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  • Han Byeong-do: This Weeks Criminal Procedure Law Reform is a Historic Mission
    Han Byeong-do: This Week's Criminal Procedure Law Reform is a Historic Mission Han Byeong-do, acting leader of the Democratic Party and floor leader, stated on July 27 that he aims to finalize the criminal procedure law reform, which he described as the last piece of the puzzle for prosecutor reform. He emphasized that "prosecutor reform is not just a hollow slogan but a historic mission."During a Supreme Council meeting held at the National Assembly, Han said, "The Democratic Party has gathered support for a criminal procedure law reform bill that centers on the complete separation of investigation and prosecution through a general meeting of lawmakers." He added, "The principle of the Democratic Party is that prosecutors who prosecute do not conduct investigations."He further highlighted, "For the past 80 years, prosecutors with both investigative and prosecutorial powers have wielded unchecked authority. Democracy and human rights have been trampled, and countless victims have shed tears of blood."Additionally, he remarked, "The prosecutors have undermined democracy and constitutional order with the arrogance that they can topple powers elected by the people. This has given rise to the Yoon Suk-yeol dictatorship and nearly dismantled all that South Korea has achieved through the December 3 emergency martial law."Han also criticized the People Power Party, stating, "They are spewing nonsensical remarks regarding the criminal procedure law reform. They are engaging in outrageous propaganda that only by retaining the prosecutors' investigative powers can the lives and safety of the people be protected."He pointed out, "The People Power Party, which has boycotted the National Assembly for nearly two months, has neglected the people's livelihood while prioritizing party interests. They must realize that this is an act of treason against the nation."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-27 10:12:00
  • Hanwha Aerospace signs big deal, possibly linked to Spains howitzer program
    Hanwha Aerospace signs big deal, possibly linked to Spain's howitzer program SEOUL, July 27 (AJP) - Hanwha Aerospace has signed a major deal valued at least 2.5 percent of its annual sales, according to the Financial Supervisory Service's electronic disclosure system on Monday. The aerospace company said the deal was signed last Friday, but it did not disclose details such as the contractor, items to be supplied or contract period at the counterparty's request. "We will make a follow-up disclosure once the reason for confidentiality is resolved," the company said. Industry watchers say the deal is likely related to Spain's program to replace its aging M109 self-propelled howitzers. The project is estimated to be worth between 238 billion won and 660 billion won and could involve cooperation based on the K9 platform, a 155mm tracked self-propelled howitzer system developed using K9 technology. The project is estimated to be worth between 238 billion won and 660 billion won and could involve cooperation on a 155mm tracked self-propelled howitzer system based on South Korea's homegrown K9 technology. In March, Hanwha Aerospace signed a binding memorandum of understanding with Spanish defense company Indra Group to modernize the country's howitzers. If the latest deal is confirmed to be linked to the K9, Hanwha Aerospace could expand its operations all across Europe. 2026-07-27 10:11:59
  • Samsung Electronics Applies 2-Nanometer Process to HBM5, Boosting Speed by Over 50%
    Samsung Electronics Applies 2-Nanometer Process to HBM5, Boosting Speed by Over 50% Samsung Electronics is implementing a gate-all-around (GAA) 2-nanometer foundry process for the base die of its next-generation high-bandwidth memory (HBM), HBM5. Building on its experience with the 4-nanometer base die used in HBM4 and HBM4E, the company aims to enhance the performance and power efficiency of the new HBM while expanding its customer base in artificial intelligence (AI) and high-performance computing (HPC), thereby strengthening the growth momentum of its foundry business.In an interview with Samsung Electronics' semiconductor newsroom on July 27, Gu Ja-heum, Vice President and Head of Technology Development at Samsung Foundry, stated, "The HBM5 base die will utilize a 2-nanometer process with a GAA structure, enabling the implementation of silicon through-silicon vias (TSV) with even higher integration density."This is the first time a Samsung executive responsible for foundry process development has detailed the strategy for the 2-nanometer base die for HBM5. In March, Hwang Sang-jun, Vice President of the Memory Business at Samsung's Device Solutions division, outlined the plan for the 2-nanometer application of HBM5 at NVIDIA's annual developer conference, GTC, from a foundry perspective.The base die serves as a logic semiconductor that connects stacked DRAM core dies with external processors such as graphics processing units (GPUs) and central processing units (CPUs). As the demand for faster data processing speeds and improved power efficiency has increased, foundry front-end processes have been applied to the base die starting with HBM4, replacing traditional memory processes.Samsung applied a 4-nanometer fourth-generation process to the base dies of HBM4 and HBM4E. This process has entered its third year of mass production, demonstrating validated performance and yield. Its flexibility in selecting gate spacing and transistor threshold voltage allows for optimization of performance, area, and leakage current for different products.The HBM4E base die achieved operational speeds exceeding 14 gigabits per second (Gbps) by utilizing high-density, high-performance components. The efficient arrangement of metal wiring layers reduced power consumption and optimized heat dissipation paths. The HBM4 base die met performance and yield targets from the first sample, with approximately three months required from process preparation to results.Gu noted, "We expect HBM5 to increase operational speeds by more than 50% compared to HBM4E, and we are preparing cutting-edge processes that will significantly improve not only operational speed but also power efficiency."Samsung is also leveraging the base die of HBM to expand its customer base in AI and HPC. The company is applying the 4-nanometer process to the HBM4 base die and new LPU products for AI and HPC from U.S. AI companies. Recently, it has expanded collaborations with global firms like Broadcom, broadening its foundry customer base from a mobile focus to include AI, HPC, cloud service providers (CSPs), automotive, and robotics sectors.The company is also pursuing diversification of customers for its 2-nanometer process. After starting mass production of its first-generation 2-nanometer process in the second half of last year, Samsung plans to produce mobile products based on an improved second-generation process in the second half of this year. Following the successful acquisition of orders for automotive-focused Tesla 2-nanometer products, the company has reported ongoing orders from several large AI, HPC, and CSP clients.Samsung is providing a one-stop solution that integrates advanced packaging with HBM. In the AI and HPC sectors, it offers a combination of foundry processes, HBM, and advanced packaging, while entering the plug-type optical transceiver (PO) market in the data center sector. The company is also developing co-packaged optics (CPO) technology utilizing front-end processes and three-dimensional packaging technology.Gu emphasized, "Based on the experience and technological competitiveness gained from the 4-nanometer HBM4 base die, we will proactively introduce the 2-nanometer process for HBM5 and expand customer collaborations across mobile, HBM, AI, HPC, automotive, and robotics to strengthen our leadership in foundry technology."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-27 10:08:00
  • Neoview Shares Plunge Nearly 30% on First Day of KOSDAQ Re-listing
    Neoview Shares Plunge Nearly 30% on First Day of KOSDAQ Re-listing Neoview shares fell nearly 30% on their first day of trading on the KOSDAQ. The decline is attributed to a surge in profit-taking sales immediately after the listing, which dampened investor sentiment. According to the Korea Exchange, as of 9:50 a.m. on July 27, Neoview was trading at 18,270 won, down 7,330 won (28.63%) from its reference price. The trading volume reached 778,781 shares. Neoview was re-listed on the KOSDAQ market today, with a reference price set at 25,600 won before the market opened. However, heavy selling pressure in the early trading session quickly widened the losses. Neoview is a newly established company formed by the spin-off of the automotive display division from display specialist Tobis. Following the split, Tobis will focus on casino and industrial display businesses, while Neoview will concentrate on automotive displays. The company aims to enhance its corporate value through this spin-off strategy by increasing specialization in its respective business areas. The Korea Exchange approved Neoview's re-listing on July 23. On the same day, Tobis underwent a change in listing, and Neoview began trading. Tobis shares also experienced a decline of about 10% from their initial price, likely due to a concentration of existing shareholders' sell-offs, which has increased stock price volatility.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-27 10:08:00
  • Test Drive: Renault Philante Raises Questions About Pricing
    Test Drive: Renault Philante Raises Questions About Pricing “How much does this car cost?” This question repeatedly arose during the test drive of Renault's flagship crossover (CUV) Philante. On July 23, I drove approximately 83 kilometers from Gangnam, Seoul, to Wonju, Gangwon Province. This was my first time driving a Renault model, and despite my low expectations, the Philante made a strong impression throughout the drive, sparking my curiosity about its price even though I had no plans to purchase a vehicle. The Philante combines three key elements: stylish design, smooth driving experience, and excellent fuel efficiency. Upon first seeing the Philante, its rounded yet balanced exterior immediately caught my eye. The smooth roofline was particularly striking from the side. Inside, the attention to detail was evident, with luxurious materials and design that exuded sophistication. The quietness and smoothness during the drive were the Philante's standout features. Whether navigating city streets, highways, or more rural areas, the impact of the road was significantly muted. Even when unexpectedly encountering a speed bump without reducing speed, the Philante's jolting was minimal compared to other models. The acceleration was smooth enough that a passenger in the front seat might not even notice the increase in speed. Despite its mid-size, the Philante felt substantial while driving, with no lack of responsiveness at high speeds. Having primarily driven smaller models like compact cars and SUVs, I found the Philante easy to handle, with less stress than expected when gauging its width or maneuvering through narrow alleys and parking lots. In today's high fuel price environment, the Philante's fuel efficiency is another attractive feature. During my 83.2 km drive, which took a total of 1 hour and 44 minutes, the average fuel efficiency was 16.4 km/l. This figure exceeds the official combined fuel efficiency rating of 15.1 km/l. The official urban and highway fuel efficiency ratings are 14.7 km/l and 15.5 km/l, respectively. One downside was the smart rearview mirror, which uses an electronic display instead of a traditional mirror to show the rear view. However, when light hits the mirror, the electronic display can reflect the rear view in a blurry manner, making it inconvenient. If this feature is undesirable, consumers can opt for a trim that allows them to choose a traditional mirror or disable the smart mirror function altogether. Ultimately, the Philante appears to be an appealing option for consumers seeking a model with balanced capabilities across the board.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-27 10:04:00
  • LG Electronics Becomes First in Korea to Earn NVIDIA Liquid Cooling Certification, Accelerating Global AI Data Center Strategy
    LG Electronics Becomes First in Korea to Earn NVIDIA Liquid Cooling Certification, Accelerating Global AI Data Center Strategy LG Electronics has become the first South Korean company to receive NVIDIA's quality certification for its liquid cooling solutions, accelerating its strategy in the global artificial intelligence (AI) data center market. The company announced on July 27 that it has received final quality certification for its 600-kilowatt (kW) cooling distribution unit (CDU), a key component in controlling the heat generated by high-performance graphics processing units (GPUs). This recognition is expected to boost LG's prospects for securing large-scale projects with major global tech firms. With this certification, LG plans to begin supplying its self-developed liquid cooling solutions to global AI data center clients, aiming to secure a leading position in the market. The CDU is essential for circulating coolant within servers and recovering heat in liquid cooling systems. As the performance of high-bandwidth memory (HBM) and GPUs in AI data centers increases, so does the power density and heat output per server rack. Traditional air cooling methods are becoming less effective, highlighting the importance of directly absorbing heat from semiconductor chips using liquid. LG's CDU employs a direct-to-chip (DTC) method, circulating coolant through cold plates attached to GPUs and central processing units (CPUs). This system operates alongside air cooling to enhance cooling efficiency. Notably, it achieves temperature control precision of ±0.25 degrees Celsius, improving thermal stability for high-heat GPUs. It supports virtual sensors and leak detection features and integrates with data center management systems. Tests have demonstrated that cooling operations can continue without interruption even when switching to backup devices in the event of a pump or CDU group failure. This certification signifies LG's entry into the core supply chain for global AI data centers. Clients adopting NVIDIA server racks can choose LG's CDU without lengthy technology validation, potentially shortening project timelines. LG plans to pursue NVIDIA certification for its entire lineup of large-capacity CDUs, starting with the 600 kW model and expanding to 1 MW, 2.5 MW, and 4 MW units. As power consumption and heat generation from AI servers increase, the demand for megawatt-level liquid cooling systems is expected to grow, prompting LG to position itself as a market leader. According to LG, the global AI data center market is projected to grow by approximately 26% annually, reaching about $133.5 billion (approximately 185 trillion won) by 2034. Leveraging its experience supplying cooling solutions to North American hyperscalers and the Sinar Mas data center in Indonesia, LG aims to expand its global business. The company also plans to broaden its product portfolio to encompass all aspects of data center thermal management. This includes a total solution system called 'chip to chiller,' which provides everything from chillers that produce cold water to CDUs that distribute coolant and cold plates that directly absorb heat from semiconductor chips. LG is utilizing its magnetic bearing compressor technology in the chiller sector while also working on in-house production of key components like inverters for CDUs. In the future, it plans to supply CDUs and apply them in AI data center design, construction, and operation projects with LG CNS, as well as in modular AI data center initiatives. Lee Jae-sung, head of LG Electronics' ES Business Division, stated, "With the explosive growth of the AI data center market, the importance of reliable liquid cooling solutions is increasing. We will leverage our cooling technology and integrated infrastructure capabilities to lead the global market as a total solution provider for AI data centers."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-27 10:04:00
  • Construction Begins on World-Class 4th Generation Synchrotron Korea New Light Synchrotron
    Construction Begins on World-Class 4th Generation Synchrotron 'Korea New Light Synchrotron' The construction of the world-class 4th generation synchrotron, the 'Korea New Light Synchrotron (KLS),' has officially begun.On July 27, the Ministry of Science and ICT and the Korea Basic Science Institute (KBSI) held a groundbreaking ceremony at the synchrotron site in Ochang, Cheongju, North Chungcheong Province.The ceremony was attended by government officials, lawmakers, local government representatives, industry and academia stakeholders, and local residents.The KLS will utilize bright light (synchrotron radiation) generated by accelerating electrons close to the speed of light to conduct precise analyses of material structures and characteristics at the atomic level.The Ministry of Science and ICT plans to invest a total of 1.1643 trillion won (approximately $1 billion) in collaboration with North Chungcheong Province to establish the accelerator, beamlines, and research support facilities, aiming for completion by the end of 2029. The project will be led by KBSI.In a written congratulatory message, President Lee Jae-myung expressed hopes that the KLS will serve as a foundation for South Korea's future growth engines in next-generation semiconductors, secondary batteries, and advanced materials, and become a symbol of innovation in Cheongju.Acting KBSI President Hwang Geum-sook stated, "KLS will be a key national research infrastructure supporting South Korea's scientific and technological future competitiveness. This groundbreaking marks the beginning of a foundation for domestic researchers and industries to conduct world-class research and to lead innovations in basic science and national strategic technology fields."Shin Seung-hwan, head of the multipurpose synchrotron construction project, emphasized, "We will do our utmost to successfully establish a world-class research facility that supports innovation for domestic researchers and industries and positions itself as a representative research base for global research collaboration."First Vice Minister of Science and ICT Koo Hyuk-chae noted, "As KLS enters the construction phase, we will prioritize safety and thoroughly manage the entire construction process, ensuring that researchers and industries can utilize world-class research infrastructure effectively."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-27 10:04:00
  • Koreas Fair Trade Commission Launches Investigation into Franchise Practices
    Korea's Fair Trade Commission Launches Investigation into Franchise Practices 공정 당국이 가맹본부의 불공정행위를 시정하고 가맹점주의 권익을 보호하기 위해 올해 가맹 분야 서면 실태조사에 착수한다. 특히 최근 갈등이 이어지고 있는 필수품목 거래 관행 개선 여부와 차액가맹금 실태를 집중적으로 들여다볼 방침이다.공정거래위원회는 오는 10월까지 외식·서비스·도소매 등 21개 업종의 가맹본부 200곳과 가맹점사업자 1만2000곳을 대상으로 '2026년 가맹 분야 서면 실태조사'를 실시한다고 27일 밝혔다.이본 실태조사는 가맹 분야의 주요 제도의 운영 실태와 현장 거래 관행을 점검하고 현장의 목소리를 반영하기 위한 것이다. 조사는 가맹사업거래 홈페이지와 모바일, 면접 등을 통해 진행된다.올해 조사에서는 지난 2024년 도입된 필수품목 제도의 안착 여부를 집중 점검한다. 공정위는 법령 개정을 통해 가맹계약서에 필수품목의 종류와 공급가격 산정방식, 거래조건 변경 협의 절차를 의무적으로 기재하도록 하고 불리한 조건 변경 시 사전 협의 의무를 부과한 바 있다. 이에 공정위는 가맹본부를 대상으로 가맹금 수취 현황과 계약서 의무 기재 사항 및 협의 의무 이행 현황 등을, 가맹점주를 대상으로는 필수품목 및 가맹금 납부에 대한 거래 관행과 필수품목 관련 제도 인지 여부 등을 파악할 예정이다. 평균 차액가맹금 규모가 가장 높은 화장품 업종이 조사 대상에 새로 추가된 것도 이번 조사의 특징이다. 차액가맹금은 가맹점이 본부로부터 공급받는 원재료 등의 대가로 지급하는 금액 중 적정 도매가격을 초과하는 유통마진을 뜻한다.공정위는 차액가맹금 대신 정액·정률 로열티로 수취하도록 유도하는 정책이 현장에서 제대로 이행되고 있는지 살펴보고 추가 제도 개선 필요성도 검토할 계획이다.이번 조사의 분석 결과는 오는 12월에 발표된다. 공정위는 이를 향후 직권조사 계획 수립과 제도 개선, 정책 방향 설정의 기초자료로 활용할 방침이다. 공정위 관계자는 "실태조사 결과는 현장의 의견을 정책에 반영하기 위한 기초가 되는 만큼 가맹본부 및 가맹점사업자의 적극적인 참여 부탁한다"고 밝혔다. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-27 10:04:00
  • Portal Operator AXZ Changes Name to Daum
    Portal Operator AXZ Changes Name to Daum The operator of the portal 'Daum,' AXZ, has announced a name change to 'Daum.'On July 20, AXZ held an extraordinary general meeting where it approved the name change to 'Daum Co., Ltd.' The company plans to gradually introduce new features and services based on artificial intelligence (AI) while preserving the familiar user experience and brand assets associated with Daum.Since its launch in 1995, Daum has provided services such as search, news, email, cafes, and blogs, and currently operates digital services including the Daum app, search, news, email, cafes, and the creator platform Tistory.With this name change, Daum will revamp its corporate website and official channels. The company aims to build a next-generation portal by integrating AI technology with its accumulated service capabilities in search, content, and community. It plans to enhance AI search and improve personalization and summarization features to facilitate easier access to reliable information in news and content areas. Daum also intends to continuously strengthen the competitiveness of its community and creator ecosystems, including cafes and Tistory.Lee Geon-soo, CEO of Daum, stated, "This name change is not just about changing the company's name; it is about clarifying our responsibility towards Daum's services and future. We aim to inherit the trust and value that Daum has built over the past 30 years while combining it with AI technology to lead in the new internet and AI era."Meanwhile, Daum is expanding its vertical AI services, including the real-time search summary service 'AI Overview.' AI Overview retrieves the latest information from Daum's database through partnerships with media outlets, cafes, and Tistory services. The company plans to further expand its AI services, including the distribution of 'one agent per person.' 2026-07-27 10:00:00
  • Woori Bank Offers Up to 30 Billion Won in Loans for Mid-Sized Companies
    Woori Bank Offers Up to 30 Billion Won in Loans for Mid-Sized Companies Woori Bank is expanding productive finance by providing funding to mid-sized companies with growth potential.On July 27, Woori Bank announced that it is recruiting companies for the eighth round of the 'Rising Leaders 300' program in collaboration with the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy.The Rising Leaders 300 program aims to identify mid-sized and potential mid-sized companies with strong technological capabilities and growth prospects, offering both financial and non-financial services. Since its inception, Woori Bank has supported approximately 225 companies with over 2 trillion won in funding across the first seven rounds.The application period runs from today until August 14. The support categories include global leader-type, K-tech leading-type, future value-leading type, and artificial intelligence transformation (AX) leap-type.The Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA), the Korea Federation of Small and Medium Businesses, the Korea Industrial Intelligence Association, and the Korea Institute for Advancement of Technology will conduct the first round of evaluations and recommendations by sector, while Woori Bank will review the appropriateness of financial support. The final selection of supported companies is expected in early September.Selected companies will receive loans of up to 30 billion won each, with a preferential interest rate of up to 1.0 percentage point in the first year. Additionally, Woori Bank plans to offer non-financial services such as export-import financing solutions, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) compliance, business succession, and digital transformation.Park Hwa-geun, head of Woori Bank's Corporate Sales Strategy Division, stated, "We will actively identify mid-sized companies with high growth potential and expand productive financial support to help selected companies grow into key players driving the national economy."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-27 10:00:00