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  • Koreans in Georgia immigration raid file suit vs Washington
    Koreans in Georgia immigration raid file suit vs Washington SEOUL, September 16 (AJP) - About 300 South Korean workers detained during a large-scale immigration raid in Georgia last year have begun legal action against the U.S. government, CNN reported on Tuesday. According to the American news outlet, administrative claims on behalf of the workers, a mandatory step before a federal lawsuit can be filed against the government, have begun to be submitted to nine federal agencies including the Department of Homeland Security, Department of Justice (DOJ), Department of Labor (DOL) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The move comes about a year after U.S. immigration authorities carried out a massive crackdown at the construction site of a battery plant being built in Georgia through a joint venture between Hyundai Motor and LG Energy Solution in September last year. A total of 475 people, most of them South Koreans, were arrested by heavily armed ICE officials at the scene, handcuffed and shackled, and taken to a detention facility without a proper explanation. The workers, however, said they held valid visa status, contrary to U.S. immigration authorities' claims that they had entered the country illegally or under a visa waiver program that does not permit employment. In the administrative claims, they said they were unlawfully detained for about a week at an overcrowded facility with poor living conditions, which caused emotional distress, humiliation and psychological trauma. They are also seeking compensation for confiscated personal belongings, lost wages and psychological distress. Their lawyer told CNN that the purpose of the legal action is to have the U.S. government acknowledge what he described as an "enormous and unjust mistake" and apologize. The amount of damages being sought was not disclosed. AJP Takeaways - About 300 South Korean workers detained in a September 2025 Georgia immigration raid have begun legal action against the U.S. government. - The workers are filing administrative claims with nine federal agencies, alleging unlawful detention and seeking compensation for lost wages, belongings and psychological distress. - The claims stem from the Sept. 4, 2025 raid, in which 475 people were detained at a battery plant construction site linked to Hyundai Motor Group and LG Energy Solution. 2026-09-16 09:22:09
  • Hyundai to Introduce 480 Hydrogen Buses by 2032 to Boost Adoption
    Hyundai to Introduce 480 Hydrogen Buses by 2032 to Boost Adoption Hyundai Motor Company has partnered with Seonjin Group, a major bus transportation company in South Korea, to introduce 480 hydrogen buses by 2032. The initiative aims to establish charging infrastructure centered around bus depots by converting existing CNG stations into hydrogen refueling stations, facilitating the transition to hydrogen mobility in public transportation in the capital region.On September 16, Hyundai announced that it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Seonjin Group, Hynet, the Korea Automobile Environmental Association, and the Korea Natural Gas Hydrogen Charging Association to expand hydrogen mobility through innovative charging infrastructure.The MOU focuses on the proactive introduction of hydrogen buses on key bus routes operated by Seonjin Group in the capital region, along with the expansion of charging infrastructure to support this initiative.Seonjin Group operates approximately 1,700 buses through 17 transportation companies in the capital and Honam regions. The group plans to convert existing CNG stations at its depots in Gimpo and Paju into hydrogen refueling stations and gradually introduce a total of 480 hydrogen buses by 2032.Hynet will be responsible for the construction and operation of large-capacity hydrogen refueling stations at designated depots, while the Korea Automobile Environmental Association and the Korea Natural Gas Hydrogen Charging Association will support the establishment of hydrogen refueling stations and the activation of charging infrastructure.Hyundai plans to ensure timely delivery of hydrogen buses to Seonjin Group and will provide specialized maintenance training for hydrogen buses to contribute to a stable operating environment.Hyundai views hydrogen as a complementary technology for long-distance and heavy-duty transportation, rather than a competitor to battery electric vehicles (BEVs). The company aims to expand the hydrogen demand ecosystem by building an energy system that integrates renewable energy and hydrogen, while also increasing the use of hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) in essential mobility sectors.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 09:20:10
  • Smart Poultry Farm to Be Established in Taebaek by 2031 with 483.9 Billion Won Investment
    Smart Poultry Farm to Be Established in Taebaek by 2031 with 483.9 Billion Won Investment A smart livestock complex capable of raising 3.2 million layer hens will be established in Taebaek City, with a total investment of 483.9 billion won by 2031. This facility is expected to produce an average of 1.86 million eggs daily, contributing to the expansion of the domestic egg supply and revitalizing the local economy.The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs announced on September 16 that Taebaek City has been selected as a candidate for the smart livestock complex project in 2026.Taebaek City plans to develop a 45-hectare smart layer hen complex in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province, and the agricultural corporation Ganong Bio. The project budget includes 17.8 billion won in national subsidies, 8.2 billion won in local funding, and 457.9 billion won from Ganong Bio's own investment and loans.The complex aims to achieve a daily egg production target of 1.86 million, which represents about 3.7% of the country's average daily production. The government believes that securing a stable production base will help stabilize supply and prices amid ongoing challenges in egg production due to highly pathogenic avian influenza and heatwaves.Taebaek City received high marks for its high-altitude location, which prevents tropical nights and reduces the risk of heat damage. The absence of migratory bird habitats also lowers the risk of outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza, which was a factor in its selection.This project marks the establishment of the first smart layer hen complex in the country, facilitated by the relocation of Ganong Bio from Pocheon. The government anticipates that it will create approximately 355 new jobs, promoting population influx and revitalizing the local economy, which has been affected by the decline of the coal industry.Additionally, the project will include initiatives for community coexistence. Taebaek City plans to utilize egg-related experiential facilities as tourist attractions and is considering building a biomass power generation facility that converts chicken manure into energy, sharing some of the profits with nearby residents. Together with Ganong Bio, the city will establish a training facility for young farmers aspiring to enter the livestock industry.However, conflicts with civic groups in the neighboring Samcheok area and concerns about the spread of livestock diseases due to large-scale farming remain challenges.In response, the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs and Taebaek City will implement air purification systems and forced ventilation drying systems in all livestock buildings, and will purify and recycle wastewater to address concerns about odors, dust, and water pollution. They are also considering a management system that allows citizens of Taebaek and Samcheok to monitor odor and wastewater treatment conditions.In terms of biosecurity, poultry biosecurity experts will be involved from the design phase of the complex, and additional disinfection facilities will be installed along with regular inspections of biosecurity management practices.Lee Jae-sik, director of livestock policy at the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, stated, "We will spare no support and consulting to ensure that Taebaek City becomes a global cutting-edge egg industry cluster, encompassing production, processing, distribution, research and development (R&D), professional workforce training, and an AI-based perfect biosecurity management system."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 09:20:10
  • Mokpo Coast Guard Conducts Safety Inspections Ahead of Chuseok Holiday
    Mokpo Coast Guard Conducts Safety Inspections Ahead of Chuseok Holiday The Mokpo Coast Guard conducted safety inspections of ferries and docks in preparation for an expected increase in travelers during the Chuseok holiday.On September 16, the Mokpo Coast Guard announced that it had checked the safety management of local ferries and docks ahead of the Chuseok holiday, which runs from September 24 to 27.The inspections were initiated to identify potential risks associated with the anticipated rise in marine users, including returning holiday travelers and tourists visiting the islands.The inspection covered 13 ferries, including the Samhakdo Cruise, and six docks, including the Samhakdo Cruise dock.The Mokpo Coast Guard focused on the safety management status of the vessels, including the proper availability and maintenance of life jackets and other safety equipment.They also assessed whether a compensation response system for accidents was adequately established.To reduce the risk of maritime accidents due to weather changes during the holiday, the Coast Guard verified compliance with regulations regarding departure restrictions in adverse weather conditions.Ferry operators were advised to conduct self-inspections of vessel conditions and safety equipment before departure and to strictly adhere to safety regulations during operations.The Mokpo Coast Guard plans to continue preventive safety management, focusing on docks and operational sites that are likely to see a surge in visitors during the holiday.Park Hye-rang, head of the Mokpo Coast Guard's Maritime Safety Division, stated, "As we expect an increase in ferry users during the Chuseok holiday, we are strengthening safety management at docks and operational sites. We ask both operators and users to thoroughly comply with safety regulations to ensure a safe Chuseok holiday."Meanwhile, the Mokpo Coast Guard plans to enhance on-site safety management and accident prevention activities in anticipation of increased ferry users during the Chuseok holiday. They will continuously monitor compliance with safety regulations for operating vessels and dock usage, implementing necessary safety measures based on maritime conditions, including adverse weather.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 09:20:10
  • Hyundai Motor Brings Safety Leaders from 12 Countries Together for Global Standardization
    Hyundai Motor Brings Safety Leaders from 12 Countries Together for Global Standardization Hyundai Motor is gathering safety leaders from its global operations to standardize safety management levels. On September 16, Hyundai announced the launch of the Global One Safety Council (GOSC) and a conference taking place at its domestic facilities until September 18. GOSC is a global council established to facilitate communication among safety personnel responsible for safety across Hyundai's worldwide operations. This marks the first time all of Hyundai's safety leaders have convened in one location. The conference will feature over 40 safety leaders from 12 countries, including South Korea, the Americas, Europe, India, the Asia-Pacific region, and China. They will share exemplary safety practices from their respective regions and explore ways to implement these strategies across all facilities, as well as discuss strategies for standardizing safety management levels globally. On the first day, a 'Global Safety Session' will be held at Hyundai Motor Group's Human Resources Development Center in Mabuk, focusing on global safety strategies and implementation plans. On September 17, a 'Brand Session' will take place at Hyundai's Yangjae headquarters and Hyundai Motorstudio Seoul, emphasizing the connection between safety management and corporate credibility. Finally, on September 18, a 'Field Safety Session' will be conducted at Hyundai's Ulsan plant, allowing participants to experience the current safety status and technologies in production environments. Choi Young-il, Vice President and Chief Safety Officer, stated, "This is an opportunity to share our safety philosophy and strategies with global safety leaders. I hope it serves as a reminder that prioritizing employee safety is essential for maintaining our competitiveness as a top-tier global brand." Meanwhile, Hyundai is establishing a comprehensive safety and health system and is promoting the improvement of hazardous and risky factors at its facilities, along with the dissemination of a safety and health culture, in accordance with its mid- to long-term roadmap.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 09:20:00
  • U.S.-South Korea Foreign Ministers Meeting Set for September 18 in Washington
    U.S.-South Korea Foreign Ministers' Meeting Set for September 18 in Washington Choi Hyun, South Korea's Foreign Minister, will visit Washington, D.C., from September 17 to 19. Attention is focused on whether the two foreign ministers will discuss South Korea's 'substantial contributions' in the Hormuz Strait, along with various pressing diplomatic and security issues.The Foreign Ministry announced on September 16 that Choi will hold a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on September 18 to broadly discuss U.S.-South Korea relations, the Korean Peninsula issue, and regional and global matters.This will be the first in-person meeting between the two ministers in over seven months, since they last met in Washington on February 3. It will also be Choi's third face-to-face meeting since taking office. The two ministers discussed the situation in the Middle East and the Hormuz Strait during a phone call on August 24, agreeing to meet soon to delve into key issues. During that call, Choi expressed South Korea's commitment to contributing to the restoration of free navigation in the Hormuz Strait and suggested continuing discussions on specific measures.As a result, there are expectations for a more detailed exchange of views regarding South Korea's level and method of contribution during this meeting. Following the return of a local investigation team sent by the Ministry of National Defense to the United Arab Emirates on September 10, it is anticipated that they will also share assessments of the local situation with the U.S.Subsequent discussions on security cooperation between the U.S. and South Korea are also expected to be a major agenda item. Topics may include the introduction of nuclear-powered submarines, the expansion of uranium enrichment and spent nuclear fuel reprocessing rights, and the transfer of wartime operational control. As the implementation of U.S. investment agreements is set to begin, there is interest in whether progress in economic matters will provide momentum for security negotiations.Regarding the Korean Peninsula issue, discussions are expected to cover North Korea's military activities, the possibility of resuming U.S.-North Korea dialogue, and coordination on North Korea policy. The two ministers had previously agreed during their phone call last month to closely cooperate to ensure that President Trump's messages to North Korea lead to the resumption of dialogue and peace on the Korean Peninsula. 2026-09-16 09:20:00
  • Cuckoo Launches Restino Full-Body Massage Chair with 24 Customizable Options
    Cuckoo Launches Restino Full-Body Massage Chair with 24 Customizable Options Cuckoo announced the launch of its 'Restino Full-Body Massage Chair' on September 16, designed to accommodate various body types and relaxation preferences ahead of the Chuseok holiday.Through its recent furniture and appliance brand 'Restino,' Cuckoo has introduced a range of massage products. The company has received positive feedback for its diverse offerings, including furniture-style massage chairs, massage beds, neck and shoulder massagers, calf massagers, and thigh massagers, catering to customers concerned about space limitations.The new product provides a sophisticated massage tailored to the user's body type. An automatic body shape recognition system detects the user's physique and delivers a three-dimensional massage. The 'SL Frame,' designed to follow the curve of the spine, massages a wide area from the neck to the waist and thighs.Additionally, users can adjust the massage intensity and speed in stages, considering the characteristics of different body parts. The chair features a roller massage function for the feet and a heated pad that wraps around the waist, effective for muscle relaxation.With a total of 24 massage modes available, users can select options based on their condition and preferences. The chair's position can also be adjusted to the desired angle, with a zero-gravity mode that automatically adjusts the backrest and leg angles for a more relaxed massage experience. The zero-gravity angle can be adjusted up to 150 degrees.Cuckoo has also prioritized safety and hygiene. The chair includes a safety assist system that detects physical obstructions and a child lock feature to prevent accidental operation by children or pets. Detachable pads are used in areas prone to contamination for easy removal and maintenance. The chair's design allows for installation with a 30 cm gap from the wall, as it slides forward when reclining, and it features a calm gray color and smooth curved silhouette.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 09:16:00
  • Ministry of Culture Simplifies 34 Foreign Terms Related to Semiconductors
    Ministry of Culture Simplifies 34 Foreign Terms Related to Semiconductors The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the National Institute of the Korean Language announced on September 16 that they have simplified 34 foreign terms commonly used in media and daily life into easier Korean expressions.The terms were refined through a process involving the 'New Words Group,' which included participation from media professionals, academics, and university students. A survey was conducted with 3,000 citizens aged 15 and older to gauge acceptance, leading to the final decisions made by the 2026 Third National Language Review Committee's Language Simplification Subcommittee.The survey revealed that the foreign term with the highest demand for a Korean equivalent was 'middle mile' (73.8%). It was followed by 'echo chamber' (72.9%), 'mingling' (72.4%), and 'hip tradition' (70.8%).The term 'middle mile,' referring to the intermediate stage of delivery items moving to logistics centers, has been refined to 'intermediate logistics.' The phenomenon of reinforcing beliefs or values through repeated exposure to information that aligns with one's preferences, known as 'echo chamber,' has been changed to 'belief amplification.' The term 'mingling,' which describes socializing with unfamiliar people, is now 'socializing,' and 'hip tradition,' which refers to the modern reinterpretation of traditional culture, has been adapted to 'new-sensibility tradition.'Recently used foreign terms related to semiconductors have also been simplified. The term 'fab' (fabrication facility), which refers to a factory that produces semiconductor chips, has been changed to 'semiconductor production plant' or 'semiconductor manufacturing plant.' The term 'foundry,' which denotes a company that produces semiconductors based on external designs, is now 'semiconductor contract manufacturing.' The term 'fabless,' referring to companies that primarily focus on design and sales without manufacturing facilities, has been refined to 'semiconductor design specialist company.'Expressions commonly used in the economic and industrial sectors were also included. The term 'Korea premium,' which indicates the rising value of South Korea's national brand, has been changed to 'Korea overvaluation' or 'Korea value increase.' Conversely, 'Korea discount,' which refers to the phenomenon of domestic companies being undervalued compared to their actual worth, is now 'Korea undervaluation.'Additionally, 'Plan B,' which refers to a backup plan for when the original plan is difficult to execute, has been simplified to 'alternative plan,' and 'flagship,' which denotes something that represents or is central to a company, is now 'main product.'The Ministry of Culture and the National Institute of the Korean Language plan to continue reviewing newly introduced unfamiliar expressions and simplify them into easy Korean, disseminating the information through various channels, including social media.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 09:16:00
  • K-Pop Concerts Drive Continued Consumer Spending Beyond Music
    K-Pop Concerts Drive Continued Consumer Spending Beyond Music Analysis shows that the economic impact of K-Pop concerts extends beyond the venue. Revenue from music content, including albums and digital tracks, is linked to overseas sales before and after performances. Additionally, exports of other K-content, such as films, broadcast videos, and webtoons, have also been associated with these concerts. Experts suggest utilizing overseas tours not just for ticket sales but as local hubs for K-content exports.The Korea Culture and Tourism Institute published these findings in its fifth brief on content industry trends, titled 'Dynamic Relationship Between K-Pop Overseas Performances and Content Exports.'This study combined data from the Korea International Trade Association's 'K-stat,' the Bank of Korea's 'Knowledge Service Trade Statistics,' and K-Pop overseas performance data compiled by the institute. It analyzed quarterly data from 19 countries and regions from the first quarter of 2011 to the second quarter of 2025, excluding the years 2020-2021 when overseas performances were significantly restricted due to COVID-19.The scale of overseas performances was assessed by combining venue capacity and the number of performance days to estimate potential consumer engagement. This analysis looked at not only the timing of the concerts but also the flow of content exports before and after the events.Music Albums See Immediate Impact, Streaming Services Extend Over TimeA notable finding pertains to music content. The link between the scale of K-Pop overseas performances and music content exports extends beyond the day of the concert, continuing before and after the event.However, the timing varies by category. Physical album exports are primarily associated with the concert date and immediately afterward. In contrast, music streaming services show a broader connection, extending from the preparation phase through to after the concert.Specifically, royalties from music services are linked from before the concert to the time of the event and immediately afterward. Concert services maintain a relationship before and after the performance, with a particularly strong connection noted after the concert. Production services and advertising revenue based on audio and video content also show some correlation following certain performances.This indicates that revenue does not end with a single concert; rather, there is potential for interconnected consumption of albums, audio, video, and concert production services before and after the event.K-Pop Fans Explore Beyond Music to Film and WebtoonsThe trends associated with K-Pop concerts are also evident outside the music realm. Positive correlations between K-Pop overseas performances and exports have been observed in certain genres, including film, broadcast videos, and webtoons.However, the researchers caution against applying these results universally to all K-content. It cannot be definitively concluded that K-Pop overseas performances directly increase exports of other content. Instead, it suggests that K-Pop, being closely related to other content, can serve as a point of engagement to broaden local consumer interest.Consequently, a strategy is proposed to utilize concert venues as platforms for the overseas expansion of K-content. This would involve promoting audio, video, and other K-content before the concert, showcasing albums and related merchandise at the event, and linking with local platforms and distributors for follow-up consumption after the concert.The criteria for selecting tour markets should not rely solely on concert scale. It is essential to consider local K-Pop demand, content consumption levels, market growth potential, and distribution environments to identify markets with high potential for linking with other K-content.Lee Yong-kwan, head of the Korea Culture and Tourism Institute's Hallyu Economic Research Center, stated, "This analysis confirms the dynamic relationship between the scale of overseas performances and content exports, but it does not imply a direct causal effect of overseas performances on increasing exports. However, the consistent linkage observed in music content before and after performances indicates the need to leverage overseas concerts as opportunities to expand local consumer engagement with K-content and facilitate the overseas expansion of various content types."Hwang Kyo-ik, director of the Korea Culture and Tourism Institute, emphasized the importance of organically linking overseas expansion and export policies by content genre, and strengthening the framework for planning and evaluating policies based on actual data and analysis.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-16 09:12:10
  • Korean Air Finalizes $44.8 Billion Purchase Agreement with U.S.
    Korean Air Finalizes $44.8 Billion Purchase Agreement with U.S. Korean Air has finalized a purchase agreement worth approximately 60 trillion won ($44.8 billion) that includes aircraft acquisitions. This agreement comes a year after the two countries agreed on a $350 billion investment plan, marking a significant step in the realization of the previously announced large-scale aircraft purchase plan. It is expected to strengthen the economic cooperation between South Korea and the United States, which had been in a state of uncertainty.On September 16, Korean Air announced that it has signed a contract with Boeing for the purchase of 103 next-generation, fuel-efficient aircraft valued at $36.2 billion. Additionally, it has completed contracts with GE Aerospace and CFM International for approximately $8.6 billion in spare engine purchases and engine maintenance services.This contract comes nearly a year after Korean Air signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Boeing and GE Aerospace in Washington, D.C., in August of the previous year regarding aircraft and engine purchases and maintenance services. The large-scale purchase plan, which was only in the announcement phase at that time, has now moved into the execution stage with the signing of the final contract.Korean Air's purchase plan was mentioned separately during the agreement between South Korean and U.S. authorities on October 29 of last year regarding the $350 billion investment in the U.S. At that time, the two countries agreed to invest $200 billion in U.S. strategic industries and allocate the remaining $150 billion to the 'MASGA' shipbuilding cooperation fund.According to the contract, Korean Air will receive 20 Boeing 777-9s, 25 787-10s, 50 737-10s, and 8 777-8F freighters by the end of 2030. It will also purchase a total of 21 spare engines from GE Aerospace and CFM International. A 15-year engine maintenance service contract for 28 aircraft has been established with GE Aerospace.The large-scale purchase is expected to have a significant impact on the U.S. aviation industry and employment. According to data compiled by the Korea International Trade Association after the Korea-U.S. trade agreement last year, the job creation effect from the purchase of Boeing aircraft is estimated to be 135,000 jobs.This contract is also significant as it was made possible through communication and support from both the South Korean and U.S. governments, beyond just a large corporate transaction. The South Korean government has provided policy support and regulatory improvements to enhance the competitiveness of the aviation industry and has also offered financial support to back Korean Air's large-scale fleet investment.Previously, the Korea Export-Import Bank announced it would support Korean Air with a total of 700 billion won, including 300 billion won in export financing and 400 billion won for supply chain stabilization. In July, Korean Air secured additional funding by issuing Samurai bonds worth 20 billion yen based on a guarantee from the Export-Import Bank.Korean Air held a ceremony on September 15 at the Conrad Seoul Hotel in Yeongdeungpo, Seoul, to commemorate the signing of the final contract, attended by Hanjin Group Chairman Cho Won-tae, Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Stephanie Pope, and CFM President and CEO Gael Meoest.Chairman Cho stated, "It is very meaningful that the promise made in Washington last year has come to fruition with the final contract. This agreement is a milestone of trust that strengthens the solid economic and technological alliance between South Korea and the United States, beyond just a corporate transaction." 2026-09-16 09:08:10