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  • Seoul International Womens Film Festival Announces Record 8 Finalists for Discovery Competition
    Seoul International Women's Film Festival Announces Record 8 Finalists for 'Discovery' Competition 제28회 서울국제여성영화제가 국제 장편영화 경쟁 부문 ‘발견’ 본선 진출작 8편을 발표했다. 오는 8월 20일부터 26일까지 열리는 서울국제여성영화제는 국내외 여성 감독의 첫 번째 또는 두 번째 장편영화를 대상으로 하는 국제 경쟁 부문 ‘발견’의 올해 본선작을 확정했다. ‘발견’은 여성 서사와 영화 미학의 지평을 확장하는 작품을 발굴해온 부문이다. 신진 여성 창작자들이 자신만의 영화 세계를 펼치고 국제 무대와 만나는 창구 역할을 해왔다. 올해 서울국제여성영화제 작품 공모에는 경쟁·비경쟁 부문을 통틀어 전 세계 125개국에서 총 4115편이 출품됐다. 이 가운데 경쟁 부문 출품작은 2309편이다. 국제 장편영화 경쟁 부문 ‘발견’에는 84개국에서 462편이 출품됐다. 지난해 86개국 394편보다 68편 늘어난 수치로, 역대 최다 출품 기록이다. 아시아 여성 감독의 단편영화 경쟁 부문인 ‘아시아단편’에도 77개국에서 1796편이 출품돼 역대 최다 출품 편수를 기록했다. 한국 10대 여성 감독의 단편영화 경쟁 부문 ‘아이틴즈’에는 51편이 출품됐다. 올해 ‘발견’ 본선 진출작은 총 8편이다. 공동제작 국가를 포함해 멕시코, 아르헨티나, 코소보, 스위스, 프랑스, 중국, 일본, 캐나다, 대한민국, 케냐, 나이지리아, 파키스탄, 독일, 사우디아라비아, 세르비아 등 15개국 작품이 이름을 올렸다. 본선 진출작은 카를라 바디요 감독의 ‘거위 게임’, 블레르타 바숄리 감독의 ‘두아’, 캉드룬 감독의 ‘링카 링카’, 요시다 마유미 감독의 ‘아카시’, 홍지연 감독의 ‘용주골’, 빈초 은초구 감독의 ‘원 우먼 원 브라’, 시맙 굴 감독의 ‘유령 학교’, 나스티아 코르키아 감독의 ‘짧은 여름’이다. 올해 본선작들은 여러 대륙과 시간을 넘나들며 현재의 불안과 균열을 과거의 기억 속에서 다시 바라보는 흐름을 보인다. 선정위원단은 다수의 작품이 1990년대와 2000년대를 회고적으로 포착하는 동시에 혐오와 분리, 차별, 고립의 정념을 성찰하고 있다는 점에 주목했다. ‘발견’ 부문 선정을 맡은 손시내·송효정 서울국제여성영화제 프로그래머는 “두려움과 설렘 속에서 내밀한 자기 세계를 구축하고, 공감과 초월을 향해 단호하고도 사려 깊게 다가간 8편의 작품을 소개하게 되어 기쁘다”고 밝혔다. 이어 “올해의 ‘발견’에서는 미시적 폭력과 운명적 파국 속에서도 환경과 주체를 재구축하는 인물들을 만나게 될 것”이라고 전했다. 선정위원단은 “작품들은 프레임 바깥의 세계를 상상하게 하며 관객을 능동적 비평가의 자리로 초대한다”며 “견실히 자신의 세계를 구축하며 새로운 감각을 발명하는 신진 여성 감독들의 영화를 응원한다”고 밝혔다. ‘발견’ 본선 진출작 8편은 영화제 기간 중 상영되며 대상과 우수상을 두고 경합한다. 대상 상금은 1200만원, 우수상 상금은 600만원이다. 수상작은 폐막식에서 발표된다. 1997년 출범한 서울국제여성영화제는 여성 영화인의 발굴과 지원, 여성의 삶과 시선을 담은 영화 소개를 통해 한국 영화계의 다양성을 확장해왔다. 제28회 서울국제여성영화제는 8월 20일부터 26일까지 7일간 메가박스 신촌과 한국영상자료원에서 열린다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-17 11:04:00
  • All Top 10 ETF Returns This Month Are Inverse as Investors Bet on Market Decline
    All Top 10 ETF Returns This Month Are Inverse as Investors Bet on Market Decline Investors in inverse funds are seeing gains this month as all top 10 performing ETFs for July are inverse products. These funds have capitalized on declines in the KOSPI futures and stocks like Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix.This month, the performance of leveraged inverse products has been particularly notable. Leveraged inverse funds aim to deliver double the opposite return of their underlying index or stock on a daily basis.According to the Korea Exchange on July 17, the 'SOL SK Hynix Futures Single Stock Inverse 2X' recorded a return of 54.08%, making it the top-performing ETF. Its trading volume reached approximately 34.7 trillion won, ranking second among all ETFs. The 'PLUS Samsung Electronics Futures Single Stock Inverse 2X' also performed well, achieving a return of 45.81% and placing fourth.The remaining top positions were filled by products that inversely track the KOSPI 200 futures index. The 'TIGER 200 Futures Inverse 2X' and 'PLUS 200 Futures Inverse 2X' achieved returns of 47.22% and 46.76%, respectively, securing second and third place. They were followed by 'RISE 200 Futures Inverse 2X' (45.07%), 'KODEX 200 Futures Inverse 2X' (44.93%), and 'KIWOOM 200 Futures Inverse 2X' (44.78%).Inverse products that track the KOSPI index's decline also yielded high returns. 'HANARO 200 Futures Inverse' and 'KIWOOM 200 Futures Inverse' rose by 25.73% and 23.49%, respectively, while 'TIGER Inverse' recorded a return of 22.90%.Trading activity has heavily favored inverse products. The Korea Exchange reported that the 'KODEX 200 Futures Inverse 2X' was the most traded fund this month, with 1.366 billion shares exchanged. It was followed by 'SOL SK Hynix Futures Single Stock Inverse 2X' (361.3 million shares) and 'TIGER 200 Futures Inverse 2X' (157.4 million shares). The 'PLUS Samsung Electronics Futures Single Stock Inverse 2X' also made the top ranks with 23.2 million shares traded.Other actively traded funds included 'KIWOOM 200 Futures Inverse 2X' (54.2 million shares), 'RISE 200 Futures Inverse 2X' (35.1 million shares), and 'PLUS 200 Futures Inverse 2X' (10.5 million shares). The 1X inverse product 'TIGER Inverse' (66.6 million shares), 'KIWOOM 200 Futures Inverse' (1.4 million shares), and 'HANARO 200 Futures Inverse' (380,000 shares) also ranked among the top 10 in trading volume.Market analysts caution investors about the risks of repeatedly trading leveraged and inverse products. In volatile market conditions, losses from directional trading can accumulate quickly.An industry insider stated, "The market has been exhibiting extreme volatility, with significant fluctuations occurring even within a single day. Investors should be particularly cautious with leveraged and inverse product investments, as the potential for being caught in volatility is high when trying to predict short-term directions."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-17 11:04:00
  • US caps foreign student visas at four years in sweeping overhaul
    US caps foreign student visas at four years in sweeping overhaul SEOUL, July 17 (AJP) - The United States will limit foreign students, exchange visitors and journalists to fixed periods of stay under a sweeping rule finalized by the Department of Homeland Security, ending a decades-old system that let them remain as long as they kept up their studies or work. Under the rule, students on F visas and exchange visitors on J visas will be admitted for the length of their program, up to a maximum of four years, after which they must apply to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services for an extension of stay involving biometric vetting, background checks and fraud screening. The measure was published in the Federal Register on Thursday (local time) and takes effect 60 days later, in mid-September, meaning students arriving for the autumn term will fall under the new framework almost immediately. DHS said a sharp rise in visa holders had strained its capacity to monitor them. Foreign journalists on I visas will be admitted for 240 days, with extensions granted in further 240-day increments, while Chinese nationals face a tighter 90-day limit. The rule also halves the post-graduation grace period for F-1 students to 30 days and curbs their ability to switch academic programs. "For nearly half a century, the outdated 'duration of status' system has compromised national security and created an environment ripe for immigration fraud," said DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin, adding that the change would strengthen oversight and curb abuse. The impact on South Koreans is unavoidable, as most master's and doctoral programs run beyond four years, leaving extension approvals to determine whether students can finish their degrees. According to the Korean Embassy in Washington, 11,861 Koreans held F-1 student visas in 2025, alongside 349 I-visa holders and 7,985 J-1 exchange visitors. Experts called it the most consequential shift to the student visa regime in decades, raising the bar for those lawfully in the country and forcing applicants worldwide to weigh extension procedures and their attendant risks when mapping out their studies. 2026-07-17 10:55:55
  • Ruling Party Maintains Candidacy Eligibility for Song Young-gil and Kim Yong
    Ruling Party Maintains Candidacy Eligibility for Song Young-gil and Kim Yong The Democratic Party has decided to apply an exception regarding the candidacy eligibility of lawmakers Song Young-gil and Kim Yong, who have faced controversy over their qualifications for the upcoming party convention in August. This decision allows both Song and Kim, who have declared their candidacies for party leader and supreme council member, respectively, to maintain their eligibility. On the morning of July 17, the Democratic Party held a closed supreme council meeting at the National Assembly, where it was decided to uphold the candidacy qualifications of Song and Kim. Kang Jun-hyun, the party's chief spokesperson, spoke to reporters after the meeting, stating, "The supreme council conducted a vote on whether to apply exceptions regarding the candidacy eligibility of Song and Kim. The results will be submitted to the party affairs committee. In other words, the supreme council has determined to apply exceptions for them." Kang also announced that an emergency meeting of the party affairs committee would be convened at 3 PM to discuss the application of the exception for Song and Kim's candidacy eligibility. Following the decision made at the supreme council meeting, members of the pro-Cheongrae faction immediately expressed their opposition. Supreme Council member Park Kyu-hwan remarked, "Today has become a day that leaves another blemish. I feel very ashamed and sorry to have been present at that meeting, but I am determined to protect the Democratic Party, as its collapse could lead to the collapse of democracy itself." He criticized Song and Kim, stating, "They should have verified whether their support conditions were valid, and if they wanted to support despite deficiencies, they should have requested it from the party in advance. Shifting personal responsibility onto the party is not the attitude of a party member." Another supreme council member, Park Ji-won, noted, "Today is Constitution Day. I reflected on how important it is to create and operate norms in the history of our community. I apologize to the public for showing them an unpleasant situation," while appealing for support from party members. Additionally, fellow pro-Cheongrae member Moon Jeong-bok opposed the decision made at the supreme council meeting and abstained from voting. Earlier, the Democratic Party had raised concerns about the candidacy qualifications of Song and Kim through some supreme council members. Kim Yong was reportedly unable to meet the party membership fee requirements due to account freezes during his imprisonment following a sentence in the appellate trial related to the Daejang-dong incident. Currently, the Democratic Party's regulations stipulate that candidacy eligibility is granted to party members who have paid their dues at least six times within one year prior to the eligibility exercise date, provided they joined the party at least six months before that date. However, Song Young-gil rejoined the party in February 2023 after leaving due to allegations of distributing money envelopes, falling short of the six-month requirement for candidacy registration.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-17 10:12:00
  • Kang Cheong-hee Appointed as New Chairman of National Health Insurance Corporation
    Kang Cheong-hee Appointed as New Chairman of National Health Insurance Corporation Kang Cheong-hee, the former president of the Korea Public Organization Bank, has been appointed as the new chairman of the National Health Insurance Corporation. His term will begin on July 20 and will last for three years, during which he is expected to lead key policies such as health insurance finance management and the establishment of integrated care.The Ministry of Health and Welfare announced on July 17 that Kang Cheong-hee has been appointed as the 11th chairman of the National Health Insurance Corporation.The new chairman is a thoracic surgeon and a graduate of Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine. He has held various positions, including vice president of the Korean Society of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, executive vice president of the Korean Medical Association, director of the Health Center in Giheung-gu, Yongin, executive director of benefits at the National Health Insurance Corporation, president of the Korea Public Organization Bank, and chairman of the Health and Medical Special Committee of the Democratic Party.The Ministry expects that Chairman Kang will leverage his expertise and policy experience in the medical field to effectively manage health insurance finances and implement integrated care, while also actively supporting government initiatives to strengthen local, essential, and public healthcare.The chairman of the National Health Insurance Corporation is appointed following a recommendation from the corporation's executive recommendation committee and the Minister of Health and Welfare, with final approval from the President.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-17 10:08:00
  • Union Opposes JB Financial and BNK Merger Proposal, Citing Job Cuts
    Union Opposes JB Financial and BNK Merger Proposal, Citing Job Cuts The labor union of Jeonbuk Bank has expressed strong opposition to the merger proposal between JB Financial Group and BNK Financial Group put forth by Align Partners. The union argues that the merger would inevitably lead to job cuts and a reduction in local branches.On July 17, the union released a statement condemning Align Partners' proposal, stating, "While they claim to promote economies of scale and investments in artificial intelligence (AI), the reality is that this is a typical self-serving behavior of financial capital aimed at short-term stock price boosts and their own exit strategy."Previously, the activist hedge fund Align Partners announced on July 14 that it had sent an open letter to the boards of both companies, urging them to consider the merger.As a result, the two financial groups are required to submit a feasibility study on the merger by August 7, with a plan for implementation to be disclosed before the third-quarter earnings announcement. Although there is no legal obligation to respond, they are considering submitting a reply due to Align Partners being a major shareholder.However, the labor union expressed concerns, stating, "The cost synergies and efficiency improvements from AI transition that Align Partners claims will ultimately lead to organizational downsizing, large-scale layoffs, and the closure of local branches."They further pointed out, "The industrial structure, economic conditions, and financial demands in Honam and Yeongnam are completely different. To define the merger as the only solution simply because the service areas do not overlap shows a lack of understanding of the region."Jeong Won-ho, chairman of the Jeonbuk Bank labor union, emphasized, "The true owners of JB Financial Group are not a few shareholders chasing short-term profits, but the local community, customers, and employees. We will resolutely oppose any attempts by financial capital that threaten the foundation of local finance without compromise."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-17 10:08:00
  • Health Ministry to Overhaul Pension System with Focus on Low-Income Seniors
    Health Ministry to Overhaul Pension System with Focus on Low-Income Seniors The government will completely overhaul the basic pension system to provide more support for low-income seniors, adopting a 'lower support for higher income' structure. The current reduction system, which cuts pension amounts for couples receiving basic pensions, will be abolished. Additionally, the government will support the first pension premium for young people to help secure their national pension enrollment, aiming to establish a multi-layered income security system for the elderly. To address the declining regional and essential medical services, a special account worth 12 trillion won will be established, with a focus on investing 36 trillion won in these areas. On July 16, the Ministry of Health and Welfare announced seven key initiatives under the vision of 'A Welfare State that Respects Life, A South Korea that Leaps Together.' The ministry will focus on: △ A life-saving social safety net △ National responsibility for care △ A sustainable pension system △ Welfare for youth advancement △ Regional medical care in five regions and three specialties △ Growth engines based on bio and AI △ A trusted health and welfare system.Overhaul of Basic Pension System to Eliminate Unfair ReductionsThe most critical task in this business report is the structural reform of the sustainable pension system. The ministry plans to shift from the current system, which provides a flat rate of 350,000 won to the bottom 70% of seniors, to a structure that offers more pension support to low-income seniors. This change will also revise the existing criteria for the 'bottom 70% payment' to reflect the improved economic status of the elderly, including the baby boomer generation. Minister Jeong Eun-kyeong stated during a pre-briefing on July 15, "We will reform the basic pension structure based on sufficient social discussions, including the National Assembly's pension special committee. We will transition from providing 350,000 won to all recipients to a structure that offers more support to low-income seniors." In response to questions during the briefing, she added, "I believe that reforming the basic pension is a very important task for the second half of the year, and it seems that everyone agrees on the principle of lower support for higher income." The ministry will also eliminate the reduction system, which has been criticized as unfair by senior organizations. The 'couple reduction' system, which cuts 20% of the pension amount for couples both receiving basic pensions, will be abolished. Additionally, provisions that excluded low-income occupational pension recipients and their spouses from eligibility will be improved, with legislative efforts planned for this year. Efforts to enhance the security and fairness of the national pension will also be undertaken. Starting in 2027, the government will support the first pension premium for 18-year-olds without a national pension enrollment history, covering approximately 42,000 won for one month. Moreover, the military service credit will be expanded from recognizing 12 months to the entire duration of service, while childbirth credits will be differentiated, offering 12 months for the first child and 15 months for the second. To ensure fairness, individuals convicted of child abuse or those who have received a prison sentence of 18 months or more for misconduct during military service will be completely excluded from credit benefits. To prevent disadvantages due to information disparities, improvements to the payment system will also be pursued in the second half of this year.1.2 Trillion Won Special Account to Revitalize Regional and Essential Medical CareSignificant financial resources will be allocated to strengthen the crumbling foundation of regional and essential medical care. The ministry plans to establish a special account for regional essential medical care worth 12 trillion won by 2027, allowing local governments to plan and implement essential medical policies tailored to regional characteristics. Additionally, the health insurance fee structure will be completely overhauled for the first time in 25 years, with 36 trillion won allocated for compensation in regional and essential medical fields. This will involve restructuring excessive spending in areas such as imaging and specimen testing to save 26 trillion won in health insurance finances annually. To address the shortage of medical personnel, the short-term contract system for regional essential doctors, currently implemented in 11 cities and provinces, will be expanded nationwide next year. Long-term plans include the introduction of a regional doctor system by 2027 and the establishment of national medical graduate schools and regional medical colleges by 2030. Furthermore, to build an emergency and maternity medical system, the number of regional emergency medical centers will be increased to a maximum of 60 by November, and the number of severe maternal and child medical centers will be gradually expanded from two to six.Enhanced System for Identifying Crisis Households and Coverage of Nursing Home Care CostsThe welfare safety net aimed at alleviating polarization will be further strengthened. To ensure basic living for low-income households, the ministry will determine the increase rate of the median income for 2027 and abolish the criteria for dependents of severe disability beneficiaries starting in the second half of next year. A new emergency referral system for victims of illegal loan sharks will be established to quickly identify financially distressed households, and the emergency welfare system will be reformed to prioritize on-site support for small emergency living expenses. A comprehensive response to reduce the suicide rate is also noteworthy. According to ministry statistics, the average monthly number of suicides from January to April this year decreased by 12.9% compared to the same period last year. Minister Jeong stated, "By designating suicide as a social disaster and mobilizing the entire government’s capabilities, the number of suicides from January to April this year has provisionally decreased by 12.9% compared to the same period last year. To solidify this downward trend, we will continue to expand the linkage system to address risk factors that can lead to suicide, such as debt." To this end, the number of personnel for the suicide prevention hotline '109' will be increased from 103 to 200, and a rapid response team will be introduced. Plans to alleviate the financial burden of medical expenses for citizens will also be implemented. Starting next year, nursing home care costs for patients with high medical and caregiving needs will be gradually covered, significantly reducing out-of-pocket expenses. Additionally, a 'sick leave allowance' is set to be institutionalized next year to compensate for lost income during periods of illness.Fostering Bio and AI Growth Engines and Eradicating Abnormal PracticesA blueprint for nurturing the pharmaceutical and biotech industry as a future growth engine has also been presented. The ministry aims to establish a mega fund worth 1 trillion won by 2027 to elevate South Korea to the top five in the global pharmaceutical and biotech sector, while selecting and providing concentrated support for '30 representative health care technologies.' Additionally, a 'K-healthcare integrated hub' will be established to attract 3 million foreign patients, along with the introduction of telemedicine services for foreign patients. Meanwhile, strong measures will continue to eradicate abnormal practices in the medical field that directly affect public health. Since June 15, an administrative investigation team has been activated to eliminate 'fake treatments and fake patients' that involve kickbacks for medical fees, particularly targeting cancer patients. Plans are also in place to enhance investigative and detection capabilities by introducing special judicial police officers to the National Health Insurance Corporation. Minister Jeong emphasized, "We will expand the 'life-saving welfare policies' that are provided without gaps and protect public health through groundbreaking investments in regional and essential medical systems, actively supporting the balanced growth strategy of five regions and three specialties."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-17 10:04:00
  • Bukwang Pharmaceutical Expands Strategy with New Drug Development and Production
    Bukwang Pharmaceutical Expands Strategy with New Drug Development and Production Bukwang Pharmaceutical has begun to clarify the roles of its subsidiaries. The company aims to secure cash flow through its existing prescription drug (ETC) business, while its Danish subsidiary, Contera Pharma, will focus on new drug research and development (R&D), and Korea Union Pharmaceutical will handle production and contract manufacturing (CMO). This structure is seen as a strategy to broaden its growth by expanding production capabilities while accelerating new drug development.According to industry sources on July 17, Bukwang Pharmaceutical is intensifying efforts to enhance its production competitiveness by acquiring Korea Union Pharmaceutical, which includes securing a production line for injectable drugs and antibiotic products.Typically, establishing a new factory requires significant time for equipment setup and obtaining Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) approval. However, instead of building a new facility, Bukwang plans to utilize the existing production capabilities of Korea Union Pharmaceutical to alleviate production bottlenecks and improve manufacturing competitiveness.With this acquisition, Bukwang has added a foundation for producing injectable drugs and antibiotics to its existing solid dosage production system. A company representative stated, "The Korea Union Pharmaceutical plant is a state-of-the-art facility that received GMP approval in 2020," adding, "We expect that our production capacity will increase by approximately 30% following the acquisition."Notably, Korea Union Pharmaceutical has liquid injectable production facilities that are more than twice the size of Bukwang's. The company anticipates that both the expansion of product offerings and increased plant utilization rates will follow.Production transition efforts have already begun. Bukwang recently shipped the over-the-counter (OTC) product 'Complex Pajaimjeong' produced by Korea Union Pharmaceutical. This marks the first instance of transferring a product previously outsourced to Korea Union Pharmaceutical. Starting in August, Bukwang plans to produce 'Hard Chewable Tablets' and 'Hard Chewable Easy Tablets,' with additional products set to be transitioned later this year.Bukwang Pharmaceutical will concentrate on its prescription drug business. The company has a pipeline focused on treatments for diabetic peripheral neuropathy, including 'Dexide' and 'Chioctaside,' as well as antipsychotic and bipolar disorder treatment 'Latuda.' Dexide and Chioctaside are flagship products generating over 10 billion won in annual sales. Latuda surpassed 1 billion won in monthly sales within a year of its launch, becoming a key growth driver in the central nervous system (CNS) sector. There are also expectations for synergy between Bukwang, which has strengths in general hospital sales, and Korea Union Pharmaceutical, which has a contract sales organization (CSO) network.New drug development is being handled by Contera Pharma, Bukwang's wholly-owned subsidiary since 2014, which specializes in CNS. Currently, Contera is developing 'CP-012,' a treatment for Parkinson's disease morning akinesia, which completed Phase 1b clinical trials in Europe last year and is set to enter global Phase 2 trials in the U.S. and Europe in the second half of this year. The goal is to pursue technology transfer following Phase 2 trials.Contera Pharma is also expanding its next-generation pipeline. Last year, it signed a collaborative research agreement with Danish pharmaceutical company Lundbeck for RNA-based new drugs and is working on separating its RNA platform business into a new entity (NewCo). The RNA platform is intended to operate as an independent corporation to enhance external investment and global collaboration.Industry observers view this role clarification as a restructuring aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of each business. Bukwang CEO Jeong Yeong presented a goal at the regular shareholders' meeting in March to achieve 600 billion won in domestic sales and an operating profit margin of over 10% by 2030. Bukwang reported consolidated sales of 160.1 billion won and an operating profit of 1.6 billion won in 2024, transitioning to profitability, and recorded sales of 200.7 billion won and an operating profit of 14.16 billion won last year.An industry insider noted, "The core of this restructuring is securing cash flow based on key products while separating production and R&D by subsidiary. We can expect both cash generation and improved profitability through proactive investment."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-17 10:04:00
  • Real Estate Trends: Dongtan Sales Stabilize While Jeonse Prices Rise; Seoul Market Remains Strong
    Real Estate Trends: Dongtan Sales Stabilize While Jeonse Prices Rise; Seoul Market Remains Strong As housing prices continue to rise in Seoul, the sales price growth in regulated areas like Dongtan in Hwaseong has somewhat stabilized following the June 27 loan regulations, while the jeonse market has become even stronger. In Seoul, not only apartment prices but also those for officetels and the proportion of rising transactions are expanding, indicating a robust overall housing market. According to the Korea Real Estate Agency's report on nationwide apartment price trends for the second week of July (as of July 13), the national average apartment sales price increased by 0.11% compared to the previous week. In the metropolitan area, prices rose by 0.21%, while Seoul saw a 0.30% increase, and regional areas experienced a slight rise of 0.01%, continuing the nationwide upward trend. In southern Gyeonggi Province, there was a clear disparity between regulated areas and adjacent regions. Dongtan in Hwaseong recorded a 0.73% increase this week, the highest in the metropolitan area, but this was a significant decrease from the previous week's 1.29%. Similarly, prices in Suwon's Yeongtong District dropped from 1.19% to 0.64%, and in Guri from 0.64% to 0.31%. Conversely, buying interest has spread to areas near the regulated zones. Giheung District in Yongin saw a 0.59% increase, up from 0.56% the previous week, while Gwangmyeong rose from 0.44% to 0.59%, continuing its upward momentum. This trend is particularly attributed to rising transactions in areas like Haandan-dong and Cheolsan-dong. Unlike the sales market, the jeonse market has remained strong even after the regulations. In Dongtan, while the sales price growth rate slowed from 1.29% to 0.73%, jeonse prices increased from 0.36% to 0.50%. Giheung also saw an increase in jeonse prices from 0.26% to 0.31%. In contrast, both sales and jeonse prices in Suwon's Yeongtong District experienced reduced growth. On a monthly basis, the strength of the Seoul housing market has become even more pronounced. The Korea Real Estate Agency's report on nationwide housing price trends for June 2026, released on July 15, indicated that the overall national sales price increased by 0.33% compared to the previous month, while jeonse and monthly rental prices rose by 0.38% each. In the metropolitan area, sales prices increased by 0.67%, jeonse by 0.71%, and monthly rents by 0.62%, while regional areas saw minimal increases of 0.01% in sales, 0.08% in jeonse, and 0.15% in monthly rents. Notably, Seoul's sales prices rose by 1.03%, jeonse by 1.08%, and monthly rents by 0.96%, significantly exceeding the national averages. Compared to the previous month, sales increased from 0.90% to 1.03%, jeonse from 0.91% to 1.08%, and monthly rents from 0.81% to 0.96%. The upward trend in apartment prices has also extended to non-apartment properties. The sales price of apartments in Seoul rose by 1.21%, the highest rate recorded, while row houses increased by 0.86% and single-family homes by 0.49%. The Korea Real Estate Agency includes multi-family homes in the row house category and multi-family houses in the single-family category. As apartment prices and jeonse rates rise together, the officetel market in Seoul continues to show strength. The Korea Real Estate Agency's report on officetel price trends for the second quarter of 2026, released on July 15, noted that while the national average sales price for officetels fell by 0.30% compared to the previous quarter, jeonse prices increased by 0.09% and monthly rents by 0.71%. In Seoul, all three categories—sales, jeonse, and monthly rents—saw increases. Sales prices rose by 0.24%, a slight increase from the previous quarter's 0.23%, while jeonse prices increased from 0.24% to 0.40%, and monthly rents rose from 0.75% to 0.90%. The Korea Real Estate Agency attributes the strength of the officetel market in Seoul to increased demand as an alternative to apartments. Sales of officetels have continued in urban areas with good transportation access and near subway stations, while the increase in jeonse prices has been driven by rising demand for larger officetels. Real transaction data also confirms the upward trend in Seoul. According to an analysis by Zigbang of actual transaction prices released on July 13, the proportion of rising transactions among nationwide apartment sales in June was 47.3%, an increase of 1.6 percentage points from the previous month (45.7%). In Seoul, the proportion of rising transactions surged from 47.7% to 57.1%, a jump of 9.4 percentage points in just one month. In May, only five districts had a rising transaction proportion exceeding 50%, but in June, this expanded to 23 districts, excluding Gangnam and Gwangjin. The largest increase in the proportion of rising transactions was seen in Yongsan (17.7 percentage points), followed by Mapo (15.8), Jungnang (15.5), Seocho (14.6), Gwanak (13.3), Yeongdeungpo (13.0), Geumcheon (12.4), and Seongdong (12.2). However, Zigbang cautioned that considering the decrease in transaction volume and potential regulatory changes, further confirmation is needed to determine whether the current upward trend will continue.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-17 10:04:00
  • Summer Peach Menu Competition Heats Up in Beverage Industry
    Summer Peach Menu Competition Heats Up in Beverage Industry As the summer heat intensifies, the beverage industry is rolling out new products featuring peaches. Companies are showcasing the unique characteristics of various peach varieties, including Shinbi, flat, and Cheongdo peaches, to expand consumer choices.According to industry sources, Ilhwa recently launched a low-calorie carbonated drink called 'Tingle Real Aid Shinbi Peach,' made with Shinbi peaches, a summer fruit. This variety has a smooth, red exterior similar to Cheongdo peaches but offers the sweet and soft flavor of white peaches. Its relatively short harvest period adds to its exclusivity, available only in early summer.Ilhwa designed this product to allow consumers to enjoy the seasonal flavor and aroma of Shinbi peaches conveniently. The drink contains 15% peach juice, enhancing its fruity aroma and acidity, while carbonation adds a refreshing touch. Han Hyun-woo, head of Ilhwa's F&B division, stated, "We developed this product in response to consumer demand for sweet and refreshing flavors during the summer and the trend of enjoying various fruit-flavored carbonated drinks."Meanwhile, Ildong Foodis has introduced a water mix product flavored with flat peaches called 'Highmune Amino Potent Water Plus.' This product is designed for consumers looking to replenish hydration and nutrients in their daily lives.It contains 23 essential and non-essential amino acids, along with electrolytes such as calcium, magnesium, and sodium, as well as vitamins and minerals. The sweet and smooth flavor of flat peaches makes it easy for consumers to enjoy, even if they find plain water unappealing.Coffee franchises are also launching seasonal drinks featuring fresh peaches. Coffee Bean Korea has introduced 'Cheongdo Peach Cold Brew Latte' and 'Cheongdo Peach Yogurt Ice Blended.' The cold brew latte combines Cheongdo peach flesh with milk and cold brew coffee, balancing the sweetness of the fruit with the richness of coffee. The yogurt ice blended drink incorporates fresh yogurt for a refreshing and smooth taste. Compose Coffee has also released summer menu items featuring peaches, including a 'Low-Sugar Peach Smoothie' and 'Peach Chamomile Tea Breeze.' These offerings reflect the growing trend of consumers seeking low-sugar options while considering both flavor and sugar content. A representative from Compose Coffee explained, "We focused on capturing the natural flavors of the fruit and providing a balanced variety of textures."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-17 10:04:00