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  • KakaoMap Launches Stray Kids Concert Map, Expands Cultural Event Services
    KakaoMap Launches Stray Kids Concert Map, Expands Cultural Event Services KakaoMap has partnered with JYP Entertainment to provide concert venue information on its platform. Users can now search for key locations at the concert, such as ticket and merchandise booths, expanding KakaoMap's exploration experience into cultural events.On July 26, Kakao announced that it will offer information about the 'Stray Kids World Tour' concert taking place at the KSPO DOME in Seoul. Attendees can access the locations of major facilities and concert-related information all in one place on KakaoMap.By searching for 'Stray Kids Concert' or the concert name 'Run It Seoul' in the KakaoMap app, users can find the locations of ticket booths, merchandise booths, album pre-sale booths, and storage facilities, along with concert announcements. Additionally, the platform has introduced a feature called 'On-Site Talk' to allow fans attending the Stray Kids concert to share information and communicate in real time.Kakao is also running an Easter egg event titled 'Find SKZ in KakaoMap Road View' until August 20.Recently, Kakao has been enhancing the utility of its map app as a location-based life platform. The company aims to evolve KakaoMap beyond just navigation, providing users with essential information for their daily lives.Last year, Kakao launched an AI-based location recommendation service called 'AI Mate Local,' and this year it has introduced real-time cherry blossom bloom tracking and Han River bus location services.Furthermore, the map app's functionality has expanded from outdoor navigation to indoor mapping. During the Lunar New Year holiday, KakaoMap launched indoor maps for major agricultural and fishery markets in Seoul and Gyeonggi Province, including Garak Market and Gyeongdong Market, and recently introduced indoor mapping services for the National Museum of Korea.Following the dedicated map service for the 2026 Daegu Chicken and Beer Festival, Kakao has collaborated with JYP Entertainment to enhance the concert map, broadening the KakaoMap exploration experience for festivals and events.A Kakao representative stated, 'We plan to continue expanding KakaoMap services to make it easier and more convenient for users to access the information they need in various cultural spaces, including concerts, festivals, and exhibitions.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-26 10:48:00
  • Zelensky Claims Russia Preparing to Deploy 30,000 North Korean Troops
    Zelensky Claims Russia Preparing to Deploy 30,000 North Korean Troops Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has claimed that Russia is preparing to deploy an additional 30,000 North Korean troops to the ongoing war in Ukraine.In a video address posted on X (formerly Twitter) on July 25, Zelensky stated, "Russia is trying to bring in 30,000 North Korean troops," adding that preparations for their accommodation have been underway in the Voronezh region of Russia since June.Voronezh is located in southwestern Russia, bordering Ukraine. However, Zelensky did not specify when the additional troops would be deployed or the exact locations where they would be stationed.Zelensky also alleged that North Korea is preparing to supply Russia with additional launchers for ballistic missiles.He emphasized, "This is not just a threat to Ukraine. Russia is helping North Korea learn how to conduct warfare, improve its weapons, and gain real combat experience."He further stated, "All of this poses a threat to every country in Asia within the range of North Korean missiles," asserting that Ukraine will respond accordingly.North Korea and Russia signed a 'comprehensive strategic partnership treaty' during a summit between North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Pyongyang on June 19, 2024. The treaty stipulates that if one country is subjected to a military invasion and finds itself in a state of war, the other will provide military assistance without delay.Following this, North Korea dispatched troops to Russia's Kursk region in 2024 to support operations aimed at halting the advance of Ukrainian forces into Russian territory. Reuters estimates that North Korea sent approximately 14,000 troops to Kursk that year.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-26 10:48:00
  • Woori Bank Tightens Operations for Second Half of 2026
    Woori Bank Tightens Operations for Second Half of 2026 Jung Jin-wan, CEO of Woori Bank, urged employees to convert the customer base they have built into actual profits to narrow the gap with competing banks.On July 24, Woori Bank held its "2026 Second Half Management Strategy Meeting" at its headquarters in Hoehyeon-dong, Seoul, where it shared key sales strategies and execution directions for the second half of the year. Over 410 employees, including branch managers and above, attended the meeting.Jung emphasized, "With over 12,000 employees holding our stock, we must enhance productivity and performance based on a sense of ownership to increase corporate value. We need to focus our capabilities on developing genuine sales that foster ongoing relationships with customers."He added, "Let’s continue to adapt without wavering and achieve significant results in the second half to drastically reduce the gap with our competitors."During the meeting, Woori Bank outlined three core strategies for the second half: data-driven sales, cross-departmental synergy, and internal controls. The plan aims to accurately understand customers through data and connect this understanding to products, channels, and expertise to expand transactions and profits.To achieve this, the bank will first redesign its sales territories based on administrative districts by combining public and commercial data, and will specify key performance indicator (KPI) targets in line with market conditions. The introduction of AI agents to enhance work speed and infrastructure improvements in preparation for relaxed network separation regulations are also on the agenda.In line with the expanded use of data and artificial intelligence (AI), the bank plans to enhance its internal control system by reviewing the entire information management process. 2026-07-26 10:40:00
  • Im Kwang-hyun Calls for Reform of Long-Term Home Ownership Tax Benefits
    Im Kwang-hyun Calls for Reform of Long-Term Home Ownership Tax Benefits Im Kwang-hyun, head of the National Tax Service, has raised concerns about the concentration of long-term home ownership tax benefits in Seoul and high-value homes, calling for a reform of the system. He argued that while protections for middle-class homeowners should be maintained, the current structure, which allows unlimited deductions for high-value homes with significant capital gains, needs to be normalized.On July 26, Im posted on his social media platform X (formerly Twitter) under the title 'Long-Term Home Ownership Tax Benefit, High-Value Homes, and Regressivity,' stating, "The current long-term home ownership tax benefit is excessively regressive."The long-term home ownership tax benefit applies to homes with a transaction price exceeding 1.2 billion won. Homes priced at 1.2 billion won or less are exempt from capital gains tax if they meet non-taxable conditions, such as being held for more than two years, according to Im.Under the current system, homeowners who have owned and lived in their homes for more than ten years can receive a deduction of up to 80% on taxable capital gains without a separate limit.Im pointed out, "The more expensive the home, and therefore the greater the capital gain, the more deductions are received. This contradicts the basic principle of taxation, where those with higher incomes bear a greater tax burden."According to an analysis of capital gains tax reporting statistics by the National Tax Service for 2024, the total amount of long-term home ownership tax benefits applied to 24,816 homes nationwide was 5.32 trillion won. Of this, approximately 4.5 trillion won, or 90%, was attributed to homes in Seoul.Within Seoul, the benefits were concentrated in the three districts of Gangnam and Yongsan. The tax benefits for these four districts amounted to about 3.5 trillion won, accounting for 78.6% of the total benefits in Seoul. In contrast, areas such as Dobong, Geumcheon, Jungnang, Nowon, Dongdaemun, Gwanak, Eunpyeong, and Guro received almost no tax benefits.The regional concentration of benefits for high-value homes was even more pronounced. Among the top 100 homes receiving the most long-term home ownership tax benefits nationwide, 99 were located in Seoul, with Gangnam accounting for 68 and Seocho for 19.The average tax benefit for homes in Gangnam was 4.1 billion won, while in Seocho, it was 3.3 billion won. The combined tax benefits for these two areas made up 88.3% of the total benefits for the top 100 homes, with one case in Gangnam receiving over 20 billion won in deductions for a single home sale.Im described this situation as "the epitome of regressivity," stating, "The capital gains from rising real estate prices are disproportionately enjoyed by high-value homeowners, with the long-term home ownership tax benefit effectively guaranteeing unearned income."He added, "The system encourages the ownership of a 'single high-value property.' While it is reasonable to protect middle-class homeowners, we must examine whether it is appropriate to apply unlimited long-term home ownership tax benefits to high-value homes."The long-term home ownership tax benefit rate for one-home households was raised to a maximum of 80% in 2009 and has been operating without a separate deduction limit since then. Im stated, "While it is preferable for the tax system to maintain consistency, if unexpected side effects have occurred, it is the government's duty to make fine adjustments. We must normalize tax benefits fairly so that everyone can understand."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-26 10:36:00
  • LG InstaView Refrigerator Surpasses 5 Million Units Sold in 10 Years
    LG InstaView Refrigerator Surpasses 5 Million Units Sold in 10 Years LG Electronics' premium refrigerator, the LG InstaView, has surpassed global sales of 5 million units, achieving this milestone ten years after its initial launch. According to LG Electronics, as of last month, approximately 5.3 million InstaView refrigerators have been sold since their debut in 2016, averaging about one unit sold every minute over the past decade. Regionally, North America accounts for about 30% of total sales, making it the largest market. This trend reflects a preference for large-capacity refrigerators and a lifestyle centered around home parties. Europe follows closely with nearly 20% of sales, driven by a focus on energy efficiency and food storage performance. Recently, demand has also been increasing in emerging markets such as Asia and Latin America. The LG InstaView features a special coated glass door that lights up with a double knock, allowing users to check the contents without opening the door. The glass appears as a mirror under normal conditions but turns transparent when tapped, reducing cold air loss and enhancing insulation while maintaining a sleek design. International media outlets, including Trusted Reviews in the UK and Les Numériques in France, have praised the refrigerator for its convenience and energy efficiency. Over the past decade, the InstaView has won numerous accolades, including awards from the three major design competitions (Red Dot, IDEA, iF) and the CES Innovation Award, demonstrating its technological and design prowess. Kim Jae-il, head of LG Electronics' Kitchen Solutions Division, stated, "The 'knock' feature of the LG InstaView refrigerator has transformed how people use refrigerators. We will continue to enhance customer convenience and enjoyment in their food experiences through AI and innovative cooling and storage technologies."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-26 10:36:00
  • Shaky South Korean Soccer Aims for Asian Games Four-Peat
    Shaky South Korean Soccer Aims for Asian Games Four-Peat In the wake of the 2026 FIFA World Cup disaster, South Korean soccer is in turmoil as Lee Min-sung leads the U-23 national team in a bid to reclaim honor with a fourth consecutive Asian Games title.South Korean soccer is currently reeling from the fallout of the World Cup, where the team finished in a historic low of 34th place. Following this disappointing performance, head coach Hong Myung-bo resigned on June 29, taking responsibility for the team's poor results. The World Cup failure also caused a drop in FIFA rankings, with South Korea falling to 32nd place in the latest rankings released on July 21, marking the first time in nearly four and a half years that the team has been outside the top 30. Administrative chaos is also rampant, with a National Assembly hearing scheduled for July 30 to investigate the Korea Football Association's operations and coaching selection process.Amid this widespread disappointment in South Korean soccer, the pressure is on Lee Min-sung's team as they prepare for the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games in September. Since the 2014 Incheon Games, South Korea has won gold medals at the 2018 Jakarta-Palembang Games and the 2022 Hangzhou Games, and they are now targeting a fourth consecutive title. Winning the gold medal could help shift the heavy atmosphere surrounding South Korean soccer following the World Cup debacle.On July 23, during the tournament draw, Lee's team was placed in Group D alongside Saudi Arabia and Qatar. A total of 15 countries will compete in men's soccer, divided into four groups. While Groups A to C consist of four teams each, Group D is uniquely composed of only three teams. The top two teams from each group will advance to the quarterfinals, where they will compete in single-elimination matches for the championship.Being in a three-team group is advantageous for a short tournament format, as it allows for one less match in the group stage, making it easier to manage stamina for the quarterfinals.However, the competition remains fierce. Although South Korea avoided facing Uzbekistan and Iran, they will still contend with formidable Middle Eastern teams in Saudi Arabia and Qatar.Recent matchups have not favored South Korea. In two recent age-group friendly matches against Saudi Arabia last year, South Korea lost 4-0 and 2-0. Qatar has also built a strong team with significant investment, establishing solid organization from the youth level. Historically, South Korea has a record of 1 win, 5 draws, and 2 losses against Qatar at the U-23 level.To achieve the best results in this short tournament, Coach Lee has assembled a top-tier roster. The final 23-man squad includes players like Yang Min-hyeok (Tottenham Hotspur), Bae Jun-ho (Stoke City), and Kim Ji-soo (Brentford), along with nine players competing in Europe, such as Park Seung-soo (Newcastle United), Lee Hyun-joo (Aroca), Kim Myung-jun (Hank), and Lee Young-jun (Grasshopper). Additionally, 14 players from the K League, including Kang Sang-yoon (Jeonbuk Hyundai), Lee Seung-won (Gangwon FC), and Choi Woo-jin (Jeonbuk), have also been selected.Three wild cards, which do not have the 23-and-under age limit, have been strategically utilized. Players who experienced the North American World Cup, including Yang Hyun-jun (Celtic), Eom Ji-sung (Swansea City), and Lee Gi-hyuk (Gangwon), will play crucial roles in balancing the team's offense and defense.Immediately after the draw, Coach Lee stated, "Both Saudi Arabia and Qatar have proven to be competitive teams on the Asian stage. However, to achieve the desired results in the tournament, we must win against any opponent. We will do our best to prepare for good performance and results."The U-23 team will gather in early September to refine their teamwork before traveling to Japan, where they will face Qatar in their first group match on September 15 and Saudi Arabia in their second match on September 22.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-26 10:32:00
  • Samsung Revamps AI Subscription Club with Up to 50% Device Buyback Guarantee
    Samsung Revamps AI Subscription Club with Up to 50% Device Buyback Guarantee Samsung Electronics is launching a revamped 'New Galaxy AI Subscription Club' ahead of the pre-sale of its latest 'Galaxy Z Fold/Flip 8' series, significantly enhancing purchase and usage benefits.According to Samsung Electronics, the New Galaxy AI Subscription Club guarantees up to 50% of the device's residual value upon return after the subscription period ends, along with various benefits such as discounts on 'Samsung Care Plus' and accessory packages.Notably, the subscription club has expanded the options for subscription periods. In addition to the existing one-year and two-year plans, a new three-year option has been introduced.Subscribers to the three-year plan will receive coverage for damage, as well as the 'Samsung Care Plus Loss/Damage' product, which provides compensation once every 12 months. Free repairs, battery replacements, and on-site repair services are also included. The one- and two-year plans will focus on damage coverage.For customers who purchase a self-supplied model and return the device, the guaranteed residual values are as follows: 50% for the one-year plan, 40% for the two-year plan (50% for the Flip 8), and 25% for the three-year plan.Tailored benefits targeting the Gen Z demographic have also been introduced. Customers who purchase the 'Galaxy Z Flip 8' through a self-supplied model and subscribe to the two-year plan will receive the 'Flip Youth Subscription' benefit, guaranteeing up to 50% residual value upon return after two years. Additionally, a one-month premium plus subscription to the language learning app 'Speak' will be provided.To address security concerns in daily life, financial crime compensation benefits will be offered to all subscribers (customers who register their IMEI). In cases of cyber financial crime such as phishing and smishing, customers can receive compensation of up to 3 million won, and up to 500,000 won for internet transaction and shopping fraud.Monthly subscription fees will vary based on the model and duration. For the Fold 8 Ultra and Fold 8, the fees are 9,900 won per month for the one- and two-year plans and 14,500 won per month for the three-year plan. For the Flip 8, the fees are 8,900 won per month for the one- and two-year plans and 11,500 won per month for the three-year plan.Jung Ho-jin, Vice President of Samsung Electronics Korea, stated, "The New Galaxy AI Subscription Club has been revamped to comprehensively reflect the secure usage needs of foldable phone users, financial security, and the preferences of the Gen Z demographic. We will continue to expand differentiated subscription services tailored to customer lifestyles."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-26 10:28:00
  • So Ji-subs Chief Kim Ends with 23.0% Ratings, Sets 2026 Record
    So Ji-sub's 'Chief Kim' Ends with 23.0% Ratings, Sets 2026 Record SBS's Friday-Saturday drama 'Chief Kim' concluded with its highest-ever ratings. According to Nielsen Korea, the final episode aired the previous day, achieving a nationwide rating of 23.0% and 23.4% in the capital region. The peak rating soared to 27.1%, setting a new record for the series. The drama also recorded an average rating of 7.4% among viewers aged 2049, with a high of 8.42%. 'Chief Kim' maintained the top spot in its time slot across all channels for ten consecutive episodes and set a new record for the highest ratings of any mini-series aired in 2026. In the final episode, characters Chief Kim (played by So Ji-sub), Seong Han-soo (Choi Dae-hoon), and Park Jin-cheol (Yoon Kyung-ho) fought to protect their families. Joo Gang-chan (Joo Sang-wook) kidnapped the children of Seong Han-soo and Park Jin-cheol, luring the three friends into a trap. Chief Kim was willing to sacrifice himself to save the children, which turned out to be a strategic move to defeat Joo Gang-chan's group. The three men joined forces to overpower Joo Gang-chan's crew, exposing corruption and illicit dealings at Joo Hak Construction. After completing their mission, Chief Kim faked his death and returned to his daughter Min-ji (Seo Su-min). The father and daughter reunited in tears at the columbarium and began a new life under different names and identities. Seong Han-soo and Park Jin-cheol returned to their respective lives but showed their unwavering friendship by helping Chief Kim and sharing a meal together. The series concluded with Chief Kim visiting Lee Do-kyu for a job interview at a new company, 'Baekho Labor.' Hong Seong-chang, head of Studio S, expressed gratitude, stating, "Thanks to the viewers' passionate love for the show, we achieved this remarkable success. The performances of So Ji-sub, Choi Dae-hoon, Yoon Kyung-ho, and the entire cast, along with the deep paternal love and thrilling action, resonated with many viewers." The production team also thanked the audience for their support from the beginning to the end of 'Chief Kim,' hoping that the story of fathers who willingly sacrificed their ordinary lives to protect their families would leave a warm comfort and exhilarating energy in the hearts of viewers. 'Chief Kim' is a revenge action drama depicting the struggles of a father, a former special agent, who reveals his identity to protect his family.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-26 10:24:00
  • Tax Expenditure Reform Underway: Transition from Marriage Tax Credit to Subsidies
    Tax Expenditure Reform Underway: Transition from Marriage Tax Credit to Subsidies The South Korean government is expected to replace tax benefits previously granted to newlyweds with direct subsidies to encourage marriage. The housing savings plan, which has been periodically reviewed for potential elimination, is likely to be made a permanent program to ensure housing stability for low-income households. The family business inheritance tax exemption will undergo a comprehensive redesign for the first time in 30 years to prevent circumvention of regulations.According to government sources, the tax reform plan to be announced in early August will focus on 'livelihood taxes' for citizens and vulnerable groups, as well as 'growth taxes' to support economic development.The most significant change will be the transition of the marriage tax credit into a subsidy. Currently, couples who register their marriage can receive a tax credit of up to 1 million won, but those with low incomes who do not pay taxes miss out on this benefit and must wait until year-end tax settlements. The government is also considering converting tax credits for childbirth, adoption, infertility treatments, and medical expenses for children under six into cash support.The housing savings plan, represented by the housing savings income deduction, is expected to be made permanent by eliminating its sunset provision. This program allows heads of households without homes to deduct 40% of their contributions, up to 3 million won annually, to support housing stability for low-income families.For young workers in small businesses, there are currently tax reductions of 90% on income tax for the first five years of employment, and 70% for seniors and people with disabilities for three years. Additional benefits for workers outside the capital region are anticipated. Currently, young startups in non-capital areas receive up to 100% tax reductions on income and corporate taxes for five years, and further measures are expected.The core of the growth tax reform is the domestic production promotion tax system, referred to as the 'Korean version of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).' This initiative will provide tax incentives for domestic production and investment in strategic industries such as semiconductors and secondary batteries, along with the establishment of productive financial ISAs and expanded tax credits for R&D and investment in advanced industries.Tax incentives for startups in new industries such as AI, robotics, and biotechnology will be increased, and advanced safety technologies may be added to the list of new growth and core technologies. Additional tax incentives are also being discussed for companies that invest, hire, or conduct R&D in non-capital regions as part of the '5 Extremes and 3 Specialties' initiative.The family business inheritance tax exemption, introduced in 1997, will be reformed to prevent circumvention by narrowing the scope of eligible industries and land, while strengthening minimum management periods and post-management requirements. Industries that are at risk of being misused as real estate succession tools will be excluded from eligibility, and the evaluation method for inheritance and gift taxes on low PBR listed stocks will also be revised.To prevent intentional 'stock price suppression' by major shareholders, the evaluation method for inheritance and gift taxes on listed stocks will be reformed. A proposal is being discussed to reflect asset and income values in the evaluation of stocks of listed companies with a price-to-book ratio (PBR) below 0.8. The government's stance on the taxation of virtual assets, which has recently raised the need for a fourth extension, is also expected to be clarified during the announcement of the tax reform plan.The government plans to finalize the restructuring of tax expenditures and announce the complete tax reform plan in early August.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-26 10:24:00
  • Hanwha Life Launches Customer Panel to Enhance Insurance Services
    Hanwha Life Launches Customer Panel to Enhance Insurance Services 한화생명이 고객 의견을 상품과 서비스 개선에 직접 반영하기 위한 고객패널 제도를 도입했다. 한화생명은 지난 24일 서울 영등포구 63빌딩 본사에서 고객패널 '고객신뢰 플러스 프론티어' 발대식을 개최했다고 26일 밝혔다. 이번 발대식은 고객과의 소통을 강화하고 소비자 중심 경영을 실천하기 위해 마련됐다. 보험 소비자의 실제 경험과 의견을 서비스 개선 과정에 반영하는 '환류 체계'를 구축하겠다는 취지다. 최근 금융소비자보호에 대한 사회적 관심이 높아지고 감독당국의 소비자 중심 경영 요구가 확대되는 점을 반영했다. 고객신뢰 플러스 프론티어는 20~60대를 대표하는 오프라인 고객 20명과 전 연령층으로 구성된 온라인 고객 300명이 참여한다. 이들은 단순한 의견 수렴을 넘어 서비스 개선 과제 발굴과 솔루션 제안까지 수행하게 된다. 주요 과제로는 △보험 가치 제고를 위한 AI 서비스 △보험금 청구 화면 및 문구 개선 △건강보험 약관 용어 개선 △시니어 고객 대상 치매보험 인식 조사 등이 선정됐다. 고객패널은 향후 심층 간담회와 온라인 설문조사, 과제 수행 프로그램 등을 통해 활동을 이어갈 예정이다. 한화생명은 운영 성과를 정기적으로 점검하고 공유할 계획이다. 한화생명 관계자는 "고객신뢰 플러스 프론티어는 실제 서비스 기획과 의사결정 과정에 고객의 시각을 지속적으로 반영하는 소통 창구"라며 "고객패널의 다양한 의견을 유관 부서와 함께 검토해 서비스 개선에 적극 반영하겠다"고 말했다. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-26 10:20:00