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Public Sector Labor Committee Established as Legal Entity to Address Worker Conditions The Public Sector Labor Committee, aimed at discussing employment stability and improving conditions for public sector workers, has been established as a legal entity under the Prime Minister's office. The scope of discussions will extend beyond public and temporary workers to include dispatched, contracted, and outsourced laborers. On the first day of the Public Sector Labor Committee Act's implementation, the Ministry of Employment and Labor and the Office for Government Policy Coordination held an inauguration ceremony at the Government Seoul Complex. The government has pursued the legal establishment of the Public Sector Labor Committee as a national agenda, adhering to the principle of fulfilling its responsibilities as a model employer in the public sector. Following the enactment of the law in February this year, a preliminary consultation body was formed, involving labor representatives, government officials, and experts to prepare the operational framework, discussion structure, and enforcement regulations. The committee will deliberate and coordinate policies and systems related to the working conditions, employment, wages, personnel, labor, and training of non-regular workers in the public sector, including public workers. Its goal is to eliminate discrimination in the workplace and enhance the quality of employment, ultimately improving public services. Notably, the new committee has strengthened its legal foundation and participation scope compared to the first phase, which operated from March 2020 to March 2023. Unlike the first phase, which was based on a Prime Minister's directive, the new committee is established under law, providing a sustainable basis for ongoing discussions. The chairperson will be Im Gi-geun, head of the Office for Government Policy Coordination, with Kwon Chang-jun, Deputy Minister of Labor, serving as the secretary. The committee will consist of 30 members: 8 from the government, 8 from labor, 8 from employers, and 6 experts. The chairperson will coordinate issues related to improving conditions across various agencies and departments. Unlike the first phase, which was composed solely of government representatives, the new committee includes labor, employer, and expert participation. The policy scope has also been expanded. In addition to public and temporary workers, the committee will address employment and treatment issues for dispatched, contracted, and outsourced workers. The operational structure will include the Public Sector Labor Committee, a working committee, a development council, and sectoral councils. The Public Sector Labor Committee will make final decisions on overall policy plans and discussion outcomes, while the working committee will play a role in monitoring these plans. The development council will research institutional improvement measures for common issues across sectors and oversee discussions in the sectoral councils. The sectoral councils will address tasks reflecting the specificities and on-the-ground opinions of each sector. Following the inauguration ceremony, the first meeting will present the committee's operational plan, rules, and proposals for the working committee's composition. The plan is to finalize the composition of the sectoral councils and organize discussion topics, initiating the operation of the various consultation bodies. This establishment marks the creation of a legal framework for ongoing discussions on improving working conditions. The announcement did not include specific wage increase rates or allowance improvement plans, and actual improvements will be detailed in future discussions. Chairperson Im Gi-geun stated, "A stable dialogue system has been established to continuously discuss employment and treatment issues for public sector workers. The government will fulfill its responsibilities as a model employer, and we aim to create a model case of social consensus where labor, government, and experts come together to reach agreements."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-18 16:00:20 -
Uiwang City Council Concludes 322nd Extraordinary Session, Approves Supplemental Budget and Ordinances The Uiwang City Council held its second plenary session on the 18th, concluding the agenda for the 322nd extraordinary session. According to the council, this extraordinary session took place over 11 days, from the 8th to the 18th. During this session, a total of 11 items were reviewed and approved, including the 2026 third supplemental budget and changes to the fund management plan. The 2026 third supplemental budget amounts to approximately 795.8 billion won, reflecting an increase of about 50.1 billion won (6.73%) from the previous budget. The council decided to reduce funding by over 350 million won for 10 projects, citing the need to reassess the appropriateness of project plans and funding allocations, while the fund management plan was approved as originally proposed. The Budget and Settlement Special Committee requested that the administration comply with relevant laws and ordinances, conduct detailed estimates of required budgets for each project, and provide specific justifications and details in project proposals during the review of the supplemental budget. The Ordinance Review Special Committee examined the ordinances from the 8th to the 9th. As a result of the review, seven ordinances were approved as originally proposed, one was approved with amendments, two were acknowledged, and one was withdrawn, all of which were subsequently approved by the plenary session. The amended ordinance regarding support for the revitalization of Uiwang's alley-style shopping districts changes the criteria for canceling designations from 'more than 10% of stores in the alley-style shopping district' to 'one-third or more.' This measure aims to prevent the cancellation of designations solely due to the long-term closure of a few stores. Chairman Seo Chang-soo stated, "During this extraordinary session, we carefully examined the supplemental budget and various ordinances to ensure that the citizens' valuable resources are used efficiently." He added, "We will continue to closely monitor major projects and budgets to maintain the trust of our citizens in our legislative activities."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-18 16:00:00
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Estipham Signs $66.1 Million Supply Contract for Oligonucleotide Therapeutics Estipham has signed a supply contract for active pharmaceutical ingredients for oligonucleotide therapeutics. This contract is the largest single agreement to date and marks the third major order this year. On September 18, Estipham announced that it has entered into a supply contract worth $66.1 million (approximately 913 billion won) with a global biotech company based in the United States. The contract is effective from this year until November 2027. The customer has not been disclosed due to confidentiality agreements. The contract value represents about 27.5% of Estipham's total annual revenue of 331.7 billion won last year. Estipham has been securing large orders this year, having previously signed contracts for oligonucleotide active pharmaceutical ingredients worth 82.5 billion won in January and 89.7 billion won in March. To meet the growing demand in the oligonucleotide therapeutics market, Estipham has been expanding its production capacity. Last year, it completed the expansion of its second oligonucleotide production facility, enhancing its ability to produce active pharmaceutical ingredients. In addition to oligonucleotide active pharmaceutical ingredients, Estipham operates a CDMO business that provides services necessary for drug development and production processes, including process analysis and regulatory changes. The company offers customized services from the early development stage through to process, analysis, and regulatory approval. An Estipham representative stated, "We will continue to expand our collaborations with global big pharma and biotech companies."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-18 15:52:00
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Jangheung County Mayor Promotes Integrated Medicine Expo from Baseball Commentary Booth Jangheung County Mayor Sa Soon-moon served as an honorary commentator during a professional baseball game to promote the upcoming '2026 Korea Integrated Medicine Expo' scheduled for October in Jangheung. According to Jangheung County on the 18th, Mayor Sa participated as an honorary commentator for CMB Gwangju Broadcasting during the KIA Tigers vs. Kiwoom Heroes game held at Gwangju-Kia Champions Field on the 17th. His involvement in the commentary and promotional activities for the expo has been confirmed through related reports. During the broadcast, he provided commentary alongside analyst Kim Sung-han and caster Shin Jo-han, discussing the game while also introducing the schedule and key programs of the Korea Integrated Medicine Expo taking place next month in Jangheung. In the game, the KIA Tigers defeated the Kiwoom Heroes 2-0, with Han Jun-soo hitting a decisive double and Harold Castro contributing a timely hit in the seventh inning. The KIA pitching staff, including starter Adam Oller, held the Kiwoom lineup scoreless. Through the game commentary, Mayor Sa highlighted Jangheung's healing and wellness resources, sharing details about the programs that will be featured at this year's Integrated Medicine Expo. Mayor Sa Soon-moon stated, "The 2026 Korea Integrated Medicine Expo will serve as a platform for communication and experience, encompassing both Western and traditional medicine, alternative therapies, and healing content. I hope attendees will experience the health and healing values presented by integrated medicine firsthand." Jangheung County plans to promote the expo's schedule and programs through various media, including the baseball broadcast, to attract visitors. Meanwhile, the '2026 Korea Integrated Medicine Expo' will be held under the theme 'Healing, Answered by Integrated Medicine' from October 15 to 18 at the Jangheung International Integrated Medicine Expo Center. During the expo, Jangheung County will offer a variety of exhibitions and experiential programs in the fields of Western and traditional medicine, as well as health and healing.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-18 15:48:00
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Rising flu cases among children spur early vaccinations SEOUL, September 18 (AJP) - Influenza is spreading unusually early this autumn, with cases rising sharply among young children, prompting health authorities to move up vaccination schedules for vulnerable groups including children and older adults. According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA), the number of suspected flu cases are now more than four times higher than during the same period last year. It monitored about 800 clinics and medical institutions and found that patients with flu-like symptoms reached 31 cases per 1,000 outpatients last week. The figure has risen steadily in recent weeks from 13.3 cases at the end of August to 25.3 in the first week of September, about 4.6 times higher than the 6.7 cases seen during the same period last year. It is also more than twice the 13.1 cases seen during the same period in 2023, when flu cases remained high for an extended period. The surge was highest among children aged 7 to 12 at 79.6 cases per 1,000 people, followed by 55.2 among those aged 1 to 6 and 39.8 among teenagers aged 13 to 18. With influenza cases spreading earlier than usual, the KDCA issued a flu advisory last Friday and is set to begin nationwide free flu shots for vulnerable groups next week, about a week earlier than last year. For children aged 6 months to 14 years, vaccinations will begin on Sept. 21, while those aged 75 and above can get their flu shots from Oct. 12, followed by people aged 70 to 74 on Oct. 15 and those aged 65 to 69 on Oct. 19. More children will be eligible for free flu shots this year, as the age limit was extended from 13 to 14. With the early flu season raising concerns about vaccine shortages, the KDCA said it would closely monitor supplies to ensure people can get their flu shots as scheduled. Health officials also urged people to wear masks, wash their hands frequently, avoid touching their eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands, and keep indoor spaces well ventilated. AJP Takeaways - South Korea is seeing an unusually early flu season, with suspected cases more than four times higher than during the same period last year. - Children are the most affected group, with the highest rate among those aged 7 to 12, followed by children aged 1 to 6 and teenagers aged 13 to 18. - The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency has moved up free flu vaccinations, with shots for children starting Sept. 21 and vaccinations for older adults beginning in October. 2026-09-18 15:47:42 -
Fire Breaks Out at Logistics Center in Incheon, No Injuries Reported A fire broke out at a logistics center in Oryu-dong, Geumdan District, Incheon. According to Yonhap News, the fire started at approximately 2:44 p.m. on the 18th, prompting firefighting authorities to respond. The blaze began in external boxes outside the warehouse and spread to the building, but no injuries have been reported. The Seohae District sent out a safety message stating, "A fire has occurred at the logistics center," advising vehicles to detour around the area and urging people inside the building to evacuate outside." * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-18 15:44:00
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Im Han-kyu Selected as Top Candidate for President of Mokpo National University Im Han-kyu has been selected as the top candidate for the presidency of Mokpo National University. Ryu Dong-young secured the second position. According to the Mokpo National University Presidential Recommendation Committee, the election results announced on the 18th showed Im Han-kyu, candidate number one, received 53.9% of the votes, while candidate number two, Ryu Dong-young, garnered 39.8%. The turnout for those who did not participate was recorded at 6.3%. The final voter turnout announced by the committee was 92.30%. The election was conducted through online electronic voting under the supervision of the Muan County Election Commission. According to the election schedule previously announced by Mokpo National University, voting took place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the same day, with faculty, staff, teaching assistants, and students listed on the voter registry participating as eligible voters. The election featured a two-candidate race between Im Han-kyu, who previously served as the Director of Industry-Academic Cooperation, and Ryu Dong-young, who held the position of Academic Affairs Director. Prior to the main vote, a mock electronic vote was conducted to test the online voting procedures and system. The university's official election website provided information on both candidates' election brochures and related schedules. Kang Il-guk, chair of the Presidential Recommendation Committee, stated, "The high voter turnout of 92.30% reflects the significant interest of the university community in its future and development. I would like to thank all members for their active participation and cooperation in this important process that determines the university's future." He added, "We will respect the wishes of the community expressed in this election and ensure that the follow-up procedures for the elected presidential candidate are conducted fairly and without any issues in accordance with relevant laws and regulations." Meanwhile, the candidates Im Han-kyu and Ryu Dong-young, selected as the first and second candidates, respectively, will proceed with the follow-up procedures as per the relevant regulations. This election was held due to the impending expiration of the term of the 9th president, which is scheduled for December 20, 2026, as stated in the election announcement by Mokpo National University.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-18 15:36:10
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500 College Students and Young Volunteers Gather in Muan for Community Service Event The Hyun-gyeong district in Muan County, South Jeolla Province, hosted a large-scale integrated volunteer event connecting college students and young volunteers with local residents. On September 18, the district held the 'Youth Volunteer Group & Value-UP Mutual Sharing Project' at the Hyun-gyeong Cultural Welfare Center, featuring participation from college students, young volunteers, social solidarity organizations, and related institutions. This event was organized following the Ministry of the Interior and Safety's selection of the '10 Major Volunteer Theme Relay Practice Program.' It aimed to link the majors and talents of college students and young people with community service activities, providing essential services that residents need in one location. Under the leadership of Mayor Kang Seung-yong, the district collaborated with universities, volunteer organizations, and businesses to effectively prepare and operate the event, ensuring that their resources and expertise could provide tangible assistance to residents. The event attracted around 500 participants, including residents and volunteers, with contributions from eight universities, city and county volunteer centers, youth volunteer groups, social solidarity organizations, and related institutions. Seventeen integrated service and experience booths were set up, utilizing the expertise of participating universities and organizations. Dongshin University offered vision screenings and sports taping services, while Dong-A Health University conducted cultural performances. The Mokpo National University Youth Volunteer Group provided a mood lamp-making experience, and Sehan University conducted blood pressure and diabetes checks. Sunchon Jeil University participated in LED light replacements, muscle massages, health checks, and safety activities. Chodang University operated a food cart and provided beauty and nail art services, while the Jeonnam Campus of Korea Polytechnic University offered car inspection services. Specialized organizations also contributed. The Gwangju-Jeonnam Regional Headquarters of the Korea Energy Agency inspected solar power facilities, and the Jeonnam branch of the Korea Pest Control Association conducted disinfection activities for vulnerable households. The youth volunteer group directly engaged with residents, improving living conditions for vulnerable households by replacing wallpaper, flooring, and screens, and repairing tiles. Additionally, a distribution of goods for local vulnerable groups took place. The Korea Energy Agency donated household appliances and daily necessities, while organizations such as Yugi Sim, Hope Bridge, the Central Support Volunteer Center, Choi's Tea, and Chamsol Farm provided figs, fans, tea, and mushrooms. Mayor Kang Seung-yong expressed gratitude, stating, "I appreciate the talents and resources shared by college students, young volunteers, and local institutions and businesses for the benefit of residents. We will strive to create volunteer activities that connect youth and the community continuously, rather than just a one-time event." This project was conducted by gathering the academic capabilities of college students, the talents of young volunteers, and the human and material resources of public institutions and businesses to provide services in health, daily living, and housing. The Hyun-gyeong district plans to continue community-centric sharing activities based on the collaborative framework established during this event.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-18 15:28:00
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National Tax Service Extends Tax Deadlines for Flood-Affected Residents in Yeonggwang The National Tax Service (NTS) will extend the tax filing and payment deadlines for residents of Baeksu-eup in Yeonggwang County, who were affected by heavy rainfall, by up to two years. The NTS will also suspend property seizures and sales, as well as tax audits, and expedite the payment of tax refunds to support recovery efforts.On September 18, the NTS announced that this tax relief measure follows the designation of Baeksu-eup as a special disaster area due to the severe flooding that occurred at the end of last month.Taxpayers affected by the disaster can apply for an extension of deadlines for corporate tax, value-added tax, and comprehensive income tax filings and payments, with extensions available for up to two years. Those who have already received tax bills can also request an extension on their payment deadlines.Taxpayers with outstanding debts can defer property seizures and sales for up to two years. When applying for deadline extensions or deferrals of seizures and sales, taxpayers may also be exempted from providing collateral.For farmers and fishery operators who have received prior notice of tax audits or are currently undergoing audits, the NTS will postpone these audits unless the taxpayer requests otherwise. Tax refunds will be processed as quickly as possible when applicable.Businesses that have lost more than 20% of their assets due to the flooding may be eligible for disaster loss tax deductions on income tax or corporate tax, based on the percentage of asset loss. To qualify for these deductions, taxpayers must submit their applications by the relevant tax filing deadlines.The NTS has established a dedicated support center for flood-affected taxpayers at the local tax office in charge of the area to assist with inquiries and applications. Affected taxpayers can apply for support through the dedicated center, by mail, or via the Home Tax system.In addition to the special disaster area, the NTS plans to provide tax relief to taxpayers facing difficulties due to flooding, within the limits allowed by law.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-18 15:28:00
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Saudi Arabia Turns to China for Help Amid Conflict with Houthi Rebels Recently, a peculiar situation has emerged in the Middle East. Saudi Arabia, a long-time ally of the United States, has reportedly sought assistance from China to resolve its military conflict with the Houthi rebels in Yemen. This marks a significant moment where a U.S. ally is leveraging the influence of a rival power to address security issues.Initially, Saudi Arabia turned to the U.S. for support, requesting military action against the Houthi rebels. However, the U.S. declined the request. Instead, the U.S. engaged in secret meetings with Houthi representatives and decided not to provide support to Saudi Arabia. In return, the Houthis agreed not to attack U.S. and Israeli vessels. Despite Saudi Arabia's substantial investments in the U.S. and significant arms purchases, it found itself sidelined.In this context, Saudi Arabia reached out to China, which urged Iran to restrain the Houthis. This is a task the U.S. has either been unable or unwilling to undertake. China has been asserting its presence in the Middle East, having mediated the normalization of diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran in 2023, and is now capitalizing on the weakened U.S. influence in the region.Moreover, the cooperation between China and Saudi Arabia is expanding into military aspects. Saudi Arabia has previously acquired Chinese-made self-propelled artillery, armed drones, and missiles. Recently, debris believed to be from a Chinese DF-15A short-range ballistic missile was discovered in Yemen, raising concerns that Saudi Arabia may have deployed Chinese missiles in combat. This situation has led to worries in the U.S. regarding potential technology leaks related to the sale of F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia.However, this does not mean that Saudi Arabia has severed ties with the U.S. The United States remains a key security partner for Saudi Arabia and possesses the world's most powerful military. The significant issue is that expectations are wavering regarding whether the U.S. will respond to its allies in times of crisis as it once did.Global leadership cannot be defined solely by military strength. It requires a foundation of trust that allies can rely on for security during crises. During World War II, the U.S. fought against common enemies like Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan, emerging victorious and establishing itself as a global leader, often referred to as the 'world's police.' However, the current administration under President Donald Trump has shown a stark contrast, appearing more focused on threats and tariffs against traditional allies like South Korea, Japan, Canada, and Europe, while struggling with adversaries such as China, Russia, and Iran.In contrast, China's approach has evolved. While it still engages in aggressive diplomacy, known as 'wolf warrior diplomacy,' it is also making efforts to establish itself as a mediator on the international stage, particularly in the Middle East.As autumn approaches, the international diplomatic season is set to begin. This month will see the BRICS summit and the United Nations General Assembly, followed by the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in November and the G20 summit in December. Notably, the U.S. and China are expected to hold three summits over the next three months, including a visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping to the U.S. next week.This year's major diplomatic issue is undoubtedly the Middle East crisis triggered by the war in Iran. The conflict, which began with U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Iran in late February, has persisted for seven months and has now escalated into a war between the Houthis and Saudi Arabia. The resulting surge in international oil prices and shipping costs has led to inflation affecting the global economy.Therefore, regardless of who initiated the war, stabilizing the situation has become paramount. The nation that successfully manages to resolve the conflict, whether it be the U.S. or China, will gain significant trust from the global community and be recognized as a global leader. Recently, President Donald Trump has repeatedly asserted that the war in Iran will conclude around the time of the midterm elections. It remains to be seen whether he can restore some of the lost image of the U.S. as a global leader through successful diplomacy or if he will cede that position to China and continue to diminish into a 'local bully.' 2026-09-18 15:24:20