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  • President Lee Calls for Strong Regulation of Misinformation
    President Lee Calls for Strong Regulation of Misinformation President Lee Jae-myung emphasized the social costs associated with the misuse of false and misleading information during a meeting with the Broadcasting and Media Commission on July 16. He stated, "As a regulatory body, it is crucial that you perform your role effectively." During a work report held at the Blue House, which included the Ministry of Science and ICT, the Broadcasting and Media Commission, and the Personal Information Protection Commission, President Lee remarked, "While promoting broadcasting and telecommunications is important, preventing their misuse is an even more critical role." He specifically pointed out that misinformation can be exploited for personal gain, used as a political weapon, or incite social division and conflict. "The social costs resulting from conflicts driven by false information and misleading propaganda are significant," he noted. President Lee criticized the loss of rationality in public discourse, saying, "People become entrenched in their factions, fighting without regard for truth or reason. It becomes solely about personal interests." He urged the Broadcasting and Media Commission to establish certain norms and order, stating, "I hope you will work diligently to respond to and prevent illegal and misleading information." * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-16 10:56:00
  • Government and Ruling Party Discuss Establishment of National Military Academy
    Government and Ruling Party Discuss Establishment of National Military Academy The government and the ruling party are taking steps to address the rapidly changing security environment by proposing the establishment of a National Military Academy that integrates the existing Army, Navy, and Air Force academies, along with plans to develop a smart military suited for the era of artificial intelligence (AI).On the morning of July 16, the Democratic Party and the Ministry of National Defense held a meeting at the National Assembly to discuss measures regarding the establishment of the National Military Academy, the development of a smart advanced military, and the transfer of wartime operational control, among other national security issues.Acting Party Leader Han Byeong-do stated before the meeting, "As the security environment changes rapidly, our military must respond more proactively and swiftly. Modern warfare is expanding beyond AI, drones, and cyber warfare into space."He emphasized that the establishment of the National Military Academy is an urgent task, given the limitations of the current separate military academy system. He pledged to expedite the processing of the National Military Academy establishment law to lay the institutional groundwork and ensure timely budget support for new educational facilities.Policy Committee Chair Han Jeong-ae also remarked, "Reforming military structure and personnel to respond to societal changes is an unavoidable task. As the timing for the recovery of wartime operational control under the Lee Jae-myung administration becomes clearer, creating an educational environment capable of leading U.S.-South Korea joint operations is of utmost urgency."She added, "Starting from today’s meeting, we will strongly support the establishment of a smart advanced military through institutional improvements and budget allocations."Additionally, the government and ruling party announced plans to establish the National Military Academy in the Daejeon area, promising specialized education, an increase in the proportion of civilian instructors, and improvements in treatment to the level of national universities, while stating that detailed information would be provided in a future regular briefing by the Ministry of National Defense.Minister of National Defense Ahn Gyu-baek stated, "We will establish the National Military Academy in the heart of South Korea's science and technology, constructing a state-of-the-art smart camp. We will design specialized education capable of leading AI-based operations across all domains, including space, cyber, and electromagnetic spectrum. We will also ensure that the proportion of civilian instructors exceeds 50% and guarantee treatment on par with national universities to adequately compensate active-duty professors."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-16 10:56:00
  • North Korean Defectors History Documented by Leaders of Northern Provinces
    North Korean Defectors' History Documented by Leaders of Northern Provinces On May 22, the investigative reporting team of Aju Economy met with Jung Kyung-jo, the governor of South Pyongan Province, and Myung Gye-nam, the governor of Hwanghae Province, at the Northern Provinces Office. Upon entering the office on the second floor, the first thing that caught the eye was a desk piled high with administrative documents and materials. Next to it lay a handwritten work log filled with daily schedules in colorful ink. In response to recent criticism that the office is "wasting taxes without doing anything," Governor Jung had come in early to present the administrative records.Seated across from each other at a glass table in the reception area were Jung Kyung-jo, 74, who maintained a military posture with his white hair, army belt, and hearing aid, and Myung Gye-nam, 74, a cultural figure who has lived closely with the public for decades. Both born in 1952, they have taken very different life paths but now share the weight of leading the 8.8 million North Korean defector community. The reason these two men, who had remained silent, chose to speak publicly for the first time is to preserve the history of the forgotten defectors and to clarify misunderstandings about themselves.The two governors symbolically refer to South Pyongan and Hwanghae Provinces as 'Seodo' (Western Provinces) and are collaborating on various initiatives. They see themselves not merely as political appointees but as 'recorders of history' who are uncovering and preserving the trajectories of defectors. Despite budget constraints, Governor Jung has personally researched and compiled a manual, resulting in the first historical research report on the 16 cities and counties of South Pyongan Province in 76 years. Governor Myung is also committed to digitizing materials related to Hwanghae defectors.The criticism they face is particularly painful for the two governors, who have dedicated their later years to serving the defector community after thriving in their respective fields. Governor Jung emphasized that the Northern Provinces Committee is not just a business department but an 'administrative agency' managing and connecting 8.8 million defectors and North Korean escapees, who make up 17% of the population. He pointed out that, like the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of the Interior and Safety, which allocate large budgets for organizational maintenance and personnel costs, the committee also requires essential administrative funding to sustain the defector community.They drew a line against calls for a 'honorary position' transition. Governor Jung stated that the position of governor is a practical administrative role that represents the rights of the residents and uncovers intangible heritage, unlike other honorary roles that serve merely as advisory positions. He expressed concern that if the governor's role were downgraded to an honorary position, it would lose negotiating power with government departments, leaving defectors vulnerable to administrative gaps.Governor Myung, who has faced suspicions of being a 'reward appointment,' acknowledged, "I do not deny that the Northern Provinces have received media attention this year because of me." However, he added, "Having led a large organization called 'Noh Sa Mo' in the past and dealt with cultural policies, I will quietly prove my capabilities in my position, so please watch over me."The two governors are also actively pursuing new initiatives to raise awareness of the historical value of the defector community. They are planning YouTube discussions to communicate with future generations and are promoting a musical drama titled 'Tears of the Daedong River,' which transforms the tragic experiences of refugees crossing the Daedong River during the Korean War into a message of peace.The reason they are dedicated to uncovering and documenting extensive materials is simple: the loss of first-generation defectors' memories signifies the loss of modern Korean history.Moreover, they are committed to proactive actions for the future beyond preserving the past. Governor Jung expressed a desire to gather mayors and county heads to form a unified volunteer group to assist during national disasters and deliver coal briquettes to marginalized neighbors, aiming to transform the defector community into an organization that actively contributes to the nation. Governor Myung identified the establishment of a 'Defector History Museum' on Gyodong Island in Ganghwa County, Incheon, a key project he aims to pursue during his term. He stated, "If securing a budget is difficult right now, we will try to gather support for the basic design through community funding," showing strong determination.Governor Jung emphasized, "Complete unification is not merely about building roads and apartments; it is achieved when the culture of the North, which we have diligently preserved, flourishes there once again." He expressed hope that the records they are fiercely documenting will become seeds for the coming era of peace and unification.Amid public scrutiny, the two governors are proving that their positions are not mere titles but carry a heavy sense of duty. Their intense journey, embracing 8.8 million defectors, shines as a steadfast reality, much like the meticulously organized documents and administrative papers on the table.The in-depth investigative report examining the operational status and the need for reestablishing the role of the Northern Provinces Committee will continue in 'Late arrivals and expense reimbursements near home... Reigniting the debate on the existence of the Northern Provinces Committee.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-16 10:52:00
  • Exploring Gyodongdo: A Haven for Displaced North Koreans
    Exploring Gyodongdo: A Haven for Displaced North Koreans There are those who live their lives gazing at a hometown they can never reach. These are the displaced persons of Gyodongdo. Located above the civilian access control line, Gyodongdo faces North Korea's Hwanghae Province, with a distance of just 2.6 kilometers separating them.Gyodongdo became a refuge for those who fled from Hwanghae Province during the Korean War. Before the opening of the Gyodong Bridge in 2014, the island was often referred to as a "frozen time island" since it could only be accessed by boat. On the 20th, the Aju Economic Investigative Team visited Gyodongdo to hear the stories of the displaced persons.The impression of Gyodongdo was striking from the very beginning. At the entrance of the Gyodong Bridge, a soldier in a poncho approached to inquire about the purpose of the visit. After confirming there were no issues, he gestured for us to proceed slowly, a moment that underscored the proximity to North Korea.After navigating through the spring rain and military checkpoints, we arrived at Dae Ryong Market on Gyodongdo. Perhaps due to the drizzling rain or the fact that it was a weekday morning, most shops were closed, with only a few open.The Aju Economic Investigative Team spoke with the owner of a side dish shop, Mr. Kim, who was open for business. As he enthusiastically introduced his homemade pickled radish and soy sauce, he mentioned that he is a second-generation displaced person. "Now, there are more second and third generations than first-generation displaced persons," he explained.Following Mr. Kim's lead, we visited a small shop run by another second-generation displaced person, Mr. Hong. He shared, "In the past, those who left their hometowns had little to eat, so they would sell what they brought from home, which marked the beginning of the market. Today, most shops are run by second and third generations, while the first-generation elders tend to the farms."Mr. Hong continued, "Many first-generation displaced persons are passing away. My mother passed away three years ago. After her death, I have been living in a place where I can see Yeonbaek well. My brother has also built a house there."As Mr. Hong noted, it is now rare to meet first-generation displaced persons at Dae Ryong Market. They have aged and stepped back from direct economic activities. However, the place their parents worked hard to establish has now become a stable foundation for their descendants.In an alley where a mill and a butcher shop face each other, Mr. Choi, the butcher, expressed a deep bond with Mr. Kim, the mill owner, saying they are "closer than brothers." Both are descendants of displaced persons.Mr. Kim remarked, "There were over 15,000 people on Gyodongdo in the past. Since the 1980s, as educational aspirations grew, the population rapidly declined, and now there are very few left." He added, "The first-generation elders who remain long for their hometown every day. In the past, we would charter two buses for a program where military officers would explain the northern regions, but now with barbed wire up, such programs no longer exist," he lamented.He further noted, "Recently, National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-sik visited Gyodongdo, where the need for a memorial or history and culture center was discussed. When he expressed uncertainty about whether he could fulfill this promise after his term ends, Governor Myung Gye-nam of Hwanghae Province pledged, 'I will take responsibility and make it happen.' In fact, Governor Myung is scheduled to visit Gyodongdo again on the 30th of this month to keep his promise to the displaced persons."Mr. Choi, a former president of the Dae Ryong Market Merchants Association, stated, "Gyodongdo is an island filled with the tears of displaced persons, especially those from Yeonbaek." He noted, "Many from Yeonbaek would come here, where they could see their hometown with their own eyes, and they often cried during their visits. Even now, many visit the Manghyangdae."The longing for their hometown is embedded in the very name (望鄕, to long for one's hometown). Every holiday, displaced persons and their descendants are known to visit Manghyangdae to hold memorial services.Meanwhile, Mr. Choi expressed disappointment regarding the operations of the Northern Five Provinces Committee. He said, "The only thing we receive from the Northern Five Provinces Committee is a newspaper. Wouldn't it be more meaningful to use that operating budget to donate in the names of displaced persons and northern residents?"Gyodongdo is no longer just a land of sorrow for displaced persons. Their tears and sweat have become the foundation for their descendants' lives. However, the pain of losing their hometown remains deeply embedded in their hearts.In-depth coverage examining the need to redefine the organizational operations and roles of the Northern Five Provinces Committee will continue in the report titled 'Late arrivals and allowances near home... Reigniting the debate on the Northern Five Provinces Committee's existence.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-16 10:52:00
  • North Korean Defector Han Song-yi Discusses the North Korean Five Provinces Committee
    North Korean Defector Han Song-yi Discusses the 'North Korean Five Provinces Committee' "The way we inform people about the North Korean Five Provinces Committee needs to change. It would be great if we could reach out through channels familiar to the younger generation."Han Song-yi, 34, who set foot in South Korea in 2014, is currently active as a broadcaster and on her YouTube channel, 'Han Song-yi TV.' Initially, everything was unfamiliar and challenging, but she now shares the realities of North Korea, the lives of North Korean defectors, and the value of freedom enjoyed in South Korea with the public. Han continues her communication efforts to help people from both Koreas better understand each other by correcting misconceptions and misinformation about North Korea based on her personal experiences. The Aju Economic Investigative Reporting Team met with Han on the 20th to discuss the role and perception of the North Korean Five Provinces Committee from the perspective of young North Korean defectors.Han began by recounting the fresh shock she felt upon learning about the existence of the North Korean Five Provinces Committee. She said, "It was fascinating and impressive to discover that there was an organization in North Korea managing South Korean regions and tasked with future reconstruction roles."Han defined the support for North Korean defectors and various North Korea-related projects promoted by the committee as an 'investment in the future.' She stated, "As these projects become more active, they could change the negative perceptions of those who are skeptical about unification. If we effectively promote the process of addressing and preparing for the challenges South Korea will face after unification, the role of the North Korean Five Provinces Committee could be viewed more positively." She added, "In a time of unpredictable changes, I believe the committee holds significance as an organization preparing for unification beyond just a symbolic level."However, despite this symbolic significance, Han believes that the practical awareness of the committee among the younger generation remains low. She noted, "Among young North Korean defectors, awareness of the North Korean Five Provinces Committee is limited," and shared her observations about the perception gap. She explained, "There are often cases where people cannot clearly distinguish between the administrative body of the North Korean Five Provinces Committee and the civilian organization of the North Korean Five Provinces Residents Association." To bridge this gap, she emphasized that "the way the organization’s identity is communicated needs to change," suggesting that it should be more accessible through online channels like YouTube and social media that resonate with the younger generation. She expressed her willingness to contribute to raising awareness about the committee's purpose and projects through her YouTube activities if necessary.Calls for qualitative changes in programs to improve awareness also emerged. Han hopes the North Korean Five Provinces Committee will create opportunities for young North Korean defectors that connect to their actual lives. She stated, "We need concrete support in areas such as career paths, employment, entrepreneurship, content creation, and psychological stability. Our generation of North Korean defectors is not only a group that needs assistance but also individuals who can contribute to society based on their experiences." She expressed a desire for more programs that allow them to participate actively and showcase their capabilities.Regarding the family reunification and cultural experience projects promoted by the North Korean Five Provinces Committee, Han expressed hope for changes based on 'sustainability.' She said, "North Korean defectors sometimes feel loneliness or emotional disconnection during their adjustment process in South Korean society. Connecting with fellow North Korean residents who share the same hometown roots can provide significant emotional comfort." However, she cautioned that "events focused on one-time meetings seem limited," suggesting that "a structure for mutual communication should be established to reduce generational gaps and foster ongoing emotional support through sustained relationships."Finally, Han conveyed her special feelings toward displaced persons. She remarked, "Although the times and processes differ, we are united by a shared longing for our hometowns with the elderly displaced persons who have left their homes to build lives in new societies. Meeting those with the same roots evokes a sense of empathy, reminding us that we are not alone in our feelings, providing great emotional stability and courage during the adjustment process." She expressed hope that the North Korean Five Provinces Committee could serve as a link for supporting each other's lives and sharing feelings based on this intergenerational bond.In-depth investigative reporting examining the operational status and the need for redefining the role of the North Korean Five Provinces Committee will continue in 'Late Arrivals and Home Office Expenses... Reigniting the Debate on the Existence of the North Korean Five Provinces Committee.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-16 10:52:00
  • Trump Says No Negotiations with Iran Now, Claims 90% Reduction in Military Capability
    Trump Says No Negotiations with Iran Now, Claims 90% Reduction in Military Capability President Donald Trump has stated that he will not negotiate with Iran at this time and intends to continue military pressure. He claimed that the military capabilities of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) have decreased by approximately 90% and emphasized plans to significantly expand U.S. weapon production capabilities.In an interview with Fox News on July 15, Trump said, "I do not want to negotiate right now" regarding the possibility of talks with Iran. He also asserted that an agreement had been possible until recently, but claimed Iran has not upheld its commitments.However, he did not completely close off communication between the two nations. Trump noted, "The U.S. is still in contact with Iran," adding, "They want an agreement very much." While he is not pursuing formal negotiations at the moment, he has left the door open for dialogue.In the meantime, military pressure is being intensified. The U.S. has resumed maritime blockades of Iranian ports and has conducted airstrikes on Iranian military facilities. Trump warned that if Iran does not engage in negotiations, the U.S. could target power plants and bridges.He claimed that Iran's military strength has been significantly weakened, stating in a Fox Business interview, "The IRGC's military capabilities have decreased by about 90%," and that key assets such as drones, missiles, and launchers have suffered considerable damage.However, the figures provided by Trump have not been independently verified. While Iran has sustained significant damage from U.S. airstrikes, it is still assessed to have the capability to use missiles and drones to attack U.S. military facilities and vessels in the Gulf region.Trump also announced plans to greatly increase U.S. weapon production capabilities. Major defense contractors are expanding production facilities for systems like the Patriot and Tomahawk missiles, and there are plans to shorten the time it takes to receive weapon orders. This is aimed at ensuring a sufficient stockpile of weapons in case of a prolonged conflict with Iran.In summary, Trump's statements suggest that the U.S. has not abandoned negotiations with Iran. Rather than immediately engaging in talks, the strategy appears to be to apply pressure through airstrikes and maritime blockades before resuming negotiations under more favorable conditions.The key question is whether this pressure can bring Iran back to the negotiating table. If Iran continues to confront the U.S. using its capabilities in the Strait of Hormuz and its missile and drone forces, the potential for prolonged conflict and instability in maritime transport between the two nations remains high.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-16 10:52:00
  • Korean Fruit Exports Reach Record High in First Half of 2026
    Korean Fruit Exports Reach Record High in First Half of 2026 This year, South Korea's fruit exports have reached an all-time high in the first half of the year, driven by a premium strategy emphasizing high sweetness and freshness, alongside the growing recognition of K-food due to the spread of K-content.According to the Korea Customs Service on July 16, the export value of fruits in the first half of the year was $95.72 million, marking a 19.7% increase compared to the same period last year, and setting a record for the highest first-half performance. Although fruit exports decreased from $87.46 million in 2023 to $74.84 million in 2024, they rebounded to $79.99 million last year and have now risen to $95.72 million this year.Fruit exports in South Korea are typically concentrated in the second half of the year. Last year, the export share for the first half was 33.3%, while the second half accounted for 66.7%. Following a record annual fruit export value of $240.49 million last year, the continued growth this year increases the likelihood of setting a new annual record for the second consecutive year.By category, strawberries, grapes, and pears accounted for 90.2% of total exports. Strawberry exports reached $60.49 million, a 15.8% increase year-on-year, achieving the highest first-half performance on record. Strawberries are the leading category, making up 63.2% of total fruit exports, with Singapore and Thailand serving as major markets at $19.21 million and $16.56 million, respectively.Grape exports totaled $17.83 million, a 26.5% increase. Taiwan accounted for over half of total grape exports at $9.20 million, with exports also expanding to Hong Kong and Singapore. Pear exports reached $8.03 million, a 62.4% increase compared to the previous year. The United States accounted for $4.43 million, more than half of pear exports, with significant growth in exports to Vietnam as well.The number of countries importing South Korean fruits in the first half of the year reached a record high of 61, an increase of seven countries from 54 in the same period last year. Singapore emerged as the largest export market, accounting for 23.9% of total exports at $22.88 million, followed by Thailand at $17.71 million and Taiwan at $11.60 million. The top three countries together accounted for 54.5% of total exports.Regionally, Gyeongnam, Gyeongbuk, and Chungnam led the exports. Gyeongnam accounted for $54.92 million, or 57.4% of the total, marking its 18th consecutive year as the top exporter in the first half. A remarkable 98.0% of Gyeongnam's exports were strawberries. Gyeongbuk contributed $21.68 million, or 22.7%, with grapes making up 73.8% of the region's exports. Chungnam accounted for $6.12 million, or 6.4%, supported by exports of pears and strawberries.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-16 10:48:00
  • Debate Reignites Over the Necessity of the Northern Provinces Committee Amid Misconduct Allegations
    Debate Reignites Over the Necessity of the Northern Provinces Committee Amid Misconduct Allegations We aim to take a step further. The investigative reporting team at Aju Economy, known as 'Balpum,' consists of reporters in their 20s and 30s who engage directly with people to document their voices. We track all aspects of life, including economy, industry, politics, society, real estate, and culture. Issues have always existed but often remain hidden and unreported. 'Balpum' seeks to reveal the unseen and amplify unheard voices through persistent inquiry. We will walk to places that readers cannot reach.'The Northern Provinces Committee (NPC), often labeled as 'ineffective,' is once again at the center of a debate over its existence. Allegations of attendance issues among some governors, coupled with suspicions of improper use of operational funds, have raised questions about the necessity of an organization that maintains an annual budget of over 10 billion won (approximately $8.5 million).The NPC is an administrative body that symbolically oversees the unrecaptured regions of Hwanghae Province, South Pyongan Province, North Pyongan Province, South Hamgyong Province, and North Hamgyong Province, based on constitutional territorial provisions. However, the emotional connection has weakened due to the aging of the first generation of displaced persons, and there are ongoing criticisms that the support for northern settlers and the preservation of northern culture overlap with existing departmental projects. With the added controversy surrounding the governors' conduct, calls for a comprehensive review of the agency's role and budget structure are growing.Late Arrivals and Nearby Expense Claims: Controversy Surrounds NPC Governors' ConductThe Aju Economy investigative team conducted checks on the attendance of NPC governors from June 30 to July 11, revealing significant gaps in attendance management among some governors.Governor Ji Seong-ho of North Hamgyong Province was found to have repeatedly arrived late or left early without proper leave for business trips or vacations. Notably, during the inspection period, he did not arrive on time even once on regular workdays, excluding official holidays and business trips. This raises unavoidable questions about the appropriateness of his conduct as a vice-ministerial level public official.According to the Ministry of Personnel Management, vice-ministerial level public officials are subject to the same basic working hours as regular national civil servants, which are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.In addition to attendance issues, suspicions of improper use of operational funds have also emerged. The investigative team analyzed expense account data obtained through the office of National Assembly member Ko Dong-jin, revealing that Governor Ji used a total of 8.27 million won (approximately $6,900) for operational expenses over 44 instances in the past six months.The issue lies in the timing and location of these expenses. Of the total expenses, 18 transactions, or 40.9%, occurred outside his workplace in Seoul. Among these, six transactions totaling 1.484 million won (approximately $1,200) were made at restaurants located within a 10-minute drive from his home in Incheon. This accounted for 17.9% of the total expenses.The most frequently used location was a restaurant approximately 6 kilometers from his home, while the closest was about 2 kilometers away. Notably, many of these transactions occurred on Friday evenings or weekends, raising suspicions that public funds were being used for private purposes.According to government guidelines on budget and fund management, operational funds should be used for official duties. Especially when used on public holidays or in areas unrelated to the workplace, the necessity must be justified. Given the repeated occurrences of expenses outside the workplace, near his home, and on weekends, there are calls for an institutional review.The Administrative Monitoring Center of the Citizens' Coalition for Economic Justice stated, "If operational funds are repeatedly used outside the workplace and near one's home, it raises suspicions of personal misuse. A comprehensive review of the relevance to work is necessary."Governor Ji's office responded to the attendance issues by stating, "We apologize for not managing attendance properly." Regarding the allegations of improper use of operational funds, they stated, "If there are parts that were used inappropriately according to regulations, we will take note of that."Of 10 Billion Won Budget, Only 2.2 Billion for Projects: NPC Stuck in Organizational MaintenanceThe allegations of misconduct among governors point to fundamental issues within the NPC. Despite an annual budget exceeding 10 billion won, the funds are primarily concentrated on personnel and organizational maintenance rather than actual projects.Since its establishment in 1949, the NPC has claimed to focus on research and investigation of North Korean regions, fostering unity and communication among northern residents, supporting northern settlers, preserving intangible cultural heritage, and nurturing the next generation. To this end, it operates a large honorary organization, including five vice-ministerial governors and honorary mayors, county heads, and town heads.However, the administrative environment has changed significantly since its establishment. The first generation of displaced persons is rapidly aging, and participation from the second and third generations is limited. There are criticisms that support for North Korean defectors overlaps with the Ministry of Unification's responsibilities, and the preservation of intangible cultural heritage overlaps with the Cultural Heritage Administration's tasks. This raises questions about what unique projects the NPC can claim.The budget expenditure structure further amplifies these concerns. In 2025, the NPC's total budget was 10.67 billion won. Of this, only 2.29 billion won (approximately 21.6%) was allocated for 'support related to northern residents.'Specifically, 1.209 billion won was allocated for support of organizations and events related to northern residents, 613 million won for support of North Korean defectors and northern residents, and 469 million won for facility renovations. In contrast, over 8.3 billion won (approximately 78.4%) was allocated for personnel costs, treatment, and operational expenses, which are primarily for organizational maintenance. This means that the costs of maintaining the organization overshadow actual project funding.A closer look at the expenditure items reveals a significant portion allocated to high-ranking and honorary positions. Each of the five vice-ministerial governors receives an annual salary of 159 million won (approximately $132,000). Additionally, each governor is allocated 14.4 million won (approximately $12,000) annually for operational expenses, totaling 72 million won for all five.Starting in 2024, official vehicles will be replaced with Genesis G80 electric cars, with an annual rental cost of 12.44 million won for five vehicles, excluding driver salaries and fuel costs. The budget for maintaining the honorary positions is also substantial, with honorary mayors and county heads receiving monthly allowances of 370,000 won and 140,000 won, respectively. As of 2025, there are 496 appointed honorary town heads, indicating that maintaining these positions alone costs over 1.2 billion won annually.However, this figure reflects temporary numbers due to vacancies in some regions like Hwanghae and North Hamgyong provinces. If all 829 positions were filled, the budget for honorary allowances would rise to 1.8 billion won annually.In contrast, there are few personnel available to plan policies and implement field projects. The current NPC organization chart shows 51 personnel, with an authorized strength of about 45. Excluding 23 individuals who serve as dedicated drivers and secretaries for the governors and nine who hold concurrent positions, only 28 personnel are responsible for policy planning and field operations.While the NPC expresses difficulties due to a lack of project funding, it is trapped in a structural contradiction where most of its limited budget is tied up in high-ranking, honorary, and organizational operations. As the times change and the agency's original purpose fades, there are calls for a redefinition of its functions away from the existing high-cost, low-efficiency operational model.Displaced Persons and Northern Settlers Say NPC's Role Is Hardly FeltThe criticism that a significant portion of the budget is spent on organizational maintenance leads to questions about the NPC's effectiveness. The agency's core justification is support for northern residents, aiding northern settlers, and preserving the memories of displaced persons. However, many among the affected groups express skepticism, stating, "It is hard to feel what this organization does."On July 20, the investigative team met with northern settlers and displaced persons in the Seoul, Gyeonggi, and Incheon areas to gauge their perceptions of the NPC. The responses were largely negative. Many were unaware of the NPC's existence or, if they were, had not experienced any tangible assistance.Im Young-sun, the 63-year-old chairperson of the Northern Nine Residents Settlement Committee, who has lived in South Korea for 33 years, stated, "The original goals of unification vision and settlement support have disappeared. The real purpose has become maintaining the organization and securing personnel costs." He pointed out that after the emotional center of the first generation of displaced persons weakened, the structure has become entrenched in maintaining the budget by repeatedly emphasizing the symbolic nature of the constitutional territorial provisions.Northern activist Jo Kyung-il, 38, also remarked, "The NPC is not active. I have only attended one forum; I don’t know what else it does. It either needs to be completely abolished or undergo a complete overhaul."He highlighted the disconnect between displaced persons' organizations and northern settlers, noting, "If the NPC is an organization based on displaced persons, it would be natural for northern settlers to join, but some displaced persons' groups perceive this as a power issue and are hesitant." The NPC should serve as a bridge between displaced persons and northern settlers, but in reality, generational and group gaps are evident.Han Song-yi, a 34-year-old broadcaster and YouTuber from a northern settler background, identified the NPC's low recognition as a problem. She stated, "I have heard of the NPC, but I do not know the specific projects related to exchanges or settlement support between northern settlers and northern residents. Given its good intentions, it needs to be better known among more northern settlers."She added, "Even among younger northern settlers, the NPC is not well recognized. Many do not know what help they can receive or what projects they can participate in." Some younger northern settlers even confuse the Northern Residents Association with the NPC.She called for a change in promotional methods, suggesting, "The way activities related to the NPC are communicated should change. Online channels like YouTube or short-form videos should be utilized to enhance accessibility. I am willing to participate in promotions if necessary."Responses from displaced persons were similarly critical. Choi, a 62-year-old third-generation displaced person, remarked, "As a third-generation, I feel little connection when attending community meetings, so I don’t go often. I have only attended the NPC sports event once on behalf of my father, and aside from receiving a commemorative towel, I found little meaningful value in it."He expressed, "Even if 10 billion won or 100 billion won is invested in the organization, it feels like a story that has nothing to do with us. Most displaced persons are unaware of the timing of events, and it would be more effective to significantly reduce the budget and allocate the remainder to humanitarian organizations or socially needed areas rather than spending it on events."Choi also pointed out the NPC's lack of communication, stating, "I have never received a single message from the NPC on holidays or birthdays. If there were a list of displaced persons, I could at least receive a text, but I do not feel even that basic management." He added, "If communication management is inadequate, it raises questions about the transparency of budget execution."Kim, a 68-year-old second-generation displaced person, criticized the NPC's events for not adequately reflecting the realities of displaced persons. He stated, "I have participated once, but due to the priority of my business, it is realistically difficult to attend events like sports competitions frequently."He also noted the weakening sense of identity due to generational changes, saying, "Unlike the first-generation elders who have deep-seated feelings about their hometown, the sense of belonging as displaced persons fades among the second and third generations. The first generation hoped for a symbolic place to convey the history of the North and the pain of displacement, and there is a need for projects that preserve such memories."Calls for Abolition and Reform Grow in Political CirclesDemands for reform of the NPC continue to emerge from political circles. The key issues include transitioning the NPC governors to honorary positions, restructuring the operational organization around the secretariat, and even abolishing the agency and transferring its functions.Independent lawmaker Choi Hyuk-jin pointed out during a National Assembly audit in December that "if this organization were restructured, it could save over 10 billion won annually. Wouldn’t it be better to abolish it and transfer the NPC's duties to the Ministry of Unification?"Yong Hye-in, a representative of the Basic Income Party, has been a prominent advocate for NPC reform. She criticized the NPC's budget for only increasing personnel costs over the past nine years, stating, "To escape being a target of ridicule as a 'job that sucks honey,' a significant overhaul of projects and organization must be carried out alongside amendments to the NPC Act."She suggested that the NPC governors should be transitioned to honorary positions without pay and that the NPC secretariat should be strengthened to create a more practical organization.Discussions about transitioning the NPC governors to honorary positions are not new. In 2004, then-Lawmaker Min Bong-ki and in 2006, then-Lawmaker Jeong Hyeong-geun each proposed amendments to the NPC Act to transition the governors to honorary roles, but these efforts were unsuccessful.In February of this year, a bill was introduced to abolish the NPC. Jeon Jong-deok, a member of the National Assembly's Administrative Safety Committee from the Progressive Party, proposed the 'Abolition of the Special Measures Act on the Northern Provinces,' arguing that the NPC's operational budget is being wasted in a situation where access to unrecaptured areas and practical administrative execution is difficult. This bill is currently pending in committee.Civil society has also supported the argument for abolition. The National Budget Research Institute highlighted the NPC's budget as a wasteful expenditure in a report delivered to President Lee Jae-myung last year, with Senior Researcher Lee Sang-min stating, "There is no alternative but to dismantle it. It is important to eliminate the 10 billion won spent on unnecessary organizations rather than discussing transitioning to honorary positions."Cycle of Budget Shortages and Ineffectiveness: The NPC at a CrossroadsHowever, the NPC claims it is unfairly targeted by calls for abolition. They argue that with the given budget and personnel, it is challenging to adequately perform its original duties of research, investigation, and cultural preservation.On July 22, the NPC governors met with the investigative team at the NPC office in Jongno, Seoul, to express their disappointment over the discussions of abolition in political and civil society circles and to explain their internal circumstances. This was the first time the NPC governors directly addressed the media about the agency's situation.Governor Jeong Gyeong-jo of South Pyongan Province stated, "Even if we want to conduct research, we lack the budget, experts, and time for investigations. Last year, I chased after the Ministry of Strategy and Finance countless times with the financial director, but we faced difficulties in securing the budget."Governor Myung Gye-nam of Hwanghae Province also emphasized, "As Kim Gu said, cultural inheritance is crucial for becoming a cultural powerhouse. Although we face budget shortages, we will continue to strive to preserve and pass on northern culture even after the first-generation elders are gone."Both governors identified the necessity of the NPC's existence in the context of research and preservation of northern culture. As the first generation of displaced persons rapidly disappears, documenting and preserving the cultural heritage of the North remains vital. However, they lamented that discussions of abolition, coupled with a lack of budget and expertise, are further stifling the agency's core functions.This situation illustrates the structural problems facing the NPC. Currently, the budget structure is skewed towards maintaining high-ranking positions, honorary allowances, vehicle rentals, and operational costs rather than towards practical projects like research and cultural preservation. As a result, while there is insufficient capacity to implement projects, the costs of maintaining the organization continue to rise.This cycle leads to a vicious circle. The lack of budget and expertise makes it difficult to achieve clear results, and the absence of results fuels the argument for ineffectiveness. As the argument for ineffectiveness grows, securing a budget becomes more challenging, further diminishing the agency's role.Ultimately, if the functions of researching northern culture and preserving the memories of displaced persons are deemed necessary, there must be a restructuring of the organization and budget to enable these functions to be performed effectively. If the budget continues to be concentrated on organizational maintenance while practical projects are sidelined, the debate over the NPC's existence is unlikely to subside anytime soon.Lawmaker Ko Dong-jin stated, "The operation of the NPC must reflect not only the public's perspective but also the realities of displaced persons. A bold restructuring and renewal are needed at this time."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-16 10:48:00
  • Ministries Unite to Revitalize Local Tourism and Economy
    Ministries Unite to Revitalize Local Tourism and Economy The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Ministry of the Interior and Safety are joining forces to address the crisis facing local regions. The two ministries aim to combine their tourism content planning capabilities with local financial and administrative support to create a powerful synergy.On July 16, the ministries officially launched the 'Regional Tourism Policy Council' and held its first meeting at the Sejong Government Complex. The council will operate under a joint leadership structure and will adapt its participating organizations based on current issues, serving as a practical problem-solving platform.This collaboration stems from a shared understanding that revitalizing tourism to attract visitors is the most immediate solution to stimulate stagnant local consumption and increase the resident population.During the inaugural meeting, participants focused on sustainable strategies to generate ongoing local vitality beyond one-time visits. Ideas discussed included a community-driven tourism initiative that encourages residents to discover and manage local tourism resources, as well as measures to promote digital tourism identification cards to retain residents in areas facing population decline. Additionally, the ministries agreed to continuously identify collaborative projects, such as supporting tourism businesses linked to the social economy and facilitating cooperation between local public institutions and the Korea Tourism Organization.The first collaborative initiative announced by the ministries is the 'Regional Tourism Innovation Idea Competition,' set to take place in the second half of this year. This competition, titled 'Rising Star of Korean Tourism,' aims to provide a platform for newly established local governments to actively plan tourism policies that highlight their unique regional attractions.To support this effort, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism will expand and reform the 'Korean Tourism Star' awards, which it has independently managed since 2010. The awards will now be co-hosted with the Ministry of the Interior and Safety to encourage participation from local governments and enhance benefits for exemplary cases.The Ministry of the Interior and Safety emphasized that attracting tourists to local areas is a key factor in revitalizing local businesses, and it plans to closely support local governments in implementing creative tourism initiatives with budgetary and administrative assistance.“For the tourism industry to grow sustainably, we need a strong engine to shift the tourism landscape from a metropolitan-centric model to a regional focus,” said Kang Jeong-won, Director of the Tourism Policy Bureau at the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. “Through organic cooperation with the Ministry of the Interior and Safety, we will quickly produce results that can be felt on the ground in local communities.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-16 10:44:00
  • Bank of Korea Raises Key Interest Rate to 2.75%, Signals Continued Tightening
    Bank of Korea Raises Key Interest Rate to 2.75%, Signals Continued Tightening The Bank of Korea's Monetary Policy Committee raised the key interest rate from 2.50% to 2.75% on July 16, stating that it is necessary to maintain a tightening stance in future monetary policy.In its policy direction statement, the committee noted, "As the growth momentum is strengthening, driven by exports and investment, the inflation rate is expected to exceed the target level for a considerable period, and risks to financial stability persist." It concluded that a 0.25 percentage point increase in the key interest rate is appropriate.The committee also left open the possibility of further tightening. It stated, "While the consumer price inflation rate is expected to align with the May forecast (2.7%), the core inflation rate is anticipated to slightly exceed the previous forecast (2.4%)." The timing and pace of any additional increases will be determined by a comprehensive assessment of inflationary pressures, economic improvement trends, and financial stability conditions.Additionally, the committee decided to raise the financial intermediary support loan rate from 1.00% to 1.25%, effective immediately.This interest rate hike was unanimously agreed upon by all members of the Monetary Policy Committee.Below is the full text of the monetary policy direction statement.The Monetary Policy Committee has decided to adjust the Bank of Korea's key interest rate from the current level of 2.50% to 2.75% until the next policy direction decision. Given that the growth momentum is strengthening, driven by exports and investment, and that inflation is expected to exceed the target level for a considerable period, the committee deemed a 0.25 percentage point increase in the key interest rate appropriate.The global economy continues to face uncertainties due to the situation in the Middle East, but steady AI investment is expected to sustain moderate growth. Inflation is anticipated to remain high for the time being, influenced by previous increases in energy prices. In the international financial markets, the U.S. dollar has strengthened due to expectations of interest rate hikes by the Federal Reserve and changes in the Middle East situation, while government bond yields have risen. Stock prices have fluctuated significantly due to changes in the outlook for AI and semiconductor markets. The global economy and international financial markets are expected to be influenced by the implementation of U.S.-Iran peace negotiations, AI investment prospects, and changes in monetary, fiscal, and trade policies in major countries.Domestically, the economy has expanded, driven by strong growth in exports and investment, particularly in the semiconductor sector, while consumption has also shown positive trends. Employment has increased, particularly in the service sector, although declines continue in key industries such as manufacturing. The domestic economy is expected to maintain solid growth, supported by strong semiconductor market conditions and improving consumer income. As a result, this year's growth rate is expected to significantly exceed the May forecast of 2.6%. However, uncertainties related to the extent of semiconductor market expansion, domestic spillover effects, developments in the Middle East situation, and changes in trade environments remain.In terms of inflation, the consumer price inflation rate rose to 3.2% in June, driven by sustained high oil prices and increased prices for agricultural and marine products, while the core inflation rate (excluding food and energy) remained at 2.5%. Short-term inflation expectations among the public have remained in the high 2% range. Looking ahead, while international oil prices have declined, the impact of previously elevated costs and exchange rates is expected to persist, and demand-side pressures from improving income conditions are likely to gradually increase, leading to sustained high inflation rates for a considerable period. Consequently, this year's consumer price inflation rate is expected to align with the May forecast (2.7%), but the core inflation rate is anticipated to be slightly higher than the previous forecast (2.4%). Future inflation trajectories are subject to significant uncertainties related to movements in international oil prices and exchange rates, the pace of domestic recovery, and the spread of wage increases.In the financial and foreign exchange markets, volatility in key price variables has significantly increased. The won/dollar exchange rate rose to the mid-1,500 range due to foreign capital outflows and the strength of the U.S. dollar, before falling back to the high-1,400 range as foreign exchange supply improved. Government bond yields have risen in response to changes in domestic and international monetary policy expectations, while stock prices have shown considerable volatility due to concerns over AI investments and large-scale foreign selling. Household loans have increased significantly, driven by both housing-related and other loans, while housing prices in the metropolitan area have continued to rise.The Monetary Policy Committee will continue to monitor growth trends while ensuring that inflation rates stabilize at target levels over the medium term, while also being mindful of financial stability. The domestic economy is expected to continue its solid improvement, supported by the positive semiconductor market, while inflation is projected to remain above target levels for a considerable period due to ongoing cost pressures and increasing demand-side pressures. In terms of financial stability, attention must continue to be paid to high exchange rate volatility, rising housing prices in the metropolitan area, and increasing household debt. Therefore, the committee believes it is necessary to maintain a tightening stance in future monetary policy, with the timing and pace of any additional increases to be determined based on assessments of inflationary pressures, economic improvement trends, and financial stability conditions.All seven members of the Monetary Policy Committee supported the decision to raise the key interest rate.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-16 10:44:00