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Korea Herald
22-05-2025
- Business
- Korea Herald
[Africa Forum] KAF president vows to strengthen Korea-African friendship
The president of the Korea-Africa Foundation, an affiliate of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, vowed to support the young friendship between South Korea and Africa and then build deeper relations based on mutual respect and understanding. 'Our historical relationship is relatively recent due to distance. However, we are now overcoming physical distance through conscious effort,' said KAF President Kim Young-chae in opening remarks at the Africa Day 2025 Korea-Africa Business Forum held at Grand Hyatt Seoul on Wednesday. The foundation seeks to continue its efforts to strengthen the ongoing partnership between Korea and Africa, which is represented not only by the number of embassies in their respective countries, but also by their ever-expanding people-to-people exchanges, African institutes at Korean universities, trade companies, nongovernmental organizations and more. 'The KAF will play its part, working hand in hand, shoulder to shoulder with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the National Assembly, the African Group of Ambassadors, the African Union and our partners across both regions,' Kim told the forum, which was co-hosted by the Herald Media Group, the African Group of Ambassadors and the KAF. 'And it is one of our objectives to help connect Africa with our provincial governments,' Kim added, explaining that the foundation will strive to create more opportunities to connect Africa with a wider range of organizations in Korea.
Arab Times
03-05-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
Sheikh Khaled Al-Badr commends the Public Authority for Sports for unwavering support
KUWAIT CITY, May 3: In the presence of Board Chair of the Kuwait Aquatics Federation (KAF) Sheikh Khaled Al-Badr Al-Sabah, Vice Chair Hamid Al-Gharib, and representatives from sports clubs and companies, the General Assembly of the Kuwait Aquatics Federation approved the financial and administrative reports for the period from April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025. The estimated budget for the 2025/2026 fiscal year was also approved. According to a press release, the General Assembly, which was held in the Olympic Committee's meeting room, endorsed the appointment of an auditor for the 2025/2026 fiscal year and discussed proposals submitted by sports clubs. During the meeting, Sheikh Khaled Al-Badr expressed his gratitude to the attending club and company representatives, as well as the members of the General Assembly, for the trust they have placed in the KAF Board of Directors and for its outstanding role in driving progress and advancing the field of aquatics. Sheikh Khaled also thanked the Public Authority for Sports for their support and for overcoming any challenges. In addition, he commended the full cooperation and coordination between KAF and the parents/guardians of both male and female players.
Zawya
26-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Zawya
Presented by K11 Art Foundation, Philip Colbert's monumental sculpture THE LOBSTER PAINTER – a collaboration with Co-Museum – along with five other works create an immersive city takeover
The sculptures are now available for public viewing at various locations across K11 MUSEA and add a bold, interactive dimension to Hong Kong's city-wide celebration of the arts From 26 March to 13 May 2025 at GF, Promenade, K11 MUSEA HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 26 March 2025 - British artist Philip Colbert 's newest work, THE LOBSTER PAINTER, and five signature lobster sculptures transform K11 MUSEA into a vibrant hyper-pop world. With the aim of bringing art to the community, the artworks are presented by K11 Art Foundation (KAF) and merge art, technology, and accessibility. The monumental artwork, THE LOBSTER PAINTER, is a collaboration between Colbert and Co-Museum, and is a striking 7.5-metre-high steel sculpture on public view from today till 13 May 2025. To celebrate the launch of the public artwork, an exclusive kiosk pop-up has opened on the promenade at K11 MUSEA and Avenue of Stars offering limited-edition special Asset-Backed Collectible (ABC) versions of THE LOBSTER PAINTER. These 33-centimetre collectible figure, (Original Edition priced at HKD 3,888; Gold Edition priced at HKD 14,888) are a collaboration between Philip Colbert and Co-Museum, enabling collectors to become co-collectors of the monumental sculpture through blockchain technology. Each collectable will represent a shared connection to the monumental sculpture itself, while, through blockchain-powered ABCs, collectors will become co-collectors of THE LOBSTER PAINTER. As a special highlight, co-collectors will also have the unique opportunity to have their names on a sign at the base of the collectable. Part of the proceeds from the sale of the collectable will be used to continue supporting the development of contemporary art through KAF's art and culture programmes. For those unable to attend in person, the limited-edition ABCs will also be available for purchase online at K11 Experience, and Five of Colbert's signature lobster sculptures will also be on display inside K11 MUSEA until 13 April. Four of them — Lobster Flower, Lobster Fountain, Lobster Totem, and Daydreamer — will be located at the MUSE EDITION. The fifth sculpture, Lobster Soup Can, can be found at the entrance next to Koncierge, further expanding Colbert's lobster takeover of Hong Kong. Hashtag: #philipcolbert #co_museum #k11artfoundation #k11musea #TheLobsterPainter The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Philip Colbert "I became an artist when I became a Lobster," – Philip Colbert. Born in Scotland and living and working in London, Colbert is often referred to as the "godson of Andy Warhol". He has created a global following for his cartoon lobster persona and his masterful hyper-pop history paintings. His work powerfully explores the patterns of contemporary digital culture and its relationship to a deeper art historical dialogue. After graduating with an MA in Philosophy from St. Andrews University, Colbert's work has received international acclaim in museums and galleries worldwide for his energetic new approach to painting and pop theory. Following on from early Pop painters such as Richard Hamilton, Roy Lichtenstein and James Rosenquist, Colbert's paintings cross high art themes from old master paintings and contemporary art theory with everyday symbols of mass contemporary culture, all narrated through the eyes of Colbert's cartoon Lobster alter ego. He has been championed as a contemporary pop master by art world figures such as Charles Saatchi & Simon de Pury. About K11 Art Foundation Founded by Dr. Adrian Cheng in 2010, K11 Art Foundation is a non-profit organisation in Hong Kong dedicated to fostering the development of Asian contemporary art. Since its inception, its scope has expanded to include supporting the global art ecosystem to champion emerging artists from across Asia, reflecting the diversity and dynamism of the continent's art scene. In 2023, K11 Art Foundation International Council was established to empower and support the next generation of Asian artists, to continue establishing partnerships with leading art and cultural institutions around the world to create impactful cross-cultural exchanges and contribute to the expanding global contemporary art discourse. These include the K11 Artist Prize and K11 Curator Prize, prestigious awards that recognise and honour exceptional Asian artists and Asian art curators; and the K11 Salon, a global series of talks which aim at fostering international dialogues on arts and culture. About K11 MUSEA Hong Kong's Silicon Valley of Culture, K11 MUSEA, is the latest cultural-retail destination in Victoria Dockside located on the harbourfront of Tsim Sha Tsui. Inspired by 'A Muse by the Sea', K11 MUSEA is designed to enrich new consumers' daily lives through the power of creativity, culture and innovation. A destination 10 years in the making, K11 MUSEA opened its doors in August 2019 to usher in a new era of cultural-retail which speaks to the growing consumer demand for immersive experiences in art, culture, nature and commerce. About Co-Museum Co-Museum is an art & cultural collective aimed at widening art ownership to a broader audience. Pioneers of the asset-backed collectable (ABC) standard, Co-Museum enables access of artworks and artefacts traditionally owned by the top 1% by connecting fractional ownership of the base asset with art collectables that include physical, digital & communal components. Together, Co-Museum aims to usher in a new paradigm for art ownership and put art back in the hands of the people. K11 Art Foundation
Zawya
25-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
7 Korean startups to showcase cutting-edge innovations at GITEX Africa 2025
Morocco – How can Korean technology accelerate Africa's transformation? The Korea-Africa Foundation (KAF), in collaboration with PEN Ventures and IMPACT Lab, is bringing seven of Korea's most promising startups to GITEX Africa 2025, one of the continent's largest tech and innovation events, held on April 14-16, 2025 in Marrakech. These pioneering companies are set to introduce breakthrough solutions in agritech, clean energy, smart tourism, digital learning, and smart infrastructure, addressing Africa's most pressing challenges. The Korea-Africa Foundation (KAF) is a government-affiliated organization under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Korea, dedicated to strengthening Korea-Africa cooperation. The KAF supports Korean startups' entry into African markets through acceleration programs, business matching, and innovation partnerships. By empowering these 7 pioneering exhibitors - EKLEER, Movements, CAST, BODIT, Purple Education, H2O HOSPITALITY, SHERPA SPAC - KAF is creating new opportunities for collaboration and market expansion. From AI-driven farming to digital learning and hospitality tools, these startups are proposing solutions with demonstrated impact and tangible use cases in Africa. Spotlight on Korean Startups at GITEX Africa 2025 Meet the innovators shaping a sustainable and inclusive future EKLEER A cost-effective smart display solution designed to provide digital access for education, healthcare, and remote work. It turns smartphones into full workstations — a game changer for mobile-first users in low-connectivity environments. Movements Inc. A leader in smart infrastructure, offering Digital Twin X and SmartPin to optimize construction projects with 3D modeling, AI, and underground utility mapping. These tools enable more efficient, data-driven urban planning. CAST An innovator in micro-plasma technology, CAST delivers chemical-free sterilization solutions for water, food, and environments. The WaFED model ensures access to clean water, food safety, and energy in underserved regions. Purple Education Combining textbooks, 3D puzzles, AR and immersive digital experiences, Purple Education raises awareness of biodiversity and cultural heritage. Its hybrid learning packages are tailored to local contexts and global challenges. H2O Hospitality Through its platform H2O FLOW, this startup digitizes hotel operations — from check-in and CRM to smart locks — boosting guest satisfaction and reducing costs. A fully integrated tech solution for the hospitality sector. SHERPA SPACE A smart agriculture pioneer offering precision farming solutions with sensors, climate control, irrigation systems, and adaptive lighting. Already active in Uganda, Sherpa Space now targets North Africa. BODIT Blending medical tech with precision livestock farming, BODIT uses smart sensors to track calves' health, feeding, and behavior. In Kenya, it cut mortality from 32.6% to 0.6% and significantly improved milk yields — enhancing animal welfare, farm profitability, and sustainability. This initiative is part of the KAF's 2025 Korea-Africa Unicorn Acceleration Program, which aims to foster partnerships between Korean innovators and African stakeholders. PEN Ventures, a key accelerator in Korea, and IMPACT Lab, a key innovation player in Africa, are working together alongside the KAF to support the startups' market entry through internationalization strategy support, local expertise, and strategic connections. Since 2023, the Korea-Africa Foundation has actively participated in GITEX Africa, recognizing it as a strategic gateway for Korean startups looking to expand into African markets. Jongkil Lee, Director of the KAF, emphasized the significance of this ongoing engagement: ' ' Morocco is emerging as a key innovation hub, and since 2023, we have supported 28 Korean startups at GITEX Africa. This year, we focus on transformative solutions and strategic partnerships driving Africa's digital future.'' For interview requests or more information, please contact: Agnès Guillard Press Relations – Korea-Africa Foundation & IMPACT Lab aguillardcasa@ Agnès Guillard
Yahoo
07-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
RMAF to provide advanced air combat training for Kuwaiti fighter pilots?
If the plan to acquire 30 ex-Kuwaiti Air Force (KAF) 'legacy' Hornets for the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) is approved by the Trump administration, the RMAF could emerge as a key training provider for the Middle Eastern air force. Twentytwo13 has learnt that as part of the deal, the RMAF would provide 'post-graduate' air combat 'courses' for the KAF. While details have not been confirmed, it is believed that this will include a whole spectrum of capabilities, including defensive, and offensive air operations. This could be split further into air combat manoeuvring (1 v 1, 2 v 1, multiples v 1), defensive counter-air, close air support (CAS), offensive counter-air, suppression of enemy air defences (SEAD), denial of enemy air defences (DEAD), precision bombing, low-level strike, anti-shipping, and interdiction/strike. It is also learnt that this is being offered to Kuwait as part of the KAF Hornet acquisition package. The deal would work in the Kuwaitis' favour as they transition to their new Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornets, under their force modernisation programme. However, the acquisition of the ex-KAF Hornet stocks could still be axed by United States President Donald Trump. On Jan 29, Twentytwo13 reported that Trump, who took office about three weeks ago, could scupper the deal in retaliation to Malaysia aligning itself with BRICS. He could still use it as leverage to pressure Malaysia to exit the trade bloc. Malaysia was accepted as a BRICS 'partner country' along with neighbours Thailand and Indonesia, in October 2024. The US has the final say on the deal since the F/A-18C/D Hornets were built by McDonnell Douglas (now Boeing). On Feb 1, Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari said the acquisition of the ex-KAF Hornets is expected to be finalised this year, once all the documentation between the KAF and the United States is settled, 'soon'. 'So far, the procurement of the 30 aircraft is in the final stages of discussions following KAF's green light, after both parties agreed in principle with our intention to obtain the aircraft immediately,' Adly added. Kuwait purchased 39 legacy Hornets in the mid-1990s, soon after the first Gulf War. In 2018, it finalised a deal worth USD1.17 billion for 28 of the more advanced Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornets, to replace the C/Ds. However, the RMAF's plan to acquire KAF's legacy Hornets stalled after some delays, brought on by the political imbroglio in Kuwait, and production issues with the Super Hornet's manufacturer, Boeing. Delays in the delivery of the Super Hornets to Kuwait affected RMAF's planned acquisition of the legacy Hornets. The project has been on the slow burner since 2021. The Kuwaiti Super Hornets are now expected to be fully operational by 2027. Under the proposed RMAF-KAF deal, the Kuwaitis would set up a detachment of the their old Hornets, complete with an as-yet unspecified number of airframes, spares shop, and support infrastructure. A similar arrangement is used by the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) at the Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho, the United States, to train their Boeing F-15SG Strike Eagle fighter pilots. The RSAF maintains a 'semi-permanent' detachment in Idaho – dubbed Peace Carvin V. It has a similar detachment at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona for its Block 52+ Lockheed Martin F-16C/Ds, under the Peace Carvin II programme. While the Hornet and Super Hornet are essentially different aircraft, with only about 20 per cent commonality (despite being visually similar), the tactics and procedures used can be applied fleet-wide. The RMAF operates a number of different aircraft, including the Russian Sukhoi Su-30MKM Flanker, and Korea Aerospace Industries' FA-50M Fighting Eagle, that will soon replace the ageing BAE Systems Hawk 108/208s. The initial batch of 18 FA-50Ms are expected to be delivered in October 2026. This arrangement will provide the Kuwaitis with a wealth of experience in fighting 'dissimilar' aircraft in what is known in the fighter community as 'DACT' (Dissimilar Air Combat Training). The RMAF will function as an 'advanced, post-graduate training centre' for the Kuwaitis, flying 'adversary' or 'Red Air' duties against the Kuwaiti pilots. The RMAF conducts DACT sorties over three instrumented 'ACMI' (Air Combat Manoeuvring Instrument) ranges – the first in the west of Penang over the sea, the second over Gerik until Cameron Highlands, and the third, south of Kuala Terengganu, until Chukai. Systems monitoring is done in two 'TACT' (Tactical Air Combat Training) centres – Butterworth and Kuantan, Pahang. The aircraft flying these sorties will be fitted with 'ACMI' pods. Each pod will record all the flight and weapons release parameters and feed the information via telemetry to the 'TACT' centres. The stored information will be played back during the extensive debriefs, providing aircrew with a 'God's eye' view of each engagement. Main image: RMAF
