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  • Increased Likelihood of Fed Rate Hike Raises Attention on Bank of Koreas Next Move
    Increased Likelihood of Fed Rate Hike Raises Attention on Bank of Korea's Next Move The U.S. Federal Reserve's increasing likelihood of raising interest rates this week has drawn attention to the timing of potential additional rate hikes by the Bank of Korea. With inflationary pressures in the U.S. stronger than expected and international oil prices surpassing $100 per barrel, the Bank of Korea may also heighten its inflation vigilance. However, prevailing views suggest that the likelihood of the Bank of Korea implementing three consecutive rate hikes next month is low, with November being a more probable timeframe for any additional increases.According to the International Financial Center, the Fed will hold a Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting on September 15-16 to decide on interest rates. Market analysts are considering the stronger-than-expected U.S. Producer Price Index (PPI) and Core Consumer Price Index (CPI) from August, leading to an increased probability of a 0.25 percentage point rate hike by the Fed.The CME FedWatch tool indicates that the market's expectation for a September rate hike by the Fed has risen to 86.7%, nearly 30 percentage points higher than the previous week. The International Financial Center noted in a report that “experts assess the likelihood of a rate hike as high, considering the August PPI and Core CPI results,” adding that past comments from Fed Chair Kevin Warsh, who has shown a somewhat hawkish stance, support this outlook.In addition to the Fed's monetary policy, fluctuations in international oil prices complicate the Bank of Korea's calculations. Recently, international oil prices have exceeded $100 per barrel for the first time in about two months since July. If the upward trend in oil prices continues, it could exert upward pressure on domestic consumer prices through energy costs. The Bank of Korea has projected that inflation will remain above target levels for an extended period due to accumulated cost pressures and increased demand-side pressures, and the recent rise in international oil prices further complicates this outlook.The Bank of Korea raised its benchmark interest rate by 0.25 percentage points in both July and August, bringing it to 3.00%. Recently, Deputy Governor Park Jong-woo assessed that the current benchmark rate is at the upper end of the previously estimated neutral rate range, but he noted, “It is difficult to evaluate based on the existing range as we are currently reassessing the neutral rate.” If the neutral rate is revised upward, the current benchmark rate may not be considered sufficiently tight, increasing the likelihood of further rate hikes.There are two remaining monetary policy meetings this year, scheduled for October 22 and November 12. The market anticipates that the Bank of Korea will assess the effects of the recent two rate hikes and the trends in inflation and growth before potentially raising rates again in November. Choi Je-min, a researcher at Hyundai Motor Securities, stated, “Considering growth, the reassessment of the neutral rate, the recent surge in oil prices, and the risks of prolonged conflict, we are raising our forecast for the final benchmark rate in this rate hike cycle from 3.25% to 3.50%,” adding that “the benchmark rate is expected to reach 3.25% by the end of the year through a 0.25 percentage point increase in November.”He further noted, “In 2027, even if growth and consumer price inflation slow, core inflation is expected to remain around 2.5%, and the upward reassessment of the neutral rate will likely lead to one more rate hike, bringing the final rate to 3.50%. This 3.50% is not a new neutral rate but a path to raise the benchmark rate into a tighter range above the neutral rate to control current high growth, inflation pressures, and financial stability risks.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-15 07:28:00
  • Warning on Trading Suspensions: Stocks Surge Nearly 200% Despite Delisting
    Warning on Trading Suspensions: Stocks Surge Nearly 200% Despite Delisting ◆아주경제 주요뉴스▷상폐확정인데 주가 200% 가까이↑…'폭탄 돌리기' 조심하세요-This year, among 30 stocks that faced delisting decisions and entered trading suspension, 10 (33.3%) experienced daily increases of over 30%, indicating extreme volatility.-Coiz saw a 35% drop on its first day of trading suspension, followed by a 140% surge just nine days later, although no clear reasons for the spike have been identified.-Trading suspensions allow for price fluctuations without limits, leading to significant price swings even with low trading volumes; stocks like Probe It and Well Biotech also surged over 100%.-The rapidly rising stocks share a common trait of having low major shareholder stakes or no major shareholders, resulting in a high proportion of small shareholders and raising concerns about speculative buying in a 'last bomb toss.'-Experts emphasize the need for enhanced preemptive information on delisting reasons, financial conditions, and recovery potential, as well as improved market monitoring and protections for small shareholders. ◆주요 리포트▷하나證 "KB금융, 3분기도 역대 최대 분기 순익 경신 전망…목표가↑"-Hana Securities forecasts that KB Financial's third-quarter net profit will set a new record, raising its target price to 235,000 won.-The third-quarter net interest margin is expected to decrease by 2 basis points to 1.72%, but a 1.7% growth in won-denominated loans is anticipated to offset this, with net interest income projected to increase by over 6% compared to the previous quarter.-Net commission income is expected to rise to 1.45 trillion won, while operating expenses and loan loss provisions are anticipated to remain stable.-If the approximately 110 billion won from the Hong Kong ELS penalty reversal is included, the third-quarter net profit is expected to break records; without this reversal, it is estimated to be around 2 trillion won. ◆장 마감 후(14일) 주요공시▷ 멕아이씨에스, 9억900만원 유상증자▷ 포스코인터내셔널 "미국 자회사 주식 5329억원 추가취득"▷ 코나아이, 주당 0.5주 무상증자 ◆펀드 동향(11일 기준, ETF 제외)국내주식형 -214억원해외주식형 -58억원 ◆오늘(화) 주요일정중국-8월소매판매, 8월산업생산유럽-9월ZEW 경기기대지수* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-15 07:04:00
  • The Impact of Weather Disasters on Agriculture Extends Beyond Harvest Season
    The Impact of Weather Disasters on Agriculture Extends Beyond Harvest Season “Will the seeds sprout properly this year?”This concern was not unfounded for farmers standing before their seedbeds this spring. A joint survey by the National Seed Resources and the Rural Development Administration found that government-supplied seeds had an average germination rate of over 85%, which is generally good. However, some varieties and farmer-saved seeds sprouted one or two days later than usual, and their germination rates were lower. For farmers, the timing of germination is crucial for the start of the farming season.We often think that farming begins in the spring fields. However, this spring's slow germination is a problem that started last fall.The harvest season was particularly challenging due to high temperatures and frequent rainfall. Prolonged monsoon rains caused rice plants to fall over before harvest, and the damage from premature sprouting spread. The area affected by the rice blast disease increased to 36,000 hectares, more than double the previous year. This summer, temperatures in Yangsan, South Gyeongsang Province, exceeded 42 degrees Celsius, marking the highest temperature recorded in South Korea. Such alternating heavy rains and heat have become new conditions that agriculture must contend with.The bigger issue is that the bill for weather disasters does not end with reduced harvests for the year. Seeds remember the weather of the previous season. High temperatures and frequent rainfall during the ripening period hinder the proper maturation of seeds, leading to delayed germination and reduced vigor in the following spring. Abnormal weather in one year can disrupt the starting line for the next year's farming. The most silent yet lasting impact of climate change is etched into the seeds.Research from the National Institute of Crop Science shows that rice seeds affected by premature sprouting have lower germination rates and vigor. This issue is not limited to rice. Wheat has also seen increased damage from premature sprouting due to high temperatures and frequent rain during the harvest season. The same applies to soybeans and seed potatoes.In particular, crops that rely heavily on self-saved seeds due to insufficient government-supplied seeds are more likely to experience a decline in seed quality that affects the following year's farming. The impact of the climate crisis extends beyond the crops growing in the fields to the seeds waiting for the next season. It is now essential to consider not only the harvest yield but also the 'strength to start the next farming season.'Our research has focused on developing better varieties and stable cultivation techniques. These efforts have been necessary and have yielded clear results. However, in an era where the climate crisis has become commonplace, the scope of research must expand from 'after planting' to 'before planting.' No matter how excellent a variety is, if the seeds are not healthy, they will struggle to realize their potential.We must now move beyond creating good varieties to ensuring the stable acquisition of healthy seeds that can fully realize their potential. The National Institute of Crop Science aims to address this as part of a research roadmap.First, we need to find answers in native genetic resources to utilize them as assets for future breeding. Traditional varieties and wild relatives that have withstood heat waves and monsoons are reservoirs of resistance. It is crucial to identify disaster-resistant traits such as heat adaptability during the ripening period, water germination resistance, and seed vigor from genetic resources of rice, wheat, barley, soybeans, and potatoes, and to connect this research to the development of new varieties using genomic analysis and digital breeding technology. Accumulating related achievements as intellectual property will also lay the groundwork for future breeding competitiveness.Second, we must strengthen the links that connect these useful genes to variety and seed production technologies, ensuring they reach the field. It is necessary to apply disaster-resistant traits to actual variety development while also enhancing climate risk management technologies throughout the entire seed production process, from seed selection to drying and storage. We need to strengthen germination rate prediction and vigor diagnosis technologies and collaborate with the National Seed Resources and local agricultural technology institutions to establish a safety net for seeds that connects research outcomes to farmers' seedbeds and fields.Agriculture does not begin the moment seeds are sown; it starts the moment good seeds are prepared. No matter how much the climate changes, the starting point of agriculture must remain stable. Ensuring that farmers do not worry each spring about whether their seeds will sprout properly is the responsibility of the National Institute of Crop Science in this era of climate crisis.In the future, the National Institute of Crop Science will strive to secure healthy seeds, supporting genetic resources and stable production and management technologies to fulfill its role in ensuring a healthy diet for the public amid unpredictable future climate conditions.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-15 06:04:00
  • August Import Prices Drop 2.4% Amid Falling Exchange Rates
    August Import Prices Drop 2.4% Amid Falling Exchange Rates Last month, the import price index in South Korea fell for the third consecutive month, despite rising international oil prices, due to a decline in the won-dollar exchange rate.According to statistics released by the Bank of Korea on September 15, the import price index (in won, provisional figure; 2020 level set at 100) stood at 156.32 in August, down 2.4% from July.The import price index had previously dropped by 4.2% in June, marking the largest decline since November 2023 (-4.3%), and has now decreased for three straight months.While the average monthly price of Dubai crude oil rose from $76.75 per barrel in July to $88.75 in August, the average exchange rate fell from 1,497.43 won in July to 1,406.30 won in August.Raw material prices increased by 1.5% compared to the previous month, primarily driven by a rise in mining products (2.1%) due to higher crude oil prices. However, intermediate goods saw a decline of 4.0%, with chemical products (-6.1%) and primary metal products (-4.2%) contributing to the drop. Capital goods and consumer goods also fell by 4.2% and 4.4%, respectively.Among specific items, prices for coffee (-9.3%), lithium hydroxide (-9.1%), system semiconductors (-6.1%), and mobile phones (-6.1%) decreased.The export price index for August (in won) was 183.23, down 3.7% from the previous month, marking the lowest level in three years and eight months since December 2022 (-6.1%).After a 1.0% increase in July, export prices turned downward in August, largely due to the impact of the falling exchange rate, despite increases in coal and petroleum products.While coal and petroleum products rose by 0.3%, the overall industrial goods index fell by 3.7% due to declines in chemical products (-5.3%) and others.Specific items that saw significant price drops included aluminum plates (-11.4%), secondary batteries (-6.4%), cosmetics (-6.1%), and synthetic fiber fabrics (-6.1%). However, diesel (2.8%) and jet fuel (2.4%) prices increased.The trade index for August (in dollars) showed that the export volume index was 153.48, up 25.9% compared to the same month last year, marking ten consecutive months of year-on-year increases since November of last year.The export value index (237.04) rose by 75.8% during the same period, driven by a continued boom in semiconductor exports, with the export volume index (+30.5%) and value index (+174.7%) for computers, electronics, and optical devices seeing significant increases.Imports also saw increases, with the volume index (126.61) and value index (163.09) rising by 12.0% and 23.1%, respectively, compared to the same month last year.The terms of trade index for goods (119.90) increased by 27.1% compared to August of last year, reflecting a significant rise in export prices relative to import prices. The increase was the largest since the statistics began being compiled in 1988. While export prices, particularly for semiconductors, rose sharply, the increase in import prices for mining products remained stable compared to the previous month.The terms of trade index measures the ratio of the price of one unit of exported goods to the price of one unit of imported goods, providing insight into how much a country can import with a unit of export.The income terms of trade index (184.02) also rose by 60.0% year-on-year, driven by increases in both the terms of trade index (27.1%) and the export volume index (25.9%). This marked the largest increase since the statistics were compiled.Looking ahead, there is a possibility that import prices may rise significantly again in September due to the increase in international oil prices. Lee Heung-hoo, head of the price statistics team at the Bank of Korea, noted, "As of the 11th of this month, the exchange rate has fallen by 3.7%, while international oil prices have risen by 23.8%, creating mixed upward and downward pressures. However, due to the significant increase in international oil prices compared to the same month last year, it is highly likely that import prices will continue to see double-digit increases in September."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-15 06:04:00
  • South Korea Honors LNG Terminal Chief with Industrial Medal at Gas Safety Awards
    South Korea Honors LNG Terminal Chief with Industrial Medal at Gas Safety Awards The South Korean government will award An Young-hoon, CEO of the Northeast Asia LNG Hub Terminal, with the Industrial Medal at the 33rd Gas Safety Awards.The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy announced that the '33rd Korea Gas Safety Awards' will be held on September 15 at the Korea Science and Technology Center in Seoul. This annual event, which has been held since 1994, is organized by the ministry and supervised by the Korea Gas Safety Corporation.A total of 38 awards will be presented, including 13 government awards and 25 ministerial commendations. The government awards consist of one Industrial Medal, two Industrial Decorations, five Presidential Citations, and five Prime Minister Citations.An Young-hoon is being recognized for his leadership in the construction of the liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal and for securing core technology in the design of large storage tanks.The Industrial Decorations will be awarded to Cheon Seong-hun, CEO of Hanbi Cryo, for his contributions to the localization of cryogenic container technology, and to Lee Sang-geun, Executive Director of Kolon Industries, for achieving 33 years of accident-free safety in the high-pressure gas sector.Presidential Citation recipients include Son Min-ik, head of E1, Noh Dong-in, head of production at Lotte InEOS Chemical, Yu Mi, CEO of Buseong Development Industry, and Bae Seung-kyun, head of the Korea Gas Safety Corporation. In the group category, Seoul City Gas will receive a Presidential Citation.Yang Gi-wook, head of the Ministry's Industrial Resource Security Office, stated, "The 65 gas accidents that occurred last year marked the lowest level on record, thanks to the dedication and efforts of gas industry workers who have diligently adhered to safety regulations. We will work closely with relevant agencies and the industry to establish a gas safety management system that connects regulations, technology, and field operations."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-15 06:04:00
  • Chinas Security Chief Warns of AI Risks, Emphasizes Party Control
    China's Security Chief Warns of AI Risks, Emphasizes Party Control Chen Yixin, the head of China's National Security Ministry, which is often compared to the CIA, warned that artificial intelligence (AI) could pose a direct threat to the Communist Party's grip on power, according to a report by The New York Times on September 14.In an article published on September 13 in the state-run magazine China Cybersecurity, Chen called for stronger party control over AI and urged for stricter government oversight. He argued that enhancing control over AI is necessary to protect political stability domestically and to defend against cyberattacks and misinformation campaigns from 'hostile nations' abroad, as well as to compete militarily with countries like the United States. Chen cited well-known American AI models such as Claude and Mitos as new cybersecurity threats. He also warned that foreign intelligence agencies could use AI to conduct large-scale espionage and attack China's critical infrastructure.The Times noted that Chen's article warns of the potential for malicious actors to use AI to create fake videos and audio to conduct 'propaganda wars' against the public. Kyle Chan, a researcher at the Brookings Institution, told the NYT that the Chinese Communist Party is fearful, particularly of deepfake videos that could make it appear as if Chinese officials said things they did not actually say, leading to societal instability. 'Someone could create a fake announcement that Xi Jinping said something he actually did not, and that could cause chaos,' Chan explained.Chen's remarks come amid growing concerns from global AI leaders about rapid advancements in the field. In contrast, President Donald Trump has expressed confidence in the United States' AI leadership, emphasizing ongoing development. On September 12, Trump stated, 'We are ahead of China in AI,' adding, 'Honestly, I want to keep it that way because the one who wins in AI will win overall.' He further remarked on September 14 via social media platform Truth Social that 'the only control and safety needed for AI is a strong and wise president, and the U.S. already has that president,' according to reports from NBC and other outlets.President Xi Jinping has not directly commented on AI. According to Business Insider, during the BRICS summit in New Delhi on September 13, Xi stated, 'We must develop AI with a human-centered approach for the social good and establish a global AI governance system based on consensus to illuminate the path to common prosperity.' He also suggested that developing countries in the 'Global South,' including those in Asia, Africa, and South America, should move more quickly to establish AI governance standards.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-15 05:36:00
  • Trump Considers Allowing Chinese Automakers to Produce in the U.S.
    Trump Considers Allowing Chinese Automakers to Produce in the U.S. Concerns are rising among domestic companies as the possibility emerges that the United States may allow Chinese automakers to produce vehicles locally. If Chinese firms bypass tariff barriers by manufacturing in the U.S., it could weaken the competitive edge of existing South Korean companies. Industries benefiting from local production, such as batteries and power equipment, are also closely monitoring the situation. According to industry sources on September 14, President Donald Trump recently indicated that he might permit Chinese automakers to build factories and produce vehicles in the U.S. He stated, "I am not criticizing Chinese cars themselves, but the most important thing is that we employ our people." Chinese electric vehicles have been blocked from entering the U.S. market due to various government regulations. Notable examples include a 100% tariff on domestic electric vehicles under Section 301 of the Trade Act and the prohibition of connected car sales by Chinese companies starting in 2027 under the Connected Car Rule. If Chinese production in the U.S. becomes a reality, intensified price competition is inevitable. Chinese automakers could leverage some components sourced from their home country to launch low-cost offerings. Hyundai Motor Group is particularly vulnerable, as its models sold in the U.S. primarily fall within the mid- to low-price range of SUVs and compact cars, overlapping with the main offerings of Chinese competitors. The U.S. is Hyundai Motor Group's largest market. Last year, the group sold 1,836,172 vehicles in the U.S., surpassing the 1,258,730 sold domestically. Losing market share to Chinese electric vehicles could significantly impact the group's overall performance. Having already made substantial investments in the U.S., any easing of regulations on China could be detrimental. Professor Kim Pil-soo from Daelim University’s Department of Future Automotive Studies remarked, "Recently, at the groundbreaking ceremony for Hyundai Steel in Louisiana, it was effectively stated that they would produce cars using locally made steel, essentially promoting 'Made in USA.' If they open the door to China after such a large investment, it would be a direct hit." Other industries are also watching developments closely. A representative from the battery sector noted, "Even if Chinese companies are allowed to build factories, it will take considerable time to establish production bases in the U.S., and the existing regulations on the battery supply chain from China remain in place, so the immediate impact on domestic companies will be limited." Even if Chinese automakers begin production in the U.S., they will face significant regulatory hurdles in bringing in components from the Chinese supply chain. The most significant constraint is the Advanced Manufacturing Production Credit (AMPC) under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). Domestic battery manufacturers benefit from AMPC by producing battery cells and modules in the U.S., but Chinese companies will struggle to receive the same benefits even if they establish production facilities in the U.S. The tariffs incurred when importing battery materials and components from China also diminish their price competitiveness. Another industry representative stated, "If Chinese companies enter the U.S. market in earnest, domestic firms will inevitably face increased competitive pressure, but due to U.S. regulations, it will be challenging for Chinese companies to secure price competitiveness in the local market." Other sectors, such as power equipment and solar energy, also express concerns about intensified price competition if Chinese companies expand their presence in the U.S. However, many believe the immediate impact will not be severe. As the U.S. continues to maintain and strengthen regulations and tariff barriers on Chinese energy and power equipment, it remains to be seen whether Trump's comments will lead to a broader easing of regulations on Chinese manufacturing. A representative from the power equipment sector noted, "There are conflicting aspects between President Trump's remarks and the existing U.S. government's policy toward China, and with a U.S.-China summit still pending, we are closely monitoring how actual policies will be implemented." * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-15 05:04:00
  • South Korea and Uzbekistan Launch High-Speed Rail and Biome Center Projects
    South Korea and Uzbekistan Launch High-Speed Rail and Biome Center Projects South Korea and Uzbekistan have initiated the introduction of eight high-speed trains and the establishment of a national genome and biobank project known as the 'Biome Center.'On September 14, President Lee Jae-myung and Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev held a summit and signed 13 agreements, including feasibility studies and memorandums of understanding (MOUs) for both projects.President Mirziyoyev and his delegation began their state visit with an official welcome ceremony at the Blue House. Following a guestbook signing and a photo opportunity, the two leaders held a series of meetings to discuss ways to practically advance their special strategic partnership.The two countries will utilize the Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF) to confirm the technical and economic feasibility and specific implementation plans for the introduction of the high-speed trains and the establishment of the Biome Center.The high-speed rail project aims to modernize Uzbekistan's transportation network by leveraging South Korea's railway technology and infrastructure experience. Depending on the feasibility study results, cooperation may expand to include railway vehicles, operations, maintenance, and related infrastructure. The Biome Center will establish a foundation for accumulating and managing Uzbekistan's national genomic information and bio-resources, which is expected to assist South Korean companies in entering the health and bio sectors.The two nations also agreed to jointly identify promising projects in Uzbekistan's six key national strategic industries, including critical minerals, artificial intelligence (AI), data centers, smart cities, dedicated industrial complexes for South Korean companies, pharmaceuticals, bio, food, beauty, and content. They plan to enhance the participation of South Korean companies by linking identified projects with project financing and commercial financing.Before the summit, President Lee met with Masatsugu Asakawa, President of the Asian Development Bank (ADB). President Lee proposed expanding cooperation in critical mineral supply chains and AI and energy infrastructure by combining South Korea's technological capabilities with ADB's project experience and financial resources. This initiative aims to support South Korean companies' entry into Central Asia through the MOU between the two countries and ADB cooperation.Notably, the two leaders established a foundation for cooperation in the AI transformation of manufacturing. They agreed to promote collaboration in manufacturing AI technology, personnel, and infrastructure while expanding exchanges between companies. Additional agreements were signed on defense cooperation, harmonization of medical product regulations, intellectual property protection, agricultural technology, education and tourism, and digital forest restoration.Following the exchange of agreements and MOUs, a state dinner was held with the attendance of over 50 dignitaries from both countries.This summit marks the first event in President Lee's three-day relay diplomacy with five Central Asian countries. He will hold bilateral meetings with the leaders of Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan, and on September 16, he will preside over the first Korea-Central Asia summit with all five leaders in attendance.A Blue House official stated, “Through this summit, we plan to elevate strategic cooperation with Central Asia to a high level and establish a mutually beneficial growth foundation that combines Central Asia's growth demands with our supply chain and market expansion strategies.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-15 01:28:20
  • North Port Marina Sports Center Sees Recovery with Over 400 Daily Visitors
    North Port Marina Sports Center Sees Recovery with Over 400 Daily Visitors The North Port Marina Sports Center in Busan has quickly become a popular urban recreational space, attracting an average of over 400 visitors daily since its reopening.According to the Busan Port Authority (BPA), the sports center underwent significant renovations, including repairs to the swimming pool and diving pool tiles, complete locker replacements, and water changes in the tanks, before reopening on August 24 after a month-long maintenance period that began on July 27. The facility is currently operated by the Busan City Sports Council.Since reopening, the number of visitors has doubled compared to before the closure. The daily attendance, which was less than 200 prior to the closure, surged to over 400 after regular classes commenced. The morning sessions are actively hosting a survival swimming program for elementary students, while the remaining time slots are mostly filled with regular swimming lessons.Public response to the regular classes has been overwhelmingly positive. The BPA offered eight time slots for classes accommodating 360 participants, all of which filled up immediately upon registration. Many time slots reached capacity within 10 to 15 minutes of opening.The fee for adult swimming pool access is set at 3,600 won, while the monthly fee for regular classes is 66,000 won, maintaining a reasonable price point. Additional programs, such as aqua aerobics, are also being considered for future implementation. Last year, the total number of users reached approximately 73,000, including over 53,000 for the general swimming pool and around 20,000 for the diving pool, and this year is expected to see even more visitors.As visitor numbers increase, operating hours have been significantly extended. The previous hours of 9 AM to 6 PM have been expanded to 6 AM to 9 PM, and staffing has increased from 26 to over 35 to ensure more stable service.The BPA is committed to providing robust support and fulfilling its role as a public sports facility. With regular classes having started in early September, it anticipates that even more citizens will utilize the facility, contributing to the expansion of recreational sports.The range of operating programs is also set to diversify. Starting in October, the diving pool will increase its sessions from two to three per day to accommodate more enthusiasts.Meanwhile, commercial and lodging facilities within the complex are being carefully managed to enhance the overall development of the North Port area. Plans are underway to select the optimal leasing operator to integrate commercial and lodging services, revitalizing the local economy in conjunction with the completion of ongoing breakwater construction.Song Sang-geun, president of the Busan Port Authority, stated, “The North Port Marina Sports Center is a key recreational space that brings the North Port redevelopment area closer to the citizens. We appreciate the support shown by the public during the reopening and will ensure that the facility remains a safe and enjoyable place for everyone.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-15 00:00:00
  • South Korea Womens Soccer Team Dominates Myanmar 5-0 in Asian Games Opener
    South Korea Women's Soccer Team Dominates Myanmar 5-0 in Asian Games Opener The South Korea women's soccer team kicked off the 2026 Aichi Nagoya Asian Games with a commanding 5-0 victory over Myanmar, marking a strong start in their quest for a historic gold medal.Under the guidance of head coach Shin Sang-woo, South Korea (ranked 19th by FIFA) triumphed in their Group F opener on September 14 at Nagai Stadium in Osaka, thanks to a hat trick from Kim Min-ji against Myanmar (ranked 55th).This match also drew attention as it featured a showdown between South Korea and Myanmar's coach, Colin Bell, who previously led the South Korean team for four years until 2024.South Korea seized control of the game early on but struggled to convert opportunities against Myanmar's packed defense. The breakthrough came in the 29th minute when Kim Min-ji deceived a defender near the penalty arc and scored with a left-footed shot.Once the floodgates opened, goals followed quickly. In the 33rd minute, Kim Min-ji connected with a high header from a cross by Jang Seul-ki for a second goal, and just five minutes later, Jang Seul-ki scored herself with a low, swift shot from outside the penalty area, ending the first half at 3-0.South Korea continued to press in the second half. In the 59th minute, Kim Min-ji completed her hat trick by calmly finishing a ground pass from Jang Seul-ki.Despite missing two penalty kick opportunities later in the half, South Korea capped off their victory in the 76th minute when Choi Yu-ri scored after receiving a long pass and beating the goalkeeper in a one-on-one situation.In an earlier match in the same group, North Korea (ranked 11th) overwhelmed Bangladesh (ranked 107th) with a staggering 10-0 win, scoring seven goals in the first half and converting 10 out of 21 shots on target.With both South Korea and North Korea earning three points in their opening matches, North Korea leads Group F on goal difference (+10) while South Korea follows in second place (+5). Myanmar and Bangladesh sit in third and fourth, respectively.The tournament format allows the top two teams from each group, along with the two best third-placed teams, to advance to the quarterfinals.South Korea will face Bangladesh in their second match on September 17, followed by a crucial final group match against North Korea on September 21.The team's goal for this tournament is to secure their first-ever gold medal. Since women's soccer became an official event in the 1990 Beijing Games, South Korea has participated in nine tournaments but has never reached the finals. Their best results have been three consecutive bronze medals in 2010, 2014, and 2018. In the last tournament in Hangzhou, they were eliminated in the quarterfinals by North Korea, losing 4-1.The challenge is significant, as gold medals have been shared among China, North Korea, and Japan in the past nine tournaments.Host nation Japan (ranked 5th) and China (ranked 16th) also showcased dominant performances in their opening matches. Japan, in Group E, defeated Thailand (ranked 49th) 8-0, while China triumphed over Hong Kong (ranked 81st) with a score of 5-1. 2026-09-14 22:08:00