An Army soldier sprays water at a rice field in Naju, South Jeolla, as the area is affected by drought on Aug. 14.YONHAP
We made it! It's Friday in Seoul as we head into the Liberation Day long weekend. Here are the stories you need to know in Korea.
In today's news, Korean companies are routing rare earths from China through third countries to avoid export restrictions. Esports legend Faker has joined an anti-gambling campaign, with young gamblers turning themselves in to authorities for illegal activities. Meanwhile, LG and Nvidia are partnering up on humanoid robot development.
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Today's top story
BUSINESS
Exclusive: Korean defense firms quietly bypass China's rare earth curbs via third countries
With China tightening its grip on rare earth exports, Korean defense firms have quietly begun routing shipments through third countries like Russia, circumventing restrictions on elements for which no substitute exists.
The stakes are particularly high for heavy rare earths, indispensable to missile systems like the Cheongung-II air defense platform, an increasingly sought-after export to the United Arab Emirates and other Gulf States.
LG, Nvidia to jointly develop humanoid robot for 2027 unveiling
The humanoid robots will run on Nvidia's onboard computing platform and be built using its open humanoid foundation model and robotics safety system. LG will supply actuators, sensors and batteries. Read more
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LIFESTYLE & ENTERTAINMENT
Valley visits surge in hot summer — and so do the problems that come with them
The oases draw the masses to refreshing streams, but attempts to control access and an influx of cars are creating issues for residents and local governments.
