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  • South Korea to Launch National Data for All Initiative to Enhance Economic Efficiency
    South Korea to Launch 'National Data for All' Initiative to Enhance Economic Efficiency The National Data Agency plans to establish a 'National Data for All' system that securely connects and utilizes tax, finance, healthcare, and education data without centralizing it. The agency aims to implement a 'Hub and Spoke' model, linking dedicated networks of government data centers with a focus on its comprehensive registries of population, households, housing, and businesses.During a report on the agency's operations for 2026, held under President Lee Jae-myung, the agency presented its plan for a 'citizen-centered artificial intelligence (AI) and data system.' The agency outlined key initiatives for the second half of the year, including the establishment and utilization of an AI data management system, the creation of data governance and hubs, and the expansion of tailored statistical and data services.Currently, data is stored separately in various agency data centers due to information security concerns, leading to limitations in inter-agency data integration and utilization. To address this, the agency will adopt a Hub and Spoke structure, where the hub consists of the comprehensive registries held by the National Data Agency, including data on the elderly, deceased individuals, and homeowners. The spokes will be managed by various government data centers, such as the National Tax Statistics Center and the Health Insurance Big Data Center.Notably, the system will not concentrate data in one location. Instead, it will connect major data centers through a secure dedicated network, allowing users to analyze and extract necessary information from any data center.The agency expects this approach to achieve both 'economies of scale' and 'economies of scope' in data utilization. For instance, by linking government-wide data on debt, income, and assets with population and household registries, it will be possible to assess total household debt and identify micro-level financial risks for policy support.To enhance security, the agency will implement homomorphic encryption technology, which allows data to be stored, linked, and processed while still encrypted. The National Data Agency plans to conduct technical demonstrations by the end of this year and establish a pilot system for homomorphic encryption-based integration and analysis next year.The agency will also promote the opening of synthetic data for AI training, which maintains statistical characteristics similar to original data while preventing the identification of sensitive information. This aims to reduce concerns about sensitive data exposure while increasing the utility of AI training and data usage.To strengthen the foundation for AI utilization, the agency will organize internal policy documents and international organization reports into formats usable by AI, and develop a specialized AI model to be disseminated across the government.Particularly, the agency will gradually build AI-friendly statistical metadata to ensure that AI can provide accurate responses based on official statistics. A pilot service utilizing generative AI and data linkage technology will be introduced on the National Statistical Portal (KOSIS), enabling users to find and analyze desired statistical tables using everyday language.To expand data services that citizens can feel, the agency will develop an AI-based system for continuous monitoring of price indicators, allowing for rapid responses to fluctuations in essential goods prices. It will also implement an automatic identification and verification system for statistical citation articles and provide information on population density predictions for holidays and events.The agency plans to offer tailored indicators based on life stages to analyze characteristics and changes among children, youth, middle-aged, and elderly populations, supporting policy development in areas such as housing, employment, consumption, retirement preparation, health, and safety.Additionally, the report included plans to enhance regional data to support local-led growth. This involves developing indicators for investment trends, living population, and regional industry, population, and household structure statistics, as well as piloting a regional registry linked to local government administrative data and national registries. The agency will also promote regional public-private combined data services by integrating private data such as telecommunications and card data with public data.To improve the convenience of using the statistical data center, the agency will introduce an AI code stability checker, expanding the data analysis environment to operate 24/7 instead of being limited to business hours. Plans are also underway to expedite the provision of housing ownership, employment activity, and business registration data through provisional systems and monthly or quarterly updates.Han Hyung-jun, head of the National Data Agency, stated, 'We will complete a national data system that practically supports the lives of citizens through AI and data innovation that they can feel.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-15 12:04:00
  • Youth Forum Launched to Incorporate Young Voices in Chemical Safety Policy
    Youth Forum Launched to Incorporate Young Voices in Chemical Safety Policy 정부가 화학안전 정책에 청년들의 목소리를 반영하기 위해 정책 참여를 확대한다. 기후에너지환경부는 오는 16일 오후 2시 비대면 화상회의(ZOOM) 방식으로 '화학안전정책 청년포럼' 발족식 겸 오리엔테이션을 개최한다고 15일 밝혔다. 이번 행사는 청년포럼 참가자들이 정책 제안 활동에 앞서 운영 방향을 공유하고 주제 선정과 발표 준비를 위한 교육을 받는 자리다. 행사에는 서면심사를 거쳐 선발된 20개 팀과 민관 전문가 멘토단, 화학안전정책포럼 관계자 등이 참석한다. 청년포럼은 화학안전 정책에 대한 청년층의 관심과 참여를 확대하기 위해 2024년부터 운영되고 있다. 이번 포럼에는 2.1대 1의 경쟁률을 뚫고 선발된 20개 팀이 참여한다. 참가자들은 올해 정기 모임과 전문가 멘토링, 정책 제안 발표 등을 통해 화학안전 제도 개선 방안을 논의할 예정이다. 또한 참가자들은 화학안전정책포럼 공개토론회와 이해당사자의 날 행사 등에 참석해 정책 논의 과정을 직접 경험할 수 있다. 생활 속 화학안전 문제를 발굴하고 이를 정책 아이디어로 발전시키는 활동도 이어지며 우수 제안에는 상금과 함께 시상이 이뤄질 예정이다. 기후부는 청년들이 제안한 다양한 아이디어를 향후 화학안전 정책 논의 과정에서 적극 활용한다는 방침이다. 특히 현장에서 체감하는 문제를 정책에 반영함으로써 실효성 있는 제도 개선으로 이어질 수 있을 것으로 보고 있다. 조현수 기후부 환경보건국장은 "청년포럼은 미래세대가 화학안전정책을 단순히 배우는 데 그치지 않고 직접 고민하고 제안하는 참여의 장이라는 점에서 의미가 크다"며 "청년들의 새로운 시각과 전문가들의 경험이 만나 보다 발전적이면서도 현장 여건을 고려한 정책 아이디어가 도출되기를 기대한다"고 말했다. 이어 "앞으로도 청년들의 목소리가 화학안전정책 논의에 자연스럽게 반영될 수 있도록 적극 지원하겠다"고 덧붙였다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-15 12:04:00
  • Government Revamps Waste Import and Export System to Prevent Resource Leakage
    Government Revamps Waste Import and Export System to Prevent Resource Leakage The government is revising its waste import and export management system to stabilize the supply chain of critical minerals and promote a circular economy. The aim is to prevent the overseas leakage of valuable waste resources while facilitating the import of materials needed for domestic industries, thereby strengthening the resource circulation system.The Ministry of Climate, Energy, and Environment announced on July 15 that it will issue an administrative notice from July 16 to August 5 regarding amendments to the 'Act on the Movement of Waste Across National Borders and the Treatment of Waste' and the 'Notification on Waste Items Restricted for Import to Promote Domestic Waste Recycling.'According to the proposed amendments, exporters of scrap metal and non-ferrous metals will be required to file waste import and export declarations. Previously, these items were exempt from reporting because they were not classified as business waste, but this loophole has been exploited to disguise copper scrap and electronic waste as scrap metal for export.Notably, a case was uncovered in 2024 where copper scrap was falsely reported as scrap metal and smuggled to China, highlighting the need for stricter management. Moving forward, exporters will need to undergo procedures such as waste component analysis and submission of export contracts, allowing the government to manage the export of valuable waste resources more systematically.Conversely, the import procedures for circular resources needed for domestic recycling will be simplified. Under the Circular Economy Transition Promotion Act, items designated as circular resources, excluding waste paper and waste glass, will be exempt from import reporting. This means that used cooking oil and waste integrated circuit (IC) trays will now be included in the list of items exempt from reporting.However, waste paper and waste glass will continue to be subject to the current reporting system to stabilize the domestic recycling market. The government expects that the reporting exemptions will reduce analysis costs and administrative burdens for the industry, enabling quicker access to recycling materials.Additionally, some restrictions on imports will be adjusted. Reflecting the challenging industrial conditions for securing recycled polyester raw materials, waste polyester synthetic fibers will be removed from the import ban list. Furthermore, imports for testing and research purposes, such as quality inspections and technology development, will be allowed as exceptions.The government plans to finalize the amendments after gathering stakeholder feedback and regulatory reviews, with implementation set for January 1 of next year. It anticipates that this system overhaul will contribute to enhancing resource security and promoting a circular economy.Kim Go-eung, Director of the Resource Circulation Bureau at the Ministry of Climate, stated, "This revision aims to tightly manage the export of valuable waste resources while facilitating imports to strengthen the domestic supply chain of critical minerals. We will continue to pursue regulatory rationalization to ensure that domestic industries can easily secure high-quality waste resources as needed."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-15 12:04:00
  • Koreas Fair Trade Commission Awards Special Bonuses for Detecting Collusion
    Korea's Fair Trade Commission Awards Special Bonuses for Detecting Collusion The Fair Trade Commission (FTC) has awarded special performance bonuses to employees who uncovered major collusion cases, including those involving flour, housing loan-to-value ratios (LTV), and printing paper. On July 9, the FTC held its second special performance bonus ceremony, announcing that it awarded a total of 21 million won to 18 employees. The special performance bonuses were introduced this year following President Lee Jae-myung's directive to provide exceptional rewards for outstanding public servants. During the ceremony, employees were recognized for achievements in four areas: detection of the three major collusions (flour, bank LTV, and printing paper) (15 million won for 14 employees), uncovering unfair support practices by HDC (2 million won for 1 employee), correcting unfair contracts among delivery companies (2 million won for 2 employees), and penalizing kickbacks in funeral services (2 million won for 1 employee). Employees who detected collusion in the three major areas directly affecting the public were particularly acknowledged. Lee Sun-mi, the former head of the International Cartel Investigation Division, and Kim Jong-wan, a senior official, led a dedicated investigation team that uncovered collusion among seven flour milling companies that had persisted for six years, achieving a record fine of 671 billion won in just four months. FTC Chairman Joo Byeong-ki praised the team, stating, "A small clue obtained during the sugar collusion investigation led to the detection of the largest flour collusion in history. The dedicated investigation team completed a case that typically takes over a year in just four months, showcasing the FTC's investigative capabilities." Notably, Senior Official Kim also led the investigation into the LTV collusion among the four major banks. His efforts resulted in sanctions against the banks for information exchange, which the FTC hopes will enhance competition in the mortgage market. Investigator Na Sang-tae was also recognized for penalizing six paper companies for their unfair joint practices. His work dismantled a collusion structure that could have persisted for a long time, contributing to price stability for printed materials such as books and educational materials. Additionally, Senior Official Park Seong-hoon received a bonus of 2 million won for uncovering HDC's unfair support practices disguised as lease transactions over 17 years. Senior Officials Byeon Chang-jae and Jang Seong-pil were awarded a total of 2 million won for penalizing violations of subcontracting laws by five delivery companies. Furthermore, Investigator Kang Jae-seo was awarded 2 million won for exposing the practice of kickbacks in funeral services. This practice had led to increased costs by incentivizing funeral homes recommended by pre-need service providers, despite the absence of clear prohibitions in relevant laws. Following the FTC's sanctions, there has been a growing movement within the industry to improve these practices. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-15 12:04:00
  • Samsung unveils Flex Titanium technology after Fold 8 leak sparks buzz
    Samsung unveils Flex Titanium technology after Fold 8 leak sparks buzz SEOUL, July 15 (AJP) - Samsung Electronics on Wednesday unveiled a new foldable display technology designed to improve durability while significantly reducing screen creases, days after an online video purportedly showing its next-generation Galaxy Fold smartphone drew widespread attention for its nearly invisible fold line. The company said its new Flex Titanium technology combines advanced display engineering, new materials and precision mechanical design to produce its thinnest foldable display yet while enhancing structural durability and minimizing the crease that has long been viewed as one of the biggest drawbacks of foldable smartphones. The technology will debut in Samsung's next-generation Galaxy foldable devices, which are scheduled to be unveiled at the Galaxy Unpacked event in London on July 22. Samsung said it replaced conventional plastic film with a titanium alloy film and paired it with an upgraded titanium plate in a proprietary dual-layer structure. The titanium alloy film, positioned beneath the OLED panel, offers roughly 20 times greater rigidity than conventional polymer film, helping improve durability while reducing visible creases. The redesigned titanium plate also features finer perforations that better support the display when unfolded while maintaining flexibility during repeated folding. The company also said the display incorporates a higher-resolution design and next-generation organic materials to improve power efficiency without compromising image quality. Samsung described Flex Titanium as the culmination of seven generations of foldable display development aimed at delivering a thinner design, greater durability and a more immersive viewing experience. The announcement follows the circulation of videos on Chinese social media over the weekend that were claimed to show Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 8. The footage drew attention after viewers noted that the display crease appeared substantially less visible than on previous Fold models, prompting speculation that Samsung had adopted a redesigned hinge and display structure. Moon Sung-hoon, executive vice president of Samsung Electronics' Mobile eXperience business, said the company's competitiveness lies in combining a deep understanding of consumer needs with technologies that deliver practical value. Yoo Kyung-jin, executive vice president and head of product development at Samsung Display, said the newly developed titanium plate enhances both flexibility and durability while improving power efficiency through new display materials and design. Samsung is expected to unveil its next-generation foldable smartphones, including the Galaxy Z Fold series, at its Galaxy Unpacked event in London on July 22. Details of the new Flex Titanium technology and the upcoming devices are expected to be disclosed at the event. 2026-07-15 11:57:06
  • Kwon Young-se Calls for Jang Dong-hyuks Resignation Over Election Loss
    Kwon Young-se Calls for Jang Dong-hyuk's Resignation Over Election Loss Kwon Young-se, a five-term lawmaker of the People Power Party, urged Jang Dong-hyuk, the party leader, to resign and take responsibility for the loss in the June 3 local elections. He also stated that he opposes Han Dong-hoon's return to the party until the issues with the party's bulletin board are resolved.In an interview on CBS Radio's 'Park Seong-tae's News Show,' Kwon said, "Regardless of how the leadership structure changes, Jang's resignation is necessary. If Jang refuses to take responsibility, the entire leadership must be held accountable."Kwon emphasized, "Taking responsibility for the election loss is a principle of leadership. If Jang were contemplating how to reform the party, there would be a reason for him to remain, but he is not considering that at all."He criticized Jang for being solely focused on voting rights issues, stating, "We must aim for a conservative victory to prevent our country from being swayed by clumsy progressive leftists, rather than sacrificing the party or conservative forces for personal ambitions and interests like 'I should be the representative.'"Regarding Jang's claims of 'fraudulent elections,' Kwon remarked, "If he means that the poor quality of the elections has gone too far, I agree. However, if he suggests that someone orchestrated a massive conspiracy to manipulate the election results, that is unfounded. Such claims should be avoided."When asked if he has plans to become a conservative leader himself, Kwon replied, "Everyone thinks about leadership," leaving the possibility open.Kwon also commented on Han Dong-hoon, stating, "He talks about the need for conservative reform but has not articulated any direction for that reform. Regarding Han's return to the party, I believe it is inappropriate until the issues with the party's bulletin board are resolved." He added, "The fact that the leader's family engages anonymously on the bulletin board indicates that he is unfit to be the party leader."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-15 11:52:00
  • Marine Corps Reserve Group Files Additional Complaints Ahead of Third Anniversary of Corporal Chaes Death
    Marine Corps Reserve Group Files Additional Complaints Ahead of Third Anniversary of Corporal Chae's Death As the third anniversary of the death of Corporal Chae Soo-geun approaches, the Marine Corps Reserve Group has announced it will file additional complaints against military officials who allegedly distorted the truth about Chae's case and obstructed the investigation, vowing to hold them accountable.On July 15, Jeong Won-cheol, chairman of the Marine Corps Reserve Group, and Moon Geon-il, a representative lawyer from Ilro Law Firm, held a press conference at the National Assembly's communication hall. They stated, "Three years have passed since a 20-year-old soldier was thrown into a swift current without a life jacket due to the command's mistakes, yet the investigation has been delayed due to external pressure from the government and organized cover-ups."They emphasized that since the acquittal of former Marine Corps investigation chief Park Jeong-hoon (then a colonel, now a brigadier general), military officials and operational commanders who allegedly provided false testimony to frame him must face legal consequences.The Reserve Group claimed there was organized perjury during the trial of Brigadier General Park for insubordination. Former Marine Corps Commander Kim Gye-hwan and former Chief of Staff Kim Hwa-dong have already been indicted for making false statements regarding the 'VIP (President Yoon Suk-yeol) anger theory,' and former Deputy Commander Jeong Jong-beom is under investigation for providing false testimony about the circumstances of his notes.On this day, the Reserve Group also filed a new complaint against former Public Affairs Chief Yoon Se for allegedly stating that "the reason for Corporal Chae's death was his own fault." Jeong criticized Yoon, saying, "Even if there was undue interference from power, can a soldier abandon his conscience and honor to frame a comrade?"Additional complaints were also filed regarding actions taken to protect the key suspect in the case, former Marine Division Commander Lim Seong-geun. The Reserve Group accused former Marine Division Chief Ahn Seok of violating laws related to aggravated punishment for specific crimes. Ahn was found to have contacted unit members who were to be interviewed as witnesses in the police investigation, attempting to limit their statements to the investigative agency and controlling the police's search and seizure operations.Furthermore, former Army 50th Division Commander Moon Byeong-sam, who neglected to prevent soldiers from being deployed into dangerous environments during Corporal Chae's death, was also reported for dereliction of duty.Jeong mentioned the allegations of lobbying for Lim, stating, "Whether it was through Pastor Kim Jang-hwan or Lee Jong-ho, a co-conspirator in the Deutsche Motors stock manipulation, the comprehensive special investigation and the authorities must investigate without any sanctuary."He added, "Our fight does not end with punishment. We will restore a just Marine Corps that values the lives of its subordinates more than its own honor." 2026-07-15 11:48:00
  • Oh Se-hoon Launches Night Economy Initiative in Seoul
    Oh Se-hoon Launches Night Economy Initiative in Seoul Seoul's new mayor, Oh Se-hoon, has made the night economy a central focus of his administration's first policy drive. During the first regular executive meeting of his term on July 15, Oh announced that revitalizing the night economy would be a key policy agenda, aiming to transform Seoul's nightlife into a significant economic driver. He emphasized that the night economy should not be viewed merely as support for local businesses but as a future growth strategy that connects culture, tourism, commerce, and transportation into a cohesive ecosystem. The goal is to transform Seoul into a vibrant global city that thrives 24 hours a day. Oh Se-hoon stated, "Setting the night economy as the core agenda for the first executive meeting reflects our commitment to changing the future growth axis of Seoul. The night economy is not just about supporting local businesses; it is a new growth strategy for Seoul that will change citizens' leisure culture and enhance urban consumption and vitality." He urged all departments to work collaboratively, breaking down silos to achieve results quickly. To facilitate this initiative, the city will activate a task force led by a night economy special advisor, involving seven key departments, including the Planning and Coordination Office, Economic Office, Cultural Headquarters, Transportation Office, Public Relations Planning Office, Tourism and Sports Bureau, and the Labor and Livelihood Bureau. A dedicated team will also be established within the Economic Office. Additionally, the city plans to develop a unified brand for nighttime content across Seoul and will select a brand name through a public contest, aiming to promote Seoul's nightlife as a tourist attraction. Key projects include the 'Night Economy Coexistence Zone' and 'Seoul Moonlight Night Market.' The city will explore designating coexistence zones around major nighttime hubs such as the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), Han River, and Seoul Arena, offering incentives for nighttime operations, easing regulations, and expanding late-night public transport. A new ordinance to support the night economy is also in the works. The growing night market culture in areas like Jongno 3-ga and Euljiro will be formalized, with plans to expand the 'Seoul Moonlight Night Market' from five locations this year to 25 by 2028. Selected commercial districts may receive up to 2 billion won for environmental improvements, branding support, and additional incentives based on operational success. The city will also increase nighttime access to major cultural facilities such as museums and palaces, introduce integrated arts programs in the Gwanghwamun area, and develop unique content like 'Night Sauna' at Han River parks and 'Winter Sleep Contest' at DDP. Transportation and safety measures will include expanding late-night buses, introducing autonomous buses and taxis, and enhancing the operation of Seoul's security personnel, all aimed at creating an urban ecosystem where nighttime activities naturally lead to consumption and tourism. Oh remarked, "The night economy is not just the responsibility of one department; it requires collaboration across culture, tourism, transportation, and economic policy to be fully realized as Seoul's new growth strategy. We will ensure it becomes a flagship policy that transforms citizens' lives and enhances Seoul's competitiveness." He added, "Following initiatives like 'Seoul Without Loneliness,' 'Climate Companion Card,' and 'Revitalizing Gangbuk 2.0,' I urge you to make this a representative policy that citizens can feel in their daily lives." The night economy is a key growth axis for Oh's vision of making Seoul a 'Global Top 3 City.' The G3 Seoul Planning Committee has already discussed it as a core strategic task in the fields of future economy and global appeal, with plans to develop a new urban economic model that connects increased tourism with local business consumption and job creation. Based on the discussions from the executive meeting and the G3 Seoul Planning Committee, the city plans to announce a comprehensive 'Seoul Night Economy Revitalization Plan' early next month and begin implementing its representative growth strategy. 2026-07-15 11:44:00
  • Koo Yoon-cheol: MSCI Inclusion Hindered by Currency Market Readiness
    Koo Yoon-cheol: MSCI Inclusion Hindered by Currency Market Readiness Koo Yoon-cheol, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, identified the demand for the Korean won to be freely traded and account-based 24 hours a day as the main obstacle to inclusion in the Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) developed markets index.During a report on the second half of 2026 held at the Blue House on July 15, Koo responded to President Lee Jae-myung's question about the biggest hurdle to MSCI inclusion.President Lee noted, "The domestic stock market has experienced significant fluctuations in a short period, and it requires time and volatility to stabilize. Generally, MSCI inclusion is seen as beneficial for stabilizing international demand."In response, Koo emphasized, "It’s not that we are unable to proceed; we have our own pace. We need to stabilize the capital market, and there are risks associated with a rapid increase in the won's speed, so we need to adjust our pace. We are working to join MSCI as quickly as possible while maintaining our own speed."He added, "If the foreign exchange market is exposed before it is ready, it could have adverse effects. We expect to implement many institutional improvements by early next year."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-15 11:40:00
  • Jo Kwang-han Announces Candidacy for Gyeonggi Province Party Chair
    Jo Kwang-han Announces Candidacy for Gyeonggi Province Party Chair Jo Kwang-han, a senior member of the People Power Party, announced his intention to run for the Gyeonggi Province Party Chair on July 15, claiming that many local party committee chairs have been marginalized by current lawmakers.During a press conference at the National Assembly, Jo stated, "Chairman Kim Seon-kyo has not operated the Gyeonggi Province Party in a reasonable manner through effective communication with all members."He criticized Kim for sidelining many local committee chairs during the recent local elections and the subsequent gubernatorial race, saying, "There has been almost no communication, even with me as a senior member of the party regarding Gyeonggi Province matters."Jo pointed out that out of 60 local party committees in Gyeonggi, only seven are led by current lawmakers, leaving 53 local committees feeling significantly hurt and neglected during the election process. He expressed personal anger over the situation.He explained his motivation for running, saying, "I understand that five or six Gyeonggi lawmakers recently gathered to discuss the next chairperson. The provincial party must be led through political unity and cooperation, rather than being operated based on the will of a few individuals."When asked if the influence of Representative Jang Dong-hyuk played a role in his candidacy, Jo denied it, stating, "That is not true. I have not consulted with Representative Jang, and he is unaware of my candidacy."Jo lamented the attitude of current lawmakers, suggesting that they seem to prioritize their own interests and advantages as elected officials over the collective synergy of all party members. He emphasized, "The People Power Party is sustained by the hard work and dedication of approximately 250 local committee chairs, as well as the hopes, sacrifices, and efforts of all party members in the province."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-15 11:28:00