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  • Government Discusses Renewable Energy Solutions with Samsung, SK Hynix, and Google
    Government Discusses Renewable Energy Solutions with Samsung, SK Hynix, and Google The government is set to meet with global tech giants Samsung Electronics, SK Hynix, and Google to discuss reforms aimed at improving the procurement conditions for renewable energy. This initiative is driven by the need for a stable power supply and competitive renewable energy sources to support the companies' commitments to RE100, which mandates the use of 100% renewable energy.The Ministry of Climate Energy and Environment announced on August 25 that it will hold a meeting on August 26 at the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Seoul, attended by representatives from Samsung Electronics, SK Hynix, Google, and ASML. The meeting aims to share the government's renewable energy policies and gather feedback on procurement challenges faced by these companies.Semiconductor factories and AI data centers are among the largest consumers of electricity, requiring substantial power around the clock. As global supply chains increasingly demand compliance with RE100 and greenhouse gas reduction, the ability to procure renewable energy at stable prices has become a critical factor influencing corporate investment and industrial competitiveness.During the meeting, the ministry will outline its first basic plan for renewable energy, which aims to install 100 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030. Key strategies include expanding solar energy installations on factory rooftops and in agricultural and floating solar projects, as well as improving regional distance regulations.The government will also pursue reforms in site regulations, including the utilization of national and public lands and the introduction of planned site locations. The Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) will shift towards a long-term fixed-price contract market, and a direct power purchase agreement (PPA) brokerage market will be established to assist companies in purchasing renewable energy. Plans to expand the national power grid to connect renewable energy generation facilities with power demand sites will also be shared.Participating companies are expected to express their concerns regarding cost burdens and regulatory challenges in the renewable energy procurement process. The ministry plans to incorporate these insights into future policy improvements.Lee Won-joo, head of the Energy Transition Policy Office at the Ministry of Climate Energy and Environment, stated, "We will enhance the foundation for a stable and competitive renewable energy supply through innovations in site selection, market structures, and power grids, making South Korea an attractive investment destination for global advanced industries."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-25 12:04:00
  • FST Expands CNT Pellicle Production Equipment in Finland for Samsungs 2nm Process
    FST Expands CNT Pellicle Production Equipment in Finland for Samsung's 2nm Process Semiconductor pellicle company FST is set to acquire additional carbon nanotube (CNT) pellicle production equipment from Finland's Canatu. This move is seen as a preparation to increase production capacity for CNT pellicles to be used in Samsung Electronics' 2-nanometer (nm) foundry process. Analysts suggest that the CNT pellicle business is transitioning from technology development to mass production.According to investment banking sources on August 25, FST has placed an order for the CNT100 SEMI equipment from Canatu for CNT pellicle production. This order follows a previous order for long-lead time items placed earlier this year. After securing long-lead components, FST has now ordered the main equipment, marking a significant investment to ramp up CNT pellicle production.Canatu reported that the total contract amount, including the previously ordered long-lead items, exceeds €5 million (approximately 80 billion won). Revenue from technology royalties and consumable sales is not included in this figure. The equipment is expected to be delivered to FST in 2027.The CNT100 SEMI is essential for producing CNT membranes, the core material for CNT pellicles. FST is developing CNT pellicles for extreme ultraviolet (EUV) processes using Canatu's equipment and technology.A pellicle is a thin film used to protect masks from dust and other contaminants during semiconductor circuit patterning. As semiconductor circuits become smaller, even minor contaminants can lead to defects, increasing the importance of pellicles. In particular, EUV processes require pellicles that can withstand strong light while allowing it to pass through effectively. CNT pellicles, made from carbon nanotubes in a thin film form, are noted for their high light transmittance and heat resistance.The collaboration between FST and Canatu has gradually expanded with a focus on mass production. Canatu supplied the first CNT100 SEMI equipment to FST in September 2024, and the equipment and post-processing facilities received customer approval in July of the previous year. In October of last year, Canatu granted FST a commercial production license for CNT pellicles. Following the initial order for necessary components earlier this year, FST has now placed an order for the main equipment. Canatu also stated that this order is aimed at increasing FST's CNT pellicle production capacity.This investment is particularly noteworthy as it aligns with Samsung Electronics' preparations for mass production of its 2nm foundry process. FST has been jointly developing CNT pellicles with Samsung, which invested approximately 43 billion won in FST in 2021 to acquire a stake in the company.Additionally, FST has reportedly secured orders for EUV pellicle-related equipment for Samsung's foundry in Taylor, Texas. This includes equipment for automatic pellicle attachment and detachment (EPMD), pellicle membrane and frame contamination inspection (EPIS), and transport container inspection (EPODIS). These pieces of equipment are essential for using CNT pellicles in Samsung's production lines.With the addition of Canatu's equipment necessary for CNT pellicle production, FST's production and equipment capabilities are expected to expand. Industry experts believe that FST is preparing to increase CNT pellicle production in line with Samsung's expansion of its 2nm production.Maximilian Slawinski, CEO of Canatu, stated that this order demonstrates ongoing trust in CNT technology and production equipment, while also reaffirming the market opportunities for CNT pellicles in advanced semiconductor manufacturing. 2026-08-25 12:00:00
  • BLACKPINKs Jisoo to return with new single CLICK
    BLACKPINK's Jisoo to return with new single 'CLICK' SEOUL, August 25 (AJP) -BLACKPINK's Jisoo will release a new single, "CLICK," on Sept. 4, her agency Blissoo said Tuesday. The release will mark Jisoo's first solo music in 11 months since "EYES CLOSED," her collaboration with former One Direction member Zayn, released last October. Blissoo said further details about the new single would be unveiled in stages ahead of its release. Jisoo debuted as a member of BLACKPINK in 2016 and has also built a solo career alongside the group's activities. Her first solo mini album, AMORTAGE, released in February last year, topped iTunes album charts in 45 regions. The new release comes as BLACKPINK marks its 10th anniversary this year, a milestone that has put renewed attention on the four members' careers both as a group and as solo artists. A decade after their debut, Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé and Lisa have increasingly pursued individual music, acting and business projects while retaining BLACKPINK as the group at the center of their global careers. AJP Takeaways BLACKPINK's Jisoo will release her new solo single "CLICK" on Sept. 4 through Blissoo The track is Jisoo's first solo release in 11 months following her collaboration "EYES CLOSED" with Zayn. Jisoo's comeback arrives during BLACKPINK's 10th-anniversary year as all four members expand their individual careers alongside group activities. 2026-08-25 11:44:47
  • Busan Forum to Address Elementary Students Math Skills Assessment
    Busan Forum to Address Elementary Students' Math Skills Assessment On the 27th, a policy forum will be held to discuss how to assess the mathematical reasoning skills, or 'math skills,' of elementary students in Busan and connect these assessments to school instruction and support systems. Busan currently utilizes assessment tools jointly developed with the Seoul Education Office, making it a key challenge to specify policies that ensure math skills are tailored to local conditions.The Busan Education Office will host the 'Elementary Education Innovation Policy Forum for Ensuring Math Skills' at the Busan National University of Education's Chambit Theater.Currently, the assessment of math skills among Busan students relies on tools developed in collaboration with the Seoul Education Office. Statistics related to students who fall below basic academic standards or struggle with math skills are managed by the Busan Academic Development Institute under the education office.This forum aims to discuss ways to connect assessment results to actual classroom instruction and student support. The focus is expected to be on refining the math skills assessment system while addressing how to support students who are struggling in the classroom.The event, themed 'Encountering the Beautiful Language of Mathematics to Understand the World,' is expected to attract around 210 participants, including elementary educators and educational professionals. The venue has a capacity limit of 250, and participants were selected based on voluntary applications rather than assigned quotas from schools.The forum will feature a keynote speech and panel discussions. Professor Kim Jae-kyung from KAIST will deliver the keynote address on 'Mathematics that Saves Lives.' Following this, a panel discussion will include six participants, comprising educators and university professors. The final session will feature Kim Eun-hyung, a teacher at Galsan Elementary School in Seoul, who is a practical developer of the math skills assessment tool, discussing the importance of assessment and examples of student support policies.This forum is the sixth program in the Busan Education Office's initiative to support elementary education innovation this year. In February, the office distributed materials to enhance inquiry-based learning centered on student questions and conducted training for over 400 educators. A research competition on innovative teaching practices saw participation from 439 individuals this year.In May, the office held a showcase of exemplary elementary classes and a teaching concert, and in the first semester, it conducted a teaching-sharing relay. In July, a 'One Teacher, One Class Brand' initiative was launched for less experienced teachers. The education office plans to incorporate feedback from this forum into next year's policy development process.A Busan Education Office official stated, "We will carefully review and incorporate the diverse opinions from the forum into next year's policy planning, and we will support the application of shared strategies for addressing math learning difficulties in actual classroom settings."However, the process of translating assessments into actual support remains a challenge. According to the education office, even if students struggling with math skills are identified through statistics from the Academic Development Institute, participation in remedial programs is ultimately influenced by parental choice.Merely having assessment tools is insufficient; a system must be established to engage students and parents to ensure that actual learning support is provided.Kim Seok-jun, the Superintendent of the Busan Education Office, remarked, "Math skills are a universal intellectual tool that students need to logically understand the world and solve problems in the AI and digital age. We will continue to broaden the educational community's consensus on ensuring math skills and provide ongoing support for teachers in the field."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-25 11:44:00
  • Icheon City’s Pride: Yoo Yong-cheol Named Master Craftsman of Korea
    Icheon City’s Pride: Yoo Yong-cheol Named Master Craftsman of Korea The city of Icheon, Gyeonggi Province, announced on August 25 that Yoo Yong-cheol, a master ceramicist from Nokwon Ceramics, has been selected as a Master Craftsman of Korea in the ceramics craft category for 2026.Yoo was previously named a master ceramicist in Icheon in 2016.The Master Craftsman of Korea designation is awarded under the Skilled Worker Promotion Act, recognizing individuals who possess the highest level of skilled craftsmanship and have significantly contributed to the advancement of skilled trades and the status of skilled workers.Selection criteria include the level of skill, contributions to technological advancement, and external activities, with an emphasis on efforts to modernize the craft sector.Yoo began learning pottery from his father, Yoo Chang-gon, in 1981, and has continued the family tradition for over 40 years. He has not only preserved traditional pottery techniques but has also engaged in research and experimentation to develop his unique artistic style.Additionally, he studied the thermal efficiency of traditional wood-fired kilns at Myongji University’s Graduate School of Industrial Technology and served as an adjunct professor in the Department of Ceramic Art from 2009 to 2022, sharing his practical experience and skills with students.Yoo has achieved recognition in various domestic and international competitions and exhibitions, winning awards at the Korea Traditional Craft Competition, the Korea Ceramics Competition, and the Korea Buncheong Competition. Notably, he received the Cultural Heritage Administration Award in 2022 for his work 'Buncheong Inhwa Eomun Ho' at the 47th Korea Traditional Craft Competition.He has also participated in exhibitions and demonstrations in countries such as China, the United States, Japan, and France, and delivered a guest lecture at Tsinghua University’s Academy of Arts in Beijing in 2019, promoting the excellence of Icheon ceramics. This year, he participated in the official program 'Icheon and Beyond: Space Within Form' at the London Craft Week, co-hosted by the Korean Cultural Center in London and Icheon City.With this latest recognition, the number of Icheon master ceramicists designated as Master Craftsmen of Korea has increased from five to six.Mayor Seong Su-seok congratulated Yoo on his selection as a Master Craftsman of Korea, stating, 'The long-standing skills and passion that Yoo Yong-cheol has maintained for over 40 years have culminated in this valuable recognition as Korea's top craftsman.'Icheon is a hub of Korean ceramics, with approximately 420 workshops producing celadon, white porcelain, buncheong ware, earthenware, and sculptural ceramics, rooted in a long tradition of pottery. The Icheon Ceramic Festival, held annually at the Icheon Ceramic Art Village Yes Park and the Sagi-makgol Ceramic Village, offers experiences in traditional and contemporary ceramics.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-25 11:36:00
  • South Korea Accelerates Comprehensive Plan to Protect Industrial Technology
    South Korea Accelerates Comprehensive Plan to Protect Industrial Technology The South Korean government is expediting its comprehensive plan to prevent the leakage of industrial technology by one year. It is also considering strengthening economic sanctions, including the confiscation of criminal proceeds and damages.On August 25, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy held a policy council on industrial technology protection, chaired by Yang Gi-wook, head of the Industrial Resource Security Office. The meeting included discussions with relevant ministries such as the Ministry of Science and ICT, the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the Defense Acquisition Program Administration, and the National Police Agency regarding the enhancement of the technology protection system and sanctions.This initiative comes in response to a rising trend in the overseas leakage of industrial technology. According to the National Intelligence Service, there have been 96 reported cases of industrial technology leakage over the past five years, with an estimated prevented damage of about 23 trillion won. This averages more than 19 cases of overseas technology leakage detected annually.Of the leaked technologies, 89.5% were concentrated in key domestic industries such as semiconductors, and many cases targeted small and medium-sized enterprises with relatively weak security systems.The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy believes that as major countries utilize advanced technology as an economic and security tool, domestic core technologies may become targets for leakage. However, it has diagnosed that the current level of punishment and economic sanctions for technology leakage is insufficient to effectively deter such incidents.Particularly concerning is the expansion of leakage channels beyond internal personnel to include partners and technologies like AI and cloud services.During the council meeting, participants focused on strengthening the technology protection capabilities of institutions holding industrial technology, enhancing the technology protection system, and improving the effectiveness of sanctions against technology leakage. They also discussed support and management measures for small and medium-sized enterprises, universities, and research institutions, as well as ways to enhance the effectiveness of economic sanctions such as confiscation of criminal proceeds and damages.Based on the discussions, the government plans to announce the '6th Comprehensive Plan for Industrial Technology Protection.' The government aims to implement this comprehensive plan one year earlier than originally scheduled to respond to the rapidly changing technology security environment.Yang Gi-wook stated, "Industrial technology is a core strategic asset that embodies the efforts of the nation, companies, and talent, making its protection essential. We will respond severely to technology leakage by mobilizing national capabilities from policy formulation to investigation, prosecution, and judgment, following the principle of zero tolerance."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-25 11:36:00
  • Iran blacklists five ships linked to S. Korean carrier Sinokor
    Iran blacklists five ships linked to S. Korean carrier Sinokor SEOUL, August 25 (AJP) - Iran has blacklisted five vessels linked to South Korean shipping company Sinokor Maritime over alleged violations of its rules for crossing the Strait of Hormuz, as Tehran steps up pressure over the strategic waterway. The five ships are the Cyprus Prosperity (IMO 9595216), Mombasa B (IMO 9739501), Singapore Prosperity (IMO 9419967), Sweden Prosperity (IMO 9588392) and Rotterdam Energy (IMO 9508859). All five appear on a list of 45 vessels designated as non-compliant by Iran's newly established Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA). U.S. Coast Guard vessel records also link each of the five ships to Sinokor Maritime. The PGSA announced the blacklist in a post on X on Monday, saying vessels that violated Iranian protocols for transiting the strait could face restrictions on future passages, including fines, detention or confiscation. The authority also warned that ships conducting ship-to-ship transfers with blacklisted vessels could themselves be added to the list. The 45 vessels include very large crude carriers, LNG and LPG tankers and petroleum-product vessels. Ships associated with the United Arab Emirates' ADNOC Logistics & Services and its Navig8 subsidiary, Saudi Arabia's national shipping company Bahri, Norway's Klaveness Ship Management and Stolt Tankers are also on the list. Sinokor has not commented publicly on the matter. Iran did not specify what rules each vessel allegedly violated. Tehran has previously said ships should receive Iranian clearance before transiting the Strait of Hormuz and pay fees for security and other services. Vessels seeking removal from the blacklist can submit an explanation to Iranian maritime authorities, according to the PGSA. The move could also affect so-called shuttle operations that have emerged during the Iran war, in which smaller or more mobile tankers move through the strait and transfer cargo to larger vessels waiting outside the waterway. Iran's warning comes as the United States has sought to restore energy flows through Hormuz while maintaining a naval blockade against Iran-related shipping. U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright said the U.S. military had helped move a seven-day average of about 8 million barrels of oil per day through the Strait of Hormuz, although commercial ship-tracking data has produced significantly lower estimates. Before the conflict disrupted shipping, the Persian Gulf accounted for roughly 20 percent of the world's daily crude oil and liquefied natural gas flows through the Strait of Hormuz. The blacklist was announced days after Washington threatened Iran with what it called the "toughest sanctions in history," while Tehran warned that its response to further U.S. pressure would be "devastating." AJP Takeaways · Iran has blacklisted 45 vessels over alleged Strait of Hormuz transit violations, including five ships linked to South Korean carrier Sinokor Maritime. · The PGSA warned that blacklisted ships could face fines, detention or confiscation, while vessels conducting ship-to-ship transfers with them may also be added to the list. · The move comes amid continued disruption to Hormuz shipping, U.S. efforts to restore oil flows through the strait and renewed threats of tougher sanctions on Iran. 2026-08-25 11:27:18
  • Kakao Reports 90% Revenue Increase for Small Businesses Using Brand Messages
    Kakao Reports 90% Revenue Increase for Small Businesses Using Brand Messages Kakao announced that small businesses utilizing its KakaoTalk 'Brand Message' service saw a 90.2% increase in revenue compared to before using the service. The revenue effect per 1 won spent on sending messages was 11.1 won, more than double the overall average. This indicates that Brand Messages serve as an effective marketing tool for small businesses with limited marketing resources.On August 25, Kakao released findings from a study conducted by researchers at Hanyang University analyzing the business performance and user benefits of its KakaoTalk 'Brand Message' service. Brand Messages are promotional messages sent to users who have agreed to receive marketing information from KakaoTalk channels.The study, led by Professors Ryu Han-byeol and Kim Ji-hwan from Hanyang University's ERICA campus, examined 2,510 business partners using Brand Messages from June 2025 to May 2026, focusing on changes in revenue, repeat purchases, and visitor numbers.According to the research, each 1 won spent on sending Brand Messages generated approximately 5 won in revenue. Compared to before the messages were sent, revenue increased by 46.2%, repeat purchases rose by 30.7%, and visitor numbers grew by 16.9%. The increase in repeat purchases continued for up to three days after the messages were sent.Notably, the impact was particularly significant among small partners. When analyzed based on the median revenue of small partners just before sending, the revenue effect was 11.1 won per 1 won spent, with a 90.2% increase in revenue, 47.3% in repeat purchases, and 22.6% in visitors. Larger partners also experienced increases, with a revenue effect of 4.1 won per 1 won spent.Unlike traditional text messages that only display the sender's number, Brand Messages are sent from verified KakaoTalk channels, making the sender's identity clear. Users can easily verify the sender through the channel profile and official certification information, reducing the time spent confirming the authenticity of messages and the safety of links.Additionally, Brand Messages allow users to quickly access information about necessary products and benefits, reducing the time and costs associated with searching for information. The researchers estimated that these time and transaction cost savings translate to an annual consumer benefit of approximately 2.44 billion won.The study also noted that the clear identification of the sender helps prevent smishing and corporate impersonation scams.Professor Ryu Han-byeol stated, “This study is the first empirical research in Korea to economically analyze the effects of technologically advanced text-based advertising. The high advertising effectiveness observed among small businesses provides meaningful insights for small business owners seeking low-cost, high-efficiency marketing strategies.”Professor Kim Ji-hwan added, “Brand Messages are significant in that they complement the limitations of traditional text advertising while creating additional benefits for consumers.”Kakao launched the Brand Message service in May 2025, evolving from its previous 'Friend Talk' service. At the time of the launch, Kakao aimed to offer advertisers precise targeting and high message reliability, while providing users with transparent information and the option to opt-in to receive messages.Kakao Policy Agenda Director Kim Sung-jun remarked, “This study confirms that Brand Messages enhance marketing performance for partners while providing users with a more convenient and trustworthy messaging experience.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-25 11:20:00
  • SH Utilizes Cooperative Fund to Enhance ESG Management for Partner Companies
    SH Utilizes Cooperative Fund to Enhance ESG Management for Partner Companies The Seoul Housing and Communities Corporation (SH) is the first local public enterprise to utilize a cooperative fund to strengthen the ESG management capabilities of its partner small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). On August 25, SH announced that it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Foundation for Cooperation between Large and Small Enterprises and Agriculture to enhance cooperative partnerships and ESG capabilities among its partner SMEs. This agreement aims to elevate the ESG management capabilities of partner companies based on mutual cooperation between public institutions and SMEs, while also supporting voluntary ESG activities. Under this agreement, SH will conduct on-site assessments for ten partner SMEs to evaluate their ESG capabilities. Following this, SH plans to establish ESG indicators tailored to each company's characteristics and provide customized consulting, along with proposing mid- to long-term strategies and implementation plans. The Foundation will issue an 'ESG Excellent SME Certificate' to companies that comply with over 80% of the consulting and long-term implementation plans proposed by SH. Companies that receive this certificate will gain advantages in government project participation and enjoy preferential interest rates. SH expects this initiative to strengthen the ESG management foundation of partner SMEs and contribute to building a sustainable supply chain between public institutions and their partners. SH President Hwang Sang-ha stated, “The ESG management capabilities of partner SMEs are directly linked to the establishment of a sustainable supply chain. We will work with relevant agencies to support the ESG activities of our partners and strengthen responsible management across the entire supply chain.” Meanwhile, SH is recruiting residents and prospective residents for 1,973 public rental housing units in the Segok, Gangil, and Magok districts, with applications starting on August 31.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-25 11:20:00
  • Im Young-woong Celebrates 10th Anniversary with Record-Breaking Streak
    Im Young-woong Celebrates 10th Anniversary with Record-Breaking Streak Im Young-woong has achieved a remarkable milestone by maintaining the top position on the Idol Chart for 282 consecutive weeks. Since first reaching the number one spot in March 2021, he has not relinquished his title. This September, as he celebrates his 10th anniversary since debuting, he will continue his activities with a stadium concert and a new album.According to the Idol Chart, during the third week of August, from the 17th to the 23rd, Im Young-woong garnered 317,247 votes, marking the highest number of votes recorded. He also received 32,494 'likes', the most among all artists.Lee Chan-won secured the second position with 63,836 votes. Other artists in the top ten included BTS's Jimin, Park Chang-geun, Song Ga-in, BTS's Jin, Park Ji-hyun, Lee Byeong-chan, BTS's V, and Young-tak.Im Young-woong's streak began in the fourth week of March 2021. By the second week of April that year, he had already achieved three consecutive weeks at number one, and in February 2023, he reached the milestone of 100 weeks in a row at the top. He has continued to hold the number one position weekly, extending his record to 282 weeks.This year marks the 10th anniversary of Im Young-woong's debut. He debuted on August 8, 2016, with the single 'I Hate You' and celebrated his 10th anniversary on August 8. He gained widespread popularity after winning first place on TV Chosun's 'Mr. Trot' in 2020, with hits like 'Now I Only Trust You', 'Love Always Runs Away', and 'My Love Like Star Light'.Im Young-woong will hold 'IM HERO - THE STADIUM 2' at Goyang Sports Complex from September 4 to 6. This concert will be his second stadium performance following the first held at Seoul World Cup Stadium in 2024.Two days after the concert, on September 8 at 6 PM, he will release a special digital album titled 'IM HERO 10' to commemorate his 10th anniversary.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-25 11:16:00