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Art and AI Converge as LG Uplus Revamps U+ Everyday Space A new cultural space offering a 'pause' in the bustling Gangnam area has opened, allowing visitors to appreciate works by emerging artists and explore their identities through artificial intelligence (AI). The 'U+ Everyday Space' officially reopened on September 16.The revamped U+ Everyday Space is themed around 'Art Garage,' designed as a place where emerging artists can experiment with their work and connect with customers, similar to how Google grew from a small garage startup into a global giant.Kim Da-rim, head of marketing communications at LG Uplus, stated, "While established works are often showcased in galleries or museums, we recognized that young artists lack such opportunities. We structured this space to discover new possibilities under the theme of 'Art Garage.'"The first exhibition after the reopening, titled 'Circle of Growth,' features four artists: Eric Oh, Nam Min-oh, Sang Hee, and Kim Do-eun. The exhibition showcases media art pieces utilizing generative images, data, and gaming technology, including Oh's notable work 'OPERA.' The artists engaged with visitors on-site to enhance interaction.Simultaneously, visitors can experience the art of emerging creators and gain insights about themselves through AI. The first floor features an installation made from 439 donated old mobile phones by LG Uplus employees, prominently paying homage to Nam June Paik's 'Dada is Better.'On the second floor, visitors can find the 'AI Art Mate,' an AI-based viewing partner introduced by LG Uplus. Unlike traditional audio guides, this tool explains artworks based on the viewer's interests. By selecting their artistic preferences at a kiosk on the second floor, visitors receive a personalized AI Art Mate. Scanning a QR code allows them to access tailored explanations suited to their viewing level.After exploring exhibitions on the third to sixth floors and selecting artworks that resonate with them, visitors receive analyses of their viewing patterns and artistic tastes. The experience also includes recommendations for coffee, books, and music based on their artistic preferences, offering a unique opportunity to discover aspects of themselves they may not have known.LG Uplus plans to continue developing ways for customers to explore exhibitions and content that align with their tastes. They aim to integrate their unified application, U+one, with Uplus's voice AI, allowing users to receive necessary information seamlessly when standing in front of artworks using smart glasses.Jang Jun-young, head of the marketing group at LG Uplus, remarked, "Uplus has always connected people, and we aim to connect people with art through AI technology in the Everyday Space. We will continue to evolve to bring art closer to everyday life."The U+ Everyday Space first opened in 2020 and has recorded a total of 1.9 million visitors over the past six years, with 85 brands expanding their engagement with customers through this platform.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 15:56:00
AhnLab to Invest 100 Billion Won in AI-Centric Transformation AhnLab is undergoing a transformation to become an 'AI-native security platform company' by redesigning its products, services, and overall security operations around artificial intelligence (AI). Over the next three years, the company plans to invest 100 billion won in AI infrastructure and research and development (R&D), restructuring its products and business model to focus on Agentic AI and software as a service (SaaS). AhnLab aims to achieve 1 trillion won in revenue and over 30% of its sales from global markets by 2035.During an 'AI Vision Declaration' press conference held on September 16 at the Westin Seoul Parnas in Gangnam, AhnLab CEO Kang Seok-kyun stated, "AhnLab's next step is the transition to AI, and we will grow into an AI-native security platform company," unveiling the company's long-term growth strategy centered on AI.AhnLab also introduced its integrated brand 'AhnLab AI Plus' to clarify its AI transition. The strategy involves shifting from an 'AI-powered' approach, which applies AI to individual security products like antivirus and endpoint detection and response (EDR), to an 'AI-native' design that centers on AI across products, services, data, and security operations.The core of AhnLab's AI-native transition is to have AI take over a significant portion of security tasks traditionally performed by humans. The company believes that relying solely on human-centered security responses has limitations, as AI will handle vulnerability scanning and attack path mapping. In the future, AI will connect scattered data to understand attack flows and suggest response measures.To support this initiative, Kang announced a 100 billion won investment in AI over the next three years, aimed at enhancing infrastructure such as AI computing and data platforms, as well as strengthening R&D capabilities in AI technology and expertise. He noted, "Currently, over 30% of our revenue is invested in R&D, and future R&D investments will increasingly focus on AI." This AI-native transition will be realized through security operations based on Agentic AI, where AI will manage the entire security process from threat detection to analysis, investigation, understanding attack flows and impacts, and formulating response strategies. AhnLab plans to expand the launch of its security operations platform 'AI Plus SecOps' in December.However, AhnLab will not leave all decision-making to AI. The company adheres to a principle of 'controlled autonomy,' where AI will handle repetitive analysis and responses, but human oversight will be required for actions that could impact actual services, such as account or network blocking.Alongside the AI transition, AhnLab plans to restructure its revenue model to focus on SaaS and subscription services. However, given that many domestic companies still operate in on-premises and hybrid environments, AhnLab will continue to support both SaaS and on-premises solutions through a two-track strategy.In terms of specific products, AhnLab sees significant growth potential in EDR and extended detection and response (XDR). Kang stated, "If I had to name the fastest-growing area in AhnLab's business, it would be EDR," adding that he expects substantial investment in EDR over the next few years. XDR is generating more revenue overseas than domestically, and AhnLab plans to integrate AI-native features into both EDR and XDR for further growth.AhnLab also aims to expand its international business based on its AI-native and SaaS transition. According to Kang, AhnLab's global sales share is expected to rise from 8.5% last year to over 10% this year. The company plans to strengthen its local business foundations by expanding operations through its subsidiaries in China and Japan, as well as a joint venture in Saudi Arabia, while also pursuing the establishment of a cyber defense center in the Middle East.AhnLab has set a goal of achieving 1 trillion won in revenue and over 30% of its sales from global markets by 2035. Kang emphasized, "To increase our current revenue of 300 billion won to 1 trillion won, we need to achieve approximately 15% growth annually," adding that the company will pursue business expansion through existing business growth, new investments, and mergers and acquisitions (M&A).* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 15:52:10
South Korea's Publishing Budget Exceeds 60 Billion Won for First Time The South Korean government has proposed a budget for the publishing sector that exceeds 600 billion won for the first time in 2027.Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Choi Hwi-young announced this at the third meeting of the Cultural Arts Policy Advisory Committee's publishing division, held on September 16 at the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Seoul.The budget for the publishing sector is set at 645 billion won, an 18% increase from this year. An additional 5 billion won has been allocated to diversify revenue models in the publishing industry and enhance the diversity of K-content through the utilization and expansion of publishing intellectual property (IP), which is the foundation of K-content.The plan includes support for the trading of high-quality publishing IP and the secondary adaptation into films, broadcasts, and performances. It also aims to assist students and young creators with initial planning costs for secondary adaptations. In the web novel sector, support will expand beyond translation to include specialized export support such as export consultation meetings and award ceremonies, broadening opportunities for international expansion.Funding to revitalize local bookstores will increase from 7.5 billion won this year to 13.8 billion won next year, an 84% rise. This will allow the number of participating bookstores in the 'Life Bookstore' and 'Late Night Bookstore' initiatives to grow from 340 to over 470.New reading culture programs will be launched in collaboration with local bookstores and public and school libraries, with over 700 programs planned nationwide. Additionally, the Ministry of Culture plans to introduce a nationwide certification system for local bookstores and cooperatives through amendments to the 'Publishing Act,' with budget provisions for its implementation. Support for logistics costs for cooperative deliveries to libraries will also be newly established.Funding for reading campaigns linked to daily life, such as travel and hobbies, will increase from 900 million won this year to 1.9 billion won next year, enhancing outreach through broadcasting programs. The K-Book Global 100 initiative will also double its budget from 1 billion won to 2 billion won, providing comprehensive support for the export of Korean books from translation to marketing.Since August, the Ministry has allowed the 'Youth Culture and Arts Pass' to be used for book purchases. In celebration of 'Reading Month' in September, the purchase limit for books has been raised to 50,000 won in the metropolitan area and 70,000 won in non-metropolitan areas. Next year, the 'Youth Culture and Arts Pass' will be expanded to the 'Youth Culture Pass,' increasing the eligible age from 19-20 to 19-34.Minister Choi emphasized, "Since last month, books have been included in the Youth Culture and Arts Pass, and next year the age range will be broadened to 19-34. This is expected to significantly increase demand for book purchases, positively impacting the publishing sector."According to Yes24, from August 10 to September 8, during the initial support period for book purchases with the Youth Culture and Arts Pass, novels, poetry, and plays accounted for 45% of purchases made by 19-20-year-olds, nearly three times the 15.7% for comics and light novels, followed by humanities at 12.1% and essays at 9.6%.The Ministry and the publishing industry will continue discussions on key issues such as the introduction of tax deductions for publishing content production costs and the industry's response to changing environments. Participants plan to maintain close communication and collaboration to create a sustainable publishing ecosystem.Minister Choi stated, "With the government budget for the publishing sector set at a record high for next year, it is essential to carefully design and implement support measures to ensure that the allocated budget effectively benefits the field. We will faithfully reflect on-site opinions in next year's projects and explore additional necessary support."Additionally, Kim Tae-hun, president of the Korean Publishers Association, and Jeong Jae-wook, CEO of Millie's Library, have joined as new committee members.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 15:52:10
Gunpo City Council Reviews Financial Management in 2025 Budget Audit The Gunpo City Council conducted a review of financial management issues during the audit of the 2025 fiscal year on September 16, focusing on uncollected funds, subsidy recoveries, water supply and sewage operations, and budget surpluses. According to the council, the Special Committee on Budget and Settlement examined the 2025 fiscal year settlement, emergency expenditures, and the accounts of affiliated organizations during its 289th regular session held on September 14-15. A key issue discussed was the management of approximately 2.9 billion won in uncollected funds from the transportation project special account. Council member Shin Gyeong-won emphasized the need to strengthen collection efforts and debt management. The management of subsidy recoveries was also scrutinized. Council member Park Sang-hyun pointed out that about 15 million won in improperly received subsidies for small libraries from 2019 had not been recovered, as the statute of limitations had expired. He called for enhanced post-procedures, including asset investigations and statute management. In the water supply and sewage sector, a discrepancy of about 3 million tons between the water production and billing amounts, along with recurring issues with water loss rates, was raised. Members stressed the importance of leak reduction and usage management. Regarding sewage operations, they called for cost reductions and improved operational efficiency in response to rising treatment costs and expanding deficits. Concerns were also raised about the recurring budget surpluses and carryover projects, with calls to reduce these issues. There was a consensus on the need for budget planning that considers the feasibility of project implementation and the accuracy of cost estimates. The council also reviewed the preparation of settlement documents for affiliated organizations and the procedures for budget transfers. Shin Gyeong-won pointed out areas needing improvement in the settlement documents of the Gunpo Industrial Promotion Agency and requested clear presentation of relevant grounds and procedures. In terms of performance management, there were suggestions for performance indicators that reflect citizen usage and tangible effects rather than just budget execution rates or simple figures. Meanwhile, the council plans to continuously monitor whether the financial management and performance management improvements raised during the audit are reflected in future budget planning and project proposals.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 15:52:00
South Korean thriller wins top prize at genre film festival in Paris SEOUL, September 16 (AJP) - Director Park Hoon-jung's action thriller "Sad Tropics," also known as "Tristes Tropiques," has won the top award at the annual L'Etrange Festival in Paris, the film's distributor said on Wednesday. The 107-minute film won the top honor, the Nouveau Genre Grand Prize, after competing in the festival's international competition, which wrapped up its two-week run last Saturday. Now in its 32nd year, the festival, held annually in September, is dedicated to atypical, bizarre and genre cinema including horror, fantasy, science fiction and experimental films. Previous South Korean films invited to the festival include "Exhuma," "Concrete Utopia" and "The Spy Gone North." "Sad Tropics" is a hard-boiled action noir about a group of killers raised by the ruler of a tropical rainforest. After a mysterious incident threatens their existence, they turns against one another and embarks on a bloody quest for revenge. The latest award adds to the film's growing recognition overseas. It was previously invited to Spain's Sitges Film Festival in October last year and won the Silver Raven Award, a special jury prize recognizing an outstanding film in genre cinema at the Brussels International Fantastic Film Festival in April this year. The film was also invited to Germany's Fantasy Filmfest, the largest genre film festival there. "Sad Tropics" is expected to hit local theaters here sometime later this year. AJP Takeaways - South Korean director Park Hoon-jung's action thriller "Sad Tropics" won the Nouveau Genre Grand Prize, the top award in the international competition at the 32nd L'Etrange Festival in Paris. - "Sad Tropics" is a 107-minute hard-boiled action noir about a group of killers raised by the ruler of a tropical rainforest who turn against one another after a mysterious incident threatens their existence. - The Paris award adds to the film's growing international recognition, following its selection at Spain's Sitges Film Festival, its Silver Raven Award at the Brussels International Fantastic Film Festival and an invitation to Germany's Fantasy Filmfest. 2026-09-16 15:49:24
Justice Ministry Delays Disciplinary Review for Prosecutors in Lee Hwa-young Case The Justice Ministry has indefinitely postponed the disciplinary review for prosecutors involved in the mass walkout during the trial of former Gyeonggi Province Peace Vice Governor Lee Hwa-young. On September 16, legal sources reported that the ministry informed former Suwon District Prosecutors' Office chief prosecutors Kim Hyun-woo and Seo Hyun-wook of the delay in the disciplinary committee's review. The committee was originally scheduled to hear from the two prosecutors regarding their request to disqualify the trial judges and the circumstances surrounding their claims of unfair trial management. The incident occurred on November 25, 2025, during a pre-trial hearing at the Suwon District Court, when four prosecutors walked out of the courtroom after submitting a disqualification request, citing the rejection of numerous witness requests as evidence of unfair trial management. Following the incident, President Lee Jae-myung expressed regret over the disruption of court order and directed a thorough investigation. The Supreme Prosecutors' Office's inspection committee determined in April that disciplinary action was not feasible due to violations of reporting obligations. However, the Justice Ministry concluded through a separate investigation that the Suwon District Prosecutors' Office leadership had directed the prosecutors to file the disqualification request and not cooperate with the trial, violating prior reporting obligations. At that time, Justice Minister Jeong Seong-ho also requested the lowest level of disciplinary action, a reprimand, against the two chief prosecutors. Kim Hyun-a, the first deputy chief prosecutor, and Lee Seong-beom, the second deputy chief prosecutor, who had already submitted their resignations, received only a warning. Seo, the subject of the disciplinary review, recently expressed his intention to appear before the committee to contest the allegations. He also voiced strong dissatisfaction on the prosecutors' internal network, stating, "I was only presenting my opinion, yet I became a subject of disciplinary action." The prosecutor disciplinary committee consists of nine members, including the Justice Minister, the Vice Minister, two prosecutors, and five civilian members, and decisions are made by a majority vote of the attending members. If a reprimand is confirmed, it will be enforced by the head of the respective prosecutors' office.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 15:48:10
Education Minister Apologizes for College Application System Crash In response to an unprecedented server crash just before the deadline for the 2027 college admissions applications, Education Minister Choi Kyo-jin officially apologized during a National Assembly meeting on September 16. The Ministry of Education has formed a special investigation team in collaboration with the Korean Council for University Education (KCUE) to investigate the incident. They are considering canceling applications in cases where unfair practices are suspected, particularly during the 'one-hour extension' period.During the National Assembly Education Committee meeting, Minister Choi reported on the status and measures regarding the college application system failure. He apologized for the technical issues that occurred on September 11 with the application service provider, Uway Apply, and outlined plans for relief criteria and follow-up actions for the 17 universities that disclosed their competition rates.Minister Choi: "I feel a heavy sense of responsibility... reviewing public application system reform"In his report, Minister Choi expressed deep regret as the head of admissions management. He stated, "I feel a heavy sense of responsibility as the person in charge of admissions policy and management for the inconvenience and concerns caused to students and parents. I will do my utmost to alleviate these anxieties through thorough follow-up measures."The Ministry of Education suspects that the cause of the failure was a conflict between certain functions during a security system upgrade. Given the seriousness of the situation, the Ministry and KCUE have launched a comprehensive on-site investigation of Uway Apply from September 16 to 23.Minister Choi emphasized, "We will thoroughly identify responsibility based on the results of the special investigation and ensure that similar incidents do not occur in the upcoming regular admissions. We will also consider reforming the public application system in the long term." This indicates an acknowledgment of the fundamental limitations of relying entirely on a few private companies (Uway Apply, Jinhak Apply) for such a critical national task.Of 1,200 applicants eligible for relief, strict criteria will apply... "No unfairness"Following the incident, approximately 1,200 students who were unable to submit their applications despite the one-hour extension were identified. However, not all of them will receive relief.To ensure fairness among applicants, the Ministry has established strict relief principles based on objective data. The specific criteria include: applicants who have error logs at the time of the system failure (5:50 PM), those with a history of application submission attempts to the university they are applying to, and only the last submission attempt will be considered for those with multiple application histories.Individual relief applications through Uway Apply will conclude on September 16, and if all three criteria are applied, the actual number of students receiving relief is expected to be significantly lower than 1,200.17 universities, including Sungkyunkwan University and Hanyang University (ERICA), disclose competition rates... "Cancellation of applications under review"Regarding the contentious issue of 'sneak peeking' (checking competition rates before applying), the Ministry has taken a firm stance. According to the Ministry's findings, despite the one-hour extension, 17 universities disclosed their competition rates based on the original deadline of 6 PM.The universities that disclosed their competition rates include Sungkyunkwan University, Hanyang University (ERICA), Sejong University, Korea Aerospace University, Gyeongin National University of Education, Kongju National University, Mokpo National University, Pukyong National University, Daegu University, Daeshin University, Dong-A University, Mokpo Catholic University, Busan Catholic University, Busan University of Foreign Studies, Seoul Han-young University, Silla University, and Handong Global University.Minister Choi acknowledged the concerns regarding fairness in cases where applications were submitted after checking competition rates, stating, "I am well aware of the concerns regarding fairness in cases where applications were submitted after checking competition rates. We will closely analyze related cases and, if unfairness is confirmed, we will consider measures such as application cancellations in consultation with the respective universities."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 15:48:00
Disney Identifies South Korea as a Key Market for Global IP Expansion Walt Disney Company Korea is positioning South Korea as a strategic hub for its global intellectual property (IP) business. The company plans to expand collaborations with K-brands and leverage successful models developed in Korea to penetrate global markets.On September 16, Disney Korea held its 'Franchise Showcase 2027' in the Gangnam district of Seoul, unveiling strategies for its consumer products division and key collaboration plans.Under the slogan 'ICONS UNLEASHED: Become the Center of Global Icons and K-Wave,' Disney Korea presented South Korea as a core cross-border market. With the growing influence of K-brands in music, content, fashion, and beauty, the company aims to actively discover domestic partners with high potential for global expansion.Changes are also underway in its business approach. Disney Korea plans to strengthen its business-to-consumer (B2C) operations, moving beyond its traditional business-to-business (B2B) model. To facilitate this shift, the company established a retail team last year and aims to expand consumer touchpoints both online and offline. Recent initiatives, such as the 'Toy Story 5' relay pop-up and an experiential pop-up at Olive Young's Seongsu flagship store coinciding with the release of 'The Devil Wears Prada,' are part of this strategy.Disney Korea intends to broaden its collaboration model by combining Korea's cultural influence with Disney's storytelling. The focus will be on K-pop, with plans to establish a 'K-Culture Fund' in partnership with Kakao Entertainment for product collaborations, targeting the planning, development, and distribution of around ten products in the medium to long term. However, details regarding the fund's size and launch date have yet to be finalized. Additionally, projects combining Marvel IP with artist worldviews are in the works with SM Entertainment, and various collaborations with HYBE and Starship Entertainment are also planned.The K-fandom mix aims to connect Disney's global fandom with Korean fandoms, focusing on expanding experience-based consumption that integrates stories and worldviews beyond simple licensed products. As part of this initiative, upcoming events like 'Disney Run' and 'Marvel Run' will be expanded into fandom festivals that combine K-pop performances, pop-ups, and culinary experiences. Starting with the Disney+ original series 'The Remarried Empress' set to premiere in November, products and pop-ups utilizing Korean original content will be gradually introduced.Disney's consumer products division operates a retail business worth approximately $63 billion across more than 180 countries. The company plans to support domestic partners throughout the entire business process, from product planning and marketing to distribution and entry into overseas markets, leveraging its global network.Kim Hyun-jin, head of Disney Korea's consumer products division, stated, "South Korea is a strategic market where the uniqueness and global influence of K-culture can be combined with Disney's 100 years of storytelling. We will expand collaborations by connecting Korea's creativity and cultural influence with Disney's IP, storytelling, and global network." 2026-09-16 15:44:10
Hana Bank Begins AI Transformation Design Across Operations Hana Bank has initiated the design phase for an artificial intelligence (AI) transformation (AX) aimed at applying AI across its entire operations. With advancements in generative AI and AI agent technology, along with improvements in network separation regulations, the scope of AI utilization in the banking sector is expected to expand rapidly.According to the financial sector on September 16, Hana Bank recently announced it is selecting a vendor to carry out the 'AX detailed design.' This involves establishing a system and infrastructure for applying AI across banking operations and defining the specific requirements needed for advanced AI services.Hana Financial Group has identified AI as a core growth driver for the future and is applying it across its major subsidiaries. This detailed design is seen as a preparation to expand AI services, which have been introduced in individual operations, into a common system and infrastructure for the entire bank.The areas of AI application in the banking sector are expanding beyond customer consultations and product guidance to include customer management, asset management, credit assessment, internal controls, and business automation. As AI becomes capable of supporting repetitive tasks such as information retrieval, analysis, and report writing, expectations for productivity improvements are also growing.Investments in related IT infrastructure and security are continuing. According to the Korea Internet & Security Agency (KISA), the total IT investment by KB Kookmin, Shinhan, and Woori Banks last year reached 1.3965 trillion won, a 3% increase from the previous year. Including Hana Bank, the total investment by the four major commercial banks amounted to 1.8086 trillion won.Improvements in network separation regulations by financial authorities are also expected to support the expansion of AX. The Financial Services Commission is considering temporarily relaxing network separation regulations for financial companies utilizing high-performance AI for security purposes and is reviewing ways to broaden the scope of regulatory improvements based on operational results.A banking sector official stated, “Financial institutions handle sensitive customer and transaction information, which limits their ability to use external AI services. If network separation regulations are eased, the scope for utilizing generative AI and cloud services will expand, enhancing operational efficiency and accelerating the development of financial services.” 2026-09-16 15:40:00
From Jeong Dojeon to Kim Dae-jung: Baek Nak-cheong Says K-Thought Has Global Potential "When we started this project, not many people were using the term 'K-Thought.' The flourishing of Korean culture has a philosophical foundation that has been clearly passed down through Korean history. It acts as a source of vitality for various cultures." Baek Nak-cheong, a professor emeritus at Seoul National University, made these remarks on September 16 at a press conference celebrating the completion of the 'Changbi Korean Thought Series' at the Changbi headquarters in Mapo-gu, Seoul. The 'Changbi Korean Thought Series' covers the intellectual struggles of 59 figures, from Jeong Dojeon to female Confucian scholars of the Joseon Dynasty, modern writers, and Kim Dae-jung. The series began with the release of the first 10 volumes in 2014 and has since expanded to 30 volumes over three years. The first 15 volumes, titled 'Unfolding the Ideal of the People,' focus on Confucian scholars, monarchs, and female scholars from Jeong Dojeon to Choi Han-gi. The latter 15 volumes, titled 'Contemplating the Transition of Civilization,' include thinkers from the Gae Byeok movement, Enlightenment figures, religious leaders, and writers, concluding with Kim Dae-jung. Baek noted, "Adding the 'K' signifies not just that it originated in Korea, but that it has global value. The consensus that Korean thought possesses such potential and strength was the impetus for this project." The series aims to make the voices of these thinkers accessible to general readers and to select figures whose ideas can address contemporary issues. Baek explained, "I translated all the texts into Korean so that readers unfamiliar with classical Chinese can absorb them as nourishment for their lives, and I included a helpful preface." The series is also expected to contribute to expanding international interest in Korean thought. Lee Nam-joo, the editor-in-chief at Changbi, mentioned Chinese scholar He Zhaotian, stating, "Scholars contemplating changes in Chinese society focus on the process by which the strengthening of grassroots agency in Korea has become a driving force for social change. It is important to share useful aspects of our experiences to address common challenges faced by China and us at an Asian level." The range of thinkers included has also been broadened. Volume 13, 'Im Yun-ji, Lee Sa-joo, and Kang Jeong-il: Women Confucian Scholars of Joseon,' examines three female Confucian scholars. Co-editor Lee Suk-in remarked, "The enduring themes of how to live as a human, how to treat others, and what one should become are central. All three constantly pondered how to respect themselves and others." There was internal debate about whether Kim Dae-jung could be considered a thinker. Baek explained, "In East Asian tradition, only those in power could create and implement laws and rituals as practical thinkers. It is rare for someone in a position of authority to develop their thoughts through action. Kim Dae-jung is a rare modern figure in this regard." Lee Nam-joo added, "Kim Dae-jung's democracy sought a higher horizon than merely adopting Western democracy. He can certainly be called a pioneer of K-Democracy." Volume 29 covers writers such as Im Hwa, Kim Soo-young, and Shin Dong-yeop. Co-editor Hwang Jeong-a found a common thread among them in realism and practicality. He stated, "Through the realism of these writers, who navigated the critical junctures of 20th-century Korean history—colonization, war, division, and dictatorship—I aim to show what universal vision they pursued and hope readers will see the originality of their thoughts."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 15:36:00