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  • Real Estate Trends: Prices Rise in Seongbuk District
    Real Estate Trends: Prices Rise in Seongbuk District The real estate market in Seoul is witnessing a shift in price momentum from the Gangnam area to non-Gangnam districts, with Seongbuk District showing notable strength. This year, the cumulative increase in apartment prices in Seongbuk has surpassed 10%, making it the only district among Seoul's 25 to achieve a double-digit rise. Recently, both sales and rental prices have recorded the highest increases in the city.According to the Korea Real Estate Agency, as of the fourth week of July, apartment prices in Seongbuk District rose by 10.31% compared to the beginning of the year, a significant increase compared to last year's 1.49%. Following Seongbuk, Guro District saw an 8.80% increase, Gangseo District 8.78%, Seodaemun District 8.04%, and Dongdaemun District 7.97%. While high-end apartments in the Han River area and Gangnam led the price surge last year, this year has seen a clear trend of lower-priced non-Gangnam areas catching up.Recent weekly statistics confirm Seongbuk's strong performance. According to KB Kookmin Bank's report on the apartment market for the fourth week of July, as of July 27, apartment prices in Seongbuk rose by 0.71% from the previous week, more than double the Seoul average increase of 0.32%, marking the highest rate among the 25 districts.During the same period, Gangseo and Guro districts increased by 0.64% and 0.61%, respectively, while Nowon and Dongdaemun districts saw increases of 0.49% and 0.48%. Overall, the rate of increase in apartment prices across Seoul slowed from 0.34% to 0.32%, but the northern and non-Gangnam areas, including Seongbuk, continued to experience a relatively steep rise.The rise in Seongbuk's apartment prices can be traced back to Gileum New Town. Gileum-dong benefits from easy access to downtown areas like Seoul Station and City Hall via Subway Line 4, and has transformed into a residential area with a concentration of new and nearly new apartments due to large-scale redevelopment projects. As prices for new apartments in Gangnam have surged, demand has shifted to Gileum New Town, which offers relatively lower entry prices and excellent access to the city center.Indeed, there have been a series of record transactions in Gileum New Town's representative new complexes. An 84-square-meter unit at Lotte Castle Clasia sold for 1.87 billion won last month, up about 400 million won from the previous year's price of 1.473 billion won. As prices for new standard-sized apartments approach 2 billion won, it has become difficult to classify Seongbuk as merely a mid-to-low price area.Recently, the price increase has extended beyond Gileum-dong to Jongam-dong and Jangwi-dong. KB Real Estate noted that this week, significant price increases were observed in major large complexes in Jongam and Jangwi-dong. Jongam-dong features a concentration of established and nearly new large complexes with good access to the city and living infrastructure, while Jangwi-dong is rapidly developing new residential areas due to the Jangwi New Town redevelopment project.The simultaneous rise in rental prices in these areas also supports the increase in Seongbuk's sales prices. As of July 27, apartment rental prices in Seongbuk rose by 0.62% from the previous week, the second highest increase in Seoul after Dongdaemun's 0.71%. The average rental price increase in Seoul during the same period was 0.25%, making Seongbuk's increase about 2.5 times higher than the average.In Seongbuk, the shortage of rental listings around the Gileum-dong station area has led to rising asking prices. With a scarcity of rental properties across the northern districts, some tenants facing high rental prices are moving to the sales market, contributing to the upward pressure on home prices.However, experts caution that the rapid short-term price increases in Seongbuk may not be sustainable. As asking prices for new large complexes rise quickly, some buyers are delaying transactions. With prices in major complexes in Gileum-dong nearing 2 billion won, the burden of financing and loan capacity may limit further increases.A real estate industry insider stated, “Seongbuk District has good access to the city center and is home to a concentration of new large complexes in Gileum and Jangwi New Towns, making it attractive for genuine demand from the northern region. However, given the recent rapid price increases and ongoing uncertainties in finance and taxation, it is essential to monitor whether this price rise is supported by actual transaction volumes.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-01 10:04:00
  • Special Prosecutors Summon Lawmaker Yoon Han-hong Over Residence Relocation Allegations
    Special Prosecutors Summon Lawmaker Yoon Han-hong Over Residence Relocation Allegations Lawmaker Yoon Han-hong of the People Power Party appeared before the Special Prosecutors' Office on August 1, facing allegations of improper involvement in the selection of a construction company during the relocation of the presidential residence.According to Yonhap News, Yoon arrived at the office of the second Special Prosecutors' team at around 9:30 a.m. as a suspect under investigation for abuse of authority.Yoon, who served as the head of the task force for the relocation of the presidential office during the Yoon Suk-yeol administration, is accused of improperly intervening in the site change and contractor selection process.The Special Prosecutors' team is investigating the circumstances surrounding the change of the site after Yoon conducted three preliminary site visits with Kim Geon-hee, the spouse of President Yoon, in April 2022.Initially, the presidential residence was set to be relocated to the Army Chief of Staff's residence, but the location was changed to the Foreign Minister's residence without clear justification following Kim's site visits, according to the Special Prosecutors' assessment.Yoon is also under suspicion of directing former Vice Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport Kim O-jin to select the interior company 21gram, which has ties to Kim Geon-hee.The Special Prosecutors' team suspects that this led to 21gram, a company without a general construction license, receiving preferential treatment in securing the contract for the relocation and expansion of the residence.21gram previously sponsored exhibitions organized by Kobana Contents, a company run by Kim Geon-hee, and is known to have close ties with the spouse of its CEO.Since conducting a search and seizure operation against Yoon in March as part of their first compulsory investigation, the Special Prosecutors' team has continued their inquiry.They plan to question Yoon regarding the site change, the contractor selection process, and any possible directives or interventions from higher-ups. 2026-08-01 10:00:00
  • Seoul reviewing options for contribution to Hormuz security, top security adviser says
    Seoul reviewing options for contribution to Hormuz security, top security adviser says SEOUL, August 01 (AJP) - South Korea is reviewing various options for a possible contribution to international efforts to stabilize the Strait of Hormuz, but no specific measure has been decided yet, Presidential National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac said Friday. “We are at the stage of reviewing various possibilities,” Wi told reporters when asked about Seoul’s possible practical contribution to ensuring stability in the key Middle East waterway. “We are responding to these consultations and internally reviewing several possibilities,” he said. “Depending on the issue, there are still matters on which we need to build consensus with the National Assembly or the public.” Wi said the government believes South Korea should actively participate in and contribute to efforts to protect freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, given its importance to the country’s economy and security. “The freedom of navigation through Hormuz is an issue in which we also have important economic and security interests,” he said. “The government is reviewing options for what we can do under the judgment that we should actively participate and contribute.” His remarks suggest that while Washington has not made a specific request, Seoul is preparing for possible participation in international efforts should they be launched to stabilize the Strait of Hormuz. Wi also stressed that any decision cannot be made by the government alone. “Of course, this is not something the government can decide on its own,” he said. “There are still steps to build consensus with the National Assembly and the public under relevant legal procedures.” Under South Korea’s Constitution, the deployment of troops overseas requires approval from the National Assembly. Wi also addressed growing concerns over military cooperation between Russia and North Korea, after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently said Russia wants North Korea to send an additional 30,000 troops and that discussions are underway. “We are watching military cooperation between Russia and North Korea with great interest and concern,” Wi said. “We want to make efforts so that it does not move in a more aggravated direction, but rather decreases and eventually disappears.” Wi did not give a specific assessment when asked about the possibility of additional North Korean troop deployments. But he said such military cooperation violates U.N. Security Council resolutions. “Our position is that military cooperation that violates the U.N. Security Council resolutions should be stopped,” he said. On a separate incident in which South Korean forces reportedly mistook a U.S. reconnaissance drone flown during a combined exercise for an unidentified aircraft and prepared a shootdown response, Wi dismissed concerns that the case reflected lax military discipline or poor communication between the allies. “I understand that there was communication between South Korea and the United States and that our side was aware of such plans,” Wi said, referring to the operation of the drone. “I do not think there was any particular problem,” he said. “I do not see it as a matter of communication or discipline.” Asked whether there had been problems in reporting the matter within the South Korean military, Wi said reports that working-level officials failed to pass on the information did not appear to be true. “We need to look at how far up the chain of command such information should properly be reported,” he said. “I do not think this was a problem of communication or discipline. There does not appear to have been any particular problem.” 2026-08-01 09:46:01
  • July Exports Reach Record $98.9 Billion, Driven by 179% Surge in Semiconductors
    July Exports Reach Record $98.9 Billion, Driven by 179% Surge in Semiconductors South Korea's exports in July reached a record $98.89 billion, marking the highest monthly total in 14 years.According to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, July exports increased by 62.8% compared to the same month last year, while imports rose by 26.5% to $68.56 billion, resulting in a trade surplus of $30.32 billion.Notably, semiconductor exports surged by 179%, and exports of other items increased by 26%. The average daily export, adjusted for working days, rose by 69.6% to $4.12 billion, surpassing $4 billion for the third consecutive month.All IT product categories recorded positive growth. Despite concerns over Apple's potential use of Chinese memory semiconductors and the announcement of new AI models in China, semiconductor prices continued to rise, maintaining exports above $40 billion for the second month in a row.Computer exports also saw significant growth, driven by increased investment in AI infrastructure, particularly in enterprise SSDs. Wireless communication devices performed well, benefiting from strong sales of premium products like the Galaxy S26, despite rising semiconductor prices. Display exports also increased.In the mobility sector, exports have shown positive growth for six consecutive months, supported by strong sales of eco-friendly vehicles like hybrids and the base effect from major companies shifting their summer vacation schedules. Ship exports also rose, with increased shipments of LNG carriers and tankers.However, tensions in the Middle East have led to a decline in the export volume of petrochemical products. While the export value of petroleum products remained high due to rising oil prices, the volume decreased by 8.8%. The export value of petrochemicals increased due to higher raw material prices, but export volumes fell by 9.1% as domestic supply was prioritized.Despite the introduction of the EU's TRQ, exports of agricultural products continued to show positive growth for the second consecutive month, driven by demand for AI data centers and pipeline replacement in the U.S. General machinery exports increased due to expanded investments in advanced manufacturing, focusing on manufacturing equipment and machine parts. Exports of low-tech products also reached record levels in July, led by strong performance in wires and electric motors.Exports of biohealth, cosmetics, and agricultural and fishery products all set new records in July. Biohealth exports benefited from increased market share of biosimilar products and higher supply volumes to Europe. The growth in cosmetics exports was attributed to the expansion of offline distribution channels in the U.S. and Europe. Agricultural and fishery product exports were driven by strong sales of ramen, snacks, and kimchi. Exports of daily necessities also increased, reflecting a broad positive trend in major consumer goods.Regionally, exports increased in eight out of nine major export regions, excluding the CIS.Exports to China reached $21.68 billion, a 96.2% increase, surpassing $20 billion for the second consecutive month. While petrochemical and general machinery exports were sluggish, increases in semiconductor, non-ferrous metal, and petroleum product exports drove growth.Exports to the U.S. rose by 68.7% to $17.43 billion, supported by increased investments in AI data centers, leading to higher exports of semiconductors, computers, electrical equipment, and steel, although automotive exports declined due to increased local production.Exports to ASEAN reached $18.8 billion, a 73.7% increase, while exports to the EU rose by 55.7% to $9.38 billion, both achieving record highs. Key items driving this growth included semiconductors, computers, and ships.Exports to the Middle East increased by 24.7% to $1.83 billion, supported by strong performance in general machinery, petrochemicals, and wireless communication devices. Exports to Japan, India, and Latin America also rose by 11%, 45%, and 26%, respectively, while exports to the CIS decreased by 9%.July imports totaled $68.56 billion, a 26.5% increase. Energy imports rose by 50.1% to $14.48 billion, while non-energy imports increased by 21.4% to $54.08 billion. Crude oil imports surged by 54.2% to $9 billion due to higher volumes and prices.The trade surplus for July was $30.32 billion, exceeding $30 billion for the second consecutive month. The cumulative trade surplus for the first seven months of the year reached $168 billion, an increase of $134.1 billion compared to the same period last year.Kim Jeong-kwan, Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy, stated, "July's exports recorded a high performance of over $90 billion despite being the beginning of the second half of the year. This is due to the continued strength of semiconductors, with 19 out of 20 key items increasing and non-semiconductor items showing a high growth rate of 26%, reflecting the competitiveness of our products and the diversification of exports."He added, "However, we anticipate that export conditions will be challenging due to new tariff measures under the U.S. Trade Act Section 301, the strengthening of protectionism by major countries, and uncertainties in the Middle East. The government plans to mobilize all available policy tools to ensure that our companies can respond promptly to changes in the trade environment, including tariffs and non-tariff barriers, while closely monitoring the situation for key items and markets."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-01 09:28:00
  • Samsung Life to Eliminate IRP Fees, Impacting Retirement Savings
    Samsung Life to Eliminate IRP Fees, Impacting Retirement Savings Samsung Life will eliminate all fees for Individual Retirement Pension (IRP) accounts starting August 1. The competition for 'zero IRP fees,' which began among securities firms, is now spreading to the insurance sector. In IRPs, which are managed over 10 to 20 years until retirement, even small annual fees of 0.1% to 0.3% can add up significantly. However, consumers should consider not just the 'free' label but also the investment products and services offered.According to the financial sector on July 31, Samsung Life will waive management and asset management fees for all IRP accounts, regardless of the account opening time, channel, or contribution amount. Existing account holders will also benefit without needing to apply separately. Samsung Life is the first insurer to waive management fees for all IRP account holders unconditionally.The typical fees charged by financial companies for IRPs include management and asset management fees. The management fee compensates the company for presenting products and processing account holders' investment instructions, while the asset management fee is for the custody and management of contributions. Although these fees vary by financial institution and account type, it has been common for the combined fees to deduct a certain percentage of the contributions annually.For example, assuming an annual fee rate of 0.2%, a contribution of 50 million won would incur a fee of 100,000 won per year. If the contribution remains unchanged, this would total 1 million won over 10 years and 2 million won over 20 years. If the contribution is 100 million won, the fees would amount to 4 million won over 20 years.The actual difference could be even greater. Money lost to fees also means lost opportunities for investment returns. If 50 million won is invested at an annual return of 4% for 20 years, incurring an annual fee of 0.2% would result in a final asset difference of about 4.14 million won compared to having no fees. For a contribution of 100 million won, the difference could grow to about 8.28 million won. This simplified calculation assumes a constant annual return but illustrates how fees can erode compound growth in long-term investments.The competition to lower IRP fees is also continuing among banks and securities firms. Major securities firms, including Shinhan Investment Corp. and Mirae Asset Securities, are waiving management and asset management fees for IRP accounts opened online. Some firms have extended these benefits to accounts opened in person. Major banks are also waiving or discounting fees if certain conditions, such as online account opening or maintaining a minimum contribution amount, are met.It is important to note that 'free IRP fees' does not mean that all costs within the account are zero. The fees typically waived by financial companies are the management and asset management fees. When purchasing funds within an IRP, additional costs such as fund management fees and sales commissions may apply. Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) also incur total fees for the product itself and costs associated with transactions.When choosing an IRP, it is essential to consider the characteristics of different financial sectors. Securities firms generally offer a wider selection of performance-based products like ETFs and funds, while banks and insurance companies tend to focus on principal-protected products like savings accounts or guaranteed interest insurance, which may be easier for some investors to choose. Even within the same sector, the types of ETFs and funds available for trading and the interest rates on principal-protected products can vary by financial institution. Saving 100,000 won in fees annually may not be beneficial if it results in a lower return due to a lack of desired products or higher interest options.For those with limited investment experience, advisory services can be just as important as fees. It is crucial to check whether the service offers guidance on retirement fund allocation and pension withdrawal methods, whether it is easy to switch products and check returns via an app, and whether it provides portfolios that match the investor's risk profile. The Financial Supervisory Service's integrated pension portal allows users to compare total fees, management and asset management fees, and total costs of funds by financial institution.A financial sector official advised, "Before transferring an IRP, confirm whether you can transfer your existing products as they are or if you need to sell them. Early termination of products may result in losing guaranteed interest or realizing losses based on market prices at the time of sale."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-01 09:04:10
  • U.S. Eases Regulations on Biosimilars, Boosting Prospects for Domestic Firms
    U.S. Eases Regulations on Biosimilars, Boosting Prospects for Domestic Firms The United States is accelerating reforms to expand competition in the biosimilars market. Following the Senate's passage of a bill aimed at lowering patent barriers and streamlining interchangeability recognition procedures, domestic companies like Celltrion and Samsung Bioepis are increasingly optimistic about the potential benefits.According to the Korea Bio Association's Bioeconomy Research Center, the U.S. Senate passed the "Affordable Prescriptions for Patients Act" on July 21, which limits the construction of patent thickets by original drug manufacturers. The accompanying "Biosimilar Regulatory Easing Act" recognizes biosimilars approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as interchangeable products without the need for cross-dosing.This legislation focuses on curbing the patent abuse by original pharmaceutical companies. The industry has previously utilized a strategy of registering additional patents related to formulations and administration methods to delay competitors' market entry. Under the new law, the number of patents that can be asserted in lawsuits against biosimilar developers will be capped at 20.According to the "U.S. Biosimilar Regulatory Changes and Global Market Outlook" report by the Biosimilars Association, existing approved products will be recognized as interchangeable after a 60-day transition period once the law is enacted. Interchangeability is a system that allows pharmacies to substitute biosimilars for original drugs. Previously, this required additional clinical burdens.Among domestic companies, Celltrion and Samsung Bioepis are highlighted as key beneficiaries. With the recognition of interchangeability, industry experts believe that their products will gain significant competitive advantages in the distribution market, including with pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs).Celltrion currently holds five products with interchangeability approval. Its rituximab biosimilar, Truxima, recently became the first product in its category to obtain FDA interchangeability status, securing exclusive rights as the first interchangeable biosimilar. As of this month, Truxima has maintained a 38.6% market share in the U.S., ranking first for four consecutive months.Samsung Bioepis has a total of eight products with interchangeability approval, including two versions of SB16. Last year, its Prolia and Xgeva biosimilars (SB16) were approved as two separate products for osteoporosis treatment and prevention of skeletal-related events, differing in dosage and administration frequency.The industry anticipates that the regulatory changes will significantly alleviate the development burden for biosimilars. In particular, the reduction of clinical trial burdens, which account for about half of development costs, is expected to enhance development efficiency.With the easing of regulations, the entry of latecomer companies into the market is expected to increase. However, analysts note that the existing leading companies' advantages are unlikely to be easily shaken, as large-scale production infrastructure, data, and global regulatory experience remain key competitive factors.Lee Seung-kyu, vice president of the Korea Bio Association, stated, "Biosimilar development companies are likely proceeding with their development plans while considering the possibility of regulatory easing. While competition will intensify with the entry of latecomer companies, the accumulated development and regulatory experience and know-how will continue to serve as a competitive advantage for existing firms."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-01 09:04:00
  • Seoul Night Views Extended: Seoul Moon Late Night Operations from August to October
    Seoul Night Views Extended: 'Seoul Moon' Late Night Operations from August to October The Seoul City government and the Seoul Tourism Foundation are expanding late-night operations of the popular gas balloon attraction, 'Seoul Moon,' to boost nighttime economic activity and increase tourist stay duration.Starting in August and continuing through October, the operating hours for 'Seoul Moon' on Fridays and Saturdays will be extended from the previous closing time of 10 PM to 11 PM. From Monday to Thursday and on Sundays, the hours will remain the same, allowing boarding from noon to 10 PM.This extension is designed to enhance visitor convenience during the cooler evening hours. Passengers will now have more time to enjoy the night views of major Seoul landmarks, including the Han River, Yeouido, Nodeul Island, and Namsan, from 130 meters in the air.Seoul City anticipates that this adjustment will meet the growing demand for evening rides and significantly contribute to the revitalization of nighttime tourism in the Yeouido area, coinciding with cultural events at nearby Han River parks.Since its opening in August 2024, 'Seoul Moon' has established itself as a key nighttime tourism destination, surpassing 100,000 cumulative passengers by May of this year. As of the 15th, the total number of passengers reached 108,474, including 40,726 foreign visitors. Notably, the proportion of foreign passengers has increased from 40.2% last year to 43.6% in the first half of this year. The city and the tourism foundation expect that the extended late-night operations will further attract international tourists.Seoul City and the tourism foundation plan to analyze the outcomes of this year's late-night operations and consider extending the operational period from April to October starting in 2027.Cho Seong-ho, head of the Seoul City Tourism and Sports Bureau, stated, "We are continuously expanding nighttime tourism content to make Seoul's nights a competitive tourism asset. Through the late-night operations of 'Seoul Moon,' we aim to create a Seoul that both citizens and domestic and international tourists want to stay in at night, enhancing our competitiveness as a global tourism city."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-01 09:04:00
  • Around 50,000 Migrants Return to Morocco as Ceuta Border Crisis Eases
    Around 50,000 Migrants Return to Morocco as Ceuta Border Crisis Eases A border crisis erupted as approximately 50,000 to 60,000 migrants surged into Ceuta, a Spanish autonomous city in North Africa, but the situation has significantly calmed within a day.According to Yonhap News Agency, Spain's Ministry of the Interior reported that on the second day of the crisis, at least 48,300 of the unauthorized entrants voluntarily returned to Morocco.The Spanish government estimated the number of unauthorized entrants at around 50,000, while local authorities in Ceuta suggested the figure could exceed 60,000.Currently, only thousands remain in Ceuta, and the Spanish government is deploying military personnel to assist with identity verification and repatriation procedures.Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez visited Ceuta and condemned the situation, stating, "This is an attack and an infringement on Spain's territorial integrity."Sánchez announced plans to establish a temporary reception center in Ceuta for processing migrant documentation and to expedite the deportation of unauthorized migrants. He also mentioned plans to install maritime boundary buoys along the coast to prevent further crossings.The Sánchez administration has recently adopted a lenient immigration policy within the European Union (EU), allowing around one million long-term undocumented migrants in Spain to apply for legal residency. However, this crisis may expose the government to criticism for failing to manage border security effectively.Various interpretations have emerged regarding the background of the crisis. Some experts suggest that the Moroccan government may have tacitly allowed the influx or used it for political purposes, particularly in light of recent warming relations between Spain and Algeria, which may have displeased Morocco.Concerns have also been raised that this incident could establish Ceuta as a major migration route to mainland Europe. Calls for the Sánchez government to restore border controls are growing, both domestically and within the EU, which is bound by the Schengen Agreement allowing free movement.Italy has announced the closure of its maritime and air borders with Spain. France has strengthened border checks with Spain, while Germany and Sweden have urged Spain to "control the situation." U.S. President Donald Trump referred to the crisis as a "disaster" and criticized the Spanish government.In 2021, a similar situation occurred when 5,000 to 8,000 Moroccans crossed into Ceuta amid diplomatic tensions over the entry of a leader of the Western Sahara independence movement into Spain. The Moroccan government does not recognize Spain's sovereignty over Ceuta and Melilla, both located in North Africa.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-01 08:56:00
  • President Lee: Argentine Koreans Maintain Hope Despite Challenges
    President Lee: Argentine Koreans Maintain Hope Despite Challenges 이재명 대통령은 31일(현지시간) 아르헨티나 동포들을 만나 "농업이민자들의 삶은 결코 순탄하지 않았지만 농장을 떠나면서도 희망까지 내려놓지는 않았다"며 이민 1세대의 개척 정신을 높이 평가했다.아르헨티나를 공식 방문 중인 이 대통령은 이날 오후 부에노스아이레스 시내 한 호텔에서 열린 동포 만찬 간담회에서 "어떤 어려움 속에서도 삶의 터전을 지키고 아르헨티나 사회의 모범적인 구성원으로 뿌리내린 동포 여러분의 위대한 여정에 아낌없는 박수를 보낸다"고 말했다.이 대통령은 "남미 대륙 가장 남쪽에 위치한 아르헨티나에서 당당하게 대한민국의 이름을 빛내고 계신 여러분을 만나게 돼 반갑다"며 "아르헨티나 동포사회의 성장 과정은 굴곡진 대한민국 현대사를 떠올리게 한다"고 밝혔다.이어 한국전쟁 당시 아르헨티나가 한국에 지원의 손길을 보낸 역사를 거론하며 "대한민국이 가장 힘들었던 시절 품을 내어준 연대의 역사 위에서 선배 동포들이 새로운 삶을 시작했고 오늘의 자랑스러운 동포사회가 이어졌다"고 설명했다.아르헨티나 한인 이민은 1960년대 농업이민으로 시작됐다. 지난해 이민 60주년을 맞았으며 현재 약 2만명의 한인이 4세대에 걸쳐 현지에 뿌리내리고 있다.이 대통령은 초기 농업이민자들이 정착 과정에서 어려움을 겪은 뒤 부에노스아이레스로 이동해 새로운 삶의 터전을 개척한 과정도 소개했다.이 대통령은 "부에노스아이레스 외곽 109번 버스 종점 주변은 코리아타운을 의미하는 '109촌'으로 불리며 한인사회의 중심지로 거듭났다"며 "오늘 직접 가보려고 했는데 비가 내려 아쉽다"고 말했다.이어 "동포들이 개척의 역사를 써 내려가는 동안 조국 역시 전쟁의 아픔을 딛고 눈부신 발전의 역사를 써 내려갔다"며 "조국의 국민과 아르헨티나 동포들은 길이 막히면 새로운 길을 찾고 위기가 닥치면 서로 손을 맞잡아 이겨냈다"고 강조했다.이 대통령은 동포사회의 미래세대가 한국인으로서의 뿌리에 자부심을 갖고 세계시민으로 성장할 수 있도록 정부가 지원하겠다고 약속했다.이 대통령은 "대한민국 국민이라면 세계 어디에 있든 안전하고 존중받을 수 있도록 꼼꼼하게 살피겠다"며 "국민주권정부는 가장 멀리 계신 동포들의 목소리에 더욱 귀를 기울이고 어려움이 있을 때 가장 먼저 손을 내밀겠다"고 말했다.이 대통령은 "다시는 여러분이 조국을 걱정하지 않도록 조국이 여러분을 제대로 지원하고 보살피겠다"고 약속했다.앞서 인공지능(AI)과 핵심광물, 에너지, 인프라 분야 등에서 하비에르 밀레이 대통령과 가진 정상회담 결과도 동포들에게 소개했다.기존 동포 간담회의 일방적인 진행 방식도 바꾸겠다는 뜻을 재차 밝혔다. 이 대통령은 "간담회는 밥만 먹고 조용히 가는 자리가 아니라 이야기를 들어보자는 것"이라며 "제안이든 지적이든 충분히 말해 달라"고 당부했다.최도선 한인회장은 환영사에서 한인사회가 20년 넘게 매년 개최한 '한인 문화의 날'에 지난해 현지인 약 15만명이 모였다고 소개하며 "이번 방문이 양국 경제협력의 새로운 장을 여는 역사적인 전환점이 되기를 기대한다"고 말했다.한편 간담회에는 최도선 재아르헨티나 한인회장과 백창기 중남미한인총연합회 상임고문, 박한준 한인상인연합회장, 정인기 민주평통 남미서부협의회장 등 현지 동포 150여명이 참석했다.이 대통령은 이날 초기 한인사회의 정착과 발전에 기여한 김상현 한인회 고문에게 감사패도 전달했다. 감사패에는 이민 1세대의 땀과 인내, 헌신이 동포사회의 뿌리와 후손들의 디딤돌이 됐다는 감사의 뜻이 담겼다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-01 08:36:20
  • President Lee Thanks Argentine Officials for Support of Korean Community
    President Lee Thanks Argentine Officials for Support of Korean Community President Lee Jae-myung met with Buenos Aires Mayor Jorge Macri on August 31, expressing gratitude for the city’s support of the local Korean community. Macri noted the successful integration of Koreans in the area, stating, "It is remarkable that Korea's soft power is strengthening."During his official visit to Argentina, President Lee met with Mayor Macri at a hotel in Buenos Aires.Attendees from the Argentine side included Fulvio Pompeo, Chief of Staff and Undersecretary for International Relations, and Gabriela Ricardes, Minister of Culture. South Korean officials present included Foreign Minister Park Jin, National Security Office Director Wi Sung-lak, and Ambassador to Argentina Lee Jong-hwan.President Lee remarked, "More than 20,000 Koreans reside in Buenos Aires, and I have heard that you have been very considerate in various aspects."In response, Mayor Macri described Buenos Aires as a city characterized by diversity, where cultures dynamically merge, adding, "The Korean community has actively integrated and become part of Argentina."He emphasized, "Korean culture is thriving in the streets, and the demand for Korean food is steadily increasing, which enhances Buenos Aires' pride in its cultural diversity."President Lee also acknowledged the city’s cooperation in securing venues for Korean cultural performances, stating, "I have heard that you have been very accommodating. Thank you."Mayor Macri mentioned the concert titled 'Arirang and Tango, Two Hearts, One Rhythm,' which was attended by First Lady Kim Hye-kyung and his spouse.He noted that Buenos Aires has over 300 theaters and more than 400 performances, highlighting the growing interest in K-pop among the youth, with many successful concerts by Korean artists.Macri remarked, "It is astonishing that Korea's soft power is strengthening," acknowledging the contributions of Korean culture and the Korean community to the cultural diversity of Buenos Aires.The two leaders also discussed the impact of climate change on cities and agriculture. President Lee pointed out the unpredictable weather in Buenos Aires, saying, "It seems that the erratic weather has worsened due to climate change."Mayor Macri responded, "This is a concern for all cities. We are preparing for unprecedented rainfall that has been recorded."When President Lee suggested that Argentina, with its significant agricultural sector, might be greatly affected by climate change, Macri noted, "There are cases where areas that were previously very dry and difficult for farming have become fertile due to increased rainfall."In response, President Lee stated, "What is good can also be bad, and what is bad can also be good," to which Macri replied, "Like the two sides of a coin, life always has two aspects."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-01 07:40:00