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OPINION: China's high-quality development brings vast opportunities to world SEOUL, September 17 (AJP) - The "Su Super League," grassroots tournament Jiangsu Football City League, and the Village Super League, also known as Cun Chao, have gone viral, injecting fresh vitality into the integrated development of culture, commerce, tourism, and sports. Labubu toys, elf-like dolls produced by Chinese toy maker Pop Mart, have become global sensations, showcasing the cross-cultural appeal of Chinese designer toys. China's visa-free policies continue to pay dividends, fueling the rise of trends like "China Travel" and "Shop in China." These developments reflect China's accelerating economic innovation, the highlights of high-quality development, reinforcing a sustained and steady growth trajectory. Since the beginning of this year, China's economy has demonstrated stable and steady progress. Major economic indicators have performed well, new quality productive forces have developed steadily, and reform and opening up have continued to deepen, demonstrating remarkable vitality and resilience. Recently, international financial institutions and investment banks, including the International Monetary Fund, Morgan Stanley, and Goldman Sachs, have raised their forecasts concerning China's economic growth in 2025. A United Nations report identifies China as one of the few major economies achieving substantially upgraded growth expectations amid global economic adjustments. The report emphasized that China's increasingly prominent role in navigating complex global challenges through its economic strategies. Recent international media analysis highlights an emerging "cool factor" - a dynamic appeal rooted in innovation, cooperation, and youth culture - driving more balanced economic growth in China. This momentum is poised to propel China's next growth cycle, potentially reshaping its global economic identity through open collaboration. This innovative dynamism permeates China's economic landscape. The country continues to harness scientific and technological innovation to develop new quality productive forces, accelerate the cultivation of emerging pillar industries with international competitiveness, and promote the integrated development of technological and industrial innovation, injecting strong impetus into economic development. According to China's National Bureau of Statistics, in 2024, the added value of new industries, new business formats, and new business models accounted for 18.01 percent of China's GDP, up 0.43 percentage points from a year earlier. China now hosts the world's largest R&D workforce, leads globally in top-tier science and technology innovation clusters, and counts over 460,000 high-tech enterprises. Breakthroughs in open-source AI models and novel therapeutics continue to emerge, while cutting-edge sectors like intelligent drone manufacturing and smart automotive equipment thrive. In the first half of this year, the added value of China's high-tech manufacturing industry grew by 9.5 percent. Foreign investment in high-tech sectors rose significantly, with notable increases in the actual use of foreign capital in the e-commerce service sector, chemical pharmaceuticals manufacturing sector, and aerospace equipment manufacturing sector. Recently, a delegation from U.S.-China Business Council's board delegation - comprising senior executives from leading American firms - visited China. They noted that China has sent a clear signal of further expanding high-level opening up, which is crucial for foreign companies, including U.S. enterprises, seeking to invest and expand in China. At a time when the rise of unilateralism and protectionism has added significant uncertainty to the global economy, China's policy stability and long-term planning of high-level opening up are particularly valuable. From 24 pro-foreign investment measures to 20 specific measures aimed at stabilizing foreign capital, from "negative lists" to "zero-tariff treatment," China continues to foster a market-oriented, law-based and world-class business environment. China is also expanding trials to open sectors such as telecommunications, medical services, and education, promoting the opening of biomedicine, while encouraging foreign companies to make equity investments, making itself a favored destination for foreign investment. China remains committed to widening its opening to the global economy. At a time when the world economy faces numerous challenges, China injects greater certainty into the global economy through its stable development and generates new opportunities for various countries by continuously expanding its opening up. As the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021~2025) nears conclusion and the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026~2030) approaches, China will respond to an uncertain external environment with strong and effective policies, make good use of development opportunities, potential and advantages, and consolidate and expand the positive momentum of economic recovery and improvement to keep the ship of the Chinese economy sailing ahead. As a country pursuing high-quality development, China will bring broader market opportunities, investment opportunities, and growth opportunities to the world, and pursue common development with various countries. (Pei Guangjiang and Li Yingqi are senior editor and international affairs commentator of the International News Department of People's Daily, respectively.) 2025-09-17 15:16:38 -
K-pop themed anime tops over 300 million views on Netflix SEOUL, September 17 (AJP) - Netflix's hit South Korean anime "KPop Demon Hunters" continues its unstoppable rise, accumulating 300 million views. According to Netflix's ranking website Tudum on Wednesday, the K-pop themed anime has accumulated 314.2 million views since its release on June 20, remaining at the top spot in the platform's all-time movie rankings, which are calculated "based on total views in the first 91 days of release." The 100-minute animation already took the top spot on the American streaming platform two weeks ago and has since widened its lead over the first season of mega-hit series "Squid Game," which has amassed 265.2 million views. It also topped the weekly ranking with 22.6 million views last week, extending its streak in the top 10 of Netflix’s global English-language movies for 13 consecutive weeks. Directed by Korean Canadian Maggie Kang, "KPop Demon Hunters" tells the story of K-pop superstars who are not just "selling out stadiums" but also "using their secret powers to protect their fans from supernatural threats." 2025-09-17 14:43:55 -
Korea's Hanwha Ocean bags $1.4-bln order for LNG carriers from Taiwan SEOUL, September 17 (AJP) - Hanwha Ocean, one of South Korea’s three largest shipyards, has bagged an order of 1.93 trillion won ($1.4 billion) from Taiwan's Yang Ming Marine Transport to deliver seven liquefied natural gas (LNG)-fueled container ships. The shipbuilder disclosed that the contract calls for construction of seven 15,880 TEU (twenty-foot equivalent unit) LNG dual-fuel containers at Hanwha’s Okpo Shipyard in Geoje, South Gyeongsang Province, with deliveries to be completed by the first half of 2029. The deal is the company’s second from Taiwan this year. In March, Hanwha Ocean won an order from Taiwanese shipper Evergreen worth 2.3 trillion won ($1.69 billion) for six 24,000 TEU LNG dual-fuel eco-friendly ultra-large container ships. The Yang Ming vessels will be powered by LNG dual-fuel engines as standard and feature ammonia-ready specifications that allow future conversion to ammonia dual-fuel propulsion. The ammonia-ready design means the hull structure can accommodate retrofitting from LNG-diesel fuel systems to ammonia propulsion, enabling triple-fuel capability - diesel, LNG, and ammonia. The vessels will incorporate Hanwha Ocean's core technologies, including the world's first LNG fuel tanks capable of withstanding 1.0 bar of pressure (approximately 14.5 psi). By operating at higher pressure than conventional fuel tanks, these systems can store vaporized natural gas longer and safer. "This first contract with Yang Ming validates Hanwha Ocean's differentiated eco-friendly technology and design capabilities,” said Kim Hee-cheol, CEO of Hanwha Ocean. Hanwha Ocean shares were trading at 112,300 won as of Wednesday, up 1.35% from the previous closing of 110,800 won. Hanwha, formerly Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering, is among Korea’s three dominant shipbuilders, which together command more than half of the global LNG carrier orderbook. 2025-09-17 14:06:15 -
KAI pins hopes on $7 bn U.S. jet trainer program SEOUL, September 17 (AJP) - Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) is betting big on winning a $7 billion U.S. Navy contract to replace its aging T-45 trainer jets, leaning on its proven record with advanced trainers already in service worldwide. KAI has teamed up with Lockheed Martin to offer the TF-50N, a naval variant of the single-engine T-50 jet trainer that is in service or on order with seven countries. The U.S. Navy will receive proposals for its Undergraduate Jet Training System (UJTS) in December, aiming to select a preferred design and manufacturing team next year. The project calls for delivery of about 25 aircraft annually, with a minimum fleet of 145. The contract, valued at more than $7 billion, is set to be finalized by January 2027. In a solicitation released in March, the Navy said carrier landing capability would no longer be required, opting instead for virtual practice, simplifying trainer requirements. “The U.S. Navy’s RFI has gone through multiple changes so far,” a KAI official said, noting the challenges bidders face from repeated delays and design revisions. “No specific company currently holds an advantage.” Under the partnership, KAI will lead aircraft manufacturing while Lockheed Martin oversees systems integration. The TF-50N builds on the operational success of the T-50 family, which has been deployed by South Korea and international customers including Indonesia, Iraq, and the Philippines. Competition remains stiff. Boeing, in partnership with Sweden’s Saab, is offering the T-7B after beating the KAI-Lockheed Martin team in 2018 for the U.S. Air Force’s advanced trainer program. Italy’s Leonardo is pitching its M-346N, though it lags behind the KAI-Lockheed consortium in export track record and operational experience. KAI shares climbed to a fresh five-year high of 109,200 won on Wednesday. 2025-09-17 13:43:58 -
South Korea's industry minister defends nuclear expansion amid policy rift SEOUL, September 17 (AJP) - The battle over South Korea’s nuclear future flared again Tuesday, as Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan insisted that two new reactors and one small modular reactor must be built, challenging President Lee Jae Myung’s push to emphasize renewable energy. Kim Jung-kwan, minister of trade, industry and energy, told reporters that two new reactors and one small modular reactor (SMR) must be built as planned, despite skepticism from President Lee and other senior officials. “My position is clear,” Kim said. “Even if a public deliberation process is carried out, we must move forward with two new reactors and one SMR.” The projects, part of the government's basic power supply plan, call for adding 2.8 gigawatts of new nuclear capacity and deploying a Korean-designed SMR by 2037–2038. Kim stressed that nuclear power remains essential for keeping electricity prices stable and ensuring reliable supply. His remarks highlight a policy split within the Lee administration. President Lee and Environment Minister Kim Sung-hwan have recently voiced doubts about the feasibility of building new reactors, instead emphasizing renewable energy expansion. At a news conference marking his 100th day in office last week, Lee questioned whether nuclear power could be a realistic solution, noting, “Even if we start building now, it may take more than 10 years to finish — is that really a solution?” The disagreement reflects South Korea’s decades-long debate over nuclear power. The country, which generates roughly one-quarter of its electricity from nuclear energy, has alternated between expansion and phaseout policies depending on the political leadership. Former President Moon Jae-in pledged to reduce reliance on nuclear after the 2011 Fukushima disaster in Japan, citing safety concerns. But his successor, Yoon Suk Yeol, reversed course, reviving stalled projects and promoting exports of Korean reactor technology. Now, with President Lee pledging aggressive climate action and renewable energy growth, the fate of new nuclear projects has again become uncertain. Supporters argue that nuclear power is indispensable for meeting surging electricity demand while cutting carbon emissions. Critics counter that high costs, lengthy construction timelines and safety risks make nuclear an unreliable option compared to renewables. Kim, the industry minister, suggested that time will ultimately favor the nuclear side of the debate. “The power supply plan is not about immediate issues but about preparing for demand after 2035,” he said. “Right now, additional reactors and an SMR may not be urgent, but given future electricity demand and the need for a balanced energy mix, I believe construction will eventually go forward.” 2025-09-17 13:18:00 -
Moonies leader appears for questioning over bribery allegations SEOUL, September 17 (AJP) - Han Hak-ja, leader of the powerful Unification Church, better known as the Moonies, appeared for questioning on Wednesday over allegations involving former first lady Kim Keon Hee. Han, the widow of the church's founder Moon Sun-myung, is suspected of bribing Kim with a luxury bag and jewelry. She is also suspected of colluding with an ex-cult follower in 2022 to give 100 million won (US$72,400) to Kweon Seong-dong, the former leader of the main opposition People Power Party, in return for his help in gaining favors for the church. Han's side has denied her involvement in the alleged bribery, claiming that the follower acted on his own. When asked why she had not complied with earlier summonses, Han merely replied, "I'm not well after surgery." Meanwhile, Kim has been held in a remand prison in southern Seoul since mid-August, while Kweon was also detained earlier in the day after a court issued a warrant for his arrest on bribery charges. 2025-09-17 11:27:12 -
KAIST develops AI to predict dangerous crowd surges more accurately SEOUL, September 17 (AJP) - The Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology (KAIST) has developed an artificial intelligence system that can predict when and where dangerous crowd crushes may occur, raising hopes for preventing disasters such as the Itaewon tragedy that occurred in 2022. The research, announced on September 17, was led by Professor Lee Jae-gil of KAIST's School of Computing. The study also involved contributions from Professor Yoon Soo-sik of Korea University and Professor Song Hwan-joon of KAIST's Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering. Doctoral students Nam Young-eun and Na Ji-hye of KAIST were among the lead authors. The team presented their findings in August at KDD 2025, one of the world’s top conferences in artificial intelligence and data science. Professor Lee's team sought to create an AI that could catch the early signs of such crowd disasters. Existing methods often focus only on one factor, such as how many people are currently in a space or how they are moving between areas. The new model combines both. The researchers introduced a technique called bi-modal learning, which analyzes node data (how many people are in a given location) and edge data (how people are moving between locations) at the same time. To improve accuracy, they added three-dimensional contrastive learning, which allows the AI to capture both spatial relationships and how those relationships shift over time. This approach makes it possible to spot situations that single-factor models might miss. For example, if one alley is not yet overcrowded but nearby areas are steadily sending more people into it, the AI can flag the location as high-risk before it becomes critical. To test their system, the researchers built six real-world datasets. These included subway ridership in Seoul, Busan, and Daegu, traffic flow in New York, and COVID-19 case records from South Korea and New York. Across all tests, their model outperformed 16 leading prediction methods. In some cases, it achieved a maximum of 76.1 percent greater accuracy, measured by mean squared error, a standard benchmark for predictive reliability. "This research shows the importance of developing technology that can have a real social impact," said Professor Lee. "We hope it will contribute to managing large crowds at festivals and events, reducing urban traffic congestion, and even slowing the spread of infectious diseases." The study was presented at the ACM SIGKDD Conference on Knowledge Discovery and Data Mining (KDD 2025). 2025-09-17 11:22:30 -
Large-scale expo in Spain to promote Korean culture and products overseas SEOUL, September 17 (AJP) - Amid the resurgence of the Korean Wave, fueled by the global popularity of K-pop, a large-scale expo will be held in Spain next week to promote Korean culture and products overseas. The expo comes in celebration of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries will run for three days in Madrid from Sept. 28 to 30, featuring participation from various industries including music, gaming, food, cosmetics, and tourism. It is the second of its kind, after the inaugural expo held in Toronto in August last year. Hosted by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korea Creative Content Agency, in cooperation with the Korea Tourism Organization and the Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation, the expo will also provide business consultations for those interested in making inroads into the South Korean market. Various programs including exhibitions, performances, and interactive events are expected to amuse participants and other visitors during the expo. On the opening day, singer-songwriter Hong Isaac, known for several of his hit drama soundtracks, will perform on stage along with other singers including Ben and Cho Yu-ree. SIU, the creator of the country's largest portal Naver's hit webtoon series "Tower of God," will hold an autograph signing session for European fans. Over 60 South Korean companies including 20 cosmetics retailers will participate and seek new business opportunities in Europe. * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-09-17 10:48:33 -
SK On names European sales head SK On, a major player in the global electric vehicle (EV) battery market, has created a new European sales division and appointed Thomas Eller as its head. The appointment of Eller, who has nearly two decades of experience at Continental and a history of working with top-tier automakers like BMW and Mercedes-Benz, signals SK On's intent to strengthen its presence in the critical European market. The company's strategy involves creating a "customized cooperation system" to provide more efficient, localized support to its European clients. This new approach aims to streamline communication and enhance responsiveness. SK On currently operates three battery production plants in Hungary, a key manufacturing hub in Europe. The new division's primary goal is to increase orders to improve the utilization and profitability of these facilities. This move mirrors SK On's earlier strategy in North America, where it appointed Rob Schnell as its regional head in February to strengthen sales capabilities and manage relationships with major clients such as Ford, GM, and Stellantis. The appointment of Eller is part of a broader, company-wide initiative to fortify its global sales network and respond more effectively to local market demands. * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-09-17 10:20:18 -
POSCO chairman leads South Korea-Australia economic cooperation POSCO Group Chairman Jang In-hwa, acting as the South Korean chair for the South Korea-Australia Economic Cooperation Committee, is pushing for expanded cooperation beyond traditional economic ties. This push was the central theme of the 46th joint meeting of the committee, held at FKI Tower in Seoul. The gathering, attended by approximately 200 officials from both nations, including Australia-Korea Business Council chair Martin Ferguson, sought to strengthen ties in industry, innovation, and sustainability. For the first time, AI-based industrial safety and disaster response were highlighted as special topics, reflecting a new direction for the bilateral relationship. In the minerals session, participants highlighted successful joint ventures like POSCO Pilbara Lithium Solution, which processes Australian lithium ore for secondary battery materials. The meeting also showcased the achievements of the "Australia Core Resources Research Center," POSCO's first overseas resource research institute, underscoring the company's commitment to securing vital mineral supply chains. In a move to enhance disaster preparedness, POSCO announced a new social contribution project in collaboration with the National Disaster Relief Association. The initiative will draw on Australia's advanced disaster response systems, particularly those in New South Wales, to help local Korean communities respond more effectively to natural disasters. This initiative is a practical example of the expanded cooperation Chairman Jang advocated for. Chairman Jang underscored the importance of this broader collaboration, stating, "I hope both countries will expand cooperation beyond economic and industrial investments to include regional coexistence, industrial safety, and disaster response, paving the way for a sustainable future." * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-09-17 10:14:34