AJU PRESS ASIA FIRST NEWS AGENCY

Journalist

&
""
Latest by
  • South Korea to Implement National Designation System for Emergency Medical Technician Training Colleges in 2029
    South Korea to Implement National Designation System for Emergency Medical Technician Training Colleges in 2029 Starting in the 2029 academic year, South Korea will fully implement a national designation system for colleges training emergency medical technicians (EMTs). This initiative aims to prevent a decline in educational quality as the number of emergency medical programs has increased significantly. Only graduates from colleges designated by the government will be eligible to take the national EMT certification exam.On August 24, the Ministry of Health and Welfare announced that it has begun the process for the '2029 Academic Year Designation Evaluation for Emergency Medical Technician Training Colleges' to systematically manage the quality of EMT education and cultivate skilled personnel.This system was introduced in response to the rapid increase in emergency medical programs following the deregulation of college admissions in 2023. The number of emergency medical programs surged from 39 in 2023 to 71 in 2026.Recognizing the need to ensure the quality of training at a national level, the government decided to implement the designation system based on the revised Emergency Medical Services Act, which was amended in January 2024.Beginning with students admitted in the 2029 academic year, only those who graduate from colleges or universities designated by the Ministry of Health and Welfare will be allowed to take the national EMT certification exam.The core of the designation evaluation is to assess whether colleges have the necessary educational conditions for training EMTs. The evaluation will focus on three main areas: educational curriculum, faculty, and facilities and equipment.In the curriculum area, the evaluation will check the composition of courses, required credits, and the status of practical training. In the faculty area, it will examine the availability of instructors and teaching assistants. The facilities and equipment evaluation will ensure that students have access to practical training environments and necessary equipment to respond effectively in real emergency medical situations. Both document reviews and on-site evaluations will be conducted to cross-verify the actual educational operations.To minimize confusion in colleges regarding the new system, the Ministry will conduct information sessions and pilot evaluations. An information session for college representatives will be held on August 25 at Severance Hospital in Seoul and on August 27 at Hannam University in Daejeon, where the purpose of the system and specific evaluation criteria will be explained.Before the formal designation evaluation, pilot evaluations will be conducted for ten colleges that have applied. These pilot evaluations will assess educational conditions based on the same criteria as the formal evaluations, followed by tailored consulting for each college on areas needing improvement. Institutions that meet the standards for facilities or equipment during the pilot evaluation will be exempt from those areas in the formal evaluation.The formal designation evaluation process will begin with a public announcement and application acceptance at the end of this year. On-site evaluations will take place from March to June 2027, followed by notification of results and an appeals process. Colleges that do not meet the standards will be given an opportunity for supplementary evaluations, with final designation results expected to be announced in April 2028.Son Young-rae, Director of the Regional Essential Public Health Medical Services at the Ministry of Health and Welfare, emphasized, "This designation system is aimed at systematically managing the quality of EMT training and practical capabilities. We will actively support colleges in their preparations through information sessions and pilot evaluations, and we will continue to manage the system to establish a reliable EMT training framework for the public."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-24 12:04:20
  • HL D&I Hallas AI Low-Noise Range Hood Wins Finalist Award at IDEA 2026
    HL D&I Halla's AI Low-Noise Range Hood Wins Finalist Award at IDEA 2026 HL D&I Halla's AI low-noise range hood has been recognized as a finalist at the International Design Excellence Awards (IDEA 2026). On August 24, HL D&I Halla announced that its AI low-noise range hood received a finalist award from the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) at the IDEA 2026. IDEA is an international design competition that evaluates products based on design, innovation, user experience, and social and environmental value. It is considered one of the top three design awards globally, alongside Germany's iF Design Award and the Red Dot Design Award. The award-winning product features real-time air quality detection, automatically activating when air quality deteriorates. It is designed with two fans to enhance suction power while minimizing operational noise. Additionally, it captures and expels vapor and grease particles generated during cooking, reducing internal contamination. The product is characterized by its AI-based air quality management feature and a detachable front panel, which enhances existing low-noise range hood technology. HL D&I Halla obtained a patent for its low-noise range hood in 2024 and has since been offering the product as an option for customers at actual distribution sites. A representative from HL D&I Halla stated, “The AI low-noise range hood is a residential solution that integrates air quality management, low noise, and design into a single product. We plan to enhance the competitiveness of our residential products under the EFETE brand based on our technological and design capabilities.” In the second quarter of this year, HL D&I Halla reported an operating profit of 25.6 billion won, a 34.1% increase compared to the same period last year. Revenue rose by 9.5% to 445.6 billion won, while net profit increased by 19.9% to 10.6 billion won.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-24 12:04:20
  • Samsung Expands Semiconductor Operations in Vietnam as Google Moves Pixel Production
    Samsung Expands Semiconductor Operations in Vietnam as Google Moves Pixel Production Google and Samsung are elevating Vietnam's manufacturing status. Google is moving its Pixel product line production out of China, while Samsung is expanding its operations in Vietnam from smartphone manufacturing to semiconductor backend processing and research and development. Vietnam is transitioning from a simple assembly hub to a key player in the global tech supply chain.According to recent reports from Nikkei Asia and other outlets, Google has informed suppliers of its plan to relocate all production lines for Pixel smartphones, smartwatches, and wireless earbuds outside of China starting next year. The company has been expanding its production base in Vietnam and India, successfully developing and producing high-end Pixel phones in Vietnam this year, which has bolstered its relocation efforts.Google's Shift Supported by Vietnam's Supply ChainThe motivation behind Google's focus on Vietnam lies in the existing smartphone supply chain established there. One source noted, "Unlike Apple, Google does not face pressure to sell Pixel phones in the Chinese market, so it can leave China without that burden." The source added that the transition to Vietnam is proceeding smoothly, with Samsung already having built a smartphone supply chain ecosystem that Google can leverage.Google is also actively working to increase Pixel phone shipments. Multiple sources indicate that Google plans to raise its Pixel phone shipments by 8-10% this year compared to approximately 12 million units last year. Despite soaring memory chip prices, Google views Pixel phones as a crucial channel for expanding its artificial intelligence (AI) service, Gemini.In negotiations for memory chip purchases, Google is seeking favorable terms. One source reported that Google is bundling orders for cloud computing chips and smartphone business orders while negotiating with Micron, Samsung, and SK Hynix. The source stated, "This year's Pixel phone strategy is aggressive," adding that the Pixel line has been instructed to maintain production growth at all costs.Google's pricing strategy for the Pixel line is also drawing market attention. The company recently unveiled the Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro, and Pixel 11 Pro Fold, with prices for the 256GB model starting at $899. This marks an increase from the previous model, the Pixel 10, which had a 128GB version priced at $799. Garret Schmidman, a senior analyst at Counterpoint Research, noted that Google is more cautious about raising prices on current models compared to brands like Samsung or Motorola that have significantly increased mid-range product prices.Samsung Positions Vietnam as a Semiconductor and R&D HubSamsung's strategy in Vietnam is becoming increasingly detailed. The company is reportedly considering relocating some general DRAM and NAND flash packaging and testing from its factories in Cheonan and Onyang, South Korea, to Vietnam. This move is aimed at concentrating production capacity in South Korea on AI-related HBM memory.While this plan is not yet finalized, if implemented, Vietnam would handle the packaging and testing of general DRAM and NAND products, while the facilities in Cheonan and Onyang would focus more on HBM and high-value processes. This adjustment is seen as a response to the growing demand for HBM due to increased AI investments while maintaining existing memory production.Samsung's semiconductor foundation in Vietnam is already under construction. The company is building a $1.5 billion semiconductor testing facility in the Yen Binh Industrial Park in Thai Nguyen Province, which is expected to begin operations by November 2027. The facility will primarily operate traditional memory products, with an anticipated maximum annual production capacity of 15.33 trillion GB for DRAM and 25.56 trillion GB for NAND flash.Samsung has also established relevant organizations. In the first quarter of this year, Samsung Vietnam Semiconductor was founded and included in the list of consolidated subsidiaries. Samsung's quarterly report classified this company as a subsidiary in the semiconductor manufacturing sector.Vietnam's role has also been confirmed in the product development process. The Samsung Electronics factory in Thai Nguyen and the Hanoi R&D center participated in the development of the Galaxy Z Fold 8. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is introduced as an ultra-thin and ultra-light product, measuring 4.5mm thick and weighing 201g, with an external screen ratio of 16:10 and an internal screen ratio of approximately 4:3.Vietnamese engineers contributed to solving precision and durability issues in assembling ultra-small components. One engineer stated, "All issues must be quickly identified, solutions proposed, and their effectiveness verified." He emphasized the need for careful evaluation to ensure product quality without impacting the overall project schedule, especially when design changes occur.Meanwhile, the Vietnam R&D center is also playing a role in software development. The Samsung Vietnam R&D center participated in the development and optimization of the multi-panel feature for the Samsung Notes application for the Galaxy Z Fold 8. Le Suan Hoa, head of the application solutions department at Samsung Vietnam R&D center, expressed pride in the fact that code developed in Vietnam contributes to products used daily by millions worldwide.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-24 12:04:10
  • EV Trend Korea to Showcase Electric Vehicles and Green Technologies
    EV Trend Korea to Showcase Electric Vehicles and Green Technologies 전기차와 친환경 이륜차, 배터리·충전시설 등 친환경 이동수단의 최신 기술을 한자리에서 살펴볼 수 있는 행사가 열린다. 사전 신청자는 최신 전기차를 직접 시승할 수 있다. 기후에너지환경부는 오는 25일부터 27일까지 서울 강남구 코엑스에서 '이브이 트렌드 코리아(EV TREND KOREA) 2026'을 개최한다고 24일 밝혔다. 행사장에는 전기차를 비롯해 친환경 이륜차와 건설기계 등 다양한 친환경 이동수단이 전시된다. 충전시설과 배터리, 전장부품 등 전기차 전환과 관련된 기술과 제품도 만나볼 수 있다. 행사 기간 친환경 이동수단의 최신 기술과 정책 방향을 공유하는 전문가 콘퍼런스도 열린다. 해외 바이어와 국내 기업을 연결하는 수출·투자 상담회를 통해 국내 기업의 세계시장 진출과 투자 전략 수립도 지원한다. 첫날인 25일 개막식에서는 전기차 제작과 충전시설 구축, 내연기관 차량의 전기차 전환에 기여한 기업을 대상으로 기후부 장관상이 수여된다. 'EV 어워즈 2026' 전기차 부문에서는 기아 EV5가 수상한다. 충전사업자 부문 수상 기업은 채비와 이엘일렉트릭이다. 내연기관 차량의 전기차 전환에 참여한 'K-EV100' 우수 기업으로는 승용 부문에서 BNK캐피탈, 상용 부문에서 소신여객자동차가 각각 선정됐다. 오일영 기후부 기후에너지정책실장은 "전기·수소차 전환은 배터리와 전력망, 인공지능(AI), 첨단 부품산업과 재생에너지 등을 아우르는 미래 산업 생태계의 결정체"라며 "산업 생태계를 강화하고 친환경 이동수단으로의 전환을 촉진하겠다"고 밝혔다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-24 12:04:10
  • First Quarter Job Growth Reaches 292,000, Youth and Construction Sectors Struggle
    First Quarter Job Growth Reaches 292,000, Youth and Construction Sectors Struggle In the first quarter of this year, the total number of wage employment jobs increased by nearly 300,000, yet jobs for those in their 20s have continued to decline for 14 consecutive quarters.The National Data Agency reported on August 24 that the total number of wage employment jobs reached 20,828,000 in the first quarter, an increase of 292,000 compared to the same period last year.Of the total jobs, 74.0% (15,416,000) were sustained jobs held by the same workers as the previous year, while new hires accounted for 26% (5,412,000). The number of jobs lost due to business closures or downsizing was recorded at 1,934,000.By age group, jobs for those under 20 decreased by 76,000 compared to the previous year, marking a 14-quarter decline. Jobs for those in their 40s also fell by 19,000, continuing an 11-quarter downward trend.In contrast, job growth was observed among those aged 60 and older, with an increase of 233,000 jobs, while those in their 30s saw an increase of 115,000 jobs, and those in their 50s gained 40,000 jobs. Notably, the increase in jobs for those in their 30s reached an all-time high.Sector-wise, the construction and real estate industries showed significant weakness, while jobs in health and social welfare, as well as accommodation and food services, increased.The construction sector lost 52,000 jobs over the past year, marking its 10th consecutive quarter of decline. Additionally, the manufacturing sector and real estate sector each saw a decrease of 1,000 jobs.The increase in jobs for older adults has driven growth in the health and social welfare sector, which saw an increase of 127,000 jobs compared to the previous year, with 93,000 of those jobs being for individuals aged 60 and older.Jobs in the accommodation and food services sector increased by 59,000, influenced by the February holiday season, while the professional, scientific, and technical sector also saw an increase of 37,000 jobs.By organizational type, jobs increased in non-corporate entities (127,000), corporate entities (92,000), government and non-profit organizations (38,000), and individual enterprises (34,000). A representative from the data agency noted that the proportion of sustained jobs in government and non-profit organizations was high at 81.3%, while individual enterprises had a relatively high proportion of new hire jobs at 34.3%.In terms of gender distribution, male jobs increased by 75,000, while female jobs rose by 217,000. However, the overall job distribution still showed a higher proportion of male jobs at 55.2% compared to 44.8% for females.Sustained jobs accounted for 56.3% for men and 43.7% for women, while new hire jobs were at 51.8% for men and 48.2% for women.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-24 12:04:00
  • DL E&C Wins Contract for 500MW Combined Heat and Power Plant in Asan Worth 244.1 Billion Won
    DL E&C Wins Contract for 500MW Combined Heat and Power Plant in Asan Worth 244.1 Billion Won DL E&C has secured a contract for the construction of a 500MW combined heat and power plant in Asan, valued at 244.1 billion won.On August 21, DL E&C announced that it signed a contract with the Korea Western Power Consortium for the Asan combined heat and power plant project. The contract amount is 244.1 billion won, which represents 3.30% of DL E&C's projected consolidated revenue of 7.4 trillion won for 2025.The project involves constructing the plant at 2133 Jangjae-ri, Baebang-eup, Asan, in South Chungcheong Province. The total contract value is 287.2 billion won, with DL E&C holding an 85% share. The contract amount excludes value-added tax.The construction period is set from April 30, 2027, to April 30, 2030. These dates are based on the actual start and completion dates, and the contract amount and duration may change depending on the progress of the work. Payments will be billed and received every 30 days based on the progress of the construction, without any upfront payments.This contract marks a significant achievement for DL E&C in securing large-scale projects in the power plant sector. The construction of the 500MW combined heat and power plant is expected to provide stable work opportunities in the plant business.Previously, on August 13, DL E&C disclosed key management matters regarding the investment decision for the Asan combined heat and power plant project. Following the signing of the actual construction contract, the company announced the details of the single sales and supply contract.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-24 12:04:00
  • Climate and Energy Job Fair to Connect Youth with Employers
    Climate and Energy Job Fair to Connect Youth with Employers 기후에너지 분야 취업을 희망하는 청년들이 주요 기업과 공공기관의 채용 계획을 확인하고 현장 면접까지 받을 수 있는 자리가 마련된다. 행사에서는 기업별 채용 상담과 이력서 진단, 모의 면접 등도 진행된다. 기후에너지환경부는 25일 서울 서초구 엘타워에서 '2026 기후에너지 일자리 박람회'를 개최한다고 24일 밝혔다. 행사에는 기후에너지 분야 취업을 희망하는 청년과 기업 관계자 등 1000여명이 참석할 예정이다. 박람회 채용상담관에는 SK이노베이션 등 대기업 11곳과 신성이엔지 등 중소·중견·스타트업 22곳, 한국전력 등 공기업 20곳, 에너지경제연구원 등 연구기관 13곳이 참여한다. 온라인으로 참여하는 34곳까지 합하면 총 100곳이다. 참여 기업과 기관은 구직자들에게 채용 제도와 향후 채용 계획을 안내하고 일대일 상담과 현장 면접을 진행한다. 이력서 진단과 모의 면접 등 구직자별 맞춤형 취업 지원 프로그램도 운영한다. '혁신인재포럼'에서는 에너지 인재 양성과 기술혁신에 기여한 연구소와 학생에게 장관상 등 총 11점의 상을 수여한다. 수상자 가운데 3명은 자신의 연구 성과를 직접 발표한다. 지역 청년 일자리 창출과 전문인력 양성을 위한 업무협약도 체결한다. 기후부와 한국에너지기술평가원, 강원·부산·전남광주·충북 등 지방정부, 삼성물산·GS건설·LG에너지솔루션·SK이노베이션 등 기업이 참여한다. 협약 기관들은 지역별 산업 여건에 맞춰 차세대 전력과 재생에너지, 원자력 분야 전문인력을 양성하고 이들이 지역 내 일자리로 진입할 수 있도록 협력할 계획이다. 이와 함께 '일자리 밋업(Meet-UP)'에서는 자기소개서 작성과 면접 역량을 높이기 위한 전문가 특강이 열린다. SK이노베이션과 한전원자력연료 등 주요 기업·기관 6곳의 채용설명회와 에너지인력양성사업 성과 발표도 진행된다. 기후부는 현장에 참석하기 어려운 구직자를 위해 11월 17일까지 온라인 채용상담관을 운영한다. 오일영 기후부 기후에너지정책실장은 "재생에너지와 차세대 전력망 등 새로운 기술과 산업을 완성하는 핵심은 인재"라며 "녹색 대전환을 이끌 우수 인재가 양질의 일자리로 연결될 수 있도록 지원하겠다"고 밝혔다. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-24 12:04:00
  • Kim Min-seok and Jang Dong-hyuk Agree on Ongoing Dialogue
    Kim Min-seok and Jang Dong-hyuk Agree on Ongoing Dialogue Kim Min-seok, leader of the Democratic Party, and Jang Dong-hyuk, leader of the People Power Party, expressed their agreement on the importance of maintaining ongoing dialogue between the ruling and opposition parties for smoother legislative activities. They publicly voiced differing opinions on recent contentious issues, including the nomination of Supreme Court justices, excess tax revenue, and real estate policies.The two leaders discussed the need for continuous communication during their first meeting on the morning of August 24 at the National Assembly.Kim stated, "I want to establish a bridge of continuous dialogue with Jang. I believe the relationship with the opposition leader does not need to be formal." He emphasized his commitment to regular communication with Jang.Jang responded positively to Kim's sentiments, saying, "I fully agree with Kim's proposal to hold discussions regularly."They also addressed concerns regarding excess tax revenue and real estate policies, with Jang noting, "Since it is operated with the people's taxes, we must be cautious. Fifty percent should be used for the middle class, low-income earners, and youth," and added, "The government's real estate policies seem to contradict the commitments made before the presidential election. The most important aspect of government policy is the trust of the people."In response, Kim countered, "The acceptance of the Supreme Court justice nominations by former President Roh Moo-hyun was a political decision. Given that about 20 years have passed, we need to approach the current situation with normalized standards."He further expressed agreement with Jang's view on using future response funds for the middle class and low-income earners, stating, "We will discuss this thoroughly in the National Assembly," and added, "Regarding real estate issues, the ruling party is discussing ways to address the failures of previous market policies. We will engage in bipartisan discussions with the opposition."However, Kim and Jang did arrive at different conclusions regarding the Supreme Court justice nominations, excess tax revenue, and real estate policies.Jang pointed out that a similar situation occurred during the Roh Moo-hyun administration in 2003 concerning the written nomination of Chief Justice Cho, stating, "At that time, former President Roh also accepted the nominations with the belief in protecting the independence of the judiciary, the last bastion of democracy."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-24 12:00:00
  • High School Students Prepare for College Admissions with Tailored Strategies
    High School Students Prepare for College Admissions with Tailored Strategies The three years of high school are a long process directly linked to college admissions, making it essential to establish systematic strategies tailored to each grade level as the second semester begins. In particular, current first and second-year students are facing significant changes due to the introduction of the integrated college entrance exam and the five-grade academic performance system as part of the 2028 college admission reform. So, what are the key strategies that students should focus on in the upcoming second semester?On August 24, Etoos Education Research Institute introduced college admission strategies for each grade level. Kim Byeong-jin, head of the institute, explained, "The upcoming second semester is a time for seniors to solidify their skills, for juniors to deepen their inquiry within the revised admission system, and for freshmen to explore their career paths and take the first steps toward college admissions."For seniors, the second semester is crucial for enhancing their test-taking skills as the college entrance exam approaches. Etoos advises utilizing weekends to take mock exams that mirror the actual test schedule to develop a 'test-taking rhythm.' After taking these mock exams, students should go beyond simply checking incorrect answers and meticulously record issues such as time management failures or errors in filling out answer sheets to prevent mistakes during the actual exam.Additionally, amidst a busy schedule that includes early application submissions, September mock exams, and university-specific tests (essays and interviews), maintaining focus on studies is vital. It is advised against hastily opening new textbooks or skimming through all subjects superficially; instead, students should thoroughly finalize their error notes and core concepts to secure their actual test scores.Current juniors are the first generation to take the 'integrated college entrance exam' with the complete abolition of elective subjects in Korean, mathematics, and inquiry areas. Since the types of questions and the scope of the exam differ from previous years, students must adapt to new testing trends through example questions from the evaluation agency and school assessments.Kim cautioned against the strategy of abandoning early applications in favor of focusing solely on regular admissions, stating that this approach is very risky. Missing out on six opportunities for early applications narrows the scope of admission strategies, especially since the variables in the reformed integrated exam are significant and many universities now consider academic performance in their regular admissions processes.In the five-grade academic performance system, the differentiation between grades has decreased, increasing the importance of qualitative evaluations of subject-specific abilities and special skills (known as 'se-teuk'). Therefore, it is essential to clearly articulate the competencies related to the intended major in the academic record.For freshmen, the second semester marks a critical point in not only adapting to high school life but also laying the groundwork for college admissions. Strengthening foundational skills in key subjects such as Korean, mathematics, and English is the top priority. Failing to fully grasp the core concepts of first-year common subjects can lead to overload in future advanced studies and preparation for the integrated college entrance exam.Alongside foundational learning, careful consideration must be given to the subjects to be taken in the second and third years. In the context of the integrated college entrance exam and the five-grade academic performance system, how students select and study subjects related to their intended major will be a key evaluation factor. If a career path is unclear, exploring fields that require strengths in subjects the student enjoys and excels in can be a beneficial approach.Kim emphasized, "Rather than shouldering the burden of preparing for academic exams and college entrance exams alone, students should regularly consult with their teachers to ensure they are on track with their goals. By focusing on the priorities necessary for each grade level, students can dispel vague anxieties and establish a clear direction for college admissions."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-24 11:44:00
  • Digital Asset Exchange DigitalX Offers One Year of Zero Trading Fees
    Digital Asset Exchange DigitalX Offers One Year of Zero Trading Fees Mirae Asset Group has announced that DigitalX, a cryptocurrency exchange it acquired, will eliminate trading fees for one year.Starting at 9 a.m. on August 24, all trading fees for the Korean won market will be waived for a year. This applies to all members without the need for separate applications.Previously, Mirae Asset Group conducted a capital increase of 50 billion won after acquiring DigitalX. The exchange plans to seek additional funding from strategic investors in the future.Oh Se-jin, CEO of DigitalX, stated, "I believe that investors have faced difficult times in the challenging cryptocurrency market. We are preparing a variety of products and services that can open new horizons in the digital asset market."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-24 11:44:00