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New Agreements Needed for CPTPP Membership "If Mexican agricultural products come in, our farmers will face even more difficulties. While it is said to be necessary for the development of the Korean economy, I fear that the measures for farmers will be mere window dressing, just like during the Korea-China Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations."This was the sentiment expressed by an agricultural industry representative during a recent meeting. The agricultural sector is closely monitoring the governments push for membership in the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). Following a press conference attended by hundreds of farmers, large-scale protests are also being considered.The discussion was ignited by Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy Kim Jeong-kwan, who stated during a presidential briefing on August 4 that the government would consider joining the CPTPP to secure new markets in ASEAN and Mexico and to expand exports of K-content. He further formalized the discussion at a forum, asserting, "It is rather strange for a trading nation like Korea not to join the CPTPP."The agricultural sector, which had felt relieved after successfully blocking agricultural imports during tariff negotiations with the United States, was taken aback. Joining the CPTPP could allow agricultural and fishery products from countries without an FTA with Korea to enter at lower tariffs. Since Korea has not signed an FTA with countries like Mexico among the CPTPP members, there are concerns that products such as Mexican peppers and avocados could enter Korea duty-free.The potential acceleration of market opening during the CPTPP membership process is also heightening farmers concerns. The CPTPP has a higher rate of tariff elimination for agricultural products among member countries compared to existing FTAs, and it is more challenging to set exceptions. This raises fears that the impact on farmers could be greater than that of past bilateral FTAs.The concerns of the agricultural sector regarding CPTPP membership appear to be valid. Recent analyses suggest that the decrease in agricultural production could be greater than during the 2022 discussions on CPTPP membership, as the number of member countries and the scale of trade have both increased since then. Additionally, the fact that the fund for rural cooperation established during the Korea-China FTA negotiations only raised about 30% of its target amount remains a significant concern. This has led to widespread skepticism in the agricultural community about the effectiveness of any proposed measures.However, many experts believe that Koreas membership in the CPTPP is inevitable. Free trade agreements are seen as one of the avenues to maximize exports. Notably, Mexico is a key export market for major Korean products such as automobiles, auto parts, steel, and machinery, and it could serve as a gateway for Koreas entry into North America. This could signal a new direction for the Korean economy in search of growth engines beyond semiconductors.The economic benefits are also expected to be substantial. The Korea Institute for International Economic Policy (KIEP) previously analyzed that joining the CPTPP could increase Koreas real GDP by 0.33% to 0.35% and consumer welfare by $3 billion. The Korea Institute for Industrial Economics and Trade also projected that Koreas net exports could increase by an average of $600 million to $900 million annually over 15 years if it joins.Nevertheless, there should be no agreements that sacrifice the agricultural sector unilaterally, as it is a vital national industry responsible for the countrys food supply. Practical safety measures must be established to minimize the damage to farmers from market opening. The previous voluntary contributions to the rural cooperation fund have proven ineffective.There needs to be a new agreement that can be legislated. Currently, the United States is pushing for the Farm, Food, and National Security Act to elevate agriculture as a national industry. The Korean government can learn from this. If it pursues legislation and corresponding policies, persuading farmers may not be as difficult as it seems.Some experts emphasize the need to treat farmers like quasi-public servants. Given the importance of agriculture in the era of climate crisis, the government should more actively support their livelihoods, with suggestions including increasing direct payments.The significance of agriculture is growing in the context of the climate crisis. It is widely recognized that enhancing food self-sufficiency is crucial to avoid being swayed by external variables. If trade is restricted to protect farmers, economic growth could be hampered. It is essential to devise new measures for the development of the agricultural sector while also ensuring the creation of national wealth. Membership in the CPTPP is no longer a matter of avoidance or delay.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1 -
Tofu Industry Faces Crisis Due to Severe Shortage of Imported Soybeans “Tofu factories, which are a staple food for the public, are on the verge of stopping production due to a lack of soybeans for tomorrow.”Choi Seon-yun, chairman of the Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province Food Cooperative, made this statement on September 9 during a press conference at the Korea Federation of Small and Medium Businesses in Yeongdeungpo, Seoul. He emphasized that domestic tofu factories require at least 250,000 tons of imported soybeans annually to operate normally, but the governments supply plan for this year falls short by 30,000 tons, providing only 220,000 tons.The industry is calling for the implementation of a 0% tariff quota on processing soybeans and the abolition of import profit sharing, which increases the burden on companies. They also stressed the need to transition from a state-run trade structure centered around the Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation (aT) to a private, self-directed direct import system focused on actual demand.Choi argued that domestic and imported soybeans should be managed separately due to differences in price, consumer base, and processing characteristics. He insisted that to resolve the recurring supply and demand instability, supply guidelines should be established based on a practical demand of over 250,000 tons annually.“If we use domestic soybeans, which are 3 to 4 times more expensive than imported ones, we would have to sell tofu, currently priced at 1,000 won, for 3,000 to 4,000 won,” he pleaded.Kim Seok-won, chairman of the Gwangju-Jeonnam Food Industry Cooperative, stated, “The tofu processing industry is facing an unprecedented crisis that may force factories to halt operations. If the government delays its decision, the consequences will lead to the closure of small businesses and an increase in living costs for ordinary citizens.”* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1
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Samsung deepens Galaxy Watch heart-health push SEOUL, September 09 (AJP) - The smartwatch is no longer merely a supplement to a smartphone. Samsung Electronics is pushing its latest Galaxy Watch deeper into preventive health care, seeking to turn a device once used mainly for checking messages and counting steps into an always-on health monitor capable of spotting changes before users themselves notice them. The effort also puts Samsung in a more direct contest with Apple, which has steadily transformed the Apple Watch into a health platform with electrocardiograms, irregular heart rhythm alerts, sleep apnea detection and, more recently, notifications for signs of chronic hypertension. Samsung on Wednesday held a press briefing in Seoul to highlight a suite of heart and health-monitoring functions built around its Galaxy Watch9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra2, unveiled in July. At the center of the latest upgrade is Heart Health Score, a Samsung Health feature that combines sleep, physical activity, body composition and vascular stress trends into a single assessment of factors affecting cardiovascular health. Rather than simply displaying individual measurements, the feature is designed to tell users how their everyday habits may be influencing their long-term heart health and provide personalized guidance on what they could change. Another new feature, Vitals, continuously looks for deviations from an individual's normal physiological patterns. After a user wears the Galaxy Watch during sleep for at least seven nights, it establishes a personal baseline using five biometric signals — heart rate, heart rate variability, respiratory rate, skin temperature and blood oxygen saturation. The watch can then flag measurements that move outside the user's normal range. The concept illustrates the direction in which the wearable industry is moving. The competition is increasingly less about how many physiological measurements a watch can collect and more about whether software can convert those measurements into information that a user can understand and act upon. Apple has been pursuing much the same approach. Its Vitals app, introduced with watchOS 11 in 2024, also establishes a user's typical overnight ranges and can issue a notification when multiple metrics fall outside them. Apple monitors heart rate, respiratory rate, wrist temperature, blood oxygen where available and sleep duration. Samsung's Vitals therefore represents less an entirely new category than an attempt to build a more comprehensive Samsung Health alternative around the same emerging idea of personalized baseline monitoring. Where Samsung is trying to put more distance between itself and Apple is in what it can measure — and how those measurements are combined. Galaxy Watch9's Heart Health Score incorporates factors including body composition, an area where Samsung has had a hardware advantage for several generations. Galaxy Watches equipped with bioelectrical impedance analysis, or BIA, can estimate body fat, skeletal muscle, body water, body mass index and other body-composition indicators directly from the wrist. The measurements are intended for general wellness rather than medical diagnosis. The information also feeds into Samsung's Fitness Index, which combines body composition, exercise records and other indicators to assess a user's fitness level and recommend goals. Blood pressure provides an even clearer point of distinction. Samsung's Galaxy Watch can estimate blood pressure after being calibrated against a conventional upper-arm cuff, with recalibration required every 28 days. The capability, previously limited by regulatory approval in some markets, became available to eligible U.S. Galaxy users in March this year. The Galaxy Watch9 goes a step further with a blood-pressure trend feature that can provide an estimate of morning blood pressure after users wear the calibrated watch overnight. Apple has taken a different route. Apple Watch Series 9 and later models and Apple Watch Ultra 2 and later can analyze cardiovascular patterns over a 30-day period and warn users when the data suggest possible chronic hypertension. The Apple feature does not provide a conventional systolic-and-diastolic blood-pressure reading. Users who receive a hypertension notification are instead advised to measure their blood pressure with a separate cuff for seven days and take the results to a medical professional. Apple introduced the hypertension notification feature in South Korea in January this year. The difference highlights two competing approaches to turning consumer electronics into health devices. Samsung is placing more measurement tools directly on the wrist, while Apple has often focused on detecting longer-term patterns that may warrant further medical examination. Neither approach turns a smartwatch into a doctor. Samsung and Apple repeatedly caution that their watches are not substitutes for professional diagnosis or treatment, an increasingly important distinction as consumer devices move closer to areas traditionally occupied by medical equipment. Choi Jong-min, vice president of Samsung Electronics' Digital Health Team, said continuous monitoring is one of the biggest advantages wearable devices can bring to preventive health care. Samsung has been developing heart-monitoring technology for its wearable devices for more than a decade. Its Gear 2 and Gear Fit, released in 2014, included optical photoplethysmography, or PPG, sensors for measuring heart rates. The company later added electrocardiogram measurement, blood-pressure monitoring and irregular heart rhythm notifications. Its irregular heart rhythm notification, designed to identify rhythms suggestive of atrial fibrillation, has received clearance from both South Korea's Ministry of Food and Drug Safety and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Sleep has become another area where the two companies have steadily converged. Samsung received the first FDA De Novo authorization for a smartwatch sleep apnea feature in 2024 and has upgraded the latest version to analyze breathing disruptions during sleep using artificial intelligence. Apple introduced its own sleep apnea notifications later in 2024. Its system uses the accelerometer to detect small wrist movements associated with breathing disturbances and evaluates the pattern over 30 days before alerting users to possible moderate-to-severe sleep apnea. Apple's sleep apnea notification became available in South Korea in September 2025, meaning both companies now compete over many of the same medically sensitive functions in Samsung's home market. For Samsung, however, the objective is increasingly to connect those individual functions into something closer to an early-warning system. The company cited cases in which alerts from Galaxy Watches prompted users to seek medical help. One user in Jordan received repeated irregular heart rhythm notifications and later sought medical attention, leading to the discovery of atrial fibrillation, according to Choi. Another user in Brazil recorded an electrocardiogram after noticing an abnormal heartbeat and shared the result with a doctor before receiving treatment. "The most important thing is that these people were able to detect the signs before reaching a critical moment and receive treatment in time," Choi said. Samsung is also trying to extend that monitoring beyond the person wearing the device. Samsung Health allows users to share information such as heart rate, stress, blood oxygen, sleep and body composition with family members, allowing relatives to follow changes remotely. Samsung said the capability could be particularly useful for families monitoring elderly parents who live alone or apart. Samsung views the Galaxy Ring and Galaxy Watch as complementary rather than competing form factors, with the lighter ring suited to continuous and overnight monitoring and the watch offering a display, exercise functions and broader interaction. When both are used, health information is brought together through Samsung Health. Users can also alternate between the devices while charging them, reducing gaps in monitoring, while Samsung says wearing both can extend the Ring's battery life by up to 30 percent by allowing the Watch to take over some overlapping measurements. When asked how Galaxy Watch differentiates itself from smart rings such as Oura Ring in markets including the United States, Choi said the two form factors serve somewhat different purposes. He characterized rings as more lifestyle-oriented devices, while watches offer broader functionality, particularly for sports and exercise, on top of health monitoring. The strategy gives Samsung something Apple does not yet have — a first-party ring feeding data into the same health ecosystem as its smartphone and watch. But Samsung still has considerable ground to defend in the smartwatch market. Apple, despite slipping behind Huawei globally in the second quarter, still accounted for 20 percent of worldwide smartwatch shipments and recorded the fastest year-on-year growth among the five largest brands, according to Counterpoint Research. The pressure is particularly visible in North America, an important premium market. Apple smartwatch shipments there rose 13 percent from a year earlier in the second quarter, while Samsung's fell 13 percent. AJP Takeaways - Samsung is expanding Galaxy Watch beyond fitness tracking with Heart Health Score and continuous monitoring features aimed at preventive health management. - The company's wearable health push builds on more than a decade of heart-monitoring technology, ranging from PPG sensors to ECG and irregular heart rhythm notifications. - Samsung sees Galaxy Watch and Galaxy Ring as complementary devices as it seeks to strengthen its health ecosystem and compete across different wearable form factors overseas. September 9, 2026 1 -
French Chamber of Commerce to Host 'Maison France Festival' in Suwon The French Chamber of Commerce in Korea (FKCCI) will celebrate its 40th anniversary and the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and France by hosting the Maison France Festival 2026 on September 12-13 at the Picnic Park in Suwons Avenue France, in collaboration with Hoban Properties.The festival will feature 17 brands, including Renault Korea, Casa de Mont, and La Brûlerie, showcasing a variety of renowned French products in sectors such as food, furniture, clothing, perfume, and mobility. This event aims to introduce the French concept of savoir-faire—expertise and know-how—to Korean consumers.Notably, the festival will include many authentic French food brands, such as Agronova – Comptoir de Provence, Clément Faugier, Crème Kankan, Guillaume, La Belle Iloise, and Olivier & Co., allowing attendees to experience the flavors of France in one location. Each brand will also offer special events and interactive programs for Korean consumers.The FKCCI plans to continue creating opportunities for brands, consumers, and the general public to connect, supporting the entry and growth of French brands in the Korean market while strengthening ties within the business communities of both countries.Meanwhile, Korea and France are celebrating 140 years of diplomatic relations this year, marked by a series of high-level visits. French President Emmanuel Macron visited Korea in April, and in response, President Yoon Suk Yeol is currently on a state visit to France from September 6 to 9. During this visit, President Yoon is scheduled to hold a summit with President Macron in Paris and participate in a Korea-France business roundtable. President Yoon also attended the G7 summit held in Évian, France, in June.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1
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Han Dong-hoon Threatens Legal Action Against Kim Min-seok for Spreading False Information Independent lawmaker Han Dong-hoon announced on September 9 that he plans to take legal action against Kim Min-seok, the leader of the Democratic Party, for allegedly spreading false information about him.In a post on his Facebook page, Han stated, I will pursue criminal charges against Kim for disseminating false information, adding, I have never received any similar materials from the prosecution. I will hold Kim accountable for his baseless lies.He indicated that he would continue to respond strictly to the dissemination of false information. Han criticized, The Democratic Partys attempts to deflect attention with claims about poison lobbying will not erase the issue at hand. He also admonished Democratic lawmaker Song Young-gil, saying, At least in the case of the Democratic Partys scandal, you should exercise restraint. Arent you also a member of the overseas faction?Han has been focusing on allegations surrounding Kim Seung-won, the nominee for Minister of Justice, regarding lobbying for new drugs. The Democratic Party has demanded that Han disclose the sources of the materials he is using, claiming he is launching a political offensive with illegally obtained information.In response, Han questioned, Are you trying to threaten the whistleblower with murder threats if I reveal their identity? I will protect the public interest whistleblower at all costs. I will break the drum politics of the Democratic Party brothers.He asserted, Kim was aware that broker Yang received millions of won from CEO Kang of Genensel in exchange for lobbying the Food and Drug Administration. In fact, Yang did receive millions of won, insisting that Kim should be investigated and punished for bribery and related charges.Additionally, Han released details from a phone call between Kang and Yang from September 2021, which mentioned commissions related to investment attraction, criticizing, Is this money game what the Democratic Party calls public interest and preventing national wealth outflow?Meanwhile, lawmakers from the Democratic Party, Justice Party, and Progressive Party held a press conference on the same day, condemning Han for allegedly leaking internal investigation materials that he obtained illegally, claiming he is distorting and inciting public opinion through malicious editing and manipulation.They pointed out that Han has deleted key content, edited unrelated information, and inflated other details, warning, We will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of the data leak and the truth behind Hans distortions and incitements. The price for deceiving the public will be paid.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1
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Agricultural Investment and Export Consultation Held at 2026 Financial Roadshow The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs announced that it held the 2026 Agricultural Financial Investment Roadshow in Seoul on September 9, bringing together agricultural companies and domestic and international investors.The event, themed Connecting the Potential of Agriculture and Food to Global Markets and Investment, aimed to share global trends and forecasts in agricultural investment, while supporting companies in attracting investment, expanding their businesses, and exploring new markets.More than 300 participants included 50 agricultural companies, the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA), the Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation (aT), venture capitalists, accelerators, and global retail buyers. Major food companies such as CJ CheilJedang, Nongshim, Daesang, Orion, Pulmuone, and Lotte Chilsung were also present.Participating companies received one-on-one tailored consulting in four specialized areas: mentoring for overseas expansion, sales consultations using global platforms like Amazon and Alibaba, export consultations with trade-related public institutions, and investment consultations with venture capitalists and accelerators.A product exhibition and demonstration showcased innovative products and technologies from 21 agricultural companies. Participants shared investment information and explored collaboration and new business opportunities.Deputy Minister Kim Jong-gu emphasized, As global interest in K-food rises and our agricultural companies are presented with new opportunities to enter the global market, bold investments in agricultural companies must be supported. He added, The government will expand support for the agricultural fund and actively assist in creating a virtuous cycle of investment recovery and reinvestment to help the agricultural investment ecosystem grow to the next level.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1
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South Korea Increases Support for Chuseok Discounts with Additional $900 Million The South Korean government is allocating an additional 900 billion won to reduce the financial burden of Chuseok shopping. The discount program for agricultural and livestock products will be extended for an additional week until September 30, and the previous limit of 20,000 won per person per week will be removed.On September 9, the Ministry of Economy and Finance held a meeting led by Vice Minister Kang Gi-ryong to announce supplementary measures for stabilizing living conditions during the Chuseok holiday.In addition to the 1.03 trillion won in discount support announced on September 1, the government will inject an extra 900 billion won from available budgets. The aim is to enhance price stability by expanding discounts and supply for essential holiday items.The discount program for agricultural and livestock products will now run from September 3 to September 30, including the Chuseok holiday. During this period, the limit on discounts will be lifted, allowing consumers to purchase these products at lower prices.The government will also increase the supply of reserved seafood. An additional 2,000 tons will be supplied, including 1,300 tons of pollock, 300 tons of squid, 300 tons of croaker, and 100 tons of dried croaker, bringing the total to 22,000 tons, which is three times the usual amount.The price reduction for reserved seafood will be expanded, with supplies offered at up to 50% below market prices, compared to the previous maximum of 40%. These products will be distributed to wholesale markets, supermarkets, and traditional markets.The number of companies participating in the processed food discount program will increase to 20. A total of 4,765 items will be discounted by up to 64% this month, with plans to further expand the range of discounted items and rates in consultation with the industry.As the Chuseok holiday approaches, the government will strengthen inspections to prevent overcharging. From September 14 to 22, joint inspections will be conducted at markets and tourist areas, focusing on restaurants and accommodations. During the traditional market gift certificate refund event from September 16 to 20, monitoring for overcharging practices will be intensified.New enforcement standards for accommodations, restaurants, and taxis will be communicated on-site. The government plans to amend consumer dispute resolution standards by the end of the year to require compensation of 200% of the canceled fee for unjustified cancellations of accommodation reservations.Through the Joint Government Response Team for Living Conditions launched on August 28, the government will continue to monitor price collusion and unfair practices related to essential goods.In a recent crackdown on abuses of the tariff quota system, illegal and unfair practices amounting to 546.8 billion won were identified across 10 companies, resulting in fines of 8.5 billion won and the recovery of 58.6 billion won in evaded taxes.Meanwhile, a survey by the Korea Consumer Agency found that the average cost of purchasing Chuseok offerings for a family of four three weeks before the holiday is 313,089 won, a 2.3% decrease from last years 320,370 won. The government plans to enhance measures to ensure the continued effectiveness of price stabilization efforts through discount support and supply expansion.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1
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Government and Agricultural Cooperatives Increase Discounts on Agricultural Products Ahead of Chuseok The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs and the National Agricultural Cooperative Federation are significantly increasing discounts on agricultural products ahead of Chuseok, tripling support compared to last year.On September 9, the Agriculture Ministry announced that it will expand its discount support to 1.49 trillion won to alleviate the price burden of essential goods during the holiday. The National Agricultural Cooperative Federation will contribute an additional 291 billion won to promote both online and offline discount events.This initiative supplements the Chuseok Livelihood Stabilization Measures announced by the Agriculture Ministry on September 1. The goal is to utilize available resources from the government and cooperatives to reduce the financial strain on citizens as the holiday approaches.The Agriculture Ministry is increasing its discount support from 50 billion won last year to 1.49 trillion won this year. The duration of the discount events has also been extended from September 3-23 to September 30, allowing consumers to benefit from discounts through the Chuseok holiday.To address the high prices of Hanwoo beef and Han Dong pork, additional discount events will be organized in collaboration with self-help organizations. Popular items for Chuseok, such as Hanwoo sirloin, brisket, and pork shoulder, will be sold at discounts of 30% to 50% at Hanaromart and other locations.The National Agricultural Cooperative Federation will also invest an additional 291 billion won, bringing the total support to 877 billion won when including government contributions. The federation plans to conduct large-scale discount events through both online and offline channels, including Hanaromart and NH Sing Sing Mall.At Hanaromart, discounts of up to 57% will be offered on agricultural and marine products, including fruits, Hanwoo beef, pork, and processed foods like flour. NH Sing Sing Mall will provide discounts of up to 70% on essential goods and gift sets.The Agriculture Ministry expects that the combination of increased supply of essential goods and discount events will help reduce the cost burden for consumers during Chuseok.Seo Jun-han, Director of the Distribution and Consumption Policy Division at the Agriculture Ministry, stated, We have mobilized all available resources from the government and cooperatives to significantly expand discount support to ease the burden on citizens shopping baskets ahead of Chuseok. We will ensure that the supply of essential goods and discount events proceed smoothly so that the public can enjoy a bountiful and joyful Chuseok.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1
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Controversy Surrounds Kim Seung-won's Ministerial Hearing Amid New Drug Lobby Investigation The police investigation into allegations of lobbying for a COVID-19 drug involving Kim Seung-won, the nominee for Minister of Justice, is expected to focus on distinguishing between public interest complaints and private lobbying.According to legal sources on September 9, the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency assigned the case involving allegations of abuse of power, violation of the Anti-Corruption Law, and dereliction of duty against Kim and former Food and Drug Safety Minister Kim Kang-rip to the Yeongdeungpo Police Station.Kim is accused of requesting expedited processing of a clinical trial plan for the COVID-19 treatment developed by the pharmaceutical company Genensel at the behest of a friend, identified as Yang, while he was a member of the National Assembly in 2021.Yang, who was asked by Genensels founder, Kang Se-chan, sent Kim development materials for the new drug, requesting, Please mention this to the Minister. Kim reportedly responded with an Okay and subsequently asked Kim Kang-rip for swift processing of the application, which was approved later that month.Kang later attempted to send Kim a donation of 5 million won, but was unable to do so due to donation limits. The Seoul Western District Prosecutors Office decided not to indict Kim, while charging Yang and Kang.In its non-indictment decision, the prosecution acknowledged the allegations against Kim but concluded that it was difficult to classify his request for expedited processing as an illegal solicitation. They noted that he did not receive any donations and found no evidence of his involvement in any further wrongdoing by Yang and Kang.The police are expected to investigate whether Kims request constituted private lobbying for a specific company and whether he solicited or agreed to receive the 5 million won donation. Analysts suggest that new evidence proving a quid pro quo between the solicitation and the donation would be necessary for a different conclusion than the previous decision.Kang denied the allegations during a CBS radio interview, claiming that a transcript released by independent lawmaker Han Dong-hoon was edited and asserting, I have never thought about or discussed any quid pro quo regarding the donation. Kang has been indicted for manipulating data during the clinical trial approval process and was sentenced to three years in prison, with a five-year suspended sentence.The renewed investigation has also raised concerns regarding the safety of the whistleblower. Lawmaker Park Jeong-hoon from the People Power Party revealed that the whistleblower, identified as Cho, received a threat from Yang, stating, I will kill you without anyone knowing. Cho submitted related recordings to the Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission, which has reportedly requested police protection for him.Additionally, a separate controversy has emerged regarding salary increases at the Korea Child Development Social Cooperative, where Kims family members are employed. Kims spouses salary rose from 3.82 million won in 2024 to 5.16 million won this year, an increase of about 35%. Their eldest sons salary also increased from 2.66 million won to 3.71 million won, a rise of approximately 39.4% during the same period.Lawmaker Joo Jin-woo from the People Power Party claimed that while Kim was active in the National Assemblys Budget Special Committee, the cooperative received 880 million won in tax support and failed to properly accumulate legal reserves.Kims hearing preparation team refuted these claims, stating that the salary increases were due to increased responsibilities. They emphasized that the salaries are comparable to those of other teachers in the facility and were approved through discussions with cooperative members, who are parents of children with developmental disabilities. They called for an end to baseless smear campaigns.As he arrived at the hearing preparation office in Jongno, Seoul, Kim stated regarding the ongoing allegations, I will thoroughly understand the details and explain them step by step during the hearing preparation.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1
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Samsung Electronics Expands Health Ecosystem with Galaxy Watch Samsung Electronics has unveiled advanced healthcare technology that goes beyond blood pressure and electrocardiogram (ECG) measurements to provide a comprehensive heart health score using the Galaxy Watch and Samsung Health app. Choi Jong-min, Senior Vice President of Samsung Electronics MX Business Digital Health Team, expressed a strong commitment to realizing non-invasive continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technology during a briefing at the companys press room on September 9. He aims to develop technology that allows real-time blood sugar monitoring on the wrist without the need for blood draws, enhancing Samsung Health into a truly comprehensive healthcare platform. On this day, Samsung presented its vision for smart healthcare, which monitors subtle physical changes 24/7 to detect and prevent serious illnesses early. In anticipation of World Heart Day on September 29, the company emphasized a smart health management ecosystem that enables continuous monitoring to recognize warning signs and take immediate action. The Heart Health Score feature, available on the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 and Watch 9, analyzes sleep, activity levels, vascular stress, and body composition to provide intuitive scores and actionable guidance. For instance, if vascular stress is high, it recommends a low-sodium diet and meals rich in whole grains. The Vital Signs feature tracks five key indicators—heart rate, heart rate variability, and respiratory rate—during sleep, sending immediate alerts when significant deviations from normal values are detected. Choi stated, The key is not just measuring indicators but proactively detecting subtle anomalies through artificial intelligence (AI) and sensor technology. We have refined the algorithms to help users intuitively understand their physical condition and improve their lifestyle habits. The recently upgraded Samsung Health version 7.0 supports Connected Care, allowing families to share health information. With user consent, key biometric data can be shared among family members, enabling children to monitor their parents irregular health metrics and respond proactively to any concerning changes. Choi noted, Connected Care, which allows children to check and respond to their parents health status in real-time from a distance, is one of the true values that smart healthcare should pursue. The accumulated data can also serve as valuable reference material during hospital visits, significantly lowering communication barriers with healthcare professionals. Since introducing optical heart rate (PPG) sensors in 2014, Samsung has continuously advanced its monitoring technology. In 2020, it obtained medical device approval for its blood pressure and ECG measurement apps, and in 2021, the Galaxy Watch 4 integrated PPG, ECG, and bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) sensors into a single BioActive Sensor, setting a new standard for wrist-based healthcare. In 2023, the company received approvals from the U.S. FDA and South Koreas Ministry of Food and Drug Safety for its irregular heart rhythm notification (IHRN) feature, contributing to the early prevention of serious conditions like atrial fibrillation. There have been successful cases of early detection and treatment of atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction through irregular rhythm notifications and ECG assessments in both domestic and international settings. Regarding global regulatory approvals and future specifications, Choi remarked, Gaining approvals from various countries food and drug administrations and the FDA is a challenging task that requires rigorous clinical data and safety validation. However, since it directly relates to users lives, we will prioritize trustworthiness in our verification process. We will continue to introduce preventive-focused smart healthcare services in the future.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1
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Nongshim Hosts 'High School Chef Season 2' Cooking Competition Nongshim announced on September 9 that it will host the High School Chef Season 2 cooking competition for youth.High School Chef is a contest where passionate young cooks showcase their unique recipes using Nongshims ramen. This year, the theme celebrates the 40th anniversary of Shin Ramyeon, focusing on My Creative Ramen Using Shin Ramyeon.Participants must be high school students or youth born between 2008 and 2010. Interested individuals can submit their recipes through the cooking platform Sizzle Club by the 27th.Nongshim will review the submitted recipes and select six finalists. The finals will take place offline in Seoul on October 9. Contestants will prepare their submitted recipes in a one-on-one format, with three winners advancing to the final round.This season introduces a new one-on-one mentoring program between finalists and Nongshims research and development (R&D) experts. Participants will refine and enhance their recipes with the help of Nongshims food R&D specialists, exploring the next generation of ramen cooking possibilities.In the finals, contestants will compete using a new theme revealed on-site. Professional chefs and Nongshim R&D officials will serve as judges. After the competition, the recipes of the finalists will be shared online for consumer voting, with the final rankings determined by combining the judges scores and public votes. The winner will receive 3 million won, while the second and third places will earn 2 million won and 1 million won, respectively.A Nongshim representative stated, High School Chef is a program that allows youth to express their ideas and cooking skills. This year, we hope participants experience new possibilities in ramen cooking through the competition and mentoring with our researchers.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1
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China's Inflation Shows Strong Recovery as CPI and PPI Exceed Expectations Chinas consumer price index (CPI) and producer price index (PPI) are showing a notable recovery. The National Bureau of Statistics of China announced on September 9 that the CPI for August rose by 0.8% compared to the previous year. This marks an increase of 0.3 percentage points from Julys 0.5% and slightly exceeds the Reuters forecast of 0.7%. The CPI also increased by 0.4% from the previous month.The rise in the CPI for August is primarily attributed to an increase in energy prices, which surged from 0.6% in July to 4.1% in August. Gasoline prices rose by 9.3%. Excluding energy, the prices of industrial consumer goods increased by 1.8%, with the growth rate expanding by 0.3 percentage points from the previous month. Prices for computers rose by 19.6% and smartphones by 11.0%, influenced by rising semiconductor prices. Meanwhile, food prices fell by 1.4%, continuing a downward trend, particularly with pork prices dropping by 11.8%.The PPI for August increased by 3.8% year-on-year, up from 3.5% in July and slightly above the Reuters estimate of 3.6%. Significant increases in PPI were recorded in sectors such as coal mining, refining, energy, chemicals, electronics, and machinery, while prices in the automotive, pharmaceutical, food, and agricultural sectors declined.The recovery in Chinas PPI is believed to be a result of government policies aimed at curbing excessive competition, known as neijuan (内卷). Chinese companies have engaged in price-cutting competition to secure market share amid oversupply, which has long suppressed PPI. Since the beginning of this year, Chinese authorities have introduced policies targeting overproduction and price competition in key industries such as steel, solar energy, automobiles, and batteries. As a result, companies are refraining from excessive price reductions, leading to a rebound in product release prices.The National Bureau of Statistics stated, The core CPI, excluding food and energy prices, has risen by 1.0% year-on-year, continuing its recovery. Additionally, the rise in international raw material prices and the advancement of industries within China have contributed to the upward trend in PPI.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1
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Korea's Ministry of Agriculture to Establish Unified Livestock Support Agency The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs plans to establish a new agency tentatively named the Korea Livestock Promotion Corporation by integrating three existing organizations: the Korea Animal Products Quality Evaluation Institute, the Animal Disease Control Support Headquarters, and the Livestock Environment Management Institute. This initiative aims to streamline support for livestock farmers by consolidating hygiene, disease control, environmental management, and quality control functions.On September 9, the ministry announced that this integration is part of its efforts to efficiently reorganize the functions of public institutions under its jurisdiction and enhance field-oriented agricultural policy services.Currently, livestock-related tasks are distributed across various agencies at different stages of production and distribution. The Korea Animal Products Quality Evaluation Institute handles smart livestock and traceability at the production stage, while the Animal Disease Control Support Headquarters manages hygiene and disease control. The Livestock Environment Management Institute is responsible for managing livestock waste and odors. In the distribution phase, the Animal Disease Control Support Headquarters supports slaughter inspections, and the Korea Animal Products Quality Evaluation Institute oversees grading and traceability.The ministry noted that the division of responsibilities has hindered effective information sharing and coordination among agencies, causing inconvenience for livestock farmers who must identify the appropriate agency for each task.To address these issues, the ministry plans to unify the field support functions scattered across the three agencies, enhancing service quality by linking hygiene, disease control, environmental management, and quality functions. It also aims to improve organizational efficiency by consolidating overlapping administrative support functions and deploying personnel more effectively to strengthen on-site responsiveness.Additionally, the ministry is pursuing a plan to integrate the Korea Rural Community Corporation with the Agricultural and Fishery Education and Culture Information Center (Agricultural Policy Center). This integration focuses on strengthening the connection between agricultural talent development and welfare projects. The Agricultural Policy Center supports education and settlement assistance for young farmers, while the Rural Community Corporation provides scholarships for agricultural students and welfare projects for rural communities and farmers.Although the Rural Community Corporation met the criteria for public institution designation due to government funding, it has not been designated as such because it is a small organization with only 11 employees, thus lacking obligations for management disclosure. The ministry plans to reduce costs and eliminate management blind spots through the integration with the Agricultural Policy Center.The ministry aims to strengthen the support system for aspiring farmers, young farmers, and professional farmers by linking the scholarship program of the Rural Community Corporation with the youth support initiatives of the Agricultural Policy Center. It plans to connect the operational and management functions of the Agricultural Policy Center with the fundraising and distribution functions of the Rural Community Corporation to expand talent development and welfare projects.Starting this month, the ministry will form a Integration Promotion Task Force to develop specific reorganization plans. It intends to gradually implement necessary procedures, including adjustments to agency functions and amendments to laws and regulations, while ensuring job security for employees and improving their compensation and welfare. The ministry will also communicate with labor unions to address potential challenges and support measures during the integration process.Furthermore, to facilitate the integration of the three livestock agencies, the ministry will draft the Korea Livestock Promotion Corporation Act and revise related laws, including the Livestock Law, the Animal Infectious Disease Control Act, and the Livestock Waste Management Act. Regarding the integration of the Rural Community Corporation with the Agricultural Policy Center, the ministry will pursue amendments to the Basic Law on Agriculture, Rural Communities, and Food Industries to adjust the scope of the Agricultural Policy Centers operations.Park Soon-yeon, head of the Planning and Coordination Office at the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, stated, This integration of public institutions is significant in efficiently linking dispersed functions to reshape agricultural policy services centered on demand. We will establish a field-oriented agricultural delivery system to create tangible changes that farmers and the public can feel.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1
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August Employment Rises by 184,000 Amid Recovery, Youth Job Market Struggles In August, the number of employed individuals increased by 184,000 compared to the same month last year, marking the third consecutive month of growth. The rise in employment was primarily driven by the service sector, while the declines in manufacturing and construction industries lessened, indicating an overall improvement in the job market. However, youth employment rates have fallen for 28 consecutive months, and sectors such as agriculture and forestry continue to face challenges.According to the National Data Agencys employment report released on September 9, the total number of employed individuals reached 29,151,000 in August, an increase of 184,000 from the previous year. This follows increases of 63,000 in June and 108,000 in July, showing a consistent upward trend. Seasonally adjusted figures indicate an increase of 82,000 from the previous month.The employment rate for those aged 15 to 64, as per OECD standards, rose to 70.4%, up 0.5 percentage points from a year ago, marking the highest level for August since records began in 1989. The overall employment rate for those aged 15 and older remained steady at 63.3%, also the highest for August since monthly records started in 1982. The labor force participation rate stood at 64.6%, with an unemployment rate of 2.0%, both unchanged from the previous year.By age group, the employment rate for those in their 30s rose to 81.1%, up 0.3 percentage points; for those in their 40s, it increased to 80.7%, up 0.8 percentage points; and for those in their 50s, it reached 78.8%, up 1.3 percentage points. Conversely, the employment rate for those aged 60 and older fell to 47.6%, down 0.3 percentage points.The youth employment crisis persists, with the employment rate for those aged 15 to 29 dropping to 44.1%, a decline of 1.0 percentage point from the previous year, marking 28 months of continuous decrease. Youth employment has decreased for 46 consecutive months. The youth unemployment rate rose to 5.4%, up 0.5 percentage points from last year, the highest level since August 2022.The youth labor force participation rate also fell to 46.6%, down 0.8 percentage points, the lowest since August 2020 when it was 46.4%. A representative from the National Data Agency noted, While there was an increase in employment in sectors like arts, sports, and finance, declines in information technology and health services contributed to the drop in the employment rate, leading to a decrease in the labor force participation rate as well.However, the number of youth classified as inactive decreased by 51,000 to 395,000, marking a seventh consecutive month of decline. The National Data Agency attributed this to a reduction in the overall inactive youth population, suggesting that some young individuals may be transitioning to job-seeking activities due to policy support.In terms of industry, employment growth in the service sector accelerated, with 345,000 more jobs compared to the previous year, an increase from 295,000 in July. Health and social services added 186,000 jobs, while arts, sports, and leisure services saw an increase of 73,000. The professional, scientific, and technical services sector experienced a decrease of 5,000 jobs, significantly less than the 44,000 drop in July.In contrast, the accommodation and food services sector saw a decline of 61,000 jobs, the largest drop in 13 months. The National Data Agency suggested that this was influenced by a base effect from increased employment last August due to consumer coupon issuance.While manufacturing and construction sectors continued to see job losses, the declines were less severe. Manufacturing jobs decreased by 38,000, a reduction from the 68,000 drop in July, while construction jobs fell by 32,000, down from 57,000. Analysts believe that expectations of easing raw material costs and improved business sentiment contributed to this trend in manufacturing, while better supply conditions affected construction.In agriculture, forestry, and fishing, employment fell by 109,000, a larger decline than the 80,000 drop in July. This was attributed to structural factors such as population decline in rural areas, aging demographics, rising production costs, and increased days of extreme heat.By employment status, the number of regular workers increased by 180,000, while temporary workers decreased by 50,000 and daily workers by 17,000. Among non-wage workers, self-employed individuals with employees rose by 47,000, and those without employees increased by 62,000, but unpaid family workers decreased by 37,000.A representative from the Ministry of Finance and Economy stated, We assess that the employment improvement trend has continued for three consecutive months since May, with growth primarily in the service sector and reduced declines in manufacturing and construction compared to last year.However, uncertainties remain regarding future employment trends. Fluctuations in oil and raw material prices due to heightened tensions in the Middle East and the base effect from last Septembers employment increase of 312,000 may limit future growth. A ministry official remarked, It is difficult to say that employment has recovered to pre-Middle East war levels, and the stability of the region will be a key variable.The government plans to strengthen its response to vulnerable employment sectors, including youth and industries like manufacturing, construction, and agriculture. The Ministry of Finance and Economy stated, We will devise measures centered on job task forces for struggling sectors and expedite the implementation of three major mega-projects to enhance overall job creation in the economy. September 9, 2026 1
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The Resilience of Judaism: A Journey Through History and Tradition What happens to a people when their nation disappears? When they lose their land, their king, and even their temple, what do they hold onto for survival? Throughout human history, many nations have lost their homelands and scattered across the globe, often assimilating into the languages and cultures of their conquerors. Over generations, they lost their languages and faith, ultimately forgetting who they were.However, the Jewish people were different.They lost their nation. They lost their temple. They scattered across the world and endured centuries of persecution and exile. Yet, through nearly 2,000 years of diaspora, they maintained their religious and cultural identity. What enabled their survival?In their hands was something that outlasted swords: a book. They had a tradition of reading, questioning, discussing, and teaching their children.In the first part of the story of Judaism, we followed Abraham and Moses. Abraham left his homeland, and Moses departed from the land of slavery in Egypt. Their departures were not mere relocations; for Abraham, it marked the beginning of faith, and for Moses, the start of freedom. At the end of this long journey, the people of Israel entered into a covenant with God at Mount Sinai, understanding their relationship with God not as one of mere obedience but as one of promises and responsibilities.At the heart of this covenant and teaching is the Torah. The Talmud represents the vast intellectual tradition accumulated over centuries of questioning, debating, and interpreting how to understand and live the Torah in the context of changing times and realities.◆ From the Temple to the BookThe year 70 CE was pivotal in Jewish history. The Roman army captured Jerusalem, and under the command of Titus, they destroyed the Second Temple, the center of Jewish faith. The temple was not merely a religious structure; it housed priests and sacrificial offerings and was the cornerstone of Jewish faith, community, and historical identity.With the temple gone, where could they meet God?Judaism underwent a remarkable transformation. If the temple could not be rebuilt, they made the word the center of their lives. If they could not offer sacrifices, they met God through prayer, study, and practice. If they could not go to Jerusalem, they made their homes and synagogues the centers of their faith communities.The focus shifted from a stone temple to a temple of words.Buildings can be destroyed. Territories can be taken. However, the words that reside in memory and the knowledge accumulated in the mind cannot be easily taken away. With just one book, they can read it anywhere, and if that book is lost, they can pass on the words they remember and memorize to their children. Thus, Judaism evolved into a religion of study and memory.◆ Torah: How Should Humans Live?The Torah is often translated as law. While this translation is not incorrect, it is insufficient. The Hebrew term Torah encompasses not only law but also teachings and guidance on how humans should walk their paths.In a narrow sense, it refers to the five books of Moses: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. However, in Jewish tradition, the Torah is more than a legal code; it is a teaching that asks how to live ones life before God.How should one serve God? How should one honor parents and live with neighbors? How should one treat the poor and the stranger? How should one earn and spend money? What should one eat and avoid? When should one work and when should one rest? What should one remember and pass on to the next generation?Every aspect of life was a subject of inquiry.Religion and daily life were not completely separate. Faith was not limited to offering sacrifices at the temple on specific days; it was connected to the concrete actions of eating, doing business, raising children, making contracts with neighbors, working, and resting. Therefore, reading the Torah was not merely about reciting religious texts.It was about learning how to live as a human being.◆ Talmud: A Civilization That Never Stopped QuestioningHowever, the world cannot be easily resolved with the text of scripture alone. Times change, and new problems arise. Each persons circumstances differ, and even the same scripture can lead to different interpretations.Here, the Jewish people developed a unique path. They asked questions, debated, countered, and asked again. Among the vast accumulation of interpretations and debates, the Talmud stands out.The Talmud is not a book written by a single person. It is a compilation of discussions by generations of rabbis and scholars on the Torah and real-world issues. It is fundamentally structured around the Mishnah and Gemara, with the Jerusalem Talmud formed in the Palestinian region and the Babylonian Talmud developed in the Jewish communities of Mesopotamia. Notably, the Babylonian Talmud later gained central authority in the scholarly and legal traditions of rabbinic Judaism.What is noteworthy in the Talmud is not just the conclusions but the process of reaching those conclusions. When one rabbi makes a claim, another rabbi counters it. Another person may offer a new interpretation based on a biblical verse or tradition. The arguments of people from centuries ago meet the opinions of later scholars on the same page. Just because one side wins does not mean the other sides thoughts are erased. Minority opinions and counterarguments are also recorded.Todays minority opinion may hold new meaning under different conditions in another era. This is a significant characteristic of Talmudic thought. It does not stop at memorizing answers but asks why. It acknowledges authority while seeking evidence, and it continues to question even while learning from teachers.Thus, a tradition of studying together, reading, and debating has developed in Jewish education. The widely known havruta tradition exemplifies this. Two people sit together, reading scripture and continuously exchanging questions like, “Why is that?” “What is the basis?” “Can we think the opposite?” “Is another interpretation possible?”Questions are not disbelief. Questions are a way to approach the truth.◆ Sabbath: The Human Ability to PauseAnother key to understanding Judaism is the Sabbath, or Shabbat. This sacred time of rest lasts from Friday evening until Saturday evening. The Ten Commandments instruct to remember and keep the Sabbath holy.This norm, established thousands of years ago, contains remarkably modern anthropology. Humans must work, but they are not born solely to work. They pause from labor, production, and earning money to share meals with family, pray, read scripture, and reflect on who they are.The value of a human being is not determined solely by productivity.Slaves cannot rest at will. Free people can pause. In this sense, while the Exodus was a spatial liberation, the Sabbath can be seen as a liberation of time. Escaping Egypt does not automatically eliminate the condition of slavery. Humans can become enslaved again to money, power, desires, and labor. Thus, one day a week, they declare:I am not a working machine. I do not exist solely to earn money.The philosophy of the Sabbath is even more urgent in the age of AI. Smartphones never sleep, and social media and platforms demand human attention 24/7. AI does not rest, nor do robots. Should humans work 24/7 as well?No.The more machines do not rest, the more humans must learn to rest in a human way. Pausing is not laziness; it is a way to preserve humanity.◆ The Home as the First SchoolThe starting point of Jewish education was not a grand school but the home. Parents became the first teachers, not only providing food and clothing but also teaching their children about scripture and history.Particularly, the Passover table serves as a history classroom. Children ask, “Why is this night different from all other nights? Why do we eat unleavened bread?” Parents recount the story of the Exodus, explaining that they were slaves in Egypt and that God freed them.What is crucial here is that the past is not taught as a mere history. The statement “Our ancestors were slaves” does not remain as historical knowledge but is brought into the present life.We were slaves.Therefore, memory comes with responsibility. Since they were also strangers in Egypt, they must not mistreat strangers and the weak. Remembering their own suffering and ensuring that others do not endure the same pain is the ethics of memory.Education begins here. It is not about memorizing history but learning responsibility from history.◆ Crossing Borders with a BookThe history of the Jewish people is also the history of the diaspora. After the Babylonian exile, significant communities formed in Mesopotamia, and during and after the Roman era, Jewish communities established themselves in various regions, including Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.They lived in different countries, spoke different languages, and had different professions. However, when communities formed, they built synagogues and taught children scripture and writing. Scholars studied and debated the Torah, interpreting the issues of their times. Particularly in the diaspora communities of Mesopotamia, a vast legacy known as the Babylonian Talmud was formed through long-standing academic accumulation.Even without a nation, they could study. Even without a king, there could be teachers. Even without an army, they could read books. Even without a temple, they could pray at the family table.This was one of the remarkable survival strategies of Jewish civilization. They created a culture that outlasted the state.Education became the most enduring capital.Here, one must be cautious in viewing the economic and academic achievements of the Jewish people. Simplifying it to the notion that Jews are inherently intelligent overlooks historical complexities. What matters is the long-accumulated culture and institutions of education, as well as the historical context of the diaspora.Economic history studies suggest that after the destruction of the Second Temple, the religious significance of Torah study and childrens education grew in rabbinic Judaism, leading to increased literacy, which likely influenced urban commerce and professional occupations in the long term. Of course, Jewish economic history cannot be explained solely by education. Persecution, occupational restrictions, forced migrations, and varying political and economic environments must also be considered.However, it is clear that the Jewish community has long valued education and literacy.Homes can be taken away. Land can be confiscated, and property can disappear. But the knowledge and ability to think that reside in the mind cannot be easily taken away.Thus, education became an asset for survival before being a means of success.◆ Rabbis: Teachers Who Teach Questions Over AnswersIn Judaism, a rabbi is a significant figure. However, it is not exactly the same concept as a priest in Christianity. Fundamentally, a rabbi is a teacher who studies, interprets, and teaches the Torah and legal traditions.It is meaningful that the community is not centered solely around power figures but also around teachers and interpreters. A good student is not someone who unconditionally accepts the teachers words. They must be able to learn, listen, and ask questions again.The rabbinic traditions wisdom literature, Pirkei Avot, poses this famous question: “Who is wise? The one who learns from everyone.”A knowledgeable person can speak. A more knowledgeable person knows how to listen. And a truly wise person recognizes their ignorance and asks again.This is humility in knowledge.◆ In an Age of Answers, the Importance of QuestionsKorean education also has lessons to reflect upon here. For a long time, we have called those who quickly find answers top students. Exams had answers, teachers knew them, and students learned and memorized. This educational approach was quite effective during the rapid growth of the industrial era.However, the era of generative AI is different. In the race to find answers, humans already struggle to compete with machines. Searching, summarizing, translating, and calculating are tasks that AI performs faster. The gap is likely to widen in the future.Therefore, the focus of human education must also change. What one asks is as important as what one knows, and the ability to question and verify answers is becoming increasingly crucial. The ability to discern truth from the abundance of information is vital.The long-standing culture of questioning among Jews holds unexpected modern relevance in the 21st centurys AI era.Before asking AI questions, humans must first ask themselves: Why? For what purpose? For whom?The word must become life. However, Judaism should not be understood merely as a religion of study. The ultimate purpose of study is not the accumulation of knowledge but the transformation of life.What is the meaning of reading the Torah a hundred times if one acts unjustly toward their neighbor? What is the purpose of studying the Talmud extensively if one ignores the poor and the weak?The mitzvah in Judaism refers to Gods commandments and leads to obligations and practices in life. Learning must translate into action, and faith must manifest in relationships with family, neighbors, and in the marketplace.Thus, the spirituality of Judaism is not solely a spirituality that looks to the heavens. It enters into the very ordinary aspects of life: food and work, family and money, rest and education.Perhaps the greatest caution for religion lies here: having many words without life, reading scriptures without justice, praying without caring for neighbors, and speaking of God while failing to love humanity.In that moment, even religion can become an idol.◆ Dasuk Yoo Yeong-mos One and the Words of JudaismHere, we return to Dasuk Yoo Yeong-mo. He read the Bible, Buddhist scriptures, and traversed the Analects, Mencius, Laozi, and Zhuangzi. However, his study was not about accumulating knowledge to showcase himself. Ultimately, it was a quest for One.The One that Dasuk spoke of is not simply the number 1. It is the source of all existence and the ultimate place to which humans must return. People come from the One, live seeking the One, and return to the One. Therefore, true study should not stop at knowing many things outside but should awaken the true self within.The Eolna he spoke of is also on that path. It is about finding the true self beyond the self of the body, the self of desires, and the self of possessions.The study of the Torah in Judaism and Dasuks philosophy differ in historical background and religious systems. There is no need to force them into one. However, they resonate meaningfully in that they both represent studies that transform humans.Study must change humans.If one reads books but does not change as a person, that study is not yet complete. If one has gained knowledge but has become more arrogant, that is a flawed study. If one speaks more of God but grows to hate others more, that is a flawed faith.True knowledge humbles and broadens a person. And it sets them free.◆ In the Age of AI, Questioning Humanity AgainHumanity now stands at another civilizational threshold. We are discussing the possibilities of moving beyond generative AI to AGI (Artificial General Intelligence) and even ASI (Artificial Superintelligence). AI that can remember more information than humans, calculate faster, and surpass human abilities in certain areas is becoming a reality.So, what should humans do?We cannot compete with machines by memorizing more or calculating faster. In the future, the important human will not be the one who competes with machines but the one who can ask machines the right questions and verify their answers.For whom is this AI? Does it speak the truth or amplify falsehoods? Does it expand human freedom or surveil and control humans? Does it distribute wealth widely or concentrate it in the hands of a few? Does it prevent war or become a more powerful weapon? Does it help coexistence between humans and nature, or does it further deplete the Earth?The moment we stop asking these questions, humans may become subservient to AI rather than its masters.Thus, what is needed in the age of AI is not just technology but spirituality. We must seriously consider the issue of Spirituality-centered AI (SAI) that goes beyond human-centered AI (HAI) to contemplate human dignity and life, culture and nature, and even the meaning of existence beyond humanity.What is more important than the speed of technology is its direction. What is more important than ability is purpose, and what is more important than intelligence is wisdom.◆ Even if Books Are Taken Away, Questions RemainWe must not simplify the thousands of years of Jewish history into a beautiful success story. There have been horrific times of persecution, discrimination, exile, and massacre, and there have been conflicts and divisions within the Jewish community. In modern times, new issues have arisen that require us to distinguish between Jews and the state of Israel, Judaism and the political choices of modern Israel.Nevertheless, one clear message left by this ancient civilization is:Learn. Ask. Remember. Rest. And live what you have learned.The temple can be destroyed. Nations can disappear, and property can be taken away. But the thinking human cannot be taken away. Even if books are taken away, the words in memory remain, and even if the last book disappears, questions remain for humanity.Who am I? Where did I come from? How should I live? What is truth? What is justice? What is freedom?Abraham departed. Moses led the slaves into the wilderness. And their descendants scattered across the world with books in hand. When they lost their land, they held onto the words; when they lost their temple, they preserved their homes and synagogues; and even after the center of sacrifice disappeared, they continued to pray and study. Parents taught their children, and children passed it on to the next generation.Thus, one generation created the next.The strength that enabled them to endure nearly 2,000 years of diaspora cannot be explained solely by great armies or vast wealth. It was the people who remembered the words, who questioned, who learned, and who taught what they learned to the next generation.The second question that Judaism poses to us today ultimately leads us here:What will we pass on to the next generation?Money? Houses? Power? Or something that cannot be easily taken away even if the world changes?The power to think and the courage to question, the heart that seeks truth and the responsibility to act justly, and the freedom to choose for oneself. Perhaps that is the most enduring legacy one human can pass on to another, one generation to the next.Truth begins with questioning. Justice begins with translating what has been learned into life. Freedom begins when one can pause and think for themselves.And spirituality connects all of this into one.Coming from the One, seeking the One, and returning to the One.The ancient tradition of study and questioning among the Jewish people asks us again, across thousands of years and into the age of AI:What are you learning? And are you living according to what you have learned?* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1