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  • South Korean Prime Minister: U.S. Investments Should Benefit Both Countries
    South Korean Prime Minister: U.S. Investments Should Benefit Both Countries South Korean Prime Minister Han Seung-soo stated that the government’s $350 billion investment in the United States should not only benefit one side but must provide substantial advantages to both countries while maintaining commercial viability.During a special meeting hosted by the American Chamber of Commerce in Korea at the Shilla Hotel in Seoul, Han emphasized the importance of ensuring profitability from the investments. He noted, "I have received reports that discussions on how to secure returns on investments are progressing well," adding, "I believe the process is moving smoothly between the authorities."He further remarked, "If a good model emerges from the first project, it will facilitate smoother development in many more areas in the future."The first project under consideration is the construction of a gas-fired combined cycle power plant in Encinada, Texas, which is reportedly being negotiated at around $22.3 billion.Meanwhile, Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy Kim Jeong-kwan traveled to the United States the day before and is expected to continue discussions with U.S. officials, including Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, regarding the investment until September 12. The $350 billion investment includes $150 billion for shipbuilding cooperation and $200 billion for strategic investments.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-11 16:12:00
  • Krafton, Neople win top employer honors
    Krafton, Neople win top employer honors SEOUL, September 11 (AJP) - South Korean game makers Krafton and Neople have been named top job creators by the Ministry of Employment and Labor, cited for expanded parental benefits and youth hiring. Krafton, the publisher of "PUBG: Battlegrounds," pays up to 100 million won ($74,382) over a lifetime for each child born to employees on or after Jan. 1, 2025, and has extended parental leave to as long as two years. The selection announced Friday also reflected non-cash support, including remote work for childcare, prenatal checkup leave for employees with pregnant spouses, and automated hiring of replacement staff. It also included counseling for returning parents. It marks Krafton's fifth selection since 2019. Neople, a Nexon subsidiary behind the "Dungeon & Fighter" franchise, offers housing and airfare support to help staff from other regions settle near its Jeju Island headquarters. Its headcount rose 7 percent in 2025 from a year earlier, with young people accounting for 81 percent of new hires. "We will keep hiring talent and improving our workplace so that talented young people can fully realize their potential and grow with Neople," said Yoon Myung-jin, chief executive of Neople. Separately, live-streaming platform SOOP received a Minister of Health and Welfare commendation at a World Suicide Prevention Day ceremony in Seoul on Thursday, recognized for curbing suicide-inducing and harmful content and running awareness campaigns for streamers and users. AJP Takeaways - Krafton and Nexon subsidiary Neople were selected as 2026 top job creators under a South Korean Ministry of Employment and Labor program, the companies said on Sept. 11, 2026. - Krafton pays up to 100 million won per child born to employees since Jan. 1, 2025, and earned its fifth selection since 2019, while Neople's headcount grew 7 percent in 2025, with young people making up 81 percent of new hires. - Live-streaming platform SOOP Co. received a Minister of Health and Welfare commendation on Sept. 10, 2026, for countering suicide-related and harmful content on its platform. 2026-09-11 16:10:18
  • Koreas LH to Maintain Headquarters in Jinju Amid Organizational Restructuring
    Korea's LH to Maintain Headquarters in Jinju Amid Organizational Restructuring The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport and the Korea Land and Housing Corporation (LH) have begun developing a detailed roadmap for LH's organizational restructuring. Despite the separation of the organization, both newly established entities will maintain their headquarters in Jinju, South Gyeongsang Province.On the afternoon of September 11, Vice Minister Kim E-tak held a kickoff meeting with LH President Lee Seong-hoon and others to discuss the direction of the restructuring and future preparations.This meeting was convened to advance discussions following the Ministry of Economy and Finance's announcement on September 3 regarding the basic direction for the restructuring of public institutions, which included LH.During the meeting, Vice Minister Kim stated, "Now that the direction for LH's restructuring, discussed since August of last year through the LH Reform Committee, has been established, it is time for the Ministry and LH to work as one team to implement the restructuring." He emphasized the need to create a specific roadmap and ensure that all necessary preparations are made for the subsequent procedures.He also assured that employees would not face any disadvantages in terms of treatment during the restructuring process. "The restructuring must be based on trust and communication between the government, the institution, and the employees," he said, adding that while the government would make efforts, LH should also actively listen to employees' concerns and suggestions.Furthermore, he noted, "Even with the separation of the organization, we will carefully ensure that employees do not experience any disadvantages in terms of compensation and treatment," and pledged that the Ministry would actively consult with relevant departments, including the Ministry of Economy and Finance.Notably, the plan is to keep both institutions' headquarters in Jinju after the separation. Vice Minister Kim remarked, "Since LH has already relocated to the provinces, we plan to maintain the headquarters in Jinju even after the organizations are separated," and requested that the LH president pay special attention to internal communication and organizational stability to alleviate employees' concerns and allow them to focus on their work.In conclusion, Vice Minister Kim stressed, "Core tasks directly related to housing supply and welfare must continue without disruption during the restructuring process," urging close cooperation between the Ministry and LH to ensure that ongoing issues are addressed without delay while the restructuring is carried out smoothly.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-11 16:08:00
  • Hope Ranks Second at North American Box Office on Opening Day, Surpassing Spider-Man
    'Hope' Ranks Second at North American Box Office on Opening Day, Surpassing Spider-Man Na Hong-jin's film 'Hope' debuted at second place in the North American box office on its opening day, signaling a positive start for its international release.According to Box Office Mojo, 'Hope' grossed $1.1 million (approximately 1.48 billion won) from 1,560 theaters on its opening day, September 9 (local time). On the same day, Christopher Nolan's 'Odyssey' topped the box office with $1.26 million, while 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day' came in third with $1.001 million. Notably, 'Hope' achieved the highest per-theater average revenue of $705 among all new releases in North America.In terms of opening day revenue, it ranks as the second highest for a Korean film in North America. Box Office Mojo reports that Shim Hyung-rae's 'D-War' holds the record with $1.602 million on its opening day in 2007.Local reactions have been mixed, but interest remains high. The Associated Press described 'Hope' as a major Korean film that combines monster and science fiction genres, highlighting performances by Hwang Jung-min and Jung Ho-yeon, as well as the film's unique genre approach. American film outlets have also noted the film's bold action and innovative genre blending.'Hope' has generated significant anticipation in international markets even before its release. According to the Korean Film Council's KoBiz and the international film magazine Screen Daily, the film was pre-sold to over 200 countries and regions around the time of its Cannes Film Festival premiere, setting a record for overseas pre-sales for a Korean film. It is reported that nearly half of its production costs have been recouped through overseas pre-sales alone.'Hope' is a science fiction action film that unfolds as an unidentified entity appears in the village of Hopohang near the Demilitarized Zone. The cast includes Hwang Jung-min, Jo In-sung, Jung Ho-yeon, as well as Michael Fassbender, Alicia Vikander, and Taylor Russell.Released domestically on July 15, 'Hope' is Na's first film in ten years since 'The Wailing' and was invited to compete at the Cannes Film Festival, garnering early interest from international markets. Its initial performance in North America exceeds expectations, raising the potential for Korean genre films to achieve global success.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-11 16:08:00
  • Yeongam County Conducts Joint Inspection of 20 Foreign Food Retailers
    Yeongam County Conducts Joint Inspection of 20 Foreign Food Retailers Yeongam County has launched a joint inspection with relevant agencies to ensure the safe distribution and sale of foreign food products.On September 10, Yeongam County, along with the Jeonnam Police Agency and Yeongam Police Station, inspected 20 foreign food retailers in the area to assess food hygiene management and distribution practices.The inspection aimed to verify product labeling and expiration dates of items sold at these establishments and to prevent the distribution of illegal or inappropriate food products.The inspection team, composed of staff from relevant agencies, was organized into four groups to conduct the on-site checks.Key inspection points included checking for the display and sale of imported foods without Korean labeling and products past their expiration dates.Particularly, the team focused on ensuring that consumers could verify essential information such as ingredients and expiration dates on the products.Yeongam County plans to take action in accordance with relevant laws and procedures against any violations identified during the inspection.Hong Yeon-joo, head of the Yeongam County Tourism Department, stated, "Thorough management is necessary so that consumers can purchase food products with confidence," adding, "We will continue to strengthen food safety management to prevent the distribution of illegal food products through ongoing inspections."Meanwhile, the safety management of foreign food retailers is part of a system to block the sale of unreported or unlabeled products and those past their expiration dates at the distribution stage. Yeongam County plans to continue on-site inspections of food products in collaboration with relevant agencies.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-11 16:08:00
  • Op-Ed: Uzbekistans priorities in the new political cycle
    Op-Ed: Uzbekistan's priorities in the new political cycle Editor's Note: The following opinion article was contributed by the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Seoul. The traditional annual Address of the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, delivered on the eve of the New Year, became an important programmatic statement summarizing the results of the outgoing year and outlining the country's strategic development priorities for the period ahead. As the Head of State emphasized, the past year marked a period of steady progress in reforms and the strengthening of Uzbekistan's socio-economic position, despite ongoing instability in the global economy and a complex international environment. In this context, the announcement of the coming year as the "Year of Mahalla Development and Society as a Whole" gained particular significance, signaling a transition toward a deeper focus of state policy on people's quality of life and the development of civil society. In his Address, the President noted that the national economy continued to demonstrate confident growth. The year 2025 concluded with landmark achievements: for the first time, the country's GDP exceeded 145 billion US dollars, exports increased by 23 percent to 33.4 billion dollars, and foreign exchange and gold reserves surpassed 60 billion dollars. Investment inflows totaling 43.1 billion dollars enabled the implementation of dozens of major projects in industry, energy, and infrastructure. International rating agencies upgraded Uzbekistan's sovereign credit rating from BB- to BB, opening more favorable conditions for external financing. It was particularly emphasized that these macroeconomic results were accompanied by positive changes in the social sphere. Owing to active employment policies, the unemployment rate declined from 5.5 percent to 4.9 percent, and around five million people gained sustainable sources of income. Significant attention was devoted to supporting low-income families, developing targeted social assistance mechanisms, and improving access to basic services. The poverty rate decreased from 8.9 percent to 5.8 percent within a year, lifting approximately 1.5 million citizens out of poverty. These outcomes were the result of consistent reforms aimed at enhancing economic resilience and creating a solid foundation for social development. Economic achievements expanded the state's capacity to address social challenges and implement long-term support programs for the population. The President noted that social policy has become more responsive to the concrete needs of citizens, which represents a fundamental achievement of the current reform agenda. Special attention in the Address was devoted to Uzbekistan's foreign policy course, which was characterized as pragmatic, open, and oriented toward long-term national interests. The President emphasized that an active and balanced foreign policy remains a key factor in ensuring sustainable development, expanding economic opportunities, and strengthening Uzbekistan's international standing. It was noted that in recent years the country has significantly expanded the geographical scope of its foreign economic relations, reinforced partnerships both with neighboring states and leading global centers, and consistently continued to promote regional cooperation initiatives. This course reflects Uzbekistan's aspiration to assume a more visible and responsible role in international affairs, guided by the principles of mutual benefit and respect. The Address also addressed the reform of the public procurement system as one of the key elements in enhancing transparency and efficiency in public administration. The President stressed that improving public procurement mechanisms is aimed at creating equal conditions for businesses, fostering competition, and ensuring the efficient use of budgetary resources. These measures are viewed as an important part of Uzbekistan's preparation for accession to the World Trade Organization. In this context, reforms in the field of public procurement acquire not only domestic but also external economic significance, as they contribute to aligning national procedures with international standards and rules. Thus, the outlined steps reflect a systemic approach to Uzbekistan's integration into the global trade and economic system. A separate section of the Address focused on anti-corruption efforts, which were identified as one of the key priorities for further development. The President underscored that the fight against corruption is regarded not as a one-time campaign, but as a long-term state policy aimed at establishing an honest, transparent, and accountable system of governance. "Allowing corruption is a betrayal of our reforms. We declare 2026 a year of 'extraordinary measures' to combat this scourge," the President stated. It was noted that the measures already being implemented-such as the digitalization of public services, increased transparency in decision-making, and strengthened public oversight—are producing tangible results, though they require further deepening. The emphasis on the anti-corruption agenda demonstrates a commitment to strengthening trust among citizens and international partners in state institutions. Considerable attention in the Address was also given to environmental issues and sustainable development. The President noted that the environmental agenda is becoming an integral part of state policy and is directly linked to the quality of life of the population and the country's long-term security. The importance of rational use of natural resources, the expansion of green technologies, and the implementation of programs to improve environmental conditions-especially in the most vulnerable regions-was underscored. Plans were announced to hold the next Assembly of the Global Environment Facility and the Central Asian International Environmental Exhibition in Samarkand in 2026. These events will create valuable opportunities to identify partners for industries, regions, and businesses, and to jointly launch new environmental projects. It was emphasized that environmental initiatives are viewed not only as a social necessity, but also as a key element of economic modernization and enhanced resilience. Taken together, these priorities demonstrate the comprehensive nature of the ongoing reforms. They indicate that the course toward socially oriented development is inseparably linked with institutional transformation and international integration. This approach reflects Uzbekistan's determination to build a balanced development model in which economic growth, social sustainability, and responsible governance mutually reinforce one another. Summarizing the results of the concluding year, the Head of State stressed that all these achievements became possible due to a well-structured reform system and the active participation of society. At the same time, he underlined that further development requires not only economic resources but also a stronger social environment, trust, and solidarity. It was within this logic that the proposal was made to declare the coming year the Year of Support for the Mahalla, as the institution closest to people and their everyday concerns. In the Address, the mahalla was characterized as a unique form of social organization that has absorbed centuries-old traditions of mutual assistance, responsibility, and respect. The President emphasized that the stability of the state begins with the stability of the mahalla, with an atmosphere of harmony and engagement at the local level. "If there is order and trust in the mahalla, there will be stability in society as a whole," this idea became one of the key messages of the Address, logically linking past achievements with future objectives. Support for the mahalla in the coming year is viewed as a systemic measure aimed at further strengthening social policy. The President pointed out that it is precisely at the mahalla level where family issues, employment challenges, education, social protection, and the prevention of social vulnerability can be identified most effectively. In this sense, the development of mahalla structures becomes a tool for increasing the targeting of state assistance and enhancing social justice. The economic achievements discussed earlier thus find their continuation in the social domain. A significant part of the Address was devoted to citizen participation and the development of civil society. The President stressed that a modern state is impossible without active and responsible citizens involved in decision-making and oversight of implementation. In this context, the mahalla is seen as a space for fostering civic initiative and dialogue between authorities and the population. "We must create conditions under which every person feels involved in the destiny of the country," the Head of State noted, outlining a strategic commitment to expanding public participation. Special emphasis was placed on the role of the mahalla in youth education and the strengthening of social values. The President noted that alongside economic indicators, the formation of a moral, educated, and socially responsible individual remains no less important. Support for projects in education, culture, and sports implemented at the mahalla level is regarded as an investment in the country's future. "The future of Uzbekistan depends on the environment we create for our children today." This quotation from the Address clearly reflects the long-term orientation of state policy. Thus, the declaration of 2026 as the "Year of Mahalla Development and Society as a Whole" demonstrates the state's intention to move from macro-level achievements toward deeper engagement with quality of life, human capital, and social institutions. It signifies a concentration of efforts on strengthening local communities, developing social infrastructure, and fostering an active and cohesive society. The President's Address sets a clear development vector for the year ahead: reliance on achieved economic successes, reinforcement of social policy, and the advancement of civil society through support for the mahalla. This approach reflects a strategic understanding that the sustainability of reforms and the country's long-term prosperity are impossible without strong communities, trust, and citizen participation. In this context, support for the mahalla emerges not only as a social priority, but also as a foundation for Uzbekistan's long-term development. The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the contributor and do not necessarily reflect the editorial position, analysis, or views of AJP, its editors, or its parent organization. AJP publishes contributed opinion pieces from governments, diplomatic missions, experts, and other external contributors as part of its commitment to presenting diverse international perspectives. Publication does not constitute endorsement of the opinions or factual claims contained in the article. 2026-09-11 16:05:43
  • Memory Chip Market Thrives as AI Demand Surges; Samsung and SK Hynix Accelerate Investments
    Memory Chip Market Thrives as AI Demand Surges; Samsung and SK Hynix Accelerate Investments The global memory semiconductor industry is experiencing unprecedented growth driven by increased demand for artificial intelligence (AI). Major companies are reporting operating margins exceeding 70%, and the funds generated from this boom are being reinvested into large-scale facility expansions. As Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix accelerate the establishment of domestic production bases, Chinese firms are also ramping up their investments, intensifying competition in the memory market.On September 11, the Nihon Keizai Shimbun reported that the operating margins for six major global memory companies surpassed 70% in the second quarter of 2026. China’s ChangXin Memory Technologies (CXMT) led with an 82% margin, followed by Micron at 80%, SanDisk at 78%, SK Hynix at 76%, Kioxia at 74%, and Samsung Electronics’ semiconductor division at 70%.This high profitability stems from a memory supply shortage triggered by AI demand. Samsung, SK Hynix, and Micron have prioritized their limited production capacity for high-bandwidth memory (HBM) and high-value DRAM for servers, resulting in a reduced supply of general-purpose DRAM used in PCs and smartphones. Additionally, the expansion of AI servers has increased demand for high-capacity DDR5 memory, leading to rising prices across all memory products. According to market research firm TrendForce, global DRAM sales reached $154.73 billion in the second quarter, a 59.5% increase from the previous quarter.The funds generated from this boom are being directed back into facility investments. Samsung Electronics executed 28.1 trillion won in capital expenditures (CAPEX) in the first half of this year alone. The company plans to fully operate its P4 campus in Pyeongtaek by the end of the year and is accelerating the construction schedule for P5 Fab 2, following the start of construction on P5 Fab 1 in April. Investments in the Yongin National Industrial Complex are also gaining momentum, with plans to advance the operational timeline of the first of six fabs from 2030-2031 to 2029.SK Hynix is also expediting its investment schedule for the Yongin semiconductor cluster. The company has shortened the completion target for four fabs, originally planned for 2045, to 2033. It plans to invest an additional 54.3 trillion won, including 35.2 trillion won for Yongin Fab 2 (Y2) and 19.1 trillion won for the Cheongju NAND production base M17.As domestic companies expand their investments, Chinese competitors are also accelerating their efforts. Chinese DRAM manufacturers are increasing production capacity for general-purpose products, expanding their foothold in a market previously dominated by Samsung, SK Hynix, and Micron. CXMT, China’s largest DRAM manufacturer, plans to expand its current three DRAM factories to six.As a result, CXMT’s wafer production capacity, currently at 300,000 wafers per month, is expected to more than double to over 600,000 wafers by 2030. Its global DRAM market share is projected to rise from 8% last year to 11% by 2028 and 15% by 2030. If Chinese companies secure a double-digit market share, it could alter the existing market structure dominated by the three major memory firms.The ongoing expansions by these companies are seen as a variable for the future memory market. Currently, high profitability is sustained by the interplay of rising AI demand and supply shortages, but the key question is whether this demand will continue until new production capacities come online. Particularly, if production capacities of global companies, including those in China, increase simultaneously, the supply shortage could be alleviated quickly.Market research firm Counterpoint Research noted, "According to a mega project led by the South Korean government, Samsung and SK Hynix are expected to double their DRAM production capacity, but the target date is 2031. Manufacturers are focusing their current high operating profits on advanced technology development and fab expansions while preparing for future downturns through long-term supply contracts (LTA)." * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-11 16:00:20
  • Jang Dong-hyuk Proposes Dialogue with Kim Min-seok on Agricultural Land Survey
    Jang Dong-hyuk Proposes Dialogue with Kim Min-seok on Agricultural Land Survey Jang Dong-hyuk, the leader of the People Power Party, proposed on September 11 that Kim Min-seok, the leader of the Democratic Party, meet to discuss the agricultural land survey issue.In a post on his Facebook page, Jang formally requested, "I hope we can create a first example of cooperation between the ruling and opposition parties."Referring to a notebook belonging to Kim that was captured by the media on September 9, Jang noted, "The phrase 'agricultural land survey' was written in Kim's notebook. It seems he is aware of the farmers' concerns." He criticized the government for making excuses rather than addressing the issue, while the ruling party and leftist civic groups claim it is an ideological offensive.Jang stated, "The agricultural land transactions have effectively come to a standstill, and land prices have plummeted," adding that both landowners and tenants are engulfed in anxiety and anger.He directed his criticism at President Lee Jae-myung, saying, "This situation was created by this administration. Without proper explanations, they treated ordinary farmers as speculators," and emphasized that the agricultural land survey was initiated by a single remark from the president.Jang expressed optimism, saying, "Since Kim has noted this in his notebook, it seems he is willing to resolve the issue. I hope we can tackle this matter together, even if we set aside other issues for now." He concluded by stating, "I am waiting for your response, in any form you prefer."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-11 16:00:00
  • Calls for Urgent Action to Revive Emergency Services in Busans Geumjeong District
    Calls for Urgent Action to Revive Emergency Services in Busan's Geumjeong District Concerns have been raised in the Busan City Council regarding the lack of a general hospital with an emergency room in Geumjeong District, urging swift action to revive the former Baptist Hospital.Lee Jun-ho, a city councilor from the People Power Party representing Geumjeong District 2, called on Busan Mayor Jeon Jae-soo during a five-minute speech at the fourth plenary session of the 339th extraordinary meeting to take immediate action regarding the long-delayed revival project of the Baptist Hospital.During his remarks, Lee pointed out the absence of a general hospital with an emergency room for the district's 210,000 residents and criticized the former mayor for not visiting the hospital site since taking office.He particularly condemned the political failure to fulfill promises surrounding the revival of the Baptist Hospital. Lee stated, "President Lee Jae-myung promised to revive the hospital during his presidential campaign, and former Democratic Party Busan chairman Byeon Seong-wan also expressed intentions to push for it ahead of local elections, but no concrete results have followed."Lee added, "Mayor Jeon Jae-soo must take responsibility for the unfulfilled promises of President Lee and former chairman Byeon," emphasizing the need for accountability from his own party member. He also referenced an incident involving President Lee during his tenure as the Democratic Party leader, highlighting the public's distrust in Busan's emergency medical system following a helicopter transfer to Seoul National University Hospital.However, Lee did not solely blame the Democratic Party for the delays in the revival of the Baptist Hospital. He acknowledged, "The People Power Party also shares some responsibility," making it clear that both parties must address this critical local issue together.Additionally, Lee expressed his willingness to accompany the mayor on a site visit, stating, "If the mayor expresses a desire to visit, whether officially or unofficially, I will personally guide him to the site."The focus of Lee's remarks was primarily on urging the mayor's political commitment and site visit rather than detailing specific funding or project methods for the revival.The official stance of Busan City regarding the project and future roadmap remains to be confirmed.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-11 15:52:00
  • Central Asian leaders to gather in Seoul for inaugural summit
    Central Asian leaders to gather in Seoul for inaugural summit SEOUL, September 11 (AJP) - President Lee Jae Myung will host the inaugural South Korea-Central Asia Summit in Seoul next week, bringing together the leaders of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan to discuss critical minerals, energy, artificial intelligence (AI), digital technology and infrastructure cooperation, Cheong Wa Dae said on Friday. In a written statement, presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung said the three-day summit will kick off next Wednesday, marking South Korea's first multilateral summit with the five Central Asian nations. She added that the summit would elevate South Korea's cooperation with Central Asia to a "new level." Among the main topics of discussion will be efforts to diversify supply chains by combining Central Asia's critical minerals and energy resources with South Korea's technology and expertise in development and processing. The leaders will also discuss cooperation in future industries including AI, science and technology to explore opportunities for South Korean companies to make inroads into Central Asian markets. They will also address global challenges such as climate change, water management, disaster response and transnational crime. On the sidelines of the summit, Lee will hold bilateral talks with the Central Asian leaders, starting with a one-on-one meeting with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev next Monday, followed by meetings with the leaders of Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan the following day. The leaders will also attend a forum as part of the summit, where about 500 government and industry representatives are expected to gather to discuss investment opportunities and build business networks. AJP Takeaways - President Lee Jae Myung will host the inaugural South Korea-Central Asia Summit in Seoul next week, bringing together the leaders of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan for South Korea's first multilateral summit with the five Central Asian nations. - Supply-chain diversification will be a major focus, with South Korea seeking to link Central Asia's critical minerals and energy resources with its technology and expertise in resource development and processing. - The summit will also expand cooperation in AI, science and technology and address shared challenges, including climate change, water management, disaster response and transnational crime, while creating opportunities for South Korean companies to enter Central Asian markets. 2026-09-11 15:49:30