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  • Korean Melon Takes Center Stage in Japans Summer Dessert Scene
    Korean Melon Takes Center Stage in Japan's Summer Dessert Scene Domestic chamoe, or Korean melon, is transforming into a star ingredient for desserts and beverages in Japan, becoming a focal point of the 'seasonal core' trend. Limited-time chamoe menus are being offered at popular cafes in Tokyo, and tasting events are ongoing at major retail stores, enhancing its presence as a 'Korean melon.'According to the Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation (aT) on July 20, domestic chamoe has recently gained attention as a next-generation export item in the Japanese market. Last year, exports of chamoe to Japan reached $1.055 million, with a volume of 271 tons, marking increases of 31.4% and 39.0%, respectively, compared to the previous year. The growth trend continues this year, with cumulative exports in April amounting to $492,700 and 99 tons, reflecting increases of 32.2% and 37.1% year-on-year.Building on this growth, the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs and aT have designated chamoe as a strategic item for exports to Japan and are conducting promotional campaigns. Since May, they have been holding tasting and promotional events at around 400 retail locations across Japan, establishing dedicated sales areas in major retail channels such as Aeon Retail, Don Quijote, and Makiya.Marketing efforts to expand consumer engagement are also underway. Recently, the dessert cafe 'HOW'Z' in Harajuku, Tokyo, invited local influencers to showcase limited-time chamoe dishes. They introduced chamoe tarts, chamoe milk soda, and chamoe yogurt plates, while running a '#ChamoeDiscovery' hashtag campaign to boost awareness on social media. Collaborations with other popular cafes are also ongoing, fostering a culture of consuming chamoe not just as a fruit but as a dessert ingredient.The growing competitiveness of chamoe in Japan is attributed to changing consumer trends. With a high proportion of single-person households, there is a rising preference for fruits that are more affordable and easier to enjoy than large, expensive melons. Chamoe is gaining attention as a substitute fruit due to its lower price and convenient size.Additionally, its functional benefits enhance its appeal. The GABA component in chamoe was recognized by the Japan Consumer Affairs Agency in 2023 for its 'temporary mental stress relief function,' leading to its registration as a functional food. Given that fresh foods account for only 3% of functional food products in Japan, this is considered an exceptional case.The unique popularity and marketability of chamoe abroad are quickly influencing product strategies within the domestic food industry. While summer marketing has traditionally focused on watermelon, there is now a surge in new menu launches featuring chamoe, broadening the spectrum of seasonal fruits.Gongcha Korea has introduced 'Crispy Chamoe Milk Tea' and 'Crispy Chamoe Smoothie' as part of its '2026 Summer Series,' utilizing domestic chamoe from Seongju. Following the launch of watermelon beverages, the seasonal fruit lineup has now expanded to include chamoe. Both products combine the subtle sweetness of Seongju chamoe with jasmine tea, adding chamoe dice, mini pearls, and coconut water for a refreshing texture.hy has also entered the chamoe market with its new Greek yogurt product, 'Mechnikov Seongju Chamoe Greek.' Using fresh chamoe from Seongju, the yogurt preserves the fruit's natural sweetness and incorporates 1A-grade domestic milk to create a thick texture, offering both creaminess and crunch. Each cup contains 10 grams of protein, adding a nutritional edge.An industry insider noted, 'As consumer interest in products made with seasonal ingredients rises, chamoe is increasingly being utilized as a representative ingredient for the summer season.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-20 17:28:00
  • Swimming Banned on Ocean Day as 13% of Japans Beaches Disappear in a Decade
    Swimming Banned on Ocean Day as 13% of Japan's Beaches Disappear in a Decade In Misaki, Osaka, a 'No Swimming' sign has been erected at Danowa Beach, which opened in 1904. This year, the beach will not open at all. Visitor numbers plummeted from 101,000 in 2016 to just 33,000 last year, a decline of two-thirds, leading to annual losses in the millions of yen and ultimately the decision to close this summer.Despite the drop in visitors, operational costs have remained high. The beach requires 20 staff members for safety monitoring and parking management, but finding workers has been challenging due to labor shortages. Additionally, rising costs for installation and removal of changing facilities have added to the financial burden.Beaches that once symbolized summer in Japan are disappearing one by one. On Ocean Day, July 20, the Yomiuri Shimbun reported that, according to a survey by the Japan Tourism Agency, the number of beaches nationwide has decreased from 1,111 in 2016 to 966 last year, a 13% decline over the past decade.Danowa Beach is not alone in this trend. Hakotsukuri Beach in Osaka will also remain closed this year. Visitor numbers have dropped from 203,000 in 1990 to just one-tenth of that today, making it difficult to secure operational staff. Half of Osaka's four beaches have opted not to open this summer.So, what is causing the decline in beach attendance directly linked to operational difficulties? The Yomiuri Shimbun analyzed that the diversification of leisure activities, combined with changes in the natural environment such as extreme heat, has contributed to this trend. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the average temperature from June to August last year was 2.36 degrees higher than the average over the past 30 years, marking the highest since records began in 1898. Local governments have noted that the extreme heat has led more people to avoid going out, which has exacerbated the trend of 'beach avoidance.' The ocean, once a refuge from the heat, has become too hot to visit.It's not just a decrease in visitors that poses a problem; some beaches are unable to open due to damage. Hokota Beach in Ibaraki Prefecture has lost its sandy shore to erosion from waves, forcing it to close this summer. Despite efforts to restore the beach with large amounts of sand last year, it was washed away within a year. Local authorities are considering fundamental measures, citing rising sea levels and stronger waves due to global warming as contributing factors to the erosion.Watanoha Beach in Miyagi Prefecture has been closed for three years due to an accumulation of oyster shells covering the beach. Last month, hundreds of residents attempted to clear the shells, but within a month, the beach was once again covered. The local government has yet to find a fundamental solution as the shells continue to wash ashore.As beaches face these ongoing crises, efforts to attract visitors are being made. Kaike Onsen Kaiyu Beach in Tottori Prefecture saw its highest attendance in recent years, with 93,000 visitors last year, thanks to events like nighttime treasure hunts and fireworks. A local tourism official stated, "In the past, customers came without any effort, but now we need to work to attract them," and plans to expand nighttime and year-round events.In addition to events, some places are trying to change beach culture. Suma Beach in Kobe has prohibited visible tattoos and smoking outside designated areas since 2011. Starting in 2024, fines will be imposed for watercraft entering restricted areas under local ordinances. This approach aims to enhance the experience for existing visitors rather than simply attracting more.Some beaches that had long been closed are being revived. Ukedo Beach in Fukushima Prefecture, which was covered in debris after the Great East Japan Earthquake, will reopen next month for the first time in 16 years after residents cleared the wreckage and restored the beach. This marks a community effort to reclaim the beach lost to the earthquake.Experts caution against viewing beaches solely as summer swimming spots. Naotomo Nakahara, a professor at Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, stated, "People visit the ocean for various reasons beyond swimming, such as enjoying the scenery or eating seafood. Each region should leverage its location and natural resources to showcase its unique ocean value. If we can attract visitors year-round, there is ample potential for beaches to regain their vibrancy."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-20 17:20:00
  • K-Football Innovation Committee Begins Restructuring of KFA Election Body
    K-Football Innovation Committee Begins Restructuring of KFA Election Body The K-Football Innovation Committee (Innovation Committee) has initiated discussions on restructuring the election body of the Korea Football Association (KFA) and establishing a youth-centered, phased player development philosophy.On July 20, the Innovation Committee held its third meeting at the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Seoul, focusing on governance improvements aimed at restoring public trust in football and promoting sustainable development.During a briefing following the meeting, co-chair Park Ji-sung stated that preliminary groundwork for a rational reform of the presidential election system is progressing as scheduled. According to Park, the first phase amendments to the Korean Sports Council's 'charter' and 'regulations for member sports organizations,' which were deemed necessary in the previous meeting, are expected to be completed within this week.Previously, a charter amendment introducing direct elections for the Korean Sports Council president passed a general assembly vote on July 16 and is now awaiting approval from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. Additionally, a proposed amendment to extend the deadline for electing a new president within 60 days of a vacancy was approved by the Sports Fairness Commission on July 20 and will be finalized at a board meeting scheduled between July 21 and 22. This board meeting will also address the extension of the KFA presidential election deadline.As part of the second phase, the committee agreed to promptly amend the regulations governing member sports organizations, which currently limit the election body to '300 members or fewer.'The KFA is also preparing its own review plan for restructuring the election body in line with the direction of the Sports Council's regulatory amendments, and discussions were held during the meeting based on the submitted review plan. The Innovation Committee plans to develop specific supplementary measures for further discussion in the next meeting, emphasizing fairness, representation, and feasibility as the key criteria for the election system reform.Park expressed a strong commitment to overcoming anticipated challenges during the governance reform process. He acknowledged that there may be some resistance due to the necessity for the KFA to comply with the amendments to the Korean Sports Council's regulations, but he assured that such opposition would not derail the reform efforts, stating, 'There will be no regression to the original state due to these objections.'Meanwhile, discussions on a phased player development plan aimed at sustainable football growth have also been solidified. The Innovation Committee agreed in the previous meeting that establishing a consistent philosophy is urgent for supporting the growth of players, including youth.Accordingly, the Innovation Committee plans to clarify the phased player development philosophy and review the key projects and necessary budget to implement it on the ground. In the next meeting, relevant organizations will present detailed project contents and budget proposals to establish specific implementation directions. 2026-07-20 17:20:00
  • Blue House Confirms Sale of President Lees Home for 2.9 Billion Won
    Blue House Confirms Sale of President Lee's Home for 2.9 Billion Won The Blue House recently confirmed that President Lee Jae-myung has completed the sale of his home in Bundang, Seongnam, for 2.9 billion won, which is below market value.On July 20, the Blue House stated, "There is no obligation to sell as a one-home owner, but this action demonstrates a commitment to the normalization of the real estate market."Regarding the mortgage registered at 1.77 billion won during the sale process, they explained, "The registered details are due to the buyer's circumstances."The apartment in Yangji Village, Su-nae-dong, Seongnam, owned by President Lee and First Lady Kim Hye-kyung, was contracted for sale on July 14 and ownership was transferred on July 16. It is reported that the sellers established a mortgage of 1.77 billion won for the buyer.As a result, President Lee effectively holds a claim for that amount until the buyer completes the payment, which is expected to occur by October.Previously, President Lee had listed the apartment for sale following the announcement of regulations for non-resident homeowners. 2026-07-20 17:20:00
  • Hyundai Motor partners with Jeonbuk National University to nurture future talent
    Hyundai Motor partners with Jeonbuk National University to nurture future talent SEOUL, July 20 (AJP) - Hyundai Motor has partnered with Jeonbuk National University in North Jeolla Province to nurture talent in artificial intelligence (AI), robotics and hydrogen energy, the automaker said on Monday. It is part of the company's plan to build a next-generation industrial hub in the Saemangeum area, where a tideland development project aims to transform a vast tract of land from agricultural to industrial use. The automaker signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the university to establish a dedicated department focused on nurturing specialists in physical AI, robotics and hydrogen energy while expanding joint research in advanced technologies. While further details including the launch of the department and future hiring plans for graduates, remain under discussion, the curriculum will be designed to meet industry needs and provide students with practical skills, with Hyundai employees serving as adjunct instructors, guest lecturers and industry mentors. North Jeolla Province will also offer administrative and financial support for the initiative. The partnership, similar to chipmaker SK hynix's collaboration with high schools in Cheongju, North Chungcheong Province, is expected to support the automaker's project worth 9 trillion won (about US$6 billion), which includes the construction of an AI data center, a robot manufacturing cluster, solar power facilities and other infrastructure. Hyundai Motor plans to break ground on the AI data center next year, with the aim of completing it by 2029. Construction of other facilities is also scheduled to begin in the coming years. "Building competitiveness in advanced industries requires close cooperation among companies, universities and local communities," a Hyundai Motor spokesman said. "We will actively support local talent through this partnership so they can grow into key leaders for our future businesses." 2026-07-20 17:13:34
  • Jang Dong-hyuk Stays Resilient Amid Calls for Resignation
    Jang Dong-hyuk Stays Resilient Amid Calls for Resignation 6·3 local election losses have put Jang Dong-hyuk, leader of the People Power Party, under pressure, but his outdoor protests appear to be dampening calls for his resignation. While sporadic demands for his departure continue, they seem to lack momentum. According to the People Power Party on July 20, Jang has been actively engaging in outdoor activities related to the ongoing shortage of ballots. He previously skipped a National Assembly event on Constitution Day to attend a rally at Seoul's Olympic Park, where he called for a special investigation into the election management committee and a re-election. During a Supreme Council meeting held that day, Jang stated, "While the political special investigation committee sat comfortably in air-conditioned offices, our citizens were battling the heat at Olympic Park." He added, "As this regime celebrates its own version of Constitution Day, young people and citizens stood in the square demanding a special investigation and re-election." He continued, "The citizens who returned from their holidays to join the 'Olympic Park Day' despite the heat and heavy rain are protecting the Constitution and the people's right to participate in governance. If the regime attempts to undermine the Constitution, the people will bring it down, and if the president seeks to deprive the people of their rights, the people will strip the president of his powers." In response to criticism of Jang's outdoor activities, party loyalists have rallied to support him. Park Jun-tae, head of Jang's secretariat, told reporters after the Supreme Council meeting, "There are citizens and young people who have temporarily set aside their livelihoods to be at Olympic Park. Even in the rain and sweating profusely, they are committed to protecting their rights. Politicians should feel grateful and responsible toward them." He added, "Some may say, 'I cannot join because the party leader is there,' or 'It seems the leader is using this to maintain his position.' Such comments are unacceptable for anyone who claims to prioritize the people in politics." Park noted that over 40 party members have visited Olympic Park so far, emphasizing, "If they do not join this beautiful civic movement, they will be remembered as politicians who ignored the hopes of citizens who took to the streets to protect their rights." Jang plans to conclude his outdoor protests with visits to Yongin on July 23 and Gimhae and Daegu on July 25. However, he is expected to personally attend ongoing protests at Olympic Park in Songpa-gu, Seoul. Internally, calls for Jang's resignation continue. Previously, five-term lawmaker Kwon Young-se criticized Jang, stating, "He is sacrificing the conservative forces for his personal ambitions and interests," and demanded his resignation. Six-term lawmaker Jo Kyung-tae has also urged the ethics committee to expel Jang for the party's survival and success in the next general election. Four-term lawmaker Han Gi-ho reportedly shared images of Jang at the Olympic Park protest in a group chat on July 18, questioning, "How long must we endure this?" However, even if Jang were to resign, there appears to be no suitable replacement to lead the party, which is hindering the momentum for his resignation. If a party convention were to be held following Jang's departure, the new leader would only serve until August of next year, when they would lose the right to nominate candidates for the 2028 general election. Consequently, discussions are emerging around a 'February resignation theory' that would guarantee the next party leader a full two-year term.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-20 17:12:00
  • Insurance Companies Respond to Competition from Toss Insurance and SamjeomSam
    Insurance Companies Respond to Competition from Toss Insurance and SamjeomSam The competition in the insurance sales market is shifting from the number of agents and commissions to customer databases (DB). As platform companies with large user bases expand their customer touchpoints into insurance consultations, insurance firms are also launching dedicated teams to supply their own customer information to agents.According to the insurance industry on July 20, Samsung Fire & Marine has launched a 'Total Consultant (TC) branch' that operates based on customer DB. The branch will provide its agents with a total of 720 customer DBs over three years, with 30 cases per month in the first year, 20 in the second year, and 10 in the third year. Hana Insurance also opened a TC branch earlier this month and plans to supply agents with 30 cases per month for three years. This approach utilizes data from existing policyholders who have consented to marketing, rather than purchasing external leads, to propose additional coverage or other products.The push by insurance companies to strengthen DB sales comes as platform firms with large member bases rapidly expand their influence in the insurance sales market. Toss Insurance, a subsidiary of Toss, has surpassed 3,000 agents, elevating it to the status of a major general agency (GA). The structure that connects users who request insurance consultations through the Toss app to agents is seen as a key growth driver.The tax refund platform SamjeomSam is also seeking to enter the insurance sales market. Its operating company, Jarvis & Villains, has completed GA registration and is building a related organization. SamjeomSam is gaining attention for its potential to expand its customer touchpoints, formed during the tax refund process, into insurance diagnostics and product consultations, leveraging its 24.5 million members.Customer DBs are particularly helpful for new agents who lack a sales base. Instead of relying on friends or family to find clients, agents can receive a steady supply of customers who have expressed interest in consultations. This allows both insurance companies and GAs to increase sales performance while using DB provision as a means to recruit agents and expand their organizations.Starting this month, the '1200% rule' has also been applied to agents affiliated with GAs, further intensifying the DB competition. The 1200% rule limits the sales commissions and settlement support paid in the first year of a contract to within 12 times the monthly premium. As it becomes more challenging to recruit agents with high cash incentives, the ability to provide customer DBs, training, and digital sales systems has emerged as a new competitive factor.However, simply having a large number of members or policyholders does not guarantee competitiveness. Factors such as consent for consultations, conversion rates, data accuracy, and retention rates must also be supported. An industry insider stated, “In the future, the dominance in the insurance sales market will depend on how reliably high-quality DBs are supplied.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-20 17:04:00
  • Busan Declaration on World Heritage Adopted, Emphasizing Cooperation Against Conflicts and Climate Change
    Busan Declaration on World Heritage Adopted, Emphasizing Cooperation Against Conflicts and Climate Change The 'Busan Declaration on World Heritage,' which addresses various crises facing world heritage sites, including armed conflicts, climate change, and development pressures, was adopted on July 20.The Cultural Heritage Administration and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that the declaration was adopted by consensus among member countries during the 48th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee.This declaration was led by South Korea, the chair country, with contributions from 21 member countries and experts from the three advisory bodies of the World Heritage Committee: ICCROM, ICOMOS, and IUCN.The declaration emphasizes the importance of cooperation in responding to complex challenges surrounding world heritage, including armed conflicts, climate change, and development pressures. It proposes adding 'cooperation' as a new strategic goal to the existing five strategic objectives of the World Heritage Convention: credibility, conservation, capacity building, communication, and community. Notably, it also initiates discussions on digital transformation and the associated responsibilities in the field of world heritage.Additionally, the declaration includes agendas on the importance of 'inclusive interpretation' based on professional insights to responsibly interpret and explain the values of each heritage site, the significance of 'shared responsibility' in world heritage management, and the need for continuous capacity building for site managers in each country, as well as the close interdependence and integrated approach between cultural and natural heritage.In April, the South Korean government, in collaboration with the UNESCO Korean Committee, conducted a domestic expert public hearing and an international expert video conference, followed by an international expert meeting in Seoul in May to gather extensive opinions. Afterward, the final coordination process among member countries was completed to prepare for the adoption of the declaration.Meanwhile, the Cultural Heritage Administration plans to pursue follow-up projects to generate more concrete and practical outcomes following the announcement of this declaration.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-20 17:04:00
  • Vietnamese Nationals Targeted in Online Remittance Scam in South Korea
    Vietnamese Nationals Targeted in Online Remittance Scam in South Korea An online scam targeting remittance needs between South Korea and Vietnam has been uncovered by Vietnamese authorities. The suspects are accused of luring victims from the Vietnamese community in South Korea with promises of high exchange rates and quick transfers, only to take their money. The confirmed losses have exceeded 800 million dong (approximately 45 million won), highlighting the vulnerability of Vietnamese nationals living abroad, including students and workers.On July 16, local time, the Ha Tinh Provincial Police charged two men in their twenties, identified as A and B, with fraud involving property misappropriation. The police had previously arrested the pair on July 4 for allegedly using a remittance service from South Korea to Vietnam in a fraudulent manner.The investigation began after numerous advertisements for remittance and currency exchange services were found online between Vietnam and South Korea. Authorities discovered accounts on Facebook promoting favorable exchange rates, simple procedures, and quick processing times for money transfers.A is believed to have utilized his experience working in South Korea to facilitate the scam. Investigators found that he was aware of the remittance demand and transaction methods between the two countries and planned the fraudulent scheme around late 2025, citing a need for living expenses.The scam was executed through fake Facebook accounts. A created multiple false profiles and joined online groups of Vietnamese individuals residing, studying, or working in South Korea, advertising advantageous exchange rates and secure remittance options. He instructed victims to send money to designated bank accounts. After receiving the funds, he failed to fulfill the promised remittance or exchange, often delaying and eventually cutting off contact.B reportedly joined the scheme earlier this year. Authorities believe he assisted in locating or providing Korean bank accounts and was involved in the movement of the stolen funds.Targeting Vietnamese Students and Workers in South KoreaThe two suspects are believed to have continued their fraudulent activities while residing together in the Vinhomes New Center apartment in Ha Tinh Province in early April. Authorities stated that they organized their online remittance scam while living in the same space. Victims have been identified from various regions across the country, with Vietnamese students and workers in South Korea being the primary targets. The confirmed amount of losses has surpassed 800 million dong. Investigators suspect that the pair has committed multiple offenses and are working to identify additional related cases and victims.To evade law enforcement, the suspects reportedly deleted traces of their activities. Authorities explained that they erased conversation records and transaction evidence from various messaging applications, including Messenger, Zalo, and Telegram, after committing the fraud. The police are conducting cyber investigations, tracking the flow of funds, and securing electronic evidence to clarify the structure of the scam. They have identified the accounts that received the stolen funds and traced the subsequent movement of money to determine the roles of the two suspects.Currently, authorities are compiling evidence and documentation to formally charge the suspects and are conducting further investigations into related cases while tracking the stolen assets. They plan to gather additional evidence for legal proceedings.Meanwhile, authorities have urged Vietnamese citizens living abroad or studying and working overseas to exercise caution with online remittance and currency exchange transactions. They emphasized the importance of using banks, credit institutions, and licensed companies, advising against trusting high exchange rates and quick processing promises from unknown social media accounts. This incident has been confirmed as an online financial scam targeting the expatriate community, which has a high demand for remittance services. Authorities reiterated the need to use official financial channels to avoid potential losses.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-20 17:00:00
  • Despite Single-Stock Leverage Regulations, Investors Pour 200 Billion Won into SK Hynix
    Despite Single-Stock Leverage Regulations, Investors Pour 200 Billion Won into SK Hynix As financial authorities introduced supplementary measures for single-stock leverage products, the influx of individual investors continued unabated. On July 20, over 16.6 billion won flowed into single-stock exchange-traded funds (ETFs) based on two underlying assets.On the same day, shares of Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix fell, leading to a broader decline in related leverage products. Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix closed down 4.31% and 4.23%, respectively.Despite the downturn, single-stock leverage products linked to these companies saw declines ranging from 7% to 9%. The largest funds, 'KODEX SK Hynix Single-Stock Leverage' and 'KODEX Samsung Electronics Single-Stock Leverage,' dropped 8.73% and 8.98%, respectively.Investor funds continued to flow into these products. According to the Korea Exchange, a total of 16.6 billion won was net invested in 14 single-stock leverage products on that day.Individual investors led the charge, net buying 208.1 billion won worth of these products. They purchased approximately 141.8 billion won in seven SK Hynix single-stock leverage ETFs and 66.3 billion won in seven Samsung Electronics leverage ETFs. In contrast, institutions sold off 186.5 billion won, while foreign investors sold 4.9 billion won.Looking at the past month, individual investors have net bought about 4 trillion won in seven SK Hynix single-stock leverage products and around 1 trillion won in seven Samsung Electronics leverage products.However, losses have also widened. From June 19 to July 20, the stock prices of Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix fell by 32.69% and 34.30%, respectively. During the same period, single-stock leverage products based on these stocks recorded declines of 58% to 64%.On July 16, financial authorities announced supplementary measures for single-stock leverage products aimed at curbing excessive speculative demand and raising barriers to entry for investors. Starting around August 5, the authorities will require that the basic deposit be made entirely in cash, increasing the amount from 10 million won to 30 million won. Additionally, the pre-education requirement will be extended from two hours to three hours, and the minimum trading unit will be set at 20 shares.Meanwhile, interest from individual investors in leverage products remains strong. According to data submitted by the Financial Investment Association to Rep. Kang Myung-koo of the ruling People Power Party, the number of individuals who completed the required pre-education for investing in leverage ETFs reached 1,162,751 in the first half of this year, a 19-fold increase compared to the same period last year.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-20 17:00:00