A dominant analysis suggests that this U.S. strategic decision is a response to China’s rapid buildup of missile capabilities. This deployment of intermediate-range missiles could have profound repercussions for the security environment across the entire Indo-Pacific, not just Northeast Asia.

Background to the U.S. Intermediate-Range Missile Deployment in Japan

The U.S. deployment of intermediate-range missiles in Japan clearly intends to counter China’s expanding military influence. China has been escalating regional tensions by increasing its military presence in areas like the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea. In response, the U.S. is pursuing a strategy to enhance its long-range precision strike capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region. The deployment of missiles and expansion of joint exercises with allies such as Japan, the Philippines, and Australia are considered part of this strategy.

Indeed, the U.S. military previously deployed the Typhon system for exercises in the Philippines last year and maintained its presence afterward, drawing strong objections from China. This deployment in Japan opens up the possibility of operating Tomahawk missiles, which can reach key areas of mainland China in a contingency, thereby acting as direct pressure on China.

Key Aspects of the ‘Typhon’ System and Tomahawk Missiles

The ‘Typhon’ system being deployed in Japan is the latest U.S. intermediate-range ground-launched missile system. This system can primarily operate two key types of missiles:

• : With a maximum range of 1,600 km (approximately 994 miles), if launched from Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan, a significant portion of mainland China would be within its range. It is a long-range cruise missile known for its precision strike capability.
• SM-6 New Interceptor Missile: The Typhon system can also launch the , making it a versatile system with both offensive and defensive capabilities. The SM-6 is a multi-mission missile capable of anti-air warfare, anti-surface warfare, and ballistic missile defense.

The Typhon system consists of a command post, four launchers, and towing vehicles. Its mobile launcher design allows for rapid deployment and withdrawal, making it difficult for adversaries to detect.

Changes in Regional Security Landscape and International Reactions

The U.S. deployment of intermediate-range missiles in Japan is bringing about complex changes in the regional security landscape. China has strongly opposed this move, criticizing it for “escalating regional military tensions.” Russia has also warned that the Typhon system threatens its national interests and security, stating it will “respond appropriately.”

Japan, for its part, is pursuing the development of ‘‘ to secure its own long-range counterattack capabilities. Plans include the phased deployment of upgraded Type 12 surface-to-ship guided missiles with a range of over 1,000 km and hypersonic guided missiles starting in 2026. Additionally, Japan plans to introduce approximately 400 U.S.-made Tomahawk cruise missiles starting in 2026. This demonstrates Japan’s commitment to strengthening its deterrence and response capabilities in the face of the most severe and complex post-war security environment.

Ultimately, the Asia-Pacific region is witnessing heightened military tension due to the intensifying competition among major powers over missile capabilities. Everyone is closely watching what impact these developments will have on regional peace and stability.

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Inclusive Finance, Why is it More Important Now?

Inclusive finance refers to a policy that allows all economic actors to access financial services regardless of credit rating or collateral. In the past, financial services were primarily provided to those with high credit scores, often leaving low-credit individuals, small business owners, and farmers in financial blind spots. However, finance is now recognized as an essential social infrastructure that goes beyond a means of increasing assets, enabling individuals to engage in economic activities and overcome crises.

Recently, the Financial Services Commission also announced that it would promote inclusive finance as a structural reform task for the entire financial system, not just a one-time support. This is part of an effort to solve the problem of low-credit individuals and those with insufficient financial history being excluded from institutional finance, and to comprehensively overhaul the credit evaluation, loan, and debt adjustment systems to improve financial accessibility. Ultimately, it is a key task to enhance the overall economic vitality of our society and resolve inequality.

NH Nonghyup Inclusive Finance: Key Support Details

To expand inclusive finance, NH Nonghyup is mobilizing all its capabilities, including NH Nonghyup Financial Group affiliates such as Nonghyup Bank, Capital, and Savings Bank, as well as nationwide agricultural and livestock cooperatives and Nonghyup Asset Management. The specific support details are as follows:

• Write-off and Reduction of Long-Term Delinquent Debt: This year, 887.6 billion won in long-term delinquent debt will be written off or reduced, supporting the rehabilitation of approximately 90,000 vulnerable individuals. In particular, for delinquent debts of three years or more held by socially vulnerable individuals such as the elderly and basic livelihood recipients, a program will be operated to reduce the principal by up to 90% and waive all unpaid interest.
• Low-Interest Loans Exclusively for Farmers: The ‘Nongsimcheonsim Hope Loan’ product, a low-interest loan at 2% exclusively for farmers, including young farmers, has been sold since March at 1,109 agricultural and livestock cooperatives nationwide.
• Living and Housing Cost Relief Products for Youth: Products to alleviate the burden of living and housing costs for young people are scheduled to be introduced this month. Last month, the ‘Credit Recovery Partner Loan’ was also launched, providing up to 1 million won in funds to vulnerable individuals undergoing credit recovery procedures.
• Establishment of Inclusive Finance Companion Desks: ‘Inclusive Finance Companion Desks’ have been established at regional agricultural and livestock cooperatives to help vulnerable individuals conveniently access financial services.

How to Apply for and Receive Inclusive Finance Benefits?

To receive NH Nonghyup’s inclusive finance benefits, it is important to first confirm if you are eligible for support. Vulnerable groups, farmers, and young people are the main targets, and detailed eligibility requirements may vary for each product. NH Nonghyup has established ‘Inclusive Finance Companion Desks’ at agricultural and livestock cooperatives nationwide, allowing customers to visit in person for consultation. There, you can receive detailed guidance on suitable products and application procedures.

In addition, the , which oversees government-level financial support for ordinary citizens, operates the ‘1397 Inclusive Finance Call Center’. Here, you can receive one-stop guidance on various financial supports, including loans, debt adjustment, and employment/welfare linkages, so it is a good idea to actively utilize it if needed. It is a wise choice to seek expert help rather than struggling with financial problems alone.

NH Nonghyup’s large-scale provision of inclusive finance will be of practical help to many people experiencing economic difficulties. It is expected to be an important step towards lowering financial barriers and creating a society where everyone can grow together. If you are in difficulty, do not hesitate to grasp the string of hope through NH Nonghyup’s Inclusive Finance Companion Desk or the Korea Inclusive Finance Agency Call Center.

게시물 Inclusive Finance: Why NH Nonghyup is Providing Over 15 Trillion Won and Its Benefits이 솜삽 블로그에 처음 등장했습니다.

Middle East Crisis Reignited: Re-blockade of Hormuz

On June 20 (local time), Iran declared the re-blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, citing violations of the ceasefire MOU by the United States and Israel. This came just two days after transit through the strait resumed following the US-Iran ceasefire MOU. The Khatam al-Anbiya Central Military Headquarters, which commands the integrated Iranian forces, stated that the re-blockade was due to “the United States’ clear violation of the principle of good faith and non-fulfillment of promises, including the non-implementation of Article 1 of the memorandum.” In particular, they raised concerns about the continued airstrikes targeting the pro-Iranian armed group Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. The US Central Command, responsible for the Middle East, immediately stated, “US forces are stationed in the region and remain vigilant to ensure that the agreement with Iran is observed and fully implemented,” emphasizing its commitment to supporting freedom of navigation.

International Oil Prices: The Beginning of a Roller Coaster Market?

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical energy transit route, accounting for approximately 35% of the world’s seaborne oil shipments and 20% of all oil trade. Its importance is overwhelming, especially given that about 82% of crude oil imported into South Korea passes through this strait. Iran’s re-blockade declaration immediately impacted the , increasing upward price pressure. Earlier, international oil prices had plummeted to the low $80s per barrel on news of a peace agreement between the US and Iran, but this re-blockade has once again heightened uncertainty. International oil prices are highly sensitive to geopolitical risks, and a sharp price increase will be unavoidable if concerns about supply disruptions materialize.

Dark Clouds Over the Global Economy and Shipping Industry

The threat of a Strait of Hormuz blockade is not limited to rising oil prices. It is also directly impacting the global . If transit through the strait is restricted or safety issues arise, it can lead to increased insurance premiums, transportation delays, and other negative effects on the entire global supply chain, in addition to the resumption of ship operations. Even after the peace agreement between the US and Iran, the shipping industry remained cautious about operating in the Strait of Hormuz, as there were many issues to resolve, such as mine clearance and verification of navigation safety. Experts predict that it will take a considerable amount of time for the commercial shipping system to fully normalize even after the strait reopens.

Iran’s declaration of a re-blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has once again amplified uncertainty surrounding international oil prices. Changes in the Middle East situation are always unpredictable variables, but the stability of the Strait of Hormuz is directly linked to the global energy market and the world economy. Diplomatic efforts by the relevant countries are urgently needed, and we must closely monitor future international affairs and oil price trends.

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The results of the 1229th Lotto drawing once again sparked exciting anticipation in ordinary daily lives. The detailed disclosure of not only the winning numbers but also the number of winners, their regions, and purchase methods provides various talking points for those dreaming of winning. Lotto has become more than just a game of matching numbers; it’s a small thrill and a source of hope for the week.

1229th Lotto Winning Numbers and Bonus Number

According to the results of the 1229th Lotto drawing announced by Donghaeng Lottery, the first-place winning numbers were ’12, 13, 29, 34, 37, 42′. The bonus number for determining second-place winners was ’16’. A total of 8 first-place winners matched all these numbers.

Each first-place winner will receive an astonishing amount of 3,519,759,000 won (or 3.52 billion won). The prize money must be claimed within one year from the payment start date, and if the last day is a holiday, it can be received until the next business day. Winnings exceeding 2 million won must be claimed by writing your name and resident registration number on the back of the lottery ticket and signing it.

Prize Status from 2nd to 5th Place

In addition to the first-place winners, many others also won prizes of various ranks. There were 89 second-place winners who matched 5 numbers and the bonus number, each receiving 52,730,472 won (or 52.73 million won). There were 2,925 third-place winners who matched 5 winning numbers, each receiving 1,604,449 won (or 1.6 million won).

For fourth place, which pays a fixed prize, 152,290 people matched 4 winning numbers, each receiving 50,000 won. Finally, 2,583,834 fifth-place winners matched 3 winning numbers, each receiving a fixed prize of 5,000 won. The total prize money for this round was approximately 28.1 billion won for first place, and approximately 4.6 billion won each for second and third place.

Analysis of 1st Place Winning Retailers and Purchase Methods

Among the 8 first-place winners of the 1229th Lotto, 5 purchased their tickets automatically, 2 manually, and 1 semi-automatically. The winning regions were evenly distributed nationwide, including 3 in Seoul, 1 in Busan, 1 in Incheon, 1 in Jeonnam, and 2 in Gyeongnam. Notably, ‘Lotto King’ in Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, ‘Inhyeondong Jihagapan’ in Jung-gu, Incheon, and ‘E-mart 24 Suncheon Sandan Branch’ in Suncheon-si, Jeonnam, produced first-place winners through automatic selection.

Retailers that produced first-place winners through manual selection include ‘Daechi Lucky Lotto’ in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, and ‘Daebak Bokgwon’ in Dongjak-gu, Seoul. ‘Geoaegeui Kkum’ in Nam-gu, Busan, produced a first-place winner through semi-automatic selection. As of this round, the cumulative number of first-place winners has reached 10,442, demonstrating that Lotto consistently offers hope to many people.

Lotto produces new winners every week, bringing a small thrill and anticipation to many people. The results of the 1229th Lotto drawing once again ignited this spark of hope. Many are looking forward to seeing who the next lucky winner will be next week.

게시물 Lotto 1229th Winning Numbers Announced: 8 First-Place Winners, Each Taking Home Over 3.5 Billion Won이 솜삽 블로그에 처음 등장했습니다.

The approved NS Shopping’s acquisition of Homeplus Express on June 12. NS Shopping had signed a contract last month to acquire the Homeplus Express business unit for 120.6 billion won and applied for a corporate merger review. During the review process, the Fair Trade Commission determined that there was little likelihood of market competition being restricted, except for chicken, Harim’s main product. Even in the chicken market, Homeplus Express’s share of the domestic supermarket market is only 2.1%, which was not considered a factor to prevent the merger.

Harim Strengthens Distribution Competitiveness to Expand ‘TheM!al’ Growth

Harim Group plans to significantly strengthen its distribution competitiveness beyond food manufacturing through this acquisition of Homeplus Express. In particular, it is expected to focus on expanding sales channels for its premium food brand, ‘TheM!al,’ and strengthening consumer touchpoints. With existing strong players having established solid positions in the instant rice and ramen markets, Homeplus Express, which has secured 293 stores nationwide, could become a new growth engine for TheM!al. This is because brand awareness and sales expansion are possible only when an environment is established where consumers can easily access products and make repeat purchases.

Re-entry into Offline Marts After 14 Years, What’s the Background?

This is Harim Group’s re-entry into the offline mart business after 14 years. Kim Hong-kuk, chairman of Harim Group, has shown an excellent ability to boldly acquire undervalued companies and grow them, earning him the nickname ‘M&A wizard.’ This acquisition of Homeplus Express is seen as Chairman Kim’s unique ‘buy low’ instinct at work again, taking advantage of the significantly lowered sale price due to the stagnant retail market and the failure of Homeplus’s overall sale. Harim is a poultry and food specialized company that has vertically integrated grain procurement, feed, livestock, slaughter, processing, and distribution. It had also entered TV home shopping and internet shopping malls through NS Home Shopping. Now, by securing offline distribution channels, it is drawing a big picture to complete the full vertical integration of ‘food-logistics-distribution.’

Impact on the Market and Harim’s Next Move?

Harim’s acquisition of Homeplus Express is expected to have a significant impact on the domestic retail market. This is not only due to changes in the existing corporate supermarket (SSM) market landscape but also because Harim Group has presented an aggressive blueprint to dominate online and offline distribution networks based on its food manufacturing and logistics capabilities. In particular, Harim launched its fresh food shopping app, ‘ODDGROCER,’ last year, establishing a system where produced products can be delivered directly, thereby targeting the fresh food market with a ‘C2C (Cut To Consume)’ strategy. Through the acquisition of Homeplus Express, it is expected to maximize synergy by linking this fresh food direct delivery system with offline stores. Attention is focused on whether Chairman Kim Hong-kuk, who has awakened his dormant M&A instincts with this acquisition, will make another bold move.

Harim Group has solidified its position as a comprehensive food company and embarked on a new challenge in the retail market through this acquisition. It will be interesting to observe how Harim will create synergy encompassing food manufacturing and distribution, and what changes it will bring to the market.

게시물 Harim Confirms Acquisition of Homeplus Express! Will the Retail Market Be Realigned?이 솜삽 블로그에 처음 등장했습니다.

Why Does Over-treatment Persist?

Over-treatment refers to the practice of performing unnecessary or excessive tests and treatments without medical justification. There are complex reasons for the prevalence of such practices. Firstly, South Korea adopts a fee-for-service system, where medical institutions’ profits increase as they perform more treatments. The information asymmetry between doctors and patients also plays a significant role. Patients lack professional knowledge about their illness and treatment methods, making it difficult to easily refuse a doctor’s recommendations. Furthermore, as the subscription rate for private health insurance has increased, reducing patients’ medical expenses, some medical institutions tend to excessively recommend non-covered treatments. In addition, concerns about medical disputes lead doctors to practice defensive medicine, and patients’ demands for excessive treatment are also cited as factors promoting over-treatment.

2026: Changing Over-treatment Regulations and Cases

The government is strengthening various regulations from 2026 to address the issue of over-treatment. In particular, the standards for non-covered treatments frequently performed for musculoskeletal disorders are becoming stricter.

• Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) Restrictions: From July 2026, ESWT is recommended for a maximum of 6 sessions per identical site and 12 sessions per year. If these limits are exceeded, private health insurance coverage may be restricted. Furthermore, patients must be informed in advance that private health insurance coverage may be limited when treating conditions other than the 7 major indications, such as shoulder, elbow, and hip joints.
• Manual Therapy Transition to Managed Benefit: Also from July, manual therapy will transition to a ‘managed benefit’ item, applying a fixed fee of approximately 40,000 won per session, with an annual limit of 15 sessions (24 sessions in cases of high medical necessity, such as surgery).
• Government’s Intensive Crackdown: The Ministry of Health and Welfare has been operating a since June 15th, intensively cracking down on unfair medical practices such as excessive prescription of narcotics and psychotropic drugs without medical justification, and inducing hospitalization under conditions of ineffective injection administration. Furthermore, rewards of up to 3 billion won will be paid for reporting illegal kickbacks or expensive non-covered treatments lacking sufficient medical evidence.
• Delay in Automobile Insurance ‘8-week Rule’ Introduction: The introduction of the ‘8-week rule’ to prevent over-treatment for minor injuries in automobile accidents is still delayed, leading to continued unnecessary long-term treatment and insurance leakage.

3 Ways Smart Patients Can Avoid Over-treatment

Just as important as the efforts of medical institutions and the strengthening of government regulations is the patient’s own wise approach to over-treatment. Remember these three methods:

1. Make ‘Ask and Ask Again’ a Habit: When a doctor recommends a specific test or treatment, you should actively ask about its necessity, effectiveness, side effects, alternative treatments, and estimated costs. Recording the details of the consultation is also a good idea in case of unforeseen circumstances.
2. Seek a Second Opinion: When advised on a significant diagnosis or expensive non-covered treatment, it is wise to from a specialist at another medical institution. This greatly helps avoid over-treatment and find the most suitable treatment for you.
3. Be Cautious in Choosing Medical Institutions: It is forbidden to blindly trust a specific hospital simply because it has many patients or low treatment costs. Be wary of places that induce excessive discount events or unnecessary package treatments. You should choose a trustworthy medical institution by comprehensively considering its reputation, the professionalism of the medical staff, and the rationality of the treatment plan.

Over-treatment is a problem that burdens not only individual health and finances but also the entire healthcare system. While efforts from the government and the medical community continue, patients also need to proactively protect their health. Just as you become a smart consumer, become a smart patient and make rational medical choices.

게시물 Over-treatment: 2026 Coping Strategies for Smart Patients이 솜삽 블로그에 처음 등장했습니다.

Opening the Era of Ultra-High Speed with 2nd Generation Blade Battery and FLASH Charging Technology

In March, BYD once again showcased its technological prowess by unveiling its ‘2nd Generation Blade Battery’ and ‘FLASH Charging Technology,’ which address the chronic problems of slow charging speeds and reduced low-temperature performance in electric vehicles. This 2nd generation battery set a new world record for charging speed, capable of charging from 10% to 70% in just 5 minutes, and to 97% in a mere 9 minutes. Even in extreme environments of -30 degrees Celsius, it only takes 3 minutes longer than at room temperature, with virtually no performance degradation. Energy density has also improved by 5% compared to the 1st generation, extending the driving range.

• Ultra-fast charging: 10% → 70% in 5 minutes, 10% → 97% in 9 minutes
• Improved low-temperature performance: Only 3 minutes longer charging time at -30 degrees Celsius compared to room temperature
• Increased energy density: 5% increase compared to 1st generation, enabling driving range of over 1,000km
• Charging infrastructure: Plan to build 20,000 FLASH charging stations in China by the end of 2026 and expand globally

Comprehensive Global Expansion and Targeting the Korean PHEV Market

BYD is accelerating its global market expansion under the ambitious goal of becoming the ‘world’s No. 1 automobile manufacturer within 5 years.’ Indeed, as of May 2026, BYD holds the top position in the Singapore market with a 26.1% market share, and in the UK, it has become the fastest brand to achieve a 5% market share, selling 100,000 units. Sales are also rapidly increasing in Brazil and Australia, and the company is strengthening its localization strategy, including promoting the construction of a factory in Hungary, Europe.

Particularly noteworthy is its strategy for entering the Korean market. BYD will introduce its self-developed PHEV technology, ‘DM-i,’ for the first time in Korea at the Busan Mobility Show later this month, aiming to penetrate the hybrid market. DM-i is an EV-based hybrid system that boasts high energy efficiency by combining a high-efficiency engine and a high-performance motor. It maximizes fuel efficiency by automatically switching the driving mode according to the driving environment, such as driving like an EV in the city and utilizing the engine for high-speed driving.

Securing the Future through Autonomous Driving Liability Compensation and Next-Generation Battery Technology Investment

BYD is not just focusing on increasing sales but is also proactively securing its position in the market through bold investments in future mobility technologies. In the field of autonomous driving, it surprised the industry by announcing a groundbreaking compensation policy stating that ‘the manufacturer is 100% responsible in the event of an accident.’ This move contrasts with other companies’ policies that place responsibility on the driver, demonstrating BYD’s strong confidence in its autonomous driving technology. BYD is investing approximately 19 trillion won in autonomous driving and AI, and is accelerating technology development by introducing the 4-nanometer (nm) autonomous driving-specific chip ‘Xuanji A3’ and the AI agent ‘Didisha.’

Furthermore, BYD is actively developing ‘,’ the next stage of battery technology. BYD plans to mass-produce sulfide-based solid-state batteries in small quantities by 2027 and begin mass production by 2030. In addition, it is working to expand the in-vehicle software and hardware ecosystem by unveiling ‘Flexible Buttons,’ detachable magnetic smart devices.

BYD is setting new standards in the EV market through innovative technology development such as the 2nd generation Blade Battery, aggressive global market expansion, and proactive investment in autonomous driving and next-generation battery technologies. It will be interesting to observe what changes their relentless progress will bring to the global automotive industry.

게시물 BYD’s Three Key Strategies to Reshape the EV Market in 2026이 솜삽 블로그에 처음 등장했습니다.

D&D Pharmatech has been developing innovative peptide-based therapies for chronic diseases with high unmet medical needs, such as metabolic diseases like obesity, MASH (Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis), and diabetes, as well as fibrotic diseases. This collaboration with LG AI Research Institute is expected to accelerate these efforts.

AI-based Oral Peptide New Drug Development

This collaboration between D&D Pharmatech and LG AI Research Institute has the potential to change the paradigm of new drug development. LG AI Research Institute utilizes AI models that analyze the structure of disease-causing substances to design optimal peptide sequences and discover new drug candidates. D&D Pharmatech is responsible for the structural design, synthesis, and evaluation of AI-derived candidates, as well as preclinical and clinical trials, and global regulatory approvals.

• Introduction of a Circular Learning Structure: After D&D Pharmatech verifies the candidate substances designed by LG AI Research Institute, the results are reflected back into the AI model to continuously enhance its performance.
• Focus on Oral Peptides: Existing peptide drugs were easily broken down by gastrointestinal digestive enzymes, limiting their development to injectables. Both companies aim to complete oral therapies in pill form by innovating safety and absorption rates with AI technology.
• Key Technology ‘ORALINK’: D&D Pharmatech possesses ‘ORALINK,’ a core platform technology that enhances the in-vivo absorption rate of oral peptide drugs.

Key Pipelines and Technology Export Status

D&D Pharmatech is building promising pipelines in various disease areas, attracting attention from the global market. In particular, DD01, a MASH treatment candidate, has shown statistically significant results in Phase 2 biopsy results, raising expectations for technology transfer. DD01 showed positive results, including improved liver fibrosis, at week 12 of the planned 48-week clinical trial.

• Oral Obesity Treatment: In 2023, D&D Pharmatech licensed out oral obesity treatment candidates DD02S, DD03, MET06, and others to the US biotech company Metsera. Subsequently, additional substances, including the GLP-1/GIP dual agonist DD14, were included, expanding the contract size to over approximately $800 million.
• Neurodegenerative Disease Treatment NLY01: NLY01, a candidate for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, works by inhibiting neuroinflammation to protect brain nerve cells and is awaiting Phase 2 clinical trials for multiple sclerosis.
• GLP-1 Agonists: The company possesses various GLP-1-based candidate substances for diabetes and obesity treatment and is preparing for clinical trials of oral long-acting GLP-1 target substances such as MET-224o and MET-097o.

Securing Continuous Growth Engines

D&D Pharmatech is steadily building its foundation for innovative new drug development. After listing on KOSDAQ in May 2024, the company successfully completed the issuance of 226.5 billion won worth of convertible bonds (CB) in May 2026. These funds will be used to accelerate the clinical development of key pipelines, including the fibrosis treatment TLY012. Furthermore, the potential for collaboration with global pharmaceutical companies and expectations for technology exports are major factors stimulating investment sentiment.

The company aims to provide new hope to patients with difficult-to-treat diseases and create a healthy future through continuous global clinical development and various partnerships. A review of D&D Pharmatech’s pipeline overview reveals active research and development in various fields, including obesity, neurodegenerative diseases, and fibrotic diseases.

D&D Pharmatech is expected to lead the era of AI new drug development through its collaboration with LG AI Research Institute and open new horizons for oral peptide new drugs. The success of clinical trials for key pipelines and news of technology exports will continue to be core drivers of D&D Pharmatech’s growth. More detailed information about D&D Pharmatech can be found on its official website.

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Recurring Serious Accidents, the Reality of POSCO Group

On June 9, a subcontractor in his 30s died after falling 15 meters while installing cable trays at the Sinansan Line construction site in Gwanak-gu, Seoul. Furthermore, it was revealed that a total of four workers have died in four accidents at this site since 2024, adding to the shock. Since the enforcement of the Serious Accidents Punishment Act, 10 people have lost their lives at POSCO E&C sites and a staggering 18 across the entire POSCO Group. The Ministry of Employment and Labor immediately launched a compulsory investigation, including a search and seizure, in connection with this accident, and is also conducting a special inspection of POSCO E&C headquarters and sites nationwide. These recurring casualties raise fundamental questions about POSCO Group’s safety management system and amplify calls for corporate social responsibility.

Chairman Jang In-hwa’s Strong Promise of Safety Innovation

POSCO Group Chairman Jang In-hwa attended a safety management inspection and recurrence prevention measures meeting hosted by Minister of Employment and Labor Kim Young-hoon, stating that the company would mobilize all available resources for accident prevention. The main measures promised by Chairman Jang are as follows:

• Securing safety budget and significantly expanding related investments
• Regularization of safety professionals at all Sinansan Line construction sites and deployment of more personnel than legally required
• Intensive deployment of supervisors from the world’s best safety professional companies to sites for thorough management until construction is completed
• Acceptance of opinions from any internal or external experts to improve the safety management system

He expressed a strong will to restore public trust, saying, “We will ensure that the same accidents do not recur at any of the group’s business sites.” Attention is focused on how this promise will be implemented in actual sites.

The Core of Sustainable Management: Decarbonization and Safety

POSCO Group has recently been accelerating ESG management, such as the transition to decarbonization. In April, Chairman Jang In-hwa attended the World Steel Association’s regular meeting in Berlin, emphasizing the importance of the steel industry’s decarbonization transition and global cooperation for it. POSCO has also been honored as a ‘Sustainability Excellence Member’ for five consecutive years since 2022, proving its global ESG capabilities. However, no matter how grand the sustainability goals, their meaning can fade if safety at industrial sites is not guaranteed. Along with the decarbonization transition, safety management is the most basic prerequisite and a key task for POSCO to fulfill its social responsibility as a global leading company and gain public trust.

A Safe Workplace, the First Step to Restoring Trust

Many hope that Chairman Jang In-hwa’s promise of safety innovation will not remain a mere declaration but will lead to actual changes on site. Breaking the cycle of recurring serious accidents and creating a safe workplace where workers can work with peace of mind will be the first step for POSCO to move towards becoming a truly sustainable enterprise. It is time to watch the future of POSCO’s safety management.

게시물 POSCO Safety Management Innovation: Will Chairman Jang In-hwa’s Promise Be Effective?이 솜삽 블로그에 처음 등장했습니다.

In particular, the dissolution of the after 49 years and the disappearance of the Public Prosecutors’ Office from history, with the establishment of the Public Prosecution Service and the Serious Crime Investigation Agency, are expected to have a tremendous impact on the investigative environment directly related to the lives of the people. We will examine the background and core content of these changes, and what impact they will have on our society.

The Dissolution of the Defense Security Command After 49 Years: What Does It Mean?

On June 10, 2026, the Ministry of National Defense announced a reorganization plan to dissolve the Defense Security Command (DSC) after 49 years and disperse its functions. The dissolution of the DSC, formerly known as the ‘Security Command’ and embroiled in various political controversies due to excessive concentration of power, aims to prevent the abuse of power by military intelligence agencies and strengthen democratic control.

• Functional Dispersion: Counterintelligence, security, and national security investigation functions will be transferred to the Defense Counterintelligence Headquarters, the Defense Security Support Group, and the Ministry of National Defense Investigation Headquarters, respectively.
• Abolition of Power-Oriented Missions: Power-oriented missions such as trend analysis, personnel intelligence, and public opinion gathering will be completely abolished.
• Personnel Reduction and Transparency Enhancement: Approximately one-third of the DSC’s existing personnel will be reduced, and the personnel management system will be integrated into a common system for all armed forces, increasing transparency.

This reorganization is evaluated as an important turning point for restoring public trust in military intelligence agencies and for the military to be reborn as a ‘people’s military’.

Abolition of the Public Prosecutors’ Office, the Era of the Public Prosecution Service and the Serious Crime Investigation Agency

From October 2, 2026, the Public Prosecutors’ Office will be abolished, and the Public Prosecution Service under the Ministry of Justice and the Serious Crime Investigation Agency (SCIA) under the Ministry of Interior and Safety will be newly launched. This is a fundamental change in the criminal justice system, separating the investigative and prosecutorial functions of the prosecution that have been maintained for 78 years.

• Role of the Public Prosecution Service: It will exclusively handle the initiation and maintenance of public prosecutions, and the prosecutor’s direct investigative powers will disappear. However, it is expected that the authority to command special judicial police officers and the authority over appeals and re-appeals will be maintained.
• Role of the Serious Crime Investigation Agency: It will exclusively investigate nine major serious crimes: corruption, economy, public officials, elections, defense projects, major disasters, drugs, and rebellion/foreign exchange.
• Issue of Supplementary Investigative Powers: Whether to grant supplementary investigative powers to prosecutors of the Public Prosecution Service remains a key issue under discussion.

These changes are expected to contribute to preventing the abuse of prosecutorial power and enhancing the efficiency and fairness of the criminal justice system by strengthening the professionalism of investigation and prosecution.

Strengthening Digital Investigations and Expanding the Role of the Police

Along with changes in the investigative system, the investigative capabilities of the police are being further strengthened. From 2026, the National Police Agency plans to deploy an additional 1,200 investigators to field investigation departments and expand career recruitment of specialized personnel such as lawyers and accountants to enhance investigative capabilities for crimes affecting people’s livelihoods. In particular, as the importance of digital evidence grows daily, the development and utilization of technology are emerging as the core of investigations.

• Importance of Digital Evidence: As 97% of investigators cite smartphones as the top source of digital evidence, digital devices play a decisive role in criminal investigations.
• Introduction of AI System: In the second half of 2026, an AI system capable of 24-hour response, from civil complaint counseling to legal guidance, is scheduled to be introduced. Furthermore, AI is also evaluated as being able to speed up investigations.
• Enhancing Investigative Capabilities: The police are continuously making internal efforts, such as establishing a team-based investigation system and strengthening the evaluation of investigative commanders’ capabilities.

In this way, the police are steadily preparing to effectively respond to complex crimes in the digital age by enhancing professionalism and efficiency in line with their expanded authority.

2026 will be a significant turning point for the Korean investigative system. Amidst the major trends of the dissolution of the Defense Security Command, the abolition of the Public Prosecutors’ Office, and the establishment of the Public Prosecution Service and the Serious Crime Investigation Agency, each investigative agency is establishing new roles. We hope that these changes will create a transparent and fair investigative environment and ultimately contribute to protecting the safety and rights of the public. Continuous attention to the changing criminal justice system is necessary.

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