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  • Reevaluating the History of Walker House at Pukyong National University
    Reevaluating the History of Walker House at Pukyong National University At Pukyong National University's Daeyeon Campus, the so-called 'Walker House' is often thought to be the space where General Walton Walker of the U.S. 8th Army resided while commanding UN forces during the Korean War. However, this notion is inaccurate, and scholars argue that it should be correctly referred to as the 'U.S. 8th Army Command and Control Center.'They suggest that the history of the U.S. military's communication hub, overshadowed by anecdotes about specific individuals, along with the international medical relief efforts that lasted over five years and the student resistance to reclaim the campus, should be fully restored as 'multifaceted facts.'During a symposium titled 'The Korean War, Pukyong National University, and Walker House' held on July 31 at the university, experts in history, military studies, and urban engineering pointed out the exaggerations and inaccuracies surrounding Walker House and called for a precise historical reassessment.Busan was a 'Logistics City' by 1945Professor Lee Dong-won of Seoul National University analyzed that the military character of Busan was not created suddenly after the outbreak of the Korean War. He noted that Busan had been a military transport hub for Japan's continental expansion since the Sino-Japanese War, and by the time of liberation, approximately 8,400 Japanese troops were stationed there, making it 'close to a fully developed logistics city.'The port, rail, and communication facilities established during the Japanese occupation were fully utilized during the U.S. occupation and the military support for the Korean War, and it was in this context that Pukyong National University was designated as a command center for the U.S. 8th Army.Researcher Lee Sang-ho: 'No Evidence of Walker's Residency; 'Command Center' is AccurateAccording to Lee Sang-ho, a researcher at the Ministry of National Defense's Military History Institute, an analysis of official U.S. Army records shows that the U.S. 8th Army was present at Busan Fisheries College (now Pukyong National University) for only 16 days and 22 hours, from 4 p.m. on September 6 to 2 p.m. on September 23, 1950. The primary purpose of the campus at that time was not as General Walker's residence but to protect vital communication equipment like teletypes that were irreplaceable in East Asia. General Walker and his key staff remained at the forward command post in Daegu to direct operations at the front.The researcher emphasized, 'Since there is no evidence that General Walker resided here, referring to it as 'Walker House' is inaccurate; it should be called the 'U.S. 8th Army Command and Control Center.' He also pointed out that despite only three countries (South Korea, the U.S., and the U.K.) deploying ground troops to the Korean Peninsula, the practice of inflating the narrative to describe it as the place that commanded a '16-nation coalition' needs to be thoroughly fact-checked.Professor Lee Im-ha: 'The War Hospital Lasted Longer than the Command Post, Forgotten Resistance'Professor Lee Im-ha from the East Asia Research Institute at Sungkonghoe University highlighted the campus's transformation into a medical hub after the command post left. Starting in November 1951, the 21st Evacuation Hospital, followed by the 21st Base Hospital and the Swedish Red Cross Hospital (Seojeon Hospital), operated as a war hospital for a total of five years and four months until March 1957.Professor Lee stated, 'In the history of Pukyong National University, the medical institutions played a more significant role for a longer period than the logistics command.' He emphasized the intense history of medical relief efforts, noting that students from the fisheries school protested against the Swedish Red Cross's takeover of the hospital in 1955 and successfully resisted the establishment of the 5th Army Hospital by the Ministry of National Defense, ultimately leading to the campus's return in April 1957.Professor Kang Dong-jin: 'Although Excluded from World Heritage, It is a Linked Heritage Connecting the Refugee Capital'Professor Kang Dong-jin from Kyungsung University stated that while Walker House was not included among the 11 core heritage sites of the 'Heritage of the Refugee Capital Busan' being pursued for UNESCO World Heritage status, it is still an important 'linked heritage' that supports the narrative.According to Professor Kang, Walker House was initially considered a candidate for World Heritage status in 2016, but it was removed from the list due to changes in its original form caused by fire and restoration, as well as uncertainties regarding Walker's residency.However, he clarified, 'Being excluded from the core heritage does not mean a loss of historical value.' He emphasized the 'site specificity' of why the U.S. military chose this campus for command and medical operations due to its proximity to the coast and favorable transportation. He suggested that the building should be preserved in its current location and utilized as a site to explain how the refugee capital of Busan overcame war and engaged with the international community.It has become evident that the history of Walker House and the campus during the war is not well known among current students. One student attending the symposium expressed surprise, saying, 'I didn't even know there was a building called Walker House on campus.' This highlights that without accurate historical explanations, even existing buildings cannot ensure the transmission of memory.Experts unanimously agreed that removing unverified anecdotes about Walker would allow the multifaceted history of the U.S. 8th Army's command and communication hub, the humanitarian efforts of international medical personnel, and the student resistance for the campus's return to shine through. The task of precisely restoring the military, medical, and educational history inscribed on the campus from 1950 to 1957 has emerged as a new challenge for the refugee capital of Busan and the university's history.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-01 15:20:00
  • North Korea denounces NATO fuel network overhaul as war preparation
    North Korea denounces NATO fuel network overhaul as war preparation SEOUL, August 01 (AJP) - North Korea on Saturday denounced NATO’s plan to modernize its military fuel supply network as an “unprecedented” act of war preparation, accusing the transatlantic alliance of expanding its military reach beyond Europe. The criticism came after NATO approved a 27 billion euro ($31 billion) program to modernize its fuel storage and distribution infrastructure, including pipelines and new facilities in the alliance’s eastern and southeastern regions. NATO’s North Atlantic Council, the alliance’s main political decision-making body, approved the NATO Fuel Supply Chain Capability Program on July 22. NATO said the investment is intended to update existing fuel storage and distribution infrastructure and ensure that allied forces have the energy needed to maintain combat readiness. North Korea’s state-run Korean Central News Agency said in a commentary that NATO’s plan showed what it called the alliance’s intent to stockpile fuel and other war materials “to ignite war at any time and in any part of the world.” “We will never tolerate NATO’s dangerous and provocative acts and will take resolute counteraction,” KCNA said. The modernization plan comes as NATO members seek to strengthen military mobility and logistics amid concerns over a possible conflict with Russia. Politico Europe, citing two NATO diplomats, reported that ambassadors from the alliance’s 32 member states approved the plan at their final regular meeting before the summer recess. NATO members have spent months discussing how to overhaul a roughly 10,000-kilometer pipeline network built during the Cold War, according to the report. The plan is designed to connect existing fuel infrastructure in Western Europe with newer NATO members in Eastern and Northern Europe. The project, which includes pipeline modernization and the construction of energy storage facilities, is expected to take up to 30 years to complete. It is also considered NATO’s largest-ever common-funded project. A NATO diplomat was quoted by Politico as saying, “A stronger NATO starts with pipelines.” Some members had initially raised concerns over the cost of the project but later withdrew their objections, according to the report. North Korea, however, argued that the plan should not be viewed solely as preparation for a possible war with Russia. KCNA claimed that NATO has been increasing its military presence in the Asia-Pacific region and conducting joint military activities with what it called North Korea’s hostile states around the Korean Peninsula. The commentary also criticized the participation of NATO members in the recently concluded Rim of the Pacific Exercise (RIMPAC) saying it showed that NATO has “never excluded the Asia-Pacific region from its war scenario.” “NATO has existed as a military bloc for decades, but it is unprecedented for it to carry out war preparations this openly,” KCNA said, warning that such moves would only “bring forward the time of war and shorten the time left for NATO’s destruction.” NATO also agreed at the July 22 meeting to raise its common budget for next year to as much as 6.5 billion euros, up from 5.3 billion euros this year, and approved its common investment priorities for the next five years. 2026-08-01 14:53:10
  • Yangsan Hits 41.6 Degrees, Breaking National Temperature Record Again
    Yangsan Hits 41.6 Degrees, Breaking National Temperature Record Again On August 1, at 2:08 PM, the temperature in Yangsan, South Korea, soared to 41.6 degrees Celsius, breaking the record for the highest temperature ever recorded in the country in 122 years of weather observation.According to Yonhap News, the temperature in Yangsan first reached 40 degrees at 12:14 PM and continued to rise, peaking at 41.6 degrees.Based on data from 97 climate observation points managed by the Korea Meteorological Administration, such high temperatures have not been recorded since modern weather observations began in 1904.The previous record was set just a day earlier in Yangsan at 41.4 degrees. Before this year, the highest temperature recorded was 41.0 degrees in Hongcheon, Gangwon Province, on August 1, 2018.There is potential for the temperature in Yangsan to rise even further, as the sun has not yet set and temperatures typically peak between 2 PM and 3 PM.If the temperature reaches 42.0 degrees, it would mark an unprecedented record. Even including automatic weather observation stations, there have been no recorded instances of temperatures reaching 42 degrees in South Korea.Since the expansion of the weather observation network in 1973, only three instances of higher temperatures than the previous day’s record in Yangsan have been documented: 41.9 degrees in Jiwol-ri, Gwangju, on August 1, 2018; 41.8 degrees in Gangbuk-gu, Seoul, on the same day; and 41.6 degrees in Geumsam-myeon, Yeoju, on August 4, 2024.On the same day, temperatures in various locations across Gyeongnam Province also reached the 40-degree mark. As of 2 PM, the highest recorded temperatures included 40.5 degrees in Geumjeong-gu, Busan; 40.4 degrees in Changwon; and 40.2 degrees in Gimhae.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-01 14:48:00
  • Indonesian President Says South Korea Asked About Possible Visit to North Korea
    Indonesian President Says South Korea Asked About Possible Visit to North Korea Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto revealed that during his state visit to South Korea in April, President Lee Jae-myung asked if he could visit North Korea to initiate dialogue. Prabowo stated he responded affirmatively, saying he would go if the South Korean government made an official request.During a meeting with the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce at the presidential palace, Prabowo noted, "During my visit in April, the South Korean president asked, 'Could you visit North Korea to start a dialogue in any form?'" He added, "I replied that I would respect and gladly go if there was an official request from the South Korean government."Prabowo explained that the question from President Lee reflected trust in Indonesia's foreign policy, which emphasizes independence and neutrality in international matters. He reiterated Indonesia's commitment to maintaining a non-aligned foreign policy and not joining any specific military alliances, which allows for cooperation with countries that have differing interests."Indonesia is seen as a country that does not interfere in the internal affairs of any nation," Prabowo said. "We firmly uphold that principle." He also expressed a desire to improve relations with all neighboring countries and promote reconciliation, stating, "We are working to propose approaches for dialogue."Historically, Indonesia has championed a non-aligned neutral diplomacy, maintaining friendly relations with both Western nations, including the United States, and countries like China and Russia. Following the outbreak of conflict between the U.S. and Iran in late February, Indonesia offered to mediate, with Prabowo expressing willingness to visit Tehran if both nations agreed.In this context, a Blue House official remarked, "The government believes that countries like Indonesia, which maintain friendly relations with both North and South Korea, can play a constructive role in achieving peace and coexistence on the Korean Peninsula, and we are continuously seeking related cooperation measures." The official recalled that during the April 1 summit between South Korea and Indonesia, President Lee explained the government's policies for peace and joint growth on the Korean Peninsula and requested Indonesia's constructive role, to which Prabowo reaffirmed support for denuclearization and peace on the peninsula.Prabowo had previously visited South Korea in April for a state visit, where he held a summit with President Lee. The two leaders agreed to elevate their bilateral relationship from a 'special strategic partnership' established in 2017 to a 'comprehensive strategic partnership' and to enhance cooperation in areas such as defense and energy.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-01 14:32:00
  • ActionFits Park In-ho: Ad Tech Experience Fuels Global Casual Game Success
    ActionFit's Park In-ho: Ad Tech Experience Fuels Global Casual Game Success As the global mobile gaming market sees growth in the hybrid casual genre, with titles like 'WOS: Whiteout Survival,' 'King Shot,' and 'Royal Match' led by Chinese, Turkish, and European companies, South Korean game developers are also entering the approximately 8 trillion won global market.Among them is ActionFit, which generates 90% of its revenue from its mobile puzzle game 'Drop the Cat.' The company leverages its ad tech experience in advertising and data analysis to develop games and secure users in the global market.Recently, in Gangnam, Seoul, ActionFit CEO Park In-ho discussed the success of 'Drop the Cat,' the development and marketing strategies based on ad tech experience, and the approach to the global hybrid casual market. Park stated, "Instead of searching for users after creating a game, we validate market potential through advertising and confirm profitability from the early stages to target the global market."The hybrid casual genre combines simple, intuitive gameplay with growth, collection, strategy elements, and monetization structures, utilizing both in-app purchases (IAP) and in-app advertising (IAA) to enhance profitability. As of August 1, titles like 'WOS: Whiteout Survival' and 'King Shot' are among the top-grossing games on Google Play in South Korea.Industry analysts project that the global casual gaming market will grow from approximately 27.725 trillion won (about $18.4 billion) in 2025 to nearly 94% growth by 2032, with the hybrid casual market expected to reach around 6.5 trillion to 8.5 trillion won ($5 billion to $6.5 billion). Consequently, more South Korean companies, including Neptune and 111%, are challenging this genre.Park emphasized, "The key to success in the global market for this genre is not just the quality of the game; our competitive edge lies in integrating advertising operations and data analysis into game development and marketing." Unlike traditional development methods that focus on large-scale marketing after completing a game, ActionFit concentrates its development efforts on games that have been validated for market potential and advertising efficiency from the initial planning stage. The company's revenue has doubled on average each year since its establishment, with projections of 80 billion won in revenue this year, driven by the growth of 'Drop the Cat.''Drop the Cat' is a hybrid casual game that combines block-matching puzzle gameplay with cat characters and growth elements. It features intuitive controls that lower entry barriers while adding replayability and collection elements. Within six months of its launch, it surpassed 10 billion won in cumulative revenue and 3 million downloads, with approximately 45% of revenue coming from the U.S. and about 20% from Japan, accounting for 95% of total revenue from overseas.ActionFit currently operates by quickly developing initial games with only core features to gauge user reactions, rather than spending long periods on fully developed games before marketing. The company employs a 'demand-driven' strategy, creating 20 to 30 test games each month and focusing development and marketing resources on projects that confirm market demand and business viability. Park explained, "In the past, we would test a completed game at about 10% of its final state, but now we can validate user reactions with just 3% completion."Building on the success of 'Drop the Cat,' ActionFit plans to expand its development of new titles in the hybrid casual genre and its global publishing efforts. The company aims to not only develop its own games but also discover titles from external developers, providing support for advertising testing and data analysis while enhancing global monetization validation.Park noted, "While domestic developers have sufficient capabilities to create games, they often lack experience in securing global users and managing advertising efficiency. If they can combine game performance with data-driven marketing capabilities, South Korean developers can achieve significant success in the global hybrid casual market."Artificial intelligence (AI) is accelerating this rapid production and validation process. ActionFit is utilizing AI in planning, programming, and art production to reduce initial testing periods, and with advancements in its production structure, it anticipates being able to test around 300 games annually.ActionFit plans to expand its hybrid casual new releases and global publishing business based on the success of 'Drop the Cat.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-01 13:04:00
  • Democratic Party Candidates Highlight Key Issues at Chungnam Rally
    Democratic Party Candidates Highlight Key Issues at Chungnam Rally The Democratic Party is set to hold its party convention on the 17th, and during a joint rally in Chungnam on the 1st, candidate Kim Min-seok emphasized 'electoral victory,' candidate Jung Cheong-rae focused on 'reform,' and candidate Song Young-gil highlighted 'legitimacy.' This rally marks the first event in the party's touring primaries.At the joint rally held at the Chungcheongnam-do Traffic Training Center, Kim urged supporters to ensure 100% participation in voting, stating, "Please help realize the full meaning of party member sovereignty through one person, one vote until the last day."He continued, "President Lee Jae-myung declared that he would create an irreplaceable South Korea, but we are shaking at this historical turning point. The government and party are at odds, causing market instability, and if this continues, it will shake the golden age of South Korea."Kim questioned, "Should the historical mission of the Lee Jae-myung government, which is to create a golden age, be shaken just one year into its term? The ongoing conflict is hell for the Democratic Party, and we must close the gates of hell." He also promised to transform the party into a more responsive organization by proposing legislative tasks before the government meetings conclude, pledging to broadcast party reports live.He asserted, "My electoral capabilities have already been verified. Based on my experience leading victories in the general elections, local elections, and presidential elections, I will surely revive a competent, strong, and winning Democratic Party created by President Lee, aiming to raise the party's approval rating by over 10% within three months of my election."Candidate Jung stated, "I will achieve internal integration within the party and unite supporters of former Presidents Kim Dae-jung, Roh Moo-hyun, Moon Jae-in, and Lee Jae-myung. We must unite as we are all from the same root."He also promised to realize integration and solidarity within the broader democratic progressive camp, saying, "We have won when we united and lost when we divided. We will unite to win the general elections and collaborate to secure victory in the presidential elections."Jung emphasized the importance of reform, stating, "The identity of the Democratic Party is reform. The party has won through reform and has faced rejection from the public when it has failed. During my tenure as party leader, I achieved the establishment of the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency, the Public Prosecution Service Act, the expansion of Supreme Court justices, and the constitutional complaint system. I created the one person, one vote system and will defend it to the end."Candidate Song declared, "We must resolutely protect the Lee Jae-myung government," expressing his pain upon hearing the phrase, 'The regime is short, but the people are eternal.' He questioned, "How did we create the Lee Jae-myung government?" in response to Jung's criticism of past actions during his leadership.Additionally, Song highlighted his deep roots in the party, stating, "I was recruited by former President Kim at a young age and became a member of the National Assembly at 37. I served as a secretary to former President Roh, worked as the head of the overall campaign for former President Moon, and served as the permanent campaign chair for President Lee. I am the true root and legitimacy of the Democratic Party, and I will ensure the success of the Lee Jae-myung government." 2026-08-01 12:12:00
  • AI Civilization Relies on Power, Says Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power CEO
    AI Civilization Relies on Power, Says Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power CEO AI is no longer just a technology; it marks the beginning of a new civilization powered by vast amounts of electricity. Data centers have become facilities that cannot afford a power outage for even a day, and in this context, nuclear power is being re-evaluated as a strategic infrastructure supporting the nation's AI competitiveness.This article examines how Kim Hwae-cheon, CEO of Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power, is preparing South Korea's future in the AI era.When discussing the AI era, we often think of semiconductors, algorithms, and data first. However, the fundamental resource that drives these three elements is electricity.Generative AI operates by simultaneously activating numerous servers and GPUs for learning and inference. The moment a user poses a question, massive computations occur in data centers around the world, all of which rely on a stable power supply.No matter how advanced an AI model is, it cannot generate a single line of response if the power goes out. Just as the industrial revolution grew on coal and the automotive industry on oil, the AI civilization is based on electricity. Power is no longer just a public good; it is a strategic asset that determines national industrial competitiveness.If the 20th century was symbolized by automobile factories, the 21st century's AI era is symbolized by data centers. All fields where AI is utilized—finance, healthcare, manufacturing, autonomous driving, and public administration—are ultimately connected through data centers. If data centers stop, a significant portion of industry and society halts as well.This is why countries around the world are competing to attract data centers, but merely building facilities is not enough. Only nations that can continuously supply stable electricity will be able to nurture the AI industry in the long term.Recently, major global tech companies have prioritized securing power alongside expanding their data centers, as the demand for electricity is skyrocketing with the transition of manufacturing, healthcare, finance, and education to AI-based systems.As humanoid robots and autonomous vehicles become more widespread, this demand will only increase. Ultimately, simply producing more semiconductors will not automatically lead to growth in the AI industry. The countries that can reliably supply power when needed will gain an advantage in AI competition.Electricity is generated from a combination of various sources, including solar, wind, hydro, LNG, and nuclear power. Among these, nuclear power is gaining renewed attention in the AI era due to its ability to provide large-scale electricity reliably over long periods.AI data centers require continuous operation 24/7, and sudden fluctuations in power directly impact service stability. While no single power source can complete the AI era, nuclear power is expected to remain a crucial pillar of the national power system, given that the growth of the AI industry is challenging without a stable power grid.In this context, the role of Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power is being redefined. Previously seen primarily as a public enterprise that reliably produces electricity, it is now becoming a key infrastructure company responsible for the energy that powers AI data centers, advanced semiconductors, digital manufacturing, and future mobility.AI Makes Nuclear Power SaferThe AI era is one where nuclear power supports AI, and AI makes nuclear power safer. Nuclear plants are equipped with hundreds of thousands of measuring devices and sensors that monitor equipment status in real time.In the past, assessments of anomalies were based on operational experience and regular inspections. Now, AI is evolving to analyze vast operational data, detect even minor changes, and predict potential failures in advance. This marks a shift from responding to accidents after they occur to preventing them.AI can predict maintenance timing, analyze operational conditions to enhance efficiency, and quickly search and analyze extensive technical documents. Repetitive tasks are handled by AI, while final decisions and safety management remain the responsibility of humans.In other words, AI is not a technology that operates nuclear plants but rather a tool that supports human judgment more accurately.The global nuclear power industry is currently undergoing a transition to 'digital nuclear power,' which connects the entire lifecycle—from design and construction to operation, maintenance, and decommissioning—through data. A representative technology in this area is digital twin.This involves creating a virtual model identical to the actual power plant to simulate various operational scenarios and validate risk factors in advance. AI analyzes numerous scenarios within this framework to suggest optimal operational strategies, leading to enhanced safety, reduced operational costs, and extended equipment lifespan.Nuclear Exports Must Evolve with AISouth Korea's nuclear technology is recognized for its competitiveness in the global market, but future competition will require more than just building reactors. Future nuclear exports are likely to evolve into integrated solutions that include AI-based operational systems, digital twins, predictive maintenance, cybersecurity, and remote operation technologies, going beyond just power plant construction.The operational data accumulated over decades after a nuclear plant's construction can be connected to new value through AI, providing services that enhance efficiency and safety while reducing maintenance costs. This will be the competitive edge of the future nuclear industry.As one of the few countries with both global ICT capabilities and nuclear technology, South Korea has the potential to lead a new market of 'AI-based smart nuclear power' that combines both fields.Challenges Ahead for Korea Hydro & Nuclear PowerKim Hwae-cheon, CEO of Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power, faces two key challenges.The first is to continuously enhance the world's highest level of nuclear safety and operational capabilities. Public trust is the most important asset in the nuclear industry, and safety is a value that takes precedence over any technological innovation.The second challenge is to accelerate digital transformation using AI. A comprehensive AI transformation (AX) is needed that actively utilizes AI not only in power plant operations but also in design, maintenance, research and development, talent cultivation, and overseas projects. AI is becoming a core technology that redefines the competitiveness of the nuclear industry, not just a tool for improving work efficiency.In the AI era, public enterprises must not remain organizations that merely produce electricity; they must expand their roles to support national strategic industries and connect future industrial ecosystems.If data centers are the brain of AI and semiconductors are the neural network, then electricity is the lifeline that powers them all. Just as stable electricity supply supported South Korea's growth during the industrial era, Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power will play an increasingly important role in providing the energy foundation for the national AI transition.The most powerful force driving the AI civilization is not the invisible algorithms but the stable electricity that is continuously supplied to keep those algorithms running. Nuclear power is one of the key infrastructures responsible for that electricity, and Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power is a crucial entity preparing for that future.Kim Hwae-cheon, CEO of Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power:Kim Hwae-cheon joined Korea Electric Power Corporation in 1985 and has held various positions, including head of the planning department, head of the management headquarters, and vice president of management support, contributing to the development of the domestic power industry. After serving as a research professor in the Energy IT Department at Gachon University, he became the CEO of Korea Southern Power and was appointed as the 11th president of Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power on March 18, 2026. With 35 years of experience in the power industry, he is focused on enhancing nuclear safety and future energy competitiveness and is expected to lead the establishment of next-generation nuclear operating systems that integrate AI and digital technologies. 2026-08-01 12:08:20
  • Korea to import Argentine crude next year as Lee, Milei deepen energy ties
    Korea to import Argentine crude next year as Lee, Milei deepen energy ties SEOUL, August 01 (AJP) - South Korea will begin importing crude oil from Argentina next year as the two countries move to diversify energy supply chains and expand cooperation in critical minerals, the presidential office said Friday. President Lee Jae Myung, who is on an official visit to Argentina, held a summit with Argentine President Javier Milei in Buenos Aires to discuss energy, critical minerals, trade and investment cooperation. The two leaders held a 25-minute preliminary meeting followed by a 58-minute summit. Presidential National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac said Korean companies conducted a trial import of Argentine crude this year and plan to start regular imports next year. “Korean companies have test-imported Argentine crude oil this year, and based on that, they plan to begin imports next year,” Wi said at a press briefing in Buenos Aires. “The two governments agreed to cooperate so that the planned imports can proceed in a stable manner from next year.” The trial shipment this year amounts to 880,000 barrels, while the volume for next year has not yet been decided. Wi said Korea’s imports of Argentine crude could increase over time, noting Milei’s pledge to expand Argentina’s energy exports by about fivefold. “This has created a practical opportunity to expand Korea’s crude oil supply sources, which have been concentrated in the Middle East, to South America,” Wi said. “We expect this to help reduce geopolitical uncertainty and strengthen Korea’s ability to respond to energy supply risks.” The move comes as Seoul seeks to reduce excessive dependence on Middle Eastern energy supplies amid instability in the region, including recent tensions involving Iran. The two countries also agreed to expand energy cooperation beyond crude oil to natural gas and nuclear power and to jointly identify specific cooperation projects. Lee and Milei also used the summit to sign a memorandum of understanding on critical minerals, setting up a framework for supply chain cooperation in minerals needed for future industries. The MOU calls for the two countries to share information on policies and investment systems and promote joint projects across the lithium value chain, including exploration and mining. Argentina is the world’s fourth-largest holder of lithium reserves. The two countries also finalized a double taxation avoidance agreement, a move expected to ease the tax burden on Korean companies operating in Argentina and improve predictability for investors. Lee and Milei also agreed to push for an early resumption of negotiations on a trade agreement between Korea and Mercosur, the South American trade bloc that includes Argentina and Brazil. Wi said a Korea-Mercosur trade deal, if concluded, would open smoother export channels for Korean products to a market of 280 million people. To follow up on the summit results and identify new projects, the two countries agreed to resume the Korea-Argentina Joint Economic Committee and the Energy and Resources Cooperation Committee. They also agreed to pursue the early conclusion of a mutual recognition agreement for driver’s licenses and seek new cooperation projects in defense, space, Antarctica and health care. During the talks, Milei emphasized his government’s regulatory reform efforts and called for more active Korean investment in Argentina. “Through various legislative measures, Argentina’s property rights protection system has become stronger,” Milei was quoted as saying. “The business environment has improved.” Asked whether tensions between Milei and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva could affect Korea-Mercosur trade negotiations, Wi said there were various issues between Brazil and Argentina but no special disagreement over Mercosur. Lee’s visit to Argentina was part of a tour that began in San Francisco and continued through Brazil, Chile and Argentina. It marked his longest overseas trip and the largest number of cities visited since he took office in June last year. 2026-08-01 12:03:27
  • South Korea and Argentina Sign MOU for Critical Mineral Supply Chain Cooperation
    South Korea and Argentina Sign MOU for Critical Mineral Supply Chain Cooperation The South Korean government is strengthening cooperation with Argentina on critical minerals, coinciding with President Lee Jae-myung's visit to the country.According to Yonhap News Agency, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy announced that Minister Kim Jung-kwan officially signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for South Korea-Argentina critical mineral cooperation on July 31.This MOU marks the first official cooperation document between the governments of South Korea and Argentina in the resource sector.The two countries agreed to exchange information on policies, regulations, and investment systems related to critical minerals, promote joint projects in lithium supply chain exploration, mining, and processing in South Korea, Argentina, and third countries, expand cooperation between geological survey agencies, and establish a director-level hotline.Argentina is rich in critical minerals such as lithium and copper and has significant potential for mineral diversification. South Korean company POSCO Holdings is actively pursuing a lithium production and processing project called Sal de Oro in the region.The government plans to establish an official cooperation framework beyond individual corporate projects and actively support companies in purchasing and investing in critical minerals.During a meeting with Argentina's Economy Minister Luis Andrés Caputo, Minister Kim requested continued support from the Argentine government for expedited permitting processes and infrastructure development.He also urged the sharing of information on new mining projects to expand mineral cooperation into new areas such as copper and to increase opportunities for South Korean companies.Additionally, the two sides agreed to enhance cooperation for the stable import of Argentine crude oil and to explore long-term resource supply cooperation based on Argentina's liquefied natural gas (LNG) export potential.Both parties will continue follow-up discussions centered on the director-level contact points and hold a public-private joint meeting within the year to support existing projects and identify new cooperation initiatives.Minister Kim proposed continued collaboration to advance the South Korea-Mercosur trade agreement negotiations, and both sides agreed to seek cooperation opportunities in future industries such as manufacturing AI and digital transformation.In addition, Minister Kim held a dinner meeting with representatives from eight companies, including POSCO International, POSCO Argentina, Samsung Electronics, and LG Electronics, during a gathering with local expatriates.He expressed deep gratitude for the efforts of South Korean business leaders who are actively working to explore the South American market despite challenging local conditions, stating, "We will actively address local difficulties and strengthen cooperation with the Argentine government to ensure that the business environment improves significantly."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-01 11:40:00
  • Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province Receives Inaugural Report for 9th Elected Government
    Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province Receives Inaugural Report for 9th Elected Government The Inauguration Committee for the 9th elected governor of Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province, chaired by Shin Hyung-sik, has presented the 'Inauguration Committee White Paper' to Governor Lee Won-taek.According to the province, the white paper documents the activities and discussions of the committee from its launch on June 10 to the final report on June 30, covering 21 days and 504 hours of work reports, key issue assessments, site visits, policy discussions by subcommittees, expert lectures, and public opinion gathering.Key contents of the white paper include: 1) Major activities of the elected governor and the Inauguration Committee; 2) Operational direction and policy plans for the 9th elected government; 3) Overview of the 9th government launch and the Inauguration Committee; 4) Operational direction and major activities by subcommittees and special committees; 5) Communication with residents and policy reflection.Based on these discussions, the committee identified 139 governance tasks, which were publicly shared with residents during the final report on June 30.The governance tasks proposed by the committee focus on the core values of 'growth, balance, participation, and inclusion,' comprising seven major goals and 29 implementation strategies, including people's sovereignty, a tangible economy, advanced industries, agricultural life, culture and tourism, welfare, and ecological environment.To enhance governance execution, the committee also selected ten core tasks and ten priority tasks.The core tasks include expanding renewable energy, establishing RE100 industrial complexes, building an AI robot K-Valley, creating a water and power supply system for advanced industries, and establishing leading institutions for Jeonbuk's growth. Priority tasks include attracting region-specific public institutions, establishing a third financial center, forming a Physical AI Strategy Committee, and expanding job opportunities for seniors by 100,000.The white paper includes the 139 governance tasks, operational direction for the 9th government, policy discussions and activities by subcommittees, public opinion gathering and policy reflection, and details of the governor's inauguration ceremony.Shin Hyung-sik, the Inauguration Committee chair, stated, "This white paper is a record of the intense deliberations over 21 days aimed at sketching the blueprint for the 9th government and reflects our sincere commitment to a new Jeonbuk. I hope the directions outlined in the white paper will translate into practical governance."Governor Lee Won-taek expressed gratitude to the committee members and public officials for their efforts, stating, "We will now implement the promises made to the residents and ensure that they can feel the changes in their lives without wavering."Additionally, the Inauguration Committee White Paper has been available in e-book format on the official website of Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province since July 30, allowing residents to access it freely.The document will also be distributed to various departments within the provincial government, cities, counties, and public institutions to share the policy direction of the 9th government and the discussions of the Inauguration Committee.Governor Lee Won-taek Appoints Political Line Including Chief of StaffGovernor Lee Won-taek has appointed three members to his political line to assist in addressing governance issues and enhancing external cooperation.On August 1, the province announced that Governor Lee appointed Park Seung-dae (58) as Chief of Staff (equivalent to Level 2), Lee Jeong-rin (60) as Policy Cooperation Officer (equivalent to Level 3), and Baek Young-kyu (51) as Political Advisor (equivalent to Level 4), all as specialized public officials.Park Seung-dae previously served as a special professor at Jeonbuk National University and as an aide to National Assembly member Jeong Dong-young. Lee Jeong-rin has served as a city councilor in Namwon during the 6th and 7th terms and as a provincial councilor in Jeonbuk during the 11th and 12th terms.Additionally, Baek Young-kyu has held positions as a city councilor in Jeonju during the 10th and 11th terms and as the head of the Jeonbuk Regional Employment Center.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-01 11:08:00