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U.S. Nuclear Double Standards: Saudi Arabia vs. South Korea In international politics, national interests often take precedence over principles. The recent move by the United States to expand nuclear cooperation with Saudi Arabia, including allowing uranium enrichment, underscores this reality. The U.S., which has emphasized nuclear non-proliferation as a core principle of the international order, is broadening its nuclear collaboration with Saudi Arabia, a nation without a single commercial nuclear power plant. This is not merely an energy policy; it is a strategic choice aimed at countering Chinas influence in the Middle East and securing Saudi Arabia within a U.S.-led security framework. Geopolitical interests are clearly taking precedence over non-proliferation principles.South Korea has diligently upheld the U.S.-led nuclear non-proliferation regime for over half a century since the nuclear armament controversy during the Park Chung-hee administration in the 1970s. The country has faithfully implemented the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and has accepted significant restrictions on nuclear fuel cycle technologies, such as spent fuel reprocessing and uranium enrichment, under the Korea-U.S. nuclear agreement. Despite possessing world-class capabilities in nuclear power plant design, construction, and operation, South Korea has prioritized the trust of its ally and limited its own actions.South Korea has emerged as a globally recognized nuclear power. It successfully completed the Barakah nuclear power plant in the United Arab Emirates and has demonstrated competitiveness in the European nuclear market. With over 50 years of operational experience and a transparent safety management system recognized by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), South Koreas nuclear industry is a significant asset. This is why it has been regarded as a model non-proliferation state worldwide.Saudi Arabia, on the other hand, lacks operational experience with nuclear power and has made statements suggesting the possibility of nuclear armament, raising concerns in the international community. Nevertheless, the U.S. is expanding nuclear cooperation with Saudi Arabia due to strategic needs related to countering China and reshaping the Middle Eastern order. The judgment that Saudi Arabia cannot be overlooked, especially as China expands its influence through nuclear power and infrastructure, appears to be a significant factor. While this may be a pragmatic choice for the U.S., it highlights the reality that international politics does not operate solely on principles. When national interests are at stake, interpretations of principles can change.Our perception also needs to evolve. Nuclear power has become a strategic industry that influences national competitiveness, extending beyond just building power plants to include power supply for artificial intelligence (AI) data centers, small modular reactors (SMRs), nuclear fuel cycles, and decommissioning projects. South Korea, with its world-class technological capabilities, should not cling to outdated frameworks. We must reflect on whether we are still waiting for our ally to eventually recognize our efforts, holding onto the belief that we are allies, so they will acknowledge us someday.This shift also carries significant implications for security. As North Koreas nuclear and missile capabilities advance, the need for nuclear-powered submarines has been consistently raised. These submarines are strategic assets capable of long-term submerged operations and long-range missions, not nuclear weapons. While we must approach this matter cautiously within the framework of respecting the international non-proliferation regime and the Korea-U.S. alliance, it is less convincing that the U.S. applies flexible approaches to Saudi Arabia while imposing outdated standards on South Korea.Adhering to non-proliferation principles and accepting excessive constraints in light of changing times are two different issues. We must demand reasonable treatment that aligns with the trust we have built and our world-class technological capabilities. The operational framework of the Korea-U.S. nuclear agreement also needs to be re-evaluated. Alliances cannot endure at the expense of one party. If the U.S. applies principles flexibly based on national interests, South Korea should also pursue a more proactive nuclear strategy centered on its own national interests. This is the mark of a mature alliance and the realistic path we must choose in a rapidly changing international order. July 26, 2026 14:48 -
Love, legacy and the price of a chaebol divorce SEOUL, July 26 (AJP) -There is no shortage of Korean dramas built around chaebol heirs falling in love against the odds. Real life has produced stories just as compelling — except that the endings are often written not by scriptwriters but by judges. Record 944 billion won ($680 million) divorce award involving SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won and former wife Roh Soh-yeong last Friday has added another chapter to the small club of Korea's most consequential corporate breakups, where failed marriages have altered family fortunes, tested succession plans and redefined the legal treatment of billionaire wealth. Unlike television dramas, where romance typically triumphs over wealth and family opposition, Korea's real-life chaebol love stories have often unfolded under relentless public scrutiny, ending in courtroom battles over corporate empires worth trillions of won. The SK saga: A marriage that united business and politics Few unions carried greater symbolic weight than the marriage of Chey Tae-won and Roh Soh-yeong. When they married in 1988, Chey was the son of SK founder Chey Jong-hyun while Roh was the daughter of then-President Roh Tae-woo, creating one of Korea's most influential power couples. Over nearly three decades, Roh stood beside Chey as SK evolved from a domestic energy company into one of the world's most valuable AI memory chipmakers. Their marriage unraveled publicly after Chey disclosed that he had fathered a child outside the marriage and sought divorce in 2017. After years of legal battles culminating in Thursday's remand ruling, the Seoul High Court ordered Chey to pay Roh 944 billion won in cash while recognizing her 33.3 percent contribution to the couple's jointly accumulated wealth over almost 30 years of marriage. The finalized award is the largest publicly disclosed property settlement involving a Korean business family. It follows an earlier appellate ruling in 2024 ordering Chey to pay 1.38 trillion won, which was later overturned by the Supreme Court after it found errors in the lower court's reasoning regarding former President Roh's alleged political slush funds. Samsung's Cinderella romance Long before the SK divorce dominated headlines, another corporate romance had captured the country's imagination. Hotel Shilla President Lee Boo-jin, the eldest daughter of late Samsung Chairman Lee Kun-hee, fell in love with Lim Woo-jae, then a Samsung security employee. Their 1999 marriage was widely portrayed as a rare Cinderella story inside Korea's most powerful conglomerate. The fairy tale ended in 2014 when Lee filed for divorce. During the proceedings, Lim reportedly argued that Lee's personal fortune exceeded 2.5 trillion won and sought more than 1.2 trillion won in property division—the largest publicly known claim in a Korean divorce at the time. The Supreme Court ultimately upheld a property settlement of roughly 14.1 billion won in 2020, a tiny fraction of the amount sought. Legal observers widely interpreted the outcome as reflecting the court's view that Lee's Samsung shareholdings were not subject to division. Lee Jae-yong and Lim Se-ryung: A quiet ending Not every chaebol romance ended in years of courtroom drama. Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong and Daesang Vice Chairwoman Lim Se-ryung divorced in 2009 after 11 years of marriage. The case was settled through mediation within days after proceedings began, and financial terms were never disclosed. Both went on to become prominent business leaders in their own right, with Lee leading Samsung Electronics and Lim emerging as one of Korea's most influential female executives. A retail heir and a television star One of Korea's most talked-about celebrity-business marriages brought together Shinsegae Group Chairman Chung Yong-jin and actress Ko Hyun-jung. The marriage, which attracted enormous public attention, ended in 2003 through mediation only hours after divorce proceedings began. Reports at the time said Chung agreed to pay 1.5 billion won in alimony while retaining custody of the couple's children. The details of any property division, however, were never made public. The gaming founder who paid in shares One of the few founders to divide company ownership rather than cash was NCSoft founder Kim Taek-jin. When his marriage ended in 2004, Kim transferred a 1.76 percent stake in the online game developer to his former spouse. The shares were valued at roughly 30 billion won at the time, making it one of Korea's earliest high-profile examples of equity-based divorce settlements involving a technology entrepreneur. The next blockbuster case Legal and business circles are already watching what could become Korea's next landmark corporate divorce. Smilegate Chief Visionary Officer Kwon Hyuk-bin, whose fortune is estimated at around 8 trillion won, is scheduled to receive a first-instance ruling on Sept. 9 in a divorce case filed in 2022. Local media have reported that his wife is seeking roughly half of his Smilegate shareholding. Following the precedent set in the Chey-Roh litigation, the case is expected to test whether Korean courts are increasingly willing to treat founder-controlled equity in privately held technology companies as marital property. What links these stories is not simply celebrity or wealth. Each has raised difficult questions about how courts value contributions made outside the boardroom, whether family-controlled shareholdings should be divided after decades of marriage, and how personal relationships can reshape the ownership of some of Korea's largest corporations. For a country where chaebol families have long inspired television romances, reality has proved every bit as dramatic—only the scripts are written in court judgments, measured in billions of won, and capable of altering the future of corporate empires. July 26, 2026 14:24 -
Interview: Director Choi Jeong-kyu on the Hopeful Ending of 'Donggung' Director Choi Jeong-kyu, known for his meticulous craftsmanship in genre dramas like The Devil Judge and Red Moon Blue Sun, has shifted his focus to the royal palace of Joseon in the Netflix series Donggung. The show explores a mystery set in the world of spirits, where a palace maid with secrets investigates a curse that haunts the king. By blending the distinctly Korean theme of shamanistic beliefs with fantasy action, Donggung achieved remarkable success, ranking second in the global Top 10 non-English shows just three days after its release. Chois unique directorial style has captivated global audiences with the series haunting undertones. Rather than focusing on ratings, I am grateful for the viewership. As a creator, my hope was for many people to enjoy it, so I feel thankful for the interest it has garnered since its release, Choi said. When he first encountered the expansive world built by writers Kwon So-ra and Seo Jae-won, Choi felt a mix of excitement and challenge. My initial thought was, This will be fun. I believed the content would be interesting, and from a creators perspective, it seemed like a challenging and thrilling project. At that time, I didnt fully grasp how complex and difficult it would be, so I first thought about how to make it visually appealing, he explained. One of the biggest challenges was visually realizing the world of spirits that serves as the backdrop for the drama. The production team engaged in intense discussions to create a space that felt both connected to reality and distinctly different. From the beginning, we agreed that while we wanted the world to look different from the real one, it should still reflect elements of reality. The concept was clear, but the technical and visual implementation became a point of contemplation for me as the director, Choi noted. Some viewers have drawn comparisons between the world of spirits in Donggung and the upside-down world in Netflixs Stranger Things. I was surprised to hear the comparison to Stranger Things. Its an excellent work, and I feel honored, but it wasnt a visual reference for us. However, we did discuss the sense of adventure in which characters navigate through various situations, and titles like Stranger Things and The X-Files came up. For visual representation, we sought basic imagery from legends and myths about hell and the afterlife. We aimed for a vibrant color palette in the real world, while the spirit world was dominated by a single color concept, like red, purple, or yellow. We also shot the same space in different seasons to create distinct feelings—spring and summer for reality, and winter for the spirit world, he explained. Behind the stunning visuals was a strong collaboration with the cinematography and lighting teams. Despite the high reliance on visual effects (VFX), the team chose to emphasize the inherent strength of the subjects rather than solely depending on technology. They built separate sets for the real and spirit worlds to create a tactile difference. I learned a lot from cinematographer Park Jeong-hoon and lighting director Kim Seung-kyu. Both started their careers in historical dramas, and since I have also worked on many, we discussed how to express beauty in a fantasy based on Koreas past. We concluded that rather than embellishing too much, we should confront the subjects and landscapes directly. Instead of thinking, This can be solved with VFX, we approached it with the mindset that this is it, without VFX. While we did use a lot of VFX, we set a principle to minimize reliance on it from a blank slate. We first created the art and real sets, then applied retouching or overlays as needed. The sets for the spirit world and corridor scenes were built separately to create different color and texture perceptions, even slightly tilting columns and floors to evoke subtle differences that the audience might not consciously notice, he said. In the series, the character Geumak-sari, who communicates with the protagonist Gucheon, had to balance between being endearing and eerie. Choi aimed to lend credibility to the character through its design. Designing Geumak-sari was quite challenging. Other spirit characters have relatively clear roles, but Geumak-sari needed to be a friendly presence to both Gucheon and the audience while also having the ability to transform and assist. I pondered how to create that credibility and drew inspiration from the textures of statues, clay figures, and earth. The original story had a dark image, so I developed it with a sense of earth and stone. Since this character needs to interact continuously with Gucheon, cuteness was also an important element. The writers mentioned that they found cuteness in the line where Geumak-sari repeatedly says, I am Geumak-sari. I believe that influenced how the character was structured in the script, he said. Leading actors Nam Joo-hyuk (as Gucheon) and Noh Yoon-seo (as Saenggang) displayed a high degree of synchronization with their characters, providing a solid foundation for the series. I see Gucheon as a very lonely character. He grumbles, but ultimately, he bears all the burdens himself. He navigates between life and death, fulfills his duties, and accepts his fate. I felt a good understanding of this character during the casting discussions with Joo-hyuk. He is a bright and playful person, yet he also has a cool and reliable demeanor, with moments of loneliness reflected in his eyes. Most importantly, I felt his sincerity towards the work and character. Yoon-seo, on the other hand, seemed to have a sense of overcoming challenges, even though she didnt appear to struggle in her previous work. I was curious about the source of that, and when I met her and worked together, I found her to have a very straightforward and bold charm. Her simplicity and directness were impressive, Choi shared. Veteran actors like Jang Young-nam and Jo Seung-woo provided the weight of traditional historical drama, while the two leads brought a relatively modern tone to their performances. This contrast arose naturally from the relationships between the characters. I think the contrast came from the positions and relationships of the characters rather than being intentional. Seung-woo and Young-nam play characters who engage in formal and political discussions, while Gucheon is inherently that type, and Saenggang, despite being a princess, becomes closer to Gucheon, altering their distance. That contrast likely became more pronounced. I believe both of them would excel in any role, not just historical dramas. Young-nam had to shoot high-energy scenes in a short period, and despite the exhausting circumstances, her eyes lit up whenever the camera was rolling, which I found truly impressive. The scene where she had to perform with a twisted mouth was particularly challenging, he noted. During filming, a major fire incident forced the team to rebuild the set. However, Choi explained that such accidents ultimately strengthened the bond among the crew. The fire was significant, so it posed challenges. I believe we had to rebuild the set we had constructed. Still, I am grateful that no one was injured. The production company, Netflix, and the staff encouraged me, which helped us overcome the situation. Many people shed tears, but seeing them tell me, Its okay, lets stay strong, made me realize I needed to pull myself together, he said. As the series concludes with a poignant ending, anticipation for a potential second season is growing among viewers. Instead of providing a definitive answer, Choi responded with affection for the characters. Regarding whether the ending was designed with a sequel in mind, I believe that as a creator, its not the first thing to consider. My primary concern was to do everything we could now and hope that many people would love it. However, in discussions with the writers about the ending, we talked about how the characters had gone through so much hardship and suffering, and we wondered if there could be a glimmer of hope. While the situation in the palace hasnt completely changed, the ending reflects a desire for a bit of hope for them in the darkness, he concluded. * This article has been translated by AI. July 26, 2026 14:16
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Hyundai Motor Group Strengthens AI Collaboration in San Francisco Hyundai Motor Group is enhancing its collaboration with the innovation ecosystem in San Francisco, USA, focusing on artificial intelligence (AI). The company has also announced its long-term plan, the Physical AI Vision, which aims to achieve integrated intelligence at the city level through the intelligence of individual devices such as automobiles and robots, as well as specific spaces.According to industry sources on July 26, the San Francisco Bay Area, home to Silicon Valley, is a global innovation hub where leading tech companies, startups, research institutions, and universities are interconnected. This region is where Hyundai Motor Group is actively pursuing industry-academic-research collaborations for its transition to Physical AI. The group is exploring future technologies and strengthening its research and development capabilities while engaging in various collaborations that encompass talent, culture, and academia.On July 24, during the San Francisco AI Summit, Hyundai Motor Group Chairman Euisun Chung unveiled the Physical AI vision, which outlines the companys evolution from an automobile manufacturer to a platform company that transforms lifestyles. The vision extends beyond the intelligence of individual devices like cars and robots to the intelligence of specific spaces, ultimately aiming for integrated intelligence at the city level. The plan is to design urban infrastructure that creates new value as mobility, work, and living spaces change in the AI era.To accelerate the implementation of Physical AI, Hyundai Motor Group plans to combine its strengths in manufacturing, mobility, and robotics with the software, AI infrastructure, and algorithm capabilities of major U.S. tech companies. Specifically, the group aims to strengthen strategic collaborations with global tech giants such as NVIDIA, Waymo, and Google DeepMind.Hyundai Motor Group also announced plans to establish a robot reference platform that integrates NVIDIAs Physical AI technology and to invest in the Saemangeum AI Valley, aiming to enable a new leap for the domestic industry and technology ecosystem based on innovation in robotics and AI.Since establishing Hyundai Ventures as a global open innovation hub in Silicon Valley in 2011 and rebranding it as Hyundai Cradle in 2017, the group has been identifying promising startups in future technology fields such as AI, autonomous driving, robotics, smart cities, and eco-friendly energy, linking them to its business areas to secure future growth engines.Recently, the group has strengthened its research and development capabilities in future mobility by establishing a new organization under the AVP headquarters in Silicon Valley.The newly established AVP Silicon Valley will be led by Jeremy Ma, who has a distinguished background in autonomous driving, robotics, vision, and systems integration from his experience at NASA, Apple, Toyota Research Institute (TRI), and NVIDIA. He will be responsible for integrating technologies in autonomous driving, robotics, and AI.In September, Hyundai Motor Group will host the HMG Tech Talent Forum in Silicon Valley. This event will invite top talents in key technology fields such as AI, software, robotics, and future mobility to introduce the groups future vision and technological innovations, providing opportunities for direct interaction with key leaders and research and development personnel.Participants will have the chance to directly observe Hyundai Motor Groups future strategies and technological competitiveness while exploring the direction of future industries and potential collaborations with the groups core leaders. The forum will also feature the groups first integrated recruitment program.Hyundai Motor Group is expanding its collaboration with the innovation ecosystem in San Francisco in the fields of culture and science. In April, the group established a strategic partnership with the Exploratorium, a world-renowned interactive science museum representing San Francisco, to promote a culture of inquiry based on fundamental science. Through this partnership, Hyundai Motor Group plans to create an interactive science museum at its Global Business Complex (GBC) by 2032.Through its ongoing innovation efforts in San Francisco, Hyundai Motor Group aims to actively prepare for the new industrial paradigm of Physical AI. The recently unveiled Physical AI vision reflects the groups commitment to connecting technology with people, objects, mobility, and daily life, supporting a new future for human life.A company official stated, We will expand the realm of future mobility through innovations that integrate autonomous driving, robotics, AI, and software, and contribute to humanity and future society as a leading company in the Physical AI era based on collaboration with the global innovation ecosystem.* This article has been translated by AI. July 26, 2026 14:12
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U.S. Tech Giants and Korean Semiconductor Leaders Brace for 'AI Earnings Super Week' U.S. tech giants and South Koreas semiconductor leaders are set to announce their second-quarter earnings, marking an AI earnings super week. Following Alphabets recent announcement of better-than-expected results and a reaffirmation of its commitment to expanding AI investments, market attention is now focused on Microsoft, Meta, Apple, Amazon, as well as Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix.According to the financial investment industry on July 26, earnings reports from key companies in the AI ecosystem will be concentrated this week in the U.S. Microsoft and Meta will release their results after the market closes on July 29, followed by ARM, Qualcomm, and Lam Research. On July 30, Apple, Amazon, and Monolithic Power (MPWR) will also report their earnings. Prior to that, semiconductor equipment firms like KLA and NXP Semiconductors will announce their results on July 28.In South Korea, SK Hynix will report its earnings on July 29, followed by Samsung Electronics, LG Energy Solution, LG Electronics, Samsung SDI, SK Innovation, and POSCO Holdings on July 30. Notably, Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix are considered key players in the AI memory market, making their results critical indicators for both the domestic stock market and the global semiconductor industry.Expectations for this earnings season are high. Samsung Electronics has already indicated a potential earnings surprise with preliminary results showing second-quarter sales of 171 trillion won and operating profit of 89.4 trillion won, exceeding market consensus. The operating profit marks an 1810% increase compared to the same period last year, setting a new record. SK Hynix is also expected to report its highest-ever earnings, with estimates suggesting second-quarter sales of 84.6 trillion won and operating profit of 64.1 trillion won, surpassing last years annual operating profit in just one quarter.Market participants are paying closer attention to the managements outlook for the second half of the year rather than just the earnings figures. Following Alphabets earnings surprise, which included a raised capital expenditure forecast by $15 billion and a reaffirmation of its AI investment strategy, data from Hana Financial Investment shows that the average stock price returns for Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix have reached 11% and 17%, respectively, in the month following the announcement.Seo Sang-young, a researcher at Mirae Asset Securities, stated, This earnings season will serve as a process to confirm whether the investment cycle across the AI supply chain, including memory, semiconductor equipment, and power semiconductors, remains valid, starting with big tech. The key will be whether the expansion of AI investments translates into actual improvements in sales, profits, and free cash flow (FCF), as well as how future investment plans and guidance are presented.However, there is a possibility of increased volatility following the earnings announcements. Seo noted, After the earnings reports, the delta hedging by options market participants and the portfolio adjustments by institutions and foreign investors may lead to differentiation by sector and increased volatility in individual stocks. Particularly, stocks reporting earnings tend to experience higher implied volatility (IV) ahead of their announcements, so it is essential to monitor not only the results but also the guidance and conference call content. July 26, 2026 13:48
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Is It Cheaper to Keep Your Air Conditioner Running All Day? As the heat wave continues, concerns about rising electricity bills due to increased air conditioner usage are growing. Online discussions frequently suggest that keeping the air conditioner on all day is cheaper than turning it off and on.In short, this statement is only partially true. The power consumption of an air conditioner depends on whether it is an inverter type or a fixed-speed model, as well as how long the home is unoccupied.Most recently released home air conditioners are inverter types. Inverter models use a significant amount of power initially to quickly lower the indoor temperature. Once the desired temperature is reached, they reduce the compressor speed to operate only as needed.The issue arises when the air conditioner is turned off after the indoor space has cooled, only to be turned back on shortly after. If the power is off for a while and the indoor temperature rises, the air conditioner must restart at full capacity. Repeating this cycle can lead to higher power consumption compared to maintaining a steady temperature.Researchers from Samsung Electronics presented findings at a conference of the Korean Society of Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Engineers, indicating that for short outings of less than 90 minutes, it may be more energy-efficient to keep the inverter air conditioner running. Their experiments showed that after a 30-minute absence, power consumption was 5% higher when the unit was turned off and then restarted, and 2% higher after 60 minutes. However, after 90 minutes, it became more efficient to turn the unit off. Samsung noted that results may vary based on the home environment and insulation.Thus, for inverter models, it may be beneficial to leave the unit on during short absences of 30 minutes to an hour. For longer absences of over two hours, it is generally better to turn it off.The 90-minute guideline is not a one-size-fits-all rule. Factors such as home size, insulation quality, window orientation, outside temperature, air conditioner capacity, and set temperature can all affect outcomes. Homes with strong sunlight or poor insulation will see indoor temperatures rise quickly after turning off the unit. Conversely, well-insulated homes can maintain cool air for a longer period.Older fixed-speed air conditioners operate differently. They run at a constant output until the desired temperature is reached, then stop until the temperature rises again. Since they cannot adjust output finely like inverter models, keeping them on continuously may not be advantageous. Turning off a fixed-speed unit when the indoor space is sufficiently cool and restarting it when it gets warmer can help reduce power consumption.To determine whether an air conditioner is inverter type, check the product or the label on the outdoor unit. If it is labeled inverter or shows cooling capacity and power consumption in multiple stages (minimum, medium, rated), it is likely an inverter model. The most accurate way to confirm is to check the model number or user manual or contact the manufacturers customer service.When first turning on the air conditioner, it is more efficient to use the high-speed or quick-cooling function to lower the indoor temperature rather than running it at a low setting for a long time. After reaching the desired temperature, it is advisable to set it around 26 to 28 degrees Fahrenheit and lower the fan speed to maintain that temperature.Using a fan or circulator can help distribute cool air quickly throughout the room. The Korea Energy Agency recommends using air conditioners in conjunction with fans and keeping windows and doors closed during cooling to minimize the influx of hot air. When leaving during the day, closing curtains or blinds to block sunlight can also be beneficial.Avoid setting the temperature too low. Setting the indoor temperature to 18 or 20 degrees does not make the air conditioner blow colder air. Instead, it may cause the outdoor unit to run at high capacity for longer, increasing power consumption.Filter maintenance is also crucial. Clogged filters can obstruct airflow and reduce cooling efficiency. During the summer months when air conditioner usage is high, it is advisable to check and clean the filters every two weeks.Electricity bills are not determined solely by the usage of one air conditioner. If the total power consumption in a household exceeds the progressive rate threshold, the cost of additional electricity usage can increase significantly. Korea Electric Power Corporation applies a progressive rate system, where the unit price rises as usage increases.* This article has been translated by AI. July 26, 2026 13:28
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National Park Service Enhances Safety Measures for Summer Water Activities The government is intensifying patrols and access controls in national parks to prevent water-related accidents during the summer vacation season. The National Park Service, under the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment, announced on July 26 that it will focus on managing high-risk water areas in national parks across the country until August 31. As of May, the agency assessed safety management at 249 water activity sites nationwide. Since last month, it has been enhancing safety facilities and deploying additional safety personnel to patrol and educate visitors in areas prone to accidents. In mountainous national parks, the agency is managing 110 designated areas where water activities are temporarily allowed and 103 areas where access is prohibited. They have installed 86 intelligent closed-circuit TVs, 210 life rings, and 55 safety nets, along with posting banners indicating restricted access. To address the high risk of drowning between noon and 6 p.m., 470 safety personnel will be deployed for intensified patrols. In coastal and marine national parks, local governments and maritime police are operating a safety council. They have deployed 311 pieces of rescue equipment, including life jackets, and 170 dedicated safety personnel, while implementing access controls in hazardous areas and operating tide warning systems, along with on-site announcements. The agency is also installing banners and information signs at valleys and beaches, and providing safety guidelines through its website and 267 electronic message boards. Key safety tips include proper warm-up exercises before entering the water, wetting the body, ensuring children are accompanied by guardians, prohibiting entry after consuming alcohol, and wearing safety gear such as life jackets and shoes. Visitors are advised to avoid risky behaviors like diving and to only engage in water activities at designated locations. Joo Dae-young, the director of the National Park Service, stated, As we enter the peak summer vacation season, it is crucial to explore national parks safely. Adhering to basic safety rules is the most effective way to prevent water-related accidents, and I urge the public to participate and cooperate voluntarily. * This article has been translated by AI. July 26, 2026 12:08
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Gangbuk Arisu Water Purification Center First in South Korea to Receive Hygiene Safety Certification The Gangbuk Arisu Water Purification Center in Seoul has become the first facility in South Korea to receive the Water Purification Hygiene Safety Certification. This marks the first instance of such certification since the introduction of the system following the larva incident in tap water in 2020.The Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment announced on the 26th that it will hold a plaque ceremony for the countrys first water purification hygiene safety certification at the Gangbuk Arisu Water Purification Center on the afternoon of the 27th.The Water Purification Hygiene Safety Certification System evaluates the hygiene and safety management levels throughout the entire process of tap water production, from water intake to filtration and purification, granting certification to facilities that meet the standards. Certified facilities receive certain benefits. The Korea Water and Wastewater Association operates and manages the system under the enforcement decree of the Water Supply Act.The Gangbuk Arisu Water Purification Center, which has a daily processing capacity of 1 million cubic meters, began the review of its hygiene and safety management plan in December of last year, followed by document evaluation, on-site assessment, and a certification review committee inspection. The facility employs barriers, insect traps, and microfiltration devices to prevent the entry of small organisms into its intake facilities, coagulation and sedimentation tanks, filtration tanks, activated carbon tanks, and purification tanks.In light of the establishment of the first certified water purification facility, the ministry plans to promote the certification system nationwide by providing policy consulting to general water supply operators across the country. This initiative aims to enhance the overall hygiene and safety standards of water purification facilities in South Korea.Kim Ho-eun, Director of Water Use Policy at the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment, stated, This first certification is a significant achievement created through collaboration between the government and local authorities. We will work closely with local governments to create conditions for a reliable supply of tap water that citizens can drink with confidence.* This article has been translated by AI. July 26, 2026 12:08
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Government to Open Additional Gates at Yeongsan River Dams to Combat Algal Blooms The government will open additional gates at the Seungchon and Juksan dams to address algal blooms and improve water flow in the Yeongsan River.The Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment announced on July 26 that it will open the gates at the Seungchon and Juksan dams from July 27 to August 23, in line with the algal bloom management period.With the additional gate openings at the two dams located downstream on the Yeongsan River, water flow will be connected from Seungchon Dam to downstream of Juksan Dam. Currently, the Seungchon Dam has limited gate openings for agricultural activities such as water celery cultivation, while the Juksan Dam has restricted openings for the operation of the Hwangpo sailboat in Naju City.The ministry plans to maintain the water level at Seungchon Dam around 5.5 meters above sea level. The current water level at Seungchon Dam is being managed flexibly between 5.5 and 6 meters, depending on water usage. If it is confirmed that there are no issues with the surrounding pumping stations and groundwater usage, the water level may be lowered to a maximum of 5 meters.The water level at Juksan Dam will be reduced from approximately 1.5 meters to 0.75 meters. The government believes that the additional gate openings at both dams will reduce the retention time of water, thereby inhibiting algal blooms and improving water quality and aquatic ecosystems.The ministry will investigate changes in the aquatic ecosystem before and after the gate openings and check for any restrictions on groundwater usage in the surrounding areas. If farmers encounter issues with groundwater usage, alternative wells will be developed as part of water supply support measures.To prevent disruptions in agricultural water intake during the gate opening process, related facilities will also be improved. The ministry is working with the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs to lower the intake points of 18 pumping stations located upstream of the two dams, with plans to complete this by 2028. There are 10 pumping stations around Seungchon Dam and 8 around Juksan Dam.Earlier, the ministry held a community meeting in February and conducted public-private consultations on the restoration of the natural environment of the Yeongsan River in April and June, discussing the plan for additional gate openings with the local community.Song Ho-seok, the director of water resource policy at the ministry, stated, It is significant that we are able to open the gates of the two dams in the Yeongsan River basin through communication and cooperation with the local community. We will continue our efforts to improve the water flow to enhance the water quality and aquatic ecosystem of the Yeongsan River.* This article has been translated by AI. July 26, 2026 12:04
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LG InstaView Refrigerator Surpasses 5 Million Units Sold in 10 Years LG Electronics premium refrigerator, the LG InstaView, has surpassed global sales of 5 million units, achieving this milestone ten years after its initial launch. According to LG Electronics, as of last month, approximately 5.3 million InstaView refrigerators have been sold since their debut in 2016, averaging about one unit sold every minute over the past decade. Regionally, North America accounts for about 30% of total sales, making it the largest market. This trend reflects a preference for large-capacity refrigerators and a lifestyle centered around home parties. Europe follows closely with nearly 20% of sales, driven by a focus on energy efficiency and food storage performance. Recently, demand has also been increasing in emerging markets such as Asia and Latin America. The LG InstaView features a special coated glass door that lights up with a double knock, allowing users to check the contents without opening the door. The glass appears as a mirror under normal conditions but turns transparent when tapped, reducing cold air loss and enhancing insulation while maintaining a sleek design. International media outlets, including Trusted Reviews in the UK and Les Numériques in France, have praised the refrigerator for its convenience and energy efficiency. Over the past decade, the InstaView has won numerous accolades, including awards from the three major design competitions (Red Dot, IDEA, iF) and the CES Innovation Award, demonstrating its technological and design prowess. Kim Jae-il, head of LG Electronics Kitchen Solutions Division, stated, The knock feature of the LG InstaView refrigerator has transformed how people use refrigerators. We will continue to enhance customer convenience and enjoyment in their food experiences through AI and innovative cooling and storage technologies.* This article has been translated by AI. July 26, 2026 10:36
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So Ji-sub's 'Chief Kim' Ends with 23.0% Ratings, Sets 2026 Record SBSs Friday-Saturday drama Chief Kim concluded with its highest-ever ratings. According to Nielsen Korea, the final episode aired the previous day, achieving a nationwide rating of 23.0% and 23.4% in the capital region. The peak rating soared to 27.1%, setting a new record for the series. The drama also recorded an average rating of 7.4% among viewers aged 2049, with a high of 8.42%. Chief Kim maintained the top spot in its time slot across all channels for ten consecutive episodes and set a new record for the highest ratings of any mini-series aired in 2026. In the final episode, characters Chief Kim (played by So Ji-sub), Seong Han-soo (Choi Dae-hoon), and Park Jin-cheol (Yoon Kyung-ho) fought to protect their families. Joo Gang-chan (Joo Sang-wook) kidnapped the children of Seong Han-soo and Park Jin-cheol, luring the three friends into a trap. Chief Kim was willing to sacrifice himself to save the children, which turned out to be a strategic move to defeat Joo Gang-chans group. The three men joined forces to overpower Joo Gang-chans crew, exposing corruption and illicit dealings at Joo Hak Construction. After completing their mission, Chief Kim faked his death and returned to his daughter Min-ji (Seo Su-min). The father and daughter reunited in tears at the columbarium and began a new life under different names and identities. Seong Han-soo and Park Jin-cheol returned to their respective lives but showed their unwavering friendship by helping Chief Kim and sharing a meal together. The series concluded with Chief Kim visiting Lee Do-kyu for a job interview at a new company, Baekho Labor. Hong Seong-chang, head of Studio S, expressed gratitude, stating, Thanks to the viewers passionate love for the show, we achieved this remarkable success. The performances of So Ji-sub, Choi Dae-hoon, Yoon Kyung-ho, and the entire cast, along with the deep paternal love and thrilling action, resonated with many viewers. The production team also thanked the audience for their support from the beginning to the end of Chief Kim, hoping that the story of fathers who willingly sacrificed their ordinary lives to protect their families would leave a warm comfort and exhilarating energy in the hearts of viewers. Chief Kim is a revenge action drama depicting the struggles of a father, a former special agent, who reveals his identity to protect his family.* This article has been translated by AI. July 26, 2026 10:24
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Hyundai Sponsors ASEAN Hyundai Cup, Southeast Asia's Largest Football Festival Hyundai Motor Company announced that the ASEAN Hyundai Cup, Southeast Asias largest football festival, kicked off on July 24 in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, at the Morodok Techo National Stadium.Founded in 1996, the tournament has been renamed the ASEAN Hyundai Cup following Hyundais first participation as a title sponsor this year. It is the most prestigious national football competition in Southeast Asia, held every two years, and in 2024, it recorded a cumulative viewership of over 540 million across TV and digital streaming platforms.This years tournament runs from July 24 to August 26, featuring intense competition among national teams from 11 ASEAN countries, including Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia, all vying for the championship.Hyundai Motor recognizes football as a powerful platform that connects people and spreads positive values such as challenge, passion, and teamwork. The company has been actively sponsoring various tournaments and clubs.Through global partnerships, including the FIFA World Cup and Copa Libertadores, Hyundai aims to promote the values of unity and solidarity in sports while providing customers with a unique brand experience and fulfilling its corporate social responsibility.The sponsorship of the ASEAN Hyundai Cup is significant as it offers Hyundai a strategic opportunity to engage with the Southeast Asian football ecosystem. The company plans to resonate with local fans and convey a brand message that encompasses diverse countries and cultures.To reflect this purpose, Hyundai is launching a promotional campaign and marketing program under the slogan Hyundai, Driving ASEAN as One.On digital channels, Hyundai will showcase content in collaboration with popular influencer Arkan Dika, symbolizing ASEANs cheering culture and the energy of the younger generation. Following the release of a main film featuring Arkan Dika on July 7, additional social content featuring him will be distributed during the tournament. Arkan Dika previously generated millions of memes on global social media with his cheering performance at an Indonesian traditional boat race last year.During the tournament, a participatory campaign will allow fans to decorate their personal vehicles with stickers. Free stickers reflecting the culture and enthusiasm of various Southeast Asian countries will be distributed to football fans at offline dealer networks and stadium fan booths. Vehicles adorned with these stickers are expected to serve as mobile platforms promoting the ASEAN Hyundai Cup.Prior to the tournaments opening, a trophy tour visited major countries, including Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Indonesia, providing numerous fans with the opportunity to see the championship trophy up close. After the tournaments commencement, Hyundai is actively fulfilling its role as a title sponsor through various activities, including stadium branding, a kids escort program, and broadcast graphic exposure.During the tournament, Hyundai will offer various purchase promotions, including down payment support and special discounts for customers who buy vehicles. Additionally, events for group match viewings at dealer showrooms, official merchandise giveaways, and prize draws for opportunities to attend the finals will enhance customers brand experience.Meanwhile, Hyundai plans to officially sponsor a total of 10 tournaments, including club, U-23, and womens competitions organized by ASEAN UNITED FC, through 2028, including its participation as a title sponsor for the ASEAN Hyundai Cup.* This article has been translated by AI. July 26, 2026 10:16
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Korea's Chimaek diplomacy gets a Silicon Valley AI makeover SEOUL, July 26 (AJP) - South Korea's signature chimaek culture — fried chicken and beer — found a Silicon Valley twist on Friday as President Lee Jae Myung clinked Budweiser bottles over burgers and fish and chips with Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong, SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won, Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Chung Euisun and other AI leaders on San Francisco's waterfront. The informal dinner at a marina restaurant, following a day of high-level meetings and an AI summit, was designed to mirror the relaxed "chimaek diplomacy" Huang enjoyed during his visit to Seoul last year, when the Nvidia chief famously bonded with Korean business leaders over fried chicken and barbecue. This time, California seafood and beer replaced Korean fare, but the objective remained the same: forging personal ties behind one of the world's fastest-growing AI partnerships. Earlier in the day, Lee held separate meetings with OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, Broadcom CEO Hock Tan and Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei, urging each company to deepen participation in South Korea's AI ambitions. Lee introduced his administration's three mega AI projects and said South Korea was transforming itself into an AI-native economy spanning industry and society. Huang praised Seoul's vision, saying South Korea's ambition to become an "AI-native nation" was inspiring and that the country possessed the talent and industrial foundation to build sovereign AI if it secured sufficient access to graphics processing units. He also highlighted Nvidia's expanding cooperation with Samsung Electronics, SK hynix, Naver, Hyundai Motor and a planned joint AI research institute with KAIST. Altman described South Korea as one of OpenAI's most important partners and praised Lee's AI leadership. He said equity-based wealth-sharing models could prove more effective than simple cash transfers in the AI era and called Korea's investments in physical AI, energy infrastructure and its three mega projects globally exemplary. OpenAI also expressed interest in using South Korea as a test bed for its next-generation AI devices scheduled for release early next year. Meeting Hock Tan, Lee emphasized that governments and companies must jointly build AI ecosystems rather than compete independently. Tan praised South Korea's AI strategy and highlighted Broadcom's partnerships with Samsung Electronics, SK hynix and Korean AI startup FuriosaAI, predicting AI infrastructure demand would continue expanding through at least 2029. Amodei said Anthropic would expand cooperation with South Korea in data centers, AI security and cybersecurity after signing a memorandum of understanding with Seoul's science ministry. The meetings culminated in the San Francisco AI Summit, where Lee unveiled the San Francisco AI Declaration, pledging to make South Korea an "irreplaceable" pillar of the global AI supply chain by leveraging its leadership in memory semiconductors, advanced manufacturing and AI infrastructure. The summit also produced a series of commercial commitments between Korean conglomerates and global technology companies. According to the presidential office, SK Group agreed to pursue long-term AI infrastructure cooperation with global technology firms, Samsung Electronics expanded strategic cooperation with Broadcom, while Naver announced plans to develop global AI factories with Nvidia and Brookfield. Together with planned investments in AI data centers and computing infrastructure, the announced projects represent commitments valued at roughly $950 billion. Ending the day around a waterfront dinner table rather than a conference stage, Lee sought to reinforce a broader message that South Korea intends to pair its manufacturing strengths with America's AI software leadership — not only through investment pledges and semiconductor deals, but also through the personal relationships increasingly shaping the global AI race. After concluding his AI-focused visit to San Francisco, Lee headed to South America, where he pledged to deepen cooperation on critical minerals and revive trade talks with the Mercosur bloc. July 26, 2026 07:01 -
President Yoon Calls for Stronger Korea-South America Ties in Key Minerals and Manufacturing President Yoon Suk Yeol stated on July 25 that the relationship between South Korea and South America is entering a new phase, emphasizing the need to resume trade agreement negotiations with Mercosur and strengthen cooperation in key minerals for the AI era.During his visit to the United States and three South American countries (Brazil, Chile, and Argentina), Yoon made these remarks in a written interview with Spains EFE news agency, aimed at informing South American citizens about the purpose of his visit. He noted, The cooperation between the two sides should not merely be an exchange of natural resources for manufactured goods, but rather a relationship that creates value together through innovation, investment, technology, and talent.Yoon assessed that Mercosur member countries are global leaders in agriculture, food production, energy, and key minerals, while South Korea excels in advanced manufacturing, digital technology, shipbuilding, batteries, and innovation. He highlighted that South America possesses essential resources for future industries, and South Korea has the advanced technology, industrial know-how, and investment capabilities to match.He explained, By combining these strengths, we can build resilient value chains that benefit both regions, fostering resilient supply chains, nurturing new industries, and creating quality jobs that benefit both areas.Yoon also pointed out that as concerns grow over the spread of protectionism, geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and energy security, countries need reliable partners and trade based on clear norms and mutual trust.In this context, he identified modernizing the Korea-Chile Free Trade Agreement, South Koreas first free trade agreement signed and enacted in 2004, as a key objective of his visit to enhance economic cooperation with South America.Yoon stated, Now, more than 20 years after the agreement was signed, we have the opportunity to modernize it to reflect new areas such as digital trade, environmental cooperation, labor standards, gender equality, and innovation.He concluded, Our goal is clear: to build deep relationships not only in economic success but also in social exchanges and cooperation between future generations between South Korea and South America.* This article has been translated by AI. July 26, 2026 06:52
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President Lee Welcomes EU Exemption on Russian LNG Exports to South Korea President Lee Jae-myung expressed optimism on July 25 regarding the European Unions decision to exempt South Korea from sanctions related to the import of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Russias Sakhalin-2 project. He stated, In a situation where energy supply uncertainty is increasing, I expect this will greatly help the daily lives of our citizens and our economy.While on a tour of the United States and South America, President Lee shared the news on X (formerly Twitter), saying, I was pleased to hear that our companies have been recognized as exceptions to the EUs sanctions on Russian LNG.He added, During my meeting with EU leaders in June, I explained the need for exceptional allowances for our energy security and urged their active interest in this matter.President Lee promised to continue to do his utmost to protect the lives of citizens and national interests through thorough responses.The EU adopted its 21st package of sanctions against Russia on July 23, which includes an exemption allowing South Korea to import LNG produced from the Sakhalin-2 project until March 2028.The South Korean government explained that this development is a result of significant progress made during the Korea-EU summit held in Brussels on June 10, where the issue of importing Russian LNG was a key economic and trade concern.The government has been requesting the EU to apply the exemption to ensure that the Korea Gas Corporation can import 1.5 million tons of LNG annually from the Sakhalin-2 project under a long-term contract from April 2008 to March 2028, preventing any disruptions in LNG supply. July 26, 2026 02:40