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  • Anyang City Integrates AI with CCTV for Real-Time Flood Monitoring
    Anyang City Integrates AI with CCTV for Real-Time Flood Monitoring A disaster monitoring system based on artificial intelligence (AI) is being rigorously tested in Anyang to quickly assess and respond to flooding conditions on roads and rivers during heavy rainfall. On September 11, Anyang City officials reviewed the pilot application of the Ministry of Interior and Safety's 'Flood Detection AI Model' at the Smart City Integrated Center and discussed future technology enhancements. According to the city, Park Hyung-bae, head of the Safety Prevention Policy Office at the Ministry of Interior and Safety, visited the site to observe the project's progress and the operation of the integrated center. The city is participating in the government's disaster prediction and monitoring system enhancement project by utilizing approximately 8,000 CCTV cameras installed in security, traffic, and safety sectors, along with the integrated center's video management capabilities. Since being selected as a demonstration site in May, the field validation of the AI-based flood detection model has been underway since June. The system analyzes CCTV footage in real-time using AI. The key feature is its ability to quickly alert monitoring personnel when abnormal situations related to flooding, such as rising river levels or water accumulation on roads, are detected. Previously, monitoring personnel had to manually check multiple screens to assess risk situations. With AI video analysis, the system can simultaneously analyze numerous CCTV feeds to identify anomalies. This capability is particularly crucial during heavy rainfall, as early detection of flooding can lead to timely road closures or evacuations. The city plans to continue verifying the model's accuracy, focusing on flood-prone areas, and strengthen its integration with actual disaster response systems. During the review, explanations were provided regarding the operation of the Smart City Integrated Center and the application of the AI flood detection model. The Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information (KISTI) presented trends in AI technology research and future enhancement directions, sharing the potential for utilizing video information in disaster situations. Among citizens, there is a positive response to the establishment of the AI-based flood monitoring system, along with calls for ensuring its effectiveness in real disaster scenarios. It is believed that if AI can identify risk signs and alert monitoring personnel before they manually check all CCTV feeds during sudden heavy rainfall, it will help reduce response times. Meanwhile, Deputy Mayor Lee Gye-sam emphasized that "speed and accuracy are crucial in disaster response" and stated, "We will continuously develop disaster response technologies based on the Smart City Integrated Center to ensure citizen safety." 2026-09-12 22:16:00
  • BRICS Adopts New Delhi Declaration Unanimously, Opposes Unilateral Sanctions
    BRICS Adopts 'New Delhi Declaration' Unanimously, Opposes Unilateral Sanctions BRICS, a group of non-Western emerging economies led by China and Russia, has issued a joint statement opposing unilateral sanctions and trade restrictions that violate international law. Amid the prolonged conflict in Iran, the group called for restraint in the Middle East and emphasized energy security and the increased influence of the Global South in international affairs.On September 12, BRICS leaders unanimously adopted the '2026 New Delhi Declaration' during the 18th summit held in New Delhi, India, according to reports from Russian news agency RIA Novosti and Reuters.Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated, "No member country raised any objections," confirming the unanimous adoption of the declaration.The leaders expressed opposition to unilateral sanctions that violate international law and urged relevant countries in the Middle East to exercise restraint. They also voiced concerns over the growing nuclear threats and risks of conflict worldwide.The statement did not specify any particular country as responsible for sanctions or the Middle Eastern conflict. However, given the ongoing war between the U.S. and Iran, the declaration signifies BRICS' formal stance on Middle Eastern issues.In the realm of trade, the leaders expressed serious concerns about the increasing unilateral tariffs and non-tariff measures that distort trade and violate World Trade Organization (WTO) regulations. They focused on the need for adherence to multilateral trade order and WTO rules without directly mentioning the tariff policies of specific countries.Energy supply chains were also a key agenda item. The leaders emphasized the need to strengthen energy security and ensure stable and smooth energy supplies, particularly in light of the heightened uncertainty in the international oil market due to deteriorating conditions in the Middle East.The leaders called for reforms in international organizations to enhance the representation of emerging countries in the global economic and security order. Prime Minister Modi likened the current global cooperation framework to a 'pyramid' where power and decision-making are concentrated in a few countries, asserting that UN Security Council reform can no longer be delayed.He stated, "Countries in the Global South are at the forefront of global crises but are lagging in decision-making processes," emphasizing the need to restructure global cooperation around representation, responsiveness, and rule-making.Russian President Vladimir Putin also supported the need for expanding the UN Security Council, stating that increasing the representation of Asian, African, and Latin American countries would enhance the UN's functionality.The summit was attended by key leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping and President Putin. Reports indicate that Prime Minister Modi, President Xi, and President Putin engaged in informal discussions during their travels.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-12 21:36:00
  • North Korea Launches Ballistic Missile One Day After US-South Korea-Japan Drills
    North Korea Launches Ballistic Missile One Day After US-South Korea-Japan Drills North Korea fires ballistic missile a day after US-South Korea-Japan drills North Korea launched a ballistic missile into the East Sea on September 12, a move analysts suggest is a response to recent joint military exercises conducted by the United States, South Korea, and Japan. The Joint Chiefs of Staff reported that multiple ballistic missiles were detected being launched from the Wonsan area at approximately 5:20 a.m. They added that military readiness has been heightened in anticipation of further launches, with the three nations sharing information closely regarding North Korea's missile activities. This missile launch occurred just one day after the conclusion of the Freedom Shield exercises, which took place from September 7 to 11 in the waters southeast of Jeju. Analysts view this as a direct reaction to those drills. The Freedom Shield exercises, first held in June 2024, are designed to address North Korea's nuclear and missile threats and enhance interoperability among the three nations. North Korea has criticized these drills as a demonstration of US-led aggression. This marks North Korea's first ballistic missile launch since August 20, coinciding with the ongoing Ulchi Freedom Shield (UFS) exercises conducted by US and South Korean forces. This year alone, North Korea has launched ballistic missiles 13 times. Concerns grow within Democratic Party over youth support for candidate Yong Hye-in The Democratic Party of Korea is grappling with internal concerns regarding the nomination of Yong Hye-in as Minister of Gender Equality and Family. There are growing fears that appointing her could further alienate young voters, especially as the party's support among this demographic has been declining. Spokesperson Jo Gye-won stated during a briefing on September 12 that the party is closely monitoring public sentiment, particularly among the youth, and emphasized the need for a response to the rising discontent. When asked about the possibility of resolving Yong's candidacy soon, Jo acknowledged various opinions within the party and suggested that leadership may soon address the issue. The Democratic Party is set to hold a high-level meeting on September 13, where discussions regarding this matter are expected to take place. Jo reiterated the importance of assessing public sentiment and discussing appropriate measures. Kim Seung-won addresses questions on Lee's indictment cancellation On September 12, Kim Seung-won, the nominee for Minister of Justice, responded to inquiries about whether he would direct the Ministry of Justice or the prosecution to review the cancellation of criminal charges against President Lee. He stated, "I will ensure that the ministry operates fairly according to laws and regulations, and I will thoroughly supervise the prosecution to maintain its political neutrality and fairness." According to Yonhap News, Kim made these remarks in a written response to a question from Joo Jin-woo, a member of the National Assembly from the People Power Party, during a session of the National Assembly's Legislation and Judiciary Committee. Kim's past involvement as a co-representative of a group advocating for the cancellation of charges against President Lee has raised concerns. He clarified that he would separate his political activities as a lawmaker from his duties as a minister, ensuring that his previous positions do not influence case handling or personnel decisions. Kim, who led the push for amendments to the Criminal Procedure Act to abolish the prosecution's supplementary investigation powers, reiterated his stance that it is appropriate to completely separate investigation and prosecution and to focus on the prosecution's primary role of initiating and maintaining charges. As he prepares to assume office, Kim is tasked with minimizing the negative impacts of abolishing the prosecution's supplementary investigation powers. He stated that he would ensure thorough follow-up measures, including the revision of relevant laws, and actively collaborate with related agencies to establish a new criminal justice system. BRICS Summit Opens Amid Ongoing US-Iran Conflict Leaders of the BRICS nations, a group of emerging economies led by China and Russia, gathered in New Delhi, India, as the conflict between the United States and Iran continues for over six months. Chinese President Xi Jinping called for a permanent ceasefire, opposing "sovereignty violations" and "interference in internal affairs." Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi also attended, drawing attention to the joint message BRICS may deliver to the US. The 18th BRICS summit commenced on September 12 at the Bharat Mandapam International Convention Center in New Delhi and will run for two days until September 13. This year marks the 20th anniversary of BRICS, with both Xi and Putin attending in person. Raisi, currently engaged in conflict with the US, also made the trip to New Delhi. The three leaders met again following the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, at the end of last month. Key topics at this summit include the Iran conflict, trade, food and energy security, and supply chain development. On the first day, leaders held a closed-door meeting focused on "inclusive global cooperation and strengthening multilateralism." In his speech, Xi emphasized Middle Eastern issues, stating, "We must oppose Cold War mentality and bloc confrontations, as well as violations of other countries' sovereignty and interference in internal affairs. BRICS will play a proper role in achieving peace and stability in the Middle East and Gulf region." He added, "The Middle Eastern conflict has caused serious harm to the people of the region and does not align with the common interests of the international community," urging all parties involved to adhere to a political resolution and pursue a permanent and comprehensive ceasefire. Although he did not directly mention the US, his remarks were interpreted as aimed at the US, which is currently engaged in conflict with Iran. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-12 21:24:00
  • Korean Gen Z takes to streets to protest U.S. call for Hormuz support
    Korean Gen Z takes to streets to protest U.S. call for Hormuz support SEOUL, September 12 (AJP) - On most Saturdays, Gwanghwamun Square belongs to tourists, families, street performers and the assortment of political groups that regularly claim a patch of downtown Seoul for their causes. This Saturday brought another one: opposition to President Donald Trump’s repeated demands that South Korea help secure the Strait of Hormuz as the United States confronts Iran. Many in the crowd were not the veteran anti-American or progressive activists familiar from demonstrations past. They were young Koreans, part of Gen Z that has become an increasingly visible political force across Asia. By 5 p.m., the plaza facing the U.S. Embassy was still filled with families browsing a flea market and foreign tourists taking photographs. Then another sound pushed through the weekend crowd. “Stop the war of aggression.” “Stop considering troop deployment.” “Reject pressure to deploy troops.” Hundreds of protesters moved down Sejong-daero, past shoppers and tourists and the U.S. Embassy, their chants carrying through the center of Seoul as they headed toward Cheong Wa Dae. An hour earlier, the “Citizens’ March Against the Hormuz Deployment” had begun in Jongno. The march was organized by a coalition of about 540 civic groups opposed to South Korea sending military personnel or assets to the Strait of Hormuz. The rally came as President Lee Jae Myung’s government weighs whether, and how, South Korea should contribute to efforts to secure one of the world’s most important energy waterways amid mounting pressure from Washington. But before the march began, many of those taking the microphone asked a simple question - Who would actually be sent into danger? Ko Geon introduced himself as “a young worker who will be attending reserve forces training the day after tomorrow.” “I feel a deep sense of betrayal and anger that the Lee Jae Myung government, which was born out of the ‘Vigil Candlelight Revolution,’ is considering an overseas troop deployment that even Yoon Suk Yeol did not dare undertake,” Ko said. Then he raised his voice. “Did we hold light sticks in Gwanghwamun and Hannam-dong in that freezing cold just to see this?” Cheers rose from the crowd. “Was the ‘New World’ we dreamed of in ‘Into the New World’ really a world like this?” he asked. For many younger South Koreans, the references needed little explanation. The “Candlelight Revolution” is a term used by Lee’s ruling Democratic Party and its supporters for the civic resistance that followed former President Yoon Suk Yeol’s Dec. 3, 2024, declaration of martial law and ultimately led to his removal from office. Young protesters became one of the defining images of those demonstrations, many carrying glowing light sticks normally reserved for K-pop concerts. The Democratic Party has described Lee’s administration as a government born from the “Light Revolution.” Among the songs closely associated with the demonstrations was Girls’ Generation’s 2007 debut single “Into the New World.” For Ko, those memories made the prospect of another overseas military deployment particularly bitter. Addressing Lee directly, he said: “Please do not send troops, so that this country, where I will live for decades to come, does not get swept into a war.” Yoo Eun-bi, an activist with the Korea YWCA, also focused on the generation that would bear the consequences. “The people who will have to carry the weight of a deployment are our young people,” Yoo said. “Where are the young people at the table where they are deciding whether to send troops?” Sitting in the front row was Ha Ji-won, a 23-year-old philosophy student at Soongsil University. “I had been watching this war of aggression without justification and thinking that something completely absurd was happening,” Ha said. “Then talk began about our country sending troops to the Iran war. I came here today because I wanted to add my voice to the opposition.” A few seats away was Lee A-ran, 24, who had come with three friends. She had already joined a weekday peace march opposing deployment and said she was frustrated by the way police had handled demonstrators. “I took part in a peace march against the deployment during the week, but the police obstructed the march while trampling on rights guaranteed under the Assembly and Demonstration Act,” Lee said. “I thought a small number of people would not be enough, so I came today to help make this march bigger.” She was also troubled by what she saw as attempts to extract economic or political benefit from a war. “I have a problem with the government trying to put its spoon into a war and profit from it,” Lee said. For those who support sending South Korean forces to Hormuz, she had a more direct message. “If you want to go to Hormuz and fight a war that badly, don't send young people. You go.” The anger extended beyond students and people in their 20s. Heo Woo-jin, 34, and his wife, Song Hwa, 35, sat together at the rally. The self-employed couple said they had come because they wanted the government to see that opposition was real and visible. “We came out to show the government that there are many people who oppose sending troops,” they said. Song said she was disturbed by arguments that deployment could be justified in the national interest. “I thought it was violent to drive citizens onto a battlefield on the grounds that it would benefit the national interest,” she said. “I'm worried because there seem to be far too many people around the world now who defend war or say that war is necessary.” Her husband pointed to what he saw as the fundamental imbalance behind decisions to go to war. “The people who decide on war and the people who actually fight in it are not the same people,” Heo said. “The people who would actually have to pick up guns in the Iran war are young people. Considering a deployment is far too irresponsible.” For Lee Sang-hoon, 41, the argument was also about the image South Korea has built abroad since its political upheaval. “What kind of country is South Korea in the world today?” he asked. “It is a country where citizens, through the Light Revolution, drove an unjust government from power and gave democratic inspiration and courage to people around the world. A country like that must not participate in a war of aggression.” He turned next to another source of Korean influence: its culture. “At a time when Korea is spreading its style and spirit around the world through the Korean Wave, if it sends troops to the Strait of Hormuz, young people around the world who listen to BTS and BLACKPINK, who dream and find comfort through their music, will be enormously disappointed in Korea,” Lee said. “Think especially about the pain young people in the Middle East would feel.” He said he was ashamed that deployment was even under consideration. “I am ashamed that there is talk of sending troops in our country,” Lee said. “If South Korea becomes an accomplice in this illegal war, peace on the Korean Peninsula will also be put at risk.” A war thousands of kilometers away On the streets of Seoul, the arguments were emotional and direct. Inside government, the calculation is more complicated. The U.S.-Israeli war with Iran began on Feb. 28 and has gone through ceasefires, lulls and renewed fighting. The Strait of Hormuz has become a focal point of the conflict as commercial shipping faces threats and U.S. and Iranian forces repeatedly confront one another in and around the waterway. Washington has pressed Seoul to help secure freedom of navigation. Trump has publicly criticized South Korea for declining to join U.S. efforts, while Iran has warned Seoul of serious consequences if South Korean forces take part in U.S.-led operations. For South Korea, which relies heavily on energy supplies moving through the strait, the stakes are unusually high. Seoul has not made a final decision. A South Korean government assessment team sent to the United Arab Emirates to examine military bases, ports, logistics and security conditions returned Thursday. The government has said possible contributions could include maritime patrol aircraft, mine-clearing capabilities, search-and-rescue forces or other noncombat assistance. Cheong Wa Dae has also stressed that technical assistance without deploying personnel remains an option. Any overseas military deployment would require approval from the National Assembly. The issue has divided the public. A National Barometer Survey released Thursday found 45 percent of respondents opposed sending assets such as maritime patrol aircraft or logistics support vessels to Hormuz. For one man at Saturday’s rally, however, the war was not a matter of polling percentages, alliance management or shipping lanes. Tehran is home Siavash Saffari, a professor of West Asian studies at Seoul National University’s Department of Asian Languages and Civilizations, stood among the protesters with a deeply personal reason for being there. His parents, both in their 70s, live in Tehran. Early in the war, a police station on their street was bombed. Saffari called the war an “illegal, illegitimate and destructive war” and urged South Koreans to oppose their country’s participation. Iran is suffering from serious shortages of medicine, he said, and he worries constantly about whether his parents, who need heart medication, will be able to get it. The war has also struck places woven into his memories of home. The police station hit on March 18 stood along the route his mother regularly took to a nearby park — the same walk Saffari had taken with her during his last visit to Tehran in 2017. Other places hit in the fighting were part of his childhood: Ferdowsi Square, where his family went shopping, and an area near Mehr Hospital, where he was born. His mother had already lived through one war. During the Iran-Iraq War in the 1980s, Saffari recalled, many people fled Tehran. She stayed. When a bomb struck the police station near her home two days before Nowruz, the Persian New Year, she eventually managed to call her son in Seoul. Rather than dwell on the bombing, she told him about the food she had prepared and the holiday she and her husband had celebrated. Her message was simple. Life goes on. Six months into another war, her son was standing thousands of kilometers from Tehran, asking the country where he teaches not to move any closer to it. Two hours to say no Among the youngest protesters was 21-year-old Hur Sun-yu. He had left Wonju in Gangwon Province earlier that day, taking an express bus and then the subway for about two hours to reach Jongno. An international relations major, Heo said he hoped a larger anti-deployment movement would force the government to reconsider. “I came here to pressure the government through public opposition to the deployment,” he said. Like several young protesters around him, he returned to the question that had run through the afternoon. Who would pay the price? “The only people who suffer from troop deployment are young people,” Heo said. “It is a deployment with neither justification nor practical benefit.” Then the speeches ended and the crowd began to move. The protesters left the rally site and filled Sejong-daero, marching through Seoul’s political center. They passed the U.S. Embassy, their chants bouncing between the buildings around Gwanghwamun Square, and continued north toward Cheong Wa Dae. The flea market stayed open. Tourists kept taking photographs. Buses rolled through downtown traffic. For a few hours, the rhythms of an ordinary Seoul Saturday and a war thousands of kilometers away occupied the same street. By evening, the march was over. Heo headed back toward the bus terminal, preparing to retrace the two-hour journey he had made from Wonju that morning. Before leaving, the 21-year-old had one final message for the president. “I hope the Lee Jae Myung government will make a decision for young people and for peace.” Then he boarded his bus home. 2026-09-12 21:21:46
  • BRICS Summit Opens Amid Ongoing US-Iran Conflict
    BRICS Summit Opens Amid Ongoing US-Iran Conflict China and Russia are hosting the BRICS summit in New Delhi, India, as the conflict between the United States and Iran continues for over six months. Chinese President Xi Jinping called for a permanent ceasefire, opposing 'sovereignty violations' and 'interference in internal affairs.' The presence of Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has drawn attention to the potential joint message BRICS may deliver towards the U.S.According to reports from AP and Reuters, the 18th BRICS summit commenced on September 12 at the Bharat Mandapam International Convention Center in New Delhi and will run for two days until September 13.This year marks the 20th anniversary of BRICS, with both Xi and Putin attending in person. Raisi, whose country is currently at war with the U.S., also made the trip to New Delhi. The three leaders gathered again following the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, at the end of last month.Key topics at this summit include the Iran conflict, trade, food and energy security, and supply chain development. On the first day, the leaders held a closed-door meeting focused on 'inclusive global cooperation and strengthening multilateralism.'In his speech, Xi emphasized the Middle East issue, stating, "We must oppose Cold War mentality and bloc confrontations, as well as violations of other countries' sovereignty and interference in their internal affairs." He added that BRICS should play a proper role in achieving peace and stability in the Middle East and the Gulf region.He further stated, "The war in the Middle East has caused serious harm to the people of the region and does not align with the common interests of the international community," urging all parties involved to adhere to a political resolution and pursue a permanent and comprehensive ceasefire. Although he did not directly mention the U.S., his remarks were interpreted as aimed at the country engaged in conflict with Iran.There is also significant interest in a joint response from BRICS. Reuters reported, citing multiple sources, that member countries have agreed to adopt a joint statement. This statement is expected to condemn unilateral wars without naming specific countries.However, differing interests among member states present a challenge. The United Arab Emirates (UAE), a BRICS member, has faced missile attacks from Iran since the war began following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran in late February. Crafting language on Middle Eastern issues that both Iran and the UAE can accept is seen as a key task for this summit.Raisi reaffirmed Iran's stance at a separate event in New Delhi, stating, "The Iranian people will not surrender to the U.S." Putin also criticized Western nations, including the U.S., during the BRICS Business Forum, saying, "Western countries are using all means to regain their past dominance."In the economic and technological sectors, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a new area for cooperation. Xi proposed the 'BRICS AI-based New Industrialization Initiative' and suggested expanding cooperation on AI and industrial and supply chains among member countries. He also requested BRICS nations to participate in the global AI cooperation organization initiated by China.Xi announced that China will assume the BRICS presidency next year and host the 19th summit. He emphasized that BRICS should continue to deepen cooperation in trade, investment, finance, and science and technology, and expand its role in safeguarding the common interests of the Global South.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-12 20:48:00
  • What is the Average Wealth of South Koreans?
    What is the Average Wealth of South Koreans? According to the 2025 Household Financial Welfare Survey, as of the end of March last year, the average assets of households in South Korea were 566.78 million won, while the average debt was 95.34 million won, resulting in an average net worth of 471.44 million won.Among these assets, financial assets averaged 136.90 million won per household, while physical assets averaged 429.88 million won.When broken down by the age of the household head, asset sizes increased with age.Households headed by individuals under 29 had an average asset of 155 million won, those aged 30-39 had 359.58 million won, 40-49 year-olds had 627.14 million won, 50-59 year-olds had 662.05 million won, and those aged 60 and over had 609.5 million won.Considering average debt, the net worth figures are as follows: for those under 29, the average net worth is approximately 107.96 million won, with a median of 50 million won; for ages 30-39, the average is about 250.60 million won, with a median of approximately 155.85 million won; for ages 40-49, the average is about 483.89 million won, with a median of around 283.84 million won; for ages 50-59, the average is about 551.61 million won, with a median of about 316.85 million won; and for those aged 60 and over, the average is about 535.91 million won, with a median of 250 million won.Notably, the difference between the average and median values is significant. For those aged 30-39, the average net worth is about 250.60 million won, while the median is approximately 155.85 million won, indicating that the median is about 94.75 million won lower than the average.The median represents the middle value when households are arranged in order of net worth. Thus, the median figure of 155.85 million won for households in their 30s means that half of these households have a net worth below this amount, while the other half have more.The trend among younger age groups is particularly striking.As of the end of March 2025, the average assets of households headed by individuals under 39 decreased by 0.3% compared to the previous year. The National Data Agency noted that while average assets increased in other age groups, they declined only among those under 39.The average assets for those in their 30s were 359.58 million won, down 0.6% from 361.75 million won the previous year. In contrast, the average for those in their 40s rose by 7.7% to 627.14 million won, and for those in their 50s, it increased by 7.7% to 662.05 million won.This survey was jointly conducted by the National Data Agency, the Bank of Korea, and the Financial Supervisory Service, with asset, debt, and household characteristics based on data as of March 31, 2025.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-12 20:48:00
  • Couple Wins Lottery After 40 Years of Hardship
    Couple Wins Lottery After 40 Years of Hardship "My spouse and I have struggled for over 40 years without luck in life or finances, but we believe this is a stroke of good fortune for us who have worked hard."As interest grows in the 1241st round of the Donghaeng Lottery, the story of a couple who won first and second prizes in the 224th round of the Pension Lottery 720+ is gaining attention.In a post on the Donghaeng Lottery winners' bulletin board, the couple shared, "We don’t drink or smoke, and instead use that money to buy lottery tickets and pension lottery tickets every week. As usual, we bought a set of lotto and pension lottery tickets at a nearby store on our way home from work."They recalled, "A few days later, while checking the winning numbers on my phone at a restaurant, I realized we had won first and second prizes. I stared blankly at the winning ticket, unable to believe that something like this could happen to us. When I showed the ticket to my spouse, they burst into tears of joy."The winner reflected, "My spouse and I have faced many hardships for over 40 years without luck in life or finances, but we see this as a blessing for our hard work. Recently, we have been worried about our future due to difficulties in the restaurant business and health issues, but the first prize winnings have lifted those worries, and we are very grateful."The winner, who purchased the lottery ticket at a store in Baekseok-eup, Yangju, Gyeonggi Province, responded to a question about a memorable dream, saying, "I don’t remember the details, but I often have pleasant dreams."When asked what kind of lottery tickets they usually buy, they replied, "I buy lotto and pension lottery tickets."Regarding plans for the winnings, the winner stated, "We plan to use the prize money to buy a house and for retirement funds."Meanwhile, the winning numbers for the 1241st round of the lottery will be available for viewing after 8:35 PM today.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-12 20:28:00
  • Kim Sang-sik, Vietnam National Football Team Coach, Loses Father at 84
    Kim Sang-sik, Vietnam National Football Team Coach, Loses Father at 84 베트남 축구대표팀을 이끄는 김상식 감독의 부친 김종원 씨가 12일 별세했다. 김 감독 아버지는 향년 84세다. 12일 베트남 현지 매체 VN익스프레스에 따르면 김 감독의 부친은 이날 한국에서 세상을 떠났다. 김 감독은 지난달 26일 베트남 대표팀을 이끌고 2026 아세안컵 우승을 차지한 뒤 부친의 건강이 좋지 않다고 밝힌 바 있다. 김 감독은 대회 관련 업무를 마무리한 뒤 부친을 돌보기 위해 곧바로 한국으로 귀국했다. 이후 부친 곁에서 마지막 시간을 함께한 것으로 알려졌다. 베트남축구연맹(VFF)은 김 감독의 부친상 소식이 전해진 직후 애도의 뜻을 밝혔다. 쩐꾸옥뚜언 VFF 회장은 김 감독과 유가족에게 위로를 전하며 김 감독이 힘든 시기를 잘 이겨내고 가족들과 함께 장례 절차를 잘 치르기를 바란다는 뜻을 전했다. 김 감독은 2024년 베트남 축구대표팀 사령탑에 오른 뒤 아세안컵 2연패를 이끌었다. U-23 대표팀까지 포함하면 최근 2년간 각급 대표팀에서 네 차례 우승을 차지했다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-12 20:20:00
  • Parking Accounts Gain Popularity with Interest Rates Up to 4%
    Parking Accounts Gain Popularity with Interest Rates Up to 4% As demand continues for temporarily parking unused funds while earning interest, 'parking accounts' are gaining renewed attention. Recently, some banks have offered interest rates of up to 4% annually on accounts that allow for free deposits and withdrawals, prompting increased interest in comparing product conditions.A parking account is a type of deposit account used for holding spare funds for a relatively short period. Unlike time deposits or savings accounts, funds can be withdrawn as needed.Among the notable products is Jeonbuk Bank's 'Seed Moa Small Amount Preferential Account' and 'Seed Moa Large Amount Preferential Account.'In June, Jeonbuk Bank launched these two products, which offer different interest rates based on the deposit amount. Both accounts provide a maximum annual interest rate of 4.0% for the first three months after account opening, after which a base interest rate of 1.8% to 2.0% applies.The 'Seed Moa Small Amount Preferential Account' offers a base annual interest rate of 2.0% for amounts up to 50 million won, while amounts exceeding this threshold earn 1.8%. The 'Seed Moa Large Amount Preferential Account' provides a base rate of 2.0% for balances over 50 million won and 1.8% for amounts below that. Both accounts can earn up to 4% annually for the first three months if conditions such as marketing consent and first-time transactions with Jeonbuk Bank are met.However, the 4% rate is not applicable for the entire year. The maximum interest rate for both accounts is only available for the first three months, after which the base rates must be considered.Additionally, SC First Bank's 'Hi Account' currently offers a maximum annual interest rate of 2.6% and a minimum of 0.1%. Customers must meet preferential conditions, such as making their first transaction and using the bank's app, to qualify for the highest rate.When selecting a parking account, it is essential to consider not just the 'maximum percentage' but also the following factors: the amount range for the maximum interest rate, preferential rate conditions, the duration of the preferential rate, and the base rate if conditions are not met.Particularly, if planning to park funds for a short term, products that offer high rates for the initial months may be advantageous. However, if the intention is to keep money for a longer period, the rate applicable after the preferential period may be more significant.Moreover, there are differences between parking accounts and Cash Management Accounts (CMA), which are managed by securities firms that invest customer funds in financial products like repurchase agreements. Depending on the type, the application of deposit protection may vary. In contrast, bank deposit products are subject to deposit protection regulations.Thus, the choice between short-term investment of spare funds under 50 million won or long-term storage of a larger sum will depend on whether one can meet the preferential conditions. Therefore, it is necessary to check the latest interest rates and preferential conditions from each financial institution before signing up.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-12 20:16:00
  • Trump Predicts End of Iran War After November Midterms, Oil Prices to Drop
    Trump Predicts End of Iran War After November Midterms, Oil Prices to Drop Donald Trump, the President of the United States, has predicted that the war with Iran will conclude shortly after the upcoming November midterm elections. He also claimed that international oil prices would plummet following the end of hostilities, although he did not provide specific evidence or details regarding negotiations.On September 12, during a press conference in Dublin, Ireland, Trump stated, "I think it will be very soon. Probably right after the midterms."Trump accused Iran of prolonging the conflict to influence the U.S. elections, saying, "Iran is trying to hold out as long as possible to complicate the election." However, he did not offer any evidence to support the claim that Iran is considering the U.S. election schedule in its military strategy.He forecasted a significant drop in oil prices once the war ends, stating, "If that happens, oil prices will fall sharply." Currently, international oil prices have surpassed $100 per barrel due to recent conflicts in the Middle East and concerns over oil supply disruptions.Trump also pointed to Iran as being behind attacks on the East-West pipeline, a key route for Saudi oil exports. When asked if he believed Iran was responsible, he replied, "I think so. Probably it is."Uncertainty remains regarding the situation in the Middle East. The conflict between the U.S. and Iran has been ongoing for six months, with disruptions in shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and attacks on Saudi energy facilities raising concerns about oil supply stability.Regarding the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, Trump expressed optimism, saying, "Everything will be resolved well." He also commented on the Iran-aligned Houthi rebels in Yemen, stating, "They do not want to fight us."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-12 20:12:00