Aju Press - Asia News Hub

Journalist

Latest by

Samsung Unveils Galaxy Z Series, Marking the Era of $3000 Smartphones Samsung Electronics has officially entered the premium smartphone market with the launch of its next-generation Galaxy Z series, introducing devices that exceed the $3000 price point. The top-tier Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra 1TB model is priced at 3,451,800 won, marking the first time a smartphone has surpassed the 3 million won threshold. However, the actual price increase is considered minimal compared to market expectations of up to an 18% hike.At the Galaxy Unpacked 2026 event held in London on July 22, Samsung revealed the pricing for the new Galaxy Z series. For the 16GB memory and 1TB storage models, the prices are as follows: Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra at 3,451,800 won and Galaxy Z Fold8 at 3,152,600 won. The introduction of a smartphone priced at over 3 million won has been officially confirmed. Additionally, for the 12GB memory and 256GB storage models, the prices are: Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra at 2,577,300 won, Galaxy Z Fold8 at 2,278,100 won, and Galaxy Z Flip8 at 1,683,000 won. For the 12GB memory and 512GB storage models, the prices are: Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra at 2,830,300 won, Galaxy Z Fold8 at 2,531,100 won, and Galaxy Z Flip8 at 1,936,000 won.The price increase for the top-tier Fold8 Ultra 1TB model is the most significant, rising approximately 10.4% (32,450 won) compared to the previous model, the Fold7, which saw a price increase in April. However, compared to the price before the increase, the rise is 17.6% (51,810 won). The Fold8 Ultra 512GB and 256GB models have each increased by 198,000 won compared to the previous model (based on the Fold7's April selling price), and the Flip8 has also seen a rise of 198,000 won across all models.This price increase reflects the rising costs of key components, including memory. Recently, prices for DRAM and NAND flash have surged, increasing the cost burden for smartphone manufacturers. Additionally, improvements in titanium materials, display technology, and AI features have made price hikes unavoidable.Industry analysts have noted that the actual price increases are not as steep as initially anticipated. Originally, it was expected that the price would rise by around 300,000 won due to the increase in prices for key components like memory semiconductors and displays, along with the popularity of foldable phones. However, Samsung managed to limit the price increases for most models to around 198,000 won, easing some of the consumer burden. Market research firm Counterpoint Research has projected that the average selling price (ASP) of global foldable phones will rise by approximately 18% this year compared to the previous year.This situation can be attributed to Samsung's economies of scale and cost-cutting efforts. The company has leveraged its supply chain from subsidiaries like Samsung Display and Samsung Electro-Mechanics, and its accumulated production know-how from seven years of foldable phone manufacturing has helped offset some of the cost increases. Furthermore, by combining its Galaxy AI with Google Gemini, Samsung has enhanced its platform competitiveness while minimizing hardware cost burdens.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-22 22:20:00
Samsung Unveils Galaxy Z Series with AI and Display Innovations This year's Galaxy Unpacked event highlighted innovations in artificial intelligence (AI) and display technology. With Apple poised to launch its first foldable iPhone later this year, Samsung aims to leverage its seven years of expertise in foldable technology and AI differentiation to maintain its market competitiveness.Samsung held the 'Galaxy Unpacked 2026' event on July 22 at 2 p.m. local time in London, unveiling its next-generation Galaxy Z series. The lineup includes the content-focused 'Galaxy Z Fold8,' the multitasking and creator-oriented 'Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra,' and the portable and AI-enhanced 'Galaxy Z Flip8.' A much-anticipated wide-format foldable device with a 4:3 aspect ratio was also revealed in teaser ads prior to the event.The focus of this launch was primarily on display improvements. Samsung addressed consumer demands for reduced screen creases, enhanced durability, and increased brightness. The company introduced 'titanium alloy film' and 'flex titanium' materials to minimize screen creases. Additionally, the hinge structure and screen tension were meticulously designed to provide a smoother user experience when opening and closing the device. The main display now boasts a maximum brightness of 3,000 nits, a 15% improvement over the previous Galaxy Fold7, along with anti-reflective technology to ensure clear visibility even in bright outdoor conditions.The enhanced AI experience tailored for foldable devices is another distinguishing feature. Samsung optimized its Galaxy AI in conjunction with Google Gemini intelligence for a foldable screen. The AI can automatically perform tasks across more than 40 apps, including delivery, reservations, shopping, and scheduling, while allowing users to continue other activities on the foldable screen. The 'Now Nudge' feature enhances the AI's role by suggesting the next actions based on user context. For instance, if a user is chatting with a friend about meeting up, the AI may suggest adding the appointment to the calendar or saving the location when searching for a meeting place.However, competition in the foldable phone market is expected to intensify in the latter half of the year. According to global market research firm Counterpoint Research, global shipments of foldable smartphones are projected to increase by 21% compared to last year. With Apple's market entry, Samsung's share is expected to decline from 40% last year to 32% this year, although it is still anticipated to maintain its position as the global leader. Apple is expected to capture a 25% market share in its first year of foldable phone sales, while Huawei is projected to achieve a 24% share.Many analysts believe that Apple's entry will serve as a catalyst for market expansion rather than a threat to Samsung. Yoon Jeong, a researcher at Counterpoint Research, stated, "Apple's market entry will enhance consumer awareness and elevate the standards for the premium foldable market. As AI-based app integration and multitasking become more widespread, the importance of large-screen foldables will continue to grow." She added, "Samsung still holds a distinct competitive advantage in product completeness, global distribution networks, and user experience accumulated over seven years."A Samsung representative emphasized, "Since commercializing the world's first foldable smartphone in 2019, Samsung has continuously refined its products based on consumer feedback. Leveraging our seven years of foldable technology expertise, we will maintain strong leadership in the foldable phone market, recognized as the optimal form factor in the AI era, by prioritizing display innovation and AI technology competitiveness."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-22 22:16:00
Samsung Unveils Galaxy Z Series, Expands Foldable Phone Lineup Samsung Electronics is expanding its foldable phone lineup from two to three models as it aims to capture the premium phone market in the second half of the year. Since pioneering the foldable market in 2019, Samsung plans to maintain its lead against Apple, which is expected to launch its first foldable phone this year, by leveraging advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and display technology.On July 22, during the Galaxy Unpacked 2026 event held at Old Billingsgate in London, Samsung introduced three new models in the Galaxy Z series: the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold8, and Galaxy Z Flip8. The lineup has been segmented based on consumer usage patterns, including content consumption, productivity, and portability.The new products feature improvements in thickness, weight, and camera performance. Built on seven generations of foldable innovation, the latest lineup reflects users' modern lifestyles, achieving the highest quality in foldable devices.The newly introduced wide-format Fold8 sets a new standard for smartphones with its 4:3 aspect ratio. It offers various screen ratios (4:3 landscape, 3:4 portrait, and 10:16 cover screen) to accommodate different content consumption patterns. Weighing just 201 grams and equipped with a 4800mAh battery, it allows users to enjoy a variety of content for extended periods.The Fold8 Ultra, which builds on the previous Fold 7, carries the 'Ultra' designation, signifying Samsung's top-tier product. True to its name, it boasts significantly enhanced camera capabilities, including the first-ever 50-megapixel ultra-wide camera in the Fold series, a 200-megapixel main camera, improved night photography, and high-resolution 8K video recording using next-generation video compression technology (APV). Weighing 215 grams and measuring just 4.1mm thick, it enhances portability while providing a spacious 8-inch main screen optimized for multitasking.Focusing on portability and user expression, the Flip8 is the thinnest and lightest Flip model to date, weighing 180 grams and measuring 6.1mm thick.Noh Tae-moon, President of Samsung Electronics' Device Experience (DX) division, stated, "As AI evolves, mobile devices will better understand users and seamlessly integrate into their daily lives, becoming the closest point of contact. The new Galaxy Z series represents Samsung's most refined foldable products, advancing mobile experiences and offering personalized services to usher in the next era of intelligence."The company also unveiled its AI smart glasses, 'Intelligent Eyewear,' expected to launch later this year. These glasses utilize the Google Android XR platform and Gemini AI to perform tasks such as real-time translation, navigation, and document recording hands-free.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-22 22:16:00
Samsung's foldables share spotlight with AI eyewear at Galaxy Unpacked SEOUL, July 22 (AJP) - Samsung Electronics on Wednesday unveiled three new foldable smartphones and detailed its first AI-powered smart glasses, expanding the Galaxy ecosystem as it seeks to make artificial intelligence a more proactive part of consumers’ daily lives. At its Galaxy Unpacked event in London, the South Korean technology giant introduced the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold8 and Galaxy Z Flip8, marking the first time it has offered three distinct models in its flagship foldable lineup. Samsung also showcased its Intelligent Eyewear, developed with Google and eyewear brands Gentle Monster and Warby Parker, as well as the Galaxy Watch Ultra2 and Watch9. The announcements underline Samsung’s effort to extend Galaxy AI beyond smartphones into devices that can interpret users’ surroundings, health data and daily routines. “As AI evolves, mobile devices will become the closest point of contact with users, understanding them better and blending naturally into their daily lives,” said TM Roh, Samsung Electronics’ chief executive and head of its Device eXperience division. The new foldables run on Android 17 and Samsung’s One UI 9 and combine Galaxy AI with what the company calls Gemini Intelligence, an enhanced version of Google’s AI designed to understand on-screen context and carry out tasks across applications. Samsung said the system can automatically operate more than 40 apps covering food delivery, reservations and shopping. It can also search for restaurants, make bookings, manage schedules and retrieve ticket information through a series of linked actions. The company introduced an upgraded “Now Nudge” feature that anticipates users’ next actions and “Now Brief,” which provides personalized updates based on schedules, news, health data and usage patterns. The Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra sits at the top of the expanded range, featuring an 8-inch main screen, a 200-megapixel primary camera and a 50-megapixel ultra-wide camera. The device weighs 215 grams and measures 4.1 millimeters thick when unfolded, making it the thinnest Fold model Samsung has produced. It carries a 5,000-mAh battery, supports charging of up to 45 watts and uses Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy processor. The standard Fold8 features a 7.6-inch main display, a 4,800-mAh battery and a dual-camera system with 50-megapixel wide and ultra-wide sensors. At 201 grams, it is Samsung’s lightest Fold device to date. Both Fold models use Samsung’s new Flex Titanium structure, which combines a titanium alloy film with a reinforced titanium plate. Samsung said the design improves durability and reduces the visible crease in the folding display. Their displays reach peak brightness of up to 3,000 nits, around 15 percent brighter than the previous generation, according to the company. The Galaxy Z Flip8 weighs 180 grams and is 6.1 millimeters thick when unfolded. It features a 6.9-inch main display, a 4.1-inch cover screen and a 4,300-mAh battery. Samsung has expanded the Flip’s cover display into a more AI-focused interface, allowing users to access applications, customized information and AI functions without opening the device. The Flip8 is powered by Samsung’s Exynos 2600 processor and features a 50-megapixel main camera. New video functions include a camcorder-style grip, touch-based zoom control and enhanced stabilization. Samsung said the Fold8 Ultra will start at 2.577 million won ($1,850) in South Korea for the 256-gigabyte model. The Fold8 will start at 2.278 million won, while the Flip8 will be priced from 1.683 million won. Domestic preorders will run from July 28 through Aug. 3, with global sales beginning in major markets including South Korea, the United States, Britain, India and Brazil on Aug. 7. Alongside the foldables, Samsung provided further details of its Intelligent Eyewear, an Android XR-based device that uses cameras, microphones, speakers and sensors to deliver hands-free AI functions. The glasses can interpret voice, gestures and visual information to provide navigation, translations, messaging and information-recording functions. They can, for example, recognize a foreign-language menu or a conversation and relay a real-time translation through Google’s Gemini AI. The device can also record whiteboards, documents and meetings through its built-in camera and automatically organize the information in the Samsung Notes app on a connected Galaxy phone. Samsung said the glasses can operate for up to nine hours on a single charge, with the charging case providing up to seven additional charges. The company revealed two new designs developed with Gentle Monster and Warby Parker, bringing the total number of Intelligent Eyewear designs shown so far to four. The products are scheduled to go on sale later this year, though Samsung did not disclose pricing or a specific launch date. The move places Samsung more directly in competition with Meta Platforms, whose Ray-Ban smart glasses have helped build early consumer demand for AI-enabled eyewear. Samsung also introduced the Galaxy Watch Ultra2 and Watch9, both powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Wear Elite platform. The Watch Ultra2 features an 800-mAh battery, a display with peak brightness of 5,000 nits and new tracking tools for trail running and diving. It carries 10ATM and IP69K water-resistance ratings and has received EN13319 certification for diving instruments. The Watch9 focuses on continuous health monitoring and adds functions covering vital signs, heart health scores, daily cardiovascular load, physical fitness and hearing protection. The Watch Ultra2 will cost 969,100 won ($655) in South Korea, while the Watch9 will start at 499,000 won ($337) for the 40-mm Bluetooth model. Both will go on sale on Aug. 7, following domestic preorders beginning July 28. 2026-07-22 22:10:55
Samsung Unveils AI Glasses as Telecom Companies Launch Ray-Ban Meta The rise of generative artificial intelligence (AI) is opening a new market for personal devices that follow smartphones. Following Samsung Electronics' unveiling of its AI smart glasses, 'Intelligent Eyewear,' the three major South Korean telecom companies—SK Telecom, KT, and LG Uplus—are also entering the AI glasses market by launching sales of Meta's 'Ray-Ban Meta.'On July 22, Samsung Electronics showcased the key features and design of its AI smart glasses, 'Intelligent Eyewear,' during the Galaxy Unpacked event in London.Samsung's Intelligent Eyewear is equipped with a camera, sensors, microphone, speaker, and Qualcomm Snapdragon AR1 Gen1 chipset. Users can access features such as message notifications, real-time translation, navigation, and information searches through voice and gesture controls. The glasses offer up to nine hours of use on a single charge. The design has been enhanced through collaborations with global eyewear brands like Gentle Monster and Warby Parker.The three major telecom companies in South Korea have also begun selling AI glasses. SK Telecom, KT, and LG Uplus announced that they would start selling the AI glasses 'Ray-Ban Meta,' co-developed by Meta and EssilorLuxottica, from this day forward.Ray-Ban Meta combines voice AI, a camera, and open-ear speakers. Users can activate the device by saying 'Hey Meta,' allowing it to answer questions, search for information, and provide recommendations.Equipped with a 12-megapixel ultra-wide camera, the glasses can capture 3K ultra HD videos and photos. They feature five microphones and open-ear speakers for music listening, phone calls, and voice AI functions. The glasses can last up to eight hours on a single charge, and with a charging case, they can extend usage to 48 hours, while also being water-resistant.In response, each company is launching discount programs linked to their plans and setting up experience stores to expand the AI glasses market. SK Telecom has begun sales through its online store, T Direct Shop, and six T World locations, while KT is prioritizing sales through its online store, KT Direct Shop, with plans to expand to general retailers starting August 3.Various discount offers are available from each company. SK Telecom is providing up to 24,000 won off device installment payments for customers on high-tier plans. KT is offering a 10% discount for its membership customers, with plans starting at around 10,000 won per month when bundled with a dedicated plan, and around 7,000 won per month through the 'Choice Double Device' plan at general retailers. LG Uplus is also offering discounts of up to 80% depending on the plan through its 'Mania Device' program.According to market research firm IDC, shipments of display-less AI smart glasses are expected to increase from 13.6 million units this year to 27.3 million units by 2030, more than doubling. In the first quarter of this year, shipments rose by 167% compared to the same period last year, with Meta holding a 69.2% share of the global market, ranking first.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-22 22:04:00
Kim Yong-beom: Quick Implementation of Leverage Measures, Yellow Envelope Law Can Be Adjusted Later Kim Yong-beom: Quick Implementation of Leverage Measures, Yellow Envelope Law Can Be Adjusted Later Kim Yong-beom, head of the Blue House Policy Office, stated on July 22 that President Yoon Suk-yeol's directive to enhance the single-item leverage exchange-traded fund (ETF) system was not a call for new measures but rather an inquiry about the timing of previously announced actions. He emphasized the need for swift implementation of these significant changes, noting that it is essential to assess their effects before considering any further adjustments. In response to a question during a briefing, Kim said, "The measures we announced previously include substantial changes, so prompt execution is a priority." He added, "We should evaluate the effects and consider necessary adjustments, but discussing additional measures at this point would be premature." Regarding previous comments about aligning the ETF's net asset value with market prices, he suggested that there might be room for flexible interpretation and dialogue between authorities and the industry. Lee Byung-tae: President Yoon Should Apologize for the Baekjae High School Incident Lee Byung-tae, former vice-chairman of the Regulatory Reform Committee, called for President Yoon to apologize for the controversy surrounding the Baekjae High School baseball team's 'Starbucks cheer' incident. In a post on Facebook, Lee stated, "The root cause of the Baekjae High School incident lies with President Yoon. His irresponsible, conspiracy-theory perspective on social media, mocking past unfortunate events during the democratization process, initiated this issue." He described this as an example of the arrogance of a power holder acting as a historical judge, and he conveyed to the President's Office that the President should apologize. Lee added, "I don't know if that message was conveyed, but the instigator has remained silent so far." Previously, President Yoon criticized Starbucks Korea's 'Tank Day' event on social media, expressing anger over what he called the 'inhumane behavior of a low-quality merchant' and asserting that moral, legal, and political responsibilities should follow. Blue House: US Additional Tariffs Will Not Exceed Agreed Rates; Coupang is a Secondary Issue Wi Sung-lak, head of the Blue House National Security Office, stated on July 22 that while there is a possibility of the United States imposing additional tariffs on South Korea under Section 301 of the Trade Act, these tariffs will not exceed the rates previously agreed upon by both countries. During a briefing at the Blue House, Wi responded to questions about the 301 issue, saying, "I believe there could be additional tariffs under Section 301, but we generally understand that even if such measures are taken, they will not exceed the significant rates agreed upon between South Korea and the U.S." The U.S. government has been using Section 301, often referred to as 'Super 301,' to pressure neighboring countries. This law allows for retaliatory tariffs against foreign unfair or discriminatory trade practices that burden U.S. commerce. Countries that fail to effectively block imports of products made with forced labor may face additional tariffs of 10% or 12.5%, with South Korea included among those facing the 12.5% tariff. Wi Sung-lak: Delay in Announcing National Diplomatic Academy Hacking Due to Security Concerns Wi Sung-lak addressed the hacking incident involving the National Diplomatic Academy's educational information system on July 22, explaining that the delay in publicizing the incident was due to urgent security matters that needed to be addressed. During a briefing at the Blue House, he stated, "The reason we could not announce the facts immediately was that there were security issues among the hacked information that required urgent action." He clarified that the delay in announcing the incident, which was made public on July 20, was not an attempt to conceal anything. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs revealed on July 20 that the National Diplomatic Academy's system was hacked in April of the previous year, and it took about ten months to identify the issue and investigate the damage. This has led to criticism regarding the five-month delay in disclosing the personal data breach after the incident was recognized. Foreign Minister Park Hyun: ASEAN is a Reliable Partner; Strengthening Cooperation in AI and Cultural Industries Foreign Minister Park Hyun stated on July 22 that ASEAN is a reliable partner, emphasizing the need to strengthen cooperation in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), cultural industries, and transnational crime response. Speaking at the 29th Korea-ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Manila, Philippines, Park noted, "In the face of global supply chain disruptions, instability in the Middle East, and rapid technological advancements, no country can ensure prosperity and security alone." He highlighted that President Yoon has consistently emphasized the importance of solidarity among reliable partners, stating that ASEAN is precisely such a partner for South Korea. Park outlined the 'Korea-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) Vision' centered on being a contributor to dreams and hopes, a springboard for growth and innovation, and a partner for peace and stability, seeking support from ASEAN member states. 2026-07-22 21:48:00
Kim Yong-beom: Quick Implementation of Leverage Measures, Yellow Envelope Law Can Be Adjusted Later Kim Yong-beom, head of the policy office at Cheong Wa Dae, stated on July 22 that President Lee Jae-myung's directive to enhance the single-item leverage ETF (exchange-traded fund) system was not a call for new measures. Instead, he interpreted it as a request to expedite the implementation of previously announced policies.During a briefing at Cheong Wa Dae, Kim responded to related questions by saying, "The measures announced previously include significant changes, so swift implementation is a priority." He added, "We should assess their effects and consider necessary adjustments, but since the impact has not yet been realized, discussing additional measures would be premature."However, in a prior broadcast interview, he mentioned the need to address the burden of selling to align the discrepancy rate (the difference between the ETF's net asset value and its actual market price). He suggested that there might be room for flexible interpretation of the discrepancy rate and dialogue between authorities and the industry.Regarding President Lee's comments the previous day about the Yellow Envelope Law and concerns over the excessive expansion of labor disputes, Kim dismissed the notion that the president was expressing worry about the law. He clarified, "I don't think the president was concerned about the Yellow Envelope Law. He was suggesting that if clear guidelines are not established, it could lead to debates attributing issues to the law. It would be beneficial for the Ministry of Employment and Labor to clarify its position through guidelines."Kim described the impact of the Yellow Envelope Law as subjective, stating, "Whether it is seen positively or negatively is a matter of personal judgment, but at least there has not been a situation where the primary contractor is overwhelmed by fragmentation of negotiation units." He continued, "After one to two years, once the Yellow Envelope Law is established, both its benefits and areas for improvement will become apparent, and we can evaluate and make adjustments accordingly."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-22 21:12:00
White Powder Suspected to Be Drugs Found at Olympic Park; Police Request Analysis Police have discovered a white powder suspected to be drugs at Olympic Park in Seoul and have requested a detailed analysis from the National Forensic Service.According to Yonhap News Agency, the Songpa Police Station in Seoul reported that a plastic bag containing an unidentified white powder was found recently in a pavilion within Olympic Park.The pavilion is located approximately 300 meters from the handball stadium, where a protest against the Jamsil ballot counting is taking place.Police responded to a report of the white powder, believed to be drugs, at 3:59 PM on July 17.After conducting ten preliminary drug tests at the scene, all results were negative. However, police have requested a thorough examination from the National Forensic Service to confirm the substance's nature.A police official stated, "We are currently waiting for a response from the forensic service," adding that the plastic bag's shape and size differ from typical bags used for drug distribution.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-22 21:08:00
National Security Office Chief: Delay in Announcing National Diplomatic Academy Hack Due to Security Concerns On July 22, National Security Office Chief Wi Sung-lak addressed the hacking incident involving the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' National Diplomatic Academy educational information system, stating, "The reason we could not announce the relevant facts immediately was that there were security issues that needed urgent attention among the hacked information."During a briefing at the Blue House, Wi explained, "It took several months to address the related issues, and we announced it on the 20th. There was absolutely no intention to hide or conceal anything."The Ministry of Foreign Affairs revealed on the 20th that the National Diplomatic Academy's educational information system was hacked in April of last year, and it was only in February of this year that they identified the issue, leading to the system being shut down and an investigation into the damage.This has raised concerns regarding the delay in disclosing the personal information leak, which was made public only this month, five months after the hacking was recognized.Wi acknowledged, "If we had provided a detailed explanation at the early stage of recognizing the hacking, it could have dispelled misunderstandings. I think our communication was insufficient. Since this was a matter with security implications, we had to prioritize our response, which delayed the public announcement of the facts."The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is currently investigating the hacking damage in cooperation with relevant agencies over a period of about five months. The affected system contained information on up to 10,000 individuals, including names, IDs, and email addresses of foreign service officials, diplomats, and trainees.Wi stated, "We will take this incident as a lesson and do our utmost to check our security system and prevent recurrence. We will also create guidelines or firewalls to address this issue."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-22 20:52:00
Korean Presidential Chief of Staff Calls for Universal Support System in AI Era On July 22, Kang Hoon-sik, the Chief of Staff to the President of South Korea, stated that a Korean-style universal support system is necessary to address the challenges of the AI era.During a meeting with senior aides at the Blue House, as reported by Deputy Spokesperson Ahn Gyu-ryeong, Kang noted, "The AI era will present opportunities for economic growth and innovation in administrative services, but it will also bring serious challenges such as job losses and increased polarization."Kang emphasized that South Korea faces significant youth employment instability and a high proportion of workers, including platform laborers, who fall outside existing support systems. He stressed the need for a more comprehensive social safety net.He acknowledged that while the government is actively considering universal support systems for children, youth, artists, farmers, and small business owners, welfare policies must be designed with sustainability as the top priority and should not impose excessive burdens on future generations.Kang called for a comprehensive approach to redesign the existing social safety net and instructed officials to develop a mid- to long-term roadmap that adequately reflects public opinion.He also urged the newly established Youth Future Office, reporting directly to the Chief of Staff, to interpret issues from the youth perspective and to connect future changes with overall national policy.Regarding the recently launched Blue House Youth Fellowship, Kang encouraged young people who can view familiar issues from new perspectives and are willing to connect their experiences to social change to actively participate.Kang pointed out the complexities in the certificate issuance system for military service records and other defense-related documents, which currently operates through a cumbersome civil complaint application process. He noted that this inconvenience could significantly affect young people needing certificates for employment or certification applications and called for prompt improvements to the system.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-22 20:44:00