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  • Decline in Elementary Students Amid Surge in Foreign Enrollment in South Korea
    Decline in Elementary Students Amid Surge in Foreign Enrollment in South Korea The decline in the school-age population due to low birth rates has significantly impacted elementary and secondary education in South Korea, with the number of elementary students dropping by more than 126,000 in just one year. In contrast, the number of foreign students has surpassed 300,000 for the first time, playing a crucial role in improving enrollment rates at universities.Elementary Student Population Drops by Over 126,000; 167 Kindergartens CloseAccording to the '2026 Education Basic Statistics' report released on August 26 by the Ministry of Education and the Korea Educational Development Institute (KEDI), the total number of students in elementary, middle, and high schools across the country is 5,362,281, a decrease of 189,007 (3.4%) from the previous year.The decline is most pronounced among elementary students, whose numbers fell to 2,219,370, a staggering decrease of 126,118 (5.4%), accounting for the majority of the overall decline. Kindergarten enrollment also dropped to 469,304 (-2.5%), while middle school students decreased to 1,338,750 (-2.3%) and high school students to 1,279,392 (-1.5%).As a result of the declining enrollment, 167 kindergartens closed in the past year, reducing the total to 7,973. The number of elementary schools also decreased by one to 6,191. The average class size in elementary schools fell to 18.6 students, down from 19.3 the previous year, while middle and high schools also saw slight reductions in class sizes.The student-to-teacher ratio has also improved, with kindergartens averaging 8.5 students per teacher, elementary schools 11.6, middle schools 11.5, and high schools 10.0, all lower than the previous year.Conversely, the number of 'migrant background students' (previously referred to as multicultural students) in elementary and secondary education has reached a record high of 210,838, an increase of 8,630 (4.3%) from the previous year. These students now represent 4.3% of the total student population, up 0.3 percentage points from last year.Foreign Student Enrollment Surpasses 307,000, Boosting College Recruitment RatesIn higher education, the explosive growth of foreign students has been notable. The number of foreign students enrolled in universities across the country has reached 307,464, an increase of 54,030 (21.3%) from the previous year, marking the first time it has surpassed 300,000.Among these, degree-seeking students numbered 223,191, a 24.6% increase, while non-degree students, such as those in language programs, rose to 84,273, a 13.5% increase. The majority of foreign students come from Vietnam (31.5%) and China (25.7%), with students from Uzbekistan (6.8%), Nepal (6.5%), and Mongolia (5.6%) making up 92.1% of the total.Thanks to the influx of foreign students, the overall freshman enrollment rate at universities has risen to 88.2%, up from 86.8% the previous year. Notably, the enrollment rate for colleges, which have struggled to attract new students due to the declining school-age population, surged from 92.0% to 97.5%, a remarkable increase of 5.5 percentage points. The enrollment rate for general universities also rose to 99.2%, an increase of 0.2 percentage points from the previous year.The total number of students enrolled in higher education institutions has also increased to 3,072,261, up 55,537 (1.8%) from the previous year.University Consolidations Lead to Five Fewer Institutions; Increase in Non-Tenured FacultyDue to structural reforms and consolidations, the total number of higher education institutions has decreased to 416, down five from the previous year. National universities such as Gangneung-Wonju National University merged with Kangwon National University, while Gyeongnam Provincial College of Geoje and Gyeongnam Provincial College of Namhae merged with Changwon National University. Jeonnam National University merged with Mokpo National University, and Wonkwang Health University merged with Wonkwang University.Additionally, LH Land and Housing University closed, while LG AI Graduate School was established as a corporate graduate school.The faculty situation shows a clear increase in non-tenured faculty. The total number of university faculty members reached 245,833, an increase of 5,209 (2.2%) from the previous year. However, the number of full-time faculty members decreased by 73 (0.1%) to 86,628, while the number of non-tenured faculty, including lecturers and adjuncts, rose by 5,282 (3.4%) to 159,205. Consequently, the full-time faculty ratio at general universities fell to 90.1%, and at colleges to 62.8%, down 0.2 and 0.7 percentage points, respectively.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-26 14:44:00
  • Samsung Display puts expandable OLED at center of Genesis GV90
    Samsung Display puts expandable OLED at center of Genesis GV90 SEOUL, August 26 (AJP) - Samsung Display is stepping up its push into automotive OLEDs, supplying Genesis' flagship GV90 electric SUV with an expandable center screen that grows by nearly 70 percent when the vehicle is parked. The display maker said Wednesday it has begun shipping two OLED panels for the GV90 this month, including a 24.6-inch center display and 13.2-inch screens mounted behind the front-seat headrests. At the center of the vehicle is what Samsung calls a Cinematic Display, which changes size depending on how the vehicle is being used. While driving, the screen remains at 23.6 inches to display navigation, driving and media information. Once parked, pressing a button on the center fascia raises the display by 90 millimeters, expanding it to 24.6 inches and providing about 1.7 times more screen area. The design highlights one of the advantages display makers are pitching as they seek to bring OLED technology deeper into vehicle interiors. Unlike LCDs, OLED panels do not require a separate backlight, allowing them to be made thinner and lighter. Samsung Display said its OLED panels are generally about 30 percent as thick and 70 percent as heavy as comparable LCDs, making them better suited to movable displays in space-constrained vehicle cabins. The GV90's center display has a 24:9 aspect ratio and a resolution of 3,840 by 1,440 pixels. It covers 100 percent of the DCI-P3 color gamut and uses a tandem OLED structure, which stacks two organic light-emitting layers to improve brightness and lifespan. Samsung Display is also supplying two 13.2-inch OLED panels with 1,920-by-1,080 resolution for the backs of the front-seat headrests, allowing rear passengers to watch separate content or use the screens for functions such as video conferencing. The supply deal comes as display makers increasingly look to vehicles as another growth market for OLED technology, with larger and more sophisticated screens becoming a central part of premium vehicle interiors. Samsung Display has been expanding its automotive OLED business under its DRIVE brand, which focuses on design flexibility, reliability, safety and picture quality. "Samsung Display's OLED featured in the GV90 symbolizes how premium display technology and luxury mobility can come together to create a new experience," said Joohyung Lee, executive vice president and head of Mobile Display Business at Samsung Display. "Going forward, we will continue to build on the strengths of both companies to create new value for luxury mobility." AJP Takeaways: Samsung Display began supplying 24.6-inch and 13.2-inch OLED panels for Genesis' flagship GV90 this month. The centerpiece is an expandable OLED display that rises 90 mm when parked, increasing usable screen area by about 70 percent. The deal underscores Samsung Display's push to expand OLED beyond smartphones and other consumer electronics into premium vehicle interiors. 2026-08-26 14:37:41
  • Hyundai Targets 5.55 Million Vehicles with Hybrid and Electric Strategies
    Hyundai Targets 5.55 Million Vehicles with Hybrid and Electric Strategies Hyundai Motor Company is accelerating its growth in the global market by focusing on hybrid and electric vehicles. In the United States, the company plans to increase sales of hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), which combine the strengths of internal combustion engines and electrification. In Europe, where demand for eco-friendly vehicles is high, Hyundai aims to raise the share of electric vehicle (EV) sales to over half.On August 26, Hyundai unveiled its electrification strategy roadmap during the '2026 CEO Investor Day' held at the Conrad Hotel in Yeouido, Seoul.The company set a long-term goal of achieving 60% of its global sales from electrified vehicles (xEV) by 2030, targeting 5.55 million units. This figure is 1.39 million units higher than its global sales target of 4.158 million units for this year.Hyundai plans to boost sales based on hybrid electrification. In the first half of this year, HEV sales reached 363,000 units, an 18% increase compared to the same period last year, while revenue hit a record 95.2 trillion won.Jose Munoz, President of Hyundai Motor Company, stated, "Hyundai's fundamentals are stronger than ever. We will launch more models and provide more powertrain options to customers while aggressively entering new vehicle segments and markets."By 2030, Hyundai plans to introduce over 100 new models globally, including fully and partially changed models and derivatives. Among these, more than 18 will be completely new vehicles in segments not previously offered.In the U.S. market, Hyundai aims to launch 10 new HEV models by 2030, increasing the HEV share of total sales to 50%. In the second half of this year, the company will introduce the 'GV80 Hybrid,' its first hybrid model under the Genesis brand, expanding electrification options in the luxury vehicle market.In the first half of next year, both Hyundai and Genesis will launch extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs). The best-selling Tucson and Tucson Hybrid, which have achieved cumulative sales of 10 million units, are also set to launch in the second half of this year.In Europe, Hyundai is accelerating its electrification strategy centered on electric vehicles. The company plans to increase its EV sales in Europe from 116,000 units last year to 420,000 units by 2030, nearly quadrupling its sales.The Europe-exclusive electric vehicle 'Ioniq 3' is set to officially launch next month. It will be the first model in Europe to feature the next-generation infotainment system 'Pleos Connect,' offering a driving range of 500 kilometers on a single charge.In India, Hyundai aims to increase the share of sports utility vehicles (SUVs) from the current 70% to 80% by 2030. The company plans to strengthen its SUV lineup, focusing on the local key model Creta, to capture the rapidly growing Indian automotive market.Genesis will target the global luxury electric vehicle market with its flagship electric SUV, the GV90. This model is expected to set new standards for Genesis in terms of design and technology.To support its aggressive new model launches, Hyundai plans to expand its global production capacity to 1.27 million units by 2030. This includes 500,000 units in North America, 320,000 units in India, 200,000 units domestically, and 250,000 units through completely knocked down (CKD) production. This expansion will enhance production bases in key regions and optimize product strategies based on regional demand.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-26 14:36:00
  • Lotte Department Store Leverages AI to Analyze 4,000 Brands, Boosts Productivity
    Lotte Department Store Leverages AI to Analyze 4,000 Brands, Boosts Productivity Lotte Department Store is utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) as a 'productivity partner' that aids decision-making and analysis beyond mere efficiency improvements.According to Lotte Department Store, the company established an in-house AI system called 'Brand AI' at the end of last month to analyze over 4,000 brands. This brand analysis platform interprets and processes various data necessary for developing merchandise (MD) strategies, providing visualized information.Brand AI connects data previously scattered across individual brands, allowing for a comprehensive view of brand performance trends and purchase correlations among brands. Its key feature, the '3D Network Graph,' visualizes participating brands as nodes and displays connections based on purchase relationships, illustrating the network among brands.The platform also includes a 'Brand DNA' feature that allows users to compare up to five similar brands. It presents key metrics, such as sales figures, in a radial graph format, enabling users to assess the relative position of a brand within its product category and compare it with competitors.For in-depth analysis of specific brands, the 'AI Report' provides a dashboard linking customer metrics, such as age and gender, to sales data. Additionally, 'AI Insights' offers data-driven implications.The practical application of Brand AI is rapidly increasing. In the month following its implementation, the re-engagement rate reached 70%. User surveys indicated that productivity improved by more than double compared to similar tasks.In the second half of the year, Lotte plans to add a conversational chatbot feature to Brand AI. Users will be able to input queries like, "Show me the top 20 brands by customer composition in their 20s," and receive analyzed results. An API-based real-time web search function will also be introduced, allowing for analysis of both internal data and external market trends.Choi Sung-cheol, head of Lotte Department Store's AI Studio, stated, "We plan to continuously introduce technologies that can enhance overall productivity by expanding AI use cases that can be felt in the field."Meanwhile, Lotte is accelerating its company-wide artificial intelligence transformation (AX). Shin Dong-bin, chairman of Lotte Group, attended the 'CEO AI Academy' in June to review the group's AX strategy and emphasized the need to support all employees in developing AI agent capabilities for innovative changes in work methods.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-26 14:32:00
  • Trump Targets Canada with Tariffs Ahead of Midterm Elections
    Trump Targets Canada with Tariffs Ahead of Midterm Elections President Donald Trump has positioned Canada as a 'test case' for his tariff policy ahead of this year's midterm elections. Following the collapse of trade negotiations between the U.S. and Canada, the Trump administration imposed a 50% tariff on approximately $20 billion worth of Canadian goods starting August 22. Additionally, it has announced plans to raise tariffs on Canadian automobiles, parts, and steel to 50% beginning in January.If President Trump can secure significant concessions from Canada, he may tout this as a victory before the midterms. However, Canada has also announced retaliatory tariffs on U.S. products, raising questions about the feasibility of Trump's strategy.A more pressing concern is that in attempting to strengthen the U.S. economic position through tariffs, Trump may inadvertently provide new opportunities for China, the U.S.'s primary adversary. As economic tensions with Canada, a key ally and major trading partner, escalate, China could exploit the situation.From Canada's perspective, options are increasingly diversifying. While it cannot quickly replace the U.S. market due to its high dependence, the Trump administration's repeated use of tariffs as a negotiation tool may incentivize Canada to expand its economic ties with other markets, including China. Although Canada does not have a close relationship with China, the instability in its relationship with the U.S. naturally leads to efforts to reduce excessive reliance on any single country and diversify trade partners.The U.S. industrial sector is also not immune to the trade war with Canada. Canada is a major supplier of essential raw materials, such as steel and energy, for U.S. industries, and it hosts production facilities for major American automakers. The North American automotive industry relies on cross-border supply chains, so imposing high tariffs on Canadian cars and parts will burden not only Canadian companies but also increase production costs and consumer prices for U.S. automakers. While Trump aims to encourage domestic production through tariffs, relocating supply chains to the U.S. in the short term is challenging.Moreover, the U.S. risks weakening its own economic influence. The U.S. possesses powerful economic tools, including the dollar, a vast consumer market, advanced technology, and a network of allies. However, if these tools are repeatedly wielded in the form of tariffs and sanctions, allied nations may seek to reduce their dependence on the U.S. market and diversify their supply chains and trading partners. China could take advantage of this gap. If the U.S. distances itself from its allies through tariffs while China promotes free trade to secure new markets and diplomatic space, the economic pressure from the U.S. could inadvertently aid China's expansion of influence.Ultimately, whether Trump's tariff offensive will genuinely strengthen the U.S. must be evaluated in light of its strategic outcomes against China. For the U.S., the greater strategic goal should be to prevent the expansion of Chinese influence, beyond merely extracting concessions in trade with Canada. Conversely, if the U.S. wields tariffs to counter China while inadvertently pushing its allies toward China, it could result in a strategic loss that far outweighs any short-term gains from tariffs. What Trump needs is not tariffs that subjugate allies, but an economic strategy that unites them in countering China.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-26 14:32:00
  • Uiwang Fire Department Promotes Understanding and Respect for Disabilities
    Uiwang Fire Department Promotes Understanding and Respect for Disabilities The Uiwang Fire Department conducted training on August 26 for its employees to enhance understanding of disabilities and foster a culture of mutual respect within the organization. According to the fire department, the training session for the second half of 2026 focused on improving job competencies, essential attitudes for public officials, and enhancing disability awareness. The training included job training led by the department head, disability awareness improvement education, and guidance on key departmental tasks. Notably, the disability awareness training featured In Sun-hwa, the chairperson of the Seoul Women’s Job Association, as a speaker. She explained the correct understanding of disabilities, the rights of people with disabilities, relevant laws and systems, and the roles and responsibilities public officials should uphold. Participants examined real-life cases to identify biases and misunderstandings about disabilities that may arise in daily life, and they discussed the attitudes necessary to respect the human rights and rights of people with disabilities. Employees expressed agreement on the importance of viewing disabilities not merely as a matter of consideration but as a perspective that respects individual rights and dignity. The focus on real-life examples prompted discussions about reflecting on existing perceptions of disabilities and the need for greater attentiveness in serving citizens during work processes. Citizens also emphasized that it is crucial for fire services to create an environment where everyone can receive assistance without discrimination, not just ensuring safety at disaster sites. This underscores the importance of treating all citizens equally, regardless of disability status, and providing appropriate assistance based on the situation. Fire Chief Lee Jeong-yong stated, “As firefighters are the frontline public officials responsible for citizens' safety, it is essential to not only possess professional skills but also to respect and consider one another.” He added, “Through this training, we will work together with our employees to enhance understanding of disabilities and implement non-discriminatory fire administration.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-26 14:32:00
  • Japan to Support $872 Million for Submarine Cable Procurement to Enhance Communication Independence
    Japan to Support $872 Million for Submarine Cable Procurement to Enhance Communication Independence Japan's government is set to support domestic companies in procuring submarine cable installation vessels. The demand for submarine cables, which account for 99% of international communications, has surged due to the explosive growth in data traffic driven by the expansion of artificial intelligence (AI). However, Japanese companies currently lack sufficient vessels to meet this rising demand, and many of their existing vessels are aging. The emergence of Chinese companies in this sector has also raised concerns. The government aims to reduce reliance on foreign sources for both manufacturing and installation of cables, thereby enhancing the independence of its communication network.According to the Nihon Keizai Shimbun (Nikkei), the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications is targeting a budget of 100 billion yen (approximately $872 million) for the fiscal year 2027 to support the procurement of submarine cable installation vessels. This amount is a target figure, and the actual support level will be finalized after budget discussions with the Ministry of Finance by the end of the year. This marks the first time the government will subsidize the cost of vessel procurement.The ministry is considering subsidizing about half of the procurement costs, which exceed 40 billion yen per vessel. Due to the depreciation of the yen and rising material costs, procurement expenses are on the rise. The government plans to support the procurement of 3 to 5 vessels in the fiscal year 2027.These vessels are essential not only for the installation of new submarine cables but also for the repair of damaged cables. Nikkei noted that a shortage of installation vessels could lead Japanese companies to miss out on increasing demand or result in a rise in cables not involving domestic firms, thereby undermining the independence of the communication network.Geopolitical risks surrounding submarine cables are also increasing. Recently, there have been multiple incidents of cable disruptions around Taiwan and the Baltic Sea, with allegations of involvement from China or Russia. Natural disasters pose additional threats; during the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, submarine cables around Japan were severed. This context has led the Japanese government, which has previously supported the local installation of data centers and submarine cables through funds, to decide to subsidize vessel procurement.In the global submarine cable manufacturing market, France's Alcatel Submarine Networks leads with about 40% market share, followed by U.S.-based SubCom with 30% and Japan's NEC with 20%. China's Huawei Marine Networks (HMN Technologies) holds less than 10% market share. NEC, the third-largest player, has a technological edge but lacks its own installation vessels. In practice, installation is often handled by Japanese telecom companies NTT and KDDI, with some relying on foreign vessels. Recently, Chinese companies have gained prominence, and major U.S. tech firms like Google and Meta have begun installing their own submarine cables.The Japanese government is also diversifying the locations where submarine cables connect to land-based networks, known as landing stations. Currently, these stations are concentrated in Chiba Prefecture's Minamiboso City and Mie Prefecture's Shima City, which are close to Tokyo and Osaka, where communication demand is high. While this concentration is advantageous for reducing data transmission delays, it poses a significant risk of simultaneous communication disruptions in the event of disasters or intentional cuts. Last year, the government selected SoftBank as the operator for the expansion of landing stations in Tomakomai City, Hokkaido, and Itoshima City, Fukuoka Prefecture.Information and communication is one of the 17 strategic areas prioritized by the Takai administration. The government has set a policy to invest a total of 2.4 trillion yen in submarine cables, combining public and private funding, by the fiscal year 2040. It aims to increase the market share of Japanese companies in the global submarine cable market to 35% by 2030, a 15 percentage point increase from the current level. The plan encompasses everything from cable manufacturing to securing installation vessels and diversifying landing stations, with the goal of enhancing the competitiveness and independence of submarine communication networks, a critical infrastructure in the AI era.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-26 14:28:00
  • Government to Support First National Pension Contributions for Young Adults
    Government to Support First National Pension Contributions for Young Adults The government has approved a program to support the first month of national pension contributions for young adults aged 18 to 26 who have no prior payment history, with a maximum subsidy of 40,000 won. This initiative aims to encourage early enrollment in the national pension system.On August 26, the Ministry of Economy and Finance confirmed the approval of five projects, including the first insurance premium support for youth, during the seventh financial investment evaluation committee meeting chaired by Vice Minister Cho Yong-beom.The program targets applicants aged 18 to 26 who have not previously contributed to the national pension. The government will provide up to 40,000 won for the first month’s premium to help these young individuals establish a contribution record.After making the initial payment, periods during which the individual could not contribute due to studies, military service, or job searching can be paid later when they begin earning income. The goal is to accelerate the enrollment process and extend the contribution period, thereby strengthening the income foundation for the youth's retirement.The Daegu-Gyeongbuk metropolitan railway construction project has also passed the feasibility study threshold. This project will connect Seodaegu Station to Gyeongbuk Uiseong Station over a distance of 70.06 kilometers, with 64.97 kilometers being newly constructed.The establishment of a regional comprehensive global hub medical center at Busan National University Hospital will involve renovating aging facilities and reorganizing outpatient, inpatient, emergency, and specialized center functions. The plan includes expanding specialized facilities such as a comprehensive cancer care center to create a treatment system that allows patients to complete their care locally.The development project for the National Land Satellite 3 and 4, which involves the production, launch, and operation of two high-resolution satellites, has also secured a foundation for advancement. Additionally, a community-based support program for individuals with disabilities living in facilities and those receiving home care will be implemented after some adjustments to the plans.The committee has selected four new projects for feasibility studies, including the extension of the Byeollae Line metropolitan railway, improvements to the Ulsan Munsu bypass road, the construction of a workers' compensation hospital in Jeonbuk, and a low-carbon agriculture program. The designated research institutions will evaluate the economic viability and policy relevance of each project.The results of the comprehensive feasibility studies for road projects to be included in the sixth national and provincial road construction plan have also been finalized. Out of 142 projects evaluated, 54 were deemed feasible. The approved projects will be included in the construction plan to be announced by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport in the second half of this year and will be implemented sequentially.Vice Minister Cho stated, “The projects that passed the feasibility study today should be promptly advanced by each ministry, while closely managing costs and project scales during the implementation process, ensuring that the expected policy effects are fully felt by the public and local residents.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-26 14:28:00
  • TikTok Confirms Shift from Interest to Consumption in K-Culture, Projecting Economic Impact of 40.6 Trillion Won by 2030
    TikTok Confirms Shift from Interest to Consumption in K-Culture, Projecting Economic Impact of 40.6 Trillion Won by 2030 TikTok announced that the amount of compensation for domestic content creators has nearly doubled in the four months since the expansion of its Creator Rewards Program (CRP). The platform is also positively impacting the consumption of K-content and related products, projecting an economic effect of 10 trillion won this year and over 40 trillion won by 2030.On August 26, TikTok held a press conference titled 'K-Culture on TikTok' at the Eliana Hotel in Seoul, where it unveiled a report titled 'K-Culture on TikTok: Driving Global Economic Impact,' conducted in collaboration with global management consulting firm Kearney.Since expanding the CRP in Korea on April 1, the number of daily uploads of content longer than one minute has increased from 75,000 to 143,000, a rise of over 90%. During the same period, the amount of Korean-language content produced by creators with over 10,000 followers also grew by 62%. The increase in longer content has led to a shift in the format of Korean-language content on TikTok, expanding to include longer and long-form videos.Jung Jae-hoon, head of TikTok Korea, stated, "We are investing in creating an ecosystem where Korean creators can produce better content and continue to grow. This investment is already leading to tangible changes."A survey conducted by TikTok among 3,300 consumers aged 16 to 49 in ten countries, including the U.S. and the U.K., found that 88.7% of users believe TikTok helps them discover K-culture. Among them, 61.4% reported that engaging with related content increased their intent to spend, and 55.7% had purchased related products through TikTok Shop after encountering the content.Kearney analyzed that K-culture has entered a 'K-Culture 4.0' phase, characterized by the spread of short-form and user-generated content. This follows earlier phases: 1.0, which was broadcast-centric; 2.0, driven by fandom and social media; and 3.0, which popularized K-culture through global OTT and streaming platforms, leading to changes in consumption patterns.In the 4.0 phase, consumption has expanded beyond content itself to include purchases of cosmetics, food, and travel to Korea. The report quantifies the economic impact of K-culture, which has previously been assessed based on popularity and recognition, in terms of consumption, production, and employment.According to the report, the direct consumption attributed to TikTok's contribution to K-culture is estimated at about 10.75 trillion won this year, with projections of approximately 13.92 trillion won by 2030. The total economic impact, including indirect effects on domestic production and employment, is expected to increase from 31.37 trillion won to 40.64 trillion won, a rise of about 29% over the same period.By industry, the direct economic impact of beauty is projected to be the largest at 3.27 trillion won by 2030. Tourism is expected to see the highest growth rate, with a 44% increase compared to 2026, while food is analyzed as the sector with the greatest production-inducing effects.TikTok explained that its TikTok Shop, which directly connects content to product purchases, can help increase conversion rates. However, this service is not yet available in Korea.Jung Jae-hoon emphasized, "This report shows that TikTok is contributing to the global spread of Korean culture and creating substantial economic value beyond being just a content platform. We will support the growth opportunities created by K-culture alongside creators, users, brands, and the entire Korean industry."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-26 14:24:00
  • Constitutional Court to Review Law Abolishing Prosecutors Investigative Powers
    Constitutional Court to Review Law Abolishing Prosecutors' Investigative Powers A constitutional appeal filed by the People Power Party regarding the amendment to the criminal procedure law, which abolishes prosecutors' direct investigative powers and supplementary investigative rights, will be formally reviewed by the Constitutional Court. On August 26, legal sources reported that the Constitutional Court has referred the constitutional appeal concerning the constitutionality of the amended criminal procedure law, filed by the People Power Party, for formal judgment. The court will assess whether the constitutional appeal meets legal requirements through a designated panel of three judges. If deemed legally sound, the case will be forwarded to the full bench of nine judges for further deliberation. The People Power Party filed the constitutional appeal on August 13, citing violations of the principles of due process, personal freedom, the right to apply for warrants, the right to a speedy and fair trial, the presumption of innocence, the right of criminal victims to participate in proceedings, and the principle of proportionality. The party also argued that subordinating prosecutors to police investigations undermines the checks and balances within the criminal justice system, violating the principle of functional separation of powers. Meanwhile, the amendment to the criminal procedure law was passed by the National Assembly at the end of last month, led by the Democratic Party, and subsequently approved by the Cabinet earlier this month. Starting in October, when the amended law takes effect, investigations and prosecutions will be completely separated, prohibiting direct investigations by prosecutors and abolishing supplementary investigative rights. However, prosecutors will still be able to request supplementary investigations from judicial police officers.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-26 14:24:00