U.S. Space Weather Center “G4 Geomagnetic Storm Observed”
Possible failures in power facilities adn disruption of satellite operations
Korea Space Weather Center issues ‘Caution’…”No damage”
A strong geomagnetic storm is unfolding, possibly impacting power grids and satellite operations. The U.S.Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) announced on the 20th (Korean time) that it has observed a G4 (severe) geomagnetic storm.
A geomagnetic storm is a disturbance of the Earth’s magnetosphere caused by solar wind. The stronger the storm, the greater the potential for disruption.G4 storms can cause widespread voltage control problems in power systems, and some satellite operations may be affected. High-frequency radio propagation can be sporadic,and GPS accuracy can be degraded.
The Korea Space Weather Center also issued a ‘Caution’ level warning, the second-lowest level, and is monitoring the situation. Though, they stated that “Currently, there are no reports of significant impact on domestic systems.”
The SWPC predicts that the geomagnetic storm will continue through January 21st.They advise power grid operators and satellite operators to take precautionary measures.
This geomagnetic storm is a result of a series of solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs) from the sun. The sun has been increasingly active recently,and more geomagnetic storms are expected in the coming months.
South Korea’s “Subscription Services” Debate
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South Korea is debating the fairness of “subscription services” offered by online platforms, particularly concerning the distribution of revenue to content creators. The Ministry of Fair Trade is investigating whether these services, often called “guaranteed revenue” models, unfairly benefit platforms at the expense of artists and writers.
What are “Guaranteed Revenue” Subscription Services?
These services, popularized by platforms like KakaoPage and naver Series, allow users to pay a monthly fee for access to a wide range of web novels, comics, and other digital content. Platforms than distribute revenue to creators based on various factors,including user engagement and subscription tiers. Critics argue that the revenue-sharing models are opaque and disadvantage creators, particularly those who are less established.
concerns Raised by Creators
Creators have voiced concerns that the current system doesn’t accurately reflect the value of thier work. They claim platforms retain a disproportionately large share of subscription revenue,even when a creator’s content is highly popular. The Korea Herald reported in December 2023 that creators are demanding greater transparency in revenue calculations and a fairer distribution of profits.Korea Herald – Creators Demand Fairer Revenue Sharing
Ministry of Fair trade Inquiry
The Ministry of Fair Trade (MFT) launched an investigation in December 2023 into the revenue-sharing practices of major web novel and webtoon platforms. Korea Fair Trade Commission - press Release (Korean) The MFT is examining whether these practices violate the Fair Transactions in Subcontracting Act, which aims to protect subcontractors from unfair business practices by larger companies. The investigation focuses on whether platforms are exerting undue influence over creators and imposing unfair contract terms.
Potential Outcomes
If the MFT finds evidence of unfair practices, it could impose penalties on the platforms and order them to revise their revenue-sharing models. This could lead to a more equitable distribution of profits and greater transparency for creators. Some legal experts suggest that the investigation could also pave the way for new regulations governing subscription services in South Korea. The outcome of the investigation is expected in early 2024.
