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  • Lee Chang-dong takes Silver Lion 24 years after Oasis
    Lee Chang-dong takes Silver Lion 24 years after Oasis SEOUL, September 13 (AJP) - South Korea's entry for next year's Academy Awards, Lee Chang-dong's "Possible Love," won the Silver Lion Grand Jury Prize at the 83rd Venice International Film Festival on Saturday (local time), the first South Korean film to take a prize in the festival's competition section in 14 years. The award, second only to the Golden Lion, was announced at the closing ceremony at the Palazzo del Cinema on the Lido. Hours earlier, a separate jury of professional critics had given the film the prize awarded by the International Federation of Film Critics, which judges the competition lineup independently of the festival's own panel. No South Korean film had won the Grand Jury Prize before. The Korean Film Council selected "Possible Love" as the country's official submission for the best international feature Oscar in late August, weeks before it screened for an audience anywhere. A 15-member committee chaired by film critic Jung Sung-il made the choice, citing Lee's record, the film's construction and the level of interest from North American press. Venice has now delivered the first outside verdict on that bet. The 99th Academy Awards will be held on March 14, 2027. A film must open commercially in its own country by Sept. 30 to qualify in the international feature category, a deadline "Possible Love" clears with its South Korean release on Sept. 23. Netflix, which holds worldwide streaming rights, intends to campaign the film for best picture as well, the Korean Film Council (KOFIC) said when it announced the selection. Lee accepted the prize on stage and read out the names of his four leads before thanking the crew. "Everybody on set who gave life to this film, to all the actors and the staff, thank you," he said. "This award belongs to all of you." "We are living in an era where the meaning of labor is fading and human connections are increasingly becoming severed. I made this film to ask what cinema can and should do in times like these," Lee said, adding: "I take this award as a sign that you want me to keep asking these questions." The film follows two married couples whose lives cross over a documentary shoot. Sul Kyung-gu plays Ho-seok, a factory worker who has lost his job, and Jeon Do-yeon plays his wife, Mi-ok. Cho Yeo-jeong plays Ye-ji, a documentary maker filming workers who were laid off, and Zo In-sung plays her affluent husband, Sang-woo. Lee wrote the screenplay with Oh Jung-mi. It is his first feature in eight years, after "Burning" in 2018. The world premiere on Sept. 6 drew a seven-minute standing ovation. Taking the jury award and the critics' award together repeats what Lee managed at Venice in 2002, when "Oasis" won the Silver Lion for best director and the International Federation of Film Critics (FIPRESCI) prize, and Moon So-ri won the Marcello Mastroianni Award for a new young performer. Lee taught high school Korean and published fiction before he began directing in his 40s, and he served as South Korea's culture minister from 2003 to 2004. His earlier films include "Peppermint Candy" in 2000, "Secret Sunshine" in 2007 and "Poetry" in 2010. Jeon won best actress at Cannes for "Secret Sunshine," and "Poetry" won best screenplay there three years later. "Possible Love" is the fourth Lee film to carry South Korea's Oscar submission, after "Oasis," "Secret Sunshine" and "Burning." "Burning" became the first South Korean film to reach the international category shortlist, in the 2019 awards season, and missed the final five. A year later, Bong Joon-ho's "Parasite" became the country's first nominee and first winner in the category, and the first film not in English to win best picture. The Golden Lion for best film went to May el-Toukhy's "Woman Unknown," a Danish drama about a woman hiding a wartime relationship with German soldiers, which also won the Volpi Cup for best actress for Mathilde Arcel. Ilya Khrzhanovsky won the Silver Lion for best director for "DAU," and John Malkovich took the Volpi Cup for best actor for "Wild Horse Nine." Maggie Gyllenhaal chaired the jury. "Possible Love" opens in South Korean theaters on Sept. 23, reaches limited release in the United States on Oct. 23 and streams worldwide on Netflix on Nov. 6. AJP Takeaways - The Venice International Film Festival's competition jury, chaired by Maggie Gyllenhaal, awarded the Silver Lion Grand Jury Prize to Lee Chang-dong's "Possible Love" at the closing ceremony on the Lido on Saturday, the first South Korean film to take a prize in the festival's competition section in 14 years and the first ever to win that award. - The Korean Film Council selected "Possible Love" as South Korea's official submission for the best international feature Oscar in late August, weeks before the film screened for an audience anywhere, and said Netflix intends to campaign it for best picture as well. That selection material comes from the council's own announcement rather than from the festival's awards release. - The International Federation of Film Critics gave "Possible Love" its prize for the competition lineup hours before the closing ceremony, pairing the jury and critics awards in the same way Lee's "Oasis" did at Venice in 2002. - Netflix will stream the film worldwide on Nov. 6, following its South Korean theatrical opening on Sept. 23 and a limited United States release on Oct. 23. 2026-09-13 10:09:11
  • Oil Supply Remains Stable Despite Middle East Crisis; July Imports Up 9.8%
    Oil Supply Remains Stable Despite Middle East Crisis; July Imports Up 9.8% Despite the prolonged conflict in the Middle East and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, South Korea's crude oil imports have rebounded quickly, ensuring stability in the supply of petroleum products. This recovery is attributed to government support for oil supply and strategic oil swaps.According to the Korea Petroleum Association, crude oil imports in July increased by 9.8% compared to the same month last year. This marks a rapid recovery from a low of approximately 64.5 million barrels in April, the lowest level since 2010, at the onset of the Middle East conflict.The association cited proactive measures by the government and companies to secure oil supplies as key factors in maintaining a steady supply of essential petroleum products such as gasoline, kerosene, and diesel, preventing any disruptions for the public.Additionally, South Korean refiners are also playing a role in addressing oil supply shortages in allied countries, responding to requests from nations like Australia and New Zealand amid a global oil supply crisis.A representative from the Korea Petroleum Association stated, "The refining industry will do its utmost to stabilize domestic prices and supply until global oil supply issues are resolved, while also contributing to the stabilization of global petroleum product supplies." 2026-09-13 10:08:10
  • Mobile Phone Bills to Get Additional 25% Discount: Who Qualifies?
    Mobile Phone Bills to Get Additional 25% Discount: Who Qualifies? Recently, messages have circulated online and via messaging apps claiming that starting today, users can receive an additional 25% discount on their mobile phone bills as part of a presidential pledge.According to industry sources on September 13, these messages present the existing 'selective contract discount' as if it were a new initiative. While the selective contract discount rate is indeed 25%, users who are already receiving this discount will not receive an additional 25% off.The selective contract allows users to receive discounts on their mobile bills in exchange for not taking device subsidies when purchasing a phone. By applying for a one- or two-year selective contract without receiving subsidies, users can receive a 25% discount on their monthly mobile phone bills.For example, if a user purchases a phone with a retail price of 1 million won on a monthly plan of 55,000 won, the selective contract discount would amount to 13,750 won per month, totaling a discount of 330,000 won over 24 months.Individuals who have purchased new phones without subsidies, as well as those using self-purchased devices or phones bought abroad, may also qualify for the selective contract. Users who continue to use devices after their contracts have expired or those who buy used devices may also be eligible.However, users of budget mobile services are not eligible for the 25% discount. This discount applies only to subscribers of the three major mobile carriers: SK Telecom, KT, and LG Uplus.To check if their phone qualifies for the selective contract, users can enter their device's unique identification number (IMEI) into the '25% Discount Eligibility Check' service provided by Smart Choice. The IMEI can be found by dialing '*#06#' on the phone keypad or by checking the settings menu on a smartphone.Applications can be made by visiting the stores of SK Telecom, KT, and LG Uplus, or through the respective carriers' phone lines and websites.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-13 10:08:00
  • LG Electronics Expands Partnership with Emmys to Include Premium Appliances
    LG Electronics Expands Partnership with Emmys to Include Premium Appliances LG Electronics is expanding its partnership with the Emmys to include premium appliances alongside its OLED TVs. The company aims to reinforce its premium brand image among Hollywood producers and actors by integrating LG Signature appliances into its existing content marketing strategy.On September 13, LG Electronics announced that it has been selected as the official 'TV and Appliance Partner' for the 78th Emmy Awards, which will take place on September 14 at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.LG will set up an 'LG Signature Influencer Lounge' near the awards venue, showcasing the 2026 LG OLED Evo AI, LG Signature refrigerators, and Styler products. The company will also create on-site content featuring actors and creators experiencing the products.Last year, LG participated as the 'Official TV Partner' for the 77th Emmys, but this year, the designation has been expanded to 'TV and Appliance Partner.' This marks the first time LG Signature appliances will be prominently displayed on the Emmy red carpet.The product exposure will also extend to LG's smart TV platform. LG plans to create a dedicated space for the Emmys on its proprietary webOS and ad-supported free streaming service, LG Channels, allowing viewers to access past winners and this year's nominees in one location.LG's OLED TVs continue to connect with content creators, having previously won a Technical Emmy Award in 2021 for their technology. This year, LG is combining its marketing efforts for premium appliances with its TV quality, broadening its brand experience in the U.S. market.Do-young Kwak, Vice President and Head of LG Electronics North America, stated, "Through our unparalleled OLED TV technology and premium LG Signature appliances, we will provide customers worldwide with an elevated living experience in their everyday lives."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-13 10:08:00
  • Samsung Bioepis Hosts Family Invitation Event at Songdo Headquarters
    Samsung Bioepis Hosts Family Invitation Event at Songdo Headquarters Samsung Bioepis invited employees' families to its headquarters in Songdo, Incheon, to share the company's vision and organizational culture. On September 12, Samsung Bioepis held its '2026 Family Invitation Event,' attended by approximately 2,800 family members of employees. The event, which began in 2022, marks its fifth year of fostering communication between the company and its employees' families. Attendees participated in a tour of the offices and laboratories where employees work. A busking performance took place in the company garden, and photo zones and experience programs were set up for families. Kim Kyung-ah, President of Samsung Bioepis, expressed her gratitude in a welcoming speech, stating, "The growth of the company and its employees has always been supported by the strong backing of their families. We will strive to make Samsung Bioepis a company that families can be even prouder of." Samsung Bioepis is also expanding its welfare programs to support work-life balance. The company is currently renovating its daycare center at the Songdo headquarters, aiming to triple its capacity from about 100 to 300 children by March next year to meet the growing childcare needs of employees. The company offers flexible working hours, reduced hours for pregnant employees, remote work options, and family care leave. Parental leave can be utilized until a child reaches the sixth grade of elementary school. Last year, Samsung Bioepis was recognized by the Ministry of Employment and Labor as an outstanding company in gender employment equality and labor-management culture. On September 11, it was also named a '2026 Top Job Creation Company in Korea' for its achievements in expanding job opportunities for women. The Top Job Creation Company award is a government recognition program established by the Ministry of Employment and Labor in 2010 to honor private companies that exemplify quality job creation and improvement. Selected companies receive various support, including favorable credit ratings and loan interest rates. Samsung Bioepis has been praised for its efforts to expand job opportunities for women and implement fair personnel systems. According to the company, as of the end of last year, the proportion of female employees was 51%, and the proportion of female managers was 47%, demonstrating a strong commitment to hiring and nurturing talented women. Additionally, the company has worked to achieve work-life balance through various welfare programs, including maternal protection policies and flexible working arrangements, while fostering healthy labor-management relations through transparent communication, such as management briefings led by the CEO.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-13 10:04:10
  • Samsung Electronics Launches Galaxy AI Class to Teach AI in Schools
    Samsung Electronics Launches 'Galaxy AI Class' to Teach AI in Schools Samsung Electronics is bringing its latest Galaxy devices to classrooms across the country to teach artificial intelligence (AI) to elementary and middle school students. The program has been revamped to go beyond simple AI functionality, focusing first on concepts and ethics before allowing students to apply their knowledge in areas of interest such as career paths, environmental issues, and history.Starting September 14, Samsung will recruit classes for the second semester of the 'Galaxy AI Class' aimed at upper elementary and middle school students. Teachers can apply for their classes, and professional and assistant instructors will visit schools to conduct lessons using Galaxy smartphones and tablets.This semester, a new subject titled 'AI Fundamentals' has been introduced. Students will learn the basic concepts of AI, ethics, and practical applications through both theory and hands-on experience. The curriculum will cover not only how to use generative AI but also how to evaluate results and use the technology responsibly.The second period will consist of experiential lessons where students directly use Galaxy AI. The curriculum has been expanded to include five subjects, adding environmental studies, history, and travel to existing career and drawing classes. In the career lessons, students will analyze their strengths and interests using AI to create vision boards, while the environmental classes will explore climate issues and develop solutions.Last year, Samsung set a goal to expand this program, aiming to reach over 80,000 students across approximately 800 schools with in-person classes. As the number of participating schools has increased to over 1,000, the program has evolved from a one-time experience to a regular semester-based AI education initiative.From 2025 to the first semester of this year, around 175,000 students have completed the Galaxy AI Class. Samsung plans to add about 70,000 more students in the second semester, bringing the total number of participants over two years to more than 250,000. Satisfaction rates from the first semester this year were reported at 94.5% for students and 99.8% for teachers.Lim Sung-taek, Vice President of Samsung Electronics Korea, stated, "The 'Galaxy AI Class' is designed to provide students with an easy and enjoyable learning experience with AI, rather than presenting it as a difficult subject. We will continue to develop the curriculum to enhance AI utilization skills and focus on creative experiential activities in our lessons."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-13 10:04:00
  • Why the Number in Hyundai Apartment Names Matters
    Why the 'Number' in Hyundai Apartment Names Matters The 'number' in the names of Hyundai apartments does not refer to building numbers or the current reconstruction area numbers. Instead, it indicates the order in which large-scale construction projects were carried out, with the first project being Hyundai 1st, followed by Hyundai 2nd. Each project phase includes multiple buildings. Currently, the reconstruction areas do not align with the order of these numbers. Hyundai 1st, 7th, 10th, 13th, and 14th, along with Daelim Villa, are part of Apgujeong District 3. The 9th, 11th, and 12th projects, built later around Hyundai Department Store, are referred to as 'New Hyundai' and make up District 2. Hyundai 8th is located in District 4, along with Hanyang 3rd, 4th, and 6th. This classification of reconstruction areas is based on road and land boundaries, living zones, and rational architectural planning, rather than brand or construction order. Daelim Villa, while not a Hyundai apartment, is included in District 3 for integrated reconstruction. Therefore, even though 'Hyundai 3rd' and 'Apgujeong District 3' share the same number, they are unrelated. The number indicates the order of past construction, while the district number reflects the current reconstruction project units. 2026-09-13 10:04:00
  • Apgujeong: Building the Future Again - 50 Years of Apgujeong Hyundai Apartments
    Apgujeong: Building the Future Again - 50 Years of Apgujeong Hyundai Apartments The Apgujeong Hyundai Apartments, completed in 1976, are celebrating their 50th anniversary this year. Once a symbol of the new apartment era in Gangnam, Apgujeong Hyundai is now preparing for a large-scale reconstruction to transform into a future residential city for the 21st century. Aju Business Daily is focusing on the 50-year history of Apgujeong Hyundai, the current status of the reconstruction efforts, project costs, public contributions, and the conditions for future apartments. Along the Han River in Apgujeong-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, long and low-rise apartments line the area. While today’s standards highlight their low height, insufficient parking, and aging plumbing, the spacious gaps between buildings and the decades-old trees that fill the complex stand out. Half a century ago, this was the newest residential area in Seoul. The first and second phases of the Apgujeong Hyundai Apartments were completed in 1976, marking their 50th anniversary this year. The transformation of Apgujeong began with the development of Gangnam. The area was incorporated into Seoul in 1963, and from the mid-1960s, land reclamation along the Han River and the development of the Yeongdong area were underway. At that time, the center of life in Seoul was in the northern part of the city. Apgujeong was located far from the city center and lacked transportation and essential facilities. However, with the development of transportation networks, including the Hannam Bridge, and policies promoting Gangnam, the foundation was laid for creating a large residential area south of the Han River. Hyundai Construction began the first phase of the Apgujeong Hyundai project in April 1975. The first and second phases were completed the following year. On August 21, 1976, the government designated Apgujeong-dong and Cheongdam-dong as the Apgujeong Apartment District, and in March 1977, it approved the basic development plan. The construction of the apartments began before the urban planning system was established. Subsequently, Korea Urban Development, a housing development subsidiary of the Hyundai Group, took over the project and expanded the complex. Korea Urban Development later evolved into Hyundai Industrial Development, now known as IPARK Hyundai Industrial Development. The Apgujeong Hyundai Apartments were not built all at once. They were named according to the phases of construction and sales, with the first, second, and third phases. Starting with the first and second phases in 1976, several construction phases followed, culminating in the 14th phase in 1987, forming a massive complex of Hyundai apartments over about a decade. Currently, the remnants of this development include Hyundai Apartments 1, 2, 3, 7, 10, 13, and 14 in reconstruction zone 3, as well as Shin Hyundai Apartments 9, 11, and 12 in zone 2, and Hyundai Apartments 8 in zone 4. The initial launch was not smooth. In the early days of occupancy, a lack of transportation and commercial facilities led to unsold units. However, as the government continued to develop Gangnam and expand schools, roads, and commercial areas, the situation improved. The spacious layouts, elevators, central heating, and the riverside location offered a new lifestyle that Seoul residents had not experienced before. With the establishment of department stores like Hyundai Department Store and Galleria Department Store, Apgujeong grew into a center of consumption and culture, elevating the status of the apartments. Apgujeong Hyundai has transcended being merely a symbol of expensive housing. It became a representation of a time when apartments were preferred over single-family homes, reflecting both living standards and asset values. The success of Gangnam development, along with controversies over preferential sales and the concentration of education and wealth, are intertwined in its history. The 50 years of Apgujeong Hyundai illustrate both the bright and dark sides of Seoul's residential history. What was once a futuristic apartment complex has now aged. However, Apgujeong is on the brink of another transformation. Among the six special planning zones, construction companies have been selected for zones 2 to 5, and zone 2 has conditionally passed the integrated review by the Seoul city government. If Apgujeong opened the era of living in apartments in 1976, the new Apgujeong may become a testbed for a future city that integrates AI, robotics, caregiving, energy, and public access to the Han River. 2026-09-13 10:04:00
  • Hwachun County Mayor Kim Se-hoon Envisions Green Tourism Inspired by Finland
    Hwachun County Mayor Kim Se-hoon Envisions Green Tourism Inspired by Finland Kim Se-hoon, the mayor of Hwachun County in Gangwon Province, expressed his desire to incorporate sauna and recreational facilities observed in Rovaniemi, Finland, into Hwachun's tourism offerings.From September 7 to 11, Mayor Kim shared updates on his Facebook page, titled 'Governing Diary,' detailing his participation in the World Winter Cities Conference and local site visits. As his schedule concluded, he outlined the facilities he hopes to introduce at the Sancheoneo Festival site, Bungeoseom Island, and along the Bukhan River.Among the facilities he wishes to implement is a Finnish-style sauna. After touring local facilities, he expressed interest in introducing this sauna at next year's Sancheoneo Festival. He also proposed adding igloo experience areas, a Sancheoneo thermometer tower, and souvenir shops at the festival site.For Bungeoseom Island, he envisions a forest experience area and children's play facilities. After visiting a wooden play equipment manufacturer and a children's park, he indicated a desire to establish play spaces in Hwachun-eup and Sannae-myeon.He also identified the swimming pool and dock he saw along the Rovaniemi riverbank as potential additions for Hwachun. He suggested a swimming pool along the Bukhan River and a docking facility for motorboats to support training camps for rowing and canoeing.During his visit, Mayor Kim requested the Rovaniemi officials and member cities of the World Winter Cities Conference to donate bells symbolizing their cities. He plans to use these bells to enhance the World Peace Bell Park in Hwachun and organize a joint ringing event.Comments on his governing diary expressed enthusiasm for the proposed facilities. One comment noted, 'The Finnish sauna is truly appealing. It would be great to introduce it at the Sancheoneo Festival.' There were also positive reactions to the plans for utilizing the Mullebang Park in Hwachun.Some comments urged careful selection of projects. 'I hope the items chosen for Hwachun are well-selected and receive applause for their success,' one user wrote, while another added, 'I wish for beautiful progress, one step at a time.'Mayor Kim shared his local itinerary in the governing diary, stating, 'I will create each project while listening to the valuable opinions of our residents.' However, he noted that the proposed facilities are still in the planning stage, and details regarding the implementation of individual projects, including budgets and timelines, have not yet been provided.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-13 10:00:20
  • Kim Jong Un Responds to Xi Jinping, Emphasizing Strengthening North Korea-China Relations
    Kim Jong Un Responds to Xi Jinping, Emphasizing Strengthening North Korea-China Relations Kim Jong Un, the Chairman of North Korea's State Affairs Commission, has expressed his commitment to strengthening relations with China in a response to a congratulatory message from Chinese President Xi Jinping on the occasion of North Korea's 78th founding anniversary.According to the North Korean state newspaper Rodong Sinmun on September 13, Kim conveyed his deep appreciation for Xi's warm congratulations and heartfelt wishes in a letter sent the previous day.Kim stated that Xi's message serves as a "great source of strength and encouragement" for North Korean Workers' Party members and citizens. He emphasized the importance of firmly safeguarding and advancing their shared socialist cause while cultivating and enhancing the traditional friendship and cooperation between North Korea and China.He also expressed confidence that under Xi's leadership, China will achieve new progress in building a modern socialist country and realizing the "great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation." The response was published on the front page of Rodong Sinmun, and the Korean Central News Agency reported on the matter the same day.Earlier, in his congratulatory message on September 9, Xi characterized North Korea and China as "friendly socialist neighbors who support and help each other and share a common destiny," reaffirming that developing bilateral relations is a firm policy of the Chinese Party and government.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-13 09:56:00