Breakthrough Memristor Technology Brings AI Closer to Human-Like Intelligence

Han Jong-hee, co-CEO of Samsung Electronics, passed away on March 25 at the age of 63 due to cardiac arrest. His death was confirmed by a company spokesperson, who stated that he was hospitalized at the time. Han led Samsung’s consumer electronics and mobile devices division, while co-CEO Jun Young-hyun managed their chip business. Having joined Samsung nearly 40 years ago, Han had a significant impact on the company, especially in the TV sector. He became vice-chair and CEO in 2022. Recently, however, the company has struggled with declining earnings and market share, particularly in advanced memory chips and smartphone sales, currently trailing behind competitors like Apple. According to reports, shareholders expressed concerns over Samsung's performance during a recent meeting, especially in light of the booming demand for AI-related products. Han was expected to participate in Samsung's upcoming launch event for new home appliances the day after his passing. A successor for his position has not been announced.

North Korea has revealed the construction of its first nuclear-powered submarine, a development that poses significant security concerns for South Korea and the United States. The state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported on March 9, 2025, that Kim Jong Un inspected the shipyards where this submarine, described as a strategic guided missile vessel, is being built. Experts estimate the submarine to be approximately 6,000 to 7,000 tons, with a capacity to carry around ten missiles, potentially including nuclear-equipped weapons. Moon Keun-sik, a submarine expert at Hanyang University, expressed that the submarine represents a major threat, given its capability to launch missiles from underwater, making detection difficult for adversaries. U.S. National Security Council spokesman Brian Hughes mentioned that they are aware of the submarine claims but offered no further information. Concerns have also emerged regarding North Korea's ability to obtain the necessary resources and technology for such a project, with speculation about potential Russian assistance in exchange for military support against Ukraine. North Korea’s recent military rhetoric has intensified ahead of joint military exercises planned by the U.S. and South Korea.

In a significant mishap during a joint military exercise on March 6, 2025, a South Korean KF-16 fighter jet accidentally released eight MK-82 bombs outside its designated firing range, causing civilian injuries in Pocheon, roughly 25 kilometers south of the fortified border with North Korea. The Air Force confirmed the incident occurred around 10:00 AM and expressed regret for the unintended release that led to civilian casualties. According to the South Korea's National Fire Agency, the bombs reportedly fell on a village, resulting in serious injuries to four individuals and minor injuries to three others, alongside property damage that displaced local residents. The Air Force stated it has initiated an accident response committee to investigate the incident and will take necessary measures, including compensation for damages. Eyewitness accounts described the explosion as thunderous, shaking nearby buildings, with numerous reports of panic among residents. The incident took place amidst ongoing "Freedom Shield" military drills involving South Korean and U.S. forces, underscoring the heightened military tensions in the region.