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Changing Drinking Culture Hits Alcohol Industry Amid Declining Sales A 15-year veteran employee, referred to as A, has recently felt a sense of generational change during department gatherings. Once frequent, these events have dwindled to about once a month, with younger employees often opting out, citing commitments like exercise or language classes. A noted, Whereas past gatherings were all about drinking heavily, now it’s common to wrap up after a meal with just a light drink.The domestic alcohol market is facing a significant blow due to changing drinking cultures and a growing emphasis on health. The impact on the spirits market, particularly whiskey, has been severe. The whiskey industry, a hallmark of high-alcohol beverages, is experiencing a sharp decline in performance, leading to restructuring efforts. Both soju and beer are also facing sluggish sales, prompting alcohol companies to seek new opportunities in low-alcohol and ready-to-drink (RTD) products.According to industry sources, Diageo Korea, which operates the whiskey brand Johnnie Walker, has recently begun accepting applications for voluntary retirement from all employees, offering up to 36 months of salary and a special severance payment of 20 million won. This marks the companys second round of layoffs in about two years. Last year, Diageo Koreas operating profit plummeted by 48.1% to 9.4 billion won compared to the previous year.Competitors in the whiskey sector, including Golden Blue and Pernod Ricard, are also experiencing poor performance. Their operating profits fell by 36.3% and 71.6%, respectively. Golden Blue has not paid performance bonuses, which typically range from 100% to 130% of monthly salaries, due to last years poor results, and discussions of a potential zero bonus for this year are ongoing.Companies focusing on soju and beer sales are also feeling the chill. Hite Jinro reported a 3.6% drop in consolidated sales (59.08 billion won) and a 10.8% decrease in operating profit (5.59 billion won) in the first quarter compared to the same period last year, with both soju (-2.2%) and beer (-7.9%) sales declining. Lotte Chilsung Beverage also saw significant drops in sales across major alcohol categories, including beer (-25.3%), wine (-2.3%), and spirits (-17.5%).In response, alcohol companies are seeking to adapt and find new paths forward. Despite an overall decline in alcohol consumption, low-alcohol and RTD products are emerging as new growth categories. Companies are strengthening their product lines and exploring new demand through sports marketing and expansion into overseas markets.Lotte Chilsung Beverage has lowered the alcohol content of its soju brand Saero from 16% to 15.7% and is expanding its fruit wine and 200ml product lines. The RTD brand Soonhari Jin is also capitalizing on the growing demand for mixed drinks. The recently launched Saero Omija sold over 2 million bottles within a month, while Soonhari Jin achieved sales of 17 billion won in the first half of the year, surpassing last years total sales of 16.2 billion won, driving growth in RTD sales.Hite Jinro introduced the top-selling Japanese RTD brand Kirin Hyoketsu Momo to the domestic market last year and recently added a lemon flavor. They have also launched products like Terra Light, which has about one-third fewer calories than regular beer, and various flavored soju options. Their subsidiary, Hite Jinro Beverage, has expanded its non-alcoholic lineup with the addition of Hite Zero 0.00 Lemon & Yuzu.Marketing strategies that once centered around drinking gatherings are now expanding into sports and leisure activities. OB Beer has promoted its non-alcoholic and low-calorie products, such as Cass 0.0, by hosting running events in collaboration with Musinsa Standard Sports, targeting the 2030 demographic. During the North and Central American World Cup, they operated viewing pubs, pop-up stores, and AI-based participation events.To overcome domestic market limitations, companies are accelerating their efforts to penetrate overseas markets. In particular, fruit-flavored soju, which emphasizes lower alcohol content and sweetness, is emerging as a key player in international markets, coinciding with the spread of K-content. According to the Korea Customs Service, the export value of liqueurs, including fruit soju, reached $10.41 million last year, a 4.3% increase from the previous year.Hite Jinro, which offers a series of export-exclusive A-Soju flavors like plum, strawberry, peach, lemon, and melon, reported a 6.9% increase in sales of other flavored spirits, totaling 107.5 billion won last year. Lotte Chilsung Beverage is also expanding its overseas reach, with a 15% increase in fruit soju exports in the first quarter of this year compared to the same period last year, leveraging its distribution networks in over 40 countries, including the U.S., Southeast Asia, and Europe.Ryu In-soo, head of the Korea Alcohol Industry Research Institute, stated, While the overall market is experiencing a downturn due to weakened consumer sentiment, trends toward lighter drinking centered on low-alcohol, low-volume, and highball beverages, as well as carbonated drinks based on low-alcohol spirits, will be important growth drivers. July 27, 2026 18:20 -
Decline of Bars in Seoul: 1,095 Establishments Closed in a Year A post on the community forum for small business owners in South Korea, titled How much should I earn before deciding to close my business? received over 140 comments. The author, who has been running a pub for two years, expressed concerns about renewing their lease. Responses included, I decided to close after my earnings dropped to 3 million won in the off-season and 5 million won in peak season, and Many small business owners are holding on by working side jobs, so stay strong. The post garnered 26,000 views, indicating that many bar owners share similar worries. Bars in Seoul are disappearing at an alarming rate. The number of closures is nearly double that of new openings, exacerbating the decline in demand for group dining. Amid sluggish domestic consumption and rising labor costs, bar owners are struggling, particularly as drinking culture shifts from group gatherings to individual or small-scale consumption, leading to reduced alcohol sales and a domino effect of closures. According to the Seoul Business Analysis Service, the number of pubs and taverns in the city fell to 15,595 in the first quarter of this year, down 1,095 (6.6%) from 16,690 during the same period last year. Compared to the first quarter of 2024, when there were 18,179 establishments, this marks a decrease of 2,584 (14.2%) over two years. Pubs and taverns primarily sell alcohol and snacks. The Seoul Business Analysis Service compiles quarterly data on store openings and closures based on business registration information. The number of closures is approaching double that of new openings. In the first quarter of this year, 313 new pubs and taverns opened, while 597 closed, resulting in a net loss of 284 establishments. The opening rate was 2.0%, while the closure rate was 3.8%. However, the pace of closures has slightly eased compared to last year. The number of new openings increased from 283 to 313, while closures decreased from 674 to 597. The closure rate dropped from 4.0% to 3.8%, but the number of closures continues to exceed openings, leading to an overall decline in establishments. While the overall restaurant industry showed signs of improvement in the second quarter, bar owners report that their sector is recovering more slowly than others. The Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporations 2026 Second Quarter Restaurant Industry Business Trend Index report indicates that the current index for the overall restaurant industry rose to 78.82, up 2.04 points from the first quarter (76.78). An index below 100 indicates that more businesses reported worsening conditions compared to the same period last year. The current index for bars stands at 72.23, a slight increase of 1.15 points from the previous quarter (71.08), but remains the lowest among major sectors. The outlook index for the third quarter is also lower at 80.19, down 2.35 points from the second quarters forecast of 82.54. The decline in bars can be attributed to various factors, including the sluggish domestic economy, but the changing drinking culture and reduced alcohol consumption are also significant contributors. Even when gatherings occur, the trend is shifting away from late-night drinking sessions to shorter lunch meetings or brief first gatherings. Analysts suggest that the decrease in pubs reflects broader changes in dining culture and household structures, such as the rise of single-person households. Overall alcohol consumption is also on the decline. According to the National Tax Services statistics portal, domestic alcohol shipments peaked at 4,073,615 kiloliters in 2015 but plummeted by 26.7% to 2,987,726 kiloliters by 2025. Last year, beer shipments fell by 7.2% to 1,518,931 kiloliters, while diluted spirits decreased by 2.8% to 792,912 kiloliters. In contrast, shipments of general distilled spirits, which include fruit wines, increased by 6.6% to 4,056 kiloliters. Shipments of general distilled spirits rose from 1,785 kiloliters in 2023 to 3,805 kiloliters in 2024 and 4,056 kiloliters in 2025. An industry representative stated, As the number of group gatherings decreases and single-person households increase, the consumption of large quantities of alcohol in social settings continues to decline. The industry is also shifting its focus to low-alcohol and smaller-sized products to cater to individual preferences. July 27, 2026 18:16
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Large-scale K-pop festival planned for launch next year with global ambitions SEOUL, July 27 (AJP) - A large-scale K-pop event will be held late next year as part of a program unveiled on Monday by the presidential committee for promoting Exchanges in South Korean Popular Culture. The event, tentatively dubbed "Fanomenon," will run from Dec. 2 to 12 next year at Changdong in northern Seoul and KINTEX in Goyang, Gyeonggi Province, featuring headliner concerts, a fandom-focused awards show and industry exhibitions. Those plans were presented at a press event in Seoul by Culture Minister Choi Hwi-young and JYP Entertainment founder Park Jin-young, who co-chair the committee. A 20,000-seat arena in Changdong will host concerts and awards ceremonies, while KINTEX will hold a music festival, showcases, screenings and other exhibitions spanning the food, fashion, gaming, webtoon, animation, film and television industries. Organizers expect the event to attract more than 520,000 visitors including over 200,000 from overseas, based on preliminary estimates by the Korea Culture and Tourism Institute. Questions at the press event focused on whether Fanomenon could secure top-tier artists and whether the involvement of four major K-pop agencies — HYBE, JYP Entertainment, SM Entertainment, and YG Entertainment — could limit opportunities for smaller talent mills. But Park dismissed the concern, saying the four major agencies would be responsible for drawing global attention, while the wider program would provide opportunities for rising artists and smaller labels. He nevertheless admitted that the headliner concerts would require major acts, but said the accompanying performances, fan meets and showcases are intended to support newer artists and companies. No artist lineup has been decided yet. Organizers said talks are underway with performers at home and overseas, while Park said foreign artists approached so far have responded positively. Park said Fanomenon must quickly build enough prestige for leading artists to seek participation, citing Stray Kids' appearances at Lollapalooza and Rock in Rio as examples of South Korean acts performing at globally recognized festivals. Unlike conventional ceremonies, the Fanomenon's awards will recognize fandoms rather than artists as performers will accept awards on behalf of their fans. Organizers plan to identify the world's 10 most active fandoms across several categories using data analysis rather than fan voting. However, the selection criteria and weighting system have yet to be finalized. Park said the committee was examining data from platforms such as Spotify and YouTube and expected to select a specialist company through a competitive bidding process to help establish the evaluation system. The event's total budget, ticket prices and division of costs between the government and private companies also remain under discussion. Organizers said revenue would come from paid admission and sponsorships, while public funding would support the event's broader cultural objectives. Officials also said the Changdong arena, scheduled for completion in May 2027, remains under construction. They added that an alternative venue would be considered if construction is delayed. The upcoming event is separate from a traveling Fanomenon festival expected to begin in Los Angeles in May 2028. Park said the overseas festival, rather than the Seoul awards event, would more closely resemble global music festivals such as Coachella. July 27, 2026 17:16 -
Renowned Japanese Mystery Author Keigo Higashino Dies at 68 Keigo Higashino, a leading Japanese mystery novelist, has passed away from colon cancer at the age of 68.Publishing company Kodansha announced on its official website that Higashino died in the early hours of July 23. His funeral was held as a private family ceremony, per the wishes of his family.Born in Osaka, Japan, in 1958, Higashino graduated from Osaka Prefectural University with a degree in electrical engineering and worked as an engineer at an automotive parts company. He began writing novels while working and made his official debut in 1985 with After School, which won the 31st Edogawa Rampo Prize.Initially focusing on traditional detective fiction, Higashino later expanded his themes to explore human guilt, family relationships, social prejudice, and ethical issues in science and technology, establishing himself as a prominent popular novelist in Japan.In 1999, he received the 52nd Mystery Writers of Japan Award for Secret, a story about a family living with hidden secrets. This work was also nominated for the Naoki Prize, significantly raising his profile in the literary world.In 2006, Higashino won the 134th Naoki Prize and the 6th Honkaku Mystery Award for The Devotion of Suspect X, featuring the genius physicist Manabu Yukawa. The novel dominated Japans mystery rankings and was nominated for the Edgar Award by the Mystery Writers of America in 2012.The Devotion of Suspect X and the Galileo Series gained immense popularity for their unique cases and intricate logical structures, with the series selling over 16 million copies since Yukawas first appearance in 1996. Subsequent titles included Detective Galileo, Precognitive Dreams, The Saints Rescue, The Equation of Mid-Summer, and The Parade of Silence.The Kyoichiro Kaga Series, featuring detective Kaga Kyoichiro, is also among his notable works. Starting with Graduation, it includes titles like The Sleeping Forest, Evil, Red Finger, The Newcomer, and The Wings of the Giraffe. The Wings of the Giraffe won the 48th Yoshikawa Eiji Literary Prize in 2014.Higashino consistently published works that crossed genre boundaries, including the Masquerade Series, White Night, Letter, The Bond of Stars, and The Miracles of the Namiya General Store.The Miracles of the Namiya General Store won the 2012 Chuo Koron Literary Prize, while Dreams received the 2013 Shibata Renzaburo Prize. He was awarded the Noma Publishing Culture Prize in 2019 and the Kikuchi Kan Prize in 2023, the same year he received the Order of the Rising Sun from the Japanese government for his contributions to academia and the arts.Higashinos works set unprecedented sales records in the Japanese publishing market. By 2023, he had published 100 books, surpassing 100 million copies sold domestically, and by 2025, his total sales, including international editions, exceeded 160 million copies. Kodanshas official guide lists a total of 106 works.Many of his works have been adapted into films and dramas. In Japan, the Galileo series, featuring Masaharu Fukuyama as Yukawa, was a box office success, and adaptations of White Night, Secret, The Bond of Stars, The Newcomer, The Miracles of the Namiya General Store, and Masquerade Hotel have also been produced.In South Korea, numerous works, including The Devotion of Suspect X, White Night, The Miracles of the Namiya General Store, and Letter, have been translated and published, gaining a wide readership. The Devotion of Suspect X was reinterpreted as the film Suspect X, while White Night was adapted into White Night: Walking in the White Darkness.Higashino served as the chairman of the Mystery Writers of Japan from 2009 to 2013 and was a judge for the Naoki Prize from 2014 to 2019, evaluating the works of emerging authors.His final new book is the 11th installment in the Galileo series, Eternal Memory, set to be published on August 5 by Bungei Shunju. This will be Higashinos 106th work and marks the 30th anniversary of Yukawas debut.Eternal Memory begins with a case involving detective Kaoru Utsumi being attacked by an elderly man. The publisher has introduced the work as the latest full-length novel in the Galileo series and plans to release it as scheduled.* This article has been translated by AI. July 27, 2026 16:36
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Lotte Global Logistics Donates Proceeds from Charity Bazaar Lotte Global Logistics announced that it held a charity bazaar, LGL Hanmaeum Flea Market, and donated all proceeds to the social welfare organization Angels Haven on July 27.The bazaar was conducted under the slogan, Give wings to unused items, and hope to our neighbors. Last month, employees of Lotte Global Logistics voluntarily donated unused items, which were sold back to employees at a flea market held at the companys headquarters in Seoul on July 10.Lotte Global Logistics combined the bazaar proceeds with company funds and delivered the donation to Angels Haven on July 24. The funds will be used to support children and youth at the Eunpyeong Angels Haven care facility.This initiative was organized by the Lotte Global Logistics Workers Committee, which represents employees in activities aimed at company development and improving employee rights.A company representative stated, We will continue to practice ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) management to fulfill our social responsibilities and strengthen our partnership with the community, promoting a culture of warm sharing.Meanwhile, Lotte Global Logistics published its 2025 Sustainability Management Report on June 30, detailing its ESG management achievements, including the launch of the eco-friendly packaging solution LecoP, industry-leading renewable energy transition efforts, and employee participation in eco-friendly activities.* This article has been translated by AI. July 27, 2026 16:36
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Dongkuk Steel's Direct Employment of 971 Workers Boosts Competitiveness As the steel industry grapples with labor disputes over the direct employment of subcontracted workers, Dongkuk Steel has established stable labor relations after directly hiring 971 employees from partner companies in 2023. This year, the company also achieved an early resolution of wage and collective bargaining agreements in March, marking a record 32 consecutive years of conflict-free negotiations.Dongkuk Steel attributes its unique labor relations to 72 years of communication and trust. In an interview on July 22 at the Incheon plant, Jeong Yong-no, the director overseeing human resources and labor relations, stated, The greatest competitive advantage of Dongkuk Steel is our labor relations. There is a shared understanding that the company must generate profits for the benefit of its members, and a culture of mutual concession has been maintained for a long time.In 2023, Dongkuk Steel Group became the first in the industry to directly employ 971 in-house subcontracted workers. At that time, there were concerns about potential labor disputes and resistance from existing employees during the organizational integration process.To minimize these concerns, the company operated a separate task force for six months prior to the direct employment, engaging in thorough discussions with the union to build consensus on the direction of the hiring initiative. The task force included labor representatives from each workplace to address anticipated issues, and company executives frequently met with the union to discuss the necessity of direct employment and strategies for securing the companys future competitiveness.After the direct employment, the focus shifted to organizational integration. The company implemented a Harmony Project that included mentoring and lunch meetings between existing and newly hired employees to share organizational culture and enhance understanding of work conditions, benefits, and company policies.As a result, two years after the direct employment, Dongkuk Steel has achieved stable organizational integration, along with improvements in factory productivity and safety levels. Jeong noted, Before direct employment, the primary contractor and subcontractors shared production processes, but now we operate as a single organization, facilitating much smoother communication. Productivity has increased, and the issue of outsourcing risks has improved, ultimately strengthening the companys competitiveness.He particularly highlighted significant changes in safety. Following direct employment, workers began actively participating in risk assessments and improvement activities, leading to investments in safety facilities for subcontracted processes that now meet the same standards as direct operations.In fact, Dongkuk Steels accident rate decreased from 0.68% in 2023 to 0.58% in 2024, a reduction of about 14%. Although it rose slightly to 0.63% in 2025, it remains low compared to pre-direct employment levels.Jeong emphasized that Dongkuk Steels investment in its workforce has driven these results. He stated, The companys decision to directly employ workers was not merely a response to labor issues or the Serious Accident Punishment Act. While there was a short-term burden of labor costs, we believed that investing in people would ultimately lead to corporate competitiveness, and that belief has resulted in our current achievements.Looking ahead, Dongkuk Steel plans to continue its investment in people. Given the challenges of attracting young talent in the manufacturing sector, the company aims to enhance housing support and implement various programs, including internship opportunities linked to employment, to secure young talent.Jeong concluded, To become a century-old company, people are ultimately the most important asset. We will continue to focus on creating an environment where employees can build stable families and work for a long time.* This article has been translated by AI. July 27, 2026 16:04
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Shinsegae Department Store Wins Three Red Dot Design Awards for Second Consecutive Year Shinsegae Department Store has received three prestigious awards at the Red Dot Design Award 2026 for its projects that creatively express Korean holiday culture, store spaces, and food content through design. On July 27, Shinsegae announced that its holiday campaign, main store rebranding project, and the wellness market Twelve at House of Shinsegae Cheongdam each won an award in the brand and communication design category. The Red Dot Design Award is an international design competition organized by the Design Center North Rhine-Westphalia in Germany. It evaluates innovation, completeness, and brand communication across three categories: product design, design concepts, and brand communication design. The holiday campaign reinterprets traditional Korean themes, such as folk paintings and horse-drawn carriages, in a modern context. A consistent design framework was applied across offline stores, printed materials, and digital content to convey the emotions and stories of the holidays. The main store rebranding project visualized the transformation of the flagship store in Myeongdong, Seoul, and its distinct identities across different spaces. The brand system, which includes The Reserve, The Heritage, and The Estate, was designed for intuitive customer understanding, with visual content reflecting the stories embedded in each architectural space. Twelve, located at House of Shinsegae Cheongdam, reinterprets food not merely as products for sale but as wellness-based lifestyle content. A unified visual system and brand identity were established across approximately 6,000 products, connecting items, packaging, and store spaces into a cohesive image. Shinsegae explained that this award stems from moving away from designing products and store interiors separately, instead linking space, content, and customer touchpoints into a singular brand experience. Last year, Shinsegae also won four Red Dot Design Awards for its Christmas campaign Joy Everywhere, the media art Timeless Moment on the main stores exterior, and projects like Pilgrimage to Jung-gu and Musicians Suitcase. Timeless Moment transformed the main stores exterior into a media art space, connecting tradition and modernity through imagery inspired by mother-of-pearl. A Shinsegae representative stated, We will continue to provide differentiated customer experiences through design and content, setting new standards in retail. * This article has been translated by AI. July 27, 2026 16:00
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Korea to Launch 'FANOMENON,' a Major K-Culture Festival The South Korean government and the K-pop industry are collaborating to launch a major K-culture festival called FANOMENON. The festival aims to combine K-pop concerts, fandom award ceremonies, and K-culture exhibitions and experiential events into a privately-led initiative. However, as of now, only the events timing, location, and basic structure have been confirmed, leaving the lineup, budget, and methods for assessing fandom data as key factors for its success.On July 27, a press conference was held at the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Jongno, Seoul, to announce the 2027 FANOMENON Initiative.FANOMENON is a portmanteau of fan and phenomenon, reflecting the intention to view fans not merely as consumers but as active participants in the spread of K-culture.The Korean Wave Cultural Exchange Committee plans to hold FANOMENON from December 2 to December 12, 2027, at the Changdong Seoul Arena and Goyang KINTEX Exhibition Center 2. The festival is envisioned as a large-scale event combining K-pop-centered concerts, fandom award ceremonies, and exhibitions and experiential programs from K-culture companies, aiming to create a Korean version of Lollapalooza or Coachella.Choi Hwi-young, co-chair of the committee, stated, FANOMENON is a large-scale K-culture festival that aggregates the cultural capabilities of various K-culture fields. Today, I want to outline the big direction and framework of the event.Park Jin-young, also a co-chair, emphasized that the core of FANOMENON is the fandom industry. He explained, It means a phenomenon created by fans. K-pop differs from other industries in that fans do not remain consumers but become partners in marketing and promoting artists.The event will be divided between the Changdong Seoul Arena and Goyang KINTEX Exhibition Center 2. The Changdong Seoul Arena, set to be completed in May 2027, will host headliner performances and the fandom award ceremony. The indoor arena, with a capacity of about 20,000, will feature artists with global fanbases and award the most active fandoms of the year.The fandom award ceremony aims to differentiate itself from existing artist-centered awards. The recipients will be the fandoms themselves, with artists or brands accepting awards on behalf of their fandoms.Park stated, It will be based on meticulously researched data rather than voting. We will assess which artists fandom was the most passionate and active this year to determine the awards.At Goyang KINTEX Exhibition Center 2, festival-style music performances and K-culture exhibitions and experiential events will take place. Companies from lifestyle sectors such as food, beauty, and fashion, as well as those connected to fandom-based industries like gaming, webtoons, film, drama, and animation, will participate.The committee anticipates over 520,000 attendees, including more than 200,000 international visitors, with an estimated economic impact of around 1 trillion won. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism explained that these figures are based on estimates from the Korea Culture and Tourism Institute, using BTS concert data as a reference. However, detailed plans commensurate with the events scale are still largely in the planning stages. The budget, ticket prices, the ratio of government to private sector funding, sponsorship structures, and revenue distribution methods have yet to be finalized.Choi noted, We are closely discussing what resources we will use and how to shape the event. FANOMENON will also involve paid ticketing and sponsorships, creating a revenue-generating structure.Park added, It is nearly impossible to attract participation from private companies or artists without a profit motive. However, since the primary goal is a public interest initiative, we cannot solely follow capital principles.There are also practical concerns regarding the December timing, as it coincides with numerous domestic and international award ceremonies, tours, and broadcasting schedules. Park acknowledged, December is indeed the busiest time, but it feels like a time to wrap up the year, and I believe expectations for fandom will be at their highest. He expressed confidence that after intense discussions with representatives and staff from the four major agencies, they felt assured that it could be accomplished despite the challenges.Choi raised concerns about profitability related to the size of the Seoul Arena, stating, There are not many large-scale venues in South Korea, so it may be smaller than expected for top artists. This means sacrificing some scheduling and revenue to participate in a greater cause.The lineup has not yet been announced. Park mentioned that they are exploring the possibility of attracting top K-pop and international stars, but no specific artists have been confirmed. Choi added, It is too early to announce the main lineup. We are working hard to bring in outstanding talents from both domestic and international scenes.Concerns have also been raised that the focus on the four major K-pop agencies may marginalize smaller agencies and emerging artists. In response, Park assured, We will not exclude smaller agencies in favor of the four major ones. While headliners will likely be top artists, we plan to create opportunities for new singers, emerging agencies, and other entertainment and culture companies in various performances and events.The fairness and transparency of the fandom award ceremony are also critical issues. There are concerns that quantifying fandoms passion and activity could compromise its integrity and lead to greater fairness controversies than existing awards.Park acknowledged, There are certainly side effects to measuring fandoms activities and passions to award them, but if we believe the positive effects outweigh the negatives, we should proceed. He emphasized that ensuring fair research, data collection, and analysis is paramount, stating, If everyone recognizes that there is no room for manipulation by the organizers, there will be no pressure.However, the criteria for data assessment and the executing organization have yet to be determined. Park mentioned, We are heavily researching how to improve the data, who will do it, and how. Since this is a government initiative, it should involve a bidding process to select a few companies.There are also variables regarding the events infrastructure. The Seoul Arena, one of the main stages, is currently under construction. Choi stated, We are monitoring the construction progress and believe there will be no significant issues, but we must seek alternatives if any problems arise.Concerns have also been raised about the potential perception of a government-led initiative in the international community. Park clarified, It is not true that government support is a major reason for K-pop or K-cultures global popularity. The K-pop companies on the front lines came up with the ideas and asked the government for assistance, not the other way around.Choi added, The government does not have the capacity to elevate K-pop to this level globally. Its role is to ask those working hard in the field what needs to be done and support their answers.Ultimately, the success of FANOMENON hinges on whether it can transform the slogan of Korean version of Coachella into a sustainable festival. Securing a world-class lineup, ensuring fairness in the fandom awards, maintaining transparency in budget and revenue structures, differentiating from existing K-culture events, and managing transportation, accommodation, and safety will all be put to the test.Choi concluded, In the early stages, we are trying not to be overly ambitious. If we try to do everything from the start, it may become unmanageable. Our primary goal is to create a place that earns the trust of the global entertainment industry and makes people want to visit and participate.* This article has been translated by AI. July 27, 2026 15:32
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President Lee Jae-myung: South Korea and Brazil Must Uphold Multilateralism President Lee Jae-myung stated on July 27 that South Korea and Brazil are democratic nations representing their respective regions and global middle powers, emphasizing the need for closer cooperation to uphold multilateralism, free trade, and international norms as global order becomes increasingly uncertain.During his state visit to Brazil, President Lee made these remarks in an exclusive interview with the local daily O Globo. He noted, Brazil has consistently supported a multilateral and norm-based international order, and South Korea shares the same values.He further highlighted that if the two countries work closely together, they could strengthen multilateral cooperation frameworks, including the World Trade Organization (WTO), and contribute to establishing a more open, stable, and predictable international trade order.Regarding recent international developments, President Lee assessed that geopolitical conflicts are intensifying, and global leadership is weakening, shaking the norms and order that have long supported the international community.He added, Ongoing conflicts in regions such as the Middle East and Europe are causing supply chain instability and energy and price crises, directly impacting the daily lives of citizens in various countries, stressing that close cooperation and solidarity among nations are more important than ever.President Lee noted that discussions with leaders of major countries, including the G20, confirmed a consensus on the need to strengthen cooperation and joint responses rather than confrontation and conflict, positioning cooperation with Brazil as a key pillar in addressing complex crises.On the WTO, which has faced criticism for its weakened function due to recent U.S. tariff measures, he expressed the need to enhance its role through reform. He stated, As protectionism spreads, the WTOs function is weakening, and uncertainty for businesses in the global market is increasing. However, the WTO remains the most comprehensive and legitimate multilateral forum for member countries to continue dialogue, resolve disputes, and expand cooperation based on international trade norms.He acknowledged that there are criticisms regarding the WTOs inability to adequately respond to changing trade environments, emphasizing the importance of strengthening its functions and pursuing reforms that align with current realities.President Lee also expressed optimism about the swift conclusion of the Korea-Mercosur trade agreement. He explained that during Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silvas state visit to South Korea in February, both leaders recognized the importance of a free and norm-based international trade order.He noted, Since the start of negotiations in 2018, seven official rounds of talks have laid a solid foundation by 2021, and he believes that the joint efforts of both sides will contribute to the rapid progress and conclusion of the Korea-Mercosur trade negotiations.The Korea-Mercosur trade agreement refers to a comprehensive trade agreement pursued by South Korea and four South American countries: Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay. Although its official name is Trade Agreement (TA) rather than Free Trade Agreement (FTA), it encompasses not only product tariffs but also services, investment, e-commerce, government procurement, and intellectual property, making it structurally similar to an FTA.However, rather than specifying a concrete timeline for the conclusion, President Lee emphasized mutual benefit and balance. He stated, The trade agreement includes sensitive issues such as market access for both sides. It is more important to derive mutually beneficial and balanced results than to predict a specific conclusion timeline.He pledged, I will do my utmost to conclude a high-level agreement that brings substantial benefits to both sides as soon as possible, asserting that the Korea-Mercosur trade agreement will serve as an important milestone demonstrating the commitment of South Korea and Mercosur to uphold a free and open trade order beyond mere economic cooperation.Regarding South Koreas diplomatic and security strategy, he proposed a virtuous cycle of self-reliance, alliances, and solidarity. He explained, South Korea has consistently strengthened its capacity to take responsibility for national security through self-reliance, even amid an uncertain international order, while also actively contributing to solving global issues as a responsible member of the international community.President Lee clarified that the solidarity South Korea seeks is not aimed at excluding or confronting specific countries, but rather an open and pragmatic cooperation that complements the existing international order, with capable nations taking on greater responsibilities and enhancing cooperation in various fields.He added, Based on diplomacy that fosters a virtuous cycle of self-reliance, alliances, and solidarity, I will navigate the waves of complex global crises together with Brazil and the international community, striving to be a trusted partner that fulfills responsibilities for coexistence and shared prosperity.On North Korea policy, he reaffirmed the commitment to dialogue and gradual denuclearization. President Lee expressed regret that a decisive breakthrough has not yet been achieved in inter-Korean dialogue, stating, I firmly believe that peace begins with persistent efforts, and I will unwaveringly pursue the path of dialogue and cooperation.He promised, I will work closely with the international community, including the United States, to deliver a consistent message of dialogue to North Korea, and I will do my best to create diplomatic conditions for the resumption of inter-Korean dialogue and U.S.-North Korea dialogue.President Lee stated, Starting with opening the channels for dialogue, I will comprehensively promote inter-Korean exchanges, normalization of relations, and gradual denuclearization to achieve substantial progress toward lasting peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.He expressed appreciation for Brazils consistent interest and support for peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula, requesting, I value Brazils ongoing support for our governments efforts to establish peace on the Korean Peninsula and hope for continued cooperation.On democracy, President Lee emphasized citizen participation and action as core values. He remarked, Democracy is not a self-sustaining institution but a value upheld through the participation and actions of citizens, noting that South Korea has preserved democracy and overcome crises through the courage and solidarity of its people during critical junctures.He added, Brazil has also been a nation that has continuously strived to uphold and develop democracy, stating that while the two countries have evolved in different historical contexts and environments, they share universal values of freedom, human rights, and the rule of law.Regarding K-culture, he defined it as an investment for the future of South Korea, extending beyond cultural industries or soft power. He stated, If politics and diplomacy connect nations, culture connects peoples hearts, explaining that the growth of K-culture signifies not only the success of the content industry but also an increased interest in South Korea, expanding into tourism, consumption, investment, and industrial cooperation.President Lee emphasized, Promoting K-culture is an investment for the future of South Korea beyond the growth of the cultural industry, serving as a new driving force for economic development that grows together with the world and sustainable national competitiveness.He evaluated cultural cooperation with Brazil, stating, Just as Brazils music, art, and soccer inspire people worldwide, K-culture serves as a bridge connecting the hearts of Koreans and people around the world.He expressed hope that the rich cultural potential of K-culture and Brazil will inspire each other and deepen the friendship between the two nations, wishing for it to serve as a new foundation for revitalizing economic, tourism, and youth exchanges. July 27, 2026 15:16
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Korean Tourism Foundation CEO Gi Gyeon Gil Completes Five-Year Term Gi Gyeon Gil, CEO of the Seoul Tourism Foundation, has completed his five-year term. The foundation has begun the process of publicly recruiting a new CEO.Gi, who took office on July 26, 2021, served his initial three-year term and was re-elected twice in 2024 and 2025, totaling five years in the role.The farewell ceremony was held on July 24 at the foundations headquarters, attended by the director of the Seoul City Tourism and Sports Bureau and foundation staff. The event included a video presentation of key activities during his tenure, farewell speeches, and the presentation of a plaque of appreciation.Expansion of Urban Hiking Tourism Centers and Seasonal FestivalsDuring Gis tenure, the foundation developed and showcased tourism content utilizing Seouls unique resources, such as hiking and seasonal festivals.In 2022, the Urban Hiking Tourism Center opened in Bukhansan to meet the demand for hiking, followed by openings in Bukak Mountain in 2024 and Gwanak Mountain in 2025, turning urban hiking routes into tourism resources.Seasonal events were also held at Gwanghwamun Square. Approximately 7.4 million people visited the Seoul Lantern Festival and Gwanghwamun Market in 2025. The ongoing 2026 Seoul Summer Beach has expanded its operating hours and event areas.Efforts were made to build experience-based tourism infrastructure.The Seoul My Soul Shop, a representative souvenir store, started with three locations in June 2024: Seoul Tourism Plaza, Myeongdong Tourist Information Center, and Sejong Center for the Performing Arts. It has since expanded to six directly operated stores, including Yeouido Ferry Terminal and Seoul Gallery.Opened in June 2024, the Seoul Culture Lounge offers various themed programs related to Korean Wave culture, arts, beauty, and literature. As of July 24, a total of 386 programs have been conducted, attracting 44,040 visitors.Reflecting International Tourism Indicators and Ongoing CEO Selection ProcessCollaboration with the city has continued to reflect relevant international indicators. During Gis tenure, Seoul was recognized as Asias top leisure city for two consecutive years by Global Traveler, ranked first in Asia and third globally for international conferences held in 2025 according to the Union of International Associations (UIA), and sixth in the world according to the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), with fourth place in the medical field. Additionally, it was named the most loved city by the global MZ generation in the 2025 Travel Awards and recognized as the worlds best MICE city for 11 consecutive years by Global Traveler.Gi stated, I could complete my term thanks to the foundation staff and domestic and international tourists who visited Seoul. The past five years with the foundation have been rewarding and filled with gratitude. He added, Although I am stepping down, I will continue to support Seouls growth as a tourism city.Meanwhile, the foundations executive recommendation committee announced on July 13 that it has begun the process of selecting a new CEO. The new CEO will oversee all foundation operations, including marketing, MICE industry development, and tourism resource development and commercialization. The term is three years from the appointment date, with the possibility of annual renewals thereafter.* This article has been translated by AI. July 27, 2026 14:40
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JW Marriott Jeju Wins Two Awards at APEC Luxury Dining Event JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa has redefined the dining experience by incorporating Jejus culture and nature, achieving remarkable success in the global market.At the 2025 GM & Hotel Awards, organized by Marriott International for the Asia-Pacific region excluding Greater China, JW Marriott Jeju was honored in the luxury brand category. The resort won awards for both Food & Beverage Innovation Leadership General Manager and Highest F&B Revenue Growth.This recognition comes from among 750 Marriott International hotels across 22 countries in the Asia-Pacific region, including 130 luxury brands. The resort has been praised for integrating local ingredients and storytelling into luxury dining, providing a unique culinary experience while achieving substantial revenue growth and establishing a sustainable business model.◆ The Power of Storytelling in Dining: From Haenyeo Tales to La Liste RecognitionSince its opening in 2023, JW Marriott Jeju has treated the food and beverage sector as a vital journey to convey the deep allure of Jeju. The resort has emphasized a differentiated dining experience inspired by seasonal ingredients, local producers, and Jejus unique lifestyle.This approach has garnered international attention. Through the 2025 Marriott International Luxury Dining Series Forgotten Flavors project, the restaurant Yeoumi showcased a menu that tells the stories of Jejus haenyeo (female divers) and local producers. This initiative was also featured in the Netflix series Ed & Ryu: Twelve Seas, produced by BBC Studios, reaching a global audience.Additionally, the wood-fired grill dining restaurant The Flying Hog has solidified its culinary reputation by being listed in the prestigious La Liste World Top 1000 Restaurants for two consecutive years, from 2025 to 2026.◆ Expanding Content for Community Engagement: Prioritizing Customer ExperienceThis year, JW Marriott Jeju has further expanded its culinary offerings to include local cultural experiences. Since early July, the resort has been collaborating with the Jeju Tourism Organization to operate a premium wellness program called Journey Through Jeju Forest. This program combines the healing forest of Seogwipo with Jejus traditional lunch culture, charong, to provide experiential content that merges nature and food culture.Starting in August, the resort will completely revamp its breakfast service. A new buffet system will be introduced, reflecting the diverse nationalities and characteristics of guests, as well as seasonal themes, to enhance the food and beverage experience tailored to customer needs.Lee Min-young, General Manager of JW Marriott Jeju, stated, This award is the result of innovation created by all team members to reinterpret Jejus culture and stories into a differentiated culinary experience. The efforts of our staff, from employees to managers and leaders, have set a new standard for global luxury dining. We will continue to present food and beverage experiences that incorporate the unique culture of the region.* This article has been translated by AI. July 27, 2026 14:20
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Shin Ji-eun Wins Second Title After 10-Year Wait at Scottish Open Shin Ji-eun, competing on the LPGA Tour, lifted her second trophy after a decade, marking her first victory since 2016. For a professional athlete, ten years is a significant span. During this time, womens golf has seen a rapid generational shift, with new stars emerging and familiar names fading from the scene. Few athletes endure such changes and return to the top, making this victory particularly meaningful.Achieving success in professional sports is challenging, but reclaiming a title after a long absence is even more difficult. It requires more than just skill; athletes must endure injuries and accept disappointing performances. They must maintain their training while battling self-doubt and the nagging thought that their career might be over. The toughest opponent for an athlete can be the perception that their time has passed. While these struggles may not be recorded in history, they ultimately contribute to future victories. Shin Ji-euns second win exemplifies this reality.This victory holds significant implications for Korean womens golf. Korean players have dominated the LPGA Tour for years, with stars like Park Se-ri, Inbee Park, Shin Ji-ae, Kim Sei-young, and Ko Jin-young consistently elevating the sports profile. However, recent years have seen the rise of younger international competitors, leading to a more competitive landscape and a perception that Korean womens golf is not as dominant as before.The competitiveness of a sport cannot be judged solely by a few standout stars. The depth of talent is crucial. When experienced players provide stability, young athletes develop, and mid-career players maintain competitiveness, a sport can thrive over time. This is why leading sports nations remain at the top for extended periods. Generational change should not push out existing players but rather foster competition among both new and established athletes.Shin Ji-euns victory illustrates this point. Her ability to return to the top serves as inspiration for younger players, instilling the belief that a dip in performance or a prolonged slump does not mean the end of their careers. The world of professional sports can be unforgiving, yet a culture that respects long-serving athletes is essential. This respect fuels their continued pursuit of excellence.Sports fans often celebrate the emergence of new stars, which is natural. However, the moment when a long-standing athlete returns to the pinnacle is equally precious. Such victories tell stories that go beyond records. For the athlete, it is a reward for enduring a long journey, and for the sport, it is proof that the talent pool remains vibrant.Shin Ji-euns second victory will not be remembered merely as her second title. Her story of resilience over ten years highlights how Korean womens golf has maintained its competitive edge on the world stage. The strength of Korean womens golf is not only due to its stars but also to the perseverance of those who have quietly endured over time. This is why Shin Ji-euns victory is so warmly welcomed. July 27, 2026 14:16
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Annual contest invites participants to share their first encounters with Korean culture SEOUL, July 27 (AJP) - A Korean culture-themed annual international contest began accepting entries on Monday, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism said on Monday. Under the theme "My First K-Culture Moment," this year's “TalkTalk Korea” contest invites foreign nationals worldwide to share how they first encountered Korean culture through videos, photographs, illustrations and written works. Those interested can submit entries by Sept. 28 about how they first embraced Korean music, dramas or other aspects of Korean culture. With the addition of a writing category for the first time this year, the contest has expanded to four categories: video, photo book, drawing and illustration, and writing. Participants must post their entries on social media using the hashtags "#TalkTalkKorea2026," "#TTK2026" and "#MyPOV," then complete an application on the ministry's website to finalize their submission. The ministry will select 124 prize recipients with the top winners in each category receiving a travel voucher to Seoul worth 3 million won (about US$2,000), while about 40 other winners will receive Amazon gift cards worth between $200 and $1,000. The entrant with the highest overall score across all categories will receive a ministerial award. The final winners will be announced on Nov. 5, with an online awards ceremony scheduled for Nov. 17. "We hope the memories and emotions participants experience through this contest can be shared with people around the world," a ministry official said. Now in its 13th year, the annual contest was first held in 2014 with around 7,000 participants. Last year, it received more than 76,000 entries from 108 countries, according to the ministry. July 27, 2026 14:14 -
Public Debate on Bilingual Signage at Gwanghwamun: Cultural Heritage vs. Promoting Hangul Citizens and experts gathered to discuss whether to implement bilingual signage at Gwanghwamun. Participants agreed that sufficient social consensus and deliberation are necessary before making a decision.The Ministry of the Interior and Safety and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism announced on July 27 that they held the first public deliberation forum, titled Everyones Debate, on July 26 to discuss the bilingual signage at Gwanghwamun.Everyones Debate is a public forum designed for citizens, as policy stakeholders, to directly participate in the policy-making process, share diverse opinions, and seek policy directions based on social consensus.The forum took place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. It began with a comprehensive presentation by Lee Sang-yeol, director of the Korea Culture and Tourism Institute, followed by key opinions from Park Hyun-mo, director of the Sejong Institute, and Kim Hyun-kyung, a professor at the Korea National University of Arts.In the afternoon, a panel discussion was held, moderated by Professor Yang Hyun-mi of Sangmyung University, featuring Jeong Jae-hwan, co-representative of the Hangul Culture Alliance, and Bae Woong-kyu, a professor at Chung-Ang University. Additionally, 200 citizens participated in on-site discussions, with small group discussions taking place twice throughout the day.Participants engaged in heated discussions about the significance and symbolism of Gwanghwamun, as well as principles of cultural heritage preservation. Overall, there was a cautious consensus that sufficient social agreement and deliberation should precede any decision on bilingual signage.Even among those in favor of bilingual signage, there were stipulations that a national consensus must be formed, and detailed criteria regarding font, placement, and installation methods should be established first. Conversely, those advocating for preservation of the original form suggested alternatives to promote the value of Hangul through digital content, exhibitions, and cultural events instead of bilingual signage. A survey conducted before and after the discussions showed that opinions were nearly evenly split, with little change in responses.Yoon Ho-jung, an official from the Ministry of the Interior and Safety, stated, This inaugural Everyones Debate is a new attempt to practice the principle of popular sovereignty in the policy-making process. He added, The Ministry will develop Everyones Debate into a representative public platform for discussing, deliberating, and creating policies with the citizens.Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Choi Hwi-young remarked, This forum was a valuable opportunity to share ongoing discussions about the Gwanghwamun signage directly with the public. He noted that the Ministry plans to carefully consider the opinions expressed both in-person and online to determine future policy directions.Meanwhile, a second Everyones Debate is scheduled for August 29, focusing on Safe Use of Escalators. The Ministry will publicly recruit 200 citizen participants, and those interested can apply from August 3 to 10 through the Ministrys website or the public online communication platform Communication Innovation 24.* This article has been translated by AI. July 27, 2026 12:16
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Ministry of Environment and Army Strengthen Resource Recycling in Military The government and the Army are enhancing the resource recycling system within military bases. They aim to expand soldiers practice of waste separation and establish a foundation for securing high-quality recyclable resources.The Ministry of Environment and Energy announced on July 27 that it will sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Army Headquarters and the Korea Resource Recycling Support Center on July 28 at the Cheongam Building in Sejong City to promote resource recycling.This agreement aims to expand and develop a collaborative project that began in 2016, focusing on strengthening systems and education to help soldiers naturally practice waste separation and resource recycling in their daily lives. It also signifies an effort to enhance the practical implementation of the anti-plastic policy.Under the agreement, the Army will expand resource recycling education for soldiers and activate the waste separation system within military units. They plan to share the amount of recyclable resources generated with the Korea Resource Recycling Support Center to manage performance and increase the use of recycled products made from materials like glass bottles and paper cartons.The Ministry of Environment will continue to provide institutional support to ensure that the militarys resource recycling policies are effectively implemented, along with cooperation to improve waste separation and collection systems.The Korea Resource Recycling Support Center will support the provision of necessary items for waste separation and select and reward outstanding military units for their recycling efforts, thereby promoting a culture of resource recycling within the military. They will also push for on-site education and operational improvements.The three organizations plan to continue their collaboration to ensure that the resource recycling culture established in the military spreads to the broader public.Kim Go-eung, Director of the Resource Recycling Bureau at the Ministry of Environment, stated, The proper waste separation culture in military bases is the starting point for securing high-quality recyclable resources. We will strengthen resource recycling cooperation to actively support the transition to a circular economy society.* This article has been translated by AI. July 27, 2026 12:04