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Missing Navy sailor found dead in East Sea after search near NLL SEOUL, July 13 (AJP) - A Navy sailor who went missing from a frigate on patrol near the Northern Limit Line in the East Sea was found dead Monday after a search lasting more than 21 hours, the Navy said. The Navy said the sailor’s body was found at 5:58 a.m. in waters about 52 kilometers east of Geojin-eup in Goseong County, Gangwon Province. The sailor, a private first class, had been serving aboard a Navy frigate on patrol about 50 kilometers east of Geojin-eup when he was reported missing Sunday morning after failing to appear for his 8 a.m. watch duty. He was last seen by a duty officer who was conducting an internal patrol of the ship between midnight and 2 a.m. Sunday, according to officials. A patrol boat taking part in the operation found the missing sailor at 5:58 a.m. Monday. His body was recovered at 6:43 a.m. using a rigid inflatable boat from a frigate, the Navy said. The sailor was reportedly not wearing a life jacket when he was found. “The exact circumstances of the accident and the cause of death will be investigated jointly by civilian police and military investigators,” the Navy said. 2026-07-13 09:43:20 -
KOSPI opens higher despite SK hynix's retreat after record-setting Nasdaq debut SEOUL, July 13 (AJP) - South Korean shares opened higher on Monday as gains in Samsung Electronics and battery and defense stocks offset a decline in SK hynix, whose shares retreated after its record-setting Nasdaq debut last Friday. The benchmark KOSPI added 14.24 points or 0.2 percent, to 7,490.18 in early trade. SK hynix fell 3.1 percent to 2,113,000 won (US$1,408.10), giving back part of the run-up into its American depositary receipt (ADR) listing, which raised $26.5 billion in the largest-ever U.S. listing by a foreign company and closed 13 percent above the $149 offer price. Traders attributed the domestic decline to profit-taking after the Nasdaq listing, with SK Square, the chipmaker's largest shareholder, falling 5.3 percent to 1,334,000 won ($889.00). But Samsung Electronics moved the other way, rising 1.4 percent to 289,000 won ($192.60). Institutions bought a net 30.6 billion won of KOSPI shares and foreigners a net 4.3 billion won, against 34.3 billion won of net selling by individuals. The junior KOSDAQ jumped 3.2 percent to 864.30, led by small-cap gains across seasonal and thematic names. Elsewhere on the main board, LG Energy Solution climbed 3.5 percent to 337,500 won ($224.90) and Hanwha Aerospace rose 3.6 percent to 1,002,000 won ($667.70), while Samsung Electro-Mechanics dropped 5.2 percent to 1,502,000 won ($1,000.90). In Tokyo, the Nikkei 225 opened 0.5 percent higher at 68,907.38. The won traded at 1,500.60 per dollar, marginally stronger than in the previous session. 2026-07-13 09:40:15 -
Roller Coaster Stops at Gyeongju World Following Recent Accident Just two days after a ferris wheel accident, a roller coaster at Gyeongju World has come to a halt, raising concerns over safety management.On July 12, videos of the roller coaster stopping on the tracks began circulating rapidly on various online communities and social media.The footage shows passengers waiting for rescue at a high altitude. Later clips capture safety personnel manually assisting in the evacuation of the riders.The incident occurred on Gyeongju World's flagship roller coaster, Draken. At the time, the ride had stopped on the tracks for about 10 minutes just before entering a steep drop, leaving 24 passengers suspended in the air. Safety personnel were able to manually operate the ride's controls to safely evacuate all passengers, with no injuries reported.In response to the video, some online users commented, "It seems the foreign object detection sensor activated, causing the ride to stop just before the drop. If it was indeed due to a foreign object, then the safety mechanism functioned properly," while others noted, "It looks like it stopped before the steep drop rather than during it," and "If the system operates with segment sensors, this could be an example of the safety device working as intended." However, other users expressed concern, stating, "It's problematic that this happened right after the ferris wheel accident," and "Shouldn't all rides undergo a safety inspection?" They also remarked on the fear of being stuck at such a height for 10 minutes in hot weather, adding, "It's a relief that no one was hurt," and questioned whether operational priorities were placed above safety.In light of the incidents, Gyeongju World announced an official statement, declaring a temporary closure from July 12 to 16 for safety inspections.During the closure, the park will conduct thorough safety checks through external experts and provide safety training for all staff. They will also issue a formal apology and offer full refunds to customers with reservations. However, the California Beach water park will continue to operate as usual.Previously, on July 9, a cabin from the large ferris wheel, Time Rider, fell and collided with two other cabins, resulting in five passengers requiring hospital treatment. Following that incident, the city of Gyeongju requested urgent safety inspections for all amusement rides.However, with another roller coaster incident occurring during ongoing safety checks, discussions regarding Gyeongju World's overall safety management system are likely to continue for the foreseeable future.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-13 09:40:00 -
Kim Do-hyun Signs Exclusive Contract with High Zium Studio 배우 김도현이 하이지음스튜디오와 전속계약을 체결했다. 하이지음스튜디오는 13일 “변화무쌍한 연기력을 바탕으로 자신만의 색깔을 구축해온 배우 김도현과 전속계약을 체결했다”며 “끊임없는 도전과 폭넓은 연기 스펙트럼을 보여주고 있는 김도현이 더욱 다채로운 활동을 펼칠 수 있도록 함께 나아가겠다”고 밝혔다. 김도현은 2000년 연극 ‘오셀로’로 데뷔했다. 무대에서 연기 내공을 쌓은 뒤 드라마와 영화 등으로 활동 영역을 넓히며 다양한 캐릭터를 소화해왔다. 그는 드라마 ‘스토브리그’, ‘검은태양’, ‘재벌집 막내아들’, ‘눈물의 여왕’, ‘강남 비-사이드’ 등에 출연했다. 작품마다 안정적인 연기력과 캐릭터 해석으로 존재감을 드러냈다. 올 상반기에는 드라마 ‘언더커버 미쓰홍’에서 한민증권 만년 과장이자 내부 제보자인 예삐 방진목 역을 맡았다. 사건의 중심에 선 인물을 연기하며 극의 몰입도를 높였다는 평가를 받았다. 하이지음스튜디오에는 배우 고보결, 권승우, 김지원, 노상현, 류해준, 배강희, 서은수, 송중기, 양경원, 오의식, 이찬주, 임철수, 정재광, 한지원 등이 소속돼 있다. 하이지음스튜디오는 매니지먼트뿐 아니라 드라마 ‘UDT: 우리 동네 특공대’, ‘이강에는 달이 흐른다’, ‘마이 유스’, ‘Mr. 플랑크톤’, ‘정숙한 세일즈’ 등을 기획·제작한 종합 엔터테인먼트사다. 2026-07-13 09:40:00
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Six U.S. Soldiers Killed in Shuaiba Incident; Survivors Claim Command Ignored Warnings Survivors of the Shuaiba incident in Kuwait, where six U.S. soldiers were killed in an Iranian drone attack, claim that military leadership ignored prior warnings and responded inadequately. The U.S. military countered that a multi-layered defense system was in place at the facility and that command supported troop evacuation immediately after the attack.The Washington Post reported on July 12 that 17 individuals, including surviving soldiers, eyewitnesses, and sources familiar with the military investigation, provided these accounts.The attack occurred on March 1, one day after the start of hostilities between the U.S. and Iran. An Iranian Shahed suicide drone struck the operations center of the U.S. Army's 103rd Expeditionary Support Command, resulting in six fatalities and over 30 injuries.Survivors allege that Brig. Gen. Clint Barnes and his superior, Maj. Gen. John Hinson, received warnings from intelligence agencies indicating that Shuaiba was a likely target for Iranian attacks. An initial assessment conducted by the unit reportedly indicated that Shuaiba lacked adequate air defense systems to intercept Shahed drones and recommended against deploying troops there. A soldier's complaint submitted to the Army Inspector General also advised against any troop deployment to Shuaiba.According to the soldiers, the two generals received a classified briefing in December detailing vulnerabilities at Shuaiba and its inclusion on a list of potential Iranian targets. However, the U.S. military decided to deploy troops to Shuaiba to disperse forces concentrated at larger bases in the Middle East.Prior to the attack, the unit requested the deployment of the vehicle-mounted drone defense system known as EAGLS, but the request was denied due to a lack of resources. Some soldiers claimed they moved to Shuaiba without personal or shared weapons.On the day of the attack, prolonged alarms had led to fatigue among command and soldiers. At approximately 4:30 a.m., an evacuation alert was issued, and soldiers remained in the bunker for over four hours. Some reportedly returned to the operations center for work before receiving official safety confirmation.Survivors testified that a safety confirmation alert was issued around 9 a.m. However, subsequent investigations revealed that no related records were available at Camp Arifjan. It was suggested that multiple simultaneous alerts may have led to record omissions.About 30 minutes later, a Shahed drone descended rapidly onto the building, striking the operations center and causing an explosion and fire, showering soldiers inside with metal and glass debris.Survivors claimed that immediately after the attack, Brig. Gen. Barnes gathered his body armor and helmet and evacuated to a nearby bunker, not participating in the rescue of soldiers remaining in the building. Maj. Stephen Ramsbottom, who was present, stated, "We stayed there to ensure everyone got out," adding that he did not see the two generals during the evacuation of the deceased and injured.The U.S. Army Central Command denied these claims, stating that command "immediately supported the evacuation of on-site personnel and assessed the initial personnel situation before being evacuated due to their own injuries." Maj. Hinson reportedly sustained traumatic brain injuries and hand injuries.Testimonies also indicated issues with the evacuation and treatment of the injured. Survivors claimed they drove unit vehicles to a hospital in Kuwait City immediately after the attack, with many being transported to Germany without undergoing tests for brain injuries or internal injuries.However, they were listed as regular passengers on flight manifests rather than medical evacuees, resulting in their inability to receive inpatient treatment at the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany. The Army Central Command stated that all injured soldiers received ongoing physical and psychological treatment, as well as assessments for traumatic brain injuries.Survivors expressed concern that the military's internal investigation may not hold command accountable. A U.S. official familiar with the investigation indicated that the current report does not include disciplinary actions or identification of responsible parties.The Army Central Command asserted that Shuaiba was selected according to operational plans and was equipped with sufficient bunker space and a multi-layered defense system to counter drones and missiles. Additionally, a separate classified assessment of intelligence warnings and defensive capabilities was completed before the attack, but the results are unlikely to be made public.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-13 09:36:00
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Remedy Shares Surge Over 30% on First Day of KOSDAQ Listing Remedy is experiencing a strong debut on the KOSDAQ, with shares rising over 30% on their first day of trading.According to the Korea Exchange, as of 9:19 a.m., Remedy's stock was trading at 27,700 won, up 7,000 won (33.82%) from the initial public offering price of 20,700 won. Early in the session, shares peaked at 33,000 won, representing a nearly 59.4% increase from the IPO price, before giving back some gains.Remedy develops medical handheld X-ray devices, industrial non-destructive testing equipment, and key X-ray components based on its proprietary low-dose, miniaturized, high-resolution X-ray technology. The company is expanding its business into medical, industrial, and specialized markets, leveraging its full-stack technology that encompasses everything from core components to finished products.Funds raised from the IPO will be allocated to enhancing research and development (R&D), increasing production capacity, and strengthening its global sales network. The company also plans to introduce automated equipment and integrate artificial intelligence (AI) solutions to evolve into a global X-ray platform enterprise.Previously, Remedy achieved a competitive ratio of 1,146 to 1 during the institutional investor demand forecast held from June 17 to 23, setting the IPO price at the upper end of the desired range of 18,000 to 20,700 won. In the general subscription held on July 1 and 2, the company recorded a competitive ratio of 1,707 to 1, with subscription deposits totaling approximately 5.3 trillion won. KB Securities served as the underwriter for the listing.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-13 09:32:00
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Krafton's AI Horror Game 'Mimesis' Surpasses 2 Million Global Sales Krafton's creative studio, Lelu Games, has announced that its AI-based horror game 'Mimesis' has surpassed 2 million in global sales. Krafton plans to develop Mimesis into a long-term successful intellectual property (IP).On July 13, Krafton revealed that 'Mimesis' has exceeded 2 million in global sales. The game was released in early access last October and reached 1 million sales within 50 days. Following a major update last month, sales surged past 2 million.'Mimesis' is a four-player cooperative horror game that integrates AI technology at its core. The AI-driven non-player character (NPC) monster, 'Mimesis,' learns and mimics players' actions and voices in real-time, hiding among teammates. Players must suspect one another and identify the real allies, with AI enhancing the game's tension and immersion.Krafton describes 'Mimesis' not just as a game utilizing AI in development, but as an 'AI native game' where AI plays a crucial role in shaping the player experience. The technology goes beyond being a background tool, becoming a key element in determining the game's fun and gameplay style.Global interest in the game has also translated into video content. The unique structure of AI mimicking teammates and the psychological warfare among players has led to approximately 10.34 million hours of accumulated viewing time across various video platforms.Kim Min-jeong, CEO of Lelu Games, stated, "This achievement is thanks to the players who believed in the game's potential and supported it. It shows that we have entered a stage where AI is not just a tool for development but is creating the fun of the game itself."She added, "Based on our accumulated AI technology and game development capabilities, we will further enhance the integration of AI and gaming, aiming to grow 'Mimesis' into a globally successful long-term IP."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-13 09:32:00
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Bank of Korea Dismisses Semiconductor Peak-Out Concerns Amid AI Demand The Bank of Korea has dismissed concerns about a potential peak-out in the semiconductor market. Despite increased demand driven by investments in artificial intelligence (AI), the supply of high-performance semiconductors has not kept pace, indicating that the semiconductor boom is likely to continue for the foreseeable future.In a written response to lawmaker Park Seong-hoon of the ruling People Power Party on July 13, the Bank cited supply conditions that fall short of demand as a key reason for the ongoing semiconductor market strength. While demand for semiconductors has surged due to expanded AI infrastructure investments, the pace of supply expansion has been slower than in the past.The Bank stated, "This expansion phase is different from previous ones, as it is expected to bring fundamental changes to the industrial ecosystem due to the spread of AI, with competitive investments from companies driving demand." Particularly on the supply side, the Bank noted the challenges in ramping up production of high-bandwidth memory (HBM) and other high-performance semiconductors. It explained, "The technical difficulties associated with high-performance products require significant time for mass production, and the dominance of custom products like HBM constrains the pace of supply expansion compared to the past." The Bank assessed that the current semiconductor boom is stronger than in previous cycles. The semiconductor market expansion, which began in March 2023, has now lasted for 40 months, surpassing the average duration of 29 months seen in five previous expansion phases from 2000 to 2020.International investment banks share a similar outlook. The Bank noted, "While there are uncertainties regarding the speed of AI technology adoption and profitability, major investment banks such as JP Morgan, Goldman Sachs, and Morgan Stanley expect the global semiconductor market to remain strong at least until next year." This perspective is more optimistic than the Bank's previous forecast of continued expansion only through this year. Lee Ji-ho, the Bank's Deputy Governor at the time, projected in a November 2022 economic outlook briefing that the semiconductor cycle would last until 2026. Former Governor Lee Chang-yong also expressed in January that regardless of who emerges as the winner in the AI industry, semiconductors will remain essential, maintaining a positive outlook for at least another year.Earlier, in an April report on the sustainability of the global semiconductor market expansion, the Bank stated, "The increase in semiconductor demand is steep due to competitive infrastructure investments aimed at securing AI leadership, while supply expansion is constrained by technical difficulties, leading to a greater and longer-lasting supply-demand imbalance than in previous semiconductor expansion phases." Considering supply constraints, the Bank anticipates that the expansion of the semiconductor industry will continue at least until the first half of next year.The Bank's assessment appears to be influenced by stronger-than-expected export trends. According to customs data, semiconductor exports surged by 171.4% year-on-year in April and 167.7% in May, with estimates suggesting that the upward trend continued in June, when monthly exports exceeded $100 billion. 2026-07-13 09:32:00
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AhnLab Targets Malaysia's Public Cybersecurity Market at NCSS 2026 AhnLab is targeting Malaysia's public cybersecurity market to explore new business opportunities.The company announced on July 13 that it participated in the National Cybersecurity Summit 2026 (NCSS 2026), held from July 7-9 at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre. At the summit, AhnLab showcased AI-based integrated security technologies optimized for public IT environments.NCSS is co-hosted by the National Cyber Security Agency of Malaysia (NACSA) and the National Security Council (NSC), focusing on collaboration, knowledge exchange, and policy discussions to enhance national cyber resilience. The event is characterized by significant participation from government and public institutions.AhnLab operated a booth under the theme of an 'AI security platform encompassing both IT and operational technology (OT).' The company presented key solutions that integrate AI-based security capabilities, including the AI-driven threat analysis platform AhnLab XDR, the next-generation threat intelligence platform AhnLab TIP, and the CPS integrated security platform AhnLab CPS Plus.Specifically, the company plans to identify new business opportunities in the local public market. AhnLab has been accelerating its global business by participating in cybersecurity exhibitions such as Interop Tokyo 2026 in June, Cybersec 2026 in Taiwan in May, and RSAC 2026 in the United States in March.According to the company, AhnLab XDR garnered attention at the summit. AhnLab XDR collects security data across various systems within an organization, including endpoints, networks, and cloud environments, and correlates this data to identify the context and risks of threats. Malaysia is in the early stages of digital transformation, reflecting a growing demand for integrated security solutions that operate on a platform basis.Choi Jeong-ui, head of AhnLab, stated, “This year, we are promoting AhnLab’s solutions and platforms at global cybersecurity exhibitions in the US, Japan, and Taiwan. Based on the references we have built in the domestic public sector, we have received positive evaluations from Malaysian government and public officials, confirming the potential for collaboration.”AhnLab's public security business is expanding from supplying traditional antivirus and network security products to integrated security services that include threat intelligence, extended detection and response (XDR), and security monitoring. The company has experience supplying the threat intelligence platform AhnLab TIP to domestic government agencies and public institutions. Internationally, it is expanding its overseas business in Southeast Asia through partnerships based on its subsidiaries in Japan and China.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-13 09:28:00
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Homeplus set for bankruptcy filing as rehabilitation collapses SEOUL, July 13 (AJP) - Homeplus is expected to begin shutting stores this week and file for bankruptcy, moving into effective liquidation after a court ended its rehabilitation proceedings on July 3. With emergency operating funds all but out of reach and any chance of recovery fading, the focus has shifted to an orderly wind-down that limits harm to suppliers, employees and in-store tenants of South Korea's second-largest hypermarket chain. The retailer is weighing a phased halt to operations at some stores as early as this week, sources say, as dwindling facilities staff raise safety concerns and operating cash runs dry, leaving normal trading increasingly untenable. Weekend half-price sales on liquor and other stock drew shoppers long enough to form checkout queues, but the surge did little to change a company on the cusp of collapse. The appeal window runs through July 20, but the industry expects Homeplus to petition the court by July 16 at the latest, pursuing a rehabilitation-linked "affiliated bankruptcy" rather than an ordinary filing to blunt wider disruption. Affiliated bankruptcy preserves the priority of public-interest claims accrued during rehabilitation, whereas a separate ordinary filing after the termination becomes final could unsettle their legal standing and repayment. Homeplus' public-interest claims are estimated at about 1 trillion won ($677 million), much of it unpaid supplier bills and back wages. Beyond real estate pledged to Meritz-led creditors, Homeplus is understood to hold almost no cash assets, setting up a fierce contest among suppliers, tenants and junior creditors over a shrinking pool. Homeplus filed for rehabilitation in March last year and sought liquidity through the sale of its Express arm, but failed to offload the main business or raise fresh capital, leaving creditor recovery likely to drag on for a considerable time. 2026-07-13 09:27:50