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Experts Warn: Abolishing Prosecutors' Supplementary Investigation Rights Puts Burden on Businesses and Individuals A case I handled long ago involved a man who died after being assaulted in a studio apartment complex in Ansung. The police identified three high school students as suspects based on DNA found on a cigarette butt at the scene and obtained confessions from them, promoting the case as a success of scientific investigation.However, upon reviewing the case after it was sent to the prosecution, an unsettling scene emerged. A boy, arrested on charges of robbery and murder, admitted to the crime but added with a smile, "Actually, we didn’t kill him." Further supplementary investigation revealed shocking results.A child who had been bullied at school due to a lack of intellectual ability chose to give a false confession under pressure from a police investigator who said, "We will show leniency if you confess." The other two boys, hearing that their friend had already confessed, admitted to a crime they did not commit, believing it was futile to deny it.All three boys came from economically disadvantaged single-parent families and were unable to afford legal representation or articulate their grievances coherently during the investigation. Thanks to the supplementary investigation by the prosecution, they were able to clear their names and return to school on the first day of the new term.On August 4, a bill abolishing prosecutors' supplementary investigation rights passed the Cabinet meeting. This bill has already cleared the National Assembly and is set to be implemented soon. The investigative authority will now be centralized under the police, with the prosecution responsible only for indictments and maintaining charges.The practical implications can be summarized in two main areas. First, there will be delays in procedures. When supplementary investigation is necessary, prosecutors will no longer be able to conduct investigations directly; they must request the police or the newly established Serious Crimes Investigation Agency to carry out supplementary investigations.As the process of transferring cases between agencies becomes more frequent, the time taken to resolve cases will increase, placing the burden squarely on the parties involved. According to data from the Supreme Prosecutors' Office, over 40% of recently transferred cases were handled through direct supplementary investigations by prosecutors, indicating that the gap left by this change is significant.However, a more fundamental change is the absolute increase in the weight of police investigations. Previously, if there were shortcomings in police investigations, there was an opportunity to correct them at the prosecution stage. Now, that final safety net will structurally disappear. Although prosecutors still have the right to request supplementary investigations, it is questionable whether the relatively less experienced police, under pressure for investigative results, can effectively conduct supplementary investigations, or whether the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency, lacking understanding of trial processes, can adequately supplement police investigations.This gap will be even more detrimental in corporate criminal cases and economic crimes, which often involve complex facts and extensive documentation, rather than in violent crimes. While police have strengths in on-site investigations, they face limitations in handling cases with intricate factual and legal issues.Meanwhile, corporate criminal risks continue to rise. The recent expansion of the Serious Accident Punishment Act now applies to all workplaces with five or more employees, and starting in June 2026, the names, industries, and causes of accidents at workplaces where serious accidents occur will be disclosed. The Fair Trade Commission has also announced a significant tightening of penalties for collusion, limiting leniency for self-reports and considering business suspensions and registration cancellations for repeat offenders. Furthermore, the statute of limitations for collusion cases will be extended, and the investigative organization dedicated to serious cases will be expanded, suggesting that related investigations will likely become more extensive and prolonged.So, how should businesses prepare? It is already too late when investigators arrive on the scene. Companies must prioritize the preservation of internal documents and the consistency of statements from involved parties. This means transparently documenting work processes and ensuring that records align with individuals' recollections.To achieve this, practical departments should regularly check with legal departments to ensure that safety-related documents accurately reflect on-site realities and that the contents of business discussions do not leave room for interpretation as evidence of collusion. Individuals must also be vigilant. It is not uncommon for procedures that begin as witness investigations to suddenly shift to suspect interrogations.The difference in outcomes between those who understand how statements made during police investigations can be used in future investigations and trials and those who do not can be significant. Whether in a defensive position or seeking to hold others accountable through complaints, it is crucial to accurately understand the criteria for judgment and to respond meticulously from the early stages of the investigation.In a structure where the next step to rectify injustices has disappeared, being prepared to protect oneself by getting the first step right ultimately determines the outcome of a case.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-24 06:04:00
Simmons Factory Takes 10-Day Break for Quality and Safety Checks "While the bed market is buzzing with 'premium' claims, true premium quality cannot be defined by a single material or technology. It is only achieved when every aspect, from production to quality control, cleanliness, delivery, and customer care, is connected by a strict standard," said Lee Jong-sung, Vice President of Production and Logistics Strategy at Simmons, during a media day event at the Simmons Factorioum in Icheon, Gyeonggi Province, on August 19.During the media tour, Simmons unveiled its 'Simmons Standard 5,' setting a new benchmark in the mattress industry and showcasing the essence of 'superior premium' quality.One of the core elements of the Simmons Standard 5 is ensuring a 'clean production environment' and 'ethical quality control' that instills confidence in both workers and consumers.This is exemplified by the factory's unique operational method known as 'regular shutdowns.' Simmons halts production for about ten days each spring and summer. Stopping a factory that produces 600 to 700 mattresses daily signifies potential production delays and revenue loss. However, Simmons made this decision to enhance the manufacturing environment for better quality.Kim Dong-hyun, Director of Production Planning and Strategy at Simmons, emphasized, "Rather than increasing production capacity, maintaining processes and creating a clean environment comes first. Since mattresses come into direct contact with the skin, cleanliness and safety are non-negotiable basics." The company has eliminated processes that generate wastewater and has adopted a policy of transparently sharing defect reports, reflecting Simmons' commitment to prioritizing quality in its production philosophy.At the second-floor Sleep Environment Research and Development Center, tests were underway, including a rolling test with a 140kg hexagonal roller that rolls over 100,000 times and a bowling ball drop test to verify vibration isolation. According to the curator, Simmons conducts 187 tests in this facility, adhering to its quality management policy aimed at providing the best sleep environment for customers.Furthermore, Simmons' 'in-house delivery system' and comprehensive 'customer care' complete the premium experience. Delivery staff ensure quality delivery with 72-hour and scheduled delivery options, wearing uniforms and protective shoe covers.Even in a retail environment where AI chatbots are becoming commonplace, Simmons insists on face-to-face and phone consultations with regular employees. Lee Ji-yeon, Executive Director at Simmons, stated, "Since beds are high-involvement, high-end products, we must convey sincerity to customers directly. While AI can handle simple inquiries, core professional consultations are managed by Simmons staff."The technological pinnacle of Simmons mattresses lies in the innovative materials led by the 'vanadium pocket spring.' Simmons has developed spring wire based on a special alloy steel containing vanadium in collaboration with POSCO. This creates an organically integrated supply chain ecosystem from material procurement to finished products.The vanadium pocket spring is designed in a jar shape, providing stable support. Lee Jong-sung noted, "We used domestic high-strength wire to secure appropriate quality rather than just improving costs, creating a gap that competitors cannot replicate." He added, "Quality is integrity, and it is the responsibility of manufacturing companies to manage it honestly."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-24 06:04:00
Why Japanese Rice Prices Have Surged Above American Imports On June 2, 2025, about 1,000 people lined up outside the Aeon Osaka Dome City store in Osaka before it opened. Some had camped out overnight. They were not waiting for luxury goods or limited editions; they were hoping to buy government-stored rice from the 2022 harvest, which had been aged for two years. Frustrated by skyrocketing rice prices, consumers were eager to purchase the aged rice priced around 2,000 yen.The next day, convenience store Lawson announced it would sell rice balls made from the 2022-2023 aged rice under the name 'vintage rice.' Online forums were flooded with sarcastic comments like, "Is rice now like whiskey?" and "Does it gain value like old jeans?"Japan's rice price surge began in earnest during the summer of 2024, marking the start of what is referred to as the 'Reiwa Era Rice Crisis.' A combination of last year's heatwave, which reduced the quality of rice, and an increase in demand due to rising tourism contributed to the situation. Panic buying followed the announcement of a temporary earthquake alert for the Nankai Trough. Supermarkets saw empty rice shelves and imposed purchase limits. Contrary to expectations that prices would stabilize with the autumn harvest, they continued to rise. By the last week of March 2025, the average price of a 5 kg bag of rice in supermarkets nationwide reached 4,206 yen, more than double the price from a year earlier. In April, Japanese tourists were even seen returning home with bags of rice purchased in South Korea for half the price of Japanese rice.The issue is that even with the government releasing stored rice, prices have remained stubbornly high. The wholesale price of Japanese rice reached 616 yen per kilogram in 2025, while American Calrose rice was around 161 yen. Even after adding the import tariff of 341 yen per kilogram, the total cost for American rice was 502 yen, making it 114 yen cheaper than Japanese rice. Such a price discrepancy cannot be solely explained by short-term supply and demand issues.So, why have Japanese rice prices soared to the point where consumers are willing to camp out for two-year-old stored rice and tourists are bringing back rice from abroad?Increased Farmland but Fragmented Rice PaddiesThe background lies in Japan's chronic agricultural production cost issues. It is well-known that larger farming operations tend to be more efficient and have lower production costs. The Japanese government has been promoting the consolidation of farmland by transferring land from aging farmers to commercial farms and agricultural corporations. As a result, the proportion of farmland cultivated by these entities increased from 48.1% in 2010 to 61.5% in 2024.However, the Nihon Keizai Shimbun (Nikkei) pointed out that just because a farm's total cultivated area has increased does not mean that the size of individual rice paddies has grown. If farmland is scattered, even an increase in total cultivated area does not significantly enhance productivity. A rare example is Fukuhara Farm in Hikone City, Shiga Prefecture, which has consolidated fragmented paddies to improve operational efficiency. This farm, which cultivates about 240 hectares, has exchanged land with local farmers and eliminated field borders, increasing the average size of each plot to 0.8 hectares. By utilizing smart agricultural machinery and drones, they reduced labor time per unit area by 30-40% compared to when the average plot size was 0.5 hectares. This indicates that consolidating farmland can significantly enhance production efficiency.However, consolidating farmland is not easy. The availability and timing of land purchases or leases depend on when landowners decide to sell or lease their paddies. Merging multiple plots requires the consent of all owners, so if even one person opposes or cannot be contacted, the consolidation process can stall.Nikkei noted that the fragmented structure of farmland is also a legacy of post-war land reform. After World War II, Japan forcibly purchased land from 1.76 million landlords and redistributed it to 4.75 million tenant farmers. The subsequent land law was enacted to prevent the revival of landlordism and protect small farmers by strictly regulating the sale and lease of farmland. Although regulations have been relaxed over the years, the ownership structure of small plots has remained intact.Policies have also been implemented to create land banks that rent out land from multiple owners to large-scale farms. However, as of the end of March 2025, 1.06 million hectares, or 20% of all farmland, had unclear ownership or could not be contacted. This difficulty in consolidating paddies into larger plots reduces operational efficiency and raises production costs. Currently, Japan's rice production costs are significantly higher than those in the U.S. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, the production cost for 60 kg of rice in Japan averages 15,800 yen, which is 4.1 times higher than the U.S. cost of 3,900 yen. Even Japanese farms cultivating over 50 hectares face production costs of 10,000 yen, 2.6 times higher than their American counterparts. This suggests that even if farmland is expanded, scattered plots hinder mechanization and operational efficiency.As Japanese Rice Prices Rise, Imports Surge 50-FoldAs rice prices soared, retailers and restaurants began turning to imported rice. Aeon sold 4 kg of California Calrose rice for 2,680 yen last year, and restaurant chain Kurobuta started using American rice in some of its locations. Lawson introduced Japanese-style kimbap made with Calrose rice this year. The traditional belief among Japanese consumers that rice must be domestically sourced is beginning to waver.Last year, Japan's private rice imports reached 97,000 tons, a staggering 95 times the previous year. Even in the first half of this year, when domestic rice prices began to decline, about 18,700 tons were imported, reaching 50 times the amount during the same period in 2024 before the rice crisis. In contrast, due to high prices, demand for domestic rice in 2025 was projected to be up to 280,000 tons lower than the Ministry of Agriculture's estimates. Imported rice is not just filling a temporary gap; it is becoming a new option in the Japanese market.Cheap imported rice provides an immediate escape for consumers and restaurants. However, once the foundation of domestic rice production weakens, recovery will be difficult. The number of Japanese farms and agricultural corporations fell to 836,000 last year, a 60% decrease since 2005, and Mitsubishi Research Institute predicts it could drop to 200,000 by 2050.In Japan, where securing large tracts of farmland is challenging, some argue whether it is necessary to insist on domestic rice. Japan already relies on imports for 80% of its wheat and 90% of its oilseeds. However, the recent surge in wheat prices due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the military conflict between the U.S. and Iran, which has effectively blocked the Strait of Hormuz, has highlighted the vulnerability of overseas supply chains. The choice between cheap imported rice and food security is a complex dilemma for Japan, a situation that resonates with South Korea, which faces similar agricultural challenges.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-24 06:04:00
Exploring Korea's AI and Physical AI Potential Amid US-China Competition Amid the intensifying US-China competition in artificial intelligence (AI) and the impact of high oil prices and interest rates due to the prolonged wars in the US-Iran and Russia-Ukraine conflicts, the global economy is in turmoil. In this context, Aju Economy is hosting the 18th Good Growth, Good Jobs Global Forum (2026 GGGF) to examine Korea's position in the global AI hegemony.According to Aju Economy, the 2026 GGGF will feature a keynote address by Dennis Hong, a professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering at UCLA and director of the Robotics and Mechanisms Laboratory (RoMeLa). His talk, titled "The Realization of AI Civilization Depends on Physical AI Competitiveness," will highlight the importance of physical AI.Professor Hong, a Korean-American roboticist, is known for his motto of creating warm technology for humans. He has developed innovative and creative robots, including cars for the visually impaired and humanoid robots, earning him the title of the "Leonardo da Vinci of robotics." As the director of RoMeLa, he has created a car that allows visually impaired individuals to drive using tactile and vision sensors, and has showcased disaster rescue robots like "Thor" and humanoid robot "Darwin," establishing a strong presence in the field of physical AI. He has also been recognized as one of the "10 Young Genius Scientists" by Popular Science, affirming his global reputation.Following Hong, Im Jeong-hwan, CEO of Motif Technologies, will deliver a second keynote address on the theme of "K-AI Future Vision Amid US-China Competition." Im has been challenging the domestic AI ecosystem, which is largely dominated by large corporations, with initiatives like "Dopamo" and "Everyone's AI." He is expected to introduce Motif Technologies' AI capabilities, which have received recognition in global AI benchmarks, and diagnose the challenges facing the Korean AI industry while presenting a clear vision for its development.A special lecture by Lee Geum-ryong, chairman of Coglo.com, will also be featured. Lee, who successfully led an IPO and sale as the CEO of the e-commerce service Auction, will discuss how major universities in Korea can become incubators for startups in the AI era, increasing job opportunities for young people. He will unveil groundbreaking ideas for expanding youth entrepreneurship and employment, emphasizing the role of the private sector, including large corporations, in this effort.The first session, titled "AX Value Chain Hub: Future Growth Keywords," will feature presentations by Yoo Min-soo, Chief Research Officer of A2Sys and KAIST chair professor, and Joo Young-pyo, who is responsible for system architecture at SK Hynix. They will share insights on building a supply chain optimized for AI in the memory-based AI era. Yoo, who co-founded A2Sys and secured 16 billion won in investment within a month of its establishment, is expected to address corporate concerns regarding service optimization and operational cost reduction in the AI era.The second day will kick off with a lecture by Joo Si-hyun, executive director of robotics intelligence development at Hyundai Motor Company. He is anticipated to present a vision for K-Physical AI, covering not only humanoid robots but also wearable forms of physical AI. A special lecture will also be held, focusing on the current state and implications of the AI industry in China, including discussions among representatives and executives from major domestic physical AI companies.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-24 05:04:00
Russia Mobilizes 300,000 Troops Amid Military Drills in Kaliningrad Russia conducted military drills last month in Kaliningrad, an exclave on the Baltic Sea. Reports suggest that the country may mobilize 300,000 troops in September.The Wall Street Journal reported on August 23 that Russian military officers moved from the western city of St. Petersburg to Kaliningrad to assess the mobilization readiness of local residents. These officers reviewed procedures for mobilizing Kaliningrad residents, including accommodations, food, and weapon supplies.Officials indicated that these drills are part of nationwide training in preparation for a potential mobilization order. However, sources from the Kremlin stated that no decision has been made regarding a mobilization order, and it is unlikely to be determined before the general elections at the end of September.Despite this, Russian President Vladimir Putin has shown a willingness to take significant losses in eastern Ukraine to secure control over the Donbas region, raising speculation about the possibility of a mobilization order among Western media. According to CNN, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated on August 23 that Russia aims to regain territory in Ukraine by the end of the year, even at the cost of substantial troop losses. He claimed that Russia has lost 267,000 troops since the war began, with 155,000 of those being fatalities.The Wall Street Journal also noted that the Russian military has struggled to recruit new personnel to replace those killed or injured in recent months. Additionally, Ukrainian drone attacks have increased casualties among Russian forces, contributing to concerns among U.S. and European officials about the likelihood of a large-scale mobilization order.Western intelligence officials are particularly focused on the Suwalki Gap, a 100-kilometer stretch of land connecting Lithuania and Poland, which links Kaliningrad to Belarus. If Russia were to occupy this area, it would secure a supply route between Kaliningrad and Belarus, allowing troops mobilized from Kaliningrad to be deployed to Ukraine via Belarus.The last mobilization order in Russia was issued in September 2022, prompting many men to flee the country to avoid conscription. Reports indicated that Russian men began planning overseas trips or purchasing homes in anticipation of a potential mobilization. Radio Free Europe reported an increase in Russian arrivals in Armenia, which has accepted many Russians seeking to evade conscription since 2022-2023.In response, Vasily Nebenzya, Russia's ambassador to the UN, stated that there are currently no plans for a large-scale mobilization order after the September elections. Nebenzya emphasized, "As I have stated several times, we do not need a large-scale mobilization order at this time. To my knowledge, there are no plans or expectations for one."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-24 05:04:00
Battery Industry Faces Reality Check Amidst Slowing Electric Vehicle Demand Was the secondary battery industry a bubble? While it is difficult to argue that the potential of the industry itself was a bubble, it is true that expectations for the rapid onset of the electric vehicle era were overly reflected in corporate valuations and production capacities. The current stagnation appears to be more of a process of aligning excessive expectations with reality rather than the end of the industry.At one point, secondary batteries were seen as a 'gold mine.' From 2020 to 2023, as electric vehicle sales surged, the market anticipated a looming battery shortage. Global automakers rushed to set ambitious electric vehicle sales targets, and governments worldwide incentivized investments with subsidies and tax benefits. Battery manufacturers and material companies expanded their factories under the assumption that demand would continue to rise, reflecting even unrealized future profits in their valuations.However, electric vehicle demand did not grow as quickly as expected. High interest rates, expensive vehicle prices, a lack of charging infrastructure, and battery explosion incidents delayed consumer purchases, prompting automakers to adjust their electric vehicle investments and launch schedules. As demand slowed, the previously expanded production capacity became a burden. With lower operating rates and accumulating inventory, battery companies found themselves in the so-called 'chasm.'The sharp decline in raw material prices in 2023 further exacerbated the situation. The slowdown in electric vehicle demand and oversupply led to falling prices for lithium and nickel, which in turn caused a drop in the selling prices of battery materials and cells. Particularly, cathode material companies faced inventory valuation losses as the value of raw materials and stockpiles acquired at high prices decreased, leading to worsened sales and profitability despite maintaining or increasing sales volumes.Meanwhile, Chinese companies expanded their market dominance with large-scale production capacities and low-cost LFP batteries. Unlike domestic companies that focused on high-performance nickel-rich batteries, Chinese firms quickly captured the mid-range electric vehicle and ESS markets using price competitiveness. As the electric vehicle market shifted from high-end models to more affordable options, the strategic weaknesses of the South Korean battery industry became apparent.Amid the prolonged chasm, a breakthrough has emerged. ESS and AI data centers are becoming new demand sources. To stabilize the power grid and reliably supply power to AI data centers, large-scale battery facilities are necessary. The battery demand, previously concentrated on electric vehicles, is beginning to expand to power grids, data centers, UPS, and BBU.The three major domestic battery companies recorded profits in the second quarter of this year, which is not unrelated to these changes. The expansion of ESS sales and demand from AI data centers contributed to improved performance. However, it is premature to conclude that this marks a complete revival of the battery industry. Much of the profit turnaround can be attributed to policy-driven and one-time factors such as North American production subsidies, tariff refunds, and customer compensation. More important than the mere transition to profitability is whether they can generate stable profits excluding subsidies.ESS and AI data centers are not saviors that will instantly rescue the battery industry but rather new pillars that broaden the demand landscape. Even if the recovery of the electric vehicle market is delayed, if battery companies can generate profits in the power grid and data center markets, their resilience will strengthen. Conversely, if they fail to secure price competitiveness and technological prowess in these new markets, there is a risk of repeating past expectations.The era when secondary batteries were unconditionally highly valued simply for being a future industry has passed. The market is now questioning not the growth potential but the actual ability to generate profits. The test to confirm whether the true competitiveness remains after the bubble has burst is just beginning.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-24 05:04:00
BIGBANG Celebrates 20th Anniversary with 'COSMOS' Concert "Well, I said, I would be back."The legend has returned. Celebrating their 20th anniversary, the group BIGBANG marked their comeback with a powerful performance that showcased their enduring status in the music industry.From August 21 to 23, BIGBANG held their 20th anniversary world tour 'XX: COSMOS IN GOYANG' at the Goyang Sports Complex in Ilsanseo-gu, Goyang City. The group infused their heartfelt appreciation for their long-time fans throughout the show, revisiting their iconic hits and demonstrating their strong stage presence.The concert opened with 'FANTASTIC BABY.' Dressed in white outfits adorned with silver beads, three members took the stage alongside a large group of dancers, capturing the audience's attention from the very first performance. Their individual styles shone through even within the restrained white tones. Following this, popular tracks such as 'HANDS UP,' 'TONIGHT,' 'BLUE,' 'LOSER,' 'IF YOU,' 'BAD BOY,' and 'BAE BAE' were performed, eliciting enthusiastic sing-alongs and cheers from the crowd.Despite transitioning from a five-member to a three-member group, the absence was hardly felt on stage. Any recent controversies regarding live performances, particularly during G-Dragon's solo concert, were naturally overshadowed by the group's reunion. The long hiatus seemed irrelevant as they seamlessly connected with the audience, creating a sense of stability as if they had never left.G-Dragon welcomed the audience, saying, "This is BIGBANG's 20th anniversary tour. We started in 2006, and here we are in 2026. Welcome once again to COSMOS." Daesung added, "Today, we will present the full COSMOS experience," setting an upbeat tone for the concert.Taeyang expressed his excitement, stating, "It’s great to meet you again with a new look and new stage for our 20th anniversary. Due to regulations at the Goyang Sports Complex, we had to shorten our talk time by 30 minutes, but since this is our final performance, we can have more fun depending on your reactions. I will give it my all today, so please sing along even louder."Following performances of their hit songs 'Haru Haru' and 'Lie,' the members showcased their musical diversity through solo stages.Daesung displayed his vocal range with 'Universe,' 'Wings,' 'Excessive,' and 'Look at Me, Gwisoon.' Taeyang delivered a powerful performance with 'BAD,' 'RINGA LINGA,' and 'LIVE FAST DIE SLOW,' while G-Dragon unleashed his energy with 'POWER,' 'Crayon,' and 'Crooked.' Even as solo artists, they demonstrated their commanding stage presence, leaving the audience in awe.The members actively participated in the setlist and overall production, resulting in a meticulously crafted stage and sound quality. A top-tier band session, led by Wow Jones, who has collaborated with artists like Usher and Post Malone, enriched the live performances.Additionally, Mike Carson, who directed the 2025 Super Bowl halftime show, and Es Devlin, known for her work on the 2012 London Olympics closing ceremony, contributed to the production. A 23-ton mobile LED screen, utilizing multi-motor torque synchronization technology, created a visually immersive 'COSMOS' experience alongside dozens of dancers.In the latter part of the concert, the members shared their honest reflections on their reunion. Daesung remarked, "We wrapped up our activities with a short web entertainment show 'Pinggae Go' while releasing a new song for our 20th anniversary. It’s been a while since the three of us came together; how did you find it?" The audience responded with mixed feelings of nostalgia and disappointment over the brief nature of the reunion. Fans urged G-Dragon to quickly write new songs.When asked if it was disappointing to conclude their activities so soon, Taeyang joked, "It’s a shame to end with just one new song, 'BiiiG.' If we stop here, it’s not even XS or M in size." G-Dragon added, "As you know, when we decide to do something, we do it right away," leaving the door open for future activities.Taeyang reflected, "It’s been 8 years and 8 months since our last performance. We were born in 1988; can we perform until we’re 88?" He smiled and continued, "Every moment with you has flown by so quickly. Twenty years have passed in the blink of an eye."The stage was then filled with non-stop performances of 'BANG BANG BANG,' 'STUPID LIAR,' 'Manjeongsin,' and 'WE LIKE 2 PARTY.'Amidst the cheers of fans, the new 20th anniversary song 'BiiiG' was performed for the first time. Released unexpectedly on August 19, the digital single 'BiiiG' topped major music charts in South Korea and reached number one in 24 regions on the iTunes song chart, marking their successful return. On Melon, it recorded the highest number of users within the first hour of release among songs released in 2026, quickly climbing to the top of the daily chart.After the performances of the new song and 'HOME SWEET HOME,' the stadium erupted with calls for an encore.Returning to the stage in more casual attire, BIGBANG delivered an encore that evoked the raw energy of their early days. The encore songs 'Heaven,' 'Red Sunset,' 'Last Farewell,' 'FEELING,' and 'Still Life' left a lasting impression on the audience.Starting with this concert in Goyang, BIGBANG will embark on a massive world tour, performing 33 shows across 19 cities worldwide, including North America, Europe, Oceania, and Asia. Additional locations will be announced in due course.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-24 00:04:00
Ansan City Council Enhances Councilors' Expertise Through Practical Training On August 21, the Ansan City Council in Gyeonggi Province initiated training aimed at enhancing the expertise and legislative capabilities of its councilors.According to the council, this training was the first of its kind since the opening of the 10th assembly and was conducted for councilors and staff in the council's main conference room.The training was designed to improve the basic competencies of councilors while strengthening the practical skills necessary for legislative activities ahead of the 305th extraordinary session.The sessions covered three main areas: improving social awareness of disabilities, laws related to anti-corruption and integrity, and budget review and administrative audits.The first lecture featured an instructor with personal experience of disability, who explained the concept of disability and societal perceptions based on their experiences.Participants explored various perspectives on disabilities through films and international examples, along with practical suggestions for improving awareness in daily life.The subsequent integrity training focused on key content and real-life cases related to the Anti-Graft Act, the Conflict of Interest Prevention Act, and the Code of Conduct that local councilors should be familiar with.Topics related to preventing workplace harassment were also addressed, enhancing understanding of potential sanctions for legal violations and appropriate responses in various situations.The final training session on budget review and administrative audits introduced fundamental concepts as well as practical techniques and approaches applicable to legislative activities.Notably, the case-based explanations that could be applied immediately in the field captured the attention of the attending councilors.Participants demonstrated a serious attitude, actively taking notes during the training, as this was the first capacity-building program since the assembly's opening.Citizens have responded positively to the training, recognizing that ongoing education and skill development for councilors are essential for accurately reflecting their voices in policies and budgets.There are also calls for enhanced practical training in areas directly related to citizens' lives, such as budget reviews and administrative audits.Chairman Han Myung-hoon stated, “The council's capacity begins with the continuous learning and preparation of each councilor. I hope this training will enable councilors to further enhance their expertise necessary for legislative activities and actively apply what they have learned.”Meanwhile, the city council plans to continue providing various training and workshops to enhance councilors' expertise and effectively respond to the changing administrative environment, thereby supporting substantive legislative activities.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-23 22:16:00
Korea Racing Authority Launches Online Activity Contest for Users The Korea Racing Authority's General Headquarters will host the 'Online Activity Champion Contest' starting September 1 to enhance user engagement with its online content. According to the General Headquarters on August 23, all members of the Korea Racing Authority's website can participate in this event. Participants can log in to the website and accumulate 'activity points' by engaging in various activities such as mock betting, writing predictions and reviews, and commenting on other users' posts. After the event concludes, the top nine users with the highest accumulated activity points will be named 'activity champions,' and an additional 25 participants will be selected through a lottery. The results of the event will be announced on the Korea Racing Authority's website in November. This event is particularly noteworthy as it allows users to engage with racing-related content online, separate from actual race participation, by utilizing mock content, information, and communication features on the website. Local residents have responded positively. Citizens in the metropolitan area, including Gwangmyeong, expressed that while they are interested in racing, it can be difficult to visit the venue directly. They appreciate being able to access race-related information and content on the website, stating, "It's convenient to check information and content related to the races online," and find it interesting to share opinions with other users through predictions and reviews. One citizen noted, "If there are more programs like mock betting that allow people to experience content without financial burden, the number of users on the website will naturally increase." Meanwhile, a representative from the General Headquarters stated, "Given the high participation in the first half of the year, we have improved our operational methods to increase engagement with the website's main content in the second half." They added, "We hope this event will provide an opportunity for customers to engage with racing-related content in a healthier and more enjoyable way."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-23 21:52:00
Lee So-hee and Baek Ha-na Win Korea's First Women's Doubles World Championship Gold in 31 Years Lee So-hee and Baek Ha-na Defeat World No. 1 to Claim Gold MedalBadminton players Lee So-hee and Baek Ha-na, ranked third in the world, secured a gold medal for South Korea at the World Championships for the first time in 31 years. The duo triumphed over the world’s top-ranked pair, Liu Shengsu and Tan Ning from China, with a score of 2-0 (21-15, 21-15) in the women’s doubles final held in New Delhi, India, on August 23. This victory marks the first time a South Korean women’s doubles team has won the championship since Gil Young-a and Jang Hye-ok in 1995. The pair lifted the trophy about eight months after winning back-to-back titles at the World Tour Finals last year, breaking a four-match losing streak against the top-ranked team.Movies 'Odyssey' and 'Spider-Man 4' Surpass 7 Million and 8 Million ViewersThe films 'Odyssey' and 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day' are leading the summer box office. According to the integrated ticket sales network, 'Odyssey' surpassed 7 million viewers as of 1:01 PM on August 23, just 19 days after its release. This milestone came only two days after it crossed the 6 million mark. The pace at which 'Odyssey' reached 7 million matches that of 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day,' which achieved the same milestone in record time this year. Compared to previous hits, 'Odyssey' reached this figure faster than 'The King’s Affection' and 'Spring in Seoul,' which took 24 and 20 days, respectively.Nvidia AI Server Prices Expected to Rise Over 15% Due to Memory CostsDue to a surge in demand for artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure, memory semiconductor prices have skyrocketed, leading to an expected increase of over 15% in the prices of Nvidia's AI chip-equipped servers. Bloomberg reported on August 22, citing sources, that some of Nvidia's major clients have been informed of the price hikes for many products. The increases will apply to systems shipped early next year, including servers equipped with Nvidia's next-generation Vera Rubin and Grace Blackwell chips. The extent of the price increase will vary based on the generation of Nvidia chips and memory configurations. Bloomberg noted that even Nvidia, which has maintained high profitability, is unable to absorb the cost burden from rising memory prices, as the demand for DRAM has surged due to increased AI infrastructure investments, strengthening the bargaining power of memory manufacturers like Samsung Electronics, SK Hynix, and Micron.President Lee to Meet with Party and Business Leaders This WeekPresident Lee Jae-myung will meet with the new leadership of the Democratic Party and major business leaders this week as part of a broad communication effort that spans both politics and the economy. Ahead of the regular National Assembly session in September, he aims to strengthen legislative and budget cooperation among the party, government, and the Blue House while reviewing large-scale investment plans and government support measures in the AI and semiconductor sectors. On August 23, political sources indicated that President Lee will host a dinner at the Blue House on August 25 with Democratic Party leader Kim Min-seok, floor leader Han Byeong-do, and other key party officials. Following that, on August 28, he will invite all Democratic Party lawmakers to a luncheon at the Blue House, broadening the scope of communication to gather direct feedback on government policies and legislative issues. This schedule follows a dinner he held on August 19 with Kim and other candidates from the Democratic Party's recent convention.Police Investigate Motive Behind False Closure of Missing Persons CaseJeju police are intensively investigating the motive of Officer A, who was urgently arrested on suspicion of falsely closing a missing persons case. On August 23, Officer A left the Jeju Eastern Police Station's detention center and did not respond to reporters' questions about the reasons for the false closure, keeping his head down as he boarded a transport vehicle. According to Yonhap News, a police official stated, "We are investigating the motive behind Officer A's false closure of the missing persons case," adding that the location of the investigation cannot be disclosed. Another police source mentioned that they may apply for a warrant by the deadline for urgent arrest on August 24, depending on the investigation's progress.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-23 21:40:00