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  • Improved Business Sentiment Driven by Semiconductor Sector; Manufacturing Rises for Fourth Month
    Improved Business Sentiment Driven by Semiconductor Sector; Manufacturing Rises for Fourth Month Business sentiment has improved, buoyed by a favorable semiconductor market. However, while manufacturing sentiment has risen for the fourth consecutive month, non-manufacturing sentiment has slowed.According to the Bank of Korea's business survey released on July 30, the Composite Business Sentiment Index (CBSI) for all industries rose by 0.8 points from the previous month to 98.5, thanks to improvements in the manufacturing sector.The CBSI is a psychological indicator calculated based on key indices from the Business Survey Index (BSI), which includes five manufacturing and four non-manufacturing sectors. A score above the historical average of 100 (from January 2003 to December 2025) indicates optimistic sentiment, while a score below suggests pessimism.By sector, the manufacturing CBSI increased by 2.0 points to 103.2, driven by new orders and favorable business conditions, while the non-manufacturing CBSI fell by 0.2 points to 95.2. The manufacturing CBSI is at its highest level since June 2022 (107.1). The rise in manufacturing was supported by increases in new orders (0.8 points) and business conditions (0.7 points), while the decline in non-manufacturing was led by a drop in financial conditions (-0.5 points).The manufacturing sentiment index has shown consistent growth since March (97.1), with readings of 99.1 in April, 100.8 in May, and 101.2 in June, reflecting the positive impact of the semiconductor market.By company size, the CBSI for large enterprises rose by 0.8 points to 105.3, while the CBSI for small and medium-sized enterprises increased by 1.9 points to 97.6.Lee Heung-hoo, head of the Bank of Korea's Economic Sentiment Survey Team, stated, "Overall, we can interpret that small and medium-sized enterprises related to the semiconductor and defense industries have benefited from the favorable conditions in these sectors."For August, the CBSI for all industries is projected to be 100.5 for manufacturing, a 2.3-point increase, and 93.7 for non-manufacturing, a 0.5-point rise.Looking at specific sectors, the BSI for manufacturing showed gains in areas such as other machinery and equipment, medical and precision instruments, and metal processing. In contrast, non-manufacturing performance declined in transportation and warehousing, professional and scientific services, and retail.The Economic Sentiment Index (ESI) for July, which incorporates the Consumer Sentiment Index (CSI), rose by 1.1 points to 97.9, driven by forecasts for manufacturing financial conditions and household income. The seasonally adjusted ESI cyclical fluctuation value increased by 0.2 points compared to the previous month, reaching 95.9.Lee noted, "While the ESI is still below the long-term average, we can assess that the sentiment of businesses and consumers is gradually recovering." 2026-07-30 06:04:00
  • Preparing for the Next Standards in ADAS: All-Weather Sensing
    Preparing for the Next Standards in ADAS: All-Weather Sensing The competition in automotive sensing technology is evolving. While the focus used to be on how far and accurately sensors could detect, the key criteria now center on how reliably, quickly, and consistently these technologies can be implemented in mass-produced vehicles.At the company's annual technology demonstration held in June, topics included UWB-based in-vehicle detection technology, next-generation millimeter-wave radar, and changes in ADAS-related regulations. Notably, the introduction of a UWB-based Child Presence Detection (CPD) solution illustrated the future direction of sensing technology. The core message emphasized the importance of standardizing the entire process from data collection to learning and real-world deployment, highlighting the need for a development structure that can be repeatedly applied across various vehicle types and environments.This trend is also evident in ADAS, which focuses on external vehicle perception. The competitiveness of sensing technology now hinges on whether it can be consistently implemented in mass-produced vehicles rather than the excellence of individual features.ADAS has already entered a phase of widespread adoption. Features such as lane-keeping, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot detection are no longer exclusive to premium vehicles. Consequently, ADAS must operate reliably not only in clear weather but also in conditions where drivers genuinely need assistance, such as rain, fog, tunnels, and nighttime driving. Considering the domestic road environment, this presents a realistic challenge. Heavy rains, dense fog, numerous tunnels, and nighttime glare all impose significant burdens on camera recognition.As a result, the competitiveness of ADAS arises from the complementary structure among sensors. Cameras excel at reading lane markings and object shapes but are affected by light and weather conditions. In contrast, radar quickly assesses distance, speed, and direction without relying on light, thereby complementing camera capabilities. In high-speed driving, knowing 'how far away' an object is and 'how quickly it is approaching' is directly linked to safety.Global regulations and safety assessments are moving in the same direction. Standards in Europe and China increasingly emphasize detection and response capabilities in complex situations. This means that ADAS must evolve from being merely a 'convenience feature' to a 'safety technology' that ensures reliability across various real-world driving environments.The industry is responding to this trend by launching new products. The company is also focusing on improving detection performance to recognize hazards earlier in environments where camera recognition is less effective, such as tunnels. This approach is not just about specifications; it ensures that the vehicle system can assess situations before the driver does.However, chip performance alone cannot resolve all issues. Given that sensor placement, vehicle structure, and safety standards vary by vehicle type, a structure that can be quickly adapted to various models and scenarios is necessary rather than designing each project from scratch. The company's UWB-based CPD solution also standardizes the process from data collection to deployment, reducing the time required for mass production.The automotive industry demands strict reliability over potential. Without consistent quality and predictable development timelines, commercialization is challenging, especially for ADAS and in-vehicle detection technologies that are directly linked to safety. Ultimately, the competitiveness of sensing technology is realized when various sensors, including cameras, radar, and UWB, perform their respective roles and are reliably integrated into actual vehicles and road environments.The domestic automotive industry has already proven its competitiveness in the global market. The next challenge is to implement consistent ADAS performance under increasingly stringent safety evaluations and real road conditions. Particularly in rapidly evolving regulatory markets like Europe and China, all-weather detection capabilities are not just an option but a necessity.The safety technology that drivers expect is not flashy features but systems that operate quietly in rain, tunnels, and at night, detecting risks ahead of time. Technologies that remain unnoticed because no accidents occur embody the essence of automotive safety. Future sensing technology must not only look further but also reliably detect in more challenging environments, be applied to mass-produced vehicles more quickly, and gain the trust of more drivers in their daily lives. Moving beyond clear-day ADAS, the goal is to develop all-weather sensing technology that can be trusted in every environment.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-30 05:00:20
  • President Yoon Calls for Evolution of Korea-Chile FTA to Reflect New Economic Realities
    President Yoon Calls for Evolution of Korea-Chile FTA to Reflect New Economic Realities 이재명 대통령은 29일(현지시간) 한국이 처음으로 체결한 한·칠레 자유무역협정(FTA)이 디지털 무역과 인공지능(AI), 청정기술 등 변화한 경제 환경을 반영하도록 진화해야 한다고 밝혔다. 아르헨티나의 인터넷매체 인포바에에 따르면 이 대통령은 칠레 방문에 앞서 공개된 스페인 EFE통신과의 서면 인터뷰에서 “오늘날 경제는 디지털 무역과 AI, 청정기술, 회복력 있는 공급망, 탄소중립 전환을 중심으로 재편되고 있다”며 이같이 말했다. 이 대통령은 “한·칠레 FTA가 이러한 새로운 현실을 반영하도록 진화해야 한다”며 FTA의 현대화를 이번 남미 순방의 최우선 과제 중 하나로 꼽았다. 한·칠레 FTA는 동아시아와 중남미를 연결한 최초의 태평양 횡단 자유무역협정이자 한국이 체결한 첫 FTA다. 이 대통령은 2004년 발효된 FTA가 양국 관계 발전에 중요한 역할을 해왔다고 평가하면서도 이후 세계 경제와 산업·통상 환경에 나타난 “극적인 변화”를 협정에 반영해야 한다고 강조했다. 이를 위해 양국이 FTA 자유무역위원회를 재가동하고 협정 현대화 논의를 진전시키는 한편, 회복력 있는 공급망 분야의 협력을 강화해야 한다는 구상도 제시했다. 이 대통령은 “협정 현대화는 단순히 무역 규범을 개정하는 데 그치는 것이 아니다”라며 “새로운 비즈니스 기회를 창출하고 혁신을 지원하며 신산업 분야의 협력을 강화하는 데 목적이 있다”고 설명했다. 개선된 협정에 노동 기준과 성평등 등 새로운 통상 규범을 포함하겠다는 뜻도 밝혔다. 칠레는 1949년 남미 국가 가운데 처음으로 대한민국 정부를 승인한 국가로, 양국은 1962년 수교했다. 이 대통령은 올해 3월 칠레에 새 정부가 출범했지만 양국 협력의 기조에는 변화가 없을 것으로 전망했다. 이 대통령은 “한·칠레 관계는 어느 한 정부에 의존한 적이 없다”며 “1962년 수교 이후 상호 신뢰와 공동의 가치, 60여년 동안 공고하게 다져온 제도적 기반을 바탕으로 우정을 쌓아왔다”고 평가했다. 핵심광물 공급망 협력도 이번 방문의 주요 의제로 제시했다. 이 대통령은 “방문 기간 양국이 광물자원 파트너십 양해각서(MOU)를 체결할 예정”이라며 “목표는 핵심광물의 글로벌 공급망을 안정시키기 위해 협력하는 것”이라고 밝혔다. 특히 이 대통령은 칠레가 세계적인 리튬·구리 보유국이고 한국은 안정적인 수요와 첨단 산업 기반을 갖춘 국가라는 점을 강조했다. 양국의 강점을 연결하면 광물 개발과 가공부터 첨단 제조에 이르는 경쟁력 있는 이른바 ‘가치사슬’을 구축할 수 있다는 설명이다. 인프라와 방위산업, 공공안전, 해양안전 분야의 협력 확대 의지도 밝혔다. 이 대통령은 “2028년 양국이 공동 개최하는 제4차 유엔해양총회의 성공적인 개최를 위해 칠레와 긴밀히 협력하기를 기대한다”고 말했다. 한편 브라질 국빈 방문 일정을 마치고 칠레 산티아고에 도착한 이 대통령은 곧바로 현지 동포들과 만찬 간담회를 갖는 것으로 칠레 공식 방문 일정을 시작한다. 30일 호세 안토니오 카스트 칠레 대통령과 정상회담을 갖고 FTA 현대화와 핵심광물 공급망, 인프라·투자 협력 등을 논의할 예정이다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-30 04:40:00
  • President Lee Arrives in Santiago, Chile, for Official Visit
    President Lee Arrives in Santiago, Chile, for Official Visit President Lee Jae-myung arrived in Santiago, Chile, on July 29 after completing a state visit to Brazil. He aims to modernize the free trade agreement (FTA) with Chile, Korea's first FTA partner, which marks its 22nd anniversary this year, and to expand cooperation in critical mineral supply chains and infrastructure.The presidential aircraft carrying President Lee and First Lady Kim Hye-kyung landed at Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport in Santiago at 2:20 p.m. local time.They were welcomed by Chilean Foreign Minister Alberto van Klaveren, Chief of Protocol Oscar Fuentes, Chilean Ambassador to Korea Matias Francke, and the commander of the Santiago Air Force base. From the Korean side, Ambassador to Chile Kim Hak-jae and his wife were present to greet them.President Lee will kick off his official visit in Chile with a dinner meeting with local Korean residents in Santiago, where he plans to encourage the Korean community's integration and listen to their concerns.On July 30, he will lay a wreath at the statue of Chilean independence hero Bernardo O'Higgins before attending an official welcome ceremony at La Moneda Palace. He will then hold a summit with Chilean President José Antonio Kast, which will include a signing ceremony for a memorandum of understanding (MOU), a joint press conference, and an official luncheon.A key agenda item for the summit is the modernization of the Korea-Chile FTA, which took effect in April 2004 as Korea's first FTA. The two countries began improvement negotiations in 2018 and have held nine official rounds of talks, with plans to conclude by April 2024.The government aims to expand the existing trade agreement, which focuses on goods, to include digital economy, supply chains, energy and minerals, intellectual property rights, and environmental and labor issues to adapt to the changing trade environment.Cooperation in critical mineral supply chains, linking Chile's copper and lithium resources with Korea's battery and advanced manufacturing technologies, is also expected to be a major topic. The government is exploring ways to support domestic companies' entry into Chile's promising infrastructure market.After the summit, President Lee will attend a Korea-Chile business roundtable to discuss ways to enhance trade and investment between the two countries. They will also discuss preparations for the successful hosting of the UN Ocean Conference in 2028 and cooperation on marine environment and climate change responses.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-30 04:08:00
  • Federal Reserve Holds Interest Rates Steady Amid Inflation Concerns
    Federal Reserve Holds Interest Rates Steady Amid Inflation Concerns As military tensions between the U.S. and Iran escalate and Brent crude oil prices briefly surpass $100, the U.S. Federal Reserve has decided to keep interest rates unchanged.On July 29, the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) voted to maintain the current benchmark interest rate at 3.50% to 3.75%. In the vote, 9 out of 12 members supported the decision to hold rates steady, while three members—Lorie Logan (Dallas), Neel Kashkari (Minneapolis), and Beth Hammack (Cleveland)—advocated for an increase.Prior to the announcement, market expectations leaned toward a rate hold, although confidence waned slightly the day before. On the morning of the announcement, the FedWatch tool indicated a 66.3% probability of a rate hold and a 33.7% chance of a rate hike. This was a decrease from the previous day, when the probabilities were 69% for a hold and 31% for a hike.This marks the second rate decision since Kevin Warsh took office as chair. NBC News noted that discussions around rate increases have emerged amid a deepening purchasing power crisis due to inflation. The current rate has been in place since December of last year, and some experts have suggested that a rate hike may be necessary to curb rising prices. Lorie Logan, president of the Dallas Federal Reserve Bank, stated earlier this month that rates should be “modestly” increased, citing that inflation exceeding target levels has constrained American households.However, the consumer price index (CPI) for last month showed a year-over-year increase of 3.5%, which was seen as a positive factor for the decision to hold rates steady. CNBC reported that this figure was lower than expected, compared to a 4.2% increase in May. Additionally, the recent decline in international oil prices, which had previously surged above $100 following U.S. military actions against Iran, also contributed positively to the decision.Economically, raising interest rates can dampen demand and lower inflation. However, AP noted that the ongoing conflict with Iran has disrupted energy supplies, limiting the effectiveness of such measures. Vincent Reinhart, a former Federal Reserve economist, remarked that while the Fed recognizes inflation is above target, much of the cause is beyond its control.President Donald Trump, who appointed Warsh, has consistently emphasized the need for lower interest rates, which may add pressure on Warsh and FOMC members. In a recent NBC interview, Trump stated that raising rates would undermine success, asserting there is no reason to increase rates and that they should be lowered. CNBC reported that despite Trump's comments, the surge in energy prices due to the Iran conflict has created a complex situation for Warsh and the Fed. Furthermore, new tariff measures being pursued by the Trump administration are also expected to impact prices in the second half of the year.If inflation continues to rise steadily, the Fed may still consider increasing interest rates later this year. The next FOMC meeting is scheduled for September 15-16, with two inflation reports expected to be released prior to the meeting, according to the Wall Street Journal. The newspaper also suggested that if rates rise around the time of the midterm elections in November, it could lead to tensions between the Trump administration and Warsh. 2026-07-30 03:20:00
  • Market Experiences Unprecedented Circuit Breakers Amid Investor Fear
    Market Experiences Unprecedented Circuit Breakers Amid Investor Fear Investor sentiment was shaken as SK Hynix's earnings report failed to revive market confidence. The company's results fell short of expectations, and concerns about the semiconductor industry persisted during its conference call, leading to an unprecedented situation where both the KOSPI and KOSDAQ markets experienced circuit breakers for two consecutive days.On July 29, the KOSPI closed at 5,663.24, down 360.42 points (5.98%) from the previous trading day. The KOSDAQ started the day at 713.71, up 7.86 points (1.11%), but quickly turned downward, finishing at 662.68, a drop of 43.17 points (6.12%). Notably, both foreign and individual investors were significant sellers in the stock market, with individuals selling 1.9767 trillion won and foreigners 1.2101 trillion won, while institutions bought a net 3.1489 trillion won. In the KOSDAQ, individuals sold 457 billion won, while foreigners and institutions bought 307.2 billion won and 146.4 billion won, respectively.During the trading session, the market saw a decline of over 8%, triggering circuit breakers in both markets for the second consecutive day. The KOSDAQ's circuit breaker was activated at 12:19 PM, halting trading for 20 minutes, followed by the KOSPI's activation at 12:32 PM. Earlier that morning, both markets had also experienced temporary halts on sell orders due to program trading.Despite the focus on SK Hynix's earnings and conference call, the results were insufficient to provide a foundation for recovery. The company reported a record revenue of 79.3187 trillion won and an operating profit of 60.5426 trillion won for the second quarter of 2026. However, these figures fell slightly short of market expectations, which were 83.9194 trillion won in revenue and 64.6941 trillion won in operating profit, failing to boost investor sentiment.During the conference call, discussions centered on the supply outlook for DRAM and NAND chips, as well as the potential expansion of long-term supply contracts. However, ongoing concerns about the semiconductor market and a lack of specific plans for shareholder returns led to increased disappointment among investors. Consequently, SK Hynix's stock plummeted by 9.61%, while Samsung Electronics fell by 5.23%.Choi Hyun-jae, head of research at Yuanta Securities, noted that the decline intensified following SK Hynix's earnings announcement, particularly as the Korean stock market faced significant losses compared to other Asian markets. He suggested that lingering doubts about the profitability of major tech companies were contributing to the downturn.Lee Kyung-min, a researcher at Daishin Securities, remarked that the market, which had hoped for a rebound, instead saw a wave of panic selling centered around semiconductors. This led to a further decline in stock prices, dampening investor sentiment and resulting in increased net selling by individual investors.Additionally, the simultaneous weakness in U.S. semiconductor stocks weighed on the domestic market. The Nasdaq Composite Index closed down 0.22%, while the Philadelphia Semiconductor Index fell 4.49%, marking its fourth consecutive day of losses. Major semiconductor stocks, including Micron (-8.85%), AMD (-8.15%), Intel (-5.86%), Qualcomm (-4.21%), and Western Digital (-6.91%), also experienced declines. Geopolitical risks in the Middle East further contributed to investor unease.Moreover, the upcoming increase in deposit requirements for single-stock leveraged exchange-traded funds (ETFs) set to take effect on July 31 was identified as another factor exacerbating the market's decline. Choi explained that investors were likely selling off assets to increase cash reserves ahead of this change, as they needed to liquidate holdings to meet the new requirements.While the securities industry anticipates continued high volatility in the near term, they also view the current market conditions as oversold. Choi stated that the market has broken below key moving averages, suggesting that while the decline may not stabilize immediately, there is potential for reduced volatility moving forward.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-29 23:28:00
  • Rivalry Among Democratic Party Leadership Candidates Intensifies Over Investigation Authority
    Rivalry Among Democratic Party Leadership Candidates Intensifies Over Investigation Authority Three candidates for the leadership of the Democratic Party of Korea engaged in a heated debate on various controversies surrounding the abolishment of supplementary investigative authority on July 29. The factional conflict between the pro-Lee Jae-myung and pro-Jung Cheong-rae camps was also highlighted.During the MBC 100-Minute TV Debate, candidate Kim Min-seok stated, "If the relationship between the ruling party and the government is shaken, it can impact the nation and President Lee Jae-myung. I will protect the party, the country, and the people's livelihoods as a stable governance partner and a guarantee of electoral victory."Candidate Jung Cheong-rae expressed his commitment to becoming a strong reformist leader, saying, "I will unite those who supported our party's four presidents." Meanwhile, candidate Song Young-gil emphasized the need for the ruling party to protect the people's livelihoods amid falling stock prices and rising housing costs.The candidates also displayed differing views on the proposed amendment to the Criminal Procedure Act, which includes the abolishment of supplementary investigative authority, recently passed by the National Assembly's Judiciary Committee. In response to Kim's question about whether the party delayed the government's position on abolishing supplementary investigative authority, Jung pointedly asked, "Why was the party leadership bypassed?" Kim countered, "I have consistently advocated for the abolishment of supplementary investigative authority. There has never been a time when the party leader was bypassed during the discussions. How could that happen in a consultation?"When Song questioned the misunderstanding between the party and the government, stating, "I have consistently argued for the abolishment of supplementary investigative authority, and both of you have claimed to support it, so why has this misunderstanding arisen?" Kim replied, "I see this as the essence of the ongoing conflict between the pro-Lee and pro-Jung factions. I have discussed the abolishment of supplementary investigative authority with the president and the government, yet Jung has continuously doubted my commitment to judicial reform."The candidates also expressed differing opinions on factional politics, as tensions between the pro-Lee and pro-Jung factions within the Democratic Party have escalated. Kim remarked, "Jung has caused numerous conflicts recognized by the media over the past year. When author Yoo Si-min insulted President Lee, he remained silent." Jung retorted, "It is cruel to suggest that if someone insults another, they are pro-Lee, and if they do not, they are not. Let's avoid such harsh judgments."They also addressed recent controversies that arose during the campaign. Kim criticized the pro-Jung supporters for allegedly engaging in 'birthday coordinate targeting' to ensure the election of their preferred candidates, calling it "a blatant violation of party regulations and old-fashioned politics." Jung responded, "This is something party members do voluntarily. It is actually Kim who is asking for only his close associates to be elected to the Supreme Council, which is the real old-fashioned politics."Additionally, there was an apology regarding a verbal slip during the campaign. Jung asked, "Why did you call me a traitor and say I should be executed? Please refrain from using harsh language," to which Song replied, "I didn't realize it was live and I apologize." The debate concluded with Kim emphasizing 'electoral victory,' Jung focusing on 'reform,' and Song highlighting the need to be 'a support for the people.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-29 22:48:00
  • Seoul Land to Host ONFs 9th Anniversary Busking Performance
    Seoul Land to Host ONF's 9th Anniversary Busking Performance Seoul Land will host a special busking performance by K-POP group ONF on August 1 to celebrate their 9th anniversary at the Earth Stage.According to Seoul Land on July 29, the event is designed to commemorate ONF's milestone with fans while allowing general visitors to enjoy the performance.The concert will feature the group's hit songs, a summer-themed stage, and tracks from their recently released second album, Part.2 'ONF SELF.'Additionally, there will be a talk segment and interactive program to celebrate the 9th anniversary.Seoul Land will offer 200 pre-sale tickets for the fan club 'FUSE,' while free viewing areas will be set up behind and around the stage for all visitors to enjoy the performance.This year, Seoul Land is also hosting various summer attractions, including water performances, K-music shows, horror content, and nighttime fireworks, with the busking event being part of the summer program.As news of the performance spreads, interest among visitors and K-POP fans is growing.Fans are expressing excitement for the commemorative stage and talk program ahead of ONF's performance.General visitors to Seoul Land are also showing interest in the unique opportunity to enjoy rides, summer festivals, and K-POP performances together.A Seoul Land representative stated, "We expect this performance will be a celebration of ONF's 9th anniversary for both fans and general visitors. We plan to expand various K-POP performance content in the future."Since the Earth Stage will operate as an open space for both fans and general visitors, a relaxed atmosphere typical of summer outdoor performances is anticipated.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-29 22:36:00
  • President Yoon Concludes Brazil Visit and Heads to Chile to Revise FTA
    President Yoon Concludes Brazil Visit and Heads to Chile to Revise FTA 이재명 대통령이 29일(현지시간) 브라질 국빈 방문을 마치고 남미 순방 두 번째 국가인 칠레로 향한다. 브라질에서 한·메르코수르 무역협정 협상 재개와 민항기·핵심광물 협력의 발판을 마련한 이 대통령은 칠레에서 발효 22년을 맞은 한·칠레 자유무역협정(FTA)의 현대화와 핵심광물 공급망 확대에 나설 것으로 예상된다. 이 대통령은 이날 오전 브라질 상파울루 과룰류스 국제공항을 출발해 칠레 수도 산티아고에 도착할 예정이다. 칠레 방문은 29일부터 30일까지 이틀간 진행된다. 이 대통령은 도착 당일 저녁 산티아고에서 현지 동포들과 만찬 간담회를 시작으로 칠레 공식 방문 일정에 돌입한다. 이 자리에서 칠레 한인사회의 정착 과정과 현지 활동을 격려하고 동포들의 애로사항을 청취할 예정이다. 이 대통령은 칠레 방문을 앞두고 엑스(X·옛 트위터)를 통해 “대한민국이 최초로 FTA를 체결한 나라가 칠레인 만큼 칠레는 대한민국에 가깝고 중요한 나라”라며 “대통령님과의 만남을 고대하고 있으며 직접 뵙고 나눌 대화를 진심으로 기대한다”고 밝혔다. 30일에는 칠레 건국 영웅인 베르나르도 오히긴스 동상에 헌화한 뒤 대통령궁인 모네다궁에서 열리는 공식 환영식에 참석한다. 이어 올해 출범한 칠레 신정부의 호세 안토니오 카스트 대통령과 정상회담을 갖고 양해각서(MOU) 서명식과 공동 언론발표, 공식 오찬을 진행한다. 오후에는 한·칠레 비즈니스 라운드테이블에 참석해 양국 기업인들과 교역·투자 확대 방안을 논의한다. 정부는 칠레의 인프라 시장에 한국 기업의 진출을 확대하고 구리·리튬 등 핵심광물 공급망 협력을 강화하는 데 주력할 방침이다. 정상회담의 핵심 경제 의제는 한·칠레 FTA 현대화가 될 전망이다. 한·칠레 FTA는 한국이 체결한 최초의 FTA로 2004년 4월 발효됐다. 양국은 변화한 통상 환경을 반영하기 위해 2018년 개선 협상을 시작했으며 2024년 4월까지 9차례 공식 협상을 진행했다. 정부는 기존 상품 교역 중심의 협정을 디지털 경제와 공급망, 에너지·광물, 지식재산권, 환경·노동 등 새로운 통상 분야로 확대하는 방안을 추진하고 있다. 이번 정상회담을 통해 장기간 이어진 협상에 정상 차원의 동력을 불어넣는다는 구상이다. 이 대통령은 브라질에서도 2018년 협상 개시 이후 2021년까지 일곱 차례의 공식 협상 이후 중단된 한·메르코수르 무역협정 재개에도 합의한 바 있다. 양국이 2028년 공동 개최하는 유엔해양총회도 주요 의제로 다뤄질 전망이다. 이 대통령과 카스트 대통령은 해양환경 보호와 기후변화 대응을 비롯한 국제 현안에서 공조를 강화하는 방안을 논의할 예정이다. 이 대통령은 칠레 일정을 마친 뒤 30일 밤 아르헨티나 부에노스아이레스로 이동한다. 31일 하비에르 밀레이 대통령과 정상회담을 갖고 한·메르코수르 무역협정과 리튬·셰일가스, 식량 공급망 협력 등을 논의하고 독일을 경유해 한국으로 귀국할 예정이다. 2026-07-29 22:20:00
  • Gwangju City Council Opens 325th Extraordinary Session to Review Budget and Ordinances
    Gwangju City Council Opens 325th Extraordinary Session to Review Budget and Ordinances The Gwangju City Council is holding its 325th extraordinary session from July 28 to August 6, during which it will review and vote on a total of 10 agenda items, including a supplementary budget and various ordinances. According to the council on July 29, the session will address the first supplementary budget for 2026, a proposed change to the first fund management plan, three ordinances, one report on administrative work, and four other agenda items. On the first day of the session, July 28, the first plenary meeting will determine the session's schedule and elect members to sign the meeting minutes before presenting the supplementary budget and the fund management plan changes. Additionally, the council will appoint a chair and vice-chair for the Budget and Settlement Special Committee. From July 29 to 31, the Council Operations Committee, Administrative Welfare Committee, and Urban Environment Committee will hear reports on the city’s administrative work for 2026. On August 3 and 4, the council will review the supplementary budget and ordinances, and on August 5, the Budget and Settlement Special Committee will conduct a comprehensive review of the supplementary budget and fund management plan changes. On the final day of the session, August 6, the second plenary meeting will finalize the budget and ordinances reviewed by the respective committees and the Budget and Settlement Special Committee, concluding the 325th extraordinary session. A council official stated, "Through this extraordinary session, we plan to review this year's supplementary budget, key policies, and amendments to local regulations while assessing current administrative issues."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-29 22:20:00