Asiana/UNICEF to send Relief Funds to Japan

Asiana Airlines (President: Young-Doo Yoon), in an effort to aid the restoration and aid the children from the earthquake struck areas in Japan, will be hosting the ‘Change of Love’ campaign inside the cabins of all Asiana’s domestic and international flights.

This campaign conducted by Asiana Airlines and UNICEF has been a part of UNICEF ‘Change of Love’ campaign in which the relief funds raised urgently this time will be delivered by UNICEF Korea to UNICEF Japan.

Asiana Airlines and UNICEF for this campaign have jointly produced special fund envelopes that has the wording < Japan Urgent Relief> imprinted on the envelopes. Asiana plans to announce ‘that all the funds will be used for Japan Urgent Relief’ through the in-flight announcements to inform the passengers of the campaign.........

Keeping Pace with Technology- the Nissan Experience, Professor Andy Palmer, Senior Vice President The Nissan Motor Co.

Date: 28 February 2011, 12:00pm (Please note that the lecture will begin promtly at 12.00pm and guests are asked to arrive by 11.50am)
Venue: JETRO London, Midcity Place, 71 High Holborn, London WC1V 6AL
Tel: 020 7828 6330
Email: events@japansociety.org.uk
Web: http://www.japansociety.org.uk/
Organiser: The Japan Society

Keeping pace with fast-changing technologies, environmental demands and global developments is a challenge for all companies but particularly for those whose markets and manufacturing bases are entirely global. In this business group lecture by a distinguished Japan-based UK citizen, we will hear about Nissan’s experiences. Being responsible for some of the company’s most advanced products, Professor Palmer will be covering topics which have immense relevance for many members.

This is an important topic, particularly for those involved in long-term decision-making on developments and investment. Keeping pace with technology has particular challenge for those countries where the level of manufacture is not as high as it was and where developments are heavily regulated and yet in which competition remains very keen. Professor Palmer will use the Nissan experience to explore these challenges and help us understand how his company has remained a world leader and continues to invest heavily in the UK.

Prof Palmer is one of Nissan’s top 10 executives and sits on the company’s executive committee with global responsibility for its product axis.

He has global responsibility for Planning (Corporate & Product) and Program management; Marketing & Communications; the companies Business Units, such as LCV, Luxury and electric vehicles; and the group IT division. During his distinguished career in Nissan, he personally devised the LCV breakthrough strategy which led to a 5 fold increase in global sales between 2002 and 2010. More recently, he led Nissan’s product launch offensive, launching vehicles such as the new Micra, the Qashqai and the 2011 European Car of the Year, the Nissan LEAF. His experiences have always been along the interface between engineering, and management.

To book your place please contact the Japan Society office on tel: 020 7828 6330 or email: events@japansociety.org.uk. Please remember to state your company position when applying.

Asiana Improves Airport Services

Asiana Airlines (President: Young-Doo Yoon), in accordance to the Ministry of Culture, Sports & Tourism campaign to attract ten million foreign visitors to Korea, will be hosting a variety of airports service campaigns.

Asiana in welcoming the 2011 New Year will host the ‘Grand Welcome Services’ not only on a business oriented level but in a level of personally receiving an important guest at home.

The Grand Welcome Service Campaign is composed of three stages in which the services will be simultaneously commenced on the 25th at airports that Asiana operates around the globe. The three stages will be divided as the 『Grand Welcome Preparation Stage』in getting prepared to welcome customers, 『Grand Welcome Greeting Stage』 responding to customers and 『Grand Welcome Plus Stage』additional services for customers.

Asiana, in order to educate the Airport Service Staff located in 75 airports domestic and abroad, will be producing a UCC video, and develop a campaign web page in which feedbacks among outstanding performances at airports and staves could be shared and feed backed on the web from other staves.

Asiana Airlines Airport Services Senior Vice President Yong-Suk, Joo commented “When a customer first starts his/her airline journey they meet the airline staff first at their departure airport. In order to continue their warm greetings with airline staff we have developed and started the Grand Welcome Campaign. With this differentiated services, we will aid in attracting ten million foreign visitors to Korea.”

In addition to the “Happy Mom Service,” Asiana will be starting the baby carriage cover service on the domestic routes starting from the 25th.

Around 150 baby carriages are transported in the domestic’s flights per day. In order to lessen the damages and preserve cleanliness of the carriages, special covers with buffer pads will be provided. The covers have been test trialed for 2 months and have received positive reviews from mothers.

The “Happy Mom Service” started in October of 2009 in which dedicated exclusive check-in counters for Infants, providing breast feeding covers free of charge (First in the Industry), and free sling services inside the cabins (First in the Industry)

Around 40 thousand passengers have used the exclusive check-in counters for infants, and 5 thousand have used the breast feeding covers.

Asiana’s Happy Mom Service has been highly praised and has received good reviews by young mothers praising Asiana’s services by writing postscripts on blogs and cafes. There are continuous inquires about the Happy Mom Service from other airlines to benchmark the services.

Asiana Signs Deal to Receive A380

Asiana Airlines (President & CEO: Young-Doo Yoon) and Airbus signed a purchasing contract for the A380, known as a premium hotel in the sky, on the 6th of January 2011.

According to this contract, Asiana Airlines will receive a total of 6 A380s starting from 2014 and continuing to 2017 from Airbus (Two a year in 2014, 2015 and 2017 respectively).

By the end of the year, Asiana will request state-of-the-art cabin specifications and innovative cabin layouts when filing its production order with Airbus to see that Asiana’s distinct, high-end service is realized aboard the new aircraft. Asiana will receive its first A380 in 2014 and will operate this aircraft on its routes to the U.S. or Europe.

Asiana Airlines President & CEO Young-Doo Yoon stated, “Asiana’s decision to acquire the A380 was based on the increase in the number of FTAs in which Korea is engaged and the recent addition of Korea to the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Due to favorable factors like these, forecasts indicate a steady and stable 5% yearly increase of passengers to Korea and the Asia-Pacific region. Asiana’s decision to purchase the A380s not only serves to satisfy the increased demand on these long-haul routes, but also fits with the company’s growth strategy coming off a record-breaking financial performance in 2010.

This new contract is in addition to the existing contract Asiana signed in July of 2008 with Airbus to secure the delivery of 30 of Airbus’s newly developed mid/long-ranged next generation A350 extra-wide-bodied aircraft. Asiana’s fleet strategy is to operate a core fleet of state-of-the-art, environmentally-friendly, next-generation aircraft to secure its place as a socially conscious global airline.

Traveling to Seoul but Feeling at Home: Seoul and Seoul Tourism Organization provide host family services for visitors

At the end of November, 200 newly registered families were inputted into the guest-host online matching system for the Seoul Global Family (SGF) initiative, a home-stay program organized by the city of Seoul and the Seoul Tourism Organization (STO) that connects visitors to the city with Koreans eager to serve as hosts and guides. The program was launched in time for an expected large influx of foreign tourists during "Visit Korea Year" 2010-2012.

The SGF program was developed to provide not only a more meaningful stay for tourists, but also to encourage cultural exchanges. Rather than staying in conventional accommodations such as hotels, hostels or motels, the SGF program allows visitors to stay with Korean families, affording them a first-hand experience of Korean culture and society.

The procedures involved in applying to become a host in the SGF program include a background check, an inspection of the applicant's household and a final evaluation by the program's operating committee. After passing this initial process, hosts go through customized training sessions provided free of charge by the Seoul Metropolitan Government and the Seoul Tourism Organization. This training program was designed through Sookmyung Women's University for the purposes of providing residents of Seoul with a more open mind towards foreign cultures.

The SGF program has been well-received so far. From July 21-30 last year, the World Vision International Children's Choir Festival took part in the SGF program, arranging for 30 participating children to stay with registered hosts. One host family reported that they felt a familial connection with their guest and a sense of parental pride during the festival's performances. The host family also said that their involvement with the program helped them to become more comfortable around foreigners and left them with fond memories.

Visitors from China and Japan have been showing particular interest in the program. This month, 58 students from an international high school in Japan stayed in Seoul for a school excursion through the SGF Program, through which they were able to learn about cooking and other facets of Korean culture. Beyond this, a variety of guests from these countries have stayed in Seoul through the SGF program.

This year, the city of Seoul and the STO have set a fixed price and established additional benefits for those who choose to enroll in the program. With subsidies from the city government, foreign visitors can avoid additional fees and pay only the actual cost of boarding. Prices have been set at around 40,000 won per night, or a 600,000 won monthly rate. For guests who come in groups, starting at two, an additional 28,000 won is added per night (monthly rates are the same per person). The operators of the program also responded to concerns about a possible shortage of accommodation for foreign guests during Visit Korea Year, providing travel agents and tourism-related organizations with information on the SGF program so they could present it as an option for visitors.

Numerous improvements have been made to the program, including the addition of new ways for tourists to enjoy themselves during their home-stay. A multilingual website (Korean, English, Japanese, Simplified and Traditional Chinese) opened in the beginning of December, through which guests can conduct a search of the registered families based on their specific preferences. The site was designed to simplify enrolling in the SGF host program, offering reservations, which must be made at least 10 days in advance, and online payments.

Further enhancements to the program include a greater range of options for participants, such as cultural exchange programs tailored for children, students and the elderly. Furthermore, the city of Seoul and the STO have engaged NGOs, volunteer organizations, government bodies and other agencies in the effort to create an "SGF experience event." Also starting in 2010 is the "home-stay academy," a free service that provides specialty tutoring services for tourists, a kimchi-making seminar with foreigners and other ways through which guests can experience Korean culture. The Seoul Tourism Organization is also offering 13 free walking tours for guests and hosts to enjoy together.

Applications to become an SGF host were made available at the end of October. Application forms and procedures can be found on the Seoul City website (http://www.seoul.go.kr/), the Seoul Tourism Organization website (http://www.seoulwelcome.com/) and a stand-alone website (http://homestay.visitseoul.net/). For more information, please contact the Tourism Service Team of the Seoul Tourism Organization at +822.3788.0859.

Asiana’s International Passengers Reach Ten Million

Asiana Airlines (President: Young-Doo Yoon) international passengers has reached ten million since its establishment in 1988. Asiana recorded it’s highest ever results per quarters this year. Asiana initially predicted that 9,674,643 passengers will board Asiana’s international flights early this year but predictions have surpassed in which 10,480,000 passengers will board Asiana’s international flights by the end of this year.

Not only has the demand increased for Asiana’s strong routes such as Korea/Japan, Korea/China and the Southeast Asia routes but also continuous demand has increase for the U.S. routes leading to Asiana recording its highest record in performances this year. Asiana’s highest results in the past were back in 2007 with 8,623,594 international passengers.

Asiana’s President & CEO Young-Doo, Yoon commented “Due to our customers continuous support and loyalty not only did Asiana record it’s highest results but was able to achieve its record in reaching it’s tenth million international passengers.” “Asiana will repay this gratitude by improving and providing the world’s best of services to our customers.”

In order to repay for the continuous support of Asiana’s customers, Asiana held a giant cake cutting and lucky draw event at Incheon International Airport on the 17th of December.

Also on this day, Ms. Mee-Kyung, Choi (45), whom is going on a business trip to Paris on OZ501, was the tenth million international passengers to fly with Asiana and was provided with a business class round trip ticket as a token of appreciation.

Also, Asiana handed out gifts such as roundtrip tickets for Southeast Asia, Japan, domestic route, model airplanes, business card holders and LCD cleaners during the Lucky draw contest to passengers departing on the international flights this day from 7 am to 5 pm.

Asiana Holds the Year End Party with a Distinguished Color

Asiana Airlines (President: Young-Doo Yoon), Incheon International Airport Service Sector staff in order to host a meaningful year end party, will be contributing goods to children in destinations that Asiana operates to.

On the 9th of December, 6 of Asiana’s Incheon International Airport Service Sector staff visited the Kdei Run elementary school in Cambodia and donated 586 school bags, variety of school supplies, medicines, and sporting goods to the students.

This event was arranged by the wholehearted interest and voluntary response of the staves of Incheon International Airport Service Sector in which over 333 (From 366) 90% of the staves participated in this event and collected \13,000,000 in donation fee which was spent on purchasing goods for the children.

Asiana’s staff Mr. Seung-Hoon, Lee (Asiana Airlines Incheon International Airport Service Sector) commented“This year end party is a meaningful party just by seeing the happy, moved and warm faces of the Cambodian children when they were presented with the gifts.” “I would like to show and share the video of today’s event with my colleagues back home whom participated but was not able to come.”

In addition, Asiana Airlines will continue and increase the global social contribution event next year to destinations that Asiana operates to. Taking acknowledge of the staves wholehearted interest and voluntary participation in this year’s event, the company plans to fully support these kind of contribution events in the future.

Meanwhile, Asiana Airlines, for the fifth consecutive year, was awarded Best Flight Attendants in the World and Best In-flight Services in the World as well as Best Overall Customer Service- Airlines- Ground/Call center for third consecutive years by Business Traveler Magazine.

Asiana Airlines has excelled in various categories as a result of its continued focus on providing its customers with innovative and unique services, both in the air and on the ground

The awards are given to the airlines that receive the highest cumulative scores in the survey conducted by research institute MRI (Mediamark Research & Intelligence). MRI is the leading provider of consumer research and data from MRI’s survey.

Asiana Airlines cabin magic shows, in-flight make up services, and onboard chef and sommelier service are just some of the exclusive ideas that Asiana has produced and many positive compliments has been received.

Also other new services such as the ‘Pre Mom/Happy Mom Service’ aiding mothers in pregnancy to travel more conveniently and with the motto of ‘a voice that has an expression to deliver fast and precise services’ for the reservations call center services has been highly praised.

The Business Traveler awards ceremony was held on 9th of December, 2010 at the Beverly Hills Sofitel in Los Angeles at 6p.m (local time). Many people in the airline, hotel, and travel industry attended.

Asiana Starts Coat Keeping Service

Asiana Airlines (President & CEO Young-doo, Yoon), will start the ‘Coat Keeping Service’ for all international flight passengers departing from Incheon International Airport during the period of 1st of December to 1st of March next year.

Asiana’s ‘Coat Keeping Service’ was invented solve the inconveniences that passengers receive while taking their coats to warm climate countries during the winter season. Asiana Club members and Asiana’s First/Business class passengers can apply for this service at the 3rd floor of Asiana’s K Island designated counters in the passenger terminal at Incheon International Airport.

This service will be daily provided to passengers from 5am to 9pm. 1 passenger can initially check their coast for free for 5 days and 100 mileages will be deducted per additional day. Passengers newly registering on that day and Star Alliance members may also be privileged to use this service.

Asiana was the first in the industry to introduce the ‘Coat Keeping Service’ from the winter of 1999. With 12 years gone by around 150 thousand passengers have used this service and the popularity is ever increasing. In order to facilitate all the coats, Asiana have acquired a keeping room in Incheon International Airport which can keep around 4 thousand coats simultaneously.

November Kimono Jack in London

Date: 13 november 2010
Venue: KEIKO Teabar, Stables Market, Chalk Farm Rd - Camden, London NW1 8AH
Email: Kimono_de_jack_uk@hotmail.com
Web: http://kimonodejackuk.blogspot.com/
Organiser: Kimono de Jack UK

The original Kimono de Jack was held in Kyoto by 11 kimono enthusiasts who thought that there were not enough reasons to wear kimono. They decided to create a reason for people to come together and enjoy wearing kimono and called this event Kimono de Jack. For the first meeting, 40 people came together, but for the second over 100 people showed up. Kimono de Jack quickly became very popular around Japan, with many prefectures creating their own events. The event is free, and there are no rules. Attendees can come and go as they please, and the only things that are required of them are to wear kimono and have fun.

But Japan is not the only one country that could have de Jack, after all the essence of Kimono de Jack is to create more reasons to wear kimono for kimono lovers.

The very first Kimono de Jack in United Kingdom was held on October 23rd in London. Five kimono enthusiasts came to support the event, sporting gorgeous kimono and practical raincoats.

Please check out the details of event here:
http://kimonodejackuk.blogspot.com/2010/09/first-kimono-de-jack-in-london.html

Kia introduces new Soul Flex at Brazilian Motor Show

Kia Motors is celebrating the world premiere of its new fuel efficient, ethanol-gasoline powered Soul Flex, at the 26th Salao Internacional do Automovel, in São Paulo, Brazil.

Kia’s Soul Flex is the first Korean FFV (Flexible Fuel Vehicle) which can run on an ethanol-gasoline mixture, 100% ethanol or 100% gasoline. It is especially designed for the Brazilian market, where ‘flex’ models account for more than 85% of the new car sales.

Currently, Brazil is ranked No2 in the world, in terms of ethanol production, and consequently its motorists enjoy the low cost of ethanol, which is priced at 40% less than gasoline. As well as lower fuel costs, the industrial product tax (purchase tax) on new flex vehicles is only 11%, 2% lower than gasoline models.

The newly-introduced Soul Flex, with its unique exterior design features, boasts a 44% improvement in fuel efficiency compared with the existing gasoline model and superior power (128 ps) and torque (16.5 kg-m) outputs, which are improved by 3.2% and 3.7% respectively from the original model.

Differences from the gasoline model include the newly adapted fuel injection & catalyst system as well as engine compression ratio – changes which combine to achieve enhanced fuel economy.

Changes made to accommodate the more abrasive nature of ethanol fuel include reinforcing the fuel pump, pillar cap and fuel line, and fitting a gasoline tank assistance system in order to aid engine ignition at low temperatures.

Kia Motors will begin exporting Soul Flex to Brazil this month, with the new models going on sale at Kia dealerships early next year. Kia is planning to introduce an all-new Sportage ‘Flex’ model at the end of next year, and Kia will further strengthen its presence in Brazilian market as new flex models are to be introduced in each market segment.

So far in 2010, Brazil has been one of Kia’s best performing markets, with sales increasing by 151% year-on-year, reaching 40,865 units up to the end of September.

To strengthen its current sales momentum, Kia plans to take advantage of its involvement with 2014 Brazil FIFA World Cup from the early stages, as a major sponsor of the world’s biggest sporting event.

Maximizing the impact of this sponsorship and the introduction of new models, such as Flex models and new SUVs tailored to suit local consumer demands, Kia plans to expand its sales volume in Brazil as well as Central & South American market.

A new firmware upgrade adds further operating refinements to the NEX-5/NEX-3 compact system cameras from Sony

Available now for download with versions available for Windows and Mac OS2, the free upgrade adds several performance enhancements. Autofocus is now supported when using the NEX-5/NEX-3 with 14 lenses from the full range of A-mount optics by Sony and Carl Zeiss that includes telephotos, primes and zooms. Aperture settings can be maintained during HD movie recording, and system menu operation has been streamlined alongside other usability improvements. Registered NEX-5/NEX-3 owners will be advised of the free update via email.

Autofocus with A-mount lensesSingle-shot autofocus is supported with 14 optional A-mount SAM and SSM lens models3 when used with the optional LA-EA1 Mount Adaptor. Single-shot AF is also possible while in movie recording mode by pressing the shutter button halfway down. Support for AF operation with A-mount lenses also requires a separate firmware upgrade for the LA-EA1.

Aperture priority with video recordingHD video can be shot while maintaining constant aperture, either in A (aperture priority) mode or in iAuto mode with background defocus activated. This aids the simple creation of beautiful background defocus effects during movie recording.

Soft key settingsIt’s possible to customise functions of two of the three soft keys on the camera’s rear panel. Functions that can be assigned include Shooting Mode, Shooting Tips, Precision Digital Zoom, ISO, White Balance, Metering Mode, Flash Compensation, DRO, Auto HDR, Creative Style, MF Assist and AF Area.

Menu startWhen ‘Menu’ is selected, there’s now the option to display either the main menu screen or the last parameter set. This simplifies quick readjustment of recently-selected functions and settings.

MF AssistAn enlarged image portion can be displayed on screen with user-selectable duration while in MF (Manual Focus) Assist mode. MF Assist operation has also been improved. The previously-chosen magnified image portion can now be maintained when MF Assist is re-selected, making repeated checks of fine focus quicker and more convenient.

Toyota Highlander Crossover Gets Major Revision for 2011

Toyota has significantly revised its popular Highlander and Highlander Hybrid crossover sport utility vehicles for 2011, giving them enhanced styling, additional standard amenities and new user technology.

The 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine, which was available only in the Highlander Base grade model for 2010, is now also offered in the SE, the most popular grade (2WD only). The Highlander Hybrid debuts a more powerful and advanced 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine, along with a standard Tech Audio Package and unique exterior design elements.

The 2011 Highlander is available in Base, SE and Limited grades in both two-wheel (2WD) and full-time four-wheel-drive (4WD). A 270-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 is standard on the Limited grade and available for the others. All Highlander Hybrid models are equipped with four-wheel-drive with intelligence and available in Base and Limited grades.

The first-generation Highlander pioneered the midsize crossover utility vehicle segment, ushering in car-like performance, comfort and fuel efficiency yet with SUV-like roominess and versatility. The second-generation Highlander amplifies those attributes and is among the leaders in the segment in standard active and passive safety features.

The Highlander gets a sophisticated design update for 2011 featuring a new front fascia, hood and fenders, with the profile freshened by black rockers with chrome accents (gas models only). The headlights and tail lamps are also redesigned, as are the 17-inch alloy wheels. The Limited Grade offers stylish 19-inch wheels and also features silver roof rails. The SE grade gains a power liftgate.

The 2011 Highlander Hybrid is more easily distinguished from the gasoline model by its own unique grille and bumper design. It shares the new fenders and hood with the gas Highlander but features color-keyed rockers with chrome accents, plus vertically stacked fog lamps. The projector beam headlights and redesigned taillights feature blue lens covers. Daytime running lamps are now standard on all Highlander models.

EU and South Korea sign free trade deal

EU Trade Commissioner Karel De Gucht, the Belgian Minister of Foreign AffairsSteven Vanackere representing the Presidency of the Council of the EuropeanUnion (EU), and the Korean Minister for Trade Kim Jong-hoon today signed aFree Trade Agreement (FTA) between the EU and South Korea. This FTA is themost ambitious trade agreement ever negotiated by the EU and the first with anAsian country. The signature signals a significant step on the road to itsimplementation and is one of the main events of the EU-Korea Summit takingplace in Brussels.

"The agreement between the EU and South Korea marks a significant achievement inimproving our trade links. It will provide a real boost to jobs and growth in Europe at thiscritical time. This wide-ranging and innovative deal is a benchmark for what we want toachieve in other trade agreements", said Commissioner De Gucht. "Tackling the moredifficult non-tariff barriers to international commerce can cut the costs of doing businessas much if not more than getting rid of import duties."

The text of the FTA was initialled between the European Commission and South Koreaon 15 October 2009. Since then the text of the Agreement was translated into Koreanand 21 EU languages. All EU Member States have signed the FTA ahead of the official signing ceremony.

The date of provisional application will be 1 July 2011, provided that the EuropeanParliament has given its consent to the FTA and the Regulation of the EuropeanParliament and of the Council implementing the bilateral safeguard clause of the EUSouthKorea FTA is in place. The EU Member States will have to also ratify theagreement according to their own laws and procedures.

One study estimates that the deal will create new trade in good and services worth €19.1billion for the EU; another study calculates that it will more than double the bilateral EUSouthKorea trade in the next 20 years compared to a scenario without the FTA. Theagreement will remove virtually all import duties between the two economies as well asmany non-tariff barriers. It will relieve EU exporters of industrial and agricultural goods toSouth Korea from paying tariffs. Once the duties are fully eliminated, EU exporters willsave € 1.6 billion annually. Half of these savings will be applicable already on the day ofthe entry into force of the Agreement.

The FTA will also create new market access in services and investment and will makemajor advances in areas such as intellectual property, procurement, competition policyand trade and sustainable development.

Background

EU-South Korea goods trade was worth around €54 billion in 2009. The EU currentlyruns a deficit with South Korea in goods trade, although trends suggest that the Koreanmarket offers significant growth potential. For products like chemicals, pharmaceuticals,auto parts, industrial machinery, shoes, medical equipment, non-ferrous metals, iron andsteel, leather and fur, wood, ceramics, and glass, the EU enjoys a solid trade surplus.

Similarly, for agricultural products South Korea is one of the more valuable export markets globally for EU farmers, with annual sales of over €1 billion. On services, the EUhas a surplus with South Korea of €3.4 billion, with exports of €7.8 billion in 2008 andimports of €4.4 billion.

In terms of tariffs, South Korea and the EU will eliminate 98.7% of duties in trade valuefor both industrial and agricultural products within 5 years from the entry into force of theFTA. By the end of the transitional periods, duties will be eliminated on almost allproducts, with a few exceptions in the agricultural sector. This is the most ambitious tradecoverage ever achieved in a FTA negotiated by the EU.

Asiana extends mileage expiration period to 10~12 years

Asiana Airlines (President & CEO: Young-doo Yoon) announced a statement on the 1st of October to extend it’s mileage expiration period and overall change it’s current mileage system to a new system that accommodates customer standards.
The main topics of this announcement are:
* Extending the mileage expiration period to 10~12 years 
* Increase mileage seats 
* Introduce a variety of mileage usage programs 
* Increase the range family added up mileages 
* Increase mileage seat information services.

Asiana will introduce a variety of new programs which accommodate the customer’s conveniences.

Especially extending the expiration period from 5 ~7 years depending on the customers rating, has now been altered to 10~12 years making it less burdening for customers to use their mileages. The changed mileage program starts with the deduction of mileages that were accumulated after 1st of October 2008. Mileages accumulated before can be used throughout a lifetime without having an expiration date.

Also in providing convenience towards the customer, Asiana will be deducting mileages that have an expiration date upfront than other accumulated mileages. Further more, when using mileages with expiration date, Asiana will be deducting mileages that have a shorter expiration date.
In order to provide maximum convenience for customers using mileages, Asiana will be increasing additional mileage seats than the current condition. Also during the high seasons, Asiana will maintain a certain level of mileage seats and take priority in providing these seats towards the mileage customer. Depending on the seat availability conditions during the high seasons, Asiana has plans in increasing additional mileage seats depending on the availability. Asiana will also be holding periodical half price mileage promotions for customers to use inexpensive mileage seats.
Asiana customers are able to purchase in-flight duty free goods, pay for additional luggage fees, and use the lounges with Asiana’s mileages. Other mileage programs such as use of mileages at shopping mall, theaters, hotels, restaurants and 16 other affiliated company’s services or products can be used with deducting little mileages. This program has been highly praised by the customers and Asiana plans to develop and increase additional programs like these to provide customer satisfaction.
Asiana will be increasing the boundary of family mileages. Currently Asiana’s family mileages can be added up within the family’s representative, spouse, and lineal family members (children, parents, grand parents, grand children). This system will be changed in which the family members will be increased to siblings, sisters, son-in-law, daughter-in-law and the spouse’s parents. With these changes, customers are able use more mileages from mileages gathered from families.
Asiana will be updating the mileage seat availability information on the Asiana Club Internet site on a 15 day basis. The condition of mileage seat availability will be indicated by 3 levels and in colors. Customers are now able to look at the seating availability quickly before planning their journeys ahead just by looking at Asiana Club site.
Asiana have been receiving continuous consulting in order to upgrade the mileage program. Asiana will continue to develop mileage programs that customers will benefit freely from in the future.

LG Introduces World’s First Near Full HD 3D Notebook

LG Electronics (LG) announced the world’s first premium notebook offering cinematic 3D experience at near Full HD quality. To deliver an immersive 3D experience while rendering high-quality movies, games and graphics, the LG A510 features a hardware combination never before offered on a notebook: 15.6-inch Full HD 3D LED LCD display powered by Intel Core™ i7 Processor and NVIDIA GeForce GT 425M graphics card with 1GB of dedicated DDR3 video memory.

“3D is increasingly becoming a common part of the home entertainment landscape so it’s against this backdrop that we’re working to make this technology better and more accessible for consumers,” said Dr. Skott Ahn, President and CEO of LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company. “As more and more people consume content and interact via portable screens, we think this is a natural next step for business travelers, college students and small office/home office owners. And we put the entire package in a beautifully-designed chassis because we don’t think high-tech has to be a dull grey pizza box.”

The A510 ships with polarized glasses for easier portability. A set of clip-on 3D lenses are also included for regular glasses-wearers. Beyond the visual, the notebook boasts SRS TruSurround HD for the ultimate immersive audio experience for movies and games.

With much of the content in the 3D world still in development, LG equipped the notebook with TriDef software which converts 2D into 3D content on demand. Using TriDef, viewers can see all their favorite shows and movies in up-converted 3D as soon as their LG A510 is unboxed.

This high-tech workhorse also boasts a unique design that is sure to please both tech-savvy and style-conscious consumers. An attractive metallic look with unique exterior finish and subtle LED lighting around the touchpad that changes color according to the system status add a distinctive look. The LG A510 is available in two colors: blue-black and champagne gold. The LG A510 offers additional convenience with a collection of smart features and applications.

The LG Smart Pack, LG’s unique software suite for notebooks, always ensures that the LG A510 is operating at peak performance. And a LED fingerprint reader can be programmed to provide quick and easy access to the most frequently used programs and websites, while also making it easier to log in.

LG will roll out this premium notebook in Asia, South America, the Middle East and Africa starting in October 2010.

Sony introduces super-slim WALKMAN® S750

The newest addition to the legendary WALKMAN® family is guaranteed to turn heads with stunning sound and slim, sensational looks in luxurious aluminium. Measuring just 7.2mm thin for effortless portability, the colourful WALKMAN® S750 Video MP3 player lets you enjoy your music, videos and podcasts in unmistakeable style.
Premium metallic looks are paired with rich, satisfying audio by Sony. Plug in the high-quality EX vertical in-ear headphones and experience beautiful WALKMAN® sound, with Digital Noise Cancelling cutting approximately 98.0% of ambient sound. A supplied adaptor lets air travellers enjoy the plane’s in-flight entertainment system with digital noise cancelling provided by WALKMAN®.
Complementing the Digital Noise Cancelling and EX headphones, the S750 is loaded with other Clear Audio technologies by Sony to get the best out of your music collection. Clear Bass and Clear Stereo are joined by DSEE that restores the high frequencies lost in compressed music files.
Sound quality aside, the WALKMAN® S750 also makes it brilliantly easy to enjoy your existing digital music collection. Supplied Content Transfer software simplifies drag-and-drop transfers to WALKMAN® from Windows® Explorer or your iTunes library (not including DRM files).
Windows® 7 even takes care of converting DivX® and AVCHD video files stored on your hard drive to playable format for viewing on WALKMAN®.
The bright, clear 5.1cm (2”) LCD offers a superb view of videos, photos and cover art with a wide viewing angle. In a WALKMAN® first, TruBlack technology reduces screen reflections, boosting contrast whether you’re indoors or outside.
Personalise WALKMAN® by selecting your favourite photo as wallpaper for the player’s home menu screen. Alternatively, pick from nine pre-installed wallpapers to reflect your personal taste.
Looking to match your listening to your mood? Unique to Sony, SensMe™ technology analyses your music library, automatically creating a series of 10 themed channels. Just pick your channel to suit the moment, from mellow to upbeat.
The WALKMAN® S750 gives music lovers a choice of exciting entertainment options. Lyrics Sync displays lyrics of your favourite song on screen. Karaoke Mode reduces the original performer’s vocal level so your voice can be heard clearly over the backing track. If you’re struggling to hit those high or low notes, playback key can be adjusted up or down to match anyone’s vocal reach without changing playback speed. You can even connect WALKMAN® to any TV with an optional A/V output cable and invite friends to your own karaoke party.


The WALKMAN® S750 also helps busy language students master tricky phrases more quickly. A Language Learning function ‘loops’ a chosen passage for listening at reduced playback speed without changing pitch or losing clarity.
Nothing on TV? Plug WALKMAN® S750 into your television via the optional A/V output cable and enjoy videos on screen in crisp 720 x 480 resolution.
Extra-long battery life lets you enjoy up to 50 hours of music playback time (10 hours video playback) from a single charge.
Release your WALKMAN® favourite sounds while you’re relaxing at home with the stylish RDP-NWD300 speaker dock. Available in black or white and supplied with a handy remote, it delivers clear, full stereo sound while trickle-charging WALKMAN®. A perfect travel partner for WALKMAN®, the new RDP-NWR100 is a compact, splash-proof speaker dock that looks and sounds great by the poolside, on fun days outdoors or even in the bathroom while you’re having a shower.
The new WALKMAN® S750 is part of the full line-up of MP3 and MP4 players by Sony. The WALKMAN® range includes the advanced A Series with premium looks, sound and features; the wireless, wearable W series for sports; the fun, colourful E Series and the accessible, easy-to-use B series.
The new WALKMAN® S750 series Video MP3 Player by Sony is available from October 2010.

Evolution Of The Revolutionary: The Nikon D7000 D-SLR Is The Preeminent Digital Camera For Demanding Photo Enthusiasts

Nikon Inc. introduced the new D7000 digital SLR camera designed to fulfill the needs of passionate photographers who demand exceptional performance, reliability, and unprecedented levels of control and versatility in a compact form factor. Engineered as an ideal balance of durability and functionality, the D7000 D-SLR features a multitude of new enhancements and updated Nikon technologies, which results in stunning photos and amazing full HD (High Definition) movies.

Continuing the tradition of innovative technology that began with the revolutionary D90, the first D-SLR to capture HD movie, the D7000 features a new 16.2-megapixel CMOS sensor with low-light ability never before seen in a DX-format (APS-C) camera. The new EXPEED 2 TM image-processing engine fuels the enhanced performance of the D7000 along with a new 39-point AF system and groundbreaking new 2,016 pixel RGB 3D Matrix Metering System to deliver amazing image quality in a variety of shooting conditions. Additionally, the D7000 D-SLR provides full 1080p HD movie capability with full-time auto focus (AF), enabling users to capture their world with both striking still and moving images.

“The D7000 D-SLR creates a new class of Nikon camera by delivering exceptional quality, control and an innovative feature set; this is a camera that enables D-SLR users to achieve a true expression of their creative vision, while concentrating primarily on image quality above all else,” said Lisa Osorio, general manager of marketing at Nikon Inc. “When you combine the innovation of the agile D7000 with the exceptional and robust line of NIKKOR lenses and accessories, the potential for D-SLR photographers and filmmakers is limitless.”

Unparalleled Performance From Unrivaled Technologies
With its new 16.2-megapixel CMOS image sensor and Nikon’s new EXPEED 2 image processing system, the D7000 D-SLR delivers superior image quality with low noise. The EXPEED 2 image-processing engine combined with a 14-bit Analog / Digital conversion brings a new level of even tonal gradations while managing color, contrast, exposure, and noise resulting in brilliant image quality. EXPEED 2 also manages the D7000’s speedy 50-millisecond shutter response, blazing AF speed and rapid six frame-per-second (fps) burst speed for up to 100 images.

The D7000 D-SLR features an all-new 39-point AF System, which includes nine center cross-type sensors that operate with more than 60 NIKKOR lenses. The 39 points in the new Multi-CAM 4800DX AF module work together to provide superior subject acquisition and fast tracking capabilities, allowing photographers to confidently capture a player stealing third from the sideline to fast-moving wildlife. Additionally, photographers can activate dynamic or single point AF, configurable in combinations of 9, 21 or 39 or a 21-point ring to match a variety of shooting styles and situations. Photographers can activate 3D tracking, which continuously follows moving subjects within the 39 AF points, highlighting the activated AF point in the viewfinder.

Utilizing Nikon’s exclusive Scene Recognition System, the camera analyzes subject information from a database containing more than 30,000 images to optimize focus, exposure and white balance. To assist in creating amazing imagery, the Scene Recognition System reads data from a groundbreaking 2,016-pixel 3D Color Matrix Meter RGB sensor that examines the scene’s brightness and color data then optimizes the camera’s performance prior to the actual exposure. Another revolutionary Nikon first, this system interprets scene data for improved control of light metering and i-TTL flash output. Additionally this new sensor allows for a new “Ambient” white balance setting which can be activated to allow warm rendering in Automatic White Balance.

Nikon Continues the Low-Light Fight
The D7000 D-SLR continues Nikon’s tradition of providing photographers the confidence to shoot in low-light, knowing they will capture high quality low-noise images. The camera’s native ISO range of 100-6400 affords the versatility to photograph in challenging lighting conditions, such as when indoors or in the evening. The ISO range can be expanded to a Hi-2 setting of 25,600, which was previously found only in Nikon FX-format territory. The resolution of the camera renders a pixel size of 4.78 µm, which allows more light to be gathered, resulting in a correctly exposed image that has less noise and finer grain.

Full 1080p HD Movies with Advanced Video Features
Building upon the popular D90 D-SLR, the Nikon D7000 captures breathtaking full 1080p HD movies with full-time autofocus and manual exposure control. To keep critical HD focus, users can choose to engage a variety of AF functions, including face priority to track up to 35 human faces, subject-tracking and normal or wide-area autofocus.

Advanced movie features also allow exposure adjustment on the fly while recording. The D7000 D-SLR offers variable frame rates and resolutions, and can record 1080p at a cinema-like 24 fps, or a web-friendly 720p at either 24 or 30 fps for up to 20 minutes per clip. Once recorded, users are able to edit and trim video clips in the camera to save time in post production. Whether utilizing a wireless or hot shoe mounted microphone, sound can be recorded via the stereo microphone input for professional audio results.

To further simplify movie shooting, Live View is activated by a single dedicated switch, and HD video recording is achieved by pressing a single button. The D7000 D-SLR also incorporates a built-in HDMI output CEC compliant (Consumer Electronic Control) that allows users to connect it to a HDTV and playback with most HDTV remote controls.

By adding versatile NIKKOR lenses to the equation, photographers can create a variety of photo perspectives to video such as isolating subjects with a shallow depth of field, and recording in low-light conditions. Combining the D7000 D-SLR with NIKKOR lenses also delivers the sharpness essential for HD video, and Nikon’s innovative Vibration Reduction (VR) II technology helps to eliminate the effects of camera shake.

Asiana Cargo Starts Services to Atlanta

Asiana Airlines (President & CEO: Young-doo Yoon) will start new cargo services from Incheon to Atlanta starting on the 13th of September. Atlanta is a logistics foothold city that covers the southern and eastern sectors of the United States.

Asiana Airlines has established a new cargo route starting from Incheon via Anchorage via Atlanta and arriving in Chicago. Flights will depart Incheon every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday at 22:05hrs (local time) operating a B747-400 freighter.

Asiana Airlines has decided to establish the new cargo route to Atlanta due to various reasons. One is to support the logistics of various South Korean corporations such as the Hyundai/Kia Motors factories located in Alabama and Georgia, two to support world sporting events such as the 2014 FIFA World Cup and 2016 Olympics which are planed to be hosted in the South America and finally to set a foothold close to the South American market.

With the establishment of the new Cargo route, Asiana will now operate daily cargo flights to the east and west coast of the U.S and also operate 4 weekly flights to the southern part of the U.S. Asiana has now expanded it’s network in the U.S market and with this expansion. Asiana has increased it’s cargo load in the U.S to 23% per month amounting up to 190 thousand ton/km. Asiana also plans to increase it’s cargo routes according to the dates of receiving additional cargo carriers from the manufacturers in the future.

With the establishment of the Incheon/Atlanta Cargo route, Asiana Cargo now operates to 14 countries, 22 cities 23 routes. Also by receiving another cargo carrier in September, Asiana has a total cargo fleet of 9(8 B747, 1 B767) carriers operating internationally.

World renowned pianist Lang Lang to celebrate Sony's 3D initiatives as its global brand ambassador

World renowned pianist Lang Lang unveiled a glimpse of his new 3D production “Lang Lang –The Third Dimension” at today's Sony Europe IFA Press Conference. In the spirit of Sony’s 3D leadership, the entire press conference was produced in 3D, and Lang Lang’s live performance – also filmed and projected in 3D – took classical music to a new dimension.
“Lang Lang – The Third Dimension” features music clips by Beethoven, Prokofiev, Albeniz and Chopin, and was filmed in multiple angles with using Sony’s leading 3D technology, which was also used for the production of the Academy Award winning blockbuster “Avatar”. The 3D film will be made available on the new “Lang Lang live in Vienna” Blu-Ray Disc, slated for international launch on September 25th. Being one of 2010's most keenly anticipated releases, this recital is also available in standard CD and DVD formats.
Commenting on his debut in 3D, Lang Lang said, "I am totally excited to be at the forefront of introducing 3D technology to consumers’ living-rooms worldwide. This technical innovation opens up a new dimension to all music lovers. With musical performances captured in 3D, the musical experience becomes even more intense and emotional. I am very happy to have a strong partner in Sony who shares my vision."
"Lang Lang is a driving force in bringing classical music to a much larger audience than we have today. His keen personal interest in the most recent technological innovations in consumer electronics and entertainment, in tandem with his global audience, make him the perfect Brand Ambassador for Sony worldwide”, said Sir Howard Stringer, Chairman, CEO and President of Sony Corporation.
Lang Lang recently signed an exclusive long-term recording contract with Sony Classical, and he is also Sony’s global Brand Ambassador for Sony Corporation. Through the unique synergies of its music, entertainment and electronics divisions, Sony is committed to marry the highest artistic standards with the optimum visual definition and sound quality of its industry leading technology. “Lang Lang – The Third Dimension” is the first of manycollaborations between this adventurous young musician and his constantly innovating partner.

Asiana Donates Books in Foreign Languages to Multicultural Families

Asiana Airlines (President & CEO: Young-doo Yoon) donated books in foreign languages today to the library of Yang-Cheon Foreign Laborer Center. This donation was performed to have a more clear understanding of other cultures and to boost up recognition of multicultural families in Korea.

Asiana Airlines held an official donation ceremony on the 1st of September at 11:00am (local Time) at Yang-Cheon Foreign Laborer Center in Seoul, Korea. Asiana Airlines President & CEO Mr. Young-doo, Yoon, Sang-Hee, Na Yang-Cheon District Delegate and Shinmok Community Center’s Director Hak-Moon, Kim were present to donate the 1,239 books.

The donated books consists of 310 Vietnamese, 267 Chinese, 223 Cambodian, 152 Japanese, 118 Thai, 95 Philippine, and 74 Russian & Uzbekistani books totaling in 1,239 books in 7 Asian languages. The books donated are all best sellers in their respective countries and were purchased from Asiana Airlines overseas branches and shipped via air to Korea for the donation.

Asiana Airlines President & CEO Mr. Young-doo, Yoon commented “The donation of the books is more meaningful since the money provided to purchase the books were made from sales that Asiana Staffs performed during the Asiana Bazaar held on May of this year. Asiana, being a global airliner, will continue to show keen interest in supporting multicultural families in the future.”

Asiana, including this charity event, has donated 6,100 foreign language books to foreign laborers and multicultural families in Korea since 2007 and have hosted a field trip for 12 children from multicultural families on the 26th of August to visit the Head Quarters of Asiana Airlines.