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  • Transportation Ministry to Expand Wireless Control System Following Fatal Accident
    Transportation Ministry to Expand Wireless Control System Following Fatal Accident Following the death of a Korea Railroad Corporation employee during freight vehicle management at Uiwang Station on August 29, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport is taking steps to create a safer working environment.On September 9, the ministry announced plans to prevent future accidents by expanding the wireless control vehicle management system, improving work procedures, and enhancing on-site safety management.The fatal incident occurred at 7:20 a.m. at Uiwang Station on the Gyeongbu Line in Gyeonggi Province, where a Korail employee was struck by a train while performing switching operations. Investigations revealed that a wireless control switching system was not in place at the time.The wireless control vehicle management system allows workers to remotely control vehicles using wireless devices, eliminating communication errors between the engineer and the worker, thereby fostering a safer working environment.On the same day, the head of the railway bureau held a meeting with Korea Railroad Corporation officials to review the status of the wireless control vehicle management system's implementation and the safety management of vehicle management operations.During the review, safety enhancement measures to prevent accidents during vehicle management were discussed. Plans include further expanding the wireless control vehicle management system to major work sites and utilizing advanced technologies such as AI video analysis to minimize worker exposure to risks. Discussions also included ensuring that workers can operate safely from outside the locomotive.The ministry will deploy railway safety inspectors to conduct special inspections at key vehicle management sites and will review the railway safety management system in collaboration with the Korea Transportation Safety Authority (TS). Any issues identified on-site will be promptly addressed, and the results of the inspections will inform a comprehensive review of work procedures and safety management systems.Kim Tae-byeong, head of the railway bureau, stated, "We must not allow repeated fatal accidents during vehicle management operations. We will thoroughly investigate the causes of the Uiwang Station accident and incorporate any identified deficiencies in systems and procedures, as well as on-site risks, into the railway safety enhancement measures to be established in the second half of this year."He added, "The reliance on individual judgment by workers must be fundamentally improved to create a safe working environment, which is the essence of safety measures. We will develop comprehensive railway safety enhancement measures, including the expansion of the wireless control vehicle management system, improvements to work procedures, reinforcement of safety facilities, and enhanced on-site safety management."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-09 06:04:00
  • President Yoon Emphasizes Joint R&D and Investment with France; Samsung and Naver Collaborate on AI
    President Yoon Emphasizes Joint R&D and Investment with France; Samsung and Naver Collaborate on AI President Yoon Suk Yeol emphasized the need for South Korean and French companies to pursue joint research and development (R&D) and large-scale investments in future strategic industries to shorten development timelines and enhance investment efficiency.Chief Presidential Spokesperson Kang Yu-jeong stated in a written briefing on September 8 (local time) that President Yoon attended a Korea-France business roundtable that afternoon to discuss practical cooperation measures with key business leaders from both countries.The event was organized by the Korea Economic Association and the French Economic Association as part of President Yoon's state visit to France. Over 30 attendees included President Yoon, French President Emmanuel Macron, and prominent business and government figures from both nations.South Korean attendees included Ryu Jin, chairman of the Korea Economic Association; Lee Jae-yong, chairman of Samsung Electronics; Koo Ja-eun, chairman of LS; Cho Hyun-joon, chairman of Hyosung; Ryu Jae-cheol, president of LG Electronics; Sung Kim, president of Hyundai Motor; Choi Soo-yeon, CEO of Naver; Na Sang-seop, CEO of Hanwha TotalEnergies; Seo Jin-seok, CEO of Celltrion; Choi Kyung, vice chairman of Cosmax; Lee Jun-gu, CEO of Qunova Computing; and Kim Hwa-cheon, president of Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power.French attendees included François Jacob, CEO of Air Liquide; Jean Lemierre, chairman of BNP Paribas; Nicolas Hieronimus, CEO of L'Oréal; Félix Burel, CEO of Opimo Mobility; Thierry Le Henaff, chairman of Arkema; Claude Imbaud, chairman of Orano; Frédéric Sanchez, chairman of Fives; and Frédéric Lemaire, CEO of Genethon.Also present were Arthur Mangin, co-founder and CEO of Mistral AI; Alexandre Lebrun, co-founder and CEO of AMI Labs; Nicolo Somasky, co-founder of Quandela; and Marc Schwartz, chairman of Moned Paris.The roundtable focused on combining the strengths of both countries in future strategic industries such as artificial intelligence (AI), quantum technology, mobility, energy, biotechnology, and beauty, and connecting these strengths to business and investment opportunities.In the AI sector, discussions included a strategic investment collaboration between Samsung Electronics and Mistral AI. There was also shared anticipation for Naver and Mistral AI to target the sovereign AI market and jointly enter the global market based on their existing partnership.In the quantum sector, participants discussed building a new collaboration model by combining the core technology of French quantum computing hardware company Quandela with South Korea's semiconductor manufacturing capabilities and AI infrastructure.In the energy sector, a proposal was made to strengthen energy supply chain cooperation between the two countries by linking France's power grid modernization efforts with advanced power equipment technology from LS and Hyosung.In mobility, Hyundai Motor announced plans to expand cooperation with French companies in the hydrogen industry ecosystem and AI manufacturing innovation. LG Electronics expressed expectations for broadening collaboration opportunities in eco-friendly technologies, including high-efficiency appliances and heat pumps, as well as in mobility and AI.In the beauty sector, discussions centered on jointly promoting next-generation beauty innovations by combining L'Oréal's global brand capabilities with Cosmax's product development expertise.Celltrion presented a case study on its acquisition of French healthcare company Gifrer, sharing ways to contribute to the French healthcare sector by combining South Korea's biosimilar technology with France's healthcare capabilities.President Yoon noted that after hearing from business leaders, he confirmed that there are numerous and diverse areas for cooperation between South Korean and French companies. He stated that pursuing joint R&D and large-scale investments in new fields could shorten development timelines and enhance investment efficiency compared to individual efforts.He also highlighted the significant potential for growth in cultural and artistic sectors as new industries, emphasizing that combining each country's strengths could create new markets and opportunities together. Furthermore, he expressed hope for expanded practical cooperation at the government level, including R&D initiatives, alongside corporate collaboration. 2026-09-09 05:56:00
  • South Korea and France Sign Six Agreements, Samsung Invests in MistralAI
    South Korea and France Sign Six Agreements, Samsung Invests in MistralAI The South Korean government signed six agreements, including a strategic investment agreement between Samsung Electronics and French artificial intelligence (AI) firm MistralAI, during President Lee Jae-myung's state visit to France on September 8 (local time). The core of the agreement involves Samsung participating as a strategic investor in MistralAI and jointly developing a proprietary in-house AI model that protects key semiconductor know-how. MistralAI raised a total of 3 billion euros (approximately 4.7 trillion won) in a Series D funding round led by Samsung, achieving a post-investment valuation of over 21 billion euros (about 32.8 trillion won). The specific investment amount and equity stake held by Samsung have not been disclosed. During the visit, President Lee held a summit with President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace, discussing ways to expand cooperation in advanced technology, industry and trade, defense and military, space and nuclear energy, and culture. Following the summit, they participated in a ceremony to exchange agreements and memorandums of understanding (MOUs) and held a joint press conference to announce the outcomes of their discussions. President Lee also attended a Korea-France business roundtable at the Marigny Guesthouse, where he discussed trade, investment expansion, and new industry cooperation with business leaders from both countries. This agreement marks the first tangible outcome of the AI, semiconductor, and quantum cooperation memorandum signed by the two countries in April. Additionally, the two nations signed an MOU in the fields of AI, semiconductors, and quantum technology. This agreement will support joint research and development projects between researchers and startups, attract investments in AI and quantum fields, and facilitate exchanges and business opportunities between semiconductor companies and research institutions. Intellectual property cooperation has also been expanded from existing examination collaboration to include sharing AI examination standards and best practices, as well as intellectual property financing and commercialization. In the cultural sector, both countries agreed to enhance exchanges in the cultural creation industry, joint investments, and cooperation between cultural and artistic institutions and cultural heritage. In the security and defense sector, a protocol to amend the military secret information protection agreement was signed to enhance the stability and reliability of military information exchanges. The amendment to the aviation agreement, which has been under negotiation for about a decade, includes principles for fair competition, security and safety enhancement, and sustainable aviation cooperation. In the energy sector, Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power and France's Orano agreed to pursue long-term enrichment service supply based on new enrichment facilities. This aims to proactively secure supply chains in the West and diversify sources for nuclear fuel supply. During the visit, agreements were also signed in areas such as public safety, biotechnology, plant science, quantum and AI-based new drug development, and exchanges between universities and basic science. The two countries also agreed to expedite the signing of a mutual logistics support agreement.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-09 05:40:00
  • Kim Hye-kyung and Brigitte Macron Attend Hanji Exhibition in Paris
    Kim Hye-kyung and Brigitte Macron Attend Hanji Exhibition in Paris 김혜경 여사는 8일(현지시간) 브리지트 마크롱 프랑스 대통령 부인과 함께 파리에서 열린 한지 특별전을 관람했다. 이재명 대통령과 국빈 방문 중인 김 여사는 이날 오후 18세기 프랑스 왕실의 가구 보관소로 사용됐던 문화유산 ‘오텔 드 라 마린’에서 ‘한지마니아’ 특별전을 둘러봤다. 안귀령 청와대 부대변인의 서면 브리핑에 따르면 아이보리색 투피스 바지 정장을 입은 김 여사는 베이지색 투피스 정장 차림의 마크롱 여사와 전시장에 입장해 곳곳에 설치된 한지 작품에 관한 설명을 들었다. 작품을 직접 만져보거나 작가들에게 질문하며 한지의 특성과 작품 제작 과정에 관심을 보였다. 두 여사가 처음 관람한 작품은 유이화 건축가의 ‘중첩된 고요’였다. 철제 프레임으로 만든 작은 방 형태의 공간을 한지로 에워싼 작품이다. 김 여사는 작가의 허락을 받아 작품을 직접 만져본 뒤 “한지가 굉장히 단단하다”고 마크롱 여사에게 설명했다. 유 작가가 작품 안에서 명상할 수 있다고 소개하자 김 여사는 함께 들어가 앉아보자고 제안했다. 두 여사는 작품 안에 나란히 앉아 웃으며 대화를 나눴다. 김 여사는 “소근소근 얘기해도 될 것 같다”고 말했다. 작품 설명을 듣던 도중 마크롱 여사가 과거 김 여사에게 받은 선물을 언급하며 감사를 표하자 김 여사는 “마크롱 대통령은 사이즈를 몰라서 못 보냈다”고 말해 웃음을 자아내기도 했다. 김 여사는 이어 정창기 사진작가의 작품 설명을 들은 뒤 다음 전시 공간으로 이동했다. 마지막 전시 공간에서는 가수 화사를 발견하고 “어머”라고 외치며 박수를 친 뒤 “먼 길 와줘서 감사하다”고 반갑게 맞았다. 김 여사는 카트린 뤼로 공동기획자의 안내로 6개 작품을 차례로 관람했다. 한지와 향을 결합한 작품에 대해서는 “한지와 향을 연결하다니, 프랑스답다”고 감탄했다. 함께 작품 설명을 듣던 화사의 팔을 가까이 끌어당겨 손을 잡는 모습도 보였다. 두 여사는 마지막 작품의 제작 과정에도 직접 참여했다. 활 모양의 목재 뼈대에 한지를 끼워 넣는 작업으로, 마크롱 여사와 김 여사가 한지의 양 끝을 잡아 작품을 완성했다. 참석자들의 박수가 나오자 두 여사는 활짝 웃으며 함께 박수를 친 뒤 악수하고 포옹했다. 화사는 한지로 케이스를 포장한 CD를 두 여사에게 선물했다. 김 여사는 “세상에”라며 고마움을 표시한 뒤 “우리 마크롱 여사가 K팝을 엄청나게 좋아한다”고 소개했다. 안 부대변인은 “김 여사는 행사 참가자들과 손가락 하트를 만들며 기념촬영을 한 뒤 약 1시간 20분 간의 관람 일정을 마쳤다”고 전했다. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-09 05:36:00
  • Major Changes in the Legal Market: New Prosecutorial Bodies and Their Impact
    Major Changes in the Legal Market: New Prosecutorial Bodies and Their Impact 검찰청 폐지와 중대범죄수사청(중수청)·공소청 신설, 재판소원 도입 등 형사·사법제도의 대대적인 개편으로 국내 로펌 시장의 지형이 바뀌고 있다. 수십 년간 대형 로펌 핵심 경쟁력이던 '검찰 전관'의 독점적 지위는 흔들리는 반면 경찰과 헌법재판소(헌재) 출신의 몸값은 올라가고 있다. 오는 10월 2일 중수청과 공소청이 출범하면 '중수청 전관'과 '공소청 전관'이라는 새로운 시장까지 형성될 것으로 보인다. 또 하나의 수사기관으로 성장하고 있는 특별사법경찰관(특사경) 역시 무시할 수 없다. 선배 격인 고위공직자범죄수사처(공수처) 출신들의 로펌행은 이를 단적으로 보여준다. 즉, 검찰이라는 단일 창구에 대응하면 됐던 과거와 달리 이제는 사건 하나를 두고도 수사 초기(경찰·특사경)-중대범죄 수사(중수청·공수처)-기소·공판(공소청)-재판소원(헌재) 단계마다 각기 다른 '전관 변호사'가 투입될 수 있는 구조가 만들어지고 있는 것이다. 이와 같은 변화는 각 기관의 전관을 영입할 수 있는 대형 로펌에 유리할 수밖에 없다. 더 큰 문제는 단계마다 전관 변호사를 선임할 경우 국민과 기업이 지불해야 할 법률 비용이 천정부지로 치솟을 수 있다는 점이다. '전경예우' 고위직부터 실무직까지 전방위 영입 형사·사법제도의 변화는 로펌의 인력 영입 시장에 직접적으로 반영되고 있다. 아주경제 탐사보도팀은 국내 주요 10개 로펌(김앤장·태평양·광장·세종·율촌·화우·지평·바른·대륙아주·동인)의 3년 내(來) 인력 영입·전담 조직 신설 현황을 조사했다. 법조계에서 최근 회자되는 말은 '전경예우'다. 대형 로펌들의 영입 대상은 경무관 이상 고위직에서 실제 사건을 지휘한 총경·경정 등 수사팀장급 일선 실무진으로 대폭 넓어졌다. 김앤장 법률사무소는 최동해 전 경기지방경찰청장, 김귀찬 전 경찰청 차장 등 고위직 출신을 포함해 60여 명 규모의 대응 조직을 운영 중이다. 법무법인 광장은 정채민 전 경찰청 국가수사본부 안보범죄분석과장을 영입해 전담 대응팀을 출범시켰으며 금융범죄수사대응팀, 가상자산수사대응팀, 영업비밀범죄수사대응팀 등 세분화된 TF 조직을 구성했다. 법무법인 세종은 2021년 대형 로펌 중 처음으로 '경찰 출신 변호사' 중심의 경찰팀을 꾸렸다. 현재 세종은 검찰·경찰 출신 전문가 80여 명 규모의 형사그룹을 기반으로 경찰 수사 대응 전담 라인을 운영하고 있다. 법무법인 태평양은 대전경찰청장을 지낸 최현 변호사 등을 영입했고, 율촌은 경기남부경찰청 형사과장 출신 한원횡 변호사와 유진규 전 인천경찰청장을 데려왔다. 지평은 경남경찰청 수사부장 출신인 윤외출 고문을 신규 영입해 경찰팀을 강화했다. 대륙아주는 검경 수사권 조정 이후 경찰 수사단계 변론 역량을 강화하기 위해 경찰 출신 변호사와 고문을 꾸준히 늘려왔다. 올해도 강북경찰서 경제범죄수사팀 출신인 김진서 변호사(경찰대 출신)를 영입했다. 법무법인 화우는 지난 8월 서울경찰청 광역수사단 광역수사대 중대재해팀장을 지낸 김도경 변호사를 영입했고, 앞선 5월에는 약 20년간 경찰 수사 실무를 이끌어온 김상문 전 서울경찰청 수사심사담당관을 합류시켰다. 특히 화우는 경찰 출신 인재 영입 규모를 최근 3년 사이 9배로 확대하며 초기 경찰 수사 단계 대응력을 강화하고 있다. 법무법인 바른은 경찰대 20기 출신으로 지능범죄수사대 수사계장 등을 거친 강동필 변호사를 필두로 국가수사본부 초대 중대재해전문관, 일선 경찰서 경제·지능범죄수사팀장 등 현장 수사를 지휘했던 실무형 인력들로 '경찰수사대응팀'을 꾸렸다. 올해에는 경찰대 출신으로 일선 수사팀장과 경찰청 기획 부서를 두루 거친 신은철·신진호 변호사를 새로 영입하며 현장 대응력을 보강했다. 수사·기소 '투트랙' 전략...특사경 출신도 우대 전경예우라고 하지만 검찰 출신에 대한 수요가 줄어든 것으로 보기는 어렵다. 광장은 지난해 9월 김후곤 전 서울고검장을 대표변호사로 앉힌 데 이어 김영철·허훈·차호동·홍정연·최재만·천재인 변호사 등 서초동 출신을 연이어 영입했다. 세종은 문무일 전 검찰총장을 주축으로 한 형사그룹을 운영 중이다. 동인이 최근 2년간 영입한 파트너 변호사 구성에서도 검사 출신이 7명으로 비중이 가장 높았다. 화우는 강남일 전 대검찰청 차장검사를 필두로 김영기·김윤후·이성식·임희성 변호사 등을 포함해 검사 출신 20명 규모의 '기업형사대응전략센터'를 꾸렸다. 경찰 전관 시장이 새로 열렸을 뿐 검찰 전관 시장 역시 건재한 것을 알 수 있다. 수사와 기소의 분리에 맞춰 별도 조직 신설도 잇따르고 있다. 광장은 중수청 개청에 대비해 전문분야별로 모두 100여명 규모의 수사대응팀을 구성하겠다고 밝혔다. 지평은 지난 6월 검사장급 출신 변호사들을 주축으로 '중수청·공소청 대응 준비 TF'를 꾸렸고, 화우는 수사 단계와 공소청 단계를 나누는 '투트랙' 전략을 세웠다. 특사경의 위상 변화에도 로펌들은 반응하고 있다. 지평은 검사의 특사경 수사지휘권 폐지에 대응해 고용노동부 중대재해수사팀장 출신 유훈종 전문위원, 공정위 내부거래감시과장 출신 김상윤 변호사, 금감원 가상자산조사국 출신 김태현 변호사, 식약처 차장 출신 김유미 고문변호사 등 주요 특사경기관 출신 인재를 영입했다. 재판소원에 前 헌법재판관·대법관도 로펌으로 지난 3월부터 재판소원이 시행된 가운데 로펌들의 헌재·대법원 출신 영입도 눈에 띈다. 김앤장은 목영준·강일원 전 헌법재판관으로 구성된 '헌법소송팀'을 재정비했고, 법무법인 동인은 서기석 전 헌법재판관을 재판소원 TF 팀장으로 앉혔다. 지평은 이공현 전 헌법재판관을 필두로 헌재 위헌 결정을 다수 이끌어낸 박성철 변호사와 부장판사·헌재 연구관을 지낸 사봉관 대표변호사 등으로 '헌법행정팀'을 꾸렸다. 율촌은 지난달 김이수 전 헌법재판소장 권한대행을 고문으로 영입했다. 전직 헌법재판관뿐만 아니라 대법관 출신 중량급 인사로 전열을 정비하는 로펌들의 움직임도 보인다. 태평양은 차한성·이기택 전 대법관을, 세종은 민일영 전 대법관을, 화우는 이인복 전 대법관을 각각 재판소원 대응 조직의 간판으로 세웠다. 헌법연구관 등 실무 경력자로 조직 규모를 갖춘 곳도 많다. 태평양은 김경목 전 선임헌법연구관을 비롯해 30여명 규모의 '재판소원 TF'를 꾸렸고, 광장은 헌재 사무처장을 지낸 김정원 변호사를 배치해 '헌법재판팀'을 출범시켰다. 바른의 '재판소원 전문대응팀'은 고일광 팀장을 포함한 5인 전원이 법원·검찰 재직 시절 헌재에 파견돼 헌법연구관으로 실무를 처리한 경력자들로 구성됐다. 대륙아주는 헌재 연구관 출신 김정호 변호사를 중심으로 '헌법소원팀'을 출범시켜 대응하고 있다. 세분화의 비용은 결국 의뢰인 몫 새로운 수사기관이 생기면 그 기관 출신이 다시 로펌의 영입 대상이 된다는 것은 2021년 출범한 공수처가 먼저 보여줬다. 초대 공수처 차장을 지낸 여운국 변호사는 임기를 마친 뒤 법무법인 동인으로 돌아갔고, 공수처 수사3부장을 지낸 최석규 변호사 역시 동인으로 복귀했다. 부장검사 출신 김성문 변호사와 수사1부 출신 최진홍 변호사는 YK로, 수사3부 부부장검사를 지낸 문형석 변호사는 김앤장으로 이동하는 등 공수처에서 수사 경험을 쌓은 검사들이 대형·중견 로펌으로 잇따라 자리를 옮겼다. 이는 새로운 수사기관이 출범하면 그곳에서 경력을 쌓은 후 로펌으로 옮겨가는 구조가 자리 잡은 것을 보여준다. 법조계의 다음 관심은 중수청이다. 중수청은 수사관 2567명을 포함해 모두 2874명 규모의 거대 조직이다. 공수처에서 나타난 현상이 훨씬 큰 규모로 재현될 수 있다는 전망이 나오는 이유다. 형사 절차가 특사경·경찰·중수청·공소청 등으로 쪼개지면, 의뢰인 입장에서도 사건이 어느 단계에 걸리느냐에 따라 그 단계 출신 전관을 매번 새로 선임해야 하는 상황이 생길 수 있다. 여기에 재판소원이라는 사실상 '4심제'가 도입되면서 이를 대비해야 할 수도 있다. 하나의 사건을 방어하는 데 드는 법률 비용(수임료)이 높아지는 것은 불을 보듯 뻔한 일이다. 임지봉 서강대 법학전문대학원 교수는 "김앤장이나 광장·태평양 같은 대형 로펌들이 경찰대 출신에 로스쿨 출신 변호사 자격까지 갖춘 인력을 많이 뽑고 있다"며 "중수청이 출범해 '수사는 경찰·중수청, 기소는 공소청'이라는 구도가 확고해지면 수사 단계에서 경찰·중수청 출신 전관에게 수임하는 경향은 더욱 강해질 것"이라고 내다봤다. 임 교수는 "물론 자산이 많은 의뢰인들이 단계마다 전관을 바꿔가며 변호인의 조력을 받을 권리는 헌법상 기본권이라 비난할 수 없다"면서도 "문제는 경제적 여건이 안 되는 서민들이 상대적으로 그 권리를 충실히 보장받지 못해 박탈감을 느낄 수밖에 없다는 점"이라고 지적했다. 2026-09-09 05:04:00
  • Controversy Surrounds NYC Mayors Attendance at 9/11 Memorial on 25th Anniversary
    Controversy Surrounds NYC Mayor's Attendance at 9/11 Memorial on 25th Anniversary As the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks approaches, controversy surrounds New York City Mayor Joran Mamdani's planned attendance at the annual memorial service on September 11. According to ABC New York, Mamdani will attend the event despite opposition from some victim families and Republican officials.The controversy stems from the appointment of Ramzi Qasem, a professor at the City University of New York School of Law, as the city's chief legal advisor after Mamdani took office. Qasem previously served as an immigration policy advisor under the Biden administration but has faced scrutiny for having defended an Al-Qaeda member in the past. This individual was reportedly related to a terrorist who hijacked a plane during the 9/11 attacks and targeted the Pentagon.In light of the situation, families of 9/11 victims have petitioned Mamdani to refrain from attending the memorial, with nearly 100,000 signatures collected so far. Former Governor George Pataki has also joined the petition.Rudy Giuliani, who served as New York City Mayor during the 9/11 attacks, expressed strong disapproval of Mamdani's attendance. In a recent interview with the conservative outlet Newsmax, Giuliani stated, "It offends me" and made unfounded claims that Mamdani supports a conspiracy by Muslim groups to dominate parts of the U.S. and Europe. The New York Times noted that Giuliani was widely praised for his calm response to the attacks, which resulted in over 2,700 deaths and devastated parts of Manhattan, but has since been associated with far-right views as a personal attorney to former President Donald Trump.Mamdani dismissed these claims, stating on September 7 before the New York Carnival Parade, "I want to focus on the families who lost loved ones in this terrible attack 25 years ago, the first responders who gave everything, and all my fellow New Yorkers who stood together." He also mentioned that he designated September 11 as a day of citywide remembrance and service and signed an executive order to modernize the city's emergency response procedures.New York Governor Kathy Hochul supported Mamdani's attendance, stating, "As the Mayor of New York City, he should be there. While I have deep respect for the minority of families who oppose his attendance, I believe that if he does not come, it would be an insult to the majority of families."The memorial service will take place at Ground Zero, the site of the World Trade Center. Vice President JD Vance is also expected to attend. Former President Donald Trump will not be in New York but will participate in a memorial service at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., according to NBC.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-09 05:04:00
  • Significant Changes in the Legal Market: 697 Non-Lawyer Advisors in Major Law Firms
    Significant Changes in the Legal Market: 697 Non-Lawyer Advisors in Major Law Firms High-ranking officials, from vice ministers to heads of the Presidential Office's policy department, as well as leaders of economic and regulatory agencies, often find their way to major law firms after retirement. The influx of non-lawyer former bureaucrats into these firms as 'advisors' or 'specialists' raises questions about their roles.Law firms justify this trend by citing the need to leverage decades of policy expertise and administrative experience accumulated in government. They argue that understanding how the government operates is essential for analyzing complex regulations and assisting corporate decision-making.However, when these roles include explaining clients' positions to government departments and persuading them to change laws and policies, the situation changes. In countries like the United States, such activities are typically regulated under lobbying laws, while in South Korea, they can occur under the guise of 'advisory' or 'policy consulting' roles. This has led to calls for a lobbying registration system similar to the U.S. Federal Lobbying Disclosure Act, which would require disclosure of who meets with whom, who is being paid, and what laws or policies are being influenced. In this context, President Yoon Suk Yeol directed a review of a lobbying registration system during a Cabinet meeting on December 2.On September 8, the investigative team at Aju Economy conducted a comprehensive survey of non-lawyer advisors and specialists from the top 10 law firms in South Korea, including Kim & Chang, Pacific, and others. The survey found a total of 697 individuals, including 26 at the ministerial level, 89 at the vice ministerial level, 138 at the local agency head level, and 149 at the director and department head level. Those with legal qualifications or private sector experience were excluded from this count.Prevalence of Advisors from Regulatory AgenciesKim & Chang leads in scale, with 170 advisors, including 11 at the ministerial level. Following are Sejong (101), Yulchon (89), YK (70), Gwangjang (68), Pacific (60), Hwawoo (57), Daeryuk Aju (43), Jipyeong (23), and Bareun (16).The majority of these advisors hail from economic and financial regulatory agencies. Notable figures include former Financial Services Commission chairpersons Eun Sung-soo (Kim & Chang), Ko Seung-beom (Pacific), Choi Jong-ku (Hwawoo), and Kim Seok-dong (Jipyeong), as well as former heads of the Fair Trade Commission and the Personal Information Protection Commission.Similar trends are observed among vice ministerial level advisors. Kim & Chang includes former presidential economic advisors Park Won-joo and Yoon Jong-won, as well as former vice chairpersons of the Financial Services Commission and Fair Trade Commission. Sejong features former vice chairpersons of the Fair Trade Commission and the National Intelligence Service, while Gwangjang includes former heads of the Financial Supervisory Service and the National Police Agency.Experts emphasize the importance of the director and department head level, as these individuals draft legislation and exercise approval authority. While law firms may showcase ministerial level advisors as figureheads, actual influence is often exerted through networks of former directors and department heads.Ministers as Figureheads, Directors as InfluencersWhether labeled as 'advisors' or 'specialists,' the interactions conducted under broad advisory contracts remain largely untraceable under current regulations. Although these roles are framed as legal consulting, they effectively function as administrative and legislative lobbying channels utilizing former officials' networks. Professor Lee Chang-hyun from Hankuk University of Foreign Studies noted, "Individuals without legal qualifications are entering law firms as advisors and effectively acting as lobbyists. This could be seen as a violation of the Attorney-at-Law Act, but addressing this practice is challenging."A representative from a major law firm, speaking on condition of anonymity, explained that corporate demands have shifted from simple litigation and contract review to consulting on new business legislation and regulatory relief. They added, "The notion that former high-ranking officials can exert influence over their former departments is outdated. Instead, those with practical experience are hired to engage in logical and administrative persuasion with current officials."There is growing support for bringing these 'former official advisors' into the formal regulatory framework. A key issue is defining the boundaries of permissible activities, specifically how to differentiate between legal representation and policy advocacy. The argument is to reserve litigation and legal representation for licensed attorneys while allowing separate professional roles for lobbying and policy advocacy, contingent on registration and disclosure. Establishing this boundary could open the door for not only former officials but also accountants, tax advisors, and industry experts to participate as registered lobbyists in the policy arena. However, a 'cooling-off' period restricting lobbying of former agencies immediately after leaving office is considered a crucial condition.U.S. Has 12,000 Registered Lobbyists with Disclosure RequirementsIn the United States, lobbying activities are regulated under the Lobbying Disclosure Act (LDA) enacted in 1995. Former senators must wait two years, former representatives one year, and high-ranking executive officials one year before they can register as lobbyists. According to OpenSecrets, a nonprofit organization monitoring political funding, there are approximately 12,000 federally registered lobbyists as of 2024. These lobbyists are required to disclose their lobbying topics, expenditures, and the federal agencies and congressional offices they contact on a quarterly basis, with violations potentially resulting in civil fines of up to $200,000 and criminal penalties.Activities representing foreign governments or political entities are governed by the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA), established in 1938. Agents of certain foreign entities must register and regularly disclose their activities directed at U.S. government agencies or officials. This includes not only the nature of their activities but also related income and expenditures, with registration information available online. As stated by the U.S. Department of Justice, the purpose of this system is not to prohibit lobbying but to ensure transparency about 'who is doing what for whom.'South Korean companies also operate within this framework in the U.S. Companies like Samsung and Hyundai hire lobbying firms in Washington and regularly disclose their activities. In contrast, what is considered a legitimate and transparent activity in the U.S. often takes place in South Korea under vague 'comprehensive advisory contracts' without any record.Bar Association Opposes Lobbying Registration, Civil Society Calls for TransparencyHowever, the Korean Bar Association has consistently opposed the introduction of a lobbying registration system. Their primary argument is based on Article 109 of the Attorney-at-Law Act, which states that only licensed attorneys can represent clients before public institutions. They contend that implementing a lobbying registration system would undermine this principle.The Bar Association also expresses concerns about the effects of opening the legal market. They argue that allowing foreign lawyers or firms to register as lobbyists would effectively open the domestic lobbying market without separate negotiations. There are fears that activities by non-lawyer brokers could lead to a lack of transparency in administrative processes. The Bar Association has submitted opposition statements regarding both the 2004 bill on the disclosure of foreign lobbying activities and the 2024 bill proposed by Representative Choi Jae-hyung on foreign agent registration, citing potential conflicts with the Attorney-at-Law Act.Nevertheless, there are voices within the legal community advocating for the transparent regulation of what is effectively lobbying activity. Emeritus Professor Han Sang-hee from Konkuk University noted, "While the preferential treatment of former judges and prosecutors may only benefit a few powerful individuals, former official advisors can change policies and budgets, impacting the entire nation. These activities are commonly recognized as lobbying in other countries." He added that the proposed lobbying registration law would serve to officially document and record what has been a privately controlled lobbying process, providing an opportunity for civil society to monitor and check these activities.The figure of 697 highlights the extensive network of former officials concentrated in South Korea's major law firms. However, there is no record of which companies they are influencing, which agencies they are engaging with, or what issues they are involved in. Even with the establishment of new investigative agencies, if this structure remains unchanged, the network of former officials will simply reconstitute around new institutions. This has led to calls for transparency regarding the 'shadow lobbying' structure, which lacks any documentation. 2026-09-09 05:04:00
  • South Korea Reiterates No Decision on Troop Deployment to Hormuz
    South Korea Reiterates No Decision on Troop Deployment to Hormuz The Blue House reiterated on September 8 that no decision has been made regarding troop deployment to the Hormuz Strait, as the government continues to explore ways to contribute to the region.It was also noted that there was no significant progress during the Korea-France summit. The discussions between the two leaders were interpreted as focusing on how South Korea can participate in and contribute to international efforts for safe navigation in the Hormuz Strait, rather than on troop deployment itself.A senior official from the Blue House stated during a press briefing in Paris, "We should not define today’s discussions as being about troop deployment. The focus remains on how to contribute to international cooperation regarding navigation issues in the Strait, as proposed by France and the UK."The official added, "While we exchanged views on how South Korea can make a practical contribution, there is no significant progress to report. We are still in the review stage, and nothing has been concretely decided, nor is there any new situation to report."Regarding the Ministry of National Defense's dispatch of a survey team to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the official confirmed it was as explained by the ministry. He elaborated, "The dispatch of the survey team can be seen as part of the review process for deployment, but no decisions have been made yet."Previously, the Ministry of National Defense stated that the survey team was sent to assess the situation in the Hormuz region, clarifying that this investigation is not a precondition for troop deployment. The ministry emphasized that it is not true that the U.S. has set a deadline for the deployment of South Korean assets to the Hormuz Strait.When asked if there had been any reactions from Iran regarding the possibility of South Korea's troop deployment, the official mentioned, "Iran has inquired about this during our practical discussions, referencing media reports, but we have explained our position to them as well."The senior official also addressed media reports suggesting that discussions about military contributions, including combat and non-combat missions, had been exaggerated. He clarified, "We are not considering specific combat or non-combat missions; rather, we are discussing the concept that military contributions can take various forms. We are not at a stage where specific plans are being discussed."The mention of a 'permissive environment' by the French side does not imply that the end of war is a prerequisite for troop deployment. The official explained, "France and the UK use the term 'permissive environment' rather than explicitly stating the end of war. The end of war could be one aspect of a permissive environment."Regarding the revision of military secrecy agreements and the expedited conclusion of mutual logistics support agreements between South Korea and France, the official stated that these are longstanding issues that have been in preparation for a long time and should not be interpreted as preliminary measures for troop deployment to the Hormuz Strait. 2026-09-09 02:04:00
  • Leaders of South Korea and France Commit to Cooperation in Strait of Hormuz
    Leaders of South Korea and France Commit to Cooperation in Strait of Hormuz South Korean President Lee Jae-myung and French President Emmanuel Macron have agreed to closely cooperate to ensure freedom of navigation and stability in global supply chains in the Strait of Hormuz. Macron expressed his intention to collaborate with South Korea on a multinational mission aimed at restoring peace in the region.During a joint press conference following their summit at the Élysée Palace in Paris on September 8, President Lee stated, "South Korea and France will continue to work closely to restore freedom of navigation and stabilize global supply chains in the Strait of Hormuz as soon as possible."Lee reiterated South Korea's commitment to contributing to international efforts for stability and freedom of navigation, referencing his participation in a conference led by France and the United Kingdom in April.Macron, who spoke before Lee, noted, "The multinational mission will be peaceful, and we will cooperate with South Korea as soon as relevant agreements are reached."The leaders' remarks are seen as a further specification of their commitment to securing safe maritime transport routes in the Strait of Hormuz, which was confirmed during their summit in Seoul in April. Macron's mention of a 'multinational mission' alongside cooperation with South Korea has drawn attention to potential follow-up discussions regarding South Korea's participation.However, neither leader used the term 'deployment' in their statements, and they did not disclose details regarding the nature of contributions or the scale of personnel and equipment involved.Macron added, "In April, our two countries reviewed what actions we could take for the resumption of activities in the Strait of Hormuz during a special meeting that included the United Kingdom. We have already begun our cooperative relationship through experiences of war, and I believe we can also collaborate in the Middle East."He emphasized the importance of finding peaceful solutions to ensure freedom of navigation.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-09 01:20:00
  • South Korea and France Sign 16 Cooperation Agreements, Covering AI, Semiconductors, Space, and Nuclear Energy
    South Korea and France Sign 16 Cooperation Agreements, Covering AI, Semiconductors, Space, and Nuclear Energy South Korean President Lee Jae-myung's state visit to France has resulted in the signing of 16 cooperation documents between the governments, institutions, and businesses of both countries. Of these, nine agreements were exchanged following a summit, while the remaining seven were signed separately during the state visit. According to the Blue House on September 8, the exchanged documents focus on cooperation in advanced technology and industry. The two countries agreed to promote joint research and development projects in AI, semiconductors, and quantum technology through memorandums of understanding (MOUs), as well as support investment attraction in AI and quantum fields and identify business opportunities between semiconductor companies and research institutions. The MOU on industrial cooperation and competitiveness includes the establishment of ministerial-level industrial strategy dialogues and sector-specific working groups to institutionalize cooperation in industrial policy, trade and investment, supply chains, critical minerals, and industrial technology. On the corporate level, Samsung Electronics and French AI firm Mistral AI have signed a strategic investment agreement. Samsung will participate as a strategic investor in Mistral AI and jointly develop a proprietary in-house AI model that can protect key semiconductor know-how. Mistral AI secured a total of €3 billion in a Series D funding round led by Samsung, with a post-investment valuation exceeding €21 billion. However, the specific amount invested by Samsung and its equity stake have not been disclosed. In the security sector, a protocol to amend the military secret information protection agreement was signed. This revision reflects France's updated classification system and strengthens restrictions on access to military secrets, enhancing the institutional foundation for military information exchange and defense cooperation between the two countries. The amended aviation agreement, which has been under negotiation for about a decade, includes principles for fair competition, security and safety enhancement, and environmental sustainability. The two nations will also establish a practical system to exchange information on space industry policies and support mutual market entry for small and medium-sized enterprises and startups. Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power and France's Orano will promote long-term cooperation in enrichment services based on new enrichment facilities, aiming to diversify supply sources and stabilize the long-term nuclear fuel supply chain. Cultural and creative industry exchanges and joint investments will be promoted, along with strengthened cooperation in cultural and artistic institutions and cultural heritage. The scope of intellectual property cooperation will expand from existing examination collaboration to include sharing AI examination standards and best practices, as well as areas of intellectual property finance and commercialization. The seven agreements signed separately during the state visit focused on public safety, trade and investment, bio, and academic exchanges. Police forces from both countries will enhance cooperation in responding to transnational crime, tracking fugitives, and scientific investigation and training. KOTRA and Business France will jointly promote investment and trade seminars, economic delegations, and support for startups. The Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology has signed three MOUs with French institutions in the fields of biotechnology, plant science, and quantum and AI-based drug development. The K-STAR alliance of South Korean science and technology specialized universities and the Graduate School of Science will expand student and young researcher exchanges with Paris-Saclay University, as well as joint research in basic science and quantum and AI. The mutual logistics support agreement currently under negotiation and a future MOU for nuclear research and development between the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute and Framatome are not included in these 16 agreements. The two countries plan to expedite the signing of the mutual logistics support agreement and pursue joint research in safety technology for next-generation small modular reactors (SMRs), nuclear basic science, and waste management. President Lee held a summit with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace on the same day, discussing ways to expand cooperation in advanced technology, industry and trade, defense and aerospace, and culture, followed by an agreement exchange ceremony and a joint press conference.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-09 01:12:00