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  • BTS SWIM lawsuit centers on alleged path from demo to hit song
    BTS' 'SWIM' lawsuit centers on alleged path from demo to hit song SEOUL, July 10 (AJP) - A copyright lawsuit over BTS' chart-topping single "SWIM" is focusing not only on alleged musical similarities, but on how an unreleased demo may have traveled through Los Angeles' songwriting and publishing network before reaching people involved in the hit. Three Los Angeles-based songwriters, Steve Cooper, Jon Sandler and Greylyn Johnson, filed the case in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California on July 8, accusing HYBE-related companies, Artist Publishing Group and several of the song's credited writers of copyright infringement. BTS and its members were not named as defendants. RM is credited as a co-writer of "SWIM," but neither he nor the group is listed among the parties being sued. The defendants include HYBE, HYBE America, HYBE Music Services, Big Hit Music and songwriters Derrick Milano, James Essien, Le Clair, Ryan Tedder, Tyler Spry, Sean Foreman and Kirsten Spencer. The plaintiffs say they completed their own song, also titled "SWIM," in March 2025 and circulated a demo to music industry contacts in Los Angeles. According to the complaint, the demo was sent to executives at Artist Publishing Group and to other managers and publishing figures. The plaintiffs allege that the song was later shared with people connected to writers who worked on BTS' version. That alleged chain of access is likely to become a central issue in the case. In music copyright disputes, plaintiffs generally must show not only that two works are substantially similar, but that the accused creators had a plausible opportunity to hear the earlier work. The complaint does not identify direct evidence showing that BTS or every credited writer personally heard the demo. Instead, it lays out what the plaintiffs describe as a path through publishers, managers and songwriters that may have connected the two works. To support their case, the plaintiffs commissioned a preliminary analysis from musicologist Alexander Stewart. Stewart's report claims that the two songs share similarities in their title-based hooks, melodies, rhythms, harmonic structure, lyrical themes and recurring synthesizer patterns. Stewart argues that both tracks rely heavily on two chords without establishing a clear tonal center, creating what he describes as a floating, aquatic sound. He also compares the repeated use of the word "swim" and melodic phrases that follow it in both songs. Those findings are allegations submitted by the plaintiffs and have not been tested in court. HYBE and Big Hit Music had not publicly commented on the lawsuit as of Friday. The plaintiffs are seeking damages, profits tied to the song and injunctive relief. In an alternative claim, they argue that they should be recognized as co-creators and receive a share of past and future earnings from "SWIM." The case comes after "SWIM" became one of the biggest releases of BTS' career. The song debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, while the group's fifth studio album, "ARIRANG," also opened atop the Billboard 200. This is the third copyright case filed against HYBE-linked entities in recent months. In May, four Los Angeles songwriters sued HYBE, ADOR and NewJeans over the 2024 single "How Sweet." On July 7, New York publisher All Surface Publishing sued the same companies over NewJeans' 2023 track "ETA." Both cases are unrelated to the SWIM lawsuit and involve different songs and claimants. 2026-07-10 16:53:12
  • Vietnams Kim Sang-sik Showcases ASEAN Cup Strategy, Exciting Southeast Asian Fans
    Vietnam's Kim Sang-sik Showcases ASEAN Cup Strategy, Exciting Southeast Asian Fans The Vietnam national football team is ramping up preparations for the 2026 ASEAN Cup, securing two consecutive victories during their training camp in South Korea. After a dominant 6-0 win against Siheung FC, Vietnam triumphed 2-1 over Yongin FC in their second friendly match. Coach Kim Sang-sik assessed the team's decision-making, response to pressure, and tactical execution in both contrasting match scenarios.According to Bongda.com on July 9, the Vietnam team defeated Yongin FC 2-1 in their second friendly match held on July 8. Following their earlier victory against Siheung FC, Vietnam has captured the attention of Southeast Asian football fans with two wins in South Korea. The ASEAN Cup, organized by the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF), features national teams from major Southeast Asian countries, including Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia, competing for regional supremacy. This year, the tournament is also referred to as the 'ASEAN Hyundai Cup' due to sponsorship from Hyundai.The second match differed significantly from the first. While the first match against K3 League team Siheung FC showcased Vietnam's attacking prowess, the second match tested their ability to withstand pressure and secure a win against a stronger K League 2 team, Yongin FC. Bongda.com noted that Yongin FC displayed a higher level of performance, consistently challenging Vietnam's defense.Vietnam capitalized on an early opportunity, with Nguyen Hai Long scoring the opening goal in the 9th minute. Despite Yongin FC controlling more possession, Vietnam seized the momentum. The decisive goal came in the second half when Nguyen Suan Son scored in the 75th minute, confirming Vietnam's 2-1 victory. Suan Son demonstrated his knack for being in the right place at crucial moments, reaffirming his presence as a key forward.Valuable Data from a Close Match Over a Dominant WinSoutheast Asian fans attributed greater significance to the victory over Yongin FC. One fan remarked, "Winning 2-1 against a K League 2 team is far more valuable than a large win against a K League 3 team. It shows that Vietnam is taking the AFF Cup 2026 very seriously." Another fan added, "Winning both matches indicates that Coach Kim Sang-sik is clearly heading in the right direction."Coach Kim's player management during the two matches also drew attention. He utilized different lineups in each half while still securing victories. This approach is significant not just for the results but for assessing the team. By experimenting with various combinations in real matches, the coaching staff gathered valuable data.The match against Yongin FC revealed both strengths and weaknesses for Vietnam. The team had to maintain defensive concentration while facing an opponent with more possession. Players endured a high defensive workload for most of the match, needing to maintain spacing, transition speed, and tactical discipline throughout.In this context, Vietnam's ability to capitalize on opportunities stood out. Hai Long continued his strong form from his club to the national team. Suan Son showcased the decisiveness needed from a forward, proving why he is a vital asset in the attack. His strengths have also become a topic of discussion among Southeast Asian fans, who praised his solid physique, aerial ability, and knack for shining in critical moments.Final Test Against Gangwon FC Ahead of the AFF CupMeanwhile, the hard-fought victory provided Coach Kim with crucial insights. While an easy win can boost team morale, facing a strong opponent under pressure reveals players' true responsiveness. The 90 minutes against Yongin FC served as a test for how Vietnam can endure challenging situations and transition to attack.Coach Kim evaluated how players maintained focus under pressure and their ability to withstand match intensity. The connections between lines, speed of transitions, defensive organization, and adherence to tactical commitments become clearer when facing a challenging opponent. In this regard, the match against Yongin FC can be seen as a necessary practical assessment for the Vietnam national team.However, some caution has been expressed regarding judging the team's competitiveness for the AFF Cup solely based on friendly match results. Bongda.com noted that the outcomes of private friendlies do not fully reflect the pressures of tournament play in the AFF Cup. Nevertheless, many fans have praised Coach Kim and the coaching staff for their tactical management.The training camp in South Korea is progressing with increasing difficulty. Vietnam gained attacking confidence from the Siheung FC match and tested their response capabilities in the Yongin FC match. Their next opponent is Gangwon FC, a team from the top tier of Korean professional football, K League 1. The match against Gangwon FC is expected to be the most important final assessment before returning home.Currently, the Vietnam national team is solidifying its preparation for the AFF Cup 2026 through this training camp in South Korea. The 6-0 victory against Siheung FC showcased their attacking strength, while the 2-1 win over Yongin FC confirmed their ability to secure results in challenging situations. The upcoming match against Gangwon FC is anticipated to be a final test of the team's current readiness and responsiveness in real match conditions.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-10 16:52:00
  • Korea and Mongolia Expand Supply Chain for Key Minerals Through CEPA
    Korea and Mongolia Expand Supply Chain for Key Minerals Through CEPA Korea and Mongolia have established a foundational agreement for securing a stable supply of key minerals such as copper, molybdenum, and rare earth elements through a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). However, challenges remain due to Mongolia's geographical characteristics and its high dependence on China, which may hinder actual supply chain diversification.According to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, the CEPA will eliminate the 2-5% import tariffs imposed by Korea on key minerals from Mongolia immediately upon its enactment. The two countries have agreed to include energy and mineral cooperation in the agreement, which will support the exploration, development, and supply chain integration of key minerals.Korea aims to diversify its sources for key minerals used in secondary batteries, semiconductors, and defense industries. Conversely, Mongolia can leverage its abundant mineral resources to foster resource development and processing industries, aligning the interests of both nations.Supply chain cooperation is already becoming evident. The Ministry reported that 27 tons of tungsten concentrate produced in Mongolia were supplied to Korea for the first time last month, with plans for increased supply. This follows a 2023 memorandum of understanding (MOU) on cooperation in rare metals supply chains between the two countries.The government plans to expand the scope of mineral cooperation from simple imports to local development and processing, using the CEPA as a catalyst. Kim Jeong-kwan, Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy, and Ganbaatar Damdinnyam, Mongolia's Minister of Mining and Heavy Industry, met in Ulaanbaatar to agree on elevating the existing rare metals cooperation committee from a vice-ministerial to a ministerial level.The two nations plan to convene a ministerial cooperation committee in the second half of this year to revise the existing MOU to include local primary processing, separation and refining, stable supply, and investment cooperation. A separate working group at the director level will be established to continuously address issues faced by businesses on the ground.However, simply eliminating tariffs may not be sufficient to stabilize the supply chain for key minerals. While Mongolia has rich mineral deposits, it lacks the technology and funding necessary for resource development, and its transportation infrastructure, including railways and roads, is inadequate. The logistics structure, which relies on transit through China, is also a variable that needs to be addressed in the supply chain development process.Domestic companies and institutions attending a mineral industry meeting on the same day identified logistics and local regulatory issues as major challenges. The government plans to address these concerns through ministerial meetings and aims to transition the public development assistance (ODA) project of the rare metals cooperation center, set to conclude next year, into a sustainable cooperation platform.Building a supply chain for key minerals will take considerable time, so the short-term effects of the CEPA are expected to first manifest in consumer goods sectors such as cosmetics and processed foods. Tariffs on cosmetics will be eliminated immediately upon the agreement's enactment, while tariffs on ramen and seasoned seaweed will be phased out over five years.Notably, major Korean retail companies such as E-Mart, GS Retail, and BGF Retail have already established a strong presence in Mongolia, creating a local sales network for Korean products. The newly opened No Brand store in Mongolia features approximately 2,100 out of 4,900 products sourced from Korea, expected to serve as an export channel for domestic small and medium-sized enterprises.The government plans to leverage the tariff reduction effects of the CEPA and the local networks of domestic retail companies to establish a 'Mongolia K-Retail and Consumer Goods Carrier.' Retail companies will act as export agents for small and medium-sized enterprises, while organizations like KOTRA and the Korea Trade Insurance Corporation will provide comprehensive support in logistics, certification, finance, and intellectual property protection.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-10 16:52:00
  • Park Min-kyu Withdraws Bill Allowing Performance Bonuses in Local Currency
    Park Min-kyu Withdraws Bill Allowing Performance Bonuses in Local Currency Park Min-kyu, a lawmaker from the Democratic Party of Korea, withdrew a proposed amendment to the Labor Standards Act that would have allowed companies to pay performance bonuses in local currency after facing criticism from labor groups and the public.On July 10, Park announced on Facebook, "I humbly accept public opinion," adding, "I will prepare more carefully for ways our companies can grow together with local communities. I will deeply reflect on all the criticisms and concerns shared with me."The amendment, which Park introduced on July 8, included provisions allowing wages to be paid in forms other than cash, specifically mentioning local love gift certificates as an alternative.Park stated that the goal was to create a virtuous cycle where corporate profits and bonuses contribute to revitalizing the local economy.In response, the Samsung Group's labor union, Samsung Electronics branch, issued a statement asserting, "If you are confident that local love gift certificates are no different from cash, apply this experimental approach to the salaries of the lawmakers who proposed it, not to workers' wages." They also described the proposal as a "dangerous attempt that undermines the foundation of wage payment." 2026-07-10 16:48:00
  • Shinhan Financial Supports 51 Disabled Youths for Overseas Training
    Shinhan Financial Supports 51 Disabled Youths for Overseas Training Shinhan Financial Group is providing 500 million won to support overseas training and global capacity building for disabled youth. On July 10, Shinhan Financial announced the launch of the 21st 'Dream Team' for disabled youth at the Glad Hotel in Yeouido, Seoul. The Dream Team program assists disabled youth in exploring various social issues and career paths through overseas experiences. Since 2005, Shinhan Financial has sponsored this initiative in collaboration with the Korea Association of Persons with Disabilities Rehabilitation. A total of 1,138 youths have participated in overseas training through last year. This year, 51 newly selected disabled and non-disabled youths will be supported with the funding. The 21st cohort will focus on the theme 'Challenging Six Continents' and will conduct training in countries including Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Australia. The training will consist of planned sessions with experts and free sessions where participants design their own topics and schedules. Participants will investigate global social issues related to disabilities, such as coexistence strategies for sign language and spoken language in the age of artificial intelligence (AI) and fairness in the employment process for people with disabilities. They will also seek applicable solutions for Korea through visits to local institutions and interviews with experts. Jin Ok-dong, Chairman of Shinhan Financial, stated, "Our society has developed through the challenges posed by individuals who transcend boundaries and explore new possibilities. I hope this training will be a meaningful challenge for participants toward a larger world."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-10 16:48:00
  • Blue House Reviews Impact of Single-Stock Leverage ETFs Amid Market Volatility
    Blue House Reviews Impact of Single-Stock Leverage ETFs Amid Market Volatility Kim Yong-beom, head of the Blue House Policy Office, addressed the recent volatility in the KOSPI index on July 10, attributing it to the introduction of single-stock leverage exchange-traded funds (ETFs). He stated, "Since this is a newly implemented system, I believe that if any adjustments are necessary, decisions will be made during the market situation review meetings."During a briefing at the Blue House, Kim noted that the Ministry of Economy and Finance, the Financial Services Commission, the Bank of Korea, and the Financial Supervisory Service are closely monitoring the market conditions. He explained, "Each institution is examining the situation, and since the ETFs have been operational for about a month and a half, we will also look closely at their impact on the market during this period."In addition, Kim addressed the establishment of a semiconductor cluster at the Gwangju Air Base, stating that discussions between the U.S. and South Korea are necessary due to the base's current use by some U.S. military personnel. He confirmed, "We have already begun consultations with the U.S."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-10 16:44:00
  • North Korean Premier Pak Tae-sung Arrives in Beijing for 65th Anniversary of Friendship Treaty
    North Korean Premier Pak Tae-sung Arrives in Beijing for 65th Anniversary of Friendship Treaty Pak Tae-sung, the Premier of North Korea, led a delegation on an official visit to Beijing on July 10 to attend the 65th anniversary celebration of the North Korea-China Friendship and Cooperation Treaty.According to Chinese state media Xinhua and the People's Daily, the North Korean delegation arrived at Beijing Capital International Airport on the morning of July 10 and began their schedule in China by visiting Tiananmen Square to pay tribute at the Monument to the People's Heroes. The delegation is set to spend three days in China, with plans to attend the anniversary event on July 11.On the eve of the visit, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry officially announced Premier Pak's trip, stating that China aims to strengthen strategic communication and enhance exchanges and cooperation with North Korea in accordance with important agreements reached between the top leaders of both parties and countries. The spokesperson emphasized the desire to promote the continuous development of the traditional friendship and cooperative relationship between the two nations.Earlier, Chinese President Xi Jinping visited North Korea on June 8-9 at the invitation of Kim Jong-un, Chairman of the Workers' Party of Korea, to discuss ways to strengthen North Korea-China relations. Additionally, on July 1, Kim Jong-un sent a congratulatory message to President Xi on the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China, reaffirming the commitment to enhancing the friendly relations between the two countries.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-10 16:36:00
  • Prosecutors seek 13 years in prison for Moonies leader over bribery allegations
    Prosecutors seek 13 years in prison for Moonies leader over bribery allegations SEOUL, July 10 (AJP) - Prosecutors on Friday sought a 13-year prison term for Han Hak-ja, leader of the powerful Unification Church, better known as the Moonies, over multiple allegations including bribery involving former first lady Kim Keon Hee. Han, the widow of the church's founder Moon Sun-myung, is suspected of bribing Kim with a luxury bag and jewelry, in return for favors for the church in 2022. She is also accused of colluding with an ex-cult follower the same year to give 100 million won (US$72,400) to Kweon Seong-dong, former leader of the main opposition People Power Party (PPP), in exchange for his help in securing favors for the church. During a final hearing at the Seoul Central District Court in southern Seoul, prosecutors said, "It is a grave crime that severely violated the constitutional principle of the separation of religion and politics and undermined democratic values." But Han remained firm, denying any involvement in the alleged bribery and claiming that the follower acted on his own. Her verdict is expected to be handed down sometime early next month. 2026-07-10 16:30:35
  • GC Green Cross and Korea Vaccine Collaborate on Vaccine PFS Contract Manufacturing
    GC Green Cross and Korea Vaccine Collaborate on Vaccine PFS Contract Manufacturing GC Green Cross and Korea Vaccine have entered into a partnership for contract manufacturing of pre-filled syringes (PFS) for vaccines. This collaboration is seen as a strategic move to ensure production stability amid increasing supply chain uncertainties in the vaccine market.The two companies aim to enhance their finished pharmaceutical production capabilities while improving their responsiveness to emergencies such as pandemics.On July 9, GC Green Cross and Korea Vaccine signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for vaccine CMO business cooperation at Korea Vaccine's headquarters in Ansan, Gyeonggi Province.The agreement establishes a collaborative framework for the overall contract manufacturing of vaccine PFS and accelerates the expansion of production capacity.GC Green Cross plans to diversify its production infrastructure for its flagship flu vaccine, 'GC Flu,' to strengthen supply chain stability both domestically and internationally. Additionally, the company aims to secure a manufacturing and supply base for a high-immunogenic flu vaccine currently under development, targeting product approval within the next three years.The company emphasized the significance of proactively securing finished vaccine production capacity that can be utilized immediately in the event of a global public health crisis or pandemic. They believe that establishing a stable production system is directly linked to business competitiveness in a rapidly changing vaccine demand landscape.Korea Vaccine provides various biopharmaceutical contract manufacturing services based on its GMP facilities that meet World Health Organization (WHO) prequalification and Pharmaceutical Inspection Co-operation Scheme (PIC/S) standards. With experience in producing seasonal influenza vaccines and transdermal BCG vaccines, the collaboration is expected to lead to actual production stability.Shin Woong, head of operations at GC Green Cross, stated, "By combining the core competencies of both companies, we will enhance supply chain stability and contribute to the timely delivery of high-quality vaccines." Park Hong-kyo, head of the Korea Vaccine Bio Plant, also noted, "We have established a faster and more stable vaccine supply system."Meanwhile, GC Green Cross announced that it has received approximately 286.8 billion won in contract payments related to the transfer of shares from Eli Lilly to its U.S. affiliate, Curevo Vaccine.On July 9, GC Green Cross received 286.8 billion won from Eli Lilly as part of an upfront payment of 308.7 billion won, which will be paid within six business days upon fulfillment of closing conditions. If additional subsequent conditions are met, the remaining contract payment of 21.9 billion won will also be received.A representative from GC Green Cross stated, "All closing conditions related to the share transfer agreement between Curevo and Eli Lilly, signed in May, have been fulfilled, and the receipt of the contract payment has been completed. This amount is expected to be recognized as net income in the third quarter of this year."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-10 16:28:00
  • Hanwha Ocean Sells $2 Billion in Currency Futures After Canadian Submarine Setback
    Hanwha Ocean Sells $2 Billion in Currency Futures After Canadian Submarine Setback Hanwha Ocean, which faced a setback in the Canadian submarine project, sold approximately $2 billion (about 3 trillion won) in the won-dollar currency futures market on July 10, according to a source cited by Reuters.Following this news, the won strengthened, causing the won-dollar exchange rate to drop to 1500.0 won.Reuters noted that Hanwha Ocean's dollar sale coincided with efforts by South Korea's foreign exchange authorities to prevent the won from weakening, as well as expectations of reduced foreign selling in the domestic stock market and anticipated inflows of foreign capital due to SK Hynix's issuance of American Depositary Receipts (ADRs). This dollar sale occurred amid signs that the recent strength of the dollar and weakness of the won may be stabilizing.On the previous day, SK Hynix announced that it had set the public offering price for its ADRs at $149, issuing a total of 177.9 million shares to raise $26.57 billion, or about 40 trillion won. This surpasses Alibaba's $25 billion, making it the largest IPO by a foreign company in the U.S. Additionally, Moon Ji-sung, the Deputy Minister of International Economic Affairs at the Ministry of Economy and Finance, stated in a call with Yonhap Infomax that the current exchange rate remains misaligned with fundamentals. He suggested that supply and demand in the second half of the year would gradually reflect fundamentals, indicating a potential decline in the won-dollar exchange rate.Meanwhile, Hanwha Ocean lost out to Germany's ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) in the announcement of the preferred bidder for the Canadian Submarine Project (CPSP), which is valued at up to 60 trillion won, on July 6 (local time). 2026-07-10 16:28:00