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Samsung deepens Galaxy Watch heart-health push SEOUL, September 09 (AJP) - The smartwatch is no longer merely a supplement to a smartphone. Samsung Electronics is pushing its latest Galaxy Watch deeper into preventive health care, seeking to turn a device once used mainly for checking messages and counting steps into an always-on health monitor capable of spotting changes before users themselves notice them. The effort also puts Samsung in a more direct contest with Apple, which has steadily transformed the Apple Watch into a health platform with electrocardiograms, irregular heart rhythm alerts, sleep apnea detection and, more recently, notifications for signs of chronic hypertension. Samsung on Wednesday held a press briefing in Seoul to highlight a suite of heart and health-monitoring functions built around its Galaxy Watch9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra2, unveiled in July. At the center of the latest upgrade is Heart Health Score, a Samsung Health feature that combines sleep, physical activity, body composition and vascular stress trends into a single assessment of factors affecting cardiovascular health. Rather than simply displaying individual measurements, the feature is designed to tell users how their everyday habits may be influencing their long-term heart health and provide personalized guidance on what they could change. Another new feature, Vitals, continuously looks for deviations from an individual's normal physiological patterns. After a user wears the Galaxy Watch during sleep for at least seven nights, it establishes a personal baseline using five biometric signals — heart rate, heart rate variability, respiratory rate, skin temperature and blood oxygen saturation. The watch can then flag measurements that move outside the user's normal range. The concept illustrates the direction in which the wearable industry is moving. The competition is increasingly less about how many physiological measurements a watch can collect and more about whether software can convert those measurements into information that a user can understand and act upon. Apple has been pursuing much the same approach. Its Vitals app, introduced with watchOS 11 in 2024, also establishes a user's typical overnight ranges and can issue a notification when multiple metrics fall outside them. Apple monitors heart rate, respiratory rate, wrist temperature, blood oxygen where available and sleep duration. Samsung's Vitals therefore represents less an entirely new category than an attempt to build a more comprehensive Samsung Health alternative around the same emerging idea of personalized baseline monitoring. Where Samsung is trying to put more distance between itself and Apple is in what it can measure — and how those measurements are combined. Galaxy Watch9's Heart Health Score incorporates factors including body composition, an area where Samsung has had a hardware advantage for several generations. Galaxy Watches equipped with bioelectrical impedance analysis, or BIA, can estimate body fat, skeletal muscle, body water, body mass index and other body-composition indicators directly from the wrist. The measurements are intended for general wellness rather than medical diagnosis. The information also feeds into Samsung's Fitness Index, which combines body composition, exercise records and other indicators to assess a user's fitness level and recommend goals. Blood pressure provides an even clearer point of distinction. Samsung's Galaxy Watch can estimate blood pressure after being calibrated against a conventional upper-arm cuff, with recalibration required every 28 days. The capability, previously limited by regulatory approval in some markets, became available to eligible U.S. Galaxy users in March this year. The Galaxy Watch9 goes a step further with a blood-pressure trend feature that can provide an estimate of morning blood pressure after users wear the calibrated watch overnight. Apple has taken a different route. Apple Watch Series 9 and later models and Apple Watch Ultra 2 and later can analyze cardiovascular patterns over a 30-day period and warn users when the data suggest possible chronic hypertension. The Apple feature does not provide a conventional systolic-and-diastolic blood-pressure reading. Users who receive a hypertension notification are instead advised to measure their blood pressure with a separate cuff for seven days and take the results to a medical professional. Apple introduced the hypertension notification feature in South Korea in January this year. The difference highlights two competing approaches to turning consumer electronics into health devices. Samsung is placing more measurement tools directly on the wrist, while Apple has often focused on detecting longer-term patterns that may warrant further medical examination. Neither approach turns a smartwatch into a doctor. Samsung and Apple repeatedly caution that their watches are not substitutes for professional diagnosis or treatment, an increasingly important distinction as consumer devices move closer to areas traditionally occupied by medical equipment. Choi Jong-min, vice president of Samsung Electronics' Digital Health Team, said continuous monitoring is one of the biggest advantages wearable devices can bring to preventive health care. Samsung has been developing heart-monitoring technology for its wearable devices for more than a decade. Its Gear 2 and Gear Fit, released in 2014, included optical photoplethysmography, or PPG, sensors for measuring heart rates. The company later added electrocardiogram measurement, blood-pressure monitoring and irregular heart rhythm notifications. Its irregular heart rhythm notification, designed to identify rhythms suggestive of atrial fibrillation, has received clearance from both South Korea's Ministry of Food and Drug Safety and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Sleep has become another area where the two companies have steadily converged. Samsung received the first FDA De Novo authorization for a smartwatch sleep apnea feature in 2024 and has upgraded the latest version to analyze breathing disruptions during sleep using artificial intelligence. Apple introduced its own sleep apnea notifications later in 2024. Its system uses the accelerometer to detect small wrist movements associated with breathing disturbances and evaluates the pattern over 30 days before alerting users to possible moderate-to-severe sleep apnea. Apple's sleep apnea notification became available in South Korea in September 2025, meaning both companies now compete over many of the same medically sensitive functions in Samsung's home market. For Samsung, however, the objective is increasingly to connect those individual functions into something closer to an early-warning system. The company cited cases in which alerts from Galaxy Watches prompted users to seek medical help. One user in Jordan received repeated irregular heart rhythm notifications and later sought medical attention, leading to the discovery of atrial fibrillation, according to Choi. Another user in Brazil recorded an electrocardiogram after noticing an abnormal heartbeat and shared the result with a doctor before receiving treatment. "The most important thing is that these people were able to detect the signs before reaching a critical moment and receive treatment in time," Choi said. Samsung is also trying to extend that monitoring beyond the person wearing the device. Samsung Health allows users to share information such as heart rate, stress, blood oxygen, sleep and body composition with family members, allowing relatives to follow changes remotely. Samsung said the capability could be particularly useful for families monitoring elderly parents who live alone or apart. Samsung views the Galaxy Ring and Galaxy Watch as complementary rather than competing form factors, with the lighter ring suited to continuous and overnight monitoring and the watch offering a display, exercise functions and broader interaction. When both are used, health information is brought together through Samsung Health. Users can also alternate between the devices while charging them, reducing gaps in monitoring, while Samsung says wearing both can extend the Ring's battery life by up to 30 percent by allowing the Watch to take over some overlapping measurements. When asked how Galaxy Watch differentiates itself from smart rings such as Oura Ring in markets including the United States, Choi said the two form factors serve somewhat different purposes. He characterized rings as more lifestyle-oriented devices, while watches offer broader functionality, particularly for sports and exercise, on top of health monitoring. The strategy gives Samsung something Apple does not yet have — a first-party ring feeding data into the same health ecosystem as its smartphone and watch. But Samsung still has considerable ground to defend in the smartwatch market. Apple, despite slipping behind Huawei globally in the second quarter, still accounted for 20 percent of worldwide smartwatch shipments and recorded the fastest year-on-year growth among the five largest brands, according to Counterpoint Research. The pressure is particularly visible in North America, an important premium market. Apple smartwatch shipments there rose 13 percent from a year earlier in the second quarter, while Samsung's fell 13 percent. AJP Takeaways - Samsung is expanding Galaxy Watch beyond fitness tracking with Heart Health Score and continuous monitoring features aimed at preventive health management. - The company's wearable health push builds on more than a decade of heart-monitoring technology, ranging from PPG sensors to ECG and irregular heart rhythm notifications. - Samsung sees Galaxy Watch and Galaxy Ring as complementary devices as it seeks to strengthen its health ecosystem and compete across different wearable form factors overseas. September 9, 2026 1 -
Samsung Electronics Expands Health Ecosystem with Galaxy Watch Samsung Electronics has unveiled advanced healthcare technology that goes beyond blood pressure and electrocardiogram (ECG) measurements to provide a comprehensive heart health score using the Galaxy Watch and Samsung Health app. Choi Jong-min, Senior Vice President of Samsung Electronics MX Business Digital Health Team, expressed a strong commitment to realizing non-invasive continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technology during a briefing at the companys press room on September 9. He aims to develop technology that allows real-time blood sugar monitoring on the wrist without the need for blood draws, enhancing Samsung Health into a truly comprehensive healthcare platform. On this day, Samsung presented its vision for smart healthcare, which monitors subtle physical changes 24/7 to detect and prevent serious illnesses early. In anticipation of World Heart Day on September 29, the company emphasized a smart health management ecosystem that enables continuous monitoring to recognize warning signs and take immediate action. The Heart Health Score feature, available on the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 and Watch 9, analyzes sleep, activity levels, vascular stress, and body composition to provide intuitive scores and actionable guidance. For instance, if vascular stress is high, it recommends a low-sodium diet and meals rich in whole grains. The Vital Signs feature tracks five key indicators—heart rate, heart rate variability, and respiratory rate—during sleep, sending immediate alerts when significant deviations from normal values are detected. Choi stated, The key is not just measuring indicators but proactively detecting subtle anomalies through artificial intelligence (AI) and sensor technology. We have refined the algorithms to help users intuitively understand their physical condition and improve their lifestyle habits. The recently upgraded Samsung Health version 7.0 supports Connected Care, allowing families to share health information. With user consent, key biometric data can be shared among family members, enabling children to monitor their parents irregular health metrics and respond proactively to any concerning changes. Choi noted, Connected Care, which allows children to check and respond to their parents health status in real-time from a distance, is one of the true values that smart healthcare should pursue. The accumulated data can also serve as valuable reference material during hospital visits, significantly lowering communication barriers with healthcare professionals. Since introducing optical heart rate (PPG) sensors in 2014, Samsung has continuously advanced its monitoring technology. In 2020, it obtained medical device approval for its blood pressure and ECG measurement apps, and in 2021, the Galaxy Watch 4 integrated PPG, ECG, and bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) sensors into a single BioActive Sensor, setting a new standard for wrist-based healthcare. In 2023, the company received approvals from the U.S. FDA and South Koreas Ministry of Food and Drug Safety for its irregular heart rhythm notification (IHRN) feature, contributing to the early prevention of serious conditions like atrial fibrillation. There have been successful cases of early detection and treatment of atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction through irregular rhythm notifications and ECG assessments in both domestic and international settings. Regarding global regulatory approvals and future specifications, Choi remarked, Gaining approvals from various countries food and drug administrations and the FDA is a challenging task that requires rigorous clinical data and safety validation. However, since it directly relates to users lives, we will prioritize trustworthiness in our verification process. We will continue to introduce preventive-focused smart healthcare services in the future.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1 -
Choosing the Right Sunscreen: More Than Just SPF Numbers When selecting a sunscreen, the first thing that catches the eye is often the label, such as SPF 50+ or PA++. While a higher sun protection factor (SPF) or UVA protection grade (PA) may suggest a better product, the effectiveness of sunscreen is not solely determined by these numbers. Factors such as the duration of sun exposure, the environment in which one is active, and the proper application technique play crucial roles in its effectiveness.First, it is essential to understand the meanings of SPF and PA. SPF indicates the level of protection against ultraviolet B (UVB) rays, with values up to 50 displayed numerically and anything above that marked as 50+. PA signifies the level of protection against ultraviolet A (UVA) rays, with more + signs indicating greater protection. However, higher values may also increase the likelihood of skin sensitivity, so it is advisable to consider ones skin condition and activity environment when making a selection.So, what type of product should one choose? Dermatologists generally recommend using a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays.If most of your activities involve commuting or staying indoors, a sunscreen with SPF 30 and PA++ or higher is sufficient. Conversely, for prolonged outdoor activities, hiking, sports, or swimming, products with SPF 50 and PA+++ or higher are recommended. Even water-resistant sunscreens should be reapplied after swimming or sweating. The key is not to choose the highest number but to select a product that fits your lifestyle.When choosing a product, it is also important to consider the ingredients. Sunscreens are generally categorized into physical (mineral) and chemical (organic) types. Physical sunscreens work by reflecting UV rays away from the skin. They may leave a white cast but are typically less irritating. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV energy to block it, offering better spreadability but may cause irritation for sensitive skin.Once you have selected a suitable product, the next step is proper application. Many consumers overlook the amount of sunscreen needed. For the face, it is recommended to use about the size of a 500-won coin, and for the entire body, about the amount of a shot glass. However, consistently applying this amount daily can be challenging.According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), most consumers apply only 20% to 50% of the recommended amount of sunscreen. Men often find the sticky texture off-putting, while women may worry about makeup smudging, leading to insufficient application. However, without applying enough, it is difficult to expect effective sun protection.This makes the choice of formulation important. Creams are easier to apply in sufficient amounts on the face and are suitable for dry skin. Gels are good for oily skin or hairy areas, while sticks are convenient for applying to thin areas like around the eyes or for reapplication on the go. Sprays are popular among parents for easy application on childrens skin, but it can be hard to ensure an adequate and even application. It is advisable to spray until the skin is sufficiently damp and then spread it with your hands.Using sunscreen only in the summer is a common misconception. The sun emits UV rays regardless of the season, and a significant portion of UV rays can penetrate through clouds on overcast days. In winter, snow and ice can strongly reflect UV rays, exposing individuals to levels comparable to summer. In fact, the UV reflection rate from snow is reported to be around 80% to 90%.To be effective, sunscreen must be used correctly. Apply a sufficient amount about 15 minutes before going outside, and reapply every two hours if engaging in prolonged outdoor activities or sweating. Choosing a product that fits your lifestyle and maintaining proper application habits are the most practical ways to reduce skin aging and damage caused by UV rays.* This article has been translated by AI. September 8, 2026 1
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Hair Salon in Hwachon Reflects Changes After Military Base Closure In the evenings, the laughter of young women coming in for haircuts never stopped, said Byeon Mi-ja, the owner of Baekjo Hair Salon in Sachang-ri, Hwachon County. Byeon opened her salon in the early 1970s near the current location of Ediya Coffee. After moving twice, she has operated Baekjo Hair Salon at its current site for nearly 50 years.Over the past half-century, the landscape of Sachang-ri has changed significantly. From a bustling street filled with soldiers, residents, and merchants to the present day, following the disbandment of the Armys 27th Division, Baekjo Hair Salon has witnessed the evolution of the area.The history of Sachang-ri predates the military base. According to local historical records, the name originated from a warehouse of the former Satanhyang and was also known as Silheungchangmal or Changmal. After administrative reorganization in 1914, it became Sachang-ri. In 1954, Sachang-ri was incorporated into Hwachon County from Pocheon County, Gyeonggi Province, and that same year, the township office moved from Gwangdeok-ri to Sachang-ri. Subsequently, Sachang-ri expanded in 1970 and again in 1974.The establishment of the military base significantly transformed the modern history of Sachang-ri. The 27th Division, founded in 1953, was stationed in Sachang-ri from 1963 until its disbandment in 2022, serving the community for 59 years. The 1970s, when Baekjo Hair Salon opened, marked a vibrant period for the local economy, driven by the presence of soldiers. When soldiers were on leave, restaurants, bars, and cafes thrived, creating a natural market catering to military personnel.On days when soldiers returned from long training sessions, the entire street would come alive. Byeon recalled, When soldiers returned from training, the cafes and bars would have women waiting on the streets with drinks and flowers. The neighborhood was so lively that even those unfamiliar with the area knew it was a day for soldiers returns.Residents also remember the strict military discipline of the time, with military police patrolling Sachang-ri to check on soldiers during their leaves. One resident noted, The military police would patrol the streets, and soldiers were quite fearful of them.During that time, Baekjo Hair Salon was busy. Byeon mentioned that Sachang-ri had many cafes, and the area around Sachang 4-ri was home to numerous bars known as bangseokjip. Women preparing for evening shifts would come in for haircuts between 5 and 7 p.m.At that time, the salon was always noisy. Laughter was constant, she said.The laughter that filled the small salon was a reflection of the vibrancy of Sachang-ris economy. In an era without cell phones or the internet, cafes served as social hubs where soldiers and residents naturally interacted.The relationship between soldiers and residents extended beyond mere consumption. Residents and merchants would applaud and offer flowers and drinks to soldiers returning from training. This unique lifestyle culture in Sachang-ri developed over many years of coexistence between the military and the community.As time passed, the scenery outside Baekjo Hair Salon changed. The military service environment and soldiers consumer culture evolved, and the once-bustling street gradually diminished. The decisive change came with the disbandment of the 27th Division.When the disbandment became a reality, a rally against it was held on October 8, 2019, during the Yonghwa Festival in Hwachon County. Residents demanded the reversal of the disbandment and measures to support the local economy. However, the 27th Division was officially disbanded in November 2022, and in December of that year, the Hwachon County Council addressed the issue of the collapse of the local economy in Sachang-ri due to the divisions closure.With the military base that had been part of the community for 59 years gone, the street outside Baekjo Hair Salon is no longer the same. The sight of soldiers walking in groups and the bustling shops filled with soldiers on leave have become memories for residents.However, time is moving forward in Sachang-ri once again. On the night of September 3, the first Byeolbyeol Night Market at the Sachang-ri 5-day market attracted around 1,500 visitors, including residents, military families, soldiers, visitors, and foreign workers, according to Hwachon County statistics. The market featured food stalls, flea markets, and a singing contest, filling the once-quiet evening streets with people.In the past, the local economy thrived when soldiers were on leave. Now, residents and merchants are beginning to create reasons for people to visit.Another significant change is on the horizon for Sachang-ri. The Gwangdeok Tunnel, which will connect Hwachon Countys Saneum-myeon with Pocheon City in Gyeonggi Province, is set to complete its design phase in June 2027, with construction expected to begin in the second half of that year and completion aimed for 2031. Once the tunnel is completed, access between Saneum-myeon and the metropolitan area is expected to improve significantly.However, simply improving access does not guarantee a revival of the local economy. While it could become a route for people from the metropolitan area to enter, it may also serve as a pathway for local consumption to flow out. Ultimately, the challenge will be to create reasons for people to stop in Sachang-ri rather than just pass through.Hwachon County is also preparing for the post-Gwangdeok Tunnel era. County Mayor Kim Se-hoon presented plans for tourism development connecting Mount Hwaak, Samil Valley, Chotdaebawi, Gokun Valley, and healing centers during a residents briefing last month. Many of these plans are still in the conceptual stage, with various procedures such as development studies, feasibility assessments, permits, and funding still to be completed before they can become actual projects.The history of Sachang-ri can also be an asset. The memories of a once-bustling street filled with soldiers, the scenes of residents offering flowers and drinks to returning soldiers, the cafes, and the long-standing shops represent the unique lifestyle of Sachang-ri.One of the spaces that remembers that time is Baekjo Hair Salon. After opening in the early 1970s and moving twice, it has witnessed the changes in Sachang-ri for about 50 years at its current location. Countless soldiers, residents, and merchants have passed through its doors, and in the evenings, the laughter of women filled the salon. On days when soldiers returned from training, the entire street would come alive.Now, the Victory Division, which had been part of the community for 59 years, has left. By 2031, a new path, the Gwangdeok Tunnel, is expected to be established in Sachang-ri. The era when the military brought people to the area is shifting to one where the community must create its own reasons for attracting visitors.Byeon Mi-ja continues to cut hair at Baekjo Hair Salon today. Although the street outside has changed, the salon remains steadfast in its place.The era when soldiers filled the streets has ended. Now, Sachang-ri stands at another crossroads, needing to create reasons for people to come.* This article has been translated by AI. September 8, 2026 1
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Yong-cheol and Soon-ja from 'I Am Solo' Tie the Knot After Breakup and Reunion Yong-cheol and Soon-ja from the 23rd season of I Am Solo have become a couple after overcoming a breakup. On September 6, Yong-cheol shared photos from their wedding on his social media account. In the photos, the couple gazes lovingly at each other in a venue overlooking the Han River. Friends from their season attended the wedding to celebrate the couples future together. On the YouTube channel Chonjang Entertainment TV, which is associated with ENA and SBS PLUSs I Am Solo, they revealed behind-the-scenes stories from the wedding. Sang-cheol, who attended the ceremony, jokingly mentioned, I will be getting married soon, so I received the bouquet at this event, while Yong-soo shared, I am currently dating someone with marriage in mind. The couple initially did not choose each other on the show but developed a romantic relationship, experienced a breakup, and eventually reunited to get married. In July, Yong-cheol announced their wedding news on Chonjang Entertainment TV, explaining the reason for their breakup: I caused a lot of trouble. I enjoy socializing, and after the show, my network expanded, which was fun. I think I paid less attention to the relationship, and conflicts deepened, leading to our breakup. At that time, Soon-ja was preparing to appear on I Am Solo: Four Seasons. Yong-cheol said, When I heard about her participation in I Am Solo: Four Seasons, I tried to convince her not to go. Soon-ja said she wanted to follow her own path. I didnt want to let her go. It had only been a month or two since we broke up, and I still had lingering feelings. I wanted to interfere somehow, but she wanted to confirm her own feelings. However, after Soon-ja appeared on I Am Solo: Four Seasons, she faced a difficult time due to malicious messages and criticism, and Yong-cheol reportedly supported her during this period. He said, Soon-ja went through a lot of emotional turmoil after filming I Am Solo: Four Seasons. She received insults about her family through DMs and cried a lot. I followed her around during performances to comfort her. Soon-ja recalled, He took leave from work to attend all my performances. The event staff thought he was my manager. He quietly supported me, taking time off to ensure nothing would happen to me. The couples reunion stemmed from Yong-cheols changes. Soon-ja said, I told him that if he showed focused effort for three months, I would reconsider. Yong-cheol actually set a curfew for himself and tried to change his lifestyle. After reuniting, they continued their relationship with marriage in mind and finally tied the knot on September 5. The couple held their wedding in a venue with a view of the Han River. The rental fee for the wedding hall was reported to be 12 million won. In a YouTube video, Yong-cheol mentioned that the total cost varies depending on the number of guests, stating, If there are 500 guests, the food expenses alone would be nearly 100 million won. Meanwhile, Soon-ja is known to be active as a cellist, while Yong-cheol is employed at an automobile company. The couple has been sharing their wedding preparation process since announcing their engagement in July, culminating in their wedding at a wedding hall near Han River Park on September 5.* This article has been translated by AI. September 8, 2026 1
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LF Barbour Launches Third Collaborative Collection with Paul Smith LF, a lifestyle and culture company, has launched the third collaborative collection of the British heritage brand Barbour with British designer brand Paul Smith. This collection modernizes British classics by incorporating Barbours heritage with Paul Smiths distinctive colors and wit.On September 7, Barbour announced the release of its third collaboration with Paul Smith. The collection, inspired by the Highland Games, a traditional Scottish sports festival, features a total of 38 items, including clothing, shoes, and accessories. It utilizes unexpected materials such as merino wool and corduroy, along with seasonal colors.Recently, the fashion industry has seen brands actively reinterpret their long-established design assets and iconic styles with contemporary sensibilities to strengthen their brand identities. This approach goes beyond merely restoring past popular products or designs; it expands the unique history and design codes of the brand with new materials, colors, and narratives to connect with a new generation.The core of the collaboration is the reinterpretation of Barbours signature tartan. Paul Smith has added his unique color sense and patchwork of various fabric pieces to Barbours classic and muted tartans, creating a distinctive design for both brands.The standout item, the Viewport Jacket, has been reimagined in a merino wool fabric featuring a windowpane check pattern, while the Transport Jacket is presented in charcoal mélange merino wool. A deep navy corduroy version of the Viewport Jacket has also been introduced.Classic wax jackets now feature new seasonal colors such as russet and bottle green. Additionally, knitwear with Paul Smiths signature stripes, tartan patchwork shirts, Wellington boots, and pin badges are included in the collection.The 2026 Fall/Winter campaign tells a story set against the backdrop of Scotlands nature and the Highland Games. Continuing from the previous season, Leon Ward directed the campaign, adding a touch of restrained British humor to Scotlands natural beauty, traditions, and craftsmanship.A Barbour representative stated, The third collaboration with Paul Smith is a collection that preserves Barbours tartan and iconic outerwear heritage while adding Paul Smiths unique colors and wit. We aimed to convey the shared British identity of both brands in a new way, from the products to the campaign.Meanwhile, LF has a diverse portfolio of imported brands, including Barbour, the American outdoor footwear brand Keen, and the recovery footwear brand Ufos.* This article has been translated by AI. September 7, 2026 1
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Hanssem Proposes Unique Space Value Through Advanced Kitchen Design and Consultation Hanssem announced on September 7 that it held the Second Hanssem Euro Layout Festival on September 2 for its nationwide rehousing designers (RDs). This years event, following its inaugural festival in 2024, aimed to discover outstanding design and consultation cases utilizing Hanssems kitchen brand Euro. Participants were tasked with selecting an apartment blueprint based on actual living spaces and a customer persona to solve. Judging was divided into two categories: design and consultation. In the design category, evaluations focused on customer understanding, budget adherence, convenience of movement and storage, and overall design. The consultation category assessed persuasiveness, communication skills, and expertise in materials and appliances. Out of over 2,000 Hanssem RDs nationwide, 205 advanced to the finals, with seven reaching the final round. The winner was Jeong Yeong-hak, an RD from the Hanssem Rehouse Busan Central Agency, who designed a kitchen for a couple in their late 60s. He meticulously analyzed the lifestyle of the wife, who has knee and back issues, cooks Korean meals for over three hours daily, and enjoys tea ceremonies and gardening. Jeong restructured the existing long, linear layout and wall-facing design to present a kitchen concept focused on moving less and enjoying comfort together. Jeong stated, “I believe the success came from deeply considering the customers actual life and the necessary space, not just creating a beautiful kitchen. I will continue to design unique kitchens that perfectly capture the hearts of our customers.” Kim Yu-jin, CEO of Hanssem, remarked, “Thanks to the sincere responses and meticulous designs from our RDs towards each customer, Hanssem has been able to grow together. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the RDs for their hard work.” Meanwhile, Hanssem plans to incorporate the high-quality blueprints and consultation know-how discovered during this festival into its nationwide RD training system. * This article has been translated by AI. September 7, 2026 1
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CJ CheilJedang Opens Flavoring Technology Center in Singapore to Target Asia-Pacific Market CJ CheilJedang has established a technical support hub for flavoring materials in Singapore, enhancing its strategy to penetrate the Asia-Pacific market. The company aims to expand collaboration with local food companies by supporting technology development and commercialization of flavoring materials.On September 7, CJ CheilJedang announced the opening of its Global Technical Center for flavoring materials at the Biopolis research complex in Singapore. This center is the fourth of its kind, following those in Korea, Chicago, and Wageningen, and will provide technical support to clients in the Asia-Pacific region.The Global Technical Center will develop technologies to apply CJ CheilJedangs flavoring materials to products produced by clients, ensuring the desired taste is achieved. The center will also assist in the commercialization process to apply the developed technologies to actual products. Key flavoring materials include TasteNrich, CJ TIDE, and Add-Mi nucleic acid solutions.CJ CheilJedang plans to use the Singapore center as a base to expand technical exchanges and collaborations with major food companies in neighboring countries. The company aims to develop tailored solutions for clients products, particularly focusing on the premium flavoring material TasteNrich to boost sales in the Asia-Pacific region.TasteNrich is a natural flavoring material produced using CJ CheilJedangs microbial fermentation research and development technology. It is made from naturally derived ingredients, such as sugarcane, without artificial additives. By utilizing TasteNrich, food manufacturers can maintain flavor while reducing sodium and other additive content. CJ CheilJedang plans to diversify the TasteNrich product line to provide flavor solutions tailored to client needs.Previously, CJ CheilJedang held an opening ceremony for the Singapore Global Technical Center on September 1, attended by officials from the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB) and the South Korean Embassy in Singapore. From September 2 to 4, the company invited key clients from the Asia-Pacific region to showcase its flavor and nutrient products and food application solutions.A representative from CJ CheilJedang stated, The Singapore Global Technical Center will enable us to collaborate more closely with clients in the Asia-Pacific region. We will provide solutions that meet both health and taste requirements based on our differentiated technology and product capabilities.Earlier, in July, CJ CheilJedang restructured its business model from a focus on food and bio to three sectors: lifestyle food, technical materials, and core materials. The technical materials division includes global flavoring materials such as nucleic acids and the natural flavoring material TasteNrich, as well as eco-friendly plastic materials like PHA.* This article has been translated by AI. September 7, 2026 1
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Hyundai Expands Pleos Connect App Market with Seven New Apps Hyundai Motor Groups next-generation infotainment system, Pleos Connect, is set to add seven new apps, including the music streaming service Melon and the navigation service KakaoNavi.Fortytwo Dot, Hyundais software subsidiary, announced on September 7 that it has expanded the open app ecosystem, known as the app market, by adding these new applications.With this update, the number of domestic apps available in the app market has increased from 11 to 18.Fortytwo Dot focused on enhancing the app experience between mobile devices and vehicles, adding apps that are frequently used in cars, such as navigation and music streaming.The company plans to continue expanding its app offerings in collaboration with domestic and international companies, aiming to include services in gaming, vehicle management, and lifestyle categories.Currently, the app market is available in Hyundai Motor Groups domestic models equipped with Pleos Connect, such as the New Grandeur and the All-New Avante. As more models adopt Pleos Connect, the number of vehicles that can access the app market is expected to grow.Meanwhile, Hyundai Motor Group aims to implement Pleos Connect as a core platform for software-defined vehicles (SDV), planning to apply it to approximately 20 million Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis vehicles by 2030.* This article has been translated by AI. September 7, 2026 0
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2026 Yeosu World Island Expo Kicks Off with Two-Month Celebration The 2026 Yeosu World Island Expo officially opened on September 5 in Yeosu, South Jeolla Province, marking the start of a two-month event. The opening ceremony was held at the main venue in Yeosu, organized by the South Jeolla-Gwangju Integrated Special City, Yeosu City, and the 2026 Yeosu World Island Expo Organizing Committee, and will run until November 4. More than 5,000 attendees were present, including Min Hyung-bae, the mayor of South Jeolla-Gwangju Integrated Special City, Yoon Ho-jung, Minister of the Interior and Safety, Kim Kyung-soo, Special Advisor to the President, Seo Young-hak, the mayor of Yeosu, and Park Soo-kwan, the private committee chair, along with members of the National Assembly, island residents, and visitors. The ceremony began with performances by the Yeosu Municipal Traditional Music Group and the Yeosu Municipal Choir, followed by the opening declaration, welcoming speeches, congratulatory videos, and a musical performance. The opening theme performance, a musical titled The Last Mermaid, was inspired by the Sinjiggi Legend from Geomundo, showcasing stories held by the islands and the sea. The ceremony concluded with a symbolic opening event where distinguished guests and citizens raised a Sphere of Light, followed by a drone show lighting up the night sky. Performances by singers Park Ji-hyun, Kiki, and Jeon Yu-jin also entertained the crowd. Notably, the opening declaration included participation from Seo Young-hak, the mayor of Yeosu, as well as children, youth, and foreign residents, emphasizing community involvement in the event. In his welcoming speech, Mayor Min Hyung-bae stated, Each island embodies the ancient wisdom of humanitys relationship with nature. Through the 2026 Yeosu World Island Expo, which is the first of its kind to feature islands as the main focus, we look forward to new possibilities unfolding over the next two months in Yeosus islands and sea. Earlier that morning, a ceremony was held in front of the theme island at the main venue, attended by about 100 people, including Hwang Gi-yeon, the Deputy Mayor of South Jeolla-Gwangju Integrated Special City, Seo Young-hak, Mayor of Yeosu, Park Soo-kwan, the private committee chair, members of the National Assembly, island residents, and visitors. The opening festivities began with a welcoming parade featuring the expo character Dasami, followed by photo opportunities, a ribbon-cutting ceremony, and commemorative photos. The first ticket purchasers and volunteers also participated in the opening event. The expo, themed Connecting Islands, Sea, and Future, will showcase various programs centered around the main venue in the Dolsan Jinmo area, as well as Geodo and Geumo Island, and the Yeosu World Expo site. At the main venue, exhibitions and cultural performances will explore the current value and future vision of islands, while Geodo and Geumo Island will offer programs such as camping, trekking, and local food experiences, allowing visitors to enjoy the islands firsthand. The South Jeolla-Gwangju Integrated Special City, Yeosu City, and the organizing committee plan to operate the expo as an event that goes beyond mere observation, allowing participants to directly experience the nature, culture, and lifestyle of the islands and explore their future value. The 2026 Yeosu World Island Expo will continue until November 4, featuring programs that introduce the ecological, cultural, and tourism resources of the islands, showcasing the diverse attractions of Yeosus islands to both domestic and international visitors.* This article has been translated by AI. September 6, 2026 1
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Samsung AI Appliances Win Four Innovation Awards at IFA 2026 Samsung Electronics received four innovation awards at the IFA 2026, Europe’s largest electronics exhibition, showcasing its artificial intelligence (AI) appliances. The company’s air conditioner won awards in both the design and appliance categories, while two types of refrigerators were recognized in their respective categories. This highlights the expanding competition in home appliances, where AI is enhancing user lifestyles and space efficiency.On September 4, Samsung announced that it won one Best Innovation in Design award, one Innovation award, and two Appliance Innovation awards at the event held in Berlin, Germany.The IFA Innovation Awards, launched last year, received over 500 entries from manufacturers and startups worldwide in its inaugural year. This year, an international jury evaluated submissions based on technological innovation, completeness, user experience, and market applicability.The standout product was the Bespoke AI Wind-Free Combo Pro Wall-Mounted Air Conditioner, which won both the Best Innovation in Design and an Appliance Innovation award. The product features a simplified flat front and positions micro-holes for the wind-free function at the bottom, reducing the bulky appearance typical of wall-mounted air conditioners.Its AI capabilities reflect user movements and sleep patterns. A motion radar sensor detects location and movement, providing seven airflow options, and it includes a Wearable Good Sleep feature that adjusts cooling based on actual sleep patterns in conjunction with a Galaxy Watch. This represents a shift from appliances waiting for user commands to those that autonomously adjust based on lifestyle data.The Bespoke AI Family Hub refrigerator received the Innovation award in the design category. It features a 32-inch screen and Voice ID technology that distinguishes between voices, along with a Now Brief function that displays personalized information. The AI Vision system, which identifies internal ingredients, has been enhanced with Google Gemini to broaden its recognition capabilities. It also suggests recipes based on stored ingredients.The Bespoke AI Hybrid 4-Door Kitchen Fit Max refrigerator, which won an Appliance Innovation award, focuses on space efficiency and cooling technology. It is designed to allow door openings with just 4mm of clearance on either side. It employs AI Hybrid Cooling, using a compressor for regular cooling and a Peltier semiconductor element when the door is frequently opened or when large quantities of ingredients are added.This year at IFA, Samsung is emphasizing AI Living by showcasing not just appliances but also TVs and mobile devices together. From September 2 to 6, a separate exhibition space has been set up in Berlins Humboldt Carré to demonstrate how AI connects across daily life. The award-winning products align with Samsungs strategy of prioritizing AI and connectivity over individual product performance.* This article has been translated by AI. September 4, 2026 2
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CJ Hosts 'CJ Night' to Showcase K-Lifestyle at Frieze Seoul 2026 CJ introduced its K-lifestyle content, including K-food, K-beauty, and K-pop, to global cultural and artistic figures visiting South Korea for the prestigious art fair, Frieze Seoul 2026.On September 2, CJ held the CJ Night in Celebration of Frieze Seoul at the Leeum Museum in Seoul, attended by over 400 guests from the art and cultural sectors, as well as business leaders.This marks the third time CJ has organized the CJ Night event during Frieze Seoul, following similar events in 2022 and 2024. This year, the event not only facilitated exchanges among cultural figures but also showcased the content and brands of CJs major affiliates, highlighting various collaboration opportunities.CJ CheilJedang and CJ Foodville prepared a food and beverage program centered around K-food. They featured dishes from CJ CheilJedangs Korean cuisine talent development project Cuisine. K, along with products from the global Korean food brand Bibigo and CJ Foodvilles bakery brand Tous Les Jours. Cocktails made with CJ CheilJedangs K-spirits jari were also served.Spaces were created to experience K-beauty and art. The K-Style Zone showcased CJ Olive Youngs beauty care service Skin Scan and key products from CJ OnStyle. The K-ART Zone featured major catalogs from the Leeum Museum and an exploration of the works of artist Gu Jeong-a.The performance program included elements of K-pop and other aspects of Korean popular culture. Park Geon-wook and Seok Matthew from the group ZEROBASEONE hosted the event, which featured performances by beatboxer Wing, ZEROBASEONE, and Hwasa.Attendees included CJ Vice Chairperson Lee Mi-kyung, along with executives from CJ ENM, CJ CheilJedang, and CJ Olive Young. International guests included Maya Hoffmann, founder of the European Art Foundation Luma, Jo Ryan, director of the Hammer Museum in Los Angeles, and Jessica Morgan, director of the Dia Art Foundation in New York. Artists Lee Ufan, Seo Do-ho, and Gu Jeong-a, architect Cho Min-seok, director Baz Luhrmann of the film Moulin Rouge, Hollywood actor Noah Centineo, and X JAPAN leader Yoshiki were also present.A CJ representative stated, CJ Night is an opportunity for global cultural and artistic leaders to directly experience Korean culture and lifestyle, fostering new inspiration and exchanges. We will continue to expand touchpoints to integrate K-lifestyle into the daily lives of people worldwide.* This article has been translated by AI. September 3, 2026 1
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Busan Aims to Become a 'Coffee City' by Connecting History, Specialty Coffee, and Tourism Busan is accelerating its efforts to establish a new city brand as a Coffee City, moving beyond its identity as a port city.The initiative aims to leverage the historical record of coffee consumption by Joseon people in Busan from 1884, connecting the local specialty coffee culture with tourism and industry to create a unique coffee ecosystem in the city.The city of Busan and Busan Technopark will host a citizen-participation coffee culture event, 2026 Busan Coffee Day, on September 12 at Millak Market in Suyeong District.This years event will feature eight local roasteries from Busan, three from Seoul, and one from overseas. Attendees can enjoy various coffee tastings and sales, hand-drip coffee, coffee cocktails, roasting experiences, aroma exploration programs, DJ performances, and wellness running, all integrating coffee into culture and lifestyle.Busans push to promote itself as a Coffee City is backed by a unique historical record. The Haeun Ilrok documents that in 1884, Min Geon-ho, who worked at the Busan Customs Office, was served Gabi Tea (甲斐茶). This record predates the more widely known account of King Gojong drinking coffee during the 1896 Gwangmu Restoration by 12 years.Busan Technopark views this as one of the earliest documented instances of Joseon people drinking coffee in Busan and is using it as a historical narrative for Coffee City Busan.Lee Chae-yoon, head of the Life Center at Busan Technopark, explained, This story began as we verified records like the Haeun Ilrok with related experts. It signifies that there is a record of Joseon people drinking coffee in Busan.Busan Technopark is leveraging Coffee Day to expand the citys coffee culture into industry and tourism. In recent years, it has supported coffee-related businesses, research and development, and international seminars, working to develop coffee as a regional industry. According to Busan Technopark, the scale of related projects secured in Busan over the past few years has reached approximately 20 billion won.The organization is also promoting research and development initiatives, including a coffee bean tracking system. The goal is to create an industrial ecosystem that connects coffee culture with manufacturing, technology, and tourism.Another advantage for Busan is its port. The city has favorable logistics conditions as coffee beans from abroad pass through Busan Port. However, there is a distinction between simply passing through and creating added value locally. For the coffee industry to expand, companies involved in coffee manufacturing, processing, roasting, and distribution need to establish themselves in Busan.Lee stated, It would be ideal for major production or roasting companies to set up in Busan to create an industrial base, but it is not easy to create sufficient incentives for companies to relocate here. Currently, we are in the early stages of building that industrial foundation.Busan Technopark is particularly focused on specialty coffee. The city is home to baristas and roasters who have gained recognition in national and international coffee competitions, and local coffee brands with national recognition are also growing.Busan Technopark believes that connecting this vibrant coffee culture with the city brand can differentiate it from other coffee cities like Gangneung or Jeju. The ultimate goal is to seamlessly integrate coffee into the travel itineraries of tourists visiting Busan.Lee envisions, Just as people seek out Seongshim-dang when visiting Daejeon, I hope that when tourists come to Busan, they will enjoy a delicious cup of coffee and take home some local beans or coffee products. Creating an awareness that visitors must have a cup of coffee when they come to Busan is significant in itself.Busans vision for a coffee city leans more towards being a city of consumption, culture, and tourism rather than a production hub. Similar to how cities like New York and London have become global coffee cities through unique café cultures and consumer experiences, Busan aims to build its city image by combining its port, tourism, and specialty coffee culture.The upcoming Busan Coffee Day is part of this ongoing effort. It remains to be seen whether the coffee recorded in Busan 142 years ago can evolve into a new city brand that connects local roasteries with tourism and cultural content.* This article has been translated by AI. September 3, 2026 1
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Samsung Electronics Showcases Human-Centric AI Living at IFA 2026 Samsung Electronics is showcasing its exhibition themed Your companion to AI Living at the IFA 2026, Europe’s largest electronics fair, held in Berlin from September 2 to 6 (local time).The company emphasizes the importance of technology that thoughtfully considers peoples daily lives and needs, presenting a warm and human-centric AI lifestyle.* This article has been translated by AI. September 3, 2026 0
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IFA 2026 Preview: AI and Robotics Take Center Stage as Samsung and LG Compete Samsung Electronics and LG Electronics are set to compete for dominance in future living spaces at IFA 2026, Europe’s largest consumer electronics show. Samsung will highlight its AI Living concept, which encompasses home appliances, TVs, and mobile devices, while LG will introduce AI Home, designed to understand user situations and respond proactively. Over 900 Chinese companies are also participating with AI appliances and robotics, signaling a rapid shift from a traditional electronics show to a battleground for AI and robotics ecosystems.According to industry sources, IFA 2026 will take place from September 4 to 8 in Berlin, Germany. This year marks the 102nd edition of IFA, themed The Future Is Now. More than 1,900 companies and organizations from 49 countries are expected to participate, with around 220,000 visitors anticipated. The exhibition scope has expanded beyond TVs and home appliances to include AI, robotics, and digital health.Samsung has changed its exhibition approach this year, opting for a separate experience space in downtown Berlins Humboldt Carré instead of a large-scale booth at Messe Berlin, where it has participated since 1991. The theme Your AI Daily Companion will showcase an integrated AI living experience that connects home appliances, TVs, mobile devices, and wearables.Samsung plans to extend AI across its product range, unveiling a Micro RGB TV featuring fine RGB LEDs and an interactive AI-based Vision AI Companion. In home appliances, it will showcase a Bespoke AI Family Hub refrigerator that recognizes ingredients and suggests usage methods, along with a Bespoke AI washing machine that reduces energy consumption by up to 70% compared to the European A-grade standard.LG will set up a large exhibition space in Hall 18 at Messe Berlin, promoting Innovation in Harmony with You. The company will advance its AI Appliance Orchestra concept from last year, demonstrating an AI Home that adapts appliances and services to the users lifestyle context.The centerpiece of LGs display will be the new AI agent ThinQ Claw. When users provide their schedules or situations, the AI interprets their needs and connects them with the necessary appliances and services. LG is also enhancing its European strategy by expanding its Fit & Max concept from refrigerators to washing machines, dryers, and dishwashers.While Samsung and LG have different approaches, their goals align: to move beyond integrating AI into individual products to creating a platform that manages users lives by connecting multiple devices and services. Samsung emphasizes its ecosystem that encompasses TVs, mobile devices, and home appliances, while LG focuses on combining situationally aware AI with its home appliance strengths.This year, the presence of Chinese companies is notably strong, with 932 participants, nearly half of the total exhibitors. Companies like TCL, Hisense, and Haier, along with robotics firms such as Roborock, Ecovacs, and Dreamy, will be present. Xiaomi will also make its IFA debut, showcasing an ecosystem that connects smartphones, appliances, and mobility.Robotics will be a key highlight, with around 300 companies and research institutions participating in the IFA Next future technology exhibition area. A new feature, Robots on the Runway, will showcase humanoid robots. This indicates that IFAs competitive landscape is expanding from appliance performance to lifestyle AI that operates based on AI judgment in real-world environments.As Chinese companies extend their reach beyond price competitiveness to include AI and premium appliances and robotics, Samsung and LG are being challenged to differentiate themselves beyond product performance. Industry experts predict that this years IFA will serve as a platform to assess how well the two companies have expanded their appliance competitiveness into the AI ecosystem in the European market. September 2, 2026 1