AJU PRESS ASIA FIRST NEWS AGENCY

Journalist

&
""
Latest by
  • Chuncheon County Urges Restraint on Rice Straw Exports Amid Shortages
    Chuncheon County Urges Restraint on Rice Straw Exports Amid Shortages Chuncheon County has requested local farmers to prioritize supplying rice straw to livestock farms as the collection rate in the region fell to about 60% of the average due to frequent autumn rains last year.On September 10, Chuncheon County officials urged restraint on the export of rice straw to assist livestock farmers struggling with shortages and rising feed prices.Rice straw is a key forage used for ruminants such as beef and dairy cattle. It plays a crucial role in utilizing byproducts from rice production as animal feed, helping to reduce reliance on imported feed and lower production costs.However, last year's continuous rainfall during the harvest season disrupted the drying and bundling of rice straw. The actual collection rate in Chuncheon remained at approximately 60% of the norm, significantly reducing the forage reserves for livestock farmers.The shortage of rice straw is not unique to Chuncheon. Across the country, heavy autumn rains and prolonged monsoons delayed collection efforts in major production areas, leading to decreased output and rising prices. In some regions, rice straw production dropped significantly compared to the previous year, with prices for wrapped silage increasing by over 30%.Additionally, fluctuations in international commodity prices and exchange rates continue to burden the costs of compound feed and imported forage. If domestic rice straw becomes scarce, the added transportation costs for purchasing forage from outside will inevitably increase the operating expenses for beef and dairy farms.As a result, there are calls across rural areas to expand support for forage production and prioritize supplying locally produced rice straw to local livestock farms. Chuncheon County's request for restraint on exports is a measure aimed at increasing the self-sufficiency rate of forage within the region and reducing supply imbalances among farmers.However, since rice straw transactions occur through private contracts between farmers and collection companies, there are limitations to preventing exports solely based on administrative requests. To increase local supply, it will be necessary to consider follow-up measures such as expanding contracts between crop and livestock farmers and supporting collection and transportation costs.A Chuncheon County official stated, "We ask that farmers refrain from exporting rice straw to establish a cooperative system among local agricultural producers and enhance the self-sufficiency rate of forage. We hope for cooperation to ensure that local livestock farms facing shortages are prioritized in supply."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-10 10:24:00
  • AI Transforms the Workplace: Insights on Talent and Organizations at HR Development Conference
    AI Transforms the Workplace: Insights on Talent and Organizations at HR Development Conference 인공지능(AI)이 바꾸는 일하는 방식과 미래 인재상을 논의하는 자리가 마련된다. 고용노동부는 한국산업인력공단과 10일부터 이틀간 서울 강서구 코엑스 마곡에서 '제20회 인적자원개발 콘퍼런스'를 개최한다고 밝혔다. 인적자원개발 콘퍼런스는 직업능력개발의 중요성을 알리고 관련 논의를 확산하기 위해 2007년 시작돼 올해 20회째를 맞았다. 올해 주제는 '변화의 시대, NEXT HR'이다. AI를 비롯한 기술 발전으로 일하는 방식이 빠르게 바뀌는 가운데 단순히 현재의 변화에 대응하는 것을 넘어 앞으로 사람과 일, 조직이 어떻게 달라져야 하는지를 모색한다. 첫날인 10일에는 이세돌 UNIST 특임교수가 '알파고 10년: 이세돌의 복기'를 주제로 기조강연에 나선다. 이 교수는 알파고와의 대국 이후 10년을 돌아보며 바둑을 통해 AI와 인간의 관계를 짚고 AI 시대가 요구하는 새로운 인재상에 대한 생각을 공유할 예정이다. 11일에는 오순영 아마존웹서비스 수석 솔루션즈 아키텍트가 'AX 시대, 사람과 조직의 성장: 생성형·에이전틱 AI가 바꾸는 일하는 방식'을 주제로 기조강연을 한다. 생성형 AI와 에이전틱 AI가 업무 방식을 어떻게 변화시키고 있는지 살펴보고 이에 대응하기 위한 사람과 조직의 성장 전략을 제시한다. 행사 마지막 강연은 김난도 서울대학교 명예교수가 맡는다. 김 교수는 'AI 대전환, 휴먼인더루프 시대의 새로운 HR 패러다임'을 주제로 AI 시대에도 인간이 의사결정과 업무 과정에 참여하는 '휴먼 인 더 루프(Human in the Loop)' 관점에서 인적자원관리의 변화 방향을 다룬다. 이틀간 HRD(인적자원개발), HRM(인적자원관리), 'Tech In HR' 등 3개 분야에서 15개 강연도 동시에 진행된다. AI를 활용한 업무 혁신부터 직무역량 육성, 인재 확보, 미래 인재 양성 등 기업과 근로자가 현장에서 마주하는 HR 현안을 다룰 예정이다. 기업 HR 담당자들이 AI를 직접 활용해보는 프로그램도 마련된다. 생성형 AI를 교육과정 설계와 면접 등 실제 HR 업무에 적용하는 실습교육을 통해 현장에서의 AI 활용 역량을 높이는 데 초점을 맞췄다. 기업 맞춤형 HRD·AI 상담소와 증강현실(AR)·가상현실(VR) 훈련 콘텐츠를 체험할 수 있는 신기술관도 운영된다. 대한민국명장전과 각종 시상식·경진대회가 열리며 12개 기업이 참여하는 홍보부스에서는 최신 교육·훈련 콘텐츠를 선보인다. 권창준 노동부 차관은 "이번 콘퍼런스를 통해 국민 모두가 변화의 흐름을 함께 살펴보고 대한민국의 미래 경쟁력을 높일 새로운 인적자원개발 방향을 모색하는 계기가 되기를 바란다"고 말했다. 이어 "정부는 AI 대전환의 변화 속에서 국민 모두가 역량을 갖출 수 있도록 AI 직업훈련을 대폭 확대하고 메가 특구와 5극 3특 성장엔진과도 연계해 AI 등 핵심 산업을 이끌 권역별 인재 양성체계를 구축하겠다"고 밝혔다. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-10 10:20:20
  • Tway Airlines Rebrands as Trinity Airlines, Launches First Flights
    T'way Airlines Rebrands as Trinity Airlines, Launches First Flights T'way Airlines has rebranded as Trinity Airlines and launched its first flights under the new name.On the morning of September 10, Trinity Airlines announced the commencement of operations for domestic flight TW801 from Daegu to Jeju and international flight TW237 from Incheon to Narita.The first aircraft featuring the new Trinity Airlines corporate identity (CI), designated HL8754, was also deployed on flight TW705 from Gimpo to Jeju. Trinity Airlines plans to gradually apply the new CI to its current fleet and any additional aircraft it acquires. The airline aims to enhance its competitiveness on medium- and long-haul routes by introducing next-generation aircraft, including the A330-900neo and B737-8, by the end of the year.In line with the brand transition, the appearance of crew members and airport staff has also changed. On this day, flight and cabin crew, as well as airport check-in staff, welcomed passengers in new uniforms that reflect the new CI colors and brand identity.Trinity Airlines has also re-evaluated its safety management systems and operational frameworks across all departments, including operations, maintenance, and cabin services. A representative from Trinity Airlines stated, "The operation of our first aircraft featuring the new CI marks a significant departure for Trinity Airlines in partnership with Sonot Trinity Group. We will do our utmost to provide a differentiated flying experience based on our SSC strategy, alongside the gradual application of the new livery across our fleet."Meanwhile, at the 'Brand Launch and Uniform Runway' event held last month, Trinity Airlines introduced the concept of a selective service airline (SSC), breaking away from the traditional business models of full-service carriers (FSC) and low-cost carriers (LCC) in the domestic aviation market.This model allows for the selective provision of airline services tailored to routes and travel purposes. The airline aims to maintain reasonable fare levels for domestic and short-haul routes while enhancing service quality and fare competitiveness for long-haul routes to North America and Europe.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-10 10:20:00
  • Coca-Cola Partners with Haebangchon for HBC Haebang Week
    Coca-Cola Partners with Haebangchon for HBC Haebang Week Coca-Cola is expanding its collaboration with local merchants in the Shinheung Market area to the Haebangchon neighborhood.The company announced on September 10 that it will officially partner with the '2026 HBC Haebang Week' (HBC HAEBANGWEEK), taking place from September 10 to 13 in Haebangchon.HBC Haebang Week is a community-driven festival organized by the Haebangchon Merchants Association and managed by the local planning group 'Pungnyuhoe.' Last year, the festival featured a music performance called 'Block Party,' a flea market named 'Haebangjang,' and community runs, with the addition of the Itaewon Film Festival this year.Many of the programs will be organized by local merchants, residents, and artists. A neighborhood bookstore will serve as a venue for film screenings, and local artists will participate in an art market. The opening event will also include a celebration for local seniors.Coca-Cola's involvement is a continuation of its 'Coca-Cola X Shinheung Market' project, which began last year. After renovating alleys and shops with Shinheung Market merchants, the company has launched an exhibition titled 'Shinheung Market People with Coca-Cola' that showcases the stories of market vendors, which began on September 1. This year, the collaboration has expanded from Shinheung Market to include Haebangchon.During the festival, over 30 restaurants in Haebangchon will offer 'Haebang Menu' items that pair their signature dishes with Coca-Cola. The film festival at the bookstore 'Pulmuji' and the rooftop art market will also feature Coca-Cola.On September 13, a free street performance called 'Coca-Cola Stage' will take place on Shinheung Road, featuring acts from Windy City, Jay Tong, and Yangbandul. The community run on Namsan Sowol-gil will include Powerade.Additionally, a mural project with local artists will be conducted. A large mural created in collaboration with French artist Léon Moh-Cah, who has depicted Haebangchon in his work, will be painted on the exterior wall of a building near Shinheung Road. This mural will serve as a photo spot during the festival and will remain in place afterward.Details about the festival's programs and schedule can be found on the HBC Haebangchon social media channels.Oh Jun-seok, president of the Haebangchon Merchants Association, stated, "Haebang Week is a festival created by the people who live, work, and engage in activities in Haebangchon. It is significant that the connection that started in Shinheung Market extends to more shops and people in Haebangchon."A Coca-Cola representative remarked, "Local shops and merchants have been important partners in connecting Coca-Cola with consumers for a long time. We will continue to build relationships and collaborate with local partners in the future."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-10 10:16:00
  • LUN8 Appointed as Ambassador for Korea Social Security Information Service
    LUN8 Appointed as Ambassador for Korea Social Security Information Service 그룹 루네이트(LUN8)가 한국사회보장정보원 홍보대사로 발탁됐다. 10일 소속사 판타지오에 따르면, 판타지오와 한국사회보장정보원은 복지서비스 홍보 활성화를 위한 업무협약을 체결하고 루네이트를 주요 사업 홍보대사로 위촉했다. 루네이트는 이번 협약을 통해 국민 생활과 밀접한 복지서비스를 알리는 다양한 캠페인에 참여한다. 특히 복지멤버십 등 기관의 주요 사업을 다루는 숏폼 및 사회관계망서비스(SNS) 콘텐츠에 직접 나서며, 젊은 세대를 비롯한 대중이 복지서비스를 일상에서 쉽게 이해하고 활용할 수 있도록 도울 예정이다. 신영진 판타지오 대표이사는 "루네이트의 밝고 친근한 이미지를 통해 국민에게 필요한 복지서비스를 알리는 뜻깊은 활동에 참여하게 돼 기쁘다"며 사회적 가치 확산에 협력하겠다는 뜻을 밝혔다. 김현준 한국사회보장정보원장 역시 "루네이트와 함께 국민 눈높이에 맞는 콘텐츠를 만들어 복지멤버십 등 다양한 복지서비스를 쉽고 친근하게 알리겠다"고 전했다. 한편 루네이트는 지난 7월 미니 4집 '오프 더 그리드(Off the Grid)'를 발매하고 타이틀곡 '스니커즈(SNEAKERS)'로 활동했다. 이어 서울에서 단독 팬콘 '오프-존(OFF-ZONE)'을 개최했으며, 두 번째 유럽 투어 '비욘드 더 문(BEYOND THE MOON)'을 통해 8개 도시를 순회했다. 또한 멤버 카엘은 최근 종영한 SBS 드라마 '김부장'에서 배구 유망주 김남훈 역을 맡아 연기 활동을 병행했다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-10 10:12:00
  • NH Nonghyup Bank Enhances Complaint Investigation Capabilities to Strengthen Consumer Protection
    NH Nonghyup Bank Enhances Complaint Investigation Capabilities to Strengthen Consumer Protection NH Nonghyup Bank announced that it conducted a 'Complaint Investigation Capability Enhancement Training and Field Communication Meeting' for 32 employees dedicated to complaint handling in Cheonan, South Chungcheong Province.This training was organized to enhance the investigation and processing capabilities of complaint investigators in light of increasing consumer awareness of rights and the diversity of complaint types. It also aimed to gather feedback on field challenges and suggestions for system improvements.During the training, participants shared recent complaint data and financial sector disclosure materials to discuss complaint trends and major types. They examined key regional cases to identify causes and preventive measures for recurring complaints, and practical training focused on the judgment and response capabilities needed during the investigation and processing of actual complaints.The subsequent field communication meeting addressed challenges in the complaint investigation and processing process, necessary improvements to systems and regulations, and support measures from headquarters.NH Nonghyup Bank plans to implement immediately actionable suggestions from the field into its operations, while those requiring further review will be discussed with relevant departments for potential incorporation into system and process improvements.Park Jang-soon, Vice President of the Financial Consumer Protection Division at NH Nonghyup Bank, stated, “Complaint investigators play a crucial role in protecting financial consumers by closely listening to customer voices and identifying the causes of complaints. We will strengthen consumer protection that customers can feel through data-driven complaint prevention and system improvements.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-10 10:12:00
  • Chinese Media Criticizes EUs Trade War Threats
    Chinese Media Criticizes EU's Trade War Threats Chinese state media has strongly criticized recent trade pressure statements from the European Union (EU) regarding China.On September 10, the Global Times reported that "EU officials have repeatedly issued ultimatum-like demands to China, and European media are claiming that the EU and China are on the brink of a trade war."Maros Sefcovic, the EU's Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, recently demanded clear commitments from China to address trade imbalances, stating, "I want to see initial actions by early October." He warned that if dialogue fails to yield results, there would be political pressure within the EU to seek alternative solutions.The Global Times noted, "China has not responded aggressively to the EU's harsh statements and has been advocating for resolving mutual concerns through dialogue and negotiation," emphasizing that unilateral conditions or threats of market closure should not be used as pressure tactics. The media outlet also pointed out that Europe, which is experiencing trade friction with the United States, should reflect on its own stance towards Washington and how the U.S. treats Brussels.Additionally, the article refuted European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen's frequently cited figure of a trade deficit with China amounting to approximately 1 billion euros per day. It argued that this figure does not reflect the EU's service trade surplus with China and failed to acknowledge that many products produced by European companies in China and sold back to the European market are recorded as profits for China, while the majority of actual profits return to Europe.The media stated, "China does not desire a trade war, but it is not afraid of one," asserting that demands for unilateral concessions through unequal trade agreements are unacceptable. It further questioned whether the EU truly has the capability to engage in a trade war with China, challenging, "If you are really prepared, go ahead and try it."Meanwhile, China's exports to the EU reached $425.2 billion in cumulative figures as of August this year, a 15.3% increase from the previous year. Imports amounted to $182.8 billion, up 6.2%. China's trade surplus with the EU for this year has increased by 23.3% to $242.5 billion.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-10 10:08:00
  • Apple Unveils First Foldable iPhone Duo Starting at $1,999
    Apple Unveils First Foldable iPhone Duo Starting at $1,999 Apple introduced its new foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, starting at $1,999 on September 9. John Turnus, the new CEO of Apple, expressed optimism, stating, "We will redefine the foldable phone experience." However, concerns have been raised that the high price may render it a mere luxury item.First foldable phone marks a major design shift after 20 yearsAccording to Reuters, CEO Turnus unveiled the iPhone Duo at Apple Park in Cupertino, California. This marks Apple's first foldable phone, breaking away from the flat design the company has maintained since 2007.The device is a passport-style smartphone that folds horizontally, featuring a 5.4-inch display when closed and a 7.6-inch (19.3 cm) screen when opened. The open screen area is 50% larger than that of the iPhone 18 Pro Max and 80% larger than the iPhone 18 Pro.When opened, the thickness is 5.2 mm, while it measures 11.3 mm when closed, weighing 254 grams. Apple claims it is the thinnest device in its lineup when opened, although it is thicker than competing products from Chinese manufacturers, according to Reuters.The iPhone Duo features a specially designed hinge, a dual display with a consistent aspect ratio, and a new titanium body. The base model with 256GB of storage starts at $1,999, while the top model with 2TB of storage is priced at $3,199.During the event, Turnus emphasized, "It’s a completely new product yet surprisingly familiar," noting its passport-like size makes it comfortable to hold and easy to use with one hand.He also pointed out that existing foldable phones are often cumbersome and unsuitable for everyday tasks like scrolling or watching videos, stating that they feel like two phones stuck together, making the larger screen feel smaller. Apple has focused on enhancing the user experience to differentiate itself from existing foldable phones.The Wall Street Journal noted that under Tim Cook's leadership, Apple has faced criticism for not releasing enough innovative products, suggesting that Turnus aims to mark his era as a "new beginning for innovation."Francisco Jeronimo, an analyst at IDC, remarked, "Apple may be entering the foldable phone market years later than others, but with just one product announcement, it has set the price and competitive standards. Now, all competitors will be evaluated against Apple."Apple to compete with Huawei in China's foldable phone marketChina, the largest market for foldable phones, is expected to be a critical battleground for the success of the iPhone Duo.According to Counterpoint, China accounted for 45% of the global foldable phone market last year, with Huawei holding about 80% of that share. Ahead of the iPhone Duo's launch, Huawei and Xiaomi proactively announced their latest foldable phone models on September 7.Counterpoint forecasts that global foldable phone shipments will exceed 100 million units this year, predicting that Apple will capture a 25% market share in its first year, placing it second behind Samsung's 38%. Huawei is expected to hold 22%. IDC anticipates that Apple's market share could rise to about 40% by the end of next year.Will it be a luxury item? Price and usability are key factorsHowever, concerns have been raised regarding the iPhone Duo. The base model's price of $1,999 is approximately $100 more than Samsung's flagship foldable phone, the Galaxy Z Fold 8, which retails for $1,899.99.Dipanjan Chatterjee, an analyst at Forrester, told the BBC, "Due to its high price, it risks becoming a 'luxury item' that enhances brand image but fails to drive substantial growth."Carolina Milanesi, an analyst at Creative Strategies, pointed out that the learning curve associated with transitioning from traditional smartphones to foldable devices presents a significant challenge.There are also concerns that the foldable phone market remains relatively small, limiting growth potential. According to CCS Insight, foldable phones currently account for only about 2% of total smartphone sales. Ben Wood, a CCS analyst, predicted that even with Apple's entry, the foldable phone market share will only reach about 4% of the overall smartphone market within the next decade. 2026-09-10 10:08:00
  • Hwachuns Beneficial Microorganism Cultivation Increases by 60% in Three Years
    Hwachun's Beneficial Microorganism Cultivation Increases by 60% in Three Years The cultivation of beneficial microorganisms in Hwachun, Gangwon Province, has increased by approximately 60%, rising from 109 tons in 2022 to 175 tons last year. By the end of August this year, 140 tons have already been produced to meet ongoing demand from local farms.According to Hwachun County on September 10, the county has been operating a beneficial microorganism cultivation center in the Hwachun Agricultural Industrial Complex since 2021. The target recipients are registered agricultural management entities in the region.The cultivated microorganisms include four types: Bacillus, photosynthetic bacteria, lactic acid bacteria, and yeast. These are provided free of charge to crop and livestock farms.Farmers are utilizing these microorganisms to enhance crop growth, improve soil conditions, and reduce odors in livestock facilities. Feedback indicates that the increased supply is helping to lower the use of chemical fertilizers and reduce farming costs.Agricultural producers interested in utilizing the microorganisms can visit the center on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with their own containers, fill out an application form, and receive the cultivation liquid.The free supply of agricultural microorganisms is part of an eco-friendly agricultural support initiative operated by several cities and counties in Gangwon Province. Hongcheon County supplies five types of microorganisms, including photosynthetic bacteria, year-round, while Hoengseong County produces over 200 tons of microorganisms annually. Yanggu County is enhancing accessibility for farmers by utilizing various supply points across towns and villages.Last year's production in Hwachun is significant compared to other major cultivation facilities in the province. Notably, Hwachun differentiates itself by recycling some of the mountain trout collected after the Sancheoneo Festival as agricultural materials.The county supplies an eco-friendly fish fermentation liquid made from mountain trout at a price of 1,500 won per liter. This product has received organic agricultural material certification.Recently, it has been noted that not only farmers but also local mountain trout farms are seeking supplies of the microorganism cultivation liquid. If this demand is met, the center's support scope is expected to expand from agriculture and livestock to aquaculture.Kim Se-hoon, the mayor of Hwachun, stated, “We are striving for stable production and supply of beneficial microorganisms to ensure their diverse use in agricultural settings. We will support efforts to reduce farming costs and enhance income.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-10 10:04:20
  • Local Governments to Join Labor Inspections for the First Time in 73 Years
    Local Governments to Join Labor Inspections for the First Time in 73 Years 73 years after the central government took charge of labor inspections, local governments will now participate. Starting in December, leading local governments such as Gyeonggi and Jeju will begin workplace inspections, with the government planning to enhance the expertise of local labor inspectors through the dispatch of central inspectors and the establishment of training and IT systems. On September 10, the Ministry of Employment and Labor held the first meeting of the 'National Labor Inspection Council,' announcing the 'Establishment and Implementation Plan for Local Government Labor Inspection System.' This plan outlines the preparations needed for local governments to conduct labor inspections ahead of the December 8 implementation of the 'Labor Inspector Job Execution Act' and clarifies the division of roles between central and local authorities. The meeting included Minister of Employment and Labor Kim Young-hoon, along with deputy heads from 16 cities and provinces, and officials from the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of the Interior and Safety, who reviewed the readiness of local governments. The National Labor Inspection Council is the first statutory body where central and local governments discuss labor inspections together. It will select the targets for delegation of inspection authority, discuss uniform application of labor standards and health and safety criteria, and explore ways to strengthen the capabilities of local labor inspectors. Since the enactment of the Labor Standards Act in 1953, the labor inspection system has been under the central government’s purview, marking a significant shift to a joint system with local governments after 73 years. In April, the government established the Labor Inspector Job Execution Act to provide a legal basis for local government labor inspections. Gyeonggi and Jeju signed agreements for collaborative inspections in January and July, respectively. In May, the 'Regional Labor Inspection Council' was formed, involving local labor offices from nine regions and local governments, which has since conducted joint inspections and consultations. The implementation plan divides the necessary tasks for local labor inspections into three pillars: 'Preparation, Cooperation, and Execution.' First, the qualifications and appointment procedures for local labor inspectors, as well as the scope of delegated authority, will be specified in subordinate regulations. A 'Local Labor Inspector Duty Regulation' containing detailed inspection criteria is also set to be established next month. Efforts will also be made to expand personnel. The Ministry of the Interior and Safety will support the prompt deployment of 120 local labor inspectors, as designated this year. Training focused on practical exercises will be conducted for new inspectors over eight weeks from October to November, and local inspectors will participate in specialized training provided by the Ministry of Labor. An IT infrastructure will be established, with plans to build a labor information system by November to enable local governments to commence inspections within the year. A dedicated system for local governments and a mobile inspection checklist are planned for development next year. The capacity of local governments to perform delegated tasks will be assessed starting next year, with joint evaluations by the government to begin in 2028. Support measures will also be implemented to compensate for the initial lack of field experience among local inspectors. Veteran central labor inspectors will be dispatched to each city and province to oversee and guide the inspection and investigation processes. When local inspectors conduct their first workplace inspections, they will be accompanied by inspectors from the relevant local labor office to assist in the field. The selection of workplaces for inspection will be determined by plans prepared by the cities and provinces, reviewed by the Regional Labor Inspection Council, and finalized by the National Labor Inspection Council. In cases of urgent inspections needed due to social issues or industrial accidents, the targets for inspection may be added or changed. During workplace inspections, particular attention will be paid to issues directly related to workers' rights, such as wage arrears. Checklists and evaluation criteria will be utilized to reduce regional disparities in inspections, and support will be provided to small businesses to ensure compliance with labor laws and establish labor management systems. A support system for investigations necessary for local inspectors performing special judicial police duties will also be established. A three-tiered support system will be implemented, involving 'dispatch of central inspectors - support from local labor offices - guidance and advice from prosecutors,' and a 'referral application system' will be introduced to transfer complex cases that local governments cannot handle to the relevant local labor office. Gyeonggi and Jeju are preparing to begin workplace inspections on December 8, coinciding with the law's implementation. Jeju established a dedicated labor inspection department, the 'Labor Safety Inspector,' on August 25, becoming the first local government in the country to do so. Gyeonggi Province plans to recruit 170 local inspectors and has already enrolled 10 prospective inspectors in training with the Ministry of Labor last month. Minister Kim Young-hoon stated, "The purpose of local government inspections is not to penalize small businesses but to prevent legal violations and support the establishment of labor management systems. We will do our utmost to ensure that local governments' preventive inspections contribute to eliminating blind spots in workplace safety in the region."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-10 10:04:00