South Korea

中, 희토류 日수출 통제 본격화…국내 기업 영향은

ZD Net Korea | Local Language | News | Jan. 14, 2026 | Shifting Geopolitical Alliances

China has intensified its rare-earth export controls targeting Japanese companies, including a ban on dual-use goods for military purposes and prohibiting some state-owned enterprises from entering new contracts with Japanese rare-earth buyers. The measures also involve holding accountable those transferring Chinese dual-use items to Japan via third countries, effectively creating secondary sanctions. Japan has formally protested and is accelerating supply-chain countermeasures, coordinating with G7 partners and exploring alternative rare-earth sources such as deep-sea mining in the South Pacific.

Japan's automotive industry is particularly vulnerable due to its reliance on rare earths for permanent magnets and electric vehicle motors. Disruptions could strain vehicle production and electrification efforts. While some domestic automakers might see short-term benefits in certain markets if Japanese production falters, experts warn the overall medium- to long-term impact could raise costs and procurement uncertainties. Industry voices emphasize the importance of diversifying supply sources and preparing for possible expanded export controls, including potential impacts on South Korea.

Japan's government has operated an interagency task force since last year to address mineral supply-chain risks and is finalizing a comprehensive rare-earth strategy delayed into early 2026. Officials note that indirect supply routes involving Japanese production in third countries could affect some domestic firms, although the volume of rare earth exports from Japan to Korea is minimal. Close communication with industry continues as the government anticipates announcing full measures by late January or early February.

[AI 리더스] 신현석 투라인클라우드 공동대표 "MSA 기술로 AI 도입·확산 조력자 될 것"

ZD Net Korea | Local Language | News | Jan. 14, 2026 | UndeterminedTech Development/Adoption

Shin Hyun-seok, co-CEO of Two Line Cloud, aims to facilitate AI adoption in companies by utilizing microservice architecture (MSA) to redesign legacy IT structures and enable stable AI integration. With extensive experience from Microsoft, AWS, SK C&C, and Smilegate, Shin now leads Two Line Cloud’s mid- to long-term growth and global expansion, focusing on making AI a practical tool to improve work processes rather than a mere "speaking technology."

Shin identifies legacy systems, mostly monolithic in structure, as the main barrier to AI adoption. Two Line Cloud addresses this by building an intermediate MSA-based layer that connects AI to existing systems without full system overhauls, enabling phased, cost-effective transitions. Their AI automation platform Turaco, MSA transition tool MSAP.ai, and DaaS-based solution HyperDEX support enterprise AI implementation, particularly in public and financial sectors where security and stability are critical.

Following Shin’s appointment, Two Line Cloud restructured to a co-CEO model, consolidating its Gangnam headquarters to enhance coordination between technology and business strategy. Shin focuses on scaling through partner ecosystem expansion and overseas market entry, while the other CEO oversees financial and technical stability. This unified structure aims to accelerate decision-making and harmonize AI automation, MSA, and DaaS offerings with sales and operations.

Two Line Cloud’s core strategy for 2026 centers on expanding partnerships to address growing AI and MSA demand across industries. Collaborations with domestic cloud service providers like NHN Cloud, Naver Cloud, and Kakao Enterprise, along with system integrators, hardware vendors, and software distributors, will drive market penetration. The company plans to establish joint business models and revenue-sharing to foster recurring subscription-based income, extending this partner-driven approach to Asian markets such as Japan, Vietnam, and Indonesia.

The company’s mid- to long-term vision involves becoming a foundational enabler for corporate AI adoption by shifting from traditional SI projects to platform- and subscription-based models. Two Line Cloud focuses on delivering scalable, continuous AI integration through a platform that links AI agents with existing legacy systems, supporting gradual corporate digital transformation. The firm plans to replicate proven domestic strategies in international markets through local partners and CSPs, promoting sustainable growth in cloud, MSA, and AI sectors.

Shin underscores Two Line Cloud’s role in overcoming persistent challenges companies face in AI adoption due to legacy systems’ inflexibility. By leveraging MSA and cloud technologies, the company aims to be the initial point of support for firms uncertain about how to embark on AI transformation, enabling practical and scalable AI deployment that drives long-term results.

Yonhap | English | News | Jan. 14, 2026 | UndeterminedBizdev-Partnering

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung emphasized the importance of South Korea and Japan as partners sharing common values and called for exploring new areas of cooperation to deepen bilateral ties. His remarks came ahead of his visit to Japan’s Nara Prefecture for summit talks with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on January 13-14, 2026. Lee highlighted the complex geopolitical situation in Northeast Asia and the necessity for the two countries to complement each other’s shortcomings.

The issue of South Korea’s ban on seafood imports from eight Japanese prefectures remains unresolved and is considered a long-term matter that requires public trust. The ban, imposed since 2013 due to radiation concerns following the Fukushima nuclear disaster, impacts Seoul’s efforts to secure Tokyo’s support for its bid to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), a trade pact led by Japan.

On security challenges, Lee welcomed Takaichi’s intent to hold talks with North Korea regarding abducted Japanese nationals, stressing that dialogue between North Korea, the U.S., and Japan is vital for peace and stability in Northeast Asia. He expressed willingness to facilitate improved Japan-North Korea relations through communication.

Lee’s visit marks his fifth summit with a Japanese prime minister since taking office in June 2025, reflecting an ongoing "shuttle diplomacy" approach aimed at sustaining momentum in bilateral relations. The upcoming talks are expected to address regional and global issues, including North Korea, as well as economic, social, and cultural cooperation.