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  • Jang Dong-hyuk to Visit Jeju Police Over False Closure of Missing Person Case
    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
  • Democratic Party Reaffirms Commitment to Major Projects at Workshop
    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
  • Jangheung National Route 23 Expansion Project Receives Approval for Feasibility Study
    Jangheung National Route 23 Expansion Project Receives Approval for Feasibility Study The long-awaited expansion of the 20.1-kilometer section of National Route 23 from Daedeok Yeonji to Sunji in Jangheung County, South Jeolla Province, has received the green light from the government after passing the feasibility study.On August 26, Jangheung County announced that the project had successfully cleared the seventh financial investment evaluation committee review by the Ministry of Strategy and Finance. The total project cost is 369.4 billion won, fully funded by the national government, making it the largest single social overhead capital (SOC) project since the county's establishment.The core of the project involves expanding the route from Daedeok-eup Yeonji-ri to Sunji-ri to four lanes. This feasibility study was conducted to align with the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport's sixth five-year plan for national and local road construction. Out of 142 projects nationwide, 54 have successfully passed the final review.Given the rural characteristics of Jangheung County, securing economic viability based on traffic volume has been challenging. However, the county has consistently advocated for the project's inclusion to the government, emphasizing the need for regional balanced development and policy support.The local community has also rallied behind the initiative, with over 7,000 residents signing a petition urging swift progress on the project. Local politicians, the county council, and relevant agencies have continuously advocated for the necessity of expanding National Route 23 to the government.Once the expansion is completed, the county expects improved traffic accessibility and road safety in the Jangheung area, as well as enhanced regional transportation networks connecting central and southern South Jeolla Province.In particular, the reduction in travel time between major tourist attractions and industrial and logistics hubs is anticipated to positively impact local economic revitalization by boosting tourist influx and enhancing logistics competitiveness.Jangheung County Mayor Sa Sun-moon stated, “This achievement is the result of the earnest wishes of the residents and the active cooperation of relevant agencies. We will expedite subsequent procedures, including basic and detailed design, to ensure the safe and convenient four-lane road is completed as soon as possible.”Meanwhile, the comprehensive feasibility study is a process established by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport to select projects for inclusion in the five-year national and local road construction plan. Following this approval, Jangheung County plans to respond to subsequent administrative procedures to ensure the expansion of National Route 23 is included in the sixth five-year construction plan, while strengthening consultations with relevant agencies to ensure the basic and detailed design and project commencement proceed without delay.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-27 18:48:00
  • Samho Library in Yeongam Launches Fall Reading and Cultural Programs for Children and Residents
    Samho Library in Yeongam Launches Fall Reading and Cultural Programs for Children and Residents The Samho Library in Yeongam, South Jeolla Province, will offer a range of fall reading and cultural programs for children and local residents starting in September. On August 27, the Yeongam County government announced that the library will run six programs aimed at children and community members.The children's programs include two courses: 'Reading Education for Our Children Using Textbook Materials' and 'Shining Our History.' The 'Reading Education for Our Children Using Textbook Materials' course utilizes books included in school curriculums to help children naturally develop reading, writing, and vocabulary skills. This program goes beyond simple reading lessons to include various hands-on activities such as crafting, play, and cooking.'Shining Our History' presents key historical stories tailored to children's understanding, making it easier and more enjoyable for them to grasp the flow of Korean history.For adults and local residents, four programs are available: a Level 2 Organization and Storage Expert course, rattan craft, traditional Korean painting (minhwa), and author-specific picture book curation.The Level 2 Organization and Storage Expert course teaches systematic organization methods based on the characteristics of spaces and items, with an option for participants to pursue certification at their own expense.Additionally, courses for leisure activities are offered. In the rattan craft course, participants will create baskets, trays, and bags, while the traditional painting course focuses on learning to paint folk art using traditional Korean pigments.The 'Author-Specific Picture Book Curation' course goes beyond simply reading picture books; it teaches participants how to select books based on authors and themes and connect them to exhibitions and cultural activities. Participants will also learn how to plan picture book exhibitions that can be utilized in libraries or lifestyle cultural spaces.Through these programs, Yeongam County aims to expand the library's role from a space for reading and resource use to a lifestyle cultural space where residents can share learning, hobbies, and cultural activities.Choi Jin-seok, head of the Yeongam County Talent Development and Sports Division, stated, “The library is a space for reading, as well as a lifestyle cultural space where residents can learn new things and share their interests. I hope both children and adults find suitable learning and hobbies at Samho Library and enjoy a fulfilling fall.”Meanwhile, Yeongam County is operating Samho Library not just as a simple space for borrowing and reading books, but as a lifestyle cultural space where children and local residents can enjoy reading, learning, and cultural activities together. The county plans to continue offering a variety of reading and cultural programs that reflect different ages and interests to enhance cultural opportunities for local residents.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-27 18:44:00
  • Death Toll from Landslides and Floods in Nepal Rises to 270
    Death Toll from Landslides and Floods in Nepal Rises to 270 As of the afternoon of August 27, the death toll from the massive landslides and floods in Nepal's border region with Tibet, China, has risen to 270, according to reports from BBC and CNN citing Nepal police. This marks an increase of over 100 from the previously reported figure of 165.Currently, 826 people are reported missing in Nepal, including 579 tourists (466 foreigners and 113 Nepalese), security personnel (44 from the Nepal Army, 28 from the Nepal Police, and 13 from the Armed Police), and 162 local residents.In addition, significant damage has also occurred in the Tibetan region of China, where state-run China Central Television (CCTV) reported that three people have died and 558 are missing as of the morning of the same day. Among the missing in China, approximately 260 are foreign tourists.Thus, the total death toll from the landslides and floods in both Nepal and China has reached 273, with more than 1,300 individuals still unaccounted for.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-27 18:40:00
  • Ruling Party Receives Update on Three Major Mega Projects from Prime Minister Han
    Ruling Party Receives Update on Three Major Mega Projects from Prime Minister Han The Democratic Party of Korea received updates on the progress of the three major mega projects, a key national agenda of the Lee Jae-myung administration, from Prime Minister Han Seung-sook and various ministers on August 27.During a press briefing at the '2026 National Assembly Workshop' held at the Inspire Hotel in Incheon, spokesperson Lee Joo-hee stated, "Under the leadership of Prime Minister Han, ministers presented on the theme of advancing into the AI era and the three mega projects."Lee noted that Prime Minister Han emphasized South Korea's critical position in the global AI industry, stating, "This is a decisive moment for our leap into becoming one of the top three AI nations, and South Korea must be part of the global AI value chain."Han also stressed the need to lead the global AI industry, adding that the three mega projects should be pursued to foster the AI ecosystem.According to Lee, the Prime Minister expressed a commitment to breaking the concentration of resources in the capital region and achieving regional-led growth and balanced development through the three mega projects.Additionally, Lee mentioned that discussions were held regarding government support measures for the mega projects and areas where the National Assembly could provide assistance. Ultimately, it was emphasized that a collaborative execution system involving the central government, local governments, and businesses would be established, with the Blue House at the center of key initiatives.Lee also indicated that detailed plans from each ministry would be presented by the respective vice ministers in relevant National Assembly committees.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-27 18:40:00
  • Hampyeong County Recycles Forest Fire Damaged Trees into Sawdust for Livestock Farmers
    Hampyeong County Recycles Forest Fire Damaged Trees into Sawdust for Livestock Farmers Hampyeong County in South Jeolla Province is recycling trees damaged by a large forest fire into sawdust for livestock farmers. This initiative aims to supply potentially wasted forest resources to farmers while addressing tree disposal, supporting farmers, and promoting resource circulation. On August 27, Hampyeong County announced that it has provided 158 tons of sawdust, produced from trees harvested in the area affected by the major forest fire in April 2023, to local livestock farmers free of charge. The trees used in this effort were harvested from a 53-hectare area of forest that suffered damage from the fire last year. Instead of disposing of the damaged trees, the county repurposed them into sawdust that can be used as bedding for livestock. The sawdust was distributed to local farmers through the Hampyeong Livestock Association over two days starting August 26. This initiative is particularly significant as it repurposes forest resources generated during the disposal of fire-damaged trees back into agricultural use. The county expects this will not only increase the utility of the damaged trees but also alleviate the financial burden on livestock farmers for purchasing sawdust, contributing to budget savings and carbon neutrality. The county is also working on restoring the forest areas affected by the fire. Plans include planting trees such as the Chinese scholar tree and the golden rain tree in the areas where the damaged trees were harvested, gradually restoring the damaged forest while also improving the landscape for long-term tourism development. Park Yu-hyang, head of the Hampyeong Forest Management Team, stated, “We will continue to support the utilization of damaged trees caused by disasters like forest fires, turning them into resources that provide practical help to farmers. We will expand tree planting and explore various support measures for farmers using forestry resources, including the supply of sawdust from fire-damaged trees.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-27 18:36:00
  • Changes to Real Estate Taxation: Which is Better, Sole or Joint Ownership?
    Changes to Real Estate Taxation: Which is Better, Sole or Joint Ownership? Couples preparing for marriage or looking to upgrade to a more expensive home often face the decision of ownership type. Until now, joint ownership has been recognized as a primary tax-saving strategy. However, recent government proposals to reform real estate taxation have complicated the calculations regarding whether joint or sole ownership is more beneficial. According to industry sources on August 27, the government and ruling party are currently revising the real estate tax reform plan introduced earlier this month. It is expected that the tax criteria for non-resident homeowners and long-term holding tax deductions will be relaxed compared to the original proposal. Although the final plan has yet to be released, there is significant interest in which ownership type—joint or sole—provides greater tax benefits. Based on the government's original proposal, joint ownership is advantageous in terms of basic deductions and tax base distribution for properties valued at 18 million won (approximately $26 million) or less. Starting in 2028, if a couple resides in the property, joint ownership under general taxation will be more favorable. When a couple holds one home in joint ownership and is taxed under general taxation, they can each receive a basic deduction of 9 million won, totaling 18 million won. Although the basic deduction for sole ownership under the one-home rule will increase from 12 million won to 14 million won, joint ownership still offers a deduction that is 4 million won higher. For non-resident joint owners, it is essential to compare the expected tax liabilities under general taxation and the one-home rule. According to the current government tax reform plan, the basic deduction for non-resident joint owners under general taxation will decrease from 18 million won to a total of 8 million won, with each owner receiving 4 million won. In designated adjustment areas like Seoul, a fair market value ratio of 80% will also apply. While the one-home rule for non-residents appears advantageous with a basic deduction of 9 million won and a fair market value ratio of 70%, if age deductions are not applied, the final tax burden under general taxation may actually be lower. When the assessed value exceeds 18 million won, factors such as age and length of residence must be considered. Starting in 2028, the existing long-term holding tax deduction will transition to a deduction based on actual residence duration, applying rates of 20% to 50%, combined with age deductions of 20% to 40%, allowing for a maximum tax deduction of up to 80%. However, a new limit of 6 million won will be imposed on the deduction amount. Joint ownership under general taxation will not benefit from these age and residence deductions, so if an owner is elderly or has lived in the same home for a long time, it is necessary to compare the tax burdens with the one-home rule. For example, if a couple resides in a property valued at 35 million won in a designated adjustment area, the estimated comprehensive real estate tax under joint ownership and general taxation would be about 1.12 million won. In contrast, a sole owner under the one-home rule, without applying age and residence deductions, would face a tax of approximately 3.33 million won. However, if the sole owner is over 60 and has lived there for more than five years, receiving the maximum 80% deduction, their tax burden could drop to about 670,000 won, which is approximately 450,000 won less than under joint ownership. Ultimately, determining the best tax strategy for comprehensive real estate tax after 2028 will not be straightforward, as it cannot be judged solely on whether to choose joint or sole ownership. If significant age and residence deductions are difficult to obtain, one must weigh the benefits of joint ownership's 18 million won basic deduction and tax base distribution against the tax burden of the one-home rule for those who are elderly or plan to reside long-term. However, key issues such as the fair market value ratio and the deduction limits for non-resident homeowners remain unresolved, necessitating further government discussions. 2026-08-27 18:32:00
  • Gwangju City and Shinsegae Collaborate on Conservation of Gangjin Bay Ecosystem
    Gwangju City and Shinsegae Collaborate on Conservation of Gangjin Bay Ecosystem The Gwangju Metropolitan City and Shinsegae have joined forces to conserve the Gangjin Bay ecosystem, a key habitat for migratory birds such as swans. The initiative goes beyond simple environmental cleanup to include habitat restoration, community involvement, and expanding markets for local agricultural and fishery products.On August 27, Gwangju Mayor Min Hyung-bae and Shinsegae CEO Park Joo-hyung signed a memorandum of understanding for biodiversity conservation and regional coexistence at the Gwangju City Hall business room.Under the agreement, the two parties will work over the next two years to create a stable habitat for wildlife, including swans, and restore damaged ecological spaces in the lower Tanjin River and Gangjin Bay area.This project will involve not only businesses and government but also local residents and environmental organizations.Shinsegae will provide funding for habitat creation and restoration efforts, and its employees will participate in environmental cleanup activities.Additionally, the company will collaborate to expand the market for eco-friendly agricultural and fishery products produced in the Gangjin area.Local residents will offer winter fallow farmland as habitat and feeding grounds for migratory birds. The Jeonnam Environmental Movement Association will handle on-site activities such as habitat creation, restoration of damaged ecosystems, and ecological monitoring.The Gwangju Metropolitan City will provide administrative support necessary for the project, ensuring that private ecological conservation efforts are sustainable and integrated into the community.This agreement is particularly significant as it connects corporate ESG activities with local ecosystem conservation and the enhancement of residents' income and regional economic vitality. The structure combines corporate funding and manpower with residents providing ecological spaces, alongside the expertise of environmental organizations and administrative support.The Gwangju Metropolitan City envisions that improving the ecological environment will enhance the region's environmental value, creating a virtuous cycle that benefits the local economy and residents.Efforts will also be made to designate the Gangjin Bay area as a 'Nature Coexistence Area' (OECM). This aims to establish a foundation for the continuous conservation and management of biodiversity based on voluntary participation from residents, rather than merely focusing on ecosystem restoration.Gangjin Bay is an estuarine ecosystem where freshwater from the Tanjin River meets seawater, attracting various migratory birds, including swans. Once the project is fully underway, it is expected to improve the habitat for migratory birds and contribute to the conservation of the ecosystem, as well as enhance the region's ecological value.Mayor Min Hyung-bae stated, "This is the first step in fulfilling our promise to citizens to pave the way for sustainable growth based on a green city. Our direction is to create a sustainable growth model for the region by protecting the environment together with citizens, businesses, and government."He added, "We will actively support efforts to create a healthy Gangjin Bay that swans return to every year and to protect the ecosystem, which can lead to new value and vitality for the region."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-27 18:28:00
  • Activists Lawsuit Against Passport Revocation Fails
    Activist's Lawsuit Against Passport Revocation Fails A peace activist, Kim Ah-hyun (alias Haechu), who attempted to enter the restricted Gaza Strip, lost a lawsuit seeking to overturn the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' order to return her passport.On August 27, the Administrative Division 12 of the Seoul Administrative Court, led by Judge Kang Jae-won, ruled against Kim in her lawsuit to cancel the passport return order.The court stated, "There are no procedural defects in the order, and the grounds for the order are recognized under Article 19, Section 1, Item 2 of the Passport Act." It added, "Even if the order restricts the plaintiff's freedom of residence and movement, it does not violate the principle of proportionality and does not constitute an abuse of discretion."The court explained, "The plaintiff had already departed for France and was clearly expected to attempt to sail to the Gaza Strip in the near future. Given the Israeli airstrikes on Gaza, control over maritime routes to Gaza, and the ongoing Middle Eastern conflict that began in February, there was a significant risk to the plaintiff's life and safety, justifying the need for urgent action for public safety or welfare, which allowed for exceptions to prior notification and consultation."It further noted, "The plaintiff fell into the category of 'individuals whose life or physical safety is at high risk due to terrorism or similar threats upon departure.' In this case, there was a serious concern that public order could be significantly disrupted, and there was a risk of diplomatic disputes between South Korea and Israel or other foreign powers. Particularly, during the ongoing Middle Eastern conflict, the diplomatic relations with countries like Israel could have a critical impact on national security and interests, thus falling under the category of 'situations that could cause significant harm to the security, order maintenance, or foreign policy of South Korea.'"The court emphasized, "Considering the degree of risk to the plaintiff's life and safety, the importance of the right to life that is subject to protection, the extent of the restriction on freedom of residence and movement, the urgency of the obligation to protect life, and the significance of the public interest sought to be achieved by this order, it is determined that the defendant had no alternative means of protection other than issuing the passport return order, and therefore, it cannot be seen as a violation of the principle of proportionality regarding the restriction of the plaintiff's freedom of residence and movement."Kim announced her plans to head to Gaza after departing for France on March 11 to join a humanitarian flotilla. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs ordered her to return her passport within seven days of receiving the notification on March 20, citing Article 19, Section 1, Item 2 of the Passport Act.On April 1, the Public Interest and Human Rights Litigation Center of the Lawyers for a Democratic Society filed a lawsuit to cancel the passport return order. They argued, "The activist is currently lawfully in a third country, and her boarding status is uncertain. Nevertheless, the sudden revocation of her passport by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs lacks clear grounds and legality."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-27 18:28:00