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Young Generation's Silence: A Study on Reduced Communication A recent study has revealed that the phenomenon known as 'Gen Z stare'—where young people reportedly stare blankly without responding to questions—stems from a genuine decline in verbal communication among the younger generation, rather than a mere generational misunderstanding.According to a report by The Washington Post, the findings were published in the journal Perspectives on Psychological Science. The term 'Gen Z stare' combines 'Gen Z' (those born between 1997 and 2006) with the English word 'stare,' describing the behavior of young individuals who do not respond to greetings or inquiries but instead gaze silently at others.This behavior has gained traction on social media, resonating with older generations who have expressed frustration over the lack of verbal interaction from younger individuals. Posts lamenting the tendency of young people to simply look at others without exchanging pleasantries or small talk have proliferated online.The study found that from 2005 to 2019, the average number of words spoken daily by Americans decreased to 338, equating to about 120,000 words annually. Notably, the decline was more pronounced among those under 25, who averaged a drop of 415 words per day, compared to a reduction of 314 words for those over 25.The researchers identified increased social media usage as a contributing factor. They noted, “Younger individuals are more likely to communicate through text or social media, which may lead to a greater loss of spoken words compared to older adults.”This research involved a reanalysis of extensive data collected by Valerie Piper, a professor at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, from 2,197 participants aged 10 to 94 regarding their everyday conversations.Some experts argue that the reduction in spoken communication should not be viewed solely as a change in communication style. Face-to-face conversations require working memory and attention, as individuals must listen to others and prepare responses simultaneously. In contrast, text messages or emails allow for delayed responses and less immediate pressure, as well as a reduced need to remember details due to written records.Technological advancements have also played a role in this shift. Nowadays, ordering at restaurants or cafes can be done through kiosks, and generative AI tools like ChatGPT can handle everything from simple inquiries to complex information searches, further decreasing the need for direct human interaction.Cal Newport, a professor at Georgetown University, told The Washington Post, “Our social brains recognize that investing time and attention in someone is an important signal. Ironically, as socializing becomes easier, we may find ourselves less connected and lacking in social skills.” This suggests that the challenges of face-to-face interactions are contributing to the trend of reduced verbal communication among younger generations.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-04 10:20:00 -
Hanwha Investment & Securities Rises 12% Amid Bitcoin Price Surge Concerns over interest rate hikes by the U.S. Federal Reserve have eased, improving investor sentiment towards risk assets, leading to a strong performance by Hanwha Investment & Securities, which is associated with cryptocurrencies.As of 9:40 a.m. on September 4, Hanwha Investment & Securities shares were trading at 5,230 won, up 550 won (11.8%) from the previous trading day.The surge in Hanwha's stock is attributed to comments from Christopher Waller, a member of the U.S. Federal Reserve, who expressed support for keeping interest rates steady. Following Waller's remarks, the likelihood of a rate freeze in September increased from 37.6% to 49.6%, according to the CME FedWatch tool.As a result, Bitcoin's price rose by 5.6% compared to the same time the previous day, surpassing $81,000.Hanwha Investment & Securities holds a stake in Dunamu, the operator of South Korea's largest cryptocurrency exchange, Upbit, making it a prominent beneficiary in the cryptocurrency market. Earlier, Hanwha decided to acquire an additional 1,361,050 shares of Dunamu from Kakao Investment for approximately 597.8 billion won, increasing its ownership from 5.94% to 9.84%.In addition to Hanwha, other cryptocurrency-related stocks, such as Woori Technology Investment (up 14.9%) and Danal (up 8.4%), are also experiencing gains.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-04 10:20:00
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Dongkuk Pharmaceutical Launches Centellian24 Volume Cream as Dermacosmetic Market Expands Dongkuk Pharmaceutical announced the launch of its new dermacosmetic product, the 'Expert Madeca Cream Core Voluming,' on September 4. The company is also running a promotional campaign for the product. This new cream was co-developed with Taiwanese beauty influencer Marvis, who participated in the product planning phase, including ingredient selection and formulation design, and helped improve the user experience through pre-launch testing. The 'Expert Madeca Cream Core Voluming' targets five areas: the forehead, under the eyes, core midface, nasolabial folds, and cheeks, addressing issues such as volume loss, sagging skin, and wrinkles. It also aids in firming the double chin and the pores. The cream contains 5% of the patented volumizing ingredient 'Volufiline™,' developed by French raw material company Sederma. It also incorporates Dongkuk Pharmaceutical's TECA (a standardized extract of Centella Asiatica) combined with 30 types of peptides and ginseng water, branded as 'TECA-PEP™.' Additionally, the product includes four types of retinoids—retinol, retinal, HPR, and retinyl palmitate—along with NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide). The cream features a highly elastic texture designed to adhere closely to the skin's contours. A representative from Centellian24 stated, "This product will provide a new option for consumers seeking volume and elasticity care." As pharmaceutical companies increasingly enter the dermacosmetic market, the sector is experiencing rapid growth. According to market research firm Euromonitor, the average annual growth rate of the domestic skincare market from 2020 to 2025 is projected at 2.1%, while dermacosmetics are expected to grow at a rate of 15.7%, nearly seven times faster. The size of the dermacosmetic market has more than doubled from 632.1 billion won in 2020 to 1.3079 trillion won last year, increasing its share of the overall skincare market from 9% to 17%.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-04 10:20:00
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South Korea aims for 3rd-place finish at Asian Games in Japan SEOUL, September 4 (AJP) - With this year's Asian Games in Japan just weeks away, South Korea is aiming to finish third in the quadrennial sporting event by winning up to 50 gold medals. The country will field about 1,052 athletes and sports officials to compete in 41 of the 43 disciplines, excluding cricket and padel. According to the Korean Sport & Olympic Committee (KSOC), South Korean athletes and sports officials gathered at the Jincheon National Training Center in North Chungcheong Province earlier this week to boost their morale ahead of the 20th Asian Games, which will take place in Aichi Prefecture and its capital city of Nagoya from Sept. 19 to Oct. 4. South Korea, China, and Japan have traditionally been the top three at the Asian Games. China has long held the top spot, while Japan has finished second at the last two games, ahead of South Korea. South Korea is expecting strong performances and multiple gold medals in archery, badminton, fencing, modern pentathlon, shooting, swimming, and taekwondo. Officials are also hoping for at least one gold medal in artistic gymnastics, athletics, football, and sport climbing, among others. In a message delivered by Sports Minister Chae Hwi-young at an event on Thursday, President Lee Jae Myung encouraged the athletes. "I'm confident your strength and determination will inspire people in South Korea and around the world," Lee said, adding that the government would support the athletes so they could compete at their best and return home safely. Lee Sang-hyun, president of the Korea Cycling Federation, who will lead the South Korean delegation, urged the athletes to represent their country with pride while stressing the importance of safety. "My staff and I will take care of every little detail, so you don't have to worry about anything outside your competition," Lee said, promising strong support. Meanwhile, this year's Asian Games will bring together more than 15,000 participants from 45 countries, who will vie for some 469 gold medals. South Korean athletes are set to leave for Nagoya on Sept. 17, though some will depart earlier or later depending on when their competitions take place. AJP Takeaways - South Korea is targeting a third-place finish at the 20th Asian Games in Japan, with a goal of winning up to 50 gold medals. - South Korea will field about 1,052 athletes and sports officials in 41 of the 43 disciplines, with medal hopes particularly high in archery, badminton, fencing, modern pentathlon, shooting, swimming and taekwondo. - The 2026 Asian Games will run from Sept. 19 to Oct. 4 in Aichi Prefecture and Nagoya, bringing together more than 15,000 participants from 45 countries competing for about 469 gold medals. South Korean athletes are scheduled to begin departing for Nagoya on Sept. 17. 2026-09-04 10:19:37 -
Bithumb Expands Youth Recruitment Efforts at Job Fair Bithumb is broadening its outreach to young talent preparing for careers in finance. The company announced on September 4 that it participated in the '2026 Youth Recruitment Fair' held on September 2 at Ewha Womans University ECC Hall. This fair was organized as part of an international conference co-hosted by the Financial Supervisory Service and Ewha Womans University. Seventeen major financial institutions, including cryptocurrency exchanges, banks, and securities firms, provided job seekers with information on roles and hiring processes. Bithumb set up a dedicated consultation booth to introduce its business direction, key roles, and hiring procedures. Notably, Bithumb staff engaged in one-on-one meetings with students, offering career counseling and answering questions about the cryptocurrency industry. A Bithumb representative stated, "We felt a heightened interest among the younger generation in the cryptocurrency industry while meeting job seekers on-site this year, just as we did last year. We will continue to actively recruit outstanding young talent to ensure sustainable growth."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-04 10:12:10
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KOSDAQ Delays Stricter Delisting Criteria by Six Months, Allows KOSDAQ to KONEX Transfers for Profitable Firms 내년부터 시행될 예정이었던 코스닥 상장폐지 시가총액 기준 강화가 6개월 유예된다. 최근 코스닥 시장 상황과 기업들의 부담을 고려해 상장폐지 충격을 완화하는 방안도 함께 마련됐다. 구윤철 부총리 겸 재정경제부 장관은 4일 전국은행연합회관에서 금융위원회·금융감독원·한국은행·국토교통부 등 관계기관과 시장상황점검회의를 열고 금융·외환·부동산시장 동향과 상장폐지 제도 운영 방향을 점검했다. 정부와 한국거래소는 부실기업의 신속한 퇴출을 위해 지난 7월부터 상장폐지 시가총액 기준을 코스닥 150억원에서 200억원, 코스피 200억원에서 300억원으로 높였다. 당초 내년 1월부터는 코스닥 기준을 300억원, 코스피 기준을 500억원으로 추가 상향할 예정이었다. 그러나 최근 코스닥 시장 상황이 악화된 가운데 기업계에서 제도 보완이 필요하다는 의견이 제기되면서 추가 상향 시점을 6개월 늦추기로 했다. 이에 따라 코스닥과 코스피의 시가총액 기준 추가 상향은 기존 2027년 1월에서 2027년 7월로 미뤄진다. 상장폐지 기업의 충격을 줄이기 위한 코넥스 이전상장 방안도 시행된다. 일정 재무요건을 갖춘 기업이 시가총액 미달로 관리종목에 지정된 경우 정리매매를 거치지 않고 기존 가격을 유지한 채 코넥스로 이전상장할 수 있도록 하는 방식이다. 대상은 올해 7월 1일 이후 시가총액 미달로 관리종목에 지정된 기업 가운데 이전상장을 신청하는 기업이다. 자본잠식 기업은 제외된다. 최근 3개년도 중 2개년도의 영업이익이 흑자이거나, 3개년도 중 1개년도의 영업이익이 흑자이면서 자기자본이 200억원 이상인 기업이 대상이다. 코넥스 이전상장에 필요한 지정자문인 선임 요건도 신속한 이전을 위해 일정 기간 유예된다. 코스피 시장에도 동일한 코넥스 이전상장과 시가총액 기준 상향 유예 방안을 적용하기로 했다. 한편 이날 회의에서는 최근 주요국 국채 발행 증가와 글로벌 인공지능(AI) 기업의 회사채 발행, 주요국 정책금리 인상 기대, 중동 긴장 재고조에 따른 유가 상승 등으로 금리 상승 압력이 이어지고 있다는 평가도 나왔다. 정부는 취약차주와 상호금융권 건전성을 점검한 결과 현재까지는 대체로 양호한 수준이지만 금리가 큰 폭으로 상승할 경우 어려움이 커질 수 있다고 보고 시장 상황을 면밀히 점검하기로 했다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-04 10:12:10
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Kim Min-seok: Reviving the Daejeon-Chungnam Administrative Merger Kim Min-seok, leader of the Democratic Party, expressed on September 4 his intention to revive the previously stalled administrative merger between Daejeon and Chungnam, stating, "We will pursue the merger at an appropriate time and through the right processes." He also announced plans to utilize all available means for regional balanced development, including the relocation of public institutions and the consolidation of five state-owned enterprises to Chungnam, as outlined by the government on September 3.During a Supreme Council meeting held at the Chungnam provincial government office, Kim referred to the administrative merger discussions that had been halted in the previous National Assembly session.He noted that the merger was thwarted due to opposition from local leaders affiliated with the People Power Party, leaving Chungnam residents disappointed. "This is a matter our party has publicly committed to. We will proceed at the right time and through the right processes," he asserted.Kim further pledged full support for the second phase of public institution relocations, the consolidation of the headquarters of five state-owned enterprises, and the allocation of 13 trillion won in national budget funds.He remarked, "Governor Park provided several suggestions regarding the second phase of public institution relocations and the consolidation of state-owned enterprise headquarters during the August 17 party convention. I, along with the Supreme Council members, have listened carefully to these proposals. We will ensure that the necessary budget exceeding 13 trillion won for the Chungnam region is reflected. With the upcoming Chungcheong Universiade, we will seek ways to provide comprehensive support for our party's initiatives."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-04 10:12:10
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Local Night Market Thrives in Hwacheon County Amid Basic Income Initiative The local economy in Sanae-myeon, Hwacheon County, has seen a revival thanks to a night market organized by residents, coinciding with a rural basic income initiative. On September 3, the 'Sanae-myeon Night Market' attracted over 1,500 visitors, including residents, military families, and guests.According to Hwacheon County, the event, organized by the Sanae-myeon Residents' Council and the Hwacheon Small Business Association, ran from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The market featured food stalls, a flea market, and community participation programs, including a singing contest. Foreign workers from the area also attended the event.Notably, the event showcased how the basic income initiative translated into actual consumer spending. Vendors accepting basic income card payments participated in the market, and visitors flocked to nearby restaurants and snack shops.A vendor selling tteokbokki at the market remarked, "This is already my fourth batch of tteokbokki today. I haven't seen this kind of turnout in years; I hope it continues like this." A sign on the vendor's tent read, 'We accept basic income cards.'This event is significant as it was created by residents and local small business owners. Community members promoted the event through online platforms and participated in its organization and management. Small business owners prepared food and welcomed visitors.Sanae-myeon has been affected by a decline in military personnel and families following the disbandment of the 27th Division due to defense reforms. In this context, the night market, organized by residents and small businesses, drew 1,500 attendees and demonstrated the potential for basic income spending to stimulate the local economy.As night markets across the country attract visitors to traditional markets and local businesses, Sanae-myeon stands out for combining a resident-led initiative with the consumer power of basic income.However, it remains to be seen whether this success will lead to sustained economic revitalization. Future indicators of success will include regularization of the event, expansion of participating businesses, and changes in actual basic income spending and local sales.Hwacheon County Mayor Kim Se-hoon, who visited the event, stated, "The Sanae-myeon Night Market is a successful project that shows new possibilities. We will thoroughly prepare to make Sanae-myeon a destination rather than a place people leave after the opening of the Gwangdeok Tunnel."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-04 10:12:10
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Guide to the Seoul International Fireworks Festival: Viewing Spots, Food, and Transportation The Seoul International Fireworks Festival will light up the night sky over Yeouido. This year, teams from South Korea, the United States, and the United Kingdom will participate, and for the first time, a pre-festival event will extend the celebration to two days. If you plan to attend, it's advisable to check not only the fireworks start time but also the viewing locations and traffic controls.According to the city of Seoul, the main event of the 'Seoul International Fireworks Festival 2026' will take place tomorrow, September 5, from 1 PM to 10 PM at Yeouido Hangang Park. The highlight, the fireworks show, will run from 8 PM to 9:10 PM, featuring 15 minutes of displays from the UK team, followed by 15 minutes from the US team, and concluding with a 30-minute finale from the South Korean Hanwha team.While the event itself is free, this year, all areas of Nodeul Island will operate as a paid viewing zone, unlike previous years. Only those who purchase tickets in advance will be allowed entry, so those planning to visit Nodeul Island as a free viewing spot may need to reconsider. Hanwha will operate Nodeul Island as the 'Orange Play Zone.'If you want to avoid the crowds at Yeouido Hangang Park, the city has suggested nearby elevated areas as alternatives. Hyosajeong Park, Yongyang Bongjeong Park, and Sayuksin Park offer views toward Yeouido.Hyosajeong Park provides a vantage point overlooking both the Han River and the city, while the sky observatory at Yongyang Bongjeong Park offers a broad view of the Han River Bridge, Nodeul Island, Han River Railway Bridge, and Yeouido. Sayuksin Park allows for views of the Han River Railway Bridge, 63 Building, and the Yeouido area. However, some areas of Sayuksin Park are currently undergoing maintenance, so visitors should avoid restricted zones.Parking on Han River bridges or roads to view the fireworks is discouraged. The city of Seoul will intensively monitor illegal parking in areas around Ichon, Noryangjin, and Yeouido, and vehicles that do not comply with on-site guidance may be towed.When heading to the event, it's important not to rely solely on Yeouinaru Station. The city anticipates large crowds on the day of the event and recommends using alternative stations such as Yeouido, Mapo, and Saetgang. Particularly between 7 PM and 10 PM on the 5th, if too many people gather at Yeouinaru Station, trains may pass without stopping, or some entrances may be closed.Specifically, it is recommended to use exits 4 and 5 at Yeouido Station on lines 5 and 9, exits 2 and 3 at Saetgang Station on line 9 and the Sinlim Line, and exits 1 and 4 at Mapo Station on line 5. On the day of the event, line 5 will increase service by 18 trains, and line 9 will add 65 trains.Driving is expected to be even more inconvenient. From 9 AM on the 5th until 3 AM the following day, the roadway and sidewalk of Wonhyo Bridge will be completely closed. The section of Yeouido Road from the southern end of Mapo Bridge to in front of 63 Building will also be closed from 3 PM to midnight on the 5th. The parking lot in front of 63 Building at Yeouido Hangang Park will be closed from 6 PM on the 4th until midnight on the 5th.Considering riding a bike? The city has announced that from 8 AM on the 4th until 7 AM on the 6th, bike rental and return services at 34 rental stations near the event site will be suspended. During this period, eight private electric bike and shared personal mobility device companies will also restrict rentals and returns in the area. On the day of the event, bike access will be limited in crowded areas.Food options will be available inside the event area. The city will operate an official food truck zone in front of the Mulbit Stage at Yeouido Hangang Park from 1 PM to 10 PM on the 4th and 5th, featuring vendors that have passed safety, hygiene, and pricing inspections.Hanwha has advised that food delivery may be difficult due to the crowds, suggesting attendees prepare their meals in advance. The festival's official app, 'Orange Play,' will allow users to check their current location and request emergency assistance. The city will set up six emergency medical stations in the Yeouido and Ichon areas and establish comprehensive information centers in zones B and E for lost children and lost item reports.Timing your departure is just as important as your arrival. The city will implement a '10-Minute Slow' campaign to prevent crowds from leaving simultaneously after the fireworks show. Hanwha also recommends waiting about 30 minutes after the event ends to leave, allowing for a more relaxed return home.If you can't make it to the event in person, it will be streamed live on Live Seoul and Hanwha TV.The Seoul International Fireworks Festival is a large-scale event that attracts over one million visitors each year. The city plans to deploy 6,800 safety personnel at the event site and nearby subway stations, and increase safety equipment by 20% compared to last year.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-04 10:12:00
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IBK Industrial Bank Reappointed as Suwon City's Financial Institution IBK Industrial Bank has been reappointed as the financial institution for Suwon Special City. The bank announced on September 4 that it signed a 'Suwon City Financial Operations Agreement' with Suwon Special City on September 3. Under this agreement, IBK will manage approximately 3.9 trillion won ($3.4 billion) annually for Suwon City from 2027 to 2030. The bank will oversee the city's general and special accounts, as well as funds, and will handle various revenue collections and expenditure payments. IBK President Jang Min-young stated, "Suwon Special City has been a partner of IBK for over 60 years. We will leverage our extensive experience in financial operations and the policy financing capabilities of a national bank to support the city's transformation and boost the local economy." Suwon Special City Mayor Lee Jae-jun remarked, "IBK has contributed to enhancing the reliability of the city's financial operations by managing the financial institution stably for a long time. I hope for practical cooperation linked to the city's key policies, such as improving citizen convenience and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-04 10:12:00