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  • Celltrion to Burn 100 Billion Won in Treasury Shares Amid Slight Stock Decline
    Celltrion to Burn 100 Billion Won in Treasury Shares Amid Slight Stock Decline Celltrion has decided to burn all of its treasury shares after completing a buyback worth approximately 100 billion won, while its stock is showing a slight decline.According to the Korea Exchange, as of 1:40 PM on the 16th, Celltrion's stock was trading at 177,200 won, down 300 won (0.17%) from the previous trading day.On the same day, Celltrion announced in a public disclosure that its board of directors had decided to cancel 544,299 shares of treasury stock. The company stated that the purpose of the cancellation is to stabilize stock prices and enhance shareholder value.The cancellation is scheduled for the 30th, with an estimated amount of 96,235,870,000 won. This amount is based on the accounting book value of the treasury shares as of the board resolution date.The shares being canceled were part of a buyback in which Celltrion invested about 100 billion won from September 1 to 14, acquiring 544,299 common shares for a total of 99,999,989,000 won. The average purchase price per share was 183,722 won.The company initially projected a buyback amount of 100 billion won. However, due to fluctuations in stock prices during the acquisition period, there was a discrepancy of less than one share between the projected and actual purchase amounts.This cancellation will target treasury shares already acquired within the range of distributable profits. As a result, while the total number of shares issued by Celltrion will decrease, there will be no change in its capital.Celltrion currently holds 1,131,226 treasury shares under Article 165-3 of the law, which accounts for 0.49% of its issued shares. In addition, it holds another 3,396,528 treasury shares outside of this regulation.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 13:48:00
  • Capro Shares Drop 18% on Final Trading Day Before Delisting
    Capro Shares Drop 18% on Final Trading Day Before Delisting 카프로 is experiencing a decline on its final trading day before delisting. According to the Korea Exchange, as of 1:37 PM on September 16, Capro's shares have fallen by 18.18% (8 won) to 36 won. The trading volume for the day is 1,490,641 shares. Capro has been undergoing special trading since September 8, with shares plummeting 94.95% to close at 185 won on the first day. The stock continued to decline, closing at 147 won on September 9, 144 won on September 10, 120 won on September 11, 71 won on September 14, and 44 won on September 15. Compared to the last trading price of 3,660 won before the special trading, the current share price has dropped by approximately 99%. According to a notice from the Korea Exchange, the special trading period for Capro ends today, and the company will be delisted from the KOSDAQ market on September 17. The delisting affects 169 million common shares. On November 24, the Korea Exchange's KOSDAQ Listing Committee determined that Capro met the criteria for delisting based on its compliance with improvement plans, business continuity, management transparency, public interest realization, and investor protection. Although Capro filed for a suspension of the delisting decision, the court dismissed the request on September 2, allowing the delisting process to resume. Founded in 1969 as Korea Caprolactam, Capro is a chemical company primarily producing caprolactam, a nylon raw material, and urea for fertilizers. It was listed on the KOSDAQ in 1974 but has faced management difficulties due to intensified competition from Chinese firms and a downturn in the petrochemical industry. Capro has since been restructuring its business model centered around caprolactam to achieve operational normalization. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 13:44:10
  • Naju Yongsan River Festival to Run from October 7 for Five Days
    Naju Yongsan River Festival to Run from October 7 for Five Days This year's Naju Yongsan River Festival will take place from October 7 for five days. Naju City plans to create a multifaceted cultural festival that brings together the history, culture, ecology, agriculture, and cuisine of Naju, centered around the Yongsan River. From the opening to the closing day, the festival will feature daily performances with different themes and genres, along with an expanded range of family experiences, children's job experiences, board games, exhibitions, gourmet food, and garden content. The festival will kick off on the first day, October 7, with a spectacular performance that encapsulates the history and stories of Naju. The themed performance 'Wang Geon and Queen Janghwa' is a creative musical that reinterprets the story of Goryeo's founder Wang Geon and Queen Janghwa, who hails from Naju, through music and dramatic presentation, featuring actors Luna and Lee Chung-joo. Following the performance, a drone light show and fireworks will illuminate the night sky over the Yongsan River, accompanied by a celebratory performance by Park Ji-hyun and Hong Ji-min. On October 8, a stage combining local culture and arts with musicals will be presented. The 'Yongsan River Wandering Cultural Salon,' featuring local cultural artists, will be followed by performances from previous public institution clubs, 'Yongsan River Colorful (樂)' and 'Together Yet Apart Orchestra 16.' In the evening, a 'Musical Dramatic Show' featuring Jo Kwon, Michael Lee, and Ivy will take place. October 9 will showcase Naju's traditional culture and K-POP under the theme 'Colors of Tradition and Energy of Youth.' The Naju Cultural Center's 'Songs of the Past' will be followed by a procession of over 300 citizens participating in the Naju Moksasa procession, and a 'Natural Dye Fashion Show' that reinterprets Naju's representative cultural asset of natural dyeing into modern fashion content. That night, Homidul, Giriboy, and Wishis will present the 'Yongsan River Wave Water Show.' October 10 will be a day for children, families, gourmet food, and classical music. A family participation stage, 'Pinkfong Sing-Along Show,' will allow parents and children to sing and dance together, while 'Food Orchestra at Yongsan River' will feature An Yoo-sung, a master chef and ambassador for 'Visit Naju Year,' who will conduct a special lunch box-making session using rice from the Naju plains and local ingredients, sharing his secret sauce recipes and ingredient combinations with participants. The final day, October 11, will conclude the festival with the theme 'Harmony Across Generations.' Two sessions of the 'Tiny Ping Sing-Along Show' will be held, followed by a 'Yongsan River Dance Competition' where participants will showcase their dance moves to music, and a magic concert for the whole family. The closing performance 'Riverbank Song' will feature Seongri and Kim Yeon-ja, creating a stage for all generations to sing along and enjoy. Naju City plans to transform the entire Yongsan River Garden area into a massive festival venue where performances, experiences, gourmet food, gardens, and relaxation come together, encouraging visitors to stay longer and experience the diverse attractions of Naju.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 13:44:00
  • HD Construction Machinery Secures Order for 45 Excavators in Hong Kong
    HD Construction Machinery Secures Order for 45 Excavators in Hong Kong HD Construction Machinery has secured an order for 45 mid to large-sized excavators in Hong Kong, strengthening its presence in the local market.On September 16, the company announced it will supply seven Develon 53-ton large excavators and 38 mid-sized excavators ranging from 14 to 36 tons for the Hong Kong Railway Corporation's extension project of the Tung Chung Line.The equipment will be used for the construction of a new station and the extension of approximately 1.2 kilometers of railway. Given the site's location on reclaimed land with weak ground conditions, there is a demand for specialized equipment such as long reach arms capable of distant operations, leading to expectations for additional supplies of 80-ton and 100-ton ultra-large special equipment.This order is significant as it demonstrates product competitiveness through fuel efficiency and customer service, surpassing Chinese equipment known for its price competitiveness. Building on this achievement, HD Construction Machinery plans to expand its equipment lineup and increase its market share in Hong Kong.Including this supply, the company aims to sell a total of 75 units in Hong Kong this year, achieving the highest equipment supply in the local market over the past five years. HD Construction Machinery plans to sell over 100 units annually in the Hong Kong market by 2029 to strengthen its brand presence.According to the Hong Kong government, approximately HK$90 billion (about $11.5 billion) is allocated annually for public infrastructure projects, including the expansion of public transportation networks and new town developments. As major projects, such as the northern metropolis infrastructure connecting to mainland China, are set to commence, the budget is expected to increase to an average of HK$120 billion (about $15.4 billion) per year. Consequently, local demand for construction equipment is anticipated to remain steady.An HD Construction Machinery representative stated, "It is significant that we have secured a large order while expanding our presence in a market where we previously held a high market share. Based on this achievement, we will further expand our local distribution channels and strengthen our brand presence."Meanwhile, HD Construction Machinery is a unified construction machinery corporation that was established in January this year through the merger of HD Hyundai Construction Equipment and HD Hyundai InfraCore. The company operates in the construction equipment sector, focusing on excavators and wheel loaders under the Hyundai and Develon brands.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 13:40:00
  • South Korea and Kyrgyzstan Strengthen Economic Cooperation
    South Korea and Kyrgyzstan Strengthen Economic Cooperation South Korean President Lee Jae-myung met with Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov on September 16 to discuss expanding economic cooperation between the two countries in areas such as urban and infrastructure development, critical minerals, and digital transformation.During the summit, the two nations signed 18 agreements and memorandums of understanding (MOUs) covering customs agreements, trade and investment, smart grids, employment, disaster response, and cultural exchanges.This meeting aimed to translate the 'comprehensive partnership' established in 2024 into concrete projects and business outcomes. The plan is to combine South Korea's urban development experience and smart construction technology with Kyrgyzstan's rapid economic growth and urbanization needs, while also expanding cooperation in critical minerals and digital energy sectors.In his opening remarks at the summit, President Lee expressed his pleasure at meeting President Japarov in person, recalling their first phone call in August of the previous year. He welcomed Japarov back to South Korea, noting that during Japarov's last visit in December 2024, he had to cut his trip short due to domestic political circumstances in South Korea.Lee acknowledged the brief period of turmoil in South Korea but emphasized the resilience and aspirations of the Korean people for democracy and freedom, which have restored stability. He expressed hope for a successful meeting with Japarov, given the unexpected disruptions during the last visit.Since establishing diplomatic relations in 1992, South Korea and Kyrgyzstan have developed cooperation across various fields, with Kyrgyzstan being the second-largest trading partner for South Korea in Central Asia. The opening of direct flights three years ago has led to a nearly 50% increase in people-to-people exchanges between the two countries.President Lee expressed optimism for further enhancing exchanges based on the rich potential for cooperation between the two nations. He highlighted the importance of in-depth discussions on mutual cooperation in areas such as infrastructure development, public administration, security, disaster response, food security, climate and environment, and cultural trade.The two countries agreed to collaborate on urban planning and master plan development, as well as the design and construction of transportation and living infrastructure and the introduction of smart construction technology. This partnership aims to share South Korea's urban development experience while providing a foundation for domestic companies to participate in Kyrgyzstan's urban and infrastructure projects.The Korea Overseas Infrastructure and Urban Development Corporation and the Kyrgyz Public-Private Partnership Center will share information on local PPP projects and jointly identify promising initiatives. KOTRA and the Kyrgyz National Investment Agency will expand investment and technology cooperation, including renewable energy and eco-friendly technologies, to support local entry for South Korean companies.In the trade and investment cooperation sector, new areas such as critical minerals, digital transformation, halal certification, and the textile industry have been included, broadening the scope of cooperation beyond traditional industries to supply chains and future growth sectors. The implementation system will also be enhanced through business support and a trade and investment cooperation committee.The mutual recognition of halal certification is seen as a tangible market entry achievement for domestic companies. The Korea Testing Certification (KTC) will have its halal certification recognized in Kyrgyzstan, reducing the administrative burden, time, and costs for domestic companies needing local certification.In the customs sector, the two countries agreed to share information on tax prices, origin verification, and reasons for customs delays or denials. This institutional mechanism aims to jointly address transnational crimes such as illegal trade of sensitive goods and smuggling while reducing uncertainties in customs for normal trade. Cooperation in intellectual property protection and administrative digitization will also support the stable operations of South Korean companies in Kyrgyzstan.In the energy sector, cooperation on smart grids utilizing remote metering infrastructure and energy storage systems will be pursued. This initiative opens avenues for South Korean technology and companies to participate in reducing power losses and digitizing the power grid in Kyrgyzstan.In agriculture and livestock, the Kyrgyz National Investment Fund will allocate $1 million to promote cooperation aimed at enhancing livestock productivity and sustainability. This initiative seeks to broaden the foundation for South Korean companies to enter the agriculture and livestock sectors.The MOU on the labor dispatch and employment permit system was also renewed. It will ensure that personnel who pass objective procedures, such as the Korean language proficiency test, are supplied to domestic small and medium-sized enterprises, while managing dispatch costs and the selection and entry procedures for job seekers transparently to protect workers' rights.Additionally, the two countries will pursue the development of disaster early warning and alert systems, forest restoration using agricultural and forestry satellites and information communication technology, and exchanges between police training institutions. Seoul and Bishkek will establish friendly and cooperative relations focusing on urban administration, AI, smart cities, and digital transformation.President Lee also congratulated President Japarov on Kyrgyzstan's upcoming role as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council starting next year.In response, President Japarov stated, "The Kyrgyz Republic considers the Republic of Korea one of its key partners in Asia and values strengthening cooperation in various fields." He also noted that the agreements made during his last visit in 2024 are yielding concrete results and invited President Lee to make an official visit to Kyrgyzstan next year to mark the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations. 2026-09-16 13:36:00
  • Jung Chun-sang Calls for Lowering Negotiation Group Threshold to 10 Seats
    Jung Chun-sang Calls for Lowering Negotiation Group Threshold to 10 Seats Jung Chun-sang, Secretary General of the Justice Innovation Party, argued on September 16 that the threshold for forming a negotiation group in the National Assembly should be lowered from the current 20 seats to 10. His comments came in response to Democratic Party leader Kim Min-seok's proposal to ease the requirement to 15 seats, which he criticized as having "no reform effect." The Justice Innovation Party currently holds 12 seats in the National Assembly. In a post on Facebook, Jung questioned Kim's rationale for the proposed 15-seat threshold, stating, "If you genuinely care about the vulnerability of progressive forces and want to address it, the requirements for forming a negotiation group must be significantly lowered." He further pointed out that over 90% of the political party subsidies supported by the National Election Commission go to the two major parties, leaving little opportunity for smaller progressive parties to strengthen their capabilities. "All political and electoral systems in South Korea are designed to favor the two major parties," he noted. The Justice Innovation Party also issued a statement asserting that its position on normalizing the negotiation group requirement is 10 seats. They argued that the current 20-seat requirement is a remnant of the Yushin regime, which aimed to raise the threshold for negotiation groups. "Returning to the pre-Yushin standard of 10 seats is common sense and the right course of action," they stated. Additionally, the party clarified that it has not engaged in any official or unofficial discussions with the Democratic Party leadership regarding political reform, solidarity, or unification, nor has there been any proposal from the Democratic Party. The Justice Innovation Party urged the Democratic Party to institutionalize solidarity and uphold commitments, emphasizing the need for concrete actions such as implementing the previously agreed roundtable declaration, forming a political reform committee, and convening a third roundtable meeting. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 13:32:20
  • Kakao Entertainment Partners with Disney Korea to Expand K-Pop IP Globally
    Kakao Entertainment Partners with Disney Korea to Expand K-Pop IP Globally Kakao Entertainment is teaming up with Walt Disney Company Korea to expand the global reach of K-Pop intellectual property (IP). The partnership aims to combine K-Pop artists and music with Disney's stories and characters, planning to launch over 10 projects in the long term.On September 16, Kakao Entertainment announced its strategic partnership with Disney Korea to promote the global expansion and crossover of K-Pop IP.The two companies will collaborate on projects that merge K-Pop IP with Disney's stories and characters in innovative ways. While they plan to undertake approximately 10 projects, specific details regarding the launch timelines and scale of each project have not been disclosed.This collaboration will leverage Kakao Entertainment's K-Culture content and Disney Korea's extensive portfolio of stories and character IPs. The goal is to introduce new content that combines K-Pop artists and music with Disney's narratives and characters.A representative from Kakao Entertainment stated, “K-Pop has established itself as a massive cultural phenomenon that transcends content, influencing fashion, beauty, and lifestyle trends globally. Through this partnership, we expect to offer fans around the world a unique experience and emotional connection by merging K-Pop artists and music with Disney's beloved stories.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 13:28:10
  • LS Cable and LS Marine Solutions Showcase Eco-Friendly Power Grid Technology
    LS Cable and LS Marine Solutions Showcase Eco-Friendly Power Grid Technology LS Cable and LS Marine Solutions are presenting power grid technology that delivers electricity generated from renewable energy to demand centers, along with recycling technology that transforms waste cables back into resources. The companies are expanding their business scope beyond supplying and installing underwater cables to include eco-friendly materials and resource circulation, targeting the entire power infrastructure needed for energy transition.LS Cable and LS Marine Solutions announced their participation in the '2026 International Climate Industry Expo Carbon Neutral Expo' at Busan BEXCO from September 16 to 18.The centerpiece of the exhibition is the 'one-stop integrated power grid.' It features underwater cables that transmit electricity generated from offshore wind farms to land, as well as superconducting cables that efficiently transport large amounts of power. LS Cable supplies the cables, while LS Marine Solutions handles the underwater installation, creating a business structure that connects the entire power grid construction process.The two companies are also emphasizing their capabilities in high-voltage direct current (HVDC) technology. LS Cable has experience in commercializing 500kV HVDC cables in South Korea, while LS Marine Solutions has a track record in the installation of HVDC underwater cables. This technology is essential for transmitting large-scale power over long distances with minimal losses, particularly for offshore wind farms and the expansion of national power grids.In July, LS Cable became the first in the country to pass long-term reliability tests for 525kV, 80°C HVDC underwater cables, increasing transmission capacity by 25% compared to existing products. LS Marine Solutions has also expanded the load capacity of its underwater cable laying vessel 'GL2030' from 4,000 tons to 7,000 tons, enabling continuous installation over distances exceeding 100 kilometers.The companies are also highlighting the eco-friendliness of their power grid solutions. LS Cable is showcasing cables made from recyclable polypropylene (PP) materials. They are also introducing a new copper material called 'CuFlake,' which reduces production processes and energy consumption by utilizing copper scrap.Additionally, they are demonstrating technology that recycles waste cables back into raw materials. This includes technology for recycling cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) used as cable insulation and showcasing crafts made from copper recovered from waste cables. Their plan aims to incorporate resource circulation from cable production and installation through to the disposal stage.LS Cable and LS Marine Solutions are also expanding their business model that combines supply and installation in actual offshore wind projects. In May, they were selected as preferred bidders for the supply and installation sectors of the 1GW 'Haesong Offshore Wind' project in Sinan, Jeollanam-do.The exhibition will also feature ESG programs, including keychain production using waste plastics and performances by the LS Cable Disabled Vocational Arts Group 'Bsol Arts Troupe.'An LS Cable official stated, "For energy transition, the eco-friendliness of the entire process from power grid expansion to product production, use, and recycling is crucial. We will strengthen our eco-friendly power grid technology and resource circulation capabilities to contribute to building sustainable power infrastructure."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 13:28:00
  • Financial Supervisory Service and Health Insurance Review Agency Collaborate to Combat Insurance Fraud
    Financial Supervisory Service and Health Insurance Review Agency Collaborate to Combat Insurance Fraud 금융감독원과 건강보험심사평가원이 보험사기와 의료기관의 부당청구에 따른 보험금 누수를 막기 위해 손을 잡았다. 금감원은 16일 서울 여의도 본원에서 심평원과 ‘의료기관 부당청구 방지 및 보험사기 근절을 위한 업무협약’을 체결했다고 밝혔다. 이번 협약은 실손보험과 자동차보험을 중심으로 보험사기와 과잉진료, 요양기관의 부당청구 등이 이어지면서 공·민영보험의 재정 누수 우려가 커진 데 따른 것이다. 양 기관은 보험사기와 부당청구가 의심되는 사례를 신속하게 파악할 수 있도록 관련 정보 공유를 확대한다. 건강보험과 자동차보험의 부당청구 의심 사례와 보험사기 가능성이 있는 사례를 상호 제공하고 청구 데이터를 공동으로 분석할 계획이다. 실손보험과 자동차보험의 청구·지급 정보 등을 활용한 이상징후 모니터링도 강화한다. 과잉진료 등 보험금 누수가 우려되는 사례를 공동으로 점검하고 필요할 경우 후속 조치에 나선다. 자동차보험에서는 진료수가 기준을 위반한 병·의원에 대한 모니터링도 강화한다. 보험사기 조사와 자동차보험 심사, 요양급여 부당청구 등 양 기관이 보유한 전문성을 공유하기 위한 교육과 인적 교류도 추진한다. 이찬진 금감원장은 “심평원과 적극적인 정보 공유를 통해 실손보험 비급여 과잉진료 등 이상징후에 공동 대응하겠다”며 “자동차보험의 부당 청구 의료기관도 보험사기 가능성을 면밀히 살펴 혐의가 포착되면 신속하게 수사의뢰하는 등 엄정 대응하겠다”고 말했다. 양 기관은 실무 협의체를 운영하면서 협약 이행 상황을 점검하고 보험사기와 의료기관 부당청구 관련 공조를 이어갈 예정이다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 13:28:00
  • South Koreas Mens Basketball Team Advances to Semifinals with 34-Point Victory Over Jordan
    South Korea's Men's Basketball Team Advances to Semifinals with 34-Point Victory Over Jordan The South Korean men's basketball team, aiming for its first gold medal in 12 years since the 2014 Incheon Asian Games, secured a spot in the semifinals by defeating Jordan.Under the guidance of head coach Nikolajs Mazulis from Latvia, South Korea (ranked 57th by FIBA) triumphed over Jordan (ranked 41st) with a score of 114-80 in the quarterfinals held at the Aichi International Arena in Nagoya, Japan, on September 16.This marks South Korea's first semifinal appearance in eight years, following a bronze medal win at the 2018 Jakarta-Palembang Games. The team also overcame the disappointment of finishing seventh at the 2023 Hangzhou Games after being eliminated in the quarterfinals.South Korea dominated the group stage, defeating Saudi Arabia (82-66), Indonesia (102-48), and Japan (100-83), maintaining an undefeated streak in the tournament. The team has showcased impressive offensive power, scoring over 100 points in their last three games.In the quarterfinal match against Jordan, South Korea took control early, leading 28-8 at the end of the first quarter. At one point in the third quarter, the lead expanded to 40 points, solidifying their victory.All 12 players on the roster scored during the game, with standout performances from ace Lee Hyun-jung, who recorded 28 points, including six three-pointers, along with nine rebounds and five assists in about 21 minutes of play. Yoo Gi-sang (Changwon LG) contributed 16 points, Lee Jung-hyun (Goyang Sono) added 12 points and six assists, and Byeon Jun-hyung (Anyang Jeonggwanjang) scored 10 points.The victory is particularly significant as it was achieved with the full roster. Choi Jun-yong (Busan KCC), who joined the team in Japan the day before due to his commitment to the U.S. league, played about 10 minutes, contributing six points, three assists, and two rebounds after being substituted in the second quarter.Yeo Jun-seok, who missed the second and third group stage games due to a foot injury, also made a comeback, scoring nine points, including an alley-oop dunk.Having reached the semifinals, the South Korean team will face the winner of the Iran-Bahrain match on September 18 at 4 p.m. at the same venue. 2026-09-16 13:20:00