AJU PRESS ASIA FIRST NEWS AGENCY

Journalist

&
""
Latest by
  • E-Land Foundation and Incoop Partner to Provide English Education for Vulnerable Youth
    E-Land Foundation and Incoop Partner to Provide English Education for Vulnerable Youth E-Land Foundation announced on September 13 that it signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Incoop Social Cooperative on September 11 to support English education for vulnerable children and youth preparing for independence.The two organizations agreed to provide English education tailored to different growth stages, from vulnerable children to youth preparing for independence. The initiative aims to reduce educational disparities and assist social integration by linking basic learning in childhood with practical employment training for young adults.Initially, practical English education will be offered to participants of the 'E-Land Life School,' aimed at enhancing the employment capabilities of youth preparing for independence. The training will focus on developing language skills that can be directly applied in the workplace.At the same time, basic English learning will be provided to children in foster care facilities and those under guardianship. This initiative is designed to prevent learning deficits during childhood and create a foundation for future employment support as they transition into young adulthood.E-Land Foundation will identify vulnerable children and youth in need of support and cover costs related to program operations, including instructor fees. The learning progress and changes of participants will be continuously monitored. Incoop Social Cooperative will manage the English education program, ensuring participants can engage in consistent learning.Jeong Young-il, representative of E-Land Foundation, stated, "It is crucial to proactively support vulnerable children and youth preparing for independence to prevent educational disparities from limiting their career and job choices. We aim to assist their independence by providing support throughout their growth process, from childhood to young adulthood, rather than just short-term educational assistance."An Mi-ha, chairperson of Incoop Social Cooperative, remarked, "English proficiency can serve as a ladder for youth to explore broader career opportunities and enter society, not just for job preparation. We will provide practical learning opportunities for vulnerable children and youth based on our educational experience and expertise."Meanwhile, E-Land Foundation operates the 'E-Land Life School' to enhance career exploration and employment capabilities for youth preparing for independence. The program offers mentoring from company employees, training to develop successful habits, and employment capability enhancement programs for individuals aged 18 to 34.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-13 14:00:10
  • Financial Support of 103 Trillion Won Ahead of Chuseok Holiday
    Financial Support of 103 Trillion Won Ahead of Chuseok Holiday Financial institutions are set to provide a total of 103 trillion won to small businesses and medium-sized enterprises ahead of the Chuseok holiday. Loans and credit card payment deadlines that fall during the holiday will be automatically extended to the 28th.According to the Financial Services Commission on the 13th, policy finance institutions and banks will implement financial support measures from September 24 to 27 to minimize inconveniences during the holiday.First, policy finance institutions such as the Industrial Bank of Korea, the Korea Development Bank, and the Korea Credit Guarantee Fund will supply a total of 23 trillion won in new loans and guarantees to small businesses and medium-sized enterprises that experience increased funding needs around the holiday. The Industrial Bank will provide 3.7 trillion won, the Korea Development Bank will offer 9.2 trillion won, and the Korea Credit Guarantee Fund will support 10.1 trillion won.Additionally, banks will provide a total of 79.6 trillion won in loans to small businesses and medium-sized enterprises around the holiday. This includes 32.2 trillion won in new loans and 47.4 trillion won in maturity extensions. Preferential interest rates will be offered based on transaction contributions and credit ratings.Among the top five banks, NH Nonghyup Bank will support a total of 13.5 trillion won, including 5 trillion won in new loans and 8.5 trillion won in maturity extensions. KB Kookmin, Shinhan, Hana, and Woori banks will each provide a total of 15.125 trillion won, with 6.125 trillion won in new loans and 9 trillion won in maturity extensions. NH Nonghyup Bank will offer preferential rates of up to 2.3 percentage points, while the other four banks will provide rates of up to 1.5 percentage points.Separate holiday funds will also be made available for traditional market vendors. The Korea Financial Services Agency has prepared a total of 5 billion won, allowing traditional market vendors to borrow up to 10 million won at an interest rate of 4.5% through their merchant associations.During the holiday, there is no need to make separate repayments for loans or credit card payments that are due. Loans from banks, insurance companies, savings banks, and credit card companies with maturity dates from September 24 to 27 will be automatically extended to the 28th without late fees. Automatic payments for credit card bills, insurance premiums, and utility fees will also be withdrawn on the 28th.If the payment date for housing pension benefits coincides with the holiday, recipients can receive their payments in advance on the 23rd. Deposits maturing during the holiday will be paid out on the 28th, including interest accrued during the holiday, and customers may request to receive their funds on the 23rd, depending on the product.To facilitate urgent financial transactions, mobile and flexible branches will be operational. Twelve banks will set up 11 mobile branches at highway rest areas for deposits, withdrawals, and currency exchanges, and 11 flexible branches at airports and areas with high concentrations of foreign workers for currency exchange and remittances.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-13 14:00:00
  • Child Traffic Accidents in School Zones Surge 76% in One Year
    Child Traffic Accidents in School Zones Surge 76% in One Year Child traffic accidents in school zones have increased by over 76% in just one year. The government plans to inspect 93 high-risk areas nationwide and initiate improvements at more than 500 facilities.The Ministry of the Interior and Safety announced on September 13 that it will enhance traffic safety measures based on the results of joint inspections conducted in areas with frequent accidents involving children.Last year, there were 927 child traffic accidents in school zones, a significant rise of 401 incidents from 526 the previous year, marking a 76.2% increase. The number of accident-prone areas also surged from 36 to 93, nearly a 2.6-fold increase during the same period.In response, the Ministry, along with the Ministry of Education, the National Police Agency, and the Korea Road Traffic Authority, conducted focused inspections of the 93 high-risk areas from June 29 to July 31. The scope of inspections was significantly expanded compared to the previous year, allowing for a thorough examination of accident causes and the road and pedestrian environment.The inspections identified a total of 508 areas needing improvement, categorized into three main areas: road environment enhancements, reinforcement of traffic safety facilities, and driver safety measures.Stop signs will be installed at crosswalks without traffic lights, and pedestrian protection barriers will be reinforced. Road markings in school zones will be updated, and additional signage will be added where necessary.Plans are also underway to install raised crosswalks in areas where vehicles need to slow down. Enforcement will be strengthened in areas where illegal parking obstructs the view of children and drivers.The Ministry will communicate the identified risks and improvement tasks to local governments and relevant agencies, ensuring ongoing management to facilitate actual facility improvements. Additional inspections will be conducted in other high-risk school zones.Park Hyung-bae, head of the Safety Prevention Policy Office at the Ministry, stated, “We will carefully examine and improve the risk factors in school zones to ensure they function as safe spaces for children, as originally intended.” 2026-09-13 13:52:00
  • Seoul Raises Terror Alert to Guard Level Ahead of Summit
    Seoul Raises Terror Alert to 'Guard' Level Ahead of Summit Seoul has raised its terror alert to the 'Guard' level, the second highest of four levels, which includes interest, caution, guard, and serious.The government elevated the terror alert from 'Caution' to 'Guard' across the city from September 13 until midnight on September 17, ahead of the first Korea-Central Asia Summit.This decision is a proactive measure considering the potential increase in terrorist threats during the summit, taking into account both domestic and international circumstances. As a result of the alert upgrade, security checks at entry and exit points and police safety activities will be intensified.According to the criteria set by the Counter-Terrorism Center, the 'Guard' level can be issued when international terrorist organizations publicly threaten South Korea or when specific intelligence about a potential attack is received. Additionally, the alert is warranted when a significant international event is scheduled to take place within three days.The first Korea-Central Asia Summit is set to take place in Seoul on September 16, with leaders from South Korea and five Central Asian countries: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.On September 11, the government conducted a national counter-terrorism training exercise at Incheon International Airport, involving 16 agencies and over 250 participants. The exercise simulated responses to various scenarios, including drone and explosive attacks, chemical and biological threats, aircraft hijacking, airport facility occupation, and hostage situations.The 'Guard' level in Seoul will remain in effect until midnight on September 17. The government plans to enhance counter-terrorism readiness through cooperation among relevant agencies during the summit.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-13 13:44:00
  • KBO League Surpasses 11 Million Fans for Second Consecutive Year
    KBO League Surpasses 11 Million Fans for Second Consecutive Year The KBO League has surpassed 11 million fans for the second consecutive year. The Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) reported that 80,942 fans attended games held on September 12 at four stadiums, including Jamsil, Daegu, Suwon, and Gocheok, bringing the season's total attendance to 11,049,504.This record was achieved in just 626 games, 17 games faster than last year's milestone of surpassing 11 million fans in 643 games.The attendance surge began right after the season opener. The KBO League reached 1 million fans in just 55 games, the fastest in history. Since then, it has consistently set new records for the fewest games needed to reach each million milestone.During this period, the league also attracted 7 million fans in the first half of the season, marking the second-highest attendance for that period. Additionally, it has recorded three consecutive seasons of surpassing 10 million fans.Indicators of fan engagement and density are also on the rise. The average attendance per game is 17,651, surpassing last season's record of 17,101. The overall seat occupancy rate stands at 85.2%.The trend of sellouts continues, with 298 of the 626 games played so far being sold out, accounting for 47.6% of all games. The record for the most sellouts in a season is within reach, with the previous record set at 331 games last year. There are still 94 regular-season games remaining, and if more than 34 of these sell out, a new record will be established.Performance by individual teams is also notable. Seven teams, including the Samsung Lions, LG Twins, Hanwha Eagles, SSG Landers, Lotte Giants, KIA Tigers, and Doosan Bears, have surpassed 1 million fans at home.Leading the way is Samsung, with an attendance of 1,453,477. LG follows closely with 1,432,238 fans. Both teams are also vying to surpass 1.5 million home fans. The record for the most home fans in a single season is held by Samsung, with 1,640,174 fans in the 2025 season.In terms of average home game attendance, Samsung ranks first with 23,443 fans per game, followed by LG with 22,034 and Doosan with 21,291.Samsung has the highest number of sellouts at home, with 50 games, followed by Hanwha with 47 and LG with 39. On the road, KIA leads with 51 sellouts, followed by Lotte with 45 and Samsung with 40.Anticipation is growing for a new all-time attendance record. If 1,263,016 more fans (approximately 13,437 per game) attend the remaining 94 games, last year's record of 12,312,519 will be surpassed.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-13 13:40:00
  • Obsession Surpasses 410,000 Viewers in Just 11 Days
    'Obsession' Surpasses 410,000 Viewers in Just 11 Days 영화 '옵세션'이 개봉 11일 만에 누적 관객수 41만명을 돌파했다.According to the Korean Film Council's integrated computer network, the film 'Obsession' surpassed 400,000 viewers on September 12 and reached a total of 412,955 viewers by 7 a.m. on September 13. This rapid success is notable compared to 'Substance,' which took 58 days to reach the same milestone.In its opening week, 'Obsession' attracted 185,000 viewers, significantly outperforming 'Substance,' which garnered around 55,000 viewers during the same period, indicating a strong box office performance.Additionally, 'Obsession' has maintained its position at the top of the box office for 11 consecutive days among films released at the same time, and with positive word-of-mouth, it is expected to surpass 500,000 viewers in its second week.Meanwhile, 'Obsession' tells the story of a horrific love between two individuals who become a couple after making a wish on a magical stick called 'One Wish Willow.' The film is currently showing in theaters.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-13 13:40:00
  • Yong Hye-in Resigns as Ministerial Candidate Following Kim Min-seoks Suggestion
    Yong Hye-in Resigns as Ministerial Candidate Following Kim Min-seok's Suggestion Yong Hye-in, the candidate for the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family, has resigned following a suggestion from Kim Min-seok, the leader of the Democratic Party.Kim Tae-sun, the party leader's secretary, announced on Facebook that he conveyed Kim's suggestion for Yong to resign, which was based on public sentiment.He stated, "While the issue of holding both a proportional representative position and a ministerial role may not be legally problematic, it does not fully align with the public's expectations and sentiments." He expressed hope that Yong would continue to play a significant role in realizing the values of progressive politics, completing progressive solidarity, and reforming the electoral system.Yong also held a press conference at the National Assembly, stating, "I received a message from the Democratic Party respecting the situation of the candidate and the Basic Income Party, but asking me to make a decision considering the lack of public consensus on holding both the proportional representative position and the ministerial role."She added, "As a cabinet member, I must connect the National Assembly and the government and foster cooperation. Given that the ruling party has expressed concerns, I found it difficult to carry out my duties. I believe stepping down is necessary to continue the spirit of solidarity within the democratic progressive camp."In response to Yong's resignation, the People Power Party intensified its criticism, highlighting the responsibilities of the Blue House and the Democratic Party. Party leader Jang Dong-hyuk stated on Facebook that it was likely more beneficial for the organization to keep the Basic Income Party in the National Assembly than to appoint Yong as a minister. He emphasized that this issue should not end with Yong's resignation, calling for a thorough investigation into the reality of the 'leftist cartel.'Floor leader Jeong Jeom-sik remarked that if the Blue House had simply asked, "Are you okay with resigning from your position as a lawmaker before the ministerial nomination?" this situation could have been avoided. He urged President Lee Jae-myung to apologize to the public for this personnel debacle and to take responsible actions regarding the Blue House's personnel line. 2026-09-13 13:32:10
  • A Call for Reflection: 15 Mirrors for President Lee Jae-myung
    A Call for Reflection: 15 Mirrors for President Lee Jae-myung What is politics? Is it the art of gaining power, or the art of maintaining it? Is it about winning elections or managing approval ratings? Or is it about embracing even those who did not support you to move an era in a better direction? Political philosophy throughout history has grappled with this question for thousands of years. Machiavelli urged a clear-eyed view of the harsh realities of power, while Confucius and Mencius placed benevolence and public sentiment at the core of politics. Laozi advised against excessive control over the world, and the Doctrine of the Mean taught the wisdom of balance without extremes. Buddhism warns against greed, anger, and ignorance, while the Bible teaches that those in high positions should serve more. Despite differences in time, religion, and philosophy, they converge on one point. When power begins to exist for itself, politics starts to decline. What President Lee Jae-myung needs now is not a new political technique, nor more sophisticated public relations, nor a tighter grip on his strong support base. It is to calmly reflect on what has gone well and what has not, and to return to the fundamentals of politics before the public. I want to find the starting point in the four characters of Mencius: 一治一亂 (one governance, one chaos). This means that once a society is governed, it can also fall into chaos. However, this is not a fatalistic view that “the world is inherently like this.” It signifies the responsibility of humanity and politics to prepare for chaos during times of governance and to create governance again during chaotic times. 1. Politics is 一治一亂 In Mencius, it is stated, '天下之生久矣 一治一亂' (The world has existed for a long time; it has been governed and has fallen into chaos). Looking back at history, when a nation thrives, it seems that prosperity will last forever, and those in power feel that their power will continue indefinitely. However, there is no eternal governance, nor is there eternal chaos. When things flourish, they decline; when pride arises, they shake; and when chaos reaches its peak, the desire to restore order emerges. Thus, the true meaning of 一治一亂 lies not in the cycle itself. Do not settle in times of governance, and do not resign in times of chaos. This insight is also needed in today’s South Korean politics. President Lee Jae-myung's approval ratings rose to the mid-60s earlier this year but have recently plummeted. According to a Realmeter survey from the first week of September, his positive rating hit a record low of 37.4%, marking eight consecutive weeks of decline. Another NBS survey conducted from September 7 to 9 showed a 43% approval rating and a 48% disapproval rating. While the absolute figures may differ depending on the survey method, it is undeniable that there has been a significant loss of public sentiment recently. Approval ratings are not merely popularity contests regarding the president's character. They reflect a comprehensive evaluation by the public of the economy, housing, jobs, the stock market, judicial policies, personnel decisions, the ruling party's behavior, and the president's language. Therefore, the most dangerous response when approval ratings drop is to blame the opposition, the media, or conservative voters. There were reasons for high approval ratings, and there are reasons for the decline. The most perilous moment in politics is not when approval ratings fall, but when one fails to listen to why they are falling. 2. Lessons on Power from Yoon Suk-yeol's Martial Law One of the events that will be studied for years in modern Korean politics is former President Yoon Suk-yeol's martial law. History often features perplexing instances of political self-harm. Richard Nixon in the U.S. left office due to the Watergate scandal, despite achieving a monumental diplomatic breakthrough with China. The most dangerous time for a power holder is not only when their power is weak but also when they begin to believe they can do anything. “Who would dare to stop me?” When this thought takes root in a power holder's mind, the boundary between political judgment and personal desire can easily collapse. Thus, the most necessary person for a president is not a staff member who applauds loudly but one who says, “No.” Even in the Joseon dynasty, there were officials who spoke uncomfortable truths to the king. Machiavelli also believed that wise advisors were necessary around a ruler, warning that a ruler surrounded by flatterers would lose their judgment. It is difficult for a power holder to meet someone of higher status than themselves. Therefore, they need elders, people who are not intimidated by them, and those who challenge their judgments rather than simply echoing them. This lesson applies to President Lee Jae-myung as well. 3. The Three Pillars of the Lee Jae-myung Administration The factors that enabled the establishment of the Lee Jae-myung administration and its initial high support can be summarized in three pillars: livelihood, pragmatism, and the president's personal political ability. The first is livelihood. Housing, the stock market, and jobs are more than mere economic indicators to the public. A home represents marriage, family, retirement, and a ladder for social mobility. The stock market reflects the public's assets and expectations for the future. Youth employment represents hope for a generation. No matter how grand a national vision is presented, it lacks persuasiveness to a hungry, homeless, and job-insecure populace. The second is pragmatism. Policies are not pursued simply because they are progressive or rejected because they are conservative; the approach is to adopt policies beneficial to the national interest, whether they come from Park Chung-hee or Kim Dae-jung. The inclusion of business leaders and a focus on industry and technology, along with cooperation with Japan when necessary, has been well-received by many moderates. The third is the president's administrative capabilities and political instincts. President Lee is a politician who quickly grasps issues, understands numbers, and communicates complex matters in accessible language. His early public cabinet meetings were seen as confident, and his attention to even minor issues in citizens' lives was viewed as meticulous. The problem is that these three pillars have recently begun to shake simultaneously. 4. The Core of Livelihood is Not 'Good Intentions' but Public Outcomes The government explains the intent behind its policies, but the public experiences the outcomes. No matter how well-intentioned the policy authorities claim to be, if housing prices rise and loans become inaccessible, making home ownership feel further away, public evaluations will change. The same applies to the stock market. Since May 27 of this year, numerous single-stock leveraged ETFs and ETNs have been launched, tracking Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix at double the rate. Leveraged products carry significant risks, including price volatility and the so-called 'negative compounding effect.' Therefore, it is excessive to immediately conclude that “the government has caused the stock market to crash.” The stock market is influenced by numerous factors, including the global economy, interest rates, semiconductor conditions, supply and demand, and geopolitics. However, if the policy authorities have opened the door to high-risk leveraged products for individual investors, they must carefully examine the risks these products pose to young investors. For many young people, stocks are not merely a means of greed; they are the last ladder chosen to build assets when home ownership is unattainable. If more people are severely injured on that ladder, political anger is a natural outcome. The same goes for real estate. If policies are announced and then retracted after confirming market and public backlash, a more significant problem arises than the content of the policies: the loss of predictability. Policies can be wrong, but they should not be inconsistent. Discovering and correcting mistakes is different from wavering without philosophy. 5. Why the August 31 Cabinet Reshuffle Left Questions Rather Than Renewal In this context, the August 31 cabinet reshuffle is significant. Specifically, it refers to the reshuffle of six ministries announced on August 30. Lee Hyung-il was nominated as the candidate for Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance, Kim Seung-won for Minister of Justice, Kang Shin-cheol for Minister of National Defense, Hong Ji-sun for Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, Lee So-young for Minister of SMEs and Startups, and Yong Hye-in for Minister of Gender Equality and Family. A cabinet reshuffle is the most powerful political message a president can send. In a situation where approval ratings are shaky, a reshuffle is particularly significant. The public interprets the list to understand what the president has reflected upon and where he intends to go. Therefore, the key question regarding this reshuffle is one: Did the renewal demanded by the public align with the renewal presented by the president? Kim Seung-won, nominated as Minister of Justice, has been classified as a hardliner on prosecutorial reform and has previously led a group of lawmakers demanding the dismissal of charges against President Lee, leading to controversy immediately after his nomination. While this alone does not confirm any unfair 'mission' for Kim, the message conveyed by appointments is as important as the facts. In a situation where doubts exist regarding the president's judicial issues, the appointment of someone with such a background as Minister of Justice should have prompted the president and the Blue House to anticipate the questions the public would raise. Moreover, Kim has since been embroiled in controversy over alleged 'drug requests' related to COVID-19 treatments, as reports surfaced that he contacted the head of the Food and Drug Safety Agency to expedite related procedures. Following related complaints, the police may revisit the case. Kim's side has the right to clarify, and it should not be concluded as a crime at this stage. Additionally, new revelations about his children's past address discrepancies have emerged, and his side has acknowledged the discrepancies for educational purposes. At this point, what matters is not partisan logic. The position of Minister of Justice demands higher morality and trust than other ministers. The president must assess the results of the confirmation hearings and the facts with a cool head. Protecting one's allies to the end is not loyalty; maintaining the trust of the public is a greater loyalty for a president. 6. The Scene of the Policy Chief Departing a Day After the Reshuffle Another point to consider regarding the August 31 reshuffle is that Kim Yong-beom, the president's policy chief, who was not initially included in the reshuffle list, resigned the very next day, September 1. At that time, accountability regarding real estate and financial policies was being raised in the political arena. It is possible that the appointment could have been delayed by a day or that there were internal circumstances. It cannot be said that this is inherently wrong. However, it may appear oddly to the public. If it was a renewal reshuffle, should not a thorough evaluation of the overall economic policy and accountability have been conducted before sending a unified message? Appointments are both content and performance. No matter how good the content is, if the performance is chaotic, it appears that the president's decision-making system is shaken. If there are repeated instances of policy directions changing just before or after announcements on major policies like basic pensions or real estate tax systems, the problem becomes even more significant. People begin to question not which policy is right but whether “this government is moving with conviction.” Criticism arises that the engine of governance is making strange noises, and this is ultimately why. 7. Judicial Reform is Not for the Prosecutors or the Police Judicial reform is necessary. Criticism has accumulated over the years that prosecutorial power has been excessively concentrated and has influenced politics. However, the purpose of judicial reform is not to punish the prosecutors. It is to better protect the rights of the public. If it deviates from this principle, judicial reform becomes merely another reorganization of power institutions. In particular, the issue of supplementary investigative powers for prosecutors is not something to be pushed solely based on partisan logic. Recent surveys have shown that opinions favoring the maintenance of supplementary investigative powers are significantly higher than those advocating for their abolition. In a July survey by Gallup Korea, 61% supported maintenance, while 23% favored abolition, and in a KSOI survey, 55.3% opposed abolition, while 27.4% supported it. While surveys are not always the definitive answer for policies, professional institutional reforms can sometimes lead public opinion. However, when a majority of the public feels uneasy, one cannot simply say, “We are right, so follow us.” Especially, it is essential to reassess whether vulnerable groups such as women, children, the elderly, and crime victims might suffer from the shifting responsibilities between investigative agencies. The core issue is not whether it is the prosecutors or the police. What matters is whether victims are protected. Reform must be for the institutions, not for the public. 8. Abandoning Pragmatism Will Drive Away 'New Lee Jae-myung' Not all those who placed their hopes in President Lee Jae-myung are traditional supporters of the Democratic Party. There were moderates who opposed the martial law and the Yoon Suk-yeol administration, as well as those who expected growth and pragmatism. Some young women supported him based on safety and social policies, while some men in their 30s and 40s looked for real estate and asset formation policies. In other words, the establishment of the Lee Jae-myung administration included an 'expectation coalition' that transcended traditional support bases. These individuals are not bound by loyalty. They are gathered by expectations for results. Thus, while the influx is rapid, so is the outflow. The concern within the ruling party that the so-called 'New Lee Jae-myung' faction is departing is not to be taken lightly. Recent Realmeter surveys showing the president's approval rating among those in their 20s and 30s in Seoul has dropped to the 20% range is significant. Young people are not leaving politics out of indifference. They depart when they judge it does not benefit their future. The same goes for moderates. There is no obligation to continue supporting someone just because they supported them once. There is no ownership over approval ratings. Public support must be earned anew every day. 9. Constitutional Amendments Must Be Distanced from the President's Interests Constitutional amendments are necessary. Since the 1987 Constitution, South Korea has changed significantly. The era of AI has begun, and issues such as low birth rates, regional extinction, climate change, and new fundamental rights have emerged. The structure of presidential power can also be reexamined. However, one thing must be clear in constitutional amendments. They must be completely separated from the president's interests. The current Article 128, Section 2 of the Constitution stipulates that amendments for extending the president's term or changing re-election rules do not apply to the sitting president at the time of the amendment. Therefore, the assertion that “if amendments are made, the current president will immediately run again for long-term rule” is not constitutionally accurate. The president also mentioned during a recent visit to France that “my term is clearly limited by the Constitution.” Nevertheless, it is necessary to communicate this more clearly to the public. The president should not leave the fact that they cannot be a direct beneficiary of the amendments solely to legal provisions but should also clarify it politically. This is because politics does not operate solely on legal innocence. Trust is needed. If the public begins to ask, “Is this amendment for South Korea or for the president?” the amendment will lose its strength. To push for significant changes, one must first step back. 10. The Corruption of Politics Begins with Words Another serious issue to reflect on in our politics is language. There is more language that insults than persuades, and rather than competing in logic, people are branded. Democratic Party supporters mock conservative citizens, and conservative supporters insult progressive citizens. Expressions that strip the human dignity from leaders of opposing factions are used. What is gained from this? While one may gain views on YouTube or applause from a strong support base, the nation becomes divided. The recent controversy surrounding author Yoo Si-min's criticism of the president is similar. It is healthy for intellectuals who supported power to voice criticism to the president, and the president and ruling party should accept what they can from that criticism. However, the criticizing intellectual is also not free from the responsibility of language. Expressions like 'rebellion,' 'monarchy,' and 'lowest politics' should not become stigmas that define the opponent rather than illuminate the debate. Words govern thoughts. Buddhism views human actions as a combination of body, speech, and thought, known as the three karmas (신, 구, 의). The reason for the heavy emphasis on speech karma is that lies, slander, harsh words, and deceptive language destroy communities. While wounds from a sword can heal, wounds from words can last for decades. Especially, the president's words carry weight. A president's statement becomes policy, signals to the market, and directs the actions of hundreds of thousands of civil servants. Therefore, it is more important for a president to have the ability to restrain their words than to speak abundantly. The same applies to both the ruling and opposition parties. Politics should not be a war of words but a skill to prevent war through dialogue. 11. Pragmatism Without Virtue Will Not Last President Lee Jae-myung is a capable politician. This is acknowledged even by the opposing camp. He is quick in judgment, understands administration, and possesses political agility. However, being merely capable is not enough for a president. Virtue and moral integrity must accompany capability. In Laozi's Dao De Jing, the Dao is not the force that forcibly grasps the world but the wisdom to know the flow of nature and to humble oneself. Water flows to lower places but ultimately forms the sea. Thus, Laozi said, 'The highest good is like water.' A president should also be like water. Rather than standing above the people to give orders, they should descend into the lives of the people. The Doctrine of the Mean does not mean standing in the middle of left and right. It means finding the most appropriate path for the time and situation. Sometimes leftist policies are the answer, and sometimes rightist policies are the answer. What matters is the people. Pragmatism, too, becomes opportunism if it loses virtue and moral integrity. If one does whatever is convenient today and whatever is advantageous tomorrow, the public will ultimately stop believing in the leader's words. What completes pragmatism is trust. 12. Common Messages from the Bible, Buddhist Scriptures, Dao De Jing, and the Doctrine of the Mean to Power Holders Ancient scriptures of humanity share a remarkable commonality. They warn against power rather than praise it. In the Bible, Jesus teaches that to be great, one must serve, finding greatness in service rather than domination. Buddhism views greed, anger, and ignorance as fundamental afflictions of humanity. When a power holder falls into greed, they privatize power; when they fall into anger, they turn opponents into enemies; and when they fall into ignorance, they believe only their judgment is correct. Confucius stated, 政者正也 (Politics is about doing what is right). If those in power are upright, who would dare to be otherwise? The Doctrine of the Mean teaches balance, and the Dao De Jing advises humility. The Cheonbugyeong also cannot be hastily interpreted as a specific political theory, but its idea of starting from one and diversifying before returning to a single order poses meaningful questions for today's community. Finding unity amidst diversity is the role of politics. 13. The Most Urgent Task is the Restoration of Trust The core issue facing the Lee Jae-myung administration is not whether approval ratings are at 37% or 43%. It is trust. Even if the public does not like the president, they can trust the policies, and even if they oppose the policies, they can believe the president's words. A government that can achieve this is a strong government. However, if the public begins to like the president but cannot trust his words, the administration is in danger. Therefore, I believe a press conference is necessary for the president now. It should not be a promotional event but a place to answer questions from the public, including uncomfortable ones. He should address issues such as constitutional amendments, judicial reform, real estate, taxes, and the stock market. He should also explain why he chose the individuals in the August 31 reshuffle. If mistakes have been made, they should be acknowledged. If policies are flawed, they should be changed, and if appointments are deemed inappropriate, they should be retracted. Is that capitulation? No. Listening to the public in a democracy is not capitulation; it is governance. 14. The Path of the 'True Person' and the Attitude of the 'Humanist' Politicians handle power, but presidents must handle the times. Therefore, it is insufficient for a president to possess only the skills of a politician; they need the perspective of a humanist. A humanist does not see the public merely as the number 37.4%. They see the people behind that number. They see the young person unable to find a job, the young person delaying marriage due to housing prices, the breadwinner who cannot sleep at night after investing their life savings in stocks, the woman who has been a victim of sexual violence and is lost between investigative agencies, and the small business owner unable to cope with high interest rates and rent, as well as the entrepreneur hesitant to invest due to uncertainty about when government policies will change. Ultimately, politics is about people's lives. Thus, the path of the true person is difficult. A true person does not seek applause from their own side. They see facts as they are, acknowledge what is right, and admit what is wrong. Truth begins with not turning away from facts, justice stands with principles rather than power, and freedom recognizes not only one's own freedom but also the freedom of those with differing views. Truth, justice, and freedom. These three are not the monopoly of any faction. Both conservatives and progressives must uphold them, and the president must uphold them even more. 15. A Final Word of Advice to the President President Lee Jae-myung still has ample time. There are surveys showing 37% and others showing 43%, and approval ratings can rise again. The public is discerning but also generous. If he sincerely acknowledges mistakes and changes policies, they will grant him another chance. In fact, this could be a turning point. To do so, he must clearly redefine the priorities of governance. First, he must return to livelihood issues. Housing, taxes, the stock market, and youth employment should be reassessed based on the lives of the people, not ideology. Second, he must restore pragmatism. It is not a matter of favoring the left or the right but finding what the public truly needs. Third, judicial reform must be redesigned with the public at its center. It should not be about eliminating prosecutors or empowering the police but about who can best protect crime victims. Fourth, the criteria for appointments must be reestablished. Rather than focusing on whether someone is a close associate or whether they are progressive or conservative, the emphasis should be on ability, morality, and public service. The allegations raised against the candidates in the August 31 reshuffle should not be shielded by partisan defenses. They should be thoroughly verified, and if deemed inappropriate, they should be withdrawn. Fifth, constitutional amendments must be separated from the president's interests. If amendments are necessary for the future of South Korea, they should be pursued, but the public must believe that they are unrelated to the president's political interests. Sixth, he should surround himself with those who speak uncomfortable truths. Advisors who only say what the president wants to hear do not help him. The person who says “No” when the president is wrong is the one who saves him. Seventh, the dignity of language must be restored. If the president exercises restraint, the ruling party will also exercise restraint, and if the ruling party does, the support base will change as well. Politics must shift from creating enemies to coexisting with opponents. Let us return to Mencius's 一治一亂. The world is governed and then falls into chaos. However, Mencius did not fold his arms in the face of chaos. He insisted on reestablishing benevolence and righteousness and believed that humanity has a role to play. Today is no different. Approval ratings can rise and fall, administrations can thrive or decline, and parties can win or lose elections. However, a leader's true evaluation occurs beyond those numbers. How much restraint was exercised when power was strongest, how open was the ear to criticism, how inclusive was the approach to opponents, how much was the national interest prioritized over personal interests, and how much better was South Korea made when leaving office—these are ultimately the measures of history. The greatest lesson left by former President Yoon Suk-yeol's martial law is that the moment one believes they are powerful can be the most dangerous. The same applies to Richard Nixon's Watergate. Politicians do not only fall by being defeated by opponents; they often fall when they cannot conquer themselves. Therefore, I urge President Lee Jae-myung again. I hope he becomes a virtuous president beyond being a capable one. I hope he becomes an inclusive president beyond being a strong one. I hope he becomes a president who leaves behind a good system rather than one who decides everything directly. I hope he becomes a president of South Korea who embraces not only those who supported him but also those who did not. Learn from Machiavelli's coldness, but do not remain in Machiavelli. Embrace Confucius's rectitude and Mencius's benevolence, learn from Laozi's humility and the balance of the Doctrine of the Mean, and place the compassion of Buddhism and the service of the Bible at the foundation of politics. Ultimately, politics is about people. If you lose the people, you may gain power but fail, and if you gain the people, you can rise again even if your approval ratings temporarily drop. Do not settle in times of governance. Do not resign in times of chaos. And above all, conquer yourself when you have power. Only leaders who conquer themselves can overcome the times. The controversies surrounding the August 31 reshuffle, the conflicts over livelihood and judicial reform, and the declining approval ratings are crises for the president but also opportunities. If he can transform, this current crisis can be the starting point for greater politics rather than the beginning of decline. I hope President Lee Jae-myung becomes a good president who remains in the hearts of the people longer than one who wins many elections. This is the advice of a true person, the hope of a humanist, and the path of truth, justice, and freedom.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-13 13:32:00
  • APAR Confirms Potential for Hair Loss Treatment Using Beauty Device Technology
    APAR Confirms Potential for Hair Loss Treatment Using Beauty Device Technology APAR has demonstrated the potential efficacy of its home beauty device technology for treating hair loss.On September 13, APAR announced that the results of a study on scalp health improvement and androgenetic alopecia treatment, conducted in collaboration with academia, were published in the international journal Pharmaceutics on August 28. This journal ranks in the top 10% of pharmacology in the Journal Citation Reports (JCR).The study utilized the RF microporation technology applied in the airshot mode of the home beauty device 'MedCube Ageal Booster Pro X2.' Researchers evaluated how this technology, combined with the topical treatment minoxidil, affected skin delivery and hair regeneration in animal models.RF microporation is a technique that temporarily creates micro-delivery pathways in the skin's stratum corneum using radiofrequency energy, facilitating the internal delivery of active ingredients applied to the skin.Preclinical results showed that when RF microporation was used alongside minoxidil, the amount of minoxidil deposited in the epidermis and dermis increased by up to 2.4 times compared to using minoxidil alone. In animal models of androgenetic alopecia, significant improvements were observed in hair coverage, length, and thickness.APAR emphasizes the significance of this study in confirming the potential to enhance the skin delivery efficiency of topical hair loss treatments. Since topical agents like minoxidil must penetrate the skin's stratum corneum to deliver active ingredients to the skin and hair follicles, delivery efficiency is a crucial factor in the treatment process.APAR plans to conduct further clinical studies to validate the applicability, efficacy, and safety of this technology in the field of hair loss treatment. They are also pursuing the development of a platform technology to assist in the delivery of various active ingredients for scalp and hair.An APAR representative stated, "The publication of this paper in an international journal demonstrates the scientific validation of our device technology's operating principles and efficacy. We will continue to strive to develop new technologies and products based on our research and development competitiveness."Meanwhile, the 'Booster Pro X2' is the next-generation model released approximately two and a half years after the flagship product 'Booster Pro.' It employs a dual care method to enhance energy delivery and cosmetic absorption efficiency compared to previous models. The device is designed with four electrodes on its surface to simultaneously deliver energy to both the skin's surface and deeper layers.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-13 13:32:00
  • Military Considers Contributions to Hormuz Amid Ongoing Evaluations
    Military Considers Contributions to Hormuz Amid Ongoing Evaluations The South Korean government is accelerating its plans to contribute to the security of the Hormuz Strait as a defense ministry investigation team returns from the United Arab Emirates (UAE). While the specifics of deployment and scale remain undecided, key challenges include establishing mission parameters that consider the readiness of the Korean Peninsula and the safety of dispatched personnel, as well as securing public consensus.Based on the findings of the defense ministry team that returned on September 10, the government is exploring various ways to contribute and feasible missions. The National Security Council (NSC) is expected to discuss related matters on September 17.Among the military assets under consideration since early this month are the P-8A maritime patrol aircraft, supply support vessels, and explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) teams. These assets would contribute to navigation safety through maritime surveillance, logistical support, and mine countermeasures. However, the exact composition of forces and the scale of deployment have not yet been finalized.The military is reportedly reviewing force composition to minimize operational gaps around the Korean Peninsula due to overseas deployment. This involves prioritizing non-combat missions with a minimal number of personnel.Equally important as force composition is the scope of the mission. Even with similar support tasks, the nature can vary based on the intended recipients and purposes of maritime surveillance information and logistical support. Discussions are ongoing regarding whether to conduct missions independently or in coordination with multinational operations, as well as the command structure.Even a small deployment or support mission carries the risk of involvement in conflicts, necessitating the need to clarify operational areas and personnel protection measures. Key considerations also include local maintenance and supply conditions, deployment duration, mission completion criteria, and exit strategies in case of deteriorating situations.However, the military maintains a cautious stance, stating that current discussions are not predicated on deployment. A military official remarked, "It is premature to discuss specific roles when a deployment proposal has not even been prepared," adding that various reviews are being conducted according to relevant procedures.In the review process, the government is also enhancing information management. The Blue House initiated an investigation on September 10 into the circumstances surrounding the leak of deployment review information among foreign affairs and security agencies, including the defense and foreign ministries.Beyond military considerations, securing public consensus remains a significant hurdle. A recent survey conducted by Gallup Korea from September 8 to 10 among 1,000 adults aged 18 and older indicated that 55% opposed the deployment to Hormuz, while only 32% supported it. Public dissent is also emerging from the ruling party and its allies.On September 11, Democratic Party lawmaker Lee Gi-heon expressed on KBS 1 Radio's 'Current Affairs' that deployment does not align with national interests, voicing concerns that South Korea could become a target of Iranian attacks. On the same day, the Justice and Innovation Party, Progressive Party, Social Democratic Party, and Basic Income Party held a joint press conference, highlighting the risks of involvement in war and calling for a halt to deployment reviews.If a deployment is ultimately decided, the government's ability to convincingly articulate the necessity of contributions to navigation safety and their impact on national interests will be crucial. Clearly presenting measures for ensuring the safety of dispatched personnel and conditions for mission termination will also be essential for gaining public support.Meanwhile, the Gallup Korea survey was conducted via telephone interviews, with a margin of error of ±3.1 percentage points at a 95% confidence level. For more details, please refer to the website of the National Election Survey Deliberation Commission.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-13 13:24:00