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  • Test Drive: Volkswagens Touareg Final Edition Offers Power and Stability
    Test Drive: Volkswagen's Touareg Final Edition Offers Power and Stability The Volkswagen Touareg Final Edition prioritizes fundamentals over flashiness. Despite its large frame and diesel engine, the vehicle proved to be more stable than expected during the drive. Originally introduced in 2002, the flagship premium sports utility vehicle (SUV) is now being sold in its final edition as production comes to an end this year. On September 10, I drove approximately 74 kilometers from Jonggak in Seoul, through Yangpyeong's Meeting Plaza, to Gapyeong County in Gyeonggi Province. This route included urban congestion, highways, and winding country roads, allowing for a comprehensive assessment of the Touareg's everyday driving and long-distance performance. The most impressive aspect of the drive was the ample power. The V6 3.0 TDI engine in the Touareg produces 286 horsepower and 61.2 kg·m of torque. Even without pressing the accelerator deeply, the heavy body was propelled forward with strength, showcasing the characteristic power of a diesel vehicle during acceleration. Switching to sport mode transformed the vehicle's character. The car felt more connected to the road, and the acceleration response quickened. During winding sections, the expected body roll of a large SUV was surprisingly minimal. A feature that tightens the seatbelt at the start also helped keep the body stable. Throughout the drive, the vehicle responded relatively nimbly. The all-wheel steering, which allows the rear wheels to turn, made the Touareg feel smaller when navigating tight corners. Below 37 km/h, the front and rear wheels move in opposite directions to reduce the turning radius, while above that speed, they move in the same direction to enhance stability. Another notable feature was the adjustable air suspension. By turning a dial on the center console, the vehicle's height can be modified. Lowering the height provided a more stable feel during high-speed driving, while raising it helped ease the ride over bumpy terrain and inclines. Inside, the panoramic sunroof, which covers most of the ceiling, caught my attention. Opening the long sunroof that extends to the back seat provided a refreshing sense of openness suitable for the large vehicle. However, the digital instrument panel and infotainment system were disappointing. Compared to recently released vehicles, the interface lacked intuitiveness and provided insufficient information. The interior design details also seemed inadequate for a flagship SUV. Despite these shortcomings, the Touareg appears to be an attractive option for consumers seeking a harmonious blend of stable ride comfort and ample power. As it concludes its 24-year history amid a shift toward electrification, the model still showcases a manageable steering feel and adjustable air suspension, maintaining its presence until the end. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-10 19:00:00
  • Divisions Emerge in Ruling Coalition Over Hormuz Deployment
    Divisions Emerge in Ruling Coalition Over Hormuz Deployment The South Korean government's consideration of a military deployment to the Hormuz Strait is revealing deepening divisions within the ruling coalition. As President Lee Jae-myung's approval ratings continue to decline, analysts warn that the controversy surrounding overseas deployments could further undermine the government's momentum. Growing opposition to the deployment among supporters of the ruling coalition raises concerns that the foundation of President Lee's proposed 'structural majority' could be jeopardized. According to government and military officials on September 10, a local investigation team from the Ministry of National Defense, dispatched to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is set to return today. The team is expected to report its findings to the National Security Council (NSC) soon, in accordance with Defense Ministry directives. The government remains cautious, stating that a deployment has not yet been finalized. However, the Blue House has indicated that it is considering technical and intelligence support for the Hormuz Strait, suggesting that practical discussions regarding deployment have progressed significantly. As the possibility of deployment becomes more concrete, opposition within the ruling coalition is intensifying. Some lawmakers from the ruling party have publicly expressed their disapproval. Senior Democratic Party member Song Young-gil stated on YTN Radio the previous day that there is “less justification than during the Iraq War,” predicting that a deployment proposal would face challenges in the National Assembly. Kim Jun-hyung, the floor leader of the Justice Party, also issued a statement on September 4, labeling U.S. military actions against Iran as “illegal acts of aggression” and opposing the deployment of South Korean troops. Civil society is also organizing against the deployment. The 'Joint Action Against Invasion War and Deployment,' comprising 601 organizations from civil and labor sectors, plans to hold protests and marches in Seoul's Gwanghwamun area on September 12, following demonstrations the previous day. Overall public sentiment appears to be against the deployment. A recent nationwide survey conducted by Embrain Public, K-Stat Research, Korea Research, and Hankook Research revealed that 45% of respondents oppose sending maritime patrol aircraft and logistical support vessels to the Hormuz Strait, compared to 36% in favor. Notably, among the Democratic Party's support base, 55% oppose the deployment, significantly outpacing the 31% who support it. Among the broader progressive demographic, 60% expressed opposition to the deployment (29% in favor). Experts warn that the deployment controversy could hinder the government's ability to consolidate its core support while also expanding its appeal to moderate and conservative voters, ultimately weakening its governing power. If the Democratic Party, the ruling coalition, and its core supporters fracture over the deployment, it could undermine the existing support base and jeopardize President Lee's vision of securing a structural majority. In this context, Professor Eom Gi-hong from Kyungpook National University noted, “The Hormuz situation represents support for a war without justification from the perspective of the progressive base, which will inevitably lead to a loss of support,” adding that “the shock and repercussions will likely last a considerable time.” Political analyst Lee Jong-hoon stated, “If a final decision on deployment is made, it will be crucial for the Blue House to clearly explain the rationale behind the decision and the diplomatic benefits that can be gained, as well as how effectively it can persuade the leadership of the Democratic Party and the pro-Lee faction to restore governing momentum.” * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-10 18:56:00
  • Government Questions Focus on Hormuz Deployment and Wartime Operational Control
    Government Questions Focus on Hormuz Deployment and Wartime Operational Control On the second day of government questioning on September 10, the ruling Democratic Party emphasized that the conflict between the U.S. and Iran in the Hormuz Strait is a "war without justification." However, they avoided direct comments on the government's consideration of deploying South Korean troops to the region. The People Power Party pointed out that "the recovery of wartime operational control should not be the goal."During the government questioning session focused on foreign affairs, security, and unification, the Democratic Party refrained from making direct statements regarding the potential deployment to the Hormuz Strait, likely to avoid putting pressure on the Lee Jae-myung administration's decision. Some lawmakers indirectly conveyed negative sentiments, considering public opinion within the ruling coalition.Democratic Party lawmaker Kim Byeong-joo requested an official stance from Prime Minister Han Seung-soo on the deployment issue, stating, "If troops are deployed, the safety of soldiers and oil tankers cannot be guaranteed. It is a war without justification." He had previously described the U.S.-Iran conflict as a "war without a just cause," asserting that South Korea should not comply with unilateral demands from the U.S. In response, Prime Minister Han stated, "The government is examining the situation from various angles. No specific plans have been decided, and multiple scenarios are under review."Other Democratic lawmakers continued to question the government's cautious stance on the Hormuz deployment. Lawmaker Lee Gwang-jae asked Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Park Yoon-joo about the differences between the 2003 Iraq deployment and a potential deployment to the Hormuz Strait, urging for close cooperation between South Korea and Japan to address the ongoing energy crisis.This cautious approach contrasts with earlier expressions of concern from Democratic lawmakers, who publicly stated that the justification for deployment is weaker than that for the Iraq War (Song Young-gil) and expressed worries that even a non-combat deployment would be viewed as participation by the Iranian government (Lee Gi-heon). The government's review of the deployment is being conducted at a practical level, prompting ruling party members to approach the issue carefully.In contrast, the People Power Party urged the government to clarify its position on the Hormuz deployment. Lawmaker Yoo Yong-won asked Vice Minister of National Defense Lee Doo-hee whether non-combat explosive ordnance disposal forces are being deployed and emphasized that any deployment must go through a clear parliamentary approval process.Vice Minister Lee reiterated that "no decision has been made regarding deployment" and explained that they are in the stage of comprehensively reviewing national safety and economic interests. He added that the deployment issue will be addressed with public consensus and that legal procedures and parliamentary approval are essential. He also noted that they are not considering U.S. demands for deployment before the November midterm elections.The issue of recovering wartime operational control, as promised by the Lee Jae-myung administration, was also discussed. Lawmaker Kim Byeong-joo suggested that operational control should be restored as soon as possible. Vice Minister Lee expressed full agreement, stating, "South Korea is the only country in the world that does not have wartime operational control," and promised to pursue the recovery of operational control as planned.Conversely, People Power Party lawmaker Kang Seon-young publicly opposed the recovery of wartime operational control, arguing that the identity of the entity exercising operational control is not the main issue. She stated, "The South Korea-U.S. alliance and self-defense are interconnected. The transition of operational control should not become the goal itself." Regarding self-defense, Prime Minister Han emphasized the importance of being able to make decisions about the future independently, stating that the process of recovering operational control must be accompanied by the strengthening of the South Korea-U.S. alliance.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-10 18:56:00
  • Lottery Ticket Purchased During Date Wins Big Prize
    Lottery Ticket Purchased During Date Wins Big Prize "My boyfriend was happy, and I felt good thinking we could get married now."As interest grows in the winning numbers for the 332nd Pension Lottery 720+ on September 10, the story of a winner from the 226th draw has come to light.In a post on the Donghaeng Lottery winners' board, the winner of one first prize and four second prizes from the 226th Pension Lottery 720+ shared, "My boyfriend and I buy lottery tickets together when we have cash. If we win the first prize, we split the lotto ticket, but the person who pays for the pension lottery keeps the first prize."The winner recounted, "A few days ago, I didn’t have cash, but to celebrate our anniversary, I decided to withdraw some money to buy a lottery ticket. There was a lottery shop right in front of me, but I didn’t have a good feeling about it, so I chose to buy from a shop further away. I bought 10,000 won worth of pension lottery tickets, and since I paid, I kept the tickets. While lying in bed before sleeping and video calling my boyfriend, he suddenly suggested checking the winning numbers for the pension lottery.""I didn’t expect to win, so I lazily searched for the winning numbers, but I saw a familiar number. It was a number I had seen every time we had a meal together, and I was so surprised that I ran to the table to check the numbers, and I had won the first prize. I felt like my heart was going to burst, and I told my boyfriend on the video call that we had won. He was also happy, and I felt good thinking we could get married now," the winner reflected.The winner, who purchased the lottery ticket at a shop in the Paldal District of Suwon, answered a question about a memorable dream by saying, "I didn’t dream, but my boyfriend dreamed of a dog he used to have."When asked what kind of lottery tickets she usually buys, she replied, "I buy lotto and pension lottery tickets for small amounts at least once every two months."Meanwhile, the winning numbers for the 332nd Pension Lottery 720+ will be available after 7:05 PM today.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-10 18:52:00
  • Kim Min-seok Meets with Korean Confederation of Trade Unions, Emphasizes Collaboration
    Kim Min-seok Meets with Korean Confederation of Trade Unions, Emphasizes Collaboration Kim Min-seok, the leader of the Democratic Party, visited the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU) on September 10, emphasizing that "we are family" and expressing his commitment to incorporating labor perspectives into ongoing issues such as mega projects. Kim Dong-myung, the KCTU chairman, acknowledged the importance of mega projects but stressed that labor rights must not be compromised during the government's policy implementation process. During his visit to the KCTU in Yeouido, Seoul, Kim stated, "I believe we are family. We are allies and comrades politically," and added that the partnership with the KCTU should be strengthened beyond mere restoration. This was Kim's first visit to the KCTU since taking office as party leader. He pledged to change the approach from simply asking labor to follow along with good initiatives to one of collaboration and consultation, stating, "We will take the lead in considering issues like mega special zones and the relocation of public institutions, but we will engage in as much dialogue and consultation as possible during the process of creating and implementing plans." This visit is seen as an effort to ease labor concerns regarding the government's push for a 52-hour workweek and the relocation of public institutions. Labor groups have expressed fears that such policies could lead to a regression in labor rights. In this context, Chairman Kim remarked, "I fully understand the government's and ruling party's concerns regarding mega special zones and the integration and relocation of public institutions for the future and industrial competitiveness of South Korea," but he insisted that the value and rights of labor must not be diminished in the process of preparing for the future. He emphasized that gaining labor cooperation should not involve the same regulatory relaxations as in the past, but rather should focus on future-oriented solutions that allow labor and industry to develop together. Chairman Kim also highlighted that the KCTU is not an opposing force to the Lee Jae-myung administration but rather a partner that seeks success in governance. He noted the importance of moving forward in the same direction, even when opinions differ or conflicts arise. Additionally, the KCTU presented Kim with legislative tasks, including extending the legal retirement age to 65, retracting attempts to exclude labor rights from mega special zone legislation, ensuring political basic rights for public servants and teachers, reforming the exemption system for working hours, abolishing guidelines related to labor disputes, and guaranteeing substantial labor negotiations regarding the consolidation of public institutions. 2026-09-10 18:52:00
  • U.S. Navy Secretary Nominee Visits Hanwha Shipyard, Boosting Expectations for Contracts
    U.S. Navy Secretary Nominee Visits Hanwha Shipyard, Boosting Expectations for Contracts U.S. Navy Secretary nominee Hong Kao has visited the Hanwha shipyard, confirming expectations for increased collaboration between Hanwha and the U.S. government in pursuing naval contracts.Kao, who is currently serving as the acting Secretary of the Navy, took over the role after the sudden resignation of former Secretary John F. Kirby in April. Recently, President Donald Trump nominated Kao as the official Secretary of the Navy.Hanwha expressed pride in hosting Acting Secretary Kao at their shipyard, stating, "We are significantly expanding our ship delivery capabilities."This visit is particularly significant as Hanwha is in the process of enhancing its production capacity in the U.S.Reports indicate that the shipyard has increased its American workforce from 1,000 to over 2,200 in just two years. Hanwha Group is actively working to boost its shipbuilding capabilities in the U.S., with recent improvements in productivity being implemented by Hanwha Ocean and Hanwha Systems.One of the markets Hanwha is targeting is U.S. Navy vessels. The U.S. has been working to expand its shipbuilding industry to address delays in vessel construction and a lack of production capacity.Hanwha Ocean has outlined plans to leverage its shipbuilding experience from South Korea and its local production base to participate in future U.S. Navy projects.Additionally, Hanwha Group is pursuing mergers and acquisitions to secure further shipbuilding capabilities in the U.S. They are working towards a 100% acquisition of Austal USA, the U.S. division of the Australian shipbuilding and defense company Austal.Austal USA produces vessels for the U.S. Navy and modules for nuclear submarines. If the acquisition is successful, Hanwha is expected to establish a production base for directly building U.S. Navy vessels in the U.S., following their operations in Philadelphia.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-10 18:44:00
  • Koreas Mens Basketball Team Defeats Saudi Arabia for First Win at Asian Games
    Korea's Men's Basketball Team Defeats Saudi Arabia for First Win at Asian Games The South Korean men's basketball team, aiming to reclaim the Asian Games title after 12 years, secured a decisive victory in their opening match, marking the first win for the Korean delegation.Under the guidance of head coach Nikolajs Mazulis, South Korea (ranked 57th by FIBA) defeated Saudi Arabia (ranked 64th) 82-66 in the first match of Group A at the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, held at the Aichi International Arena in Nagoya on September 10.The men's basketball team was the first among all South Korean athletes to compete in an official match, celebrating a satisfying first victory. Additionally, they maintained a perfect record against Saudi Arabia, extending their winning streak to eight games.Lee Hyun-jung led the charge with 23 points, 3 assists, and 3 steals. Lee Woo-seok contributed 18 points off the bench, while veteran Lee Seung-hyun added 13 points and 6 rebounds.South Korea took an early lead with consecutive scores from Yeo Jun-seok, Lee Seung-hyun, and Byeon Jun-hyung. However, they allowed Saudi Arabia to tie the game at 17-17 for a brief moment. In the latter part of the first quarter, free throws from Lee Woo-seok and consecutive points from Yeo Jun-seok helped South Korea finish the quarter ahead 24-17.In the second quarter, South Korea began to widen the gap. With a three-pointer from Yoo Gi-sang and additional points from Lee Seung-hyun, they ended the first half with a 41-28 lead, holding a 13-point advantage.The third quarter saw South Korea's offense explode. Three-pointers from Lee Jung-hyun, Lee Woo-seok, and Lee Hyun-jung stifled Saudi Arabia's comeback efforts. Just before the end of the third quarter, a three-pointer from Lee Woo-seok pushed the lead to 74-44, a 30-point advantage that solidified their control of the game.However, the final quarter left some room for improvement. South Korea struggled with shooting, scoring only 8 points while allowing Saudi Arabia to score 19 points, failing to maintain their earlier 30-point lead. The game concluded with South Korea winning 82-66.Since winning the championship at the 2014 Incheon Games, South Korean basketball has reached the semifinals in the 2018 Jakarta-Palembang Games and the quarterfinals in the 2023 Hangzhou Games without medaling. This time, they aim for a gold medal after a 12-year gap.The men's basketball tournament features 12 countries divided into three groups. The top two teams from each group, along with the two best third-placed teams, will advance to the quarterfinals.After defeating Saudi Arabia, South Korea leads Group A and will face Indonesia in their second group match on September 11 at 4 PM at the same venue. They will then play their final group match against host nation Japan on September 13 at 7 PM.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-10 18:40:10
  • Koreas Mens Basketball Team Defeats Saudi Arabia for First Win at 2026 Asian Games
    Korea's Men's Basketball Team Defeats Saudi Arabia for First Win at 2026 Asian Games The South Korean men's basketball team, aiming to reclaim the Asian Games title after 12 years, secured a decisive victory in their opening match, marking the first win for the Korean delegation.Under the guidance of head coach Nikolajs Mazulis, South Korea (ranked 57th by FIBA) defeated Saudi Arabia (ranked 64th) 82-66 in their Group A opener at the Aichi International Arena in Nagoya, Japan, on September 10.The men's basketball team was the first among all South Korean athletes to compete in an official match at this tournament, continuing their dominance over Saudi Arabia with an undefeated record of 8-0 in their all-time encounters.Lee Hyun-jung led the charge with 23 points, 3 assists, and 3 steals. Lee Woo-seok contributed 18 points off the bench, while veteran Lee Seung-hyun added 13 points and 6 rebounds.South Korea took an early lead with consecutive scores from Yeo Jun-seok, Lee Seung-hyun, and Byeon Jun-hyung. However, they allowed Saudi Arabia to tie the game at 17-17 briefly. Late in the first quarter, free throws from Lee Woo-seok and consecutive points from Yeo Jun-seok helped South Korea finish the quarter ahead 24-17.In the second quarter, South Korea began to widen the gap, starting with a three-pointer from Yoo Gi-sang. With contributions from Lee Seung-hyun, they ended the first half with a 41-28 lead.The third quarter saw South Korea's offense explode, with consecutive three-pointers from Lee Jung-hyun, Lee Woo-seok, and Lee Hyun-jung, which stifled Saudi Arabia's comeback efforts. By the end of the third quarter, a three-pointer from Lee Woo-seok pushed the lead to 74-44, a 30-point advantage.However, the final quarter was less impressive for South Korea, as they struggled offensively, scoring only 8 points while allowing Saudi Arabia to score 19 points, finishing the game at 82-66.Since winning the championship at the 2014 Incheon Games, South Korean basketball has reached the semifinals in 2018 in Jakarta-Palembang and the quarterfinals in 2023 in Hangzhou, but they are now aiming for their first gold medal in 12 years.The men's basketball tournament features 12 countries divided into three groups, with the top two teams from each group and the two best third-placed teams advancing to the quarterfinals.Following their victory over Saudi Arabia, South Korea will face Indonesia in their second group match on September 11 at 4 PM at the same venue. They will then play the host nation, Japan, in their final group match on September 13 at 7 PM. 2026-09-10 18:40:00
  • Samsung Union Leader Suggests Retaliation After Audit Request on Family Business
    Samsung Union Leader Suggests Retaliation After Audit Request on Family Business Choi Seung-ho, the leader of the Samsung Group's union at Samsung Electronics, is facing controversy after reportedly notifying his deputy of a job suspension and a return to regular duties following a request for an audit of a contract with a company represented by Choi's father-in-law. Evidence has emerged that Choi directly instructed a staff member to take action 'immediately' and demanded that the union's accommodations and vehicles be organized, raising concerns that he may be using his authority to suppress the audit against him.According to a transcript of a conversation obtained by this agency, when Deputy Lee Song-i stated, 'This is not a resignation; we will conduct an internal audit,' Choi responded, 'Let’s remove your work exemption as soon as possible, and you should go to Gwangju.' He further emphasized, 'I will remove your work exemption by my authority, so please go to Gwangju and respond accordingly.'The work exemption allows union officials to receive a salary while performing union duties. If revoked, Deputy Lee would have to cease his union activities and return to his original workplace at Samsung Electronics' Gwangju facility. This action effectively cuts off the deputy's operational base before the audit even begins. Choi did not stop there; he reportedly called a staff member on the spot, instructing them to ensure the exemption was removed 'by tomorrow.'The demands did not end with the work exemption. Choi also ordered Deputy Lee to vacate the union accommodations and organize vehicles. When Deputy Lee questioned, 'Aren't you going to undergo the audit?' he was told, 'You are currently in a state of job suspension.'The situation arose from a contract between the union and a company represented by Choi's father-in-law. When Deputy Lee pointed out, 'It was wrong for Chairman Choi to enter into a contract with your father-in-law,' Choi retorted, 'We contracted at a low price of 85 million won.' However, the National Samsung Electronics Union countered that the transaction with the company amounts to 370 million won, arguing that Choi's explanation is inaccurate.Choi has previously acknowledged the existence of the transaction but claimed that he selected the company based on price and delivery conditions, asserting that he did not personally gain any financial benefit. However, critics argue that this explanation only addresses the contract price and fails to clarify why a contract with clear conflict of interest was made without a competitive process and why he attempted to obstruct the audit.There are growing calls both within and outside the union to examine whether this action adhered to regulations and procedures. If it is determined that the notification of job suspension was intended to obstruct the audit, it could lead to legal scrutiny for coercion.A labor official stated, 'Choi's remarks revealed in the transcript seriously undermine union democracy,' adding, 'The current leadership, which has completely lost the trust of union members, should resign immediately, and a thorough investigation into all allegations of misconduct should be conducted by an independent committee, including external accounting firms.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-10 18:20:00
  • Wando Abalone Products Set for Export to Japan with $430,000 Contract
    Wando Abalone Products Set for Export to Japan with $430,000 Contract Abalone products produced and processed in Wando, Jeonnam, are set to be exported to Japan. The Jeonnam Marine and Fisheries Startup Investment Center announced on the afternoon of September 10 that a shipping ceremony for abalone products was held at Kyungyoung Fisheries in Wando. Kyungyoung Fisheries participated in the center's export package support program and signed a contract with Japanese partners for a total of $27,655, approximately 430 million won. The export items include live abalone, cooked abalone, and sliced abalone. Kyungyoung Fisheries plans to expand its existing transactions in the Japanese market and explore additional export opportunities. Attendees at the shipping ceremony included officials from the Jeonnam Bio Promotion Institute's Marine Bio Division, the Mokpo Seafood Support Center, and Kyungyoung Fisheries CEO Choi Kyung-young. The event included a report on export status, shipping, and a commemorative photo session, followed by discussions on expanding sales in the Japanese market and additional export strategies. This export marks one of the achievements of a project aimed at supporting overseas market development for marine and fisheries companies in the Jeonnam region. The Jeonnam Marine and Fisheries Startup Investment Center operates an export package program to reduce challenges faced by local companies in entering overseas markets, such as securing distribution channels. Particularly, since abalone is a representative seafood product of Wando, diversifying export items to include processed products like cooked and sliced abalone is considered a key task for expanding into international markets. Jeong Woo-hyuk, head of the Marine Tech Center at the Marine Bio Division, stated, “We hope that Kyungyoung Fisheries' export to Japan will further expand the overseas market for Wando abalone products. We will continue to support Jeonnam marine and fisheries companies with competitive products to enter and expand in overseas markets.” Meanwhile, the Jeonnam Marine and Fisheries Startup Investment Center's project is jointly carried out by the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, Jeonnam Province, and Mokpo City, with the Jeonnam Bio Promotion Institute as the lead agency and the Mokpo Seafood Support Center as a participating organization. The project supports local marine and fisheries companies in areas such as startup assistance, technology development, investment attraction, overseas market development, and participation in domestic and international exhibitions.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-10 18:20:00