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Korea Electric Power Corporation Lacks Contract Pricing for ESS Market Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO), which bears the costs of the energy storage system (ESS) central contract market, has not received contract pricing information from individual operators. As the expansion of renewable energy is expected to increase costs related to ESS, KEPCO's inability to verify contract prices is limiting its ability to assess settlement amounts and future financial impacts.Concerns are rising that if KEPCO does not manage these costs effectively, it could lead to increased electricity supply costs, ultimately burdening consumers with higher electricity bills.According to data submitted by the office of lawmaker Koo Ja-geun of the ruling People Power Party to the National Assembly's Industry, Trade, and Energy Committee on September 8, KEPCO has not received key contract information, including pricing, since the first ESS central contract market project in 2025.The initial project in Jeju in 2023 involved a three-party contract among ESS operators, the power exchange, and KEPCO, allowing KEPCO to verify key details such as contract pricing. However, starting with the first project in 2025, the contract format shifted to a two-party agreement between operators and the power exchange, excluding KEPCO from the contract.The ESS central contract market operates by having the power exchange select operators through competitive bidding, with operators receiving contract capacity settlement payments based on contract prices for 15 years after commercial operation begins. This cost is shared among power purchasers, including KEPCO, based on the amount of electricity purchased, with KEPCO's share reflected in its purchasing costs.Contract prices are determined using a 'pay-as-bid' method, where the price proposed by each operator during bidding is applied and maintained for 15 years. The contract price for each operator is crucial as it influences the scale of long-term settlement amounts.During discussions at the central contract market committee regarding the selection of preferred bidders for the first and second projects in 2025, KEPCO requested that relevant information, including contract prices, be shared on a limited basis. This request was aimed at ensuring that KEPCO, as a cost-bearer, could access this information without it being publicly disclosed.However, the power exchange maintains that contract prices are managed information between contracting parties and that public disclosure could affect pricing in future bidding markets. ESS operators argue that since bid prices effectively represent cost information, revealing them could weaken their negotiating power in international bidding and contracting processes. They assert that they participated in the central contract market under the premise of keeping contract prices confidential.Monthly settlement amounts are also not disclosed, as revealing these figures could allow for estimates of individual operators' contract prices based on contract capacity.On the other hand, KEPCO, as a payer of central contract fees, distributes the total settlement amount based on the ratio of electricity purchased by time and buyer. However, without access to individual contract prices, KEPCO faces limitations in verifying settlement amounts and estimating future financial impacts.KEPCO stated, "Considering the anticipated increase in purchasing costs due to the expansion of renewable energy and the increased volume of ESS deployment, as well as the initial investment burdens on operators, government support and a reasonable cost-sharing system are necessary."Lawmaker Koo Ja-geun emphasized, "It is problematic that even KEPCO, which bears the costs, does not know the contract prices. Information necessary for settlement verification and financial impact analysis should be shared with KEPCO, even if on a limited basis." He added, "If this structure continues, it could raise concerns about potential mismanagement by KEPCO's management." 2026-09-08 18:04:00
Franchise Brands Shut Down 1,345 Operations This Year, Including Natuur and Tiger Sugar More than 1,300 franchise brands have shut down their operations this year, reflecting a trend in the restaurant industry where companies are focusing on consolidating their businesses rather than expanding amid domestic economic slowdown and rising costs.According to the Fair Trade Commission's franchise information disclosure system, a total of 1,345 brands canceled their franchise registration from January to August this year. This marks a 3.2% increase (42 brands) compared to the same period last year, which saw 1,303 cancellations. The disclosure document contains essential information about the franchisor's financial status, sales, and franchisee fees, and its cancellation indicates a halt in franchise operations, including the recruitment of new franchisees.Recently, several major restaurant brands have appeared on the cancellation list. Lotte Wellfood voluntarily canceled the registration of its ice cream brand Natuur on August 4. After closing all its direct stores in March, the brand has now completely ceased operations, marking the end of its 28-year presence in offline retail since its launch in 1998. Lotte Wellfood plans to maintain the Natuur brand but will focus on selling finished products through large supermarkets and online channels.The Taiwanese brown sugar milk tea brand Tiger Sugar, which once sparked an 'open run' craze, also canceled its franchise registration in May, retaining only a few direct stores as it downsized its operations. Tiger Sugar entered the South Korean market in 2018 and expanded to 52 locations by 2020, riding the wave of popularity for brown sugar drinks. However, as interest waned and competition in the café and dessert market intensified, the number of its stores rapidly declined.E-Land Group's E-Land Eats also ceased its new franchise operations for the bakery brand Frangerie in July, restructuring its business to focus on direct stores. Additionally, brands like Gollak Tteokbokki, which expanded with a chicken and tteokbokki combination, and The Frypan, a chicken pub brand, also canceled their franchise registrations in April and June, respectively.The recent wave of franchise closures in the restaurant industry is closely linked to declining profitability. According to a report by the Korea Rural Economic Institute, while sales for domestic restaurant businesses increased by 41.4% over the past five years, operating costs surged by 46.7%. This rise in costs outpaced sales growth, causing the operating profit margin for restaurants to drop from 12.1% in 2020 to 8.7% in 2024.The primary reasons for the cost increase include rising labor and ingredient costs. Notably, the proportion of ingredient costs within total operating expenses rose from 36.3% to 40.7% during the same period, creating significant management burdens for both franchisors and franchisees. Despite apparent sales growth, the structural difficulties have led to a decline in actual profits.A franchise industry insider stated, "The increase in franchise registration cancellations can be seen as a proactive restructuring and consolidation process by companies, but it also serves as a warning that the overall startup market is losing its self-sustainability. Immediate policy support is needed to stabilize raw material prices and alleviate fixed cost burdens." 2026-09-08 18:00:00
Saudi Arabia and Houthi Rebels Clash Amid Ongoing Iran-U.S. Tensions, Brent Oil Surges Past $99 As tensions between the U.S. and Iran persist, clashes between Saudi Arabia and Houthi rebels in Yemen are escalating, creating additional risks in the Middle East. The renewed conflict between the Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces and the Iran-supported Houthi rebels comes after a four-year hiatus, driving international oil prices close to $100.On September 8, Yahya Saree, a spokesperson for the Houthi rebels, announced airstrikes against Saudi Arabia, claiming they were "precise and direct" and caused significant damage to Saudi facilities. Saree stated that the strikes were retaliation for Saudi airstrikes on Houthi areas, alleging that Saudi forces conducted 121 airstrikes targeting Marib, Al-Bayda, Al-Hudaydah, Taiz, and Al-Jawf provinces, resulting in numerous civilian casualties, including women and children.Saudi authorities reported that 73 people were injured in the Houthi attacks, which also targeted military bases and oil facilities. The Saudi government warned that it would not tolerate attacks on its territory and resources, promising retaliation. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) condemned the Houthi strikes, stating they deliberately targeted civilians and infrastructure.The airstrikes occurred amid escalating tensions between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis, coinciding with the ongoing U.S.-Iran conflict. The Houthis have threatened to blockade the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, a crucial shipping route for global energy transport and a key export channel for Saudi oil. On July 20, the Houthis claimed that Saudi Arabia had besieged Yemen and announced a maritime blockade against the kingdom.Both sides have entered a phase of active military confrontation, with fighting intensifying between government forces and Houthi rebels in Yemen, effectively breaking the UN-mediated ceasefire established in April 2022. The Yemeni government has expressed determination to retake the capital, Sana'a, which has been under Houthi control since 2014. Yemen's Deputy Defense Minister Saib Al-Sabri stated on state-run Yemen TV, "We have decided to retake Sana'a. From today, our goal is clear and firm: to liberate Yemen from the grip of the terrorist Houthi rebels and restore Sana'a as the capital for all Yemenis."Concerns are rising that the Yemeni civil war could escalate into a full-scale conflict. Hans Grundberg, the UN Special Envoy for Yemen, warned that the current situation could lead to a broader war and urged all parties to cease hostilities.As the Iran conflict shows no signs of resolution, the clashes between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis, along with the Yemeni civil war, are contributing to rising international oil prices, which are nearing $100. As of 5:36 PM KST on September 8, Brent crude futures for November delivery rose 2.23% to $99.16, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) futures increased 3.22% to $94.43. 2026-09-08 18:00:00
Mokpo National University Calls for Clarity on Medical School Site Evaluation Standards Mokpo National University has demanded clear explanations from the integrated metropolitan city and the Jeonnam Research Institute regarding the evaluation of site acquisition for the new National Medical University in Jeonnam, stating that evaluations should be based on the plans submitted at the time of assessment.On September 8, Mokpo National University issued a statement regarding the appropriateness of the integrated metropolitan city's medical school site evaluation, expressing skepticism about the fairness and objectivity of the evaluation process as outlined by the city of Suncheon.According to Mokpo National University, the evaluation criteria allocated 5 points for 'certainty of site acquisition.' The university emphasized that this criterion was intended to assess how securely the site was acquired at the time of evaluation.Mokpo National University claimed that Suncheon University’s submitted plan indicated a method of 'free leasing city-owned land' for the medical school site, suggesting that this meant they had already secured the site, thus resolving the site issue earlier than competing universities.As a result, Mokpo National University argues that the evaluation should have been based on the content and feasibility of the plans submitted at the time of evaluation.The university pointed out that discussing the possibility of supplementing site acquisition methods after the evaluation could confuse the evaluation timeline with post-evaluation adjustments.A representative from Mokpo National University stated, "The core issue we raise is whether Suncheon University’s proposed site acquisition method met the relevant requirements at the time, and if not, on what basis the evaluators could rate them equally or higher than Mokpo National University."The representative also mentioned that discussions surrounding site acquisition have continued following the Ministry of Education's request for supplements, and it should be confirmed whether a specific roadmap for acquiring national land was presented in the submitted plans.Mokpo National University also called for a public explanation of how the factual basis and penalty criteria outlined in the 'Detailed Operational Guidelines for the Recommendation of Candidate Universities for the Establishment of National Medical Schools' were applied during the evaluation.The university emphasized, "If there was a discrepancy between the site acquisition method stated in the submitted materials and its actual legal and administrative feasibility, it is necessary to clarify how this was verified during the evaluation process and how it was reflected in the scoring. This is not an attack on any specific university but a minimal requirement to confirm the credibility of the evaluation itself."Mokpo National University also provided details about its own site acquisition plan.The university stated that it proposed to utilize approximately 25,000 pyeong of the 50,000 pyeong of national land owned by the Ministry of Education for the medical school, dormitories, and university hospital, while also considering future expansion. They added that they presented a video based on actual designs during the evaluation process to explain the facility layout and construction feasibility.The university cited the example of Jeonnam University’s Hakdong Campus, arguing that the site proposed by Mokpo National University is sufficient for establishing a medical school and university hospital, even when compared to the size of the site housing a large medical school and an 1,100-bed university hospital and specialty hospitals.There are voices urging that this issue should not be viewed merely as a fallout from the competition between Mokpo National University and Suncheon University.Residents in the southwestern region of Jeonnam have been demanding the establishment of a national medical school for 36 years. Mokpo National University believes that the evaluation process must ensure fairness, objectivity, and professionalism, as much as the results themselves.A representative from Mokpo National University stated, "Acceptance of the results must be predicated on a fair evaluation that everyone can understand. Before asking the residents of the southwestern region, who have waited 36 years, to accept the evaluation results, it is essential to explain without any doubt what materials were used and what judgments were made."The representative added, "The establishment of a national medical school is not merely a matter of interest for one university; it is a national issue directly related to the lives of residents in medically underserved areas. We urge the integrated metropolitan city and the Jeonnam Research Institute to responsibly respond to the raised questions with objective data and evaluation grounds."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-08 17:56:00
How social media is rewriting presidential politics SEOUL, September 8 (AJP) - Donald Trump did not need a podium or a press conference to dominate the political conversation over the U.S. Labor Day weekend. He needed his social media account. The U.S. president posted more than 60 times on Truth Social on Sunday alone, filling his feed with political messages, memes and AI-generated images. Some mocked foreign countries and political opponents, while others depicted Trump in exaggerated or imaginary scenes. An independent archive tracking his Truth Social activity counted 972 posts from Trump in August alone, an average of more than 31 a day. The barrage was an extreme example of a broader shift reshaping how political leaders reach the public, allowing their messages to circulate before traditional media can verify or contextualize them. A structural shift, not just a new channel Political leaders once relied heavily on speeches, press conferences and news organizations to carry their messages to the public. Social media now allows them to publish directly and receive an almost immediate response through views, likes, comments and reposts. Kim Chun-sik, a professor of media communication at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies, said newspapers and broadcasters once acted as filters between politicians and mass audiences. "Social media has become a direct channel through which politicians can reach the public," Kim said. "They no longer have to go through newspapers and broadcasters." In the traditional mass-media system, political messages were selected, checked and framed by journalists before reaching a broad audience. But Kim said the rise of social media does not mean gatekeeping itself has disappeared. "In the mass-media era, newspapers and broadcasters performed the gatekeeping role in both news production and distribution," he said. "Now they can still perform that role in production, but they can no longer control distribution." Such power has increasingly shifted toward platforms and their algorithms. Kim said social media companies can influence which information receives greater exposure even though they do not produce the news themselves. Their commercial incentives can also favor content that generates clicks and reactions, particularly posts built around conflict, anger and other strong emotions. The shift is unfolding as audiences increasingly turn to social and video platforms for news. Across 48 markets surveyed in the Reuters Institute's 2026 Digital News Report, 54 percent of respondents said they used social media and video networks for news, compared with 51 percent who used news organizations' own websites and apps. It was the first time platform-based news access had overtaken direct use of news outlets' own digital channels. Among people aged 18 to 24, 52 percent said social media, video platforms and AI chatbots were their main way of accessing news. South Korea is moving in the same direction. The Korea Press Foundation's 2025 Media Users Survey found that the share of people consuming news through online video platforms rose to 30 percent from 18.4 percent a year earlier. Short-form news consumption more than doubled to 22.9 percent from 11.1 percent. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has expanded his digital communication alongside that shift. Lee operates accounts on X, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and a blog, and added TikTok in February. An analysis of Lee's X account found that he posted 601 messages between June 8, 2025 and May 22 this year, generating about 318 million views. Lee has used social media not only to promote government policies but also to comment on current issues, raise questions and signal matters he wants officials to examine. For some younger users, following a presidential account offers a faster way to keep up with politics than watching broadcasts or reading full news reports. "I don't always have time to watch political programs or read full news articles," said Choi Eun-young, a 27-year-old job seeker in Hanam who follows Lee on X. "Social media is one of the fastest ways to see what the president is trying to do and what issues he is talking about." Choi said it has also changed how distant political leaders feel. "Presidents used to feel very distant and intimidating," she said. "Social media makes them seem more familiar and sometimes even entertaining." She cited Trump's AI-generated images as an example of content that could make politics feel more approachable to people her age. Presidents can reach citizens faster and with fewer intermediaries, but users may have less certainty about why a particular message appeared in their feed, how representative the reaction to it is or whether information surrounding it has been verified. Im Joo-eun, a 36-year-old office worker in Seoul's Yongsan District, said she often encounters breaking news first through social media but rarely treats it as the final source. "Sometimes I don't know whether what I am consuming is actually accurate," Im said. "Anyone can make something that looks like a news report, and if people keep reposting it, unverified information can start to look like legitimate news." When a post catches her attention, Im said she searches Naver for reports from established news organizations. "In that sense, social media may actually make the role of journalism clearer," she said. "You see something online and then look for a proper news report to find out what really happened." She also questioned whether the prominence of an issue on her feed necessarily reflected broader public attention. "Social media keeps showing me the kinds of information I am already interested in," she said. "Sometimes I can't tell whether an issue is genuinely receiving widespread attention or whether it only looks important because of what my feed is showing me." The Reuters Institute found that 62 percent of respondents worldwide in 2026 were concerned about distinguishing fake or misleading information online. Generative AI adds another dimension to the transformation. Political leaders are no longer limited to distributing their interpretation of real events through words, photographs or video. They can now produce images of scenes that never happened and release them instantly through an official account. Trump's AI-generated posts illustrate how political communication can move from presenting a version of reality to creating an entirely imagined one. What one user views as humor or political branding may carry greater weight for another because it comes directly from the account of a president. Kim said the risks grow when people repeatedly consume political information that reinforces their existing beliefs, potentially limiting their exposure to competing or verified information. The shift does not necessarily make journalism obsolete. Rather, it changes where journalism enters the political information chain. A presidential message can now reach millions of people before a reporter writes a sentence about it. The press is increasingly left to verify the claim, establish what is true and provide the context that a social media feed does not. AJP Takeaways - Social media has replaced much of the traditional media's role in distributing political messages, even as newsrooms retain their role in producing verified news — shifting gatekeeping power toward platforms and their algorithms. - Reuters Institute data shows social media and video platforms overtook news organizations' own sites as the leading source of news in 2026 (54 percent vs. 51 percent), with 52 percent of 18-24 year-olds naming platforms and AI chatbots as their main news source. - South Korea's shift is measurable: online video platform news use rose to 30 percent and short-form news use to 22.9 percent in 2025, both roughly doubling year-on-year, according to the Korea Press Foundation. 2026-09-08 17:55:08
Special Prosecutor's Investigation Begins with First Summons One Day After Launch The special prosecutor's team investigating the ballot shortage during the 9th nationwide local elections began its first summons just one day after its launch. Personnel were also deployed to the Olympic Park in Songpa, Seoul, to expedite the investigation.On the afternoon of September 8, the special prosecutor's team summoned Kim Soon-hwan, the secretary-general of the People's Livelihood Countermeasures Committee, for questioning at their office in Seocho, Seoul.The committee had reported to the police that Noh Tae-ak, the former chairman of the National Election Commission, and other officials were suspected of abuse of power, neglect of duty, embezzlement, and breach of trust related to the ballot shortage that occurred during the June 3 local elections.Upon arriving for questioning, Kim stated, "It is absurd that the Election Commission delivered ballots via a courier service," adding, "There were discrepancies in the counting process, yet they failed to report it, which raised reasonable suspicions leading to the complaint."He further remarked, "Every vote is precious, but the Election Commission seemed to believe it did not affect the outcome. It raises questions about how such individuals have managed the commission until now."The case has been transferred from the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency to a joint investigation team. After conducting preliminary investigations, the special prosecutor's team has taken over the case. They are expected to confirm the circumstances surrounding the complaint and the ballot shortage.On the same day, the special prosecutor's team sent four personnel to the Olympic Park site, including two special investigators and two dispatched police officers. However, the team did not disclose the specific activities they conducted at the location.The special prosecutor's team stated, "Maintaining security for each investigation team is crucial, making it difficult to announce planned investigative activities in advance. We will provide updates as necessary based on the progress of the investigation." They also noted that a public relations officer has not yet been appointed, leading to confusion in their initial media responses.The investigation targets include 12 allegations: ballot shortages, reduction of minimum printing quantities for ballots, false input of voter numbers, overseas trips for personal gain, and preferential treatment in contracts. Special prosecutors Park Hyuk, Kim Eun-jung, Kim Sang-cheon, Kwon Geun-hwan, and Kim Jin-woo will be responsible for investigating these allegations.During the inauguration ceremony the previous day, the special prosecutor stated, "We have a significant responsibility to protect the constitutional right to vote and to restore the fairness and credibility of elections. We will conduct a swift and thorough investigation."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-08 17:52:00
Ruitun Implements New Youth Protection Policies for AI Chatbot Use As artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots become a new means of communication and entertainment for youth, South Korea is introducing policies to directly limit usage time and payment amounts. Recognizing that users can become immersed in conversations with AI characters for extended periods, companies are taking proactive measures to ensure safety.On September 8, Ruitun Technologies announced plans to strengthen its youth protection policies. The key aspect is setting limits on usage time and payment amounts. The company plans to restrict the daily usage of its AI chatbot, Crack, to a maximum of three hours and to cap monthly payments at 100,000 won.If users exceed three hours of service or their monthly payments surpass 100,000 won, they will need to undergo a verification and consent process from a guardian. This aims to manage excessive usage and spending directly.The usage time for AI chat applications is rapidly increasing. Total usage time for AI chat apps surged from approximately 1.1 million hours in April 2024 to about 63.1 million hours in March of this year, marking a 57-fold increase in just two years. As usage time rises, the number of youth becoming overly immersed in these services is also growing.Crack allows users to create their own AI characters or choose from existing ones to engage in conversations, crafting their own stories and creations. While it can be used for free, users must purchase in-app currency called 'Crackers' for deeper conversations or image generation. As conversations with characters lengthen, the use of paid currency can also increase, prompting the need to manage both usage time and payment amounts.Ruitun's decision to set a specific usage limit stems from the unique service structure of AI chatbots, which differs from traditional information-seeking AIs. Instead of users asking questions and ending the service after receiving answers, they can continuously interact with specific characters, developing relationships and narratives.The company also plans to enhance its age verification methods. Currently, Crack distinguishes between adults and youth using the 'PASS' authentication service provided by mobile carriers. Ruitun is reviewing additional verification methods to improve the accuracy and safety of age confirmation, considering both domestic and international examples.Content safety measures will also be revised. Ruitun plans to comprehensively review Crack's content generation policies, age rating management, content review systems, search and recommendation limitations, reporting and blocking features, and sanctions for violations to adapt to changing usage patterns. The company will enhance AI safety technologies, including additional filters and safety system prompts to filter out inappropriate or dangerous conversations.This initiative is seen as Ruitun's commitment to strengthening user protection alongside business growth. The company has recently begun the process of selecting underwriters for its initial public offering (IPO) as it seeks to expand its operations. Ruitun CEO Lee Se-young has previously stated the company's goal of creating AI that users can trust and use safely.Ruitun plans to fully implement the enhanced youth protection policies in early 2027 after completing institutional and technical reviews and system overhauls.Lee Dong-jae, Ruitun's Chief Product Officer, stated, "We recognize our social responsibility to provide safe and healthy AI services for everyone. We will make every effort to create a service that prioritizes the safety of youth users while also fostering creativity." 2026-09-08 17:48:10
Stars Yu Hae-jin, Park Hae-il, and Lee Min-ho to Star in 'Assassins' This Chuseok Director Heo Jin-ho, known for films like "Christmas in August," "The Last Princess," and "Ordinary Family," has teamed up with top actors Yu Hae-jin, Park Hae-il, and Lee Min-ho for the upcoming film "Assassins," set to hit theaters this Chuseok. The collaboration of these renowned talents has generated significant anticipation, especially given their previous success with the well-received film "Seoul's Spring." On September 8, a press screening and conference for "Assassins" took place at the Megabox COEX in Gangnam, Seoul. Director Heo Jin-ho, along with actors Yu Hae-jin, Park Hae-il, and Lee Min-ho, engaged in an in-depth discussion about the film. "Assassins" delves into the shocking assassination attempt on the First Lady of South Korea on August 15, 1974, exploring the mysteries and conspiracies surrounding the event. The film expands on this historical incident through cinematic imagination and has already gained recognition by being officially invited to the Gala section of the 51st Toronto International Film Festival. The collaboration between Heo Jin-ho and Hive Media Corp, known for their impressive box office performances, has sparked considerable interest from the production stage. While some comparisons have been made to "Seoul's Spring" due to the historical context, Heo emphasized that the tone of the two films is distinct. Heo stated, "'Assassins' is not a film that focuses on reaching a conclusion or revealing hidden truths. I wanted to express the emotions of the characters who lived through that time and reflect the era through episodes of freedom declarations that occurred during similar events." The struggles of journalists pursuing the truth also play a crucial role in the film. Park Hae-il portrays Jae-hwan, a dedicated head of the social affairs department, while Lee Min-ho plays Young-il, an enthusiastic reporter, adding tension to the narrative. Lee Min-ho shared his thoughts on portraying a journalist, saying, "I have felt that in our current era, sensational headlines often take precedence over the truth. With the rise of various media platforms, it has become challenging to distinguish between what is real and what is fake. Although I did not live in that time, I longed for the conviction of those who sought the truth, which I focused on in my performance." Park Hae-il remarked, "I aimed to embody the universal professional calling and responsibilities of journalists, both in the film and in the present. While the times have changed, I believe the essence of the profession remains largely the same." Heo explained the importance of featuring journalists prominently, stating, "To portray not just the events but also the atmosphere and circumstances of 1974, the characteristics of journalists uncovering the truth were essential. Their perspective allows us to question the significance of the events and the era." The cast expressed their gratitude for the production team's efforts in authentically recreating a 1970s newsroom. Cinematographer Lee Mo-gae, lighting director Lee Seong-hwan, and art director Kim Byeong-han contributed to capturing the essence of that time. Park Hae-il praised the detailed set design, saying, "The meticulous setup of the 1970s made me feel as if I was immersed in the newsroom. I visited the set early to familiarize myself with the space and practice typing to adapt. I am grateful to the art and lighting directors for creating such a magical environment." Lee Min-ho added, "If my character is dynamic, then the head of the department (played by Park Hae-il) is more static. We had many discussions about movement and choreography from the rehearsal stage." Reuniting with director Heo Jin-ho after ten years since "The Last Princess," Park Hae-il expressed a strong sense of responsibility for their second collaboration. He said, "I was already familiar with the director's precise and restrained style. However, since this is our second project, I felt the need to present something new rather than repeating the previous work. I had many discussions with the director about the script to develop my character." Lee Min-ho humorously noted Heo's gentle yet meticulous directing style, saying, "The director's approach is rooted in respect for the actors. He encourages us to maintain our unique essence while constantly challenging us, which I found to be a natural form of 'gaslighting.'" Heo also revealed that the film features notable cameo appearances from prominent actors such as Yoo Yeon-seok, Jung Woo-sung, Shim Eun-kyung, Um Tae-woong, Oh Dal-soo, Park Sung-hoon, Bae Sung-woo, and Park Jung-min, who leave a strong impression despite their brief roles. Heo explained, "I did not initially plan for a cameo ensemble. I was cautious about casting well-known actors in minor roles, as it could create a sense of dissonance. However, I wanted significant roles, like the one played by Jung Woo-sung, to be portrayed by actors who could lend weight to the characters. Fortunately, everyone enjoyed reading the script and brought their authenticity to their performances, leading to positive feedback about the film." Lee Min-ho praised his co-star Shim Eun-kyung, calling her a "acting genius" for her perfect performance. He noted, "Although she is quite shy, her delivery and every aspect of her role felt natural, making it easy to connect emotionally." This Chuseok, "Assassins" will compete with other major films like "The Intern" and "Tazza: The Song of Beelzebub," promising a fierce box office battle. The cast expressed their support for healthy competition among Korean films. Yu Hae-jin said, "It’s great to see several Korean films released during Chuseok, and I sincerely hope 'Assassins' receives a lot of love." Park Hae-il echoed this sentiment, stating, "I hope 'Assassins' is well-received alongside many other films this Chuseok." Lee Min-ho added, "I was truly happy to watch a great film in theaters after a long time. I hope the audience will show their love for our film." Meanwhile, "Assassins" is set to be released in theaters on September 23. The film is rated for audiences aged 12 and older and has a runtime of 130 minutes. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-08 17:48:10
Rising Concerns Over Youth Addiction to AI Chatbots in South Korea The use of artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots among youth is rapidly increasing in South Korea. However, there are currently no laws or regulations specifically addressing the risks associated with prolonged conversations and emotional dependency on these AI systems. This contrasts with measures being implemented in major countries like the United States and the United Kingdom to ensure the safety of youth using AI chatbots.As AI chatbots evolve from simple information retrieval tools to interactive services that foster relationships with characters, experts are calling for regulatory reforms to protect young users.According to data from Mobile Index, the monthly active users (MAU) of Scatter Lab's 'Zeta' increased from 58,069 in April 2024 to 1,586,178 in August 2026, marking a nearly 27-fold rise. Zeta allows users to create their own characters and worlds, engaging in real-time conversations with AI to develop stories.Rutton's 'Crack' has also seen a steady increase in users, with its MAU growing from 218,050 in April 2025 to 538,841 in August 2026, a rise of about 2.5 times. Unlike traditional generative AI that answers fixed questions, character-based chatbots focus on ongoing dialogue and relationship building, raising concerns about prolonged use and emotional dependency among youth.The National Assembly's Legislative Research Service acknowledged these risks in a report released in July, titled 'Children Exposed to Structural Risks Created by Addictive Design of AI Chatbots.' The report highlighted that the unique characteristics of AI chatbots, such as infinite empathetic responses, personalized replies, and constant accessibility, could lead to addiction. It noted that children and adolescents, who may not have fully developed self-control and critical thinking skills, are particularly vulnerable to emotional dependency, social isolation, and risky behaviors.Surveys cited by the Legislative Research Service indicate that a significant number of South Korean youth are using AI chatbots. Among 3,300 children and adolescents aged 14 and older, 94.4% reported having experience with AI chatbots, and 75.3% indicated they had acted on or seriously considered the chatbot's responses.The issue lies in the current legal framework, which does not directly address these risks. The Youth Protection Act focuses on the distribution and access restrictions of harmful media to minors, while the Personal Information Protection Act requires parental consent for processing the personal data of children under 14. There are no regulations specifically targeting issues like prolonged use, emotional dependency, or repetitive relationship formation in AI chatbots.In contrast, international movements are emerging to regulate AI chatbots. California has implemented the 'AI Companion Chatbot Regulation Act (SB 243)' this year, requiring businesses to inform minors that they are interacting with AI and to encourage breaks after a certain period of conversation. The law also includes protocols for addressing discussions related to self-harm and suicide, as well as measures to prevent exposure to sexual content for minors.The UK government is also enhancing protections for youth using AI chatbots, limiting access to those providing sexual content and promoting breaks during chatbot interactions to mitigate emotional dependency, excessive use, and harmful mental health advice.Domestic companies are not inactive. Scatter Lab's Zeta operates a 'Safe Mode' to prevent the generation of harmful content in youth environments, while a more unrestricted 'Unlimited Mode' is available only to verified adult users. Restrictions similar to those in Safe Mode are applied to characters set as minors or plots that could be perceived as involving minors, even for adult users.However, these measures are based on the companies' voluntary decisions. As a result, the level of protection can vary significantly between services, and there is considerable disparity in how companies manage issues like usage time and spending, which can lead to 'over-immersion.'Consequently, the issue of youth protection in relation to AI chatbots is expected to be a major topic during the upcoming National Assembly's audit in October. As AI chatbots become a regular part of youth's digital services, lawmakers are likely to question whether the existing Youth Protection Act is sufficient or if new protective measures reflecting the unique characteristics of AI chatbots are necessary.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-08 17:48:10
Average Cost of Chuseok Ritual Table Drops to 313,000 Won This year's cost of preparing the Chuseok ritual table has decreased by about 2% compared to last year. The prices of fruits such as apples and pears have stabilized, marking the first decline in costs in five years. However, prices for beef and some vegetables have increased, showing variability among items.The Korean Consumer Agency's Price Monitoring Center reported on September 8 that it surveyed prices of 25 ritual items at 90 locations, including 11 department stores, 23 large supermarkets, 21 super supermarkets (SSM), 19 general supermarkets, and 16 traditional markets in 25 districts of Seoul from September 3 to 4.The average cost of preparing the Chuseok ritual table for a family of four was 313,089 won, down 2.3% from last year's initial survey of 320,370 won. Among the 23 items that can be compared to last year, 14 items (60.9%) saw price decreases. This marks the first decline in preparation costs compared to the previous year in five years.By item category, fruit prices fell the most, decreasing by 7.3% compared to last year. Seafood prices dropped by 6.8%, other food items by 3.5%, processed foods by 2.5%, and vegetables and mushrooms by 2.3%. In contrast, prices for livestock products rose by 0.8%.Notably, the price of pears, which was a significant burden last year, fell by 12.9%, while apples dropped by 8.7%. In large supermarkets, apple prices decreased by 26.5%, and by 22.2% in SSMs. This decline is attributed to government discounts on agricultural and marine products during the survey period.Among seafood, the price of mackerel saw the largest drop at 24.5%. However, dried pollack prices increased by 7.3%, and pollock fillets rose by 3.0%. The average price of dried pollack increased from 7,127 won last year to 7,649 won this year, which is still 18.2% higher than in 2024 when inflation was high.Prices for some vegetables and livestock products have increased. Boiled bracken fern rose by 12.0%, the highest increase among all items. Other items that saw price increases include dried pollack (7.3%), peeled bellflower root (5.5%), beef for skewers (4.1%), eggs (3.9%), and beef for soup (3.0%).There were significant price differences based on where items were purchased. Livestock and vegetable prices, which make up a large portion of the ritual table costs, were 30.7% and 26.0% cheaper in traditional markets compared to large supermarkets, respectively. For instance, 600 grams of domestic beef for skewers averaged 54,948 won in large supermarkets but was only 33,751 won in traditional markets, a 38.6% difference. Beef for soup was also 36.0% cheaper in traditional markets.Boiled bracken fern, weighing 400 grams, averaged 14,688 won in large supermarkets, while it was 11,100 won in traditional markets, a 22.2% difference. Conversely, some items like eggs, apples, pears, and dried persimmons were found to be cheaper in large supermarkets than in traditional markets.The overall cost of the ritual table varied by retail type, with traditional markets being the lowest at 252,594 won. General supermarkets averaged 251,020 won, SSMs 291,590 won, and large supermarkets 318,831 won. Department stores had the highest average cost at 487,449 won.A representative from the Consumer Agency stated, "While prices for some items like meat and vegetables have risen, there may be limits to reducing the perceived burden of holiday prices for consumers. It is necessary to continuously monitor whether the government's discounts on agricultural and marine products are effectively reflected in consumer prices."The agency plans to conduct an additional survey of ritual item prices one week before Chuseok to report on price fluctuations. 2026-09-08 17:48:00