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  • Daewoong Pharmaceuticals Enblo Improves Fatty Liver in 67% of Patients
    Daewoong Pharmaceutical's Enblo Improves Fatty Liver in 67% of Patients Daewoong Pharmaceutical's diabetes drug Enblo (ingredient name: inavogliflozin) has shown improvement in fatty liver indicators in up to 67% of patients.On July 9, Daewoong Pharmaceutical announced that research confirming the liver steatosis improvement effects of the SGLT-2 inhibitor Enblo was published in the SCI-level international journal Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism.The study analyzed the effects of Enblo on metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MASLD), which is commonly associated with type 2 diabetes. As the prevalence of fatty liver among diabetes patients has increased, the need for treatments that improve both blood sugar control and liver metabolism has grown.MASLD is a condition characterized by excessive fat accumulation in the liver, which, if left untreated, can increase the risk of liver disease and cardiovascular issues.The research team conducted a meta-analysis of three clinical trial datasets obtained during the Enblo approval process. They evaluated the treatment effects over 24 weeks in a total of 587 type 2 diabetes patients, measuring the degree of liver fat accumulation using the Hepatic Steatosis Index (HSI) and the Framingham Steatosis Index (FSI).At the start of the study, nearly half of the patients were found to have fatty liver. The analysis revealed that a higher percentage of patients in the Enblo treatment group showed improved fatty liver indicators compared to the placebo group.Specifically, the number of patients with fatty liver based on HSI criteria decreased from 36 (48.0%) to 12 (16.0%), indicating about a 67% recovery to normal range. Similarly, based on FSI criteria, the number of patients in the at-risk group dropped from 31 (41.3%) to 12 (16.0%), showing approximately 61% improvement.In comparison with the same class drug dapagliflozin, Enblo demonstrated greater improvement, with the fatty liver index decreasing by an additional 1.02 points, entering the normal range.This study is significant as it utilizes existing clinical data for a post-hoc analysis, suggesting for the first time that Enblo may positively impact not only blood sugar control but also the reduction of liver fat accumulation.Professor Jeong In-kyung of the Endocrinology Department at Kangdong Kyunghee University Hospital, the corresponding author of the paper, stated, "The results suggest that Enblo can contribute to liver metabolic improvement beyond blood sugar control in patients with type 2 diabetes."Meanwhile, analysts estimate that Daewoong Pharmaceutical's consolidated sales for the second quarter will reach 431.6 billion won, a 6% increase from the same period last year, with operating profit expected to rise 17% to 67.8 billion won. This operating profit is about 45% higher than the market consensus of 46.9 billion won. Compared to the previous quarter, sales are anticipated to increase by 14%, and operating profit by 205%.Park Jong-hyun, a researcher at Daol Investment & Securities, noted, "Exports to the U.S. for Evolus are expected to continue in the third quarter, leading to profit growth compared to the previous quarter," and projected Daewoong Pharmaceutical's sales and operating profit for the year to be 1.6826 trillion won and 225.9 billion won, respectively.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-09 10:32:00
  • LS Electric Targets ASEAN Market with 24/7 Power Solutions
    LS Electric Targets ASEAN Market with 24/7 Power Solutions LS Electric is set to establish a foothold in the ASEAN market, which has a population of 400 million, using Vietnam as its base. The company announced on July 9 that it will participate in 'Elex Vietnam 2026,' taking place from July 15 for three days at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (SECC) in Ho Chi Minh City. At the exhibition, LS Electric will showcase the largest display area among participants, with 16 booths covering 144 square meters. The theme will be 'Building Vietnam's Future with AI-Based Integrated Solutions,' featuring four specialized exhibition halls to present next-generation technologies. In the 'AI Data Center' zone, the company will introduce reliable power supply solutions, including high-capacity Remote Power Panels (RPP) and Continuous Transfer Switches (CTTS) that support 24/7 uninterrupted operation. The 'Digital Transformation (DX)' zone will feature the company's self-developed next-generation AI-based national power grid operation platform, 'K-EMS 2.0,' highlighting real-time stability analysis and large-scale blackout prevention technologies. In the 'Smart Power Management' zone, LS Electric will present transmission and distribution solutions, including transformers and switchgear, while the 'Smart Factory' zone will showcase digital manufacturing innovations such as the digital twin-based factory operation system 'SMI' and edge computing solution 'Edge Hub.' According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), electricity demand in ASEAN has surged by over 60% in the past decade, with an expected annual growth rate of around 5% through 2030. LS Electric plans to position itself as a key partner in the ASEAN power market by emphasizing customized package solutions for data centers, industrial complexes, renewable energy, and smart factories. A representative from LS Electric stated, "ASEAN is a strategic market where investments in data centers, manufacturing growth, and energy transition converge, leading to significant investments in next-generation power infrastructure. We aim to contribute to building a stable power grid in ASEAN through our accumulated power and automation technologies and AI-based integrated solutions."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-09 10:32:00
  • New Book Explores the History of Art and Censorship
    New Book Explores the History of Art and Censorship Today's masterpieces were once considered 'crossing the line' paintings. When did people start to accept these works as art rather than obscenity?The new book History of Crossing Boundaries in Art traces the history of art and censorship surrounding nude paintings from the late 19th century modernism era, exploring the precarious boundaries of 'crossing the line' in art.For a long time, Western nude art depicted beautiful and idealized bodies, often wrapped in mythological or religious narratives. However, as modernity emerged, some artists began to express the human body and desires candidly. These works sparked debates at the intersection of art and obscenity, leading to artists facing trials or having their works confiscated.Egon Schiele was arrested in 1912 for creating explicit nude paintings. His works, which openly revealed distorted human forms and raw sexual desires, were even burned in court. Yet, what was once labeled 'pornographic' has now been elevated to masterpieces of modern art, displayed in major museums worldwide and sold for millions of dollars.The book features stories of artists such as Egon Schiele, Gustav Klimt, Édouard Manet, Gustave Courbet, Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, and Amedeo Modigliani. Despite being arrested, ridiculed, and targeted by collective violence, they did not abandon their artistic beliefs. The book vividly illustrates how their works gradually gained freedom and became immortal.Author Lee Ji-ho notes that the boundaries between art and obscenity have changed over time, but ultimately, it is people who define those boundaries. While judges and religious figures once held this power, today, platform regulations and algorithms also serve as new standards of censorship. He emphasizes that 'the criteria for censorship are still determined and applied by human judgment' and poses the question, 'What perspective should we adopt?'"In 1857, Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom faced a new 'artistic problem' when she entered the sculpture gallery of the Victoria and Albert Museum in South Kensington, London. More precisely, she encountered a pair of enormous testicles and a drooping penis on the plaster sculpture 'David.' This 'too human anatomy' was excessively explicit for the queen, who valued chastity and restraint, as well as for the moral standards of the Victorian era. The solution was surprisingly simple: a detachable 'fig leaf' sculpture was created to cover 'David's genitals.' This artificial leaf was carefully placed over the artwork whenever the royal family visited the museum." (Chapter 1: The Birth of Obscenity, Who Decides What is Obscene?)* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-09 10:32:00
  • Jokyung-tae Criticizes Jang Dong-hyuk as Most Severe Offender in Party
    Jokyung-tae Criticizes Jang Dong-hyuk as Most Severe Offender in Party Jokyung-tae, a member of the People Power Party, criticized Jang Dong-hyuk on July 9, stating, "The person who has committed the most severe offenses is Representative Jang Dong-hyuk."In an interview on YTN Radio's 'Jang Seong-cheol's News Myungdang,' he questioned, "Does someone who defends a leader of insurrection and silences party members and lawmakers have the qualifications to be party leader?"Jokyung-tae reportedly made calls to various lawmakers after losing to Park Deok-heum in the party's vice speaker election in May, suggesting that Park should be defeated. Although Park was ultimately elected as vice speaker, the party's ethics committee received a request for disciplinary action against Jokyung-tae for his alleged refusal to accept the election results.Jokyung-tae dismissed the allegations of refusing to accept the election results or committing offenses, asserting, "This is a political act and a matter of free expression for politicians. There is no reason to impose disciplinary action for political activities."Regarding Park's comment that "if you dislike the temple, the monk should leave," Jokyung-tae responded, "A true conservative party must uphold the Constitution and follow the rule of law," questioning whether those who defend former President Yoon Suk-yeol have the right to make such statements.When asked if he should have followed the party's stance determined in the internal election, he replied, "There is no need to follow a misguided party stance. There are no regulations that allow for punishment for not adhering to party positions," adding, "If we had followed the party stance, the impeachment of former President Yoon would not have occurred."Meanwhile, Jokyung-tae filed a complaint with the party's ethics committee the previous day, calling for Jang's expulsion and removal from the party. He stated, "Since he said he would step down if he lost in the local elections, he must show accountability," and criticized Jang's remarks about severing ties with Yoon as a challenge to the public.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-09 10:24:00
  • Korea Launches 6000 Won Movie Discount Vouchers to Boost Cinema Attendance
    Korea Launches 6000 Won Movie Discount Vouchers to Boost Cinema Attendance The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korean Film Council have begun distributing the second batch of 2.05 million '6000 Won Movie Discount Vouchers,' funded by a supplementary budget of 27.1 billion won. Following the release of the first batch on May 1, which led to a 47.9% increase in nationwide box office revenue to 15.9 billion won over the following week, expectations are high for this round as well. Analysts predict that these vouchers will help thaw consumer sentiment and ignite summer box office success. However, whether this initiative can fundamentally transform the film industry remains uncertain.Currently, the biggest barrier for theaters is ticket prices rather than content. Weekend ticket prices at major multiplexes hover around 15,000 won. For a family of four, the cost of tickets alone for a single film can reach 60,000 won. Adding drinks and popcorn can push the total over 100,000 won. Given this context, the impact of the 6000 won discount is significant. Audiences can watch movies for around 9000 won, and when combined with early bird discounts or 'Cultural Day' promotions, the financial burden is further reduced. In fact, the first batch of vouchers sold out quickly, confirming the potential for audience recovery in theaters. For the film ecosystem to thrive, which relies on investment, distribution, and production, audiences must return to cinemas. This is why there are hopes that the current policy will invigorate the market.However, there are several issues that need to be addressed beyond the policy's effectiveness. Firstly, the benefits are likely to concentrate on large multiplexes and commercial films. Most voucher recipients tend to favor accessible multiplexes and popular films. In contrast, independent and art films, as well as regional theaters, may find it difficult to feel the effects of this policy. This raises concerns that public funds may disproportionately benefit certain segments of the market. Critics argue that this approach relies on taxpayer money to support consumption without addressing pricing policies. While the vouchers may temporarily alleviate consumer burdens following a sharp rise in ticket prices during the pandemic, they do not provide a long-term solution. Once the support ends, it is likely that audiences will return to their previous habits.Ultimately, discounts serve as a temporary incentive to draw audiences back to theaters. The sustained ability to keep audiences engaged will depend on the competitiveness and quality of the films themselves. For the distribution of these vouchers to go beyond merely bolstering the revenues of a few large corporations, the multiplex industry must reassess whether the current ticket pricing structure aligns with consumer expectations and make necessary adjustments. The government also needs to consider the post-voucher distribution landscape. It should initiate reforms to address monopolistic practices and promote coexistence with independent and art films, as well as regional theaters. Creating a balanced ecosystem where audiences can access a variety of films is essential for enhancing the sustainability of the film industry. Whether the 27.1 billion won of taxpayer money will result in a one-time expenditure or an investment in the self-sustainability of Korean cinema ultimately hinges on structural reforms in the industry. 2026-07-09 10:16:00
  • Jipyung Law Firm and KCCI Host Successful Seminar on M&A and Investment in Tech Companies
    Jipyung Law Firm and KCCI Host Successful Seminar on M&A and Investment in Tech Companies Jipyung Law Firm announced on July 9 that it successfully held a seminar on "M&A and Investment in Tech Companies" in collaboration with the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) on July 8 at its Grand Central B Building auditorium.The seminar aimed to share key legal issues and practical considerations arising during the M&A and investment processes in tech companies. The event was moderated by Kim Beom-hee, head of the Jipyung Technology Center, and featured opening remarks from Lee Hang-kyu, managing partner of Jipyung, and a congratulatory message from Park Yang-soo, head of KCCI's Economic Research Institute, followed by four presentations.The first presentation was delivered by Yoon Tae-woong, director of the IB Group at Korea Investment & Securities, who discussed "Practical Aspects of IPOs for Tech Companies." Yoon analyzed recent trends in the IPO market and the tightening of exchange reviews, introducing key considerations for a successful IPO, including special listing systems, technology assessments, and internal control systems.The second presentation was given by Kim Yoon-sun, a patent attorney at Jipyung, on "Valuation and Due Diligence Cases for Tech Companies." Kim emphasized that evaluating a tech company's competitiveness requires more than just assessing individual technologies; it also necessitates examining market fit and execution capability. He noted that risks identified during technology due diligence should be appropriately reflected in the company's value and contractual terms.The third presentation was led by Hong Seung-hwan, a partner at Samil PwC, who discussed "M&A Trends, Case Studies, and Practical Applications in Tech M&A." Hong introduced recent trends in the tech M&A market, M&A strategies, procedures, and key case studies. He advised that reviewing the overall process and major issues in advance through case studies and simulations reflecting the step-by-step strategies of tech M&A is crucial for successful transactions.The final presentation was by Ko Hyo-jung, a lawyer at Jipyung, who examined "Regulatory Legal Review for Foreign M&A of Korean Tech Companies." Ko explained the key foreign investment regulations and technology protection laws that must be considered in foreign investment transactions involving domestic tech companies, highlighting practical considerations.Ko emphasized, "Transactions where foreigners acquire domestic tech companies require a review of both foreign investment regulations and technology protection laws, unlike typical M&As. Especially, issues such as data accessibility, technology transfer possibilities, transaction structure, and timelines can be linked to various regulatory concerns, making proactive legal review necessary from the early stages of the transaction."Kim Beom-hee, head of the Jipyung Technology Center, stated, "With the AI revolution following the internet and smartphones, global interest and investment in tech companies are expected to grow. This seminar aligns with the purpose of launching the Jipyung Technology Center, and we are pleased with the overwhelming interest and participation. We hope this seminar serves as a practical discussion platform for both tech companies and investors, and the Jipyung Technology Center will continue to provide practical solutions and field-centered insights in the future."Jipyung plans to offer a new service that breaks down the boundaries between law firms and patent firms, creating integrated teams of various technology and legal experts to provide solutions for technical challenges.The Jipyung Technology Center aims to promote innovation and change that arise from the intersection of technology and law, creating new opportunities for clients under the value of "Connecting Technology and Law."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-09 10:16:00
  • Kang Kyung-wha: US and South Korea Agree to Manage Coupang Issues
    Kang Kyung-wha: US and South Korea Agree to Manage Coupang Issues Kang Kyung-wha, South Korea's ambassador to the United States, stated on July 8 that there is a mutual understanding between the two governments to manage the ongoing claims of discrimination against Coupang in a way that does not burden the South Korea-U.S. relationship.During a press briefing at the South Korean embassy in Washington, D.C., Kang said, "We will clearly and consistently explain our government's position through ongoing consultations with the U.S. regarding the Coupang issue."The concerns regarding Coupang have recently resurfaced in U.S. political circles, but both governments share a common stance to prevent the situation from escalating into a conflict.The South Korean government maintains that it does not discriminate against companies based on nationality and asserts that a recent report from the National Assembly's Legal Affairs Committee only reflects the claims made by Coupang. The government plans to compile the positions of the institutions mentioned in the report and submit them to the committee.Kang also mentioned that she is coordinating the schedule for upcoming discussions to implement agreements made between the leaders of South Korea and the U.S. regarding nuclear energy and submarines. She stated, "We plan to pursue various means of frequent contact with the U.S. to accelerate sector-specific discussions in the future."Last month, the two countries held their first round of discussions in Seoul, focusing on South Korea's acquisition of nuclear-powered submarines and uranium enrichment. However, discussions on the shipbuilding sector could not proceed as the U.S. side needed to prepare further.Regarding the Section 301 tariff investigation initiated by the Trump administration, Kang emphasized that the balance of interests between the two countries must be maintained according to the existing South Korea-U.S. tariff agreement, and that the U.S. has expressed its intention to adhere to this agreement.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-09 10:16:00
  • Ministry of SMEs and Startups to Host Busan Regional Product Purchase Consultation on July 10
    Ministry of SMEs and Startups to Host Busan Regional Product Purchase Consultation on July 10 The Ministry of SMEs and Startups and the Korea Small and Medium Enterprises Distribution Center announced on July 10 that they will hold the '2026 Public-Private Integrated Regional Product Purchase Consultation' in Busan's Haeundae District.This consultation event, organized in collaboration with the city of Busan and BEXCO, will be held in conjunction with the local festival 'Busan Brand Festa.'More than 130 participants, including product planners (MDs) from retail platforms such as Kakao, Lotte On, Oasis, and Hyundai Home Shopping, as well as officials from public institutions like the Busan Facilities Corporation and Busan Port Authority, will provide one-on-one tailored consultations for small businesses based in Busan.Han Yu-won and the Busan Regional Procurement Office will offer consulting on maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) and trends in the public procurement market. There will also be an exhibition to promote products from small businesses.This event follows a purchase consultation held on July 3 in Jeju, which saw participation from over 50 local small businesses at the Hallasan Convention Center.Lee Tae-sik, CEO of Han Yu-won, stated, "We have expanded the venues for consultations in line with the government's regional economic revitalization policies. I hope the participating small businesses' passion and efforts lead to excellent results and outcomes."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-09 10:12:00
  • Fire in Eunpyeong District Villa Claims Lives of Elementary School Siblings
    Fire in Eunpyeong District Villa Claims Lives of Elementary School Siblings A fire in a villa in the Eunpyeong District of Seoul resulted in the tragic deaths of two elementary school siblings.According to fire authorities, the blaze broke out around 10:57 p.m. on July 8 in a unit in Galhyeon-dong, Eunpyeong District, leading to the fatalities of the two children.Residents reported hearing a loud explosion before the flames spread. Firefighters responded with 82 personnel and 23 vehicles, successfully extinguishing the fire by 11:47 p.m.At the time of the fire, other family members were not present, leaving only the children in the home. The rescued teenage brother and sister received emergency treatment but unfortunately succumbed to their injuries.Additionally, nine residents of the villa evacuated on their own, and two individuals who inhaled smoke received medical attention.Fire officials are investigating the exact cause of the fire and assessing the extent of property damage. 2026-07-09 10:12:00
  • South Koreas Grocery Prices Second Highest in OECD After Switzerland
    South Korea's Grocery Prices Second Highest in OECD After Switzerland South Korea's overall consumer price level is below the OECD average, but its grocery prices are the second highest among member countries, following Switzerland. The country has maintained a top position in grocery prices based on purchasing power parity (PPP) for three consecutive years.According to an analysis by Yonhap News of OECD's PPP-based price level statistics, South Korea's household final consumption (HFC) price index for 2024 is 78, below the OECD average of 100, ranking 23rd among 38 member countries.The HFC price index reflects a comprehensive range of consumer items, including groceries, housing, transportation, education, and culture. In South Korea, prices for housing (54.7), transportation (75.3), leisure and culture (80.7), and food and accommodation (93.6) are lower than the OECD average, resulting in a relatively low overall price level.In contrast, grocery prices are an exception. South Korea's grocery and non-alcoholic beverage price index for 2024 is 146, which is 46% higher than the OECD average. This places it second highest among member countries, just behind Switzerland (147).When compared to major developed countries, the differences are significant. Japan's index is 121, the United States is at 107, while France is at 100, Germany at 95.2, and the United Kingdom at 91.4, all considerably lower than South Korea.South Korea's high grocery prices are not a temporary phenomenon. In 2022, the grocery price index was 152, ranking it second alongside Switzerland, just behind Israel (155). In 2023, the index dropped to 150, allowing South Korea to surpass Switzerland (147) and claim the top spot in the OECD. Last year, the index slightly decreased to 146, but South Korea still maintained its second-place position behind Switzerland, marking three consecutive years in the top tier. Additionally, the price index for clothing and footwear was 115, and education costs were at 108, both exceeding the OECD average.The OECD's PPP-based price level reflects the relative price levels of countries, taking into account income and purchasing power. It serves as a key benchmark for evaluating living costs across nations, as it compares actual prices experienced by consumers rather than simple exchange rates. 2026-07-09 10:08:00