Journalist

Ryu Yuna
  • BTS Comeback-29: How K-pop is woven into the Korean heritage
    BTS Comeback-29: How K-pop is woven into the Korean heritage SEOUL, February 20 (AJP) - On a chilly afternoon during the Lunar New Year holiday, the long line outside the National Museum of Korea curled past the plaza and into the nearby park. Families carrying gift boxes, grandparents holding grandchildren’s hands, and young couples in padded coats waited patiently for their turn to enter. For many, this was not a detour between holiday meals. It was the destination. Over two days of the Seollal break — Feb. 16 and 18 — more than 86,000 people passed through the museum gates. An average of 43,232 visitors a day, nearly three times the facility’s recommended capacity, filled its galleries. It was 2.7 times higher than the turnout during the 2024 holiday. In January alone, more than 730,000 people visited. By mid-February, another 428,000 had followed. If the pace continues, annual attendance is expected to approach six million, close to last year’s record of 6.5 million — the highest since the museum’s founding in 1945. Foreign visitors accounted for just 1.7 percent. This was, overwhelmingly, a domestic pilgrimage. A museum official described the institution as becoming a “holiday cultural sanctuary.” The phrase is telling. What was once a quiet, weekday destination for students and scholars has become, on major holidays, a shared civic space — where leisure, memory and identity converge. In this crowd lies a deeper shift. For decades, Korea’s popular culture has traveled outward — through music, drama and fashion. Heritage, by contrast, remained largely inward-looking, confined to textbooks and special exhibitions. Today, the two currents are beginning to meet. From Stage to Heritage: K-pop Enters Cultural Stewardship That convergence is increasingly visible in the actions of artists such as RM, leader of BTS. K-pop is no longer content to borrow tradition as visual ornament. It is beginning to participate in the preservation of cultural substance itself. In 2021 and 2022, RM donated a total of 200 million won to the Overseas Korean Cultural Heritage Foundation, supporting the restoration of a Joseon-era bridal robe, or hwarot, housed at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Made of red silk and densely embroidered with phoenixes, peonies and longevity symbols, the robe represents one of the most fragile and rare categories of Korean artifacts. The funds were used to stabilize deteriorating fabric and preserve its intricate embroidery. After conservation work by Korean specialists, the restored garment was exhibited in Korea in 2023 before returning to the United States. It was a modest project in scale. Its implications were not. Beyond Symbolism The restoration demonstrated how the global influence of a pop artist can be channeled into institutional heritage work. The donation was administered within Korea’s formal conservation framework, linking private cultural capital with public preservation systems. In the comment section of a K-Heritage Channel video documenting the project, one overseas fan wrote: “Thanks to BTS & Namjoon I have studied Korean history… The beauty of Korean culture & heritage is preserved & spread.” It was not a promotional slogan. It was a record of transmission — from entertainment to historical curiosity, from fandom to scholarship. This is where the shift lies. K-pop’s relationship with tradition has long been visual: hanbok-inspired costumes, palace backdrops, classical motifs. What is emerging now is structural. Artists are participating in the long, technical and often invisible work of conservation. Heritage in Institutional Context The hwarot project also illustrates a broader model. Cultural assets held overseas can be managed through cooperation between domestic specialists and international museums. Restoration is no longer an isolated act of recovery, but part of a transnational governance system for heritage. RM’s role was catalytic, not performative. His resources enabled professionals to do their work. His name drew attention. The institutions carried the process. That balance matters. It suggests that popular culture, when embedded in formal frameworks, can reinforce — rather than dilute — the authority of heritage institutions. The Present Momentum This cultural expansion is unfolding alongside RM’s growing presence in the art world. The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art has announced “RM x SFMOMA,” scheduled for October 2026 to February 2027, featuring works from his personal collection alongside the museum’s holdings. His collection spans Korean modern masters such as Yun Hyong-keun and Kim Whanki, and Western figures including Mark Rothko and Georgia O’Keeffe. The impulse is consistent: not to isolate traditions, but to place them in dialogue. On stage, he is a global idol. Inside museum walls, he operates as a cultural intermediary. Two spheres, once separate, are converging. Cultural Stewardship Back at the National Museum, as families drifted from the Silla gold crowns to the Joseon calligraphy halls, few were consciously tracing this connection. They were there for rest, curiosity, and a shared holiday experience. Yet their presence is part of the same story. K-pop once helped popularize hanbok as fashion. Today, it is helping sustain it as heritage. The restoration of a single Joseon bridal robe may seem minor in a world of billion-view videos and stadium tours. But it signals a direction. Tradition is no longer a decorative remnant. It is being repositioned as a strategic asset and a shared public trust. From packed museum halls to overseas conservation labs, Korea’s cultural ecosystem is widening. Popular culture is no longer merely consuming history. It is learning, quietly, to take responsibility for it. 2026-02-20 17:33:43
  • KOSPI unfazed by geopolitical risks in its record-setting winning streak
    KOSPI unfazed by geopolitical risks in its record-setting winning streak SEOUL, February 20 (AJP)- South Korean shares extended their relentless rally in early Friday trading, brushing off global market weakness and rising geopolitical tensions between the United States and Iran. The benchmark KOSPI surged past the 5,700 mark to set another record high. As of 10:50 a.m., the index was up 1.26 percent at 5,748.65. The tech-heavy KOSDAQ slipped 0.25 percent to 1,157.77. In regional markets, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index opened lower after a holiday break, falling 0.27 percent to 26,633.60 as of 9:31 a.m. local time. Wall Street retreated overnight as concerns grew over a potential U.S. strike on Iran. With nuclear negotiations between Washington and Tehran showing little progress, reports that the U.S. military had reinforced its assets in the Middle East weighed on investor sentiment. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.54 percent, the S&P 500 lost 0.28 percent, and the Nasdaq Composite slipped 0.31 percent. Despite the global pullback, brokerage stocks in Seoul rallied across the board. SK Securities and Sangsangin Investment & Securities hit fresh 52-week highs, jumping 24.89 percent and 20.94 percent, respectively, as of 10:05 a.m. Other major brokerages also posted strong gains, including NH Investment & Securities (11.29 percent), Daishin Securities (7.16 percent), Mirae Asset Securities (4.11 percent), Samsung Securities (5.65 percent) and Kyobo Securities (8.53 percent). The rally was driven by rising trading volumes and growing expectations that a revision to the Commercial Act requiring the cancellation of treasury shares will be approved. The Korean won strengthened slightly, trading at 1,449.40 per dollar, up 1.60 won from the previous session. Investor flows were mixed. Individual and foreign investors sold a net 79.1 billion won and 430.4 billion won worth of shares, respectively, while institutions bought a net 587.6 billion won. Among heavyweight stocks, Samsung Electronics and SK hynix slipped 0.16 percent and 0.67 percent to 189,300 won and 888,000 won, respectively. Battery maker LG Energy Solution rose 0.37 percent to 405,000 won. Meanwhile, nuclear power equipment maker Doosan Enerbility and defense contractor Hanwha Aerospace climbed 6.50 percent and 6.70 percent to 104,800 won and 1,226,000 won, respectively. Financial and biotech stocks also advanced. Samsung Life Insurance jumped 7.18 percent to 224,000 won, while Samsung Biologics added 0.87 percent to 1,735,000 won. Automakers showed mixed performance. Hyundai Motor fell 0.78 percent to 509,000 won, while affiliate Kia gained 0.29 percent to 170,500 won. Shipbuilders were among the gainers. HD Hyundai Heavy Industries jumped 2.61 percent to 589,000 won, and Hanwha Ocean climbed 2.70 percent to 144,400 won. In Tokyo, Japan’s Nikkei 225 fell 1.17 percent to 56,796.91. China’s Shanghai market is set to resume trading next Tuesday following the holiday break. 2026-02-20 11:13:36
  • KOSPIs star winners show why Seoul market shines in the AI transition
    KOSPI's star winners show why Seoul market shines in the AI transition SEOUL, February 19 (AJP) — South Korea’s benchmark KOSPI has emerged as the world’s best-performing major equity index so far in 2026, extending a record-breaking rally and decisively shaking off the long-standing “Korea discount.” The index has more than doubled since the end of 2024, rising nearly 34 percent this year alone after a 75.6 percent surge in 2025. No other major global benchmark has matched its year-to-date performance, reflecting a structural re-rating of Korean equities rather than a temporary rebound. Market analysts say the rally is being driven by Korea’s growing role at the core of the global artificial intelligence supply chain — from memory chips powering hyperscale data centers to power and grid equipment needed to support soaring electricity demand. With the index advancing steadily toward the symbolic 6,000 level, most major winners are concentrated in sectors benefiting from the AI investment cycle. Power equipment leads the rally Among the standout performers is HD Hyundai Electric, whose shares have surged about 5,300 percent over the past five years. The rally has been fueled by a global supercycle in power infrastructure, driven by massive investment in transmission networks and substations to support data centers and electrification. Last year, the company posted revenue of 4.08 trillion won, up 22.8 percent from a year earlier, while operating profit jumped 48.8 percent to 995.3 billion won. Yoo Jae-sun, an analyst at Hana Securities, said the company’s product mix is strengthening earnings. “High-margin power distribution products centered on ultra-high-voltage equipment are being added to the portfolio, which should make a meaningful contribution to profits,” Yoo said. Overseas markets have been the main growth engine. North American revenue rose 29.7 percent last year to account for 47 percent of total sales, while European revenue climbed 38.3 percent to exceed 10 percent. Shares have gained more than 13 percent over the past month and were trading up 2 percent at 968,000 won on Thursday afternoon. Semiconductors ride the AI supercycle Chipmakers are also benefiting from sustained global demand for AI hardware. The Philadelphia Semiconductor Index remains near record territory, reinforcing confidence in the sector. Son Ik-jun of Heungkuk Securities expects the upcycle to persist. “The supply shortage of DRAM and NAND is likely to continue through 2027,” Son said. “Combined operating profit at major memory makers could reach 36.2 trillion won in 2026 and 46.9 trillion won in 2027.” Against this backdrop, Samsung Electronics has climbed sharply over the past year, rising from around 50,000 won to above 170,000 won as AI-driven chip demand accelerates. The rebound has been supported by rising DRAM and NAND prices since late 2024, improving margins and a turnaround in quarterly earnings. The stock was up 4.25 percent at 188,900 won on Thursday. Nomura Securities recently raised its target price for Samsung to 290,000 won, citing signs that the company is regaining leadership in the memory market. SK hynix has also advanced, supported by strong demand for high-bandwidth memory used in Nvidia’s AI accelerators. Shares rose 1.99 percent to 897,500 won. Over five years, SK hynix has gained 561.6 percent, while Samsung is up 115.2 percent, reflecting the memory supercycle and the rapid expansion of AI-related workloads. Long-term winners broaden Five-year performance data point to a broader multi-year upcycle across Korean industries. As of Feb. 13, 2026, Isu Petasys led long-term gainers with a 3,379 percent rise, followed by Hyosung Heavy Industries (2,645 percent) and Hanwha Aerospace (2,464 percent). HD Hyundai Marine Engine and Doosan Enerbility also delivered strong gains of 2,308 percent and 696 percent, respectively. Isu Petasys has benefited from rising demand for high-layer printed circuit boards used in AI servers, high-performance computing systems and advanced networking equipment. Brokerages including Meritz and SK Securities have raised target prices, citing its growing role in advanced packaging and TPU-related supply chains. Strong performance has not been limited to technology. Industrial and defense-related names have also outperformed amid shifting geopolitical and security conditions. Hanwha Ocean has risen 379 percent over five years, supported by rising global defense spending and stronger shipbuilding demand. Shipbuilding, aerospace and heavy machinery firms have benefited from expanding export orders and government-backed investment programs linked to security and energy infrastructure. Analysts say the KOSPI’s strong showing reflects more than cyclical recovery. After years of underperformance due to governance concerns, geopolitical risk and weak valuations, Korea’s equity market is undergoing a structural re-rating as global investors reassess its position in the AI-driven economy. Korean companies now occupy critical positions in memory chips, advanced components, power equipment and industrial systems — industries that form the backbone of the AI ecosystem. As global investment in artificial intelligence infrastructure continues to accelerate, Korea’s equity market is adjusting in parallel. Market participants say the rally increasingly reflects long-term competitiveness rather than short-term speculation, positioning the KOSPI as a leading global benchmark in the AI era. 2026-02-19 17:16:26
  • Hiring plans reflect chip boom vs weak consumption in Korea
    Hiring plans reflect chip boom vs weak consumption in Korea SEOUL, February 19 (AJP) -Electronics and semiconductor manufacturers enjoying an exceptional, record-setting second year from the artificial intelligence boom are set to lead hiring among South Korean employers in 2026, according to a new survey by HR technology company Incruit released Thursday. Incruit’s survey of 873 companies — including 102 large corporations, 122 mid-sized firms and 649 small and medium-sized enterprises — found that 84.4 percent of electronics and semiconductor companies plan to hire new university graduates this year, the highest among all industries. The survey was conducted between Jan. 5 and 27 through email questionnaires and telephone interviews with HR managers. The figure marks a 23.8 percentage-point increase from a year earlier, reflecting strong business conditions driven by surging demand for high-value chips used in artificial intelligence servers and data centers and competition over chipmaking engineers. Not just memory makers like Micron, U.S. big-tech names including Nvidia, Google and Tesla are aggressively chasing Korean engineers due to Korea's edge in chipmaking. Nvidia, the world’s leading supplier of AI accelerators and the largest buyer of HBM chips, is currently advertising senior memory system engineer positions at its Santa Clara headquarters, with base salaries of up to $356,500. The roles require more than a decade of experience in DRAM design and deep knowledge of HBM, a profile that closely matches engineers at Korea’s two dominant memory producers. HBM-dominant SK hynix’s revenue and operating income rose 47 percent and 101 percent to $68 billion and $33 billion, respectively. Its annual operating profit reached a record 47.2 trillion won, surpassing Samsung Electronics’ 43.6 trillion won. Google and Broadcom, which jointly develop tensor processing units for Google’s AI infrastructure, are also hiring HBM engineers in Silicon Valley. Google has posted openings for silicon validation engineers focused on characterizing HBM performance, while Broadcom is seeking specialists in design-for-test verification across HBM, DDR and high-speed interface technologies. Tesla has taken a more direct approach in Korea. Tesla Korea posted a job listing on Feb. 15 for AI chip design engineers as part of a project to develop proprietary AI processors for mass production. The recruitment drive was amplified by Chief Executive Elon Musk, who reposted the opening on his X account earlier this week. Industry analysts say the global competition for Korean chip engineers reflects the strategic importance of memory technology in the AI race. Reviving construction sector Following semiconductors, the construction, civil engineering, real estate and leasing sector ranked second in Incruit’s survey, with 83.3 percent of firms planning to hire, up sharply from 57.9 percent a year earlier. The IT, telecommunications and gaming sector followed at 80.5 percent. Media, advertising, education and publishing, and healthcare and pharmaceuticals also recorded relatively high hiring intentions, each approaching or exceeding 75 percent. Underscoring the prolonged slump in consumption, travel, accommodation and aviation sector posted the lowest hiring rate at 56.7 percent. Apparel, footwear and other manufacturing firms followed at 63.3 percent, while distribution and logistics companies stood at 64.0 percent. “These sectors are closely tied to household consumption and the broader real economy, which remains under pressure,” Incruit said. In terms of year-on-year changes, construction-related industries and electronics and semiconductors showed the largest gains in hiring plans, rising by 25.4 and 23.8 percentage points, respectively.Transportation recorded the steepest decline, with hiring intentions falling 4.5 percentage points to 64.3 percent. Automobile and auto parts manufacturers also saw a drop of 4.1 points to 66.7 percent. 2026-02-19 13:49:51
  • Seoul indices turbocharged after three-day break, hit another milestone
    Seoul indices turbocharged after three-day break, hit another milestone SEOUL, Feb. 19 (AJP) – Seoul bourses returned from a three-day Lunar New Year break on Thursday with strong gains, fueled by robust demand for technology and chip shares amid signs of easing U.S. inflation. U.S. January consumer prices rose 2.4 percent year on year, the slowest pace in eight months. Core inflation, which excludes food and energy, increased 2.5 percent, marking its lowest rise since March 2021. Nvidia climbed 1.63 percent overnight after reports that Meta Platforms agreed to purchase millions of its latest-generation graphics processing units. The Philadelphia Semiconductor Index rose 0.96 percent. Softer inflation data and sustained artificial intelligence-related demand lifted risk appetite across Asian markets at the open. The benchmark KOSPI jumped more than 2 percent in early trading, breaking the 5,600 mark just a week after surpassing its previous three-digit milestone. As of 10:27 a.m., the index stood at 5,643.80, up 2.49 percent, while the tech-heavy KOSDAQ advanced 3.24 percent to 1,141.73. The Korean won strengthened slightly, trading at 1,451.60 per dollar, up 1.80 won from the previous session. Investor flows were mixed. Individual and foreign investors sold a net 92.7 billion won ($64 million) and 321.7 billion won, respectively, while institutions bought a net 362.2 billion won. Heavyweight semiconductor stocks led the rally. As of 9:58 a.m., Samsung Electronics surged 5.08 percent to 190,400 won, while SK hynix gained 1.93 percent to 897,000 won. Battery maker LG Energy Solution rose 0.51 percent to 397,000 won. Financial and biotech shares also advanced. Samsung Life Insurance climbed 3.16 percent to 212,000 won, and Samsung Biologics added 0.99 percent to 1,727,000 won. Automakers extended gains, with Hyundai Motor up 0.50 percent and affiliate Kia rising 2.50 percent to 168,200 won. Defense-related stocks strengthened, led by Hanwha Aerospace, which rose 3.17 percent to 1,140,000 won. Shipbuilders outperformed the broader market. HD Hyundai Heavy Industries jumped 7.37 percent to 583,000 won, while Hanwha Ocean surged 9.55 percent to 142,200 won. Elsewhere in the region, Japan’s Nikkei 225 gained 0.78 percent to 57,587.67. Hong Kong markets are set to reopen on Friday, while Shanghai will resume trading on Feb. 24. 2026-02-19 11:02:23
  • BTS Comeback D-36: War with scalping begins, but victory may not be easy
    BTS Comeback D-36: War with scalping begins, but victory may not be easy SEOUL, February 13 (AJP) - South Korea’s ticket scalping market has expanded more than fortyfold over the past five years, drawing heightened scrutiny ahead of BTS’s highly anticipated comeback concert and domestic tour. “BTS The Comeback Live: ARIRANG,” scheduled for March 21 at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul, will offer around 15,000 to 17,000 seats. General reservations open at 8 p.m. on February 23 through NOL Ticket. Of the total, 2,000 standing spots will be raffled to ARMY members who pre-ordered the group’s new album. The concert is free. But free events often attract even more aggressive scalping. At BTS’s 2022 Busan Expo concert, VIP tickets were resold for up to 4 million won. Illegal transactions spread through social media and private chat rooms, with scalpers using automated programs and account transfers to bypass ticketing controls. Regular tour shows are scheduled in Goyang on April 9, 11 and 12, and in Busan on June 12 and 13. Scalping Cases Surge According to the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korea Creative Content Agency, suspected online scalping cases surged from 6,237 in 2020 to 184,933 in 2024, reaching 259,334 as of August 2025. About 75 percent of cases in 2024 were linked to music concerts. In response, the country’s largest ticket resale platform will cap resale prices at 1 million won starting January 1, 2026, automatically blocking listings above that level. The amendments to the Public Performance Act and the National Sports Promotion Act, passed late last month, ban all illegal ticket resales, allow authorities to confiscate profits, and impose fines of up to 50 times the resale amount. But they go into full effect late July. Previously, scalping was illegal only when macro software was used, leaving most individual resales on social media, online forums and private marketplaces largely unregulated. The revised law aims to close that loophole. Tax authorities have joined the crackdown. Last November, they launched their first large-scale investigation into high-volume scalpers targeting K-pop concerts and major sports events. The 17 individuals identified included teachers, public-sector employees and business owners. The total volume of tickets distributed through illegal channels was estimated at more than 20 billion won. Regardless of the law, the government plans to be strict against exploitative ticket sales of BTS concerts. Culture Minister Chae Hwi-young warned Thursday of a strong government crackdown, saying illegal resales must not be allowed to spoil BTS’s return. The economic impact of BTS concerts extends well beyond ticket sales. Accommodation prices have surged during major tour periods, raising broader inflation concerns. According to a joint investigation by the Korea Fair Trade Commission and the Korea Consumer Agency, 135 accommodations in Busan were surveyed during the June concert period. The average nightly rate for the concert weekend of June 13–14 reached 433,999 won — 2.4 times higher than surrounding weeks. Motel rates averaged 325,801 won, up 3.3 times, while hotel rates averaged 631,546 won, a 2.9-fold increase. Pension rates rose more modestly to 296,437 won, about 1.2 times the usual level. At some properties, price hikes were far steeper. One hotel room normally priced at 100,000 won was listed for 750,000 won. Thirteen properties raised rates by more than five times, with some rooms jumping from the 300,000-won range to as high as 1.8 million won. Despite regulatory efforts, containing price inflation linked to major events remains difficult when demand reaches fever pitch. For many fans, however, cost is secondary. “Will I pay many times more to see BTS? You bet,” said one Seoul-based fan. 2026-02-13 15:52:18
  • BTS Comeback D-36: From $15 dorms to mid-range stays, Itaewon has all for fans
    BTS Comeback D-36: From $15 dorms to mid-range stays, Itaewon has all for fans SEOUL, February 12 (AJP) — Five-star hotels offering bird’s-eye views of Gwanghwamun are already fully booked for the March 21–22 weekend, when BTS is set to stage its long-awaited comeback concerts. No-vacancy signs now stretch to mid-tier and budget hotels in Myeongdong and Jongno, while prices continue to climb. On major booking platforms, some three-star properties within walking distance of Gwanghwamun are charging nearly triple their usual rates. For fans traveling from outside the capital — and from abroad — AJP advises looking a few subway stops beyond central Seoul, toward Itaewon, where a wider range of affordable and mid-priced accommodations remains available. “Booking inquiries have increased significantly in recent weeks, but we are not planning to raise our room rates,” said the owner of A One Hotel Itaewon, located about a three-minute walk from Itaewon Station. Owner Heo Seong-jin said the hotel recently completed renovations but chose to keep prices stable. About 70 percent of his guests are international travelers, reflecting the area’s long-standing global profile. “Even if guests don’t speak Korean, we can communicate comfortably in English,” Heo said. “The stay may last only a few days, but the trust we build is meant to last much longer.” With thousands of BTS fans expected, the hotel has reinforced hygiene and service standards ahead of the peak period. Pricing approaches differ even within the same neighborhood. Near Exit 1 of Itaewon Station, Hamilton Hotel Seoul remains one of the district’s best-known landmarks. Opened in the 1970s, it has long benefited from direct access to Subway Line 6. A staff member said international guests account for the majority of visitors and that room rates were adjusted modestly for the concert period. “Usually we have around 60 rooms available, but only about 15 remain for those dates,” he said. “Looking at the booking pace, we can really feel the BTS effect.” While larger properties have moved prices in line with demand, many small and mid-sized operators have opted for stability over short-term gains, preserving long-term customer relationships. The result is a patchwork market in which pricing reflects each operator’s strategy as much as supply and demand. From $15 Beds to Mid-Range Comfort One of Itaewon’s main advantages is its unusually wide price spectrum. At Seoul Cube Itaewon, a six-bed mixed dormitory for March 21–23 is currently listed at about $15 per night (around $16 including taxes and fees), with free Wi-Fi and cancellation. Mid-range dormitory options are also available. G Guesthouse Itaewon, near Exit 4 of Itaewon Station, is offering a women-only four-bed dormitory for about 89,000 won ($67) per night, including breakfast. Availability, however, is tightening rapidly. At Sounds Inn Itaewon, near Noksapyeong Station, only one room remained for March 19 as of this week. “Foreign guests began booking from mid-March,” a manager said. “We’re offering rooms at around 60,000 won per night.” The operator is also preparing to open a new branch near Gwanghwamun in early March to accommodate rising demand. For fans traveling in pairs or small groups, many two- to four-person rooms in Itaewon offer further cost savings through shared stays. Location Still Matters Beyond price, accessibility remains a decisive factor. Connected by Subway Line 6, Itaewon provides relatively direct access to central Seoul. Gwanghwamun can be reached in about 20 minutes, including transfers — a manageable commute even late at night. For international visitors unfamiliar with Seoul’s transport system, this balance between distance and convenience helps reduce post-concert fatigue and logistical stress. Extending the Stay Itaewon also allows fans to extend their experience beyond the concert itself. Its proximity to Namsan, home to N Seoul Tower, offers panoramic views of the city. Nearby Han River parks provide popular settings for late-night walks and informal gatherings. Meanwhile, Gyeongnidan-gil and surrounding streets, where many cafes and restaurants stay open late, allow visitors to continue exploring after the show. From Itaewon Station, riverside districts such as Banpo and Ichon can be reached in about 10 to 15 minutes by public transit or taxi. AJP Tip: With availability tightening and prices still rising, fans planning to attend the March concerts are advised to: • Book early, especially for budget and mid-range options • Consider shared rooms to reduce per-person costs • Prioritize access to Subway Line 6 for smoother travel • Check cancellation policies as demand fluctuates 2026-02-13 13:18:36
  • Korean shares hold ground amid thin Asian trade ahead of long holiday
    Korean shares hold ground amid thin Asian trade ahead of long holiday SEOUL, February 13 (AJP) — South Korean shares held firm Thursday despite broad losses and subdued trading across Asia ahead of the Lunar New Year holiday, supported by renewed optimism over the semiconductor sector. Wall Street tech stocks fell overnight on concerns that artificial intelligence could disrupt the traditional software industry, dampening regional sentiment. However, strong earnings from Japan’s chipmaker Kioxia lifted investor confidence in South Korea, fueling hopes of a recovery in the global memory market. Kioxia, a major producer of NAND flash memory, reported third-quarter sales of 543 billion yen and issued fourth-quarter revenue guidance of 890 billion yen, both exceeding market expectations. The company also said its average selling price rose more than 10 percent from the previous quarter, signaling improving profitability. The upbeat outlook boosted local semiconductor shares. Samsung Electronics climbed above 180,000 won for the first time, pushing the KOSPI to a new intraday high above the 5,500 level before trimming gains on profit-taking. The stock was up 1.82 percent at 181,850 won ($126) in morning trade. As of 11:00 a.m., the benchmark KOSPI stood at 5,540.66, up 0.33 percent, after drifting lower earlier in the session. The KOSDAQ fell 1.55 percent to 1,108.57, pressured by new rules tightening delisting requirements for penny stocks. The won edged lower against the U.S. dollar, snapping a four-day winning streak. The exchange rate stood at 1,443.20 per dollar at 10:00 a.m., up 0.70 won from the previous session. Investor flows were mixed. Individual investors bought a net 490 billion won worth of shares, while foreigners and institutions sold a net 188.5 billion won and 316.2 billion won, respectively. Broader sentiment remained cautious despite gains in Samsung Electronics. Chipmaker SK hynix slipped 0.39 percent to 884,500 won, while battery maker LG Energy Solution fell 3.17 percent to 397,000 won. Financial and biotech shares showed mixed performance. Samsung Life Insurance rose 0.73 percent, while Samsung Biologics declined 0.81 percent. Automaker shares moved lower, with Hyundai Motor down 1.38 percent and affiliate Kia falling 1.56 percent to 499,000 won and 163,700 won, respectively. Defense-related shares softened, as Hanwha Aerospace slid 2.48 percent to 1,103,000 won. Shipbuilders showed mixed performance. HD Hyundai Heavy Industries gained 1.11 percent to 545,000 won, while Hanwha Ocean dropped 1.97 percent to 129,200 won. Elsewhere in the region, Japan’s Nikkei 225 fell 0.97 percent to 57,080.44, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index slipped 1.45 percent to 26,640.16, and China’s Shanghai Composite edged down 0.44 percent to 4,115.92 in morning trading. Business will be usual at the Tokyo exchange next week while Seoul opens Thursday, Hong Kong Friday, and Shanghai on Feb. 24. 2026-02-13 11:24:43
  • Chip surge pushes KOSPI past 5,400 amid broader Asian gains
    Chip surge pushes KOSPI past 5,400 amid broader Asian gains SEOUL, February 12 (AJP) – Major Asian stock markets advanced on Thursday, led by semiconductor shares after strong gains in U.S. chipmakers boosted optimism about the sector, while Japanese equities extended their rally. Shares of U.S. memory chipmaker Micron Technology surged nearly 10 percent overnight after the company said it was supplying sixth-generation high-bandwidth memory (HBM4) chips to Nvidia without disruption, quelling speculation it had been excluded from the supply chain. The Philadelphia Semiconductor Index rose 2.3 percent. Although the three main U.S. indexes ended slightly lower, confirmation that HBM4 has entered mass production improved sentiment toward chip stocks globally and reinforced expectations of a semiconductor upcycle. The positive spillover lifted South Korea’s market, where heavyweight chip stocks drove the benchmark KOSPI above the 5,400 level for the first time. As of 10: 31 a.m., Samsung Electronics rose 3.64 percent to 173,900 won ($120), while SK hynix climbed 3.26 percent to 888,000 won, leading gains in Seoul. The KOSPI was up 2.11 percent at 5,468.56, while the tech-heavy KOSDAQ added 0.31 percent to 1,118.19. The Korean won weakened slightly, with the dollar rising 0.80 won to 1,448.80 won. Investor flows were mixed, with retail investors selling a net 834.7 billion won worth of shares, while foreign and institutional investors purchased a net 487.2 billion won and 341.1 billion won, respectively. Battery maker LG Energy Solution gained 3.06 percent, while performance among other major stocks was mixed. Samsung Life Insurance rose 2.25 percent, but Samsung Biologics slipped 0.23 percent. Automakers traded unevenly, with Hyundai Motor down 0.98 percent while affiliate Kia rose 0.68 percent. Defense-related shares softened, as Hanwha Aerospace fell 0.53 percent. Shipbuilders advanced, with HD Hyundai Heavy Industries gaining 0.74 percent and Hanwha Ocean adding 0.77 percent. Financial shares also extended a strong rally this month, significantly outperforming the broader market. JB Financial Group rose 4.55 percent, iM Financial Group gained 3.89 percent and Hana Financial Group added 1.43 percent. The sector’s strength has been supported by solid earnings, expanded shareholder return policies and expectations of a valuation re-rating. Japanese equities continued to climb, helped by expectations of renewed momentum in the so-called “Takaichi trade,” reflecting hopes of a dovish monetary stance and fiscal expansion. The Nikkei 225 rose 0.48 percent to 57,926.61 in morning trading. Japan-focused exchange-traded funds listed in South Korea also rallied. TIGER Japan Nikkei 225 gained 8.59 percent over the past five sessions, while ACE Japan TOPIX Leverage (H) jumped 10.62 percent. Technology-focused funds also surged, with PLUS Japan Semiconductor Materials and Equipment and Midas Japan Tech Active rising 9.78 percent and 10.10 percent, respectively. Elsewhere in the region, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index slipped 0.29 percent to 27,187.17, while China’s Shanghai Composite edged up 0.12 percent to 4,136.99 in morning trade. 2026-02-12 10:51:52
  • Thailand sells luxury healing image as Korean travelers drift away
    Thailand sells 'luxury healing' image as Korean travelers drift away SEOUL, February 11 (AJP) – Thailand is rebranding itself as a “luxury healing” destination as it struggles to win back South Korean travelers increasingly opting for Vietnam and other alternatives amid rising costs, currency pressure and lingering safety concerns linked to regional tensions. Under its global “Amazing Thailand” campaign, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) will reposition its 2026 communications strategy around the tagline “Healing is the New Luxury,” reflecting shifting travel preferences in the Korean market. Siriges Anong Trirattanasongpol, executive director for East Asia and former head of the TAT Seoul office, said Korea remains central to Thailand’s strategy as it pivots toward higher-value tourism. “Korean travelers are experienced, highly informed and increasingly selective,” she said. “They travel not only to see destinations, but to seek meaningful experiences. This aligns closely with Thailand’s 2026 direction.” “Luxury is not only about price,” she added. “It is about emotional value, wellness and personal fulfillment.” The message was echoed by Vachirachai Sirisumpan, who took office this month as head of the TAT Seoul office. “Thailand may feel familiar to many Korean travelers, but each season and each destination offers a distinct experience,” he said at his inaugural press briefing in Seoul on Wednesday. “The diversity of our attractions and the warmth of ‘Thainess’ allow visitors to rediscover the country in new ways.” Korea remains one of Thailand’s key inbound markets. Last year, Korean arrivals totaled about 1.55 million, ranking among the country’s top five source markets. Officials also cite a repeat visitation rate of around 60 percent, classifying Korea as a “high-quality” market. Yet recent booking data suggest Thailand is losing ground. According to Hana Tour, Southeast Asia accounted for 37 percent of bookings during this year’s Lunar New Year holiday, while China accounted for 12 percent, following Japan. KyoWon Tour data show Vietnam ranking second after Japan at 13.9 percent, with Thailand at 12.9 percent. Thailand has been losing appeal as affordable resort destination due to high costs. In 2025, the baht appreciated more than 9 percent against the dollar, driving up accommodation, dining and transportation costs. As a result, Thailand’s long-standing “value-for-money” image has weakened. At the same time, security concerns linked to border tensions with Cambodia and regional crime incidents have dented confidence. A Realmeter survey conducted in October 2025 found that 82.4 percent of respondents said crime incidents in Cambodia had negatively affected their perception of travel to Southeast Asia, rising to 88.3 percent among those aged 18 to 29. Incheon International Airport data also showed that departures to Southeast Asia fell month-on-month in October, with travel to Thailand declining about 5 percent. Between January and September 2025, Korea ranked fifth among source markets with about 1.73 million visitors, following China, Malaysia, India and Russia. Korean travel patterns have shifted fundamentally in recent years. Independent travel has expanded rapidly, driven by digital platforms and social media. Travelers now prioritize safety, flexibility and personal value, particularly wellness, local culture and community-based experiences. “We understand that safety awareness has heightened,” Sirisumpan said. “Maintaining Thailand’s image as a welcoming and comfortable destination is essential.” Political uncertainty may also influence sentiment. Preliminary election results suggest no party has secured a clear majority, raising the prospect of prolonged coalition talks. While tourism was not a campaign centerpiece, analysts say political instability can affect confidence. Facing these challenges, TAT says it is shifting away from a pure volume strategy toward sustainable, high-quality tourism. “Our objective is not simply to recover numbers,” Sirisumpan said. “It is to deepen trust and ensure that every visit to Thailand feels renewed and meaningful.” 2026-02-11 18:01:55