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CORTIS to Release Expanded Edition of Mini Album for First Anniversary 그룹 코르티스가 데뷔 1주년을 맞아 미니 2집 확장판을 선보인다.코르티스(CORTIS)는 24일 오전 0시 미니 2집 확장판 '그린그린 플레이익스텐디드(GREENGREEN playextended)'를 발매한다.이번 앨범은 미니 2집 '그린그린(GREENGREEN)'의 기존 6개 트랙에 신곡 '팩 잇 업(PACK IT UP)'과 '머니머니머니(MONEYMONEYMONEY)'를 추가한 구성이다.코르티스는 지난 22일 서울 고려대학교 화정체육관에서 열린 '2026 코르티스 투어 풋 유어 폰 다운 버스데이 파티(2026 CORTIS TOUR PUT YOUR PHONE DOWN BIRTHDAY PARTY)' 1일 차 공연에서 신곡을 먼저 공개했다.확장판은 미니 2집 '그린그린'의 연장선에 있는 앨범이다. 팀의 솔직함과 실제 경험을 바탕으로 한 음악적 색깔을 이어가며, 기존 앨범 작업 당시 수록하지 못했던 곡들 중 '지금의 코르티스'를 잘 보여주는 2곡을 담았다.이번 신곡 작업에도 멤버 전원이 작사, 작곡에 참여했다. 공동 창작 방식으로 완성한 곡들을 통해 앨범 작업 당시의 감정과 고민을 담아냈다.한편 코르티스는 23일 오후 5시 같은 장소에서 '버스데이 파티' 2일 차 공연을 이어간다. 데뷔 1주년을 기념하는 공연으로, 관객과 함께 호흡하는 무대를 선보일 예정이다.코르티스는 앞서 인천과 북미 투어를 마쳤다. '풋 유어 폰 다운' 투어는 총 9개 도시에서 14회 공연으로 진행되고 있다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-23 10:48:00 -
GS Retail Faces $10 Million Fine for Unfair Trade Practices GS Retail, the operator of GS Home Shopping, has lost its final appeal against a fine imposed by the Fair Trade Commission (FTC) for unfairly burdening suppliers with promotional costs. According to legal sources on August 23, the Supreme Court's third division, led by Justice Noh Kyung-pil, upheld the lower court's ruling that dismissed GS Retail's request to annul the FTC's corrective orders. In January 2022, the FTC imposed a fine of 1.027 billion won (approximately $10 million) on GS Retail for violations of the Large-Scale Distribution Business Act, including the improper transfer of promotional costs, the unfair use of supplier employees, and unjustified returns. The FTC found that from January 2017 to November 2019, GS Retail conducted promotional events, including giveaways, through 129 broadcasts involving 26 suppliers, forcing them to cover the costs without any written agreement. Additionally, from April 2017 to October 2019, GS Retail returned 76,639 items from eight suppliers without valid reasons. Furthermore, between January 2018 and June 2020, GS Retail used 562 individuals, including supplier employees, as guests and demonstration models in 505 broadcasts without written agreements regarding their employment conditions. GS Retail filed a lawsuit in March 2022 to contest the FTC's ruling, but the Seoul High Court ruled against the company in June of the following year. The court rejected GS Retail's argument regarding the return claims, stating that the return requests submitted by suppliers constituted objective evidence of voluntary returns, thus validating the FTC's findings.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-23 10:48:00
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Starbucks Expands Senior Barista Training Program with Over 30 Sessions Planned by Year-End Starbucks Korea has resumed its 'Senior Barista Training' program aimed at creating job opportunities for seniors after a three-month hiatus.On August 20, Starbucks conducted its first senior barista training session for 20 seniors with an average age of 65 at the Gunpo Senior Club in Gyeonggi Province. This training is part of a senior employment support initiative that Starbucks has been running in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Welfare and the Korea Senior Club Association since 2019.The training program, which reopened after three months, garnered significant interest, filling up within two days of registration and even generating a waiting list. Starbucks plans to conduct more than 30 training sessions by December.During this training, Jang Kwang-yeol, the manager of the Gasan Public Starbucks and winner of the 2023 Starbucks Coffee Ambassador Cup, served as the instructor. He provided hands-on training in coffee extraction, milk steaming, and latte art, alongside theoretical lessons on coffee flavors and characteristics based on origin.Registration for the '5th Latte Art Competition,' where senior baristas will showcase their skills, is open until August 24. The names of those who pass the preliminary round will be announced on September 1. Last year's competition saw over 100 senior baristas from cafes affiliated with the Korea Senior Club Association participate, demonstrating their capabilities.Additionally, last month, Starbucks held a signing ceremony with the Korea Senior Club Association to establish a second 'Senior Barista Training Center.' Starbucks will support the necessary interior and related costs for the new training center, while the first center is currently operated by the Gunpo Senior Club.Shin Dong-woo, CEO of Starbucks Korea, stated, "The core of this initiative is to help seniors enhance their skills as baristas and connect them to real job opportunities through professional training. We will continue our social contribution activities for local seniors, including the establishment of training centers." 2026-08-23 10:44:10
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Ruling Party Pressures Chief Justice Cho Hee-dae to Resign Amid Controversy The Democratic Party of Korea continued its pressure on Chief Justice Cho Hee-dae on August 23, stating that resignation is the only way for him to atone for the controversy surrounding the nomination of Supreme Court justices. The party emphasized that Cho has met sufficient conditions for impeachment as he continues his political activities.Park Sung-jun, the party's chief spokesperson, urged Cho to resign during a press briefing at the National Assembly, saying, "Past Chief Justices have been symbols of the rule of law and subjects of dignity and respect. However, Cho has thrown away his dignity and has literally become a 'disgraced Chief Justice.'"Park added, "Political judges are misusing the constitutional value of judicial independence as a shield to justify the politicization of the judiciary. History will forever record that Cho was at the pinnacle of distorted judicial tyranny. Resignation is the only way to atone for the collapsed judicial justice before the public. Cho must resign immediately."Later, Park told reporters that Cho is acting as a politician rather than the head of the judiciary, asserting that there are sufficient grounds for impeachment. He called for voices within the judiciary to also speak out against Cho.Park stated, "Cho has sufficient qualifications and qualities to be impeached. The judiciary should also demand his resignation," strongly condemning Cho for undermining the trust in the judiciary.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-23 10:44:00
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Military: North Korea Prepares for Additional Troop Deployment to Russia North Korea is continuing preparations to send additional troops to Russia, but no signs of an imminent deployment have been detected, according to the Ministry of National Defense.In a report submitted to the National Assembly's Defense Committee by lawmaker Yoo Yong-won of the People Power Party, military authorities stated that while North Korea's troop deployment preparations are ongoing, "there are currently no identifiable signs of an imminent additional deployment."The possibility of North Korea sending more troops emerged last month when Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky raised concerns about the potential deployment of over 30,000 North Korean soldiers to Russia.The South Korean military assesses that North Korea has already dispatched 15,000 combat troops and more than 6,000 engineers and construction personnel to Russia since October 2024. This is the first time the South Korean military has publicly disclosed a specific evaluation regarding North Korea's additional troop deployment.Additionally, the military estimates that there have been numerous casualties among North Korean troops currently deployed in Russia, and that compensation for these troops has been provided. It is estimated that North Korea has supplied over 15 million rounds of 152mm artillery shells to Russia.North Korea's military support to Russia appears to be ongoing. The Defense Intelligence Agency has assessed that since the onset of the Russia-Ukraine war, North Korea has been continuously supplying weapon systems, including short-range ballistic missiles, to Russia.Given the practical data accumulated from North Korean missiles used in the Russia-Ukraine war, there is a possibility that their accuracy and performance have improved due to Russian consultations and parts support.In particular, the Hwasong-11 series tactical ballistic missiles and 600mm multiple rocket launchers, designed for strikes against South Korea, are believed to have mostly completed their development stages.However, the new tactical ballistic missile that North Korea announced it would deploy with 250 launchers at the front line has not yet shown signs of operational deployment.North Korea is also continuing its development of medium- and long-range missiles. The Hwasong-12 intermediate-range ballistic missile, capable of reaching Guam, is reportedly in the process of operational deployment following its development.Furthermore, North Korea has secured the capability to reach the U.S. mainland with its intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), but the military has assessed that key technologies, such as re-entry of warheads into the atmosphere, have not yet been verified, as all test launches have been conducted at high angles.In the submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) sector, North Korea is believed to be developing the Polaris series with ranges exceeding medium-range and the short-range Hwasong-11S SLBM.Meanwhile, North Korea is accelerating military enhancements in border areas, including the installation of minefields and barbed wire along the Military Demarcation Line (MDL), as well as increasing its military capabilities with 240mm and 600mm multiple rocket launchers and new self-propelled artillery.Lawmaker Yoo stated, "The practical experience and data accumulated by North Korea in the Russia-Ukraine war should not be taken lightly, as they could pose a threat to the Korean Peninsula. Our military must establish a solid military readiness posture to respond immediately and decisively, and maintain a robust South Korea-U.S. joint defense posture."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-23 10:36:00
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Hyundai Motor Delays Partial Strike Scheduled for August 24 Amid Ongoing Negotiations Hyundai Motor's labor union has postponed a partial strike that was scheduled for next week. The union announced it will hold the 17th round of negotiations at the Ulsan plant on August 24, leading to the cancellation of the previously planned four-hour partial strike on that day. Earlier, the union had warned of a four-hour partial strike on both August 24 and 25. Negotiations have been ongoing since a meeting on May 6, but they have reached an impasse. The union has conducted partial strikes lasting between two to six hours and held an eight-hour full strike on August 21 for the first time in a decade. This year, the total strike time has reached 60 hours. As both the morning and afternoon shifts of technical workers (production workers) have participated in the strikes, the cumulative production downtime is estimated at 120 hours. Industry estimates suggest that around 55,200 vehicles have been affected by production disruptions.Currently, the union and management are negotiating issues including the scale of wage increases, a 50% increase in bonuses, the reinstatement of union members who were dismissed for illegal activities during past union activities, and the extension of retirement age. 2026-08-23 10:28:00
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Ampersand One Completes Successful Live Tour in Asia, Expanding Global Influence The group Ampersand One has shared meaningful moments with fans across Asia. Ampersand One successfully concluded their live tour, "Born To Define," on August 22 in Macau, after performing in three cities, including Tokyo and Osaka. Opening with the title track "GOD" from their recently released mini-album, Ampersand One captivated audiences with a medley of their current and past hits, including "That's That," "He + She = We," "Kick Start," "Broken Heart," and "On And On." They also showcased a diverse setlist featuring various tracks that balance intensity and softness, such as "What You Talking About," "I'm Down," "My Mistake," and "Over The Moon." Additionally, the group left a lasting impression with cover performances tailored for local fans. The first encore featured the fan song "All Eyes On You," adding a warm touch to the event. After the concert, the members expressed their appreciation for fans through events like high-touch sessions. This live tour, which began in May in Seoul, has successfully navigated through 17 cities in the United States before reaching three cities in Asia. The members have demonstrated significant growth in stage presence and vocal ability, showcasing their continuous evolution. Notably, the U.S. tour expanded to nearly double the scale of last year's North American tour, achieving sellouts in multiple cities and even opening additional seats in some locations. Ampersand One will continue their live tour in Europe starting September 14. This marks their first solo performances in Europe since their debut, generating considerable excitement among local fans since ticket sales opened. Their ongoing expansion of global presence has heightened anticipation for their future endeavors.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-23 10:28:00
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Former President Moon Jae-in Remembers Monk Myeonggin's Legacy Former President Moon Jae-in expressed his condolences following the sudden passing of Monk Myeonggin, honoring the late monk's commitment to democracy, peace, unification, and Buddhist reform.On August 23, Moon shared on Facebook, "I extend my deepest condolences on the sudden news of Monk Myeonggin's passing." Moon reflected on Monk Myeonggin's leadership in the democratization and peace movements, noting that he never turned a blind eye to the suffering of others. He praised the monk's life, which was marked by a refusal to shy away from adversity in the face of unjust power.In particular, Moon emphasized, "For the monk, practice was action and engagement," highlighting that Monk Myeonggin's spiritual journey involved standing alongside those in pain.Moon vowed to remember the monk's teachings and aspirations for reforming Buddhism and awakening the world, while wishing for his peaceful rebirth.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-23 10:24:00
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Government Reconsiders Allowing Bathtubs in Goshiwon Rooms Amid Public Backlash The government has decided to reconsider a plan to allow the installation of bathtubs in individual rooms of goshiwon, a type of low-cost housing, following criticism that such a move is disconnected from reality.According to the government on August 23, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport had announced on August 12 a revision to the 'Building Standards for Multi-Use Facilities' that would permit bathtubs in goshiwon rooms and eliminate the requirement for study facilities like desks.Under current regulations, goshiwon, classified as multi-use facilities, are required to have study facilities, and bathtubs have been prohibited in individual rooms since 2015.The ministry had pushed for regulatory relaxation, considering the increasing use of goshiwon as living spaces for single-person households, beyond just study and lodging facilities. The intent was to adjust regulations that are not directly related to safety, such as fire safety, to better reflect current realities. This revision was developed in response to requests for regulatory improvements from small businesses.The proposed changes would remove bathtubs from the list of prohibited facilities in goshiwon rooms while keeping cooking facilities as the only restriction. It would also eliminate the requirement for study facilities like desks in each room.However, criticism has continued since the announcement. Many pointed out that goshiwon rooms are generally small and often lack adequate ventilation, soundproofing, and hygiene, making the installation of bathtubs unlikely to lead to meaningful improvements in living conditions.Concerns were also raised that the installation of bathtubs could be used as a justification for increasing deposits or monthly rents. Users emphasized that improvements in cooking facilities, ventilation, soundproofing, and fire safety standards should take precedence over bathtubs.In response to the growing criticism, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport has decided to review the regulations based on the feedback received during the announcement process.The ministry stated, “Given the diverse opinions raised during the announcement process, we will reconsider the regulations,” adding, “We will continue to incorporate various perspectives from all sectors in our policy implementation to ensure that regulatory relaxation is felt by the public.”Meanwhile, there are calls for comprehensive measures to address housing difficulties for young people and single-person households, rather than allowing certain facilities. These measures should consider minimum housing standards, safety, and rental burdens together.As the housing crisis for young people intensifies, various housing alternatives have been proposed, but criticisms regarding their effectiveness persist. Previously, Democratic Party lawmaker Hwang Hee faced backlash for suggesting the idea of converting decommissioned buses into short-term housing for students near universities, referred to as 'decommissioned bus youth housing.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-23 10:24:00
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Pulmuone Partners with Gangnam District to Support Healthy Eating for Singles Pulmuone is collaborating with the Gangnam District's single-person household community center to provide education on sustainable eating tailored to the unique dietary needs of singles.Pulmuone Foods announced on the 23rd that it signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on the 21st at its headquarters in Suseo-dong, Gangnam, to operate a 'Sustainable Eating Class for Single-Person Households.'Under the agreement, both parties will jointly run educational programs to support healthy eating habits for singles and promote sustainable eating practices in daily life. Pulmuone Foods will provide the cooking school 'Tasty Pulmuone' space, professional instructors, and educational content, while the Gangnam District single-person household community center will handle student recruitment, promotion, networking among participants, and follow-up support.The first program will take place over two days starting on September 15 at Tasty Pulmuone, with a total of 16 students to be recruited through the community center in the last week of this month.The curriculum will introduce meal plans using vegetables, whole grains, and proteins, along with flexible vegetarian options. It will particularly focus on practical recipes that can be made using only a microwave, as well as dishes utilizing leftover food and versatile sauces, considering the limited cooking space and equipment often found in single-person households. Pulmuone Foods plans to expand related programs following the launch of the first class.This agreement is part of Pulmuone Foods' initiative to support single-person households in the Gangnam area. Both parties have also agreed to collaborate on marketing and promotion to share the outcomes of the program.Yoon Myung-rang, head of Pulmuone Foods, stated, "The number of single-person households is steadily increasing, but opportunities to learn how to eat healthily and sustainably on their own remain limited. We will continue to share practical sustainable eating know-how that can be implemented in daily life, leveraging the educational infrastructure and expertise of Tasty Pulmuone."Meanwhile, Pulmuone opened the sustainable eating cooking school 'Tasty Pulmuone' at its Suseo headquarters in Gangnam in April. The school offers programs that allow consumers to cook and experience healthy and environmentally conscious eating habits that they can implement in their daily lives.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-23 10:16:00