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  • Heat Wave Strikes Japans Earthquake Survivors as They Seek Shelter
    Heat Wave Strikes Japan's Earthquake Survivors as They Seek Shelter On July 28, a woman in her 70s, who had been living in her car after the Kumamoto earthquake, died from suspected heatstroke. Her vehicle's air conditioning had stopped working due to a lack of fuel. Residents who evacuated their homes to escape the earthquake are now facing extreme heat exceeding 104 degrees Fahrenheit, along with water shortages and the risk of infectious diseases.The Yomiuri Shimbun reported on August 3 that the woman, a resident of Hikawamachi in Kumamoto Prefecture, was found in cardiac arrest in her car in a parking lot on the night of July 30. Her sister, worried after losing contact, discovered her collapsed inside the vehicle. If confirmed as a death related to the disaster, this would mark the first such case linked to the earthquake. The death toll from the earthquake has risen to 38, including two individuals whose deaths are under investigation for disaster-related causes.The affected areas are experiencing a relentless heat wave, with temperatures in Kumamoto City reaching a record high of 102 degrees Fahrenheit on August 2. By 4 p.m. that day, 11 people had been hospitalized for suspected heat-related illnesses in regions that recorded tremors of magnitude 6 or higher, with 10 of them requiring admission or treatment.Many evacuees are choosing to stay in their cars rather than crowded shelters, fearing they might disturb others. A 55-year-old man from Ukishi, who has a disability in his right leg, is unable to move without a wheelchair or crutches. His car, which suffered a flat tire after hitting a road bump, remains parked in the shelter's lot. He undergoes dialysis three times a week due to kidney failure and must manage his fluid intake, but he sometimes turns off the engine to conserve fuel. When the heat becomes unbearable, he walks 100 meters to the shelter to cool off and gather food and water before returning to his car. He told the Yomiuri, "I slept in my car during the Kumamoto earthquake ten years ago, but the heat this time is really tough."Cleaning up collapsed homes is also a daunting task. According to the Asahi Shimbun, a 73-year-old resident of Hikawamachi began searching for his driver's license and valuables in his destroyed home at 8:30 a.m. but had to stop after an hour. "The temperature is simply unbearable for working during the day," he said. His wife, who was inside the house during the earthquake, expressed her despair about their future, saying, "I have no idea how we will live from now on." An 85-year-old resident of Yatsushiro City also lamented, "It's too hot to make any progress on cleaning up the scattered furniture."As of 7 p.m. on August 2, 8,480 people were staying in 206 evacuation centers across Kumamoto Prefecture. However, some shelters are unable to accommodate all evacuees in air-conditioned areas. In one Ukishi shelter, a woman in her 70s was hospitalized for COVID-19 but was discharged after one day and moved to a welfare shelter with two family members. In this shelter, evacuees are sleeping on the floor without partitions, and there is only one area to isolate individuals showing symptoms like fever. A city official managing the shelter stated, "There are limits to infection prevention measures."Water shortages continue, with 46,700 households in five municipalities still without water six days after the earthquake. The inability to wash hands or bodies increases the risk of heat-related illnesses and infections. Kumamoto Prefecture has urged residents in affected areas to maintain cleanliness using disinfectant sheets. As of 7 p.m. on August 2, the number of damaged homes was reported at 4,213.The Japanese government and Kumamoto Prefecture are initiating a "hotel evacuation" plan to relocate evacuees to hotels and inns equipped with air conditioning and restrooms. Starting August 3, applications will be accepted online for all evacuees from Ukishi, Uto City, Yatsushiro City, and Hikawamachi. According to the Asahi Shimbun, the government is working to accommodate up to 2,200 people in 73 lodging facilities and is expanding its search for accommodations throughout Kyushu. The urgency in implementing hotel evacuations is driven by the recognition that the heat poses a serious threat to the lives of evacuees.Meanwhile, on August 3, Kumamoto Prefecture began constructing 70 temporary homes in Ukishi and Hikawamachi, with occupancy expected to begin after September. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is also scheduled to visit the affected areas on August 3, marking her first visit since the earthquake. The Japan Meteorological Agency has warned that temperatures could reach 104 degrees Fahrenheit in the affected areas on August 3, urging residents to stay hydrated and take precautions against heatstroke.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-03 13:52:00
  • Mayor Park Seung-won Praises Citizens for Achieving Carbon Neutrality in Gwangmyeong
    Mayor Park Seung-won Praises Citizens for Achieving Carbon Neutrality in Gwangmyeong Mayor Park Seung-won praised the efforts of citizens on August 3, stating, "The participation of over 20,000 citizens in protecting the Earth is a testament to the power of the community in creating a carbon-neutral Gwangmyeong and is a significant achievement."On this day, Mayor Park announced, "The number of participants in the Climate Volunteer initiative has surpassed 20,000, bringing us one step closer to realizing a carbon-neutral city created with the community."The 'Climate Volunteers' initiative, a citizen-led movement to combat climate change, has seen its membership exceed 20,000, fostering a culture of carbon neutrality throughout the community.Launched in September 2021, the Climate Volunteers program is Gwangmyeong's flagship citizen participation policy aimed at addressing global warming and expanding citizen actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.Anyone aged 14 and older who lives or works in Gwangmyeong can join the initiative. Participants can engage in 24 action items, such as using reusable tumblers and shopping bags, and receive up to 100,000 won annually in Gwangmyeong Love Currency for their efforts.Membership has steadily increased, surpassing 5,000 in September 2023, 10,000 in September 2024, and 15,000 in August 2025, with the total exceeding 20,000 on July 23. This consistent growth of about 5,000 members each year reflects the ongoing interest and voluntary participation of citizens in addressing climate change.The growth of the Climate Volunteers initiative goes beyond mere participation numbers; it has led to an expansion of practical actions in daily life. As of July 30, the number of certified climate actions through the 'Climate Volunteers Carbon Savings Bank' reached approximately 2.17 million, resulting in a greenhouse gas reduction effect equivalent to planting over 270,000 trees.Citizens have responded positively, recognizing that carbon neutrality is not just a lofty goal but a lifestyle that can be practiced daily through actions like using shopping bags, tumblers, and recycling. One participant noted, "Even small actions can change the environment when many people come together," while another shared, "I practice with my family to leave a clean future for our children," expressing support for the citizen-driven carbon neutrality policy.Mayor Park plans to expand various policies and programs to further promote a culture of carbon neutrality based on citizens' voluntary participation. In particular, a new 'Climate Volunteers Carbon Savings Bank' app will be launched in October, and an automatic electronic receipt certification feature will be introduced for small business stores to enhance citizen participation convenience.Existing photo certification methods for actions like using shopping bags and tumblers will also be improved to a data automatic linkage system, simplifying the participation process while increasing its effectiveness.Additionally, Mayor Park stated, "We will strengthen policies to create a sustainable carbon-neutral city together with our citizens."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-03 13:52:00
  • Jeonju and Gunsan Schools Earn IB World School Certification
    Jeonju and Gunsan Schools Earn IB World School Certification Jeonju University Affiliated Elementary School, led by Principal Choi Sang-jin, and Gunsan Hohyun Elementary School, headed by Principal Sim Ji-young, have received certification as IB World Schools for the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP).According to the Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Provincial Office of Education, the IB PYP is an educational program for children aged 3 to 12 that encourages students to ask questions, explore, and engage in deep learning through classes and assessments. The program is centered around six transdisciplinary themes that promote inquiry, observation, and experiential learning.Jeonju University Affiliated Elementary School has focused on designing and reflecting on its curriculum through a professional learning community, researching and implementing inquiry-based teaching and growth-centered assessments.As a designated research school by the Ministry of Education, it has conducted studies aimed at enhancing students' deep learning and teachers' instructional expertise, incorporating the findings into its curriculum and teaching practices. Additionally, as a consulting center for Jeonbuk, the school has facilitated open classes and shared best practices, serving as a hub for improving teaching and assessment across the province.In collaboration with Jeonju University, which offers the IB Educator Certificate (IBEC) program, Jeonju University Affiliated Elementary School plans to connect practical applications in the field with university research, continuously accumulating examples of IB-based teaching and assessment improvements.Gunsan Hohyun Elementary School has developed a school culture through its innovative and future-oriented programs, working collaboratively with its community to design and reflect on the curriculum while striving to establish inquiry-based teaching and growth-centered assessments.Notably, through a subject called 'Buburi Village,' students engage directly with their community, communicating with local residents to explore village issues and values, and connecting their inquiries to practical actions.Furthermore, the school has expanded its learning environment beyond the classroom by fostering a community-based educational framework that includes staff, parents, and local residents, supporting students in becoming active members of their community.Cheon Ho-seong: "Collaboration with Local Governments to Overcome Education Crisis"Cheon Ho-seong, the Superintendent of the Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Provincial Office of Education, emphasized the importance of collaboration with local governments to address the education crisis in Jeonbuk.During a weekly policy meeting on August 3, Cheon stated, "Education cannot solely take place within schools; active participation and support from local governments and parents are essential to overcome the crisis." He urged local education leaders to proactively identify agendas that can be linked with local governments and seek their cooperation.Cheon also announced plans to participate in the Jeonbuk Mayors and County Heads Council on August 13, where he intends to officially propose the establishment of a 'Special Committee for Responding to Regional Decline' as part of a strong educational collaboration.He stressed that the issue of regional decline cannot be addressed by any single local government alone, stating, "We must unite to tackle the challenges facing our children, invigorate the local economy and industry, and ensure that education leads to regional change and development."Cheon also called for attention to securing special grants from the Ministry of Education, which are allocated for specific purposes such as national education policy projects, local educational issues, and disaster response.He remarked, "To get things done, we need people, funding, and systems. The availability of special grants can vary based on our efforts, so I urge budget departments to communicate with each support office to apply for more projects that require these funds."Additionally, Cheon highlighted the need for students to be interested not only in entrepreneurship but also in creating new professions, stating, "We plan to implement a new challenge and entrepreneurship project in the second semester, so please pay attention to budget allocations for this initiative."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-03 13:48:00
  • K-Beauty Expands Export Opportunities as South Korea and Indonesia Improve Halal Regulations
    K-Beauty Expands Export Opportunities as South Korea and Indonesia Improve Halal Regulations The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety has achieved progress in easing export burdens for K-Beauty by reaching an agreement with the Indonesian government on improving halal certification procedures. With mandatory halal labeling for cosmetics set to take effect in October, the enhancements to certification processes and on-site inspection standards are expected to lower export barriers for domestic companies.From July 20 to 22, the Ministry dispatched a joint public-private support team to Indonesia, where they held collaborative meetings with the Indonesian Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) and the Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) to address the challenges faced by South Korean companies in exporting their products.Indonesia, the world's fourth most populous country, is a key export market for K-Beauty, and the mandatory halal certification will begin in October. The support team's visit was aimed at responding to the upcoming requirement and alleviating the difficulties faced by local cosmetic companies.The Ministry and the Halal Product Assurance Agency agreed to recognize that hiring Muslim halal supervisors is challenging in non-Muslim countries like South Korea. They decided to improve the system so that individuals who have completed recognized training can perform these duties.Additionally, cosmetic manufacturing facilities that have already received halal certification will be exempt from on-site inspections even if the applicant (responsible seller, etc.) changes.Before the mandatory halal labeling takes effect on October 18, the Indonesian Food and Drug Authority plans to negotiate with the Halal Product Assurance Agency to extend the grace period for products that have been legally imported and are already on the market.Furthermore, the Ministry will provide guidance on the import regulations for market research and non-sale sample products, allowing for a maximum of 20 items per person to facilitate customs clearance for domestic companies.Both agencies have agreed to operate a hotline and a working group for ongoing regulatory cooperation and plan to expand their collaboration to include procedures for referencing countries for pharmaceuticals.The Ministry stated, "Through this agreement, we have rationally improved the halal certification process and alleviated the burdens on companies due to the mandatory labeling, while also negotiating improvements for products already in circulation. We will continue to strengthen cooperation with overseas regulatory authorities to actively support K-Beauty's entry into the global market."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-03 13:44:20
  • Hekto Healthcare Launches Womens Health Product Dshimone Balance Care
    Hekto Healthcare Launches Women's Health Product 'Dshimone Balance Care' Hekto Healthcare has launched a new product, 'Dshimone Balance Care,' aimed at women's health. The company is expanding its Dshimone product line with a complex formulation that combines probiotics, myo-inositol, and prebiotics.On August 3, Hekto Healthcare announced the release of Dshimone Balance Care, a new product from its premium probiotics brand Dshimone. The company explained that the product aligns with the recent trend of personalized health management, which focuses on selecting functional ingredients tailored to individual health concerns.Dshimone Balance Care is a health supplement that contains Dshimone probiotics, myo-inositol, and prebiotics. Each daily serving includes 100 billion CFU of Dshimone probiotics, 4,000 mg of 100% non-GMO plant-based myo-inositol sourced from Germany, and 760 mg of prebiotics, all in a peach-flavored stick format, with a recommended intake of two sticks per day.The product features the Dshimone formula (DSF) with 100 billion CFU, which is uniquely recognized by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety in South Korea for its ability to help regulate intestinal immunity and support gut health. The combination of prebiotics and myo-inositol completes a complex design focused on women's health management.To celebrate the product launch, the company is running a 'Naver New Product Week' promotion on Naver Smart Store until August 9. Customers can enjoy a basic 30% discount, with an additional 20% discount coupon for Naver Lounge members, offering a total discount of up to 44%. Customers who write photo reviews will receive 2,000 Naver Pay points. Additionally, from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on the launch day, the product's features and intake methods will be introduced through Naver Shopping Live.A representative from Hekto Healthcare stated, "Dshimone Balance Care is designed to help women easily incorporate health routines into their daily lives by combining Dshimone probiotics, myo-inositol, and prebiotics in one product. We plan to continue expanding our product line to reflect the diverse health management needs of consumers based on our research capabilities in probiotics."Meanwhile, the company is broadening its customer brand experience from its existing health supplement-focused product line to include everyday snack categories, recently launching 'Dshimone Kids Yogurt Plain.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-03 13:44:00
  • Wanju County to Disburse 300,000 Won in Living Support Funds to Residents
    Wanju County to Disburse 300,000 Won in Living Support Funds to Residents Wanju County in North Jeolla Province will provide a 'Living Support Fund' to assist residents facing difficulties due to high oil prices, exchange rates, and inflation, while also revitalizing the local economy.According to the county on August 3, the support fund will be distributed to residents registered in Wanju County as of July 31, 2026, including marriage immigrants and permanent residents, with each person receiving 300,000 won.The application and distribution period will run from September 8 to October 30.To reduce congestion and ensure prompt distribution, a concentrated payment period will be implemented from September 8 to 13.Applications and payments will be processed at administrative welfare centers and civil service centers, with funds provided via prepaid cards. During the concentrated payment period, distributions will also occur at senior centers.Residents can receive the funds immediately by visiting with an identification card, while family members can submit necessary documents, such as a power of attorney, to collect on behalf of others.The prepaid cards will be valid for use until December 31 and must be used within Wanju County. However, they cannot be used in certain sectors, such as entertainment and gambling.The county expects that the distribution of the living support funds will stimulate local consumption and increase sales for small businesses and self-employed individuals, leading to a rapid recovery of the local economy.To ensure residents can access the funds without inconvenience, the county plans to conduct extensive promotions starting in August through its website, social media, village broadcasts, promotional materials, and banners, while collaborating with local administrative units to prepare for the distribution.Wanju County Mayor Yoo Hee-tae stated, "I hope the Living Support Fund will alleviate the financial burden on residents and invigorate the local economy. We will do our utmost to ensure that all residents can receive the funds without any inconvenience and that it will contribute to the recovery of the local economy."Yoo, who was re-elected in the June 3 local elections, promised to distribute 300,000 won in living support funds to all residents before the holidays as part of his campaign pledge, with a total of 1 million won in support funds to be distributed during his term.Public Recruitment for Bibi Jeong Art Train OperatorsWanju County is publicly recruiting capable private operators to run the 'Bibi Jeong Art Train,' a representative local tourist attraction.According to the county on August 3, the bidding will be conducted electronically through the Korea Asset Management Corporation's online asset disposal system (Onbid), with the deadline set for 5 p.m. on August 14.The Bibi Jeong Art Train, located in Samnye-eup, is a restaurant converted from Saemaul-ho train cars that ceased operation in 2011.The bidding includes three remodeled train cars and a kitchen, covering a total area of 303 square meters.The designated business types are first and second-class neighborhood living facilities, and the successful bidder will operate a general restaurant, snack bar, or café, highlighting the facility's unique characteristics.The selection method will be based on the highest bid exceeding the estimated price.The bid opening will take place at 10 a.m. on August 18 at the Wanju County Cultural and Historical Department.This bidding process is attracting significant interest from prospective entrepreneurs, as the Mankyeonggang Fish Trail, a collaborative project between Jeonju and Wanju, is set to be completed near Bibi Jeong by August 31.The Mankyeonggang Fish Trail will feature a 405-meter walking path and observation area on top of the old Mankyeonggang railway bridge, while Jeonju City will install essential infrastructure, including parking lots and access roads in the Hwajeon-dong area.The county anticipates that the opening of the new landmark, the Fish Trail, will connect surrounding tourist routes and significantly increase visitor numbers, providing a strong opportunity for the new operator of the Bibi Jeong Art Train.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-03 13:40:20
  • KOSPI Surges Nearly 18% in a Day, Investors Question Next Steps
    KOSPI Surges Nearly 18% in a Day, Investors Question Next Steps The KOSPI index surged nearly 18% in a single day, marking its largest increase on record, prompting investor interest in the market's direction following this dramatic rebound.According to the Korea Exchange, the KOSPI closed at 6,595.45 on July 31, up 1,001.89 points (17.91%) from the previous trading day. This increase represents both the highest percentage and point gain ever recorded, surpassing the previous record of 11.95% set on October 30, 2008, during the global financial crisis.The surge was led by semiconductor stocks, with Samsung Electronics rising over 26% and SK Hynix climbing nearly 30%. Foreign investors also contributed significantly, purchasing over 7 trillion won in the stock market, which helped lift the index.However, on August 3, just days after this record surge, the KOSPI opened lower. As of 9:16 a.m., the index was down 4.19% at 6,319.09, with Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix both experiencing declines of around 7%. Profit-taking from the previous day's gains and foreign selling pressure weighed on the index.Historically, significant surges do not always lead to stable upward trends. Instead, they often coincide with rebound buying during downturns and normalization of supply and demand. Analysts caution against jumping into the market immediately after a surge, suggesting that investors should first assess whether volatility is stabilizing.On October 30, 2008, the KOSPI rose 11.95% following news of a currency swap agreement between South Korea and the United States. However, the global financial crisis was not yet over, and the index continued to experience significant fluctuations, ultimately falling 23.13% that month.A similar pattern occurred in March of this year, when the KOSPI dropped over 19% in two days due to concerns over a Middle Eastern conflict, only to rebound by 9.63% on March 5, marking the second-highest increase since October 30, 2008. Yet, the index continued to fluctuate daily by 5-6% thereafter.Such rebounds following steep declines do not necessarily indicate the start of a new bull market. A combination of bargain hunting due to excessive losses, short covering, and liquidation can lead to rapid index increases, even if corporate earnings or economic forecasts remain unchanged.This latest rebound is attributed to renewed optimism regarding AI investments by major U.S. tech firms and expectations for semiconductor demand, alongside the conclusion of forced selling and deleveraging. Given the significant weight of Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix in the KOSPI, their sharp increases have substantially lifted the overall index.Nonetheless, the KOSPI fell 22% in July. From July 1 to 30, the index dropped 34.01%, and despite the 17.91% rebound on July 31, it still left a considerable monthly loss. A single day's surge does not erase the preceding downward trend.To determine whether the market is stabilizing, it is essential to analyze not just the index's rise but also the underlying supply and demand dynamics. Key factors include whether foreign buying continues, if the rally in semiconductor stocks spreads to other sectors, and the stability of the won-dollar exchange rate and U.S. tech stocks.Additionally, the number of rising stocks accompanied by increased trading volume is crucial. If only a few large-cap stocks are driving the index higher, it may indicate a weak economic sentiment, leading to increased volatility. Conversely, if the rally broadens across sectors and trading volume decreases on down days, it could signal a return to market stability.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-03 13:40:00
  • Minister Song Mi-ryeong: Expanding Special Agricultural Tax for Rural Growth
    Minister Song Mi-ryeong: Expanding Special Agricultural Tax for Rural Growth Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Song Mi-ryeong stated on August 3 that "the expansion of the special agricultural tax will be a new leap for agriculture and rural areas," adding, "We will develop a growth strategy for agriculture and rural areas based on diverse opinions and also promote efficient financial innovation measures."Minister Song made these remarks while presiding over a meeting of experts on growth strategies for agriculture and rural areas utilizing the special agricultural tax at the Korea Press Center.The meeting was convened in anticipation of an increase in the special agricultural tax this year, aiming to establish a sustainable growth foundation for agriculture and rural areas.The surge in special agricultural tax revenue is attributed to the booming domestic stock market, which has led to increased trading volumes. The special agricultural tax is structured so that a certain percentage is automatically withheld when stocks are sold. As of June, the accumulated revenue from the special agricultural tax reached 10.1366 trillion won, a 175% increase compared to the previous year.Experts attending the meeting emphasized the need for strategic investments to address structural changes in agriculture and rural areas, such as rural depopulation, climate change, and a decline in agricultural workforce. They specifically suggested scaling up and consolidating agriculture, demonstrating and disseminating agricultural science and technology, ensuring mobility rights in rural areas, expanding AI in agriculture and rural areas, and enhancing support for young farmers.Additionally, various proposals were made regarding innovative financial management to utilize limited resources more effectively. It was pointed out that due to the significant revenue volatility of the special agricultural tax depending on stock market conditions, restructuring of various targeted projects, including rural development initiatives, should be prioritized. 2026-08-03 13:40:00
  • Seoul moves to emergency response as extreme heat spell hits capital region
    Seoul moves to emergency response as extreme heat spell hits capital region SEOUL, August 03 (AJP) -Seoul authorities on Monday plans to tap emergency disaster funds if necessary for an expanded heat-wave response as the country's hottest and longest spell migrated to the capital region after scorching southern provinces for weeks, with temperatures forecast nearing 40 degrees in daytime in the capital region. The city administration convened an emergency heat-wave meeting to ensure relief measures were working on the ground rather than remaining on paper. Officials pledged to mobilize all available resources, including disaster-management funds and special adjustment grants, to expand frontline support as the extreme heat persists. The Korea Meteorological Administration said easterly winds crossing the Taebaek Mountains would shift the foehn effect toward western South Korea, intensifying heat across the Seoul metropolitan area after contributing to record temperatures in the southeast. The phenomenon heats and dries air as it descends mountain slopes. Seoul, Daejeon and other western cities were forecast to reach 37 degrees, while Gwangju was expected to top out at 39 degrees. Daegu and Yangsan, where heat tends to linger because of their basin geography, were also forecast to hit 39 degrees. Nationwide daytime highs were expected to range from 33 to 39 degrees. The emergency response comes as heat-related illnesses continue to climb. Seoul has reported 162 heat-related illnesses and two deaths as of Saturday, with nearly 80 percent of cases occurring outdoors. The city said it would continue monitoring 63,000 vulnerable residents, operate 280 emergency medical response units, expand cooling shelters and roadside water spraying, and strengthen protections for outdoor workers. The first heat-related death of the year was also reported in the neighboring city of Incheon. A man in his 40s collapsed after wandering outdoors with a body temperature exceeding 38 degrees Celsius and died the following day after his temperature rose to nearly 40 degrees. Authorities believe he succumbed to heatstroke. Officials said 92 heat-related illnesses have been recorded in Incheon since mid-May as prolonged heat warnings continue across the region. "All measures must work in the field," first deputy mayor Jeong Sang-hoon said, adding that the city would use every available funding source to strengthen emergency support as the heat wave becomes longer and more intense. 2026-08-03 13:38:11
  • Jennie Headlines Lollapalooza Chicago, Surprises Fans with New Song
    Jennie Headlines Lollapalooza Chicago, Surprises Fans with New Song Global artist Jennie took the stage at the Lollapalooza Chicago music festival in the United States. On August 1, Jennie performed as a headliner at Lollapalooza Chicago, appearing on the main stage, Bud Light, to connect with local fans.Lollapalooza is a major North American music festival that began in 1991. It features over 170 artists across eight stages and attracts more than 400,000 attendees.This year, Jennie joined a headliner lineup that included global artists like Charli XCX, Lorde, and Olivia Dean. Notably, she became the first Korean female solo artist to headline at Lollapalooza, adding significance to her performance.The Bud Light stage has hosted global artists such as The Cure, Coldplay, and The Weeknd. Jennie closed the main stage with a performance lasting about an hour.During her set, Jennie delivered approximately 18 songs across various genres, showcasing rearranged hit tracks and engaging with the audience to conclude the festival.This performance marked Jennie's first live stage appearance following the official release of her new single, 'Less than a Lover.' Fans in attendance sang along to the new track.Additionally, Jennie debuted another unreleased song during the performance, elevating the atmosphere of the event.Looking ahead, Jennie is set to continue her festival appearances, including at the Summer Sonic 2026 in Japan. 2026-08-03 13:36:20