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  • Major Shopping Mall Collapses After 7.1 Magnitude Earthquake in Kumamoto, Japan
    Major Shopping Mall Collapses After 7.1 Magnitude Earthquake in Kumamoto, Japan A 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck Kumamoto Prefecture, leading to the partial collapse of the Aeon Mall Kumamoto. Reports indicate that several people are trapped inside the building. According to NHK, at around 6 p.m. local time, multiple calls were received reporting an explosion and white smoke rising from the mall located in Kashima Town. The Japan Fire and Disaster Management Agency reported that part of the second floor of the shopping mall collapsed, trapping several individuals inside. Authorities are currently assessing the extent of the damage and the circumstances surrounding the incident. Injured individuals have been transported to hospitals, while police and fire departments are conducting search operations to determine if there are additional people trapped. Authorities believe that approximately 200 people who were in the mall at the time of the incident evacuated to the parking lot. Footage captured by an NHK helicopter around 6:20 p.m. showed parts of the building's exterior had fallen away, exposing the steel framework, with sections of the roof collapsed and a large hole visible on the rooftop. Witnesses near the scene provided accounts of the incident. A restaurant employee told NHK, "While I was cleaning the store, I heard a loud bang, and immediately afterward, a massive cloud of dust rose from the direction of the Aeon Mall." The Japan Meteorological Agency indicated that tremors of magnitude 5 or higher were felt in Kashima Town, but the exact magnitude is still under investigation. The Aeon Mall Kumamoto, which opened in 2005, is a large shopping complex covering an area of 224,000 square meters with a total floor space of 120,000 square meters. It features a large supermarket, restaurants, clothing stores, a movie theater, and hot spring facilities, with parking space for approximately 5,000 vehicles.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-28 19:25:00
  • Gwanghwamun Square becomes splash zone
    Gwanghwamun Square becomes splash zone Children play in a fountain at Gwanghwamun Square as the daytime high in Seoul reached 32 degrees Celsius on July 28, 2026. AJP Yoo Na-hyun 2026-07-28 18:41:39
  • Hanwha Systems posts 219 percent jump in Q2 operating profit
    Hanwha Systems posts 219 percent jump in Q2 operating profit SEOUL, July 28 (AJP) - Hanwha Systems reported sharp growth in second-quarter earnings, driven by major defense export programs and domestic weapons production projects, the company said Tuesday. The defense electronics and ICT company posted 1.12 trillion won ($7.7 billion) in consolidated sales for the April-June period, up 45 percent from a year earlier. Operating profit surged 219 percent on-year to 103.7 billion won. Net profit rose 14 percent to 52.7 billion won. Hanwha Systems said its defense business was supported by large export programs, including sighting systems and fire control systems for Poland’s K2 tanks and multifunction radar systems for Cheongung-II missile defense systems exported to the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. Domestic defense programs also contributed to the strong earnings. They included combat management systems for the Ulsan-class Batch-III frigates, AESA radar and avionics equipment for the KF-21 fighter jet, and the fourth round of mass production of sighting and fire control systems for South Korea’s K2 tanks. Its ICT business also posted stable results, backed by technology projects across Hanwha affiliates. Major projects included a core IT system upgrade for Hanwha Life, an ERP platform for Hanwha Philly Shipyard and smart factory systems for Hanwha Aerospace. Hanwha Systems said its order backlog stood at 11.3 trillion won as of the second quarter. The company said it plans to continue expanding its export portfolio while securing major domestic projects. “Stable revenue from large export programs and major domestic production contracts drove the improvement in earnings,” a Hanwha Systems official said. “We will build a stronger foundation for sustainable growth by expanding overseas markets and strengthening technology capabilities.” 2026-07-28 18:37:31
  • Heatwave hits Seoul kids find fountain fun
    Heatwave hits Seoul kids find fountain fun Children play in a fountain at Gwanghwamun Square as the daytime high in Seoul reached 32 degrees Celsius on July 28, 2026. AJP Yoo Na-hyun 2026-07-28 18:34:33
  • Furniture Industry Competes for Summer Apartment Move-In Market
    Furniture Industry Competes for Summer Apartment Move-In Market The furniture industry is ramping up its marketing efforts to target the large-scale apartment move-in market for the second half of the year. With a surge in demand for furniture and interior design expected as major apartment complexes in Seoul prepare for occupancy, companies are launching various initiatives, including discount events, 3D space consulting, and move-in expos.According to Zigbang and Real Estate R114, a total of 14,342 apartments are set to be occupied nationwide in August, a 3.4% increase from 13,867 units during the same period last year. In the metropolitan area, 8,924 units are scheduled for move-in, including 3,540 in Seoul and 5,384 in Gyeonggi Province.Notably, Seoul is expecting the highest monthly move-in volume this year. Among the new residents will be those moving into the 2,091-unit Banpo Raemian Trinwon in Seocho District, as well as 577 units in the Magok District and 488 units in the Hills State Mapo the First in Mapo District.The influx of new residents in large apartment complexes has the furniture industry anticipating a boost in sales, as many customers tend to purchase multiple items such as beds, sofas, and built-in wardrobes at once, significantly enhancing customer acquisition opportunities.Hanssem has partnered exclusively with Samsung C&T's construction division to offer customized home styling services to prospective residents of Banpo Raemian Trinwon. This service, provided through Samsung C&T's home platform 'HomeNick,' allows customers to experience virtual reality (VR) simulations of furniture arrangements and interior designs using Hanssem's 3D design program, 'Home Planner.' Customers moving into Banpo Raemian Trinwon through HomeNick will also receive discounts of up to 8% based on their purchase amounts.Shinsegae Casa is also targeting the high-end apartment market in the metropolitan area with its premium brand Casamia and mattress brand Materasso. They are participating in move-in expos aimed at residents of Banpo Raemian Trinwon and the upcoming September move-in at the 3,064-unit D.H. Bangbae in Seocho District, while expanding specialized consulting services at nearby stores.They offer 3D VR space consulting based on the floor plans of upcoming units, allowing customers to preview furniture arrangements and space designs. Through their move-in club, they plan to provide various benefits, including a basic 10% discount, gift vouchers based on purchase amounts, and additional point accumulation.The premium mattress market is also seeing active competition. Ace Bed has launched a pop-up store at the Hyundai Department Store Trade Center earlier this month, showcasing its top-tier brand 'Ace Heritz' to capture high-end demand. Visitors can experience the products and receive one-on-one sleep consultations, along with discounts and partnership benefits for moving and new residents.An industry insider stated, "Targeting specific times and regions where actual purchasing demand is concentrated is key to revenue growth. Move-in expos for large complexes present opportunities to encourage package and set purchases, significantly increasing the average transaction value per customer."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-28 18:30:00
  • Young Adults Flock to Jongno 5-ga for Hair Loss and Obesity Treatments
    Young Adults Flock to Jongno 5-ga for Hair Loss and Obesity Treatments "If you haven't made a reservation, you may have to wait over 30 minutes." On July 24, at 2 p.m., the waiting room of Clinic A, located near Jongno 5-ga Station, was bustling with patients. Known as a hub for hair loss treatments, the clinic was filled with people waiting for their appointments. Kim, a 30-something office worker who took a half-day off to visit the clinic, said, "I found out about Jongno 5-ga after searching online for ways to save on prescriptions and medication costs." He expressed surprise at the long wait, saying, "I didn't expect so many people to be here." Kim paid 9,900 won for the consultation and 108,000 won for a year's worth of medication. Considering that local clinics typically charge between 10,000 and 20,000 won for consultations and around 150,000 won for a year's supply of medication, this was quite affordable. After his appointment, Kim noted, "With a 7% discount from Onnuri Pay, my total for a year's worth of medication was under 100,000 won," showing his satisfaction with the savings. At another clinic prominently advertising itself as a "hair loss specialist," young people were also seen waiting. Many clinics in the area reportedly take less than 30 seconds for hair loss consultations and prescriptions. Some patients with prior prescriptions even shared experiences of receiving their prescriptions before fully sitting down in the consultation room. After their appointments, patients headed straight to the pharmacy located downstairs. Young Customers Drive Change in Pharmacy Street Jongno 5-ga, known for over 60 years as a pharmacy district, is undergoing a transformation. Historically, the area attracted mainly customers aged 60 and older, who traveled from distant regions to purchase over-the-counter medications and chronic disease prescriptions at lower prices. Recently, however, there has been a noticeable increase in younger customers in their 20s and 30s seeking affordable hair loss and obesity treatments. A pharmacist with over 30 years of experience in Jongno 5-ga, Lee, in his 60s, noted, "Most young men come in with prescriptions for hair loss medication. Word has spread about the low prices, and we are busy every day, regardless of the day of the week." He showed a bundle of prescriptions that was thicker than his palm, saying, "This is what came in today." The rising concern among young men about hair loss is reflected in patient statistics. According to the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service, 237,009 patients visited clinics for hair loss treatment last year, with 35,803 in their 20s and 50,712 in their 30s, making up 36.5% of all patients. Young women are also emerging as a new customer base in Jongno 5-ga pharmacies. With the vacation season approaching, many are seeking weight loss medications. A new term, "Jongnoza," combining Jongno and Maunja, has even emerged among the 20- and 30-somethings. Pharmacist Park noted, "Inquiries from women in their 20s and 30s have significantly increased since June. The prices at Clinic A for Maunja or Wigobi prescriptions are quite reasonable." Nearby pain management clinics are known online as a "Maunja sanctuary." The consultation fee is 5,000 won, which is less than half the typical 10,000 to 15,000 won charged by local clinics. The price for Maunja also varies, with a difference of up to 10,000 won. The first stage (2.5 mg) costs between 275,000 and 280,000 won, while the second stage (5 mg) ranges from 365,000 to 370,000 won. The third (7.5 mg) and fourth stages (7.5 mg) are priced similarly at 530,000 won. A 20-something woman visiting with friends said, "We came together to save even 10,000 won. Compared to our local options, this is about 10,000 to 20,000 won cheaper, so I think it was worth the trip." According to a market analysis by Nice Biz Map, the market size of the Jongno 5-ga pharmacy district reached 14.16 billion won as of May this year. As younger consumers flock to the area, the customer demographics are shifting. The number of transactions increased by 2.2% to 224,785, but the average transaction value decreased by 0.9% to 62,988 won. Although the number of customers in their 20s and 30s has risen, their spending patterns have shifted towards value and savings. The changes in Jongno 5-ga pharmacy street indicate a shift in the market focus. What was once dominated by customers aged 60 and older is now being redefined by the demand for hair loss and obesity management among younger generations. Lee Eun-hee, a professor of consumer studies at Inha University, stated, "Hair loss treatment and dieting are not one-time expenses; they require ongoing management. For consumers, these areas are closely linked to appearance management and confidence restoration, leading them to seek 'reasonable prices' rather than cutting back on spending entirely. Especially for those in their 20s and 30s, who are accustomed to comparing prices online, the trend of valuing cost-effectiveness in healthcare is growing, directing demand towards competitively priced channels." However, there are concerns about the potential misuse of prescriptions for hair loss and obesity medications. While wait times at clinics can be long, consultations with specialists often last only 1 to 2 minutes, raising concerns about insufficient evaluation of patients' conditions or treatment purposes, leading to what some describe as "factory-style prescriptions." Particularly concerning are prescriptions for obesity medications, which can be easily obtained even by individuals with normal weight. The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety recommends prescribing these medications only to adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, or those with a BMI of 27 or higher who have accompanying conditions like hypertension. In response to increasing cases of misuse of GLP-1 obesity medications, the Ministry is in the process of revising regulations to designate certain obesity medications as "drugs of concern for misuse." A ministry official stated, "Careful prescribing and usage are necessary. These medications should be used cautiously according to approved dosages and only for patients who meet the criteria for obesity, under the guidance of healthcare professionals." * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-28 18:30:00
  • Next Years Standard Median Income to Increase by 6.7%, Reaching 6.92 Million Won for Four-Person Households
    Next Year's Standard Median Income to Increase by 6.7%, Reaching 6.92 Million Won for Four-Person Households The standard median income, which serves as the benchmark for various welfare programs, will see its largest increase ever at 6.7%. This decision reflects the government's commitment to better protect the most vulnerable populations suffering from rising living costs amid deepening income polarization. On July 28, the Ministry of Health and Welfare held the 80th Central Living Security Committee meeting, where it was decided to raise the standard median income by 6.7% for 2027. The standard median income represents the income of households positioned exactly in the middle when all households are arranged in order of income. This amount acts as the 'welfare benchmark' for selecting beneficiaries of 80 welfare programs operated by 15 central ministries, including the basic living security system. An increase in the standard median income will expand the number of individuals eligible for welfare benefits and increase the support amounts for existing beneficiaries. The 6.7% increase is the highest since the calculation of the standard median income began in 2015. Consequently, the standard median income for a four-person household will rise to 6.92 million won, an increase of approximately 435,000 won from this year’s figure of 6.49 million won. For single-person households, the new standard will be 2.74 million won, up about 172,000 won. As the welfare benchmark rises, the basic living allowance, which is crucial for low-income households, will also see significant increases. The maximum living allowance for a four-person household, which is set at 32% of the standard median income, will increase from 2.08 million won this year to 2.22 million won next year, an increase of about 140,000 won. The maximum living allowance for single-person households will also rise by approximately 55,000 won to 875,533 won. Additionally, the standard rent for housing benefits (for those earning 48% or less of the median income) will increase by up to 50,000 won, depending on the number of household members and region, while the education allowance (for those earning 50% or less) will rise by an average of 4.7% compared to the previous year. To facilitate this increase, the government has revised the method for calculating the standard median income. This adjustment aims to address the lag in existing statistical data, which was based on figures from 3 to 5 years ago, by incorporating the latest consumer price index and real GDP growth rates, significantly enhancing its relevance. Minister of Health and Welfare Jeong Eun-kyeong stated, "The recent widening gap in income among lower-income groups and the increasing deficit faced by them have made living conditions difficult for many citizens. The decision to raise the standard median income by a record 6.7% for 2027 reflects the government's determination to provide stronger support for the most vulnerable citizens."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-28 18:30:00
  • Hanmi Science Reports 71% Increase in Q2 Operating Profit, Strengthens Competitiveness as a Business Holding Company
    Hanmi Science Reports 71% Increase in Q2 Operating Profit, Strengthens Competitiveness as a Business Holding Company Hanmi Science reported a 70.9% increase in operating profit for the second quarter, driven by solid growth from its group affiliates and its own business competitiveness. The company plans to enhance its competitiveness as a business holding company by expanding its healthcare business portfolio.On July 28, Hanmi Science announced preliminary figures showing consolidated sales of 367.9 billion won, operating profit of 59.1 billion won, and net profit of 43.7 billion won for the second quarter. Sales increased by 8.7% compared to the same period last year, while operating profit rose by 70.9% and net profit grew by 54.2%.For the first half of the year, cumulative sales reached 721.6 billion won, a 7.6% increase from the previous year. Operating profit stood at 92.7 billion won, and net profit was 86.0 billion won, indicating stable growth.The strong performance was attributed to balanced growth across group affiliates, including the online pharmacy and its own healthcare business. The online pharmacy recorded sales of 305.7 billion won, benefiting from an expansion in the domestic distribution of prescription drugs, marking an increase of 19.1 billion won from the previous year. The second quarter also reflected some of Hanmi Pharmaceutical's technology export achievements, which improved profitability.Hanmi Science is not only fulfilling its role as a holding company but is also strengthening its own business competitiveness. The company aims to diversify its portfolio and secure growth drivers by expanding its consumer health business, which includes medical devices, soy milk, health supplements, and cosmetics.Recently, it launched the health supplement brand 'NPLE' and the dermo-cosmetic brand 'ADESII,' aiming to broaden its business scope in the wellness and beauty markets while enhancing consumer engagement and accelerating the acquisition of future growth drivers as a business holding company.Kim Jae-kyo, CEO of Hanmi Science, stated, "The solid growth of our core subsidiaries and efforts to enhance our own business competitiveness have led to stable results. As a business holding company, we will maximize synergies among our affiliates and continuously expand our healthcare business portfolio to drive our leap as a global healthcare company."Meanwhile, Hanmi Science is generating its own revenue through patent rights, brand licensing fees, and affiliate management as a business holding company.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-28 18:25:00
  • Seoul St. Marys Hospital: Young Adults with Depression Face Double the Risk of Fatty Liver Disease
    Seoul St. Mary's Hospital: Young Adults with Depression Face Double the Risk of Fatty Liver Disease Young adults in South Korea with depression symptoms are more than twice as likely to be at risk for fatty liver disease compared to those without such symptoms, according to a study by researchers from Seoul St. Mary's Hospital.The research team, including Huh Yeon (co-first author) from the Department of Family Medicine at Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, Oh Sang-hoon (co-first author) from the Department of Psychiatry at Eulji University Hospital, and Nam Ga-eun (corresponding author) from the Department of Family Medicine at Korea University Guro Hospital, analyzed data from 7,831 adults aged 19 to 44 who participated in the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) from 2014 to 2022. They excluded individuals who tested positive for hepatitis B or C or who engaged in moderate to heavy drinking.Depression symptoms were assessed using the widely used PHQ-9 screening tool, while fatty liver was defined using a fatty liver index.The analysis revealed that the prevalence of fatty liver disease among those with depression symptoms (PHQ-9 score of 10 or higher) was 33.9%, significantly higher than the 23.8% prevalence in those without depression symptoms. Even after adjusting for socioeconomic factors, lifestyle habits, and comorbidities, individuals with depression symptoms were found to be nearly twice as likely to be at risk for fatty liver disease.Moreover, the risk of fatty liver disease increased with the severity of depression symptoms. Compared to those with minimal depression symptoms (PHQ-9 score of 0-4), individuals with moderate depression symptoms (PHQ-9 score of 10-14) had a 1.95 times higher risk, while those with severe depression symptoms (PHQ-9 score of 15 or higher) had a 2.41 times higher risk.The study also found a statistically significant interaction indicating that the association between depression symptoms and fatty liver disease was stronger among young adults with obesity or dyslipidemia. This suggests that the impact of depression symptoms on fatty liver disease is greater among metabolically vulnerable young individuals.Mental stress and physical metabolic systems are closely linked. Previous research on the relationship between depression symptoms and fatty liver disease has primarily focused on middle-aged and older adults, Western populations, or specific high-risk groups. This study is significant as it represents the first analysis of the association between depression symptoms and fatty liver disease in a sample representative of young adults in South Korea.Professor Huh emphasized the need for integrated management that includes not only mental health assessments but also evaluations of weight, blood sugar, lipid levels, and liver health for young individuals reporting depression symptoms.Professor Nam noted that fatty liver disease in young adults could lead to an increased risk of liver disease and cardiovascular issues in the future, making it crucial to identify and manage young adults exhibiting depression symptoms early.This research was recently published in the international journal Psychiatry Research.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-28 18:25:00
  • Pharma Research Medicare Hosts Reborn Symposium to Share Growth Strategies in Pharmabeauty
    Pharma Research Medicare Hosts 'Reborn Symposium' to Share Growth Strategies in Pharmabeauty Pharma Research Medicare, a subsidiary of Pharma Research, recently held a symposium for pharmacists, unveiling growth strategies and new products centered around its pharmacy-exclusive beauty brand, Rejuvi. The event also presented total solutions to enhance competitiveness in the pharmacy channel.On July 28, Pharma Research Medicare announced that it hosted the 5th 'RE:BORN Symposium' at the Chosun Palace in Gangnam, Seoul. The Reborn Symposium aims to share the latest market trends and product information with pharmacists while exploring collaborative opportunities.This symposium introduced growth strategies and new products for the pharmacy beauty market, focusing on Rejuvi, which is based on the regenerative medicine technology and research expertise of its parent company, Pharma Research.Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) is a component used in treatments for difficult-to-heal wounds, such as burns, and in regenerative medicine. The quality of PDRN can vary based on the raw material and extraction and purification processes, highlighting the importance of manufacturing technology in this field.Pharma Research has developed DOT® PDRN and c-PDRN as key ingredients using its proprietary DOT® (DNA Optimization Technology), offering a range of products aimed at skin regeneration and barrier care.During the symposium, the academic value of the Rejuvi product line and its application in pharmacy consultations were shared. The first session focused on 'The Basics of Skin Barrier Recovery,' introducing the 'Rejuvi-MD Cream,' specialized for damaged skin barrier care, and the 'Rejuvi-S Ampoule,' which contains a high concentration of c-PDRN, along with consultation methods.The second session addressed 'New Growth Opportunities in the Pharmacy Beauty Market,' unveiling the new 'Rejuvi-S Mask' and the inner beauty product 'Rejuvi-N DNA Fit Jelly,' expanding the product line to include masks and inner beauty solutions to meet diverse consumer skincare needs.A representative from Pharma Research Medicare stated, 'Pharmabeauty is a new growth area that combines the expertise of pharmacies with the competitiveness of K-beauty. In response to market changes, Rejuvi will provide tangible value to both consumers and pharmacies based on a diverse portfolio.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-28 18:25:00