AJU PRESS ASIA FIRST NEWS AGENCY

Journalist

&
""
Latest by
  • Internal Conflict Escalates Over Human Rights Commissions Recommendation on Yoons Defense Rights
    Internal Conflict Escalates Over Human Rights Commission's Recommendation on Yoon's Defense Rights The National Human Rights Commission is facing escalating internal conflict over whether to revoke its recommendation from last year that guaranteed defense rights for Yoon Suk Yeol during his impeachment trial. Progressive commissioners are demanding an apology and the revocation of the previous decision, while conservative members argue that revisiting a concluded matter undermines the commission's independence and legal stability.According to Yonhap News on July 13, the commission discussed a motion titled 'Revocation of the Recommendation on President Yoon Suk Yeol's Defense Rights and Public Apology' during its 13th plenary session, which was jointly proposed by five members, including permanent commissioners Lee Sook-jin and Oh Young-geun, as well as non-permanent members So Ra-mi, Oh Wan-ho, and Jo Suk-hyun.The motion aims to reassess and revoke the commission's recommendation made in February last year, which stated that due process and defense rights should be guaranteed during Yoon's impeachment trial.On February 10, 2025, the commission voted 6-4 in favor of a motion asserting the need to ensure due process and defense rights for the former president during the impeachment proceedings.During the recent meeting, the divisions among commissioners regarding the previous decision were evident. Conservative members contended that it is inappropriate to revoke a decision that was made and executed through proper procedures. Non-permanent member Han Seok-hoon stated, 'The decision was made lawfully, and the recommendation has been executed, so it cannot lose its effect retroactively; thus, a new vote would be invalid.'Non-permanent member Kang Jeong-hye also pointed out that re-evaluating the same issue could undermine legal stability and trust, violating the principle of non bis in idem.They particularly criticized the push to revoke the recommendation after the replacement of commissioners who had supported the original decision, labeling it as 'political coercion.'In contrast, the progressive commissioners who proposed the revocation argued that the previous judgment by the commission compromised its independence and political neutrality and must be corrected.Lee Sook-jin emphasized, 'It is the responsibility of the human rights commissioners to rectify the (incorrect) motion they voted on,' describing it as a discussion of 'rectifying past mistakes.'Non-permanent member Jo Suk-hyun stressed, 'This is not about expressing opinions to the Constitutional Court again, but rather evaluating whether the past decision harmed the commission's independence and political neutrality and correcting the mistakes.'Non-permanent member Oh Wan-ho argued that the commission, which should hold accountable those infringing on citizens' rights, instead appeared to be defending them, highlighting the need for re-evaluation.After approximately two and a half hours of discussion, the chairperson decided not to present the motion for a vote at the plenary session. The chairperson stated, 'The matter is significant and requires legal review,' adding that it would not be presented today and would be discussed later.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-13 19:36:00
  • JTBC Addresses Claims from Central Group Bondholders Legal Team
    JTBC Addresses Claims from Central Group Bondholders' Legal Team JTBC has responded to claims made by the Central Group bondholders' legal team. On July 13, JTBC stated, "We would like to express our sincere apologies to bond investors for any concerns we have caused," regarding the assertions made during a press conference by the legal team. The network explained its issuance of 40 billion won in new capital securities just before the financial closing, stating, "We appropriately disclosed our financial situation in accordance with corporate accounting standards and complied with capital market laws regarding the issuance of new capital securities and the execution of new capital loans." JTBC also clarified its loan to Studio Aye Central, saying, "The 33 billion won loan to Studio Aye Central, a wholly-owned subsidiary producing JTBC's entertainment programs, was necessary for the production costs of these programs, amounting to 13 billion won." Furthermore, it emphasized, "The remaining 20 billion won was converted into a loan for the asset-backed securities issued by Studio Aye Central through JTBC's debt guarantee, meaning that actual funds were not drained." JTBC acknowledged its "heavy sense of responsibility" and added, "We will make every effort to protect investors' rights by maintaining open communication with them." Previously, on June 12, JTBC declared a default after failing to repay 20.6 billion won in asset-backed borrowings. Following this, JTBC and other major affiliates of Central Group applied for rehabilitation procedures. This situation has led to ongoing controversies, including delays in payments for major entertainment program fees and rebroadcasting fees. On June 30, the Seoul Bankruptcy Court approved a self-restructuring program to support voluntary restructuring between JTBC and its creditors. The court also decided to initiate rehabilitation procedures for the remaining four affiliates.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-13 19:24:00
  • Supreme Court Rules Public Employees Must Be Paid for Overtime Under One Hour
    Supreme Court Rules Public Employees Must Be Paid for Overtime Under One Hour The Supreme Court has ruled that public employees who work in essential services must be compensated for overtime, even if it is less than one hour per day. This decision indicates that the government's internal guideline of requiring 'more than one hour of overtime per day' exceeds the scope of higher legal provisions.According to Yonhap News on July 13, the Supreme Court's third division, led by Justice Oh Seok-jun, confirmed a partial victory for public employee A and others in their wage claim lawsuit against the state.A and others, who are public employees under the Korea Post, have been classified as essential service workers, performing duties even on weekends and holidays.Current regulations regarding public employee allowances state that essential service workers are to be compensated based on actual overtime hours worked. However, the government has included only those who work more than one hour of overtime in its compensation calculations, according to its internal guidelines.A and others filed a lawsuit in March 2023, claiming they were denied some overtime pay due to this standard.The first trial ruled against A and others, stating they were classified as essential service workers with separately defined working hours and days. However, the second trial accepted A's preliminary claim, stating that the 'one-hour per day standard' in the guidelines exceeded the delegation of higher legal provisions.As a result, A is set to receive an additional payment of approximately 24,640 won for unpaid overtime from January 2022.The Supreme Court echoed this judgment, stating, 'The internal guidelines impose additional restrictions on the scope of overtime pay that essential service workers are entitled to, despite lacking delegation from the higher legal provisions.' It added that these guidelines exceed the limits of the higher law and are therefore ineffective.The Supreme Court noted that considering the nature of essential service workers' duties, the existing standard could adversely affect the calculation of their allowances.Essential service workers already have meal and break times deducted when calculating monthly overtime hours. If overtime of less than one hour is excluded separately, it could lead to a 'double deduction' issue, where actual working hours are undercounted.Furthermore, the Supreme Court pointed out that while general public employees are compensated for the one-hour deduction through fixed overtime allowances, essential service workers lack similar compensatory measures, potentially placing them at a relative disadvantage.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-13 19:20:00
  • Korean Football Association to Revise 60-Day Election Rule
    Korean Football Association to Revise 60-Day Election Rule The Korean Football Association is expected to revise its regulation requiring the election of a new president within 60 days of a vacancy. This change reflects the K-Football Innovation Committee's commitment to restoring fan trust through a new electoral system that allows for adequate preparation time.Park Ji-sung, chair of the K-Football Innovation Committee, spoke to reporters after the committee's second meeting at the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Jongno, Seoul, on July 13. He stated, "The Korean Sports Council plans to amend the regulations that require member organizations to elect a new president within 60 days of a vacancy. We will support extending the election deadline in cases of unavoidable circumstances." According to current Sports Council regulations, if a member organization’s president position becomes vacant, a new president must be elected within 60 days. However, the Innovation Committee believes that the existing rules do not provide sufficient time for a fundamental reform of the Football Association's governance and electoral system. The Sports Council plans to initiate the regulatory amendment process on July 14 and aims to complete it by the end of the month.This initiative is part of the consensus reached during the first meeting of the K-Football Innovation Committee on July 6, which focused on reforming the governance of the Football Association. The committee is discussing broader measures to allow more football stakeholders to participate in elections. Park emphasized, "This action is not just for the Football Association. It considers the situations of various sports organizations, such as water skiing, jiu-jitsu, modern pentathlon, and hockey, which have faced difficulties due to prolonged vacancies exceeding 60 days." The Football Association is also aligning with the Sports Council's efforts by planning to amend its bylaws and develop proposals for electoral system improvements for in-depth discussion at the next meeting.Regarding the potential expansion of the electoral body and the introduction of direct elections, the committee expressed a cautious stance, prioritizing the establishment of a solid institutional foundation. Park stated, "Simply changing the electoral body does not guarantee a proper election. We must first create a foundation for conducting elections effectively. There will come a time when we need to adjust alongside other sports organizations in line with the Sports Council's broader electoral body composition." He added, "A proper environment must be established to conduct a legitimate election, which will help select a capable president. It is clear that the next election will not proceed in the same manner as the previous Football Association presidential election. Many people have lost trust in the process, and if a president emerges from a more trustworthy environment, they will be better positioned to lead the Football Association." On the topic of appointing the next national team coach, Park stated, "There have been no discussions on this matter. The appointment of a coach must follow proper procedures within the Football Association. If the Innovation Committee can assist in discussing procedures or systems, we are open to that." He also mentioned that the Innovation Committee plans to sequentially review additional issues, such as youth player development, to establish a sustainable vision for K-Football.Regarding speculation about attending a parliamentary hearing, Park dismissed the idea, stating, "I will not attend because I have nothing to contribute regarding the internal operations of the Football Association." According to reports, the National Assembly's Culture, Sports and Tourism Committee is set to hold a so-called 'World Cup hearing' on July 22 to examine issues related to the Football Association, including the procedures for appointing the national team coach.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-13 19:16:00
  • Illegal Structures Along Rivers and Valleys Surge from 835 to 90,000 Nationwide
    Illegal Structures Along Rivers and Valleys Surge from 835 to 90,000 Nationwide The Blue House has revealed that a nationwide survey of illegal structures along rivers and valleys has uncovered over 90,000 cases, significantly more than the 800 previously reported by the government. Evidence of collusion between public officials and merchants has also emerged, prompting plans for further investigation.Kim Tae-geun, the Blue House Secretary for Local Development, stated during a YouTube broadcast on July 13 that the comprehensive survey identified approximately 90,000 illegal structures occupying public land.In February, the Ministry of the Interior and Safety reported to President Lee Jae-myung that there were 835 illegal structures nationwide. However, President Lee deemed the investigation flawed and ordered a reinvestigation, which revealed a substantial discrepancy in the findings.When asked by the host whether there was negligence on the part of public officials or collusion with merchants, Kim acknowledged, "Unfortunately, this is a part we must recognize." He added that the prolonged neglect of illegal structures could be attributed to inadequate administrative oversight or collusion with merchants, stating, "We plan to refer cases of confirmed collusion for investigation."Kim also noted that some public officials may have felt intimidated due to significant friction with merchants during the enforcement process.Among the identified illegal structures, 3,156 are commercial establishments, with 1,149 (36.4%) having been rectified. Of the approximately 78,000 illegal structures not used for commercial purposes, 17% have been addressed.With the grace period for compliance now over, the Blue House plans to continue rectifying illegal structures under a zero-tolerance policy. The areas cleared will be developed into public facilities such as restrooms and parking lots by local governments and the central government.Kim emphasized, "If we leave the cleared spaces as they are, there may be renewed greed. It is crucial to transform these areas into spaces that residents and citizens can utilize."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-13 19:08:00
  • Hyundai Motor Clarifies No Decision on Full Salary System Implementation
    Hyundai Motor Clarifies No Decision on Full Salary System Implementation Hyundai Motor clarified on July 13 that it has not confirmed the implementation of a full salary system, which has been a topic of discussion. The company stated, "Production workers are already under a salary system."Hyundai explained that the wage structure for technical (production) workers transitioned from an hourly wage system to a salaried system in 2012 and has maintained this salary structure to date.A full salary system guarantees fixed wages regardless of fluctuations in working hours. During negotiations for the 2026 wage and collective agreement held on July 8, Hyundai and the labor union agreed to jointly research and discuss 'future-oriented advanced wage system improvement measures' in response to the union's request for a full salary system.The labor and management sides are currently reviewing wage structure improvement measures through a joint task force established during the 2025 collective bargaining.Hyundai emphasized that the agreement reached on July 8 does not presuppose or confirm the introduction of a full salary system, but stated that discussions and joint research on wage structure improvements will proceed through the task force. 2026-07-13 19:04:00
  • Parties Remain Divided Over Special Prosecutor Recommendations
    Parties Remain Divided Over Special Prosecutor Recommendations The ruling and opposition parties have both proposed special prosecutor laws related to the ballot paper shortage during the June 6 local elections, indicating a shared interest in the issue. However, disagreements persist over details such as the recommendation rights for the special prosecutor. The Democratic Party has specified a third-party recommendation in its proposed law, while the People Power Party insists that the opposition should recommend the special prosecutor.On July 13, during a Supreme Council meeting, People Power Party leader Jang Dong-hyuk questioned, "Can the third-party special prosecutor proposed by the Democratic Party properly investigate the alleged abuse of power by the acting chair of the National Election Commission, Wi Cheol-hwan?" He emphasized the need for a 'public special prosecutor' led by the opposition.In the special prosecutor law proposed by the Democratic Party on July 9, it was stated that one person would be recommended by the Korean Association of Law Professors, the Korean Bar Association, and the Korean Association of Law Schools, with the president appointing one from these recommendations. However, the opposition continues to argue that it should have the right to recommend the special prosecutor.Regarding the disagreement over the recommendation rights, Democratic Party spokesperson Kim Seong-hwa stated, "We will prioritize discussions and keep negotiations open," but many in the political arena believe that the Democratic Party's position is likely to prevail.Some members of the People Power Party remain skeptical, suspecting that the Democratic Party may appear to support the special prosecutor while actually stalling the process. A member of the National Assembly Special Committee on the ballot paper shortage remarked, "If the Democratic Party is sincere about the special prosecutor, shouldn’t they have proposed the special prosecutor law immediately after the legislative committee was convened instead of the criminal procedure law?"During the second expert meeting held by the National Assembly Special Committee, questions were raised about the delay in taking concrete actions regarding the special prosecutor. Lee Hee-beom, head of the Korean NGO Council, stated, "The public wants to hear how the recount and special prosecutor will be conducted. Institutional improvements are a secondary issue," expressing disappointment over the lack of progress.Additionally, as the People Power Party is currently boycotting participation in standing committees in protest against the Democratic Party's unilateral formation of committees, there are concerns that the negotiations could hinder the processing of the special prosecutor bill. If the ruling party uses the negotiations as a pretext to draw the opposition into the standing committee, it could prolong the discussions.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-13 19:00:00
  • People Power Party Maintains Boycott of National Assembly Committees, Prolonging Half-Assembly Situation
    People Power Party Maintains Boycott of National Assembly Committees, Prolonging 'Half-Assembly' Situation 국민의힘이 국회 상임위원회 전면 보이콧 방침을 유지하기로 하면서 '반쪽 국회'가 장기화될 전망이다. 여당은 법안 처리에 속도를 내고 있는 가운데 국민의힘의 장외 투쟁은 한계가 있다는 지적이 나오지만, 여야 간 협상의 여지가 없어 교착상태에 빠진 것으로 보인다. 국민의힘은 13일 중진 간담회와 의원총회를 잇따라 열고 원 구성에 대한 의원들의 의견을 수렴했다. 김태규 원내수석대변인은 이날 의원총회 직후 기자들과 만나 "정점식 원내대표가 (의원들의) 구체적 의견을 구하고 싶어 화두를 던졌는데, 되레 의원들이 별말이 없고 원내대표에게 (전권을) 맡기겠다는 것이 전반적인 입장이었다"고 말했다. 조정식 국회의장이 오는 17일까지 원 구성을 완료해 달라고 요구한 것에 대해서는 "어떤 식으로 대응할지 구체적인 내용은 없었다"며 "오늘까지 (협상이) 제대로 안 이뤄진 것은 여당의 일방적인 태도 때문이라 저희로서도 답을 찾기 쉽지 않은 상황"이라고 설명했다. 앞서 열린 정 원내대표와 중진 의원들과 비공개 간담회에서는 보이콧을 지속해야 한다는 주장이 우세한 것으로 알려졌다. 정 원내대표는 중진 의원들과 만난 뒤 기자들에게 "대체적 생각은 원 구성 협상을 지금 같은 상황에 들어가는 게 맞냐는 것"이라며 "중진들 생각과 다른 의원들 생각이 거의 일치하지 않을까 싶다"고 했다. 4선 김도읍 의원은 "더불어민주당이 법사위원장, 의장도 갖고 있으면서 보완수사권 폐지에는 협상의 여지가 없다고 하는데 국민의힘이 상임위에 들어간다고 해서 무슨 의미가 있겠냐는 측면에서 많은 논의가 있었다"며 "원 구성 협상도 중요하고 상임위원장을 누가 가지느냐도 중요하지만 보완수사법 폐지를 막아내는 것이 국민을 위해 할 일이 아니냐는 얘기도 나왔다"고 말했다. 한 재선 의원은 "의원총회에서 의원들이 정 원내대표에게 원 구성 협상을 일임하기로 했다"며 "조 의장이 제시한 기한은 의미가 없고 민주당의 전당대회가 끝나는 8월까지 협상이 이어질 것"이라고 내다봤다. 민주당은 11개 상임위를 단독 구성하고 입법 속도전에 들어간 반면 국민의힘은 상임위 보이콧을 유지하면서 '반쪽 국회'가 이어질 것으로 보인다. 국민의힘 일각에선 남은 상임위를 받고 원내에서 싸워야 한다는 목소리가 나오지만 '빈손 협상'으로 보일 수 있어 출구 전략을 고심하는 모습이다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-13 18:32:00
  • Ashley Queens to Open Grand NC Songpa Location with Expanded Menu and Space
    Ashley Queens to Open Grand NC Songpa Location with Expanded Menu and Space E-Land Eats has confirmed that the prices for the upcoming 'Ashley Queens Grand NC Songpa' location, set to open on July 16, will remain the same as those at existing Ashley Queens locations. While enhancing the menu, space, and experiential elements, the brand aims to maintain its competitive pricing.According to industry sources, the Grand NC Songpa location will feature a 20-30% increase in menu items and a 70% larger dining area compared to existing stores. New experiential elements, such as a live grill, an open sandwich zone, and a pairing zone, will also be introduced.Initially, there were expectations in the industry that the prices for weekday dinners and weekend visits would increase by 4,000 won and 2,000 won, respectively, due to the enhanced menu and content. However, in the final decision-making process leading up to the opening, it was determined that the new location would operate at the same prices as existing Ashley Queens outlets. Consequently, the adult pricing will remain at 19,900 won for weekday lunch, 25,900 won for weekday dinner, and 27,900 won for weekends and holidays.An E-Land Eats representative stated, 'We plan to provide an upgraded dining experience that combines our existing strength of reasonable pricing with a more diverse menu, expanded space, and new experiential elements while keeping prices unchanged.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-13 18:24:00
  • Conditions for K-Food in Global Markets
    Conditions for K-Food in Global Markets In the past, products sold well if they were tasty and affordable. However, times have changed. Now, even the same product is evaluated based on the ingredients used, whether the packaging is recyclable, and if it meets health standards. Food companies are now required to manage not only product quality but also evolving standards.A prime example is the European Union's Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), set to take effect in August. This regulation aims to reduce plastic waste and establish a circular economy. Starting in August, harmful substance regulations for food contact packaging will be implemented, and by 2030, only packaging with a certain level of recyclability will be allowed in the market. This poses a significant challenge for South Korea's ramen industry, which is on the verge of surpassing 3 trillion won in annual exports. Current technology makes it difficult to easily replace multi-material ramen packaging that combines various materials while maintaining taste and quality. Consequently, major companies like Nongshim and Samyang Foods are accelerating the development of new packaging materials, a challenging task that requires maintaining existing quality while ensuring recyclability.The changes extend beyond just packaging. European clients have begun requesting various documentation from South Korean food companies, including test reports and declarations of conformity (DoC) related to packaging. Proving that products meet these standards has become a crucial task for companies. Additionally, a recall incident involving Samyang Foods' Carbonara Buldak Bokkeummyeon in Germany last April highlighted the impact of differing national interpretations of food ingredients. It remains uncertain what new standards will emerge as barriers in different countries.South Korea is not exempt from these changes. Starting at the end of the year, the labeling system for genetically modified organisms (GMOs) will be strengthened. Companies will be required to label products that use GMO ingredients, even if no genetically modified components are detected in the final product. This increases the burden on companies, from ingredient management to packaging changes and labeling updates. Discussions are also intensifying regarding a sugar tax on sugary beverages, which could further impact product development and pricing strategies.For companies, these changes represent significant costs. They must develop new packaging, manage supply chains, and potentially revise recipes and product strategies. Research and development costs, administrative burdens, and market uncertainties are all on the rise. As regulations increase, companies' concerns will inevitably deepen.However, this trend should not be viewed solely as a burden. As K-Food gains influence in global markets, it is natural to expect higher environmental, safety, and health standards. Companies that proactively meet stringent global standards can access broader markets, creating a competitive edge that is difficult for latecomers to replicate. Nonetheless, excessive regulations that are disconnected from reality could stifle industry vitality, so the government must also reduce confusion for companies by providing predictable systems and clear guidelines.There is a saying that symbolizes evolution: the species that survive are not the strongest or the smartest, but those that adapt best to change. The competitiveness of K-Food cannot be explained solely by taste and price. The speed at which it adapts to changing standards will be a key factor determining K-Food's next phase of growth in the global market.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-13 18:20:00