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  • Uzbekistan secures SCO security center and bids for AI forum
    Uzbekistan secures SCO security center and bids for AI forum SEOUL, September 12 (AJP) - A new body charged with countering security threats facing the Shanghai Cooperation Organization's member states will be based in Tashkent, handing Uzbekistan a permanent institutional role at the center of the bloc's security work. Leaders approved the regulation establishing the Universal Center for Countering Security Challenges and Threats at the meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in Bishkek on Sept. 1. The SCO brings together 10 countries across Eurasia, among them China, Russia, India, Pakistan, Iran, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, and it is marking its 25th anniversary this year. Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev proposed at the same meeting that the organization draw up a conceptual vision called "SCO-2040: A Space for Common Development." "Today, it is important not only to effectively address emerging challenges, but also to have a clear understanding of what we want the organization to become in the long term," he said. "The competitiveness of our states will directly depend on our readiness to combine our potential and create new opportunities for joint development. I am convinced that the enormous human, natural, industrial and intellectual resources of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization countries should serve, first and foremost, to enhance the well-being of our peoples." The vision, he said, should aim to "create an interconnected and sustainable space, where investments, technologies and knowledge can be freely exchanged, major infrastructure and industrial projects can be implemented and direct ties among regions, businesses and people can be expanded." Time has demonstrated the relevance of the SCO platform and the effectiveness of its format, Mirziyoyev said. Uzbekistan has supported the organization since its founding as an open, non-aligned and peace-loving platform for cooperation. "We particularly value the fact that Central Asia, the geographical and strategic core of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, remains at the heart of our cooperation," he added. Technology was the second area where Tashkent put itself forward. Mirziyoyev welcomed Chinese President Xi Jinping's initiative to establish a World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization, a body meant to coordinate how governments develop and govern the technology. "I believe that the Shanghai Cooperation Organization should be among the first partners of this new technological alliance," he said. He proposed creating an SCO Open Multilingual Data Corpus, a shared pool of language data that AI systems can be trained on, and said Tashkent is ready to host the SCO Forum on Artificial Intelligence and New Digital Solutions next year. On the economy, which he identified as the main indicator of the organization's effectiveness, Mirziyoyev proposed an SCO Industrial Cooperation Map drawing together special economic zones, production processes, markets and logistics. "In effect, this will create a universal digital window for businesses, investors and government agencies," he said. Uzbekistan believes the organization should move from agreeing on general principles for an SCO Development Bank to launching one, the president continued. The work should rest on developed investment proposals of regional significance, and members should begin assembling a portfolio of priority projects in transport, energy, industrial cooperation and digital infrastructure. Climate pressure is reaching into food, water and energy supplies across member states, Mirziyoyev said, and the situation requires a single agenda that treats those problems together rather than separately. He proposed a dedicated mechanism to coordinate programs, technology exchange and the sharing of advanced knowledge, with an SCO Program for Technological Cooperation in Water and Energy Efficiency through 2035 as one step in that direction. He gave similar weight to transport, calling the continued expansion of international transport corridors a matter of critical importance. He urged the creation of a Council for the Integration of the Railway Networks of SCO Member States, with priority given to coordinating logistics infrastructure and knitting national transport systems together. Afghanistan, he said, is fundamental to the security and development of the region. "We all need a prosperous neighboring country integrated into constructive regional processes. The time has come to resume regular dialogue between the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and Afghanistan to discuss a broad range of issues related to security and economic cooperation," he said. Mirziyoyev also proposed a Program for Cooperation on the Preservation and Promotion of Traditional Arts and Intangible Cultural Heritage for 2028~2030, and expressed concern over developments in the Middle East, saying Uzbekistan firmly supports a return to dialogue and de-escalation there. Chairing the meeting was Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov. Also at the table were the presidents of Belarus, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia and Tajikistan, the prime ministers of India and Pakistan, the president of China, the SCO secretary-general and the director of the Executive Committee of the SCO Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure, the counterterrorism arm that has operated out of Tashkent for two decades. The chairmanship passed from Kyrgyzstan to Pakistan. 2026-09-12 16:56:02
  • Kim Min-seok Advocates for Broad Political Unity in South Korea
    Kim Min-seok Advocates for Broad Political Unity in South Korea Kim Min-seok, leader of the Democratic Party, has proposed a vision for broad political unity that encompasses both progressive and reformist factions as well as centrist and conservative groups. He emphasized that any candidate unification should be based on competitiveness rather than political shares, while keeping the possibility of collaboration or merger with the Justice Party open.According to Yonhap News on September 12, during the 'Open Day' event held by the Pyeongtaek local committee, Kim stated, "Our party will pursue a path of unification that embraces progressive parties and individuals, centrist individuals, and those who are conservative yet rational and capable."He added, "The Democratic Party will take the lead as a structural majority that includes conservatives and centrists, and I will engage in dialogue and collaboration with progressive reform parties and centrist-conservative forces."Regarding the relationship with the Justice Party, he noted, "We will discuss and decide whether to pursue a merger or collaboration, but the fundamental principle is competitiveness." He also expressed his intention to collaborate with other progressive parties, including the Social Democratic Party, the Progressive Party, and the Basic Income Party.Kim particularly drew a line against the traditional method of dividing political shares. He remarked, "The era of dividing shares is over. That is old politics. Even if we collaborate with other parties, unification will be based on competitiveness, and candidates within our party will also be chosen based on their competitiveness."The Pyeongtaek area, where the event took place, experienced a split in the progressive camp during the recent June 3 by-election, where Democratic Party's Kim Yong-nam and Justice Party's Cho Guk competed, resulting in the election of People Power Party's Yoo Yi-dong.Kim reaffirmed his support for Kim Yong-nam, who competed against Cho at that time, stating, "I hope and will support individuals like Kim Yong-nam to play a larger role in our politics, our party, and our government." Kim appointed Kim Yong-nam as the deputy chair of the party's policy committee shortly after taking office.In light of the recent decline in support for the government and ruling party, Kim emphasized the importance of addressing people's livelihoods. He stated, "The current state of governance is somewhat more challenging than it was a year ago when I just started my term. Ultimately, the essence of politics is people's livelihoods, and revitalizing livelihoods is the only and most accurate answer to overcome the situation."Meanwhile, lawmaker Song Young-gil criticized Cho Guk, who had previously campaigned with the slogan 'Zero People Power Party' during the by-election, saying, "There was someone who suddenly came to create a 'Zero Democratic Party' after claiming it was a difficult area for the Democratic Party."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-12 16:40:00
  • Gas Prices in South Korea Drop for 17th Consecutive Week Despite Rising Global Oil Prices
    Gas Prices in South Korea Drop for 17th Consecutive Week Despite Rising Global Oil Prices Nationwide gas prices in South Korea have continued to decline for the 17th consecutive week, even as international oil prices surged due to conflicts in the Middle East. Analysts attribute the drop in domestic prices to the government's maintenance of a maximum oil price system, which limits the impact of rising global prices on local sales.According to the Korea National Oil Corporation's oil price information system, Opinet, the average price of gasoline at gas stations across the country fell by 1.1 won to 1,859.1 won per liter during the second week of September (September 6-10).In terms of regional prices, Seoul recorded the highest average at 1,905.3 won, down 1.3 won from the previous week, while Daegu had the lowest at 1,832.1 won, a decrease of 0.9 won. Among brands, GS Caltex stations had the highest price at 1,862.3 won per liter, while discount gas stations reported the lowest at 1,849.2 won. The average price of diesel nationwide also fell by 0.5 won to 1,844.0 won.In contrast to domestic prices, international oil prices have seen significant increases. Concerns about disruptions in crude oil transportation due to the escalation of conflicts in the Middle East, along with fears of a prolonged war, have contributed to this rise.The price of Dubai crude, which serves as a benchmark for South Korea's imported oil, rose by $14.4 to $114.7 per barrel this week. International gasoline prices increased by $9.9 to $131.2 per barrel, while international diesel prices rose by $5.6 to $170.4 per barrel.In response to the surge in oil prices, the United States is also considering measures. The Trump administration is reportedly reviewing options to expand domestic refining capacity under the Defense Production Act (DPA). According to foreign media, President Trump met with representatives from over ten U.S. refining companies on September 1 to discuss utilizing the DPA.The DPA, enacted shortly after the outbreak of the Korean War in 1950, allows the president to require private companies to increase production of essential materials for national security. The rising gasoline prices due to soaring international oil prices have become a significant concern for the Trump administration ahead of the midterm elections, prompting discussions on expanding refining supply.Typically, fluctuations in international oil prices are reflected in domestic gas station prices with a delay of two to three weeks. However, the government's implementation of the maximum oil price system is expected to create a divergence between international oil prices and domestic sales prices for the time being.On August 21, the government set the ninth maximum oil price at the same level as before, with gasoline priced at 1,784 won per liter, diesel at 1,773 won, and kerosene at 1,380 won. The tenth maximum oil price is scheduled to be announced at the end of this month.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-12 16:24:00
  • Samsung Targets Apple with Galaxy Foldable Phone Marketing
    Samsung Targets Apple with Galaxy Foldable Phone Marketing Samsung Electronics has launched a marketing campaign for its Galaxy foldable phone featuring a man with the same name as Apple CEO Tim Cook. This move comes as Apple unveiled its first foldable iPhone, the 'iPhone Duo,' prompting Samsung, which entered the market seven years earlier, to ramp up its comparative marketing efforts.On September 12, Samsung Mobile's official Instagram account in New Zealand posted a photo of a man holding a Galaxy Z Fold8, stating, "Great news! Tim Cook has switched to a Galaxy phone."The post continued, "Yes, that Tim Cook. The one from Palmerston North," adding, "Which Tim Cook were you thinking of?"The man in the photo is not the Apple CEO but a namesake residing in Palmerston North, New Zealand. By highlighting the common name and introducing a twist with an ordinary person, Samsung promoted the Galaxy Z Fold8.In a follow-up post, Samsung stated, "Tim Cook from Palmerston North introduces the Galaxy Z Fold8," using the hashtag 'SwitchToGalaxy,' targeting Apple users to consider switching to Galaxy devices.This marketing strategy was launched immediately after Apple revealed the iPhone Duo. On September 9, Apple held a product launch event at Apple Park in Cupertino, California, where it introduced the iPhone Duo, its first foldable product since the original iPhone was released in 2007.Samsung's competitive response has continued around the iPhone Duo's announcement. Samsung Mobile's official account in the U.S. posted, "You think we’re just waiting? Good. We’ll be here folding three times," emphasizing its foldable technology with the Galaxy Z Tri-Fold, which was released last December.After the iPhone Duo was unveiled, Samsung posted, "Let us know when you’re done reheating the food we left behind," indirectly pointing out that Apple is entering the foldable market later than Samsung.Marketing efforts have also been tailored to specific regions. Samsung's official account in Myanmar released a video showing a Galaxy foldable phone being folded and unfolded, resembling a clapping motion. The video included baby blankets and bottles reminiscent of the iPhone Duo, with the caption, "Welcome to foldables."Since introducing the first Galaxy Fold in 2019, Samsung has led the foldable phone market with its Z Fold and Z Flip series. In July, it unveiled the Galaxy Z Fold8, Z Fold8 Ultra, and Z Flip8. Last December, it expanded its product line with the Galaxy Z Tri-Fold, which folds twice to create three sides.With Apple's entry into the foldable phone market, competition is expected to intensify. Samsung aims to leverage its seven years of experience and diverse form factors, while Apple is set to capitalize on its iPhone ecosystem to penetrate the market. 2026-09-12 16:12:00
  • Drunk Driver Sentenced to 5 Years for Fatal Crash
    Drunk Driver Sentenced to 5 Years for Fatal Crash A 24-year-old woman was sentenced to five years in prison for causing a fatal traffic accident while driving under the influence at more than double the speed limit. This sentence is one year longer than the four-year term imposed in the initial trial.On September 12, the Chuncheon District Court's Criminal Division 1-3, led by Judge Heo Il-seung, overturned the original sentence and issued the five-year term for A, who was charged with causing death through dangerous driving under the Special Act on the Punishment of Specific Crimes and driving under the influence of alcohol.The accident occurred at 1:22 a.m. on October 27, 2025, at the Dongbu Gyosa Intersection in Dangu-dong, Wonju, Gangwon Province. At the time, A was driving a Sonata sedan with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.131%.A was traveling at 104 km/h in a zone where the speed limit was 50 km/h when she ignored a red light and entered the intersection. She collided with the front passenger door of a Sonata driven by B, 31, who was passing through the intersection legally.The impact caused B's vehicle to be pushed into a traffic signal pole. B sustained serious injuries and was taken to the hospital, but died from brain damage the following afternoon.A was prosecuted for causing death through dangerous driving and driving under the influence. It was revealed that she had previously received a fine in 2023 for causing injuries to another victim in a traffic accident.The Chuncheon District Court's Wonju branch, which handled the first trial, stated, "The victim lost a precious life, and it is difficult to comprehend the sense of loss and grief felt by the victim's family who lost a loved one overnight," before sentencing A to four years in prison.In the appeal, the prosecution added details about the speed limit of 50 km/h in the accident area to the charges, and the court approved the amendment. The appellate court considered A's actions of driving under the influence, violating traffic signals, and exceeding the speed limit significantly, leading to the heavier five-year sentence.The court noted, "The victim lost her life at the young age of 31, and the family is pleading for severe punishment for the defendant," while also acknowledging that A has shown remorse and that the vehicle was covered by comprehensive insurance, allowing the family to receive compensation.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-12 15:48:00
  • Korea expands espionage law as chip technology theft concerns mount
    Korea expands espionage law as chip technology theft concerns mount SEOUL, September 12 (AJP) - South Korea will broaden the scope of its espionage law from Sunday to cover spying for foreign countries, closing a decades-old legal gap as concerns grow over overseas theft of strategically important technologies including semiconductors. The revised Criminal Act, which takes effect Sept. 13, introduces a new provision allowing authorities to prosecute people who obtain, collect, disclose, transfer or broker national secrets for a foreign country or an equivalent organization under its direction, instigation or other communication. Those convicted under the new provision face a minimum prison term of three years. Until now, South Korea's espionage provisions have primarily targeted activities conducted on behalf of an "enemy state," a definition that in practice largely applied to North Korea. The amendment marks a significant expansion of the country's counterespionage framework at a time when Seoul is increasingly concerned about the overseas leakage of advanced technologies that underpin its export-driven economy. Semiconductors have emerged as a particularly sensitive area. South Korea is home to Samsung Electronics and SK hynix, two of the world's largest memory chipmakers, whose technologies have become increasingly strategically important as global competition intensifies over artificial intelligence and advanced computing. South Korean police detected a record 33 cases of technology leakage overseas last year, with more than half involving China. Semiconductors were the most frequently targeted industry. One of the highest-profile cases involved former Samsung Electronics employees accused of transferring the company's 18-nanometer DRAM manufacturing technology to Chinese memory chipmaker ChangXin Memory Technologies, or CXMT. Prosecutors announced the indictment of 10 former Samsung employees in connection with the case last December. Concerns over technology theft extend beyond the country's largest conglomerates. Smaller suppliers of semiconductor materials, components and equipment can also possess sensitive manufacturing information while having fewer resources to protect it. The revised espionage law is intended to provide prosecutors with an additional legal tool in cases involving foreign entities, but it will not automatically turn every overseas technology leak into an espionage case. Prosecutors must establish that the information constitutes a national secret and demonstrate the required connection between the accused and a foreign country or equivalent organization. Technology leaks that do not meet that threshold can still be prosecuted under other laws, including the Industrial Technology Protection Act, which separately provides criminal penalties for leaking protected industrial technologies overseas. The tougher legal framework comes as competition over semiconductor technology intensifies between the United States and China and as artificial intelligence raises the strategic value of advanced memory chips. China on Friday called on South Korea to provide a fair and nondiscriminatory business environment for Chinese companies when asked about the expanded espionage law. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Beijing has consistently required Chinese companies to comply with international rules and local laws when conducting overseas business, while calling on countries to safeguard normal investment and business activities. For South Korea, the change represents a shift from a counterespionage system historically centered on North Korea toward one designed to address a broader range of foreign threats — including the loss of technologies increasingly regarded as strategic national assets. AJP Takeaways - South Korea will expand its espionage law from Sept. 13 to cover spying for foreign countries, moving beyond a framework that had historically focused largely on North Korea. - The change comes amid growing concerns over overseas technology theft, with police detecting a record 33 cases last year, more than half involving China and semiconductors emerging as the most frequently targeted industry. - The revised law does not automatically classify every overseas technology leak as espionage, as prosecutors must establish that the information constitutes a national secret and demonstrate a required connection with a foreign country or equivalent organization. 2026-09-12 15:41:39
  • MONSTA X Wins First Music Show with MAGIC on Music Bank
    MONSTA X Wins First Music Show with 'MAGIC' on Music Bank The group MONSTA X has secured their first music show win following their comeback. On September 11, MONSTA X topped KBS 2TV's 'Music Bank' with their title track 'MAGIC' from their mini-album 'The Phase.' During the performance, MONSTA X showcased their vocals and choreography in a white-themed setup, expressing the energy of 'MAGIC' through dynamic dance moves and stage presence. In a statement through their agency Starship Entertainment, MONSTA X expressed gratitude, saying, "Thanks to MONBEBE's support, we were able to continue our activities for 'MAGIC' with strength, and we are grateful to share this joyful moment of winning first place on a music show." They added, "Even in our 12th year since debut, being able to perform on stage and continue to take on new challenges is all thanks to MONBEBE. We believe this win is a result of everyone, including I.M, who is currently serving in the military, and the dedicated staff who have been with us for a long time." They also mentioned, "With this album, we aimed to maintain MONSTA X's unique color while showing a new side of ourselves, and it is even more meaningful that many people have received it positively. We will continue to repay you with good music and performances." Following the release of 'The Phase,' MONSTA X reached sixth place on the Worldwide iTunes Album Chart. They also topped the iTunes Top 100 K-Pop Album Charts in 11 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Brazil, and Turkey. This year, they are currently on their 2026 world tour 'THE X: NEXUS,' which began in Seoul. In October, they will resume their tour across ten cities in North America, including the United States and Canada. MONSTA X will hold encore performances in Incheon at the Inspire Arena on November 21 and 22, where they will meet with fans.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-12 15:40:00
  • First Container Ship to Navigate Arctic Route Arrives in the UK After 21 Days
    First Container Ship to Navigate Arctic Route Arrives in the UK After 21 Days 국내 컨테이너선 최초로 북극항로 시범 운항에 나선 팬스타 아크로호가 부산을 출항한 지 21일 만에 영국에 도착했다. 12일 해양수산부에 따르면 팬스타 아크로호는 이날 오전 5시께(한국시간) 영국 펠릭스토우항에 입항했다. 지난달 22일 부산에서 출항한 지 21일 만이다. 팬스타 아크로호는 지난달 31일 북극해에 진입해 이달 9일 북극해를 빠져나온 뒤 영국으로 향했다. 북극해 진입 초기에는 해빙(海氷)으로 운항에 일부 어려움을 겪었지만 유럽에 가까워질수록 해빙이 줄면서 대체로 순항한 것으로 전해졌다. 팬스타 아크로호는 2758TEU(1TEU는 20피트 컨테이너 1개)급 컨테이너선이다. 화학제품과 중고차, 자동차 부품 등 화물 737TEU를 포함해 총 837TEU를 싣고 부산을 출발했다. 펠릭스토우항에서는 일부 화물을 하역할 예정이다. 유럽 내 운항도 이어간다. 오는 13일 네덜란드 로테르담에 도착한 뒤 16일 폴란드 그단스크에 기항할 예정이다. 이후 다시 북극해를 통과해 부산으로 돌아오며 귀항 예정일은 다음 달 12일이다. 북극항로는 기후변화에 따른 해빙 면적 감소로 활용 가능성이 커진 아시아와 유럽 간 최단거리 해상 운송로다. 기존 항로보다 운송 거리와 시간을 줄일 수 있어 새로운 글로벌 물류망으로 주목받고 있다. 정부는 이번 시범 운항에서 확보한 항해 데이터와 운항 경험을 향후 북극항로 진출을 위한 기초 자료로 활용할 방침이다. 실제 선박 운항을 통해 해빙과 기상 변화, 항로별 운항 여건 등을 확인하면서 향후 상업 운항 가능성을 검토하는 데도 활용될 전망이다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-12 15:20:00
  • AI Predicts Electricity Needs in South Koreas Energy Transition
    AI Predicts Electricity Needs in South Korea's Energy Transition How much electricity will South Korea need in five minutes? Power supply can change with heat waves or cloud cover over solar power plants. With the increase in data centers and electric vehicles, the calculations have become more complex. Kim Sung-jin, chairman of the Korea Power Exchange, is building an 'AI control tower' for predicting supply and demand using AI and data. Electricity is different from regular commodities. The amount used and produced nationwide must be balanced at every moment. A shortage increases the risk of blackouts, while excess generation raises costs. The Korea Power Exchange manages this massive balance. It forecasts national electricity demand, plans generation, and operates the power system and market. Although it may not be visible to the public, it serves as the control tower for South Korea's power system. AI Reads 'Electricity in 5 Minutes' The core task of the Korea Power Exchange is forecasting electricity demand. It must predict how much electricity will be needed at 10 a.m., 3 p.m., and 8 p.m. tomorrow to prepare generation. Numerous variables, including temperature, humidity, day of the week, time, industrial activity, and holidays, influence electricity usage. The exchange utilizes vast data to forecast daily and weekly electricity demand and is advancing AI-based predictions as a key strategic initiative. It also produces five-minute interval demand forecasts. We are entering an era where data and AI can predict how much electricity South Korea will need in five minutes.AI's importance is growing as solar and wind energy increase. In the past, adjusting generation to match demand was centered around large power plants like nuclear, coal, and gas. Now, cloud cover can reduce solar output, and weak winds can decrease wind generation. It is essential to predict not only how much electricity will be consumed but also how much will be produced.With the rise of energy storage systems (ESS), electric vehicles, and distributed energy resources, the power grid is becoming a vast network connecting numerous suppliers and consumers in real-time. This is why AI is necessary. AI Consumes Electricity and Directs It A new variable shaking up the power market is AI itself. The spread of generative AI has led to an increase in large data centers. Operating numerous GPUs is required to train and service AI. When large data centers are established, they create significant new electricity demand in the area. Ironically, while AI consumes vast amounts of electricity, it is also needed to ensure a stable supply of that electricity. In the future, the Korea Power Exchange will need to consider nuclear, gas, solar, wind, ESS, electric vehicles, and AI data centers simultaneously. The complexity of the power system has grown too intricate to rely solely on human experience and existing statistics. The value of AI in accurately predicting supply and demand and supporting optimal choices is becoming increasingly significant. Kim Sung-jin's 'Energy Transition' Since taking office in May, Kim Sung-jin has identified building a stable power supply system, innovating the power market, and establishing a distributed power system as key tasks. In particular, distributed energy is a crucial variable that will change the future power system. The traditional method of sending electricity produced at large power plants through long-distance transmission networks to metropolitan and industrial areas is shifting towards a system where electricity is produced and consumed locally. The relationship between electricity and industrial location is also changing. As facilities that consume vast amounts of electricity, such as semiconductor factories and AI data centers, continue to increase, there are limits to building transmission networks everywhere they are needed. A new approach is required to guide industries to areas with abundant electricity. Regional electricity prices, distributed energy, and industrial locations are becoming interconnected.AI and data can be utilized to analyze how much electricity is needed in each region, how demand will grow, and what burdens will arise on the transmission network. The role of the Korea Power Exchange may also expand from simple power supply management to supporting the efficient allocation of energy and industry through a data platform. Korea Power Exchange's Transition to 'KPX AI' The Korea Power Exchange itself has begun its own transformation. In response to the energy transition and AI innovation in 2026, it has restructured its organization and enhanced its AX data capabilities. It is also pursuing an information strategy plan for the introduction of 'KPX AI.' The core asset is data. Vast amounts of data are accumulated during the processes of generation, electricity demand, market prices, and system operations. By making this data usable for AI and linking predictions and analyses to actual decision-making, the accuracy and efficiency of power system operations can be improved. AI-based electricity demand forecasting is just the starting point. There is significant potential for expanding its application to renewable energy generation forecasting, power market analysis, and distributed resource management. The essence of the AX that the Korea Power Exchange should aim for lies here. It is not about creating many AI systems but using AI to predict South Korea's electricity more accurately and operate it more stably. The 'AI Control Tower' of South Korea's Electricity As the AI era takes off, the role of South Korea's power industry is becoming clearer. While power companies like Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power generate electricity and Korea Electric Power transmits and distributes it, the Korea Power Exchange matches supply and demand nationwide and directs the entire system. It serves as the 'brain' of South Korea's electricity. Now, AI is entering this brain.With the increase of solar and wind energy, the spread of ESS and electric vehicles, and the emergence of large new electricity consumers like AI data centers, the complexity of the power system is growing. The success of the energy transition that Kim Sung-jin is promoting depends on how stably and efficiently this complex system is managed. AI predicts electricity demand and analyzes renewable energy generation. It reads vast amounts of power data to assist in the operation of the power system and market. We are moving beyond an era where AI consumes electricity to one where AI directs South Korea's electricity. The Korea Power Exchange, the control tower of South Korea's electricity, is now evolving into an 'AI control tower.' :Kim Sung-jin, Chairman of the Korea Power Exchange:Kim Sung-jin is an expert in industrial and energy policy. He has served as the spokesperson for the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, director of the Trade Policy Bureau, industrial and trade secretary at the Presidential Office, and director of Gwangju Technopark. He became chairman of the Korea Power Exchange in May 2026, promoting energy transition centered on stable power supply, power market innovation, and the establishment of a distributed power system. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-12 15:00:00
  • Man Arrested for Stabbing Mother in Incheon
    Man Arrested for Stabbing Mother in Incheon A man in his 20s has been arrested for allegedly stabbing his mother in a house in Incheon, South Korea.According to Yonhap News Agency, the Incheon Ganghwa Police Station reported that the suspect, identified as A, was apprehended on charges of attempted murder on September 12. A is accused of stabbing his mother, B, multiple times with a knife in their single-family home around 10 p.m. the previous day. B sustained injuries to her face and neck but was treated at a hospital and has since been discharged.A police official stated, "A appears to be suffering from a mental illness," adding that they are investigating the circumstances and motives behind the incident and plan to apply for an arrest warrant. 2026-09-12 14:44:10