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  • Financial Supervisory Service and Industry Seek Solutions for Housing Finance Support and PF Project Sales
    Financial Supervisory Service and Industry Seek Solutions for Housing Finance Support and PF Project Sales The Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) held a session on September 15 to explain the financial support programs related to the housing supply activation measures announced on August 13.The event, titled 'Housing Supply Financial Support Program and PF Project Sale Briefing,' took place at the FSS headquarters in Yeouido, Seoul, and consisted of five sessions detailing step-by-step financial support for housing development PF projects.In the initial bridge phase, Coramco Asset Trust will provide a total of 610 billion won in funding through a PF development anchor REIT at lower interest rates than typical bridge loans.As projects transition from bridge loans to main PF, the Korea Housing Finance Corporation (HUG) will expand PF guarantee limits and support project transitions through dedicated PF guarantee products for small construction companies.The PF syndicate loan limit provided by banks and insurance companies will also increase from 1 trillion won to 5 trillion won. Projects facing temporary liquidity shortages at any stage will be eligible for support.The Korea Land and Housing Corporation (LH) will assist with land purchases and construction costs throughout the project phases and will also promote rental purchase projects to mitigate unsold inventory risks.Additionally, a briefing was held on the sale of delayed or halted residential PF projects in the metropolitan area, aimed at facilitating the resumption of these projects. Representatives from the financial sector attended to support the sale of projects needing to restart operations.An FSS official stated, "We will do our utmost to ensure that necessary housing is supplied promptly through close management of residential PF projects and swift resolution of financial difficulties."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-15 15:28:00
  • Financial Supervisory Service Chief Calls for Improved CEO Succession Transparency
    Financial Supervisory Service Chief Calls for Improved CEO Succession Transparency Lee Chan-jin, the head of the Financial Supervisory Service, emphasized the need for enhanced transparency and fairness in the CEO succession process of financial holding company subsidiaries on September 15.During an executive meeting at the Financial Supervisory Service, Lee stated, "Most of the CEO succession procedures established by the subsidiary CEO recommendation committees are inadequate, and the role of the subsidiary executive recommendation committees is also limited."He pointed out issues such as the lack of specific qualifications for CEO candidates, the absence of minimum verification periods during the candidate narrowing stages, and the formal management of a constant pool of candidates.Lee added, "We must strengthen transparency and fairness throughout the entire CEO succession process, including candidate selection, verification, evaluation, and record-keeping."He noted that since January, the financial authorities have been operating a task force aimed at advancing governance structures, stating, "Discussions have been held on various improvements to ensure that CEO appointments are not conducted in a closed manner based on specific factions or personal relationships." He urged financial companies to operate transparent and fair management succession processes to enhance shareholder value.A Financial Supervisory Service official remarked, "We will strengthen checks to ensure that CEO successions are conducted according to transparent and fair standards."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-15 15:24:00
  • Nuri Rocket to Launch Five Satellites in Historic Mission
    Nuri Rocket to Launch Five Satellites in Historic Mission The fifth launch of South Korea's Nuri rocket is set for October 7, carrying five mass-produced small cluster satellites into space for national security and disaster response. This marks the first instance of operating practical mass-produced Earth observation satellites simultaneously in the country.On September 15, the Korea Aerospace Research Institute and the Korea Space Agency held a press briefing in Jongno-gu, Seoul, to discuss the upcoming launch and the primary missions of the satellites.According to the agencies, the Nuri rocket will launch between 12:23 PM and 1:23 PM on October 7, with a preliminary launch period from October 8 to 14. The rocket aims for a sun-synchronous orbit at an altitude of 570 kilometers. Transport of the Nuri rocket will begin at 6 AM on October 6, the day before the launch, with operations for liquid oxygen supply and tank cooling starting at 4:45 AM on launch day.The fifth Nuri launch will carry a total of 15 satellites, including five primary small cluster satellites (NeonSat 2-6) and ten secondary CubeSats.This launch will challenge the deployment of the five NeonSat satellites into orbit sequentially, all performing the same mission. The satellites will capture detailed images of the Korean Peninsula to quickly identify disaster areas and conduct precise observations of key national security regions. The space agency plans to launch the remaining five satellites in a sixth launch next year.To accommodate this mission, the payload weight of the Nuri rocket has increased by approximately 100 kg. Park Jong-chan, head of the KARI launch vehicle advancement division, stated, "While we did not significantly change the design of the Nuri rocket itself, we made some adjustments to the satellite payload design. We added an expandable payload adapter to arrange the primary satellites and CubeSats more densely."For the first time, a low-impact satellite separation device will be used. This new device reduces the shock transmitted to the satellites during separation from about 2000 times the force of gravity to approximately 1000 times. Park emphasized, "The most technically important aspect of the fifth launch is ensuring that the satellites do not collide and are placed into their intended orbits. We are closely monitoring the precise attitude control and management systems of the primary payloads."The cluster satellites will be separated sequentially about 810 seconds after launch, with intervals of 35 to 40 seconds. The CubeSats will be deployed in pairs every 10 seconds starting approximately 16 minutes and 15 seconds after launch.The ten CubeSats will demonstrate space technologies developed by companies, universities, and research institutions. DaejeonSat 1 will focus on Earth observation and satellite self-imaging, while Yulisis will monitor fine dust and validate computers for lunar exploration. The SpaceLink satellite will test the crystallization of candidate substances for dementia treatments and onboard AI. The remaining satellites will validate space performance in areas such as optical communication, marine debris and cosmic radiation observation, and domestic memory, electric propulsion, and reaction wheel technologies.This fifth launch will also expand the transfer of private launch technology. Hanwha Aerospace, the prime contractor, will participate as the main operator for about 75% of the ground control systems that have allowed technology transfer. The number of personnel involved has increased from around 30 to approximately 44. Park noted, "In the sixth launch, the prime contractor will directly operate the entire ground control system, excluding items for which technology transfer is not permitted, and from the eighth launch onward, we will pursue a plan for them to lead the launches." 2026-09-15 15:20:20
  • Osu-Wan Wins Honbul Literature Prize for Ecce Homo
    Osu-Wan Wins Honbul Literature Prize for 'Ecce Homo' Osu-Wan, the author of the novel Ecce Homo, was awarded the 16th Honbul Literature Prize. During a press conference on September 15 in Jung-gu, Seoul, he discussed his work.Set in a world where a being known as Prime wipes out 99% of humanity with a single clap, Ecce Homo explores the aftermath of civilization's collapse. Thirty years after the disaster, a mute girl named Sub and her guardian, a middle-aged man named Norman, embark on a bicycle journey to the city of Jitek, where a hopeful expo for humanity's revival is taking place. Along the way, Norman teaches Sub how to find water, repair machines, and respect life.Osu-Wan explained that his story stemmed from a desire to critique the violence perpetrated by humans, a species that, as the apex of the ecosystem, destroys it without hesitation. He contemplated what actions a superhuman might take in such a scenario. “I wanted to depict what an outsider living in human society, who can also criticize and punish humanity, would think and how they would act,” he said.While the novel begins with a catastrophe that wipes out 99% of humanity, it does not completely negate humanity. Judge Eun Hee-kyung, a novelist, remarked that the book is “not heavy and reads quickly,” noting that it portrays the violence of human nature and civilization while still embracing humanism.The original title of the novel was Contact, which referred to the encounter between Norman, a superhuman who defines himself as different from humans, and humanity. However, as the story evolved, the perspective and voice of Sub, who travels with Norman, became central. One day, the phrase Ecce Homo, meaning “Behold the Man,” came to mind.Ecce Homo is known from the New Testament, where Pontius Pilate presents Jesus to the crowd demanding his punishment. This scene has been depicted repeatedly in Western art.Osu-Wan believes that Norman fits well with the title Ecce Homo as he is also a being different from humans. “However, in the story, the ‘homo’ could refer to Norman, the girl observing Norman, or humanity itself,” he explained. Both Norman and Sub, as well as all of humanity, can be subjects of Ecce Homo.Norman's character also reflects parental figures. Osu-Wan noted, “Even when parents nag their children, the children often don’t fully understand. Ultimately, what children learn is from their parents' actions.” He added, “Norman tries to convey his distrust of humanity sincerely, but there is a wall between them.”What should not disappear even after civilization collapses? In the novel, the film Norman shows Sub is The Wizard of Oz. Osu-Wan chose it as a symbol of the art left behind by humanity.“I believe there are things created by humanity that cannot be replaced. While knowledge in physics or mathematics is important, so is art. The film represents the totality of art. In the early part of The Wizard of Oz, when the door to Oz opens, color bursts forth. It shows how beautifully art can convey beauty and that beauty can be immortal.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-15 15:20:10
  • Man Sentenced for Shooting Woman with Gas Gun After She Rejected His Advances
    Man Sentenced for Shooting Woman with Gas Gun After She Rejected His Advances A 64-year-old man has been sentenced to a suspended prison term for shooting a woman in the face with a gas gun after she rejected his advances.According to Yonhap News, the Incheon District Court's Judge Hwang Yoon-cheol sentenced the man, identified as A, to one year in prison, suspended for two years, and ordered him to complete 120 hours of community service. He was charged with violating laws related to the safety management of firearms and special assault.A was accused of firing the gas gun eight times at the back of a woman, identified as B, in a store in Bupyeong-gu, Incheon, around 11 p.m. on January 27.At the time, A had just met B in the store and had asked for physical contact. When B refused and informed the store owner, A carried out the attack.Investigators found that A had previously purchased the gas gun from an online shopping mall.Judge Hwang stated, "The defendant has not received forgiveness from the victim and has a history of multiple offenses of a different nature," but noted that he had no prior convictions for similar crimes and that the injuries inflicted on the victim were not severe.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-15 15:20:00
  • South Korea aims for gold in womens volleyball at Asian Games
    South Korea aims for gold in women's volleyball at Asian Games SEOUL, September 15 (AJP) - South Korea is aiming a long-awaited gold medal in women's volleyball at this year's Asian Games in Japan, which kick off later this week. Ranked 28th in the world, South Korea will play its preliminary group-stage opener against Hong Kong (127th) in Komaki, Aichi Prefecture on Thursday, before facing Qatar (107th) and Viet Nam (32nd) in the following days. A gold medal has been elusive for South Korea since the 2014 Asian Games in Incheon. The country missed the podium entirely at the 2022 Hangzhou Games, heled in 2023 amid a poor showing, while a bronze medal was the best it managed at the 2018 Jakarta-Palembang Games. The women's volleyball tournament features 14 teams divided into four groups of three or four, with the top two teams in each group advancing to the quarterfinals. Coached by Cha Sang-hyeon, South Korea is determined to end its decade-long medal drought. "We'll prepare thoroughly and make sure we win this time," he vowed. While departing from Incheon International Airport last Sunday, captain Kang So-hwi, who recently returned to the national team after recovering from a left-thigh injury, said she had not forgotten South Korea’s loss to Viet Nam at the Hangzhou Games, where the team finished fifth. "I really can't forget the humiliating loss to Viet Nam," the ace player recalled. "This time, I will definitely get revenge." AJP Takeaways - South Korea is targeting women's volleyball gold at the 2026 Asian Games in Japan, its first Asian Games gold since 2014. - South Korea will open against Hong Kong on Thursday, followed by matches against Qatar and Viet Nam. The top two teams in each group advance to the quarterfinals. - Coach Cha Sang-hyeon and captain Kang So-hwi aim to end South Korea's medal drought, with Kang seeking revenge after the team's loss to Viet Nam at the 2022 Asian Games. 2026-09-15 15:16:36
  • Han Yuwon Hosts Public Procurement Support Conference for SMEs in Busan
    Han Yuwon Hosts Public Procurement Support Conference for SMEs in Busan The Korea Small and Medium Enterprises Distribution Agency, under the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, is hosting the '2026 Sales Consultation Conference' at BEXCO in Busan until September 18. This event aims to assist small and venture businesses in entering the public procurement market.According to Han Yuwon on September 15, the conference is designed to connect public institutions and large companies with demand for public procurement products to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the climate and energy sectors that possess technological capabilities.Participating in the event are 110 SMEs from the climate and energy sectors seeking to enter the public procurement market, along with 53 large companies and public institutions, including Hyundai Steel and LG Chem, interested in purchasing their products. The participating companies and institutions will be matched one-on-one based on their preferences and needs, allowing SMEs to engage in purchasing consultations for up to 25 minutes each, with a maximum of seven consultations per day over three days, totaling 21 consultations.Meanwhile, the International Climate Industry Expo is a global event co-hosted by the Ministry of Climate Energy Environment, the International Energy Agency (IEA), and the World Bank, aimed at addressing the climate crisis and promoting decarbonization. Since 2024, Han Yuwon has been supporting the entry of SMEs in the climate and energy sectors into the public procurement market in conjunction with the expo.Lee Tae-sik, CEO of Han Yuwon, stated, "I hope this event will greatly assist SMEs in developing new markets, and we will continue to discover and plan various events that enable SMEs from different sectors to enter the public procurement market."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-15 15:16:20
  • Uiwang Mayor Kim Seong-je urges visitors to create special autumn memories at Baegun Lake
    Uiwang Mayor Kim Seong-je urges visitors to create special autumn memories at Baegun Lake Uiwang Mayor Kim Seong-je expressed his hope on September 15 that visitors will create special autumn memories at Baegun Lake.Mayor Kim announced that the 22nd Uiwang Baegun Lake Festival will take place over two days, from the 19th to the 20th, at Baegun Lake Park.This festival, centered around the beautiful Baegun Lake, aims to enhance the competitiveness of Uiwang as a cultural and tourist city, providing a representative autumn celebration for citizens and visitors alike.The festival is designed to be more than just a series of performances; it will feature a variety of experiences and shows that families can enjoy together, from children to seniors, while appreciating the natural scenery of Baegun Lake.Mayor Kim's commitment to expanding cultural opportunities for citizens and revitalizing local tourism resources is reflected in this festival.At the festival site, there will be hands-on programs for children and families, including workshops, traditional games, caricatures, and face painting, as well as entertainment such as magic shows and balloon art.Notably, the festival will include a stamp tour and busking performances, encouraging attendees to explore the area on foot while enjoying both nature and cultural events.The highlight of the festival will be the evening performances. The opening ceremony on the 19th at 7 p.m. will feature a performance by the Uiwang Philharmonic Orchestra and a stage by musical actress Kim So-hyun.The closing performance on the 20th, starting at 7 p.m., will be hosted by Oh Jung-hyun and will include performances by Son Tae-jin, Lee Jae-hoon (Cool), Ben, Chun-ja, and Free Pass, continuing the festival's excitement. At 9 p.m., a fireworks show will light up the night sky over Baegun Lake, concluding the festival.In anticipation of large crowds, Mayor Kim announced the operation of five temporary parking lots and shuttle buses to facilitate transportation to and from the festival site.Safety management will be enhanced throughout the event area to ensure that citizens can enjoy the festival with peace of mind.The Baegun Lake Festival is one of Uiwang's representative local festivals, offering citizens a meaningful cultural event where they can enjoy an autumn outing with their families close to home.With programs catering to various age groups, from children's activities to family performances and popular music acts, interest and anticipation among family visitors are rising.Citizens are looking forward to enjoying the beautiful scenery of Baegun Lake alongside the festival, as well as the convenience of parking and shuttle services.Mayor Kim stated, "We have prepared a festival where families, couples, and friends can savor the autumn atmosphere against the backdrop of beautiful Baegun Lake." He added, "I hope this festival brings joy and vitality to our citizens and serves as a meaningful time to showcase the charm of Uiwang to visitors."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-15 15:16:00
  • Progressive Party Criticizes Approval of Event Honoring Lee Eun-sang
    Progressive Party Criticizes Approval of Event Honoring Lee Eun-sang The Progressive Party's Gyeongnam chapter has called for the cancellation of the approval for an event honoring Lee Eun-sang at the Democracy Hall, stating that "Changwon City is ignoring the legislative intent of the ordinance and the spirit of the March 15th Incident with mechanical administration."The controversy began with an event scheduled for October 31 at the Democracy Hall in Masan, Changwon, related to Lee Eun-sang.The nonprofit Namhae Lee Eun-sang Memorial Association plans to hold an academic talk concert themed "The Power of Masan's Big Brand, Gagopa."Changwon City reviewed the event plan submitted by the organizers and ultimately approved the venue, stating that it did not fall under the ordinance's restrictions.In a statement on the 15th, the Progressive Party's Gyeongnam chapter criticized this decision, asserting that "the Democracy Hall was established to commemorate the democratization process of South Korea and the democratic movements that occurred in Changwon," and emphasized that approval should not be based solely on the absence of restrictions in the event plan.The party particularly condemned the choice of the Democracy Hall as the event venue. They stated, "The Democracy Hall was created to remember the sacrifices and resistance of citizens against dictatorship, which began with the March 15th Incident in Masan. Holding an event honoring Lee Eun-sang here is inappropriate considering the historical significance of the local democracy." They also pointed out that Lee Eun-sang participated in a campaign for the Liberal Party, supporting Syngman Rhee and Lee Gi-bung just before the March 15th Incident, and dismissed the incident as a "demonstration that lost its intellect." Furthermore, they highlighted his support for the May 16 military coup, calling it a "revolution," and his role as a national advisory committee member under the Chun Doo-hwan regime, stating, "Lee Eun-sang's trajectory stands in stark contrast to the history that the Democracy Hall aims to commemorate and uphold." Concerns were raised that this issue could not simply be attributed to a misjudgment by the relevant department. The party noted that in 2024, there was controversy surrounding the restoration of the name "Masan Gagopa Chrysanthemum Festival" due to Lee Eun-sang's pro-dictatorship actions, and the Democracy Hall had previously faced criticism for downplaying the responsibilities of the Rhee administration in past exhibitions. They argued, "It is hard to believe that Changwon City is unaware of these historical controversies after experiencing them multiple times." The party sharply criticized Changwon City's "administrative convenience," questioning, "Does it mean that as long as the event plan does not include the term 'praise for dictatorship,' it does not matter whom we honor?" They further asked, "What is the point of a venue review process that does not even consider whether the individual aligns with the purpose of the hall's establishment?" They called for an immediate cancellation of the venue approval, stating that the city's decision contradicts the purpose of the ordinance and the spirit of the March 15th Incident.Additionally, they proposed specific measures to prevent recurrence, emphasizing that ordinances should clearly restrict events that distort or belittle the historical facts of the democratization movement or glorify dictatorship, as these could severely undermine the hall's founding purpose.They also called for improvements in the venue review process, arguing that decisions on controversial events should not be made by one or two officials merely reviewing documents. They suggested that a separate review process involving an advisory committee, experts, and civil society should be established to assess compliance with the hall's founding purpose.Meanwhile, a Changwon City official acknowledged awareness of the local controversy surrounding Lee Eun-sang but stated that the venue decision was made based on the submitted event plan and current ordinances, adding, "There have been no changes regarding the approval so far." This situation highlights a clash between Changwon City's prioritization of administrative procedures and the community's emphasis on the historical significance of the venue. As both sides maintain their positions, tensions within the local community are expected to continue leading up to the scheduled event on October 31.Community attention is focused on whether the "legality of administration" as per the ordinance or the "symbolism of the Democracy Hall" should take precedence, and what precedent this venue decision will set for the future operation of public facilities.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-15 15:12:00
  • Is Eating a Hamburger on the KTX Considered Rude?
    Is Eating a Hamburger on the KTX Considered Rude? Recently, a debate has erupted online over whether eating a hamburger on the KTX is considered rude. Many users are questioning the limits of acceptable behavior in shared spaces.Some argue that eating a hamburger takes only a few minutes and that being overly sensitive is unwarranted. They point out that eating on trains is not prohibited and that imposing personal standards on others is unfair. Others note that hamburgers do not have an overwhelmingly strong odor like fermented soybean paste or fish, and that it is excessive to ban them. They also mention that some passengers may not have time to eat before boarding the train.Additionally, it is highlighted that many food options, such as hamburgers, kimbap, bread, sandwiches, and coffee, are available for purchase at train stations and can be taken aboard.Passengers who are pressed for time or miss meal opportunities may find themselves buying food to eat on the train. Given the nature of long-distance travel, it seems inconsistent to allow snacks and drinks while deeming meals like hamburgers or kimbap as inappropriate.On the other hand, some users argue that the issue is not just about whether food can be consumed, but about how much consideration should be given to others in a shared space.The KTX cabins cannot be ventilated like a regular restaurant, and many passengers must remain in close quarters for extended periods. Therefore, consuming foods with strong odors, such as hamburgers, kimbap, or fried chicken, could disturb fellow travelers.Online comments reflect this sentiment, with some stating, "Just because you can eat doesn't mean you should inconvenience others," and "While you may enjoy the smell, others have no escape from it." Some also note that for those prone to motion sickness, food odors can be distressing. Suggestions include opting for less odorous snacks like bread or simple treats for the duration of the journey.Many believe that even if there are no specific laws or regulations prohibiting certain behaviors, it is basic etiquette to self-regulate in public spaces. For instance, while loud phone conversations or watching videos without headphones are not legally banned, it is generally expected that people will refrain from such actions in shared environments.The debate extends beyond hamburgers. If hamburgers are deemed inappropriate, what about kimbap? If kimbap is also off-limits, are sandwiches acceptable? Opinions vary on what foods should be allowed, as perceptions of food odors differ widely.Some may not find the smell of hamburgers strong, while others could find it quite unpleasant in a confined space. Similarly, while many enjoy the aroma of coffee, some may feel nauseous from it. Even fans of kimbap might find the persistent smell of sesame oil in a train cabin overwhelming.Ultimately, establishing clear guidelines for which foods are acceptable can be challenging. However, leaving it entirely to individual judgment could lead to ongoing conflicts among passengers.Currently, there is no blanket ban on consuming food in KTX cabins. Therefore, it is difficult to classify eating a hamburger as a violation of regulations. However, if the consumption of food causes excessive discomfort to other passengers, the situation may warrant reconsideration.In conclusion, the KTX hamburger debate is not merely about one food item; it reflects broader conflicts regarding personal freedoms in public spaces and the need for self-restraint even when actions are not explicitly prohibited. One side argues that paying passengers should have the right to a simple meal on long journeys, while the other contends that all passengers deserve a comfortable travel experience free from unpleasant food odors.Reactions online are divided. Supporters of eating argue, "It's unreasonable to say you can't have a simple meal on a long train ride," and "How long does it take to eat a hamburger that it’s considered rude?" They assert that without a ban on eating, mutual understanding should prevail, and that some passengers may not have had time to eat before departure.Conversely, those against eating state, "Being able to eat and not disturbing others are separate issues," and "In a confined space, the smell of hamburgers or fried chicken leaves no escape for others." They emphasize that just because someone enjoys a particular smell does not mean others do, and that consideration should take precedence over regulations in public spaces. They question the necessity of eating smelly foods when there are many options for less odorous snacks.Ultimately, while it is difficult to challenge the act of eating a hamburger on the KTX based solely on regulations, opinions remain divided on whether such behavior constitutes a nuisance. If a passenger next to you begins to eat a hamburger, how would you feel? Would you side with those who believe it is acceptable on a long-distance train, or with those who argue that smelly foods should be avoided in a confined cabin?* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-15 15:08:20