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Jeong Jae-deok of Ilim Electronics Receives Order of Industrial Merit for Localizing Key Auto Parts 수입에 의존하던 자동차용 점화코일 핵심 부품과 소재를 국산화해 미래차 산업 경쟁력 강화에 기여한 정재덕 이림전자 대표이사가 동탑산업훈장을 받았다. 산업통상부는 14일 대구 엑스코에서 산업단지 기업인과 근로자 등 500여명이 참석한 가운데 '산업단지의 날' 기념식을 개최했다고 밝혔다. 산업단지의 날은 국내 산업단지 조성의 토대가 된 '수출산업공업단지개발조성법' 시행일인 1964년 9월 14일을 기념하는 날이다. 2022년 법정기념일로 지정된 이후 서울 등 수도권에서 열렸지만 올해 처음으로 비수도권인 대구에서 개최됐다. 정 대표는 자동차용 점화코일의 핵심 부품과 소재를 국산화한 데 이어 지역 학교와 협력체계를 구축해 청년 취업 활성화에 기여한 공로를 인정받았다. 이날 기념식에서는 산업단지 발전에 기여한 기업인과 근로자 등 총 153명에게 훈장과 표창 등을 수여했다. 포상 규모는 동탑산업훈장 1명, 대통령 표창 2명, 국무총리 표창 2명, 산업부 장관 표창 51명 등이다. 지난 4월 산업부 장관 주재로 열린 '산업단지 정책 해커톤'에서 제안된 '산업명문가' 시상도 처음으로 진행됐다. 산업명문가는 산업단지 내에서 직계가족 2대 이상이 종사하는 기업 대표나 근로자를 뜻한다. 기념식과 연계한 '산업단지 수출박람회'도 14일부터 16일까지 열린다. 산업단지 입주기업 400개사와 글로벌 바이어 100개사가 참여해 일대일 수출 상담과 비즈니스 밋업을 진행한다. 제조 인공지능 전환(M.AX) 혁신 서밋과 국내외 스타트업·벤처캐피털이 참여하는 오픈 이노베이션 행사도 마련됐다. 전국 산업단지에서는 14일부터 일주일간 세미나와 투자설명회, 문화공연 등 산업단지 위크 행사가 진행된다. 지역 축제와 연계한 프로그램도 오는 11월까지 이어질 예정이다. 박동일 산업부 산업정책실장은 "5극 3특 지방주도성장을 위해 권역별 성장엔진을 중심으로 7대 패키지 지원을 강화하고 산업단지 M.AX 클러스터화에 중점을 두겠다"고 밝혔다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-14 06:04:10
Explore Autumn at Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung with Ballet and Royal Experiences As the cool autumn breeze sets in, a series of performances and experiential events will take place at the palaces and gardens. Gyeongbokgung Palace will showcase a concert combining traditional court music and ballet, while Changdeokgung Palace will open the previously restricted Prince's study. Traditional music performances will also be held at Seoul Forest.According to the Cultural Heritage Administration, the 'Ballet x Sujecheon' concert will be held at the Jibokjae Hall in Gyeongbokgung from October 2 to 5 at 7 p.m.This performance combines Sujecheon, a representative form of court music, with ballet, a prominent Western court dance. Now in its fifth year, the event has sold out every year since its inception in 2022.More than 90 performers, including the K-Arts Ballet Company and the Sujecheon Project, will take part. The concert will feature three acts: 'Ballet Jeongjae,' which merges Sujecheon with classical ballet; 'Ballet Fantasy,' which intertwines romantic ballet with traditional music; and 'Ballet Binari,' which showcases ballet alongside traditional Korean percussion. Tickets will be available starting at 5 p.m. on the 11th, priced at 20,000 won.At Changdeokgung, visitors will have the opportunity to explore the space where the Crown Prince studied and trained. From September 22 to November 8, the exhibition 'A Day in the Crown Prince's Life: Steps to Becoming a King' will take place in the Seongjeonggak and Gwanmulheon areas. This exhibition will present the learning journey of Crown Prince Hyomyeong (1809–1830) through displays, theater, and hands-on experiences.Notably, the eastern pavilion of Seongjeonggak, 'Heeuru,' will be opened to the public for the first time, having previously been off-limits. Visitors can apply on-site from Tuesday to Saturday between 10:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Each session will accommodate a maximum of eight people for a 15-minute viewing.The Seongjeonggak will recreate the study space where the Crown Prince and his teacher learned together. Every Saturday, a theatrical performance will depict the dialogues between Crown Prince Hyomyeong and his teacher. At Gwanmulheon, hands-on experiences will modernize the six arts (including archery, writing, and mathematics) that the Crown Prince mastered. Participants can try archery through VR and learn ancient calculation methods using traditional tools. There will also be a program to create bookmarks by writing passages from the 'Analects' and 'Great Learning.'On Sundays, a program called 'Becoming Crown Prince Hyomyeong' will be held for elementary school students in grades 1 to 3. Participants will learn etiquette alongside actors portraying the Crown Prince and his teacher, and they will experience copying passages from the 'Great Learning' and playing traditional games. This program is free and requires advance reservation.Seoul Forest will host traditional music performances as well. From September 11 to October 24, the 'Heritage Garden Music Concert' will take place every Friday and Saturday at the K-Heritage Garden. Fridays will feature fusion traditional music aimed at commuters, while Saturdays will offer folk songs and traditional music performances suitable for families. Admission is free and does not require a reservation.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-14 06:04:00
Korea's Ministry of Land to Host 'Digital Land Day' with AI Innovations The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport has expressed its commitment to utilizing new technologies such as AI and digital twins in land surveys.On September 14, the ministry announced that it will hold the '6th Digital Land Day' event on the 16th at the National Land Information Education Center in Gongju, South Chungcheong Province, in collaboration with the Korea Land and Geospatial Informatix Corporation (LX).'Digital Land Day' is an annual event commemorating the enactment of the Special Act on Land Survey (September 16, 2011), aimed at reflecting on the achievements of land survey projects and strengthening collaborative frameworks.The land survey project aims to correct discrepancies between actual land conditions and registered information, transitioning from traditional paper-based records to digital formats. This national initiative has been underway since 2012 and is set to continue until 2030.During this year's ceremony, LX will be re-designated as the 'responsible institution for land survey projects,' and a certificate will be awarded to the organization for its public role in supporting surveying and investigation tasks.Jeong Ui-gyeong, Director of the Land and Urban Policy Bureau at the Ministry, stated, “We will actively integrate new technologies such as AI and digital twins into land surveys to better protect citizens' land property rights. We aim to establish a digital land that serves as a solid foundation for future mobility and smart cities.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-14 06:04:00
Mixed Results for Korean Insurers in Vietnam's Life Insurance Market Korean life insurers in Vietnam reported mixed results for the first half of the year. According to recent local media reports, Hanwha Life Vietnam increased its net profit by 68% due to effective asset management and cost control, while Shinhan Life Vietnam reduced its losses by nearly half by cutting insurance payout costs and sales expenses. Both companies focused on internal management despite a lack of significant growth in insurance operations. Insurance Premiums Decline, but Hanwha Life Expands Net Profit by 68%Hanwha Life Vietnam experienced a slight downturn in its insurance operations during the first half of the year. Net insurance premiums totaled 15.22 trillion dong (approximately $790 million), a 7% decrease from the same period last year. Gross premiums also fell by about 7% to 16.12 trillion dong, largely due to a decline in universal life insurance premiums, which dropped to around 11.17 trillion dong. Reinsurance premiums remained stable at 930 billion dong compared to the previous year.Despite the decrease in premium income, the company also reduced its insurance operating costs. Total insurance payout costs decreased by 7% to 13.13 trillion dong, while other insurance operating expenses fell by 14% to 640 billion dong. Consequently, the gross profit from insurance operations was nearly 1.45 trillion dong, only a 2% decline from the previous year.The key to Hanwha Life's improved performance was its financial sector. The company's financial income exceeded 8.25 trillion dong, marking a 26% increase from the same period last year. Interest income from deposits and certificates of deposit surpassed 4.07 trillion dong, and profits from bond sales exceeded 1 trillion dong. Financial costs decreased by 11% to around 250 billion dong, further enhancing profitability in the financial sector.Sales and administrative expenses also saw reductions, with sales costs falling to below 2.5 trillion dong (an 11% decrease) and administrative costs dropping to around 1.45 trillion dong (also an 11% decrease). As a result of expanded financial income and cost-cutting measures, pre-tax profit reached approximately 5.5 trillion dong, while net profit rose to about 4.42 trillion dong, a 68% increase compared to the previous year.Shinhan Life Reduces Losses Despite Ongoing DeficitUnlike Hanwha Life, Shinhan Life Vietnam did not achieve profitability but significantly reduced its losses. In the first half of the year, net insurance premiums were 1.37 trillion dong (approximately $71 million), a 1% decrease from the previous year. However, gross premiums increased by 2% to 1.37 trillion dong, driven by higher sales of regular insurance products.Cost reductions in insurance operations contributed to the decrease in losses. Total insurance operating expenses fell by 31% to 570 billion dong, with insurance payout costs dropping by 72% to around 160 billion dong. However, other insurance operating expenses rose by 66% to over 400 billion dong due to increased commissions for insurance agents. The reduction in payout costs offset the rise in commissions, leading to an overall decrease in insurance operating expenses, with gross profit from insurance operations exceeding 810 billion dong, a 42% increase.The financial sector's performance showed slight deterioration. Shinhan Life Vietnam's financial income was approximately 590 billion dong, a 5% decrease, impacted by lower interest income from time deposits and certificates of deposit. Sales expenses decreased by 31% to around 770 billion dong, but administrative expenses rose by 5% to over 1.14 trillion dong due to increased salaries and costs for equipment and office supplies.Overall, Shinhan Life Vietnam reported a net loss of nearly 520 billion dong for the first half of the year. However, this was a significant reduction compared to a net loss of over 1.01 trillion dong in the same period last year. The company is working to lower its cost burden and improve its loss structure.As of the end of June, total assets stood at over 21.3 trillion dong, a 3% decrease from the beginning of the year, while equity was reported at 17.59 trillion dong. With the first half's results, cumulative losses exceeded 5.6 trillion dong. Size DisparityThere is a significant difference in the scale and financial strength of the two companies. As of the end of June, Hanwha Life Vietnam's total assets were 238.99 trillion dong, more than ten times that of Shinhan Life Vietnam.Hanwha Life Vietnam's long-term financial investments reached approximately 211.88 trillion dong, a 57% increase, while liabilities exceeded 171.27 trillion dong. Equity was close to 67.72 trillion dong, with retained earnings around 17.23 trillion dong.While Hanwha Life Vietnam is already generating profits based on its substantial asset base and expanding financial income, Shinhan Life Vietnam is still in the phase of growing its business scale while reducing cumulative losses.The future challenges for the two companies are distinctly different. Hanwha Life Vietnam needs to move beyond reliance on financial income for performance improvement and restore growth in its insurance operations, while Shinhan Life Vietnam must expand its business scale to escape its loss structure. 2026-09-14 06:04:00
Government Reverses Tax Reform Plan After One Month: Where Is It Headed? "Why did you do that without proper preparation?"This was President Lee Jae-myung's remark on September 7 regarding the government's proposed changes to the Individual Savings Account (ISA). It was an unusual scene for the president to publicly reprimand the government and order a complete review of the tax reform plan.The issue began with the ISA. On September 3, the government announced its '2026 Tax Reform Plan,' proposing to establish a new productive finance ISA to stimulate domestic investment while eliminating the carryover of annual contribution limits for existing ISAs and imposing contract duration limits. The intention was to attract funds to the domestic capital market.However, the market's reaction was not as expected. Investors expressed concerns about whether it was appropriate to reduce benefits for existing ISA holders. There were also worries that this would effectively limit the choices for so-called 'overseas stock investors' (Seohakgaemi).Following the president's directive for a review, the government changed its stance. In the final tax reform plan confirmed on October 1, it allowed the carryover of contribution limits for existing ISAs and maintained the contract duration indefinitely. The restrictions on the productive finance ISA were also adjusted.The same was true for real estate taxation. Initially, the government planned to lower the basic deduction for non-resident single-homeowners from 1.2 billion won to 900 million won and raise the tax burden cap to 200%. However, in the final plan, it decided to keep the basic deduction at 1.2 billion won and the tax burden cap at 150%.In just 29 days since the announcement of the tax reform plan, key elements were reversed. While revising policies is not inherently wrong, it is the government's responsibility to listen to voices from the field and correct problematic systems during the legislative process.The issue lies in the question, 'Why was it like this from the beginning?'One of the important values in taxation is predictability. It affects long-term decision-making, from personal asset management to corporate investment and management plans. It is not just about how much taxes will rise or fall this year; there must be a belief in which systems will be maintained in the future for economic actors to adjust accordingly.In particular, the ISA was created to support long-term asset formation. If the government aimed to attract funds to the domestic capital market with this reform, it should have thoroughly considered how eliminating the carryover of contribution limits and imposing contract duration limits would impact existing participants. This includes assessing the effects on participants with variable incomes, such as self-employed individuals and freelancers, and whether it conflicts with the original purpose of encouraging long-term investment.Alongside the ISA, the so-called 'stock price suppression prevention law' also became a subject for presidential review. Instead of finalizing related content in the final plan, the government decided to develop reasonable improvements through discussions with the ruling party and during the National Assembly review process. Many of the capital market-related tax policies that were ambitiously introduced have become subjects for modification and supplementation right after their announcement.The problem arises when such occurrences become repetitive. When the cycle of announcing, facing backlash, and revising continues, what remains for the public is not the intent of the policy but uncertainty regarding government policies.Moreover, changing tax policies incurs costs when reversed. Individuals who planned investments based on expected tax benefits or businesses that structured management plans based on anticipated changes must adjust their judgments every time policies change. How can the government explain its policy trust when it calls for long-term investment from the public while altering tax directions within a month?While the government's reversal in response to market feedback could be seen as a success in communication, a better government is one that introduces policies that require fewer reversals from the outset.Tax reform is akin to a promise made by the government to its citizens. The most significant challenge left by this tax reform is not the issue of tax rates or deduction amounts, but rather how the government will design tax policies based on principles and how consistently it will adhere to those principles in the future.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-14 05:04:00
Canadian Prime Minister Proposes EU Associate Membership Amid Trade Tensions Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has proposed that Canada become an associate member of the European Union (EU), drawing attention amid ongoing trade tensions with the United States. This suggestion stands in contrast to President Donald Trump's proposal for Canada to become the 51st state of the U.S., positioning Canada as a potential 28th member of the EU. However, there are critical perspectives regarding the move to engage with Europe while overlooking the largest market, the U.S.According to the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) on September 12, Carney has held individual meetings with leaders from major European countries, including France, Italy, Germany, and Scandinavia, as well as lesser-known European royals, to discuss integration between Canada and Europe. The newspaper likened this effort to a 'shotgun marriage.'Sources cited by WSJ indicated that Carney has instructed his European envoy to explore ambitious possibilities, even if they fall short of full EU membership or joining the single market. He has expressed to his aides that Canada has been economically and socially dominated by the U.S. for the past half-century and aims to reshape that dynamic.Carney has also suggested a new title for Canada as an 'EU Associate Member.' EU officials, typically inflexible regarding membership qualifications, have shown openness to Canada’s idea, according to sources from both sides. After months of negotiations, Canada and the EU are reportedly exploring ways for Canada to informally participate in the EU's $21 trillion single market, particularly in sectors like energy, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals.The WSJ also highlighted the role of Carney's informal advisory group and reading club, which includes figures from finance and politics, some of whom are members of a reading group based in Ottawa.Carney is scheduled to deliver a speech at the European Parliament on September 17, where he is expected to outline his vision for strengthening cooperation between Europe and Canada. A Canadian official remarked, 'This shows that Canada is shifting its perspective from being a North American country to an Atlantic-crossing nation,' adding, 'Canadians may speak and dress like Americans, but socially, they are more European.'However, there are criticisms that Carney's 'pro-European' approach may lack tangible benefits. Matthew Lynn, a columnist for the British daily Telegraph, noted, 'The EU accounted for 26% of the global economy in the early 21st century, but that share has dropped to 17% as of last year, and its regulations are strict.' He argued that severing ties with the largest market (the U.S.) to engage with a low-growth market 4,000 miles away is not a wise move.Carney is well-acquainted with both the U.S. and Europe, having worked extensively in both regions. An economics graduate, he earned his undergraduate degree from Harvard University and his master's and doctorate from the University of Oxford. He has also spent significant time at the American investment bank Goldman Sachs and served as the first non-British governor of the Bank of England. He met his wife in the UK.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-14 05:04:00
Ryu Seung-ryong Reflects on His Role in 'Bigwang' After Initial Rejection Actor Ryu Seung-ryong, known for leading box office hits like 'Masquerade,' 'Miracle in Cell No. 7,' 'Roaring Currents,' and 'Extreme Job,' portrays a desperate father in the film 'Bigwang' directed by Lee Ji-won. In the film, Ryu plays Jung-gu, who fights to protect his daughter even when pushed to the brink. Having previously depicted warm and ordinary father figures, he draws on a more urgent paternal love in this role, resonating with audiences."Initially, I declined after only reading the synopsis. At that time, I was frequently playing father roles in films like 'Psychokinesis,' 'The Guest,' and 'Seven Years of Night,' and I wanted to explore something different. However, the director wrote me a letter. Through it, I realized that this story is not just about paternal love, which prompted me to revisit the script," Ryu said.The letter from director Lee Ji-won conveyed his dedication to the project and his trust in Ryu. Ryu felt the director's passion for why this story needed to be told and why he wanted Ryu to be part of it."The director wrote about five pages, sharing his family history, his motivations for making films, his approach to this project, and what cinema means to him. He also expressed why he wanted to work with me on this film. It was heartfelt and genuine. I believe sincerity resonates, and reading it again, I understood the director's intentions," Ryu explained.The title 'Bigwang' is not merely symbolic. Ryu interpreted the imagery associated with the 'Bigwang' card game as a representation of hope that emerges when imperfect individuals come together to endure crises."Initially, there was some misunderstanding. People might think it's a gambling movie, but the director explained that it's about the 'Bigwang' card. He hopes audiences will find strength in seeing how families overcome crises and transform them into positive energy. Each person may be flawed, but together they create synergy. Even in the rain, there is definitely light, which carries multiple meanings. It was my first time reflecting so deeply on a single card game," he said.'Bigwang' also follows the rise and fall of the character Jung-gu. Ryu noted that while the role demanded a wide emotional range, the tightly constructed script served as a guide."The script was very solid. The director's six years of dedication to writing it in a goshiwon (study room) is embedded in the blueprint. It detailed everything from the number of lights and their positions to the placement of outlets and wallpaper, which made me think about how to implement them effectively. While it was challenging to bring it all to life, the director provided excellent guidance," Ryu said.Ryu found it difficult to understand Jung-gu's acceptance of his daughter Dong-joo. Through discussions with director Lee Ji-won, he began to grasp the paternal love and familial bonds depicted in the film."As a married man with children, there were aspects I struggled to comprehend. So, I talked a lot with the director. Kim Hae-sook's character, who is Dong-joo's ex-mother-in-law, genuinely tells her to 'run away without looking back,' treating her like her own daughter. Also, the character played by Kim Young-min, who is not biologically related, fulfills his role like a family member. I believe Jung-gu's acceptance was possible within that family dynamic, even if it wasn't easy," Ryu said.Ryu portrayed Jung-gu from his 20s to 40s. He humorously noted, "While a lot of CGI was used, I also took care of my skin to prepare for the role.""I did a lot of things I hadn't done before. I applied masks daily and managed my appearance. The director was very particular about visuals, props, and costumes," he added.The costumes and props were not just decorative but served to explain Jung-gu's past and preferences. Ryu noted that the director's meticulous intentions were embedded in the character's appearance."Yes, the flashy clothes weren't just for show; they reflected Jung-gu's tastes and a sense of his unresolved past. Nam-mi's outfits also maintained consistency. When the director dressed her in a pure white shirt upon exiting, it symbolized innocence. I believe all those choices explained the character well," he said.The chemistry with Ha Ji-won was also crucial. Jung-gu and Nam-mi share a relationship filled with love, resentment, and complex emotions. Ryu credited Ha Ji-won's excellent reactions and adaptability for helping to develop their intricate marital dynamic."I think Ha Ji-won is one of the best actors in Korea when it comes to reactions. Her serious responses and laughter are fantastic. She even laughs at trivial humor, which I appreciate. On set, we had to navigate the complex and subtle relationship between Jung-gu and Nam-mi, and Ha Ji-won really played along well," he said.The story of Jung-gu and Nam-mi, once top stars who suddenly fall from grace, resonated with Ryu, who has experienced life's ups and downs."Life can bring unexpected events. I feel I've gone through such ups and downs myself, and I've learned a lot during those times. After experiencing various twists and turns, I think I’ve gained flexibility and calmness. I try to keep an open mind and accept things without panic. I believe that calmness has developed within me," he said.His approach to rest has also changed. Once filling his time with woodworking, leatherwork, and pottery, he is now learning to embrace moments of doing nothing."During COVID, when projects were postponed, I found myself with time, and I couldn't just sit still. I did carpentry, leatherwork, and pottery. Now, with a busy schedule, I can't maintain those activities consistently, but I walk, exercise, and even walk barefoot on Jeju Olle. However, sometimes it feels like I'm aggressively resting. Nowadays, I play music and just sit still. I don't know why listening to classical piano without lyrics, with soft lighting and good ventilation while watching the robot vacuum clean, feels so healing," he said.Learning to rest has been another challenge for him. For someone who has lived in a competitive environment, allowing oneself to have 'nothing time' is not easy."I think I haven't allowed myself to be still for too long. I had an obsession that being idle meant falling behind. Those of us born in the 1970s heard a lot about competition from a young age. Reflecting on my adulthood, I realized I rarely took time to do nothing. Allowing myself to do nothing has been a significant challenge, and it requires training," he said.Ryu's perspective on the pressures of fatherhood has also evolved. He believes that not all fathers are the same, and even within the same title, there are invisible differences."At that time, I struggled with father roles, often crying and lamenting. I think it was a transitional phase for me to reflect on my acting. But now, not all fathers are the same. They are all different. Even within that, there are invisible differences. I think my previous rigid and narrow-minded views have changed a bit now," he said.Ryu described 'Bigwang' as a film that deeply follows the power of storytelling and the chemistry among the actors. Having explored various genres from comedy to drama and thriller, he feels drawn to projects that center on rich narratives and strong performances."I enjoy quirky stories and those that allow for imaginative exploration, like 'Chicken Gangjeong,' 'Amazon Herbal Medicine,' and 'Moving.' I believe we will see more great content like that in the future. However, 'Bigwang' is a work where you can truly appreciate the density of the story and the actors' performances and chemistry. I think this will mark the beginning of my preference for such works," he concluded.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-14 00:04:00
Korean Tourism Agency's Employee Vacation Support Program Gains Traction The Korean Tourism Organization's Employee Vacation Support Program has become an integral part of corporate welfare for participating companies. Some companies have begun covering the employee contribution of 200,000 won, easing the burden on staff when taking vacation days. A survey conducted last year revealed that 89.4% of participating employees used their accumulated funds for domestic travel.The program operates on a structure where employees contribute 200,000 won, companies contribute 100,000 won, and the government adds another 100,000 won, creating a total of 400,000 won in accumulated funds. Employees can use this money to purchase domestic travel products through a dedicated online platform called Vacation Shop. The program transitioned to its current form in 2018, and this year, the recruitment scale has increased to 145,000 participants, expanding eligibility to employees of mid-sized companies.To share the program's achievements and examples from participating companies, the Korean Tourism Organization held a performance sharing event on September 10 at Signiel Seoul. Over 200 representatives from participating companies, relevant organizations, and collaborators attended. The event featured a CEO roundtable in the morning, followed by awards, insight lectures, and discussions throughout the day.Companies View Participation as an InvestmentAccording to an analysis of last year's results shared at the event, 86% of company representatives expressed their willingness to rejoin the program and recommend it to other companies, despite the financial burden of increasing welfare budgets.Executives from participating companies explained their reasoning similarly. Yoon Hyung-jin, a director at Easy Care Tech, stated, "There may be a temporary financial burden, but we view it as an investment rather than a cost. Rest is a form of competitiveness. We firmly believe that well-rested employees are more productive and drive innovation within the company." Easy Care Tech has participated for eight consecutive years, with 346 employees participating last year and 345 this year, maintaining over 300 participants for four years in a row. Yoon added, "Since joining the vacation support program, we have expanded our internal welfare system, and I believe the program has acted as a catalyst for diversifying our welfare offerings."A&D Credit Information has participated every year since the program's inception in 2018, with a cumulative total of over 3,400 participating employees. CEO Lee Joo-kyung emphasized, "Emotional stability is crucial for our employees, who interact with clients. The primary goal of corporate management is employee happiness. While there is a small burden, the company must work together to ensure employee well-being."The primary reason employees participate in the program is financial relief. A survey last year indicated that 90.1% of employees cited reduced cost burdens as their reason for joining.Big Tech Plus has been covering the employee contribution of 200,000 won since 2021. As a result, all 20 employees participated last year, with only 8,245 won remaining from the allocated 8 million won, achieving a 99.9% utilization rate. CEO Ham Bae-il noted, "Since there is no personal financial burden, no one refrains from using it. To attract top talent, welfare is essential. Nowadays, job applicants consider not only salary but also welfare systems. While financial constraints are a reality, the tourism organization’s support for vacation expenses allows startups to implement such welfare systems, which is significant."Kyeryong Construction Industry, based in Daejeon, first joined the program in 2020. Initially limited to employees with over one year of service, over 500 applied. After removing the service requirement two years later, applications surged to nearly 1,000, with a cumulative total of 5,067 participating employees. Park Jeong-kyu, an executive at Kyeryong Construction, stated, "We removed all restrictions on benefits. Even employees who joined yesterday can use it if needed. The lack of restrictions has led to active participation, and satisfaction surveys show almost no complaints. When employees take time to rest, it energizes the company, which is positive for us."Employees Report Cultural ShiftDuring the afternoon performance sharing event, a discussion titled 'The Changes We Created in Our Company' allowed employees from participating companies to share their experiences.At Good Runner Company, many employees enjoy running. They often use the vacation support program to cover expenses for KTX tickets and domestic flights to marathon and trail running events. CEO Lee Yun-joo remarked, "Employees utilize this program extensively, leading to high satisfaction. After attending events, they come to work wearing their medals, creating a natural atmosphere of encouraging each other to take vacations."Vacations do not necessarily require long-distance travel. The Vacation Shop allows for payments for accommodations, transportation, as well as exhibition and experiential products. Jeon Sol-yeon, a research associate at Human Metrics, where all 19 employees participated last year, stated, "A culture of taking vacations without hesitation has taken root. The costs are covered by the vacation support program, while the time off is supported by the company's welfare system, creating a synergistic effect. The Vacation Shop also offers many options for enjoying leisure in daily life, which has greatly contributed to establishing a culture of taking breaks."Lee Seung-tae, a team leader at Poonglim Pharmaceutical, which fully supports the 200,000 won employee contribution, noted, "It has become very natural for employees to take vacations, and the usage rate of annual leave has significantly increased. When I see employees sharing their experiences of where they went and how they used their points, it often involves those known for their strong performance at work. This suggests that corporate competitiveness and individual welfare are closely linked."IBK Industrial Bank supports small and medium-sized enterprises by covering employee contributions. Baek Seong-hyun, a representative at IBK, revealed, "We receive direct inquiries from corporate welfare managers, indicating a positive response to the program."CEOs Sign Joint DeclarationDuring the CEO roundtable, representatives from the tourism organization and participating companies signed the 'K-Vacation Culture Cooperative Declaration.' Seventeen companies and organizations participated, committing to four initiatives: fostering a vacation-friendly corporate culture, spreading excellent vacation welfare models, contributing to local economies through domestic travel consumption, and enhancing welfare competitiveness to secure local talent.Park Seong-hyeok, president of the Korean Tourism Organization, stated, "Vacation culture is improving significantly, thanks to the contributions of the representatives gathered here. Strengthening the vacation and welfare competitiveness of local companies can lead to securing top talent and settling in the region, while also contributing to the revitalization of domestic travel. We will continue to develop the employee vacation support program more effectively."Next year marks the 10th anniversary of the program, prompting the tourism organization to revise the system. The paperwork for corporate representatives will be significantly simplified, and the Vacation Shop platform will undergo a complete overhaul. Kwak Jae-yeon, head of the National Tourism Support Team at the tourism organization, stated, "We will work hard to improve the system so that administrative processes do not deter participation. We are also discussing the introduction of an offline payment system that can be used directly at travel destinations, rather than just online point payments. The platform overhaul is planned for release in 2027."The program will also be renamed to 'Employee Vacation Support Program' starting next year. Park emphasized, "With 408 companies participating for nine consecutive years, the program's sustainability and achievements are evident. Along with the name change, we aim to expand the program's focus from just vacation expense support to promoting vacation culture, including outreach to workers in vulnerable employment sectors, such as platform workers and those in non-standard employment."He added, "The joint declaration represents a commitment from the tourism organization and various industries to respect workers' vacation rights and promote a harmonious work-vacation culture across the industry. We anticipate a virtuous cycle where well-rested companies gain competitiveness, and this culture spreads throughout industries and regions."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-14 00:04:00
Uiwang Mayor Kim Seong-je Celebrates Uiwang Arts Festival as a Cultural Highlight Kim Seong-je, the mayor of Uiwang, praised the Uiwang Arts Festival on September 12, stating, "The Uiwang Arts Festival is a representative cultural arts festival of Uiwang City, where the passion of local artists and the participation of citizens come together." Mayor Kim announced that the '2026 Uiwang Arts Festival,' held at Wangsong Lake Park, concluded successfully with active participation and enthusiasm from the community. The mayor is accelerating efforts to expand opportunities for citizens to enjoy cultural arts and to create a foundation for local artists to thrive. The event was organized by the Uiwang branch of the Korean Arts and Culture Organizations Association, featuring participation from seven groups under the Uiwang Arts Council, including literature, traditional music, dance, visual arts, and music, along with local cultural artists. At the outdoor stage in Wangsong Lake Park, performances of traditional music, dance, and music were showcased, along with stages featuring local artists and cultural teams. In the evening, the '2nd Uiwang City Wangsong Lake Song Festival' finals and a guest artist performance continued the festive atmosphere. In addition to performances, programs allowing citizen participation were also offered. Experience booths, a flea market, and magic and bubble shows were held, while the '2026 Beautiful Wangsong Lake Writing and Drawing Contest' saw participation from elementary, middle, and high school students as well as local residents. Exhibitions utilizing the natural environment of Wangsong Lake were also conducted. The wetland deck hosted the 'Beautiful Wangsong Lake Companion Exhibition' and the photo exhibition 'Between Light and Wind,' while the walking path featured the poetry exhibition 'Footprints of Early Modern Korean Poetry 2' for visitors. The art and photography exhibitions are set to continue until September 19. Mayor Kim evaluated this arts festival as a representative cultural event created by local artists and citizens, while also hinting at plans to enhance cultural arts infrastructure. The Uiwang Arts Center, mentioned by Mayor Kim, is considered a key facility for Uiwang's cultural arts policy. The mayor plans to expand performance and exhibition spaces for local artists with the opening of the arts center, while also creating an environment where citizens can access high-quality cultural arts nearby. Mayor Kim emphasized, "Once the Uiwang Arts Center opens next year, artists will be able to showcase their dreams and passions on better stages, and citizens will enjoy richer cultural arts closer to home."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-13 22:44:00
Anyang Fire Department Reviews Disaster Response System for Underground Structures Near Anyang Station The Anyang Fire Department held a meeting on September 8 to review the disaster response system for underground shopping malls and connected structures near Anyang Station, discussing cooperation among relevant agencies. According to the fire department on September 13, the area around Anyang Station features a complex structure with an underground station, shopping mall, and large buildings managed by multiple entities. In the event of a disaster such as a fire, smoke and heat can spread to adjacent areas, complicating evacuation routes for users. Therefore, swift information sharing and role allocation among facilities are crucial. Attendees included representatives from the Anyang Fire Department, Anyang Station, the Central Underground Shopping Mall, and Enter6. Participants confirmed the emergency contact system and information sharing methods in preparation for potential disasters, discussing the roles of facility managers and cooperation during on-site responses. In particular, they focused on improving communication systems among stakeholders to ensure smooth initial responses during actual disaster situations. They also reviewed necessary cooperation for disseminating information during a fire, guiding evacuations, and supporting firefighting activities. Based on the discussions, the fire department plans to conduct joint firefighting drills with relevant agencies by December. The drills will include guiding evacuations, initial fire response, and checking the operation of fire shutters and smoke control systems, as well as ensuring access for fire trucks and firefighting operations. Fire Chief Kim Ji-han stated, "Underground connected structures have interlinked spaces, so a disaster occurring in one area can affect adjacent facilities." He added, "We will ensure that relevant agencies share their response systems and conduct regular training to facilitate swift cooperation in real situations."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-13 22:28:00