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  • Pulmuones Korean Kimchi Thrives in the U.S. with 12.3% Sales Increase in First Half of 2026
    Pulmuone's 'Korean Kimchi' Thrives in the U.S. with 12.3% Sales Increase in First Half of 2026 Pulmuone is continuing its growth in the U.S. kimchi market by exporting 'Korean Kimchi' produced in Iksan, North Jeolla Province.According to Pulmuone, the kimchi sales of its U.S. subsidiary increased by 12.3% in the first half of this year compared to the same period last year. This growth is attributed to the mention of kimchi in the U.S. government's dietary guidelines announced in January, along with a strategy of diversifying product lines and expanding distribution channels.Pulmuone maintains its strategy of exporting authentic kimchi made at its global kimchi factory in Iksan instead of producing locally. A unique 'Kimjang Cool System' is employed to preserve optimal fermentation during long-distance distribution.The product lineup has also diversified from primarily vegan napa cabbage kimchi to include traditional salted seafood kimchi, food service-specific kimchi, and private label products for major natural markets.Local marketing efforts are ongoing. At the '2026 Natural Products Expo' held in March, Pulmuone collaborated with Chef Edward Lee to showcase dishes featuring kimchi. Since 2021, the company has hosted the 'Korean Heritage Night' event twice a year in partnership with the Montgomery Biscuits minor league baseball team to engage with local consumers.Pulmuone plans to expand its presence in major retail chains while also introducing localized sauce products such as kimchi hot sauce and seasonings.Joo Gil-soo, CEO of Pulmuone's U.S. subsidiary, stated, "Interest in kimchi has increased significantly since the U.S. government's dietary guidelines were announced. We will continue to diversify our product lineup and expand new distribution channels to solidify our position in the U.S. kimchi market."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-26 13:52:00
  • AI Digital Restoration and Generative AI Search Create a New Future for K-Movie Heritage
    AI Digital Restoration and Generative AI Search Create a New Future for K-Movie Heritage Film is the most vivid cultural heritage that records the times. However, as time passes, film deteriorates, and once lost footage is difficult to recover. AI is now opening a new era where old films can be restored, visual assets can be permanently preserved, and everyone can easily access them. Mo Eun-young, director of the Korean Film Archive, is drawing attention to whether AI can fully convey the memories of a century of Korean cinema to future generations. Film is National Heritage Film is not just entertainment; it is a record that vividly captures the history, culture, and daily life of an era. An old film contains the streets, architecture, language, and cultural practices of its time. However, film deteriorates over time. Colors fade, scratches appear on the screen, and sound quality deteriorates. If the preservation environment is poor, the original can be lost entirely. Since its establishment in 1974, the Korean Film Archive has been a full member of the International Federation of Film Archives (FIAF), and its mission to protect film heritage is not just about preserving the past but also about passing on Korea's cultural identity to the future. AI is opening new possibilities in this field. AI Revives Old Films In the past, film restoration took months or even years, as experts had to manually restore damaged frames one by one. AI is fundamentally changing the restoration process. It can automatically remove dust and scratches, restore faded colors, and improve damaged sound. AI analyzes past footage to estimate the original quality and correct frames. As restoration speeds up, more classic films can be saved. The core value of AI restoration is to revive the legacy of a century of Korean cinema in the digital space. Creating an AI Video Archive The Korean Film Archive houses a vast amount of film and video materials. The challenge is that the more materials there are, the harder it is to find the desired footage. AI directly analyzes the footage. It automatically recognizes characters, locations, historical contexts, and key scenes, generating metadata that allows for natural language searches. "1960s Seoul streets." "Films about the Korean War." "Scenes of rain." This opens an era where one can find desired footage without knowing the title. The archive is evolving from a simple storage facility to an AI-based video knowledge platform. AI Changes Film Research Film research is also entering the AI era. In the past, researchers had to watch hundreds of films to gather data. Now, AI analyzes directors' styles, filming techniques, and characteristics of footage from different eras, helping researchers find necessary scenes. Students can study film history more easily, and researchers can quickly analyze vast amounts of data. AI does not replace researchers; it becomes a new tool that enhances the depth and speed of research. Video Data Becomes a New Content Industry The materials held by the archive should not remain as mere records of the past. In the AI era, video data becomes the source of a new industry. Filmmakers can study classic films to create new works, and documentary producers can utilize historical footage. AI companies can learn from video data to develop new services. Education, tourism, gaming, and exhibition industries can also leverage film heritage data. Good data should create new content, and new content should foster a virtuous cycle of growth in the cultural industry. AI Brings Films Closer to the Public The archive should evolve beyond a storage institution to become a platform where the public can learn about and enjoy films. Generative AI narrows the gap between the public and cinema. When viewers ask questions about films, AI can explain the director, historical context, and filming techniques. It can provide educational content for students, simple language for general audiences, and in-depth information for experts. The public will no longer have to search for information. We are entering an era where AI recommends and explains the films needed. In fact, the archive's classic film YouTube channel has already gained 1.05 million subscribers, expanding its reach to the public. AI-based services can further deepen and personalize this connection. AI and K-Movie Connect the World Korean cinema is already recognized for its global competitiveness. Now, it is time to introduce past masterpieces to the world. By utilizing AI translation, subtitles, and voice technology, old Korean films can be easily enjoyed by global audiences. The archive should evolve from merely preserving films to supporting the globalization of K-movies. Korean film heritage can become a new global cultural asset. The Korean Film Archive Must Transform into an AI Organization AI is not just a technology for film restoration. It can assist in material classification, searching, metadata creation, research support, and more. Staff can move away from repetitive tasks to focus on film restoration, research, international cooperation, and developing new services. The archive must transition from a digital archive to an AI archive institution. The task assigned to Mo Eun-young is not limited to preserving films. It is to utilize AI to eternally preserve Korea's film heritage and make it a cultural asset that can be shared by the public and the world. AI helps restore old films, analyze vast footage, and enables anyone to easily find the films they want. Film heritage expands into research, education, tourism, and the content industry. Transforming from a storage institution to an AI platform that revives films. Evolving from an organization that preserves the past to one that supports future content industries. Continuing the memories of a century of Korean cinema through AI forever. This is the new future that the Korean Film Archive must create. :Mo Eun-young, Director of the Korean Film Archive: Mo Eun-young has extensive field experience in film screening, planning, and festival operations, having served as a programmer for the Seoul International Environmental Film Festival, Seoul Indie Animation Festival, and Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival, as well as the head of the CinemaTech Department at the Korean Film Archive and the executive director of the Seoul Independent Film Festival. Appointed as the director of the Korean Film Archive in March this year, she has begun a three-year term, preparing for the next decade of Korean film heritage through AI-based digital restoration, advanced video archiving, and the introduction of generative AI search services.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-26 13:48:00
  • DeepSeek Halts Second Round of Funding Amid Controversial Comments
    DeepSeek Halts Second Round of Funding Amid Controversial Comments Chinese artificial intelligence (AI) startup DeepSeek has reportedly paused its second round of funding following the online dissemination of comments made by founder Liang Wenpeng regarding the U.S.-China AI competition.Bloomberg News reported on July 25, citing sources familiar with the matter, that DeepSeek verbally informed some potential investors that it would not finalize any investment agreements for the time being.However, negotiations remain fluid, and there is still a possibility that DeepSeek could resume its funding efforts in the future.This decision is believed to be influenced, in part, by Liang's dissatisfaction over the leak of his remarks made to investors during the first round of funding, which concluded last month.Recently, a transcript purportedly from a meeting involving Liang and unidentified individuals circulated online in China. According to reports from Chinese economic media, Liang stated that the Chinese AI industry relies heavily on Nvidia's semiconductors in the development of advanced models and that it continues to lag behind the U.S. in terms of technology.Last month, DeepSeek raised $7 billion (approximately 10.24 trillion won) in its first external funding round, marking the largest amount ever for a Chinese tech startup's initial investment round, with participation from Tencent, the world's largest battery manufacturer CATL, and the China National Artificial Intelligence Industry Investment Fund.DeepSeek had planned to secure an additional 10 billion yuan (approximately 2.1 trillion won) through subsequent funding rounds. Depending on investor participation, the total amount raised could increase, with a pre-investment valuation target of at least 480 billion yuan (approximately 103.7 trillion won), which is higher than the roughly $50 billion (approximately 73.1 trillion won) valuation during the first funding round.DeepSeek is also preparing for an initial public offering (IPO), with the possibility of submitting its listing application as early as this year. If successful, it is expected to be a significant IPO representing the Chinese tech industry.Last year, DeepSeek gained global attention by unveiling an AI model that achieved high performance with relatively limited computing resources. It demonstrated the potential for Chinese companies to compete with leading firms in Silicon Valley, even amid U.S. export restrictions on advanced semiconductors.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-26 13:48:00
  • U.S. Tech Giants and Korean Semiconductor Leaders Brace for AI Earnings Super Week
    U.S. Tech Giants and Korean Semiconductor Leaders Brace for 'AI Earnings Super Week' U.S. tech giants and South Korea's semiconductor leaders are set to announce their second-quarter earnings, marking an 'AI earnings super week.' Following Alphabet's recent announcement of better-than-expected results and a reaffirmation of its commitment to expanding AI investments, market attention is now focused on Microsoft, Meta, Apple, Amazon, as well as Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix.According to the financial investment industry on July 26, earnings reports from key companies in the AI ecosystem will be concentrated this week in the U.S. Microsoft and Meta will release their results after the market closes on July 29, followed by ARM, Qualcomm, and Lam Research. On July 30, Apple, Amazon, and Monolithic Power (MPWR) will also report their earnings. Prior to that, semiconductor equipment firms like KLA and NXP Semiconductors will announce their results on July 28.In South Korea, SK Hynix will report its earnings on July 29, followed by Samsung Electronics, LG Energy Solution, LG Electronics, Samsung SDI, SK Innovation, and POSCO Holdings on July 30. Notably, Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix are considered key players in the AI memory market, making their results critical indicators for both the domestic stock market and the global semiconductor industry.Expectations for this earnings season are high. Samsung Electronics has already indicated a potential 'earnings surprise' with preliminary results showing second-quarter sales of 171 trillion won and operating profit of 89.4 trillion won, exceeding market consensus. The operating profit marks an 1810% increase compared to the same period last year, setting a new record. SK Hynix is also expected to report its highest-ever earnings, with estimates suggesting second-quarter sales of 84.6 trillion won and operating profit of 64.1 trillion won, surpassing last year's annual operating profit in just one quarter.Market participants are paying closer attention to the management's outlook for the second half of the year rather than just the earnings figures. Following Alphabet's earnings surprise, which included a raised capital expenditure forecast by $15 billion and a reaffirmation of its AI investment strategy, data from Hana Financial Investment shows that the average stock price returns for Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix have reached 11% and 17%, respectively, in the month following the announcement.Seo Sang-young, a researcher at Mirae Asset Securities, stated, 'This earnings season will serve as a process to confirm whether the investment cycle across the AI supply chain, including memory, semiconductor equipment, and power semiconductors, remains valid, starting with big tech. The key will be whether the expansion of AI investments translates into actual improvements in sales, profits, and free cash flow (FCF), as well as how future investment plans and guidance are presented.'However, there is a possibility of increased volatility following the earnings announcements. Seo noted, 'After the earnings reports, the delta hedging by options market participants and the portfolio adjustments by institutions and foreign investors may lead to differentiation by sector and increased volatility in individual stocks. Particularly, stocks reporting earnings tend to experience higher implied volatility (IV) ahead of their announcements, so it is essential to monitor not only the results but also the guidance and conference call content.' 2026-07-26 13:48:00
  • Shin Min-as Eye Surpasses 1.5 Million Viewers, Continues Strong Box Office Performance
    Shin Min-a's 'Eye' Surpasses 1.5 Million Viewers, Continues Strong Box Office Performance The film 'Eye' has surpassed 1.5 million viewers.According to the integrated ticket sales network on July 26, 'Eye' exceeded 1.5 million cumulative viewers as of 11 a.m. today.Released on June 24, 'Eye' is a suspense thriller that follows Seo-jin, who is gradually losing her sight due to a genetic disease, as she investigates the mysterious death of her twin sister. Directed by Yim Ji-ho, the film stars Shin Min-a, Kim Nam-hee, Lee Seung-ryong, and Kim Young-a.'Eye' has attracted audiences based on its gripping storyline and strong performances from the cast. It drew more viewers in its second week than in its opening week, surpassing 1 million viewers two days faster than the 2025 genre film sensation 'Noise.'Notably, Shin Min-a made her return to the big screen after nearly three years with 'Eye,' portraying Seo-jin, who is on a quest for truth while losing her vision, and leading the suspenseful narrative.With its positive word-of-mouth, 'Eye' has reached 1.5 million viewers, raising questions about its potential for continued success in the summer box office.'Eye' is currently showing in theaters nationwide.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-26 13:44:00
  • GS Retail Sponsors Rainbow Box Orchestras Participation in Pyeongchang Music Festival
    GS Retail Sponsors Rainbow Box Orchestra's Participation in Pyeongchang Music Festival GS Retail announced that members of the Rainbow Box Orchestra, which it sponsors, participated in the Pyeongchang Music Festival held in Gangwon Province. From July 24, GS Retail organized a two-day cultural arts experience program for 26 members of the Rainbow Box Orchestra and their instructors. Participants enjoyed performances and attended a special lecture by mathematician Kim Min-hyung, immersing themselves in classical music and cultural arts.Since 2024, GS Retail has been a sponsor of the Pyeongchang Music Festival. In collaboration with the Gangwon Cultural Foundation, it has also provided various artistic experiences for the Rainbow Box members.The Rainbow Box program, operated by GS Retail in partnership with Hope Friends and the Kia Foundation since 2005, has accumulated a total sponsorship of 5.45 billion won. It has supported over 13,000 children in 755 regional child centers across the country with music education and ensemble activities.Park Kyung-rang, head of the ESG team at GS Retail, stated, "We will continue our environmental, social, and governance (ESG) activities to help children nurture their dreams through diverse cultural experiences."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-26 13:44:00
  • Speaker Cho Congratulates New Leadership of the Justice Innovation Party
    Speaker Cho Congratulates New Leadership of the Justice Innovation Party Cho Jung-sik, the Speaker of the National Assembly, congratulated the new leadership of the Justice Innovation Party. He expressed hope that the party would play a significant role in translating its path of reform into tangible benefits for the public.On Facebook, Cho stated, "At a time when we must address pressing livelihood issues, it is crucial to produce results that the public can feel. I wish for the party to further develop as a political entity dedicated to the public's welfare and national interests." He added, "As the Speaker, I will also fulfill my responsibilities to work with all parties, including the Justice Innovation Party, to create a future-oriented National Assembly alongside the people."Meanwhile, the Justice Innovation Party held a national convention the previous day, electing Shin Jang-sik as its new leader. In his acceptance speech, Shin pledged to fully complete judicial reforms and firmly rejected any hostile merger discussions with factions of the Democratic Party, stating, "Discussions based on vision and values are welcome."Additionally, lawmakers Cha Kyu-geun and Hwang Hyun-seon were elected as the party's highest-ranking officials. Following the convention, the party appointed other key positions, including Secretary-General Jeong Chun-saeng and Policy Committee Chair Kim Seon-min. 2026-07-26 13:36:00
  • Lee courts Silicon Valleys kingmakers to back Korean startups
    Lee courts Silicon Valley's 'kingmakers' to back Korean startups SEOUL, July 26 (AJP) - President Lee Jae Myung met six of Silicon Valley's most influential venture capital firms on Saturday, urging them to help turn South Korea into an indispensable global hub for innovation and startup investment. The "Silicon Valley Venture Investment Meetup," held at a hotel in San Francisco, came a day after Lee met the chief executives of major U.S. technology companies, extending his U.S. visit from discussions with established Big Tech leaders to the investors who helped build many of them. Speaking at the meeting, Lee described South Korea as "an irreplaceable base for innovation" capable of offering new growth opportunities for global investors. "We will create the world's best environment for investment and entrepreneurship," he said, pledging to improve visa policies, expand cooperation with overseas investors and provide comprehensive support ranging from financing to overseas market expansion so promising startups can grow into global companies. Lee also called for the Korea-U.S. alliance to evolve beyond its traditional security foundation. "The two countries should broaden cooperation from a security alliance to a technology alliance, an innovation alliance and a startup alliance," he said. "I hope you will become reliable partners in building an 'irreplaceable Korea' where global talent, technology and capital come together to create the next 30 years of growth." During the event, the National Pension Service signed memorandums of understanding on investment cooperation with six leading Silicon Valley venture capital firms — Andreessen Horowitz, General Catalyst, Sequoia Capital, Lightspeed Venture Partners, New Enterprise Associates and Khosla Ventures. The participants also held a roundtable discussion on expanding cross-border venture investment and strengthening startup ecosystems in South Korea and the United States. Together, the six venture capital firms manage about $313 billion in assets, while the National Pension Service oversees about 1.69 quadrillion won ($1.2 trillion), making the gathering one of the largest assemblies of venture capital and institutional investment capital focused on Korean startups. The firms have collectively backed many of the world's biggest technology companies. Sequoia Capital was an early investor in Apple, Nvidia and Google. Andreessen Horowitz invested in Meta, Instagram and defense technology startup Anduril, while Khosla Ventures was an early backer of OpenAI. Andreessen Horowitz recently opened a Seoul office, underscoring growing interest in Korea's startup ecosystem. According to the presidential office, venture capital executives emphasized that the biggest ingredients for startup success in Korea are a culture that allows entrepreneurs to recover from failure and sufficient access to capital. Lee said the comments "deeply resonated" with him and pledged to pursue policies that would give young people and aspiring entrepreneurs more opportunities to launch businesses. He also instructed presidential policy chief Kim Yong-beom and First Vice Minister of SMEs and Startups Noh Yong-seok to explore practical ways to strengthen links between universities, investors and startups after hearing suggestions on improving Korea's investment environment. The agreements signed Saturday call for long-term cooperation to identify promising Korean startups and expand global investment opportunities through closer collaboration between the participating institutions. In a separate post on social media, policy chief Kim described the gathering as a meeting with Silicon Valley's "kingmakers," saying Lee met not only Big Tech executives during his U.S. visit but also the venture capital investors who helped create many of today's technology giants. Kim noted that the six VC firms collectively invested early in companies including Apple, Nvidia, Google, Meta, Instagram and OpenAI, adding that their attention is now increasingly turning toward Korea, pointing to Andreessen Horowitz's recent decision to establish a Seoul office. He said the meeting represented years of efforts by Korean institutions to deepen ties with Silicon Valley, citing the National Pension Service's San Francisco office, Korea Venture Investment Corp.'s long-standing presence in the region and the Startup Venture Campus in Menlo Park. Kim said the roundtable was ultimately about nurturing "the next Samsung or SK hynix" through the venture capital ecosystem rather than the state-led industrial policies that powered South Korea's earlier economic development. "Global Big Tech companies begin as startups and grow with venture capital," Kim wrote. "Connecting Korean startups with the world's leading venture investors is precisely the role the government should play." 2026-07-26 13:34:13
  • President Lee Concludes AI Sales Agenda in the U.S., Begins South America Diplomacy
    President Lee Concludes AI Sales Agenda in the U.S., Begins South America Diplomacy 이재명 대통령이 미국 샌프란시스코에서 인공지능(AI)·벤처투자 협력 일정을 마치고 남미 순방에 돌입한다. 이 대통령은 브라질과 칠레, 아르헨티나를 차례로 방문해 정상회담을 갖고 교역·투자 확대와 핵심광물 공급망 다변화, 글로벌 사우스 외교 강화에 나선다. 이 대통령은 25일(현지시간) 실리콘밸리 벤처투자 밋업을 끝으로 샌프란시스코 방문 일정을 마무리하고 남미 순방 첫 방문국인 브라질로 향했다. 이 대통령은 미국 방문 기간 다리오 아모데이 앤트로픽 최고경영자(CEO), 샘 올트먼 오픈AI CEO, 젠슨 황 엔비디아 CEO, 혹 탄 브로드컴 CEO 등 글로벌 빅테크 수장들과 연쇄 회동했다. 샌프란시스코 AI 서밋에서는 한국을 글로벌 AI 혁신의 중심으로 만들겠다는 내용의 ‘샌프란시스코 AI 선언’을 발표했다. 국민연금공단과 실리콘밸리 주요 벤처캐피털(VC) 6개사 간 투자협력 양해각서(MOU)도 체결했다. 미국에서 AI·반도체와 벤처투자 협력 기반을 다진 이 대통령은 남미에서는 경제 안보와 시장 개척을 중심으로 ‘실용외교’의 무대를 넓힌다는 구상이다. 이 대통령은 26일 오후 브라질리아에 도착해 루이스 이나시우 룰라 다 시우바 룰라 대통령 내외가 주최하는 환영 리셉션으로 국빈방문 일정을 시작한다. 27일에는 공식 환영식에 참석한 뒤 대통령 관저인 아우보라다궁에서 룰라 대통령과 정상회담을 갖는다. 양국 정상은 회담 후 MOU 서명식과 공동언론발표, 국빈오찬을 이어갈 예정이다. 정상회담에서는 교역·투자 확대와 방산, 핵심광물, 에너지·식량 공급망 협력 방안 등이 폭넓게 논의될 전망이다. 브라질은 중남미 최대 방산시장인 동시에 희토류 매장량 세계 2위의 ‘자원 부국’이다. 커피와 설탕, 닭고기 수출에서도 세계 1위 수준의 경쟁력을 갖고 있어 공급망 다변화를 추진하는 한국의 주요 경제 안보 협력국으로 꼽힌다. 이 대통령은 룰라 대통령과 한·메르코수르 무역협정 협상 재개 방안도 논의할 예정이다. 메르코수르는 브라질과 아르헨티나 등이 주도하는 남미공동시장이다. 정부는 장기간 답보 상태에 놓인 무역협정 협상의 동력을 되살려 우리 기업의 남미 시장 진출 기반을 확대한다는 계획이다. 이 대통령은 브라질리아 일정을 마친 뒤 상파울루로 이동한다. 28일에는 현지 동포들과 오찬 간담회를 갖고 한·브라질 비즈니스 라운드테이블에 참석해 양국 기업 간 투자와 산업 협력 확대를 지원한다. 29일부터 30일까지는 칠레를 공식 방문한다. 이 대통령은 29일 저녁 동포 만찬 간담회로 일정을 시작한 뒤 30일 칠레 건국 영웅인 베르나르도 오히긴스 동상에 헌화한다. 이어 대통령궁인 모네다궁에서 공식 환영식에 참석하고 호세 안토니오 카스트 대통령과 정상회담을 진행한다. 양국 정상은 MOU 서명식과 공동 언론발표, 공식 오찬을 진행하며 이 대통령은 오후 한·칠레 비즈니스 라운드테이블에도 참석한다. 칠레에서는 양국 자유무역협정(FTA) 현대화와 인프라·투자 협력이 주요 의제로 다뤄질 전망이다. 칠레는 한국이 처음으로 FTA를 체결한 국가이자 구리와 리튬 매장량이 세계 1위인 핵심광물 부국이다. 정부는 기존 상품 교역 중심의 FTA를 디지털과 공급망 등 새로운 통상 분야로 확대하고 국내 기업의 현지 인프라 시장 진출을 지원한다는 방침이다. 양국이 2028년 공동 개최할 예정인 유엔해양총회의 성공적인 개최 방안도 논의될 것으로 보인다. 정부는 이를 계기로 해양환경과 기후변화 등 국제 현안에 대한 칠레와의 공조도 강화할 계획이다. 이 대통령은 30일 밤 아르헨티나 부에노스아이레스에 도착해 남미 순방의 마지막 공식 일정을 시작한다. 우리나라 대통령의 아르헨티나 양자 방문은 2004년 이후 22년 만이다. 31일에는 아르헨티나 독립 영웅을 기리는 산마르틴광장을 찾아 헌화한 뒤 대통령궁인 카사 로사다에서 공식 환영 행사에 참석한다. 이어 하비에르 밀레이 대통령과 정상회담을 갖고 경제·통상 협력과 국제 정세, 공급망 협력 방안 등을 논의한다. 아르헨티나는 셰일가스 매장량 세계 2위이자 대두유 수출 세계 1위의 자원·농업 강국이다. 전기차 배터리의 핵심 원료인 리튬도 풍부해 에너지와 식량, 핵심광물 공급망을 다변화하려는 한국의 주요 협력 대상국이다. 한류에 대한 현지 관심이 높은 만큼 문화·콘텐츠와 소비재 시장 진출 확대 방안도 논의될 전망이다. 이 대통령은 31일 저녁 아르헨티나 동포들과 만찬 간담회를 갖는 것을 끝으로 남미 3개국 공식 일정을 마무리한다. 청와대는 브라질·칠레·아르헨티나 3개국을 인구 2억8000만명, 국내총생산(GDP) 3조7000억 달러에 이르는 거대시장으로 평가하고 있다. 이번 순방을 통해 남미 시장 진출의 제도적 기반을 강화하는 한편 지정학적 위험에 대비한 핵심광물·에너지·식량 공급망을 구축한다는 구상이다. 외교적으로는 남미 주요국과의 협력을 통해 ‘글로벌 사우스’와 국제무대에서 우군을 확대하는 데 초점을 맞춘다. 브라질과 아르헨티나는 주요 20개국(G20) 회원국이며 브라질은 남미 지역질서와 유엔 등 다자무대에서도 영향력을 발휘하고 있다. 이 대통령은 남미 일정을 마친 뒤 귀국길인 8월 2일 독일 프랑크푸르트에서 동포간담회를 끝으로 7박 11일 간의 일정을 마치고 3일 귀국한다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-26 13:32:00
  • Is It Cheaper to Keep Your Air Conditioner Running All Day?
    Is It Cheaper to Keep Your Air Conditioner Running All Day? As the heat wave continues, concerns about rising electricity bills due to increased air conditioner usage are growing. Online discussions frequently suggest that "keeping the air conditioner on all day is cheaper than turning it off and on."In short, this statement is only partially true. The power consumption of an air conditioner depends on whether it is an inverter type or a fixed-speed model, as well as how long the home is unoccupied.Most recently released home air conditioners are inverter types. Inverter models use a significant amount of power initially to quickly lower the indoor temperature. Once the desired temperature is reached, they reduce the compressor speed to operate only as needed.The issue arises when the air conditioner is turned off after the indoor space has cooled, only to be turned back on shortly after. If the power is off for a while and the indoor temperature rises, the air conditioner must restart at full capacity. Repeating this cycle can lead to higher power consumption compared to maintaining a steady temperature.Researchers from Samsung Electronics presented findings at a conference of the Korean Society of Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Engineers, indicating that for short outings of less than 90 minutes, it may be more energy-efficient to keep the inverter air conditioner running. Their experiments showed that after a 30-minute absence, power consumption was 5% higher when the unit was turned off and then restarted, and 2% higher after 60 minutes. However, after 90 minutes, it became more efficient to turn the unit off. Samsung noted that results may vary based on the home environment and insulation.Thus, for inverter models, it may be beneficial to leave the unit on during short absences of 30 minutes to an hour. For longer absences of over two hours, it is generally better to turn it off.The "90-minute" guideline is not a one-size-fits-all rule. Factors such as home size, insulation quality, window orientation, outside temperature, air conditioner capacity, and set temperature can all affect outcomes. Homes with strong sunlight or poor insulation will see indoor temperatures rise quickly after turning off the unit. Conversely, well-insulated homes can maintain cool air for a longer period.Older fixed-speed air conditioners operate differently. They run at a constant output until the desired temperature is reached, then stop until the temperature rises again. Since they cannot adjust output finely like inverter models, keeping them on continuously may not be advantageous. Turning off a fixed-speed unit when the indoor space is sufficiently cool and restarting it when it gets warmer can help reduce power consumption.To determine whether an air conditioner is inverter type, check the product or the label on the outdoor unit. If it is labeled "inverter" or shows cooling capacity and power consumption in multiple stages (minimum, medium, rated), it is likely an inverter model. The most accurate way to confirm is to check the model number or user manual or contact the manufacturer's customer service.When first turning on the air conditioner, it is more efficient to use the high-speed or quick-cooling function to lower the indoor temperature rather than running it at a low setting for a long time. After reaching the desired temperature, it is advisable to set it around 26 to 28 degrees Fahrenheit and lower the fan speed to maintain that temperature.Using a fan or circulator can help distribute cool air quickly throughout the room. The Korea Energy Agency recommends using air conditioners in conjunction with fans and keeping windows and doors closed during cooling to minimize the influx of hot air. When leaving during the day, closing curtains or blinds to block sunlight can also be beneficial.Avoid setting the temperature too low. Setting the indoor temperature to 18 or 20 degrees does not make the air conditioner blow colder air. Instead, it may cause the outdoor unit to run at high capacity for longer, increasing power consumption.Filter maintenance is also crucial. Clogged filters can obstruct airflow and reduce cooling efficiency. During the summer months when air conditioner usage is high, it is advisable to check and clean the filters every two weeks.Electricity bills are not determined solely by the usage of one air conditioner. If the total power consumption in a household exceeds the progressive rate threshold, the cost of additional electricity usage can increase significantly. Korea Electric Power Corporation applies a progressive rate system, where the unit price rises as usage increases.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-26 13:28:00