delegation will visit Da Nang City Hall for talks with People's Committee Chairman Nguyen Manh Hung and attend a welcome dinner for guests participating in the Korea-Vietnam Festival. In the afternoon, they will participate in the 'Meet Korea in Da Nang' conference at the Furama Hotel, where Mayor Lee will present on 'AI - A New Driving Force for Growth and Development.'Later, they will attend the opening ceremony of the '5th Korea-Vietnam Festival' at East Sea Park in Da Nang, which has been held since 2022 to promote cultural exchange between the two countries.Yongin City established a friendship agreement with Quang Nam Province in 2013, which was integrated into Da Nang following administrative changes in July 2022. The two cities signed a friendship agreement on January 14.Mayor Lee stated, 'Da Nang is a key city in central Vietnam that is accelerating the development of advanced industries such as semiconductors and artificial intelligence. I hope this official invitation to the Korea-Vietnam Festival will further mature the cooperation between our two cities.'Meanwhile, the 'Yongin Public Digital Library in Da Nang' features digital learning spaces, reading rooms, and a promotional area for Yongin City. The city has allocated a budget of 200 million won for the library's construction, pending final approval from the International Development Cooperation Committee under the Prime Minister's Office in 2024. The library will be operated by the International Lotus Village for the next two years before being handed over to Da Nang's Quang Phu District.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-04 14:12:00