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  • South Korea Wins Lawsuit Against North Korea Over Liaison Office Explosion
    South Korea Wins Lawsuit Against North Korea Over Liaison Office Explosion The South Korean Ministry of Unification stated on September 16 that it respects the court's ruling regarding the explosion of the Inter-Korean Liaison Office and will consider necessary measures. On this day, the Seoul Central District Court's Civil Division 46 ordered North Korea to pay the South Korean government 44.6 billion won in a damages lawsuit. This marks the first time the South Korean government has filed a direct lawsuit against North Korea. North Korea destroyed the Inter-Korean Liaison Office in Kaesong in June 2020, citing the distribution of anti-North Korean leaflets by some defector groups as the reason. The Ministry of Unification filed the lawsuit in June 2023, just before the three-year statute of limitations for the damages claim expired, to preserve the national claim. The Ministry assessed the damages at 10.25 billion won for the liaison office building and 34.45 billion won for the adjacent support center, totaling 44.7 billion won. The court largely accepted the amount claimed by the government. The ruling, originally scheduled for August 12, was postponed at the request of the Ministry of Unification to allow time to consider a response. The Ministry expressed hope that inter-Korean dialogue would resume and that all issues between the two Koreas could be resolved through dialogue and cooperation. 2026-09-16 10:40:00
  • Samsungs Lee Jae-yong Meets with Japanese Senate Delegation to Discuss Semiconductor and AI Cooperation
    Samsung's Lee Jae-yong Meets with Japanese Senate Delegation to Discuss Semiconductor and AI Cooperation Lee Jae-yong, chairman of Samsung Electronics, recently met with a delegation from the Japanese Senate to discuss the future of the semiconductor industry and cooperation between the two countries. This meeting comes as Samsung is ramping up its investment in a research and development (R&D) hub in Yokohama, Japan, indicating Lee's proactive engagement in global private diplomacy with key political figures in Japan.According to industry sources on September 16, Lee held a luncheon meeting with the Japanese Senate delegation on September 14 near Seoul. The delegation included prominent figures such as Hiraki Daisaku, chairman of the Komeito Party's National Assembly Strategy Committee; Fukuyama Tetsuro, vice chairman of the Senate; Kawai Takanori, secretary-general of the Constitutional Democratic Party; and Umemura Mizuho, deputy secretary-general of the Senate, along with Koichi Mizushima, the Japanese ambassador to South Korea.From Samsung's side, Kim Won-kyung, head of Global Public Affairs, also attended the meeting.Initially planned as a meeting primarily for Samsung's operational staff, Lee's unexpected attendance elevated the discussions. He reportedly shared insights on the company's overall business strategy and talent acquisition in response to the rapidly changing global artificial intelligence (AI) market.Hiraki, who led the visiting delegation, commented after the meeting, "I asked about the outlook for the semiconductor industry, Samsung's overall strategy, and potential areas for cooperation with Japan, and Lee responded earnestly. It was a meaningful conversation with individuals poised to play significant roles on the global stage."This meeting is seen as a continuation of Samsung's efforts to strengthen its semiconductor R&D network in Japan. Earlier this month, Samsung opened the Advanced Package Lab (APL) in Yokohama, committing approximately 40 billion yen (about $350 million) over the next five years. Given the necessity for technological collaboration with Japan's leading semiconductor materials and components companies, Lee appears to be actively enhancing cooperation through his connections in both political and business circles.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 10:36:00
  • Busan International Film Festival Hosts Netflixs Creative Asia for Third Consecutive Year
    Busan International Film Festival Hosts Netflix's 'Creative Asia' for Third Consecutive Year The Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) and global streaming service Netflix are collaborating to host 'Creative Asia' for the third consecutive year in Busan. This year's event will be the largest to date, co-organized by Netflix, the Asian Film Commissions Network (AFCNet), and the Motion Picture Association (MPA).'Creative Asia,' now an official program of the Busan International Film Festival, is an industry collaboration initiative by Netflix aimed at helping emerging creators in Asia turn their ideas into visual content. The event will take place on October 10 at Dongseo University’s Centum Campus during the 31st Busan International Film Festival.This year's program has been expanded to better reflect the practical needs of emerging creators. It will feature masterclasses on cinematography, storytelling, and location utilization. Additionally, in-depth industry discussions will cover filmmaking know-how across various budget levels and the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the creative process.Notably, this year marks the introduction of workshop sessions for the first time at 'Creative Asia.' Aspiring creators will have the opportunity to gain practical insights directly from Netflix content leaders, enhancing the program's effectiveness.Over the past two years, 'Creative Asia' has partnered with major film festivals in the Asia-Pacific region, including the Jakarta International Film Festival (JAFF), to foster the development of emerging creators and strengthen the local creative ecosystem.A Netflix representative stated, 'As 'Creative Asia' enters its third year, it has firmly established itself as a platform for emerging creators in Asia to connect and share insights with industry professionals. This year, we have significantly expanded the program to include masterclasses, discussions, and workshops, enabling creators to build their practical skills.'The 31st Busan International Film Festival will be held from October 6 to 15 at the Busan Cinema Center.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 10:32:20
  • Global Climate and Energy Leaders Gather in Busan to Showcase Climate Tech
    Global Climate and Energy Leaders Gather in Busan to Showcase Climate Tech Major international organizations, including the International Energy Agency (IEA), the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), and the World Bank (WB), along with 552 companies from around the world, are convening in Busan to discuss green transition and energy security through climate technology.The Ministry of Climate Energy and Environment announced on September 16 that the '2026 International Climate Industry Expo' will be held at BEXCO in Busan for three days, until the 18th.This year's expo, now in its fourth iteration, is themed 'Transformative Change through Climate Tech: A Leap Towards a Decarbonized World.' The event will feature climate tech exhibitions, academic discussions from domestic and international institutions, business consulting sessions to support participating companies, and experiential programs for visitors.For the first time, IRENA joins as a co-host, following the IEA in 2024 and the World Bank last year. Key topics for discussion will include renewable energy, energy security, electrification, and investment in climate technology as part of the green transition.Approximately 1,800 attendees, including representatives from domestic and international companies and organizations, are expected at the opening ceremony. IEA Secretary-General Fatih Birol and IRENA Director-General Francesco La Camera will deliver keynote speeches, while Sudeshna Ghosh Banerjee, the World Bank's Regional Director for Asia, will offer congratulatory remarks.Birol noted that the global energy order is being reshaped due to geopolitical uncertainties, predicting that South Korea, with its strengths in battery and power grid technology, will play a crucial role in diversifying supply chains and enhancing energy security.La Camera praised South Korea's expansion of renewable energy and its vision for becoming an electrified nation, expressing intentions to strengthen cooperation for global energy transition as South Korea prepares to host the IRENA General Assembly next year.Ghosh Banerjee emphasized that connecting climate tech innovation to a comprehensive energy system transition requires simultaneous improvements in policies and regulations, infrastructure investment, and international collaboration, pledging support for investments in power grid modernization and renewable energy deployment in the Asia region.The expo will also feature a 'Future Generations Climate Action Experience Center' organized in collaboration with local civic groups, where visitors can participate in activities such as upcycling and creating solar-powered decorative lights. The government plans to introduce South Korea's climate actions and ten commitments from climate citizens during key events.Minister of Climate Energy and Environment Kim Sung-hwan stated, 'When everyday practices come together, new demand is created, which can also support companies' technology development and investment. We will support the spread of corporate climate tech innovation and public climate actions together.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 10:32:10
  • Celltrion to Burn 540,000 Shares, Totaling 200 Billion Won This Year
    Celltrion to Burn 540,000 Shares, Totaling 200 Billion Won This Year Celltrion announced it will burn approximately 100 billion won worth of its own shares. This brings the total value of share buybacks for the year to 200 billion won.On September 16, Celltrion stated that it has resolved to burn 540,299 shares, valued at about 100 billion won, to enhance shareholder value. The share cancellation is scheduled for September 30, with the listing of the changes expected to be completed in October. With this resolution, the total value of shares that Celltrion plans to acquire and burn this year will increase to approximately 200 billion won.This share cancellation is part of Celltrion's long-term principle of returning one-third (about 33%) of its annual consolidated net profit to shareholders through share buybacks or cash dividends.Celltrion explained, "This share buyback and subsequent cancellation is a measure to eliminate any possibility of reissuing the shares recently acquired. By completing both the acquisition and cancellation of shares, we aim to enhance the certainty of shareholder returns and improve market predictability regarding our policies."Previously, Celltrion announced its long-term principle of returning one-third of its annual consolidated net profit to shareholders. The company plans to review various factors, including stock valuation, market conditions, free cash flow, research and development (R&D), and global facility investment plans, to determine the allocation between cash dividends and share buybacks or cancellations each year. If the stock is deemed undervalued compared to the company's intrinsic value or growth potential, Celltrion intends to actively utilize its share buyback policy, while also providing cash dividends when necessary to enhance return effects.Celltrion expects that as its existing core products, including biosimilars Remsima, Truxima, and Herzuma, maintain their market positions, the expansion of prescriptions for next-generation high-revenue portfolios such as Uplizna, Vegzelma, and Omniclon will further strengthen its long-term performance momentum.Based on this, Celltrion aims to balance future growth investments and shareholder returns, creating a virtuous cycle that enhances both corporate and shareholder value. A Celltrion representative stated, "We will consistently implement the principle of returning one-third of our consolidated net profit to shareholders to build market trust."Meanwhile, Celltrion achieved record-high consolidated revenues of 4.1625 trillion won and operating profits of 1.1685 trillion won last year. In the first half of this year, the company reported revenues of 2.5387 trillion won and operating profits of 773.7 billion won, continuing its trend of growth and improved profitability.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 10:32:10
  • Meeting Between Deputy Minister and CEOs of Major Telecoms Canceled Due to National Assembly Schedule
    Meeting Between Deputy Minister and CEOs of Major Telecoms Canceled Due to National Assembly Schedule Baek Kyung-hoon, Deputy Minister and Minister of Science and ICT, was set to meet with the CEOs of South Korea's three major telecom companies—SK Telecom, KT, and LG Uplus—on September 17. However, the meeting was canceled due to a National Assembly session scheduled for the same day.A Ministry of Science and ICT official stated, "We intended to discuss measures for living costs before Chuseok, but the National Assembly's schedule made the meeting difficult. We are currently coordinating a new date for the third meeting."This meeting was expected to cover investments in artificial intelligence (AI) and network infrastructure by the three telecom companies, as well as review the progress on tasks agreed upon in previous meetings. Discussions on living cost measures in the telecom sector were also anticipated to be a key agenda item.Earlier this year, Baek and the CEOs held their first meeting in April, agreeing to regular quarterly meetings. The initial meeting focused on reviewing the information security status of the three telecom companies and discussed expanding investments in AI data centers (AIDC), as well as next-generation intelligent networks based on 6G and AI.During the second meeting in July, topics included AI infrastructure and basic communication rights. The telecom companies urged the government to create public demand in new technology sectors. At that meeting, SK Telecom and KT formally requested a long-term policy direction and a predictable roadmap for phasing out older mobile networks like 3G.Choi Woo-hyuk, Director of the Information Security and Network Policy Office at the Ministry, responded, "We will discuss predictable schedules and policy directions to ensure user protection, prioritizing subscriber transitions and service continuity."The meeting's schedule was reportedly communicated to the industry about a week in advance. While there is a recognized need for the government and telecom industry to regularly review key issues, concerns have been raised that expanding the discussion to individual companies' pricing and marketing strategies could stifle market competition.Kim Dae-jong, a professor at Sejong University, noted, "Regular consultations between the government and the three telecom companies may be necessary to enhance network investments and user benefits. It allows for quick coordination on public interest tasks such as alleviating consumer burdens and supporting vulnerable groups."However, he cautioned that if the government directly intervenes in pricing or marketing strategies of individual telecom companies, it could dampen market autonomy and competition. He emphasized that telecom companies should compete based on their management strategies and customer characteristics, while the government should focus on monitoring anti-competitive practices and ensuring fair market order. He concluded, "It is preferable for the government to act as a referee to ensure fair competition rather than participating as a player in the market." 2026-09-16 10:32:10
  • Changing Media Landscape: IPTV Association Calls for Data-Driven Measurement Methods
    Changing Media Landscape: IPTV Association Calls for Data-Driven Measurement Methods As the content consumption pathways in the broadcasting market diversify, there is a call for a shift from traditional sample panel-based TV ratings to data-driven measurement methods. On September 15, the Korea IPTV Association held a press study on the topic of 'Changes in Domestic Media Usage Patterns and the Direction of TV INDEX Utilization.'Lee Seo-yong, team leader at IGAWorks, stated, "With the rise of online video services (OTT) and platforms like YouTube, the number of people not watching TV is increasing," adding that measuring TV ratings based on a sample of only 4,000 households has its limitations.He noted that some channels may report a 0% rating, suggesting no viewers, but this could be due to the limitations of the 4,000-household sample, emphasizing the need to assess the actual scale and value of broadcasting through various indicators.Lee introduced the TV INDEX measurement method, highlighting that it integrates and analyzes viewing data from 18 million household set-top boxes from the three major IPTV providers (SK Broadband, KT, and LG Uplus), allowing for detailed insights into channel reach and viewing time.He expressed the importance of examining not just ratings but also actual reach and viewing time, stating, "This data can be utilized in various areas, including content and programming strategies for broadcasters and content providers (PP)." He also emphasized the potential for future integration of set-top boxes and mobile devices, which could evolve into a medium that analyzes 'behavioral outcomes' by connecting TV ad viewing with mobile actions.During the press study, Yoo Yong-hwa, chairman of the Korea IPTV Association, remarked, "As media usage patterns diversify, the importance of data that can measure and utilize the value of broadcasting from various perspectives is growing." He added, "We will leverage the large-scale viewing data held by IPTV to more concretely demonstrate the value of broadcast content and channels, expanding data utilization across the media industry, including broadcasters and content providers."Looking ahead, the Korea IPTV Association plans to broaden the industrial application of IPTV viewing data, enabling broadcasters, content providers, and advertisers to make data-driven decisions based on the expanded use of TV INDEX.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 10:32:00
  • ZEEKR 7X Surpasses 200,000 Global Production Mark; 1,500 Pre-Orders in South Korea
    ZEEKR 7X Surpasses 200,000 Global Production Mark; 1,500 Pre-Orders in South Korea The ZEEKR 7X, a mid-size electric SUV from the Chinese brand ZEEKR, has surpassed a global production milestone of 200,000 units. In South Korea, pre-orders have exceeded 1,500 units ahead of the first deliveries next month.ZEEKR announced on September 16 that the 200,000th vehicle was produced at its ZEEKR Intelligent Factory located in Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, China.The ZEEKR Intelligent Factory utilizes smart production technologies, including 5G, artificial intelligence, and industrial big data, operating as a 'dark factory' with minimal human intervention. It is responsible for the global production of ZEEKR's key models.Since its launch in the second half of 2024, the ZEEKR 7X has delivered over 10,000 units within just 25 days. After entering the European market in May of last year, it expanded to over 50 countries and regions within 15 months.In the first half of this year, the ZEEKR 7X ranked first in sales in the mid-size pure electric SUV market in Hong Kong, Australia, Malaysia, Mexico, and Egypt. Global sales also exceeded 10,000 units in both July and August.The company is intensifying its efforts in the South Korean market. ZEEKR Korea began official pre-orders for the 7X on June 5 and has secured over 1,500 reservations to date. Recently, it expanded its sales network by opening the 'ZEEKR Gangdong Space' and 'ZEEKR Dongdaemun Space.' The first deliveries in South Korea are set to begin next month.The 7X, developed on the electric vehicle platform (SEA) by ZEEKR's parent company Geely Automobile Group, has received a five-star rating from both the Euro NCAP and the ANCAP safety assessments in Australia and New Zealand.A ZEEKR representative stated, "Achieving the production of 200,000 units for the 7X is a significant milestone, but ZEEKR's journey will continue moving forward."Meanwhile, ZEEKR established its South Korean subsidiary, ZEEKR Korea, in February last year, marking its entry into the domestic market. In December of the same year, it signed dealer contracts with four local partners and began sales in South Korea with the 7X this year.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 10:32:00
  • Korea and Uzbekistan Discuss Strengthening Economic Cooperation
    Korea and Uzbekistan Discuss Strengthening Economic Cooperation The Export-Import Bank of Korea discussed expanding economic cooperation with Uzbekistan, focusing on key minerals, energy development, and infrastructure.The bank announced that its President, Hwang Gi-yeon, met with Uzbekistan's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on September 15 during his visit to South Korea. They engaged in in-depth discussions on enhancing economic cooperation between the two countries.This meeting took place immediately after a business roundtable held in conjunction with the first Korea-Central Asia Summit.Both sides agreed on the need to link Uzbekistan's national development policies with South Korea's industrial competitiveness to achieve tangible cooperation outcomes.Uzbekistan is currently pursuing initiatives in key minerals and energy development, industrial diversification, and infrastructure expansion. The Export-Import Bank explained that these projects could serve as strategic cooperation areas between South Korea and Uzbekistan, aimed at stabilizing global supply chains, diversifying export markets, and securing future growth drivers.In conjunction with the summit, the bank also exchanged memorandums of understanding on key cooperative projects and established a system for identifying strategic projects between the two countries.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 10:28:00
  • Court Rules North Korea Must Compensate South Korea for Liaison Office Explosion
    Court Rules North Korea Must Compensate South Korea for Liaison Office Explosion 북한이 남북공동연락사무소를 폭파한 것에 대해 우리 정부에 손해액을 지급해야 한다는 법원 판단이 나왔다. 서울중앙지법 민사합의46부(김형철 부장판사)는 16일 정부가 북한을 상대로 낸 손해배상 청구 소송에서 원고 일부 승소로 판결했다. 이번 사건의 1심판결은 지난 2023년 6월 소송을 낸 지 3년 3개월 만에 나왔다. 재판부는 정부가 청구한 446억2641만722원을 사실상 그대로 인용했다. 구체적인 판결 이유는 밝히지 않았다.다만 북한을 상대로 진행된 이전 민사 소송과 마찬가지로 판결 내용에 따르지 않을 것으로 예상된다. 현재는 북한에 손해배상 이행을 강제할 수단이 없는 상황이다. 연락사무소 청사는 2007년 12월 준공돼 개성공단 내 납북교류협력협의사무소, 남북회담 장소 등으로 활용됐다.하지만 2010년 5·24 조치에 대한 북한의 반발로 폐쇄됐고, 북한은 2019년 하노이 북미 정상회담이 '노딜'로 끝난 이듬해인 2020년 6월 일부 탈북민 단체의 대북 전단 살포를 문제 삼아 연락사무소 건물을 폭파했다. 통일부는 윤석열 정부 시절인 2023년 6월 연락사무소 폭파의 손해배상청구권 소멸시효(3년)를 중단하고, 국가채권을 보전하기 위해 북한을 상대로 소송을 제기했다. 이는 개인이 아닌 정부가 북한 당국을 상대로 낸 첫 소송으로 소장에 원고는 '대한민국', 피고는 '조선민주주의인민공화국'으로 각각 기재됐다. 이와 관련해 통일부는 연락사무소 청사 102억5000만원, 인접한 종합지원센터 344억5000만원 등 총 447억원을 당시 연락사무소 폭파로 발생한 국유재산 손해액으로 산정했다. 애초 이번 선고는 지난달 12일 이뤄질 예정이었으나, 재판부는 통일부 요청에 따라 이날로 연기했다. 통일부 관계자는 지난달 11일 "북한 당국에 대한 소송이 처음 있는 사례이고, 판결 이후 조치 등에 대해 검토할 필요가 있어 선고 연기를 요청했다"고 말했다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 10:28:00