Search results
1,669 results
-
Bank of Korea's AI rate-setters keep choosing not to decide SEOUL, September 11 (AJP) — Artificial intelligence can help analyze economic data, but it cannot be relied upon for policymaking because of its susceptibility to bias, a Bank of Korea study showed. The finding emerged from a joint forum the BOK hosted with the Korean Statistical Society on Friday, where researchers described AI systems that could interpret macroeconomic data and simulate rate decisions with fluent, plausible-looking reasoning — but whose errors kept skewing in the same direction no matter how the experiment was adjusted. Kim So-jung of the BOK's Statistical Research Team said building an AI agent system has become relatively straightforward. The harder question, she told the forum, is how much analysts can trust the output as such agents are handed greater autonomy — a question the central bank tested directly on its most consequential decision: where to set interest rates. In the experiment, large language models were fed macroeconomic data and summaries of the U.S. Federal Reserve's Beige Book, then asked to choose whether to raise, hold or cut rates. Their errors were not random, but skewed toward inaction in what researchers called a "hold bias" even when the data pointed elsewhere. BOK researchers then tried out handing different agents different roles and letting them argue it out. Again, it didn't work. The hold bias persisted through role-assigned, multi-agent debate, and in some runs grew stronger. Stretching the discussion from five rounds to 10 or 15 produced no consistent gain in accuracy either. The implication reaches beyond Seoul. A common assumption in multi-agent AI design is that pooling several models, or several instances of one, and letting them check each other will cancel out individual mistakes. The BOK results suggest otherwise when the agents share a foundation model as their errors can be correlated rather than independent so that debate multiplies the same blind spot instead of correcting it. A second BOK project produced a parallel warning. The bank built a system that routes news articles to five specialist AI agents — covering macroeconomics, finance, policy, corporate affairs and geopolitics — before combining their assessments into indicators of economic uncertainty. Tested on roughly 2,800 articles, the system scored F1 accuracy of about 0.75 to 0.81, a respectable but imperfect mark. Kim questioned whether agents drawn from the same underlying model can really be treated as independent experts merely because they were assigned different roles. None of this means the BOK is stepping back from AI. The bank already runs an agent system in production, using it in weekly analysis of its News Sentiment Index to flag what's driving changes in the gauge and cross-check those signals against market data — with analysts reviewing every output and feeding their judgment back into the system's memory. Human-supervised, narrow use case is a long way from letting AI agents debate their way to a rate decision, and Kim said closing that gap will require statistical tools that can identify, explain and control the specific biases AI systems carry — not just measure how often they happen to be right. Other presenters described the same caution from different angles. Song Kyung-ho of Yonsei University warned that AI models used in economic analysis can lose reliability once conditions shift away from what they were trained on, and proposed adaptive agents that detect such shifts and update their own methods in response. Park Se-ho of Hongik University argued that gaps between household survey data and national accounts often reflect real differences in what each dataset captures rather than errors to be smoothed away, and called for diagnosing those "distribution shifts" before adjusting survey weights. Park Mingue of Korea University said transfer learning can help fill gaps in recent data, but only where older and newer data behave similarly enough, and stressed that any new method needs rigorous validation before use. The throughline, as Kim put it, is that the question for policymakers is no longer whether AI can produce an economic judgment — it already can, fluently. It's whether researchers can pin down why that judgment is biased before they let it anywhere near an actual decision. AJP Takeaways - The Bank of Korea found AI's "hold bias" on interest rates persisted, and sometimes grew stronger, even when multiple AI agents debated the decision in different assigned roles. - Adding discussion rounds, from five up to 15, did not consistently improve the AI's rate-decision accuracy. - Researchers attribute the bias to agents sharing a common foundation model, so debate can amplify shared blind spots rather than cancel them out — a caution for any institution building multi-agent AI systems, not just central banks. September 11, 2026 -
Lee pushes to expand food aid for underprivileged SEOUL, September 11 (AJP) - President Lee Jae Myung on Friday welcomed the nationwide expansion of a government program that provides food and daily necessities to people struggling to make ends meet without requiring them to first prove their eligibility. Lee said on X that the "Geunyang Dream" program, first launched in Gyeonggi Province, would now be available across the country. The program's Korean name, "Geunyang Dream," literally means "just giving," reflecting its principle of providing food and daily necessities first without requiring recipients to prove their eligibility. "A society where an elderly person steals bread makes all of us guilty," Lee wrote, saying the sentiment had stayed with him and inspired the initiative. The program provides food and basic necessities immediately to people facing financial hardship before connecting those who need further help with welfare services. The Ministry of Health and Welfare said the program will expand this month from 175 cities and counties to all local governments nationwide including Ulleungdo, an Island located near the easternmost Dokdo islets. About 210,000 people have used the service since its pilot launch at 57 locations last December. Of them, 44,712 received welfare consultations and 4,437 were connected to programs including basic livelihood assistance and emergency welfare support. The figures suggest that some households in South Korea still struggle to get enough food. A recent survey found that 98.3 percent of households had enough food in 2024, while about 1.7 percent did not have enough to meet their basic needs. Among the lowest-income households, 94.8 percent had enough food in 2024, although the government does not provide a nationwide figure for the number of people who struggle to get enough food. AJP Takeaways - President Lee Jae Myung backed the nationwide expansion of the "Geunyang Dream" program, which provides food and basic necessities to people in financial distress without requiring proof of eligibility first. - About 210,000 people have used the service since its pilot launch, with thousands later connected to welfare programs and emergency assistance. - Food insecurity remains a concern in South Korea, where 1.7 percent of households failed to meet the government’s food-security benchmark in 2024. September 11, 2026 -
Op-Ed: Uzbekistan's priorities in the new political cycle Editor's Note: The following opinion article was contributed by the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Seoul. The traditional annual Address of the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, delivered on the eve of the New Year, became an important programmatic statement summarizing the results of the outgoing year and outlining the country's strategic development priorities for the period ahead. As the Head of State emphasized, the past year marked a period of steady progress in reforms and the strengthening of Uzbekistan's socio-economic position, despite ongoing instability in the global economy and a complex international environment. In this context, the announcement of the coming year as the "Year of Mahalla Development and Society as a Whole" gained particular significance, signaling a transition toward a deeper focus of state policy on people's quality of life and the development of civil society. In his Address, the President noted that the national economy continued to demonstrate confident growth. The year 2025 concluded with landmark achievements: for the first time, the country's GDP exceeded 145 billion US dollars, exports increased by 23 percent to 33.4 billion dollars, and foreign exchange and gold reserves surpassed 60 billion dollars. Investment inflows totaling 43.1 billion dollars enabled the implementation of dozens of major projects in industry, energy, and infrastructure. International rating agencies upgraded Uzbekistan's sovereign credit rating from BB- to BB, opening more favorable conditions for external financing. It was particularly emphasized that these macroeconomic results were accompanied by positive changes in the social sphere. Owing to active employment policies, the unemployment rate declined from 5.5 percent to 4.9 percent, and around five million people gained sustainable sources of income. Significant attention was devoted to supporting low-income families, developing targeted social assistance mechanisms, and improving access to basic services. The poverty rate decreased from 8.9 percent to 5.8 percent within a year, lifting approximately 1.5 million citizens out of poverty. These outcomes were the result of consistent reforms aimed at enhancing economic resilience and creating a solid foundation for social development. Economic achievements expanded the state's capacity to address social challenges and implement long-term support programs for the population. The President noted that social policy has become more responsive to the concrete needs of citizens, which represents a fundamental achievement of the current reform agenda. Special attention in the Address was devoted to Uzbekistan's foreign policy course, which was characterized as pragmatic, open, and oriented toward long-term national interests. The President emphasized that an active and balanced foreign policy remains a key factor in ensuring sustainable development, expanding economic opportunities, and strengthening Uzbekistan's international standing. It was noted that in recent years the country has significantly expanded the geographical scope of its foreign economic relations, reinforced partnerships both with neighboring states and leading global centers, and consistently continued to promote regional cooperation initiatives. This course reflects Uzbekistan's aspiration to assume a more visible and responsible role in international affairs, guided by the principles of mutual benefit and respect. The Address also addressed the reform of the public procurement system as one of the key elements in enhancing transparency and efficiency in public administration. The President stressed that improving public procurement mechanisms is aimed at creating equal conditions for businesses, fostering competition, and ensuring the efficient use of budgetary resources. These measures are viewed as an important part of Uzbekistan's preparation for accession to the World Trade Organization. In this context, reforms in the field of public procurement acquire not only domestic but also external economic significance, as they contribute to aligning national procedures with international standards and rules. Thus, the outlined steps reflect a systemic approach to Uzbekistan's integration into the global trade and economic system. A separate section of the Address focused on anti-corruption efforts, which were identified as one of the key priorities for further development. The President underscored that the fight against corruption is regarded not as a one-time campaign, but as a long-term state policy aimed at establishing an honest, transparent, and accountable system of governance. "Allowing corruption is a betrayal of our reforms. We declare 2026 a year of 'extraordinary measures' to combat this scourge," the President stated. It was noted that the measures already being implemented-such as the digitalization of public services, increased transparency in decision-making, and strengthened public oversight—are producing tangible results, though they require further deepening. The emphasis on the anti-corruption agenda demonstrates a commitment to strengthening trust among citizens and international partners in state institutions. Considerable attention in the Address was also given to environmental issues and sustainable development. The President noted that the environmental agenda is becoming an integral part of state policy and is directly linked to the quality of life of the population and the country's long-term security. The importance of rational use of natural resources, the expansion of green technologies, and the implementation of programs to improve environmental conditions-especially in the most vulnerable regions-was underscored. Plans were announced to hold the next Assembly of the Global Environment Facility and the Central Asian International Environmental Exhibition in Samarkand in 2026. These events will create valuable opportunities to identify partners for industries, regions, and businesses, and to jointly launch new environmental projects. It was emphasized that environmental initiatives are viewed not only as a social necessity, but also as a key element of economic modernization and enhanced resilience. Taken together, these priorities demonstrate the comprehensive nature of the ongoing reforms. They indicate that the course toward socially oriented development is inseparably linked with institutional transformation and international integration. This approach reflects Uzbekistan's determination to build a balanced development model in which economic growth, social sustainability, and responsible governance mutually reinforce one another. Summarizing the results of the concluding year, the Head of State stressed that all these achievements became possible due to a well-structured reform system and the active participation of society. At the same time, he underlined that further development requires not only economic resources but also a stronger social environment, trust, and solidarity. It was within this logic that the proposal was made to declare the coming year the Year of Support for the Mahalla, as the institution closest to people and their everyday concerns. In the Address, the mahalla was characterized as a unique form of social organization that has absorbed centuries-old traditions of mutual assistance, responsibility, and respect. The President emphasized that the stability of the state begins with the stability of the mahalla, with an atmosphere of harmony and engagement at the local level. "If there is order and trust in the mahalla, there will be stability in society as a whole," this idea became one of the key messages of the Address, logically linking past achievements with future objectives. Support for the mahalla in the coming year is viewed as a systemic measure aimed at further strengthening social policy. The President pointed out that it is precisely at the mahalla level where family issues, employment challenges, education, social protection, and the prevention of social vulnerability can be identified most effectively. In this sense, the development of mahalla structures becomes a tool for increasing the targeting of state assistance and enhancing social justice. The economic achievements discussed earlier thus find their continuation in the social domain. A significant part of the Address was devoted to citizen participation and the development of civil society. The President stressed that a modern state is impossible without active and responsible citizens involved in decision-making and oversight of implementation. In this context, the mahalla is seen as a space for fostering civic initiative and dialogue between authorities and the population. "We must create conditions under which every person feels involved in the destiny of the country," the Head of State noted, outlining a strategic commitment to expanding public participation. Special emphasis was placed on the role of the mahalla in youth education and the strengthening of social values. The President noted that alongside economic indicators, the formation of a moral, educated, and socially responsible individual remains no less important. Support for projects in education, culture, and sports implemented at the mahalla level is regarded as an investment in the country's future. "The future of Uzbekistan depends on the environment we create for our children today." This quotation from the Address clearly reflects the long-term orientation of state policy. Thus, the declaration of 2026 as the "Year of Mahalla Development and Society as a Whole" demonstrates the state's intention to move from macro-level achievements toward deeper engagement with quality of life, human capital, and social institutions. It signifies a concentration of efforts on strengthening local communities, developing social infrastructure, and fostering an active and cohesive society. The President's Address sets a clear development vector for the year ahead: reliance on achieved economic successes, reinforcement of social policy, and the advancement of civil society through support for the mahalla. This approach reflects a strategic understanding that the sustainability of reforms and the country's long-term prosperity are impossible without strong communities, trust, and citizen participation. In this context, support for the mahalla emerges not only as a social priority, but also as a foundation for Uzbekistan's long-term development. The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the contributor and do not necessarily reflect the editorial position, analysis, or views of AJP, its editors, or its parent organization. AJP publishes contributed opinion pieces from governments, diplomatic missions, experts, and other external contributors as part of its commitment to presenting diverse international perspectives. Publication does not constitute endorsement of the opinions or factual claims contained in the article. September 11, 2026 -
President Lee Calls for Accountability After 40 Million Personal Data Breach at Tving President Lee Jae-myung has ordered a thorough investigation and strict accountability following a data breach at the online video service Tving, where over 40 million personal records were compromised. He also emphasized the need to prevent secondary crimes that could exploit the leaked information.During a meeting with senior advisors at the Blue House, President Lee stated, Recently, an incident occurred at an online video service company where more than 40 million personal records were leaked, raising public anxiety and concern. He continued, It has been reported that the company failed to take necessary measures despite having identified security vulnerabilities in advance. Relevant agencies must swiftly and accurately ascertain the circumstances of the incident and hold those responsible accountable according to the law and principles. President Lee characterized the incident as a matter of national security, extending beyond individual corporate security issues. He remarked, In the era of digital transformation, the thorough protection of personal information is a fundamental foundation for maintaining community trust and ensuring stable social operations. He noted that with the advancement of artificial intelligence, hacking methods are becoming increasingly sophisticated, targeting a wide range of sectors including telecommunications, finance, retail, and online platforms. From a national security perspective, it is time to elevate the security capabilities and awareness of our entire society, he assessed.President Lee also directed improvements to strengthen personal data protection responsibilities across public and private sectors, as well as domestic and international companies. He mentioned that a revised personal information protection law, which enhances penalties for data breaches, will take effect from today.He urged, The burdens associated with neglecting personal data protection must be made significantly greater than the benefits gained, to enhance the effectiveness of sanctions. We need to quickly establish comprehensive countermeasures based on inter-agency cooperation to correct the mistaken perception that security is merely an unnecessary cost. Additionally, he called on companies to take on a serious sense of responsibility by bolstering security personnel and improving systems, stating, Both the government and businesses must work together to ensure that citizens can use digital services with peace of mind. * This article has been translated by AI. September 11, 2026 -
Gyeongju Group Supports Future Science and Technology Talent with $200,000 in Scholarships Gyeongju Group is supporting the education of science and technology talents who are building capabilities in key future industries.On September 11, Gyeongju Group announced that it has sponsored a total of 200 million won in Gyeongju Scholarships for 120 students at Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), and Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST).Following the support of 50 DGIST students with 50 million won on July 24 and 20 GIST students with 50 million won on September 4, the group provided 100 million won to 50 UNIST students on this day.Institutes like DGIST, GIST, and UNIST are research-oriented educational institutions that support the nations scientific and technological competitiveness and future industrial development through advanced science and technology talent cultivation and cutting-edge interdisciplinary research. They conduct education and research in fields closely related to future industries, such as artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors, robotics and mobility, biotechnology, and energy, nurturing professionals who will lead South Koreas science and technology.The Gyeongju Scholarship program is a social contribution initiative that has continued since the establishment of the Gyeongju Cultural Foundation by Gyeongju Boiler founder Choi Jin-min in 1985. To date, it has supported approximately 70,000 scholarship recipients nationwide. Gyeongju Group stated that the total amount returned to society over 41 years has reached about 65 billion won. Last year, 2,763 students were selected to receive a total of 2.6 billion won in scholarships.Choi Jin-man, chairman of Gyeongju Boiler, stated, To enhance South Koreas future competitiveness, it is essential to create an environment where talents who will lead science and technology can learn freely and showcase their capabilities. Gyeongju Group will continue to provide ongoing support and attention to ensure that students, researchers, and engineering professionals can grow as key players in the advancement of our nations science and technology.* This article has been translated by AI. September 11, 2026
-
Sookmyung team secures 1.16 billion won to build AI skills assessment SEOUL, September 11 (AJP) - A research team at Sookmyung Women's University will receive 1.16 billion won in government funding over the next four years to continue building artificial intelligence tools that assess students' skills, after advancing to the final stage of a national research program. The team cleared a stage review with high marks in the Social Science Korea program, which the National Research Foundation of Korea runs to support long-term social science research, the university said Thursday. The new funding covers the period from Sept. 1 this year to Aug. 31, 2030. First selected in September 2020, the team completed the program's first two stages over the following six years. Its project can run for up to 10 years under the program, and the third stage is the last. The team's goal is a system that uses AI to assess the core competencies students need for the future and to support their learning. According to the team's research plan, those assessments are based on how students actually behave and perform. Over the first two stages, the team published multiple papers in leading international social science journals, the university said. It also won best-paper awards from major Korean academic societies, including the Korean Educational Research Association, the Korean Society for the Study of Teacher Education and the Korean Society for the Gifted. The team also carried its research into practice, building an aptitude and character assessment system for aspiring teachers with Sookmyung's teacher training center. With a gifted education center at KAIST, it developed a system that uses AI to evaluate students' competencies. Led by Park So-young, an education professor who directs the university's education research institute and also heads its teacher training center, the team includes education professor Lee You-kyung, AI engineering professor Dong Suh-yeon and researchers from Kongju National University, KAIST and the Educational Testing Service, the U.S. nonprofit that runs the TOEFL and GRE exams. By 2030, the team plans to build an AI-based learning system in which people and AI work together while learners stay in charge of their own learning and teachers' professional expertise is protected. It also plans to develop ethics guidelines for the use of AI in education. September 11, 2026 -
Ministry of Science and ICT Selects 20 Leading National Scientists for Funding Support The government will select 20 leading national scientists and provide each with research funding of 100 million won for up to five years.The Ministry of Science and ICT announced on September 11 that it will hold an application process for the 2026 National Scientist Support Program from September 21 to October 12. The program aims to select 20 leading national scientists.This initiative is designed to recognize and honor outstanding scientists and engineers as national assets essential for the advancement of science and technology.The inaugural selection of leading national scientists will target researchers under the age of 55 who hold South Korean nationality and are currently engaged in research and technological innovation activities within the country. The selection will consider not only current achievements but also the potential for maintaining and advancing world-class research activities over the next 5 to 10 years.Candidates can apply through recommendations from their affiliated institutions. Each institution can recommend up to three candidates based on its own selection criteria and process. Applications can also be submitted through recommendations from three or more international scholars or a data-driven discovery committee.The selection process will consist of two stages: a preliminary review by field-specific committees and a final selection review. Candidates will be evaluated based on their achievements, influence, and contributions to the nation, economy, and society.Consideration will be given to the research characteristics of institutions such as universities, research institutes, and industry, ensuring a balanced representation across various academic fields, including science and engineering.Selected leading national scientists will receive the title of national scientist and a certificate issued by the President. They will also benefit from honorary support, including fast-track immigration processing and invitations to major national science and technology events.In addition, they will receive annual funding of 100 million won for up to five years.Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Science and ICT Lee Jong-ho stated, We will support the selected leading national scientists to enhance their research standards and international influence, contributing to the advancement of science and technology as representatives of South Korea. Meanwhile, the next generation of national scientists, who are expected to have high potential for becoming world-class researchers, will be selected in 2027.* This article has been translated by AI. September 11, 2026
-
Cable TV Faces Crisis: Experts Urge Focus on Locality and Sustainability Cable television operators are facing challenges in securing revenue, prompting calls for a focus on public service and sustainability to enhance competitiveness.On September 10, a seminar titled Policy Paradigm Shift for Overcoming the Crisis and Ensuring Sustainability of Cable TV was held at the 2026 Gwangju ACE Fair, organized by the Korean Association for Journalism and Communication Studies.The cable TV market is currently experiencing a downturn. Since 2013, all business performance metrics have consistently declined, with operating profits dropping by 51.8% in 2023 and 76.5% in 2024. By the end of 2025, the number of subscribers is expected to fall to approximately 11.94 million, with market share decreasing to 33%. While losses in the broadcasting sector are being offset by other business areas, forecasts indicate that this approach may soon reach its limits. The seminar aimed to assess the current state of cable TV and discuss potential improvements.Lee Jong-kwan, a senior expert at the law firm Sejong, stated, The cable TV industry has entered a decline phase after maturing, and warned that if the current situation is neglected, operators could face severe challenges within a few years due to declining revenues and increasing costs.He pointed out that the policies and regulations governing the cable TV industry, which are still aligned with an expansion phase, are inadequate for addressing the current crisis. He emphasized the need for government support and regulatory relief to facilitate recovery.Lee highlighted the essential role of cable TV in achieving a media-centric society, noting its accessibility and the fact that one-third of the population subscribes to it. He argued that cable TV policies should pivot towards sustainability and locality.Proposed solutions included establishing a (tentative) Broadcasting Expert Committee to set and adjust standards for subscription fees and content pricing, providing universal broadcasting welfare support for 8VSB, and reducing contributions to the Broadcasting and Communications Development Fund to enhance locality.Yang Han-yeol, director of the Open Media Policy Research Institute, also participated as a panelist, stating, In times of disaster, cable TV can provide real-time information about local conditions, and suggested that instead of focusing solely on price competition with OTT and IPTV, developing models that are closer to local communities could offer differentiated services.Opinions regarding the Broadcasting and Communications Development Fund were also discussed. Kim Yong-hee, a professor at Sun Moon University, emphasized the need to objectively assess whether operators can afford to contribute to the fund, suggesting that reducing this burden could create opportunities for new investments and service innovations.However, Ahn Young-min, head of the Broadcasting Media Division at the Korea Broadcasting and Communications Agency, stressed the importance of policy visibility. He noted that a bill to establish a Broadcasting and Communications Development Agency has passed, and urged careful consideration of how this organization will be structured and whether government funding will be provided.He added, We need to ensure that we can persuade the government based on these plans.Meanwhile, the 2026 Gwangju ACE Fair, where the seminar took place, is a comprehensive exhibition of cultural content, marking its 21st year. Under the theme One Content, Infinite Expansion, this years exhibition features a variety of cultural content, including broadcasting, video, animation, characters, games, and webtoons. It attracts participation from over 400 companies from 29 countries, with more than 250 domestic and international buyers engaging in exchanges.* This article has been translated by AI. September 11, 2026
-
DB Insurance Launches 'Ordinary Day' Ad Campaign to Support Young People DB Insurance announced the release of a new advertisement themed Ordinary Day on September 11. The campaign aims to deliver a message of encouragement to those who live their lives diligently each day. The advertisement consists of two segments: Youthful Steps and Pet Bliss. The Youthful Steps segment captures the daily lives of young people taking their first steps into society, conveying the message that simply living through the day is worthy of support. The Pet Bliss segment humorously depicts a dog enjoying a day of play with its family, extending the message of encouragement not only to people but also to the pets that share their daily lives. The campaign features actress Lim YoonA, who has been the face of DB Insurance for nine years, bringing a bright and friendly atmosphere to the advertisements message. In addition to the TV ads, DB Insurance plans to roll out a digital short-form content series titled Ordinary Day, which will explore the meaning of insurance through everyday stories. A representative from DB Insurance stated, Insurance is not only needed when accidents occur, but it is also a promise to help customers live ordinary days like today. Through this campaign, we wanted to convey DB Insurances commitment to supporting and safeguarding Ordinary Days. * This article has been translated by AI. September 11, 2026
-
'Participate Yourself': 'Mugam Seogi' Performance at Sejong Center Traditionally, a gut is performed by a shaman to ward off misfortune or provide comfort. It often feels like the shaman will solve everything. However, Mugam Seogi conveys that if you truly want to receive blessings, you must participate in the gut yourself. It’s about taking action to bring blessings rather than relying on someone else, said Yoon Hye-jung, head of the Seoul City Dance Company. Mugam Seogi is a traditional folk performance where, at the peak of the gut, the person requesting the ritual wears the shamans attire and dances spontaneously to the rhythm, releasing their emotions. This performance will be showcased by the Seoul City Dance Company at the Sejong Centers main theater. During a press call for Mugam Seogi on September 10, Yoon Hye-jung described the performance as a process of resolving pain and sorrow from within rather than blaming others. She emphasized that it is about self-discovery. Mugam Seogi signifies that the participant does not merely rely on a shaman to pray for blessings but actively dances to welcome them. Yoon found a relevant message in this act for today’s society. He stated, I thought that in this era, we might need a process of self-reflection. I want to consider that our ancestors Mugam Seogi contained a mindset of I had problems within me and I can resolve them myself. The project originated from research on shamanic dance conducted while preparing for last years Seoul City Dance Company production, Mimesis. Yoon explained, In traditional Seoul gut performances, when the shaman was deep into the ritual, a family member would take the shamans attire and dance spontaneously like the shaman. Mugam Seogi is about surrendering to the music and dancing as your body leads you. To capture this essence, the performance incorporates improvisation. Dancers, trained in precise choreography, were encouraged to express their own bodies and emotions. Additionally, costumes were designed to appear different even with the same movements. Yoon noted, The angle and flow of the costumes change based on the dancers fingertips, so while the movements may be the same, the way the costumes flow cannot be identical. Efforts were made to modernize the performance to resonate with the audience. Yoon remarked, Gut and shamans were elements of our ancestors communal life. When something happened, people would gather to perform a gut and share food, turning it into a festive, everyday occurrence. He added, However, during the Japanese colonial period, the term superstition was used to demean these practices. Through this opportunity, I want to discuss the folk elements that were embedded in our ancestors lives in the context of today. However, it is regrettable that the performance did not fully capture the joy and sense of liberation inherent in Mugam Seogi. The energy of a festival, where participants jump in and dance together, was not felt. Although the performance depicted a journey through anxiety, pain, awareness, and hope, it remained shrouded in darkness until the end, which was intended to convey a sense of liberation. The 70-minute performance featured dreamlike music and movements that felt on the verge of explosion but ultimately did not release the spontaneity and excitement of the gut. While it persistently examined pain, it did not reach the point of liberation. The performance runs from September 10 to 13. September 11, 2026
-
BOK tests AI agents for economic statistics SEOUL, September 11 (AJP) — The Bank of Korea is testing artificial intelligence agents to interpret statistical changes and simulate policy judgments as it explores wider AI use in South Korea's official economic statistics. The Bank of Korea (BOK) and the Korean Statistical Society opened a joint forum Friday to discuss how artificial intelligence, machine learning and new data techniques can improve the accuracy and timeliness of economic statistics. BOK Senior Deputy Governor Kwon Min-soo said rapid advances in AI and changes in the data environment are reshaping how statistics are produced and analyzed, increasing the need to use new types of data to capture economic developments more quickly. Kwon said maintaining statistical reliability as the distribution and structure of underlying data change has also emerged as an important challenge. The forum, titled “AI, Data and Economic Statistics: A Changing Environment and New Approaches,” brings together central bank officials, academics and statistical practitioners for three sessions on statistical methods, adaptive AI and distributional statistics. The first session examines how traditional statistical techniques such as data integration and adjustment can be combined with machine-learning methods using high-frequency indicators including card sales and search trends. Korea University professor Park Min-gyu will present applications of transfer learning to economic nowcasting and cross-country growth forecasts, along with a statistical verification framework for safely applying machine learning to official statistics. Transfer learning allows models trained on one set of data or tasks to reuse that knowledge for new applications, reducing the amount of data and computing resources required. The second session focuses on maintaining model reliability when underlying data patterns change. Hongik University professor Park Se-ho will examine discrepancies between micro-level data and macroeconomic statistics through “distribution shift,” proposing a process to detect and correct changes in data distributions. Yonsei University professor Song Kyung-woo will discuss self-evolving AI agents designed to adapt to changing environments and tasks, including statistical methods to control hallucinations and uncertainty in AI-generated responses. The final session turns to practical applications being tested by the BOK. BOK researcher Kim So-jung will present AI agents developed to interpret changes in economic statistics and simulate policy judgments, while stressing the need to identify and control biases in their responses. Another BOK researcher, Park Jin, will present measures to reconcile gaps between microeconomic and macroeconomic data in household distributional accounts. The BOK said the revisions improved coverage ratios between the two data sets and the treatment of movements across income groups. Kwon said such practical efforts, including the use of AI agents and improvements to household distributional accounts, could enhance the explanatory power and usefulness of economic statistics. He added that the forum was intended to bring together academic theory and practical experience to help further improve the quality of Korea's statistics. The forum runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the BOK's conference hall in Seoul, following opening remarks by Korean Statistical Society President Kang Ki-hoon and a welcome address by Kwon. AJP Takeaways - The BOK is testing AI agents that can interpret changes in economic statistics and simulate policy judgments. - BOK Senior Deputy Governor Kwon Min-soo said maintaining statistical reliability as data distributions and structures change has become an important challenge. - Researchers are examining how machine learning and high-frequency data can be combined with traditional statistical methods while controlling model errors. - The forum also addresses AI hallucinations, changing data distributions and inconsistencies between microeconomic and macroeconomic statistics. September 11, 2026 -
The Lifespan of Chips and the Enduring Nature of Art The lifespan of semiconductors is measured by performance metrics, while the lifespan of culture is gauged by human memory. Today’s fastest chips will soon give way to the next generation. However, the stories of Homer from thousands of years ago have found new audiences through Christopher Nolans film Odyssey. While old technologies may be replaced, the human experiences of love, loss, and the longing for return remain eternal. This raises a crucial question for South Korea in the age of AI: What will we create better? And what will we leave behind in the hearts of people around the world?Semiconductors represent a monumental achievement for South Korea, underpinning its economy and security while serving as the foundation for AI competition. However, while semiconductors make South Korea a necessary player on the global stage, culture fosters a nation that is loved and trusted. The next successful strategy for South Korea must begin with a dual focus on technology and culture.The Lumiere Summit, co-hosted by President Lee Jae-myung and French President Emmanuel Macron on September 7 in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, showcased this potential. The two countries announced the Lumiere Partnership, pledging to invest 500 million euros each over five years, totaling 1.6 trillion won, into the film and video industry. They also adopted the Lumiere Declaration, which emphasizes the protection of diversity in works and the prevention of piracy. Discussions included support for independent films, human-centered creation in the AI era, and the global expansion of local content. This focus on the future of culture in diplomatic relations deserves recognition. Now, we must ask a more important question than the amount of investment: Whose imagination will that investment nurture, and what kind of creative environment will it leave behind?The power of culture extends beyond box office revenues. Interest generated by a single work can spill over into food, tourism, fashion, and the learning of the Korean language. Most importantly, it transforms a foreign country into a familiar one, allowing people to understand the hopes and concerns of its citizens. This accumulated familiarity and trust also strengthen diplomacy and the economy. This is why cultural policy should not be evaluated solely on short-term sales and export figures.So why has the world listened to Korean stories? The underground setting of Parasite and the dalgona of Squid Game are distinctly Korean. Yet, the inequalities and survival struggles depicted resonate with global audiences. BTS has crossed borders by singing about youth anxiety and self-esteem in Korean. The success of Hallyu demonstrates that the most localized stories can garner universal empathy.The success of Hallyu cannot be attributed solely to a single national character or the efforts of any one government. It is infused with history, tradition, the scars of war and division, and the aspirations of rapid growth. The persistence of creators, combined with corporate planning and investment, has led to public selection of these works. International fans have voluntarily translated, shared, and distributed them, breaking down barriers in distribution. Hallyu has become a global shared culture nurtured by Korea and the world.What has enabled this growth? The answer lies in democracy. The freedom to challenge authority and expose societys darker sides has deepened storytelling. Works that do not shy away from issues like wealth disparity, social violence, and youth despair have fostered a deeper understanding of Korea. Trust has also been built in a society that allows criticism. Freedom of expression is not merely an ornament of culture; it is a protective barrier for the imagination of creators and a source of competitiveness for the cultural industry.Kim Dae-jung expanded that freedom and supported openness through policy. Even during the economic crisis, he viewed culture as a key industry for the 21st century. In 1999, he enacted the Cultural Industry Promotion Act and established the Korean Film Council. By 2000, the cultural budget exceeded 1% of the total government budget for the first time since the establishment of the government. His judgment was that the more difficult the situation, the more investment was needed for the next era beyond mere survival.The opening of Japanese popular culture exemplifies Kim Dae-jungs cultural confidence. At the time, there were significant concerns that an influx of Japanese culture would undermine Korean culture. However, Kim Dae-jung believed in the ability of Koreans to adapt and transform foreign cultures into their own. Following the joint declaration of the Korea-Japan partnership in October 1998, a phased opening began. Instead of locking the doors, he chose a path of becoming stronger through exchange and competition. The fears proved unfounded, as Korean popular culture expanded into the Japanese market. Openness became a catalyst for leapfrogging rather than dependency.The digital infrastructure also expanded during this time. While the ultra-high-speed information and communication network project began under previous administrations, the Kim Dae-jung government accelerated the second phase in 1998 and rapidly expanded internet access. By 1999, the number of internet users surpassed 10 million, and by 2002, households with high-speed internet exceeded 10 million. This environment fostered the growth of gaming and digital content, as the public began creating, evaluating, and disseminating works online. The intersection of cultural policy and information policy created fertile ground for the growth of Hallyu.At the center of this was the principle of support without interference. I had the privilege of closely assisting President Kim Dae-jung during this period. I remember the day in 2003 at the Chunsa Film Festival when filmmakers presented him with a lifetime achievement award, and I witnessed him tear up. Looking back, his greatest contribution was not in selecting successful works but in broadening the conditions for creators to challenge freely. The protagonists of Hallyu have always been the creators and the public. The governments role is to believe in their potential and provide a foundation that can withstand failure.AI makes this principle even more critical. AI assists in video and music production and reduces costs for translation and editing. Small production companies and emerging creators can now attempt expressions that were previously unaffordable. As language barriers diminish, the chances for Korean regional stories and independent works to reach global audiences increase. When used correctly, AI can become a tool that broadens the doors to creation.However, risks are evident. If existing works are used for training without permission, and creators names, styles, and voices are easily imitated, the benefits of technology will concentrate on platforms, leaving creators without a place. If recommendation algorithms only repeat familiar formulas for success, cultural diversity will diminish. Rapid and inexpensive production does not necessarily lead to quality culture. The questions of what life to capture, what to inquire about, and how to take responsibility for the results of expression remain human responsibilities.The Lee Jae-myung administrations cultural policy must establish four conditions. First, it must guarantee freedom of creation through the system. To ensure that works uncomfortable for the government do not face disadvantages in support, the independence of support organizations and transparency in evaluations are essential. Selection should be based on the originality of the work and the capabilities of the creator, not proximity to the regime, and the selection process should be made public, with no interference in the content of supported works. This will allow creators to question societal taboos without fear.Second, it must expand the foundation for independent films, basic arts, and young and regional creators to fail and try again. What seems unfamiliar and lacking marketability today may become tomorrows new trend.Third, it must establish fair contracts and transparent settlements among platforms, production companies, and creators. Even if industry revenues increase, if creators lives remain barren, success will not last long. Fourth, it must ensure that it is possible to verify what works AI has used for learning and creation, and establish principles of consent and fair compensation for rights holders. There is no reason to force a choice between technological innovation and copyright protection. Predictable rules are necessary for both creators and tech companies to invest sustainably.Cooperation with France should also lead to achievements in co-production, talent exchange, and cultural diversity. It should create pathways for not only large-scale works but also independent films, animation, and regionally based content to meet each others markets. The combination of Koreas production capabilities and Frances cultural policy experience can lead to collaborations that expand options in the global market.A nations cultural appeal does not emerge overnight. It requires a long accumulation of free creation and fair compensation to build a culture that the world trusts.The government cannot designate the next story that will captivate the hearts of people worldwide. However, it can ensure that those who create that story can speak without fear and rise again. The path of freedom and openness that Kim Dae-jung opened must be further expanded in the AI era. A country that possesses both the most advanced semiconductors and the most enduring stories. The lifespan of chips may be a few years, but the stories etched in the hearts of people can last for thousands of years across generations. That is South Koreas greater success strategy.* This article has been translated by AI. September 11, 2026
-
Divisions Emerge in Ruling Coalition Over Hormuz Deployment The South Korean governments consideration of a military deployment to the Hormuz Strait is revealing deepening divisions within the ruling coalition. As President Lee Jae-myungs approval ratings continue to decline, analysts warn that the controversy surrounding overseas deployments could further undermine the governments momentum. Growing opposition to the deployment among supporters of the ruling coalition raises concerns that the foundation of President Lees proposed structural majority could be jeopardized. According to government and military officials on September 10, a local investigation team from the Ministry of National Defense, dispatched to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is set to return today. The team is expected to report its findings to the National Security Council (NSC) soon, in accordance with Defense Ministry directives. The government remains cautious, stating that a deployment has not yet been finalized. However, the Blue House has indicated that it is considering technical and intelligence support for the Hormuz Strait, suggesting that practical discussions regarding deployment have progressed significantly. As the possibility of deployment becomes more concrete, opposition within the ruling coalition is intensifying. Some lawmakers from the ruling party have publicly expressed their disapproval. Senior Democratic Party member Song Young-gil stated on YTN Radio the previous day that there is “less justification than during the Iraq War,” predicting that a deployment proposal would face challenges in the National Assembly. Kim Jun-hyung, the floor leader of the Justice Party, also issued a statement on September 4, labeling U.S. military actions against Iran as “illegal acts of aggression” and opposing the deployment of South Korean troops. Civil society is also organizing against the deployment. The Joint Action Against Invasion War and Deployment, comprising 601 organizations from civil and labor sectors, plans to hold protests and marches in Seouls Gwanghwamun area on September 12, following demonstrations the previous day. Overall public sentiment appears to be against the deployment. A recent nationwide survey conducted by Embrain Public, K-Stat Research, Korea Research, and Hankook Research revealed that 45% of respondents oppose sending maritime patrol aircraft and logistical support vessels to the Hormuz Strait, compared to 36% in favor. Notably, among the Democratic Partys support base, 55% oppose the deployment, significantly outpacing the 31% who support it. Among the broader progressive demographic, 60% expressed opposition to the deployment (29% in favor). Experts warn that the deployment controversy could hinder the governments ability to consolidate its core support while also expanding its appeal to moderate and conservative voters, ultimately weakening its governing power. If the Democratic Party, the ruling coalition, and its core supporters fracture over the deployment, it could undermine the existing support base and jeopardize President Lees vision of securing a structural majority. In this context, Professor Eom Gi-hong from Kyungpook National University noted, “The Hormuz situation represents support for a war without justification from the perspective of the progressive base, which will inevitably lead to a loss of support,” adding that “the shock and repercussions will likely last a considerable time.” Political analyst Lee Jong-hoon stated, “If a final decision on deployment is made, it will be crucial for the Blue House to clearly explain the rationale behind the decision and the diplomatic benefits that can be gained, as well as how effectively it can persuade the leadership of the Democratic Party and the pro-Lee faction to restore governing momentum.” * This article has been translated by AI. September 10, 2026
-
Yong Hye-in Stands Firm on Dual Role as Lawmaker and Minister Yong Hye-in, the nominee for Minister of Gender Equality and Family, reiterated her decision not to resign from her position as a proportional representative lawmaker during a press conference held at the National Assembly on September 10.During the conference, she stated, The nomination of an opposition lawmaker as a minister is the first case since the Kim Dae-jung government and the DJP alliance, making it difficult to evaluate as a mere precedent.She emphasized, It is a principle that lawmakers can concurrently hold ministerial positions as permitted by law, and questioned whether the tradition of resigning from proportional representation positions has been perceived as a form of political patronage. She expressed agreement with the need for legislative discussion on the potential drawbacks of lawmakers holding ministerial roles, stating, It is hard to agree with applying different principles and standards only to proportional representatives.Yong added, If my personal advancement had been more important than serving the nation and the people, I would not have accepted the ministerial position. I accepted the nomination to create a gender-equal society for all under the Lee Jae-myung government.Addressing various allegations against her, she remarked, Since my nomination, absurd accusations have been reported as if they were factual. Although I have been preparing for the confirmation hearing, the schedule has yet to be set. The fundamental cause seems to be the stubbornness of the People Power Party, and I feel disappointed that even some within the Democratic Party are being swept up in speculation and malicious manipulation.Regarding the so-called ghost regional party allegations against the Basic Income Party, to which she belongs, she clarified, By law, a regional party must have an office address, and the only full-time staff member, who is also the chairperson, used their home address as the office.In response to criticisms labeling her party as a family party due to her spouse holding a party position, she stated, There are no procedural flaws, and I consulted thoroughly with party officials and activists during the founding process and meeting preparations. After appointments, there are additional approval processes, so it is not solely my decision.She further asserted, My income alone is sufficient to support my family, and there is no reason to pay my spouse a salary of 2.5 million won from party funds.On the controversy surrounding her involvement in an alleged under-organization with discriminatory internal regulations, she acknowledged her participation, stating, I do not intend to deny my involvement in the private faction. The faction disbanded in 2017 due to issues raised by my former colleagues regarding its discriminatory and hierarchical culture, which lacked the capacity for self-correction. I agree with my colleagues concerns, and it was appropriate for a group with outdated cultural practices to disband.After the press conference, when asked about Kim Gil-o, the CEO of Korea Board Games, related to the under-organization allegations, she replied, The private faction disbanded in 2017, and I have not been in contact since then.When questioned about her willingness to step down due to high negative ratings in public opinion polls, she said, I am aware that there are various opinions within the Democratic Party regarding the nomination by the appointing authority, but I have no further comments at this stage.Meanwhile, the schedule for Yongs confirmation hearing has not yet been finalized. The Gender Equality and Family Committee of the National Assembly attempted to adopt a plan for the confirmation hearing during a full meeting, but the session was canceled due to a breakdown in negotiations over witness testimonies between the ruling and opposition parties. September 10, 2026
-
AI Develops Emotional Connections with Users; U.S. Agency Pushes for User Protection Law The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is taking steps to establish a user protection system for generative artificial intelligence (AI) that goes beyond simple question-and-answer interactions to form emotional connections with users.According to the FCC on September 10, the agency is conducting policy research to draft an AI User Protection Law. The primary goal of the legislation is to ensure user rights and create a systematic foundation for addressing damages that may arise during the use of AI services.An FCC official stated, We have laid out the framework for the law concerning user rights and damage relief, and we are currently discussing how to design an evaluation system for AI services and what level of responsibility and obligations to impose on service providers. A public forum to discuss the related legislation is scheduled for November.The need for AI user protection has grown as the role of generative AI services rapidly expands. Generative AI now offers not only general information but also counseling and emotional exchanges. The trend of companion AI and relationship-oriented chatbots that respond like friends or partners by remembering users speech patterns, preferences, and past conversations is also on the rise.For instance, AI-based services like Scatter Labs Zeta and Luttons Crack have seen significant growth. Zetas monthly active users surged from 58,069 in April 2024 to 1,586,178 last month, an increase of nearly 27 times. Similarly, Cracks user base grew from 218,050 in April of last year to 538,841 in August, a rise of about 2.5 times.However, this growth has raised new concerns, including the potential for AI to encourage self-harm or criminal behavior, as well as the risk of emotional dependency or over-engagement among youth. Given that different responses can be generated based on the context of user conversations, existing methods for preemptively identifying harmful content have limitations.Questions have also been raised about the effectiveness of youth protection measures. A preliminary study released in February by researchers from the University of California, Irvine, and the University of Alabama, titled Actions Speak Louder Than Chats: Investigating AI Chatbot Age Gating, found that in 1,050 tests of five major AI chatbots, there were no instances of blocking access for child users. Only two cases involved directing users to seek help from adults. The researchers noted, Simply stating a minimum age in the terms of service does not effectively restrict childrens actual access.Another challenge is the ambiguity surrounding accountability and relief procedures when harm occurs. A study by the Korea Information Society Development Institute (KISDI) concluded that the existing telecommunications legal framework is insufficient to adequately address the risks and user harms associated with AI services. KISDI emphasized the need to establish a dedicated dispute resolution committee for AI service-related conflicts.Internationally, there are also movements to enhance user protection for AI chatbots. Last year, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) began investigating the impact of AI chatbots on children and adolescents, focusing on major players like OpenAI, Google, and Meta.In January, California mandated that AI companion chatbot providers inform users that they are not conversing with a human and implement safety measures to address self-harm risks and sexual content aimed at minors.* This article has been translated by AI. September 10, 2026