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  • Exploring the Wangdolcho Marine Science Station: A Laboratory at Sea
    Exploring the Wangdolcho Marine Science Station: A Laboratory at Sea "The Wangdolcho Marine Science Station is harder to reach than Dokdo. Fewer than 10,000 people have likely visited this site in our country."On August 28, a boat ride from Hupo Port in Uljin, North Gyeongsang Province, took about an hour and a half to reach a massive steel structure that stood like a lighthouse. This was the Wangdolcho Marine Science Station, the first of its kind in the East Sea.The Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology (KIOST) has invested 24.3 billion won over five years since 2021 to establish this facility, which reaches a total height of 53 meters. The station is equipped with 80 observation devices across 34 types, along with operational systems, communication facilities, power generation systems, desalination facilities, and living quarters.The Wangdolcho area is a key region for the northward flow of the East Korean Current throughout the year and serves as a seasonal intersection for cold currents. It also features underwater reef topography that supports over 120 species of marine plants. Scientifically, it is a crucial observation point for analyzing the marine environment of the East Sea.The Wangdolcho Marine Science Station is tasked with establishing a comprehensive marine observation system and monitoring long-term environmental changes in the East Sea due to climate change. The facility includes docking facilities, an inter-deck, a cellar deck, a main deck, and a roof deck.The inter-deck, which serves as a middle deck, houses equipment for underwater observation. A CTD device measures water temperature and salinity, operating at depths of 20 meters to monitor the East Sea.Moving up, the cellar deck comes into view, which contains the generator room, desalination room, and laboratories. This deck is where most of the station's core operations take place. Jeong Jin-yong, head of KIOST's Marine Data and Infrastructure Division, stated, "Most of the equipment that operates the station is located in the cellar deck. We draw seawater for experiments and conduct biological and chemical analyses here."One level higher, researchers' living quarters are visible. The main deck also features an observation control room, allowing real-time monitoring of various areas of the station. A team of four researchers typically stays in the living quarters for about a week, but provisions are made for them to remain for up to two weeks in case of adverse weather conditions.Jeong explained, "In the observation control room, we can manage all the observation equipment and check how the data is coming in. We can also see data on wave heights and wind conditions."Additionally, the station uses underwater cameras to continuously monitor the East Sea's environment. Videos captured by these cameras help identify fish species, and recently, artificial intelligence (AI) has been employed to assist in species identification. KIOST plans to accumulate more data to distinguish between native and newly introduced fish species.KIOST highlighted its use of 'ARMS' as a distinguishing feature from existing marine science stations. This artificial structure acts as a fish reef, allowing for periodic sampling of organisms that attach to it to measure changes in biodiversity.Jeong noted, "The systems are gradually being upgraded compared to previous stations. While earlier facilities focused primarily on physical oceanographic observation equipment, there is now an increasing number of biogeochemical and acidification measurement devices." 2026-08-31 12:40:00
  • Vietnamese Soccer Thrives Under Korean Coaches Park Hang-seo and Kim Sang-sik
    Vietnamese Soccer Thrives Under Korean Coaches Park Hang-seo and Kim Sang-sik The recent golden era of Vietnamese soccer is closely tied to the contributions of two South Korean coaches. Park Hang-seo paved the way for Vietnam's rise as a Southeast Asian powerhouse, while Kim Sang-sik has expanded that legacy with back-to-back ASEAN Cup victories. Their achievements extend beyond trophies, symbolizing the sports exchange between South Korea and Vietnam.The Vietnamese national team drew 2-2 with Thailand in the second leg of the 2026 ASEAN Cup final on August 26 at Hanoi's My Dinh National Stadium. Having won the first leg 2-0 in Thailand on August 21, Vietnam secured the championship with an aggregate score of 4-2.Kim Sang-sik Achieves Vietnam's First Back-to-Back TitlesKim has become the first coach to break through the barrier of consecutive titles for Vietnamese soccer. Although Vietnam won the regional championship in 2008 and 2018, they failed to defend their title in subsequent tournaments. After winning in 2008, they were eliminated in the semifinals, and the 2018 championship team, led by Park, lost to Thailand in the 2020 tournament, missing out on back-to-back victories. However, Kim led the team to consecutive ASEAN Cup titles in 2024 and 2026, along with a gold medal at the Southeast Asian Games and a championship at the U23 Southeast Asian Championship, bringing Vietnam's total to four regional titles.Despite the triumphs, the path to victory was not without challenges. Some matches saw the team lose momentum, allowing opponents to create unnecessary pressure. Nevertheless, Vietnam weathered these moments, relying on individual skills and game management to navigate crises. The team finished the tournament with six wins, two draws, 21 goals scored, and only three conceded. This success was the result of extensive preparation, with the team gathering in mid-June and training for nearly two months leading up to the final. They participated in training camps in South Korea and played friendly matches against K League clubs, culminating in a 4-0 victory over Myanmar in their final warm-up match.In comparison to Thailand, the difference in preparation was stark. Thailand's last competitive matches before the tournament were two friendlies with their best players during the FIFA international match window in June. In contrast, Vietnam combined experienced players with emerging young talent, broadening their roster with players like Hoang Hen, Nguyen Thai Lok, and Patrick Lezhang.Kim's success has reignited interest in Park Hang-seo, who led Vietnamese soccer's ascent from October 2017 to January 2023. Under his guidance, Vietnam achieved a runner-up finish at the 2018 U23 Asian Championship, a fourth-place finish at the 2018 Asian Games, victory in the 2018 ASEAN Football Federation Cup, back-to-back gold medals at the Southeast Asian Games in 2019 and 2021, and their first-ever qualification for the final round of the World Cup Asian qualifiers in 2022.Indonesian media have also compared the achievements of the two South Korean coaches. CNN Indonesia reported, "Kim Sang-sik has set an impressive record by winning four titles in three years," noting that he is the first to lead Vietnam to consecutive ASEAN Cup victories and has surpassed Park's record.The influence of both coaches extends beyond the field. On April 22, in Hanoi, Nguyen Phu Trong, General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam and President, hosted a dinner for South Korean President Lee Jae-myung and his wife, Kim Hye-kyung. Both Kim and Park were in attendance, with local media reporting that they were invited due to their contributions to Vietnamese soccer and were introduced as bridges between Vietnam and South Korea.Park also acknowledged the significance of the relationship between the two countries during the event. He expressed his gratitude on Facebook, stating, "It is truly an honor and a privilege to be invited to today's state dinner." He added, "Since the relationship between our two countries was elevated to a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2022, I hope the ties between Vietnam and South Korea continue to strengthen."Park Hang-seo: From Leading Vietnam's Golden Era to New Challenges in ThailandCurrently, Park is pursuing new challenges in Thailand after leaving Vietnam. Before his move, he served as an advisor for Binh Dinh FC until the end of the 2025-2026 season. After witnessing Binh Dinh FC's promotion to the V League on June 12, he officially joined Kanchanaburi Power FC. Park aims to lead Kanchanaburi Power FC to promotion in the 2026-2027 season after the team was relegated from the Thai top league last season and is now seeking immediate return.On August 29, during a local event in Thailand, Park was asked about Vietnam's ASEAN Cup victory. He responded, "I will answer if I can," avoiding a direct response. When asked if he watched the final, he confirmed he did, but smiled and refrained from sharing his thoughts. Thai media outlet Thairath commented that Park's reaction demonstrated his respect for both Vietnam, where he spent many years, and Thailand, where he currently resides.Meanwhile, the recent trajectory of Vietnamese soccer continues to be shaped by the two South Korean coaches. While Park elevated Vietnam to a Southeast Asian powerhouse, Kim has built on that foundation, achieving back-to-back championships and four titles overall. The names of these South Korean coaches have become symbols of success that transcend a single era, linking the two nations.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-31 12:32:00
  • SH to Accept Applications for 1,381 Long-Term Rental Housing Units
    SH to Accept Applications for 1,381 Long-Term Rental Housing Units The Seoul Housing and Communities Corporation (SH) is set to recruit residents and prospective residents for 1,381 long-term rental housing units, including major new developments in the Gangnam area.On August 31, SH announced the recruitment for its 51st long-term rental housing project. The official announcement will be posted on SH's website at 4 p.m. today.This supply consists of 291 units from nine new developments and 1,090 units from 70 re-supplied projects. The new supply includes 24 units at Raemian Leventus in Gangnam, 57 units at Cheongdam Leel, 133 units at The DH Bangbae in Seocho, and 20 units at Othier Banpo.Additionally, there will be nine units at Doosan We’ve the Prestige in Guro, two units at the Imun 3 Complex Public Office in Dongdaemun, nine units at Seongdong Xi River View in Seongdong, 36 units at Yeongdeungpo Xi Dignity in Yeongdeungpo, and one unit at Urban Heim 102 in Jungnang.The re-supplied units include 705 units from SH's construction projects in Segok and Magok districts, 312 units from purchased projects like The DH Daechi Edelweiss and Maple Xi, and 73 units from Seoul Ritz No. 3, totaling 1,090 units. The re-supply also includes recruitment for prospective residents.Long-term rental housing is offered at a deposit level below 80% of the surrounding market price, allowing residents to stay for up to 20 years without conversion to ownership.Eligibility for application includes being a resident of Seoul as of the recruitment announcement date and being an adult member of a household without home ownership. Income limits apply based on housing size, with thresholds set at 105% or 150% of the average monthly income for urban workers. For dual-income households, the limits are relaxed to 140% or 200%.Applicants must also meet asset limits of 662 million won and vehicle value limits of 45.42 million won. Families with children may have their income and asset criteria relaxed by up to 20 percentage points.For general supply, priority is determined based on income conditions, residence, and the number of subscriptions to the comprehensive subscription savings plan for units with a size of 85 square meters or less. For units exceeding 85 square meters, priority is based on the amount deposited and the duration of the subscription.Priority is given to seniors, people with disabilities, caregivers for elderly parents, families with two or more children, and veterans. Those who do not qualify for priority will automatically be considered as general applicants for the same unit and size.Applications can be submitted online or in person. First priority applications will be accepted from September 14 to 15, second priority on September 16, and third and fourth priority on September 17. If the number of applicants exceeds a certain multiple of the available units, subsequent applications will not be accepted.Document review candidates will be announced on October 14, and final winners will be revealed on March 5, 2027. Move-in for re-supplied units is scheduled for after April 2027, while the move-in dates for new supply will vary based on construction completion.SH emphasized that long-term rental housing is public housing provided to ensure residential stability for non-homeowning Seoul citizens at a deposit level below 80% of the surrounding market price, and urged caution regarding misinformation surrounding this initiative.Meanwhile, among existing long-term rental tenants, approximately 9,500 households are approaching contract expiration within the next five years. On August 25, the Seoul city government stated that it is a principle that tenants must vacate after the maximum residency period of 20 years, denying the possibility of contract extensions or alternative rental housing offers.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-31 12:28:00
  • Gwangju City Apologizes for Taiwan Pavilion Controversy
    Gwangju City Apologizes for Taiwan Pavilion Controversy Gwangju City issued an apology on August 31 for the recent controversy surrounding the Taiwan Pavilion at the Gwangju Biennale, attributing it to a lack of communication among participating institutions.The city stated it would thoroughly investigate the causes of the disruptions in the event's preparation and take appropriate measures.Officials emphasized their commitment to improving the overall operation of the pavilion to prevent similar incidents in the future.They also reaffirmed their respect for the 'One China' principle, aligning with the South Korean government's diplomatic policy.Gwangju City clarified that the name 'Taiwan Pavilion' is merely an expression assigned to participating artists in the realm of art and does not imply official recognition of Taiwan as a sovereign state by Gwangju City or the Gwangju Biennale.The city expressed its intention to maintain a stable and friendly cooperative relationship with China, hoping to further expand cultural and economic exchanges and cooperation in various fields.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-31 12:24:00
  • New Minister Nominee Pledges Regulatory Reform to Prevent Repeat of Tada Incident
    New Minister Nominee Pledges Regulatory Reform to Prevent Repeat of Tada Incident Lee So-young, the nominee for Minister of Small and Medium Enterprises and Startups, stated on August 31, "I will ease unreasonable regulations with the mindset of a Minister of Regulatory Reform, going beyond just supporting small and medium enterprises."On her first day at the personnel hearing preparation office in Yeouido, Seoul, she told reporters, "No matter how much the government provides mentoring and support to entrepreneurs, if they are blocked by regulations, their ideas will inevitably be shelved."She emphasized, "I will ensure that incidents like 'Tada' do not happen again," referring to the ride-hailing service that was forced out of the market due to opposition from the taxi industry. This statement indicates her intention to prevent similar situations from recurring.Lee promised that the Ministry would play an active role in areas where new and existing industries collide.She mentioned that President Lee Jae-myung has instructed her to take direct responsibility for the growth of small businesses and the challenges faced by micro-enterprises as the era of entrepreneurship through venture companies begins in South Korea. She expressed her commitment to accelerating support for small businesses and micro-enterprises struggling with management difficulties due to domestic and international uncertainties."The benefits of the booming export-oriented large enterprises must reach small and medium enterprises as well," she said, adding that she would assess the current situation and devise policy solutions. Drawing from her childhood experience of her mother running a restaurant to make a living, she stated, "I will creatively consider how to alleviate the difficulties faced by small business owners in this rapidly changing environment."In response to concerns about her expertise in the Ministry's work, Lee highlighted her experience in the National Assembly. As a lawyer, she has primarily worked in the climate and environmental sectors.Lee noted, "As the secretary of the National Assembly's Special Committee on Budget and Accounts, I have deeply engaged in issues such as the recovery of small business management, revitalizing local economies, and supporting the AI transition and exports of small and medium enterprises," adding that she has directly led efforts to increase related budgets.This week, Lee plans to visit key associations related to small businesses, micro-enterprises, and venture startups to hear their voices. She emphasized, "Based on my expertise and experience in legislation and budgeting, I will implement policies that will genuinely benefit small and medium enterprises and micro-businesses."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-31 12:20:20
  • Goldman Sachs and CLSA Join NextTrade, Expanding Foreign Brokerage Participation
    Goldman Sachs and CLSA Join NextTrade, Expanding Foreign Brokerage Participation Foreign brokerage firms are increasingly participating in the alternative trading system NextTrade (NXT). Following the recent additions of Morgan Stanley and Merrill Lynch, Goldman Sachs and CLSA Korea have joined this month, expanding the trading base for foreign investors in South Korea.On August 31, NextTrade announced that it approved the membership applications of Goldman Sachs' Seoul branch and CLSA Korea on August 28.Both firms plan to complete the implementation of a Smart Order Routing (SOR) system by the end of the year, after which they will begin trading on NextTrade. The SOR system automatically selects the most favorable market for order execution among multiple trading venues.With this latest addition, the total number of NextTrade members has increased to 38. Notably, five foreign brokerage firms have joined since May, marking a significant increase in foreign participation.Macquarie was the first foreign brokerage to join NextTrade in May, followed by the approval of Morgan Stanley and Merrill Lynch's memberships on August 1.Morgan Stanley plans to complete its SOR system by November, while Merrill Lynch aims to finish its system by the end of the year and participate in all markets, including pre- and after-market trading.The entry of foreign brokerages aligns with the growing trading volume of foreign investors on NextTrade. When NextTrade launched in March 2022, foreign trading accounted for only 0.4% of the total trading volume, but this figure has steadily increased.By June of this year, the share of foreign investor trading had risen to 12.8%, up from 9.3% in June 2022, marking a 3.5 percentage point increase in one year. In July, this figure further increased to 14%, a rise of 1.2 percentage points from the previous month.NextTrade believes that the expansion of participation by global brokerages will improve the trading environment for foreign investors in South Korean stocks.Kim Hak-soo, CEO of NextTrade, stated, "The membership of Goldman Sachs and CLSA Korea marks the beginning of significant participation by global brokerage firms in NextTrade. We expect this will further enhance the trading conditions for foreign investors in South Korean stocks." He added, "We will support the market participation preparations of both companies while continuing to back the growing trading demand from domestic and international investors as a leading trading infrastructure for Korean stocks."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-31 12:16:00
  • Cheon Ha-ram Apologizes for Partys Recent Struggles, Vows to Continue Independent Path
    Cheon Ha-ram Apologizes for Party's Recent Struggles, Vows to Continue Independent Path Cheon Ha-ram, the acting leader of the Reform Party and floor leader, apologized on August 31 for causing deep disappointment and concern among the public and party members due to the recent turmoil within the party. He announced plans to continue on an independent path while preparing for the upcoming party convention to elect new leadership.During a press conference at the National Assembly, Cheon stated, "I sincerely bow my head in apology to everyone who has been watching the Reform Party's direction with concern." He reflected on the results of the recent local elections, describing them as a heavy and shocking warning that undermined the party's very foundation and a harsh reprimand from the public.He emphasized that the party should have sought fundamental solutions through deep reflection and comprehensive changes. Cheon acknowledged that, even before the shock of the electoral defeat had faded, the party faced a series of setbacks, including the controversy surrounding Jeong Yi-han's nomination, which hindered the party's ability to recover and present satisfactory reflections and measures to the public.Regarding the conflict with party leader Lee Jun-seok, Cheon remarked, "In moments of crisis, Representative Lee has been at the forefront, working to find a breakthrough and proposing various reform measures. I deeply reflect on my shortcomings in not being able to engage in more vigorous discussions and efforts for reform and in failing to manage the party flexibly during this crisis."He assured that the party would prepare for the upcoming leadership election calmly and methodically, in accordance with the party's rules and regulations. Cheon stressed that the new leadership would continue the necessary reforms and renewal efforts more proactively and boldly.Looking ahead, he stated, "We will steadily build a strategic foundation for victory in the 2028 general elections and continue our lonely path of standing against unjust compromises with vested interests."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-31 12:16:00
  • Samsung, SK hynix dominate Koreas stock-rich C-suite
    Samsung, SK hynix dominate Korea's stock-rich C-suite SEOUL, August 31 (AJP) -Nine out of 10 stock-rich C-suite executives are affiliated with Samsung Electronics and SK hynix, underscoring the sharp rise of the stock-market stature of South Korea’s two chipmakers. A total of 398 executives at listed companies affiliated with Samsung, SK, Hyundai Motor and LG held shares worth more than 1 billion won ($720,000) as of Aug. 24, according to a report released Monday by corporate analysis firm Korea CXO Research Institute. Their combined holdings were valued at 1.05 trillion won. Samsung Electronics accounted for 256 of the 398 executives, or 64.3 percent of the total, while SK hynix had 107, or 26.9 percent. Together, the two chipmakers accounted for 363 executives. That was 91.2 percent of those with shareholdings worth more than 1 billion won. The gap was even wider by group. Samsung affiliates had 269 executives above the threshold and SK had 122, meaning the two conglomerates together represented 98.2 percent of the total. Hyundai Motor Group had just four, while LG had three. The research institute attributed much of the gap to differences in compensation practices. Samsung Electronics and SK hynix have increasingly paid part of employee and executive performance bonuses in company shares, helping executives build larger holdings. The impact was clear over the past three months. The number of Samsung Electronics executives with holdings worth more than 1 billion won jumped 50.6 percent to 256 from 170 on May 13. At SK hynix, the figure rose 21.6 percent to 107 from 88. Combined, the number rose 40.7 percent even as share prices fell over the same period. Samsung Electronics shares dropped 9.5 percent and SK hynix fell 15.4 percent. At the top of the list, 12 executives held company shares worth at least 10 billion won. Six were from Samsung, five from SK and one from Hyundai Motor Group, while none came from LG. Samsung Electronics President Roh Tae-moon topped the list with 124,280 shares valued at about 31.94 billion won based on the company's Aug. 24 closing price of 257,000 won. He was the only executive outside the controlling families of the four groups with more than 30 billion won in company shares. SK hynix President Kwak Noh-jung ranked second with holdings worth 23.92 billion won. SK Square Chief Investment Officer Song Jason followed with 18.31 billion won. Samsung Electronics President Park Hak-kyu held 18.08 billion won, while Hyundai AutoEver executive Suh Dong-kwon had 16.55 billion won. The institute examined 62 listed affiliates of the four groups and calculated the value of common shares held by executives named in their first-half regulatory filings using Aug. 24 closing prices. AJP Takeaways • Samsung Electronics and SK hynix executives account for 91.2 percent of executives outside the controlling families at South Korea’s four biggest groups with company shares worth more than 1 billion won. • Their numbers rose 40.7 percent over three months even as both chipmakers’ share prices fell, pointing to the effect of stock-based compensation. • Samsung Electronics President Roh Tae-moon topped the ranking with holdings worth about 31.94 billion won. 2026-08-31 12:11:36
  • Labor Department to Monitor 8,000 Wage Violating Businesses Before Chuseok
    Labor Department to Monitor 8,000 Wage Violating Businesses Before Chuseok The government will intensively monitor 8,000 businesses, including high-risk construction sites, that have repeatedly reported wage arrears ahead of Chuseok. If significant wage violations occur, local labor office heads will directly oversee the resolution.The Ministry of Employment and Labor announced on August 31 that it will operate a 'Wage Arrears Intensive Settlement Guidance Period' from September 1 to 23.Last year, the total amount of wage arrears reached 2.0679 trillion won, a 1.1% increase from the previous year. Affected workers numbered 262,304, with 90.2% of the arrears, amounting to 1.8644 trillion won, resolved. The total arrears have exceeded 2 trillion won for two consecutive years.In response, the government will first conduct a comprehensive investigation and supervision of businesses with multiple wage arrears complaints and those in high-risk sectors like construction.The number of businesses under supervision has increased by 2,000 from last year’s 6,000 to 8,000. The Labor Department plans to guide employers to ensure wage payments are made before Chuseok and will continuously monitor the settlement status. In cases where the arrears are substantial or involve many affected workers, or where disputes arise due to wage violations, the heads of local employment and labor offices will visit the sites directly.For employers facing financial difficulties that may lead to wage arrears, the government will provide information on a loan program to encourage voluntary settlement. Conversely, employers who fail to pay wages despite having the means or who repeatedly violate wage laws will face strict measures, including criminal investigations.The Labor Department has increased the loan limit for employers seeking to resolve wage arrears from 150 million won to 200 million won. Large employers with real estate collateral may receive special loans of up to 1 billion won.Kim Young-hoon, Minister of Employment and Labor, stated, "We will ensure that the guidance and inspections for settling wage arrears before the holidays are not a one-time effort, and we will monitor more businesses than in previous years. Local office heads will personally visit sites to fully support the rights of workers affected by wage arrears."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-31 12:04:20
  • Youth Overcoming Job Search Challenges: Labor Ministry Selects 26 Exemplary Cases
    Youth Overcoming Job Search Challenges: Labor Ministry Selects 26 Exemplary Cases A competition will be held to share the experiences of young people who have overcome job search abandonment and social isolation to re-enter the workforce. The Ministry of Employment and Labor announced on August 31 that it will host the 'Exemplary Case Competition for the Youth Advancement Support Project and Youth Growth Project' from September 1 to 30. Participants can include young people involved in the two projects and the organizations that operated the programs. They can submit experiences of regaining confidence or successfully finding employment, as well as examples of supporting youth participation and growth in the field. The Youth Advancement Support Project aims to identify young people who have been unemployed for more than six months or have given up job searching due to social isolation, helping them regain motivation and confidence in their job search. The Youth Growth Project provides programs tailored to local conditions, centered around 'youth cafes,' offering support for daily recovery, employment, networking, and mentoring. Its goal is to prevent young people from falling into long-term unemployment or abandoning their job search. In the Youth Advancement Support Project category, three grand prize winners, six excellence award winners, and seven encouragement award winners will be selected, totaling 16 awards. In the Youth Growth Project category, two grand prize winners, four excellence award winners, and four encouragement award winners will be chosen, totaling 10 awards. A total of 26 awards will be given, with the grand prize and excellence award winners receiving Minister of Employment and Labor awards. Depending on the award category and level, prizes worth 300,000 to 1,000,000 won will be distributed. Details on the competition guidelines and submission methods can be found on the Ministry's website. Ha Chang-yong, Director of Youth Employment Policy at the Ministry, stated, "The recovery and achievement experiences of one individual can serve as the most persuasive message for other young people facing similar challenges. I hope more young people find courage in each other's stories and discover their own potential."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-31 12:04:20