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  • KOSDAQ Index Recovers Above 800 Amid Institutional Buying; Semiconductor and Bio Stocks Surge
    KOSDAQ Index Recovers Above 800 Amid Institutional Buying; Semiconductor and Bio Stocks Surge The KOSDAQ index has regained the 800-point mark, bolstered by institutional buying. Following a recent decline that eased valuation pressures, bargain-hunting has emerged, particularly in large-cap stocks in the semiconductor and biotechnology sectors.As of 11:18 a.m. on July 9, the KOSDAQ index was trading at 803.35, up 18.35 points (2.34%) from the previous trading day.The KOSPI also continued its upward trend, rising 138.00 points (1.90%) to reach 7384.79.In the KOSDAQ market, institutions led the index's rise with a net purchase of 223.6 billion won, while individual and foreign investors sold a net 215.3 billion won and 9.9 billion won, respectively.Most large-cap stocks showed strong performance. Notable gainers included EcoPro BM (up 1.51%), EcoPro (up 3.08%), Rainbow Robotics (up 3.38%), JUSUNG Engineering (up 6.69%), Kolon TissueGene (up 2.76%), HLB (up 7.58%), Rino Technology (up 3.47%), and Wonik IPS (up 3.51%).In the securities market, individuals sold a net 1.7959 trillion won, while foreign and institutional investors bought a net 331.2 billion won and 1.5077 trillion won, respectively.Among large-cap stocks, Samsung Electronics (up 2.16%), SK Hynix (up 6.79%), SK Square (up 4.33%), Samsung Electro-Mechanics (up 2.10%), and LG Energy Solution (up 2.54%) also saw gains. In contrast, Hyundai Motor (-2.49%) and Samsung Life (-5.06%) experienced declines.Analysts noted that the recent drop in stock prices has made valuations more attractive, leading to increased bargain-hunting. Kang Jin-hyuk, a senior researcher at Shinhan Investment Corp, stated, "The KOSPI price-to-earnings ratio (PER) has entered a deep value zone at 6.17 times, lower than the financial crisis low of 6.27 times. Following the sell-off phase, bargain-hunting has emerged, particularly in the semiconductor sector, helping to lift the market out of oversold conditions."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-09 11:48:00
  • Clean Country Challenges Detergent Market with Four New Customized Products
    Clean Country Challenges Detergent Market with Four New Customized Products Clean Country has launched four new customized detergents, including three laundry capsule detergents and one dishwasher tablet, marking its entry into the detergent market.According to Clean Country, the new products are designed with the concept of "detergents made by Clean Country that you can trust and choose," enhancing functionality and ease of selection.The customized detergent lineup includes: a 99% powerful deodorizing capsule detergent that reduces sweat odor; a strong cleaning capsule detergent that effectively cares for everyday stains; a capsule detergent that eliminates musty odors and provides a fresh scent reminiscent of sun-dried laundry; and an all-in-one dishwasher tablet that powerfully cleans stuck-on food and water stains.The new products feature intuitive packaging that reflects their key functions on the front, making it easy for consumers to understand the necessary features without needing to remember product names. The product names and designs incorporate common household concerns such as "indoor drying," "sweat odor," and "everyday stains," allowing shoppers to quickly identify the right product for their needs.The laundry capsule detergents have enhanced specialized functions. The "indoor drying capsule detergent that eliminates musty odors" removes 99% of acetic acid, a substance that causes indoor drying smells, and delivers a fresh scent as if dried in sunlight. The "99% powerful deodorizing capsule detergent that reduces sweat odor" helps eliminate substances that cause sweat smells, while the "strong cleaning capsule detergent that effectively cares for everyday stains" is designed to remove food, cosmetics, and grease stains.The "all-in-one dishwasher tablet that powerfully cleans stuck-on food and water stains" combines the necessary functions for dishwashing, including detergent and rinse aid, into one product. It is designed for convenience, allowing users to simply place one tablet in the dishwasher without unwrapping it. It effectively cleans food stains and grease, and has passed tests showing it eliminates 99.9% of harmful bacteria.Earlier, Clean Country announced its vision to enhance its manufacturing competitiveness through the "AX" infrastructure as it celebrated its 60th anniversary in March. The company plans to integrate AX into its growth strategy, focusing on improving operational and decision-making systems.A Clean Country representative stated, "As consumers' living environments and usage purposes diversify, there is a growing demand for products that allow easy and intuitive selection of necessary functions. We plan to continue expanding products tailored to living environments and consumer lifestyles, establishing ourselves as a lifestyle care brand."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-09 11:44:00
  • President Lee Advocates Comprehensive Mineral Cooperation with Mongolia
    President Lee Advocates Comprehensive Mineral Cooperation with Mongolia President Lee Jae-myung emphasized the potential for comprehensive cooperation in the mineral industry with Mongolia, stating, "We can create a business model that involves participation throughout the entire supply chain of critical minerals, from exploration to refining and the training of personnel for value-added industries."During his state visit to Mongolia, President Lee made these remarks in an interview with the Mongolian state media outlet Montsame, published on the morning of July 9. He expressed optimism that the rare metals center, which opened last year, could serve as a hub for expanding cooperation in the critical mineral supply chain between the two countries.He noted, "Mongolia, with its excellent mineral resources and growth potential, and South Korea, with its capabilities in mineral exploration, development technology, and manufacturing innovation, can become important partners in supply chain cooperation." He stressed the need to develop a mutually beneficial supply chain cooperation model that goes beyond mere participation in mining development to add value.President Lee stated, "Such cooperation will provide South Korea with a stable supply chain for critical minerals and contribute to Mongolia's industrial advancement and enhancement of value-creation technology capabilities. I hope our cooperation model continues to strengthen our bilateral relations and contribute to economic development in both countries."Regarding Mongolia's role in achieving sustainable peace on the Korean Peninsula, President Lee remarked, "Currently, dialogue between North and South Korea and between the U.S. and North Korea has been stalled for a long time. In such times, it is crucial for the international community to maintain communication channels with North Korea and create opportunities for dialogue to discuss regional peace."He expressed hope that Mongolia could play a significant role as a trusted peace partner and a country that communicates with North Korea, thereby building regional trust.President Lee also expressed his expectation that Mongolia would continue to contribute to peace and stability in Northeast Asia, based on the diplomatic trust it has built and the important asset of the Ulaanbaatar Dialogue.On the topic of expanding human exchanges, he noted, "Last year, the number of mutual visitors between our two countries reached a record high of 360,000. The trust and goodwill between our peoples form a strong foundation for the Korea-Mongolia relationship, stronger than any agreement."He outlined a vision to achieve 500,000 human exchanges by 2030, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations. President Lee stated, "I plan to propose to President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh during our summit that we aim for 500,000 exchanges by 2030. Additionally, we will work together to establish a legal framework for this goal, including signing an agreement on mutual recognition of driver's licenses and advancing consular agreements to enhance practical benefits for our citizens."He also emphasized the need to continuously improve the treatment and living conditions of Mongolian workers and students in South Korea, stating, "We must expand the physical infrastructure that allows our citizens to travel more easily and conveniently, including expanding air routes and transportation rights."President Lee described his visit to Mongolia as a turning point in elevating the Korea-Mongolia relationship to a future-oriented strategic partnership and a chance to usher in a new golden era for bilateral relations. He expressed hope that the term 'golden' (altan) would symbolize prosperity and glory, and that the golden era of Korea-Mongolia relations would be remembered as a proud new chapter for both nations.He also addressed the challenges facing both countries, stating, "There are numerous cooperation tasks we must tackle together, including trade, supply chains, health, climate change response, and food security. I am confident this will be a valuable time to reaffirm that South Korea and Mongolia are each other's most trusted friends and partners in opening the future together."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-09 11:44:00
  • National Assembly to Hold Hearing on Korea Football Association on July 22
    National Assembly to Hold Hearing on Korea Football Association on July 22 The National Assembly's Culture and Sports Committee has decided to hold a hearing on the Korea Football Association at 10 a.m. on July 22. The ruling People Power Party boycotted the session, which was led by the Democratic Party.Committee Chair Lee Jae-jung stated, "This hearing aims to address various issues regarding the appointment process of the national football team coach and the overall operations of the Korea Football Association." He announced the adoption of the hearing plan.He emphasized, "While we respect the autonomy and expertise of the Korea Football Association, we cannot overlook the role of the National Assembly considering the public nature of football."In response, lawmaker Jo Gye-won remarked, "The arrogance of the Korea Football Association has reached its peak," urging the National Assembly to ensure the full attendance and diligent submission of materials from key figures, including former Korea Football Association President Chung Mong-kyu and former coach Hong Myung-bo, to properly voice the public's concerns.Meanwhile, the South Korean national football team recorded one win and two losses in the group stage of the 2026 North and Central America World Cup, failing to advance to the knockout stage. This marked the team's worst performance in history under the newly implemented 48-team format. 2026-07-09 11:40:00
  • 82.4% of Koreans Support Civic Education for Students Amid Classroom Challenges
    82.4% of Koreans Support Civic Education for Students Amid Classroom Challenges More than 82% of Koreans believe that students need civic education on current political and social issues. The majority of the public prefers addressing societal concerns in schools, rather than relying on biased information found on platforms like YouTube and social media. However, in the educational environment, teachers are reportedly engaging in self-censorship due to vague standards of 'political neutrality' and indiscriminate complaints from parents. This gap in civic education is seen not as an individual teacher's issue, but as a reflection of a harsh institutional environment that fails to protect legitimate educational activities. On July 9, the Korean Teachers and Education Workers Union Policy Research Institute, led by Song Soo-yeon, released the results of a national survey on civic education conducted from April 17 to 22, involving 5,000 men and women aged 16 to 70. The survey included in-depth interviews with ten educational stakeholders and an analysis of last year's survey on complaints related to teacher education rights and political issues.Civic Education Needs to Be Taught in Schools, Say 82.4% of KoreansThe survey revealed that 82.4% of respondents believe it is necessary to educate students about current political issues and social problems, with only 10.0% opposing this view. A significant 66.4% identified 'school' as the primary place for students to learn about these issues. Additionally, 67.4% supported the idea of teachers addressing political and social issues in their lessons, while 20.8% opposed it, indicating a high level of acceptance for such discussions in classrooms. The most common reason for support, cited by 27.6% of respondents, was that educational treatment of these issues is preferable to biased information from social media. Other reasons included the development of balanced thinking from diverse perspectives (25.4%) and the enhancement of critical thinking skills (24.8%). The researchers noted that the public expects civic education to serve as a protective barrier that fosters students' judgment in a sea of biased information, rather than merely injecting specific ideologies.66.0% Find Current Civic Education Insufficient, Citing Environmental IssuesWhile 83.7% agreed on the need for civic education in schools, 66.0% rated the current level of civic education as 'insufficient.' This indicates a significant gap between public expectations and the realities of the school environment. The teachers' union attributed this gap to an 'educational environment that hinders civic education.' According to last year's survey, teachers faced indiscriminate accusations of 'political bias' even when teaching content outlined in the curriculum. Specifically, teachers reported being obstructed when explaining historical events like the May 18 Democratic Uprising or the April 3 Incident, and even faced complaints for teaching about the Sewol ferry disaster or discussing sensitive topics like Dokdo and hate speech. Instances of teachers being scrutinized for their personal social media activities or the colors of their clothing, accused of violating political neutrality, have also been reported. As a result, teachers often avoid discussing current issues altogether or adopt a defensive approach by mechanically reading from textbooks. One teacher expressed, 'While I haven't received complaints, I feel intimidated and self-censor during class, which creates tension.' In this context, parents and students emphasized the need for a systemic approach rather than relying solely on individual teachers. The researchers pointed out that demanding enhanced civic education without providing protection for teachers is tantamount to asking them to endure more complaints and conflicts while teaching.Teachers' Union: Political Neutrality Should Not Mean 'Silence'; Urgent Need for Institutional ProtectionIn response to the survey results, the teachers' union emphasized that strengthening civic education in schools does not merely mean expanding its quantity. They stressed the importance of creating an environment where teachers can address real societal issues, hate speech, distorted information, historical facts, and the values and responsibilities of democracy based on the curriculum. To achieve this, they called for: 1) the state and educational authorities to take responsibility for protecting civic education; 2) reinterpreting political neutrality as a principle that guarantees students' autonomous judgment rather than silence; 3) expanding civic education as a collective responsibility of the entire educational community; and 4) promoting policies that respect and support on-site educational activities. The teachers' union warned that if educational authorities do not create an environment where teachers can teach without fear, efforts to enhance civic education will remain mere declarations. They urged immediate action to establish institutional measures that protect legitimate educational activities and allow teachers to teach without fear.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-09 11:36:00
  • Jongkundang Launches R&D Subsidiary Neurateon
    Jongkundang Launches R&D Subsidiary 'Neurateon' Jongkundang has established a research and development subsidiary, Neurateon, to expand its R&D platform business. The company plans to provide R&D services to domestic and international pharmaceutical and biotech firms, covering areas from new drug research to technology transfer.On July 8, Jongkundang held a founding ceremony for Neurateon at the Hyojong Research Institute in Dongbaek, Yongin. The event was attended by Choi Hee-nam, CEO of Jongkundang Holdings, along with Won Dong-han, CEO of Neurateon, and over 100 employees.Neurateon will leverage the R&D capabilities and technologies accumulated at Jongkundang's Hyojong Research Institute to conduct the entire R&D process, including the development of new drug formulations, improved drugs, generics, and over-the-counter (OTC) products, as well as analytical research, formulation research, and drug delivery system (DDS) research.The company aims to broaden its customer base among domestic and international pharmaceutical and biotech firms by expanding its own product development and technology transfer, positioning itself as a technology-driven R&D platform company.The name Neurateon combines 'New Era' and 'Technology Innovation,' symbolizing the company's commitment to ushering in a new era in the pharmaceutical industry based on technological competitiveness.During the ceremony, Neurateon presented its vision as a 'R&D platform company opening a new era through technological innovation' and outlined its mission to contribute to human health with differentiated technologies and innovative new products. Its core values include Technology, Collaboration, and Innovation.Won Dong-han, a former executive at Jongkundang's research institute, has been appointed as the CEO of the newly established Neurateon. He holds a Ph.D. in pharmacy from Pusan National University and has 23 years of experience in technology research within the pharmaceutical and biotech sectors.Won stated, 'Neurateon is a technology-based R&D platform company that provides the best services to our customers and partners based on excellent research personnel and expertise. We will differentiate through technology and expand through collaboration to open a new era in the future pharmaceutical industry.'Since establishing the first central research institute in the domestic pharmaceutical industry in 1972, Jongkundang has continued to invest in raw material and finished product R&D and the training of research personnel. 2026-07-09 11:32:00
  • LS Cable Achieves First Certification for HVDC Submarine Cable with 25% Increased Capacity
    LS Cable Achieves First Certification for HVDC Submarine Cable with 25% Increased Capacity LS Cable has successfully commercialized a high-voltage direct current (HVDC) submarine cable with the highest transmission capacity. On July 9, LS Cable announced that it has passed the international certification process known as Pre-Qualification (PQ) for its 525kV·80℃ HVDC submarine cable, becoming the first in South Korea to do so. This certification establishes a supply foundation for products that can be immediately applied to the West Coast Energy Highway project.In future contracts, the company will only need to undergo a simplified type test before supplying products.The newly developed submarine cable has increased the allowable temperature of the conductor from 70 degrees to 80 degrees, significantly boosting transmission capacity by up to 25%. It is recognized as a next-generation power grid technology optimized for long-distance and large-capacity transmission, requiring advanced high-voltage insulation technology and long-term reliability.LS Cable's major subsidiaries are also accelerating their competitiveness in line with the expansion of the power infrastructure market. LS Eco Energy has completed PQ testing for a 400kV high-voltage cable aimed at the North American market, while Gaon Cable has finished developing high-voltage cables that meet Korea Electric Power Corporation standards and plans to begin full-scale supply next year.An LS Cable official stated, "Passing this PQ test is a significant milestone for securing a foothold in the next-generation national power grid market," adding, "We will solidify our strategy to target both the domestic energy highway and the global HVDC market by combining our manufacturing and construction turnkey capabilities with LS Marine Solutions."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-09 11:32:00
  • Laser Cell Shares Surge Over 17% Following Semiconductor Equipment Contract
    Laser Cell Shares Surge Over 17% Following Semiconductor Equipment Contract Laser Cell's shares rose more than 17% in early trading following news of a major semiconductor equipment supply contract.According to the Korea Exchange, as of 10:53 a.m., Laser Cell's stock was trading at 5,190 won, up 775 won (17.55%) from the previous trading day. The stock opened at 4,415 won and peaked at 5,290 won during the session, before giving back some of its gains. The day before, it had also closed up 4.13%.The recent surge in Laser Cell's stock price is attributed to investor optimism following the announcement of the semiconductor equipment supply contract.According to a filing with the Financial Supervisory Service's electronic disclosure system, Laser Cell announced on July 7 that it had signed a semiconductor equipment supply contract worth 1.79 billion won with a global semiconductor substrate company in South Korea. The contract period extends until the end of March next year, with 50% of the contract amount due within 30 days of the order, and the remaining balance to be paid within 60 days after delivery and inspection. The order date was July 6.This contract amount represents 38.21% of last year's revenue, which was approximately 4.68 billion won. The identity of the contracting party has not been disclosed due to a request for confidentiality.Laser Cell, listed on the KOSDAQ, develops and manufactures laser-based semiconductor equipment.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-09 11:32:00
  • Interview: Choi Min-sik on Overcoming Limitations in Acting
    Interview: Choi Min-sik on Overcoming Limitations in Acting 영화 '파묘'와 '명량', '신세계', '범죄와의 전쟁: 나쁜놈들 전성시대', '악마를 보았다' 등 수많은 작품에서 압도적인 존재감으로 인물을 완성해온 최민식이 넷플릭스 드라마 '맨 끝줄 소년'으로 돌아온다.극 중 최민식은 20년 전 단 한 편의 소설을 낸 뒤 더는 글을 쓰지 못하는 국문학과 교수 허문오를 맡았다. 학생들의 글 앞에서는 냉소적이고 퉁명스럽지만 강의실 맨 끝줄에 앉은 이강의 글에서 오랜만에 다음 이야기를 궁금해하며 개인 문학 수업을 제안한다. 최민식은 작가로서의 결핍과 열패감이 한 학생의 재능을 향한 집착으로 번져가는 과정을 밀도 있게 그려낸다."사실 별 기대를 안 했었거든요. 요즘 트렌드가 워낙 빠르고, 미디어 환경도 달라졌고 속도감 있는 전개에 익숙한 젊은 층이 많이 소비하니까 '과연 좋아할까' 하는 의구심이 있었죠. 그래도 '그러거나 말거나 나는 이렇게 간다'는 마음으로 촬영했는데 의외로 많이들 진지하게 작품의 주제 의식에 공감해주시고 비판도 해주시더라고요. 작품이 내포한 시사점과 주제 의식을 두고 토론하시는 걸 보면서 좋았습니다. 진지하고 어둡지만 인간 내면의 본래 욕망, 허문오와 이강의 민낯, 욕망에 중독되고 굴절된 인간의 모습을 보면서 많은 이야기를 나눴으면 했는데 그 의도가 어느 정도 전달된 것 같아요."허문오를 움직이는 감정은 문학에 대한 욕망과 친구 김수훈을 향한 열등감이 뒤섞여 있다. 최민식은 허문오를 작가이자 지식인으로 보면서도 창작자로서의 본질보다 외형적 성공에 집착한 것이 비극의 단초가 됐다고 해석했다."혼재돼 있다고 봐야 할 것 같습니다. 허문오는 작가예요. 비록 20년 전에 낸 소설 한 편 이후 후속작이 없는 사람이지만 작가는 맞죠. 대학에서 국문학을 가르치고 있으니 지식인이자 작가입니다. 그런데 창작자로서 갖춰야 할 덕목에서 벗어나 외형적인 출세에 너무 집착하지 않았나 싶어요. 그게 비극의 단초가 됐다고 봅니다. 김수훈의 독설이 굉장한 트라우마가 된 거죠. 내면이 단단한 사람이었다면 '별 미친놈을 보겠네' 하고 넘겼을 텐데 그 말이 오랜 시간 본인을 괴롭혔고 거기에 함몰된 겁니다. 글에 대한 욕망은 정말 절절하죠. 아이들을 가르치는 교단에 섰지만, 이강이의 나이에 걸맞지 않은 독특한 형식과 문학적 소양을 엿보고 바로 빠져들잖아요. 이야기를 향한 허문오의 열망은 살아 있습니다. 외형적인 출세 욕구와 작가로서의 근본적인 욕망이 혼재돼 있다고 봐야겠죠."창작자로서 한계에 부딪힌 경험도 자연스럽게 떠올렸다. 최민식은 남과의 비교에서 오는 열등감보다 스스로의 한계를 넘어서지 못할 때의 괴로움이 더 컸다고 말했다."남과 비교해서 열등감을 가져본 적은 별로 기억이 없습니다. 제 스스로의 한계에 부딪혀 괴로웠던 적은 수도 없이 많지만요. 그건 연극할 때부터 그랬습니다. 한계를 깨고 나가고 소위 업데이트되는 것. 이건 죽을 때까지 하는 직업이 배우이고 창작하는 사람들의 몫인 것 같습니다. 글도, 음악도, 그림도 마찬가지겠죠. 나가떨어질 때도 많습니다. 그런데 나가떨어져서 다시 일어나지 못하고 함몰되면 그걸로 끝이죠. 허문오는 함몰된 경우이고, 유일한 돌파구가 이강의 글이었던 겁니다."허문오와 달리 최민식은 외부의 평가에 자신을 오래 묶어두지 않는 편이라고 했다. 남의 성취에 휘둘리기보다 자신이 할 수 있는 일을 해나가는 태도에 가깝다."왜 열등감이 없겠어요. 그런데 저는 저로서 사니까 남으로 인해 스트레스를 받는 건 별로 없는 것 같습니다. '너 잘났구나. 그래. 나는 또 나대로 이런 게 있어' 하는 식이죠. 상을 누가 탔는데 나는 못 탔다고 속상했던 적도 없습니다. '그다음에 타면 되지' 하는 쪽이었어요. 다만 내가 나 때문에 속상한 적은 많습니다. 내가 봤을 때 '아, 이건 아니야. 왜 내가 저렇게 했지' 싶은 건 못 견딥니다. 분명히 짚고 넘어가지만 오래 남겨놓지는 않는 편입니다."그는 대사 한마디와 장면의 흐름을 악보처럼 받아들였다고 했다. 전체 6부작 안에서 허문오가 어떻게 시작해 어디까지 무너지는지를 따라가며 김기태 감독의 연출 안에서 정확히 연주하려 했다."저는 대사 한마디 한마디, 문장 하나하나를 악보 같은 느낌으로 봤습니다. 김기태 감독님을 '총장님'이라고 불렀어요. 대학교니까요. 총장님의 지휘 아래 제가 어떻게 연주하느냐의 문제였습니다. 6부작 전체를 봤을 때 처음에는 어떤 악기로 시작하고 나중에는 어떻게 휘몰아쳐 가느냐, 그런 재미가 있었죠. 글이 좋고 연출자의 촘촘하고 디테일한 연출이 있으면 배우들은 편안해집니다. 그에 따라 정확하게 연주하려고 노력했을 뿐입니다."마지막 장면에서는 허문오가 받은 충격과 붕괴의 정도를 여러 방식으로 시도했다. 이강에게 이용당했다는 사실을 받아들이는 순간, 인물은 극단적인 감정의 끝까지 밀려난다."마지막 장면도 텍스트에는 울다가 웃다가 하는 식으로 쓰여 있었습니다. 제가 설정했던 건 '대박'이었고요. 우편물 봉투 자르는 칼이 옆에 있었는데, 패닉 상태에서 그걸 손목에 대는 설정도 해봤습니다. 여차하면 그냥 그을 수도 있을 정도로 큰 충격을 받은 거죠. 저 어린놈에게 여태까지 놀아난 것에 대한 데미지가 허문오에게는 그 정도까지 왔다고 생각했습니다. 그렇게 찍기도 했지만 결과적으로는 감독님께서 편집에서 선택하신 겁니다."상대역인 최현욱에 대해서는 칭찬을 아끼지 않았다. 최민식은 최현욱이 대사의 의미와 인물의 심리를 정확히 알고 현장에 왔다며 젊은 배우로서의 성실함과 감각을 높이 평가했다."보셨듯이 잘했잖아요. 정말 깜짝 놀랐습니다. 내가 저 나이에 저렇게 했나 싶을 정도였어요. 정확히 알고 하는 게 정말 중요합니다. 내가 이 대사를 어떤 느낌으로 하느냐를 알고 하는 것과 모르고 하는 건 완전히 다릅니다. 최현욱은 정확히 알고 하더라고요. 그만큼 고민을 많이 했고 정확하게 파악하고 왔다는 얘기죠. 얼마나 든든하고 예쁩니까. 이 친구가 오래 갔으면 좋겠습니다. 다른 작품, 다른 캐릭터를 할 때도 지금처럼 성실하게 해서 배우로 계속 성장해나갔으면 합니다."수많은 대표작을 가진 배우이지만, 최민식은 자신에게 붙은 평가와 수식에 머무르지 않으려 한다. 외부의 기준에 자신을 맞추는 순간 허문오처럼 될 수 있다는 경계도 있었다."제가 좀 과대평가됐죠. 농담이 아니라 저는 저한테 냉정하려고 노력을 많이 합니다. 외부의 기준에 내 스스로를 맞히기 시작하면 허문오처럼 되는 게 맞는 것 같습니다. '최민식이 예전에 명량도 하고 올드보이도 하고 연기파 배우야. 인정받았어'라고 생각하기 시작하면 금방입니다. 그런 평가는 고맙고 감사한 일이지만, 그건 저를 좋게 봐주셨다는 이야기입니다. 저는 그런 허세를 덜어내려고 노력합니다."오랜 시간 연기해왔지만 현장을 향한 애정은 여전히 뜨겁다. 최민식은 작업할 때 가장 행복하다며 앞으로도 더 표현하고 싶은 것이 많다고 말했다."저는 작업할 때가 좋습니다. 제일 행복합니다. 다른 일을 해본 적이 없습니다. 학교 다닐 때 아르바이트한 경험 외에는 사업을 해본 적도 직장 생활을 해본 적도 없어요. 이 일만 하고 살아왔습니다. 이제는 좋고 싫고를 떠나 부부 관계로 치면 부부 싸움은 많이 했지만 이혼은 안 한 것 같습니다. 갈등도 많이 하고 '왜 나는 이 작업을 이것밖에 이해하지 못하나' 하는 생각도 해왔지만 고등학교 3학년 때부터 시작한 일이니까요. 그래서 행복합니다. 앞으로도 더 하고 싶고 더 표현하고 싶은 것도 많습니다."목표나 최종 지향점에 대해서는 거창한 답을 내놓지 않았다. 상이나 위치보다 중요한 것은 계속해서 좋은 작품을 만나는 일이라고 했다."목표를 갖는다고 되는 건 아닙니다. 칸 영화제나 아카데미에서 상을 받았다고 해서 '이제 작업 끝났어'가 되나요? 그건 아니죠. 정말 좋은 작품, 더 좋은 작품을 하고 싶습니다. 주인공이 아니더라도요."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-09 11:28:00
  • Constitutional Court Justices Visit Spanish Constitutional Court to Discuss Legal System
    Constitutional Court Justices Visit Spanish Constitutional Court to Discuss Legal System The Constitutional Court announced that Justices Ma Eun-hyuk and Oh Young-jun officially visited the Spanish Constitutional Court on July 7 (local time).In a press release on July 9, the court stated that the justices examined the operation of Spain's advanced constitutional complaint system and engaged in in-depth discussions on future development plans.During their meeting with Cándido Conde Pumpido Tourón, President of the Spanish Constitutional Court, the justices exchanged views on the practical operation and development of the constitutional complaint system.President Conde Pumpido described the constitutional complaint system in Spain as "the most essential system for effectively guaranteeing the basic rights of citizens," emphasizing its significant role in fulfilling the court's mission to strengthen democracy through proper constitutional interpretation.He added, "It is natural that the judiciary must prioritize the protection of the constitution, just like other public powers." He noted that while the system initially faced inevitable conflicts with general courts, the Constitutional Court has successfully fulfilled its role as a guardian, leading to a general acceptance of its authority to control constitutional violations arising from judicial actions.Additionally, the justices, along with accompanying constitutional researchers and staff, held a practical meeting with Andrés Javier Gutiérrez Gil, Secretary of the Spanish Constitutional Court, to discuss procedural issues related to the Spanish constitutional complaint system.During this meeting, they listened to the practical operation of the Spanish constitutional complaint system and discussed specific issues such as the pre-examination procedures and criteria of designated panels, the composition and operation of research departments, and ways to enhance the efficiency of adjudication processes.Secretary Gutiérrez noted, "In Spain, the accumulation of decisions regarding constitutional complaints over a long period has fostered a culture that respects basic rights throughout society compared to before the system was introduced."He also mentioned that there has been significant improvement in basic rights sensitivity when general courts handle cases, expressing hope that Spain's experiences will serve as a valuable foundation for the operation of South Korea's constitutional complaint system.The justices agreed to continue sharing relevant materials by visiting the Spanish Constitutional Court library and conducted in-depth discussions with constitutional researcher Tomás de la Cuadra Salcedo on July 8.The Constitutional Court stated, "This visit has provided insights for the stable establishment and development of South Korea's constitutional complaint system, and we hope for strengthened cooperation between the two institutions."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-09 11:28:00