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  • Education Ministry Releases First-Year Evaluation of Anchor Program
    Education Ministry Releases First-Year Evaluation of Anchor Program The Education Ministry has finalized the selection of six models for the 'Super-Regional Growth Engine Talent Development Project,' a key initiative of the regional growth talent development system (Anchor & RISE). The ministry also announced the results of the first-year evaluation conducted across 17 cities and provinces. Based on these results, a performance budget of 400 billion won will be distributed unequally among local governments. However, the announcement has raised concerns regarding procedural legitimacy and independence, as the 'Central Anchor Committee,' the main deliberative body for the project, has not yet officially launched. Some in higher education have criticized the reliance on an interim committee for the evaluation process. In response, the Education Ministry clarified that the procedures followed were legal and in accordance with a temporary provision in the amended law, emphasizing the careful selection process to ensure representation and balance among committee members. 'Super-Regional Growth Engine' Models Selected with Up to 600 Billion Won Investment On September 8, the Education Ministry announced the results of the evaluation for the 'Super-Regional Growth Engine Talent Development Project.' Out of 19 collaborative models submitted nationwide, six were selected after a review process. The ministry plans to invest up to 150 billion won annually for each selected model over four years, totaling a maximum of 600 billion won, with the goal of training approximately 14,000 local talents by 2030. The selected models include: ▲ Gyeongnam (lead) - Incheon - Gangwon (lead university: Gyeongnam National University): AI transformation in manufacturing and AI robotics (training 2,600 people over four years) ▲ Gyeongbuk (lead) - Daegu (lead university: National Kumi University): Advanced materials and components for semiconductors and AI manufacturing robots (training 3,000 people over four years) ▲ Sejong (lead) - Chungbuk (lead university: Korea University Sejong): Semiconductor field (training 2,800 people over four years) ▲ Jeonnam-Gwangju (lead university: National Mokpo University): Renewable energy field (training 1,500 people over four years) ▲ Jeonbuk (lead) - Gyeonggi (lead university: Woosuk University): Hydrogen and physical AI (training 2,000 people over four years) ▲ Chungnam (lead) - Gyeonggi - Daegu (lead university: Dankook University): AI-based advanced bio field (training 2,000 people over four years). The ministry plans to finalize the budget distribution details later this month after a 10-day period for appeals. First-Year Evaluation Results Released: Gwangju, Busan, Chungnam Earn 'S' Grade, Seoul, Sejong, Jeonbuk, Chungbuk 'C' Grade The first-year evaluation results, which comprehensively assessed the performance and foundation building of the project in 2025 across 17 cities and provinces, were also released. Based on the evaluation, a grading system of four levels (S, A, B, C) was established, with the Education Ministry utilizing the 400 billion won performance budget to provide financial support ranging from a minimum of 80% (C grade) to a maximum of 120% (S grade) compared to the baseline for 2025. In the grading, Gwangju, Busan, and Chungnam received 'S' grades, while 'A' grades were awarded to Gangwon, Gyeonggi, Gyeongnam, Daejeon, and Ulsan. Gyeongbuk, Daegu, Incheon, Jeonnam, and Jeju received 'B' grades, and Seoul, Sejong, Jeonbuk, and Chungbuk were classified as 'C' grade. The Education Ministry shared comprehensive feedback from the evaluation, highlighting both exemplary and inadequate cases. Notable successes included the establishment of a field-centered administrative support system through 1:1:1 matching among local governments, centers, and universities, as well as the promotion of competition among universities through a public offering method. However, shortcomings included unclear evaluation criteria for selection, unilateral changes to budget distribution principles after evaluations, low execution rates, excessive budget carryovers, and a lack of coherence between university specialization and individual project operations. Delay in Anchor Committee Formation Raises Concerns Over 'Interim Decisions' Concerns have been raised regarding the independence and procedural integrity of the evaluation process, as the results were supposed to be confirmed by the official deliberation of the 'Central Anchor Committee.' However, due to delays in forming the committee, the evaluation was conducted by an interim body. A former member of the Central RISE Committee stated in a conversation with Aju Economy that, “The terms of the previous committee's chair and members expired on July 10, but a new committee has not been formed.” They criticized the reliance on the 'Local University and Regional Balanced Talent Development Support Committee,' led by the Education Minister and including deputy ministers from various government departments, as a bureaucratic workaround. In response, the Education Ministry defended the process as a legitimate procedure under legal provisions. Choi Woo-sung, head of the Regional University Support Division, stated, “The claim that the committee was neglected is not true. The delay was due to a careful review of recommendations for committee members from across the country to ensure balance and representation.” Choi added that the Local University Support Committee is a permanent body based on existing legislation, and the evaluation was conducted under a specific transitional provision allowing for interim operations for six months until the new committee is formed. He assured that the independent Central Anchor Committee would be established without further delays. Education Ministry Responds to Administrative Confusion Criticism Meanwhile, differing perspectives have emerged regarding the administrative support confusion experienced by local governments and universities at the project's outset. Another local anchor representative noted, “There were significant confusions among local officials compared to other departments, as the Education Ministry's administrative manuals and guidelines were not clear.” In response, the Education Ministry rejected vague criticisms lacking specific evidence. Choi stated, “We find it difficult to agree with unilateral claims of 'haphazard operations' without any concrete examples or circumstances, and it is challenging to respond to such assertions.” He emphasized the ministry's commitment to enhancing communication with the field to systematically establish the project as it moves forward. 2026-09-08 16:16:10
  • Choosing the Right Sunscreen: More Than Just SPF Numbers
    Choosing the Right Sunscreen: More Than Just SPF Numbers When selecting a sunscreen, the first thing that catches the eye is often the label, such as 'SPF 50+' or 'PA++.' While a higher sun protection factor (SPF) or UVA protection grade (PA) may suggest a better product, the effectiveness of sunscreen is not solely determined by these numbers. Factors such as the duration of sun exposure, the environment in which one is active, and the proper application technique play crucial roles in its effectiveness.First, it is essential to understand the meanings of SPF and PA. SPF indicates the level of protection against ultraviolet B (UVB) rays, with values up to 50 displayed numerically and anything above that marked as '50+'. PA signifies the level of protection against ultraviolet A (UVA) rays, with more '+' signs indicating greater protection. However, higher values may also increase the likelihood of skin sensitivity, so it is advisable to consider one's skin condition and activity environment when making a selection.So, what type of product should one choose? Dermatologists generally recommend using a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays.If most of your activities involve commuting or staying indoors, a sunscreen with SPF 30 and PA++ or higher is sufficient. Conversely, for prolonged outdoor activities, hiking, sports, or swimming, products with SPF 50 and PA+++ or higher are recommended. Even water-resistant sunscreens should be reapplied after swimming or sweating. The key is not to choose the highest number but to select a product that fits your lifestyle.When choosing a product, it is also important to consider the ingredients. Sunscreens are generally categorized into physical (mineral) and chemical (organic) types. Physical sunscreens work by reflecting UV rays away from the skin. They may leave a white cast but are typically less irritating. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV energy to block it, offering better spreadability but may cause irritation for sensitive skin.Once you have selected a suitable product, the next step is proper application. Many consumers overlook the amount of sunscreen needed. For the face, it is recommended to use about the size of a 500-won coin, and for the entire body, about the amount of a shot glass. However, consistently applying this amount daily can be challenging.According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), most consumers apply only 20% to 50% of the recommended amount of sunscreen. Men often find the sticky texture off-putting, while women may worry about makeup smudging, leading to insufficient application. However, without applying enough, it is difficult to expect effective sun protection.This makes the choice of formulation important. Creams are easier to apply in sufficient amounts on the face and are suitable for dry skin. Gels are good for oily skin or hairy areas, while sticks are convenient for applying to thin areas like around the eyes or for reapplication on the go. Sprays are popular among parents for easy application on children's skin, but it can be hard to ensure an adequate and even application. It is advisable to spray until the skin is sufficiently damp and then spread it with your hands.Using sunscreen only in the summer is a common misconception. The sun emits UV rays regardless of the season, and a significant portion of UV rays can penetrate through clouds on overcast days. In winter, snow and ice can strongly reflect UV rays, exposing individuals to levels comparable to summer. In fact, the UV reflection rate from snow is reported to be around 80% to 90%.To be effective, sunscreen must be used correctly. Apply a sufficient amount about 15 minutes before going outside, and reapply every two hours if engaging in prolonged outdoor activities or sweating. Choosing a product that fits your lifestyle and maintaining proper application habits are the most practical ways to reduce skin aging and damage caused by UV rays.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-08 16:16:00
  • Astra vs. Mythos: The True Competition of Two Giants Ahead of IPOs
    Astra vs. Mythos: The True Competition of Two Giants Ahead of IPOs OpenAI and Anthropic have unveiled their top models ahead of their initial public offerings (IPOs). Anthropic launched 'Claude Mythos 5.1' on September 1, while OpenAI introduced 'GPT-6 Astra' on September 3. The competition between these two companies for the title of the world's leading artificial intelligence (AI) is expected to reignite interest in AI investments.On September 7, the IT industry assessed that the competition between these two advanced AI companies marks the beginning of the race toward artificial general intelligence (AGI), which refers to AI capable of performing tasks at human levels.Astra is available across all channels, including ChatGPT's paid plan, API, Azure, and Bedrock, immediately upon its release. In contrast, Mythos 5.1 is being released only to a select few verified institutions through the U.S. government's 'Project Glasswing.'Benchmark performance results vary based on evaluation criteria. OpenAI's internal benchmarks indicate that Astra outperforms Mythos 5.1's twin model, Claude Fable 5.1. However, an independent evaluation by Artificial Analysis shows Mythos 5.1 slightly ahead, with a score of 57 to 55. Greg Brockman, OpenAI's president, claimed during Astra's launch that the model is 'the beginning of the AGI era' and is closest to human-level general intelligence.In specific metrics, Astra achieved a score of 99.9% in ARC-AGI-3, which measures computer manipulation capabilities, and 57.9% in TerminalBench 4.0, surpassing the Mythos-Fable series, which scored 55.8%. In the SRE Bench (binary reverse engineering), Astra recorded an accuracy rate of 88.0%, identifying two new vulnerabilities in the V8 browser engine used by Google Chrome.However, OpenAI is facing scrutiny over the controllability of its AI agents. In July, during a cybersecurity performance evaluation, an OpenAI model escaped a controlled environment and attacked Hugging Face's infrastructure. OpenAI disclosed this incident and released a technical report last month. Nonetheless, a data breach involving the German Wikipedia that occurred in May has resurfaced, leading to controversy over its months-long concealment by an external research group.Conversely, Anthropic has chosen to demonstrate Mythos 5.1's performance through verified defensive capabilities rather than public benchmarks. While OpenAI claims Astra leads in benchmark performance, the UK AI Safety Institute's independent evaluation found that the only model to complete the 32-stage corporate network attack simulation 'The Last Ones' from start to finish was the predecessor, Mythos Preview. As a result, Mythos is classified as a high-risk model for national-level gatekeeping and is not publicly available, although it is considered to outperform Astra in practical performance.The competition between the two models is also aligned with their IPO timelines. Anthropic submitted a confidential S-1 registration statement to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on June 1, with Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan, and Morgan Stanley as lead underwriters, aiming for a Nasdaq listing in October with a target valuation of around $1 trillion. OpenAI submitted its S-1 a week later on June 8, but market volatility has led to delays in its IPO schedule. Anthropic reported $11.5 billion in revenue for the second quarter, surpassing OpenAI's $6.7 billion for the first time.If both companies successfully go public, they are expected to create the largest IPO cluster in history, surpassing SpaceX's $1.77 trillion IPO in June. Anthropic is projected to reach a valuation of up to $2 trillion post-IPO, making the competition between Astra and Mythos a pivotal moment in determining the most valuable AI company.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-08 16:08:00
  • Chinese Stock Market Closes Lower Amid Boxed Trading; Sweetener Sector Gains
    Chinese Stock Market Closes Lower Amid Boxed Trading; Sweetener Sector Gains The Chinese stock market, which had risen the previous day, showed weakness on September 9. Analysts suggest that the market is continuing in a boxed trading pattern. The Shanghai Composite Index closed up 0.20% at 3,940.55, while the Shenzhen Component Index fell 0.52% to 13,703.21, and the ChiNext Index dropped 1.15% to 3,359.72. With the upcoming U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) announcement and the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting, there is a cautious sentiment regarding U.S. interest rates. The U.S. is set to release the CPI on the 11th, followed by the FOMC meeting on the 16th. If the CPI shows a slowdown amid weak employment data, expectations for interest rate cuts may increase. Additionally, rising tensions in the Middle East due to clashes between Iran and the U.S. have pushed international oil prices up to around $97 to $98 per barrel, nearing the $100 mark, which has negatively impacted the market. According to the General Administration of Customs of China, exports in August reached $401.4 billion, a 25.0% increase compared to the previous year. This figure surpasses July's export growth rate of 23.9% and aligns with the forecast of 25.0% by Reuters. Consequently, China's trade surplus for August stood at $119 billion, bringing the cumulative trade surplus for the year to $805.5 billion. In today's market, sectors such as agriculture, chemical fertilizers, pesticides, real estate, gold, oil, and telecommunications equipment showed strength, while some semiconductor, computer hardware, and power equipment stocks performed poorly. Analysts suggest that as the recent surge in AI hardware and semiconductors shows signs of fatigue, funds are shifting towards stocks with relatively lower valuations. Notably, the alternative sweetener sector performed well, with companies like COFCO Technology, Hongmian Co., and Baolingbao hitting their upper price limits. The Thai Sugar Industry Association has projected that sugar production this year will fall below 10 million tons. This decline coincides with the strengthening of the El Niño weather phenomenon, leading to expectations that food companies will increase their use of artificial sweeteners instead of sugar, driving buying interest in related stocks. Sweeteners like acesulfame potassium and sucralose are noted for their high safety and cost-effectiveness. Stocks related to chemical fertilizers also saw gains, with Lutianhua, Jinzhengda, and Chitianhua reaching their upper price limits. Reports of a clear upward trend in urea prices in China have contributed positively, with the ex-factory price of urea in major regions rising to 1,820 yuan per ton, an increase of 150 yuan per ton since the 7th. Meanwhile, the People's Bank of China set the yuan's central parity rate against the dollar at 6.7804 yuan, a slight increase of 0.0009 yuan from the previous day, reflecting a 0.01% decrease in the value of the yuan.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-08 16:08:00
  • POSCO to invest 480 billion won in new automotive steel facility
    POSCO to invest 480 billion won in new automotive steel facility SEOUL, September 8 (AJP) - POSCO will invest 480 billion won (US$357 million) to build a new facility for high-end automotive steel, the steelmaker said on Tuesday. It broke ground on the continuous galvanizing line (CGL) facility at its steel mill in Gwangyang, South Jeolla Province, its first new CGL in nine years. Scheduled for completion in 2028, the new facility will have an annual production capacity of 450,000 tons of hot-dip galvanized steel sheet for automotive exterior panels. Once completed, the facility will bring the steelmaker's total annual capacity for hot-dip galvanized steel to 4.95 million tons including its seven existing lines. Hot-dip galvanized steel is coated with zinc to improve its resistance to corrosion and enhance surface quality. It is widely used for automotive body panels and home appliances, with demand growing as automakers produce more premium and larger vehicles. "Investment in the new facility will help strengthen the company's competitiveness as the global steel industry changes rapidly," POSCO president Lee Hee-geun said. He added that the facility will focus on making next-generation automotive steel while improving costs and technology. POSCO also plans to use artificial intelligence (AI) and robots to reduce defects, monitor quality, improve production efficiency and enhance workplace safety. AJP Takeaways - POSCO will invest 480 billion won (US$357 million) to build a new continuous galvanizing line (CGL) facility in Gwangyang, South Jeolla Province, marking the steelmaker's first new CGL in nine years. - The new facility, scheduled for completion in 2028, will produce 450,000 tons of hot-dip galvanized automotive steel annually, increasing POSCO's total annual capacity to 4.95 million tons, including its seven existing lines. - POSCO will use artificial intelligence (AI) and robots at the new facility to improve production efficiency, quality and workplace safety, while reducing defects and strengthening its competitiveness in high-end automotive steel. 2026-09-08 16:06:13
  • Auction Market Sees Distinction as Bidding Rates Decline Yet Demand for Preferred Areas Remains High
    Auction Market Sees Distinction as Bidding Rates Decline Yet Demand for Preferred Areas Remains High The auction market is showing clear signs of differentiation. As nationwide apartment bidding rates and prices decline, properties in mid-priced areas and those with redevelopment potential continue to attract bids above their appraised values.According to the August 2026 Auction Trend Report from the auction data firm Zigy Auction, the number of nationwide apartment auctions last month reached 3,614, a 26% increase from 2,874 during the same period last year. This marks the sixth consecutive month with over 3,000 auctions.The national apartment bidding rate fell to 35.4%, down 1.9 percentage points from the previous month’s 37.3%. The bidding price rate (the ratio of the final bid price to the appraised value) also decreased from 85.4% to 84.7%, marking a three-month decline.In Seoul, the apartment bidding rate dropped to 37.1%, a decrease of 1.2 percentage points from the previous month. The bidding price rate fell from 101% to 97%, dipping below 100% for the first time in five months.There were notable differences among various complexes. Some large 'single-occupancy apartments' sold for 60-80% of their appraised values, pulling down the average. In contrast, mid-priced apartments and those with expectations of reconstruction or remodeling attracted numerous bidders.In fact, the bidding price rates for apartments in Jungnang-gu and Nowon-gu were 115.2% and 102.8%, respectively, exceeding their appraised values. In Nowon-gu's Wolgye-dong, a 60-square-meter Hyundai apartment received 10 bids and sold for 871.77 million won, resulting in a bidding price rate of approximately 122%.In Gyeonggi Province, demand concentrated in preferred areas. The overall apartment bidding rate plummeted from 49.1% to 37.7%, marking the lowest level this year. However, the bidding price rate increased from 86.8% to 89.8%, reaching its highest point in two years since August 2024.Areas such as Hanam (112.1%), Hwaseong's Dongtan (109.8%), and Yongin's Suji (109.5%) recorded bidding price rates above their appraised values.In the general sales market, the proportion of transactions involving mid-priced apartments has risen. Ham Young-jin, head of the real estate research lab at Woori Bank, analyzed data from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, revealing that as of August 4, 54.3% of reported contracts in Seoul were for apartments priced below 900 million won, up 7.2 percentage points from 47.1% in January.Ham stated, “The government continues to impose strict regulations on household loans, including adjustments to total household loan limits and loan-to-value ratios, along with tax reform proposals and two interest rate hikes in August.”He added, “Ultimately, those with limited funding have moved to areas with mid-priced housing. In this mixed bidding outcome, it is essential to consider regional and price trends rather than relying solely on bidding rates and prices to make hasty decisions.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-08 16:04:10
  • Koreas AI committee pledges results as budget nearly doubles
    Korea's AI committee pledges results as budget nearly doubles SEOUL, September 08 (AJP) - South Korea's presidential artificial intelligence committee marked its first anniversary with a pledge to turn a year of policy blueprints into gains that businesses and households can feel, a week after the government proposed nearly doubling AI spending. "Global AI competition is spreading beyond technology development into an all-out national contest that decides industry, security and growth," said Ha Jung-woo, standing vice chair of the Presidential Council on National AI Strategy Committee, at a keynote at Seoul Square on Tuesday. Korea has the potential to build a full-stack AI ecosystem on its technology, infrastructure and manufacturing strengths, he told around 150 officials. "If the past year was the time to lay the groundwork, now is the time to build a bigger leap on that base," Ha said, adding that the committee's second term would focus on clearing obstacles in the field. Ha took the post on Aug. 31, three months after losing a National Assembly by-election in Busan's Buk-gu A district to independent Han Dong-hoon by 1.7 percentage points. He had quit in April as President Lee Jae Myung's first senior secretary for AI to run, and Lee returned him to a seat left empty since May. The 2027 budget bill sent to the National Assembly last week earmarks 21.3 trillion won ($15.8 billion) for AI and three mega-projects spanning semiconductors, physical AI and data centers, up 97.2 percent from this year's 10.8 trillion won. The AI Basic Act, Asia's first comprehensive AI law, took effect on Jan. 22, and the committee in February approved a national action plan of 99 tasks. The Science Ministry has since narrowed its sovereign model contest to LG AI Research, SK Telecom and Upstage. The government broke ground on August on a 2.41 trillion won national AI computing center in Haenam, which is to secure 15,000 GPUs by 2028. The 260,000-chip national build-out announced at last October's APEC summit runs on Nvidia hardware. AJP Takeaways - South Korea's Presidential Council on National AI Strategy Committee marked its first anniversary on Sept. 8, 2026, with standing Vice Chair Ha Jung-woo pledging to move the presidential body from strategy-setting to execution. - The 2027 budget bill submitted to the National Assembly on Sept. 3, 2026, allocates 21.3 trillion won to AI and three mega-projects covering semiconductors, physical AI and AI data centers, up 97.2 percent from 10.8 trillion won in 2026. - Ha Jung-woo took the post on Aug. 31, 2026, after losing the June 3, 2026, National Assembly by-election in Busan's Buk-gu A district to independent Han Dong-hoon by 1.7 percentage points, having resigned as President Lee Jae Myung's senior secretary for AI future planning in April 2026. 2026-09-08 16:03:19
  • Korea-Africa Economic Cooperation Expands into AI and Digital Sectors
    Korea-Africa Economic Cooperation Expands into AI and Digital Sectors The Ministry of Economy and Finance is hosting the 8th Korea-Africa Economic Cooperation (KOAFEC) ministerial meeting from September 8 to 11, discussing ways to expand economic cooperation between Korea and Africa. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the initiative, with over 800 attendees, including finance ministers from 45 African countries, government representatives, international organizations, public institutions, and private sector officials.On September 8, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance Koo Yun-cheol met with Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), in Seoul to discuss expanding cooperation between Korea and the AfDB. This is Adesina's first visit to Korea since taking office.During the meeting, Koo proposed enhancing collaboration and achieving tangible results in light of KOAFEC's 20th anniversary. The two sides agreed to develop artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technology as new key areas of cooperation between Korea and the AfDB.They also committed to linking various cooperation mechanisms, including the KOAFEC Trust Fund, the Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF), and the Knowledge Sharing Program (KSP), to support sustainable growth and industrial transformation in Africa.Koo specifically requested that Korean companies, which have competitive advantages in digital infrastructure, power grids, smart cities, water resources, transportation, and AI solutions, actively participate in AfDB projects by sharing business information and procurement opportunities, and by facilitating connections with local governments and businesses.KOAFEC is an economic cooperation forum established in 2006 to facilitate high-level economic policy dialogue and identify development cooperation projects between Korea and Africa. Over the years, it has connected cooperation agendas to concrete projects through ministerial policy dialogues, the KOAFEC Trust Fund, KSP, EDCF, and private sector exchanges.The theme of this year's meeting is 'Transforming Africa through AI and Digital Infrastructure.' Discussions will focus on how to leverage Korea's AI and digital technology and development experience to enhance productivity and innovate industrial and public services in Africa.On September 9, the main event will feature a ministerial roundtable with two sessions: 'Transforming Africa through AI and Digital' and 'Promoting AI Adoption in Africa through Digital Infrastructure.' A joint declaration outlining the discussed cooperation directions will be adopted following the roundtable.On September 10, an economic cooperation event will aim to expand government-to-private sector collaboration. The Business Innovation Forum will discuss private cooperation between Korea and Africa, covering AI-based infrastructure such as power and data centers, as well as the startup ecosystem.Investment briefings will introduce key investment and procurement projects from African governments and the AfDB, along with one-on-one business meetings between Korean and African companies and institutions. There will also be a field meeting to hear about the experiences and challenges faced by domestic companies entering the African market.On the final day, September 11, the African delegation is scheduled to visit domestic industrial sites. They will tour Korean AI companies and related industries to explore Korea's technological and industrial development experiences and seek future cooperation opportunities.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-08 16:00:20
  • South Korea Submits Intent to Discuss Nuclear Submarine Agreement with IAEA
    South Korea Submits Intent to Discuss Nuclear Submarine Agreement with IAEA The South Korean government has officially expressed its intention to engage in discussions with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) regarding a separate safety agreement for the introduction of nuclear-powered submarines. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated, "Discussions on issues, including nuclear-powered submarines between South Korea and the United States, are ongoing."During a press briefing at the Ministry's headquarters in Jongno-gu, Seoul, a ministry official said, "The government has submitted the necessary notification documents related to the nuclear-powered submarine project in accordance with international agreements with the IAEA."The official added, "We plan to continue consultations with the IAEA regarding nuclear-powered submarines under the principle of faithfully fulfilling our international non-proliferation obligations, including the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and IAEA safety agreements."Regarding the IAEA notification documents, the official explained, "According to Article 14 of the IAEA, a comprehensive safety agreement must be established, and we have submitted the necessary documents for that purpose."Meanwhile, on September 7, according to Voice of America (VOA), IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi stated, "South Korea has officially notified the IAEA of its intention to begin discussions regarding a separate agreement under Article 14 of the Comprehensive Safety Agreement (CSA)." Article 14 allows non-nuclear weapon states to use nuclear materials for non-prohibited military activities when entering into a separate agreement with the IAEA, with the reactor fuel for nuclear-powered submarines being a prime example.Grossi also noted, "South Korea has already submitted relevant notification documents to the IAEA and reaffirmed its commitment to fulfilling its obligations under the NPT, the Comprehensive Safety Agreement, and the Additional Protocol. We hope that discussions will continue in the spirit of transparency." 2026-09-08 16:00:00
  • Strengthening Automotive Steel Competitiveness: Korea Automotive Research Institute and Steel Association Collaborate
    Strengthening Automotive Steel Competitiveness: Korea Automotive Research Institute and Steel Association Collaborate The Korea Automotive Research Institute (KARI) is partnering with the Korea Iron and Steel Association to enhance the competitiveness of automotive steel and metal materials technology.On September 8, KARI announced that it signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Korea Iron and Steel Association at its headquarters in Pungse-myeon, Cheonan, South Chungcheong Province.This agreement aims to strengthen the expertise and industrial competitiveness of both organizations in the steel and metal sectors, which are critical materials for the automotive industry.In relation to automotive steel and metal materials, the collaboration will focus on several areas, including: developing a long-term technology roadmap and research projects, sharing information on industrial demand and performance requirements, exchanging trends in testing, evaluation, standards, certification, regulations, and policies, and identifying collaborative projects based on artificial intelligence (AI) and digital transformation (DX).Additionally, a network involving automotive, steel, and parts manufacturers, as well as research institutions, will be established to expand the ecosystem of the automotive materials industry.Jin Jong-wook, head of KARI, stated, "To enhance the performance, safety, and eco-friendliness of future vehicles, the technological capabilities of steel and metal materials are crucial."Meanwhile, on the same day, POSCO announced it will invest 480 billion won to establish new production facilities for automotive hot-dip galvanized steel sheets (CGL), aiming for completion by 2028, with an annual production capacity of 450,000 tons.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-08 16:00:00