Technology and philosophy

Wednesday, July 1, 2026

Busan Bridge Collapse Injures Two Workers During Construction

A bridge being built in Busan fell down, causing injuries to two individuals.

As reported by the Busan Fire and Emergency Management Office on the 11th, a section of a bridge under construction at the Eco Delta City Phase 3, Block 3 development area in Gangseo District, Busan, fell down approximately at 8:42 a.m. that day.

During the incident, employee A, who is 44 years old, received severe injuries, while colleague B, aged 60, experienced less significant harm. Both individuals were taken to a local medical facility. They are currently alert, with no urgent dangers to their lives.

An incident is said to have taken place while installing a girder, which is a beam that supports the roadway, with the help of a crane.

Authorities are looking into the specific details of the incident.

Tuesday, June 30, 2026

BYD Surpasses Geely Amid Global EV Surge Following Oil Shock

High international interest in electric vehicles enabled BYD to overcome a poor start to the year and regain top ranking.

The worldwide energy shortage has boosted BYD's return to the top of China's car industry, enabling it to catch up with... Geely Auto with increasing global interest in electric vehicles.

A Chinese electric vehicle (EV) company based in Shenzhen had relinquished its position as the country's top automaker in the first quarter of 2026 but experienced a significant recovery over the next two months due to rising fuel costs caused by the conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran. During this time, its international shipments increased by 76 percent compared to the previous year, reaching almost 300,000 vehicles.

The revival has strengthened founder and chairman Wang Chuanfu's vision of making BYD the biggest automobile manufacturer globally by 2030, supported by progress in advanced battery systems and self-driving technologies.

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According to company data, BYD delivered 1.41 million cars worldwide from January to May, representing an increase of 19 percent compared to Geely's 1.18 million units.

Geely, which offers both gasoline and electric cars through brands such as Zeekr, Lynk, and Galaxy, took the lead in the initial quarter, producing 709,538 units versus BYD's 700,463.

Increasing electric vehicle adoption worldwide during April and May benefited BYD, even though the local market was underwhelming," stated Phate Zhang, founder of Shanghai-based data firm CnEVPost. "Strong sales beyond China proved to be the primary factor driving growth for the EV manufacturer.

In the initial five months of this year, BYD delivered 616,907 cars abroad, marking an increase of 65 percent compared to the previous year, which made up 44 percent of overall shipments.

The firm aims to achieve 1.3 million international sales in 2026, representing a roughly 24 percent increase compared to 2025, as stated by Li Yunfei, BYD’s head of brand management and communications, citing factors such as upcoming vehicle releases and a broader distribution system.

Tensions in the Middle East and the short-term shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz—where approximately one-fifth of global oil and natural gas shipments travel—caused Brent crude prices to rise over 60 percent from February 28 to April 29. Since then, prices have decreased by 11 percent, reaching roughly $85 per barrel on Wednesday.

With rising fuel prices, people across the globe have started to favor electric cars as a way to cut down on operating costs.

As the leading global electric vehicle producer, BYD intends to sell over 10 million cars each year by 2030, which would be twice its 2025 output of 4.6 million units. During a shareholder gathering on Tuesday, Wang detailed strategies to surpass Toyota and emerge as the top automaker worldwide.

Towards the end of May, BYD revealed that its The "God's Eye" next-generation driver assistance system will cost only 12,000 yuan (US$1,772), aiming to ultimately reduce traffic collisions once the system is activated.

The action highlighted the firm's commitment to establish itself as a top player in the evolving transportation landscape by developing smarter cars at reduced expenses.

Having secured the second spot behind BYD in vehicle shipments during the previous year, Geely stated in February that it plans to concentrate on increasing driving distance and enhancing charge rates instead of reducing costs to reinforce its standing within China, the globe's biggest automobile marketplace.

During December, the firm established a 2-billion-yuan safety evaluation center in Ningbo, which serves as an industrial key area located in eastern Zhejiang Province.

The holding company of Geely Auto, known as Zhejiang Geiley Holding Group, additionally has ownership of Volvo Cars and maintains an investment in the Mercedes-Benz Group.

Sales of Geely outside China — covering both gasoline and electric cars — increased by 158 percent compared to the same period last year, reaching 371,354 units during the first five months of 2026, which accounted for 31.5 percent of overall shipments.

Chinese automakers, including BYD and Leapmotor supported by Stellantis, are projected to sell 2.5 million cars to consumers in Western Europe by 2028, capturing around 20 percent of the market mainly because of their benefits in manufacturing and innovation merits of industrial processes and technical advancements positive aspects of creation and technological progress advantages related to fabrication and scientific development gains from production methods and tech improvements , as stated by Nick Lai, the head of Asian-Pacific automotive research at JPMorgan.

Chinese manufacturers sold approximately 1 million cars in Western Europe during 2025, covering key regions like Germany, France, Italy, and the UK.

People Power Party Urges Leader Jang to Resign

An internal faction of the People Power Party, consisting of legislators who served one or two terms known as "Alternative and Future," officially urged the departure of party head Jang Dong-hyeok on the 11th. Additionally, they requested that the recently named floor leader, Jeong Jeom-sig, hold a gathering of all members to address Jang's exit.

Lee Seong-kweon, a legislator from the People Power Party and head of "Alternative and Future," together with related legislators, convened a media briefing at the National Assembly Communications Center early that day. They remarked, "The People Power Party faced a severe loss in the June 3 local elections," further stating, "Chairman Jang's authority has crumbled, which is entirely due to the leadership of Jang Dong-hyeok." They added, "Conservatives consistently emphasize responsibility. If Chairman Jang genuinely identifies as a 'conservative,' he ought to resign right away."

The collective also rejected Jang's proposal for a "national election." "Alternatives and Future" showed support for the frustration of the 2030 generation regarding violations of voting rights due to systematic issues within the National Election Commission. Nevertheless, they emphasized, "We firmly disagree with holding a national election."

They stated, "It is inappropriate for a conservative party leader to associate citizens' efforts to ensure election integrity with 'election fraud conspiracy theories.' Leader Jang's independent choice to promote these ideas weakens and harms the party's democratic principles."

The group also called for holding a general assembly. Lee said, "The public is observing how the People Power Party will address public opinion and establish an equitable voting system concerning Leader Jang's future and voting rights." He appealed, "We urge Floor Leader Jeong Jeom-sig to hold a general meeting to build agreement on these two matters."

Following the press briefing, elected official Kwon Young-jin spoke with journalists and stated, "We participated in the regional elections under a leadership that lost public confidence, following a route that did not connect with voters and ultimately encountered their disapproval." He further remarked, "Claiming victory in the election is profoundly incorrect."

He added, "If Leader Jang keeps following this course, the party will face criticism for being an organization that, even after electoral defeats, denies its shortcomings, holds onto 'voting irregularity conspiracy narratives,' and aims for political endurance." He ended with, "Resolving issues related to voting rights violations can be handled by the National Assembly and the party independently of Leader Jang."

Easy English News: Japanese Firms Block Unwanted Job Hops to Retain Talent

TOKYO — Businesses in Japan have initiated employment evaluations starting June 1 for graduates set to complete their universities in the spring of 2027. Certain companies are ceasing employee transfers unless approved by the employees themselves. They aim for this measure to assist in retaining skilled staff.

Read the complete English article

Please provide the original Japanese article so I can assist you with the paraphrase.

Shifts in work environments and relocation policies have become significant not just for employees, but also for students seeking employment opportunities.

At the headquarters of Daiichi Life Insurance Company in Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo, students attended job interviews on June 1. There was no specific attire required. Some students dressed in formal wear, while others opted for casual shoes.

The organization will discontinue "transfers without permission" for administrative positions starting in fiscal 2027. It mentioned that job applications have increased approximately 20% compared to the previous year. Several students indicated that this policy adjustment was a factor in their decision to apply.

Sota Hosokawa, 21, a final-year student at Yokohama National University, stated, "I aim to embrace opportunities across the country while I am still young. However, in the years ahead, I might require more time for my family. I prefer to remain adaptable, as I also wish to continue progressing in my professional life."

Akiko Nagaya, who leads recruitment at Daiichi Life Group Inc., stated, "The finance sector has traditionally been seen as one that moves employees across the country. However, we must evolve to allow individuals to define their own career journeys."

Several businesses are modifying their transfer policies due to concerns that unnecessary relocations cause employees to quit, and complicate the recruitment process.

Daido Life Insurance Co. halted employee transfers without staff consent in April 2026 for those in managerial positions. These employees have the option to relocate across over 100 locations within Japan. The firm requested employees' preferred destinations. During the April restructuring, over 90% of career path workers were assigned one of their top three choices. Employees who actually relocating could receive as much as 150,000 yen.

Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Co. introduced a new policy in fiscal year 2026. Employees can now continue working in the prefecture of their choice. The company aims to eliminate unnecessary job rotations and allow staff to shape their own professional journeys.

Additionally, in April 2026, Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Company allowed employees to decide whether they would agree to job rotations. Some staff members mentioned that this policy simplifies future planning.

(Akihiro Kawakami's Japanese version, Tokyo City News Department)

Vocabulary

move: to be relocated from one location to another by an organization

assessment: an evaluation or examination used to select individuals

consent: agreement to something

uses: documents or digital applications submitted to apply for employment

financial: about money

sector: a part of the economy, such as automobiles or finance

Management path: a program designed for aspiring leaders

reassign: a shift in roles or locations

Philippine Military Chief Vows No Political Interference in Senate Crisis

The head of staff of the Armed Forces, General Romeo Brawner Jr., states that the military will remain neutral in political matters even though there is some concern among personnel.

The Philippines The head of the armed forces has taken steps to calm worries about political interference following a contentious Senate leadership conflict, which led to increased security measures, delayed military appointments, and raised concerns that factional groups might take advantage of internal dissent within the ranks.

Head of the Armed Forces, General Romeo Brawner Jnr recognized concerns among certain staff members but stated to This Week in Asia that the military would stay away from political matters.

On Wednesday, Brawner stated, 'Political involvement is not within our responsibilities.' 'We will remain a well-disciplined and professional military force,' he added.

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His remarks were made as the 24-person group Senate remained paralysed due to an ongoing dispute over leadership, with two senators each declaring themselves as the leader of the chamber and opposing groups claiming authority over its management.

The conflict has halted legislative progress, postponed the advancement of five generals and other military personnel, and increased tensions regarding the Senate's anticipated consideration of the Vice President. Sara Duterte-Carpio 's impeachment trial.

It has also taken place amid an escalating conflict involving the president Ferdinand Marcos Jnr and Duterte-Carpio, his 2022 vice-presidential candidate, whose partnership has disintegrated into the nation's most significant political divide.

Senator Panfilo Lacson, who previously served as head of the national police and has strong connections within the military, called on the armed forces and national police on Tuesday to exercise caution.

Lacson stated that unprincipled, ambitious factions and those seeking instability aim to exploit the chaos or circumstances and might attempt to deceive some of our armed forces members.

I'm not claiming that our military personnel lack professionalism. However, during times of chaos, they might confuse unethical organizations with their allies.

Lacson stated that he felt the discomfort within the military was connected to a press event organized last week by 18 former military officials inside the Senate complex, during which they expressed concerns about the army and criticized the Marcos government.

He stated that both events seemed "related" and were part of larger initiatives aimed at undermining the administration.

Brawner acknowledged there was tension among the members, but described it as a combination of professional dissatisfaction and worries about the nation's political situation.

"Regarding the murmurs within the military, it's only normal for some of our staff to feel disappointed due to various factors like not receiving promotions or failing to secure their preferred roles, along with frustrations arising from the current political situation in our nation," Brawner stated.

However, these issues would not involve the military in political conflicts, he stated. "We have come a long way from the era of military adventures. Our soldiers are now more conscious of their appropriate roles."

Some influential individuals have encouraged the armed forces to choose a side in the intense political conflict between Marcos and Duterte-Carpio, an alliance that ended when she stepped down from her role in the presidential administration in June 2024. Following this, she openly warned that if something happened to her, the president, his spouse, and the Speaker of the House would be targeted—statements that formed part of the accusations used during her impeachment proceedings.

In November of last year, former air force commander Major General Romeo Poquiz headed a group of former military officials who openly urged troops to stop backing their top leader, Marcos, and instead pledge allegiance to Duterte-Carpio.

Brawner stated that these kinds of requests did not alter the military's duty to remain neutral in partisan politics, despite soldiers personally observing the nation's political unrest.

Soldiers are monitoring the political situation, and personally, they feel worried, yet their responsibility requires each one of us to stay away from party politics. We refrain from speaking openly. We simply carry out our tasks.

A top-level senior military official, who requested confidentiality, expressed a comparable sentiment, stating that the armed forces will stay neutral and adhere to the established hierarchy.

The officer stated to This Week in Asia, 'We obey instructions and remain dedicated to our mission of safeguarding our nation.'

He characterized internal complaints as "minor," noting that a working promotion process and a complaint procedure were available.

Numerous criticisms currently spreading were "merely partisan political chatter," he stated, blaming one political party for attempting to persuade troops to speak or behave in a way that made their movement seem supported by the military.

Security fears

The Senate leadership fight has increased the tension regarding the chamber's management of Duterte-Carpio's impeachment process, as opposing groups have also been fighting over control of its administration, funding, and security measures.

The heart of the conflict involves Alan Peter Cayetano, a strong supporter of Duterte who asserts he is still the Senate president, and Sherwin Gatchalian, the senator acknowledged by the Marcos government and the House of Representatives as the interim Senate president.

The group led by Gatchalian announced on June 3 that all Senate positions were empty and appointed him as "Acting Senate President," whereas Cayetano has declined to relinquish his role.

The conflict has divided the Senate into opposing factions, with each side asserting control over a body where a simple majority can remove all leadership positions, yet at least 13 votes are required to elect a Senate president.

As of Wednesday, the Cayetano group numbered 11 members, whereas the Gatchalian faction consisted of 12.

On Wednesday, Gatchalian stated that the state-run Land Bank of the Philippines has acknowledged him as the authorized person responsible for issuing Senate checks, which he referred to as evidence of his "functional authority" over the committee.

"The most evident indication of his leadership is my administration and oversight of the Senate. The Land Bank has already finished transferring the signatures, so we will now proceed to sign the checks to deduct funds from the Senate account," Gatchalian said to journalists.

I believe this serves as obvious proof that we maintain authority over the Senate.

Gatchalian additionally directed Senate staff to operate remotely and enhanced security measures, stating that NBI Chief Melvin Matibag had cautioned that "an individual may cause unrest within the Senate and could be carrying weapons."

Cayetano ignored the alert in a Facebook post, alleging that the NBI was "obviously biased" and "involved in violence inside these premises."

He was talking about a May 13 shooting event within the Senate where security personnel opened fire on NBI agents who they alleged were attempting to gain entry to apprehend a senator. Ronald Dela Rosa regarding his supposed involvement in the International Criminal Court's charges of crimes against humanity related to the detention of former president Rodrigo Duterte.

Former national police chief and staunch Duterte supporter Dela Rosa has disappeared.

Cayetano's comment was posted on Facebook but did not appear on the official Senate website, which currently lists Gatchalian as "Acting Senate President."

Exclusive: Yonsei Med Director’s $240M Allowance Triggers Outcry

A dispute has arisen among faculty members at Yonsei Medical Center, which manages Severance Hospital, following the disclosure that its director received an additional payment of 240 million South Korean won earlier this year, just after a controversy involving hospital management occurred.

As per reports from the healthcare sector released on the 10th, Yonsei Medical Center distributed a combined amount of 700 million South Korean won in bonuses to nine senior executives during January and February of this year. Director Geum Ki-chang was awarded 240 million South Korean won, with four hospital directors receiving between 60 million and 120 million South Korean won each, and four heads of departments/offices getting 40 million South Korean won apiece.

In order to achieve this, the center introduced new internal rules and categorized the payments as "hospital management allowance" and "administrative responsibility allowance." Nevertheless, certain senior hospital administrators allegedly contributed the entire sum back to the hospital right after becoming aware of the payments.

The recent disclosure has led academics to express worries. Last month, the faculty committee at Yonsei University School of Medicine convened and asked for verification of the details from the hospital.

A lecturer from Severance Hospital stated, "Throughout the administrative dispute in healthcare, 13,000 staff came together, rotated shifts for security duties, and voluntarily took unpaid time off to manage the emergency. However, according to reports, the hospital director supposedly received a 'personal incentive' (bonus based on performance). Such an occurrence has never been seen before during the medical facility's 140 years of operation."

The hospital responded by saying, "This was not a 'performance incentive' but an 'additional payment,' which was lawfully provided following established rules and processes. The wages and additional payments for the head of Yonsei Medical Center and others were less compared to leading hospitals, so extra support was needed. These figures were set after taking into account financial performance and salary structures at rival institutions."

It stated, "Nevertheless, we recognize the comments indicating that 'sufficient input from various members should have been collected' concerning the allowance. We will take feedback into account and implement enhancements moving forward."

Nightmare in the Deep: Employee Savaged by Shark While Snorkeling Near Naval Base

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A horrifying situation developed for an employee at a Florida A naval base was the scene on Monday when a shark disrupted his snorkeling session, causing alarming cries that were recorded on camera.

A civilian worker stationed at the Naval Warfare Center in Panama City was swimming near the coast at 11:45 am on Monday when he encountered a shark, as reported by Naval Support Activity.

A bystander recorded the incident, showing the victim yelling "help" as he struggled in the water. As he tried to flee from the sea creature, a fin surfaced from beneath the waves.

Commander Tristan Oliveria told NBC News that the worker was scuba diving during his midday pause when the incident occurred.

The deceased remains unidentified. The Navy base stated that the worker suffered significant arm injuries, yet he was ultimately helped by bystanders.

No additional injuries were mentioned. The worker was taken to a nearby hospital with severe health issues.

A 911 call made during the event showed an anxious bystander informing the dispatcher that the victim's arm "was there, but it isn't," in response to whether body parts had been cut off.

A video depicting the terrifying assault spread rapidly across social media, prompting one individual to write, "My deepest fear has become reality. It’s exactly like the opening scene from Jaws. This is truly horrifying. His life was completely altered in an instant. I'm sending my thoughts and prayers to this young man."

Requests for a complete healing," one person added. "A frightening way to spend midday.

"That was an intense midday break. Just one swim. Just one bite. Everything changed from that moment," said another person.

The horrifying assault marks the second one in the Florida Panhandle over the past week. The event took place only a few days after a bull shark attacked a fisherman, the Pensacola News Journal reported.

Rescue personnel and first aid workers reached the location where a bull shark attack occurred, and the angler was transported by air to a nearby medical facility with injuries that were not immediately dangerous.

"He caught a bull shark, then made his way to the shore and attempted to remove the hook, only to be bitten on the thigh," said Dave Greenwood, chief of water safety for Escambia County, to the source.

Although there were consecutive assaults, specialists have warned that encounters with sharks are rare.

Dr. John Carlson, a research biologist at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, shared information with a local CBS station, WJHG which means sharks travel to coastal regions such as the Florida Panhandle to have their young around this time of year.

"The truth is, the chances are extremely small; you're more probable to get hurt using your lawn mower, you're more likely to be bitten by a dog, there's a higher chance of you being struck by a TV than experiencing a shark attack," he said when questioned about the incidents.

Carlson advised swimmers to stay away from murky water and to refrain from entering the ocean during early morning or late evening hours, as this increases the likelihood of sharks confusing people with their usual food sources.

The Daily Mail has contacted the Navy Warfighting Development Command for information regarding the latest incident.