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Modu Tour Launches Travel Festa to Target Fall Travel Demand Modu Tour announced on August 10 that it will hold a large-scale promotional event, the Modu Tour Travel Festa, aimed at capturing travel demand for the fall season, including the Chuseok holiday.The event will take place from August 10 to September 11, lasting 33 days. It will feature special benefits on travel products, free raffles, mileage rewards, and perks from partner brands.A total of 55 leading brands from five sectors—travel and accommodation, shopping and duty-free, food and beverage, finance and payment, and leisure and lifestyle—will participate. The event is designed to provide customers with tangible benefits throughout the entire process, from exploring destinations to consultations, bookings, and local stays.One of the highlights is a free raffle event with a total prize pool of 30 million won. Anyone can participate, regardless of whether they purchase a travel product. Prizes include round-trip tickets to Hawaii with Air Premia and hotel stays at major overseas vacation spots such as Guam, Nha Trang, Phuket, Okinawa, Fukuoka, and Qingdao. Various prizes from partner brands, including tickets to Shanghai Disneyland and Swarovski crystal pendants, will also be available.Additionally, a mileage event worth 100 million won will be held. Customers participating in the event can earn mileage that can be used like cash for travel product bookings, with rewards of up to 1 million won based on the results.Discounts on actual travel product payments will also be significant. A basic immediate discount of up to 500,000 won will be applied without specific payment conditions or additional coupons. Furthermore, a time deal will feature about 20 limited-time special offers each week.Customers can also receive additional discounts through partnerships with credit card companies. Using cards from Samsung, KB Kookmin, Lotte, Hana, and Woori, customers can receive bill discounts of up to 450,000 won, depending on conditions. Discounts of 40,000 won for payments over 1.5 million won and 90,000 won for payments over 3 million won will be available, along with interest-free installment options for up to 12 months. Using Modu Tours own payment service, Modu Pay, will provide an immediate 1% discount on the payment amount.Various customized services are also planned. Modu Tours live commerce channel, Live M, will host five special broadcasts during the promotion period. Starting with a segment on Phu Quoc on August 11, travel products for Taiwan and Singapore, as well as exclusive deals with Korean Air and Tway Air, will be revealed sequentially. Additionally, a travel consultation service will be offered for customers who have not yet decided on a destination or are looking for products that meet specific criteria, allowing them to receive tailored product recommendations from nearby agencies or representatives upon online consultation requests.Jung Hee-yong, head of Modu Tours marketing division, stated, This Modu Tour Travel Festa is a comprehensive promotion that expands customer benefits from exploring travel products to consultations, bookings, and payments in collaboration with 55 travel and lifestyle brands. We will operate the event to ensure that the fall travel demand translates into actual bookings through free raffles, mileage rewards, immediate discounts, time deals, and live broadcasts.Meanwhile, Modu Tours travel-specific savings product, launched in collaboration with the financial sector, continues to gain popularity, boosting the promotion. The NH Modu Travel Savings, launched with NH Nonghyup Bank with a limit of 10,000 accounts, has gained attention for allowing customers to use the mileage provided upon joining for travel product purchases. It sold out within eight days of its launch on August 7, significantly ahead of the original sales end date of September 30.* This article has been translated by AI. August 10, 2026 10: -
Samsung Electronics Launches Paperless Ticketing Service with Korail Samsung Electronics announced on August 10 that it has launched a paperless ticket service in collaboration with Korail (Korea Railroad Corporation). Instead of receiving physical paper tickets, users can now register mobile tickets in Samsung Wallet for their travels.The paperless ticket service is the first of its kind for mobile boarding passes in South Korea. Customers can easily use the service by consenting to its terms in Samsung Wallet.Once customers agree to the service, they can pay for their tickets at offline counters in Korail stations using Samsung Wallet, which will automatically add the mobile ticket to their wallet.Additionally, tickets purchased through the integrated app Korail+—which allows users to access both Korail and SR (SRT) services—can also be added to Samsung Wallet.Starting September 1, SRT will be integrated into KTX-Sancheon, and tickets for September travel will be eligible for addition to Samsung Wallet.Moreover, users can process refunds for mobile tickets directly within Samsung Wallet. The mobile tickets added to Samsung Wallet will also sync with the calendar and Now Brief features on Galaxy devices.This integration allows customers to receive advance notifications for train boarding times and manage their travel schedules more systematically and conveniently.Through the paperless ticket service, Samsung Electronics aims to fulfill its social responsibility by promoting environmental protection and cost reduction. By minimizing the issuance of physical tickets, the company contributes to reducing the social costs associated with ticket production and disposal.Chae Won-cheol, Vice President and Head of the Digital Wallet Team at Samsung Electronics, expressed his satisfaction with the successful implementation of the paperless ticket service through the partnership with Korail. He stated, We are committed to continuously providing innovative convenience to our customers while actively leading the realization of values pursued by Samsung Wallet, such as promoting a paperless lifestyle and environmental protection.* This article has been translated by AI. August 10, 2026 08:
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Kia's PV5 WAV Video Surpasses 10 Million Views, Highlighting Mobility for the Disabled Kias story video, The Moving Room, featuring the PV5 WAV designed for individuals with mobility challenges, has surpassed 10 million views just three weeks after its release.Hyundai Motor Group announced that as of 9 a.m. on August 9, the Korean version of The Moving Room, released on its official YouTube channel on July 19, has recorded 10.2 million views. The video has also garnered 1,159 comments and over 9,100 likes.The video follows Kim On-yu, who has lived with a respiratory support device for 23 years, as she embarks on a family trip through Kias travel support program for the mobility disadvantaged, Green Travel.The narrative begins with Kim expressing her wish that this room could move entirely, reflecting her daily life spent mostly looking out the hospital window. The video showcases how the PV5 WAV serves as a means of transportation that brings her familiar living space and medical environment along with her, illustrating how to expand the daily lives of those with mobility challenges.Viewer reactions have gone beyond simple support, leading to suggestions for new uses of the PBV. An analysis of comments by Hyundai Motor Group revealed that 705 suggestions for PBV applications accounted for 60.8% of the total. Thank-you messages for Hyundai Motor Group and Green Travel made up 18.7% (217 comments), while support and empathy for Kim and her family comprised 17.7% (205 comments).Among the suggested PBV applications, the medical and caregiving sector represented the largest share at 34.3%. Other categories included education and culture at 28.9%, mobility and travel at 14.0%, lifestyle, commerce, and public services at 8.2%, pets at 7.4%, and disaster and emergency services at 7.1%.In the medical and caregiving sector, ideas included mobile clinics and psychological counseling services. The education and culture sector saw suggestions for mobile libraries, virtual reality (VR) experience centers, and filming studios. Various ideas were also proposed for customized campers for wheelchair users, mobile accommodations, pop-up stores, mobile kitchens, stray dog rescue services, and mobile gathering spaces for elderly individuals living alone.Hyundai Motor Group plans to share the ideas presented with relevant business sectors and will consider customer-oriented service planning and social value creation strategies in the future. Additionally, following the videos release and the achievement of a combined total of 10,000 comments and likes, Kim received a travel gift certificate.A representative from Hyundai Motor Group stated, The achievement of 10 million views for The Moving Room reflects widespread empathy and support for people-centered mobility technology. We will continue to expand the value of mobility for all through various mobility platforms, including PBV.* This article has been translated by AI. August 9, 2026 10:0
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Is It More Than Just a Cold? Understanding Your Symptoms in Extreme Heat As extreme heat and tropical nights continue, the use of air conditioning has increased, leading to a rise in reports of air conditioning sickness. The temperature can exceed 95 degrees Fahrenheit during the day, while indoor environments are often kept around 68 degrees, causing the body to struggle with rapid temperature changes.Particularly around the end of August, when summer fatigue accumulates, experts advise distinguishing between simple tiredness and symptoms of air conditioning sickness, colds, and heat-related illnesses to better manage health.Unlike colds caused by viral infections, air conditioning sickness arises from significant temperature differences between indoor and outdoor environments and prolonged exposure to cold air, disrupting the autonomic nervous system. Symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, body aches, digestive issues, muscle pain, runny nose, and sore throat may resemble those of a cold, but typically do not include fever or only mild fever.In contrast, colds are caused by viral infections and are characterized by clear symptoms such as fever, cough, and sore throat, with the potential for person-to-person transmission. If symptoms persist or are accompanied by high fever, it may indicate a cold or another illness rather than air conditioning sickness.Experts recommend maintaining a temperature difference of no more than 5 to 8 degrees Fahrenheit between indoor and outdoor environments to prevent air conditioning sickness. It is also helpful to avoid direct exposure to air conditioning vents and to use light outer clothing or a lap blanket to help regulate body temperature.Regularly cleaning air conditioning filters is important, as bacteria can proliferate and worsen respiratory symptoms. If staying indoors for extended periods, it is advisable to ventilate every 1 to 2 hours and engage in light stretching to promote blood circulation.Tropical nights, which disrupt sleep, are another significant threat to summer health. Insufficient sleep can weaken the immune system and lead to decreased concentration and increased fatigue.To combat tropical nights, it is recommended to lower indoor temperatures with air conditioning about an hour before bedtime, maintaining a temperature of around 78 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit while sleeping, or using a timer function. When using a fan, it is better to utilize the oscillation feature rather than directing it straight at the body.Before sleeping, it is advisable to avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine, and taking a lukewarm shower can help lower body temperature. However, caution is needed with ice-cold showers, as they can constrict blood vessels and hinder temperature regulation.During the day, preventing heat-related illnesses is essential. Even if not feeling thirsty, it is important to drink water frequently, and outdoor activities should be minimized between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. If symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, severe headaches, or altered consciousness occur, one should immediately move to a cool place, hydrate, and seek medical attention if necessary.As the heat may persist even after late summer, experts emphasize that air conditioning sickness, tropical nights, and heat-related illnesses can largely be prevented through lifestyle habits, urging individuals not to let their guard down just because the heat has slightly eased. Consistent practices of regular sleep, hydration, and proper air conditioning management are crucial for maintaining health.* This article has been translated by AI. August 8, 2026 11:2
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Summer Festivals Heat Up California in August Californias summer continues to thrive in August, with a variety of events welcoming travelers across the state. From free outdoor performances to a world-class classic car festival, local traditional celebrations, K-food festivals, and the Halloween season at theme parks, major cities like San Francisco, Monterey, Irvine, Anaheim, and San Diego are set to host a series of exciting festivities.The California Tourism Board has announced a month filled with diverse cultural, artistic, and culinary events throughout the state. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of options, from outdoor concerts along the coast to classic car festivals, local traditions, and seasonal theme park events.In Southern California, the Laguna Art-A-Fair, a premier summer arts festival, runs until the end of the month in Laguna Beach. Attendees can view a variety of artworks, including paintings, photography, sculpture, and woodworking, along with opportunities to meet artists, participate in workshops, and enjoy live performances. Visitors with tickets to the same-day performance Pageant of the Masters can access the festival for free.Car enthusiasts should mark their calendars for Monterey Car Week, taking place from August 7 to 16. The event kicks off with a historic racing car parade, followed by brand exhibitions, auctions, and unique automotive competitions, culminating in the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours dElegance. Some exhibitions will be free to the public.At San Franciscos Fishermans Wharf, the Pier Party at the Wharf will feature free outdoor concerts on August 8 and 22. Attendees can enjoy performances by local musicians while sampling food and drinks, with events continuing through September.A festival celebrating Korean culture will take place in Irvine from August 14 to 16, featuring Chimaek Fest, which highlights chicken and beer alongside various Korean dishes, K-beauty, and lifestyle brands. Evening performances by artists, including DJ Soda, will enhance the festive atmosphere.On August 15, Chula Vista, near San Diego, will host the Lemon Festival, commemorating the regions lemon industry history. The festival will feature lemon-based food and drinks, live performances, cooking competitions, and a costume contest.For those eager to experience Halloween early, Disneyland Resort in Anaheim will begin its Halloween festivities on August 21, transforming the theme park with seasonal decorations and special performances. Family-friendly programs and separately ticketed nighttime Halloween parties will also be available.From August 22 to 30, National Park Week will celebrate the 110th anniversary of the National Park Service and the 250th anniversary of the United States. Various commemorative programs will be held in Californias iconic national parks, including Yosemite, Sequoia & Kings Canyon, and Joshua Tree, with a Junior Ranger Day event for children on the final day.Late summer in California is an ideal time to experience coastal cities, national parks, theme parks, and local festivals. By aligning travel plans with regional events, visitors can enjoy a diverse and vibrant California experience.* This article has been translated by AI. August 8, 2026 06:0
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Government Plans to Shift Real Estate Tax Focus from Ownership to Residency The government has decided to shift its real estate tax policy from a focus on ownership to one centered on residency. This change aims to reduce tax benefits for homeowners who do not actually reside in their properties and to adjust excessive deductions for ultra-high-value homes priced at 4 billion to 5 billion won. The policy clarifies whether homes should be viewed as places of residence or as investment assets that can be held while minimizing taxes.There has been considerable backlash against the reduction of benefits for non-resident homeowners. However, not all homeowners are actual users of their properties. If someone owns a home while living elsewhere for an extended period, it is reasonable to view that property as serving both residential and investment purposes. There is no justification for providing the same tax benefits to those who do not actually reside in their homes.Of course, there are unavoidable circumstances that may require individuals to leave their homes, such as job relocations, schooling, medical treatment, or caring for parents. The government has stated that these non-resident periods will be recognized as actual residency. Criticizing the policy as merely a “tax increase for homeowners” without acknowledging these exceptions implies a demand for continued tax benefits on investment gains from properties that are not actually lived in.Another contentious issue involves elderly long-term residents. Critics argue that imposing high property taxes on seniors with no income, simply because their lifelong homes have appreciated significantly, amounts to forcing them out of their residences. Situations where individuals must sell homes they have lived in for many years due to tax burdens must be handled with care. Therefore, safety measures such as deferring payments for low-income seniors are necessary, and the government has indicated it will expand these provisions.However, it is important to distinguish between a lack of cash income and a lack of assets. It is difficult to classify someone who owns a property valued at over 4 billion won as economically disadvantaged solely based on low monthly income. Selling such a home could yield assets that would take a worker decades to accumulate. Describing this situation as being “driven out by taxes” oversimplifies the reality.Moreover, real estate prices have risen significantly due to broader societal investments in urban development, transportation, education, and commercial facilities. The dramatic increase in property values in areas like Gangnam and along the Han River is not solely the result of individual homeowners efforts. It cannot be deemed abnormal taxation to require a reasonable level of property tax on homes that have appreciated significantly in value.Cities must continue to evolve. As jobs and commercial facilities cluster in certain areas, property values rise, attracting individuals willing to bear those costs to live and work there. It is natural for retirees to consider downsizing or relocating as their income and lifestyle change. While the government should not force such moves, it also should not guarantee the right to hold onto high-value properties at low costs for a lifetime.The key is balance. Seniors who have lived in their homes for a long time should be protected from sudden tax burdens that are difficult to manage. Options such as deferring payments or settling taxes upon the sale of a home are viable. However, this protection should not serve as a justification for continually lowering taxes on ultra-high-value properties.There are points to consider in the governments proposed reforms. The pace of tax increases should be moderated to avoid sudden burdens, and the criteria for residency exceptions must be clearly defined. The belief that taxes alone can control housing prices should also be approached with caution. Above all, an increase in supply must accompany these measures.However, claims that “non-resident homeowners should be protected” or that “elderly homeowners with high-value properties will be forced out due to tax increases” are separate issues. Returning homes to their intended use as residences and imposing appropriate taxes on high-value assets is the starting point for normalizing the real estate tax system. Exceptions should be made for protection, but principles should not be compromised.* This article has been translated by AI. August 7, 2026 15:4
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CJ OnStyle Expands Support for Small Businesses' Global Growth in Partnership with SBA CJ OnStyle is partnering with the Seoul Business Agency (SBA) to support the global expansion of promising domestic small businesses.On August 6, CJ OnStyle announced that it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the SBA to discover, nurture, and support the overseas expansion of promising small enterprises. The signing ceremony, held the previous day at the Seoul Business Agency, was attended by Lee Sun-young, CEO of CJ ENMs commerce division (CJ OnStyle), and Kim Hyun-woo, CEO of the SBA.This agreement aims to combine CJ OnStyles brand discovery and nurturing capabilities with the SBAs infrastructure for supporting small businesses and its global network, thereby facilitating the overseas growth of domestic small business brands.The two parties plan to jointly identify promising small businesses and provide phased support for market validation using content, as well as expanding domestic and international sales channels and facilitating global entry. They will also leverage overseas exhibitions, trade fairs, and local distributor and buyer networks, and jointly promote marketing and live commerce linked to the global event SEOULCon.Kim Hyun-woo, CEO of the SBA, stated, This will expand practical opportunities for promising small businesses in Seoul to take off on the global stage.A representative from CJ OnStyle added, We will actively support more K-lifestyle brands to grow in the global market.Meanwhile, CJ OnStyle reported that during its summer Black Friday event, Come On Blp, held from July 3 to 7, mobile app installations increased by 124% compared to the same period last year.* This article has been translated by AI. August 6, 2026 18:1
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Misto Holdings Expands FILA Stores in Malaysia, Plans to Enter Thailand and Indonesia Misto Holdings Malaysian subsidiary is accelerating its expansion in the Southeast Asian market by increasing the number of FILA stores in key commercial areas.On August 6, Misto Holdings announced that its Malaysian branch opened four new stores in major markets, including Kuala Lumpur and Penang, during the first half of this year. This brings the total number of FILA stores in Malaysia to 14.The new openings are part of a retail expansion strategy that considers regional consumer characteristics and market competitiveness. The company noted that Malaysia serves as a hub connecting major Southeast Asian countries and has a strong consumer base along with a shopping mall-centered distribution infrastructure.Notably, the Gurney Plaza shopping mall in Penang features Southeast Asias first FILA 1911 Store. The store includes a dedicated space showcasing FILAs history and sports heritage, in addition to lifestyle and performance product lines.Misto Holdings plans to expand the FILA 1911 Store concept to other key Southeast Asian markets, including Thailand and Indonesia. A company representative stated, Malaysia is a key strategic base for expanding into the Southeast Asian market, and we will establish a differentiated retail environment that conveys our brands history, values, and sports heritage.Additionally, Misto Holdings released its sustainability management report in June, outlining a 2030 Sustainability Management Roadmap based on four core values: resilience, synergy, capability enhancement, and responsibility.* This article has been translated by AI. August 6, 2026 11:3
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Seragem Launches Renewed IoT App with AI Recommendation Feature Seragem announced the launch of its renewed IoT application on August 6, enhancing its customer-oriented health management services with a new AI recommendation feature.The Seragem IoT app is designed to allow users to conveniently control and manage Seragems healthcare products through their smartphones. It offers features such as product registration, management, control, and smart remote functions via Bluetooth. The app has recorded a cumulative download count of 96,967, supporting customers in their smart home healthcare experiences.The key aspect of this renewal is the expansion of the IoT app from a product control focus to a wellness platform that supports customers health management experiences. The existing product-centered menu has been restructured based on Seragems 7-Care categories, including spine care, exercise care, and energy care, to provide a more intuitive user experience tailored to individual health goals.The newly implemented AI-based personalized recommendation feature analyzes the product usage history of members linked to the Master V Collection over the past week to suggest suitable massage modes and health routines. For members without a product usage history, the app proposes recommended modes based on average usage patterns of individuals in the same age group and gender. This aims to facilitate personalized health management for everyone, regardless of their usage frequency.The app also enhances health management features that reflect users living environments. It provides health management guides based on real-time weather information and suggests health routines that align with seasonal and temperature changes, helping customers maintain healthy habits in their daily lives.The new design reflects Seragems brand philosophy. The app icon and intro screen feature an AI design inspired by a home motif, symbolizing the concept of a wellness home that extends health management solutions throughout the living space.Earlier this year, Seragems AI Wellness Home exhibition, unveiled at CES 2026, received a bronze award at the Boss Awards, organized by The Experiential Design Authority, recognizing its innovative design and experience.A Seragem representative stated, This renewal maintains the existing product control functions while adding AI-based recommendations and lifestyle-oriented health content, enabling customers to manage their health more easily and systematically in their daily lives. We will continue to strive to provide optimized health management experiences for each individual based on AI and data, working towards creating an AI wellness home ecosystem.* This article has been translated by AI. August 6, 2026 11:2
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Samsung Electronics Officially Launches Galaxy Z8 Series and New Galaxy Watch in Korea Samsung Electronics announced on August 6 that it will officially launch its next-generation foldable smartphones, the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Fold8, and Flip8, along with the Galaxy Watch Ultra2 and Watch9, in South Korea starting August 7.The eighth-generation Galaxy Z series features significant improvements in design and usability, leveraging seven years of accumulated foldable technology. The new models also enhance differentiation based on user lifestyle preferences.The new products have already seen success in pre-sales. From July 28 to August 3, Samsung sold 1.44 million units of the Galaxy Z8 series during the pre-sale period, setting a record for the highest pre-sales of any Galaxy smartphone. Notably, about 70% of pre-order customers chose the Galaxy Z Fold8, indicating strong interest in the newly introduced form factor and design.There was also a notable influx of younger consumers and women. Among customers who pre-ordered the Fold8 Ultra, Fold8, and Flip8 on Samsung.com, half were in their 20s and 30s. The proportion of female customers in this age group purchasing the Fold8 Ultra and Fold8 doubled compared to the previous model, the Fold7. In terms of color preferences, the Fold8 Ultras Graphite and Violet Shadow, the Fold8s Cream and Graphite, and the Flip8s Pink and Cream were particularly popular.The usage rate of AI services among customers purchasing unlocked models was also high. One in two customers who pre-ordered the Z8 series unlocked models on Samsung.com joined the New Galaxy AI Subscription Club. Popular features included Smart Switch, which allows data transfer via QR code without a separate app installation, Quick Share, which enhances sharing convenience between iOS and Galaxy devices, and Samsung Wallet, which supports mobile payments as well as transit cards, airline tickets, and identification.The top model, the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, focuses on multitasking and productivity with a large 203.1mm display. Weighing just 215 grams and measuring 4.1mm thick when opened, it supports up to 27 hours of video playback with a 5000mAh battery. It also features a 200-megapixel main camera and the first-ever 50-megapixel ultra-wide camera in the Fold series, enhancing its photography capabilities.The Galaxy Z Fold8 offers a 193.2mm main screen and a 138.4mm cover screen, enhancing the content consumption experience for video, reading, gaming, and social media. Weighing 201 grams, it is the lightest in the Fold series, equipped with a 4800mAh battery and a 50-megapixel dual camera. The Galaxy Z Flip8 is the thinnest and lightest in the Flip series at 180 grams and 6.1mm thick, featuring a new Mirror View function that allows the cover screen to be used as a hand mirror.The new smartwatches also continued their growth trend. The Galaxy Watch Ultra2 and Watch9 recorded double-digit growth in pre-sales compared to the same period for their predecessors. Despite being available in a single 47mm size, the proportion of female buyers for the Ultra2 increased by about 15% compared to the previous model. The Ultra2 is optimized for outdoor environments with an 800mAh battery and a display brightness of up to 5000 nits, while the Watch9 provides personalized health data, including biometric indicators, heart health scores, daily aerobic load, and physical fitness index.Samsung Electronics has also prepared various benefits for customers purchasing in August. These include a 10% discount coupon for watches and a 30% discount coupon for accessories available on the Samsung.com app, as well as content benefits such as a six-month subscription to Google AI Pro and a three-month subscription to Willa. Additionally, they will launch dedicated accessories featuring magnets and kickstands, along with various watch bands and watch faces, and will hold a Watch Design Challenge until September 14, encouraging customers to certify their unique watch designs.Jung Ho-jin, Vice President and Head of Samsung Electronics Korea, stated, The eighth-generation Galaxy Z series has achieved true popularization of foldable smartphones by applying the know-how accumulated over seven years. I hope customers experience the Galaxy ecosystem with the Galaxy Watch Ultra2 and Galaxy Watch9, which provide personalized healthcare guidance as a health companion on their wrist.Meanwhile, the new products will be gradually launched in over 100 major countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, India, and Japan. August 6, 2026 08:4
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Haenam's Urban Revitalization Efforts Boost Local Businesses Haenam Countys urban revitalization project is yielding results as it continues to support local small businesses and boost the regional economy through various project selections.According to Haenam County, the urban revitalization initiative has facilitated local small businesses participation in various projects, leading to selections in marketing, product development, and digital transformation, thereby establishing a foundation for growth.In April, Ddangkkut Pumpkin Candy was selected for a marketing support project for women-owned small businesses organized by Jeollanam-do, securing 9.9 million won in funding. This project aims to enhance brand competitiveness, develop packaging materials, and establish an online marketing foundation.In June, Dalkkeut Choco was chosen for a collaborative project by the Small Enterprise and Market Service, receiving 50 million won in funding. This initiative will focus on developing a joint brand, collaborative marketing, and expanding sales channels to strengthen the collaboration among local small businesses and enhance market competitiveness.The project selections continued in July.Dalkkeut Choco was also selected for the Ministry of SMEs and Startups 2026 Small Business Lifestyle Culture Innovation Support Project, allowing it to pursue a project worth 72 million won. This initiative is expected to inject new vitality into the urban market by establishing a differentiated business model linked to lifestyle culture content.In the Haenam Seaweed and Sweet Potato Product Development Support Project led by the Jeollanam-do Bio Promotion Agency, Financier and Ddaldalhan Haenam were each selected, securing 60 million won per company, totaling 120 million won. The plan is to develop high-value-added products using Haenams representative agricultural and marine products, seaweed and sweet potatoes, to enhance the brand competitiveness of local specialties.The initiative has also achieved success in the digital transformation sector.Eight local businesses, including The Best Seafood, Yeonane Siraegi Soup, Beautiful Bakery, Hwawonyo, Dalkkeut Choco, Ddaldalhan Haenam, Arong Cafe, and Hampyeong Hong-eo, were selected for the Small Enterprise and Market Services 2026 One-on-One Digital Education Project.Participating businesses will enhance their digital capabilities through tailored training and consulting linked with professional organizations, focusing on smart store operations, social media marketing, and expanding online sales channels. This is expected to help them adapt to the changing consumer environment and establish a stable sales foundation.Haenam County views these achievements as the result of sustainable market development policies that support small businesses self-sufficiency, specialized product development, and digital transformation, going beyond mere environmental improvements.The Haenam Urban Revitalization Promotion Team plans to continue supporting local small businesses this year by discovering project opportunities, developing business plans, and providing expert consulting, actively seeking new projects that align with market characteristics.Kim Deok-il, head of the Haenam Urban Revitalization Promotion Team, stated, We achieved good results by systematically supporting the discovery and participation in project opportunities, believing that the competitiveness of local small businesses is directly linked to the competitiveness of the local economy. In the future, we will continue to nurture brands that reflect Haenams unique characteristics and support digital transformation and market expansion to inject ongoing vitality into the urban market.Meanwhile, as part of the urban revitalization project, Haenam County is promoting the creation of a chocolate street and expanding cultural content that reflects local characteristics, while focusing on strengthening merchant capabilities, developing specialized products, and supporting digital transformation to foster a sustainable local market.* This article has been translated by AI. August 5, 2026 14:3
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Neolithic Whale Hunting Proven with Whale Bone Embedded with Harpoon Tip Designated as National Heritage The Cultural Heritage Administration announced on August 5 that the harpoon tip embedded in whale bone housed at the Ulsan Museum has been designated as a national intangible cultural heritage.The harpoon tip embedded in whale bone was excavated from a Neolithic site in Hwangseong-dong, Nam-gu, Ulsan. It was found embedded in both a whales tailbone and a shoulder bone, indicating the lifestyle, subsistence techniques, and tool-making skills of Neolithic people on the Korean Peninsula. The discovery of the harpoon tip embedded in the whale bone provides evidence of the purpose and usage of Neolithic tools.The rock carvings at Bangudae in Ulsan, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2025, depict scenes of whale hunting using boats and harpoons. The harpoon tip embedded in whale bone serves as a significant cultural heritage that corroborates these depictions as actual records of whale hunting activities during the Neolithic period.* This article has been translated by AI. August 5, 2026 14:2
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SSG.com Launches Pre-Orders for Chuseok Gift Sets with Affordable Options SSG.com announced on August 5 that it will conduct pre-orders for Chuseok gift sets until September 15.This years Chuseok holiday will span from September 24 to 26, including the following Sunday (27), creating a four-day break. Due to the relatively short holiday period, SSG.com anticipates an increase in online gift purchases and has increased the quantity of holiday gift sets by about 10% compared to last year.The product lineup has been enhanced to include both premium and budget-friendly options. Notably, the number of budget gift sets priced around 10,000 won has been expanded by 18% compared to last Chuseok.Among the premium offerings, SSG.com will feature its own brand Jeongdam fruit set, which includes apples, pears, Shine Muscat grapes, and apple mangoes, priced in the 95,000 won range. The Cheongdam Saebyeokjip 1++ No.9 grade Korean beef grilling set will be available for around 300,000 won, along with over 70 types of food and lifestyle sets from Chosun Hotel & Resort and caviar sets from Caviari.For budget options, SSG.com has prepared food sets including Daecheon Kim canned seaweed, Sajo canned tuna, and Silla Myeonggwa madeleines, all priced around 10,000 won. Gift sets from daily necessities brands such as Aekyung, LG Household & Health Care, and Luchipello will also be available.During the pre-order period, customers can enjoy discounts of up to 50% on select products. Depending on the purchase amount, customers can also receive up to 1.2 million won in SSG Money rewards or immediate discounts.Members of the paid SSG 7 Club will receive additional benefits. Exclusive deals on fruits, Korean beef, and tuna sashimi will be available, and members will earn 7% in SSG Money for purchases of SSG delivery sets and 3% for courier delivery sets. SSG 7 Club VIP customers who have made four or more purchases in the last three months and spent over 1 million won will receive unlimited rewards.Bang Seung-jae, head of marketing at SSG.com, stated, We hope customers can prepare their Chuseok gifts reasonably by utilizing both pre-orders and membership benefits. August 5, 2026 13:2
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Hanwha Foreena Develops Innovative Play Space 'Nextflow' Hanwha Construction has unveiled a new play space design aimed at addressing climate change. On August 5, Hanwha Construction announced the development of Nextflow, a play space designed to allow outdoor activities year-round, even amid rising temperatures and increased fine dust. Nextflow is designed to provide young children with outdoor playground enjoyment while minimizing the impact of weather and seasonal changes. It combines water play, relaxation, and play functions in a single space, offering residents a new lifestyle experience. A key feature is a water playground integrated with a bridge. This bridge spans a concave play area, enabling three-dimensional space utilization, and combines with a fountain system and slides to create a mini water park environment. During seasons when water play facilities are not in use, the bridge serves as a shelter from rain, snow, and strong sunlight. The hilly terrain can also be utilized for a mini plaza or small performances, serving as a community space for residents. The design incorporates climate-responsive features. A large bridge structure and separate shading facilities block direct sunlight, while densely planted trees provide natural shade. Additionally, various heights of interconnected play structures, including trampolines, hammocks, tunnels, and large pipes, stimulate childrens physical activity and curiosity. Nextflow consists of four themes. Depending on the size and characteristics of the complex, themes can be combined or applied individually, allowing for customized play space creation. As outdoor activities become increasingly restricted due to heat and fine dust, the design of apartment landscaping and play spaces is evolving from simple relaxation areas to climate-responsive community facilities. Kim Min-seok, head of the architectural business division at Hanwha Construction, stated, “Nextflow is the result of our efforts to create a space where children can play safely and comfortably, regardless of seasonal and climate changes. We will continue to enhance our brand competitiveness through differentiated landscaping design unique to Hanwha Foreena.” Meanwhile, Hanwha Construction plans to expand the premium design competitiveness of Hanwha Foreena by introducing Nextflow, following the landscape design Grand Flow at the complex entrance, exterior design Foreena Vista, and integrated design for entrance and gate Foreena Journey.* This article has been translated by AI. August 5, 2026 10:3
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Samsung C&T Launches Four New Lifestyle Services on Home Platform Homnic Samsung C&Ts construction division is introducing four new lifestyle services on its home platform, Homnic. On August 5, Samsung C&T announced that it has partnered with service companies to offer cleaning, car washing, clothing collection, and pet care services through Homnic. The newly launched services include the household cleaning service Cheongyeon, mobile car washing and vehicle management service Gatcha, pet care service Wayo, and clothing collection service Pickot. Following the expansion of pre-move-in services in May, Homnic is now enhancing its post-move-in service lineup. Residents in Homnic-implemented complexes can receive discount coupons or points based on the services they use, with some services available at discounts of up to 50%. The services were first introduced at the SK D-Pine Gwang-an complex in Busan, which began moving in at the end of June. They have since been expanded to all Homnic complexes. Residents of Raemian complexes prior to the implementation of Homnic can also access these lifestyle services by completing a simple registration process. As competition among apartment brands extends beyond community facilities to include post-move-in management services, the scope of construction company platforms is gradually widening. With the launch of these new services, Samsung C&T plans to strengthen its B2B sales to construction companies and enhance the value of its platform through differentiated apartment living service models, aiming to boost revenue. Currently, Homnic is expanding its service ecosystem through strategic partnerships with 19 other apartment brands, including Doosan Construction, HS Hwasung, and SK Eco Plant, starting with a collaboration with Hanwhas construction division in December 2024.* This article has been translated by AI. August 5, 2026 10:3