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iMarketKorea Signs Two MOUs with Vietnam’s Phu Tho Provincial People’s Committee and BIDV

Participates in Korea-Vietnam Economic Delegation

  • Accelerates development of an industrial park in Phu Tho Province near Hanoi, while attracting advanced manufacturing companies and building a supply chain ecosystem
  • Plans parallel development of an Inland Container Depot (ICD) to strengthen logistics competitiveness
  • Expands discussions with Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam (BIDV) on financial support measures and new business opportunities

HANOI, Vietnam and SEOUL, South Korea, April 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — iMarketKorea, a leading industrial materials distribution company led by CEO Kim Hak-jae, announced that it has signed two Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with the Phu Tho Provincial People’s Committee and Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam during the MOU signing session at the Korea-Vietnam Business Forum, hosted by Korea’s Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy and the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The company participated in the official Korea-Vietnam economic delegation.

iMarketKorea participated in the “Korea-Vietnam Business Forum” held in Hanoi, Vietnam, on April 23, where it signed a memorandum of understanding with the People’s Committee of Phu Tho Province, Vietnam, for cooperation on an industrial complex development project. Pictured from left: Kim Hak-jae, Tran Duy Dong, Kim Jung-kwan, and Ngo Van Tuan.
iMarketKorea participated in the “Korea-Vietnam Business Forum” held in Hanoi, Vietnam, on April 23, where it signed a memorandum of understanding with the People’s Committee of Phu Tho Province, Vietnam, for cooperation on an industrial complex development project. Pictured from left: Kim Hak-jae, Tran Duy Dong, Kim Jung-kwan, and Ngo Van Tuan.

As Vietnam’s investment environment continues to advance, cooperation in production infrastructure such as industrial parks has become increasingly important. Based on prior discussions with Phu Tho Province, iMarketKorea formalized this partnership through the latest agreements.

Located near Noi Bai International Airport, Phu Tho Province is emerging as a strategic logistics hub and an attractive production base for global companies. The province recorded 10.52% gross regional domestic product (GRDP) growth in 2025, ranking fourth among Vietnam’s provinces.

Through the agreement, iMarketKorea plans to develop a national industrial park in Phu Tho Province and actively attract global manufacturing companies. The company also aims to build a supply chain-driven industrial ecosystem by strengthening collaboration among related businesses centered around the industrial complex.

To enhance logistics competitiveness, iMarketKorea will also pursue the development of an Inland Container Depot (ICD) with bonded warehousing functions. An ICD is an inland logistics hub enabling customs clearance and cargo handling. When integrated with the industrial park, it is expected to improve import-export efficiency and strengthen the region’s attractiveness to manufacturers.

Kim Hak-jae, CEO of iMarketKorea, said, “This agreement establishes the foundation for integrated production and logistics infrastructure. Through cooperation with the Phu Tho provincial government and BIDV, we plan to establish a one-stop support system covering administration, finance, legal matters, and taxation. We will also create an environment where high-tech parts and materials companies can effectively utilize local incentives and gradually expand future cooperation.”

Elliott Management Releases Presentation on Daikin Industries, Ltd.

LONDON, April 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Elliott Investment Management L.P. and Elliott Advisors (UK) Limited (“Elliott”), which advise funds that together own approximately 3% of Daikin Industries, Ltd. (“Daikin” or the “Company”), today released an investor presentation titled “Elliott’s Perspectives on Daikin.”

In the presentation, Elliott outlined the significant opportunity for Daikin to increase its profitability, improve its capital efficiency and drive a higher valuation for its shares by taking bold steps to close its margin gap versus its peers, launch an ambitious share repurchase program and conduct a strategic review of its non-core businesses. The presentation described a credible pathway for Daikin to achieve a 14% operating profit margin which, combined with targeted share repurchases, could see the Company’s earnings per share more than double.  

Elliott remains committed to working constructively with Daikin to deliver an ambitious, credible medium-term management plan that helps the Company close the performance and valuation gaps to its peers.

The presentation can be viewed at https://elliottletters.com.

About Elliott

Elliott Investment Management L.P. (together with its affiliates, “Elliott”) manages approximately $79.8 billion of assets as of December 31, 2025. Founded in 1977, it is one of the oldest funds under continuous management. The Elliott funds’ investors include pension plans, sovereign wealth funds, endowments, foundations, funds-of-funds, high net worth individuals and families, and employees of the firm. Elliott Advisors (UK) Limited is an affiliate of Elliott Investment Management L.P.

Media Contacts:

London
Stijn van de Grampel
Elliott Advisors (UK) Limited
T: +44 20 3009 1061
svdgrampel@elliottadvisors.co.uk

New York
Stephen Spruiell
Elliott Investment Management L.P.
T: +1 (212) 478-2017
sspruiell@elliottmgmt.com

Tokyo
Brett Wallbutton
Ashton Consulting
T: +81 (0) 3 5425-7220
b.wallbutton@ashton.jp

GLN Connects to Vietnam’s National QR Network, Enabling Nationwide QR Payments

  • Direct access to Vietnam’s nationwide QR payment network
  • Enabling payments via partners’ home-market banking and fintech apps without currency exchange

SEOUL, South Korea, April 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — GLN International has launched a nationwide QR payment service in Vietnam in partnership with NAPAS, marking its direct integration into the country’s national QR payment infrastructure.

At the Vietnam QR payment service launch ceremony
At the Vietnam QR payment service launch ceremony

The service was introduced at a launch ceremony on April 23 in Vietnam, attended by the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV), NAPAS, BIDV, and Hana Bank.

GLN leads the operation of the payment system connected to Vietnam’s national QR network and has driven its technical integration, as part of Hana Financial Group’s cross-border initiatives. Hana Bank participates as the only Korean financial institution designated as a settlement bank under SBV approval.

Vietnam’s payment infrastructure is built on the VietQR Global system operated by NAPAS, linking banks and merchants nationwide. Through this integration, GLN enables users of partner apps to access the network, expanding acceptance. The partnership is also expected to support inbound use cases, allowing Vietnamese users to make QR payments in Korea via their local apps.

The service is available across tourist destinations, including Da Nang, Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, and Ho Chi Minh City, across everyday merchants. Payments can be made through GLN-connected partner applications, including major Korean fintech apps such as Toss, PurpleGLN, Hana OneQ, Hana Money, and Hana Card, without currency exchange. The service is expected to expand to platforms, including Naver Pay and KB Banking App.

Image of supported apps and QR logos enabling nationwide QR payments across Vietnam
Image of supported apps and QR logos enabling nationwide QR payments across Vietnam

Seok Lee, CEO of GLN, said, “This launch marks a significant step in connecting Korea and Vietnam through a unified QR payment infrastructure. By integrating with Vietnam’s national QR network, we enable a simple payment experience for travelers using the apps they already use in their home market, without currency exchange. We will continue to lead overseas payments and cash withdrawals without physical cards.”

Meanwhile, GLN, a subsidiary of Hana Bank under Hana Financial Group, provides QR payment and QR withdrawal services across 14 countries in Asia, including Vietnam, China, Thailand, the Philippines, Laos, and Japan, with access to more than 200 million QR merchants globally. The company is a leading cross-border payment infrastructure provider in Asia, connecting users and merchants across markets. It has also established partnerships with overseas financial platforms, including Moreta Pay (North America), DeCard App (Singapore), and Taishin Bank (Taiwan).

 

VARON Celebrates 5 Years Supporting Easier Breathing for Customers Worldwide

NEW YORK, April 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — VARON is celebrating a meaningful milestone, its 5th anniversary, and is taking this moment to thank customers around the world who have trusted its oxygen therapy solutions over the years. What started as a mission to make breathing support more accessible has grown into a global community of users relying on VARON’s advanced oxygen machines in their daily lives.

This anniversary is not just about the company’s growth, but about the people behind it—the individuals and families who have chosen VARON for comfort, independence, and peace of mind.

Five Years of Supporting Easier Breathing and Everyday Living

Over the past five years, VARON has focused on one simple idea: making oxygen therapy easier to use, easier to move with, and easier to trust. From home use to travel needs, the brand has continued improving its range of oxygen machines to support different lifestyles and health needs.

Today, VARON offers a full lineup that includes compact portable oxygen concentrator models and reliable at home oxygen concentrator systems designed for long-term use. Many users also prefer VARON’s lightweight oxygen concentrator options, which allow more freedom of movement without sacrificing performance.

“Our customers are at the center of everything we do,” VARON CEO shared in a message marking the anniversary. “We are deeply grateful for the trust placed in us over the past five years. Every device we create is built with real people and real daily needs in mind.”

Designed for Real Life: Home and On-the-Go Oxygen Support

VARON’s oxygen solutions are designed to fit into everyday routines—whether at home, during travel, or while staying active.

At home users continue to rely on models like the Serene 5 Home Oxygen Concentrator, which delivers steady medical-grade oxygen with quiet operation and simple controls. The Serene 3 offers a compact option for those who want efficient oxygen support in a smaller footprint.

For users needing flexibility, the VH-2 Pro Home Oxygen Concentrator provides adjustable flow settings and added features like nebulization support, making it a practical choice for daily home use.

On the portable side, VARON continues to expand independence for users who need oxygen on the move. The VP-8G Ultra Portable Oxygen Concentrator stands out for its ultra-lightweight design at just 4.37 lbs, making it easy to carry while traveling or running errands. The VP-6 Continuous Portable Oxygen Concentrator and VP-2 Portable Oxygen Concentrator offer additional options with adjustable flow settings and dependable oxygen delivery.

Each portable oxygen concentrator is designed with user comfort in mind—lightweight, easy to operate, and built for mobility without stress.

A Simple Way to Say Thank You: Anniversary Discounts and Free Gifts

To celebrate its 5th year, VARON is launching a limited-time global appreciation event with special savings across its entire product range.

Customers can enjoy featured anniversary offers:

  • 18% OFF sitewide across all oxygen machines
  • Free VARON gifts, including a $30 store gift card and extra nasal cannulas with every machine purchase
  • Up to 40% OFF selected featured products
  • Automatic discounts applied at checkout—no codes needed

Customers can also save more with bundle options such as the VP-8G Super Bundle and extra battery packages for VP-6 and VP-2 models.

“These anniversary offers are our way of saying thank you,” VARON CEO shared. “We want to make it easier for more people to access reliable oxygen support at home and on the go.”

Looking Ahead with Customers at the Center

As VARON moves into its sixth year, the company remains focused on improving its oxygen therapy technology and expanding accessibility worldwide. Future development will continue to focus on making portable oxygen concentrator devices lighter, more efficient, and easier to use in everyday life.

The goal remains simple: to help more people breathe easier and live with greater confidence and independence.

About VARON

VARON is a trusted provider of oxygen therapy solutions, offering a wide range of at home oxygen concentrator systems, portable oxygen concentrator devices, and advanced oxygen machines designed for home, travel, and personal use. The company is committed to creating lightweight oxygen concentrator technology that supports comfort, mobility, and better quality of life.

For more information on VARON’s 5th anniversary offers and full product lineup, customers are encouraged to visit the official VARON website.

Media Contact:
VARON Oxygen Concentrator
Email: support@varoninc.com
Website: https://varoninc.com/

Changan Group Unveils Updated “Vast Ocean Plan 2.0” and Highlight Next-Generation BlueCore Hybrid at Auto China 2026

Building on Changan Group’s long-term “1+4+4+5” strategy, the company is advancing global expansion through seven operational upgrades and next-generation hybrid technology.

BEIJING, April 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Changan Group officially launched the upgraded Vast Ocean Plan 2.0 at Auto China 2026, marking a new phase of its global expansion and reaffirming its long-term commitment to international markets. The Group also debuted BlueCore Hybrid versions of the fourth-generation EADO and CS75 PLUS, bringing its latest hybrid technology to two flagship models.

The announcement is built on Changan’s 1+4+4+5 strategy, which prioritizes globalization as a core long-term transformation and sets five doubling goals by 2030, including overseas vehicle sales.

“Today, we are launching Vast Ocean Plan 2.0 with greater determination and a more open mindset,” said Zhao Fei, General Manager of Changan Group “We will continue to follow our core principles—long-term development, localization, systematization, and responsible ESG practices—while evolving from an export-driven model to an integrated global operation spanning manufacturing, trade, investment, services, and sustainability.”

A Stronger Global Roadmap

In 2025, Changan achieved 637,000 overseas sales, a year-on-year increase of 18.9%. It expanded into 21 new markets, launched 12 new models, and now operates in 118 countries and regions with 1,124 sales outlets. The Group runs 22 overseas manufacturing bases with an annual capacity of 350,000 units, and its global product portfolio reached 41 models, including 25 fuel vehicles and 16 new energy vehicles.

Vast Ocean Plan 2.0 transforms Changan’s globalization from “going global” to “taking root locally”. By 2030, the Group targets 1.5 million overseas vehicle sales, with an ambitious goal of 1.8 million. Regionally, it aims to lead among Chinese brands in Europe, rank top 5 global brands in Eurasia, and enter top 10 (with top 5 ambition) in Southeast Asia, Middle East & Africa, and Central & South America.

Updated Vast Ocean Plan: Seven Strategic Upgrades

To achieve these targets, the plan focuses on seven strategic upgrades: technology, product, brand, partnership model, investment, service and team. These upgrades will strengthen global competitiveness, support the five doubling goals, and bring high-quality mobility experiences to global users.

Advancements in Hybrid Technologies and Unmanned Logistics

Alongside the strategic upgrade, Changan displayed cutting-edge technologies and new products. CHANGAN KAICHENG launched Robovan unmanned logistics vehicle based on SDA architecture, equipped with multi-layer redundancy systems for safe last-mile delivery, and has reached in-depth cooperation with JD Logistics for batch delivery.

Changan’s BlueCore Hybrid, built on iDE-H deep electrification intelligent hybrid architecture, integrates three core components and an intelligent control system, balancing fuel efficiency, performance and quietness. The fourth-generation EADO BlueCore Hybrid hits a minimum tested fuel consumption of 1.6L/100km, daily average of 3.87L/100km and a 1,500km full-tank range. Backed by 1,500 core patents, it has completed 20,000 hours of bench tests and 2 million kilometers of road trials. The fourth-generation CS75 PLUS BlueCore Hybrid features around 3L/100km fuel consumption and segment-exclusive CDC suspension for better comfort and stability.

In addition, AVATR’s VISION XPECTRA made its Asian debut, with AVATR 12 and 06T also unveiled; DEEPAL showcased six models including the newly launched L06 REEV.

A New Chapter in Global Expansion

With Vast Ocean Plan 2.0, Changan will scale its global footprint and enhance capabilities in technology, products, brand and operations. Powered by next-generation hybrid and global models, the Group will bring Chinese automotive innovation to more users and create long-term value for customers worldwide.

 

Safety. For Family: TIGGO9 Completes Public Three-Vehicle Composite Crash Verification During the 2026 International Business Summit

WUHU, China, April 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — In April 2026, during the 2026 International Business Summit, CHERY completed a public three-vehicle composite crash validation of the TIGGO9 at the Chery Crash Safety Laboratory, witnessed on site by global dealers, international media and overseas user representatives. Designed around real-world high-risk traffic scenarios, the test used a composite crash setup to assess the safety performance of CHERY’s flagship SUV and further demonstrate the brand’s safety philosophy: Safety. For Family.

Scene of the CHERY Three-Vehicle Composite Crash Test
Scene of the CHERY Three-Vehicle Composite Crash Test

The test simulated a severe front-and-rear impact scenario. The TIGGO9, as the core test vehicle, sustained a 50 km/h frontal impact from a TIGGO7 while being simultaneously rear-ended by another vehicle at 40 km/h, placing its body structure, restraint systems and post-collision emergency response under comprehensive evaluation. After the crash, the passenger compartment remained intact, with no obvious deformation to the pillars and sufficient survival space preserved. The airbags and side curtain airbags deployed properly, the seat belt systems functioned effectively, the doors unlocked automatically and could be opened normally, the fuel system showed no leakage, and the hazard warning lights operated as intended.

This performance is supported by the TIGGO9’s systematic safety design, including a high-rigidity body structure with 85% high-strength steel and 21% hot-stamped steel, an optimized load-transfer path, and a 10-airbag system. With multiple global five-star safety certifications already earned, CHERY continues to strengthen its safety credentials through real-world validation. Looking ahead, CHERY will continue to raise safety standards and deliver reliable protection for families around the world.

JisuLife’s Pro 1 Mini Handheld Fan Launch Debut – where style meets sensorial

LOS ANGELES, April 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — JisuLife – ranked the world’s No. 1 Portable Fan brand by Euromonitor – today released its newest product, the Pro 1 Mini fan available online at JisuLife.com and in stores at select Target locations for $69.99 USD.

JisuLife Pro1 mini
JisuLife Pro1 mini

(View hi-res images HERE)

The new release features: five turbo fan blades, 100 adjustable wind speeds, a three-phase brushless motor, safety lock, LED display, 21700 lithium-ion battery (with up to 30 hours of run time) and a new attachable Magnetic Aroma Pod Diffuser.

The Magnetic Aroma Pod Diffuser is a new function that allows you to bring your favourite scents along with you wherever you are. Just add a few drops of your preferred scent into the refillable compartment, snap it on, and you’re good to go!

The Pro 1 Mini takes on a smaller, more portable size – thoughtfully engineered to optimize ergonomic grip and weight balance while embodying luxurious, scratch resistant leather finishes. The new Pro 1 Mini merges the words of functional capability and fashion-forward style in four unique colors: Velvet Black, Misty Purple, Milk Tea, and Starry White (a Target retail exclusive).

JisuLife Pro1 mini
JisuLife Pro1 mini

Designed by women for women, JisuLife’s Pro 1 Mini serves as an ultra-light, discreet and stylish solution to keep the average commuter, vacation traveler, mom on-the-go, or pilates instructor cool and smelling fresh during the warm months.

“Handheld cooling devices can often be bulky or a chore to carry around,” said Hazel Lu, product manager at JisuLife. “The Pro 1 Mini is designed to not only be a light and easy device to carry around, but also a fashion-forward accessory that offers a sensory experience you want to pull out of your bag. We wanted to provide a high-performance device that didn’t sacrifice sleek elevated design – allowing you to create a familiar space for yourself for a slice of everyday enjoyment.”

The Pro 1 Mini follows JisuLife’s recently released Ultra2 product launch, which has made a standout appearance during this month’s festival season kick off. JisuLife has been used by many celebrity fans.

The Pro 1 Mini is now available at JisuLife.com and select Target retail locations for USD69.99.

About JisuLife

Founded in 2016, JisuLife specializes in portable fan products designed for modern life. Ranked the world’s No. 1 Portable Fan brand by Euromonitor, the company builds portable cooling solutions around core values of care, comfort, convenience, cooperation and creation. More information is available at JisuLife.com.

Neusoft Showcases Full-Stack & Global Innovations at Auto China 2026

BEIJING, April 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — At Auto China 2026, Neusoft Corporation hosted a press conference on April 25th and announced three key strategic moves: the iteration of Neusoft OneCoreGo® Global In-Vehicle Intelligent Mobility Solution 7.0, the launch of Neusoft NAGIC.AI Cockpit Software Platform, and the strategic upgrade of its subsidiary, Neusoft Smart Go. By leveraging full-stack technology and a global ecosystem to drive innovation and empowerment, Neusoft is transforming vehicles into proactive, connected and collaborative mobile intelligent spaces.

OneCoreGo® Global In-Vehicle Intelligent Mobility Solution 7.0: An Evolved AI Companion for Global Intelligent Mobility

Intelligent mobility requires proactive perception, scenario integration, and global connectivity to meet personalized user needs and complex driving scenarios. Neusoft, whose products cover over 130 countries and regions worldwide, addresses these challenges with its OneCoreGo® Global In-Vehicle Intelligent Mobility Solution 7.0 through AI-driven innovation and global ecosystem collaboration. Powered by One Mate’s cross-agent collaboration and a sub-product matrix including One Map, One Sight, One Cloud, One Pay, One Store, One Link, and One Guard, the solution delivers full-link global mobility services spanning navigation, in-cabin AR, payment, app ecosystem services, connectivity and security. By breaking down functional silos, it streamlines multi-step operations into a single “depart” command, leveraging full-stack AI technology across perception, decision-making, interaction, and execution processes.

Guan Xin, Vice President of Neusoft and General Manager of Neusoft Automotive Innovative Solutions Division, said, “Adhering to the core principles of AI and globalization, OneCoreGo® 7.0 keeps innovating, evolving into a globally intelligent mobility companion that truly understands user needs.”

To enhance driving safety and mobility efficiency, OneCoreGo® 7.0 has also comprehensively upgraded its sub-products: One Map Global Navigation newly introduces 3D city effects, 3D lane-level maps, and traffic light guidance, offering dedicated solutions for two-wheelers and commercial vehicles as well. One Sight AR For Car improves navigation display effects, reducing instances of taking wrong routes. One Pay In-Vehicle Payment achieves over 90% payment coverage for parking services across core European cities. Combined with One Cloud’s global compliance cloud monitoring platform and One Guard’s full-stack vehicle networking security services, it creates a truly comprehensive OneCoreGo® Global In-Vehicle Intelligent Mobility Solution.

Neusoft NAGIC.AI Cockpit Software Platform: Dual-track Architecture for AI Integration in Every Vehicle

Amid the AI-driven transformation of the automotive industry, the market faces two challenges: limited computing power in legacy vehicles and high adaptation difficulties for next-gen models. Neusoft’s NAGIC.AI Cockpit Software Platform adopts a flexible “distributed + centralized” dual-track architecture approach. For existing vehicle models, it introduces the AI BOX solution, rapidly boosting computing power via external AI computing units, significantly reducing upgrade costs and timelines. For new vehicle models built on next-gen central computing platforms, Neusoft provides a full-stack AI cockpit software product suite, meeting automakers’ stringent requirements for system stability, reliability, and full-domain control.

Pang Hongyan, Vice President of Neusoft and General Manager of the Automotive Intelligent Software Division, said, “Our dual-track architecture enables every vehicle to embrace AI and enjoy an intelligent future. Both existing models and new-generation vehicles can find the most suitable path to intelligentization.”

Moreover, Neusoft’s NAGIC.AI Cockpit Software Platform features scenario-based, human-centric AI Agents seamlessly integrating driving safety, occupant care services, intelligent assisted driving and in-cabin entertainment. Neusoft also collaborates with global ecosystem partners to drive intelligent upgrades of in-cabin interaction products, fostering a more open and dynamic intelligent cockpit ecosystem.

Strategic Upgrade of Neusoft Smart Go: A World-leading Provider of Full-Domain Upper-Body Electronics Solutions for Intelligent Vehicles

Aligning with the trend of E/E architecture evolution from distributed control to “central computing + zonal control”, Neusoft Smart Go, a subsidiary of Neusoft in the field of intelligent vehicle connectivity, has completed a strategic upgrade, aiming to become a global leader in full-domain upper-body electronics solutions for intelligent vehicles.

This strategic upgrade positions Neusoft Smart Go to focus on full-domain scenarios in upper-body electronics, building a product matrix covering full-category in-vehicle electronics solutions, including central computing platforms, cockpit-driving-parking integration, intelligent cockpits, intelligent communications, intelligent audio systems, and zonal control units, and pioneering the integration of large model algorithms.

Jian Guodong, Senior Vice President of Neusoft and CEO of Neusoft Smart Go, said, “This strategic upgrade represents a significant leap from partial focus to comprehensive layout. Through our dual-track strategy of high-end cutting-edge solutions and mature standardized products, we can flexibly meet the mass production needs of vehicle models across different regions and price segments worldwide.” Neusoft Smart Go will provide mass-producible, adaptable hardware-software integrated solutions, empowering global automakers in achieving intelligent transformation.

Neusoft’s President, Mr.Gai Longjia stated, “In the future, Neusoft Smart Go will create stronger synergy with Neusoft Corporation by sharing internal technologies and capabilities while responding jointly to external demands. This specialized yet collaborative model will preserve business unit’s agility and expertise while enhancing Neusoft’s full-stack technological advantages.”

As a trusted partner in a smarter world, Neusoft is committed to collaborating with global automakers and ecosystem partners to build an open and inclusive intelligent automotive community together for the future of global mobility.

For more information about Neusoft, please visit www.neusoft.com.