AJU PRESS ASIA FIRST NEWS AGENCY

Journalist

&
""
Latest by
  • KOSPI Rises 0.97% on Strong Institutional Buying, Driven by Samsung and SK Hynix Stock Buybacks
    KOSPI Rises 0.97% on Strong Institutional Buying, Driven by Samsung and SK Hynix Stock Buybacks 코스피가 기관과 기타법인의 대규모 순매수에 힘입어 6800선을 회복했다. 이 순매수는 삼성전자와 SK하이닉스의 자사주 매입에 따른 것으로 추정된다. On August 26, the KOSPI index closed at 6,808.21, up 65.47 points (0.97%) from the previous trading day. Individual investors sold a net 2.2468 trillion won, while foreign investors sold 105.2 billion won. In contrast, institutions purchased a net 764.9 billion won, with financial investors accounting for 690.9 billion won of that total. Notably, other corporations showed significant buying activity, with a net purchase of 1.5981 trillion won on the day. Among the top market capitalization stocks, Samsung Electronics rose 1.75%, and SK Hynix increased by 0.60%. Other gainers included Samsung Electronics Preferred (1.18%), LG Energy Solution (0.43%), and Samsung Biologics (0.88%). However, Samsung Electro-Mechanics fell by 2.35%, Hyundai Motor dropped 3.09%, and SK Square decreased by 0.19%. The KOSDAQ index closed at 826.87, down 0.28 points (0.03%) from the previous day. Individual investors bought a net 193 billion won, but foreign and institutional investors sold 91.1 billion won and 105.3 billion won, respectively. Stocks such as Alteogen (1.96%), EcoPro (2.11%), and Pharma Research (6.63%) saw gains, while HLB fell by 4.70%, Juseong Engineering dropped 3.02%, and Wonik IPS decreased by 2.67%. Lee Kyung-min, a researcher at Daishin Securities, noted, "The supply-demand momentum has strengthened. The large-scale buying by other corporations, likely due to the stock buybacks by Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix, has supported the index and shifted market sentiment. Additionally, the reduction in foreign selling and a shift to buying have contributed to the KOSPI's upward movement."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-26 15:48:00
  • Lock & Lock Wins Two Awards at IDEA 2026 Design Awards
    Lock & Lock Wins Two Awards at IDEA 2026 Design Awards Lock & Lock has demonstrated its design competitiveness by winning two awards at the IDEA 2026 Design Awards in the home category.The IDEA Design Awards, organized by the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA), is a prestigious global design competition that evaluates design innovation, user experience, functionality, and social impact. Lock & Lock received a Bronze award for its 'Baro Han Kki Silicone Steamer' and was named a Finalist for its 'Suit Sage' product.The 'Baro Han Kki Silicone Steamer' features a design optimized for microwave cooking, emphasizing user convenience. Its dome-shaped lid minimizes moisture loss and ensures even heating of ingredients.The 'Suit Sage' product stands out with its trendy green color and wooden handle. This cookware collection, which includes frying pans and pots, incorporates natural wood materials in the handles and lid knobs, providing a stable grip.Last year, Lock & Lock's kitchenware brand, Decat, won an award at the 2025 IDEA Design Awards.A Lock & Lock representative stated, "We are honored to have our brand and design competitiveness recognized in the global market through the prestigious IDEA Design Awards. We will continue to introduce differentiated products that lead lifestyle innovation and strengthen our position as a trusted global home and living company."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-26 15:48:00
  • SF9 Celebrates 10th Anniversary with New Album TENACITY
    SF9 Celebrates 10th Anniversary with New Album 'TENACITY' "Thanks to the many people who have supported us over the past 10 years, we are looking forward to seeing our journey continue to the 60th anniversary. We want to show that we are a team with determination and ambition." (Inseong)The group SF9, celebrating its 10th anniversary, has made a grand return with its second studio album, 'TENACITY,' which aims to quench a long-standing thirst for new music. The album encapsulates the group's perseverance and determination, promising another remarkable leap forward.On the afternoon of August 26, a press showcase was held to commemorate the release of SF9's new album. Members Youngbin, Inseong, Jaeyoon, Dawon, Chani, and Huiyoung attended to share their thoughts on reaching this milestone and discuss the new album.The members expressed their excitement about the 10th anniversary. Inseong stated, "I feel very good, amazed, and grateful," while Jaeyoon added, "I was surprised that the 10th anniversary came so quickly, but I want to prepare for a dinner show for the 60th anniversary and meet many people there."Chani mentioned, "I still feel like I'm in my fifth year, so it doesn't feel real that it's already the 10th anniversary," and Dawon expressed gratitude, saying, "Being able to do this job for 10 years is not something I could have done alone. I thank the staff and our fans." Youngbin and Huiyoung also conveyed their heartfelt thanks to their fandom, known as Fantasy, and to each other for being a support system throughout the decade.The new album 'TENACITY' is a culmination of SF9's journey over the past 10 years. The title signifies 'perseverance and determination' while also reflecting their 10th anniversary. It holds deep meaning as it encapsulates the musical journey SF9 has built over the years and their commitment to the future. Notably, this is their first studio album in six years, featuring ten diverse tracks that showcase their broad musical spectrum.Jaeyoon described the album as one that the members were eager to release, saying, "This was an album we really wanted to put out, and we actively appealed to the company to make it happen. We always give our best, but this time, the members put in 120% effort in every aspect, from dance practice to jacket shooting. I hope this album does really well because it carries significant meaning for us."Youngbin also shared his honest thoughts on choosing a studio album for their anniversary, stating, "When the focus is only on the title track, the other songs tend to get overlooked. However, we chose a studio album because it was a long-standing wish of our fans. They really wanted a second studio album, and we wanted to present high-quality tracks."He continued, "The members participated in writing and composing many of the songs, and if these aspects resonate with the public, it will greatly help define our musical direction moving forward. The significance of the 10th anniversary is immense, but we also wanted to pack this album with our aspirations to push forward energetically."The title track 'Without Wings' is based on the global trend of Afrobeats. It intuitively tells the story of SF9 rising again beyond their limits, featuring their signature refreshing vocal charm and delivering a free and energetic mood.Inseong noted, "This song allows the members' visuals and vocal styles to shine elegantly. I wanted to prove that while we create the best synergy with the lyrics, performance, and vocals, we can also be excellent musicians who can lead the stage individually." Huiyoung revealed that to perfectly embody the concept of the title track, he worked hard on his diet, believing that a frail appearance suited the theme.In this album, the members actively participated in various aspects, including songwriting and composing, showcasing their matured musical capabilities as a 10-year-old idol group. The intense deliberations of members like Youngbin, Huiyoung, and Chani during the album's production are also evident.Youngbin shared, "In the early days of our debut, we tried to embellish everything, but I realized that the most important thing is 'empathy' with the audience, so I focus on that when creating lyrics and music." Chani and Huiyoung added their own approaches, with Chani saying, "If I lack experience, I fill it by watching movies or dramas to write lyrics," and Huiyoung stating, "I think having more experiences helps in the creative process. I try to embed hope into the songs according to the title and concept."Over the past decade, the driving force behind SF9's unity amid the ups and downs of the entertainment industry has been their teamwork and personal growth.Youngbin pointed out, "The biggest change is the members' 'flexibility.' Even if we have different musical styles, we don't stubbornly insist on our own ideas when it comes to the team's direction. In the early days, we had conflicts, but now that flexibility has brightened the team atmosphere and helped us grow."Jaeyoon expressed his deep affection for the team, saying, "We've become much more flexible on stage, and I've learned to express depth like a well-brewed broth. Every time I see the members, they look really cool."The strong bond among the members has also helped them overcome inevitable crises and slumps during their long career.Youngbin stated, "We always have our own worries and face slumps, but in the end, the only thing that remains is the members. A simple message from each other can be a great source of strength, and even if we don't contact each other often, we support each other deeply from our respective places." Huiyoung defined SF9's uniqueness as a team that is "not stagnant but continuously flowing and changing."Not resting on their past glories, SF9's ultimate goals and musical aspirations remain a work in progress as they celebrate their 10th anniversary.Dawon recalled the moment they achieved their first win with 'Good Guy' on a music show as the most memorable, stating, "I still haven't reached the level of success I desire. I've always had a thirst for more in terms of performance scale and musical self-realization, which has driven me to keep running. I will strive for even higher goals." Inseong also shared his grand dream of wanting to hold a solo concert at Wembley Stadium, capturing attention.Meanwhile, SF9 is preparing for a solo concert to celebrate their 10th anniversary. Chani and Jaeyoon urged fans to look forward to the upcoming performance, saying, "We will show you the mature and passionate energy we've built up over the past 10 years. We want to share precious memories from our debut until now with our fans."SF9's new album 'TENACITY,' which encapsulates their new leap and the narrative of their 10 years, will be released today at 6 PM on various music streaming platforms.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-26 15:48:00
  • Five Central Asian states join Korea in new industry ministers forum
    Five Central Asian states join Korea in new industry ministers' forum SEOUL, August 26 (AJP) - A standing consultative body of industry ministers will anchor the economic agenda when South Korea hosts the leaders of five Central Asian countries in Seoul next month, giving a relationship built largely on separate bilateral deals its first permanent multilateral working channel. The first Korea-Central Asia Summit, set for Sept. 16 and 17, puts industrial modernization, infrastructure, critical minerals and energy, workforce training and private-sector participation at the center of the agenda. The C5+Korea Industry Ministers' Meeting is designed to keep sectoral talks running between leaders' meetings, identify joint initiatives and maintain a list of priority projects that links each area to specific partners and sources of financing. In materials setting out Tashkent's approach to the summit, the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Seoul said Uzbekistan enters the new regional format with elements of the industrial agenda already operating inside its bilateral relationship with South Korea. The two countries have held what both governments describe as a special strategic partnership since 2019, a designation that places South Korea in Uzbekistan's highest tier of diplomatic relationships. Cumulative South Korean direct investment in the Uzbek economy has passed $8 billion, according to the embassy. Bilateral trade approached $1 billion in the first half of 2026, up 11.5 percent from the same period a year earlier. Behind those figures sits a network of joint institutions rather than a trade balance. Uzbekistan hosts Korean-linked centers in textiles, rare metals and alloys, agricultural machinery and e-government, and cooperation has extended into chemical technologies and construction. Their function is to move engineering methods, technical knowledge and production experience across, not finished goods. Critical minerals are where the summit agenda and Uzbekistan's own industrial plans overlap most directly. The metals and rare earth elements that go into batteries, semiconductors and defense equipment, and the processing steps that turn raw ore into usable input are the part most countries cannot do alone. Uzbekistan already runs the Uzbek-Korean Scientific and Technological Center for Rare Metals and Alloys, which works on materials science, processing technologies, research and specialist training with the aim of moving those results into industrial production. More sophisticated industry raises the demands placed on everything around it. Within the summit agenda, infrastructure covers energy, industrial complexes, transport and logistics, and urban systems, and it extends across the full life of a project, from planning and construction through modernization and operation. For an investor, that means an industrial site can be assessed together with the power, engineering and logistics needed to run it. Financing for projects on that scale already exists in part. The cooperation program between Uzbekistan and the Economic Development Cooperation Fund, South Korea's concessional lending arm for developing countries, has been set at $2 billion for 2024 through 2027. A new portfolio of initiatives is under preparation, and the two sides are examining financing without state guarantees and through public-private partnerships, arrangements that shift more of the risk onto commercial participants and open the door to private capital. Where the agenda ultimately settles is at the level of individual companies, which turn sectoral priorities into investment decisions and products. That places private firms, financial institutions and research organizations at the center of the industrial cooperation the ministers' forum is meant to steer. The workforce is the constraint that grows alongside the rest. The Korea International Cooperation Agency has helped establish four vocational education centers in Uzbekistan, in Tashkent, Fergana, Shakhrisabz and Samarkand. A fifth is under construction in Urgench. 2026-08-26 15:45:59
  • Nexon to Assess AI Skills Instead of Coding Tests for Game Programmer Internships
    Nexon to Assess AI Skills Instead of Coding Tests for Game Programmer Internships Nexon is introducing a new evaluation method for hiring entry-level game programmers, focusing on assessing AI skills instead of traditional coding tests. The aim is to select candidates who can define and solve problems in a rapidly evolving development environment.Since August 25, Nexon has opened applications for its internship program, 'NexTorial for Game Programmers.''NexTorial' has been a key recruitment track for Nexon Company since its launch in 2021, continuing for six consecutive years. The company has implemented various initiatives to provide prospective applicants with recruitment information and insights through both online and offline events. This year, the focus is on recruiting game programmers while adapting the hiring process to assess the skills and potential needed in a real work environment.The most significant change is the replacement of the coding test, a standard evaluation method in the IT industry, with an assessment of AI skills.Qualified applicants will first undergo an AI interview, engaging in a one-on-one conversation with an AI for about an hour to evaluate their foundational knowledge and common competencies required for game programmers.Next, the AI skills assessment will involve solving problems similar to those encountered in actual work scenarios using provided AI tools. Candidates will be evaluated on their understanding of AI, the process of crafting prompts, and the final outcomes. This assessment aims to gauge not only the ability to produce results but also how candidates define problems, their structural thinking skills, and their capacity to solve practical tasks using AI.Another notable feature of 'NexTorial' is that it offers treatment equivalent to full-time employees. Interns will receive a salary equal to that of entry-level college graduates, along with benefits such as welfare points that match those of regular employees.Hong Ja-hyun, head of Nexon's recruitment team, stated, “As AI technology is rapidly being integrated into the workplace, we believe it is necessary to adapt our hiring methods accordingly. We plan to proactively secure tailored talent to lead Nexon's future through various innovative approaches in 'NexTorial.'”Meanwhile, applications for 'NexTorial for Game Programmers' will be accepted until 4 p.m. on September 7. Successful candidates will work as interns at Nexon Company for six months starting December 7, with opportunities for full-time positions offered to those who demonstrate their capabilities and qualifications during the internship.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-26 15:44:20
  • Seoul Confirms Eviction Policy for Long-Term Lease Residents After 20 Years
    Seoul Confirms Eviction Policy for Long-Term Lease Residents After 20 Years Seoul City has reaffirmed that residents of long-term lease housing must vacate their units after the maximum 20-year residency period, denying any possibility of contract extensions or alternative rental housing.On August 25, the city announced on its website that it is not considering securing alternative rental housing for residents whose 20-year lease terms are expiring.This statement follows a report from last month indicating that the city was exploring options for alternative rental housing for residents facing lease expirations. At that time, a media outlet reported that Seoul City had requested the Seoul Housing and Communities Corporation (SH) to consider securing alternative housing for residents whose leases would expire starting next year.Seoul City emphasized that once the 20-year lease period for long-term housing ends, residents are required to vacate in accordance with existing lease agreements and relevant laws. The city also stated that it will not offer any contract extensions or conversion to ownership options.Long-term lease housing is a public housing program that allows residents to live for up to 20 years by paying a deposit lower than the market rate, with contracts renewed every two years. This program was introduced during the tenure of former Mayor Oh Se-hoon in 2007, and starting next year, the initial residents will begin to reach the end of their lease terms. Approximately 9,500 units are expected to reach expiration over the next five years.The affordable deposits for long-term leases are a key feature of the program. According to Seoul City, the average deposit for long-term leases is about 54% of the average rental price for apartments in Seoul. Notably, the initial deposits for residents who moved in 2007 are only about 23% of the current average rental price in the city.Seoul City explained that long-term lease housing serves as a means of residential stability for long-term living while also acting as a ladder for residents to transition to home ownership. According to the city, among the 14,902 households that have vacated long-term lease housing, 1,171 households, or 7.9%, have moved on to purchase their own homes. Their average length of stay was recorded at 9.92 years.The city has also stated that the recruitment announcements for long-term lease housing specify that these are 'public housing that will not be converted to ownership,' emphasizing that these units are not supplied with the expectation of conversion. Therefore, even if residents maintain their eligibility, the city holds that they cannot extend their contracts beyond the maximum residency period of 20 years.A city official stated, 'The information specified in the recruitment announcement is the principle,' adding that they are currently informing residents about the eviction policy following the expiration of their leases.As the expiration of initial long-term lease residents begins next year, it is expected that discussions surrounding evictions will continue. 2026-08-26 15:40:00
  • Migrant-background students rise as Koreas classrooms empty
    Migrant-background students rise as Korea's classrooms empty SEOUL, August 26 (AJP) -South Korea's school-age population is shrinking at its fastest pace in years even as the number of students from immigrant backgrounds continues to rise, government data showed Wednesday. Students from immigrant backgrounds — a category covering children born in South Korea to one Korean and one foreign-born parent, as well as children of two foreign-born parents — reached 210,838 in elementary, middle and high schools as of April 1. The figure was up 4.3 percent from 202,208 a year earlier and accounted for 4.3 percent of students at the three school levels, according to a joint report by the Ministry of Education and the Korean Educational Development Institute (KEDI). The increase was steepest among high school students, whose number rose 12.0 percent to 37,660. The number of middle school students from immigrant backgrounds increased 4.6 percent to 53,501, while elementary students rose 1.8 percent to 118,655. By parental origin, Vietnam accounted for the largest share at 30.9 percent, followed by China, excluding ethnic Koreans, at 26.7 percent and the Philippines at 8.1 percent. A similar shift was visible in higher education, where the number of foreign students enrolled at South Korean universities, colleges and graduate schools surpassed 300,000 for the first time. Foreign enrollment reached 307,464, up 21.3 percent from a year earlier. The total had surpassed 250,000 only a year earlier. Vietnam overtook China as the largest source of foreign students for the first time on record. Vietnamese nationals numbered 96,834, up 28.9 percent from a year earlier and accounting for 31.5 percent of the total. Chinese students numbered 78,890, or 25.7 percent, slipping to second place. The shift marks a sharp change from 2010, when Chinese nationals accounted for 71.0 percent of all foreign students in South Korea and Vietnamese students made up just 2.3 percent. Uzbekistan, Nepal and Mongolia rounded out the five largest source countries. Students from Asian countries accounted for 92.1 percent of the total. The gains among migrant-background and international students contrast with a steep decline in South Korea's broader student population, reflecting the country's persistently low birthrate. Total enrollment across kindergartens and elementary, middle and high schools fell 3.4 percent to 5,362,281, a decline of nearly 189,000 from a year earlier. Elementary schools recorded the steepest drop, losing 126,118 students, or 5.4 percent, to 2,219,370. The number of schools nationwide fell by 140 to 20,233, driven largely by kindergarten closures, even as the number of middle and high schools edged higher. Higher education moved in the opposite direction. Enrollment at South Korean colleges and universities rose 1.8 percent to 3,072,261, while the freshman-seat fill rate increased to 88.2 percent from 86.8 percent. The figures underscore a widening demographic divide in South Korean education: fewer children are entering the domestic school system, while migrant-background and foreign students are taking up a steadily larger share of classrooms and campuses. AJP Takeaways South Korea had 210,838 students from immigrant backgrounds in elementary, middle and high schools as of April 1, 2026, up 4.3 percent from a year earlier and accounting for 4.3 percent of enrollment. Foreign students in South Korean higher education surpassed 300,000 for the first time, reaching 307,464, with Vietnamese nationals overtaking Chinese nationals as the largest group. South Korea's kindergarten-through-high-school enrollment fell 3.4 percent to 5.36 million, while elementary enrollment dropped 5.4 percent as the country's low birthrate continues to shrink classrooms. 2026-08-26 15:38:16
  • Baemin Launches Womens Fashion Brand Siyajyu with Instant Delivery
    Baemin Launches Women's Fashion Brand 'Siyajyu' with Instant Delivery The women's fashion brand 'Siyajyu' is now available on Baemin, allowing customers to receive clothing items like slacks through delivery.On August 26, Woowa Brothers, the operator of Baemin, announced that it has launched 'Siyajyu' on Baemin Store and started offering instant delivery.The stores include locations in Dosan (Gangnam), Hannam (Yongsan), and Dolgok (Seongbuk). This marks the first time Baemin has introduced a designer brand. Customers near the stores can receive their ordered clothing within an hour.To celebrate the launch of Siyajyu, Baemin is offering a 5% discount on all products, excluding special items. Special items will be available at discounts of up to 40% through the 'Exclusive Product Promotion' and 'Today's Special' until September 8. During the same period, a 20% discount coupon will be provided, along with a limited-time basket coupon (5% discount) that can be issued and used until September 1.Baemin is also preparing collaborative products with Siyajyu. These slacks are designed based on customer feedback and aim to provide comfort and practicality for everyday use.A Baemin representative stated, "We initiated this collaboration to offer a differentiated shopping experience where customers can receive clothing immediately, even in urgent situations like unexpected appointments or work. We will continue to strive to provide fast and convenient services across various categories, including fashion."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-26 15:36:12
  • Bomb Threat at Gwangju High Court Turns Out to Be False Alarm
    Bomb Threat at Gwangju High Court Turns Out to Be False Alarm A bomb threat email claiming that an explosive device had been placed at the Gwangju High Court prompted a police search, but no explosives were found.According to the Gwangju Dongbu Police Station, a report was received around 12:09 p.m. on August 26 regarding a bomb at the court located in Jisan-dong, Dong-gu, Gwangju.An unidentified individual sent an email to court officials stating, "I have placed a homemade bomb and will detonate it between 1:34 p.m. and 8:30 p.m."Following the report from a court employee, the police's initial response team, special forces, and fire authorities were dispatched to search the court premises and surrounding areas, but no explosives were discovered.Police suspect that the threatening email was sent from an IP address in Japan.It has also been reported that similar emails were sent to other courts, including the Incheon District Court, Daejeon Family Court, and Cheongju District Court.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-26 15:32:00
  • Gunpo City Council to Advance AI Legislative Support and Citizen Forums
    Gunpo City Council to Advance AI Legislative Support and Citizen Forums Gunpo City Council in Gyeonggi Province is set to integrate artificial intelligence into its legislative activities and conduct research to incorporate citizen voices into policy-making.On August 26, the council held the '2026 Second Committee for Council Research Group Operations' in the cultural lecture room, where it reviewed and approved the registration and research plans for the 'Gunpo City Council AI Innovation Research Group' and the 'Citizen Forum Policy Council Forum.'The 'Gunpo City Council AI Innovation Research Group' is led by Representative Park Sang-hyun (People Power Party), with members Lee Dong-han, Park Jae-shin, and Park Sang-hyun (Democratic Party) participating.The research topic focuses on establishing an AI legislative support system based on RAG-LLM and exploring innovative legislative measures.The group aims to find ways to apply AI in reviewing ordinances, budgets, and various legislative materials, analyzing work efficiency and review accuracy.Additionally, it will develop security and control standards related to personal data protection in AI usage and explore institutional measures for safe application in legislative activities.The 'Citizen Forum Policy Council Forum' is led by Representative Lee Woo-cheon, with members Jang Kyung-min and Jeong Hae-dong.This group will research ways to enhance democratic citizen education through citizen councils and forums.The core objective is to ensure that citizens do not merely receive policies but actively engage in discussions and propose opinions, applying a participatory democratic education system in Gunpo.To achieve this, the group will design a citizen council and forum operation model tailored to Gunpo's context and seek collaboration with the city, council, education office, and civic organizations. It will also review institutional measures, including related ordinances, budgets, and organizational structures, to translate research findings into actual policies.In particular, a citizen forum involving over 100 participants, including council members, officials, experts, and residents, is planned for October. The forum will share research findings and incorporate diverse opinions gathered through deliberation and discussion into the final research results.This is the first research group formed since the 10th council was established, and it will operate for three months from September to November.Citizens express hope that AI will enhance the efficiency of legislative material reviews while emphasizing the need for safeguards regarding information accuracy and personal data protection. They also stress the importance of ensuring that citizen opinions are reflected in actual ordinances, policies, and budgets, rather than merely collecting feedback.Chairman Lee Woo-cheon stated, “The activities of the council research group are a process to closely examine local issues and citizen demands to connect them to practical legislation and policies. I hope this research leads to concrete outcomes that enhance the efficiency of legislative activities and broaden citizen participation in policy-making.”Meanwhile, the city council has operated a total of 10 council research groups across various fields, including hydrogen industry, restoration of Sanbon Stream, animal welfare, local commerce, youth policies, carbon neutrality, and restoration of firefly habitats, from 2023 to 2025.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-26 15:28:00