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EU Collects Record €4.6 Billion Fine from Google, Alleviating Member States' Burden The European Union (EU) has successfully collected a record fine of €4.6 billion (approximately 7.8 trillion won) from Google. This amount is equivalent to about 2% of the EU's total budget for the year and is expected to help alleviate the financial burden on member states struggling with economic downturns.According to Politico Europe on July 17, Google has paid the full amount following the final ruling by the European Court of Justice (ECJ) regarding the fine.The EU Commission had imposed the astronomical fine in 2018, accusing Google of abusing its market dominance by forcing smartphone manufacturers to pre-install its search engine and Chrome browser. Google contested the decision and engaged in legal battles for eight years but ultimately failed to overturn the ruling.The fine will be immediately incorporated into the EU's joint finances. An EU Commission official stated, "The revenue from this fine will be reflected in the budget revision to be announced in the second half of this year, which will reduce the contributions that member states are required to pay based on their Gross National Income (GNI)."The EU's central budget, which funds agricultural subsidies and regional development, is primarily supported by contributions from member states. Given the recent rise in energy costs due to conflicts in the Middle East and economic slowdowns, the payment from Google is expected to be a welcome relief for member governments.Germany, which contributes about a quarter of the EU budget, is estimated to save around €1 billion (approximately 1.7 trillion won) as a result of this fine payment.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-17 19:44:00 -
Controversy Erupts Over Gender-Neutral Terms in Education Policy 경상남도교육청이 학교 현장에 '학부모'나 '엄마·아빠' 대신 '보호자 1·2' 등의 표현 사용을 권고한 공문이 확산하며 거센 반발이 일었다. 논란이 커지자 경남교육청은 결국 "현장 우려를 반영했다"며 공문을 공식 철회했다.경남교육청은 13일 "해당 공문의 취지가 본래 교육적 의도와 다르게 해석되거나 오해를 유발할 소지가 있다는 학교 현장의 우려를 반영해 공문을 철회했다"고 밝혔다.앞서 교육청은 지난 7일 '다양한 가족 형태 존중을 위한 고정관념 용어 개선'을 이유로 각급 학교와 기관에 공문을 보내 '학부모' 대신 '보호자', '부·모' 대신 '보호자 1·2' 등의 표현을 사용할 것을 권고했다.교육청은 한부모·조손·다문화 가정 등 다양한 가족 형태를 포용, 특정 가족 형태를 전제로 한 표현을 줄이기 위한 취지였다고 설명했다. 일각에서는 '엄마는 양육, 아빠는 생계부양'이라는 고정된 역할 인식을 줄이고, 한부모·조손·동거 보호자 등 다양한 보호자 형태를 제도적으로 반영하려는 시도라는 해석도 나온다.다만 공문 내용이 알려진 뒤 온라인에서는 반발이 확산됐다.한 온라인 커뮤니티에는 관련 게시글에 1600개가 넘는 댓글이 달리며 높은 관심을 보였다.누리꾼들은 "염X을 하고 있다", "애가 엄마한테 보호자1, 보호자1이라고 부르면 웃기겠다", "단어 갖고 꼬투리 잡는 XX들", "너 보호자 없니?", "이 나라가 어쩌다 이 지경이 됐나", "이런 거 볼 때마다 민주주의 종말을 보는 것 같다", "갈수록 나라가 왜 이렇게 비상식적으로 변하려 하냐" 등의 반응을 보이며 비판적인 의견을 쏟아냈다.결국 경남교육청은 현장의 혼란과 우려를 고려해 공문을 철회하기로 결정, 향후 관련 용어 사용과 가족 다양성 존중 방안에 대해서는 학교 현장의 의견을 추가로 수렴할 방침이다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-17 19:16:00
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Kim Jong Un Meets Chinese Delegation, Emphasizes Expanded Cooperation Kim Jong Un, the Chairman of North Korea, reaffirmed the strategic alliance between North Korea and China during a meeting with Wang Huning, the Chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, who visited North Korea. On July 17, the Korean Central News Agency and Xinhua News Agency reported that Kim met with the Chinese delegation led by Wang on July 16 in Pyongyang. During the meeting, Kim expressed gratitude for the greetings sent by Chinese President Xi Jinping and praised the dispatch of the high-level delegation as a strong commitment by China to implement agreements between the two leaders. He emphasized that the North Korea-China Friendship Treaty, which marks its 65th anniversary this year, is a "treaty between nations that protects the fundamental interests of both countries and ensures regional peace," stating that it is the consistent policy of the North Korean government to develop the traditional friendship in various ways based on socialism to meet the demands of the times. Kim also expressed support for the socialist cause with Chinese characteristics. Wang thanked the North for its hospitality and expressed willingness to fully implement the consensus reached during the summit, enhance political trust, and expand cooperation in various fields. Kim proposed broadening cooperation not only through high-level exchanges but also by sharing experiences in party building and expanding practical collaboration in areas such as economy, science and technology, health, and culture to benefit the peoples of both countries. On the second day of their visit, the Chinese delegation followed a packed schedule in Pyongyang. They paid their respects at the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, where the bodies of Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il are preserved, leaving a message in the guestbook that read, "The friendship between China and North Korea will be passed down through generations." They also visited the Chinese People's Volunteer Army Martyrs' Cemetery in Sunan District and the Central Party School of the Workers' Party, and inspected Wonsan City accompanied by Jo Yong-won, a secretary of the Central Committee of the Workers' Party.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-17 19:16:00
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Prime Minister Inspects Seoul's Homeless Shelters Amid Heat Wave Prime Minister Han Seong-sook conducted an inspection on July 17 to assess preparations for the summer heat wave and urged officials to ensure the safety of vulnerable residents.During her visit to the homeless shelters near Seoul Station, Han examined the nighttime cooling centers and facilities providing fans and drinking water to prevent heat-related issues.She also visited households of elderly residents living alone to check on their health and listen to their concerns, encouraging them to seek help quickly in case of emergencies.At the homeless counseling center, Han encouraged staff and received updates on support for residents. She stated, "The heat wave is not just a seasonal inconvenience; it is a climate emergency that directly impacts lives. I urge you to implement thorough safety checks and meticulous protective measures to ensure vulnerable residents can safely endure the summer."Han emphasized the importance of effectively applying the government's measures for vulnerable populations announced last month. She instructed local government officials and counseling center staff to conduct home visits for closer management.Furthermore, she called for the activation of cultural programs and community activities for residents, urging the Ministry of Health and Welfare and the Seoul city government to facilitate smooth cooperation between public and private sectors.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-17 17:48:00
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Severe Rainfall Expected in Central Regions Starting Early Saturday On Saturday, July 18, heavy rain accompanied by strong winds and thunderstorms is expected to hit the central regions, including the metropolitan area, Gangwon, and Chungcheong provinces.According to the Korea Meteorological Administration on July 17, the rain will intensify in the central regions starting early Saturday morning.Areas in the metropolitan area, inland Gangwon, southern Chungcheong, and northern Chungbuk could experience sudden downpours of 50 to 80 millimeters per hour.Other parts of the central regions are forecasted to receive heavy rain of 30 to 50 millimeters per hour, necessitating caution.This rain is expected to be concentrated over a short period, which could lead to rapid rises in water levels in valleys and rivers. Precautions should be taken to prevent damage from additional heavy rain, such as landslides, collapses of retaining walls, and flooding in low-lying areas.Tomorrow morning, the minimum temperature is expected to range from 22 to 26 degrees Celsius, while the maximum temperature during the day will be between 26 and 31 degrees Celsius. In areas experiencing rain, visibility may decrease sharply, and many roads will be slippery, so traffic safety should be a priority this weekend.The sea will have relatively low waves, but rain and wind are expected. 2026-07-17 17:36:00
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Xi Jinping Advocates for Global AI Cooperation at Shanghai Conference Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed ambitions to counter the dominance of the United States in the artificial intelligence (AI) sector and to establish a new global AI order centered around China. According to reports from Reuters and AFP, Xi made his remarks during the opening ceremony of the '2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC)' in Shanghai on July 17, stating, "The development of AI should not be a solo performance by a specific country but a symphony created by the international community together." This comment is seen as a direct challenge to the U.S.-led AI supply chain alliance known as 'Pax Silica.' Xi emphasized that AI development must be human-centered and ensure safety and controllability, while also opposing the misuse of national security concepts to control technology. This statement indirectly criticized the measures taken by the U.S. and the European Union to regulate advanced Chinese technologies under the guise of security. Notably, Xi highlighted solidarity with the 'Global South,' which includes emerging and developing countries. He stated, "We must prevent new historical inequalities from arising in the field of AI," and pledged to foster AI cooperation centers with BRICS, ASEAN, Latin American, and African nations, promising 5,000 educational opportunities for developing countries over the next five years. On July 16, the day before the conference, China officially launched the 'World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO)' in collaboration with 28 countries from Asia, Africa, and South America, including Russia, Brazil, and Serbia. Local experts noted that Xi's actions signal a declaration and warning that China aims to lead global AI standards and technology, marking the beginning of China's 'AI diplomacy' with the WAIC's establishment. 2026-07-17 17:08:00
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U.S.-Iran Tensions Escalate in Hormuz Strait Amid Attacks on Civilian Infrastructure The military conflict between the United States and Iran over control of the strategic Hormuz Strait has intensified for a week, causing significant repercussions. As U.S. strikes expand to civilian infrastructure, Iran is reportedly broadening its retaliation across the Arab region. The U.S. Central Command announced via social media that it targeted dozens of Iranian coastal air defense systems and military bases for about seven hours starting at 2 p.m. local time on July 16. This airstrike is part of a military operation that began on July 11, aimed at neutralizing Iranian military capabilities in the Hormuz Strait, and has been conducted for six consecutive days. Local reports indicate that a major railway junction near Bandar Abbas in southern Iran and the Bandar Kamir bridge in Hormozgan province were destroyed, resulting in casualties. Additionally, the Iranian airport in Shahrekord experienced a power outage due to shelling, and a watchtower at Chabahar port collapsed. U.S. media outlets noted that President Donald Trump recently hinted at targeting Iran's key infrastructure to lift the blockade of the Strait, analyzing that the airstrikes aim to disrupt supply routes connecting southern Iranian port cities to the capital, Tehran, thereby paralyzing both military and civilian logistics. Iran's Health Ministry reported that since the breakdown of a ceasefire agreement on June 22, U.S. airstrikes have resulted in 38 deaths and over 400 injuries. In response, Iran has launched widespread retaliation. Iranian missile attacks prompted the activation of air defense systems in Kuwait, and Bahrain issued air raid alerts. Even Qatar, which had previously been excluded from attacks due to its mediating role, was targeted, resulting in civilian injuries. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed to have struck U.S. military bases in Syria and radar facilities in Oman, warning that if the U.S. continues its offensive against infrastructure, it would attack the entire energy infrastructure of the Gulf region. As tensions in the Hormuz Strait reach a peak, military standoffs between the two nations remain tense. The U.S. continues its maritime blockade to prevent Iranian oil exports, while Iran threatens to block all oil transport routes for neighboring Gulf countries. 2026-07-17 16:48:00
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Japan's Imperial Family Law Revised for First Time in 79 Years The Imperial Family Law, which governs the structure and succession of Japan's royal family, has been significantly revised for the first time since its implementation in 1947. Under the new provisions, female royals can remain part of the imperial family even after marrying commoners, and men from former royal families who left after World War II can now be adopted as royals. While the adopted sons themselves do not have succession rights, their biological sons will be eligible to inherit the throne. This change has sparked controversy over the reinforcement of male lineage in succession.On July 17, the Yomiuri Shimbun reported that the Japanese House of Councillors passed the amendment to the Imperial Family Law during its plenary session. The amendment had already been approved by the House of Representatives on July 10, completing the legislative process. The ruling party, the Constitutional Democratic Party, and the Social Democratic Party supported the amendment, while the main opposition party, the Constitutional Democratic Party, and the Communist Party voted against it.The amendment removes the provision that required female royals to leave the imperial family upon marrying a commoner. Previously, female royals had to depart the royal family upon marriage, although they could choose to remain. Even if they stay, their husbands and children will not become royals and will retain their status as common citizens.Additionally, the amendment allows for the acceptance of male descendants from the 11 former imperial families that left in 1947 as adopted royals, provided they are over 15 years old and do not have spouses or children. This creates an exception to the previous ban on adoption within the imperial family.The core of the controversy lies in the fact that the sons of these adopted males will have succession rights. While the adopted males themselves cannot inherit the throne, their biological sons will be eligible under current regulations. Although this change does not immediately affect the current line of succession, it opens the possibility for new candidates for the throne from former royal families in the long term.The discussions began as a response to the declining number of royals due to the rule requiring female royals to leave upon marriage. The chairs of both the House of Representatives and the House of Councillors consulted with various parties to find ways to maintain the number of royals, but they did not reach a conclusion on succession issues. However, the government's proposal to recognize succession rights for the sons of adopted males expanded the discussion from merely maintaining royal numbers to include succession matters.The Constitutional Democratic Party proposed an amendment to remove the provision allowing the adoption of descendants from former royal families, but it was rejected. Hiroyuki Nagahama, a member of the Constitutional Democratic Party, pointed out during the House of Councillors deliberations that the adoption system could lead to confusion in the royal lineage and would not contribute to stable succession.A recent poll conducted by the Mainichi Shimbun found that 73% of respondents supported recognizing a female emperor. However, the current amendment does not address the issue of female emperors or succession through maternal lineage. Instead, it has broadened the possibility of succession through male lineage from former royal families.With the passage of the bill, the House of Representatives and the House of Councillors agreed to continue discussions on stable succession plans. While the Imperial Family Law has been amended after 79 years, the key issue of who will inherit the throne remains unresolved.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-17 16:44:00
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President Lee: No One Should Stand Above the Constitution President Lee Jae-myung stated on July 17, "A government of popular sovereignty must uphold the fundamental principle that the people are the true owners of the nation."During a citizen invitation event at the Blue House's guesthouse to commemorate the launch of the 'Light Commission' on this Constitution Day, he emphasized, "Democracy and popular sovereignty must never be threatened again, and no one should attempt to stand above the Constitution."The 'Light Commission' is a presidential advisory body established in March, aimed at promoting various initiatives that honor the spirit of citizens who resisted the previous government's illegal martial law.Attendees included Chairperson Park Mi-kyung, Minister of the Interior and Safety Yoon Ho-jung, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance Koo Yun-cheol, and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Science and ICT Bae Kyung-hoon, along with over 100 citizens and representatives from civic groups who opposed the martial law.President Lee recalled, "I remember the faces of countless citizens who endured the winter on asphalt, sharing a single thermal blanket, and rushed to Namtaeryeong to extend a hand of solidarity with farmers. The great people chose unity over division, peace over violence, and action over silence."He assessed, "This clearly demonstrated that while democracy in South Korea may be shaken, it will never collapse."He reiterated plans to designate December 3 as 'National Sovereignty Day' and emphasized, "We will actively promote the establishment of a digital archive to ensure that K-Democracy can serve as a model for democracies worldwide."President Lee added, "As a citizen of South Korea, I once again express my deep respect and gratitude to the people."He and the attendees watched the documentary film 'Ran 12.3,' directed by Lee Myung-se, which addresses the martial law situation.Director Lee expressed, "I am very pleased to be able to share this moment with the President and the citizens, who are the main characters of the film. I hope today's film viewing becomes a meaningful time of solidarity."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-17 16:44:00
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BTS Surprises Fans with Korean Version of 'Normal' Following Concert K-pop group BTS has released new music, including the Korean version of their song "Normal" from their fifth studio album, "Arirang." According to Big Hit Music, BTS launched the explicit, clean, and instrumental versions of the Korean track at 1 p.m. on July 17. The Korean version was first unveiled to fans during their world tour concert in Busan last month. On the same day, the music video for the original English version was released on Spotify, with uploads to other platforms, including YouTube, scheduled for July 19. The music video realistically depicts the members' tired and chaotic daily lives behind the glamorous stage, offering honest comfort regarding the anxiety and fatigue experienced by the public. Featuring renowned producer Ryan Tedder, "Normal" is an alternative pop song that expresses the emptiness and fear behind the bright spotlight through a calm rap-singing style. It entered the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart at No. 41 and has remained on the chart for three consecutive weeks. BTS is set to perform at the halftime show of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19, alongside global pop stars such as Madonna, Shakira, and Justin Bieber. 2026-07-17 16:16:00