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  • Zelensky Warns Russia May Mobilize Up to 500,000 Troops After September Elections
    Zelensky Warns Russia May Mobilize Up to 500,000 Troops After September Elections Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that Russia could issue an additional mobilization order for up to 500,000 troops following the upcoming September elections. He also reiterated the possibility of 30,000 North Korean troops being deployed to Russia.In an interview with Sky News on July 27, Zelensky cited reports from Ukrainian intelligence, saying, "Russian President Vladimir Putin has no intention of stopping the war." He projected that Russia might mobilize between 300,000 and 500,000 additional troops in late September or early October, after the State Duma elections, explaining that Putin is keeping the mobilization plans under wraps due to domestic public opinion.Zelensky warned that if newly mobilized troops are sent to the battlefield without adequate training, it could lead to significant casualties.He also mentioned the potential for additional North Korean troop deployments, asserting, "North Korea is expected to send 30,000 soldiers to Russia," which he claimed could pose a threat to Western nations. Earlier, on July 25, he stated on X (formerly Twitter) that "Russia has been preparing to accommodate North Korean troops in the Voronezh region since June" and that North Korea is also looking to provide additional ballistic missile launchers.Neither Russia nor North Korea has officially confirmed any plans for troop deployments. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov declined to comment on related inquiries, stating, "There is no need for commentary."On the same day, Zelensky met with UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham in Portsmouth to discuss strengthening Ukraine's air defense systems and expanding arms production.Following their meeting, Burnham announced plans to consult with partner nations on additional air defense support to protect Ukraine's energy facilities from Russian missile attacks. The UK plans to provide Ukraine with intellectual property for electronic warfare equipment, known as 'Stone Cloak,' to assist in local production aimed at disrupting Russian drone detection systems.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-28 06:20:00
  • Consumer Confidence in Rising Home Prices Hits Highest Level in Nearly Five Years
    Consumer Confidence in Rising Home Prices Hits Highest Level in Nearly Five Years Consumer expectations for rising home prices have reached their highest level in nearly four years and ten months.According to the Bank of Korea's 'Consumer Trend Survey' released on July 27, the Home Price Consumer Sentiment Index (CSI) rose by 7 points to 127 in July, marking the highest level since September 2021 (128). This increase is attributed to ongoing rises in apartment sales and rental prices, particularly in Seoul and the surrounding Gyeonggi Province.Lee Heung-hoo, head of the Bank of Korea's Economic Sentiment Survey Team, stated, "The recent upward trend in housing prices appears to be influencing consumer expectations. However, the effects of rising loan interest rates and reduced lending limits from commercial banks should be monitored over time."The Consumer Sentiment Index (CCSI) improved for the third consecutive month, rising by 0.2 points to 106.8. Despite concerns over inflation and falling stock prices, strong exports and investments in the semiconductor sector, along with expectations for wage increases, contributed to this improvement.The CCSI is calculated using six indices: current living conditions, future living conditions, household income expectations, consumption expenditure expectations, current economic conditions, and future economic outlook. A score above 100 indicates optimistic consumer sentiment compared to the long-term average (2003-2025), while a score below 100 indicates pessimism.Among the six indices, the current living conditions outlook CSI fell by 1 point to 93 due to persistent high inflation and declining stock prices. Meanwhile, the future living conditions index rose by 1 point to 98, and the household income expectations index increased by 1 point to 101. The consumption expenditure expectations index remained unchanged at 110.The wage level outlook remained steady at 124, the same as the previous month, but this reflects growing expectations for future wage increases compared to the long-term average (116) and the historical high (126).The current economic conditions index, which reflects perceptions of the economic situation, fell by 2 points to 84, while the future economic outlook index remained unchanged at 92. Concerns about the economic situation have increased due to renewed tensions from the Middle East conflict, but positive forecasts for economic growth from major institutions, driven by strong semiconductor performance, have kept the index stable.Among inflation expectations, the projected consumer price increase rate for the next year is 2.7%, down by 0.1 percentage points as domestic oil prices have decreased and the depreciation of the won has eased.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-28 06:04:00
  • Netanyahu Expedites Approval for International Forces to Enter Gaza Ahead of Trump Meeting
    Netanyahu Expedites Approval for International Forces to Enter Gaza Ahead of Trump Meeting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expedited the approval process for the entry of International Stabilization Forces (ISF) into the Gaza Strip in an effort to facilitate a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump. According to Israel's Channel 12 on July 27, the White House was initially not enthusiastic about a meeting with Netanyahu and conveyed to Israeli officials that he must present visible diplomatic achievements before visiting Washington. In response, Netanyahu reportedly brought forward the agenda for the initial entry of ISF into Gaza to the security cabinet to demonstrate progress on the Gaza issue. The ISF is a multinational force aimed at supporting the demilitarization of Gaza in accordance with United Nations Security Council resolutions, as well as securing borders and humanitarian zones. It is also expected to assist in training Palestinian police. Channel 12 reported that “Netanyahu pushed for the approval of this agenda even without the disarmament of Hamas.” This move contradicts the Israeli security cabinet's previous stance that Hamas must disarm before international forces can enter Gaza. On July 26, the Israeli security cabinet approved the procedures for ISF troops to enter the outskirts of a proposed humanitarian zone in southern Rafah. The initial deployment is expected to involve about 200 troops from allied countries. However, this decision does not mean that troops will be deployed immediately. The actual sending of troops and the countries involved will require additional approval from Netanyahu and Israel's defense and foreign ministers. The specific timing for deployment has not yet been determined. Meanwhile, Netanyahu is scheduled to meet with President Trump in Washington on July 28.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-28 06:04:00
  • Trump Signals Possibility of Iran Deal, Warns of Military Action if Talks Fail
    Trump Signals Possibility of Iran Deal, Warns of Military Action if Talks Fail President Donald Trump indicated that negotiations with Iran are underway, suggesting a potential agreement. However, he warned that military action against Iran would resume if talks collapse.On July 27, during a flight to Michigan aboard Air Force One, Trump told reporters, "We are having very good discussions with Iran," adding, "There is a pretty good chance something will happen."He stated, "It would be a good thing if an agreement is reached," but cautioned, "If not, we can go back to what we were doing just two days ago," implying a return to military operations after the U.S. had conducted airstrikes against Iran.In an interview with Axios released the same day, Trump reiterated, "We are having very deep negotiations with Iran," and warned that if negotiations do not yield results, the U.S. would respond with "very strong military action."The U.S. halted airstrikes against Iran on July 24 after nearly two weeks of operations, now seeking a diplomatic resolution. Discussions reportedly include normalizing shipping traffic in the Strait of Hormuz and resuming future nuclear negotiations.However, Iran has pushed back against Trump's claims of ongoing talks. According to Reuters, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei stated, "Iran has not requested to resume negotiations with the U.S. to end the war."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-28 05:52:00
  • South Korean President Lee and Brazilian President Lula Discuss Better Lives for More People
    South Korean President Lee and Brazilian President Lula Discuss 'Better Lives for More People' During a summit in Brasília, South Korean President Lee Jae-myung and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva focused on the theme of "better lives for more people." Both leaders share a background as former child laborers, having faced challenges in the workplace and political struggles. President Lula lost his left pinky finger while working in a metal factory at age 19, while President Lee also suffered an arm injury during his youth. On July 27, during his state visit to Brazil, President Lee met with President Lula at the Palácio da Alvorada for both small and expanded meetings. The discussions began at 11:08 a.m. and lasted approximately 140 minutes, followed by a signing ceremony for memorandums of understanding and a joint press conference. In the joint press conference, President Lee emphasized their shared life experiences before discussing the summit's outcomes. He stated, "Just as the President is missing a finger on his left hand, I also injured my left hand while working in a factory as a child. This does not hinder our work for the people of the world but reminds us of our duty to help more people live better lives." He added, "I hope that both the President and I can continue to work together for the better lives of more people without losing our identities as workers. I wish for both South Korea and Brazil to become happier nations for all citizens." On July 28, President Lee plans to visit the metalworkers' union office in São Paulo, where President Lula was active as a labor leader. He remarked, "I will reflect on my presidential dreams in a place that has not forgotten the realities of workers and has worked for a better life for everyone." President Lula noted that both leaders not only share a worker background but also have overcome political crises to protect democracy. They agreed on the need to defend democracy against extremist attacks. This meeting marks the fifth encounter between the two leaders since President Lee took office. They first met at the G7 summit in Canada in June 2022, followed by a meeting at the G20 summit in South Africa later that year. In February 2023, President Lula visited South Korea, elevating bilateral relations to a strategic partnership. After reuniting at the G7 summit in Évian last month, President Lee is now reciprocating with a visit to Brazil. The Brazilian government chose the Palácio da Alvorada, the presidential residence, as the meeting venue instead of the official office, demonstrating special respect. President Lee expressed his gratitude, noting that he is the fourth foreign leader to be welcomed at the residence, following Chinese President Xi Jinping, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and former French President Jacques Chirac. To enhance cooperation between the two nations, a new communication system has been established. The Brazilian Vice President and South Korea's Chief Policy Officer, Kim Yong-beom, will lead a high-level channel for direct discussions on bilateral issues. President Lee stated, "We will deepen cooperation and exchanges in all areas, including economy, industry, security, and culture between South Korea and Brazil, and ensure rapid progress." In the economic sector, the newly launched Economic and Trade Committee will focus on expanding cooperation in trade, investment, defense, aerospace, critical minerals, and the digital economy. The signed memorandum of understanding on industrial technology will promote joint research and development in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, automotive, shipbuilding, batteries, bioeconomy, and industrial decarbonization. Cooperation on critical mineral supply chains will be further developed, combining Brazil's resources with South Korea's manufacturing and processing technologies. Both countries will collaborate on mineral exploration, development, processing, and utilization through subsequent discussions. In defense, a joint defense committee will be established in the second half of this year. An agreement on the protection and exchange of military and defense confidential information will also be pursued to create a stable institutional framework for cooperation between defense companies. Brazilian C-390 transport aircraft, set to be introduced into the South Korean Air Force by the end of this year, will include parts produced by South Korean companies. The leaders view this as a case of joint production and industrial cooperation rather than a simple arms purchase, and they plan to expand collaboration into future aviation mobility. In the space sector, procedures for launching private rockets will be streamlined, and satellite data and space exploration technologies will be shared. President Lula invited President Lee to the scheduled rocket launch at Brazil's Alcântara launch site in September. President Lee responded that he would confirm the launch process, even if he could not attend in person. Trade expansion was also a key topic during the discussions. The leaders identified the Korea-Mercosur trade agreement, which has seen no progress since 2021, as an urgent issue and agreed to review obstacles to resuming negotiations. Discussions also included the entry of Brazilian beef and pork into the South Korean market. President Lula noted that after 17 years of negotiations, the South Korean quarantine inspection team is set to visit Brazil next month, marking significant progress toward market opening. Five cooperation documents covering space, sports, education, energy, and industrial technology were signed in front of both leaders. Additionally, two memorandums of understanding in the fields of film and cybersecurity were signed, bringing the total agreements made during this state visit to seven. In cultural discussions, the spread of Korean pop culture in Brazil was highlighted. President Lula remarked, "Brazilian youth love Korea," noting the growing popularity of Korean music, food, and dramas, as well as the animated series 'K-Pop Demon Hunters' among children. After the joint press conference, the two leaders concluded their meeting by exchanging Brazilian-style greetings and Korean finger hearts. President Lee quoted a Brazilian proverb, saying, "Together we are stronger," and expressed hope that connecting the strengths of both nations could create new opportunities across the Pacific. Earlier that day, at around 10:35 a.m., President Lee and First Lady Kim Hye-kyung arrived at the Palácio da Alvorada, escorted by six cavalry members. President Lula and First Lady Rosângela da Silva personally welcomed them at the red carpet. After embracing, President Lee and President Lula showed their camaraderie by patting each other on the shoulder and holding hands during the welcome ceremony. The national anthems of both countries were played, followed by a march of the military band, riflemen, and cavalry. The two leaders and their spouses also enjoyed a choral performance prepared by the Brazilian side. As they moved to the residence after the welcome ceremony, President Lula continued to engage in conversation with President Lee, linking arms. President Lee wrote in the guestbook, "I wish for the eternal friendship between South Korea and Brazil and a future of shared prosperity," signing it as '2026.7.27 President of the Republic of Korea Lee Jae-myung.' * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-28 05:08:00
  • The Future of Agriculture: Cultivating Global Talent in Agri-Food Industries
    The Future of Agriculture: Cultivating Global Talent in Agri-Food Industries Recent trends show a rapid shift in career perceptions among young people majoring in agri-food studies. In the past, their primary career paths were within domestic research institutions, public agencies, and agricultural fields. Now, interest has expanded to include international organizations, overseas research institutions, international development cooperation projects, and global agricultural companies. Students participating in the 'Agrifood Futures Week' organized by the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) Korean Cooperation Office in May demonstrated a strong enthusiasm for entering the international arena. This growing interest is driven by the emergence of climate change, food security, and sustainable agricultural transformation as shared global challenges, leading to an increased demand for globally competent talent in the agricultural sector. This shift is also a positive change for the future of our agriculture. Countries around the world are actively investing in building stable food supply systems, promoting smart agriculture, and innovating technologies to enhance agricultural productivity. Supporting our youth to demonstrate their expertise on the international stage is crucial not only for individual career development but also for enhancing national agricultural competitiveness. South Korea possesses world-class technological capabilities in various fields, including smart farms, seeds, agricultural machinery, agricultural materials, and veterinary pharmaceuticals. Recently, interest in Korean agricultural technology has surged in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Central Asia, and Africa, leading to an expansion of related companies into overseas markets. The government is also strengthening support for the export-oriented development of agriculture as a key policy initiative. However, as the overseas expansion of technology and products increases, the importance of specialized personnel to support this growth also rises. Particularly in the agricultural materials and machinery sectors, a deep understanding of agriculture is essential, unlike in general manufacturing. The use of fertilizers, pesticides, seeds, and facility materials varies by country based on climate, soil, and crop types, and agricultural machinery must be suited to the scale of farming and cultivation systems. Therefore, there is a need for professionals who can analyze local agricultural conditions, propose suitable technologies, and explain their usage and effectiveness. In this context, graduates in agri-food fields can play a vital role in the process of entering overseas markets. They can communicate with local farmers based on their understanding of agricultural production sites, explain the effectiveness of agricultural technologies, and provide technical support. There is also a growing demand for talent in technical sales, overseas business development, and field consulting within the smart agriculture solutions and agricultural machinery sectors. However, the current talent development system is not adequately responding to these changes. Many students aspire to enter the global stage, but opportunities to experience international cooperation projects or overseas agricultural industries are limited. Programs focused on overseas dispatch and field experience have limitations in leading to deepening expertise and continuous career development, and there is a gap between the competencies required by international organizations and global companies and those offered in university curricula. It is now essential to systematically enhance the training system for global practical agri-food talent. First, there is a need to strengthen the practical and field relevance of university curricula. Programs that integrate agricultural expertise with international development cooperation, global agri-business, project management, and overseas market analysis should be expanded. Additionally, project-based education reflecting the field, such as planning international cooperation projects, establishing agricultural export strategies, and developing models for the overseas application of smart agriculture, should be promoted. Second, opportunities for overseas field experience should be increased. Internships and training programs linking international organizations, overseas research institutions, development cooperation sites, and the overseas branches and business sites of agricultural materials and machinery companies should be established to support students in building global practical competencies. Third, collaboration among the government, universities, research institutions, and industry should be strengthened. The competencies required in the industry should be reflected in the curriculum, and field-centered industry-academia cooperation programs should be expanded to enhance the connection between education and industry demand. This is particularly important in the agricultural materials and machinery sectors, where the expansion of exports is anticipated, as a solid foundation for training specialized personnel and enhancing industrial competitiveness is crucial. Agriculture is no longer confined to traditional primary industries. It is rapidly evolving into a future growth industry that integrates advanced technology, data, international cooperation, and global business. We must establish a systematic talent development foundation to enable our youth to showcase their capabilities on the international stage and to spread the value of South Korean agricultural technology and industries worldwide. Investing in young talent is an investment in the future of national agriculture. Cultivating global practical agri-food talent is a key task for the sustainable growth of South Korean agriculture and securing international competitiveness, serving as a strong foundation for expanding the horizons of future agriculture globally.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-28 05:04:00
  • Hong Moon-pyo, President of aT, Advocates for Agricultural Reform and Climate Change Response
    Hong Moon-pyo, President of aT, Advocates for Agricultural Reform and Climate Change Response Hong Moon-pyo, president of the Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation (aT) and a four-term lawmaker, is recognized as an expert in agricultural policy, having spent most of his legislative career on the National Assembly's Committee on Agriculture, Food, Rural Affairs, Oceans and Fisheries.Born in 1947, Hong graduated from Han Young High School, earned a degree in agricultural chemistry from Konkuk University, and completed a graduate program in public administration at Hanyang University. He entered politics in 1985 as a senior secretary to the Speaker of the National Assembly, Lee Jae-hyung. He served as a lawmaker for the 17th, 19th, 20th, and 21st National Assemblies, representing Hongseong and Yesan counties in South Chungcheong Province. He also served as the fifth president of the Korea Rural Community Corporation from 2008 to 2011.Hong stated, "I am implementing policies based on my time spent alongside farmers and fishermen, and it is rewarding to always be close to the agricultural field and the people, especially farmers and fishermen."Now in his third year as president, Hong cites a shift in awareness regarding the climate crisis as one of his key achievements. He remarked, "We have moved beyond merely trying to prevent or delay climate change. Since my appointment, we have acknowledged that the climate crisis is a present reality and have begun discussions on adaptation."A significant development has been the restructuring of the organization. Shortly after Hong's appointment, aT established a temporary organization to address climate change and has conducted multiple public hearings and field discussions over the past two years. Subsequently, aT became the first public institution to formalize a dedicated climate change response department.Improvements in agricultural distribution structures are also highlighted as major achievements. According to aT's research, distribution costs for agricultural products from production areas to consumers account for 49.2% of consumer prices. Hong noted, "During my time as a lawmaker, I proposed legislation to establish a legal framework for online wholesale markets. The transaction volume of the online wholesale market exceeded 1 trillion won within two years of its launch, reducing intermediary distribution costs and allowing the benefits to reach consumers and producers."Additionally, the long-awaited export of Hanwoo beef to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been realized. The UAE is seen as a symbolic gateway for Hanwoo to enter the Middle Eastern market, which is a hub for politics, industry, and culture. This development is viewed as a stepping stone for Hanwoo to access halal markets worldwide, including Indonesia.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-28 05:04:00
  • Former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez Returns Home After Trump Pardon
    Former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez Returns Home After Trump Pardon Juan Orlando Hernandez, the former president of Honduras, returned to his home country after serving a 45-year sentence in the United States for drug trafficking. His return was made possible by a pardon from former President Donald Trump.According to Al Jazeera and the Associated Press, Hernandez arrived at Palmerola International Airport near Tegucigalpa on July 26, where he was welcomed by supporters from his National Party and family. This marks his return after more than four years since being extradited to the U.S.Hernandez served as president from 2014 until early 2022, when he was arrested at his home in Tegucigalpa shortly after leaving office. He was extradited to the U.S. in April 2022, where prosecutors accused him of collaborating with drug trafficking organizations to smuggle 400 tons of cocaine into the U.S. and receiving millions of dollars in bribes. Hernandez denied the charges, asserting that his administration cooperated with the U.S. in drug enforcement efforts. He was sentenced to 45 years in prison.However, the situation changed dramatically when Trump pardoned Hernandez in November 2022 and publicly supported Nasry Asfura, a candidate from Hernandez's National Party, in the presidential election. Trump stated on his social media platform, Truth Social, that if Asfura won, the U.S. would provide full support, but if he lost, there would be no goodwill funding. Trump also claimed that Hernandez had been treated harshly and unfairly. Despite opposition from rival candidates, Asfura won the election.Following the pardon, a local arrest warrant for Hernandez was canceled, allowing his return. This warrant had been issued by the then Attorney General of Honduras shortly after Trump's pardon. Hernandez is still facing corruption charges in Honduras and is scheduled to appear in court on August 3, which he denies.According to AFP, Hernandez has stated that he returns without ambitions for the election. However, many do not take this claim at face value. Tiziano Breda, a senior researcher for Latin America and the Caribbean at the nonprofit organization ACLED, analyzed that Hernandez's return could impact the political and social stability of Honduras. He noted that as a former president and representative of the ruling party, Hernandez returns with Trump's support and is likely to seek to expand his political influence, leaving open the possibility of a future presidential run.In an interview with Reuters on July 22, Hernandez expressed his readiness to share his political experience with those in power. He stated, "We have new leadership in our party, and we want to support them and help if we can."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-28 05:04:00
  • Hong Moon-pyo, CEO of aT, Discusses Agricultural Supply Issues in South Korea
    Hong Moon-pyo, CEO of aT, Discusses Agricultural Supply Issues in South Korea "Consumers must be frustrated, asking, 'Why do agricultural prices always rise in the summer?' This is clearly not just a weather issue. The agricultural supply problem is not solely due to this year's bad weather; it is a result of the structural vulnerabilities in our agriculture combined with climate change."This year, severe localized heavy rains have raised concerns about agricultural supply in the second half of the year. Deteriorating weather conditions, including reduced sunlight, have led to poor crop yields, raising fears of price increases.Hong Moon-pyo, CEO of the Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation (aT), emphasized in an interview with Aju Economic Daily on July 15 that the agricultural supply situation should not be viewed as solely dependent on weather conditions but rather as a reflection of the structural vulnerabilities in South Korean agriculture. He explained that the excessive concentration of certain crops and production areas makes the system susceptible to weather fluctuations.He also offered a new perspective on climate change. While it poses significant challenges, he believes that simply avoiding it is not the solution. Hong stated that there is potential to cultivate new income-generating crops suited to the changing climate, which could also be developed as export strategic items, thus defining it as both a 'crisis and an opportunity.'The following are key excerpts from the interview with Hong:- As we enter the rainy season, there is growing concern about food prices. How do you assess the current prices of agricultural and livestock products?"During the rainy season, wholesale prices for vegetables are rising, but retail prices are stable and lower than last year. This is due to a good spring harvest and ample stockpiles. In fact, some items have seen prices drop significantly due to a surge in shipments, prompting us to support farmers through direct market promotions and contract farming funding.However, I am more concerned about livestock prices, particularly eggs. The supply has decreased due to avian influenza (AI), leading to a temporary price increase. In response, the government and aT are addressing the shortage by importing fresh eggs from various countries, including Thailand and Brazil, rather than relying solely on the U.S.A notable aspect of this strategy is the introduction of fresh eggs from Brazil, a major poultry producer, to the domestic market for the first time. aT has also conducted on-site investigations through its São Paulo office to establish supply channels. However, imports are a supplementary measure, and we plan to proceed in a balanced manner, considering the domestic poultry farmers and supply situation."- Each time unusual weather occurs, we see sudden spikes in prices for certain items, a phenomenon known as 'disaster-related price surges.' What do you believe is the cause of this?"This is not merely a climate crisis; it is a problem intertwined with the structural vulnerabilities of our agriculture and climate change.First, our agriculture is highly concentrated in terms of crops and production areas. Specific items like cabbage and apples are concentrated in certain regions, so when extreme weather events like heatwaves, wildfires, or heavy rains hit those areas, the national supply is disrupted all at once.Additionally, climate change is reducing suitable cultivation areas. The apple-producing regions of Daegu and Gyeongbuk have seen a significant decrease in cultivation area over the past 30 years, and crops that are sensitive to high temperatures are becoming increasingly difficult to harvest reliably. The aging of farmers is also weakening the production base, making it challenging to quickly adapt or relocate production when yields decline."Relying solely on price measures has clear limitations. We need to promote climate-adaptive varieties and cultivation techniques, enhance stockpiling capabilities to buffer supply, and expand contract farming while staggering harvest times. aT is working to connect production, stockpiling, and supply as a safety net to break the cycle of 'disaster-related surges.'- Climate change is altering agricultural maps. How do you see the impact of shifting production areas on our agricultural landscape?"The changing climate indeed poses significant burdens on production. Major crop production areas are moving northward, and the cultivation of subtropical crops, which was previously difficult, is increasing. However, the land suitable for high-altitude vegetables, which require cooler climates, is decreasing, leading to instability in growth.Nonetheless, this presents both a crisis and an opportunity. There is potential to cultivate new income-generating crops suited to the changing climate, which could also be developed as export strategic items. aT is collaborating with the Rural Development Administration to cultivate climate-adaptive new varieties, and once these varieties are established, we believe they will stabilize domestic supply and connect to export items as well."- Can you provide specific examples of how we can leverage the climate crisis as an opportunity? What role is aT playing in this?"A prime example is strawberry farming. Strawberries can turn the climate's weaknesses into export opportunities, making it a good case of turning a crisis into an opportunity.Originally, strawberries were only produced in winter. This led to a situation where we could not keep up with the growing demand for strawberries overseas. In response, the agricultural sector sought new solutions through controlled indoor cultivation. By precisely managing the growing environment—temperature, humidity, light, and carbon dioxide—we can now produce strawberries in the summer as well.aT is working to disseminate this technology. In June, we held a 'Year-Round Strawberry Production Technology Seminar' at the aT Center in Seoul to help spread this technology among farmers. Our goal is to create an agriculture that overcomes seasonal challenges through technology rather than being dragged along by climate change."- Exports of fresh agricultural products and K-Food, including ramen, are gaining momentum. After setting a record last year, the growth trend has continued into the first half of this year. Are there any particular areas of focus?"We are paying special attention to fermented foods like kimchi and sauces. Kimchi has been recognized for its value, recently being included in the U.S. government's dietary guidelines as a health food. I believe that the entire range of K-fermented foods, including gochujang and doenjang, represents the unique competitiveness of K-Food.Fresh agricultural products like strawberries and grapes are also showing remarkable growth. Last year, grapes achieved the highest export volume ever, becoming the top fruit exported, while strawberries also recorded their largest exports. However, the quality management of fresh agricultural products must be maintained throughout the entire process—from production to sorting, packaging, transportation, and local distribution—so we are actively collaborating with farmers.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-28 05:04:00
  • President Lee Jae-myung: I Will Not Lose My Worker Identity
    President Lee Jae-myung: 'I Will Not Lose My Worker Identity' President Lee Jae-myung expressed hope on July 27 that he and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva would continue to work together to improve the lives of more people without losing their worker identities.During a joint press conference held after their summit at the Palácio da Alvorada in Brasília, President Lee referenced their shared experiences of working in factories as children, which included sustaining injuries. President Lula lost his pinky finger while working in a metal factory at the age of 19, and President Lee also injured his left arm during his youth.President Lee stated, "I hope that both South Korea and Brazil can become happier countries for all their citizens." He promised to visit the São Paulo metalworkers' union office where President Lula worked in his youth to reflect on his life and dreams.He declared 2026 as the year for a leap in the strategic partnership between South Korea and Brazil, pledging to expand cooperation in the economy, industry, critical minerals, energy, defense, cultural exchanges, and international collaboration.Below is the full text of President Lee's remarks at the Korea-Brazil joint press conference:Dear President Lula,I am truly pleased to discuss the future of South Korea and Brazil here today.As you mentioned, we share unique experiences. Just as you lost a finger on your left hand, I also injured my left hand while working in a factory as a child. Although I have a disability from my injury, it does not hinder my commitment to working for the betterment of others. It constantly reminds me of my duty to think of more people and ensure that a greater number can lead better lives.When I visit São Paulo tomorrow, I plan to visit the metalworkers' union office where you worked in your youth. There, I will reflect on your commitment to remembering the realities of workers and your continuous efforts to help everyone lead better lives.I hope that both of us can maintain our worker identities and work together for the betterment of many people's lives.I wish for both South Korea and Brazil to become happier nations for all their citizens.I sincerely thank you for the warm welcome you and your representatives have extended to me and my delegation at the beautiful Palácio da Alvorada.As you mentioned earlier, I am honored to be the fourth foreign leader welcomed here, following President Xi Jinping, Prime Minister Modi, and President Chirac.Following your historic state visit to South Korea in February, I am now making a state visit to Brazil for the first time in 11 years as the President of South Korea. I would like to express my gratitude once again to you and the Brazilian people for your warm hospitality.Brazil is the world's 11th largest economy and plays a crucial role in the global supply chain and food security, holding significant strategic value in the international community.Through our discussions today, President Lula and I declared 2026 as the year for a leap in the 'Korea-Brazil Strategic Partnership' and adopted a joint statement following the 'Four-Year Action Plan' established in February, further clarifying our vision for future cooperation.We achieved meaningful results in five areas during today's summit:We agreed to strengthen the economic cooperation foundation, which is a key driving force for the development of our bilateral relations.We decided to enhance strategic cooperation in the resource and energy sectors to diversify supply chains.We agreed to expand cooperation in advanced and future industries to create new growth engines.We will further enhance cultural and human exchanges to bring our peoples closer together.We agreed to strengthen strategic cooperation in the international community.We will work to deepen cooperation and exchanges in all areas, including economy, industry, security, and culture, at a rapid pace.Thank you once again for your warm hospitality, President Lula, and for the deep affection you have shown towards the people of South Korea.Thank you. 2026-07-28 04:04:00