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  • Incheon Coupang Logistics Center Fire Continues; National Fire Mobilization Order Issued
    Incheon Coupang Logistics Center Fire Continues; National Fire Mobilization Order Issued Incheon Coupang Logistics Center Fire Leads to National Fire Mobilization OrderA fire broke out at the Coupang logistics center in Incheon, prompting the fire authorities to issue a national fire mobilization order. The blaze has been difficult to control due to the burning of household goods stored inside, which has filled the building with thick black smoke.According to the Incheon Fire Department, the fire started at 6:54 a.m. on the sixth floor of the Coupang 32 logistics center in Seongnam-dong. Fire authorities declared a Level 1 response at 9:15 a.m., two hours and 21 minutes after the fire began, and escalated to a Level 2 response at 12:25 p.m. To ensure a comprehensive response, the National Fire Agency issued a national mobilization order at 3:15 p.m.Despite the full-scale response, the fire has proven difficult to extinguish, as household items stored on three-tiered shelves continue to burn, generating significant smoke inside the building.President Yoon Directs Full Efforts to Combat Incheon Coupang Warehouse FirePresident Yoon Suk-yeol received updates on the firefighting efforts at the Coupang warehouse in Incheon on July 18 and instructed officials to exert all efforts to control the fire and prevent further damage.Chief Presidential Secretary Kang Yu-jeong stated in a press release that President Yoon emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of firefighters on the scene.Coupang Apologizes for Incheon Logistics Center Fire, Vows Cooperation with AuthoritiesCoupang issued an apology on July 18 regarding the fire at its logistics center in Seongnam-dong, Incheon. The company pledged to actively cooperate with authorities in their investigation and support firefighting efforts.In a statement from CEO Jung Jong-cheol, Coupang explained that they immediately reported the fire to emergency services and that all employees present at the logistics center were safely evacuated. Coupang also stated, "We will prioritize the safety of firefighters and support the firefighting operations on-site, as well as cooperate fully with the investigation by the relevant authorities." The company expressed its sincere apologies to the residents of Incheon and the public for the distress caused.Gas Prices Drop for Ninth Consecutive Week Amid Rising International Oil PricesGas prices at nationwide stations have fallen for the ninth consecutive week, but the decline has slowed significantly due to rising international oil prices amid ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran. The increase in international oil prices is expected to exert upward pressure on domestic fuel prices in the near future.According to the Korea National Oil Corporation's oil price information system, the average price of gasoline at nationwide stations for the third week of July (July 12-16) was 1,877.5 won per liter, down 15.5 won from the previous week.While gasoline prices have continued to decline for nine weeks, the rate of decrease has significantly narrowed compared to the previous week's drop of 59.1 won. Regionally, Jeju had the highest price at 1,914.8 won per liter, while Daegu recorded the lowest at 1,850.1 won.The average price of diesel fell by 17.7 won to 1,862.5 won per liter, but the decline was more moderate compared to the previous week's drop of 62.3 won.Debate on Prosecutorial Investigative Powers Canceled as Lawmaker WithdrawsIndependent lawmaker Han Dong-hoon had initially agreed to participate in a debate with Lee Geon-tae of the Democratic Party regarding the issue of abolishing prosecutorial investigative powers, but he withdrew just a day later.On July 18, Lee announced on Facebook that he decided not to proceed with the debate, stating, "I judged that it would not be right to ignore the wishes and concerns of my party members who support me."In response, Han criticized Lee for backing out, claiming that he had heard pressure from Democratic Party politicians and supporters who feared losing the debate. He remarked, "If a public party is embarrassed, it’s over. The Democratic Party is finished."Special Prosecutor to Summon Former Minister Won Hee-ryong on July 23The second special prosecutor's investigation team, led by Kwon Chang-young, will summon former Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport Won Hee-ryong for questioning on July 23 regarding allegations of changes to the Seoul-Yangpyeong Expressway route.The special prosecutor's office announced on July 18 that Won is scheduled to appear for questioning at 10 a.m. on July 23.Previously, the special prosecutor's office had requested Won to appear for questioning twice regarding allegations of abuse of power, but the requests were not delivered due to his absence.Son Heung-min Scores in Return Match, Easing World Cup DisappointmentSouth Korean national soccer team captain Son Heung-min (LAFC) scored his first goal of the Major League Soccer (MLS) season in his first match back with his club following the 2026 North and Central America World Cup.On July 18, Son started in the 16th round of the MLS regular season against LA Galaxy at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California, and scored in the 57th minute.With his team leading 2-0, Son found the net after receiving a pass from Mark Delgado. This goal marked Son's first against local rivals LA Galaxy since joining LAFC last summer.This goal also marked Son's first in the MLS this season, as he had previously recorded nine assists without scoring since the season began, with two goals in the CONCACAF Champions Cup.Government Posthumously Awards National Medal to Late Jeju Olle Chairman Seo Myung-sookThe government posthumously awarded the National Medal of Morang to the late Seo Myung-sook, chairman of the Jeju Olle Foundation, who passed away in April.On July 18, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism announced that Minister Park Hwi-young visited the Jeju Olle Traveler Center in Seogwipo to present the medal to Seo's family on behalf of the government.Seo, who passed away at the age of 68 in April, returned to his hometown of Jeju and founded the Jeju Olle Foundation in September 2007, opening the first course of the Jeju Olle trail. In 2022, he completed the 27 courses of the Jeju Olle trail, including the 18-2 course, allowing visitors to explore Jeju solely on foot.A ministry official stated, "The Jeju Olle trail has attracted a cumulative total of 13.4 million visitors as of June 2026, making it a representative walking trail in the country," adding that it has significantly contributed to sustainable tourism development by creating an ecological and cultural space where nature, travelers, and local residents coexist harmoniously.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-18 21:48:00
  • Trump and Sanchez to Attend World Cup Final Amid Diplomatic Tensions
    Trump and Sanchez to Attend World Cup Final Amid Diplomatic Tensions The 2026 North American World Cup final is drawing global attention, not only for the match itself but also for the potential diplomatic encounter between U.S. President Donald Trump and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.According to a report by Politico Europe, citing the Spanish government, Sanchez plans to attend the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.Trump has also announced his intention to be present at the final, raising speculation about a possible meeting between the two leaders, who have publicly clashed in recent months.Both Sanchez and Trump have openly disagreed on several key international issues, including NATO defense spending, immigration policy, and relations with Iran.Earlier this month, at a NATO summit in Ankara, Trump criticized Spain as a "terrible partner" and stated, "I no longer want to trade with Spain," marking a significant escalation in tensions. This has led to Sanchez being viewed as a prominent 'anti-Trump' figure among European leaders.However, it is unlikely that the two leaders will hold a formal meeting. A spokesperson for the Spanish government indicated that Sanchez's stay in the U.S. would be very brief, making an official bilateral meeting virtually impossible.Following the final, Sanchez is scheduled to depart for Algeria, his next destination.In contrast, Argentina's President Javier Milei has opted not to attend the match. In Argentina, there is a longstanding superstition that when the president attends a match, the national team loses. Therefore, Milei will watch the final from his residence via television.Interestingly, Sanchez and Milei also share a contentious relationship. Despite Spain and Argentina being allies with cultural and historical ties, their leaders have previously engaged in heated exchanges that have led to diplomatic tensions.In 2024, Milei publicly raised corruption allegations against Sanchez's wife, Begona Gomez, prompting the Spanish government to demand an official apology for what they deemed an insult to a head of state. Milei's refusal to apologize resulted in Spain withdrawing its ambassador to Argentina, cooling relations between the two countries for some time.The upcoming World Cup final not only represents a competition for the championship between Spain and Argentina but also highlights the potential encounter between Trump and Sanchez, alongside Milei's decision to avoid the event due to superstition, drawing interest both inside and outside the stadium.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-18 20:52:00
  • Coupang Apologizes for Incheon Warehouse Fire, Vows Cooperation with Authorities
    Coupang Apologizes for Incheon Warehouse Fire, Vows Cooperation with Authorities Coupang issued an apology on July 18 for a fire that broke out at its logistics center in Incheon’s Seohae District. The company stated it would actively cooperate with authorities in their investigation and support firefighting efforts.In a statement from CEO Jung Jong-cheol, Coupang explained, "We immediately reported the fire to emergency services after becoming aware of it, and the swift response from the fire department ensured that all employees present at the logistics center were safely evacuated."The statement continued, "We will prioritize the safety of firefighters and support the ongoing firefighting operations, as well as fully cooperate with the investigation by relevant authorities."Coupang also expressed, "We sincerely apologize to the residents of Incheon and the public for the concern this incident has caused."The fire started at 6:54 a.m. on the sixth floor of Coupang's 32nd logistics center, an eight-story building with a total floor area of 299,000 square meters.Fire authorities issued a first-level response at 9:15 a.m. and escalated to a second-level response at 12:25 p.m. However, as efforts to control the blaze were unsuccessful, a national firefighting mobilization order was issued at 3:15 p.m.Firefighters faced challenges due to the large quantity of household goods stored inside, thick smoke obscuring visibility, and the risk of structural collapse, making it difficult to fully extinguish the fire even after 13 hours of efforts.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-18 20:48:00
  • Investigation into Lawmaker Kim Byung-ki Continues as Both Sides Seek Swift Resolution
    Investigation into Lawmaker Kim Byung-ki Continues as Both Sides Seek Swift Resolution As the police investigation into various allegations surrounding independent lawmaker Kim Byung-ki enters its tenth month, both Kim's camp and the complainant have submitted requests for a swift conclusion. According to reports from Yonhap News and others on July 18, Kim's attorney submitted an opinion letter to the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency's Public Crime Investigation Unit earlier this month, stating, "The prolonged investigation has led to speculative media reports that have damaged his reputation. We request a decision of non-prosecution." The former aide who filed the complaint against Kim, identified as A, also reportedly submitted a similar opinion letter in May. In the letter, A expressed, "The delay in the investigation has caused difficulties in my livelihood and I am suffering. I urge the investigative authorities to reach a conclusion promptly and to confirm the culpability of Kim and others without delay." Currently, Kim is under investigation for 13 allegations, including campaign donations, involvement in his son's transfer to Soongsil University, and requests for preferential treatment for a former aide at Coupang. Hong Seok-ki, head of the National Investigation Agency, mentioned during a regular briefing on July 6, "There are 13 cases related to Kim, and it seems that we are nearing the conclusion of the remaining checks. We are approaching a situation where we can make a judgment on all cases." Recent reports indicate that the police are accelerating their investigation, having summoned officials from Bithumb regarding the allegations of employment requests for Kim's son, suggesting that the inquiry is nearing its final stages.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-18 20:36:00
  • After 10 Years of Lottery Losses, Player Wins Top Prize
    After 10 Years of Lottery Losses, Player Wins Top Prize "I have been buying lottery tickets for over 10 years, but I never even won 4th place, so I didn't expect much. I never imagined I would win 1st place." On July 18, interest is growing in the winning numbers for the 1233rd round of the lottery, while the story of a winner from the 320th round of the pension lottery 720+ has captured attention. In a post on the lottery winner bulletin board on July 7, the winner of the 1st prize (1 ticket) and 2nd prize (4 tickets) in the 320th round of the pension lottery 720+ shared, "I usually check my lottery and pension lottery tickets all at once. Last Sunday, I thought I should check my accumulated tickets, and to my surprise, I had won 1st place. At first, I thought it couldn't be true and checked the numbers several times." He continued, "When I confirmed the win, I wasn't as excited as I expected; my family was the first thing that came to mind. I had been buying lottery tickets consistently for over 10 years, but I never even won 4th place, so I never expected to win 1st place." He expressed, "I still can't believe it; I feel dazed and it's hard to grasp the reality of it all." When asked what types of lottery tickets he usually buys at a lottery retailer in Deokjin-gu, Jeonju, he replied, "I occasionally buy Lotto and pension lottery tickets." Regarding his plans for the winnings, he stated, "I plan to use it for purchasing a house." Meanwhile, the winning numbers for the 1233rd round of the lottery will be available after 8:35 PM today (July 18). 2026-07-18 20:28:00
  • Phoenixs Heat Response Strategy Reduces Heat-Related Deaths by 37%
    Phoenix's Heat Response Strategy Reduces Heat-Related Deaths by 37% As record heat waves occur worldwide due to climate change, Phoenix, a desert city in the United States, is gaining attention for its innovative response strategies. By increasing access to air conditioning and significantly expanding cooling facilities, the city has successfully reduced heat-related deaths, offering a model that could be applicable in other countries. On July 18, BBC reported on the heat response policies in Phoenix and Maricopa County, stating, "The world has much to learn from this region." This summer, the United States and Europe have faced unprecedented heat waves, resulting in significant loss of life. In France, excess deaths during the heat wave at the end of June reached 2,025, while in England and Wales, over 2,700 deaths have been attributed to heat-related causes since May. In the U.S., at least 44 people died from the heat during the Independence Day weekend on July 4. Experts note that the nature of recent heat waves has changed compared to the past. Not only are daytime temperatures high, but nighttime temperatures also fail to drop sufficiently, preventing the body from cooling down and recovering. A researcher studying extreme climates at Yale University told BBC, "People think the current heat is at the same level as it was ten years ago, but it is actually much more severe. The inability of nighttime temperatures to drop is the biggest issue." In this context, Maricopa County, where Phoenix is located, has achieved relatively significant results. Heat-related deaths in the area peaked at 645 in 2023 but decreased to 405 in 2025. Experts believe that policy changes have contributed significantly to this decline. A key factor has been the expansion of access to air conditioning. Many heat-related deaths involved low-income individuals or the homeless, prompting the county to extend the operating hours of cooling centers, with some facilities open 24 hours. Additionally, residents who meet eligibility criteria received financial assistance for air conditioning repairs and replacements. According to BBC, Phoenix became the first city in the world to appoint a 'Heat Officer' in 2021. This role oversees heat response policies and coordinates collaboration among government departments. The chief medical officer of Maricopa County stated, "We knew early on that heat would be a recurring issue every year, but now it is becoming a predictable annual disaster in many regions worldwide." Experts warn against complacency regarding current achievements. As of July 11 this year, 23 heat-related deaths have been confirmed in Maricopa County, with an additional 282 cases under investigation. If these figures are confirmed, the toll could exceed last year's numbers. Experts emphasize that heat should not be viewed merely as a health issue but as a complex disaster that threatens infrastructure and the economy. With increasing instances of road damage and flight delays due to extreme heat, urban response systems must adapt accordingly. BBC quoted experts stating, "The era of planning based on past heat waves is over. Cities must design and prepare for the heat that will come in the next 5 to 10 years." They also noted, "If you feel hot now, expect even hotter and longer-lasting heat waves in the future, with temperature records likely to be broken worldwide every year."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-18 20:20:00
  • Iran Strikes Kuwaiti Power and Desalination Facilities Amid U.S. Airstrikes
    Iran Strikes Kuwaiti Power and Desalination Facilities Amid U.S. Airstrikes As the United States continues airstrikes against Iran for the seventh consecutive day, Iran has retaliated by targeting civilian infrastructure in Gulf countries where U.S. forces are stationed.On July 18, local time, the Kuwaiti government reported that Iran had attacked power and desalination facilities in Kuwait for two consecutive days, causing some operations to halt.The Kuwaiti Ministry of Electricity and Water stated, "Different power and desalination facilities were subjected to hostile attacks, resulting in fires at some locations and the suspension of operations at certain facilities."Kuwait International Airport has temporarily suspended operations due to ongoing missile and drone attack threats, according to Reuters.In Bahrain, two air raid alerts were issued on the morning of July 18, warning residents to take cover from potential drone and missile attacks.The Bahraini military reported that it intercepted several Iranian attacks using its air defense systems and raised its combat readiness.The Jordanian military also intercepted ten Iranian missiles, reporting no casualties or damage.Qatar confirmed it had intercepted missiles as well, while explosions were reported in Saudi Arabia, according to DPA news agency.The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) stated that it targeted Kuwait's Al-Ahmadi port and a U.S. communications center, claiming these facilities were used for U.S. naval fuel support.According to IRGC, attacks were also directed at Bahrain's Sheikh Isa Air Base, where U.S. fighter jets are stationed, as well as the 'Batelco' data center in Bahrain and Jordan's Al-Azraq Air Base.Earlier, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that it had conducted airstrikes against Iran for the seventh consecutive day, targeting surveillance facilities, military logistics, underground weapon storage, and maritime capabilities.The targeting of civilian infrastructure by both sides has raised concerns in the international community.United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres expressed worry over the escalating conflict, highlighting the attacks on civilian infrastructure in Iran and the surrounding region.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-18 19:32:00
  • Global Oil Supply Chain Faces Crisis Amid Red Sea Tensions
    Global Oil Supply Chain Faces Crisis Amid Red Sea Tensions The international oil supply chain is facing disruptions due to Iran's blockade of the Hormuz Strait, with tensions now extending to the Red Sea, raising concerns in the global energy market. Experts warn that simultaneous disruptions in these two major oil transport routes could lead to a global economic recession.According to the Wall Street Journal, on July 17, Saudi Arabia has been increasing its oil exports through the Red Sea following the blockade of the Hormuz Strait. However, this effort is now threatened by a shaky ceasefire with the Houthi rebels in Yemen.Currently, Saudi Arabia transports oil from its eastern fields to the western Red Sea port of Yanbu via an east-west pipeline, exporting approximately 4.6 million barrels per day through the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait. This figure, however, falls short of the pre-war level of 7.3 million barrels per day.The concern lies in the possibility that the Iran-aligned Houthi forces, who control the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, may resume attacks on shipping vessels.Since 2022, the Houthis and Saudi Arabia have maintained a ceasefire, but recent exchanges of airstrikes and missile attacks have escalated military tensions.On July 13, Saudi and Yemeni government forces conducted airstrikes on the international airport in Sana'a, the Houthi-controlled capital, prompting the Houthis to retaliate with ballistic missiles and drones targeting Abha International Airport in southern Saudi Arabia.Market analysts fear that if the Houthis attack commercial vessels in the Red Sea or target Saudi ports and oil facilities, it could create a worst-case scenario where both major oil transport routes in the Middle East are disrupted simultaneously, coinciding with the Hormuz Strait blockade.Capital Economics, a UK economic analysis firm, predicts that if both the Hormuz and Bab-el-Mandeb straits are incapacitated for an extended period, or if Saudi oil pipelines and port facilities suffer significant damage, the global economy could fall into recession.April Longley Alley, a senior political advisor at the UN Yemen envoy's office, stated, "The Houthis perceive the current situation as an opportunity to their advantage and are likely to escalate tensions to gain greater leverage."Kaja Kallas, the European Union's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, expressed concern, stating, "The situation in the Red Sea is deteriorating again," and warned that Houthi missile attacks could quickly spread instability from land to sea.However, experts believe that the Houthis are more likely to adopt a strategy of gradually increasing tensions rather than launching a full-scale blockade or large military actions. This approach may be aimed at drawing Saudi Arabia back to the negotiating table to enhance their bargaining power for resuming flights at Sana'a International Airport and increasing the flow of goods.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-18 19:20:00
  • Heavy Rain Expected in Seoul and Gangwon This Sunday
    Heavy Rain Expected in Seoul and Gangwon This Sunday Heavy rain is expected across the country, particularly in the Seoul metropolitan area and Gangwon Province, on Sunday, July 19.According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, the anticipated rainfall from July 18 to 19 over the weekend is expected to reach 80 to 150 mm in Seoul, Incheon, and Gyeonggi Province, with some areas possibly exceeding 200 mm. In Gangwon Province, rainfall is projected to be between 100 and 150 mm, with inland and mountainous regions potentially receiving more than 250 mm.In the Chungcheong region, including Daejeon, Sejong, South Chungcheong, and North Chungcheong, rainfall is expected to range from 50 to 100 mm, with some areas in northern Sejong and South Chungcheong exceeding 200 mm, and southern Daejeon and South Chungcheong exceeding 150 mm.In Jeonbuk, rainfall is forecasted to be between 30 and 100 mm, with the western coast of Jeonbuk possibly receiving more than 120 mm. Gwangju and South Jeolla are expected to see 30 to 80 mm, while northern and central North Gyeongsang is projected to receive 50 to 100 mm, with northern North Gyeongsang possibly exceeding 150 mm. In Daegu, southern North Gyeongsang, Busan, Ulsan, and South Gyeongsang, rainfall is expected to be between 20 and 60 mm, and Jeju Island is forecasted to receive 5 to 30 mm.The Korea Meteorological Administration emphasized the need to prepare for potential flooding in low-lying areas and landslides due to the possibility of intense rainfall over a short period.Tomorrow morning, the minimum temperature is expected to range from 21 to 26 degrees Celsius, while the maximum temperature during the day is forecasted to be between 25 and 33 degrees Celsius.Waves in the East, West, and South Seas are expected to reach heights of 0.5 to 1.0 meters. In the offshore waters, about 200 km from the coast, wave heights are projected to be 0.5 to 2.0 meters in the East and South Seas, and 0.5 to 1.5 meters in the West Sea.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-18 18:24:00
  • Kim Yong-beom: In the AI Era, the State Should Organize Production Relations
    Kim Yong-beom: In the AI Era, the State Should Organize Production Relations Kim Yong-beom, the Chief of Policy at the Blue House, asserted on July 18 that in the age of artificial intelligence (AI), the role of the state should be to organize production relations rather than act as a producer itself.In a Facebook post, Kim stated, "In the AI era, the state's role lies in organizing relationships where production capacity is continuously formed and reproduced. A nation's competitiveness depends not on how much it produces, but on how stably it establishes and maintains those production relations."He explained that discussions about the role of the state in the AI era are divided into two schools of thought: one advocating for active support of the AI industry, termed 'industrial policy,' and the other emphasizing the need to strengthen welfare and redistribution in response to job losses and income disparities caused by AI, referred to as 'social policy.'While he acknowledged that both arguments are necessary, he pointed out that they alone do not sufficiently explain the changes in the state's role demanded by the AI production revolution.He emphasized the need to design pathways for the formation of production capacity, connect production factors, and socially establish production conditions that the market can no longer reproduce on its own.Kim predicted that AI would replace entry-level jobs in the labor market before impacting existing positions. He noted that new employees typically perform basic tasks such as data research and translation while learning the organization's workflow, but generative AI is quickly replacing or supplementing these tasks, reducing companies' incentives to invest in long-term training for new hires.He pointed out that if all memory reduces the hiring of new employees, future skilled workers cannot be developed. He stated, "The state must organize a separate labor market in collaboration with businesses, public institutions, research organizations, and local industries, providing not only wages but also real work experiences, on-site mentoring, organizational experiences, responsible tasks, and career paths leading to the private sector."He added, "It is crucial to socially reconstruct the pathways for skill formation weakened by AI, ensuring that young people are guaranteed their first opportunities for growth and restoring the pathways for skill and production capacity to be reproduced across society."Kim highlighted that while AI is part of the 'bit industry' composed of software and data, it also requires substantial physical infrastructure. He stated, "To build AI data centers, industrial land, high-voltage transmission networks, cooling facilities, optical communication networks, and power generation equipment must be established together," emphasizing that simply securing GPUs and semiconductors does not create AI production capacity.This indicates that future corporate production capacity will heavily depend not only on individual companies' technologies and facilities but also on the power grid, data, research, and development provided by society as a whole.In this context, Kim concluded that the state's role is not to directly manufacture semiconductors or operate AI services but to organize power, data, computing infrastructure, and long-term finance to function as a cohesive production system.He remarked, "If society invests significant costs and institutional capabilities to form specific production capacities, there must also be mechanisms to connect the achievements created by businesses with their social contributions," stressing the importance of creating a 'feedback loop' that leads to the formation of the next production capacity.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-18 18:08:00