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Ruling Party to Hold Policy Meeting on Criminal Procedure Law Reform The Democratic Party announced plans to hold a policy meeting on the Criminal Procedure Law reform tomorrow to gather expert opinions.Kim Sung-hwa, the party's floor spokesperson, spoke to reporters after a general assembly at the National Assembly, stating, "We will listen to opinions on how to supplement the request for additional investigations." He also mentioned that the policy meeting will be broadcast live on the party's YouTube channel, 'Deli Minju.'However, Kim did not provide a timeline for processing the Criminal Procedure Law amendment, asserting, "There was no specific mention of a timeline. The party convention and the bill amendment are unrelated."Previously, Kim Han-kyu, the party's deputy floor leader, publicly stated on July 6 that there are no plans to address the Criminal Procedure Law amendment after the party convention.Currently, there are differing opinions within the ruling coalition regarding the Criminal Procedure Law amendment. Proposals have been submitted to the Legislative Judiciary Committee, including joint proposals from Democratic Party member Kim Yong-min and Justice Party member Park Eun-jung, as well as a proposal from Justice Party member Cha Kyu-geun and a proposal from Democratic Party member Hong Gi-won.Notably, the Democratic Party's Criminal Procedure Law Task Force includes Kim Han-kyu, along with committee members Kim Seung-won and Lee Hae-sik, and Policy Committee Vice Chair Park Sang-hyuk. The proposal aims to replace the request for additional investigations with a request for supplementary investigations.However, some Democratic Party members, including Hong, argue that certain exceptional cases, such as sexual violence and child or elder abuse, should retain the request for additional investigations to protect victims.Meanwhile, the Criminal Procedure Law amendment could impact the newly established Serious Crimes Investigation Agency and Prosecution Service, set to launch in October. The Justice Party has argued that the amendment should be processed before the Constitution Day, but this has not materialized.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-20 14:40:00 -
Citi Upgrades Investment Outlook for China, Downgrades South Korea Citi Group has upgraded its investment outlook for the Chinese stock market to 'overweight' while downgrading South Korea to 'neutral.'According to the South China Morning Post on July 20, Citi recently adjusted its investment outlook for China in its emerging markets asset allocation report, raising it from the previous level to 'overweight.'Citi analysts noted that while the earnings per share (EPS) growth of Chinese companies remains sluggish, the low investor participation, falling oil prices, and the potential for global economic recovery suggest a significant inflow of foreign capital.Recently, global stock markets have been led by a surge in some major tech stocks fueled by an artificial intelligence (AI) investment boom. However, as investor sentiment around AI has cooled and market volatility has increased, there are expectations that funds may shift from overvalued tech stocks to other sectors and regions in the second half of the year.In a report published on the same day, Citi strategists, including David Groman, stated, 'If the favorable macroeconomic environment continues, including the easing of geopolitical risks, there is a possibility that the market rally could broaden.'Citi acknowledged that while recent economic indicators from China have fallen short of market expectations, additional stimulus measures are expected to lead to a gradual recovery. The firm anticipates that the People's Bank of China will lower its policy interest rate by 0.1 percentage points in the second half of the year, and the Chinese government may accelerate the implementation of fiscal stimulus measures.Additionally, Citi upgraded its investment outlook for Mexico to 'neutral,' assessing that both China and Mexico are relatively favorable markets for absorbing funds moving away from overvalued tech stocks.In contrast, the investment outlook for the South Korean stock market was downgraded from 'overweight' to 'neutral.' This change reflects increased market volatility, despite maintaining an 'overweight' stance since mid-last year.Citi maintained its 'overweight' outlook for Taiwan, believing that the semiconductor and IT hardware supply chains will continue to support global AI infrastructure investments, leading to a relatively stable trend.Meanwhile, Citi has kept its overall outlook for emerging markets at 'neutral.' While corporate financial structures remain robust, risks such as stock price volatility related to AI, geopolitical tensions, uncertainties in U.S. Federal Reserve monetary policy, and climate shocks from El Niño persist.However, Citi positively assessed the earnings outlook for emerging market companies, projecting that the net profits of companies included in the MSCI Emerging Markets Index will increase by 63% this year. Regionally, China, South Korea, and Taiwan are expected to have the greatest potential for growth. 2026-07-20 14:40:00
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Small Business Agency Establishes AI Ethics Principles and Compliance Designation The Small Business Market Promotion Agency announced on July 20 that it has established 'Ethical Principles for the Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)' and held a pledge ceremony for all employees to commit to these principles.The AI ethics principles were created to proactively prevent various ethical risks associated with AI use and to establish proper standards for employees' use of AI. The agency has set 'AI utilization for small businesses and the public' as its fundamental direction, incorporating seven core principles: public interest, fairness, transparency, accountability, safety, information protection, and professionalism.Following completion of AI ethics training organized by the National Information Society Agency (NIA), the agency was designated as an 'AI Ethics Compliance Organization' on July 16. This designation aims to enhance institutional and corporate accountability for the ethical development and use of AI and to promote voluntary participation, a system introduced by the NIA in 2024.The agency plans to apply these ethical principles across its entire AI transformation (AX) strategy and continue to refine them.In Tae-yeon, the agency's president, stated, 'With the declaration of these ethical principles, we will further strengthen our employees' responsible AI capabilities, striving to make the agency a leading organization in the public sector's AX efforts.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-20 14:36:00
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Hanul Semiconductor Shares Surge on MLCC Inspection System Development Hanul Semiconductor is experiencing a surge in its stock price following the announcement of its development of an AI-based inspection system for multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs).According to the Korea Exchange, as of 1:50 PM, Hanul Semiconductor's shares rose by 3,920 won (29.97%) to 17,000 won compared to the previous trading day.On this day, Hanul Semiconductor announced that it has developed an MLCC inspection system that combines AI vision technology with predictive capabilities for production line anomalies. The company aims to transition from a simple inspection equipment provider to a 'Physical AI Platform' enterprise that encompasses the entire manufacturing process.The system developed by Hanul Semiconductor is designed to maintain productivity while inspecting all products by integrating high-speed ultrasonic inspection technology with AI-based defect analysis. It can automatically detect minute internal defects and allows AI to assess product quality in real-time, performing inspection, quality control, and automatic mounting functions all within a single device.Additionally, Hanul Semiconductor is in discussions with global clients regarding mass production supply agreements. A company representative stated, "In the AI era, speed and quality reliability are key competitive advantages. We plan to accelerate our global market penetration by evolving into a next-generation Physical AI platform that implements manufacturing innovation based on AI."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-20 14:36:00
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Yurim TS and Shandong High-Speed Sign MOU for 1GW Renewable Energy Development A major renewable energy project in South Korea, backed by Chinese public funds as a financial investor, is set to commence. Yurim TS, the lead company for the project, aims to evolve into a comprehensive energy infrastructure firm integrating renewable energy, cooling technology, and AI data centers. On July 20, at the Conrad Hotel in Yeouido, Seoul, Yurim TS and Shandong High-Speed held a signing ceremony for a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on joint development of renewable energy projects. The ceremony was attended by investment banking representatives as well as figures from politics and business. The two companies agreed to establish special purpose companies (SPCs) to build 1 gigawatt (GW) solar and wind power plants in Taean, Yeongdeok, Uljin, Jeongseon, and Gyeongju. Currently, sites in Wonbuk, Taean; Hoeri, Yeongdeok; and Hwaseong, Uljin have been confirmed for the development of solar and wind power plants covering 1,787,000 square meters and generating 184.4 megawatts (MW). Discussions will continue for the construction of additional plants in Hwaseong areas 1 and 2, Geoncheon in Jeongseon, and An-gang in Gyeongju, covering 3,920,000 square meters and generating 480 MW. Shandong High-Speed, a state-owned investment company in China, is expected to invest up to 1 trillion won in this project. This marks the first time that Chinese public funds are participating as financial investors in South Korea's renewable energy sector. Major partners include Korea Electric Power Corporation, Hyosung, LS, Hyundai Heavy Industries, and Korea Western Power. Kim Jin-soo, CEO of Yurim TS, stated, "The MOU we are signing today is the first step towards achieving our joint goal of 1 GW in renewable energy with Shandong High-Speed Singapore. Moving forward, Yurim TS will leverage the successful completion of solar and wind projects to grow into an integrated EPC contractor overseeing all processes from development to construction and operation of renewable energy projects." Yurim TS and Shandong High-Speed plan to expand their portfolio to include a total AI platform service starting with this renewable energy project. In particular, Yurim TS is working to integrate its ongoing data center constructions in Gasan, Bucheon, Mullae, Ilsan, Guro, and Anyang with renewable energy to establish a comprehensive infrastructure from energy supply to AIDC operation. Furthermore, CEO Kim explained that they aim to broaden their business portfolio through the establishment of a holding company, "GCH Asset," which will encompass hydrogen platforms, internet exchanges, and high-voltage direct current (HVDC) cooling, in addition to renewable energy and AIDC. Pan Yong-min, Chairman of Shandong High-Speed, remarked, "Globally, AIDCs require energy, and clean energy is particularly in demand. Projects combining AIDCs and renewable energy are underway in China and Singapore, and we are eager to explore similar investments in South Korea." 2026-07-20 14:36:00
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Director Na Hong-jin Discusses Intent Behind 'Hope' Amid Mixed Reviews Na Hong-jin's highly anticipated new film 'Hope' has sparked polarized reactions since its release. A recent discussion with film critic Lee Dong-jin has resurfaced, shedding light on the director's intentions.Na explained that the film's structure, direction, ending, and alien concept were all meticulously designed. However, many viewers responded critically, stating that the film's intentions did not align with its execution.Initially, Na revealed that the screenplay was meant to cover an entire day, from morning until the end of a dawn service. To enhance the film's density, he opted to focus only on the daytime. He emphasized that he chose to showcase all action and performances in broad daylight to avoid the common cinematic trick of obscuring visuals in darkness. The first 60 minutes were crafted to feel like a standalone piece, beginning with a small incident (the death of a cow) and expanding to a cosmic scale.Na also mentioned that he intentionally designed the audience's emotional journey. In a scene where an alien dies early on, he aimed for viewers to initially laugh and later feel guilt. The alien language was presented without subtitles at first, gradually increasing translation and perspective as the film progressed, encouraging viewers to empathize with the alien.Human characters were deliberately given less personality and minimal dialogue to focus on the relationship and conflict between humans and aliens. Regarding the film's conclusion, Na contrasted the aliens' willingness to change their fate in the face of a cosmic disaster with humans' abandonment of dialogue. He noted that the line 'Stop talking' was added just three days before filming, inspired by the natural scenery at the filming location in Hapcheon.He expressed a desire for the audience's emotions to lean towards the aliens as the film progressed, stating, 'I think I would side with the aliens in the end.'Na also pointed out that the contrast between humans and aliens was a deliberate device. While humans mock the aliens' appearance and smell, it is actually the humans who repeatedly use vulgar language and humor, while the aliens are portrayed as dignified beings with orderly language, guiding audience emotions towards the aliens.Reflecting on his evolving directorial style, Na noted that his previous films—'The Chaser,' 'The Yellow Sea,' and 'The Wailing'—shared a common structure where uninformed protagonists face collapse. After a critic remarked that he had become predictable, Na felt compelled to break away from his established style, which he believes is reflected in 'Hope.'However, he admitted uncertainty about the 'three molly time' mentioned by the aliens, stating that he intentionally did not create a detailed explanation for it.Regarding potential sequels, Na stated that there are currently no plans, as he wishes to take a break from the film industry after this project. He added that any sequel would ultimately depend on audience reception and box office success.Na also discussed the meaning behind the film's title 'Hope,' the real town of Hope, the 1980s setting, the casting of Hwang Jung-min, and the design of the aliens.Despite the discussion's insights, online reactions have been critical, with many users stating, 'I understand the director's intentions, but the film failed to convey them.' Comments included, 'Reading this, it seems the film completely missed the mark. Everything the director intended and designed has failed,' and 'While I can see the intentions, the coherence and dialogue were severely lacking, and it felt like a chunk of the story was missing.'One user pointed out, 'If the goal was to make the audience empathize with the aliens, showing them slaughtering townspeople at a high level of violence and then asking us to sympathize with a single dead alien is unconvincing.' Another noted, 'While I understand the intention to express human vulgarity, it made the film feel low-quality overall. If you want to showcase CG in broad daylight, you need the technical capability to support it; otherwise, it just feels awkward.'Another commenter remarked, 'If the goal was to gradually help the audience understand the aliens' narrative, there should have been a build-up for empathy. Showing an alien that was about to kill the protagonist and then suddenly providing subtitles to explain their backstory does not create empathy.'They added, 'The core settings and backstory of the aliens seem to be left for a potential sequel, but it's uncertain if a sequel will even be made. Relying on discussions or articles to explain what the film failed to convey is a sign of failure in persuading the audience.'Meanwhile, 'Hope' has surpassed 2 million viewers in the shortest time since its release on July 15, indicating a successful box office performance. However, opinions on its artistic merit remain sharply divided among audiences.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-20 14:28:00
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Government Allocates 1.6 Billion Won in Disaster Relief for Heavy Rain Damage in Gyeonggi, Gangwon, and Gyeongbuk The Ministry of Interior and Safety announced on July 20 that it will provide a total of 1.6 billion won in disaster safety special grants to Gyeonggi, Gangwon, and Gyeongbuk, which were affected by heavy rainfall from July 17 to 19.The recent downpours have caused road washouts, landslides, and flooding in homes, prompting temporary evacuations of residents. The ministry has activated the second phase of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters to manage the situation.Particularly in the Gyeongbuk regions of Uiseong and Andong, which suffered significant damage from last year's wildfires, there are concerns about additional damage to fire-affected areas and temporary housing. Therefore, the decision to provide disaster grants was made to facilitate prompt emergency repairs and prevent secondary disasters such as landslides.The allocated disaster grants will be used for emergency repairs of damaged facilities, assistance for displaced residents, removal of debris and rocks, and urgent safety measures for hazardous sites in the affected areas.Additionally, the ministry will provide 120 million won in disaster relief funds to respond to the ongoing heatwave in the Daegu and Gyeongbuk regions.This disaster relief funding will be utilized for operating costs, such as cooling expenses for heatwave shelters, and for purchasing tailored relief supplies for vulnerable populations, as a prolonged heatwave is expected nationwide following the recent issuance of the first 'heatwave warning' in Gyeongbuk's Gyeongsan and Pohang.Minister Yoon Ho-jung stated, "We will utilize all available administrative and financial resources to support residents affected by the continuous heavy rainfall so they can return to their daily lives as soon as possible."Meanwhile, the ministry had previously provided 2.1 billion won in disaster grants to six regions, including Daejeon, Sejong, Gyeonggi, Chungbuk, Chungnam, and Gyeongbuk, which were affected by heavy rainfall from July 8 to 10.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-20 14:28:00
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Elizabeth Arden Launches Flagship Fragrance 'Eternal Aura' After Eight Years Beauty brand Elizabeth Arden announced on July 20 that it will launch its flagship fragrance, 'Eternal Aura EDP,' after an eight-year hiatus.Eternal Aura is a floral amber fragrance. The top notes feature dragon fruit, golden pear, and pink pepper, complemented by floral scents of magnolia and peony.At the heart of the fragrance is a proprietary ingredient developed by Elizabeth Arden, which combines rose and ambrette. The base notes include sandalwood, creamy musk, and tonka bean.The product draws inspiration from the legacy of founder Elizabeth Arden. The cap and packaging incorporate a monogram pattern used in the wallpaper of the original Elizabeth Arden salon, blending brushed gold with the brand's signature Arden pink.Amber Garrison, president of Elizabeth Arden Fragrance, stated, "Eternal Aura reflects the confidence, resilience, and beauty exhibited by women around the world. We hope that every spritz allows their unique aura to bloom beautifully."Founded in 1910 by Elizabeth Arden, the brand began with the opening of the Red Door Salon on Fifth Avenue in New York City. Arden is also known for emphasizing the importance of sun protection, yoga, and hydration since the 1920s.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-20 14:28:00
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MyRealTrip Launches MyLandPick to Connect Travel Agencies with Local Operators As the corporate incentive and group travel markets show signs of recovery, MyRealTrip has introduced a business-to-business (B2B) platform aimed at connecting travel agencies with local operators abroad. The platform allows agencies to compare proposals from various local providers in one place, enhancing operational efficiency.On July 20, MyRealTrip announced the launch of its incentive travel quotation platform, MyLandPick.This service enables travel agencies to register the schedules and requirements needed for corporate incentive or group travel, allowing them to receive quotes from multiple overseas local operators. After a contract is signed, payment and settlement processes can also be handled within the platform, reducing the workload that previously required individual management through emails or messaging apps.Participation is limited to local operators that meet certain criteria. The company has stated that it verifies the reliability of transactions by checking the operators' qualifications and insurance coverage.Since 2023, MyRealTrip has been expanding its B2B business for travel agencies, and the launch of this platform is expected to accelerate its efforts in the group travel market.To celebrate the launch, a promotional campaign has been announced. Travel agencies and agents using MyLandPick will receive a total of 10 million won in credits, which can be used like cash within the platform until September 30.A representative from MyRealTrip stated, "As demand for corporate incentive and group travel gradually revives, travel agencies are increasingly seeking efficient ways to find local partners. We will continue to expand the B2B ecosystem that connects verified local operators with travel agencies."Founded in 2012, MyRealTrip is a travel platform offering services such as flight bookings, accommodations, and tours and activities. It currently boasts over 10 million registered members and a cumulative transaction volume of approximately 2.3 trillion won.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-20 14:24:00
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Iran Says Military Advantage Needed for Peace Talks with U.S. Iran has stated that it must first secure a military advantage before ending its conflict with the United States. This position suggests that Iran aims to negotiate from a position of strength based on military achievements.On July 20, Al Jazeera reported that Abbas Araghchi, Iran's Foreign Minister, told the state-run IRNA news agency, "The war can end through complete military victory or negotiations," adding that the appropriate time to negotiate is when Iran has secured clear military and strategic gains on the battlefield.Araghchi emphasized, "Determining when to stop the war and start negotiations is the most critical decision in crisis management." He stated, "We cannot take risks with the lives of our citizens and the fate of the entire nation," and explained that the decision to continue the war should consider the potential gains against casualties and national burdens.He also claimed that Iran's international influence has increased as a result of the current conflict, stating, "Despite some losses, we have emerged as a decisive international actor in this war and demonstrated the strength of our regime."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-20 14:20:00