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BTS turns Busan into Asia's hottest destination SEOUL, June 11 (AJP) - Busan, South Korea's second-largest city and biggest port, has turned into a mini-Asia as it hosts a two-day homecoming concert for BTS, timed with the group's 13th anniversary. The summer vacation season arrived early for the coastal city, with fans crowding department stores, luxury outlets, convenience stores and Olive Young shops, while roaming beaches and BTS-themed streets ahead of the June 12-13 concerts. By late May, major hotels including Paradise Hotel Busan, The Westin Josun Busan, Grand Josun Busan, Ananti Cove and Sono Moon Haeundae had either sold out or reported occupancy rates above 90 percent for the concert period. "BTS WORLD TOUR 'ARIRANG' IN BUSAN" will take place at Busan Asiad Main Stadium, the same venue that hosted "Yet To Come in BUSAN" in October 2022, the group's last major full-member performance before the members began their mandatory military service. The second day of the concert also falls on the anniversary of BTS's debut, adding emotional weight to the Busan shows. It marks a homecoming after the group launched its world tour in Goyang, west of Seoul, drawing about 132,000 fans over three performances. Since then, BTS has swept through Japan, the United States and Mexico, with Busan serving as the latest stop on a global itinerary spanning 34 cities and up to 85 performances through March 2027. The group also picked up Artist of the Year and two other trophies at the American Music Awards during its stop in Las Vegas. The tourist boom is already translating into stronger consumer spending across Busan. Foreign sales at Shinsegae Centum City surged 267 percent during the first five months of the year from a year earlier, while overseas visitor sales at Lotte Department Store's Busan Main Store and Dongbusan branch rose 125 percent and 150 percent, respectively. Convenience stores and beauty retailers have also benefited. Foreign-currency transactions at GS25 stores near major tourist destinations such as Haeundae and Gwangalli jumped nearly 192 percent, while foreign sales at Olive Young stores in key tourism districts rose 64 percent. Spending by visitors from Greater China increased by about 80 percent. The figures suggest Busan is increasingly attracting tourists from Taiwan, Hong Kong, China and other parts of Asia not only as a sightseeing destination but also as a shopping and lifestyle hub. Industry officials say foreign tourists who once concentrated their spending in Seoul's Myeong-dong and Gangnam are increasingly extending their trips to Busan. The city has also prepared sideline showcases and events such as the Busan Port Festival and the Busan One Asia Festival to ride the BTS boom. "When you walk into Shinsegae Department Store these days, it's hard to tell whether you're in Busan or Fukuoka," said Park Sun-young, a 50-year-old resident of Busan's Centum City district. "You see Japanese and Chinese shoppers lining up outside luxury boutiques such as Hermès and Louis Vuitton. It's the same in Haeundae. I've never heard so many different Asian languages spoken in one place before," she added. Foreign arrivals reached 7.01 million in the first four months of this year, up 20.9 percent from a year earlier. Taiwan recorded the fastest growth at 34.1 percent, followed by China at 23.5 percent, Japan at 19.5 percent, Vietnam at 12.6 percent and the United States at 11.6 percent. Busan has emerged as one of the biggest beneficiaries of that trend. The city welcomed a record 3.64 million foreign visitors in 2025, while more than 1.02 million overseas travelers visited during the first quarter of this year, up 45 percent from a year earlier and marking the fastest time the city has surpassed the one-million-visitor mark since related statistics began in 2014. Authorities are preparing for a sharp increase in overseas visitors. The Incheon Airport Immigration Office said it will implement special operating measures from Wednesday to Saturday in anticipation of a surge in foreign arrivals traveling to Busan for the concerts. During a previous BTS concert period in April, daily foreign arrivals at Incheon Airport rose to between 47,000 and 49,000, roughly 26 percent higher than the monthly average. Chinese visitors accounted for the largest share, while travelers from Japan, Taiwan and Southeast Asian countries also increased significantly. Unlike BTS's first comeback performance at Seoul's Gwanghwamun Square in March, where nearly three-quarters of foreign attendees were long-term residents already living in Korea, the Busan concerts are expected to draw a larger share of visitors traveling specifically for the event, particularly from China, Taiwan, Japan and Southeast Asia. The trend has been aided by frequent regional air routes, even as long-haul travel remains costly amid the Gulf crisis. The city's growing popularity has even spawned the term "Busan craze," referring to travelers who find themselves wanting to return after experiencing the city's beaches, food culture and laid-back coastal atmosphere. But not everyone has been happy with the city. According to data from the Korea Tourism Data Lab, operated by the Korea Tourism Organization, Busan alone accounted for more than half of all tourism-related complaints filed nationwide in May, with 185 of 368 cases reported in the city. That total was equivalent to about 77 percent of all tourism complaints reported in Busan during the entirety of 2025. Complaint numbers jumped sharply from 48 in April to 185 in May, with accommodation-related grievances making up the overwhelming majority. Many complaints involved unilateral reservation cancellations, excessive cancellation fees and allegations of price gouging. Foreign visitors accounted for 83.8 percent of all complaints, significantly outnumbering domestic travelers. The increase came after reports emerged that some accommodation providers had canceled existing reservations and relisted rooms at higher prices following the announcement of BTS's Busan concerts. BTS members personally appealed to hospitality operators not to damage the image of the country or the group through profiteering. Local and central government authorities have since stepped up inspections of lodging businesses and transportation operators to prevent unfair pricing practices and minimize inconvenience for visitors. After Busan, BTS will continue its world tour through Europe, North America, Latin America, Southeast Asia, Greater China and Australia. The scale of the concerts and the consistency of production quality at each venue have drawn awe and praise, generating a wave of online confessions from new fans who say they have converted to ARMY. In a social media post on Monday, a member of the tour's technical team said the show will feature a 360-degree stage designed to bring fans closer to the performance, supported by around 100 trucks, 10 cargo aircraft and 400 crew members. The concerts will also be streamed online and shown through live-viewing screenings, allowing fans outside Busan to take part in the anniversary event. For Busan, the shows are more than another stop on the group's world tour. They may test whether a burst of global attention can become something more lasting. June 11, 2026 17:10 -
AI technologies take center stage at global longevity summit SEOUL, June 11 (AJP) —Artificial intelligence (AI) and Human Digital Twin (HDT) technology could fundamentally reshape how people age, enabling physicians to predict disease risks, simulate health outcomes and deliver personalized interventions before symptoms appear, longevity researchers said Wednesday. The technologies are increasingly being viewed as a bridge between decades of aging research and practical healthcare applications, allowing scientists to combine genomic, medical and lifestyle data to model how individuals age and respond to treatment. The discussion featured prominently at the 30th Annual Meeting of the International Centenarian Consortium (ICC) in Gochang, North Jeolla in Korea, where more than 50 researchers from 18 institutions across the United States, Japan, France, China, Brazil and other countries gathered to share the latest findings in genetics, precision medicine, nutrition, oral health and digital healthcare. Researchers said the growing convergence of AI, genomics and longevity science is accelerating the shift from treating age-related diseases to preventing them before symptoms emerge. "The goal of longevity research is no longer simply to add years to life, but to add healthy years to life," several speakers said throughout the conference. Participants also highlighted South Korea's growing importance in global aging research. They pointed to the country's rapidly aging population and decades of centenarian studies, which have produced one of the world's most comprehensive datasets on people who have lived beyond the age of 100. Researchers said Korean centenarians today tend to be better educated, smoke and drink less, and report higher levels of life satisfaction than previous generations. They also noted a sharp increase in the proportion of centenarians capable of managing daily household activities independently, suggesting that healthy aging is becoming increasingly attainable. Traditional Korean fermented foods drew particular interest among international researchers. Studies presented at the conference suggested that foods such as kimchi, doenjang and cheonggukjang — the latter two traditional Korean fermented soybean products — may contribute to healthy aging by supporting gut microbiome diversity and improving nutrient absorption. Researchers said the findings align with growing evidence linking gut health to immunity, inflammation, cognitive function and age-related diseases. Among the keynote speakers, Suh You-sin professor of aging research and genetics at Columbia University described centenarians as "nature's best laboratory," arguing that rare genetic variants found among exceptionally long-lived individuals could provide clues to slowing biological aging. "The future of aging research lies in understanding and slowing the aging process itself," Suh said. "Extending healthy lifespan is no longer a distant goal." French demographer Jean-Marie Robine called for a broader approach to measuring longevity, emphasizing the importance of the modal age at death rather than average life expectancy alone. "For decades, medicine has focused on what causes people to die early," Robine said. "The next challenge is understanding what allows people to live longer and remain healthy." Researchers from Osaka University also presented findings from the SONIC project, a long-running study of older adults in Japan, showing that oral health plays a critical role in maintaining nutrition, muscle strength and cognitive function later in life. Looking ahead, many participants identified AI-powered precision medicine as one of the most transformative developments in the field. They said the integration of centenarian research, genomic data and digital healthcare platforms could help accelerate the development of personalized health management systems designed to extend healthy lifespan rather than simply prolong life. As countries around the world confront the challenges of aging societies, researchers said the future of medicine will increasingly focus on helping people age well. The message emerging from Gochang was clear: living to 100 is no longer the ultimate challenge. The greater challenge is staying healthy enough to enjoy those extra years. June 11, 2026 14:42 -
Musinsa Standard Opens First Store in Namyangju, Strengthening Family Customer Engagement Musinsas modern basic casual wear brand, Musinsa Standard, has opened its first store in Namyangju, Gyeonggi Province. On June 11, Musinsa Standard announced the opening of its first location in the region at the Hyundai Premium Outlet Space One in the Dasan New Town area, aiming to target the Northeast Gyeonggi market. The brand plans to significantly increase customer engagement not only with local residents but also with families visiting on weekends. Reflecting the high proportion of family customers in outlet shopping areas, Musinsa Standard will offer a variety of lifestyle products, including mens and womens casual clothing, beauty items, and home goods, all in one space. To celebrate the opening, the store will provide up to 50% discount coupons to the first 100 customers each day until June 12. Additionally, a limited-time Super Bag containing popular products worth 300,000 won will be sold for 49,900 won. All customers making purchases will receive a 15% welcome back coupon valid both online and offline, while those spending over 100,000 won will receive a scratch coupon for beauty, home, and accessory gifts. Customers who write a review after their first in-store purchase will earn 3,000 won in rewards. Moreover, the Namyangju store will feature exclusive special price items and a daily special event showcasing different popular products at exceptional prices. In consideration of the local market characteristics, Musinsa Standard will also run a group visit promotion for families, friends, clubs, and pet owners. Groups of three or more visiting the store will receive an additional 5% discount, and those spending over 150,000 won will receive a Musinsa Standard home hanger. A Musinsa representative stated, We will continue to expand our stores in key residential areas and major shopping districts so that more customers can experience Musinsa Standard. Meanwhile, Musinsa is set to launch the Musinsa Money K-Bank account and check card and will hold a pre-registration event from June 12 to July 19, offering benefits to all participating customers. Participants in the event will receive cash rewards ranging from 1,000 to 50,000 won instantly, and a friend invitation event will allow up to 10 entries per day.* This article has been translated by AI. June 11, 2026 14:18 -
Global Longevity Experts Gather in Gochang to Discuss AI's Role in Healthspan Reaching 100 is no longer a dream. The important question is how healthily we can reach 100. Longevity experts from around the world convened in Gochang, South Korea, to discuss solutions for achieving a healthspan of 100 years. The focus was particularly on the role of artificial intelligence (AI) and Human Digital Twin (HDT) technology as key drivers in the future of longevity medicine. On June 10, during the second day of the 30th International Consortium on Longevity (ICC) annual conference held in Gochang, over 50 longevity experts from 18 research institutions across 13 countries, including the United States, Japan, France, China, and Brazil, shared their latest research findings. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the ICC, a leading academic network in global longevity research. The conference featured presentations on various topics, including genomic studies of centenarians, precision medicine, fermented foods, dental health, and digital healthcare. Participants emphasized that the goal of longevity research is shifting from merely extending lifespan to enhancing healthspan. The most attention-grabbing topics were AI-based precision medicine and Human Digital Twin technology. HDT integrates an individuals genetic information, health check results, lifestyle, and medical history to create a virtual digital human. This technology can predict disease risks and design personalized health management strategies. Researchers at the conference identified AI as a core technology that will lead advancements in longevity medicine over the next decade. They predict that while past longevity research focused on medicine and biology, future studies will involve collaborative efforts among data scientists, AI researchers, and digital healthcare experts. Gochang, the conference venue, also drew attention as a notable longevity region. With a population of about 50,000, more than half are aged 60 and older, and over 1,200 residents are over 90. The area is recognized for its clean natural environment, traditional food culture, and strong community ties, making it an important site for longevity research. The Korean Centenarian Research Groups two-decade accumulation of research data was also a focal point. The group has built a rare long-term dataset that comprehensively tracks centenarians genetic information, lifestyle habits, nutritional status, mental health, cognitive function, and social activities. According to their findings, recent centenarians in Korea have higher education levels and lower rates of smoking and drinking compared to previous generations, while their life satisfaction has significantly improved. Notably, the proportion of those who can perform household chores independently has increased from 2.8% in 2001 to over 25% recently, indicating healthier aging potential. Research on traditional Korean fermented foods also garnered interest. Researchers presented findings that foods like doenjang, cheonggukjang, kimchi, jeotgal, and seaweeds can improve gut microbiome health and enhance nutrient absorption, aligning with recent medical interest in gut microbiome studies. Dr. Yu-Shin Seo, a leading aging researcher at Columbia University, stated, Centenarians are the best natural laboratory humanity can have, explaining that rare functional gene mutations play a crucial role in stress response, DNA repair, and cellular aging inhibition. Dr. Jean-Marie Robine, a French demographer, emphasized the need to study what enables people to live long and healthy lives rather than what causes early death. He suggested focusing on the modal age at death as a more relevant indicator than life expectancy. A research team led by Professor Yasuyuki Gondo from Osaka University presented findings from the long-term SONIC project, highlighting that dental health is a key factor in determining healthspan. They noted that declining chewing ability can lead to nutritional imbalances, muscle loss, and cognitive decline. Experts at the conference assessed that South Korea, with its rapidly aging population, has the potential to lead global longevity research. They also forecasted that AI-based precision medicine and digital twin technology will be essential tools in achieving a healthspan of 100 years. Experts remarked, This Gochang conference is a platform for seeking solutions to the shared challenges faced by humanity in an ultra-aging society, adding that while the goal of 20th-century medicine was disease treatment, the focus of 21st-century medicine is likely to be healthy aging.* This article has been translated by AI. June 11, 2026 13:27 -
Special Exhibition Showcases the Vibrant Roots of K-Culture at Cheongwadae Sarangchae A special exhibition at Cheongwadae Sarangchae will allow visitors to experience the cultural strength of South Korea through the vibrant roots of K-culture. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism announced on June 10 that the exhibition titled Palchaekchan: Regions Filled with K will take place on the first floor of Cheongwadae Sarangchae from June to December. The exhibition begins with the question, What are the roots of K that we talk about? It highlights how the history, cultural arts, and unique cultural assets accumulated in various regions have laid the foundation for todays K-content and K-culture. The first-floor exhibition hall will showcase the theme Regions are Filled with K, presenting performances, cuisine, crafts, lifestyle culture, and tourism resources from the five major regions, all reinterpreted with a modern sensibility. In the media art room, immersive video content titled The Origin of K will present the essence of Korean aesthetics, based on traditional patterns, the Korean hat (gat), peonies, Korean colors, and tigers. Cultural events will be held every Wednesday at 12:10 p.m. during the exhibition period. The series will kick off with a performance by pianist and singer-songwriter Go Young-yeol on June 10, followed by performances from outstanding artists from the Youth Mic program, Artkudo, and Mexican folk song performer Nansi Castro. More details can be found on the Cheongwadae Sarangchae website. Additionally, on June 10, the second floor of Sarangchae will open a special exhibition titled Trajectories of Light to commemorate the first anniversary of the peoples sovereignty government. This exhibition will spotlight key policies from the past year, which have walked alongside the public as the light of the plaza, and will showcase scenes and records of diplomatic exchanges that have built trust and friendship with people around the world through K-culture. A digital goods experience exhibition commemorating the first anniversary of the presidents inauguration will also be held next to the souvenir shop on the first floor throughout June. Cheongwadae Sarangchae aims to be a cultural space for meetings and communication, embodying the idea of an open sanctuary for everyone.* This article has been translated by AI. June 10, 2026 09:21 -
Spiritual Asia: Beyond suffering to freedom - Buddhism as Asia's spiritual pillar This is the eighth installment of AJP’s “Spiritual Asia” series exploring the religious traditions and philosophical foundations that have shaped Asia’s spiritual consciousness. This chapter turns to the ancient texts of Hinduism — the Vedas and Upanishads — and their enduring ideas on cosmos, consciousness and the nature of existence in the emerging AI era. Humanity in the 21st century is passing through the greatest civilization shift in history. Artificial intelligence (AI) learns human languages, robots replace human labor, and algorithms have even begun to predict our choices. We are enjoying more material wealth than any generation before us, but ironically, our anxiety, loneliness, conflicts, and feelings of emptiness are only growing deeper. Technology has advanced brilliantly, yet the fundamental questions about our existence remain. Why do we live? What are we here for? And how can we find true freedom and peace? Facing these questions, humanity is looking toward Asia once again. At the center of this attention is Buddhism, which has explored human suffering and the meaning of life for over 2,600 years. Buddhism is not merely a religion. It is an intense reflection on human existence and a great spiritual revolution that analyzed the causes of our pain and offered clear answers. Today, hundreds of millions of people around the world find their life's direction within Buddhist teachings, and it is no exaggeration to say that much of East and Southeast Asian civilization was built upon the massive spiritual foundation of Buddhism. Buddhism began with a human being, not a god. Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism, was born around the 6th century BC in the Lumbini region of modern-day southern Nepal. He lived a comfortable life as a prince, but one day outside his palace, he saw an old person, a sick person, and a corpse. In that moment, he realized that no human being can escape aging, illness, and death. At the time, Indian society was ruled by a caste system and a culture of rituals centered on the Vedas. People believed their fate was decided entirely by the class they were born into, and religion focused heavily on ceremonies. However, the young Siddhartha felt that a religion or philosophy that couldn't solve the core problem of human suffering was not the true answer. Ultimately, at the age of 29, he left his royal life behind and chose the path of an ascetic seeker. The six years of training that followed were a challenge to human limits. He sought out the best spiritual teachers of his time and endured extreme hardships. Yet, he eventually realized that physically torturing the body was not the way to end human suffering. Finally, he sat beneath the Bodhi tree, entered deep meditation, and achieved enlightenment at the age of 35. From that moment on, he became the Buddha, meaning "the awakened one." And the core of his realization became the central teaching of Buddhism: the Four Noble Truths. The Four Noble Truths are the most concise yet profound insights into human life. First is the truth of suffering. This is the reality that suffering exists in life. Birth is suffering, aging is suffering, and illness and death are suffering. Parting with someone you love is painful, and meeting someone you dislike is painful. Failing to get what you want is also a form of suffering. Buddhism does not ignore the harsh realities of life. Instead, it faces them with absolute honesty. Second is the truth of the cause of suffering. This is the teaching that every suffering has a root cause. This cause does not come from the outside world, but from human greed, attachment, and ignorance. The desire to have more, the urge to climb higher, and the clinging wish for things to never change are what ultimately make us suffer. This is not much different when we look at the lives of modern people today. Endless competition, comparison, excessive consumption, and an obsession with success are only making humans more anxious. Third is the truth of the end of suffering. This is the teaching that suffering can be overcome. If we let go of our greed, attachment, and ignorance, we can break free from our pain. Buddhism does not leave humans in despair. Rather, it sees that we hold the potential to change ourselves from within. Fourth is the truth of the path. This is the teaching that there is a practical path to overcome suffering. That path is the Eightfold Path: right view, right resolve, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, and right concentration. Buddhism does not simply tell us what to believe. It teaches us how to live. The Eightfold Path is a practice that aligns our thoughts, words, actions, and minds in the right direction. To understand Buddhism, you must ultimately understand the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. These are not merely religious doctrines. They serve as a form of spiritual medicine and a life philosophy that diagnoses and treats the problems of human life. In fact, this is why many scholars call Buddhism the world’s very first psychology. The Buddha observed the human mind, analyzed the roots of pain, and offered a clear path to healing. Another great insight of Buddhism is the concept of dependent origination. This is the teaching that everything in the world is connected, and nothing exists entirely on its own. A single flower cannot exist without sunlight, rain, soil, and wind, and humans, too, live within families, societies, nature, and the universe. In this way, all beings depend on and connect to one another. In today’s era of climate and ecological crises, this thought carries even greater meaning. The realization that humans are not the masters of nature, but a part of it, is the very wisdom that modern civilization desperately needs to relearn. Buddhism also views compassion as its highest virtue. Compassion is more than just feeling pity. It is the heart that feels another person's pain as its own and seeks to ease that pain together. After achieving enlightenment, the Buddha did not stay hidden away in the mountains. He walked across India for 45 years, sharing his truth with the people. Buddhism never tried to change the world with swords or force. It sought to change the world by changing the human heart. This is the greatest power that Buddhism holds. One of the most beautiful summaries of the Buddhist spirit is the final mantra of the Heart Sutra. "Gate, gate, pāragate, pārasaṃgate, bodhi, svāhā." In traditional characters, it is written as: 揭諦 揭諦 波羅揭諦 波羅僧揭諦 菩提薩婆訶. Its meaning is, "Let us go, let us go. Let us go to that other shore. Let us completely go to that other shore. Let us go to the world of enlightenment." Buddhism does not want humans to stay trapped in worldly desires and attachments. It teaches us to cross over from this shore of greed, anger, and ignorance to the other shore of wisdom, compassion, and freedom. This is not just talking about the afterlife. It means that even right now, in this very moment, we can cross over from ignorance to wisdom, from hatred to love, and from desire to freedom. This single verse from the Heart Sutra captures the pure essence of the spirit Buddhism pursues. From there, Buddhism spread beyond India and across all of Asia. It traveled along the Silk Road into Central Asia, reaching China, Korea, Japan, and Vietnam, becoming the spiritual pillar of East Asian civilization. In China, it met Confucianism and Taoism to develop into Zen Buddhism. In Tibet, it formed the esoteric tradition, and in Japan, Zen combined with the samurai spirit. Korea, too, was deeply influenced by Buddhism from the Three Kingdoms period straight through the Goryeo and Joseon dynasties. Bulguksa Temple, Seokguram Grotto, and the Tripitaka Koreana at Haeinsa Temple are not just cultural relics. They are magnificent spiritual legacies left behind by Buddhist civilization. In particular, Korean Buddhism produced outstanding thinkers like Wonhyo, Uisang, and Jinul. Wonhyo introduced the philosophy of hwajaeng, offering the wisdom to harmonize different ideas. This provides a profound lesson for modern South Korean society today, where conflict and division are deepening. It reminds us that true wisdom lies not in defeating opponents, but in harmoniously integrating different truths. Today, Western society is also turning its attention back to Buddhism. Meditation and mindfulness have become a global lifestyle, and leading institutions like Harvard, Stanford, Oxford, and Cambridge are actively researching the intersections of Buddhism, brain science, and psychology. Tech companies in Silicon Valley are also bringing meditation into their corporate cultures. They have begun to realize that technological innovation alone cannot make human beings happy. The age of AI is throwing new questions at humanity. Machines can calculate faster and store more information than humans. But machines cannot feel compassion. They do not hold pity in their hearts. They do not seek enlightenment. Ultimately, Buddhism reminds us that what makes us truly human is not our ability to calculate, but our capacity for self-reflection. It is compassion, not competition, and freedom, not possession. The awakening of a single seeker under a Bodhi tree 2,600 years ago remains perfectly valid today. Human greatness does not come from owning more things. It comes from understanding more deeply, loving more widely, and living more freely. That is the greatest legacy Buddhism has left for humanity, reaching far beyond Asia, and it is a voice of wisdom that all of us living in the AI era must listen to once again. June 9, 2026 16:28 -
Ministry of SMEs selects 5,000 participants for 'Everyone's Startup Project,' 68% are youth The Ministry of SMEs and Startups has finalized the selection of 5,000 participants for its Everyones Startup Project. According to the ministry on June 9, the project attracted a record 63,000 applicants nationwide, regardless of age, experience, or region, marking the largest government competition to date. Within just 37 days of its launch, the number of participants surpassed 20,000, indicating its popularity. Among the selected 5,000 participants, 68.4% are under the age of 39. The youngest selected participant is 13 years old, while the oldest is 78, showcasing a diverse range of entrepreneurial enthusiasm across generations. In the general and technology track, 4,000 participants were chosen. The youngest, 13-year-old Kim Tae-in, proposed a safety system that detects repeated school violence using only Wi-Fi signals. The oldest selected participant, at 78, suggested eco-friendly naphtha manufacturing technology utilizing food waste carbonization. An international participant proposed the development of an AI-based manuscript practice application for the TOPIK writing test. The local track selected 1,000 participants. The youngest, at 17, proposed a regular check-in service linked to the community, while the oldest, at 72, suggested developing a K-apple energy powder stick that melts without water, based on upcycling ugly apples from Gyeongbuk. An international participant proposed a travel information platform for Japanese tourists visiting Busan. Seventy-four percent of the selected participants are from local regions, with 70% from the general and technology track and 90% from the local track, highlighting a variety of innovative ideas from across the country. In terms of fields, the IT sector accounted for the largest share at 32% in the general and technology track, followed by lifestyle at 17.8%, and bio-medical at 10.1%. In the local track, lifestyle ideas made up 48.2%, followed by food and beverage at 37.3%, and beauty at 9.3%. Notably, 29.3% of the selected items in the general and technology track included AI-related keywords, indicating the spread of AI across various industries. Mentoring organizations such as CNT Tech and the Seoul Creative Economy Innovation Center, which oversaw the selection process, noted that entrepreneurship is not limited to specific demographics or technical fields. The 5,000 selected startup talents will receive support for their entrepreneurial journeys. Each participant will receive 2 million won in startup funding, along with initial mentoring from reputable organizations and AI solutions to rapidly enhance their business ideas. For the 58,000 applicants who were not selected in the first phase of the project, feedback from the mentors who evaluated their ideas will be provided. They will also have access to online and offline mentoring programs to refine their ideas. Offline mentoring sessions will begin on June 22 and will be held across 17 cities and provinces, with a total of 40 sessions scheduled to accommodate participants who may have difficulty attending during the week. Participants will receive one-on-one expert consulting and business model training to enhance their ideas. Applications will open on June 12. Online mentoring will be available through the Everyones Startup Platform starting June 22. Participants can choose their preferred mentors for one-on-one online sessions, which will be offered three times. To ensure a second chance, participants in the online and offline mentoring programs, as well as those who improve their ideas compared to their original submissions, will receive preferential treatment in the selection evaluation for the second phase of the Everyones Startup Project, set to launch in early July. This phase will select 10,000 participants, double the number from the first phase. Minister Han Seung-sook stated, We will fully support the 5,000 ideas selected in the first phase of the Everyones Startup Project to help them take flight and grow. For the 58,000 applicants who were not selected, we will establish a more robust entrepreneurial ladder in South Korea through systematic support for their reapplication efforts.* This article has been translated by AI. June 9, 2026 13:42 -
30th International Consortium on Longevity Kicks Off in Gochang, South Korea The 30th International Consortium on Longevity (ICC) annual conference opens today in Gochang, South Korea. The event will run until June 12 at the Well Park City Hotel, bringing together longevity experts from around the world to discuss strategies for extending healthspan and addressing the challenges of an aging society. The ICC is a global academic network focused on research related to centenarians, aging, longevity, and healthspan. This year’s conference features over 50 scholars from 19 research teams across 13 countries, including the United States, Japan, China, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Brazil, Australia, and Egypt. Participating research teams include those from New England, Georgia, and Iowa in the U.S., as well as teams from Tokyo and Osaka in Japan, and Beijing, Qingdao, and Hong Kong in China. European researchers from France, Belgium, and the Netherlands will also join, alongside teams from Brazil, Australia, and Egypt to share the latest findings in longevity research. This year’s conference theme is “Extending Healthspan and Transitioning to Next-Generation Healthcare Paradigms.” Discussions will focus on how to not only increase lifespan but also enhance the duration of healthy living without disease, as well as how to tackle the healthcare and welfare issues faced by super-aged societies. Gochang is recognized as a prominent longevity region in South Korea. According to local government data, of the total population of 50,148, 25,255 individuals, or 50.3%, are aged 60 and older. There are 6,927 people aged 80 and above (13.8%), and 1,220 individuals aged 90 and older (2.4%). The area’s well-preserved natural environment and rural community culture have made it a key location for longevity research. The academic program features world-class research presentations. The opening keynote will be delivered by Yousin Suh, a leading authority in womens longevity research from Columbia University. She will discuss the “New Concept of Longevity,” outlining recent trends and future directions in longevity studies. Following her, French demographer Jean-Marie Robine will present research analyzing global longevity trends and the changes associated with super-aged societies. The Georgia research team from the U.S. will introduce a study examining the impact of environmental and caregiving systems on the lives of centenarians. Japanese researchers will present findings from a long-term study tracking individuals aged 105 and older in one of the world’s longest-lived countries. One of the key presentations will be from the Korean Centenarian Research Team, which began in 2001 at Seoul National University and has been continued by Chonnam National University since 2018. Over the past 25 years, the team has accumulated extensive data analyzing the genetic traits, disease patterns, lifestyle habits, and social environments of centenarians in South Korea. They have particularly focused on the “Gugoksundam Longevity Belt,” which connects regions in Jeollanam-do, to analyze local longevity characteristics. The research team has also highlighted findings indicating that the average lifespan of Hansens disease patients on Sorokdo Island is higher than that of the general population, suggesting new possibilities in longevity research. They are analyzing various factors contributing to longevity and the potential for extending healthspan among Koreans. During the conference, the team will also discuss how lifestyle, community culture, and dietary habits among the elderly in Korea influence longevity. Research results will be shared on how family-centered community culture and social ties, along with historical changes in Korean society, have impacted health in old age. Additionally, findings on the dietary culture centered around fermented foods like kimchi, doenjang, gochujang, and cheonggukjang, as well as vegetable-based diets, will be presented, exploring the relationship between traditional Korean diets and healthspan. Park Sang-cheol, Vice President of Genosis AI Healthcare, will serve as the ICC advisory chair, while Park Kwang-sung, head of the Korean Centenarian Research Team at Chonnam National University Hospital, will chair the conference, with Yoon Kyung-cheol, a professor at the same hospital, acting as the organizing committee chair. Park Sang-cheol stated, “The life and longevity research data of Korean centenarians can serve as important reference material for countries that will experience super-aged societies first. We hope this ICC annual conference will further expand global collaboration in longevity research.” The significance of this conference lies in the fact that longevity research has emerged as a crucial task in responding to the challenges of super-aged societies. South Korea entered a super-aged society in late 2024, when the proportion of the population aged 65 and older surpassed 20%. While life expectancy continues to rise, concerns remain that healthspan, or the period of life lived without disease or disability, is not keeping pace. Consequently, longevity medicine is increasingly recognized as a key area for enhancing quality of life in old age and reducing healthcare costs. For the past 30 years, the ICC has served as a leading international academic platform connecting centenarian research from various countries. Researchers have compared and analyzed the impacts of genetic traits, living environments, dietary cultures, and social relationships on longevity, accumulating scientific evidence in the field. This year’s 30th conference not only reflects on past research achievements but also seeks to explore next-generation longevity research directions incorporating artificial intelligence and precision medicine technologies. South Korea is noted as one of the countries experiencing the fastest aging rates globally. As a result, the centenarian research data accumulated by domestic researchers is garnering international attention. The Korean Centenarian Research Team has built a substantial database over the past two decades, analyzing genetic traits, lifestyle habits, and socio-environmental factors among centenarians. Academics believe these research findings could inform future global aging response policies and strategies for extending healthspan. Experts anticipate that this conference will serve as a platform for international collaboration to seek solutions to the challenges posed by super-aged societies. As the reality of a 100-year life expectancy approaches, there is growing interest in the healthy aging and longevity strategies, as well as the future directions of medical technology proposed by researchers from around the world. Meanwhile, Genosis AI Healthcare plans to continue advancing its precision medicine initiatives, including research on Human Digital Twins (HDT) and the development of AI-based medical technologies, leveraging this conference as a catalyst.* This article has been translated by AI. June 9, 2026 11:57 -
SK Intellix Partners with Tower PMC to Target Premium Housing Market SK Intellix is teaming up with Tower PMC, a specialist in managing premium residential facilities, to penetrate the high-end housing market. The collaboration aims to supply AI robotics solutions and eco-friendly appliances to upscale residential complexes, enhancing wellness services for residents. According to industry sources, SK Intellix and Tower PMC signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to introduce AI robotics solutions and eco-friendly appliances in premium residential facilities. The two companies plan to focus on product experiences and supply collaboration in key upscale residential areas such as Gangnam and Seocho. Tower PMC is a management and operations firm that oversees major high-end residential facilities, including Tower Palace, Hannam The Hill, Acro Seoul Forest, and Raemian One Bailey. Currently, it manages over 100 luxury residential properties. With this agreement, SK Intellix plans to expand the presence of its wellness robotics product, Namux, along with AI-based solutions and eco-friendly appliances in residential complexes. Residents will have the opportunity to experience related products and services in community spaces such as lobbies, gyms, golf practice areas, and cafes. Industry analysts suggest that competition among luxury residential complexes is shifting from lifestyle services like breakfast and concierge to wellness infrastructure, including healthcare, air quality management, and robot-based convenience services. Currently, SK Intellix operates exhibition experience zones in major complexes with around 10,000 units in areas like Gangnam, Seocho, and Banpo. The company plans to accelerate the development of customized services for residential facilities based on resident feedback. A representative from SK Intellix stated, By combining Tower PMCs premium residential management infrastructure with SK Intellixs AI technology capabilities, we aim to provide differentiated wellness experiences in customers daily lives. We will focus on the premium housing market as a key base for our growth as an AI wellness platform company.* This article has been translated by AI. June 9, 2026 08:57 -
Eduwill Partners with Capstone Ventures for Global E-Commerce and AI Education Eduwill has joined forces with Capstone Ventures, a global e-commerce solutions company, to cultivate practical talent for the global e-commerce and artificial intelligence (AI) education markets. On June 8, Eduwill announced that it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Capstone Ventures to jointly plan and operate global e-commerce and AI-based education initiatives. The agreement aims to combine the core competencies of both companies to develop practical professionals optimized for the global e-commerce market and the AI education sector, while jointly expanding educational content and project initiatives to create mutual growth and new business opportunities. Under this partnership, the two companies will collaboratively plan and develop global e-commerce and AI education programs, as well as operate hands-on and project-based training courses both online and offline. They will also work together on the production of educational content, marketing collaboration, and the establishment of operational committees to train practical professionals and jointly expand new business opportunities. Capstone Ventures, which has partnered with Eduwill, is a leading global e-commerce consulting firm that has helped grow over 300 brands over the past decade. It is an official select and plus partner of Shopify in South Korea and has established partnerships with major players like Amazon and TikTok. Previously, in April, Eduwill signed an MOU with Vize, a global foreigner lifestyle support solutions company, to innovate the global education ecosystem and create value. An Eduwill representative stated, In a business environment where AI and global e-commerce converge, practical, specialized education is essential. We aim to provide differentiated real-world programs, including company-linked projects, based on Capstone Ventures global expertise to nurture the next generation of key talent.* This article has been translated by AI. June 8, 2026 16:24 -
LF's Hazzys 'K-Heritage' Collection Attracts 63% First-Time Buyers LFs casual brand Hazzys has partnered with lifestyle brand Hoho-dang to launch the K-Heritage Collection, which is drawing interest from both new customers and foreign tourists.According to LF, following the release of the collaborative collection, 63% of the purchasing customers were first-time buyers. This indicates that more than six out of ten customers were making their initial purchase from Hazzys, suggesting that the collection has effectively attracted new clientele.Online sales have also seen an increase. A representative from LF stated, The response has expanded, particularly around easy pickup goods available online, adding that sales through Hazzys.com accounted for approximately 67% of total sales.In the Myeongdong area, known for its high influx of foreign tourists, the collection has also gained traction. Hazzys operates a dedicated collaboration zone at its flagship store Space H Seoul, where purchases and engagement have been particularly strong among Southeast Asian customers.Notably, content related to the collection shared by a global ambassador on TikTok has garnered over 140,000 views. As a result, foreign sales at Space H Seoul increased by 170% compared to the same period last year, with the number of foreign customers rising by 175%. A Hazzys representative stated, We plan to continue expanding our global customer base through K-premium content and products that modernize Korean sensibilities.Meanwhile, LF reported an operating profit of 44.4 billion won in the first quarter of this year, a 47.52% increase from the same period last year. Revenue rose by 7.35% to 461.9 billion won, while net profit increased by 38.32% to 31.6 billion won.* This article has been translated by AI. June 8, 2026 13:57 -
Seoul Seeks Citizen Nominations for 30-Year-Old Restaurants Seoul is revamping its Taste of Seoul map by identifying neighborhood restaurants that have been in business for over 30 years. The initiative aims to promote the rich flavors and stories of these establishments as tourism content. On June 8, the city announced that it will accept nominations for the 2026 Long-Standing Restaurants Candidate Event until June 28. The focus is on eateries in Gwangjin, Dongdaemun, Seongdong, and Jungnang districts that have been operating for over three decades. The Long-Standing Restaurants initiative seeks to discover and nurture establishments that have preserved local culture and ambiance over time as unique assets of Seoul. Since 2017, the city has been selecting long-standing businesses in the fields of lifestyle culture, traditional crafts, and food, with a total of 140 establishments currently designated and operating. Nominations are open for restaurants that residents believe should be highlighted, including those that are must-visit spots for anyone coming to Seoul, long-standing establishments with deep culinary expertise, and places with a special charm that keeps patrons returning over the years. This initiative aligns with the recent tourism trend shifting from Instagrammable locations to experiences that capture the unique atmosphere and stories of local areas. There is growing interest among foreign tourists in local restaurants and long-standing establishments that have maintained their charm over franchises. The essence of Seouls cuisine lies more in its comforting familiarity than in extravagant gastronomy. Whether its a bowl of cold noodle broth perfected over decades, a hearty meal from a diner that has fed early morning market vendors, or a classic Chinese restaurant known for its consistent flavor, Seouls food is often celebrated for the craftsmanship and memories shaped over time. Long-standing restaurants are valued not just for their food but as spaces where local residents memories and lives have accumulated, making them significant tourism assets. Following citizen nominations, the city plans to conduct on-site verifications and expert evaluations to finalize this years long-standing restaurants. Selected establishments will be integrated into Seouls tourism content. The city will also expand programs and promotions for the Long-Standing Restaurants Week, which received a positive response last year, allowing citizens and domestic and international tourists to experience the charm of Seouls long-standing establishments firsthand. Kim Myung-joo, Director of the Seoul Tourism and Sports Bureau, stated, Recent travel trends are shifting towards experiencing local stories and atmospheres rather than visiting famous tourist spots. We hope that long-standing restaurants, which have preserved the taste and ambiance of Seoul for many years, can establish themselves as attractive tourism content with the support and participation of citizens. June 8, 2026 12:39 -
Toss Mobile's CU Plan Surpasses 20,000 Subscribers with Convenience Store Discounts Toss Mobile, the telecommunications subsidiary of Toss, has secured over 20,000 subscribers with its budget mobile plan that combines discounts at convenience stores. This strategy, aimed at reducing communication costs while providing everyday benefits, has resonated particularly well with the 2030 demographic.On June 8, Toss Mobile announced that the cumulative number of subscribers for its CU partnership plan, which operates on the networks of the three major telecommunications companies (SK Telecom, KT, and LG Uplus), has surpassed 20,000. This milestone comes nearly a year after the CU partnership plan was launched on the LG Uplus network in June of last year.The CU partnership plan offers a combination of mobile communication services and discounts at CU convenience stores. Subscribers can receive a 20% discount on their purchases at CU locations nationwide, with a maximum benefit of 5,000 won per month, and can also earn up to 5% in points.Currently, Toss Mobile operates the CU partnership plan across the networks of KT, LG Uplus, and SK Telecom. Notably, the CU partnership plan based on the LG Uplus network is exclusively offered by Toss Mobile.The service appears to be primarily utilized by younger consumers. An analysis of subscriber age demographics revealed that 26.7% of new subscribers in the past six months are in their 20s, while 41.1% are in their 30s. Together, these two age groups account for approximately 68% of all subscribers, indicating that single-person households and the MZ generation, who frequently visit convenience stores and are keen on reducing communication costs, form the core customer base.A Toss Mobile representative stated, The CU partnership plan is a lifestyle-oriented product that combines communication services with everyday consumption benefits. We plan to continuously expand the partnership benefits that customers can feel in their daily lives.* This article has been translated by AI. June 8, 2026 09:18 -
Airbnb Promotes 'Imperfectly Perfect Travel' Campaign for Summer 2026 Airbnb has launched a new brand campaign titled Imperfectly Perfect Travel, encouraging travelers to break free from rigid itineraries and embrace a more relaxed pace during their vacations. According to a survey conducted by the market research firm Embrain, 97% of Korean travelers reported planning their trips in advance. Among the respondents, 55% expressed feeling that a day spent doing nothing while traveling was a waste of time and money, while 40% noted that they returned from vacations feeling more exhausted than when they left. Conversely, nearly 60% of respondents cited unexpectedly discovered places or experiences as the most memorable moments from their travels, with only 20% favoring a perfectly planned itinerary. In light of these findings, Airbnb is proposing a new way to travel for the first time in a decade. The campaign emphasizes the value of authentic relaxation, encouraging travelers to enjoy their time in independent and comfortable accommodations rather than feeling pressured to maximize every moment. In fact, 53% of respondents indicated a preference for spending time in their lodgings over engaging in external activities to truly unwind. Airbnb suggests that staying in accommodations that reflect the local atmosphere and character can enhance the travel experience. This approach allows guests to slow down and immerse themselves in the local lifestyle, utilizing spacious living areas, kitchens, and yards to create a more leisurely schedule. The campaigns promotional video captures scenes of travel that prioritize relaxation over tightly scheduled plans. This video will be aired as a television advertisement. The emphasis on seeking leisure rather than perfection aligns with global travel trends for this summer. According to Airbnbs travel trend report released on May 27, one in three travelers prefers short trips to nearby destinations rather than long-distance vacations. In the United States, there is a growing trend for playcations, where travelers seek accommodations near golf courses or lakes to enjoy their hobbies. Additionally, interest in smaller, charming towns has surged, with 86% of travelers expressing a desire to visit these locales instead of crowded, popular resorts. Suh Ga-yeon, Country Manager for Airbnb Korea, stated, We designed this campaign to offer Korean travelers a way to fill the void left by rigid planning with the joy of simply being. This summer, we hope travelers will experience the value of Imperfectly Perfect Travel by staying at the diverse spaces available on Airbnb at their own pace.* This article has been translated by AI. June 7, 2026 15:57 -
Japan's National Cancer Center Recommends Abstaining from Alcohol to Prevent Cancer Japans National Cancer Center has strengthened its alcohol consumption guidelines in its cancer prevention recommendations, shifting from advising moderation to recommending complete abstinence. This change reflects accumulating research indicating that even small amounts of alcohol can increase the risk of developing cancer. According to the Yomiuri Shimbun, the National Cancer Center announced on June 3 that it has released an updated version of its booklet titled 5+1 Cancer Prevention Methods Based on Scientific Evidence. This booklet presents lifestyle habits that can reduce cancer risk, based on research conducted on the Japanese population. The most notable change in this revision is the alcohol consumption guideline. Previously, the center recommended moderation for drinkers, but the latest edition now advises against drinking altogether. The centers analysis of studies on Japanese individuals confirms that alcohol consumption significantly increases the risk of esophageal, liver, colorectal, and head and neck cancers, and it also establishes a strong link between alcohol and stomach cancer in men and breast cancer in premenopausal women. The research team explained that for certain cancers, the risk increases progressively with higher alcohol intake, and there is no safe level of drinking. Therefore, from a cancer prevention perspective, abstaining from alcohol is deemed the most advisable approach. The guidelines regarding body weight have also been adjusted. The National Cancer Center has lowered the recommended upper limit for body mass index (BMI) for men from 27 to 25, reflecting the increased cancer risk associated with higher BMI. Both men and women are now advised to maintain a BMI in the range of 21 to 25. However, the center also noted that being excessively underweight can increase cancer risk, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a healthy weight. The updated booklet is structured around five lifestyle habits, plus an additional focus on infection prevention, termed the 5+1 approach. Recommendations include not smoking or being exposed to secondhand smoke, reducing salt intake while increasing consumption of vegetables and fruits, allowing hot foods and beverages to cool before consumption, and increasing physical activity in daily life. It also includes guidelines for screenings and vaccinations to combat cancer-causing pathogens. Given Japans deep-rooted culture of workplace drinking and social drinking, these recommendations are seen as a call for a broader change in lifestyle habits. The National Cancer Center has made it clear that, contrary to the common belief that a little drinking is fine, the best approach to cancer prevention is to avoid alcohol altogether.* This article has been translated by AI. June 5, 2026 17:33