Latest by
-
Power demand hits July record, prompting emergency measures SEOUL, July 09 (AJP) - South Korea’s electricity demand surged to its highest level in three years this week, as an unusually early and intense heat wave swept across the country. National power consumption reached 93.4 gigawatts on Monday, surpassing the previous July record of 92.99 GW set in 2022. By Tuesday evening, the load climbed further to 95.7 GW, pushing electricity reserves below the critical 10 percent threshold for the first time this summer, according to data from the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy. The spike came nearly two weeks earlier than the typical peak in summer energy use. In response, the government activated a broad emergency management system. Deputy Industry Minister Lee Ho-hyun on Tuesday visited Daejeon to inspect key infrastructure. The emergency operations include real-time surveillance of critical generation plants and transmission lines to quickly detect and respond to potential disruptions. In tandem with infrastructure monitoring, authorities have intensified support for low-income and at-risk populations. Beginning July 1, the government began distributing enhanced energy vouchers — up to 701,300 won (about $540) — to more than 1.3 million households. Eligible recipients include older adults, people with disabilities, and families with infants. Officials have also completed the early installation of air conditioning units in 18,000 low-income homes and 500 social welfare centers, and have dispatched teams to conduct door-to-door visits to educate recipients on how to effectively use cooling systems without fear of rising bills. Additionally, an “energy cashback” program has been introduced, offering rebates of up to 100 won per kWh for households that reduce electricity use by at least 3 percent compared to their average consumption over the past two years. The incentive aims to curb demand during peak periods while helping households offset higher cooling costs. 2025-07-09 14:28:56 -
Trump claims South Korea pays 'very little' for USFK upkeep SEOUL, July 9 (AJP) - U.S. President Donald Trump once again raised the issue Tuesday that South Korea is paying "very little" for the upkeep of maintaining some 28,500 U.S. troops here, arguing that it should pay for its own defense. "We rebuilt South Korea. We stayed there..... and they pay us very little for the military," Trump said during a cabinet meeting at the White House, while falsely claiming that 45,000 U.S. troops are stationed in South Korea. "South Korea is making a lot of money, and they're very good..... but, you know, they should be paying for their own military," he added. Recalling cost-sharing negotiations with Seoul under the so-called Special Measures Agreement (SMA) during his first term, he also claimed he had demanded that South Korea pay US$10 billion per year for the upkeep of the U.S. Forces Korea (USFK). "I said for South Korea as an example, you know, we give you free military, essentially very little, and I think you should pay us $10 billion a year," he said. But the deal, in fact, did not proceed, which he blamed on a "rigged election," while South Korea later reached an agreement to shoulder $1.03 billion under the former U.S. President Joe Biden administration. The agreement is currently scheduled to take effect from 2026 and remain in place until 2030, with annual adjustments based on consumer price inflation. 2025-07-09 11:22:32 -
From streetwear to skincare, Seoul's Seongsu-dong emerges as Korea's 'Style Capital' Editor's Note: This is the sixth article in our series exploring the evolving landscape of the Korean beauty industry and the products that captivate international visitors. SEOUL, July 08 (AJP) - In the heart of Seongsu-dong, a once-industrial neighborhood now transformed into one of Seoul’s trendiest enclaves, foreign visitors will find a curated showcase of South Korea’s rising fashion and beauty prowess — all under the banner of e-commerce powerhouse Musinsa. With multiple flagship locations spread across the district, Musinsa has reimagined retail as an immersive experience. Anchoring the area is Musinsa Store Seongsu at Daelim Changgo, a minimalist concept shop housed in a preserved 50-year-old warehouse that once stored rice. The location is Musinsa’s third offline venture, following openings in Daegu and Hongdae, and represents the company’s ambitions to be more than just a digital marketplace. “There are quite a few days when lines stretch far outside the stores,” said a Musinsa spokesperson. “During pop-up events, the crowd is sometimes so large it clogs the streets of Seongsu.” For international visitors, the spokesperson offered a tip: plan around weekday mornings to avoid the rush. The Daelim Changgo store is more than a retail space — it is a stage for emerging Korean labels like Stand Oil, a homegrown bag brand that has developed a cult following. More than half the visitors to its Seongsu flagship are foreign, many drawn by its now-ubiquitous Oblong and Butter bag lines, both of which have become everyday sights on Seoul’s subways. With official online shops in Japan and Taiwan and sellout performances at pop-ups in Tokyo and Osaka, Stand Oil encapsulates the exportable appeal of Korean fashion — practical, stylish, and distinctively local. Another cornerstone of Seongsu’s streetwear identity is thisisneverthat, a pioneer of Korea’s first-generation streetwear movement. Founded in 2010 by Inwook Park, Nadan Cho, and Jonkyu Choi, the brand now operates seven stores across Seoul and boasts international flagships in Harajuku, Osaka, and Shanghai. Its recent Seongsu outpost, which also houses affiliated label Khakis, fuses utilitarian military aesthetics with 1990s sportswear — a look that resonates with younger audiences both in Korea and abroad. Seongsu also offers a glimpse into Korea’s growing influence in beauty. Oddtype, a cosmetics label known for its experimental lip products, challenges the boundaries of conventional makeup with thick-brush applicators and highly pigmented tints. “Oddtype tints coat particularly well with a glossy finish,” said Yeji Jung, a professional makeup artist. “They create volume and reflect light beautifully.” At Musinsa’s Daelim Changgo store, curious tourists can test the products themselves — a hands-on introduction to the next wave of Korean beauty innovation. Footwear label Rockfish Weatherwear, originally founded in Cornwall in 2004, has been reimagined for Korean tastes. Known for seasonal staples like Mary Jane flats and platform rain boots, the brand gained celebrity cachet through appearances on K-pop idols including NewJeans and IVE’s Wonyoung. Now, Rockfish is more than a footwear label — it is a lifestyle brand, merging British heritage with Korean climate-conscious design. For those seeking sophistication over streetwear, Matin Kim offers minimalist, professional fashion with international reach. Founded with a focus on refined daily wear for modern women, the label recently opened its first Japanese location in Tokyo’s Shibuya district and is aiming for 15 stores in Japan by 2030. A recent Osaka pop-up drew 9,000 visitors in a week, selling out its signature Ribbon Round Bags and Coated Jumpers. Matin Kim’s growth is backed by a five-year partnership with Musinsa, underlining the strategic importance of Japanese expansion for Korea’s fashion brands. Together, these labels — each with distinct aesthetics and values — form the core of Seongsu’s transformation from a neighborhood of shoe factories into a beacon of cultural commerce. Adjacent to the bustling Seongsu Cafe Street, Musinsa’s stores cater primarily to twenty-somethings drawn to neutral tones and accessible pricing. But the appeal stretches further: the compact district offers a walkable introduction to the textures of Korean lifestyle, blending coffee shops, fashion flagships, and cultural landmarks. In one visit to Seongsu, foreign visitors can experience the full spectrum of Korean fashion and beauty — from cutting-edge lip tints to globally recognized bags — within blocks. More than a shopping trip, the Musinsa-led development offers insight into Korea’s evolving creative industries, which are no longer content to imitate global trends but are instead setting them. For travelers seeking to understand the intersection of culture, commerce, and style in South Korea, Seongsu-dong is a compelling place to start. 2025-07-09 10:28:24 -
TRAVEL: Korea's coastal 'fan trail,' where land meets sea GANGNEUNG, July 09 (AJP) - Along South Korea's rugged East Coast, a unique pedestrian path known as the Badabuchae-gil Trail offers a captivating journey where ancient geology meets stunning ocean vistas. Stretching from Jeongdongjin to Simgok Port in Gangneung, this coastal walk is distinguished as the nation's sole trail built along a marine terrace, a testament to millions of years of geological transformation. The coastal terrace at Jeongdongjin, a prominent feature of the path, began its formation some two million years ago. A monumental uplift of the Earth's crust caused the sea level to recede an astonishing 80 kilometers (about 50 miles), revealing a submerged landscape that gradually became the landform seen today. The trail’s evocative name, Badabuchae-gil, which translates to "Sea Fan Trail," is inspired by the distinct shape of the land here, fanning out toward the vast expanse of the ocean. The trail itself spans approximately three kilometers (about 1.8 miles) one way, connecting the small harbors of Jeongdong and Simgok. For those seeking a longer excursion, a round trip covers roughly six kilometers. Travelers from Seoul aiming to experience the Badabuchae-gil Trail can embark on a KTX high-speed train to Gangneung Station. From there, a convenient transfer to a Nuriro train provides a swift 15-minute ride directly to Jeongdongjin Station. During the summer weekends, the trail often opens early, allowing visitors to begin their exploration as early as 8 a.m. It is important to note that access to the Badabuchae-gil Trail is managed for safety. Before planning a visit, especially during periods of inclement weather, prospective hikers should confirm the trail's opening with a local tourist information center, as strong waves or winds can lead to closures. 2025-07-09 10:07:42 -
KAIST president urges action for South Korea to join AI's global top three SEOUL, July 08 (AJP) - KAIST President Lee Kwang-hyung on Monday called for South Korea to take bold steps to become one of the world's three leading artificial intelligence powers, stressing the urgency of building a fully independent AI ecosystem. Speaking at a national science and technology policy forum held in Seoul on Monday, Lee laid out a wide-ranging strategy that ties AI development to national infrastructure, education, semiconductors, and global alliances. "We are one of only four countries in the world with our own internet portal," Lee said. "We lead in semiconductors. That means we have the groundwork to become one of the world’s top three AI powers. But we have to move, now." Lee said AI should be treated not just as a tool but as a structural backbone of the next era. He warned of the risks of relying on foreign platforms, especially in sensitive areas like national defense and public education. "If a child asks an AI whether Dokdo is Korean territory, and the answer depends on who is asking, that's not just a problem of misinformation. That's a national vulnerability," he said. He emphasized that South Korea must build its own base models using domestic data and languages. At the same time, it must align development in AI hardware such as semiconductors. "AI and semiconductors must now be seen as one problem," he said. "It’s not just about building chips faster or smaller. It’s about understanding what kinds of thinking we want machines to do." Lee also criticized the current heavy reliance on data centers, calling it unsustainable. He predicted a shift toward personal AI systems running on mobile devices. "Right now, everyone is rushing to build massive data centers. But soon, people will want AI that lives in their own phones, in their own hands," he said. He noted South Korea’s unique position, with domestic tech platforms like Naver, Kakao, and Coupang, which allow the country to build a distinct digital ecosystem. "Countries like Germany, France, and Japan all rely on Google. But we have our own," he said. Looking at the geopolitical picture, Lee suggested South Korea could partner with Southeast Asian and Arab countries to form a third major force in the global AI race. The United States and China currently dominate. "If we join forces with the Arab world and ASEAN, we can shape our own rules and markets. The technology is here, and the capital is there," he said. At KAIST, Lee said the school is moving quickly to respond. "We’ve launched a new AI mathematics department and are expanding AI education across the board," he said. He pointed to a program that pairs graduate students with professors to help transition into AI-led research. He also spoke about the potential of AI to address structural problems in South Korea’s economy, including low productivity and a shrinking workforce. "AI can double efficiency, which is like cutting labor costs in half," Lee said. "If we integrate AI into manufacturing and infrastructure, it will not only boost productivity but help offset the effects of population decline." On the concern that AI could increase unemployment, Lee said the focus should be on transformation. "If we embrace AI in the right way, it will create more jobs, not fewer," he said. Lee urged closer collaboration between public research institutes and universities. He said both sectors must move faster. "We have to get on this wave now," he said. 2025-07-08 18:33:06 -
Teaser video for BLACKPINK's new single builds excitement ahead of release this week SEOUL, July 8 (AJP) - K-pop girl group BLACKPINK unveiled a teaser video for their upcoming single on Tuesday, just days ahead of its release later this week. The music video for "Jump," which is set for release on Friday, was created by multiple Grammy-winning American director Dave Meyers, according to their agency YG Entertainment. The quartet already showcased the song during their two-day concert in Goyang, Gyeonggi Province last weekend, where the four members reunited for the first time in nearly two years after their respective solo careers, receiving enthusiastic cheers from some 80,000 fans who gathered amid sweltering temperatures. With the start of their concerts, they will embark on a world tour, visiting around 16 cities around the world and promoting their new catchy song with addictive rhythms, which would help beat the summer heat. 2025-07-08 17:29:20 -
Seoul sees hottest early July temperature on record SEOUL, July 8 (AJP) - The temperature in Seoul soared to 37.7 degrees Celsius on Tuesday afternoon, the highest ever recorded for early July in the capital, according to the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA). The record high temperature comes as an early heat wave continues to persist, breaking the previous record of 36.8 degrees set in 1939. Other parts of the country also sweltered through record-high temperatures, with Busan at 34.5 degrees, Inchon at 35.6 degrees, and Daejeon at 36.3 degrees. The nationwide average temperature in the first week of July stood at 28.1 degrees, the highest for this time of year since 1973. The heat wave is expected to linger until mid-July, with some rain later this week in the capital region and mountainous Gangwon Province likely to bring some brief lull. 2025-07-08 17:20:48 -
HD Hyundai Infracore secures deal to supply engines for K2 battle tanks SEOUL, July 08 (AJP) - HD Hyundai Infracore has signed a 92.3 billion won (approximately $66.5 million) contract with South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration to supply engines for the K2 main battle tank. The deal covers phased deliveries of DV27K engines through 2028. The DV27K is a domestically developed 1,500-horsepower powerplant capable of propelling the 56-ton K2 tank at speeds of up to 70 kilometers per hour. It features a high-efficiency combustion system that compresses and recirculates exhaust gases, enhancing both fuel efficiency and engine performance. HD Hyundai Infracore emphasized the DV27K’s structural design, which reduces vibration and ensures stable power delivery under battlefield conditions — traits essential for the next generation of South Korean armored forces. The company has been the exclusive supplier of engines for the K2 since 2019, following a decade-long development program that led to full localization of the tank’s powertrain in 2014. The deal comes amid growing international interest in South Korea’s next-generation armored platforms. On July 2, Poland’s Ministry of National Defence announced it had concluded negotiations with Hyundai Rotem — a separate Hyundai affiliate and manufacturer of the K2 tank — for the second phase of a multibillion-dollar tank procurement deal. The agreement is expected to include additional K2 units. 2025-07-08 16:25:07 -
South Korea's economy stalls despite stimulus, KDI warns SEOUL, July 8 (AJP) - South Korea’s economy continues to lose steam despite the rollout of a supplementary budget earlier this year, the state-run Korea Development Institute said in its latest monthly report, highlighting persistent weakness in the construction sector and mounting external pressures. In its July economic trends report released Tuesday, the institute offered a downbeat assessment of the economy’s trajectory, stating that growth indicators remained “at a similarly subdued level as in the previous month.” “The Korean economy remains at a similarly subdued level as in the previous month, due to continued weakness in the construction sector and worsening external conditions,” the report said. The KDI’s gloomy appraisal marks the third consecutive month it has flagged a slowdown, underscoring concerns that May’s supplementary budget — which prioritized disaster recovery efforts — has failed to generate a significant rebound. The warning comes at a fraught moment for Asia’s fourth-largest economy. With exports under mounting strain, U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened to impose a 25 percent tariff on all South Korean goods starting Aug. 1 — a move that would strike at the heart of the nation’s trade-driven growth model. At home, the government is preparing a second supplementary budget, this time centered on direct stimulus measures, including unprecedented “cash-like” coupon distributions to households. While the KDI acknowledged continued strength in semiconductor exports — a bright spot amid otherwise softening manufacturing activity — it noted that overall production momentum had slowed. In particular, auto exports, already under pressure from U.S. tariff threats, have declined for a second straight month. Manufacturing output fell 3.0 percent month-over-month in May, with automotive production slipping 2.0 percent. Construction, which has been a persistent drag, showed little sign of recovery. Despite the weak indicators, the report pointed to a rebound in consumer sentiment as a potential source of near-term support. The consumer sentiment index jumped to 108.7 in June, up sharply from 101.8 in May, suggesting a possible turnaround in domestic demand as the government readies further stimulus. The KDI expressed cautious optimism that the second supplementary budget — unlike the first, which was narrowly targeted — may help stabilize momentum in the months ahead. Still, analysts warn that without a resolution to external risks, including the trade tensions with the Trump administration, any domestic recovery may prove fragile. 2025-07-08 15:14:00 -
Kim Jong-un visits mausoleum on his grandfather's death anniversary SEOUL, July 8 (AJP) - North Korean leader Kim Jong-un visited the mausoleum of his grandfather and regime founder Kim Il-sung to mark the 31st anniversary of his death, state media reported on Tuesday. Kim junior visited the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun in Pyongyang around midnight, accompanied by senior party officials, according to the country's state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). He "paid high tribute to the statues of the great leaders" and made "a deep bow of best wishes for immortality to the great leaders," KCNA said. He has made customary visits almost every year to the mausoleum, where the embalmed bodies of his late father and grandfather lie in state. But unlike last year's large-scale commemorative ceremonies, this year's were marked by low-key events, with no mention of mass gatherings or other festivities. 2025-07-08 15:05:04