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  • Alteogen Receives $25 Million Milestone Payment from MSD for Keytruda Sales
    Alteogen Receives $25 Million Milestone Payment from MSD for Keytruda Sales Alteogen announced on August 31 that it will receive a $25 million milestone payment from MSD, its partner on the Hybrozyme platform, based on sales of the subcutaneous (SC) formulation of Keytruda. This payment marks a significant step as it indicates the company has entered the revenue generation phase based on actual global market sales following its technology transfer. This milestone is the first achievement among a total of $1 billion in sales milestones outlined in the licensing agreement between Alteogen and MSD. Unlike revenues from clinical and regulatory development stages, this payment signifies the commencement of cash flow linked to product sales. According to MSD's earnings report, sales of the Keytruda SC formulation reached $590 million in the first half of this year. Since its launch in October 2022, sales have rapidly increased, with $40 million in Q4 2025, $128 million in Q1 2026, and $463 million in Q2 2026. Keytruda is a leading immuno-oncology drug targeting PD-1, used in monotherapy and combination therapy for over 40 different cancer indications. PD-1 is a protein that inhibits the activity of T cells, and Keytruda works by blocking this protein, enabling immune cells to attack cancer cells. MSD is focusing on transitioning Keytruda from intravenous (IV) to subcutaneous (SC) administration, emphasizing its use in monotherapy, oral chemotherapy combinations, and adjuvant therapy post-surgery. Recently, the scope of its application has expanded with approvals for adjuvant therapy and pre- and post-surgical treatments in renal cell carcinoma and bladder cancer, among others. In addition, a recent Phase 3 clinical trial combining Keytruda with the personalized mRNA therapy Intismeran, developed by MSD and Moderna for high-risk melanoma patients undergoing resection, has met its primary endpoints, further expanding Keytruda's therapeutic range. Meanwhile, Alteogen is set to build a manufacturing facility in the Daejeon Dungok district. The city of Daejeon recently signed a memorandum of understanding with Alteogen for an investment of 253.2 billion won and the creation of 135 new jobs, marking the first successful corporate investment attraction of the ninth civil election period.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-31 14:08:00
  • Yanggu Belly Button Festival Surpasses 80,000 Visitors for the First Time
    Yanggu Belly Button Festival Surpasses 80,000 Visitors for the First Time The 2026 National Central Youth Yanggu Belly Button Festival in Gangwon Province has surpassed 80,000 visitors for the first time in its history.According to Yanggu County, over 83,400 people attended the festival held from August 28 to 30 at Seocheon Sports Park in Yanggu-eup. This marks a 17% increase from last year's attendance of approximately 71,300, setting a new record.This year's festival featured a combination of large performances and family-oriented experiences and interactive programs. Notably, the event expanded visitor routes to include nearby attractions such as the Geographical Center of Korea and the National Central Observatory.Performers included Park Seo-jin, Kim Na-young, the band Guckkasten, and Kim Kyung-ho. A talk concert by popular children's creator 'Supreme Man' also took place, appealing to families with children as well as young adults and middle-aged attendees.During the day, family programs such as water play, play areas, and crafting experiences were available. Evening performances attracted large crowds, helping to distribute visitor numbers throughout the day.Interactive programs also received positive feedback. The 'Geographical Center of Korea Health Trail Walking' saw high interest, with participant benefits running out early. Finishers received Yanggu Love gift certificates, and those who posted certification photos on social media were given souvenirs.This walking program connected tourism, local currency spending, and social media promotion. It particularly encouraged visitors to explore attractions beyond the festival grounds, such as the Geographical Center of Korea and the National Central Observatory.Food options and festival environment management were also enhanced. The county conducted hygiene training for vendors before the festival to eliminate overpricing and monitored prices and cleanliness during the event.A public etiquette campaign for visitors with pets was also implemented. The festival adopted reusable containers and resource recycling programs, promoting eco-friendly operations.The Belly Button Festival originated from Yanggu's geographical significance as the 'Geographical Center of Korea.' The first festival was held in November 2008 under the name 'Geographical Center of Korea Yanggu Belly Button Festival.'At that time, the theme connected the 'belly button' as the center of a person with Yanggu as the center of the nation, focusing on 'life, nature, and coexistence.' Programs showcased the region's natural and geographical characteristics, including experiences at Hanbando Island and trekking in Duta Canyon.Since then, the festival has evolved while maintaining its identity as the 'Geographical Center of Korea,' expanding performances, experiences, and family content. Yanggu County has also adopted 'Baekobi,' a mascot that embodies the meaning of the Korean Peninsula and the Geographical Center of Korea.Recently, the festival's focus has shifted from merely watching performances to encouraging participation and longer stays. In 2023, healing programs aimed at families were introduced, and the festival continued to be held at Seocheon Sports Park this year. Surpassing 80,000 visitors for the first time signifies that these changes have contributed to increased attendance.The future challenge lies in connecting visitor numbers to actual economic benefits and repeat visits. If tourists who come to see performances also explore nearby attractions like the Geographical Center of Korea and the observatory, as well as utilize local restaurants and shops, the festival's economic impact could grow.However, with record attendance, there are also challenges to improve transportation, parking, food prices, facilities, and safety management. Analyzing specific metrics such as visitor spending, duration of stay, percentage of non-local visitors, and intentions to return will likely serve as benchmarks for the festival's qualitative growth.Kim Wang-kyu, the mayor of Yanggu County, stated, “The fact that over 80,000 visitors attended for the first time since the festival's inception is a result of the diverse content that can be enjoyed by various generations and programs that highlight Yanggu's unique characteristics. We will closely analyze this year's festival's achievements and visitor feedback to develop it into a representative festival of Yanggu that encourages longer stays and repeat visits.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-31 14:04:00
  • Young Creators Explore Art and Technology in Canada
    Young Creators Explore Art and Technology in Canada Young creators explored new possibilities in art and technology in Montreal, Canada.The Korea Arts Council (ARKO) announced on August 31 that it successfully concluded the 'Global Connect' program, a follow-up support initiative to the 'AIF Camp,' which took place in Montreal from August 23 to 30.'Global Connect' is designed to enhance the international creative capabilities of ARKO AIF Camp participants by allowing them to experience local environments and interact with local creators.This year, five young creators were selected to participate in the Montreal program: Kim Eui-jin, Son Se-kyung, Shin Eun-song, Choi Hyuk-jin, and Chu Ho-seung, all of whom work primarily with sound. They led the entire process of organizing a local showcase, , at NOMADlife.tv in Montreal on August 23, from venue selection to program development, artist invitations, and on-site operations.The project name was inspired by the common vowel 'e' found in the names of the participating artists, creating a collaborative platform that explores cultural differences and contexts through sound and language. The showcase also featured performances by local media artist Crazy Radio and electronic musician Leopoldo Pachi. About 30 attendees, including officials and local audience members, were present.On August 24 and 25, the participants engaged in workshops at the Société des arts technologiques (SAT), an immersive media research institution, where they discussed scripting strategies and stage implementation techniques for immersive art experiences with local experts. From August 25 to 30, they attended the official program of the renowned digital art festival 'MUTEK Montreal' to understand the latest global trends in art and technology convergence.Participant Shin Eun-song stated, “Through this ARKO program, I was able to experience various works that combine spatial sound, audiovisual elements, and electronic music, and I discovered new languages and possibilities for my work while interacting with creators from diverse backgrounds.”The 2026 AIF Camp Global Connect program will continue with activities linked to 'Ars Electronica' in Linz, Austria, scheduled for early September.Meanwhile, the AIF Camp, which has been operating since 2022, explores new creative possibilities based on the convergence of art and technology, fostering collaboration among artists, planners, and curators.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-31 14:04:00
  • CPO Technology Takes Center Stage at Semicon Taiwan 2026
    CPO Technology Takes Center Stage at Semicon Taiwan 2026 The explosive growth in data processing at artificial intelligence (AI) data centers has made efficient power consumption and data transmission critical challenges. As a result, technologies such as silicon photonics and co-packaged optics (CPO) are emerging as key components in the next generation of the semiconductor industry.These technologies will be central to discussions at Semicon Taiwan 2026, Asia's largest semiconductor exhibition, which opens on August 31 under the theme "Changing the Future." According to the International Semiconductor Equipment and Materials Institute (SEMI), the technology forum began on the same day, with the main exhibition running from September 2 to 4 at the Nangang Exhibition Center in Taipei.SEMI has indicated that this year's event will focus on silicon photonics and CPO. Silicon photonics uses light instead of electricity to transmit data, while CPO integrates semiconductor and optical communication components into a single package. Both technologies are recognized for their potential to enhance communication speeds and reduce power consumption in data centers, making them vital for the future of AI data centers. SEMI anticipates that this year will mark a significant turning point for the large-scale adoption of silicon photonics.At the technology forum that began on August 31, silicon photonics and CPO were key topics. The forum, themed "Designing Optical Communication Infrastructure for Large-Scale AI Clusters," attracted global industry stakeholders involved in system architecture, data transmission technology, and advanced manufacturing within the silicon photonics ecosystem. Shih Kuo-chin, Vice President of Advanced Packaging Technology Development at TSMC, and Hung Zhi-bin, Vice President of R&D at ASE, served as forum chairs.Discussions focused on strategies for transitioning silicon photonics technology from research and development to large-scale production and commercialization.Notably, CPO is moving beyond the research and development phase, with actual product production and shipments beginning, marking its entry into a full commercialization stage.TSMC, the world's largest foundry, plans to expand its silicon photonics-based optical packaging platform, "COUPE," and its CPO solutions implemented on substrates, starting production of related products this year.The Taipei Times reported, citing a TrendForce report, that TSMC, NVIDIA, and Broadcom are among companies beginning production of CPO-related products, with UMC and GlobalWafers also joining the fray, indicating that the CPO industry is entering a commercialization phase.This year's Semicon Taiwan is expected to be the largest ever, coinciding with a surge in global demand for AI semiconductors. According to SEMI, over 1,300 companies from 65 countries will participate, setting up 4,300 booths, with attendance expected to exceed 100,000.Major semiconductor and AI companies, as well as cloud service providers (CSPs) such as Google, Microsoft, NVIDIA, AMD, MediaTek, and Foxconn, will be in attendance. Amin Vahdat, Senior Vice President and CTO of Google AI and Infrastructure, will deliver a keynote address at Semicon Taiwan, outlining the blueprint for next-generation AI infrastructure encompassing custom chips and data centers.Exhibits will also feature 18 national pavilions, including those from major semiconductor countries such as Germany, the UK, France, Japan, and South Korea, with a total of 220 booths dedicated to these pavilions.Additionally, the startup exhibition space has doubled compared to last year. Sixteen startups in advanced processes, AI computing, silicon photonics, testing and measurement, smart manufacturing, and quantum computing will participate, focusing on technology commercialization and securing investments. 2026-08-31 14:00:00
  • Gwangyang-Japan Ferry Route May Reopen After 14 Years
    Gwangyang-Japan Ferry Route May Reopen After 14 Years The regular ferry route connecting Gwangyang, South Jeolla Province, and Japan may reopen after 14 years. Gwangyang City announced on August 31 that it is publicly soliciting ferry operators.Interested shipping companies must submit their letters of intent, route proposals, and documentation proving vessel availability by September 3.The city plans to select a 'preferred partner' and begin the necessary procedures to establish the route.The selected operator will have access to port infrastructure, including the Gwangyang International Passenger Terminal, and will receive administrative support from customs, immigration, and quarantine agencies, as well as assistance in attracting cargo and passengers.Once the shipping company secures a maritime transport business license from the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries in consultation with Japanese ports, the route will be established.A ferry route to Shimonoseki, Japan, was opened from Gwangyang in January 2011 but ceased operations in February 2012 due to operating losses.Gwangyang Mayor Park Seong-hyeon stated, "The establishment of an international ferry route will be a turning point in developing Gwangyang Port as a hub for marine tourism and global logistics along the southern coast, and I hope competitive shipping companies will participate." 2026-08-31 13:56:00
  • South Koreas Science Ministry Revamps National R&D Administration to Enhance Research Autonomy
    South Korea's Science Ministry Revamps National R&D Administration to Enhance Research Autonomy The Ministry of Science and ICT announced on August 31 that it has established a plan for improving the national research and development administrative system for 2026, which has been communicated to relevant ministries including the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, and the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment. The core of the plan is to abolish the results-oriented project evaluation method and promote more challenging research. This improvement plan was finalized on August 26 after being reviewed at the 8th National Science and Technology Advisory Council, based on a total of 349 opinions collected from the research community through online channels and in-person meetings. The Ministry of Science and ICT is committed to improving administrative systems annually by gathering feedback from stakeholders and experts in accordance with Articles 28 and 29 of the National Research and Development Innovation Act. The main goals of this year's improvement plan are: 1) to promote challenging research through a paradigm shift in project evaluation; 2) to enhance autonomy and accountability in research funding execution; and 3) to improve administrative efficiency and systematize international collaborative research management. Previously, in July, the Ministry abolished the results-oriented grading and scoring-based project evaluation method. As a follow-up, a new project evaluation system is planned to be established by October. This new system will recognize not only projects with significant academic, technological, and industrial impacts but also 'excellent challenges' that, despite falling short of their goals, generate meaningful data and knowledge through trial and error. These projects will be eligible for follow-up research connections and government awards. Conversely, projects found to have legal violations, unmet contractual obligations, or research misconduct will be classified as 'inappropriate projects' and face penalties such as funding recovery and participation restrictions. Starting next year, a 'moving target' system will be fully implemented, allowing for flexible changes to research objectives. The process for changing objectives will be significantly expedited, and a negative guideline for approval will be presented to enhance predictability. Regarding research funding execution, the timing restrictions for introducing research facilities and equipment will be relaxed from 'two months before the end of the phase' to 'a certain period before the overall project end date.' If there is a delay in starting the next phase after the completion of a phase, the remaining direct costs will be automatically carried over, allowing essential personnel costs to be executed immediately even before the phase evaluation results are finalized. To prevent excessive concentration of research allowances on specific researchers, a new individual cap will be introduced, limiting it to 'within 100% of the personal labor cost allocation for each project,' in addition to the existing total cap (20% of labor costs) and distribution cap (70% for one person). To reduce administrative burdens, the Ministry will produce and distribute a standard settlement guide and a casebook of recognized and unrecognized research expenses. Procedures will also be improved to allow for integrated processing of annual reports in the following year when the agreement period for the first or final year is less than six months. In terms of international collaborative research, the Ministry plans to strengthen management and monitoring of the usage of research funds sent to overseas institutions and expand support for protecting rights related to intellectual property and other outcomes of domestic research institutions throughout the entire research and development process when signing agreements with foreign institutions. The Ministry of Science and ICT plans to begin implementing follow-up measures, including amendments to relevant laws and regulations such as the Enforcement Decree of the National Research and Development Innovation Act, starting in September, with the improved system set to be fully implemented in 2027. Park In-kyu, head of the Science and Technology Innovation Bureau, stated, "To maximize South Korea's R&D competitiveness, it is essential to create an autonomous research environment where researchers can engage in bold and challenging research. We will swiftly implement administrative improvements to eliminate unnecessary practices and establish a practical support system that can be immediately felt in the field, thereby completing an innovative research ecosystem based on trust and accountability."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-31 13:48:00
  • Seoul steps up ferry safety checks ahead of Chuseok
    Seoul steps up ferry safety checks ahead of Chuseok SEOUL, August 31 (AJP) - South Korea will conduct special safety inspections of 141 coastal passenger ferries nationwide ahead of the Chuseok holiday, the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries said Monday. The joint inspections will run for 12 days from Aug. 31 through Sept. 11, involving the ministry, the Korea Maritime Transportation Safety Authority, the Korea Coast Guard, local governments and civilian safety inspectors. This year’s four-day Chuseok holiday runs from Sept. 24 to 27. The Korea Maritime Transportation Safety Authority expects an average of about 77,000 people per day to travel by passenger ferry during the holiday period, up about 2.8 percent from normal levels. The inspections are aimed at preventing maritime accidents and ensuring safe and comfortable travel during one of the country’s busiest holiday periods. Officials will examine the condition and maintenance of key equipment, including hulls, engines and lifesaving equipment, as well as the deployment of safety personnel at passenger boarding and disembarkation areas. Inspectors will also check passenger facilities, compliance with workplace safety rules for crew members to prevent onboard accidents and safety management for passengers in vehicle decks. Minor defects identified during the inspections will be corrected immediately on site, while issues requiring additional work must be addressed before the government’s special Chuseok transportation period begins on Sept. 23. “We will thoroughly carry out advance inspections of passenger ferry safety management so that people can travel home with peace of mind and spend a warm Chuseok holiday with their families,” Oceans and Fisheries Minister Hwang Jong-woo said. AJP Takeaways · South Korea will inspect 141 coastal passenger ferries nationwide from Aug. 31 to Sept. 11 ahead of the Chuseok holiday. · Around 77,000 passengers per day are expected to use ferries during Chuseok, up about 2.8 percent from normal levels. · Safety checks will cover hulls, engines, lifesaving equipment, boarding areas, passenger facilities and vehicle decks to prevent maritime accidents. 2026-08-31 13:47:04
  • Ruling Party Launches Special Committee for Major Projects to Boost Regional Growth
    Ruling Party Launches Special Committee for Major Projects to Boost Regional Growth The Democratic Party of Korea has launched a special committee aimed at realizing three major projects, a key national agenda of the Lee Jae-myung administration, to ensure growth across all regions.Chaired by Kim Min-seok, the committee held its first meeting on the morning of August 31 at the National Assembly, reaffirming its commitment to the success of the projects focused on local-led growth.In his opening remarks, Kim defined the committee as the most important body within the party, stating, "This is the most critical task that the fate of the nation depends on. Given the significant responsibility, I hope everyone will contribute positively."Kim emphasized that the three major projects aim for nationwide growth, not just in the Honam region. He added, "We will also pay attention to the northern Gyeonggi and Gangwon border areas, which have felt neglected due to their proximity to Seoul, and ensure that all regions excluded from the five major and three special areas also achieve local growth."Lee Kwang-jae, the committee's senior vice-chairman, announced that the committee plans to operate with a sense of urgency.He expressed, "I hope South Korea becomes a place where opportunities attract people. Our dream is to make each city the best in the world. We need to reach conclusions swiftly and ensure that policies and budgets support real change."The committee officially began its activities with the first meeting, which included key members such as Vice-Chairmen Kwon Chil-seung and Kim Kyung-soo, Vice-Chair Lee Un-joo, and secretaries Jang Cheol-min and Han Sang-ik, along with numerous party and external figures.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-31 13:40:00
  • Heavy Rainfall Causes Damage in Yeonggwangs Nakwoldo
    Heavy Rainfall Causes Damage in Yeonggwang's Nakwoldo Heavy rainfall exceeding 345 millimeters has caused significant damage in Nakwoldo, Yeonggwang, Jeonnam.According to Yonhap News and the Jeonnam Gwangju Integrated Fire Department, from 9 p.m. the previous day to 9 a.m. today, Nakwoldo recorded 345.5 mm of rain, while Imjado in Sinan received 127.5 mm, Suncheon 31.3 mm, and Boseong 18 mm.Currently, heavy rain warnings are in effect for Yeonggwang and Sinan, while other cities and counties have seen a decrease in rainfall, leading to the lifting of previously issued heavy rain advisories.Due to a stagnant front, the cumulative rainfall over the past five days has reached 579 mm in Nakwoldo, 264.6 mm in Boseong, 256.9 mm in Suncheon, 251.5 mm in Gwangyang, and 203 mm in Suncheon.Additional rainfall of up to 60 mm is expected by this afternoon, but conditions are anticipated to improve afterward. However, scattered showers of up to 40 mm are forecasted for September 1 and 2.As of 9 a.m. today, there have been a total of 29 reports of damage due to the heavy rain.At around 8:05 a.m., a house in Beopseong-myeon, Yeonggwang, was reported to be flooded, and at 7:03 a.m., a tree fell in a residential area in Sijong-myeon, prompting safety measures.While there have been reports of collapsed walls and flooded yards, no injuries have been reported.A representative from the Korea Meteorological Administration stated, "In areas experiencing rain, gusty winds and thunderstorms are expected, so safety precautions should be taken."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-31 13:40:00
  • Yong Hye-in Signals Intent to Retain Lawmaker Position Amid Ministerial Nomination
    Yong Hye-in Signals Intent to Retain Lawmaker Position Amid Ministerial Nomination Yong Hye-in, the floor leader of the Basic Income Party and nominee for Minister of Gender Equality and Family, has expressed her intention to break with tradition and retain her position as a lawmaker. She cited concerns that resigning could harm the party due to its status as a minor party.On August 31, Yong shared her thoughts on Facebook, stating, "I cautiously convey my position regarding the tradition of resigning from the lawmaker role." She added, "I am aware of various concerns that my resignation could be perceived as a privilege or benefit. If my resignation were solely a personal issue unrelated to the party's direction, I would not have contemplated it if I were not the only lawmaker from the Basic Income Party."Yong emphasized, "Given the institutional gap in coalition politics, the Basic Income Party cannot succeed a proportional representation seat. If I resign as the party's only member in the National Assembly, it would face the difficulty of becoming a minor party." She also acknowledged, "I humbly ask for understanding regarding the challenges faced by minor parties, where personal decisions are inevitably linked to the party's direction."Additionally, she stated, "I have already informed the party that I will not run for a proportional representation seat in the next general election," and expressed her commitment to prepare diligently for the confirmation hearing, listening to both encouragement and criticism from the public.If Yong successfully passes the confirmation hearing, she will become the first minister born in the 1990s. While it is customary for lawmakers to resign from their positions when appointed as ministers, proportional representation lawmakers typically follow this practice. Yong was elected as a proportional representative from the Democratic Alliance, a satellite party of the ruling coalition, in the 22nd general election. If she resigns, former Roh Moo-hyun Foundation Secretary General Ko Jae-soon could succeed her.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-31 13:40:00