AJU PRESS ASIA FIRST NEWS AGENCY

Journalist

&
""
Latest by
  • 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
  • Koreas Food and Drug Administration Launches Food Recall Alerts via Guppi
    Korea's Food and Drug Administration Launches Food Recall Alerts via 'Guppi' The Korea Food and Drug Administration (KFDA) has announced the launch of a food recall and sales suspension notification service through its national assistant, 'Guppi.' This service allows consumers to quickly access food safety information without having to search for it separately.Starting July 28, the KFDA will provide notifications about food recalls and sales suspensions through the Guppi service. This initiative aims to help the public access relevant information more quickly and conveniently when food safety issues arise.Previously, consumers had to check recall and sales suspension information posted on the Food Safety Korea website or subscribe to the KFDA's 'Recall Notification Service' to receive updates via KakaoTalk or text messages. However, accessing the website directly or waiting approximately three hours for notifications through the recall service posed inconveniences for consumers seeking timely information.To address these issues, the KFDA has collaborated with the Ministry of the Interior and Safety to introduce the new notification service via Guppi. Citizens interested in using the service can apply through the Guppi website, the mobile app offering Guppi services, or the Food Safety Korea website to receive relevant information directly on their preferred app.This service will apply to food recalls and sales suspensions that occur from July 28, 2026, onward.The KFDA expects that this service will help the public quickly verify recall and sales suspension information, thereby preventing the purchase or consumption of affected products.Additionally, the KFDA plans to continue improving the methods of providing food safety information to ensure that citizens can access it more easily and quickly, while also promoting the use of the food recall and sales suspension notification service.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-28 18:25:00
  • Aribio Completes Global Phase 3 Trial of AR1001 for Alzheimers Disease
    Aribio Completes Global Phase 3 Trial of AR1001 for Alzheimer's Disease Aribio has completed the last patient visit for its oral Alzheimer's treatment, AR1001, in the global Phase 3 trial known as POLARIS-AD. The company is now in the final stages of data refinement and analysis ahead of the topline results announcement.On July 28, Aribio announced that the last patient in the Phase 3 trial, conducted across 13 countries, has completed their final safety follow-up visit, marking the end of the last patient last visit (LPLV).LPLV is considered a key milestone in clinical trials, occurring when the last treated patient completes their final adverse event and safety assessments.The POLARIS-AD trial is a large-scale Phase 3 study involving 1,535 early Alzheimer's patients across approximately 230 clinical trial sites in the United States, Europe, South Korea, and China. According to the company, as of the end of June, a total of 1,348 participants had completed 52 weeks of treatment, and the last treated patient also completed their scheduled four-week final safety follow-up visit on July 27.With the completion of LPLV, the focus of the POLARIS-AD Phase 3 trial has shifted from patient management to data verification and result analysis. Aribio is currently refining the data collected from clinical trial sites worldwide and will conduct final checks on data quality, key evaluation variables, and safety information before proceeding with database lock (DB Lock) and statistical analysis.The company expressed optimism about the topline results, noting that the baseline characteristics of the clinical patient group have shown homogeneity and disease-specific data compared to already approved antibody injections.Aribio plans to prioritize the release of topline results as soon as the 52-week efficacy and safety data are available. Detailed clinical results are set to be presented at the opening session of the Clinical Trials on Alzheimer's Disease (CTAD 2026) conference in Boston on November 16.The successful completion of this global Phase 3 trial signifies Aribio's capability to independently design, operate, and manage large-scale multinational clinical trials.Jae-jun Jeong, CEO of Aribio, stated, "From now on, AR1001 must prove its value through data, not just expectations. We will clearly present the clinical value of AR1001 through the topline results and the CTAD presentation."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-28 18:25:00
  • Young Mongolians Embrace K-Food as Distribution Networks Expand
    Young Mongolians Embrace K-Food as Distribution Networks Expand Mongolia is emerging as a new overseas strategic market for K-Food. Once limited to instant noodles and snacks, Korean food has now penetrated daily consumption among locals, including bakeries, burgers, chicken, dairy products, and beverages. The expansion of food and dining companies is accelerating, leveraging established local distribution networks and the spread of Korean pop culture.According to industry sources, major South Korean food and dining companies are rapidly expanding their presence in the Mongolian market, diversifying their export items. The focus of their expansion is shifting from the capital, Ulaanbaatar, to key cities in the northwestern region and other local areas.The restaurant sector is leading this charge. Mom's Touch recently opened its 20th location, the 'Nomin Macro' branch, becoming the second-largest quick-service restaurant (QSR) chain in Mongolia by store count. After entering the market in 2023, it surpassed global brand Burger King (18 locations) in just under three years and aims to increase its total to 25 by the end of the year, with plans to overtake KFC (29 locations) by next year.Additionally, Daebon Korea is expanding its brand portfolio, having opened its first Hong Kong Banjum location in Mongolia in May. After entering the market with Saemaul Restaurant in 2023, which currently operates five locations, Daebon Korea plans to open a second Hong Kong Banjum in the Ayud Tower, where the fifth Saemaul Restaurant is located. A company representative noted, "Interest in Korean-style Chinese cuisine, such as Jajangmyeon and Jjamppong, is growing locally, prompting our decision to introduce new brands."The presence of Korean brands is also increasing in the bakery market. CJ Foodville's Tous Les Jours opened its first store in Ulgii, a northwestern city about 1,400 kilometers from Ulaanbaatar, on July 1. Since signing a master franchise agreement with local company Artisan LLC in 2016, Tous Les Jours has operated 26 stores in Mongolia. SPC Group's Paris Baguette is also preparing to open additional locations after launching its first store in Ulaanbaatar's Zaisan Square at the end of last year.Food companies are expanding their export items based on existing brand competitiveness. According to KOTRA, South Korean companies, including Nongshim, Paldo, and Ottogi, hold about 70% of the Mongolian instant noodle market, which is growing at an annual rate of 5-7%. Nongshim maintains the top market share with over 45%. Namyang Dairy Products recently signed a three-year agreement with local distributor Maximus to expand exports worth 10 billion won, broadening its product range to include powdered milk, UHT milk, and cheese. Lotte Chilsung Beverage is also expanding its local sales network with its beer brand, Crush.The rise of Mongolia as a strategic market for K-Food companies is supported by the established distribution networks of South Korean firms. Currently, there are six E-Mart stores and approximately 600 CU convenience stores and 300 GS25 stores operating in Mongolia. This distribution environment makes Korean food easily accessible, and with over 60% of the population under 35, the preference for Korean brands is increasing alongside the spread of Korean culture. South Korea is one of the top countries for Mongolians studying and working abroad.Korea's exports to Mongolia grew from $390 million in 2021 to $660 million last year. Among these, K-Food exports have surged, increasing at an average annual rate of 16.2% over the past five years (2020-2025).An industry insider stated, "As the global expansion of K-Food becomes a critical task, Mongolia's importance as a key hub for entering Central Asia will continue to grow." 2026-07-28 18:25:00
  • Frozen Summer: Frozen musical Pop-Up brings winter wonderland to Lotte Jamsil
    Frozen Summer: 'Frozen' musical Pop-Up brings winter wonderland to Lotte Jamsil The 'Frozen Summer' pop-up store for the musical 'Frozen' is seen at Trevi Square in Lotte Department Store Jamsil, Songpa-gu, Seoul, July 26, 2026. 2026-07-28 18:24:59
  • Frozen Summer: Frozen musical Pop-Up brings winter wonderland to Lotte Jamsil
    Frozen Summer: 'Frozen' musical Pop-Up brings winter wonderland to Lotte Jamsil Children try making their own postcards at the 'Frozen Summer' pop-up store for the musical 'Frozen,' held at Trevi Square in Lotte Department Store Jamsil, Songpa-gu, Seoul, July 26, 2026. 2026-07-28 18:23:47
  • Frozen Summer: Frozen Musical Pop-Up Brings Winter Wonderland to Lotte Jamsil
    Frozen Summer: 'Frozen' Musical Pop-Up Brings Winter Wonderland to Lotte Jamsil Visitors pose at a photo zone during the 'Frozen Summer' pop-up store for the musical 'Frozen,' held at Trevi Square in Lotte Department Store Jamsil, Songpa-gu, Seoul, July 26, 2026. 2026-07-28 18:22:20
  • Tourists find relief at Cheonggyecheon stream
    Tourists find relief at Cheonggyecheon stream Foreign tourists cool off at Cheonggyecheon Stream as the daytime high in Seoul reached 32 degrees Celsius on July 28, 2026. AJP Yoo Na-hyun 2026-07-28 18:20:32