Latest news with #KonkukUniversity
Gulf Insider
13-06-2025
- Health
- Gulf Insider
South Korea Lab Makes Bird Flu 100% Lethal In Mammals
South Korean scientists have conducted a lab experiment that made a purported wild avian influenza 'bird flu' virus 100% lethal in mammals, achieving total death in infected mice by enabling the virus to adapt inside their bodies and spread to others. The dangerous move comes as the U.S. develops a 'next-generation' universal vaccine platform called 'Generation Gold Standard' that will focus on avian influenza jab creation, signaling a coordinated international push to engineer and preemptively vaccinate against lab-enhanced bird flu strains with pandemic potential—despite worldwide fallout from similar COVID-era June 2025 in Virology Journal , the study describes how researchers at Konkuk University infected mice with a highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza strain—one that already contained a small percentage (4%) of a mammalian-adaptive mutation known as PB2-E627K. That tiny minority of mutant virus was enough to take over and kill every infected host. 'All challenged mice died by 8 dpc. Transmission through direct-contact occurred in 100% of cases, and all contact mice died within 12 days.' This was not an accidental discovery. Researchers intentionally infected mammals with a virus they knew contained a mutation that helps bird flu spread and replicate more effectively in mammals, including humans. Once inside the mice, the mutation exploded to near-total dominance—not just in the lungs, but in the brain, where it caused seizures, ataxia, and fatal neurological damage. 'The PB2-E627K variant, initially present at 4% in the virus stock, was selected and reached near-fixation (~ 100%) in the lungs and brains by 6 days post-challenge and was subsequently transmitted.' 'In dead direct-contact mice, the E627K mutation in PB2 was found at a proportion of 99.8–100% in both the lungs and brains.' The virus became neurotropic—targeting the brain—and caused seizures and other neurological symptoms before death. 'Two out of three direct-contact mice displayed significant neurological symptoms, including seizure, ataxia, and bradykinesia.' This is precisely the kind of gain-of-function-style research that Congressional hearings and federal reports have linked to the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic—a disaster that killed over a million Americans and possibly far more if COVID vaccine injury data is fully accounted for. 'Even a small proportion of mammalian-adaptive mutations can quickly become dominant as the virus serially transmits between mammals.' The virus strain used in the study—isolated from a wild duck in Korea—was given to mice intranasally at high dose. After just one round of infection, the mutation that enables efficient replication in mammals (PB2-E627K) went from 4% to nearly 100%, and was then passed to other mice who also died. 'In experiment 2, with a 1:1 challenge-to-contact ratio, all the challenged mice died. Transmission occurred in 50% of cases; three out of six contact mice died.' This was not nature running its course—this was a deliberate laboratory setup that triggered a lethal evolutionary pathway, with full awareness of the risks. No genetic engineering was needed—just the right environment and host to favor viral adaptation. This is exactly the kind of procedure that reportedly allowed a bat coronavirus to become a pandemic-capable human pathogen in Wuhan. 'These findings highlight the need for continuous genomic monitoring to detect mammalian adaptation markers and assess interspecies transmission risks.' Yet this isn't the only high-risk bird flu experiment South Korea is conducting. Just a month earlier, South Korean scientists published another Virology Journal paper revealing that they had engineered a chimeric H5N1 virus using hallmark gain-of-function (GOF) techniques—combining gene segments from three different influenza viruses to increase the virus's heat resistance, alter host targeting, and enhance human cell entry. 'Recombinant viruses were generated using a pHW2000 plasmid-based reverse genetics system.' 'Combining the R90K and H110Y mutations (22W_KY) resulted in a synergistic increase in thermal stability and maintained HA activity without measurable reduction even after 4 h at 52 °C.' '22 W HA and 22 W NA genes, along with six internal genomic segments (PB2, PB1, PA, NP, M, NS) from PR8 and a PB2 gene from 01310 containing the I66M, I109V, and I133V (MVV) mutations' The study also confirmed enhanced antigen uptake and intracellular penetration in human cells: 'The highest level of intracellular entry was observed for BEI_22W_KY, confirming its superior effectiveness in penetrating cells.' These GOF enhancements—increased thermostability, host retargeting, and replication modulation—were achieved without any mention of special oversight or biosecurity risk assessments, despite the White House having confirmed that the COVID-19 pandemic was caused by a virus engineered using similar techniques. The timing raises concern, especially as the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recently launched a $500 million 'next-generation' bird flu vaccine initiative, drawing direct parallels between vaccine development programs and risky virological engineering. If any of these engineered viruses escape containment—accidentally or intentionally—they could ignite a global pandemic, ironically the very scenario these experiments claim to prevent. This particular mouse-killing study was performed in Biosafety Level 3 facilities at Konkuk University, sanctioned by the university's Institutional Biosafety and Animal Care Committees: 'All experiments involving viable HPAI H5N1 viruses were conducted at a Biosafety Level (BSL)-3 facilities (Konkuk University) in accordance with procedures approved by the Konkuk University Institutional Biosafety Committee (approval no. KUIBC-2024-06).' 'Animal infection studies were reviewed, approved, and supervised by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee of Konkuk University (approval no. KU24080).' The COVID pandemic taught the world what happens when supposed mammal-adaptive viruses leak from research settings. Yet instead of a global moratorium on these reckless experiments, labs are still running trials that kill every mammal they infect—and worse, documenting how to do it again. Also read: Saudi Arabia Edge South Korea On Penalties To Reach AFC U-17 Asian Cup Final
Korea Herald
25-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
From Psy to aespa, why do K-pop acts take pay cuts for campus festivals?
Campus gigs offer more than pay — they're a springboard for fan engagement, viral buzz May marks spring university festival season in South Korea — and no matter how packed their schedules are with world tours, music shows and fan-meets, K-pop stars make time for the campus stage. At Hongik University's spring festival May 14–16, big names like Psy, aespa, Lee Seung-yoon, Beenzino and YB took to the stage. Konkuk University's lineup May 20–22 featured Psy, aespa, Itzy, Jannabi and YB. Performing at Chung-Ang University's main festival, running May 21–23, were aespa, NCT Dream, YB and Dynamic Duo. Despite the prestige of these appearances, university festival fees are generally lower than other commercial gigs. If a group normally earns 100 million won ($73,000) per event, they may settle for 50 million-80 million won at a university show. But money isn't the main incentive when it comes to college shows. Many K-pop agencies are willing to take a pay cut for the exposure and connection with younger audiences. In NewJeans' case, the group donated all its earnings from seven university festivals to the Korea Student Aid Foundation last year. Why do K-pop stars flock to the campus circuit come spring? It's simple: These events offer direct access to their core audience; people in their 20s. 'It's a rare opportunity for artists to connect with the general public, even those who aren't already fans,' an official from a major K-pop agency said Sunday. 'University festivals draw a young crowd, making them the ideal stage for artists to engage with new audiences and build buzz.' University festivals also serve as live practice ahead of world tours. 'Of all the stages, college campuses feel most like Lollapalooza or Coachella,' said former Ador CEO Min Hee-jin last May. 'The students' energy inspires the members. It's a great opportunity to promote new songs, improve stage skills and give back to fans.' This year, Itzy — set to return with new music in June — has packed its schedule with campus appearances, including at SeoulTech, Konkuk University, Kyung Hee University and Inha University. Kiss of Life, another rising girl group, was confirmed for festivals at Yonsei, Sejong and Korea National Sport University. Going viral, for free The marketing payoff is enormous. Performing in front of a crowd of 10,000 turns thousands of smartphone cameras into instant PR tools. Well before the show ends, fancams, memes, Instagram Reels, TikToks and shorts are already circulating online. For agencies, it's mass marketing without spending a dime. 'In this age of one-person media, if the performance is strong, word-of-mouth spreads naturally,' the agency official added. For groups with strong live performance skills, these shows also act as unofficial public auditions. Their vocals, stage presence and crowd work are judged in real time by the most trend-sensitive demographic. If the performance hits the mark, casual viewers are quickly converted into dedicated fans. aespa, the hottest ticket on campus The most in-demand university act this year? Aespa. Although the girl group has no domestic comeback imminent, it headlined festivals at Hongik, Konkuk, Chung-Ang and Kyung Hee universities, reinforcing its influence across Korean campuses. Aespa's popularity continues despite not having released any new music in Korea since its 5th EP, 'Whiplash,' in October. Meanwhile, rumors of a June release are swirling, fueled by a leaked music video footage that began circulating on social media in early May. Rock bands hold their ground Even in the girl group-dominated landscape, rock bands are holding their own. YB (Yoon Do-hyun Band) performed at Konkuk, Hongik and Jeonbuk National universities. Jannabi, known for its festival-ready sound, will take the stage at Sejong, Dankook and Konkuk universities. Other buzzed-about names include Lucy, Silica Gel and The Volunteers (Nasanhyunssi Band). 'The festival crowd is overwhelmingly enthusiastic,' the agency official said. 'That energy fuels the performers and makes each show a valuable experience — both emotionally and professionally.'
Korea Herald
25-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
From Psy to aespa, why are K-pop idols taking pay cuts for campus festivals?
Campus gigs offer more than pay — they're a springboard for fan engagement, viral buzz May marks university festival season in South Korea — and no matter how packed their schedules are with world tours, music shows and fan-meets, K-pop stars make time for the campus stage. At Hongik University's festival May 14–16, big names like Psy, aespa, Lee Seung-yoon, Beenzino and YB took to the stage. Konkuk University's lineup May 20–22 featured Psy, aespa, Itzy, Jannabi and YB. Performing at Chung-Ang University's main festival, running May 21–23, were aespa, NCT Dream, YB and Dynamic Duo. Despite the prestige of these appearances, university festival fees are generally lower than other commercial gigs. If a group normally earns 100 million won ($73,000) per event, they may settle for 50 million-80 million won at a university show. But money isn't the main incentive when it comes to college shows. Many K-pop agencies are willing to take a pay cut for the exposure and connection with younger audiences. In NewJeans' case, the group donated all its earnings from seven university festivals to the Korea Student Aid Foundation last year. Why do K-pop stars flock to the campus circuit come spring? It's simple: These events offer direct access to their core audience — people in their 20s. 'It's a rare opportunity for artists to connect with the general public, even those who aren't already fans,' an official from a major K-pop agency said Sunday. 'University festivals draw a young crowd, making them the ideal stage for artists to engage with new audiences and build buzz.' University festivals also serve as live practice ahead of world tours. 'Of all the stages, college campuses feel most like Lollapalooza or Coachella,' said former Ador CEO Min Hee-jin last May. 'The students' energy inspires the members. It's a great opportunity to promote new songs, improve stage skills and give back to fans.' This year, Itzy — set to return with new music in June — has packed its schedule with campus appearances, including at SeoulTech, Konkuk University, Kyung Hee University and Inha University. Kiss of Life, another rising girl group, was confirmed for festivals at Yonsei, Sejong and Korea National Sport University. Going viral, for free The marketing payoff is enormous. Performing in front of a crowd of 10,000 turns thousands of smartphone cameras into instant PR tools. Well before the show ends, fancams, memes, Instagram Reels, TikToks and shorts are already circulating online. For agencies, it's mass marketing without spending a dime. 'In this age of one-person media, if the performance is strong, word-of-mouth spreads naturally,' the agency official added. For groups with strong live performance skills, these shows also act as unofficial public auditions. Their vocals, stage presence and crowd work are judged in real time by the most trend-sensitive demographic. If the performance hits the mark, casual viewers are quickly converted into dedicated fans. aespa, the hottest ticket on campus The most in-demand university act this year? Aespa. Although the girl group has no domestic comeback imminent, it headlined festivals at Hongik, Konkuk, Chung-Ang and Kyung Hee universities, reinforcing its influence across Korean campuses. Aespa's popularity continues despite not having released any new Korean music since its 5th EP, 'Whiplash,' in October. Meanwhile, rumors of a June release are swirling, fueled by a leaked music video footage that began circulating on social media in early May. Rock bands hold their ground Even in the girl group-dominated landscape, rock bands are holding their own. YB (Yoon Do-hyun Band) performed at Konkuk, Hongik and Jeonbuk National universities. Jannabi, known for its festival-ready sound, will take the stage at Sejong, Dankook and Konkuk universities. Other buzzed-about names include Lucy, Silica Gel and The Volunteers (Nasanhyunssi Band). 'The festival crowd is overwhelmingly enthusiastic,' the agency official said. 'That energy fuels the performers and makes each show a valuable experience — both emotionally and professionally.'
Korea Herald
25-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
From Psy to aespa, why are K-pop idols taking pay cuts for campus festivals?
Campus gigs offer more than pay — they're a springboard for fan engagement, viral buzz May marks university festival season in South Korea — and no matter how packed their schedules are with world tours, music shows and fan-meets, K-pop stars make time for the campus stage. At Hongik University's festival May 14–16, big names like Psy, aespa, Lee Seung-yoon, Beenzino and YB took to the stage. Konkuk University's lineup May 20–22 featured Psy, aespa, Itzy, Jannabi and YB. Performing at Chung-Ang University's main festival, running May 21–23, were aespa, NCT Dream, YB and Dynamic Duo. Despite the prestige of these appearances, university festival fees are generally lower than other commercial gigs. If a group normally earns 100 million won ($73,000) per event, they may settle for 50 million-80 million won at a university show. But money isn't the main incentive when it comes to college shows. Many K-pop agencies are willing to take a pay cut for the exposure and connection with younger audiences. In NewJeans' case, the group donated all its earnings from seven university festivals to the Korea Student Aid Foundation last year. Why do K-pop stars flock to the campus circuit come spring? It's simple: These events offer direct access to their core audience — people in their 20s. 'It's a rare opportunity for artists to connect with the general public, even those who aren't already fans,' an official from a major K-pop agency said Sunday. 'University festivals draw a young crowd, making them the ideal stage for artists to engage with new audiences and build buzz.' University festivals also serve as live practice ahead of world tours. 'Of all the stages, college campuses feel most like Lollapalooza or Coachella,' said former Ador CEO Min Hee-jin last May. 'The students' energy inspires the members. It's a great opportunity to promote new songs, improve stage skills and give back to fans.' This year, Itzy — set to return with new music in June — has packed its schedule with campus appearances, including at SeoulTech, Konkuk University, Kyung Hee University and Inha University. Kiss of Life, another rising girl group, was confirmed for festivals at Yonsei, Sejong and Korea National Sport University. Going viral, for free The marketing payoff is enormous. Performing in front of a crowd of 10,000 turns thousands of smartphone cameras into instant PR tools. Well before the show ends, fancams, memes, Instagram Reels, TikToks and shorts are already circulating online. For agencies, it's mass marketing without spending a dime. 'In this age of one-person media, if the performance is strong, word-of-mouth spreads naturally,' the agency official added. For groups with strong live performance skills, these shows also act as unofficial public auditions. Their vocals, stage presence and crowd work are judged in real time by the most trend-sensitive demographic. If the performance hits the mark, casual viewers are quickly converted into dedicated fans. aespa, the hottest ticket on campus The most in-demand university act this year? Aespa. Although the girl group has no domestic comeback imminent, it headlined festivals at Hongik, Konkuk, Chung-Ang and Kyung Hee universities, reinforcing its influence across Korean campuses. Aespa's popularity continues despite not having released any new Korean music since its 5th EP, 'Whiplash,' in October. Meanwhile, rumors of a June release are swirling, fueled by a leaked music video footage that began circulating on social media in early May. Rock bands hold their ground Even in the girl group-dominated landscape, rock bands are holding their own. YB (Yoon Do-hyun Band) performed at Konkuk, Hongik and Jeonbuk National universities. Jannabi, known for its festival-ready sound, will take the stage at Sejong, Dankook and Konkuk universities. Other buzzed-about names include Lucy, Silica Gel and The Volunteers (Nasanhyunssi Band). 'The festival crowd is overwhelmingly enthusiastic,' the agency official said. 'That energy fuels the performers and makes each show a valuable experience — both emotionally and professionally.' jaaykim@
Yahoo
16-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Scientists make disturbing discovery after testing everyday material on key soil creatures: 'It holds scientific significance'
Scientists have found that microplastics in soil weaken the immune systems of earthworms, which could affect their ability to destroy harmful pathogens and negatively impact soil microbes. South Korean scientists discovered that microplastic pollution could lower the immune health of soil-dwelling organisms. The research, published in July's edition of the Journal of Hazardous Materials, is the first to find a link between microplastics and a weakened immune response in earthworms, as detailed by The Korea Bizwire. A research team led by Professors Ahn Yoon-joo of Konkuk University and Hyun Young-min of Yonsei University confirmed that Eisenia andrei earthworms exposed to microplastics from polystyrene, commonly used in insulation, packaging, and construction, had reduced phagocytic activity. This is an important function of immune cells, helping to protect the body from infections. When the team exposed the earthworms to polystyrene particles in laboratory tests, their immune cells reportedly absorbed the microplastics in just 30 minutes. While their immune cells didn't die, their ability to fight off foreign substances, such as E. coli, declined. In a follow-up experiment, the team found that even when earthworms were exposed to small amounts of microplastics, their immune cell function dropped by 40% in two weeks. "This study is the first to report that the phagocytic activity of earthworm immune cells, which actively eliminate pathogens in soil contaminated with microplastics, is compromised," adding that "it holds scientific significance," Professor Ahn Yoon-joo told ChosunBiz. The negative impacts of microplastic contamination in the environment have been well-documented, as researchers have found the particles in our oceans, soil, wastewater, and even fertilizers used to grow crops. When humans or animals ingest these particles, they can have wide-ranging health impacts, including an increased risk of hormone and reproductive disorders, as well as heart disease. Earthworms are a vital part of soil ecosystems, as they help improve soil structure, break down organic matter — which releases nutrients into the soil — and reduce pathogen activity. They can also boost farm productivity, as the Government of New South Wales explained. If earthworms' immune systems are impaired by microplastics, it will impact their ability to keep the soil healthy and could potentially reduce crop yields. Researchers have found that biochar — a common soil amendment used on farms — could remove a large amount of microplastics from soil, keeping them out of our food supplies and waterways. This would also benefit earthworms and the farmers who depend on them for healthy soil. Scientists have also discovered that insects such as mealworms and waxworms could eat through our plastic problem, as they seem to have a large appetite for the material. Do you think we use too much plastic in America? Definitely Only some people Not really I'm not sure Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. The best way we can help earthworms and the planet is by reducing the amount of plastic we use. Even a few small changes, such as switching from single-use water bottles to reusable ones and bringing your own to-go containers to restaurants, can contribute to a healthier, plastic-free future. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
