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Ministry of Science and ICT Releases Scores for AI Foundation Model Project The Ministry of Science and ICT has released the scores for the second stage evaluation of the 'Independent Artificial Intelligence (AI) Foundation Model' project. SK Telecom (SKT) achieved the highest score, while Motif Technology received the lowest. The score difference between SKT and Motif was 4.8 points.On August 27, the ministry disclosed the detailed scores from the second stage evaluation of the project. SKT scored 70.6, followed by Upstage at 69.9, LG AI Research Institute at 69, and Motif at 65.8.Earlier, Motif issued a statement requesting the release of detailed scores, stating, "It is necessary to explain why the benchmark conversion scores and expert evaluations yielded conflicting results so that the company and the industry can understand." The ministry responded that "other elite teams also agreed, and detailed scores will be made public." The second stage evaluation consisted of three components: benchmark evaluation (AAII, NIA), expert evaluation, and user evaluation (AI experts and the general public).In the AAII evaluation, Motif scored the highest with 11.9 points, followed by Upstage at 9.4, SKT at 8.8, and LG AI Research Institute at 7.8.In the NIA evaluation, SKT's elite team ranked first with 13.4 points, followed closely by Upstage at 13.3, LG AI Research Institute at 12.8, and Motif at 12.7.In the expert evaluation, LG AI Research Institute received the highest score of 29.5, with SKT at 29.3, Upstage at 29.1, and Motif at 27.1.Among 49 representatives from AI startups participating in the user evaluation, SKT scored the highest at 11.6 points, followed by LG AI Research Institute at 11.3, Upstage at 10.8, and Motif at 8.4.In the general public evaluation, which involved 185 participants, LG AI Research Institute ranked first, while SKT came in second with 7.5 points, Upstage third with 7.3 points, and Motif fourth with 5.7 points.The Ministry of Science and ICT emphasized that the ranking results aim to drive qualitative growth and expansion of the domestic AI ecosystem, not merely to create a ranking competition or to eliminate teams. The ministry added, "We hope that following the release of these results, our companies will be evaluated not just by scores or rankings, but that our AI ecosystem will develop into one where new and competitive AI companies continuously challenge the status quo." 2026-08-27 20:12:00 -
Democratic Party Workshop Focuses on Legislative Goals Ahead of National Assembly On August 27, Democratic Party lawmakers exchanged greetings during a workshop held at the Inspire Hotel in Incheon, ahead of the regular National Assembly session starting in September.As lawmakers took their seats around 1:40 p.m., they engaged in discussions about legislative tasks to be addressed during the upcoming session.Before the main event began, Kim Seung-won, the ruling party's floor leader on the National Assembly's Legislation and Judiciary Committee, remarked that the workshop would likely take place in a serious atmosphere due to the recent flooding in Nepal, adding, "Today, it seems we will be in a mood of prayer for the safe return of the missing persons."At around 2:06 p.m., following the direction of Jeon Eun-soo, the party's spokesperson, lawmakers removed their outer garments to match the 'white top' dress code. Jeon emphasized that the workshop was a platform to discuss the governance of the Lee Jae-myung administration, urging lawmakers to refrain from individual media interviews.As the workshop commenced, lawmakers listened attentively to remarks from party leader Kim Min-seok and floor leader Han Byeong-do. Notably, lawmaker Hwang Hee, who has been in the spotlight due to the recent 'youth bus housing controversy,' arrived at the workshop around 2:18 p.m., seemingly aware of media presence.During the workshop, Kim Min-seok presented a plaque of appreciation to former leader Jung Cheong-rae and other previous leadership members. Jung, who had served as a senior member, expressed surprise, stating, "I had no idea such an event was taking place; I was quite taken aback." When Kim presented the plaque, Jung responded with a deep bow, prompting applause from other lawmakers.Kim also mentioned a canceled luncheon with President Lee Jae-myung, which stirred some murmurs in the room. He explained that President Lee had met with the party three times, initially with former leaders including Jung and Song Young-gil, and most recently with the entire leadership on August 25.When Kim stated, "On the 28th, we will all meet," some lawmakers questioned whether the meeting had been canceled, causing a brief commotion in the venue.Throughout the workshop sessions, several lawmakers were seen leaving their seats intermittently. As they exited, nearby reporters approached, asking about the discussions and whether any significant content had emerged.At one point, Jung Cheong-rae expressed dissatisfaction with Kim's comments about him during the opening remarks and left the workshop. He departed with Kim Young-hwan around 5:32 p.m. and did not return until after the final briefing by floor spokesperson Lee Joo-hee, which concluded at 6:45 p.m.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-27 20:12:00
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HD Hyundai Heavy Industries Union Approves Strike Vote with 95% Support The labor union of HD Hyundai Heavy Industries approved a strike vote on August 27 due to difficulties in wage and collective bargaining negotiations.According to the company and union, 5,607 out of 8,127 union members participated in the vote held from August 25 to August 27, with 5,379 members (66.18% of the total membership and 95.93% of voters) voting in favor.This approval grants the union the right to strike legally. Earlier, on August 24, the Central Labor Relations Commission determined that the gap between the two sides was too wide and declared a 'cessation of mediation,' allowing the union to secure its legal strike rights.The company and union plan to attempt negotiations again during the 18th round of talks scheduled for September 1. If these negotiations also fail, the union is expected to initiate a partial strike to increase pressure on the company.Since their first meeting on June 2, the two sides have held 15 rounds of negotiations but have been unable to narrow their differences regarding wages and bonuses. The union is demanding a monthly base salary increase of 149,600 won (excluding seniority increases), a 100% increase in bonuses, and a minimum distribution of 30% of operating profits. They are also requesting that vacation pay and congratulatory bonuses be included in regular wages, as well as an expansion of new hires.In contrast, the company has stated that it is difficult to accept these demands due to fluctuations in the market and investment burdens. A representative from HD Hyundai Heavy Industries said, 'We will engage sincerely in negotiations to narrow the gap between the two sides.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-27 20:00:00
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Regulators Lower Loan Barriers by Exempting 70% of Mid-Rate Loans from Caps The financial authorities are easing total loan regulation rules for mid- to low-credit borrowers in the banking sector. The aim is to expand incentives for mid- and low-credit loans, encouraging funds to flow to lower-income households.According to the financial sector on the 27th, the authorities have decided to exclude 70% of private mid-rate loans handled by banks from the total household loan calculation. This adjustment comes after the household loan total target was doubled as part of the August 13 real estate measures.Previously, only 30% of the amount of private mid-rate loans was excluded from total loan management. For instance, if a bank issued a mid-rate loan of 10 million won, only 7 million won would be counted towards the household loan total. Under the new incentive expansion, only 3 million won will be counted this year, reflecting a 70% exclusion.Earlier, the authorities had decided to fully exempt mid-rate loans from the second financial sector from total loan regulation limits. While savings banks previously excluded 80% of the increase and credit finance companies excluded 40%, starting this month, all second financial sectors, including mutual finance, will have a 100% exclusion rate.The significant expansion of incentives for mid-rate loans is seen as a measure to lower the barriers for mid- and low-credit borrowers. Concerns had been raised that stricter household loan management could reduce financial accessibility for these borrowers, who are relatively more at risk of delinquency and default.As the government strengthens its inclusive finance policy, banks have recently been launching credit loan products targeting mid- and low-credit borrowers.Shinhan Bank launched the 'Super Sol (SOL) Mid-Rate Loan' on the 21st, aimed at mid- to low-credit borrowers in the bottom 50% of external credit scores (NICE·KCB). This non-face-to-face credit loan product offers a limit of 20 million won per person, with fixed interest rates ranging from 5.5% to 6.9%. Hana Bank also introduced the 'Hana OneQ Safe Mid-Rate Loan' in June, providing a fixed interest rate of 5.5% for individuals with credit scores in the bottom 50%.KB Kookmin Bank plans to supply 1.53 trillion won in private mid-rate loans this year. Woori Financial Group also aims to provide 1.1 trillion won in mid-rate loans at the group level.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-27 19:52:00
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National Growth Fund to Invest $1.6 Billion in Robotics and K-Content 국민성장펀드가 휴머노이드 로봇과 K-콘텐츠 등 첨단전략사업 7개 기업에 총 1조6000억원의 자금을 투입한다. 금융위원회는 27일 국민성장펀드 기금운용심의회를 열고 원익로보틱스와 CJ포디플렉스 등 총 7건의 사업에 대한 지분투자와 저리대출 지원을 승인했다고 밝혔다. 이번 승인으로 국민성장펀드의 누적 승인·결성 규모는 총 31건, 17조9000억원으로 늘었다. 1~8월 중 지방 투자 비중은 42.5%로 집계됐다.우선 국민성장펀드는 원익로보틱스의 전북 완주 로봇핸드 생산공장과 인공지능 전환(AX)센터 신축에 1500억원을 직접 투자한다. 전환우선주(CPS)를 인수하는 방식이다. 나머지 2000억원은 민간 투자자 지분투자방식으로 조달할 계획이다. 원익로보틱스는 조달한 자금을 산업용 휴머노이드와 로봇핸드 생산시설 구축, 핵심 부품 내재화, 연구개발 등에 투입한다. 특수상영관 기술 전문회사인 'CJ포디플렉스'에 대한 2200억원 규모의 지분투자도 함께 승인됐다. 첨단전략산업기금이 500억원을 출자하고, 나머지 1700억원은 우리은행 등 민간 금융권이 맡는다. CJ포디플렉스는 이번 투자로 4DX·스크린X 등 자체 기술특별관을 전 세계 2000여개까지 늘린다는 계획이다.아울러 금융위는 시스템반도체 후공정 기업 두산테스나에는 경기 평택 신공장 건설과 안성 공장 증설을 위해 첨단전략산업기금이 5600억원을 저리대출로 지원하기로 했다. 두산테스나는 이를 통해 평택에 인공지능(AI) 반도체 등 시스템반도체 테스트 공장을 새로 짓고 안성공장 두 곳의 테스트 장비를 확충한다. LG에너지솔루션에는 충북 청주 차세대 이차전지 생산공장 구축을 위해 3000억원을 7년 만기 장기·고정금리로 대출한다. 이외에 TKG솔믹스 반도체 부품 국산화에 1000억원, 삼동·경보제약의 미래차·바이오 공장 증설에 각각 100억원과 200억원을 각각 저리로 대출한다.금융위 관계자는 "하반기 중 결성이 완료될 간접투자 방식 블라인드펀드까지 포함하면 올해 국민성장펀드 승인 목표인 30조원을 초과 달성할 수 있을 것으로 전망한다"라고 설명했다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-27 19:28:00
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Cheongdo County Launches Initiatives to Address Population Decline Cheongdo County in North Gyeongsang Province is taking significant steps to address population decline by focusing on care services, youth settlement, expanding the resident population, and future agriculture.With the county's registered population recently falling below 40,000, officials aim to enhance the region's sustainability through improved living conditions rather than merely increasing population numbers.On August 25, Cheongdo County held a meeting of the Population Decline Response Committee to review a basic plan tailored to local conditions.The plan consists of three strategies, nine practical tasks, 37 projects, and 52 detailed initiatives.The first strategy, 'Mutual Care Settlement Ecosystem,' focuses on fostering a community-based care system, improving living and settlement environments, and establishing a 365-day care system to ensure stable living conditions for all residents, from children to the elderly.The second strategy, 'Planting Local Life in Cheongdo,' emphasizes attracting external populations to stay and settle in the area. This includes creating support centers for living assistance and rural housing, allowing newcomers to experience life in Cheongdo before settling down. The plan also aims to support youth entrepreneurship and creative activities through initiatives like the 054 Space and Cheongdo Media Local Workshop.Additionally, the county plans to expand stay-type tourism by utilizing local cultural and tourism resources, such as forest healing tourism and the Cheongdo Tour program, to increase the influx of residents.The third strategy, 'Cultivating Future-Responsive Rural Values,' focuses on strengthening the sustainable foundation of agriculture and rural areas by nurturing young farmers, promoting smart farming, developing rural convergence industries, and fostering local brands.Cheongdo County aims to support stable farming activities while also expanding industrial foundations that enable young people to work and settle in the area.The county's shift in population policy to prioritize living conditions and resident population is linked to changes in the local demographic structure.Recently, Cheongdo's registered population has dropped below 40,000, with a high proportion of elderly residents. In contrast, the number of visitors coming to Cheongdo for tourism and leisure is relatively high compared to the registered population.As a result, Cheongdo County plans to focus not only on increasing the registered population but also on enhancing the stay of external visitors and connecting this to returning to farming, settling down, and entrepreneurship.The basic plan reflects a direction that integrates care, housing, youth activities, tourism, and agriculture into a cohesive settlement ecosystem.Cheongdo County Mayor Park Kwon-hyun stated, "Addressing the issue of population decline is not just about increasing numbers; it is crucial to create an environment where people can raise children, work, and start new lives in Cheongdo."He added, "We will actively incorporate the various opinions presented at this committee to implement population decline response projects that residents can feel, and we will create a sustainable foundation for settlement and resident population that leverages Cheongdo's unique strengths."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-27 19:24:00
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Memorable Faces of Actors That Leave a Lasting Impression The musical The Rocky Horror Show, which premiered in London in 1973, remains a staple on stage and was adapted into the film The Rocky Horror Picture Show in 1975. Despite its status as a quintessential cult film, few have actually watched it from start to finish. Nevertheless, the face of the film's protagonist is likely etched in the memories of many. The striking visual of Dr. Frank-N-Furter, portrayed by Tim Curry, has become synonymous with the work and a symbol of cult cinema. Tim Curry's iconic face is not limited to Dr. Frank-N-Furter. In the 1990 two-part ABC miniseries It, based on Stephen King's novel, he portrayed Pennywise, a character that has become emblematic of clowns. Although Bill Skarsgård later took on the same role in the film adaptation, he has often been compared unfavorably to Curry's portrayal. Throughout his career, Curry took on numerous roles, but only a few faces remain in the public's memory. These faces continue to live on in film long after the actor has passed. Another actor with a memorable face is Heath Ledger, who played the Joker in Christopher Nolan's The Dark Knight. Ledger's portrayal featured a white-painted face and a grotesquely grinning mouth, combined with a disturbing habit of licking his lips, creating a legendary version of the character. Ledger died in 2008, just before the film's release. Ironically, his death intensified the impact of the Joker's image. He posthumously won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, and his Joker has set a standard for many villains that followed. Robin Williams left behind a very different legacy. In Dead Poets Society, he played John Keating, a teacher who encouraged students to view the world from different perspectives. When Keating was forced to leave the school due to unfortunate circumstances, students climbed onto their desks to bid him farewell, leading to the famous line, “O Captain! My Captain!” The image of Keating smiling silently at his students is likely the first face that comes to mind for those who remember Williams. After his passing, this scene evokes a complex emotion, serving as both a farewell from students to their teacher and a goodbye from audiences to the actor. While Williams was known for making people laugh, the face that lingers longest after his death is that of the calm and gentle Keating. In South Korea, there is also a face that resonates deeply. Actor Byeon Hee-bong passed away in September 2023 after battling pancreatic cancer. In Bong Joon-ho's The Host, Byeon portrayed Park Hee-bong, a father running a snack shop by the Han River, worried about his grown family. As a father of a middle school daughter, he compassionately defended his underachieving son, explaining the terrible smell of a parent who has lost a child. His final expression during a confrontation with the monster is considered a highlight of the film. With no resentment or fear, he gestures for his children to flee, embodying the essence of a father. Among the many fathers depicted in Korean cinema, Byeon Hee-bong's face in The Host has become a defining image for audiences. Finally, there is Ahn Sung-ki, whose significance is somewhat different. Rather than being associated with a specific character, he symbolizes the history of Korean cinema itself. Debuting as a child actor in 1957, Ahn has been one of the most familiar faces to Korean audiences throughout his life. His presence in any film is instantly recognizable, a face that needs no introduction. With over 100 films to his credit, Ahn has many memorable faces, but one stands out. After much consideration, I would highlight his role as a struggling comedian in the 1989 film Comedian. I still remember watching it on TV during my childhood, when Korean films were occasionally aired. In this debut film by director Lee Myung-se, Ahn played Lee Jong-se, a third-rate comedian. His awkward yet endearing, bright yet lonely face seemed to convey something to the young viewers of that time. Ahn Sung-ki's face has captured the joys and sorrows of ordinary people, preserving countless moments in Korean cinema. He passed away on January 5, 2026. Ultimately, what actors leave behind is not just their filmography. A single scene, expression, or voice can resonate far longer than the titles of dozens of films. Just like Tim Curry's Dr. Frank, Heath Ledger's Joker, Robin Williams' Keating, Byeon Hee-bong's Park Hee-bong, and Ahn Sung-ki's many faces. Though the actor may have departed from this world, their face becomes a lasting image in our memories. Each time a film is revisited or a specific scene is encountered, that face comes alive again, making us forget that the actor is no longer with us. Perhaps the most beautiful fate bestowed upon an actor is to remain in the memories of others long after they are gone. A face that continues to appear in someone’s memory, even after the screen goes dark. Though the actor may die, the face they left behind continues to exist among us.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-27 19:04:00
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Celebrity's Dream of Defecating Leads to Lottery Win: 330th Pension Lottery Results "After buying the lottery, I dreamed of a famous celebrity defecating in a bathroom."As interest grows in the winning numbers for the 330th Pension Lottery 720+ on August 27, the story of a winner from the 231st round, who won the first prize (1 ticket) and second prize (4 tickets), is drawing attention.In a post on the Donghaeng Lottery winners' board, the winner shared, "I buy lottery tickets about once or twice a month when I pass by a lottery sales point. While waiting in line to buy a lotto ticket, I saw a lady in front of me purchasing a pension lottery ticket and thought, 'Maybe I should buy a pension lottery ticket this time.'"The winner recalled, "On Saturday evening, my spouse checked the lotto, Spitto, and pension lottery results, and exclaimed, 'Huh?' I thought they were joking and checked the tickets myself.""I was stunned to win the first and second prizes. I never expected to win again after purchasing a pension lottery ticket for the second time since last year, and I am very grateful," the winner expressed.The winner, who purchased the ticket at a lottery sales point in Heungdeok-gu, Cheongju, responded to a question about a memorable dream by saying, "After buying the lottery, I dreamed of a famous celebrity defecating in a bathroom on the day of the pension lottery draw."When asked about the types of lottery tickets they usually buy, the winner said, "I occasionally buy lotto and Spitto tickets."Regarding plans for the winnings, the winner stated, "I plan to use it as capital for a business I am planning."Meanwhile, the winning numbers for the 330th Pension Lottery 720+ will be available after 7:05 PM today (27th).* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-27 18:52:00
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Jang Dong-hyuk to Visit Jeju Police Over False Closure of Missing Person Case 장동혁 국민의힘 대표는 27일 장미란씨 실종 사건 허위 종결 등과 관련해 연찬회를 마치는 대로 제주도로 향해 시신이 발견된 현장과 제주경찰청을 방문하겠다고 밝혔다. 장 대표는 이날 경기 고양시에서 열린 국민의힘 국회의원 연찬회 도중 기자들과 만나 "저와 지도부는 28일 연찬회를 마치는 대로 제주도로 가서 장 씨의 시신이 발견된 현장을 방문하고, 제주경찰청을 방문해서 사건들의 진상을 낱낱이 밝히고 국민에 알리겠다"고 말했다. 장 대표는 "최근 제주도에서 실종 사건들을 허위로 종결한 사례들이 문제가 되고 있다"며 "과연 이런 실종 사건을 허위로 종결한 것이 단순한 직무유기인지 다른 범죄와 관련된 것인지, 커다란 범죄 조직과 관련성은 없는지 등 국민들의 의혹과 불안이 커지고 있다"고 지적했다. 이어 제주경찰청을 항의 방문해 "허위로 종결된 실종 사건들이 범죄와 관련은 없는지, 그 배후에 다른 세력들은 없는지 등 여러 의혹들이 불거지고 있는 점에 대해 철저하게 수사하고 국민들께 알려야 된다는 점을 얘기하고 오려고 한다"고 했다. 장 대표는 이날 연찬회에 참석한 박근혜 전 대통령을 향해 감사의 뜻을 전했다고 언급했다. 그는 "(박 전 대통령과) 비공개로 환담을 나눌 때 먼 길 와주셔서 감사하다고 했다"며 "단식 때 찾아와 주셔서 감사했고, 그 때 찾아와서 해주셨던 따듯한 말씀이 당 대표하면서 어려운 시간을 견디는 큰 힘이 됐다고 말했다"고 했다. 아울러 지방선거 과정에서 전국을 돌며 지원유세를 해준 것에 대해서도 감사의 뜻을 전했다고 덧붙였다. 이에 박 전 대통령은 장 대표에게 "당 지도부와 원내 지도부가 잘 협력해 당을 이끌고 있는 것처럼 보인다, 결이 다른 목소리가 나오는 것도 좋은 결과를 위해 조금 다른 목소리를 내는 것"이라며 단합된 모습으로 당을 이끌어줬으면 좋겠다는 당부를 한 것으로 알려졌다. 장 대표는 박 전 대통령이 '신의'와 '동지애'를 강조한 것에 대해서는 "결국 국민의힘이 지금 어떤 방향으로 나아갈지에 대한 말씀을 주신 것이라고 생각한다"며 "지금 당의 상황을 깊이 들여다보고 애정 어린 마음으로 던진 메시지"라고 했다. 아울러 "결국 정당은 같은 방향을 바라보고 함께 싸워나가는 동지들이 모인 집단"이라며 "그런데 다른 방향을 보고 가거나 결국 같은 방향으로 함께 손잡고 싸우는 것이 아니라 내부를 향해 싸움을 거는게 있다면 그건 신의나 동지애가 아니다"고 선을 그었다. 그러면서 "겉으로는 아무 갈등이 없는 것처럼 보이지만 신의와 동지애가 없다면 결국 그 집단은 최대한의 역량과 힘을 다 발휘할 수 없을 것"이라며 "우리는 통합과 하나됨, 단결을 얘기하지만 신의와 동지애가 결여된 상태는 당의 힘을 떨어뜨릴 것"이라고 덧붙였다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-27 18:48:20
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Democratic Party Reaffirms Commitment to Major Projects at Workshop The Democratic Party reaffirmed its commitment to President Lee Jae-myung's national agenda and initiated serious discussions aimed at ensuring the success of his administration. The party gathered on August 27 in Incheon to discuss legislative proposals centered around three major projects as it enters the second year of Lee's presidency.During the workshop, the party shared results from a recent poll indicating negative perceptions among the 2030 generation. This prompted discussions on how to secure support from younger voters moving forward.Floor spokesperson Lee Joo-hee presented an analysis of the polling data, stating, "We had no choice but to seriously listen to the voices of voters." She noted the party's awareness of the negative sentiment among younger voters despite the party's overall favorable standing.Lee pointed out that issues such as real estate have contributed to fluctuations in the party's approval ratings, saying, "We need to reflect on whether our approach as the ruling party has been appropriate and recognize that we must listen to the concerns of young people regarding real estate issues."The party also announced plans to strengthen its focus on people's livelihoods in the latter half of 2026. Lee emphasized, "We will reorganize the party to be more field-oriented and enhance the leadership's engagement with the public," committing to four key tasks: a working Democratic Party, a leading Democratic Party, a youth-oriented Democratic Party, and a winning Democratic Party.Additionally, the party received a blueprint for the success of the three major projects from Prime Minister Han Seung-soo. Lee reported that Han emphasized the need to lead in the global AI industry, stating that the three major projects should also promote the AI ecosystem.Lee added, "We discussed government support measures for advancing the three major projects and areas where the National Assembly can provide assistance. Ultimately, we aim to establish an execution system where the central government, local governments, and businesses work together, with the Blue House at the center of key initiatives."Earlier, floor leader Han Byeong-do hinted at a legislative push to ensure the success of the Lee Jae-myung administration during the workshop. He stated, "From now on, the Democratic Party will enter a legislative battle. We will activate cooperation among the party, government, and the Blue House to expedite the legislative process. I hope we can all do our best for an irreplaceable South Korea. The floor leadership will also support committee activities without gaps."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-27 18:48:10