Politics
- 1.7% of cabinet members are from the corporate sector: Representative Ahn Cheol-soo highlighted the low participation rate of corporate professionals in government, citing Elon Musk’s nomination as a U.S. administration official.
- Seoul proposes E-9 visa expansion: The city officially suggested including transport workers to address workforce shortages.
- Investigation of the President’s couple’s accusations: Changwon Prosecutors’ Office began an inquiry into a transferred case involving the President and First Lady.
- Enhanced authority for fire safety funds discussed: Legislation to grant allocation authority to the Fire Safety Agency is under parliamentary review.
- Disputes over rights members and Lee Jae-myung: Strategies are being discussed concerning Representative Lee’s public election law violations.
- Controversial remarks within the Democratic Party: Representative Choi Min-hee faced sharp criticism from the opposing People Power Party.
Society
- Seoul subway union strike decision: With 70.55% approval, the union announced plans to strike, with other unions potentially joining.
- Military impersonation scams on the rise: Fake military personnel placing large orders and disappearing have caused significant losses to business owners.
- Youth creativity support event: Smilegate’s Hope Studio organized a creative environment initiative in Jeonju with high community engagement.
- Funeral for a family of independence activists: A state-level funeral was held for a family of three generations of independence fighters.
Economy
- Housing price polarization intensifies: The gap between the most expensive and least expensive homes has widened to a 40-fold difference.
- Lotte Group denies liquidity crisis rumors: The conglomerate officially refuted unfounded claims of financial instability.
- Call for boosting SME R&D investments: Policies to encourage private-sector research and development investment were emphasized.
- Concerns over South Korean stock market slump: Authorities activated a value-up fund to counteract excessive market declines.
- Strengthened supply of autonomous robot batteries: LG Energy Solution diversifies its portfolio into the non-EV market.
Technology/IT
- SK Telecom launches AI customer support system: Beta testing completed for its proprietary LLM-based contact center solution.
- Hancom accelerates AI integration: The company announced plans to roll out major AI products for public and private sectors by the end of the year.
- LG Electronics unveils all-season air conditioner: The “Whisen View” supports cooling, dehumidifying, and heating functions.
- Renewable energy platform innovation: Korea Electronics Technology Institute (KETI) introduced a platform optimizing solar and wind energy usage.
International
- Japan’s defense minister plans visit to Korea: Nakayama Gen’s trip, if realized, would mark the first in nine years.
- Korea-Japan air route usage surpasses 20 million: Significant increase in passengers between the two countries.
- U.S.-Korea economic cooperation grows stronger: Ongoing talks highlight enhanced bilateral economic strategies.
- China explores expanded tech collaboration with Korea: Bilateral discussions aim to strengthen technological partnerships.
Real Estate/Construction
- Reconstruction/redevelopment law urgency: The Ministry of Land called for legislative support while visiting project sites in Suwon.
- Busan redevelopment disputes: Rising costs deepen conflicts between local redevelopment associations and contractors.
- Yongsan hotel rebranding revealed: The newly named “Grand Mercure Imperial Palace Seoul Gangnam” debuts.
Games
- Nexon garners longest queues at G-Star 2024: The sponsor drew massive attention with new releases and events.
- Netmarble reveals Seven Knights Rebirth: The game reimagines its successful predecessor while addressing past shortcomings.
- Soulers earns indie game acclaim: The bullet-hell shooter received high praise during G-Star demonstrations.
- Nexon 30th anniversary orchestra performance: Game OSTs enchanted attendees at G-Star 2024.
- Diablo 4 announces skill upgrades: Upcoming updates feature major improvements for various character classes.
Culture
- Yoon Soo-il enjoys a second peak in fame: His iconic song “Apartment” sees a resurgence in popularity.
- Leeum Museum highlights gender diversity: Free lectures and performances shed light on cultural inclusion.
- MBC’s “Running Man” hairstyle controversy: Song Ji-hyo’s hippie perm sparked mixed reactions.
- Yoon Seok-nam celebrated for feminist art: Retrospectives showcase her journey from homemaker to iconic artist.
- National Gugak Center reenacts Joseon-era music: The Pilundae series revives traditional Korean music performances.
- Pianist Yunchan Lim wins French classical music award: Recognized as “Artist of the Year” by a leading classical journal.
Environment
- Renewable energy efficiency boosted by KETI: Announced innovations for solar and wind power platforms.
- Starbucks supports sustainable farming: Provided 5,000 tons of coffee compost to farms over a decade.
- Art projects address climate change: Collaborative efforts to raise awareness of environmental crises.
Health/Medical
- Health insurance fraud exposed: Prolonged hospitalizations for unnecessary treatment under investigation.
- Breakthrough in anti-aging enzymes: Korea’s first FDA-certified skin improvement enzyme announced.
- Healthcare robot awards: Bodyfriend earned the “Korea’s Highest Brand” recognition for 12 consecutive years.
Industry
- LG Energy Solution ventures into autonomous robotics: Expanding battery solutions into non-automotive sectors.
- Bolt Creation enters European automotive market: Partnered with a UK manufacturer to enhance global presence.
- Call for industry-led R&D initiatives: Associations emphasize corporate-driven innovation.
Sports
- Hyundai dominates TCR races with second consecutive win: Showcased excellence in global touring car competitions.
- KPGA honors Aourhome sponsorship: Celebrated achievements in golf sponsorship excellence.
- Startup-backed golf tournaments celebrated: WEMIX Championship concluded with Kim Min-sun taking the trophy.
Finance
- Concerns over South Korean stock market slump: Authorities activated a value-up fund to counteract excessive market declines.
- App-based earning systems rise in popularity: Users engage in ad-viewing or other activities for rewards.