KOSPI Rises to World's Highest Amid AI Semiconductor Rally, Foreign Investors Exit The South Korean stock market is experiencing the steepest rise in the world, driven by a rally in artificial intelligence (AI) semiconductors. While domestic retail and institutional investors are pushing the index higher, foreign capital is quickly exiting the market. There are warnings that the stock market may be overheating as borrowing for investment increases. According to Bloomberg, the KOSPI index has surged 87% this year, the highest among major global indices tracked by the outl May 14, 2026

AI Reshapes Asia's Industrial Landscape When the U.S. market falters, the KOSPI often follows suit. A downturn in China's economy typically leads to sell-offs in South Korea. This year, however, is different. Neither the Middle East conflict nor the U.S.-China power struggle has managed to shake the markets. This week, the key variable was expected to be the U.S.-China summit. Yet, the KOSPI continues its march toward an all-time high. Having already surged nearly 80% this year, it is achieving the best performance among major global May 14, 2026

Kim Jae-won Discusses His Role as Sun-rok in 'Yumi's Cells 3' Kim Jae-won, who gained fame as the "first love memory manipulator" in the drama "Our Blues," has now earned the title of the nation's favorite younger man. Since his debut in "Our Blues," he has steadily built his filmography, recently achieving success with Netflix's "Lady Dua" and TVING's "Yumi's Cells 3," solidifying his unique presence in the industry. His ability to create chemistry with co-stars and evoke the excitement of relationships showcases his new potential."I’m really happy to rec May 14, 2026

Director Jung Juri and Cast of 'Dora' Set for Cannes Film Festival Premiere Film 'Dora' is set to have its world premiere at the 79th Cannes Film Festival's Directors' Fortnight. Director Jung Juri, who previously debuted with 'Dohiya' and followed up with 'Next Sohee,' will be joined by actors Kim Do-yeon and Ando Sakura to meet local audiences.On May 14, the production team for 'Dora' announced that Director Jung Juri and actors Kim Do-yeon and Ando Sakura are departing for Cannes, sharing their thoughts on the festival invitation. 'Dora' has been officially invited t May 14, 2026

Ministry of Interior to Begin Second Round of High Oil Price Relief Payments on May 18 The Ministry of Interior announced on May 14 that Vice Minister Kim Min-jae visited Gongju, South Chungcheong Province, to assess preparations for the second round of high oil price relief payments, set to begin on May 18. During his visit, he listened to local concerns and checked the readiness of the facilities. Kim visited the Okryong-dong community center to ensure that residents applying for the relief payments would not face any inconveniences. He emphasized the importance of thoroug May 14, 2026

Korea's Trade Chief Pledges Support Amid EU and Mexico Outreach Yeo Han-goo, the head of the Trade Negotiation Bureau at the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, stated, "The government will mobilize all trade capabilities to support our companies operating abroad in securing stable investments and competitiveness."On May 14, the ministry announced that Yeo met with Valdis Dombrovskis, the European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, in Brussels on May 11 to discuss the EU's plans to strengthen steel import regulations and to convey the concerns May 14, 2026

Seoul Forest Hosts 'Garden' While Seongsu Features 'Popup' as Construction Firms Revamp Marketing The Seoul International Garden Expo has been underway since May 1 at Seoul Forest in Seongdong District, attracting visitors to the newly created 'K-Construction Zone' where construction companies showcase their brand gardens. This marks a shift in construction marketing from traditional model homes to gardens, popups, and lifestyle spaces. Upon entering the grassy area of Seoul Forest on May 13, visitors were greeted by a red gate, a circular garden, and lush green pathways. Many strolle May 14, 2026

South Korea Approves Visit of North Korean Women's Football Team South Korea's Ministry of Unification announced on May 14 that it has approved the visit of the North Korean women's football team, Naegohyang, to participate in the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Women's Champions League (AWCL) semifinals scheduled for May 20 in Suwon. The approved delegation consists of 39 members, the same number initially submitted by North Korea to the AFC. The visit is authorized from May 17 to May 24. Once the visit is approved, an entry permit will be issue May 14, 2026

KOTRA Expands Market for K-Robots and AI in Vietnam KOTRA is supporting the entry of domestic robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) companies into Vietnam, which is emerging as a hub for advanced manufacturing. As Vietnam expands its investments in smart manufacturing and automation, the demand for K-robots and manufacturing AI solutions is also increasing. KOTRA announced that it will operate a "K-Robot Pavilion" at the Vietnam International Machinery Industry Expo (VINAMAC EXPO 2026) from May 14 to 16 at the I.C.E International Exhib May 14, 2026

Unreleased Footage from 'I Am Solo' Sparks Controversy Over Final Couples ENA and SBS Plus's dating show 'I Am Solo' Season 31 is facing backlash after unreleased footage featuring contestant Oksun was posted online and subsequently removed. The controversy intensified as various online communities began sharing lists of the final couples. Recently, the YouTube channel 'Chonjang Entertainment TV' uploaded previously unseen footage from Season 31. In the clip, Oksun is seen waiting for a conversation between Kyungsoo and Youngsook to end, telling Sunja, "Is this May 14, 2026