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  • Global Cruise Crew Experience Highlights Attractions in Gwangju, South Korea
    Global Cruise Crew Experience Highlights Attractions in Gwangju, South Korea Crew members from the Chinese global cruise line Adora Cruises experienced key tourist attractions in Gwangju, South Korea, confirming the competitiveness of local tourism offerings.On August 1, the Gwangju Metropolitan City invited crew members from the Adora Magic City, which docked at Yeosu Port, for a familiarization tour aimed at developing shore excursion programs in the Jangheung and Boseong areas.This familiarization tour was designed to identify shore excursion products that reflect the preferences of international cruise tourists and to gather feedback from cruise line representatives to enhance product appeal.Participants visited the 'Jungnamjin Jangheung Water Festival,' a major summer event in Jeonnam, where they engaged in various experiential programs and festival activities. They also toured the Boseong green tea fields, taking in the natural beauty and key tourist resources of the region.Crew members expressed high satisfaction with the experiential tourism content and the unique natural environment, noting significant potential for developing seasonal shore excursion products.Based on the results of this familiarization tour, Gwangju Metropolitan City plans to continuously develop tourism content that reflects the travel preferences and latest trends of cruise tourists. They aim to expand customized shore excursion programs that integrate culture, nature, and festivals to attract international cruise visitors.Yeosu Port, in particular, is rapidly establishing itself as a hub for marine tourism on the southern coast, with a significant increase in international cruise arrivals. This year, Yeosu Port is expected to host a total of 24 cruise calls, bringing in approximately 65,000 visitors. By the end of June, 25,000 tourists had already visited Yeosu through nine cruise calls, marking the highest number of international cruise arrivals since the port opened. This surge is raising expectations for the recovery of the cruise tourism market and revitalization of the local tourism industry.Choi Young-joo, head of the Gwangju Metropolitan City Tourism Bureau, stated, "This familiarization tour was a meaningful opportunity to showcase Gwangju's diverse tourism resources to representatives of overseas cruise lines and confirm the competitiveness of shore excursion programs. We will continue to strengthen cooperation with international cruise lines and focus on strategic tourism marketing and content development to expand cruise calls and attract foreign tourists."Meanwhile, Gwangju Metropolitan City plans to accelerate the development of stay-type tourism products that link local festivals with cultural, ecological, and culinary tourism in response to the growing demand for international cruise tourism, particularly centered around Yeosu Port.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-02 17:16:00
  • Gwangju, South Korea Launches Workation Program in Seven Cities
    Gwangju, South Korea Launches Workation Program in Seven Cities The Gwangju Metropolitan City is launching a workation program that allows participants to enjoy both work and leisure by utilizing natural and tourism resources in seven cities, including Yeosu, Naju, Boseong, Haenam, Hampyeong, Wando, and Jindo.Workation, a blend of work and vacation, is characterized by providing accommodation, workspace, and local experience content. The program is open to employees of central and local governments, public institutions, businesses, as well as individual entrepreneurs and digital nomads. Companies and institutions can use it for employee welfare and training programs, while participants can work in a new environment while experiencing local tourism and relaxation.A variety of experience programs reflecting local characteristics have been prepared.Boseong County will offer a healing program that connects Choru in Deungnyang-myeon, Jeamsan Natural Recreation Forest, the Jeonnam Environmental Disease Prevention Center, and the Yulpo Sea Green Tea Center.Wando County will provide experiences such as seaweed spa therapy and seawater healing pools centered around the Wando Marine Healing Center, along with local spaces that capture the region's essence.Yeosu City will feature romantic sea yacht experiences and marine tourism content, while Naju City will offer traditional hanok accommodations, Naju pear dining experiences, and eco-museum VR docent experiences.Haenam County will provide experiences at the Osiano Camping Site, bicycle tours, and cable car rides, while Hampyeong County will offer experiences at Dolmeori Camping Site, tidal flat experiences, and seawater sauna experiences. Jindo County will operate marine safety experience programs that showcase the region's unique content.Participants will receive welcome kits, and discounts on shared vehicle usage will be available in Boseong, Haenam, Hampyeong, Wando, and Jindo. Haenam will also provide additional discounts for campers.The Gwangju Metropolitan City will subsidize accommodation costs at 100,000 won per night for participants, with the program running for a minimum of two nights and a maximum of four nights, excluding weekends. Prices vary based on the region and program composition.Omikyeong, head of the Gwangju Metropolitan City Tourism Division, stated, "We are creating an environment where work and relaxation can coexist through diverse accommodation and experience programs that leverage the region's strengths in marine healing, nature, and traditional culture. We will continue to discover unique content to develop Gwangju as a representative workation hub."Meanwhile, the workation program will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, and detailed schedules and application methods can be found on the Gwangju Tourism Foundation's workation website and the operating company's website.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-02 17:12:00
  • Korean Minister Reviews Oil, Gas, and Naphtha Supply Amid Middle East Tensions
    Korean Minister Reviews Oil, Gas, and Naphtha Supply Amid Middle East Tensions Korean Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy Kim Jeong-kwan conducted an urgent review of the supply situation for key resources such as oil, gas, and naphtha in preparation for the worst-case scenario where navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait is disrupted simultaneously. He instructed officials to be ready to mobilize available policy measures, including the use of alternative shipping routes and the resumption of oil stock swaps.The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy announced that Minister Kim chaired an emergency meeting via video conference on the 'Economic Impact of the Middle East Conflict' on the afternoon of August 2 (Korean time) from Frankfurt.During the meeting, officials assessed the current status of resource imports, inventory levels, and the availability of alternative supplies. They focused on supply measures for each item, assuming a scenario where navigation through both the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait is compromised.According to the ministry, oil imports for August and September are expected to exceed last year's average. The October imports are also being secured in phases, indicating that the short-term supply impact is likely to be limited. However, the ministry plans to prepare for additional imports after October in case the navigation uncertainties persist.Minister Kim directed the refining industry to closely consult on the potential use of alternative routes, such as the Suez Canal and the Sumed pipeline in Egypt, and to resume oil stock swaps immediately if necessary.For gas, over 80% of the total liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports come from non-Middle Eastern regions, and the ministry assessed that stable supply capabilities are being maintained through spot purchases and overseas resource development. The ministry explained that even if imports of Qatari LNG continue to be suspended, they can respond for a considerable period.The government is continuously monitoring the import situation through alternative supply lines from Southeast Asia, Australia, and North America, while also ensuring stable management of domestic inventories in case of emergencies.Naphtha imports for August are secured at last year's average levels, with September quantities also being secured. The government plans to continue existing supply stabilization measures in response to price pressures from rising international oil prices and is preparing to secure additional quantities after September.The inventory of petrochemical products is currently stable. However, to prepare for the possibility of prolonged uncertainties in naphtha imports and maritime transport, the ministry will enhance the operation of the 'Petrochemical Intermediate Product Supply Monitoring Task Force' and expand monitoring of key items.Minister Kim emphasized, "The navigation conditions of major maritime transport routes are very fluid," and urged officials to continuously monitor and manage the supply situation in real-time, considering the worst-case scenario of both the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait being blocked.He further instructed, "In the event of a crisis, ensure thorough preparation to mobilize all available policy capabilities, including the use of alternative routes and oil stock swaps." 2026-08-02 17:08:00
  • Jung Cheong-rae Warns Kim Min-seok of Ethics Committee Action at Busan Rally
    Jung Cheong-rae Warns Kim Min-seok of Ethics Committee Action at Busan Rally Jung Cheong-rae, a candidate for the leadership of the Democratic Party, warned on August 2 that he would file a complaint with the Ethics Committee against fellow candidate Kim Min-seok, who raised allegations regarding Shincheonji membership. In response, Kim sought support by referencing former Presidents Roh Moo-hyun and Moon Jae-in, who have strong political ties in Busan.During a joint rally held at BEXCO in Haeundae, Busan, Jung stated, "I will take strict action against any behavior that puts the Democratic Party at risk of being deemed unconstitutional once I become the party leader," a remark interpreted as a direct response to Kim's allegations.Jung also challenged Kim regarding alliances with progressive parties, asking, "Who was the government official exchanging messages with Lee Un-joo opposing the merger with the Justice Party? Why hasn’t there been a response to the post by Supreme Council member Kang Deok-gu suggesting that merging with the Justice Party aligns with the President's intentions?"Instead of countering Jung's attacks, Kim defined Democratic Party politicians as his 'political mentors' and aimed to win over party members in Busan. Despite Jung's mention of potential disciplinary actions, Kim appeared to ignore these claims, focusing instead on appealing to local party supporters.Kim stated, "I wanted to learn about unwavering politics from former President Kim Dae-jung, passionate politics from former President Roh, dignified politics from former President Moon, and the politics of embracing all to lead a new history like President Lee Jae-myung." He also highlighted figures like former lawmaker Kim Geun-tae and former Prime Minister Lee Hae-chan, emphasizing, "They are all benefactors to me."Candidate Song Young-gil countered Jung by emphasizing his own policy strengths. He highlighted his experience as chair of the Planning and Finance Committee and as the head of the Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement (FTA) committee, asserting, "I, Song Young-gil, who saved Incheon from a bankruptcy crisis, can create an irreplaceable South Korea in collaboration with this President."He further criticized Jung, saying, "The President is struggling with party-government issues to the point of losing sleep. I don’t understand why he wants to be re-elected," and added, "There’s no need for Jung to worry; reform tasks like the abolition of supplementary investigative powers are being completed."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-02 17:04:00
  • Hyundai Motor Group Establishes Unified Team for Autonomous Driving R&D
    Hyundai Motor Group Establishes Unified Team for Autonomous Driving R&D Hyundai Motor Group has established a unified team for its autonomous driving research and development (R&D) by appointing key executives to dual roles in its Advanced Vehicle Platform (AVP) division and 42dot.According to industry sources on August 2, Vice President Kwon Jeong-hyun and Executive Director Jeremy Ma, who were recently recruited by Hyundai Motor Group, will hold significant positions in both the AVP division and 42dot.Kwon and Ma will serve as the heads of the Autonomous Driving Development Center and the Silicon Valley office, respectively, within the AVP division. At 42dot, Kwon will oversee the autonomous driving division, while Ma will lead the Silicon Valley (SV) division.Park Min-woo, the president who leads the group’s autonomous driving strategy, also holds dual roles as the head of the AVP division and the CEO of 42dot, indicating the formation of a triangular structure for autonomous driving R&D that spans both organizations.Kwon has experience in developing and commercializing AI technologies used in autonomous driving, including recognition software, deep learning, machine learning, and computer vision.Ma has built a distinguished career in autonomous driving, robotics, vision, and systems integration, having worked at NASA, Apple, Toyota Research Institute (TRI), and NVIDIA.Hyundai Motor Group's dual-role executive system for autonomous driving is seen as a move to strengthen the unified team structure between the AVP division and 42dot. By fostering an organic relationship between 42dot, which researches advanced technologies, and the AVP division, which connects these technologies to production development, the group aims to enhance decision-making efficiency and create synergies.Park Min-woo, who joined the company in January, emphasized during a meeting with employees that "we must work as a stronger unified team now," stating that there will be no barriers where the AVP only executes and 42dot only internalizes.Hyundai Motor Company plans to unveil its autonomous driving technology roadmap at the 2026 CEO Investor Day, scheduled for August 26 in Yeouido, Seoul.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-02 17:04:00
  • Jinan County Accepts Nominations for 2026 Citizens Award
    Jinan County Accepts Nominations for 2026 Citizen's Award Jinan County in North Jeolla Province announced on August 2 that it is accepting nominations for the '2026 Jinan Citizen's Award,' aimed at recognizing individuals dedicated to local development and community service.The Jinan Citizen's Award is the county's highest honor, with one recipient selected from each of seven categories: Leadership, Culture, Public Service, Industrial Labor, Patriotism, Filial Piety, and Sports, totaling seven awardees.Nominees should be individuals who have quietly dedicated themselves to the advancement of Jinan and the welfare of its residents.Eligibility criteria include: being a resident of Jinan County for at least one year as of the announcement date, having a registered domicile in Jinan County, having worked for at least one year at a local workplace, or being a graduate of a school located in Jinan County.Nominations can be submitted through heads of institutions, leaders of social organizations, or town and village heads.The submission period runs from August 3 to August 31.Required documents include a nomination letter, a record of achievements, a summary of contributions, a resident registration certificate or basic certificate, a color photo, and supporting evidence of contributions.After the submission deadline, the county will conduct on-site evaluations of the nominees' contributions and select the final awardees through a rigorous review by the 'Citizen's Award Review Committee.'The awards ceremony will take place on October 12 during the '64th Jinan Citizen's Day' celebration.Jin Chun-sung, the county mayor, stated, 'The Jinan Citizen's Award is a meaningful recognition of the efforts of those who have supported and developed our community. I encourage residents and relevant organizations to actively participate in nominating outstanding individuals who have dedicated themselves to Jinan.'In 2025, the recipients of the Jinan Citizen's Award included Shin Pal-bok (79) for Culture, Park Kwan-woo (60) for Public Service, Son Du-su (59) for Industrial Labor, Heo Hyun (69) for Patriotism, Jeon Yeong-ja (81) for Filial Piety, and Kim Man-seong (56) for Sports, totaling six awardees.Jinan Plateau Mai Mountain Pepper Market Opens on August 4This year, the Jinan Plateau Mai Mountain Pepper Market will operate from August 4 to October 4 at the Jinan Red Ginseng Herbal Center.According to the county on August 2, Jinan peppers are cultivated in a highland area above 400 meters, benefiting from significant temperature differences and a clean natural environment, resulting in vibrant colors, excellent aroma, and thick skins that yield a high amount of pepper powder.Additionally, the peppers maintain a balance of freshness and shelf life, preserving the traditional taste of Korean peppers.Due to their superior quality, they have garnered consistent popularity among consumers nationwide.This year, the pepper market will be relocated from the temporary parking lot of the existing Jinan Market to the area around the Jinan Red Ginseng Herbal Center.The market will operate on the 4th and 9th of each month from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m.Consumers will have the opportunity to purchase high-quality dried Jinan peppers directly from the farmers at reasonable prices.This year's pepper market will introduce various measures to enhance trust. Farmers will wear identification badges while selling, and the packaging for the pepper market will feature the producer's name and production area, implementing a real-name system for packaging. Additionally, a 'Jinan Pepper Production Confirmation Certificate' will be included inside the packaging, allowing consumers to verify that the peppers were produced in Jinan.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-02 17:04:00
  • Interview: Oh Se-jung, Former President of Seoul National University, Discusses Leadership Reforms
    Interview: Oh Se-jung, Former President of Seoul National University, Discusses Leadership Reforms Oh Se-jung, the former president of Seoul National University, emphasized the need to overcome the inherent limitations of the current four-year term in order to achieve long-term innovation and significant financial expansion for the university. His comments come as both the current presidents of Seoul National University and Korea University are expected to seek re-election early next year. In a phone interview with Aju Economy on August 2, Oh explained the rationale behind easing restrictions on presidential re-election during his tenure and the impact of re-election leadership on higher education. Previously, Seoul National University had a rule requiring presidents to resign six months before their term ended to run for re-election, effectively limiting incumbents. However, Oh revised this rule to establish a framework for re-election, accepting the controversy surrounding the 'incumbent premium.' The primary reason for changing the re-election rules, according to Oh, was to ensure 'policy consistency' and 'continuity of reform.' He stated, "To implement meaningful reforms, four years is often insufficient. You need to keep following through, but with a four-year term, changes can occur, and new leadership can shift the direction again." In practice, university presidents in South Korea spend the first year understanding their roles and preparing budgets, leaving only about two years for actual work before entering a 'lame duck' phase in the final year, making it difficult to implement significant changes. Oh remarked, "I believed that re-election was necessary to meaningfully change and reform the university, which is why I changed the system. The mere possibility of re-election is quite significant." He also referenced his experience in extending deans' terms from two to four years and introducing a re-appointment voting system. He argued that shorter terms lead to a mindset among members that they can simply 'wait it out,' while the potential for long-term leadership significantly alters their engagement and response to reforms. He pointed out that long-term leadership is essential for competing with global elite universities. "In the U.S., there is essentially no term limit for presidents, allowing them to think long-term about their initiatives," he explained. He humorously noted that while Harvard University has a history nearly 400 years longer than Seoul National University, the number of presidents may be similar or even greater at Seoul National University, highlighting the issue of frequent leadership changes. He specifically mentioned Arizona State University, known for its innovative changes, where President Michael Crow has served for over 20 years, allowing for consistent and coherent transformation. Long-term leadership is also closely tied to fundraising efforts, which are crucial for a university's survival. Oh stated, "While small donations can be secured quickly, attracting large donations requires ongoing alignment with what donors want and how the university will change. If a president serves only four years, the process can be interrupted, making it challenging. Long-term engagement is beneficial for fundraising as well." While the barriers to re-election have been lifted, Oh firmly opposed unconditional long-term leadership. He stressed that successful re-election must be supported by a clear vision and the trust of the university community. "There must be specific goals to pursue; it cannot just be about wanting to serve another term," he pointed out. He added, "If I have made progress over four years but still have unfinished business, I need a clear rationale and justification for continuing. Long-term plans must be established, and there should be compelling reasons for extending policies that have not yet been fully implemented." Given that there have been no re-elections at Seoul National University since the 1970s, Oh advised that thorough logical development is essential to gain the support of the university community. He noted, "Since Seoul National University has not had re-elections for so long, this upcoming challenge will feel exceptional to the members, and there must be sufficient reasoning and justification for it."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-02 17:00:20
  • Incumbent Presidents of Seoul National University and Korea University Gear Up for Re-election Battles
    Incumbent Presidents of Seoul National University and Korea University Gear Up for Re-election Battles The race for re-election among the incumbent presidents of Seoul National University and Korea University is heating up as significant figures within the universities announce their candidacies. In response to the substantial administrative advantages held by the incumbents, a number of key university personnel are entering the fray, leading to intense behind-the-scenes maneuvering. Concerns about a 'dark election' have also emerged due to the strict regulations governing re-election campaigns, heightening tensions both on and off campus. According to the education sector on August 2, both Yoo Hong-rim, president of Seoul National University, and Kim Dong-won, president of Korea University, are effectively solidifying their bids for re-election ahead of their terms expiring in January and February of next year. Seoul National University has completed the formation of its presidential candidate recommendation committee, while Korea University is currently engaged in preliminary election activities ahead of its committee formation in October. Both universities are expected to see a multi-candidate race with at least seven to eight contenders. Seoul National University Sees Around 10 Candidates; Business Leaders Join Committee Yoo, who is expected to challenge for re-election for the first time in nearly 50 years since former president Han Sim-seok, faces competition from various faculty members within the university. According to reports from Aju Economy, candidates being considered include professors Lee Won-woo (Law School), Lee Jae-young (Department of English Language and Literature), Lee Seok-jae (Department of Philosophy), Lee Jun-ho (Department of Life Sciences), Yoo Jae-jun (Department of Physics and Astronomy), Kim Hyun-cheol (Graduate School of International Studies), and Kang Jun-ho (Department of Physical Education), among others, totaling around ten potential candidates. Notably, the candidate recommendation committee, which will evaluate the next president, includes prominent business figures such as Kwon Young-soo, former vice chairman of LG Energy Solution, Song Chi-hyung, chairman of Dunamu, Son Joo-eun, chairman of Megastudy Group, and Lee Soo-jung, CEO of IBM Korea. As the election atmosphere intensifies, the Seoul National University Faculty Council has even established a reporting center for illegal campaign activities. President Yoo Hong-rim Trapped by Election Laws: "Pre-announcement of Candidacy Not Allowed" While the election campaign has surfaced, unexpected institutional issues have arisen due to the interplay of the 'incumbent premium' and election regulations. Im Jeong-mook, president of the Seoul National University Faculty Council, highlighted two main reasons why President Yoo cannot officially declare his candidacy in advance. He explained, "Once the incumbent president registers as a candidate for the next president, their duties are suspended, and an acting president is appointed. Therefore, until the official candidate registration, he cannot publicly state his intention to run for re-election to maintain his responsibilities and position." The 'prohibition on pre-election activities' regulation is also a hindrance. Im noted, "According to the election regulations at Seoul National University, declaring 'I will run for president' before candidate registration could be considered pre-election campaigning. Currently, the Faculty Council is monitoring for such activities, making it impossible for any candidate, including President Yoo, to make a pre-announcement of their candidacy." He expressed concern about the side effects of these regulations, stating, "Due to the prohibition on pre-election activities, it is difficult to confirm whether the president's meetings with faculty or staff are normal academic duties or election-related activities without official attendance. Ultimately, this has led to rampant speculation and rumors." Korea University Faces Diverse Competition; Former Heads of Major Public Institutions Enter the Race The situation for President Kim, who is reportedly challenging for re-election for the first time in about 40 years since President Lee Jun-beom, is also challenging. According to Aju Economy, the number of internal candidates challenging Kim has reached at least eight. Expected candidates include Park Jong-hoon (College of Medicine), Ma Dong-hoon (Department of Media), Yoo Byeong-hyun, Jeong Seung-hwan (Law School), Lee Hae-geun (College of Engineering), Kim Se-yong (Department of Architecture), and Kim Jae-wook (Business School), representing a variety of academic fields. Notably, a candidate with experience as the head of a major public institution, Kim Se-yong, who previously served at the Seoul Housing and Communities Corporation (SH), is also entering the race, indicating a fierce competition for votes. Ultimately, the key to both universities' elections will be overcoming the 'incumbent premium' and thorough vetting of candidates. The ability of challengers to present innovative long-term visions and address the reform demands of faculty, staff, and students will likely determine the outcome of this multi-candidate election.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-02 17:00:20
  • Wanju County Council Partners with Public Workers Union to Foster Trust and Respect
    Wanju County Council Partners with Public Workers' Union to Foster Trust and Respect The Wanju County Council, led by Chairman Seong Jung-ki, has signed a mutual respect agreement with the Wanju County Public Workers' Union, chaired by Ko Hwan-hee, to foster a culture of trust and respect in public service.According to the council on August 2, the agreement aims to build mutual trust through ongoing communication and collaboration, establishing a healthy organizational culture to achieve citizen-centered local governance.Key elements of the agreement include: 1) building mutual respect and trust, 2) performing duties with integrity and accountability, 3) creating a sound organizational culture, 4) realizing citizen-centered local governance, and 5) protecting the legitimate duties of public officials, focusing on establishing a cooperative foundation between the council and public service.Ko Hwan-hee stated, “This agreement will serve as an opportunity for the council and public service to grow together based on mutual respect and trust. The union will also fulfill its responsible role to provide more trusted administrative services to the citizens.”Chairman Seong Jung-ki remarked, “The council and public service are partners moving toward the common goal of citizen happiness. When mutual respect and trust take root, a healthy organizational culture and mature local governance become possible. We will continue to communicate and collaborate with the public workers' union to create a trustworthy governance and administration that citizens can feel.”The Wanju County Public Workers' Union, which launched its eighth term at the end of last year, currently has over 800 members. This year, the union has outlined plans for sustainable growth, improving labor conditions and welfare projects, enhancing public service culture, securing basic labor rights for public workers, and fulfilling its social responsibilities.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-02 17:00:00
  • Here You Go Completes Acquisition of Japans Rilux, Accelerating Global Expansion
    Here You Go Completes Acquisition of Japan's Rilux, Accelerating Global Expansion Here You Go, a comprehensive travel and leisure platform in South Korea, has completed its acquisition of Rilux, a high-end accommodation booking platform in Japan, marking a significant step in its global business expansion.On July 29, Here You Go announced that the acquisition of Rilux will transition its business structure from a single market focus in Korea to a 'multi-home market' system in both Korea and Japan. The two platforms (K-Platform and J-Platform) will operate independently, while areas where sales and technology can complement each other will collaborate organically to create synergy.The effects of the acquisition are expected to be visible as early as mid-August, with plans to integrate the accommodation inventory of both platforms. The goal is to allow bookings for approximately 3,000 Rilux properties in Japan through the Here You Go app this year, including popular cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka, as well as traditional ryokans and luxury resorts in smaller towns. Additionally, Here You Go and Rilux plan to expand exclusive travel products available only through their platforms.Rilux will focus on expanding its influence in the Japanese home market. It aims to diversify its offerings from high-end accommodations primarily targeting the 30s and 40s demographic to include trendy and casual options at reasonable prices that appeal to a broader audience in their 20s and 40s.Furthermore, Rilux is developing outbound and inbound services for foreign travelers visiting Japan and Korea. According to the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), the number of foreign visitors to Japan reached approximately 42.68 million last year, a 15.8% increase from the previous record of about 36.87 million in 2024. Rilux plans to revamp its user interface and user experience with global customers in mind and is considering introducing new services such as overseas accommodations, flight tickets, and leisure tickets in the medium to long term.Jung Myung-hoon, CEO of Here You Go Company, stated, "Just as Here You Go has grown into a leading travel and leisure platform starting from domestic accommodations, our goal is to successfully establish a second global Here You Go in Japan. This acquisition of Rilux will serve as a turning point in finding new business avenues in both the Korean and Japanese markets."Alongside its global business expansion, Here You Go is also enhancing its responsible management for sustainable growth. On July 24, the company announced the formal release of its first sustainability report, which consolidates its business achievements over the past decade and its environmental, social, and governance (ESG) framework.In this report, Here You Go introduced a 'four-step materiality assessment' process to derive practical ESG issues. Eight key issues selected based on global disclosure standards and stakeholder feedback include: managing the impact of climate change, promoting sustainable travel, enhancing employee engagement, supporting employee growth, fostering partner growth, improving customer experience, ensuring data privacy and security, and strengthening ethical management.To implement these strategies, Here You Go has established four strategic directions under the vision of 'ensuring amazing experiences are continuous in life': responsible operations, innovative employees, mutually beneficial business practices, and sustainable travel.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-02 17:00:00