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Heat Wave Continues Nationwide with Highs Reaching 38 Degrees On August 1, the first day of the month, a heat wave will persist across most of the country, reaching its peak. The sweltering heat is expected to continue through the weekend, lasting until August 2. According to the Korea Meteorological Administration on July 31, daytime temperatures this weekend will rise between 32 and 38 degrees Celsius. With strong sunlight and urban heat island effects, the perceived temperature in some areas may exceed these figures. Regionally, Seoul's maximum temperature will reach 34 degrees, while the metropolitan area, including Incheon, Suwon, and Paju, will see highs of 32 to 33 degrees. In Icheon, Gyeonggi Province, temperatures could climb to 36 degrees. In the southern regions, particularly in Gyeongnam, where a heat advisory has been issued, daytime temperatures may approach 39 degrees, with perceived temperatures exceeding 38 degrees. During the weekend, the central region will experience occasional cloud cover, while the southern regions and Jeju Island will remain mostly clear with strong sunlight. As the heat wave continues, the risk of heat-related illnesses increases, prompting advisories to limit outdoor activities and prolonged work in the heat, along with ensuring adequate hydration. Tropical nights are also expected nationwide, indicating that nighttime heat will persist. With no significant rain in the forecast, temperatures in Seoul are expected to rise to 37 degrees next week, indicating that the heat wave may intensify further.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-31 18:56:00 -
Mokpo City Advances National Port Development Plans to Boost Marine Logistics and Offshore Wind Industry Mokpo City is accelerating its efforts to establish a future growth foundation for marine logistics and the offshore wind industry in the southwestern region by incorporating key proposed projects into the government's national port development plan.On July 31, Mokpo City announced that many of its core projects, which it has continuously proposed, have been included in the 'Fourth National Port Basic Plan Revision (2026-2030)' recently confirmed and announced by the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries.The basic port plan is a top-level statutory plan that outlines the long-term development direction and investment plans for national ports, serving as a critical standard for determining future national budgets and port development directions.Mokpo City has consistently advocated for the necessity of major projects, including the expansion of the offshore wind industry base, enhancement of port functions, and development of hinterland, in close cooperation with the Mokpo Regional Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Office. The inclusion of these projects in the revised plan provides a driving force to strengthen the future competitiveness of Mokpo Port.The plan includes the construction of a 30,000 DWT steel wharf (79.7 billion won) and a 30,000 DWT multipurpose wharf (79.7 billion won) to enhance support for the offshore wind industry.Additionally, the plan incorporates the construction of a 1,200-meter embankment for the second dredged soil disposal site (45.7 billion won) and a 60-meter expansion of the car terminal (19.9 billion won) for the third phase of the Mokpo New Port hinterland development.Strengthening Function as an Offshore Wind CenterWith the inclusion of this plan, Mokpo City aims to develop Mokpo New Port into a key hub for the domestic offshore wind industry.In particular, the inclusion of the ongoing Sewol ferry hull treatment project (tentatively named the National Sewol Ferry Life Memorial Hall) in the national plan is expected to further expand the offshore wind support functions if the hull relocation is pursued.With the addition of new steel and multipurpose wharves to the existing two offshore wind support berths, the foundation supporting the entire process of the offshore wind industry, including equipment manufacturing, assembly, transportation, installation, and operation and maintenance (O&M), is expected to be significantly strengthened.Mokpo City views this as a strategic infrastructure that enhances the national offshore wind supply chain competitiveness, going beyond mere port facility expansion.Expanding Passenger Functions and Promoting Urban Port RegenerationThe construction of a 30,000-ton passenger terminal in Mokpo Port's inner harbor, aimed for completion by the end of this year, is also progressing smoothly.Once the passenger terminal is completed, it is expected to improve the docking capacity for large passenger ships and respond more reliably to the increasing demand for marine passenger transport.Additionally, small-scale port regeneration projects utilizing aging port spaces will be pursued.The city plans to create a complex marine cultural space that integrates tourism, culture, and commerce while maintaining the port's original functions, thereby establishing a new urban regeneration model where the port and city coexist.Fostering an Eco-Friendly Marine Industry Centered PortMokpo City will strengthen cooperation with relevant agencies, including the government, Jeonnam-Gwangju Integrated Special City, and the Mokpo Regional Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Office, to ensure that the projects reflected in the national plan are implemented without delay. The city also plans to continuously advocate for the inclusion of new projects necessary for regional development in the national plan.This strategy aims to expand the eco-friendly port infrastructure and develop into a future-oriented port city where the marine industry, logistics, and tourism grow together.Mokpo Mayor Kang Seong-hwi stated, "The inclusion of this port basic plan revision marks a significant turning point in securing new growth engines for Mokpo Port. We will implement the projects reflected in the national plan without delay to develop Mokpo Port into a representative marine hub port in the southwestern region, harmonizing logistics, industry, and tourism, as well as an East Asian maritime hub."Meanwhile, the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries' Fourth National Port Basic Plan Revision outlines the development direction and investment plans for major ports nationwide from 2026 to 2030, serving as a key policy standard for future port infrastructure expansion and regional balanced development.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-31 18:48:00
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Haenam County Enhances Safety Management for Senior Employment Amid Heatwave Haenam County is strengthening safety management for seniors participating in its employment program in response to the ongoing heatwave. The county announced on July 31 that it is focusing administrative efforts on health protection for the 3,056 seniors currently involved in the program by enhancing safety measures and flexibly adjusting activity hours according to heat conditions.Among the participants, 45%, or 1,384 seniors, are engaged in outdoor activities such as environmental maintenance, making the prevention of heat-related illnesses and safety management critical issues.As the heat intensifies, the county has moved up the start times for activities and can reduce activity hours by up to 15 hours on particularly hot days.Specifically, when a heat advisory is issued, outdoor activities will be suspended and replaced with indoor safety training or cultural activities to prioritize the health of seniors.The county is also providing heat response supplies, including cooling sleeves, hats, and bottled water, while ensuring adequate rest periods during activities to prevent heat-related illnesses.Additionally, the county is conducting thorough checks on the operating standards for activity hours, the distribution of heat response supplies, and emergency response systems at local offices and senior employment agencies. Any identified areas for improvement will be addressed immediately.To prepare for the possibility of prolonged heat, Haenam County plans to continue on-site inspections and safety training to minimize safety blind spots.Kim Gi-yong, head of the Family Happiness and Senior Welfare Team in Haenam County, stated, "As this summer is expected to see continued heat, we will prioritize the health and safety of participating seniors by strengthening on-site management and preventive activities. We will also ensure thorough responses to prevent safety blind spots through ongoing inspections of local offices and agencies."Meanwhile, Haenam County plans to maintain a tailored safety management system that prioritizes the safety of senior employment participants in response to seasonal disasters, including heavy rain and cold waves, in addition to the heatwave.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-31 18:40:00
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Jangheung County Mayor Visits National Assembly to Secure Funding for Key Projects Jangheung County Mayor Sa Soon-moon made his first official visit to the National Assembly since taking office, focusing on securing national funding for key local projects. On July 30, Mayor Sa met with Shin Jang-sik, leader of the Justice Party, and lawmakers Cha Kyu-geun, Ahn Do-geol, Shin Jeong-hoon, and Moon Geum-joo to discuss major initiatives aimed at building a foundation for future growth in the region. This visit marked the first official National Assembly schedule for the new administration, aimed at gaining momentum for essential national projects that will drive local development. During the visit, Mayor Sa highlighted the need for support on several key initiatives directly linked to Jangheung's future growth, including the confirmation of the feasibility study for the 6th national and provincial road construction plan, the selection of the Jangheung rural revitalization 3.0 project, and the advancement of the food tech research support center. The 6th national and provincial road construction plan aims to enhance transportation accessibility between regions and expand logistics and tourism infrastructure. Jangheung County plans to improve its road network to increase transportation convenience for residents and stimulate local industry and tourism. The rural revitalization 3.0 project, centered around Hoejin Port, seeks to improve living conditions in fishing villages and harbors while promoting local economic revitalization through tourism resources. The food tech research support center project aims to foster the future food industry by integrating local agricultural and fishery products with advanced food technology. The plan includes establishing a hub for research, demonstration, and business support to enhance the competitiveness of the local food industry and create job opportunities for youth while attracting businesses. Through this National Assembly visit, Jangheung County aims to strengthen cooperation with the central government, the National Assembly, and relevant agencies to accelerate the progress of key initiatives. Mayor Sa stated, "The start of the 9th administration must focus on securing national funding and attracting national projects for the future of Jangheung. We will work closely with the National Assembly and the central government to achieve tangible results that residents can feel." Looking ahead, Jangheung County plans to continuously monitor the progress of major national funding projects and maintain visits to central government agencies and the National Assembly to enhance external cooperation for resolving local issues and securing national budgets.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-31 18:32:00
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Kwak Sang-eon Opposes Criminal Procedure Law Amendment, Citing Public Suffering Kwak Sang-eon, the only member of the Democratic Party to oppose the amendment to the Criminal Procedure Law aimed at abolishing supplementary investigation rights, stated, "I had no other choice."On July 31, Kwak expressed his concerns on Facebook, saying, "I can see the suffering of the people, and I can hear their tears." Earlier that day, the amendment was passed with 175 votes in favor out of 178 present (2 opposed, 1 abstained). Kwak and Lee Joo-young from the Reform Party voted against it, while Lee So-young from the Democratic Party abstained.The amendment is a follow-up to the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency and Prosecution Act, which will take effect on October 2. It aims to completely separate investigation and prosecution, eliminating prosecutors' supplementary investigation rights and direct investigation powers. However, there are concerns regarding victim protection.Meanwhile, lawmakers from the People Power Party, opposing the amendment, chose to abstain from the vote. Chief Spokesperson Choi Eun-seok criticized the Democratic Party, stating, "The Democratic Party, which has betrayed the people, will surely pay a price," adding that crime victims will now have no recourse other than vague expectations that the police will uncover the truth.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-31 18:32:00
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Yeongam County Supports Safe Mobility for Disabled Amid Heatwave Yeongam County has launched a customized sunshade installation project to support the safe mobility of disabled individuals using electric mobility aids during the ongoing heatwave.On July 30, Yeongam County conducted a volunteer initiative to install sunshades for electric mobility aid users at the Yeongam County Community Center, the county announced on July 31.This project was selected for funding through a public competition by the Korea Central Volunteer Center, receiving 100% government support. It aims to prevent heat-related illnesses among disabled individuals who are often exposed to high temperatures for extended periods and to create a safer mobility environment.Individuals with physical and neurological disabilities using electric mobility aids often cannot use umbrellas or parasols while operating their devices, leaving them vulnerable to direct sunlight.In response, Yeongam County paired ten members of the Yeongam Women’s Volunteer Association, a national leader in K-volunteering, with ten disabled individuals for one-on-one assistance in assembling and installing customized sunshades equipped with UV protection and waterproof features.Additionally, the county provided safety training on heatwave response. The training included guidance on adequate hydration, avoiding outdoor activities during peak sun hours (12 PM to 5 PM), and parking mobility aids in shaded areas to prevent battery overheating, thereby raising safety awareness.Yeongam County anticipates that this initiative will not only enhance mobility for disabled individuals but also help prevent health issues related to summer heat.Yeongam County Mayor Woo Seung-hee stated, "I hope this sunshade will provide a reliable shelter for disabled individuals who cannot stop moving even in the heat, aiding their safe mobility. We will continue to provide meticulous support through public projects and volunteer efforts to ensure that vulnerable groups, including the disabled, can safely maintain their daily lives during heatwaves."Meanwhile, Yeongam County plans to expand its community-based safety support initiatives for vulnerable groups, including the elderly and disabled, in response to the increasing number of heatwave days due to climate change, and will continue to implement tailored welfare services in collaboration with volunteer organizations.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-31 18:24:00
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Gwangju Education Office Progresses on Children's Forest Play Experience Center The Gwangju Metropolitan City Education Office is smoothly advancing the construction of the '(tentative name) Gwangju Metropolitan City Education Office Children's Forest Play Experience Center' in the Ipamsan area of Mokpo, targeting an opening in the second half of 2027.On July 30, the Gwangju Education Office held a report meeting at the Jeonnam Government Building to comprehensively review the status of the indoor playground and interior design for the Children's Forest Play Experience Center, as well as future schedules.The meeting included the chief planner, task force (TF) members, early childhood education experts, and design and construction personnel, who shared design plans reflecting children's developmental characteristics and safety, as well as a nature-friendly educational environment, while gathering various opinions.Participants particularly focused on assessing the design's completeness based on a child-centered and play-oriented curriculum, discussing ways to create an environment where children can play and learn safely and freely after the center opens.The Children's Forest Play Experience Center will be a nature-oriented facility located in the Ipamsan Park area of Mokpo. It aims to support children's creativity, physical development, and emotional growth through play activities utilizing forests and nature.The facility will include an integrated playroom, dining area, health room, and rest areas, while outdoor spaces will feature a forest playground, water playground, and various nature experience facilities.Currently, the construction progress has surpassed 68%, with basic interior finishing work proceeding as planned. The education office intends to complete the indoor space and play facility installations without delay, aiming for a 2027 opening.Kim Byeong-nam, head of the Early Childhood and Elementary Education Division at the Gwangju Education Office, stated, "This report meeting has established the basic framework for a child-centered, nature-friendly indoor play space. We will create a high-quality play experience area where children can learn and grow safely and joyfully, providing a happy learning environment for young children in the Gwangju area."Meanwhile, the Gwangju Education Office plans to develop the Children's Forest Play Experience Center into a representative facility where nature, play, and education converge, enhancing the quality of early childhood education in the region and supporting healthy growth and creative learning activities for children.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-31 18:20:00
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New Rules on Dual Listings to Take Effect August 3 The financial authorities have finalized improvements to the dual listing system, which will take effect on August 3. The key provisions include mandatory approval from common shareholders of the parent company when listing a spin-off subsidiary, as well as the retention of the '3% rule' for shareholder consent. However, the independence of the special committee within the parent company's board has been strengthened following the feedback process.On July 31, the Financial Services Commission (FSC) announced at its regular meeting that it approved amendments to the listing and disclosure regulations of the Korea Exchange. These amendments were developed after a public consultation on the preliminary guidelines released on July 7 and will be implemented starting August 3.The core of the final proposal is the protection of common shareholders during the dual listing of spin-off subsidiaries. The FSC has mandated shareholder approval for spin-off subsidiaries and confirmed the existing recommendation for shareholder approval in other dual listings.The '3% rule' for recognizing shareholder consent remains unchanged. This rule limits the voting rights of shareholders who hold more than 3% of the voting rights to just 3%. For shareholder approval to be valid, a majority of participating shares must agree, and at least one-quarter of the total issued shares must also be in favor.Business circles have argued for exemptions from the shareholder approval requirement if a significant amount of time has passed since the spin-off, suggesting that general resolutions should apply instead of the 3% rule. Conversely, the investment community has called for expanding the shareholder approval requirement to all dual listings that significantly impact the parent company and has demanded the introduction of a Majority of Minority voting method.The FSC and the Exchange explained that while they maintained the core system in consideration of the purpose of protecting common shareholders, they incorporated some acceptable suggestions.First, the requirements for the independence of the special committee within the parent company's board have been strengthened. Previously, the criteria were met if either an independent director served as the chair or if independent directors and external independent members made up at least two-thirds of the committee. The final proposal raises the bar to require both conditions to be satisfied.In the shareholder approval process, electronic voting will not be mandatory but will be recommended. The FSC stated that this measure considers consistency with commercial law, while also expressing hope that companies will voluntarily utilize electronic voting, given the requirements of the 3% rule and the need for at least one-quarter of the total issued shares to agree.Disclosure burdens have also been somewhat eased. If a subsidiary with a low asset ratio does not undergo shareholder approval, it will only need to disclose simplified information regarding the low ratio under the 'reason for failure to confirm shareholder approval' section. Additionally, the disclosure of the board's voting results will now only require the overall outcome rather than individual opinions of each director.Furthermore, it has been specified that real estate investment companies (REITs), classified as collective investment securities under Exchange regulations, are excluded from the dual listing system.The FSC stated, "We have prepared the final proposal reflecting opinions that align with the purpose of improving the dual listing system to protect common shareholders, while also ensuring rationality and acceptability. We plan to continuously enhance the guidelines based on actual compliance and review cases after implementation to increase predictability for companies and investors."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-31 18:16:00
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Samhyang-eup Holds Meeting to Prepare for 15th Samhyang Day Samhyang-eup in Muan County, Jeollanam-do, has officially begun preparations for the 15th Samhyang Day in collaboration with local organizations and social groups. On the morning of July 31, a quarterly meeting of local organizations and social leaders was held in the third-floor conference room of the Samhyang-eup office. The meeting focused on sharing local issues and discussing plans for the upcoming 15th Samhyang Day, scheduled for October 23, 2026. About 20 local leaders attended the meeting, where they introduced newly appointed heads of organizations and discussed cooperation strategies for regional development and mutual growth. Lee Jeong-woon, a member of the Jeollanam-do Provincial Council, also attended and expressed hopes for community unity and a successful event. The meeting concluded with the review and approval of the formation plan for the 15th Samhyang Day Organizing Committee, marking the first step in event preparations. Additionally, amendments to the operational regulations for Samhyang Day were discussed and finalized to enhance the efficiency and systematic execution of the event. Particular attention was given to the role of the Samhyang Agricultural Cooperative, a key local cooperative. Nayongseok, Chairman of the Samhyang Agricultural Cooperative, stated, "Samhyang Day is the largest harmony event where all residents come together. The Samhyang Agricultural Cooperative will actively cooperate and fulfill its necessary role to ensure a successful event." With the cooperative's commitment to actively participate in the event preparations, expectations are high for strengthened collaboration among local organizations and social groups. Lee Hye-hyang, the head of Samhyang-eup, remarked, "Samhyang Day is a representative festival for residents to communicate and unite. We will do our best to prepare a meaningful event that everyone can enjoy, based on close cooperation with organizations and social groups." Moving forward, Samhyang-eup plans to continue operational meetings led by the organizing committee to detail event programs and encourage resident participation. Meanwhile, the 15th Samhyang Day is set to take place on October 23, featuring community harmony activities, cultural performances, and various participatory programs aimed at strengthening the bonds within the local community.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-31 18:12:00
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Hyosung Reports 133.7% Increase in Q2 Operating Profit to 231.6 Billion Won Hyosung announced on July 31 that it achieved sales of 733.6 billion won and an operating profit of 231.6 billion won in the second quarter of 2026. These figures represent increases of 21.9% and 133.7%, respectively, compared to the same period last year.Hyosung Heavy Industries recorded sales of 1.687 trillion won and an operating profit of 264.3 billion won in the second quarter, marking the highest quarterly operating profit in its history.The company is also seeing an increase in the proportion of high-margin orders from the United States, suggesting continued improvement in long-term profitability. Additionally, new orders in the second quarter totaled 3.3242 trillion won, bringing the total for the first half of the year to 7.4981 trillion won, prompting an upward revision of the annual new order target to 12 trillion won. The order backlog has increased by 63% year-on-year to 17.5 trillion won.Hyosung TNC achieved sales of 2.4162 trillion won and an operating profit of 188.8 billion won, reflecting increases of 27.9% and 157.5%, respectively, compared to the previous year.The textile division's performance was driven by increased sales of spandex, along with price hikes for nylon and polyester and improved cost management. The trading division also saw profitability improvements due to a surge in chemical sector sales.Hyosung Chemical reported sales of 871.3 billion won and an operating profit of 170.8 billion won in the second quarter.Despite uncertainties in the Middle East leading to global supply constraints and price surges, the company managed to respond flexibly to market changes, resulting in significant performance improvements.Hyosung stated, "The increase in equity method gains from the improved performance of key subsidiaries such as Hyosung TNC, Hyosung Heavy Industries, and Hyosung Chemical, along with the profitability improvement of Hyosung TNS, has driven our overall results."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-31 18:04:00