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  • Hyundai ties up with Nvidia for self-driving push
    Hyundai ties up with Nvidia for self-driving push SEOUL, August 26 (AJP) -Hyundai Motor will work with Nvidia to put Level 2+ autonomous-driving technology into its first mass-produced software-defined vehicle in 2028, anchoring an ambitious AI push that also includes a 50,000-GPU data center, humanoid robots and expanded robotaxi production, the South Korean automaker said Wednesday. The tie-up was declared at the company's 2026 CEO Investor Day devoted to positioning artificial intelligence and software as central pillars of a growth strategy that targets 5.55 million global vehicle sales and a market share of 6 percent by 2030. Hyundai Motor Group plans to standardize the sensor architecture used by Hyundai Motor, Kia, 42dot and Motional around Nvidia's ecosystem, allowing driving data gathered across the group to be integrated under a common standard. Under the staged plan, Hyundai will begin gathering real-world driving data with its Atria AI autonomous-driving system in Gwangju, South Jeolla Province, this year. The company will then deploy Level 2+ autonomous-driving technology through a strategic collaboration with Nvidia in 2028 on its first mass-produced software-defined vehicle, or SDV. Hyundai intends to use the resulting driving data to continuously train and upgrade Atria AI before progressively extending autonomous-driving capabilities from Level 2+ toward Level 4 across its vehicle lineup. The scale of Hyundai Motor Group's vehicle fleet could become an important part of that strategy. The group sells more than 7 million vehicles annually, providing a potentially large pool of real-world driving data for AI development. Hyundai is also preparing infrastructure to process that data. From 2029, the company plans to bring online a 100-megawatt AI data center in Saemangeum capable of housing more than 50,000 graphics processing units. The facility will connect data generated by Hyundai's global vehicle fleet with its in-house AI systems and computing infrastructure. The push reflects Hyundai's effort to move beyond the traditional economics of selling vehicles and capture more value from software, autonomous driving and AI. Chief Executive José Muñoz said Hyundai intends to become a "physical AI company" capable of producing and deploying robots and robotaxis as well as vehicles. "Our fundamentals have never been stronger," Muñoz said. "We are leveraging partnerships to scale new technologies and opportunities and becoming a physical AI company which will produce and deploy robots and robotaxis." Robotics is another major leg of that transition. Hyundai Motor said it plans to deploy Boston Dynamics' Atlas humanoid robot at Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America from 2028. The group's Robot Metaplant Application Center in the United States, which opened in June, is expected to expand tenfold by the end of this year. The center recreates factory environments to train manufacturing robots, collect real-world operating data and conduct testing before deployment on production lines. Hyundai is also exploring whether its dealership network could distribute robots and whether Hyundai Capital could finance their purchase, potentially extending the group's existing automotive sales infrastructure into robotics. Robotaxis are moving closer to commercial scale as well. The first IONIQ 5 robotaxis for Waymo are scheduled for delivery in the fourth quarter of this year. The vehicles will be assembled at Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America in Georgia using a localized supply chain. Hyundai said those vehicles could support Waymo's international robotaxi expansion from as early as 2027. Motional will also use robotaxi-ready IONIQ 5 vehicles when its commercial driverless service launches later this year. The technology push forms part of a broader product offensive designed to lift sales while improving profitability. Hyundai reaffirmed its target of selling 5.55 million vehicles globally by 2030, with electrified vehicles expected to account for 60 percent of sales, up from 23 percent in 2025. The automaker plans more than 100 vehicle launches and refreshes worldwide through 2030, including at least 18 entries into new products and market segments. Seven new vehicles are scheduled to arrive within the next eight months. One of the most significant additions will be Hyundai's first extended-range electric vehicle, or EREV. The Santa Fe EREV is scheduled to launch in the first half of 2027 with more than 600 miles of total range. It will be built at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama as part of Hyundai's broader effort to localize more production in the United States. Hyundai plans to add 1.27 million units of global manufacturing capacity by 2030, including 500,000 units in North America, 320,000 in India, 250,000 across completely knocked-down production sites and 200,000 in South Korea. In North America, the company raised its local parts-sourcing target to more than 80 percent by 2030 from 60 percent previously. More than 10 hybrid models will be offered in the region, with hybrids targeted to account for half of sales. Hyundai is also stepping deeper into battery technology. The company said its independently developed battery cells deliver more than twice the output of the high-nickel cells it previously used while reducing charging time by 40 percent. The cells will be applied to its first EREV models, while new electric vehicles launching next year will use mid-nickel NCM batteries that Hyundai says can cut battery costs by about 30 percent. A new Thermal Runaway Protection system designed to prevent heat from spreading between battery cells will debut on the Genesis GV90. Genesis itself is entering its second decade with a broader electrified lineup, including its first hybrid and EREV, while targeting annual sales of 350,000 vehicles in more than 40 markets by 2030. Hyundai expects the combination of new products, localized production and technology investment to translate into stronger margins. The company raised its 2030 consolidated operating profit margin target to above 9 percent from the previous range of 8 percent to 9 percent. It aims to reduce its cost-of-sales ratio by 3 percentage points through lower material costs, production localization and efficiency gains across the vehicle lifecycle. Hyundai maintained its 2026 operating margin guidance of 6.3 percent to 7.3 percent after recording revenue of 95.2 trillion won and an operating margin of 5.6 percent in the first half. The strategy amounts to a broad bet that Hyundai's next phase of growth will depend increasingly on computing power, software and AI as much as vehicle production. AJP Takeaways Hyundai Motor will work with Nvidia to introduce Level 2+ autonomous driving on its first mass-produced software-defined vehicle in 2028, while standardizing group sensor architecture around the Nvidia ecosystem. Hyundai plans a 100-megawatt AI data center in Saemangeum from 2029 capable of housing more than 50,000 GPUs to process autonomous-driving and vehicle data. The automaker is expanding into physical AI through Boston Dynamics humanoid robots, Waymo robotaxis and AI-enabled manufacturing while targeting 5.55 million global vehicle sales by 2030. Hyundai raised its 2030 operating profit margin target to above 9 percent and plans more than 100 vehicle launches and refreshes, including its first extended-range EV in 2027. 2026-08-26 18:03:48
  • Wrtn Secures 100 Billion Won in Series C Funding, Becomes 1 Trillion Won AI Unicorn
    Wrtn Secures 100 Billion Won in Series C Funding, Becomes 1 Trillion Won AI Unicorn AI service platform company Wrtn Technologies has secured 100 billion won in Series C funding, elevating its valuation to over 1 trillion won, marking its emergence as a unicorn within just five years of its establishment. This growth reflects its success as a leading AI company in South Korea and its competitive service offerings in global markets, including Japan and the United States.On August 26, Wrtn announced the completion of its 100 billion won Series C funding round. New investors Coreline Ventures and Eugene Asset Management participated, alongside existing investors such as Goodwater Capital, Antler Global, Woori Venture Partners, Suigenesis Partners, the Korea Development Bank, and Capstone Partners. With this investment, the total amount raised by Wrtn has reached approximately 230 billion won.This funding round has recognized Wrtn's valuation at 1 trillion won. Notably, the company has increased its value by simultaneously growing its user base and revenue through services directly utilized by consumers.Founded in April 2021, Wrtn began its journey by securing seed funding from Mashup Ventures in June of the same year. It followed up with a pre-Series A investment of 3.8 billion won in November 2022, a Series A investment of 15 billion won in June 2023, a pre-Series B investment of 29 billion won in June 2024, and a Series B investment of 83 billion won in March 2025.As of March 2025, Wrtn had accumulated approximately 130 billion won in investments, becoming the first domestic AI service platform startup to surpass 100 billion won in total funding. With the addition of the Series C round, the total investment has now increased to about 230 billion won.As investment has grown, so has the number of service users. Wrtn launched its AI service 'Wrtn' in 2022, which utilizes generative AI to assist users with inquiries, writing, searching, and various tasks. The company has since expanded its offerings with 'Crack,' an AI character that allows users to engage in conversations and enjoy content.Recently, Wrtn has also achieved success in global markets. The AI entertainment content platform 'OOC,' launched in North America in May, surpassed 10 billion won in monthly sales within just three months of its release. Based on this growth in global business, Wrtn anticipates that its total revenue will exceed 200 billion won this year.Wrtn is also expanding its business scope into AI entertainment and content. With Crack as its centerpiece, the company is targeting markets in Japan and North America, broadening its reach as a global consumer AI platform. Additionally, it is increasing its engagement with the gaming and content industries. Wrtn plans to participate as a main sponsor at G-Star 2026, set to take place in November at BEXCO in Busan, to promote its AI entertainment platform to the gaming audience.Osuke Honda, co-founder and partner at Coreline Ventures, stated, “Wrtn is becoming a phenomenon in the global market. The platform is leading the entire consumer AI movement, which is fundamentally transforming how AI interacts with human creativity, communication, and online engagement.”Wrtn CEO Lee Se-young remarked, “The Wrtn team started with the belief that a world-class consumer AI company could emerge from Korea. Although we began as a small startup, we have been able to continue innovating as a global leader in AI, thanks to the support of our dedicated colleagues and investors who shared that belief.” 2026-08-26 18:00:00
  • Twenty-Three Launches Youth Nutrition Brand HighPick with First Product
    Twenty-Three Launches Youth Nutrition Brand 'HighPick' with First Product Twenty-Three has introduced a youth sports nutrition brand called 'HighPick' as it aims to penetrate the growing children's nutritional supplement market.On August 26, Twenty-Three announced the launch of its private brand (PB) HighPick, featuring its first product, the apple mango-flavored 'Calmadi-K Stick.' HighPick is the company's first private brand developed with direct involvement in the planning and development process.The Calmadi-K Stick is designed for active children, allowing them to easily consume one stick per day. The portable stick packaging makes it convenient to carry in bags or pouches.The product combines functional ingredients essential for bone health and muscle function during growth, including calcium citrate, magnesium gluconate, vitamin D, and vitamin K. Calcium is crucial for bone and tooth formation, while magnesium supports energy use and nerve and muscle function. Vitamin D is necessary for the absorption and utilization of calcium and phosphorus, as well as for bone formation and maintenance. Vitamin K is important for normal blood clotting and bone composition.Additional ingredients include 'UpGrow190,' a low-molecular-weight whey protein hydrolysate, along with L-theanine and chamomile extract. The apple mango-flavored jelly stick format is designed for children's ease of consumption.Having previously operated as a curation-focused distributor, Twenty-Three plans to expand its private brand business through HighPick and intends to broaden its product line for youth nutritional management in the future.The company will also implement brand marketing utilizing the number '23' derived from its name, with plans to recruit 23 supporters for HighPick and conduct regular promotions on the 23rd of each month.Lee Sang-kyu, CEO of Twenty-Three, stated, “The name Twenty-Three embodies our commitment to selecting quality products and delivering them accurately to consumers. By linking our supporter recruitment and promotions to the number 23, we aim to consistently reinforce the principles our brand must uphold to consumers.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-26 17:56:00
  • Redevelopment of Sadang-dong Area to Feature 34-Story, 970-Unit Residential Complex
    Redevelopment of Sadang-dong Area to Feature 34-Story, 970-Unit Residential Complex The Sadang-dong area in the Dongjak District of Seoul will be redeveloped into a residential complex featuring up to 34 stories and approximately 970 housing units.On August 26, the Seoul Metropolitan Government announced the approval of a rapid integrated planning project for the Sadang-dong area. The site, covering 41,301.4 square meters, is located about a 10-minute walk from Namsan Station on Subway Line 7. The zoning designation will be upgraded from a second-class general residential area to a third-class general residential area, with plans for a maximum floor area ratio of 280% and a height limit of around 34 stories.This plan focuses on improving roads and pedestrian environments to accommodate increased traffic from surrounding development projects. Nearby, transit-oriented development and long-term rental housing projects are underway, which are expected to change the transportation and living environment.The main access road, Sadang-ro 16-gil, will be gradually widened. Initially, it will be expanded to 14 meters with three lanes and sidewalks on both sides, in conjunction with the northern transit-oriented development project. Future plans include widening the entrance to 16 meters with four lanes, linked to the southern long-term rental housing project. Two vehicle entry and exit points will be established.Improvements will also be made to the pedestrian environment. Considering the site's length of approximately 430 meters, public walkways will be created in the east-west direction. A terraced landscaping area will be developed in sections where there is a height difference of about 8 to 9 meters with the eastern residential area. Steep stairs will be renovated, and elevators will be installed to enhance pedestrian convenience.Additionally, local amenities will be expanded. The existing Sadang 4-dong community youth reading room will be enlarged and relocated to serve as a youth training facility, while neighborhood and community facilities will be placed along Sadang-ro 16-gil, which sees high foot traffic.Building heights will be adjusted to harmonize with surrounding residential areas. The tallest buildings, reaching 34 stories, will be located near Sadang-ro and the northern transit-oriented development project, while heights will decrease toward the southern low-rise residential areas and Namsan Middle School.The Seoul Metropolitan Government plans to enhance project viability by applying a business viability adjustment coefficient of 1.17 along with the zoning upgrade. This is expected to facilitate the development of a residential complex with approximately 970 units, including public rental housing. However, the exact number of units will be finalized during the maintenance plan establishment process.The city aims to proceed with follow-up procedures targeting designation of the maintenance zone by June 2027. With this planning approval, 197 out of the 311 rapid integrated planning projects currently being pursued by the Seoul Metropolitan Government have been completed.Kim Chang-kyu, head of the Urban Space Headquarters at the Seoul Metropolitan Government, stated, “It is essential to comprehensively consider the changes brought about by surrounding development projects and to improve the road and pedestrian systems. We will support the creation of a residential complex that drives local change by enhancing infrastructure centered around living streets and connecting daily routes.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-26 17:56:00
  • Police Summon Former KFA Vice President Kim Jung-bae in Hong Myung-bo Appointment Probe
    Police Summon Former KFA Vice President Kim Jung-bae in Hong Myung-bo Appointment Probe Police have summoned Kim Jung-bae, the former vice president of the Korea Football Association (KFA), as part of an investigation into allegations of improper interference by KFA officials in the appointment of former national team coach Hong Myung-bo.According to Yonhap News Agency, the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency's Financial Crimes Investigation Unit is focusing on whether Kim, who oversaw KFA operations at the time, exceeded his authority and deviated from established procedures during the coach selection process.The police are also questioning Yoon Deok-yeo, a former member of the National Team Strengthening Committee, to verify the recommendation and evaluation process. They have not disclosed the specific status of either individual as a suspect or witness.Kim, who previously served as the vice minister of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, was the only full-time vice president at the KFA during Hong's appointment in 2024, and he is accused of having improperly influenced the selection process.Earlier, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism conducted a special audit of the KFA in 2024, which led to recommendations for severe penalties, including suspension of qualifications, against Kim, former KFA president Chung Mong-kyu, and former technical director Lee Im-sang for their unauthorized involvement in the coach selection process.The police are reviewing the audit findings and materials obtained from searches of KFA offices in Cheonan, Chungcheongnam-do, and Jongno-gu, Seoul, to examine the overall coach selection process.Following investigations of committee members and former directors, the police executed searches on August 6 at KFA offices in Cheonan and the KFA headquarters in Seoul. Based on the analysis of the seized materials, they are expected to summon former president Chung as a suspect for questioning soon.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-26 17:52:00
  • Average Salary for Young Taxi Drivers in Japan Approaches 5 Million Yen
    Average Salary for Young Taxi Drivers in Japan Approaches 5 Million Yen In Japan, the average salary for taxi drivers in their early 20s approached 5 million yen (approximately $43,540) last year, exceeding the average for the same age group across all industries by more than 1.2 million yen. Improvements in working conditions, driven by fare increases and expanded performance bonuses, along with the rise of taxi-hailing apps, have enabled less experienced drivers to efficiently pick up passengers. The influx of younger workers into a sector previously dominated by older drivers is also notable.According to the Nihon Keizai Shimbun on August 26, the average salary for taxi drivers in 2025 was reported at 4,508,200 yen, a 9% increase from the previous year (compared to a 4% increase across all industries). The average salary is about 1 million yen lower than the overall industry average of 5,455,600 yen, largely due to the prevalence of older drivers who tend to work shorter hours.However, when focusing on the 20-24 age group, the situation changes. The average salary for taxi drivers in this age bracket was 4,833,600 yen, which is 34% higher than the average for all industries in the same age group, which stands at 3,613,700 yen. This figure represents a 36% increase compared to 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic.For instance, a 23-year-old male driver working for Sanwa Transportation in Tokyo earned about 700,000 yen (approximately $6,090) last month in his second year on the job. He noted that while his working hours are long, the alternating day-off schedule provides many rest days, which is a significant advantage.The increase in taxi drivers' earnings is attributed to a positive cycle initiated by fare hikes. Taxi companies are not solely benefiting from increased revenues; they are actively reinvesting in their drivers by raising base salaries and performance bonuses. As earnings improve, motivated younger workers are drawn to the industry, and as they achieve better performance, company revenues rise, further boosting average salaries for drivers.Additionally, taxi-hailing apps have helped bridge the experience gap for younger drivers. In the past, drivers who roamed the streets to find passengers relied heavily on their knowledge of high-demand areas and times. However, apps like 'GO' and 'S.RIDE' connect nearby taxis with passengers, allowing less experienced drivers to efficiently pick up fares.'GO' launched its service in September 2020 and has surpassed 40 million downloads this month. In Tokyo, Osaka, and Kanagawa, vehicles available for 'GO' calls account for over 60% of all taxis. The success is reflected in the occupancy rate (the percentage of total driving distance covered while carrying passengers), which in Tokyo increased from 39.0% in 2020 to 47.5% in 2024, surpassing the pre-COVID level of 46.7% in 2019.The rise in income is leading to an influx of younger workers. According to the Japan Taxi Association, 1,481 drivers who graduated from school and joined taxi companies in the 2024 fiscal year represents a 39% increase from the previous survey in the 2022 fiscal year. As of 2025, the average age of taxi drivers in Japan remains at 56.8 years. The increase in younger drivers may be the first step in addressing the chronic aging and labor shortages in the taxi industry.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-26 17:48:20
  • Supreme Court Files $8.5 Million Lawsuit Against Participants in West Seoul Court Riot
    Supreme Court Files $8.5 Million Lawsuit Against Participants in West Seoul Court Riot The Supreme Court's Court Administration Office has filed a civil lawsuit seeking approximately 1.1 billion won ($8.5 million) in damages from participants in the 'West Seoul Court Riot' that occurred last year in January.On August 26, the Court Administration Office announced that it has filed a lawsuit in the Seoul Central District Court against five individuals who were convicted in connection with the riot, seeking 1.17589 billion won in property damage and delayed compensation. The plaintiff in the lawsuit is the Republic of Korea, with the Court Administration Office as the relevant authority.The West Seoul Court Riot took place on January 19, 2026, when supporters of former President Yoon Suk Yeol stormed the courthouse after a warrant for his arrest was issued, causing damage to the building and assaulting police officers who attempted to intervene.The Court Administration Office stated, "The courthouse suffered severe damage, including broken windows, doors, exterior walls, and office equipment, and the officials experienced significant psychological trauma." It emphasized that the riot resulted in substantial harm.It further noted, "This incident represents a collective act of violence and destruction against a courthouse where national judicial functions are carried out, severely undermining the court's role and authority as the last bastion of protecting citizens' fundamental rights and the rule of law."The office stressed the necessity of holding those involved in this incident legally accountable for directly threatening the constitutional order and the independence of the judiciary.The lawsuit was filed after legal review by the Judicial Support Center, which assists with state litigation related to court matters.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-26 17:48:20
  • E-Lands Iworld Faces Delisting Risk Amid Stock Merger Strategy
    E-Land's Iworld Faces Delisting Risk Amid Stock Merger Strategy E-Land Group's only publicly traded company, Iworld, is at a crossroads regarding its potential delisting. Following a sharp decline in stock prices since May, the company has become a 'penny stock' facing delisting scrutiny. To maintain its listing, Iworld has proposed a 1-for-5 stock merger. The future of its stock price will be crucial after trading resumes on October 2.According to the Korea Exchange, Iworld's stock closed at 607 won on the 26th, up 29.98% from the previous trading day. The previous closing price was 467 won. The stock surged to the price limit in anticipation of the merger, but it still remains below 1,000 won.Iworld plans to hold an extraordinary general meeting on the 27th to address the stock merger proposal, which will consolidate five common shares into one. The par value will increase from 1,000 won to 5,000 won, and the number of shares will decrease from 141,806,193 to 28,361,238. If approved, trading will be suspended from October 10 to October 1, with resumption set for October 2. Iworld stated that the merger aims to meet operational funding needs and ensure liquidity while monitoring compliance with borrowing limits and financial ratios.This stock merger is a strategy to escape the delisting threat posed by the penny stock status. The company was designated as a management issue on the 20th after its stock price fell below 1,000 won for 30 consecutive trading days. If the stock price does not remain above 1,000 won for 45 trading days following the resumption on October 2, the risk of delisting will become a reality.Fortunately, the company's performance is showing signs of recovery. In the first half of this year, Iworld reported sales of 52.4 billion won, a 21.8% increase compared to the same period last year. Operating profit turned from a 2 billion won loss in the first half of last year to a 2.7 billion won profit this year. However, the net profit remains in the red at minus 1.4 billion won.Financial burdens persist. As of the end of June, total borrowings stood at 137.1 billion won, with net debt, excluding cash equivalents, at 134.7 billion won. Total equity was reported at 213.4 billion won, with a capital raising ratio of 39%.However, concerns remain that the stock merger may not fully alleviate the delisting fears. A securities industry official noted, "Even if the stock price temporarily exceeds 1,000 won due to the merger, the company's value itself does not change. Ultimately, sustained performance improvement and stock price stability are necessary to genuinely escape the delisting concerns."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-26 17:48:10
  • Roborock Maintains Dominance in South Koreas Robot Vacuum Market
    Roborock Maintains Dominance in South Korea's Robot Vacuum Market Roborock is solidifying its position as the leading brand in South Korea's robot vacuum market. The company has seen its domestic sales increase more than sixfold in five years, thanks to enhanced product performance tailored to the local living environment and improved after-sales service.On August 26, Roborock reported that its domestic sales rose from 48 billion won in 2021 to approximately 300 billion won last year, marking a 525% increase over five years. The company secured about 50% market share in the domestic robot vacuum market last year.South Korean apartments often feature thresholds and varying floor heights, and many households use carpets in living rooms and bedrooms. To address these challenges, Roborock has implemented its 'AdaptLift Chassis' technology, which allows vacuums to cross thresholds.The flagship model, the S10 MaxV Ultra, released this year, incorporates an upgraded 'AdaptLift Chassis 3.0' that can pass over thresholds up to 8.8 cm high. It also automatically adjusts suction power for carpets up to 3 cm thick.The cleaning performance has also been enhanced, achieving a maximum suction power of 36,000 pascals (Pa) and improving brush structure to clean walls and corners effectively. The vacuum can fit under furniture with a height of up to 7.95 cm.Roborock continues its strategy of launching new products in the South Korean market first. The S10 MaxV Ultra was released in South Korea before any other country outside of China, generating 28 billion won in sales within just 10 days. This figure represents a 30% increase compared to the initial sales of the S9 MaxV Ultra released last year.The company's focus on South Korea as a key testing market is attributed to the high demand for premium appliances among local consumers and the challenging living conditions that serve as a proving ground for new product performance.Roborock has also expanded its after-sales service. It has introduced on-site service for products using direct delivery stations and offers a collection service via courier for customers who cannot receive visits.Fifteen official service centers across the country provide specialized cleaning services for the product body and dock. Additionally, repair requests can be made at over 315 Lotte Hi-Mart locations nationwide, broadening service access.The domestic robot vacuum market is expected to exceed 1 trillion won this year. As the market grows, the competitive landscape is shifting to prioritize not only product performance but also the overall user experience, including installation, maintenance, and after-sales service.A Roborock representative stated, "By understanding the living environment and lifestyle of South Korean consumers, we have introduced products and services that meet their needs. We aim to strengthen our position as a market-leading brand based on our technology and customer service." 2026-08-26 17:48:10
  • Defense Ministrys Public Hearing on Military Academy Faces Disruption
    Defense Ministry's Public Hearing on Military Academy Faces Disruption On August 26, a public hearing on the establishment of a military academy held by the Defense Ministry in Yongsan, Seoul, descended into chaos due to mockery, insults, and shouting from opponents.During the hearing, which was broadcast live by the Defense Media Agency and on YouTube, Kim Hong-cheol, head of the Defense Policy Office, urged attendees to remain calm, stating, "This public hearing is not for alumni but for the citizens." However, the event could not avoid disruption.The Defense Ministry has been gathering feedback following the release of its basic plan in July to establish a four-year military academy that integrates the Army, Navy, and Air Force at the Jowon base in Daejeon. This was the first public hearing since the announcement, but it failed to foster productive discussion.A retired colonel took the stage 10 minutes before the hearing began, shouting, "The materials prepared by the Defense Ministry are already known, so please extend the Q&A session." Despite officials and the moderator repeatedly requesting restraint, protests continued.An individual believed to be a member of the alumni association stood up and shouted, "Kim Gyu-baek, come here," demanding the attendance of Minister An, who was absent from the hearing. One attendee attempted to approach Kim with an open bottle of water during his presentation but was stopped by officials.The hearing proceeded with Kim's welcoming remarks and policy explanations, followed by expert discussions and a Q&A session. Kim explained, "This is not a one-sided presentation of policies prepared by the Defense Ministry, but a forum to contemplate the future direction of national defense education with the public."Kim noted that advanced science and technology are fundamentally changing the nature of warfare and the military's role, emphasizing the need for fundamental discussions on how to train future officers and innovate the paradigm of defense education.The discussion continued under the moderation of Professor Lim Cheol-il from Seoul National University. Supporters of the military academy integration included Professor Choi Young-jin, chair of the Military Academy Education Reform Committee, Doo Jin-ho, head of the Eurasia Center at the Korea Institute for Strategic Studies, and Jin Ho-young, a former defense reform advisory member (retired Air Force brigadier general). The opposition panel included retired Air Force Brigadier General Kang Byeong-cheol, retired Navy Colonel Jo Gi-hong, and retired Army Major Kim Se-jin, recommended by the alumni associations of the Army, Navy, and Air Force academies.About 300 attendees, who registered on a first-come, first-served basis, erupted in applause and cheers each time the moderator introduced a member of the opposition panel. The hearing was also attended by lawmakers, including Han Gi-ho of the People Power Party and Cheon Ha-ram, floor leader of the Reform Party.Earlier, the Defense Ministry announced plans to operate a four-year military academy that integrates the military academies of each branch in Daejeon. The first two years will involve integrated education, while the last two years will allow for specialized training in each branch.Supporters argue that integrating the military academies will enable cadets to learn the tactics and weapon systems of each branch from the start, thereby enhancing the necessary skills for joint operations. They contend that, given the declining birth rate and decreasing applications to military academies, it is essential to integrate military education infrastructure now to maximize operational efficiency. Opponents, however, argue that conducting integrated education without establishing the specialties of each branch could negatively impact joint operations.Professor Choi emphasized the need for educational reform, citing a 2024 satisfaction survey conducted by the Korea Institute for Defense Analyses, which found that only 25.2% of respondents rated military academy education positively. In contrast, a 2022 study indicated a satisfaction rate of 74.1% for universities in the Seoul metropolitan area.Retired Army Major Kim Se-jin stated, "Until the government answers questions such as 'What is the future military structure and officer requirements for 2040?' and 'Is there empirical evidence that integration improves jointness?' legislation should not be pushed through." 2026-08-26 17:48:10