Journalist

Lee Hugh
  • With tariffs looming, Korea chipmakers run out of room to maneuver in the U.S.
    With tariffs looming, Korea chipmakers run out of room to maneuver in the U.S. SEOUL, January 19 (AJP) - To match the tariff concessions Taiwan has secured in the United States, South Korean chipmakers may be pressed to outline additional U.S. capacity expansion plans. Their options are however constrained as the foundry market faces oversupply risks while large-scale memory fabs pose significant economic and strategic hurdles. U.S. officials have adopted a more hardline tone in recent weeks, openly tying tariff relief to domestic semiconductor investment. Yet experts and chipmakers caution that further U.S. manufacturing commitments are far more difficult for Korean firms than for their Taiwanese counterparts. Following a groundbreaking ceremony for a new Micron Technology plant near Syracuse, New York, U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick warned that tariff measures outlined in Washington’s recent trade accord with Taiwan could also affect chipmakers from South Korea. “Everyone who wants to build memory has two choices: They can pay a 100% tariff, or they can build in America,” Lutnick said Friday. Under the Taiwan deal unveiled Thursday, companies expanding U.S. operations will be allowed to import semiconductors tariff-free up to 2.5 times their existing capacity during construction, with reduced tariffs applied above that threshold. Once new facilities are completed, the cap will be lowered to 1.5 times current capacity. The agreement also sets a 15 percent tariff on goods from Taiwan and commits the island’s technology sector to at least $250 billion in direct investment in the U.S. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) is expected to build at least four additional chipmaking plants on top of six already planned, requiring roughly $100 billion in new capital. The Taiwanese government has said it will provide $250 billion in credit guarantees to support the investment. South Korea’s accord with the United States revealed last October, sets a 15 percent tariff on most goods while exempting semiconductor imports for now. The agreement includes a $350 billion South Korean fund for U.S. investments, but $150 billion of that is earmarked for shipbuilding, and the remaining $200 billion is government-led and not limited to semiconductors. Private-sector commitments are far smaller. Samsung Electronics has expanded its planned investment in Taylor, Texas, to $37 billion through 2030, up from an initial $17 billion. SK hynix has announced a $3.87 billion investment in Indiana to build an advanced packaging facility for artificial intelligence memory. How much tariff relief Washington will grant in exchange for those investments is emerging as a central negotiating issue. While tariffs will be imposed only after country-by-country talks are completed, pressure is already building. Washington has increasingly blurred the line between trade and industrial policy, explicitly using tariffs to steer semiconductor supply chains toward domestic production. “In practice, the two are closely intertwined,” said Ahn Ki-hyun, secretary general of the Korea Semiconductor Industry Association. “When the U.S. talks about tariffs, what it really wants is investment. And investment naturally connects to supply chains.” The fundamental difference, industry officials say, lies in industrial structure. “Korea and Taiwan are different in what they make,” Ahn said. “Taiwan is centered on system semiconductors and foundries, while Korea is focused on memory. From the U.S. perspective, the logic is simple — if chips are made in America, the problem is solved.” TSMC has already begun production at its first U.S. fab and is preparing additional facilities. Korea, however, currently has no memory wafer production operating in the United States, a gap that analysts say lies at the core of the challenge. Building memory fabs overseas is technically feasible but significantly more complex. DRAM and high-bandwidth memory production requires large-scale infrastructure, long stabilization periods and extremely high yield control. “Memory fabs are not fundamentally different from system semiconductor plants in terms of construction,” Ahn said. “But unlike foundries, there is currently no memory production running in the U.S., which means the timeline is much longer.” Analysts warn that if Washington benchmarks Korea against Taiwan’s investment framework, Korean chipmakers would face a wide gap between existing commitments and the level of spending needed to secure comparable tariff treatment. New memory fabs would require tens of billions of dollars and several years before meaningful output could be achieved. Samsung Electronics said it is closely monitoring developments. “We are reviewing all news and policy changes related to tariffs,” the company said. “Internal discussions are ongoing, but at this stage, there is no official comment we can provide.” Kim Yang-paeng, a senior research fellow at the Korea Institute for Industrial Economics and Trade (KIET), said that estimating the scale of additional investment required under a Taiwan-style framework would be extremely difficult. “If the United States were to demand a similar investment model from Korea, it is not a matter of tens or even hundreds of trillions of won,” Kim said. “The scale would be virtually impossible to quantify in meaningful terms.” 2026-01-19 16:56:30
  • Korean won drifts toward 1,480 on global dollar strength
    Korean won drifts toward 1,480 on global dollar strength SEOUL, January 19 (AJP) -The Korean won edged back toward 1,480 per U.S. dollar, a level widely viewed as a government defense line, amid broad dollar strength fueled by rising U.S. tensions with the European Union over Greenland and escalating risks linked to Iran and Venezuela. 2026-01-19 16:51:19
  • Plum blossoms defy winter as Daehan approaches
    Plum blossoms defy winter as Daehan approaches Gangwon, January 18 (AJP) -Ahead of Daehan, the coldest period in the traditional Korean calendar, plum trees are already beginning to burst into bloom at Naksansa Temple on Korea’s east coast. Daehan, meaning “great cold,” is the 24th and final solar term, falling around Jan. 20 on the Gregorian calendar and marking the depths of winter in the lunar year. It is traditionally associated with biting winds, frozen ground and the harshest conditions of the season. Yet even as icy air lingers over the East Sea, the plum — long celebrated in East Asian culture as a symbol of resilience — pushes out its first buds. Unlike cherry blossoms that arrive with spring, plum trees bloom in late winter, often amid snow and frost, standing as quiet proof that renewal begins before the cold has fully loosened its grip. At Naksansa, where the temple’s stone pagodas overlook the winter sea, pale blossoms and tight buds contrast sharply with bare branches and muted winter tones — a fleeting moment when nature signals the turning of the season, even at its coldest. 2026-01-19 16:47:09
  • Thousands brave winter swim at Haeundae beach
    Thousands brave winter swim at Haeundae beach SEOUL, January 19 (AJP) - About 2,000 people braved chilly winter weather to plunge into the icy waters of Haeundae Beach in Busan on Sunday for the southern port city's annual swimming festival. Under this year's "colorful" theme for the Haeundae Polar Bear Festival (HPBF), the beach was filled with swimmers in vibrant colors. Before plunging into the water, participants painted themselves with colorful powder symbolizing hope, love, and happiness. They splashed and played like children, completely absorbed in the moment. Fortunately, the temperature at the beach was around 10 degrees Celsius, making it feel bearable, almost like early spring. Now in its 39th year, the festival has remained popular, bringing together swimming enthusiasts, local residents, and tourists. 2026-01-19 16:18:36
  • Samsung, LG set for showdown in booming data center cooling market
    Samsung, LG set for showdown in booming data center cooling market SEOUL, January 19 (AJP) - Samsung Electronics and LG Electronics are set to compete head-to-head in North America as they seek a larger share of the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) market, which is gaining momentum amid rapid growth in artificial intelligence infrastructure. With demand for home appliances slowing and competition from low-priced Chinese products intensifying, both South Korean companies are increasingly targeting data center heat-management solutions as a key business-to-business growth engine. Samsung and LG will take part in AHR Expo 2026, North America’s largest HVAC trade show, which runs for three days starting Feb. 2 in Las Vegas. This year’s exhibition is expected to focus on power efficiency and advanced cooling technologies as AI-driven data centers proliferate. The push reflects what industry executives describe as an “AI supercycle.” High-performance graphics processing units used for generative AI consume vast amounts of electricity and generate intense heat. Cooling accounts for roughly 40 percent of data center operating costs, making thermal management a critical issue for major technology companies. As a result, the HVAC market is expanding beyond residential air conditioners to include systems designed for large buildings and data centers. Market researchers estimate the North American HVAC market will grow from $51.61 billion last year to $75.75 billion by 2032. Samsung and LG are competing with established global players such as Trane and Carrier. Samsung has pursued rapid expansion through mergers, acquisitions and partnerships. It formed a joint venture with U.S.-based HVAC company Lennox to secure a North American distribution network, and late last year completed the acquisition of Flakt, described as Europe’s largest HVAC company, to strengthen its global presence. At AHR Expo, Samsung is expected to highlight high-efficiency hybrid products and energy-saving solutions linked to its SmartThings AI platform. LG, by contrast, is emphasizing what it calls its technological edge in core components such as motors and compressors. The company has established heat-pump research centers in Alaska and Norway to develop high-efficiency systems capable of operating in extreme climates. LG is also regarded as particularly competitive in chillers, a key technology for data center thermal management. LG has recently held talks with major technology companies, including Microsoft, on supplying cooling solutions for data centers, while expanding its reach beyond North America into markets such as the Middle East and the Global South, industry sources said. Analysts said 2026 could mark a turning point as Samsung and LG accelerate their shift from being primarily consumer appliance makers to positioning themselves as broader energy-solution providers. 2026-01-19 16:13:16
  • Korean Air beats Q4 expectations, positioned for post-merger liftoff
    Korean Air beats Q4 expectations, positioned for post-merger liftoff SEOUL, January 19 (AJP) - Korean Air delivered stronger-than-expected fourth-quarter results, weathering a weak won that pushed up dollar-denominated fuel and aircraft lease costs, and easing concerns ahead of its planned full integration with Asiana Airlines next year. Operating profit came to 413.1 billion won ($280 million) in the October–December period, down 5.1 percent from a year earlier but comfortably above market expectations of around 360 billion won. Revenue rose 13 percent to 4.55 trillion won, while the operating margin slipped to 9.1 percent from 10.8 percent a year earlier. The earnings beat was driven by resilient passenger demand and improving yields. Passenger yield — average revenue per kilometer — rose 6.3 percent on year to 129 won, helping offset higher operating costs stemming from the weaker currency. The popularity of Korean culture and a favorable exchange rate continued to attract inbound travelers, supporting long-haul profitability. Demand from overseas visitors, particularly Chinese tourists, also lifted results. Chinese arrivals to Korea in October and November rose 24.7 percent year-on-year, as Beijing’s continued restrictions on group tours to Japan redirected more outbound travel toward Korea. Total foreign arrivals during the period increased 12.7 percent, aided by the weak won and the global appeal of Korean content. Inbound passenger traffic from North America rose 12.4 percent, allowing Korean Air to keep its trans-Pacific routes profitable despite a decline in transfer passengers from China amid ongoing U.S.–China tensions. Cargo operations showed a similar pattern. While cargo ton kilometers edged lower, a higher share of high-value IT and equipment freight, together with firmer rates, supported revenue. Cargo yield climbed 4.5 percent to 561 won per kilometer, offsetting much of the impact from currency moves and oil prices. Yield remains a key indicator of an airline’s earning power. Looking ahead, Korean Air said it will prioritize profitability by flexibly managing seat supply and sales channels. The carrier plans to increase overseas point-of-sale exposure to cushion against potential softness in outbound Korean demand, while diversifying its cargo portfolio and adjusting freighter capacity in line with market conditions. Management also emphasized fleet renewal and route optimization as levers to improve efficiency. Relatively low oil prices and a weaker won are expected to remain broadly supportive of its cost structure. Investor focus remains on the long-awaited merger with Asiana Airlines, expected to be completed between late this year and early next year. Once finalized, Korean Air will become Korea’s sole full-service carrier, with greater pricing power and scope to eliminate overlapping routes and costs. “We expect a gradual re-rating of Korean Air’s share price as expectations for integration are increasingly reflected,” said Choi Ji-yun, an analyst at Yuanta Securities. Brokerages largely maintained positive views following the fourth-quarter beat. KB Securities raised its target price by 10.7 percent to 31,000 won, while LS Securities lifted its target to 28,000 won, up 3.7 percent from its previous estimate. NH Investment & Securities, however, struck a more cautious tone, citing weaker earnings at subsidiaries and rising costs. The brokerage cut its target price to 29,000 won from 30,000 won, warning that consolidated results could lag expectations. “Peak-season demand has lifted international passenger and cargo fares, but rising depreciation from new aircraft and higher labor costs are keeping operating expenses elevated,” said Jeong Yeon-seung, an analyst at NH Investment & Securities. He added that weak profitability at Asiana’s long-haul routes and subsidiaries remains an overhang, and that a sustained share-price rebound is likely to depend on tangible synergies once full-scale joint operations begin this winter. 2026-01-19 16:01:23
  • Xiaomi targets budget segment with Poco M8 5G launch in Korea
    Xiaomi targets budget segment with Poco M8 5G launch in Korea SEOUL, January 19 (AJP) - Xiaomi Korea said on Monday it will release the POCO-brand smartphone Poco M8 5G in South Korea on Jan. 26, with a list price of 339,900 won ($250). Preorders will run through Jan. 25 via Xiaomi’s official online store, Mi.com, as well as major online retail platforms, the company said. The Poco M8 5G is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 Mobile Platform, according to Xiaomi. The device supports artificial intelligence features including Google Gemini and Circle to Search. It features a 50-megapixel main camera and a 20-megapixel front-facing camera. The phone supports 45-watt fast charging, memory expansion of up to 16 gigabytes of RAM, and up to 1 terabyte of external storage. Xiaomi said the handset adopts a durability-focused design that passed comprehensive shock and drop tests conducted by testing firm SGS. It also carries an IP66 rating for water and dust resistance. The Poco M8 5G measures 7.35 millimeters in thickness, weighs 178 grams and is equipped with a 5,520 milliampere-hour battery. It will be sold in a single configuration with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage. Xiaomi said first-time buyers between Jan. 26 and Feb. 8 will receive a Xiaomi 22.5-watt, 10,000mAh power bank, along with a two-month YouTube Premium subscription and additional promotional benefits. * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2026-01-19 15:20:57
  • Japanese teenage actor to visit Seoul next month as film becomes sleeper hit
    Japanese teenage actor to visit Seoul next month as film becomes sleeper hit SEOUL, January 19 (AJP) - Japanese actor Soya Kurokawa will visit Seoul next month as his latest film "National Treasure," also known as "Kokuho became a sleeper hit in South Korea, the film’s distributer said on Monday. Directed by Japanese filmmaker and screenwriter of Zainichi Korean descent Lee Sang-il, the film has attracted over 200,000 moviegoers in about eight weeks since its release in mid-November last year, an impressive feat for an indie film here. Kurokawa is scheduled to arrive in Seoul on Feb. 1 and meet fans at a theater in Yongsan and other venues. This is not his first visit, as the teenager previously came to Seoul in 2023 to promote his hit film "Monster" and also attended the Busan International Film Festival last fall. The lengthy film running 175 minutes, an adaptation of a novel by Shuichi Yoshida that chronicles the passionate lives of men devoted to art over half a century, was an instant hit in Japan, remaining at the top of the box office for 31 consecutive weeks since its release in June last year. 2026-01-19 15:20:41
  • North Korean hackers spread malware through Google, Naver ads
    North Korean hackers 'spread malware through Google, Naver ads' SEOUL, January 19 (AJP) - A hacking group believed to be linked to North Korea has spread malware through ads on Google and Naver. According to an analysis by South Korean cybersecurity firm Genians on Monday, Konni, suspected to be part of APT37, a North Korean state-sponsored cyber espionage group, used online advertising networks to launch cyberattacks by covertly routing users through malicious intermediary web links before landing them on advertisers' websites. Under a cyber operation dubbed the "Poseidon Operation," North Korean hackers copy URLs and then guide users step by step to an external server hosting malicious files. Even when artificial intelligence (AI)-based tools or security systems detect the links, they can be difficult to block because they appear to originate from legitimate Naver or Google domains. These attacks begin with spoofed emails, often posing as financial institutions or other trusted entities, to lure recipients into opening the message. Once users click the link, malicious software is installed that enables remote control of their devices. Genians warned that the latest findings reveal the increasing sophistication of North Korean cyberattacks, urging users to avoid clicking on suspicious links in e-mails or online ads. 2026-01-19 14:39:55
  • S. Korea, Italy agree to boost cooperation on AI and semiconductors
    S. Korea, Italy agree to boost cooperation on AI and semiconductors SEOUL, January 19 (AJP) - South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni agreed on Monday to strengthen supply chain stability and industrial ties, focusing on semiconductors and artificial intelligence. During a summit at the presidential Blue House in Seoul, the two leaders oversaw the signing of three memorandums of understanding aimed at deepening cooperation in technology, disaster response, and cultural exchange. The meeting marked the first official visit by an Italian prime minister to South Korea in 19 years. The centerpiece of the summit was an agreement to expand business collaboration in the semiconductor sector. Under the terms of the memorandum, Seoul and Rome committed to sharing supply chain data and linking public and private networks to foster development in AI and other advanced industries. Lee described the partnership as a strategic fit between Italy’s scientific tradition and South Korea’s technological manufacturing base. "If Italy's traditional strengths as a science powerhouse combine with the core DNA of South Korea as a technology powerhouse, the two countries can create significant synergy," Lee said in his opening remarks. He noted that bilateral cooperation was already growing in aerospace and defense, adding that the potential for the relationship felt "limitless." Meloni emphasized that despite the geographic distance, the two nations were aligned on key issues, including critical minerals and energy security. "I have always viewed President Lee's pragmatic approach very positively and respect it," Meloni said. She expressed hope that the visit would establish a framework for regular political dialogue to address international crises. The leaders also discussed expanding cultural and personnel exchanges. Meloni noted South Korea's growing influence in soft power, remarking that her daughter is a fan of K-pop. Other than the technology agreements, the two governments signed a memorandum on civil protection to share policies on disaster management. A separate agreement between South Korea's Korea Heritage Service and the Italian Ministry of Culture established protocols for sharing data on heritage management and preventing the illegal trafficking of cultural properties. Lee also thanked Italy for its historical support, specifically citing the medical units Rome dispatched during the 1950~53 Korean War. 2026-01-19 14:00:50