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Covering Strollers with Blankets Poses Risks for Infants in Heat Waves As heat waves continue, caregivers are urged to take special precautions when taking infants out in strollers. While some cover strollers with blankets or thin cloths to protect children from sunlight, this practice can trap heat inside, increasing the risk of overheating.The UK's National Health Service (NHS) advises against covering strollers or baby carriages with blankets during heat waves, as this can block ventilation and raise internal temperatures. Instead, caregivers should use dedicated canopies or umbrellas to shield children from direct sunlight and regularly check if the child is too hot.Infants are more vulnerable to heat than adults due to their limited ability to regulate body temperature. The NHS recommends that infants under 6 months avoid direct sunlight altogether. If going outside is unavoidable, caregivers should minimize exposure to direct sunlight.To check if a child is overheating, it is more accurate to feel the chest or the back of the neck rather than the hands or feet, which can feel cool even at normal body temperature. If a child is sweating excessively or if the back of the neck and chest feel hot and damp, it is advisable to remove a layer of clothing and move to a cooler area.It is crucial to avoid going out during the hours of 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The NHS recommends dressing infants in light, breathable clothing and ensuring they stay well-hydrated. For infants under 6 months, avoiding direct sunlight is prioritized over using sunscreen.Covering a stroller completely with a blanket or cloth during a heat wave can trap internal heat. Instead, caregivers should use the built-in canopy of the stroller and ensure ventilation while securing shade. Additionally, since metal frames or buckles can become hot, checking the temperature with a hand before placing the child in the stroller is advisable.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-03 10:40:00 -
Yulchon Law Firm Hires Former Foreign Ministry Official Jo Gurae to Strengthen U.S. Investment Response Yulchon Law Firm (CEO Kang Seok-hoon) announced on August 3 that it has hired Jo Gurae, the former Director-General of the North American Affairs Bureau at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as a consultant to enhance its capabilities in responding to policies and trade issues related to U.S. investments.Jo graduated from Seoul National University with a degree in political science and joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (now the Ministry of Foreign Affairs) in 1991. He has held various positions, including First Secretary at the Embassy in Israel, First Secretary at the Embassy in Russia, Director of the North Korea Nuclear Affairs Division, Director of the North American Affairs Division, Minister-Counselor at the Embassy in the U.S., Minister-Counselor at the Embassy in Pakistan, Policy Advisor to the Minister, and Counselor at the North American Affairs Bureau.He was appointed as the Director-General of the North American Affairs Bureau in 2017 and served as the Ambassador to Tunisia in 2018. Jo also held key positions such as Director of the Planning and Coordination Office in 2023 and Director of the Foreign Affairs Strategy and Information Bureau in 2024.With a $200 billion U.S. investment expected to be realized following the recent U.S.-Korea trade agreement, Yulchon is working to establish a 'U.S. Investment Support Task Force' to comprehensively address legal, regulatory, and policy issues arising during the investment process. Jo is expected to play a crucial role in supporting companies in developing their U.S. investment strategies and managing risks, leveraging his extensive diplomatic experience and policy expertise.CEO Kang Seok-hoon stated, "Jo Gurae is an expert who has accumulated rich experience and expertise while handling our country's U.S. diplomacy and trade issues at the forefront for many years. We expect that his joining will enable us to provide more effective solutions to the various issues faced by companies."Founded in 1997, Yulchon Law Firm has established a strong reputation in corporate legal affairs, taxation, and litigation. The name Yulchon means 'a village of legal professionals who gather their intentions and combine their strengths.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-03 10:32:10
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China Approves Construction of Eight Nuclear Power Plants, Totaling 64 in Seven Years In the past seven years, China has approved the construction of a total of 64 nuclear power plants. On July 31, the State Council held a meeting where it approved plans for eight new nuclear reactors, according to China Energy News on August 3. The approved projects include four separate initiatives: two reactors at the Jinqi Men Nuclear Power Plant in Zhejiang Province by China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC), one reactor at the Zhuanghe Nuclear Power Plant in Liaoning Province by CNNC, three reactors at the Taipingling Nuclear Power Plant in Guangdong Province by China General Nuclear Power Group (CGN), and one reactor at the Laiyang Nuclear Power Plant in Shandong Province by State Power Investment Corporation (SPIC).Among these, the Jinqi Men reactors and the Taipingling reactors will be the first large-scale applications of China's independent technology, the 'Hualong One 2.0 version.' This version features standardized components, design uniformity, and simplified construction processes, resulting in lower construction costs and shorter timelines. The Laiyang reactors will utilize the 'Guohe One' technology, also a third-generation nuclear power technology, similar to Hualong. The Zhuanghe Nuclear Power Plant will adopt the widely used Hualong One technology in China.Since 2019, China has accelerated its nuclear power construction efforts. According to China Energy News, approvals for six reactors were granted in 2019, four in 2020, five in 2021, ten in 2022, ten in 2023, eleven in 2024, and ten in 2025, culminating in the approval of eight reactors this year. This brings the total number of approved nuclear power plants since 2019 to 64.As of the end of April this year, there were 62 operational nuclear reactors in China, with 39 more under construction. With the addition of the eight newly approved reactors, the number of reactors with construction permits will rise to 47.The Chinese government has identified nuclear power as a key energy source to achieve both carbon neutrality and energy security. China aims to expand its operational nuclear capacity to approximately 110 million kilowatts by 2030. If achieved, this would position China as the world's leading nuclear power nation, surpassing the United States.According to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), as of the end of last year, the United States led the world with 94 operational reactors, followed by China with 58, France with 57, Russia with 37, and South Korea with 26. China is expected to increase its number of operational reactors to 70 by the end of this year.As of the end of last year, China was also the world leader in the number of reactors under construction, with 29, followed by India with eight, Russia with five, and Egypt and Turkey with four each.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-03 10:32:10
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Education Ministry Imposes Financial Penalties on Universities for Overenrollment The number of overenrolled freshmen at universities reached 191 last year, prompting the Education Ministry to strengthen related regulations. The ministry will implement strict penalties, including disciplinary actions against responsible parties and financial sanctions linked to support programs, in cases of large-scale overenrollment due to intentional or significant errors by universities. On August 3, the Education Ministry released data on the occurrence of overenrollment over the past five years. According to the ministry, the total number of overenrolled students in the 2026 academic year was recorded at 191. This figure marks a significant increase compared to 48 students in the 2022 academic year, 65 in 2023, and 41 in 2024. It also represents a notable rise from the 135 students recorded in 2025. The primary concern is that overenrollment in a given year can lead to a reduction in enrollment numbers in subsequent years, directly disadvantaging students in other academic years. Breaking down the 191 overenrolled students for the 2026 academic year, 135 were due to 'tie-breakers,' while 56 were attributed to 'university errors.' The increase in overenrollment due to tie-breakers is linked to a rise in total applications, which grew from 3,825,359 in 2024 to 3,976,875 in 2025 (a 4.0% increase) and further to 4,392,402 in 2026 (a 10.4% increase). Notably, the 56 students overenrolled due to university errors typically arise from mistakes made during the recruitment of additional candidates or from rounding errors in calculating the number of students admitted through special admissions. In the 2026 academic year, three universities were found to have overenrolled more than five students due to university errors: Joongwon University (24 students), Soonchunhyang University (11 students), and Gimcheon University (8 students). Additionally, 10 other universities reported a total of 13 overenrolled students due to university errors. Soonchunhyang University, which faced controversy for overenrolling 11 students in its medical program, also cited operational errors in its admissions process. In response to the escalating situation, the Education Ministry has begun revising the guidelines for handling unfilled spots and overenrollment. Once the revisions are complete, the ministry will be able to demand disciplinary actions against responsible parties at universities in cases of intentional or significant overenrollment. Furthermore, the ministry will recommend that universities conduct thorough self-assessments of their tie-breaking procedures and admissions management systems. Starting in the 2027 academic year, if large-scale overenrollment occurs due to intentional or significant errors by universities, the Education Ministry plans to conduct its own investigations and, if necessary, refer cases for prosecution. The ministry is also considering imposing financial penalties linked to support programs for universities that experience large-scale overenrollment. Lee Hae-sook, head of the Education Ministry's Higher Education Policy Office, stated, "When overenrollment occurs, it can lead to a reduction in enrollment numbers in subsequent years, disadvantaging students in other academic years. Therefore, strict management of overenrollment is necessary to prevent such situations from arising. We will closely monitor and manage to minimize future overenrollment."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-03 10:32:00
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bhc Opens First Store in the Philippines with Localized Menu bhc has opened its first store in the Philippines, focusing on local consumers with a menu that includes 'Chicken Rice' and other tailored offerings.The Dining Brands Group announced on August 3 that its chicken brand bhc has opened its first Philippine location in the SM North EDSA mall in Quezon City, Manila. The opening ceremony, held on July 29, was attended by Song Ho-seob, CEO of Dining Brands Group.The new store spans approximately 1,700 square feet and features 86 seats. Considering the mall's characteristics, it has adopted a Limited-Service Restaurant (LSR) model for quick preparation and service.The menu includes fried and seasoned chicken, as well as signature items like Bburinkle, Machoking, and Red King, organized by chicken parts. Notably, it offers meal combos centered around chicken pieces and the 'Chicken Rice' combination, along with a sweet Filipino-style spaghetti that reflects local culinary preferences. Additionally, the menu features three types of chicken burgers, cheese balls, japchae, and tteokbokki, among other K-food items.bhc signed a lease agreement with SM Supermalls, the largest mall operator in the Philippines, in July of last year and established a master franchise agreement with local retail company Suyeon Corporation before analyzing the market to open this store. Currently, bhc operates a total of 49 stores across nine countries, including the Philippines, Hong Kong, Thailand, Taiwan, Singapore, and the United States.Nam Hwa-yeon, head of the overseas business division at Dining Brands Group, stated, "The Philippines is a vibrant market for dining and chicken consumption. We aim to expand our brand presence in the Philippines with a strategically designed menu that reflects local food culture."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-03 10:28:00
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Ministry of SMEs and Startups Hosts '2026 Brand Small Business Jump-Up Meetup Day' The Ministry of SMEs and Startups and its affiliate, the Korea Small Business Distribution Center, announced on August 3 that they held the '2026 Brand Small Business Jump-Up Meetup Day' on July 31 at the Dream Sky Hall in Yeoksam-dong, Seoul.The event featured 30 small businesses selected for the newly launched 'Brand Small Business Jump-Up' support program. This initiative aims to cultivate capable small businesses into premium brands in collaboration with professional advertising and marketing agencies. Support will be provided in three stages, from brand design to global expansion.During the event, participating small businesses received insights on the program's direction and a step-by-step roadmap. A subsequent group networking session allowed participants to share challenges faced in brand management and strategies for developing online sales channels, fostering communication for future collaboration.A presentation by branding expert Choi Jang-soon, CEO of Element Company, focused on the theme 'Designing the Essence of Brands in the AI Era.'Kim Seong-mi, CEO of Werenji, who attended the event, stated, "I plan to incorporate the information and annual schedule from the support program into our business operations this year. I will communicate with fellow small business owners to identify collaboration opportunities for mutual growth."Han Yuwon, CEO of the Korea Small Business Distribution Center, remarked, "Starting with this meetup day, we will provide comprehensive support to help promising small businesses become competitive brands not only domestically but also in the global market." 2026-08-03 10:28:00
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Korean Lawmaker Accuses Ethics Committee Chair of Breaching Confidentiality Woo Jong-hwan, the vice chair of the People Power Party's Central Ethics Committee, raised concerns on August 3 about allegations that Chair Yoon Min-woo leaked disciplinary materials. He urged Yoon to respond to accusations of violating confidentiality obligations.In a statement issued alongside Ethics Committee member Hwang Kyung-sung, Woo described the alleged leak as a serious breach of confidentiality and a significant violation of the committee's internal rules. They stated, "The incident of leaking disciplinary materials is the most serious violation of confidentiality obligations and the most severe breach of the Ethics Committee's internal regulations."They further claimed, "We have received serious reports and evidence that Yoon has shared the list of individuals subject to discipline, the details of the disciplinary actions, decisions, and press releases with outsiders since the first half of this year, when discussions about the disciplinary actions of key figures such as Han Dong-hoon, Bae Hyun-jin, and Kim Jong-hyuk were ongoing. If this is true, Yoon has violated his confidentiality obligations and should resign before facing disciplinary action from the committee."They added, "The disciplinary actions announced by Yoon, who is aligned with the loyal faction of the leadership, do not align with the independent function of the Ethics Committee and will only provoke backlash from those subject to discipline, plunging the party into severe internal strife. The disciplinary actions led by a loyalist chair and committee members will not save the leadership but will inflict serious damage instead."To ensure the normalization and transparency of the Ethics Committee, they proposed principles including the establishment of transparent and objective disciplinary standards, public disclosure of the list of committee members and their significant backgrounds, and the publication of attendance records during meetings.They emphasized, "As the vice chair and members of the Ethics Committee, we have a duty to protect the party's sustainability and democratic principles. We will not yield to any attempts to use the committee as a political tool or for personal advancement and will fulfill our responsibilities to the end."Meanwhile, Woo appeared on KBS Radio's 'Current Affairs' program the same day, where he criticized Yoon's unilateral notification of meetings and the issues surrounding the disciplinary standards.He stated, "I pointed out procedural flaws in the decision-making and drafting process of the Ethics Committee. Is this a violation of confidentiality? I did not disclose any secrets." He also criticized the phrase proposed by the committee as a disciplinary standard, which states, 'Disciplinary action may be taken if actions are deemed excessively intentional, repetitive, organized, and continuously undermine the normal operation of the party or its leader,' saying, "Undermining normal operations refers to the party, not the party leader. The term 'excessively intentional' is also an abstract term, not a legal one."Additionally, he expressed concern about Yoon's unilateral notification of meeting schedules, stating, "When I requested information on how many attended the meeting when I was absent, I received no response. I worry that such incidents will continue in the future."Regarding future Ethics Committee meetings, he did not specify exact dates but mentioned, "This meeting will provide an opportunity for those who have received disciplinary initiation decisions to explain themselves. Notifications will be sent out as early as today or as late as tomorrow."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-03 10:20:00
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Ruling Party: Leverage ETF Issue Is Serious but Not a National Investigation Matter The Democratic Party emphasized on August 3 that while the issue related to leverage ETFs is serious, it does not warrant a national investigation as claimed by the People Power Party.After a Supreme Council meeting at the National Assembly, spokesperson Kang Jun-hyun stated, "The government is also working to devise measures, and we are considering various options at the political and policy committee levels." He added, "We will ensure that the government and the National Assembly prepare measures promptly."Spokesperson Park Ji-hye criticized the People Power Party for linking the leverage ETF issue to a national investigation or special investigation, calling it a political offensive. She stated, "It is inappropriate to politicize the situation when there are people suffering."Meanwhile, People Power Party spokesperson Park Seong-hoon announced on August 1 that they would pursue a national investigation into single-stock leverage ETFs, which have been identified as a factor in the recent sharp fluctuations in stock prices. He vowed to uncover who ignored warnings about the risks and who evaded responsibility.He also called for the dismissal of Policy Chief Kim Yong-beom, stating, "He keeps making evasive excuses, saying, 'Our market is not the only one affected,' and 'Leverage ETFs are not the only cause.'"* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-03 10:20:00
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Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix Shares Drop Nearly 7% Amid Profit-Taking Shares of Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix, which saw unprecedented gains in the previous trading session, both fell nearly 7% in early trading. This decline is attributed to profit-taking following the recent surge.As of 10:11 a.m. on August 3, Samsung Electronics was trading at 243,500 won, down 7.24% (19,000 won) from the previous day. At one point, the stock dropped to 239,000 won, marking an 8.95% decline.Similarly, SK Hynix was trading at 1,589,000 won, down 7.51% (129,000 won) compared to the previous trading day. The stock fell to 1,563,000 won at one point, reflecting a 9.02% drop.On July 31, SK Hynix recorded a remarkable 29.95% increase, the highest since 2009, while Samsung Electronics surged by 26.81%.However, concerns over a slowdown in NAND prices following disappointing earnings from Japanese semiconductor firm Kioxia, along with rising U.S. Treasury yields, have dampened investor sentiment.In terms of supply and demand, notable selling pressure was observed from foreign and institutional investors. At the same time, individual investors were net buyers, purchasing 2.0232 trillion won, while foreign and institutional investors sold a net 1.4159 trillion won and 654.8 billion won, respectively.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-03 10:16:20
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Opposition Calls for President Yoon to Exercise Veto Power on Criminal Procedure Law The People Power Party held an on-site supreme council meeting in front of the Blue House on August 3, urging President Yoon Suk Yeol to exercise his veto power over the criminal procedure law amendment that passed the National Assembly on July 30.Jang Dong-hyuk, the party leader, emphasized during the meeting in front of the Blue House that "the exercise of veto power over the criminal procedure law amendment is not just the president's authority or an option, but a command from the people and history."He expressed concern that the judicial system, which has been in place for 78 years, has collapsed, stating that it may be impossible to restore it. He warned, "When it was declared that the bill abolishing supplementary investigation rights had passed, it was a death sentence for the Republic of Korea," adding that if the veto is not exercised, the public's calls for a retrial will grow louder, and demands for impeachment to protect the nation will intensify.Jeong Jeom-sik, the floor leader, also urged the president not to make the mistake of covering up his own crimes with greater wrongdoing, saying, "Exercise the veto power. Act like a president, even just once."Additionally, Jeong criticized the Democratic Party for holding a 'National Report Meeting on the Criminal Procedure Law Amendment' that afternoon, claiming it aims to unilaterally teach the public who are worried and critical about the collapse of the judicial system.He pointed out, "Isn't it saying, 'The public is wrong, and we are right'? Even if you try to obscure the truth with wordplay, the whole world already knows. The public report meeting is merely a deception of the people."He added that the public has suffered greatly from delays in investigations and case transfers since the adjustment of investigative rights under the Moon Jae-in administration. He warned that if supplementary investigation rights are abolished, it would be the pinnacle of 'judicial deterioration,' stating, "In a country where those without money and power cannot receive legal protection, it is a nation without justice created by the Democratic Party."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-03 10:16:10