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North Korea Launches Multiple Ballistic Missiles, Flying 250 km North Korea launched several ballistic missiles early on September 12, flying approximately 250 kilometers.The Joint Chiefs of Staff reported that at around 5:20 a.m., multiple short-range ballistic missiles were detected being fired from the Wonsan area into the East Sea. They added, "The U.S. and South Korea are currently conducting a detailed analysis of the exact specifications of the missiles."They emphasized, "Our military maintains a robust readiness posture under the strong South Korea-U.S. alliance, closely monitoring North Korea's various activities and ensuring we can respond overwhelmingly to any provocations."This launch marks the first since August 20, occurring 23 days later. Analysts suggest it may be a response to the recent Freedom Shield military exercises conducted by South Korea, the U.S., and Japan from September 7 to 11 in the waters southeast of Jeju.Previously, on August 20, North Korea also launched ballistic missiles while U.S. and South Korean forces were conducting their regular joint exercise, the Ulchi Freedom Shield (UFS).This year, North Korea's ballistic missile launches have reached 13. However, since September 6, North Korea has remained silent regarding three previous missile launches. It remains to be seen whether they will comment on this latest launch.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-12 09:56:00 -
Kim Seong-hoon Emphasizes Field Voices in Policy for Bikyaram Innovation City The Jeonnam Gwangju Integrated Special City is seeking to discover new growth engines for Bikyaram Innovation City based on industry-academia-research collaboration. Kim Seong-hoon, head of the Innovation City Support Team, expressed his commitment to translating field voices into practical policies.On September 11, the Jeonnam Gwangju Integrated Special City Innovation City Support Team held the 'Innovation City Industry-Academia-Research Conference' at the Bikyaram Complex Cultural and Sports Center in Naju, discussing strategies for the development of the innovation city and ways to foster future industries.The event was attended by over 100 representatives from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, local governments, relocated public institutions, universities, research organizations, and resident companies.The conference aimed not only to share achievements among institutions but also to strengthen the industry-academia-research cooperation system and identify policies that can be implemented on the ground. Participants shared challenges faced by public institutions and resident companies, gathering opinions to reflect in policies aimed at revitalizing the innovation city.Five institutions, including Dongshin University, Jeonnam Technopark, Energy Valley Development Institute, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, and IoT Plus, participated in thematic presentations, showcasing successful cases of industry-academia-research collaboration, strategies for fostering future industries, and the long-term development direction of the innovation city.Discussions that followed included various policy proposals aimed at expanding inter-agency cooperation, enhancing regional industrial competitiveness, supporting corporate activities, and improving living conditions for sustainable development of the innovation city.Participants agreed that for the innovation city to grow into a regional innovation hub that organically connects universities, research institutions, and companies, it is crucial to establish a cooperative system that consolidates the capabilities of each institution.Kim Seong-hoon emphasized 'field' and 'cooperation' as the core of innovation city development.Kim Seong-hoon stated, “The competitiveness of the innovation city begins with cooperation among institutions and diverse opinions from the field. I hope this conference serves as a meaningful opportunity for universities, research institutions, companies, and public institutions to collaboratively design the future.”He also indicated a commitment to ensure that the opinions presented at the conference do not remain a one-time discussion but are linked to future policies.Kim added, “We will carefully review the various opinions proposed at the conference to ensure they lead to policies that contribute to the development of the innovation city and the revitalization of the local economy.”The integrated special city plans to review the policy proposals and field opinions presented at the conference, while utilizing card news and the innovation city website to share key discussion points and development directions.This conference is expected to be a significant step in determining how effectively the cooperation system among relocated public institutions, universities, research institutions, and companies translates into actual projects and policies for the revitalization of Bikyaram Innovation City.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-12 09:52:00
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Han Dong-hoon Criticizes Police for Alleged Political Bias Independent lawmaker Han Dong-hoon intensified his criticism of Kim Seung-won, the nominee for Minister of Justice, on September 12, questioning whether the police are becoming "teeth for the Democratic Party's brothers."In a Facebook post, Han stated, "I have never seen the police move so quickly in response to a political complaint that lacks specific details or evidence." He further asked, "Is the police also going to become the teeth for the Democratic Party's brothers?" He accused Democratic Party leader Kim Min-seok of mobilizing the police because they "bark but have no bite." He emphasized that the Democratic Party's representative sending the police is Lee Jae-myung's lawyer in the Daejang-dong case.Han also remarked, "With the abolition of supplementary investigations, is there really nothing for the police to do? Even if the dog barks, the train keeps running. I will continue to focus on the people."Additionally, Han claimed that the prosecution, which investigated Kim's alleged lobbying for the approval of new drug clinical trials, faced external pressure and decided to suspend prosecution. He released the "prosecution plan" drafted by the investigation team at that time.In response, Democratic Party lawmaker Kim Dong-a announced during a press conference on September 6 that he would file a complaint against Han for allegedly receiving confidential investigation records illegally and misusing them for political conflict.According to political sources, the Yeongdeungpo Police Station in Seoul plans to summon Kim for questioning on September 13. Kim had reported Han to the National Investigation Headquarters of the National Police Agency on September 7 for violations of public office confidentiality, the Personal Information Protection Act, and the Public Records Management Act.Moreover, Han recently raised suspicions of surveillance by the Prime Minister's Office. A staff member from the Prime Minister's Office identified themselves as a "regular citizen" during Han's press conference on September 10 regarding the allegations of lobbying for a new COVID-19 treatment, which sparked controversy. In response, the Prime Minister's Office and Prime Minister Han Seong-sook stated they would take strict measures against the staff member. 2026-09-12 09:44:00
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Trump Promises $5,000 Dividend Ahead of Midterm Elections As the midterm elections approach, President Donald Trump emphasized on September 12 that a $5,000 Trump dividend for every American adult will be realized. He urged voters to support the Republican Party.In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated, "The stupid Democrats are hoping the Trump dividend will not be paid out." He added, "Democrats said that 'The Great Big Beautiful Bill' would not pass, but it eventually did."He also pointed out that last year, the 'Warrior Dividend' provided $1,776 to approximately 1.45 million U.S. service members, despite claims that it was impossible. "Patriots in the military were very pleased," he noted, referencing the year 1776, which signifies the founding of the United States.Trump asserted, "When I say I will do something, I mean it. The $5,000 dividend will definitely be paid. Our citizens deserve it." He concluded by appealing for support, saying, "Vote for the Republican Party. Help make America great again."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-12 09:20:00
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MyRealTrip to Acquire CreateTrip, Expanding Travel Services Domestic travel app MyRealTrip is expanding its business scope by acquiring CreateTrip, an inbound tourism platform.On September 11, MyRealTrip announced that its board had approved the acquisition of all shares of CreateTrip through a stock exchange method. After making a strategic investment in CreateTrip in 2024, MyRealTrip plans to complete the subsidiary integration by the end of the year.This acquisition will allow MyRealTrip to extend its services beyond outbound and domestic travel to include inbound tourism. The company aims to respond broadly to the travel demands of both South Koreans traveling domestically and internationally, as well as foreign visitors to Korea, thereby enhancing its competitiveness as a global travel platform.Founded in 2012, MyRealTrip offers comprehensive travel services, including flights, accommodations, tours, and activities, and has surpassed 10 million registered users. Last year, it recorded a total transaction volume of approximately 2.3 trillion won, establishing itself as a leading travel tech company in South Korea.CreateTrip, the company being acquired, was launched in 2016 and has been introducing travel content and activities to foreign visitors in Korea while partnering with domestic businesses for bookings. According to CreateTrip, as of April 2026, it had 1.7 million monthly users, ranking first in usage in Taiwan and second in the U.S. and Japan, solidifying its position in the inbound tourism sector.Even after the acquisition process is completed, CreateTrip and MyRealTrip will continue to operate their respective services and brands independently. Both companies plan to maintain the expertise and brand identity of each platform while developing long-term growth strategies.Lee Dong-geon, CEO of MyRealTrip, stated, "MyRealTrip has aimed for a complete connection of travel experiences. What travelers need, whether it’s outbound, domestic, or inbound travel, is not significantly different. With this acquisition, we will encompass all three directions and grow into a platform that connects the entire journey of domestic and international travelers."Im Hye-min, CEO of CreateTrip, remarked, "This decision is a strategic choice to leverage the inbound expertise that CreateTrip has accumulated over the past decade for greater growth. We will continue to strengthen CreateTrip's brand identity and service competitiveness to lead the innovation of the entire travel process for foreign visitors in Korea."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-12 09:04:20
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Marienmay Launches Exciting Spicule Retinol PDRN Cream Refreshing and Exciting The first impression of Marienmay's 'Spicule Retinol PDRN Cream' is striking. Upon application, a slight tingling sensation is felt on the skin. Initially, this feeling may seem unusual, but after using it for over a month, it has become familiar and even enjoyable. This sensation is due to the inclusion of 'spicules,' which are tiny needles smaller than pores. Spicules provide physical micro-stimulation to the skin, aiding in the absorption of active ingredients and creating a pathway for them to penetrate the skin. This process generates the characteristic tingling sensation. The product contains marine-derived natural micro spicules that are about one-fortieth the size of a pore. The key ingredients are retinol, known for its effectiveness in improving skin wrinkles, and polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN), which promotes skin recovery. The high concentration of natural micro spicules helps these ingredients absorb effectively into the skin. Retinol and PDRN are also differentiated from other products. The high-concentration retinol is processed into a nano-liposomal form to reduce skin irritation, while low-molecular-weight plant-based PDRN aids in the recovery of skin that may become sensitive after retinol use and strengthens the collagen barrier. The cream applies smoothly without a thick feeling. It is notable that no artificial colors are added, allowing the natural light yellow hue of retinol to shine through. To cater to sensitive skin, the product incorporates a 'Safe 4X Formula' with 2% D-panthenol for skin soothing, hyaluronic acid for hydration, allantoin to assist in skin recovery, and ceramide NP to help form a protective barrier. After using it for about a month, I noticed improvements in my skin's elasticity and texture. Proper application is essential. After cleansing, avoid the sensitive eye area and other easily irritated spots, and gently press the cream into the skin with your palms for absorption. Due to the nature of retinol, skin may become dry, so it is recommended to use a moisturizing or soothing product afterward. If you are not accustomed to spicules, it is advisable to start using the cream 2-3 times a week in the evening and gradually increase the frequency. If there is no significant irritation, daily use is recommended.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-12 09:04:10
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Colleges Face Demand-Driven Revolution in Admissions <Education & Perspective> examines the issues in primary, secondary, and higher education amid the collapse of public education, declining school-age populations, and fluctuating college admissions systems. We also explore sustainable alternatives and provide a critical yet compassionate view of our society.In September 2026, John Ternus, an engineer, succeeded Timothy Donald Cook, who led Apple for 15 years, as CEO. This leadership change in a global tech giant signals a significant shift beyond supplier-centric efficiency and management capabilities, emphasizing the need for innovation in consumer experience and the intrinsic value of products to ensure survival even for top-tier companies.This 'demand-driven paradigm shift' is not limited to Silicon Valley. The global higher education ecosystem, once comfortably ensconced in its ivory tower, is also experiencing seismic changes. The recent trend of 'Direct Admissions' in U.S. colleges is dramatically altering the landscape of college admissions.The traditional process, where students knock on college doors with applications, essays, and recommendations, has been turned on its head. Now, students simply upload their high school grades and basic data to a common platform, and colleges proactively send acceptance letters to students who have not even applied, stating, 'We would like to welcome you to our school.' According to the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), over 160 prestigious U.S. colleges have adopted this system this year. We are entering an era where colleges are courting students rather than the other way around.Why are U.S. colleges lowering their pride and extending unprecedented 'early acceptance love calls'? They are facing a demographic cliff due to a sharp decline in school-age populations. Attracting students has become a sophisticated target marketing and data matching service rather than a static review process.Other advanced educational countries are facing similar challenges. Japan, which encountered a demographic cliff over 20 years ago, has seen nearly half of its private universities experience enrollment shortfalls, effectively dismantling traditional entrance exams centered on written tests. The proportion of 'comprehensive selection' (formerly AO admissions) that evaluates students' potential and academic motivation has risen to around 60%, and universities are actively seeking candidates through 'learner-customized residency programs' linked to local industries. The UK is also enhancing its clearing system, which matches under-enrolled programs, while proactively identifying underrepresented talent through 'Contextual Admissions' that offer conditional acceptance based on relaxed criteria.These global educational experiments could provide a breakthrough for South Korean universities, which are currently sighing in despair as they face a crisis. The rigid frameworks of rolling and regular admissions, which impose complex criteria and expect students to 'prepare their documents and knock on the door,' are becoming outdated. While overseas universities are taking proactive steps in the survival competition, what should Korean universities prepare for? How should the future of college admissions change?First, there is a need to benchmark 'data-driven proactive matching' that breaks down barriers to admission. Universities should share students' learning trajectories and competency data in conjunction with the high school credit system, allowing them to approach suitable students first with suggestions for career paths, scholarship opportunities, and major planning.Furthermore, a support structure must be established that systematically connects students' growth processes, from college adaptation and academic persistence to major competency enhancement, career planning, employment, entrepreneurship, and community engagement. Universities must demonstrate real educational value that leads to 'enrollment' and 'academic completion' beyond just 'admission.' In the U.S., while many acceptance letters are sent through 'Direct Admissions,' concerns have been raised that high tuition and post-graduation career issues prevent final enrollment. Korean universities cannot survive by merely lowering application barriers. They need to support innovative programs like interdisciplinary majors, micro-degrees aligned with industry demand, and industry-linked scholarship models that alleviate students' financial burdens.This transformation should not be limited to the domestic school-age population. It is time to break free from the narrow perspective of competing for local examinees and aim to become a 'global talent hub' on the world stage. Universities that fail to secure cross-border educational competitiveness will inevitably fall behind, regardless of their location. Leading foreign universities are already erasing borders by offering digital pre-matching and online preparatory courses to attract international students. Korean universities must create a sophisticated ecosystem for international students that goes beyond merely filling quotas, providing everything from visa support to employment training.There is an old saying: 'Those who build walls will fail, while those who pave the way will prosper.' The authority of higher education is not derived from stringent selection barriers but is proven by what growth and future it can offer students. Amid a sharp decline in school-age populations and a long-term financial crisis, Korean universities are facing an unprecedented turning point. When they awaken from the dream of being 'selectors' waiting for students to come and transform into 'growth partners' who attract talent and take responsibility until the end, the brilliant spring days for our universities will bloom once again.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-12 09:04:00
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Dilemma of Changing Construction Companies in Redevelopment Projects Redevelopment and reconstruction associations are seeking to lower construction costs or apply high-end brands by changing contractors. However, legal disputes with existing contractors are causing project delays, accumulating financial costs, and leading to claims for damages. Experts emphasize the need to weigh the benefits of a change against the associated costs.According to the construction industry on September 13, the Gangnam Wonhyo Villa Reconstruction Association in Seocho District, Seoul, recently voted to cancel its selection of Daewoo Engineering & Construction as the contractor. Daewoo was chosen last June after proposing an alternative design with a total construction cost of 338.7 billion won, or 15.5 million won per 3.3 square meters. Disagreements over construction costs and contract terms arose, prompting Daewoo to signal potential legal action.In Seongnam's Sangdaewon 2 District, conflicts arose with the existing contractor, DL E&C, over the application of the high-end brand 'Acro' and construction costs. The association voted to terminate the contract in May and selected GS Engineering & Construction as the new contractor, proposing a cost reduction and an August start date.However, at the end of July, a court partially granted a request to suspend the effectiveness of the assembly's resolution, halting the contract termination and the selection of a new contractor. Since then, the association and DL E&C have been negotiating to normalize the project by adjusting construction costs and start dates.During this process, financial costs continue to accumulate. The association estimates that financial costs related to relocation and project expenses in Sangdaewon 2 District amount to about 100 million won per day. As the start date is delayed, the burden of interest continues to grow.In Busan's Hadang 1 District, disputes over contractual responsibilities are ongoing. Kolon Global received a notice of contract termination worth approximately 116.8 billion won in July for a project where it signed a contract in May 2024. The association claims that the financing for the project was not properly executed and that demands for increased construction costs were excessive. In contrast, Kolon Global argues that it has been reviewing the need for adjustments to construction costs due to changes in the project plan in accordance with contractual procedures.The Sangyeok Jugong 5 District in Nowon District, Seoul, signed a contract with GS Engineering & Construction in January 2023 for a total construction cost of 334.2 billion won, or 6.5 million won per 3.3 square meters, but terminated it in November of the same year. Owners found the shared costs unacceptable and deemed the contract terms unfavorable.GS Engineering & Construction claimed the termination was unilateral and sought the return of the bid bond and damages. In July, the Seoul Central District Court recognized the liability for damages, resulting in the complex having to pay a total of 2.54 billion won, including 2.2 billion won in principal and 340 million won in delayed interest.Even if construction costs or contract terms improve through a change of contractor, prolonged litigation, re-bidding, and contract negotiations can diminish expected benefits. Delays in recovering funds through sales and in occupancy can make it difficult to assess the effectiveness of the new contractor's proposed terms.A system for verifying and mediating construction costs is also in place. If a contractor is selected before the approval of the project implementation plan, verification is required if construction costs increase by more than 10%, and if selected afterward, by more than 5%. Inflation adjustments are excluded. However, the verification results are not binding, necessitating negotiations between the association and the contractor. The Seoul city government reported that it mediated conflicts through cost verification and coordinator mediation in 37 redevelopment projects from 2024 to 2025.Shin Bo-yeon, a professor at Sejong University’s Department of Real Estate AI Convergence, stated, “Changing contractors is not as simple as exchanging goods. The project timeline can be delayed by 1 to 2 years while terminating the contract with the original contractor and selecting a new one.”Professor Shin urged that as costs increase during the litigation and contractor re-selection process, which ultimately burdens the members, the role of public mediation and adjustment should be strengthened to prevent unnecessary cost increases.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-12 09:04:00
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DB Savings Bank Raises 'Dream Big' Deposit Rate to 3.2% DB Savings Bank announced on September 12 that it is raising the interest rate for its 'Dream Big' savings account to 3.2% per year.The new rate applies to deposits of up to 70 million won. The 'Dream Big' account allows for unlimited deposits and withdrawals without restrictions on the amount or duration. Individuals aged 19 and older can open one account through the mobile app or at a branch.There are no special conditions for preferential rates, such as salary transfers or card usage. The increased rate will apply equally to both new and existing customers.The interest rates are tiered based on the deposit amount. For amounts up to 70 million won, the rate is 3.2%. For amounts exceeding 70 million won and up to 1 billion won, the rate is 1.5%. For amounts over 1 billion won, the rate is 0.5%.A representative from DB Savings Bank stated, “We decided to raise the interest rate to allow customers to manage their funds more flexibly and efficiently in response to recent changes in the financial market. We will continue to offer competitive financial products and services that customers can truly benefit from.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-12 09:04:00
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Gangnam Prices Decline While Outer Areas Surge: Seoul's Housing Market Shift Seoul's apartment prices have seen a slowdown in growth for the second consecutive week, with notable regional disparities emerging. While the Gangnam districts have experienced a uniform decline due to tax and loan regulations, the relatively affordable northern areas are witnessing an influx of genuine demand, leading to continued price increases.Gangnam Districts Decline While Northern Areas RiseAccording to the Korea Real Estate Agency's report on weekly apartment price trends for the first week of September (as of September 7), Seoul's apartment sale prices rose by 0.20% compared to the previous week, a decrease of 0.02 percentage points from the prior week's 0.22%, marking a second week of reduced growth.In Seoul, the northern district of Gangbuk saw the highest increase at 0.46%, driven by small to mid-sized complexes in the Mia and Beon-dong areas. Dobong and Seodaemun districts followed with increases of 0.43% and 0.42%, respectively, highlighting the strength of the northern region.Despite challenging loan conditions leading to a slowdown in transactions, the lack of available sale and rental listings has prevented significant drops in asking prices. Areas near subway stations with apartments priced under 1.5 billion won ($1.1 million) continue to attract genuine demand due to their relative affordability.Conversely, Gangnam saw a decline of 0.35%, while Seocho dropped by 0.30%, continuing a five-week downward trend since the announcement of tax reforms last month. Songpa, which had seen a slight increase of 0.01% last week, also turned negative this week with a 0.02% drop.The reduction in long-term holding tax rates and the introduction of new limits on long-term residence income deductions appear to have increased selling pressure on high-priced homes. This trend is particularly evident in older apartments in need of reconstruction, where living conditions are relatively poor.The decline in Songpa is interpreted as a spreading adjustment in prices that began in the Gangnam area. Localized price corrections in the Han River belt, including Apgujeong and Banpo, are influencing homeowners in Songpa to lower their asking prices as they consider moving to Gangnam or Seocho.Demand Shifts to Affordable Areas: 'Circular Trading' Expected to ContinueThe regional differentiation in Seoul's housing prices is expected to persist for the time being. The high price levels, tax burdens, and loan regulations in the main Han River belt have dampened buying interest, while demand is likely to shift to the more affordable outer areas of Seoul and non-regulated regions in Gyeonggi Province.In the Han River belt, some original members of redevelopment projects are beginning to list their properties due to concerns over future property taxes and capital gains taxes. Loan restrictions from financial institutions remain in place, limiting the influx of demand from lower-priced areas to higher-priced ones.Nam Hyuk-woo, a researcher at Woori Bank, stated, "With the expansion of total loan management by 3% and the easing of income qualification requirements for mortgage loans, favorable financial policies are expected for first-time homebuyers in their 20s and 30s. The 'circular trading phenomenon' in outer Seoul and non-regulated areas in Gyeonggi Province, with prices under 1 billion won, is likely to continue for the foreseeable future."As the fall moving season approaches, the shortage of rental listings is expected to increase the financial burden on tenants. There are concerns that not only sale prices but also rental prices, including jeonse (long-term lease) and wolse (monthly rent), may rise in the outer areas of Seoul where genuine demand is concentrated.Kwon Dae-jung, a professor of economics and real estate at Hansung University, noted, "As demand increases while housing supply remains insufficient, prices will inevitably face upward pressure. The government's tightening of residency requirements for non-occupied homes and land transaction permit zones is further limiting the supply of jeonse, and monthly rents are likely to continue rising, which could lead to significant challenges for tenants this fall."He added, "The potential for increased taxation is also contributing to a shift of tax burdens onto rental prices, suggesting that rental prices may continue to rise from this fall into the first half of next year."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-12 09:04:00