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Ildong Pharmaceutical Partners with Welt to Develop AI-Driven Digital Therapeutics Ildong Pharmaceutical announced on June 11 that it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with digital healthcare company Welt to jointly develop and commercialize AI-based digital therapeutics. The agreement aims to combine Ildongs pharmaceutical and health supplement portfolio with Welts AI agent platform, DrugOS, to enhance medication adherence and treatment outcomes through digital therapeutics. DrugOS is a platform that supports medication timing management, adverse reaction monitoring, and prediction of treatment discontinuation risks, allowing for interaction with patients to manage their treatment processes. It operates based on the digital guidelines for prescription drug use established by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the domestic digital medical product regulations. The two companies plan to accumulate real-world evidence (RWE) and validate improvements in medication adherence and treatment efficacy in response to the implementation of the digital medical product law and the introduction of digital therapeutic guidelines in the second half of this year. Initially, they will apply DrugOS to over-the-counter medications and health supplements, such as the Aranamin series, to validate the market and gather data. They intend to expand the application to prescription drugs and new or improved medications in the future. Additionally, they will gradually apply the platform to key product lines, enhancing the existing portfolio into AI-based digital therapeutics through joint development. Ildong Pharmaceutical will handle commercialization and regulatory compliance, while Welt will manage platform operations and data analysis. They also plan to pursue joint licensing opportunities with global pharmaceutical companies based on the RWE and clinical evidence obtained in South Korea. Welt established a foundation for global expansion by signing a partnership with the German Digital Health Association in 2024, becoming the first Asian company to do so, and setting up a local office in Munich. Last year, it obtained CE certification, which meets European medical device regulatory requirements, and ISO 27001, an international standard for information security management systems. Yoon Woong-seob, CEO of Ildong Pharmaceutical, stated, The integration of pharmaceuticals and digital technology will create a new paradigm that improves patient treatment experiences and outcomes beyond just medication reminder services. Through our collaboration with Welt, we aim to provide differentiated value to users and lead the digital therapeutics market.* This article has been translated by AI. June 11, 2026 13:51 -
Coupang Fined $4.7 Billion for Data Breach Affecting 37.5 Million Users The Personal Information Protection Commission has imposed a fine of 6.247 trillion won (approximately $4.7 billion) on Coupang, marking the largest penalty ever related to a single data breach incident. The breach affected a staggering 37.5 million individuals, compromising personal information including names, email addresses, home addresses, phone numbers, shared entrance codes, and order histories. Additionally, the company was found to have collected online activity records of 11.17 million users without legal justification. While the size of the fine underscores the seriousness of the situation, the core issue lies deeper than mere numbers: it reflects a failure to adequately protect customer data.In the digital economy, personal information is one of the most critical assets for companies. More accurately, personal data is not a corporate asset but a customer right. Companies do not own this information; they are entrusted with its management. Therefore, data protection transcends a simple legal obligation; it represents the fundamental trust contract between a business and its customers.The severity of this incident is heightened by the Commissions identification of the cause as a lack of basic safety management systems and negligence, rather than advanced hacking techniques. This incident was not the result of a sophisticated national-level cyberattack but rather a failure of fundamental management protocols. If issues arose in the most basic areas of data protection, such as managing authentication keys, access control, and internal monitoring systems, it indicates a managerial problem rather than a technical one.Particularly concerning is the exclusion of the Chief Privacy Officer (CPO) from the investigation and decision-making processes. The CPO is the ultimate authority responsible for overseeing data protection within a company. If this role was merely ceremonial, it suggests that the data protection system was not functioning properly. The Commissions classification of this as not just a lack of internal communication but a hollowing out of the system underscores the gravity of the situation.Another alarming aspect is the unauthorized data collection. Investigations revealed that Coupang stored user activity records from third-party websites and apps in a manner that could identify individuals. While it is a global trend for platform companies to enhance services through data utilization, such practices must be grounded in user consent and legal justification. When personal rights are violated in the name of convenience and innovation, a platforms competitive edge shifts from genuine innovation to monopolistic data collection capabilities.This incident is not solely a Coupang issue; it serves as a warning for numerous platform and online service companies to reflect on their practices. The more customer information a company possesses, the greater its responsibility. As companies grow, data protection should become a core value of management rather than a cost. For companies holding personal information of millions, prioritizing security investments, internal controls, and the independence of data protection organizations is essential.The fine of 6.247 trillion won is significant, but the issue extends beyond monetary penalties. The damage caused by a data breach cannot be remedied simply by paying a fine. Once information is leaked, it cannot be reversed, and the repercussions can last for an extended period. It is crucial to remember that the information entrusted to a company by customers is not merely a product but a testament to trust.Coupang should not view this incident as a mere legal sanction. It must follow through with thorough investigations, responsible apologies, and effective measures to prevent recurrence. The government, too, should continuously enhance the effectiveness of data protection systems and strengthen corporate accountability.In the digital economy, competitiveness is determined not by the volume of data but by the level of trust. Companies that fail to protect customer data ultimately cannot maintain customer trust. This is the most profound lesson left by the Coupang incident for our society. June 11, 2026 13:21 -
Coupang Fined Record $467 Million for Data Breaches and Security Failures The Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC) has imposed a record fine of 624.68 billion won (approximately $467 million) on Coupang, determining that the company’s failure to uphold basic data protection obligations led to the breaches. The commission found multiple violations, including unauthorized data collection, obstruction of investigations, and failure to properly dispose of personal information, surpassing the previous record set by SK Telecom. During a briefing on June 11, PIPC Chairperson Song Kyung-hee stated, This incident was not due to sophisticated hacking but rather a result of inadequate management of basic safety protocols, such as the management of authentication signing keys and access controls. We have issued a penalty in accordance with the law and principles, regardless of whether the company is domestic or international. The decision followed over 13 hours of deliberation during a full commission meeting held the previous day, which began at 10 a.m. and concluded around 11:30 p.m. Coupang representatives attended the meeting to present their views and engage in a question-and-answer session with the commissioners. The investigation began on November 20, 2025, when Coupang reported a data breach following customer complaints about a hackers extortion email. The PIPC immediately launched an investigation, forming a joint task force with the Korea Internet & Security Agency (KISA) due to the platforms significance to the public. Coupang later confirmed a much larger scale of data breaches than initially reported, leading to a second notification on November 29. In February 2026, the company reported a third breach involving approximately 165,000 additional user accounts. Investigators found that the hacker was a former Coupang employee who had left the company at the end of the previous year. The hacker exploited a signing key from an alternative authentication system developed during their employment to repeatedly access user information from April to November 2025, extracting data from approximately 33.22 million users and at least 4.33 million non-member delivery information subjects, totaling around 37.55 million individuals. The PIPC deemed Coupangs failure to implement adequate safety measures as a serious issue. The company allowed the authentication signing key to be viewed in plaintext and failed to revoke or change access to the key after the employees departure. During the attack, there were 148 million abnormal access attempts and a sudden spike in traffic, which went undetected, indicating a failure in access control. The PIPC noted, The inability to even recognize the attack signifies that access control was not functioning properly. The commission also criticized Coupangs inadequate response after the breach. The company failed to notify affected parties within the legal timeframe of 72 hours after recognizing the additional data breaches and did not inform non-member delivery information subjects despite multiple requests from the PIPC. Furthermore, some personal data of former members was retained against internal regulations, leading to actual breaches. The company also deleted web access logs after a preservation order was issued, complicating the investigation. The PIPC plans to file charges for obstruction of the investigation. Additionally, the PIPC found that Coupang had collected user activity records from approximately 11.17 million users on third-party websites and apps without consent while operating its Coupang Partners program. The commission stated that the company lacked legal grounds for collecting personal online activity records for targeted advertising and failed to manage so-called kidnapping ads properly, resulting in an additional fine of 201.16 billion won (approximately $150 million). Coupang expressed regret over the PIPCs decision, stating, The proactive measures taken to prevent secondary damage related to the data breach and explanations based on clear facts were not adequately reflected in the PIPCs decision. We hope that the facts will be clarified through legal procedures after receiving the official resolution. The company also asserted that Coupang Partners operates legally based on the same partnership model as global companies.* This article has been translated by AI. June 11, 2026 12:33 -
Government Expands Energy Cashback Program for Households in Second Half of 2026 The government plans to relax the criteria for its household energy cashback program and increase the support amount starting in the second half of 2026. This initiative is a response to the ongoing resource security crisis and energy supply instability caused by the prolonged conflict in the Middle East. On June 11, the Ministry of Climate, Energy, and Environment announced the expansion of the household energy cashback system to address these challenges. The program encourages public participation in energy conservation efforts. Under the current system, households that reduce their electricity usage by more than 3% compared to the average consumption over the same period in the previous two years receive a cashback of 30 to 100 won per kilowatt-hour, which is deducted from their electricity bill. From July to December this year, the key changes include lowering the reduction threshold from 3% to 1% and increasing the cashback amount. The government plans to provide additional support of 20 to 30 won per kilowatt-hour based on the reduction rate, allowing for a maximum cashback of 120 won per kilowatt-hour. In response to recent energy supply uncertainties, the government has intensified demand management efforts. In April, it raised the alert level for oil resource security from caution to warning and upgraded the natural gas alert from interest to caution. Park Deok-yeol, Director of Hydrogen and Thermal Industry Policy at the Ministry of Climate, stated, Energy conservation is the most economical and effective means of securing energy. We expect that this expanded support will encourage more citizens to participate in energy-saving efforts and reduce their electricity costs.* This article has been translated by AI. June 11, 2026 12:06 -
U.S. Deputy Secretary of Climate Energy Highlights Strengthening Korea-U.S. Nuclear Alliance We will elevate the 70-year Korea-U.S. nuclear alliance to an energy and industrial alliance.Lee Ho-hyun, Deputy Secretary of the Ministry of Climate Energy, visited Washington, D.C. to enhance Korea-U.S. energy security cooperation and expand public-private partnerships.According to the Ministry, Lee attended the 70th anniversary conference of the Korea-U.S. Nuclear Agreement, the Global Energy Forum, and the Korea-U.S. Energy Business Forum from June 8 to 10.The visit aimed to address the rising electricity demand driven by the growth of artificial intelligence (AI) data centers and the semiconductor industry, while expanding the foundation for energy cooperation between Korea and the U.S. As electricity demand surges due to the expansion of AI data centers and advanced industries, ensuring stable power supply and securing critical minerals have emerged as key energy security challenges.In his keynote speech at the 10th Global Energy Forum on June 9, Lee noted that the increase in electricity demand from the proliferation of AI data centers and advanced industries has made grid resilience, energy storage systems (ESS), and critical mineral supply chains essential components of energy security.He introduced the governments energy security strategy, which includes proactive investment in national power grids, expansion of large-scale ESS, introduction of long-term contracts and flexible markets, restructuring power governance, and strengthening international cooperation for critical mineral supply chains.On the final day of his visit, June 10, Lee co-hosted the Korea-U.S. Energy Business Forum with the U.S. Department of Energy. Participants included domestic companies such as Korea Electric Power Corporation, Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power, Korea Water Resources Corporation, LG Energy Solution, and Doosan Enerbility, as well as U.S. firms like JPMorgan, ExxonMobil, and GE Vernova, who discussed energy investments and collaboration on power grids and ESS.Lee also visited Equinix, a global data center company in Virginia, to review strategies for addressing electricity demand from AI data centers and enhancing operational efficiency.Through this visit, we aim to elevate the 70-year Korea-U.S. nuclear alliance to an energy and industrial alliance, establishing a foundation for public-private cooperation where companies from both countries can invest and collaborate together, Lee said. We will translate the discussed outcomes into concrete cooperative projects.* This article has been translated by AI. June 11, 2026 11:36 -
US approves $292 million sale of AMRAAM missiles to South Korea SEOUL, June 11 (AJP) - The United States has approved the sale of advanced medium-range air-to-air missiles and related equipment to South Korea in a deal worth $292 million, the State Department said Wednesday. The department said it approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to Seoul of 70 AIM-120C-8 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles, known as AMRAAMs, and two AMRAAM guidance sections. The package also includes AMRAAM containers, control sections, support equipment, spare parts, weapons system support, and classified and unclassified software, according to the department. The State Department said the proposed sale will support U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives by improving the security of a major ally that it described as an important force for political stability and economic progress in the Indo-Pacific region. It said the sale will improve South Korea’s ability to meet current and future threats by expanding its air defense capabilities, deterring regional aggression and ensuring interoperability with U.S. forces. The department added that the proposed sale “will not alter the basic military balance in the region” and “will have no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness.” June 11, 2026 11:19 -
OpenAI CEO to visit South Korea next week SEOUL, June 11 (AJP) - Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, who ushered in a revolutionary artificial intelligence (AI)-driven era, is expected to visit South Korea again, according to multiple industry sources on Thursday. In an internal notice, Samsung reportedly told its executives and employees that the lecture will be held on June 15 at its office in Suwon, Gyeonggi Province. His visit comes as Samsung expands the use of external generative AI tools across its businesses as part of the semiconductor giant's efforts to integrate AI through a full use of services such as ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini across its work processes. Samsung's DX division, which handles smartphones, TVs and other home appliances, is known to be taking the lead in accelerating AI-driven workplace transformation. Samsung has previously been cautious about using external AI tools due to security concerns, but more recently it has apparently decided to widen access to such services to boost productivity. The AI pioneer's trip to Seoul comes about eight months after his previous visit in October last year. At that time, he met with President Lee Jae Myung at Cheong Wa Dae and also held separate meetings with Samsung chairman Lee Jae-yong and SK Group chairman Chey Tae-won. Altman is expected to arrive here over the weekend, and during his two-day stay, he is likely to meet a handful of other business leaders to discuss AI-related cooperation. June 11, 2026 11:17 -
April Fiscal Balance Shows 36.6 Trillion Won Deficit, Improved by 9.5 Trillion Won As of April this year, South Koreas management fiscal balance recorded a deficit of 36.6 trillion won. While the fiscal balance improved compared to last year due to a significant increase in national tax revenue, the central governments debt has surpassed 1,320 trillion won. According to the Monthly Fiscal Trends for June report released by the Ministry of Economy and Finance on June 11, the management fiscal balance showed a deficit of 36.6 trillion won at the end of April. This marks a reduction of 9.5 trillion won compared to the same period last year. The management fiscal balance is an indicator that excludes the balances of social security funds, such as the National Pension, from the consolidated fiscal balance, reflecting the governments actual financial status. During the same period, the consolidated fiscal balance recorded a deficit of 13.2 trillion won, while social security funds showed a surplus of 23.3 trillion won. The improvement in the fiscal balance was driven by an increase in tax revenue. Total revenue for the year to date reached 272.3 trillion won, an increase of 41.3 trillion won compared to the same period last year. Of this, national tax revenue rose by 21.9 trillion won, while non-tax revenue and fund revenue increased by 7.9 trillion won and 11.5 trillion won, respectively. The increase in national tax revenue is attributed mainly to a rise in income tax due to expanded bonuses and an increase in capital gains tax resulting from a recovery in real estate transactions. Additionally, improvements in corporate performance led to higher corporate taxes, a decrease in value-added tax refunds, increased import revenue, and a rise in securities transaction volumes, all contributing to the increase in tax revenue. During the same period, total expenditures reached 285.6 trillion won, an increase of 23.3 trillion won compared to the previous year. However, the growth in total revenue significantly outpaced the increase in expenditures, leading to an overall improvement in the fiscal balance. As of the end of April, the central governments debt stood at 1,321.7 trillion won, an increase of 18.2 trillion won from the previous month. Compared to the end of last year, the balance of government bonds increased by 53.5 trillion won, and the balance of foreign exchange stabilization bonds rose by 4.9 trillion won, while the balance of housing bonds decreased by 14 trillion won. Consequently, the central governments debt has increased by approximately 57 trillion won compared to the end of last year.* This article has been translated by AI. June 11, 2026 11:09 -
Coupang Fined Record 624.6 Billion Won for Data Breach The Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC) has imposed a record fine of 624.68 billion won on Coupang for a massive data breach. The fine stems from multiple violations of the Personal Information Protection Act, including the unlawful collection of personal data and inadequate security measures. On June 10, the PIPC held a plenary meeting where it decided to impose a fine of 624.68 billion won and an additional penalty of 16.8 million won on Coupang for failing to comply with safety obligations and violating laws related to the collection and use of personal data. The commission also issued corrective orders, public announcements, and recommendations for improvement, and referred the case for prosecution. Coupangs subsidiary, Coupang Fulfillment Services (CFS), was fined 248 million won for violations related to the collection and use of personal data and the handling of sensitive information. The PIPC concluded that Coupang neglected basic safety management protocols, leading to the exposure of personal data belonging to approximately 37.5 million individuals. The commission found that Coupang violated its obligations to notify individuals of data breaches and to properly dispose of personal data. It also noted that the company failed to ensure the independence of its Chief Privacy Officer (CPO) and delayed the submission of materials during the investigation, obstructing the inquiry. Additionally, Coupang was found to have collected online activity records, including visit histories (URLs and app names), access times, and IP addresses of about 11.17 million users who accessed third-party websites and applications without any legal basis, storing this data in a personally identifiable format in its database. The commission deemed it unlawful that Coupang allowed user activity records to be collected without the consent of users due to inadequate management and oversight of its advertising partners. CFS was also found to have collected personal data from 71 police reporters without logistics center work experience, managing this information as part of an employment restriction list. Furthermore, it was revealed that the company submitted employees weight information, collected for health management purposes, to the court during industrial accident lawsuits, violating regulations on the handling of sensitive information. The PIPC ordered Coupang to strengthen its safety measures, notify individuals affected by data breaches, and ensure the effective role of its Chief Privacy Officer. The commission also recommended improvements to the handling of data for former members, the protection of individuals choices regarding personalized advertising, and enhanced management systems to prevent false advertising, with plans to review compliance within three months.* This article has been translated by AI. June 11, 2026 11:03 -
Why a concrete truck strike is threatening South Korea's high-tech chip ambitions SEOUL, June 11 (AJP) - The sprawling industrial belt south of Seoul is the heart of South Korea's semiconductor industry, home to the massive campuses of Samsung Electronics and SK hynix that dominate the global memory chip market powering the artificial intelligence boom. But activity across the region is beginning to slow because of a shortage of one of the most basic construction materials: concrete. A strike by ready-mix concrete truck drivers is exposing a critical vulnerability in South Korea's industrial supply chain, threatening to delay the construction of advanced semiconductor fabrication plants that underpin the country's economic growth strategy. The connection between raw concrete and microscopic silicon is fundamentally structural. Modern chip fabs require enormous, vibration-resistant foundations capable of supporting some of the world's most sophisticated manufacturing equipment. Because ready-mix concrete must be poured shortly after production to maintain structural integrity, even a temporary halt in deliveries can bring construction work to a standstill. Site preparation stops immediately, triggering a domino effect that delays structural work, cleanroom construction and ultimately the installation of chipmaking equipment. "In the long run, these construction delays could severely compromise the precision setup required for advanced microprocessing lines, particularly in critical areas like vibration control and cleanroom integration," said Lee Jong-hwan, a professor of system semiconductor engineering at Sangmyung University. The disruption began Monday when an estimated 8,000 unionized ready-mix truck drivers in Seoul, Incheon and Gyeonggi Province launched an indefinite strike. The walkout has effectively paralyzed much of the capital region's concrete delivery network, which accounts for the overwhelming majority of the country's 11,400 mixer trucks. At the center of the dispute are freight rates. Drivers are demanding higher transportation fees to offset inflation, rising maintenance costs and increased insurance premiums. Manufacturers argue that additional hikes are unsustainable amid a prolonged downturn in South Korea's construction market. Average transportation fees in the capital region have already risen nearly 36 percent over the past four years to 76,100 won ($55) per trip in 2025. For now, Samsung Electronics and SK hynix have largely avoided immediate disruptions by accelerating concrete pouring at key facilities ahead of the strike, including Samsung's massive semiconductor complex in Pyeongtaek. The contingency measures, however, offer only temporary relief. Industry officials warn that a prolonged labor dispute could jeopardize construction schedules at strategic projects including Samsung's next-generation fabrication facilities and SK hynix's semiconductor cluster in Yongin, one of the largest chip manufacturing projects currently under development globally. The urgency of the situation has prompted policymakers to consider extraordinary measures that would have been difficult to imagine only a few years ago. Ready-mix concrete is a highly perishable industrial product. Once mixed, it generally must be poured within about 90 minutes. Because there are virtually no practical substitutes at construction sites, industry officials warn that prolonged supply disruptions could bring work at key national industrial projects to a halt. Any significant delay carries enormous financial consequences. Semiconductor fabrication plants are among the most capital-intensive facilities in the world, with construction schedules closely synchronized with equipment deliveries, customer commitments and technology road maps. Delays can trigger substantial penalty payments, postpone production launches and potentially weaken South Korea's competitive position in the increasingly fierce global race for advanced semiconductors. In response, the government has begun reviewing emergency measures aimed at reducing the industry's dependence on conventional ready-mix supply networks. One option under consideration is easing restrictions on the installation of on-site batch plants — temporary facilities that produce concrete directly at construction sites. Batch plants precisely mix cement, sand, gravel and water to manufacture ready-mix concrete, effectively allowing large industrial projects to bypass traditional delivery systems. Such facilities have historically been subject to strict environmental regulations and complicated permitting requirements because of concerns over noise, dust and emissions. As a result, they have generally been limited to major infrastructure projects such as dams and large-scale civil engineering works. Allowing batch plants inside semiconductor industrial complexes would represent a significant policy shift. It would create a self-sufficient supply route capable of sustaining construction even during transportation disruptions while reducing reliance on regional suppliers and trucking networks. Industry observers say the proposal also sends a strong signal that the government is prepared to challenge longstanding local monopolies held by ready-mix suppliers and transport operators. Officials are also considering reforms to regulations governing mixer-truck registrations. Under the current system, authorities periodically restrict new registrations to balance supply and demand in the sector. The government is reportedly reviewing plans to shorten the adjustment cycle and ease entry barriers, potentially allowing more vehicles and alternative operators into the market during future disruptions. The discussions reflect a broader shift in industrial policy as strategic sectors such as semiconductors increasingly become matters of economic security. The approach echoes the government's hardline response to nationwide truckers' strikes in previous years, when authorities moved aggressively to prevent disruptions to critical supply chains. Policymakers now appear willing to deploy a broader range of regulatory and market-based measures when labor disputes threaten industries considered vital to national competitiveness. Despite the scale of the walkout, some industry observers believe the disruption may not evolve into a prolonged crisis. The strike is being led primarily by drivers affiliated with the Federation of Korean Trade Unions. Drivers belonging to the rival Korean Confederation of Trade Unions, along with non-unionized and directly employed operators, continue to work, helping alleviate some logistical bottlenecks. In an effort to prevent the dispute from escalating into a wider industrial crisis, the Construction Association of Korea has formally asked the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport to mediate negotiations between manufacturers and labor representatives. Any government intervention – much like its aggressive mediation to stop a Samsung Electronics strike last month - would underscore the strategic importance of semiconductor manufacturing, which has become one of the principal pillars supporting South Korea's export-driven economy. Semiconductors helped make South Korea the world's fifth-largest exporter in the first quarter and have provided a crucial buffer against mounting external risks, including the economic fallout from the prolonged conflict in the Middle East, disruptions to global shipping routes and persistent volatility in energy markets. For Seoul, the dispute is no longer simply about freight rates or concrete deliveries. It has become a test of how far the government is willing to go to safeguard industries deemed essential to the country's economic future — and whether South Korea's ambitions to remain a global semiconductor powerhouse can be derailed by a supply chain bottleneck as basic as concrete. June 11, 2026 10:51 -
NHN Appoints Yang Cheol-woong as New CTO to Accelerate AI Native Innovations NHN announced on June 11 that it has appointed Yang Cheol-woong as its new Chief Technology Officer (CTO). The company aims to respond to the growing importance of artificial intelligence (AI) native transformation and future technological competitiveness by accelerating innovation at the group level. According to NHN, Yang, who holds a Ph.D. in computer science from the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), is a technology expert with over 20 years of experience in internet infrastructure, traffic optimization, networking, security, and cloud computing. He joined NHN Cloud in 2022 and has led security technology research and platform enhancement as the head of the Security Development Lab. As CTO, Yang plans to enhance the organizations execution speed through innovative development utilizing AI. He will also systematize the technology roadmap and research and development direction to boost the groups technological competitiveness. Yang is expected to lead the expansion of AI utilization and technological collaboration across the group while focusing on advancing AI transformation (AX). Given his expertise in cloud security, Yang is anticipated to contribute to building data security infrastructure and establishing a reliable AX environment during the implementation of advanced AI technologies. During a town hall meeting with NHN employees on June 10, Yang identified speed and direction as key themes for technology organizations in the AI era. He emphasized that enhancing productivity and execution through AI will make it increasingly important to focus on strategic choices regarding the technology roadmap and business direction. AI is becoming more than just a tool; it is becoming a colleague we work with, Yang said. While moving quickly is important, it is equally crucial to move in the right direction. We will connect and create synergies in the groups technological capabilities based on our technology strategy and execution power. NHN has established a C-level leadership structure led by CEO Jeong Woo-jin, along with Yang Cheol-woong as CTO, Ahn Hyun-sik as Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Hwang Sun-young as Chief Legal Officer (CLO), Lee Seung-chan as Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO), and Kim Sang-ho as Chief Gaming Officer (CGO) representing the gaming division. The company plans to strengthen its position as a technology firm by expanding joint research and development based on its leadership structure and enhancing its foundation for future growth. It is expected to create synergies across various business sectors, including gaming, payments, and commerce. An NHN representative stated, Based on this, we plan to strengthen our mid- to long-term technology strategy to respond to the AX era and solidify our competitiveness and position as a technology company.* This article has been translated by AI. June 11, 2026 09:45 -
Samsung Expands 'Bespoke AI Steam' Lineup, Accelerating Robot Vacuum Popularity Samsung Electronics is accelerating the popularization of K-robot vacuums with the launch of a standard model of its Bespoke AI Steam series, which combines premium performance with practicality.On June 11, the company announced that it has expanded consumer options for the Bespoke AI Steam series by introducing this standard model, following the earlier releases of the Bespoke AI Steam Ultra and Bespoke AI Steam Plus earlier this year.The new standard model retains the core features of the Bespoke AI Steam series while offering a more affordable price.Specifically, it includes features that consumers prefer, such as the Steam Cleaning Station for hygienic management of mops through high-temperature washing, steam sterilization, and hot air drying; the Easy Pass Wheel that can overcome single thresholds up to 45mm in height; and the Pop Out Combo function for wall-adjacent cleaning with an extended brush and mop.The new product is equipped with Samsungs security solution, Knox, allowing consumers to use it without concerns about personal data leaks.The Bespoke AI Steam robot vacuum has received the highest security rating of Diamond from UL Solutions, a global certification body, based on Knox technology, officially recognizing the products security reliability.Meanwhile, the Bespoke AI Steam robot vacuum surpassed 20,000 units sold in May, gaining popularity in the domestic robot vacuum market.Notably, it has been selected as the first robot vacuum option for a large-scale apartment complex with 1,875 units scheduled for sale in July in Bugok-dong, Uiwang City, expanding its reach into the B2B market. Residents who choose the Bespoke AI Steam Ultra model will receive the product along with furniture installation services.Kim Yong-hoon, Senior Vice President of Samsung Electronics Korea, stated, By launching the standard model of Bespoke AI Steam with competitive pricing and performance, we aim to lead the popularization of K-robot vacuums and further strengthen our market competitiveness.* This article has been translated by AI. June 11, 2026 09:42 -
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman to Speak on AI Innovation at Samsung Electronics Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, is visiting South Korea to discuss the application of artificial intelligence (AI) with employees of Samsung Electronics. This comes as Samsung plans to expand the use of external generative AI services across its operations, with the DX division leading the charge in AI-driven workplace innovation. According to the Chosun Ilbo on June 11, Samsung Electronics announced that Altman will participate in a DX Insight Talk at its Suwon facility on the morning of June 15. This event is timed with Samsungs formal introduction of external generative AI services, such as ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude, into its business processes. Samsung has previously taken a cautious stance on using external generative AI due to security concerns. However, with the recent official launch of its AX initiative, aimed at transforming workplace operations through AI, the company is broadening its scope for utilizing external AI services. The Chosun Ilbo reported that starting June 12, Samsungs DX division will allow employees to use three types of enterprise AI, including ChatGPT, Gemini Enterprise, and Claude, enabling them to leverage multiple AI models based on their work needs. Samsungs own Gauss AI will also be used alongside these external services. The company plans to utilize Gauss for its specialized functions tailored to internal tasks, adopting a dual-track approach with both external generative AI and its in-house solution. Industry observers note a growing trend among companies to adopt a multi-model strategy, utilizing various AI models like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini according to specific business needs, rather than relying on a single AI model. Through the introduction of external generative AI, Samsung aims to enhance productivity and decision-making speed. No Tae-moon, head of Samsungs DX division, has indicated that the adoption of external generative AI will mark a turning point in how work is conducted and the pace of execution. The DS division, responsible for semiconductors, plans to gradually expand its use of external AI. According to the Chosun Ilbo, the DS division is currently using Anthropics Claude and will begin using ChatGPT on June 12, with plans to introduce Googles Gemini later this year.* This article has been translated by AI. June 11, 2026 09:36
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BNK Busan Bank Launches Mobile-Based Retirement Pension Enrollment Service BNK Busan Bank has introduced a mobile-based retirement pension enrollment service, becoming the first in the financial sector to do so. This service allows corporate clients to complete the enrollment process entirely via smartphone without visiting a branch. The bank announced on June 11 that it has officially launched this service. It enables corporate clients to carry out the entire process—from application to agreement on terms and registration of investment products—on their mobile devices. During the enrollment process, bank staff can monitor clients progress in real-time, providing remote consultation and support. This hybrid approach combines simple online registration with personalized assistance. To enhance the security and internal control of corporate financial transactions, Busan Bank has implemented a delegation process that allows only designated representatives of the company to proceed with the enrollment. With this new service, Busan Bank aims to improve convenience for corporate clients while also reducing the paperwork burden on branch offices, thereby increasing operational efficiency. The bank believes it can effectively respond to the governments initiatives to promote retirement pension systems and the growing demand for non-face-to-face financial services. Choi Jae-young, head of the WM/Pension Group at Busan Bank, stated, With the launch of the mobile-based retirement pension enrollment service, we have enhanced accessibility and convenience for our corporate clients. We will continue to expand differentiated digital pension services to drive customer-centric financial innovation.* This article has been translated by AI. June 11, 2026 09:30 -
Anthropic Calls for Mandatory AI Safety Testing and Job Market Preparedness Anthropic, the developer of the AI model Claude, has called for robust regulations and labor market measures in response to advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). On June 10, the company stated that unless Congress establishes strict federal laws addressing catastrophic AI risks, state-level AI regulations should not be blocked. Previously, President Donald Trump urged Congress to replace state-level AI regulations with federal standards. In response, Anthropic argued that independent safety testing should be mandated for the most powerful AI models to set federal benchmarks. Anthropic also emphasized the need to prepare for potential disruptions in the labor market due to AI proliferation. The company urged Congress and state governments to modernize unemployment benefit systems in anticipation of large-scale layoffs caused by AI. Dario Amodei, CEO of Anthropic, reiterated the need for more binding regulations in a blog post titled Policy on Exponential AI Development. He noted that the rapid pace of AI advancement could lead to capabilities akin to a nation of geniuses in data centers within one to two years, indicating that existing discussions around transparency are insufficient. It is time to implement stricter and binding regulations on AI beyond transparency, Amodei stated, advocating for a regulatory framework similar to that of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which oversees aircraft safety. He also warned of the potential for widespread unemployment due to AI, asserting that long-term job displacement is not only undesirable but also dangerous. He suggested that income support measures, such as universal basic income and employment incentives, may be necessary. Amodei called for reliable accountability regulations for fully autonomous weapon systems, advocating for a ban on their use within the United States. In a Bloomberg interview on the program The Circuit with Emily Chang, he stressed the need for human involvement in the military applications of AI. Amodei clarified that while using Claude in military operations is not inherently problematic, technology companies should not have the authority to permit or prohibit specific military actions. Military policy should ultimately be left to military decision-makers, he said. He explained that AI models ability to identify security vulnerabilities is rapidly improving, which contributed to the decision to delay the release of some top models. While the ability of models to find vulnerabilities has steadily improved, this time the leap has been particularly significant, he noted, mentioning that some companies requested delays due to the models strong performance. When asked if he sees parallels between his leadership in AI development and J. Robert Oppenheimers role in developing the atomic bomb, Amodei responded, Oppenheimer is viewed as a failure, a case that should not exist. To achieve a good outcome, there must be checks and balances everywhere.* This article has been translated by AI. June 11, 2026 09:30