Qwen Dominates Open Weight AI Model Usage in China
As the use of downloadable open weight AI models in academic research grows globally, nearly half of these applications are centered around Alibaba's Qwen model in China. Analysts suggest that many researchers are opting for domestic models rather than prioritizing openness.On August 20, the IT industry reported that researcher Zachary Okun-Dernivine from the University of Stuttgart's Institute for Social Science Research published a paper titled "Who Actually Uses Open Weight Models, and How is
Refund Controversy Erupts Over Accommodation in Flood-Hit Geoje
In Geoje, South Korea, record rainfall has led to landslides and flooding, sparking a controversy over reservation cancellations and refunds for local accommodations. Travelers have expressed concerns, stating, "Even if the accommodation building is intact, if the roads leading there are dangerous, we have no choice but to cancel our trips." Meanwhile, some lodging facilities have reported applying standard cancellation policies, arguing that there are no issues with the facilities or surroundin
WJ Cosmetics Expands Offline Presence with New Pharmacy Location in Jeju Tourism Zone
WJ Cosmetics, a derma cosmetic brand operated by Wonjin Plastic Surgery, has opened a new location in a pharmacy within the Jeju tourism zone, marking a significant expansion of its offline distribution network.This new entry allows domestic and international tourists visiting Jeju to purchase WJ Cosmetics products directly on-site. The brand aims to enhance its visibility among tourists while leveraging offline sales channels to boost brand recognition.Jeju is a prominent tourist destination, a
KCC Shares Surge Over 9% Following New Dividend Policy Linked to Samsung C&T
KCC is experiencing a surge of over 9% after announcing a new special dividend policy linked to Samsung C&T's special dividend, enhancing its shareholder return strategy.According to the Korea Exchange, as of 1:53 PM, KCC shares were trading at 477,500 won, up 40,000 won (9.14%) from the previous trading day. The stock price increased significantly after KCC disclosed its corporate value enhancement plan at 10:48 AM, reaching a peak of 489,500 won, nearly a 12% rise during the session.The most n
Cosmax Shares Surge Over 5% Following Strong Q2 Earnings
Cosmax's stock has risen more than 5% after reporting second-quarter results that exceeded market expectations.According to the Korea Exchange, as of 1:21 PM, Cosmax shares were trading at 258,500 won, up 12,500 won (5.08%) from the previous trading day. The stock opened at 242,500 won and reached a high of 263,000 won during the session.The increase in stock price is attributed to strong second-quarter results that surpassed consensus estimates.According to the Financial Supervisory Service's e
Seoul Housing Prices Rise, Gangnam Declines While Gangbuk Sees Gains
Seoul's apartment prices continue to rise, but key areas in Gangnam are experiencing declines, while prices in Gangbuk are increasing, highlighting a clear regional disparity.The Korea Real Estate Agency announced on August 20 that for the third week of August 2026 (as of August 17), the national weekly apartment price trend showed a 0.22% increase in Seoul compared to the previous week, up from 0.21%. The greater Seoul area saw a 0.15% rise, while nationwide prices increased by 0.08%, with loca
Government to Release Renewable Energy Forecast for 2040 Next Week
The government will unveil its forecast for renewable energy deployment through 2040, which will be included in the 12th Basic Plan for Power Supply. The plan will discuss policy measures aimed at enhancing the feasibility of achieving deployment targets for solar and wind energy.The Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment and the 12th Basic Plan's steering committee announced on August 20 that they will hold the 6th public policy forum on the theme of 'Renewable Energy Deployment Forecast'
Trump Urges Quick Passage of Clarity Act, Boosting Stablecoin Stocks
U.S. President Donald Trump has called for the swift passage of the 'Clarity Act,' which outlines a regulatory framework for virtual assets. This news has led to a surge in domestic stablecoin-related stocks.As of 1:41 PM on August 20, Kakao Pay was trading at 44,700 won, up 3,500 won (8.48%) from the previous trading day. Other stablecoin-related stocks, including Hectofinancial (up 14.82%) and Danal (up 11.52%), also saw significant gains.Previously, Kakao Pay signed a strategic memorandum of
SK Securities Shares Surge Following SK Hynix's $40 Billion Stock Buyback Announcement
SK Securities saw its shares hit the upper limit following news that it will act as the broker for SK Hynix's 40 trillion won stock buyback.According to the Korea Exchange, as of 1:44 PM on August 20, SK Securities shares were trading at 2,810 won, up 645 won (29.79%) from the previous trading day. The stock price has surged to the daily price limit, continuing its strong performance.The sharp rise in SK Securities' stock price is attributed to expectations of increased brokerage fee revenue fro
Gmarket Donates 300 Million Won for Flood Recovery in Gyeongnam
Gmarket announced on August 20 that it will donate 300 million won to support flood recovery and aid for victims in the Gyeongnam region affected by recent heavy rainfall.The donation will be delivered to the Hope Bridge National Disaster Relief Association and will be used for facility restoration and the daily recovery of victims in areas such as Tongyeong and Geoje.Gmarket will also work to expand sales channels for affected farmers. Starting August 31, the company will offer discounted sales