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2027 College Admissions Fair Kicks Off with 150 Universities Participating Despite the sweltering heat, the enthusiasm of students and parents for college admissions was palpable. The '2027 College Admissions Fair' opened on July 23, bringing together 150 major universities to provide tailored admissions strategies for prospective students. Lee Gi-jeong, President of the Korean Council for University Education (KCU), defined college admissions as a crucial starting point for future planning and urged students to choose paths that align with their own aptitudes. The fair is being held at COEX Hall A in Samseong-dong, Seoul, from July 23 to 25, featuring participation from regional public universities and major institutions in the metropolitan area.Given that this is the last admissions cycle under the current system, anxiety levels among students and parents are understandably high. Many attendees were seen waiting in line from early morning, despite the inclement weather, eager to gather information and strategize their applications. During the opening ceremony at 9 a.m., President Lee expressed gratitude to the students, parents, and teachers who attended the fair on such a hot summer day, acknowledging the vibrant atmosphere. Celebrating its 17th year, Lee emphasized that college admissions is not merely about deciding which university to attend but is a vital opportunity to discover one's potential and plan for the future. He encouraged students to prioritize their own dreams and capabilities over external standards. At the fair, dedicated consultation booths were set up for each participating university, where admissions officers and faculty provided one-on-one personalized counseling based on last year's admissions results. Additionally, informational materials regarding each university's admission guidelines were distributed for free. Beyond university booths, various special sections were available to assist students in career planning. A '1:1 Admissions Counseling Center' was operated by the KCU's experienced counseling teachers for pre-registered participants, while a comprehensive admissions information center allowed attendees to search for national university admissions results. Promotional booths for the admissions information portal 'Adiga', University Information, Sports Talent Admissions Portal, and the Korea Health and Medical Information Management Education Evaluation Institute were also set up. President Lee stated, "KCU will continue to provide fair and reliable admissions information to students and parents, striving to alleviate the burdens of the admissions preparation process. After the fair, we will maintain online and phone counseling through the admissions information portal 'Adiga' and the counseling teacher group."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-23 16:52:00 -
Final Ruling on Choi Tae-won and Noh So-young's Divorce Case Approaches As the ruling on the property division lawsuit between Choi Tae-won, chairman of SK Group, and Noh So-young, director of the Art Center Nabi, approaches, international media are focusing on what is being dubbed the 'divorce of the century.'On July 22, the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) highlighted the couple's divorce case in an article titled, 'Billionaire's Wealth Doubles Amid AI Boom, Ex-Wife Seeks Half.' The WSJ described the situation as a 'real-life K-drama of money, love, corruption, and betrayal,' detailing the journey from marriage to separation and the ensuing property division lawsuit.The WSJ noted that the recent surge in Choi's wealth, attributed to the AI boom, has intensified the stakes in the lawsuit. Under Choi's leadership, SK Hynix has become a key memory supplier for Nvidia, significantly increasing the company's value and doubling Choi's estimated net worth to around $5 billion (approximately 7.4 trillion won).The central issue in the property division is determining how much of the increased asset value should be considered. Noh's side argues that Choi's wealth, boosted by the AI boom, should be assessed at its current value to secure a larger share. Conversely, Choi's team contends that Noh did not contribute to SK's recent growth and that the asset division should be based on values prior to the stock price surge.There is also interest in whether the appellate court will maintain Noh's recognized contribution to asset formation at 35%. However, given the Supreme Court's recent decision overturning a lower court's ruling related to former President Roh Tae-woo's slush fund, it is widely believed that the existing contribution percentage may not be upheld.Divorce attorneys in South Korea, unrelated to the case, predict that Noh could receive up to $1 billion (approximately 1.48 trillion won) depending on the court's ruling. If such a substantial property division occurs, it could reduce Choi's stake in SK, making him more vulnerable to pressure from activist investors and other external forces.Previously, the first trial ordered Choi to pay Noh 100 million won in alimony and 6.65 billion won in property division. However, the second trial significantly increased these amounts, recognizing Noh's contributions more broadly, awarding her 2 billion won in alimony and 13.808 billion won in property division.In response, the Supreme Court ruled that the slush fund related to former President Roh was illegal, meaning that even if it had flowed into SK, it could not be recognized as a contribution to Noh's asset formation, leading to the annulment of the property division aspect.The appellate court is set to deliver its judgment on the property division amount and alimony on July 24.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-23 16:48:00
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Ahn Cheol-soo Calls Election Commission a 'Election Manipulation Committee' Ahn Cheol-soo, a member of the People Power Party, criticized the recent raid on the Central Election Commission (CEC) related to allegations of vote statistical manipulation, stating that it is time to seriously consider the commission's existence.In a post on his Facebook page, Ahn remarked, "If the captured circumstances are true, it should be called the 'Election Manipulation Committee' rather than the 'Election Commission.'"He added, "If they not only damaged the public's voting rights by causing a shortage of ballots but also manipulated statistical figures to cover up mistakes, it constitutes a serious crime that undermines the foundations of liberal democracy. The special investigation into the CEC must include a thorough search of the commission's servers."On the same day, a joint investigation team from the police and prosecutors conducted raids on the CEC in Gwacheon, as well as local election offices in Songpa, Gangnam, and Seocho districts in Seoul. The charges listed in the search warrant include forgery of public electronic records and obstruction of official duties.In relation to this, Jang Dong-hyuk, the leader of the People Power Party, also spoke with reporters that morning, stating, "The special investigation law must explicitly allow for an investigation into the CEC's servers, and we must extend the period of the national assembly investigation to thoroughly uncover the truth of this matter."Jang emphasized, "This should not be dismissed as a conspiracy theory; we need to clarify everything through investigation to alleviate the public's suspicions. If we do not recommend and appoint a special investigator that the public can trust, the anger and backlash from the people will engulf all political circles."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-23 16:48:00
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Binggrae Partners with Gyeongbuk Disabled Sports Association to Expand Employment for Athletes with Disabilities Binggrae is expanding employment opportunities for athletes with disabilities in partnership with the Gyeongbuk Disabled Sports Association.Binggrae announced on July 23 that it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Gyeongbuk Disabled Sports Association to promote the employment of athletes with disabilities.The signing ceremony took place that morning at the Gyeongbuk Disabled Sports Association, attended by officials from both organizations.As part of this agreement, Binggrae has hired five athletes from the Gyeongbuk Disabled Sports Association, including players in table tennis, soccer, rugby, lawn bowling, and judo. These athletes will receive regular salaries, allowing them to continue their athletic careers in a more stable environment.Binggrae has been steadily increasing its employment of athletes with disabilities. In June of last year, the company hired seven athletes from the Gimhae Disabled Sports Association, and it plans to hire two more athletes with disabilities in August.A Binggrae official stated, "We are honored to support athletes with disabilities so they can focus on their training in a stable environment through this agreement. We will continue to communicate and contribute to the promotion of employment for athletes with disabilities and the development of disabled sports."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-23 16:48:00
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South Korea Holds Investment Briefings in London and Singapore to Promote Economic Growth The Ministry of Economy and Finance announced on July 23 that it held investment briefings for major overseas investment institutions, urging them to actively expand investments in the South Korean market. The government also plans to establish a consultative body for continuous communication with foreign investors, explaining the roadmap for the internationalization of the won and the direction of foreign exchange market reforms.According to the ministry, Moon Ji-sung, the Director of International Economic Management, hosted investment briefings in London on July 20 and in Singapore on July 22. Attendees included representatives from major global investment firms such as BlackRock, Amundi, Schroders, sovereign wealth funds, and global investment banks like Goldman Sachs, HSBC, and JP Morgan.Moon emphasized, "This year, the real GDP growth rate is expected to reach 3%, the highest level in the past five years, and the nominal GDP is projected to increase by 12.3%, the highest in nearly 30 years. Our growth is supported by our rise to the fifth-largest exporter in the world, record-high current account surpluses, and increased capital investment in semiconductors."He also introduced the key goals of the government's economic growth strategy for the second half of the year, known as the '3-4-5 strategy.' This includes recovering a potential growth rate of 3%, becoming one of the world's top four exporting countries, and achieving a gross national income (GNI) of $50,000 per capita, while promoting macroeconomic stability, supply chain and energy security, growth momentum, regional balanced development, and structural reforms.Moon noted, "The changes in foreign exchange supply and demand, such as the increased spot and futures sales by shipbuilding and semiconductor companies, may not be temporary. The current value of the won is undervalued compared to the fundamentals of the South Korean economy, indicating potential for further appreciation."Regarding geopolitical uncertainties in the Middle East, he stated, "Considering our economy's high dependence on energy imports, we will enhance domestic production and strategic reserves of key items, and strengthen supply chain and energy security through investments in overseas production facilities and long-term purchase contracts."Additionally, Moon held a foreign exchange market briefing for members of the RFI in London and the Global Financial Markets Association's Foreign Exchange Division (GFXD) in Singapore. He detailed the current status of the South Korean government's foreign exchange market reform initiatives, including improvements to the RFI system, and explained the recently announced roadmap for the internationalization of the won, aimed at allowing for more convenient holding, trading, and procurement of the currency abroad.Moon stated, "We will build infrastructure to enable foreign investors to conveniently trade, hold, and settle the won through existing banks located overseas, and we will pursue regulatory improvements to enhance liquidity supply and market participation centered on private financial institutions."The government plans to officially launch a 'Global Core Investor Consultative Body' as a result of this investment briefing, which will serve as a communication channel for the government to directly explain improvements in foreign exchange and capital market systems to foreign investors and to continuously address and resolve issues raised during the investment process.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-23 16:40:00
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Starbucks Resumes Social Contribution Activities After Controversy Companies can lose trust with a single mistake. This is especially true for brands that interact with numerous consumers daily, where social sensitivity and historical awareness are not optional but fundamental. The marketing controversy surrounding Starbucks' 'Tank Day' served as a reminder of this reality. The use of expressions and marketing that evoke painful memories from modern history disappointed many citizens and highlighted the need for companies to carefully consider historical context.In response, Starbucks issued a public apology, conducted historical awareness training, and revised its marketing review system to prevent future incidents. The company also paused its social contribution activities to take time for internal reflection, marking a process of reassessment and renewal.Recently, Starbucks has begun to resume its social contribution activities, starting with training for senior baristas and support for local children's centers to experience history and culture. Social contribution should not be viewed as a one-time event for improving corporate image but as a long-term commitment to grow alongside society. It is not constructive to dismiss future positive actions due to past mistakes.It is worth noting that Starbucks had been consistently engaged in social contributions even before this controversy. Through scholarship programs for descendants of independence activists, the company has supported the families of those who dedicated their lives to the nation. Additionally, it has contributed to cultural heritage preservation through activities aimed at protecting cultural assets. Starbucks has also long been involved in various areas, including job support for youth and vulnerable groups, as well as environmental protection efforts. While these activities do not absolve the company of the Tank Day controversy, a balanced perspective is necessary when evaluating a corporation, considering both its mistakes and its accumulated social contributions.Our society is increasingly demanding stricter corporate social responsibility, which is a positive change. However, there is a difference between holding companies accountable and permanently branding them with a stigma. If a company acknowledges its mistakes and strives for improvement, a mature society should observe whether that change is genuine. No company can be perfect, but what matters is not repeating the same mistakes.Social contribution is the most important link of trust connecting citizens and businesses. If a single failure leads to a withdrawal or abandonment of social contributions, the ultimate loss will not only be borne by the company but also by the socially vulnerable who need assistance. Initiatives like senior education, support for local children, and cultural heritage preservation must continue.Starbucks should view the resumption of its social contributions not merely as a means of restoring its image but as a starting point for a new corporate culture. It must root historical awareness and social sensitivity throughout its management practices and continue its social contributions with greater sincerity. Citizens should also critically assess mistakes but should not ignore efforts to change.Criticism exists to hold entities accountable. However, in a society that denies even the efforts to fulfill responsibilities, no one will seek to change. The Tank Day controversy was an event that deserved criticism and reflection. Yet, it is essential to approach the renewed steps in social contribution with an open mind. As more companies strive to correct their mistakes and fulfill their social responsibilities, our society can mature further. 2026-07-23 16:40:00
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IntelliVix to Implement Real-Time AI Detection System for Highway Emergencies IntelliVix, a safety AI deep tech company, is set to establish a real-time emergency detection and response system for highway tunnels, areas prone to icing, accident-prone zones, and frequently congested sections across the country. On July 23, IntelliVix announced that it has secured a contract for the 'Public AI CCTV Conversion Project,' which is overseen by the National Information Society Agency (NIA) and involves the Korea Expressway Corporation as a participating agency. The project aims to convert existing CCTV systems installed on highways into an intelligent AI CCTV system by utilizing domestic neural processing unit (NPU)-based video analysis servers and visual language model (VLM) servers. The project will cover a total of 4,000 channels, including 3,378 channels in highway tunnels, 422 channels in areas prone to icing, 200 channels in accident-prone zones, and 700 channels in frequently congested areas. The AI safety monitoring system being developed will analyze CCTV footage in real-time to detect emergencies on the road, such as traffic accidents, broken-down or parked vehicles, traffic congestion, wrong-way driving, pedestrian appearances, and falling objects. IntelliVix has applied a dual analysis structure that combines its self-developed video analysis core engine VIX2.0, which excels in rapid detection, with Vision AI and VLM, which understands the context of the footage. In the first phase, Vision AI will analyze CCTV footage to detect movements and anomalies involving vehicles, pedestrians, and falling objects. In the second phase, VLM will re-verify whether the detected footage represents an actual emergency by analyzing the surrounding road environment and the context of the footage. VLM will automatically generate situational reports that can be immediately utilized by monitoring personnel by interpreting various factors, including accident types, locations, vehicle and pedestrian movement directions, lane occupancy, and surrounding traffic flow. However, existing video analysis systems have faced challenges, such as misidentifying normal situations as accidents due to vehicle shadows, lighting changes, weather conditions, and stationary vehicles, or failing to detect actual accidents. IntelliVix explained that the use of VLM for secondary verification has improved these false positive and false negative issues. Previously, IntelliVix established a wildfire trajectory prediction system in Hadong and Sancheong counties using domestic NPUs. This system analyzes wildfire monitoring footage along with weather and terrain information using AI to predict the occurrence and spread of wildfires, supporting disaster response efforts. The highway AI CCTV conversion project represents an expansion of domestically verified NPU-based AI technology from the disaster and safety sector into the transportation field. Choi Eun-soo, CEO of IntelliVix, stated, "This project is significant both technically and industrially as it establishes a large-scale AI safety monitoring system using domestic NPUs without replacing existing CCTV infrastructure. We aim to contribute to creating safe highways where citizens can travel with peace of mind by preventing traffic accidents and secondary incidents through AI technology." 2026-07-23 16:40:00
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Shinhan Financial Group Explores Acquisition of Lotte Insurance 신한금융그룹 is reviewing various merger and acquisition (M&A) opportunities, including Lotte Insurance. During a conference call following the second-quarter earnings announcement, Shinhan Financial's Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jang Jeong-hoon stated, "We are examining not only Lotte Insurance but also various options that could benefit us. Nothing has been finalized yet." Jang noted that M&A involves negotiations with other parties, which may include various stakeholders, and that finding a delicate compromise could take time. He clarified that the potential acquisition would not lead to a reduction in shareholder returns, such as stock buybacks or dividends. "We will proceed with M&A within the principles of value-up 2.0 announced in April," Jang said, adding, "We will certainly maintain a stable common equity tier 1 (CET1) capital ratio. We will only pursue M&A when we are confident that earnings per share (EPS) or return on equity (ROE) can improve within our capacity." He urged stakeholders to remain optimistic, stating, "Please look forward to this with anticipation. If there are any developments, we will communicate with investors through immediate disclosures." Shinhan Financial's interest in acquiring Lotte Insurance primarily stems from a desire to enhance its competitiveness in the non-banking sector. Currently, the most significant gap between KB Financial and Shinhan Financial is in the property and casualty insurance sector. KB Insurance reported a profit of 478.8 billion won in the first half of the year, while Shinhan EZ Insurance posted a net loss of 18.2 billion won. Regarding shareholder returns, Shinhan Financial plans to adjust its approach this year due to market volatility, moving from a semi-annual to a quarterly distribution schedule. On the same day, the company’s board approved a 700 billion won stock buyback and cancellation plan. The decision on additional stock buybacks will be made at the board meeting scheduled for October 27, where the annual performance outlook and shareholder return rate will be comprehensively considered. Jang explained, "With increased volatility in interest rates, exchange rates, and stock prices this year, predicting profits before the half-year mark has been challenging. To manage shareholder returns more precisely, we have divided this into quarterly distributions this time." He added, "When we can stabilize profit volatility, we may revert to a six-month distribution, but if volatility remains high, we will execute our plans in a more precise and flexible manner."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-23 16:36:00
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Chinese shipbuilder delivers world's first solar-powered carrier to Korea SEOUL, July 23 (AJP) - A Chinese shipbuilder has delivered what it says is the world’s first 10,000-car-class vehicle carrier equipped with a solar power system to South Korea, Chinese state media reported Thursday. Guangzhou Shipyard International (GSI) recently held an online signing ceremony with China Shipbuilding Trading Co. to deliver the vessel to Korea Ocean Business Corp. (KOBC), according to Chinese media outlets including the Global Times. The vessel is a liquefied natural gas dual-fuel pure car and truck carrier capable of carrying 10,800 vehicles. It can run on both fuel oil and LNG. Chinese media said it is the first 10,000-car-class vehicle carrier to be equipped with a solar power system. The vessel has a shaft generator and a solar power system with a maximum output of 200 kilowatts, designed to improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions. Based on 5.5 to 7 hours of sunlight per day, the system can generate about 1,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity daily. The ship was jointly designed by GSI and the Shanghai Merchant Ship Design and Research Institute. It measures 230 meters in length and 40 meters in width, with a maximum speed of 19 knots. The vessel is expected to be chartered by Hyundai Glovis and deployed on routes connecting Asia with Southeast Asia, North America and Europe. 2026-07-23 16:33:30 -
LUNATE Discusses New Album 'SNEAKERS' and Its Fresh Energy Returning with a more liberated energy, the group LUNATE is set to make their official comeback with their fourth mini-album, 'Off the Grid,' after a 10-month hiatus. 'Off the Grid' embodies the group's bold ambition to redefine their starting point, breaking free from established norms. Known for their distinct concepts and performances, LUNATE aims to showcase a fresh street vibe and vibrant energy with this album. “During the past 10 months, we traveled on a European tour and engaged in various activities while preparing for the album. My perspective has changed significantly during that time. Previously, I approached the stage with a mindset of presenting a polished performance, but this time, we focused on expressing our individual charms and desires, creating a stage that both performers and viewers can enjoy. I feel a strong attachment to this album because I participated in many aspects of it,” said Jinsu. The choice of a refreshing concept was heavily influenced by fan feedback. The members wanted to create a stage that fosters closer communication with their fans, rather than simply returning to a bright concept. “We haven’t only done chic concepts; we’ve explored various styles. However, our fans expressed a strong desire to see a refreshing concept. That was a significant factor. We thought it was important to show what our fans wanted this time. But we also wanted to differentiate ourselves from our debut by not just presenting a refreshing vibe. So, we aimed to create a stage where we could participate more and communicate with our fans,” said Kael. The free-spirited street mood is also reflected in the choreography. While maintaining a cohesive performance, the members infused their spontaneity and individuality into their expressions and gestures. “When you see street dance or freestyle, there’s a sense of freedom that comes from dancing to the music rather than adhering to a strict format. While we can’t go on stage completely unprepared, we aimed to express freedom within certain guidelines. In the choreography for 'SNEAKERS,' there are moments where the members face each other while dancing, and we didn’t set specific expressions or gestures. We tried to enhance the song’s appeal by changing it slightly each day. The members are quite free-spirited, which aligns well with the direction of this album,” said Junwoo. The title track 'SNEAKERS' captures LUNATE's bright and positive youthful energy as they walk their chosen path. Beginning with a rhythmic slap bass, the song adds enjoyment with drums and whistling sounds, while the explosive chorus delivers both addictiveness and a sense of liberation. Members Takuma, Junwoo, and Ian contributed to the choreography, enhancing the group's chemistry. “We all unanimously liked it. Personally, I wanted a catchy song, and when I heard it, I felt confident that we could take over this summer,” said Kael. “The title 'SNEAKERS' and the focus on the chorus made the concept clear. We thought a lot about how to present this title in a way that would engage the public positively. I had high expectations for this song from the start,” said Ian. “I think this refreshing concept suits us better than the darker concept we had last year, and I’m happy about that. I believe this song will do well for the members,” said Yuma. “The difference in appeal between just listening to the music and watching the dance will be significant. I hope everyone will enjoy both aspects on stage,” Ian added. Many moments on stage emerged naturally during the rehearsal process. Movements that started playfully became part of the choreography, and spontaneous actions became focal points of the song. “During the choreography, there was a moment when we all stopped and turned. We were thinking about fun and impactful choreography for 'SNEAKERS,' and Jinsu jokingly jumped into my arms. It turned out to be fun, and our choreographer liked it, so that moment made it into the final choreography,” said Junwoo. “In the outro, there was a section where we all jumped around, which wasn’t originally part of the choreography, but I thought of a breakdancing step and tried it out. It blended well with the choreography and was added spontaneously,” Kael explained. As LUNATE enters their third year since debut, they have also experienced changes in their lineup. While it has not been an easy time, the members agree that it has strengthened the group. They focused on enhancing their individual skills to ensure fans wouldn’t feel the absence on stage. “My life moment is 'Enjoy Life,' so I’ve had more joyful times than anxious ones. While the member changes are regrettable, when we six talk, we agree to enhance our skills so that our fans don’t notice the empty space on stage. We practiced a lot in dance, singing, and acting, and our skills have improved significantly. This period has actually made us six closer and stronger,” said Junwoo. “We already communicate a lot. Spending time together and practicing as a group allows us to understand each other’s emotions just by looking at each other’s expressions. Those moments of conversation created a stable atmosphere. We prepared for this comeback with a unified opinion, and our bond has strengthened both professionally and personally,” Jinsu added. “The reason we had to become stronger is ultimately for our fans. We didn’t want to show any signs of insecurity to our fans. By thinking of our fans and preparing for them, we became closer and more solid,” Kael said. “While the member changes are unfortunate, health issues are beyond our control. What we can do now is to minimize any worries or burdens for our fans. So, we’ve been working hard to show them our best,” Takuma stated. Individual activities of the members are also expanding the group’s reach. Kael recently completed his first acting project in the popular SBS drama 'Mr. Kim.' He expressed his gratitude for being part of such a significant work. “I think I should first say that it’s hard to believe. Everyone hopes for a big first project, but it’s not easy. Being able to join a major drama is an honor and a deeply moving experience. I’ve heard from many that it’s rare to shoot a first project in such a good and happy environment. When I first went to the set, it was a warm and joyful atmosphere, which surprised me and left me with happy memories,” Kael shared. The members have also shown support for Kael’s acting. Having witnessed his preparation in the practice room, they were pleased to see him naturally embody his character. “Kael’s character was very natural without any awkwardness. I watched him practice in the studio, and while he was initially awkward, he became more natural over time. Seeing the final product, he seemed to fit well into the character and looked great,” said Junwoo. LUNATE has clear goals for this album: to achieve a music show win, chart success, and participate in year-end performances and award ceremonies, thereby introducing their name and music to a broader audience. “Since we’re making a comeback in the second half of the year, our dream is to win a music show, enter the charts, and participate in year-end performances and award ceremonies. Personally, I would be happy to sing a Christmas carol at the year-end stage. I believe carols create a festive atmosphere and bring happiness to people,” Kael said. “Like the title 'SNEAKERS,' I want to collaborate with a shoe brand or store for an advertisement. I think it would be appealing to showcase our song while promoting shoes,” Takuma added. “I would feel happy if our song played while I was eating. Hearing our song in public would mean that people enjoy it, which would be a great feeling,” Junwoo said. “I hope this song does well, allowing us to gain more recognition and for other good songs to be recognized as well. I wish for many songs to chart and for the public to become familiar with our music,” Ian concluded. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-23 16:32:00