Latest by
-
Gwangju City Enhances Safety Management for Eco-Friendly Crop Harvests, Allocates 810 Million Won for Residual Pesticide Testing Gwangju City is intensifying field inspections to ensure the safe harvest of eco-friendly agricultural products, focusing on the use of banned substances such as synthetic pesticides and the potential drift of pesticides from adjacent farmlands.The city plans to allocate 810 million won for residual pesticide testing before products are shipped, aiming to identify any risks at the production stage and ensure that only compliant agricultural products reach the market.According to Gwangju City on September 15, the city and local governments are conducting joint field inspections of eco-friendly rice aggregation areas in collaboration with the National Agricultural Products Quality Management Service, coinciding with the peak season for pest control and agricultural product shipments.Key inspection targets include compliance with certification standards regarding the use of banned substances in eco-friendly agriculture and the implementation of preventive measures to avoid unintended contamination from pesticide drift.For areas where joint pest control is conducted, inspectors will verify whether prior notifications were made, the materials used, and the actual pest control processes.Additionally, the city plans to confirm the use of organic agricultural materials and product labeling in the presence of representatives from the farming groups to prevent the use of non-compliant materials during pest control.Management measures will also be strengthened to prevent unintended contamination from pesticides applied on conventional farms adjacent to certified eco-friendly fields. This includes implementing buffer zones and barriers to reduce pesticide drift.The city is also investing in safety inspections at the shipping stage.Gwangju City will support 810 million won for residual pesticide testing before products are distributed, aiming to identify risks early and ensure that only compliant products are shipped.Particularly, farms supplying eco-friendly certified products to school meal providers and those involved in public rice reserve purchases will be prioritized for support, ensuring that safety inspections are conducted smoothly during the peak harvest and shipping period.Kim Young-seok, head of the Eco-Friendly Agriculture Division at Gwangju City, stated, “During the harvest season, pest control and agricultural product shipments occur simultaneously, so we will strengthen on-site safety management and residual pesticide testing.” He added, “We will enhance the management system from production to distribution to improve the safety of eco-friendly agricultural products and consumer trust.”Meanwhile, it is crucial for eco-friendly agricultural products to comply with certification standards not only during production but also through the harvesting and shipping stages. This includes managing the direct use of pesticides and unintended contamination from surrounding conventional farms. Gwangju City plans to strengthen safety management for eco-friendly certified agricultural products by linking field inspections with residual pesticide testing before shipping.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-15 08:48:00 -
LS Electric and KEPCO Collaborate on Grid-Forming Technology Development LS Electric is partnering with Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) to jointly develop 'Grid-Forming' technology aimed at ensuring the stability of distribution systems, which has become increasingly important with the expansion of renewable energy.On September 14, LS Electric announced that it signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for collaboration on distribution-level power electronics technology at its LS Tower in Anyang, Gyeonggi Province.The signing ceremony was attended by key officials from both companies, including Seojang-cheol, Chief Technology Officer of LS Electric, and Kim Dae-han, Director of KEPCO's Power Research Institute.Under this agreement, the two companies will collaborate on research and development and validation of various distribution-level power electronics technologies. Key areas of cooperation include: △ Grid-Forming technology for distribution network support △ Next-generation smart transformers △ Grid-connected microgrid technology with Black Start capabilities.The core project, 'Grid-Forming for Distribution Networks,' differs from traditional grid-following systems, which simply follow the voltage and frequency of existing networks. Instead, it autonomously forms the voltage and frequency of the power grid, helping to mitigate fluctuations in distribution networks and support stable system operations.Grid-Forming technology for distribution is still in the early stages of commercialization worldwide. LS Electric and KEPCO plan to conduct domestic validation through this joint research and pursue collaborative commercialization for global exports.The two companies will also research 'smart transformers' that combine digital communication to monitor and control the power grid in real-time, as well as microgrid technology based on Black Start capabilities to quickly restart the system during large-scale power outages.An LS Electric official stated, "By combining our power equipment and power conversion solutions with KEPCO's research capabilities in distribution systems, we aim to secure distribution network technology optimized for a decentralized energy environment and enhance the export competitiveness of South Korea's power technology in the global market."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-15 08:44:00 -
Gunpo Mayor Han Dae-hee: Transforming Urban Limitations into Carbon Neutrality Opportunities Han Dae-hee, the mayor of Gunpo, praised the city’s recent achievement in receiving a ministerial award for outstanding carbon neutrality practices, stating, "This success has transformed the limitations of a space-constrained city into opportunities for carbon neutrality." On September 10, Mayor Han announced that Gunpo secured second place in the national evaluation of local government carbon neutrality achievements, organized by the Ministry of Climate, Energy, and Environment and conducted by the Korea Environmental Corporation. This recognition included a ministerial award from the ministry. Gunpo's environmental and energy policies are gaining national attention due to the city's significant accomplishments in carbon neutrality. The evaluation assessed 73 cases of carbon neutrality achievements and collaborative efforts submitted by local governments, carbon neutrality support centers, and businesses across the country. In the category of local government achievements, Changwon took first place, followed by Gunpo in second, and Gwangju's Buk-gu in third. Notably, Gunpo was recognized for turning its urban conditions, which lack large-scale development or extensive vacant land, into opportunities for policy innovation. A key example of Mayor Han's carbon neutrality initiatives is the "integrated solar power generation facility on soundproof tunnels," the first of its kind in the nation. This project combines solar power generation facilities with soundproof structures at the Daya and Samsung underpasses, transforming existing urban infrastructure into eco-friendly energy production sites. The facility, with a total capacity of 1,329 kW, is expected to generate approximately 1,495 MWh of green electricity annually and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by about 820 tons. Moreover, Mayor Han actively secured external funding through national and local government grants, special adjustment grants, and private investments, minimizing the city's financial burden while addressing noise and climate energy issues simultaneously. Rather than merely increasing solar facilities, the city has innovatively utilized existing urban infrastructure, such as roads and soundproof facilities, to produce renewable energy, effectively addressing Gunpo's spatial constraints through policy innovation. Mayor Han's achievements in carbon neutrality extend beyond solar power. Initiatives like the smart climate safety network "Gunpo Ice and Hot" to combat extreme heat and cold, along with the "Third Climate Crisis Adaptation Plan" developed with the Citizen Happiness Committee, have also received high praise for their direct connection to citizens' lives. Another notable aspect of Gunpo's carbon neutrality policy is its emphasis on citizen participation in the policy design process, rather than solely focusing on administrative implementation. Gunpo's exemplary case was shared with over 250 representatives from local governments and related organizations at the "2026 Local Government Carbon Neutrality Conference" held recently in Jeju. Thus, this award signifies that Mayor Han has demonstrated the potential to reinterpret existing facilities and link external resources to achieve carbon neutrality, even in urban conditions where large-scale development or extensive vacant land is not feasible. The core of Mayor Han's vision for Gunpo's carbon neutrality is summarized as "not finding nonexistent spaces, but creatively utilizing existing spaces." Transforming soundproof tunnels into power plants, expanding citizen safety networks into climate crisis response systems, and incorporating citizen input into policies have all contributed to the city's second-place achievement. Citizens are also voicing that this award should lead to tangible improvements in living environments rather than remaining a lofty slogan for carbon neutrality. Many have positively evaluated the approach of utilizing existing urban facilities, such as solar power generation from soundproof structures, while reducing budget burdens. One citizen remarked, "Utilizing existing facilities to produce energy and improve the environment seems more fitting for Gunpo's reality than simply creating new ones. I hope policies that allow citizens to directly experience benefits continue to expand." Another citizen noted, "Carbon neutrality is not a distant concept; it is connected to issues like extreme heat and cold that citizens directly experience. I hope there will be more policies that are easy for citizens to understand and participate in going forward." Meanwhile, Mayor Han Dae-hee added, "I will continue to discover policies that expand renewable energy and respond to climate crises, further developing the Gunpo carbon neutrality model that citizens can feel."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-15 08:40:00 -
LS Eco Energy Expands U.S. Solar Power Grid Market with Gaon Cable LS Eco Energy is accelerating its efforts to penetrate the North American distribution market by expanding its collaboration with Gaon Cable's U.S. subsidiary.On September 15, LS Eco Energy announced that it has recently supplied medium-voltage (MV) underground cables to a solar power plant in the United States.This supply was made possible through a contract between Gaon Cable's U.S. subsidiary, LSCUS, and local customers, with products manufactured by LS Eco Energy's Vietnamese production subsidiary, LS-VINA.The cables are used to collect electricity generated within the solar power plants and transmit it to substations. In the U.S., the demand for distribution infrastructure is rapidly increasing alongside investments in AI data centers and renewable energy.A company representative stated, "As demand for MV cables in the U.S. surges, LSCUS is expanding its local production capacity by more than double. We are also leveraging LS-VINA's production capacity to meet the growing demand."Through its partnership with Gaon Cable, LS Eco Energy plans to continue increasing its supply of distribution cables in the new power infrastructure market in the U.S., including solar power plants.Lee Sang-ho, CEO of LS Eco Energy, remarked, "Gaon Cable is enhancing its order response capabilities by linking local production with its subsidiary's production base, while LS Eco Energy is expanding its exports to North America. We will strengthen our market penetration in North America based on the synergy between our subsidiaries."Exports of MV cables from LS-VINA to the U.S. are expected to increase by more than 20% compared to last year. Additionally, building on its achievements in supplying high-voltage cables in Europe and Singapore, the company has recently secured certification for 230kV cables in the U.S. and is pursuing entry into the local high-voltage market.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-15 08:40:00 -
Samsung Electronics Service Becomes First in Industry to Obtain ISMS-P Certification 삼성전자서비스는 전자제품 서비스 업계 최초로 'ISMS-P(정보보호 및 개인정보보호 관리체계)' 인증을 취득했다고 15일 밝혔다. ISMS-P는 과학기술정보통신부, 개인정보보호위원회가 주관하는 국내 최고 권위의 정보보호 및 개인정보보호 통합 인증 제도이다. 기업이 운영중인 보안 관리 체계 및 인증 시스템 전반에 대해 공인 심사 기관이 심사하고 한국인터넷진흥원, 금융보안원이 최종 심의하여 인증을 부여한다. 정보보호 관리체계 수립 및 운영, 시스템 보안 관리, 개인정보 처리 단계별 보호 조치 등 총 101개 항목에 대한 적합성 평가를 모두 통과해야 인증을 획득할 수 있다. 삼성전자서비스는 고객이 안심하고 서비스를 이용할 수 있도록 정보보호 관리 체계를 지속적으로 강화해 왔다. 지난 2021년 홈페이지, 챗봇 등 6개 시스템을 대상으로 ISMS(정보보호관리체계) 인증을 획득한 후 2024년에는 수어 상담, 채용 사이트까지 범위를 확대했으며, 올해는 개인정보보호 영역이 한층 더 강화된 ISMS-P 인증을 획득했다. 또 삼성전자서비스는 모든 임직원을 대상으로 정보보호 교육을 실시하고, 악성 메일 모의 훈련, 서비스센터 보안 점검 등을 상시 진행하고 있다. 삼성전자서비스 관계자는 "ISMS-P 인증 획득은 개인정보 영역까지 인증 범위를 확대한데 의미가 있다"면서 "앞으로도 고객이 삼성전자 제품을 안심하고 사용할 수 있도록 지속 노력하겠다"고 말했다. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-15 08:36:00 -
U.S. Semiconductor Stocks Plunge Amid AI Development Concerns The U.S. stock market declined due to concerns over the pace of artificial intelligence (AI) technology development and rising government bond rates. Notably, shares of AI and semiconductor companies, including Nvidia and Micron, fell sharply, which is expected to weigh on the domestic market as well. Following a significant correction in the domestic market the previous day, the potential for further declines in the KOSPI has been raised. As of 8:21 a.m. on September 15, Samsung Electronics was trading at 248,000 won, down 1,000 won (-0.40%) from the previous trading day. SK Hynix also saw a decrease of 9,000 won (-0.53%), bringing its price to 1,688,000 won. While U.S. semiconductor stocks plummeted, the declines in domestic semiconductor stocks appeared relatively limited. SK Square rose 0.20% to 1,002,000 won, and LG Energy Solution increased by 0.43% to 353,000 won. In contrast, Samsung Electro-Mechanics (-0.75%), Hyundai Motor (-1.08%), Samsung Biologics (-0.56%), KB Financial (-1.15%), Samsung Life (-1.17%), and Hanwha Aerospace (-1.84%) showed weakness. On September 14 (local time), the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell by 0.28%. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite also dropped by 0.52% and 0.64%, respectively. The decline in AI and semiconductor stocks was particularly pronounced. Nvidia fell by 3.36%, while Broadcom (-4.77%), Intel (-5.59%), AMD (-4.40%), and Micron (-5.25%) all experienced significant losses. SK Hynix's American Depositary Receipts (ADRs) plummeted by 7.60%, and the Philadelphia Semiconductor Index dropped by 5.86%. Concerns about slowing the pace of technology development in the AI sector have dampened investor sentiment. Dario Amodei, CEO of Anthropic, warned of the potential misuse of AI and advocated for slowing model development to establish safeguards. Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX, echoed this sentiment. Interest rate pressures have also increased. The yield on the U.S. 10-year Treasury note surpassed 5% during trading, adding to valuation concerns in the stock market. International oil prices have risen as fears of supply disruptions in the Middle East persist, with West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude reaching $101.80 per barrel. Han Ji-young, a researcher at Kiwoom Securities, stated, "The U.S. stock market showed weakness due to the strengthened outlook for a September FOMC rate hike and the 10-year Treasury yield surpassing 5%, along with concerns over the pace of AI development. However, the fact that much of the early losses were recovered indicates that worries about continuous rate hikes by the Federal Reserve are limited." In the domestic market, the potential for further declines in semiconductor stocks is seen as a key variable. However, in the pre-market, the declines for Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix were limited to 0.40% and 0.53%, respectively, suggesting that the shock from the drop in U.S. semiconductor stocks may not fully translate to the domestic market. The easing of price pressures from the previous day's drop, combined with a reduction in losses in the U.S. market, raises the possibility that the KOSPI could recover some of its early losses. One analyst noted, "Despite the pressures from the U.S. 10-year Treasury yield surpassing 5.0% and the drop in U.S. semiconductor stocks, the perception that these factors were already priced into the domestic market and the reduction in losses in the U.S. market suggest that the KOSPI may recover some of the previous day's declines." He added, "This does not mean halting AI development, and there are no signs yet of reduced AI investment or a slowdown in memory demand. Even if volatility increases this week due to the AI pace adjustment issue, the benefits of panic selling are limited." He also suggested that maintaining existing positions or diversifying into sectors with relatively lower beta and defensive characteristics, such as banks and insurance holding companies, could be alternatives.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-15 08:32:00 -
IBK Investment & Securities: HD Hyundai Heavy Industries Expects More Orders, Target Price Set at 840,000 Won IBK Investment & Securities reported that HD Hyundai Heavy Industries has already exceeded its annual order target for the year in the commercial ship and engine sectors, but still has room for additional orders. The firm set a target price of 840,000 won and maintained a 'buy' rating.In a report released on the same day, analyst Jang Seong-ho stated, "With existing orders in place, visibility for performance growth has increased through 2028, and demand for liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) carriers and high-speed engines is beginning to translate into new orders."Jang noted, "Currently, U.S. LPG is being rerouted to Asia via Cape Hope due to disruptions in the energy supply chain caused by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. This has led to a surge in freight rates and a strong demand for very large gas carriers (VLGCs)."He added, "Even if supply chain disruptions are resolved, we expect this cycle to be prolonged. The import of U.S. LPG by Asian countries such as India and China is increasing, and the congestion at the new locks of the Panama Canal is structurally rising, which will likely increase the frequency of VLGCs passing through Cape Hope."Regarding high-speed engines, demand is expected to grow, particularly from U.S. data centers. Jang explained, "The demand for high-speed engines from U.S. data centers is projected to expand in the future, as power supply is considered one of the biggest bottlenecks in data center expansion, and high-speed engines are already a proven power source."He further stated, "U.S. energy infrastructure companies have already chosen high-speed engines for data center power supply, and once a power source is adopted, demand is expected to continue to rise."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-15 08:32:00 -
Samsung and Verizon Demonstrate 6G Core Technology with Real-Time Crowd Detection Samsung Electronics has partnered with Verizon, the largest mobile carrier in the U.S., to validate the core technology of sixth-generation mobile communication (6G), known as Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC), at a large-scale event. This achievement is seen as a significant step toward the commercialization of 6G technology, as it was implemented solely through software without the need to replace existing communication equipment.On September 15, Samsung announced that it successfully conducted the first field demonstration of AI-based ISAC using virtualized network solutions at a global sports event held in Texas in July.ISAC is a key technology for 6G that integrates communication and sensing functions within a single network. It analyzes the reflected information from wireless signals collected through existing communication infrastructure, allowing for the detection of the location, speed, and movement direction of objects or people without the need for separate sensor equipment.This technology can be utilized in areas where it is difficult to install traditional sensing devices, such as cameras, particularly in blind spots or low-light environments, thereby expanding its applications in safety, security, transportation, and industrial settings.During the event, Samsung and Verizon used ISAC to detect crowd movements and density. The information collected was analyzed in real-time by AI and visualized as a heatmap.This capability allows for real-time identification of congested areas at large gatherings, such as sports games or concerts, which can help prevent safety incidents. It also enables event organizers to direct attendees to less crowded facilities or pathways, improving operational efficiency.The demonstration utilized Samsung's latest AI Radio Access Network (AI RAN) solution, known as Network in a Server (NIS). NIS integrates AI, base stations, and core network functions into a single platform using high-performance computing resources like CPUs and GPUs.Notably, NIS allows for the implementation of various network functions through software on a single hardware platform, enabling the application of next-generation technologies like ISAC without the need for new equipment or additional hardware. This means that carriers can reduce the burden of new hardware investments during the transition to 6G while quickly introducing new services.Seol Ji-yoon, Vice President of Product Strategy at Samsung's Network Business Division, stated, "In the midst of fierce global competition to lead network AI, we will leverage our advanced technology to open new horizons in the era of AI and 6G."Charlie Chang, Vice President of Samsung Research's 6G Research Team, added, "By demonstrating ISAC, a core technology of 6G, at a global event, we have accelerated the potential for commercialization. As the U.S. prepares for the expansion of frequency bands and the creation and dissemination of new AI and 6G services, Samsung will consolidate its research capabilities to lead the next-generation technology."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-15 08:28:10 -
Two Years Since the Death of Weathercaster Oh Yoanna: What Has Changed at MBC? Two years have passed since the death of MBC weathercaster Oh Yoanna.According to MBC, the company has designated a week of mourning from September 14 to 20 in honor of Oh Yoanna. A memorial space has been set up on the first floor of the management center at its headquarters in Sangam-dong, Mapo District, Seoul. A memorial service titled 'Oh Yoanna, Still Clear Today' will be held at 6 p.m. today, following a flower offering at the new building.Born in 1996, Oh Yoanna worked as a weathercaster for MBC from 2021 until her death on September 15, 2024, at the age of 28. Her passing was reported in December of that year, and subsequent revelations of her suicide note and messenger conversations raised allegations of workplace harassment by colleagues. Her family has since filed a lawsuit for damages.As the controversy escalated, MBC decided to establish a fact-finding committee on January 31 of last year, launching an investigation with external legal experts in February. Although the investigation concluded in early April, MBC did not disclose the results, citing ongoing civil litigation and concerns about secondary harm. In September of the same year, MBC stated it would release the findings if all parties involved in the civil lawsuit agreed.The Ministry of Employment and Labor conducted a special labor inspection of MBC from February 11 to May 16 last year. The ministry concluded that there were acts of harassment that exceeded appropriate workplace boundaries against the deceased. However, it determined that Oh Yoanna could not be classified as a worker under the Labor Standards Act, meaning the workplace harassment provisions did not apply. Instead, the ministry recommended that MBC improve its unreasonable organizational culture, including harassment.Following the ministry's announcement, MBC took personnel action. On May 20 of last year, the company terminated the contract of one weathercaster identified as a harasser and renewed contracts with three others, stating that it found no grounds to classify the remaining three as perpetrators based on the special labor inspection results.Reforms were also implemented. On the first anniversary of Oh Yoanna's death, MBC announced the abolition of the freelance weathercaster system and plans to hire full-time 'climate experts.' At that time, her family and civic groups protested, citing issues related to the employment of existing weathercasters. A month later, on October 15, MBC and the family signed an agreement, and MBC President Ahn Hyung-jun issued a formal apology to the family. MBC also promised to provide a posthumous employee certificate to Oh Yoanna and establish a memorial space while ensuring prevention of future incidents.The reform plan was implemented this year. The previous freelance weathercasters left MBC when their contracts ended in February, and starting in March, MBC began deploying full-time climate experts hired through public recruitment to the 'News Desk' weather segment.Legal proceedings surrounding the case are still ongoing. The family’s lawsuit for damages is currently in progress. During a hearing held in June, witness examinations took place, and the family has indicated that they are continuing the civil lawsuit through Oh Yoanna's social media accounts.Discussions regarding the employment status of weathercasters are also ongoing. On August 24, the Seoul Regional Labor Relations Commission ruled in favor of a claim for reinstatement filed by former MBC weathercaster Choi Ah-ri, recognizing her as a worker under the Labor Standards Act and deeming MBC's contract termination as wrongful dismissal. While this decision does not directly reassess Oh Yoanna's employment status, it contrasts with the Labor Ministry's earlier determination that did not classify her as a worker. MBC stated it would review the ruling before deciding on its response.As two years have passed since her death, the acts of harassment have been confirmed by government investigations, and MBC has taken action against those involved, implemented reforms, and issued an official apology. However, the family's civil lawsuit and the issue of freelance workers' employment status in the broadcasting industry remain unresolved.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-15 08:24:00 -
Kiwoom Securities Lowers LG Display's Q3 Earnings Outlook, Sees Strong OLED Shipments Kiwoom Securities reported that on September 15, LG Display faces increased short-term earnings pressure due to unfavorable external factors such as falling exchange rates and 'chipflation.' However, the firm anticipates that robust OLED shipments will serve as a foundation for a future rebound in stock prices. The company has resumed coverage with a 'buy' rating and a target price of 11,000 won.Analyst Kwon Min-kyu stated, "LG Display's revenue for the third quarter of this year is expected to be 6.6745 trillion won, and operating profit is projected to be 257.2 billion won, representing declines of 4% and 40%, respectively, compared to the same period last year. Operating profit is expected to fall short of the market consensus of 429.1 billion won."The main reasons for the poor performance include a sharp drop in exchange rates, cost pressures from chipflation, and a decrease in demand for certain products due to rising set prices. As of September 14, the average quarterly exchange rate of the won against the dollar has fallen by 5% compared to the previous quarter and by 14% from its peak. The increase in semiconductor component prices has led set manufacturers to pass on cost burdens to consumer prices, resulting in anticipated declines in demand for IT and wearable products.Nonetheless, OLED shipments are expected to remain strong. Kiwoom Securities forecasts that mobile OLED shipments in the second half of the year will increase by 15% compared to the previous year. The firm expects to benefit from aggressive shipping policies by North American mobile clients, while delays in the market entry of Chinese panel manufacturers will help maintain LG Display's position as a key supplier.Sales of large OLEDs are also expected to rise, with shipments projected to increase by 16% year-on-year, driven by strong sales and demand for OLED monitors. The IT LCD business is reportedly improving profitability through a better mix of high-value products.Kwon noted, "The current stock price has adjusted by 47% from its peak, placing it at a low of 0.7 times the expected book value per share (BPS) for this year. The trigger for a stock price rebound will be strong sales from North American mobile clients and a trend of easing chipflation." He added, "Despite the unfavorable environment, maintaining strong shipment volumes will provide a basis for a rebound when market conditions improve."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-15 08:24:00


