AJU PRESS ASIA FIRST NEWS AGENCY

Journalist

Hong Seungwan
  • Simmons Reports Strong Sales for Twin Super Single Frames Amid Rising Interest in Independent Sleep
    Simmons Reports Strong Sales for Twin Super Single Frames Amid Rising Interest in Independent Sleep Simmons announced on May 29 that interest in its Twin Super Single (TSS) frame, which can accommodate two super single (SS) mattresses, is growing. This trend is driven by an increasing demand from couples and families who want to choose mattresses tailored to their individual body types and sleep habits.According to Simmons, sales of the TSS frame 'Houti' have surged by 92% this month compared to its launch in January. Another TSS frame, 'Marpi,' also saw a 33% increase in sales during the same period.Houti features a four-part headboard design and is available in a natural oak color. Its surface is finished with LPM, which is resistant to heat, scratches, and stains, enhancing durability. The headboard includes a built-in Type C charging port for smartphones and tablets.Marpi also comes with charging ports on both sides, allowing users to charge electronic devices while in bed. Both products are compatible with Simmons' premium vegan mattress, the N32, and its representative adjustable bed, the 'N32 Motion Bed.' This compatibility allows for various combinations, such as motion bed plus motion bed or motion bed plus foam mattress. Additionally, both frames are made from eco-friendly materials that exceed national certification standards (E0 grade).A Simmons representative stated, "As awareness grows that quality sleep is essential, independent sleep is becoming a recognized sleep culture. We expect demand for TSS frames, which allow individuals to reflect their sleep preferences even in the same space, to continue to rise."In related news, Simmons reported a revenue of 323.9 billion won and an operating profit of 40.5 billion won last year. The company has maintained its position as the industry leader for three consecutive years, surpassing Ace Bed since 2023.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-29 11:04:00
  • E-Land Retail Reports First Quarter Operating Profit of 22.1 Billion Won
    E-Land Retail Reports First Quarter Operating Profit of 22.1 Billion Won E-Land Retail has successfully returned to profitability in the first quarter of this year. This marks the first quarterly net profit since the COVID-19 pandemic, attributed to improved store efficiency and enhanced profitability in its food business.On May 29, E-Land Retail reported consolidated sales of 384.6 billion won for the first quarter, a 2.5% increase compared to the same period last year. The operating profit reached 22.1 billion won, reflecting a significant improvement of 19.6 billion won year-on-year.The company also reported a net profit of 2.2 billion won for the quarter, an improvement of 34.1 billion won compared to the previous year. E-Land Retail stated, "This is the first time we have achieved a quarterly net profit since the pandemic began."The improvement in performance is attributed to structural enhancements and operational efficiencies. The company has focused on increasing the efficiency of urban outlet stores, such as NC, NewCore, and 2001 Outlet, while strengthening the competitiveness of its food business centered around Kim's Club. Additionally, attracting new content to key commercial locations and renewing store layouts are expected to positively impact performance in the second half of the year.Previously, E-Land Retail faced profit pressures due to one-time costs, structural changes, and high-interest burdens until last year. However, the company noted that this year has seen a clear recovery in core business competitiveness alongside a reduction in financial burdens.An E-Land Retail representative remarked, "Achieving a quarterly net profit for the first time since the pandemic indicates that our structural improvements are beginning to show in the numbers. We will focus on profitability-centered operations rather than aggressive expansion to strengthen our stable growth foundation."In January, E-Land Group introduced a business group (BG) system for its retail and food service sectors. The previously integrated retail division has been restructured into a Retail BG and a Food BG, establishing leadership tailored to each business's characteristics. This aims to enhance accountability in response to the rapidly changing retail environment.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-29 09:54:00
  • Hyungji I&C Targets Japanese Business Attire Market with Carisnote
    Hyungji I&C Targets Japanese Business Attire Market with Carisnote Hyungji I&C is partnering with Japanese trading company Itochu to penetrate the Japanese fashion market. The company plans to target both online platforms and offline distribution networks with its women's brand, Carisnote.On May 28, Hyungji I&C announced that it is officially launching its entry into the Japanese market in collaboration with Itochu and fashion distribution firm CNB Network. Itochu is a leading Japanese trading company with a global network across various industries, including textiles, fashion, food, energy, and retail. CNB Network, a partner of Itochu, is currently planning a K-fashion online platform in collaboration with the trading giant.Through this platform, Hyungji I&C aims to introduce Carisnote to the Japanese market, with plans to expand its offerings to include men's brands Yejak and Bon in the future.Japan is recognized for its relatively high demand for formal business attire. In response, Hyungji I&C's strategy focuses on maintaining the activity and functionality of Carisnote while presenting styles suitable for formal work environments.The company is also expanding its offline distribution network. This fall, Hyungji I&C plans to participate in the F/W season order meetings of major Japanese trading companies, including Itochu, to enhance its distribution channels in key department stores, premium shopping malls, and boutiques. A representative from Hyungji I&C stated, "We will intensify our efforts in the Japanese market based on a two-track strategy that encompasses both online and offline channels, while also expanding the overseas presence of our brands."Additionally, prior to its entry into Japan, Carisnote recently underwent a brand renewal, focusing on shedding the heavy and outdated image of its previous women's clothing while maintaining its core value of 'elegance.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-28 16:42:00
  • CJ OnStyle Accelerates AI Commerce, Customer Engagement Quadruples with ChatGPT
    CJ OnStyle Accelerates AI Commerce, Customer Engagement Quadruples with ChatGPT CJ OnStyle is rapidly transitioning to AI-driven commerce, utilizing platforms like ChatGPT. The company reported on May 28 that from May 1 to 25, traffic to its app and website via conversational AI platforms such as ChatGPT and Gemini increased more than fourfold compared to the same period last January. Earlier, on May 15, CJ OnStyle launched a dedicated app within ChatGPT, allowing customers to search for products and check broadcast information before being directed to the official CJ OnStyle app. Users can ask questions like, "Recommend beauty products around 50,000 won suitable for gifts" or "Suggest rain boots for this summer," and receive related product and broadcast information. CJ OnStyle has optimized AI for 600,000 products within its dedicated ChatGPT app, with plans to expand this to 1 million by the end of the year. This data will also enhance search and recommendation services in its own app. The company is already seeing positive results from AI recommendations in its app. CJ OnStyle analyzed customer purchase, search, and click data using AI to provide personalized product and video recommendations, resulting in a 37% increase in sales from the recommendation section of the app in the first four months of this year compared to the same period last year. Since last year, CJ OnStyle has been restructuring its product data and content to be more understandable for AI. The company explained that through Generative Engine Optimization (GEO), it has enhanced data structures to ensure accurate display and citation of brand and product information when AI generates responses. CJ OnStyle plans to expand its integration with various AI platforms, starting with ChatGPT. A company representative stated, "We will continue to enhance product data and commerce capabilities to strengthen our AI-driven commerce competitiveness." Meanwhile, CJ OnStyle reported a revenue of 378.5 billion won in the first quarter of this year, a 4.5% increase compared to the same period last year. The company aims to maintain its growth momentum in the second quarter by leveraging fandom IP and premium product competitiveness.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-28 14:30:00
  • Hyundai Home Shopping Expands Beauty Store Coasis to Four Locations
    Hyundai Home Shopping Expands Beauty Store 'Coasis' to Four Locations Hyundai Home Shopping is expanding its offline beauty business by opening multiple locations of its beauty store 'Coasis.'On May 28, Hyundai Home Shopping announced that it will open the second Coasis store at Hyundai Department Store in Cheonho on May 29. Next month, the company plans to sequentially open the third and fourth stores at Hyundai Outlet Garden Five and Dongdaemun.Coasis was first introduced in December 2025 at the Hyundai Premium Outlet Space One in Namyangju, Gyeonggi Province. The first store features over 90% skincare products and is designed with lower display heights to cater to female customers in their 40s and 50s. This approach has attracted an average of more than 2,000 visitors daily, with sales exceeding targets by over 50%.The second store will occupy 61 square meters (approximately 19 pyeong) in the basement level of Hyundai Department Store Cheonho. It will include a new section for international skincare brands to meet the demand for high-performance cosmetics among department store shoppers.The Garden Five store, set to open on June 5, will be 133 square meters (approximately 42 pyeong) and will feature a perfume zone showcasing domestic fragrance products, catering to its customer base of women in their 30s and 40s. The fourth store will open on June 12 on the second floor of Hyundai Outlet Dongdaemun, covering 124 square meters (approximately 37 pyeong).Hyundai Home Shopping plans to collaborate with domestic cosmetics brands to increase its exclusive product offerings from the current 30 to 60 by the end of the year. Han Kwang-young, CEO of Hyundai Home Shopping, stated, "We aim to develop each store into a unique beauty landmark that provides distinct enjoyment beyond simple product sales."In the first quarter of this year, Hyundai Home Shopping reported a consolidated operating profit of 65.3 billion won, a 35.9% increase compared to the same period last year. Revenue during the same period was 978.5 billion won, reflecting a 1.9% increase.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-28 14:08:00
  • Lotte Reports 181% Increase in Q1 Operating Profit Amid Business Restructuring
    Lotte Reports 181% Increase in Q1 Operating Profit Amid Business Restructuring Lotte Holdings held an investor relations (IR) meeting to discuss its improved first-quarter performance and portfolio restructuring strategy. The company aims to enhance profitability in its core businesses while strengthening financial stability through the sale of non-core assets and the optimization of low-profit operations.On May 28, Lotte Holdings announced that over 30 analysts and institutional investors attended the IR meeting held on May 27. Key executives from Lotte Holdings, including the CFO, as well as finance and IR officials from major subsidiaries such as Lotte Shopping, Lotte Construction, and Lotte Chemical, participated in the event.Lotte reported that its operating profit from core sectors, including food, retail, chemicals, and hotels, surged 181% year-on-year to 787.6 billion won in the first quarter.Lotte Shopping experienced a 71% increase in operating profit, reaching 252.9 billion won, driven by growth in its domestic and international department stores.Lotte Construction's operating profit soared 1,226% to 50.4 billion won. Lotte Wellfood and Hotel Lotte also reported operating profits of 35.8 billion won and 74.5 billion won, respectively.Lotte Chemical achieved a turnaround to profitability in operating profit for the first time in ten quarters, aided by improved spreads due to the Middle East conflict, lagging effects, and optimized factory operations.The company also shared updates on its portfolio restructuring focused on non-core businesses and asset efficiency. Since 2024, Lotte has initiated the sale of its Jeungpyeong plant, the consolidation of Lotte Chilsung Beverage branches, and the divestiture of Lotte Chemical's Pakistan subsidiary and Lotte Eco Wall to secure liquidity.This year, Lotte plans to continue restructuring low-efficiency operations, including the sale of Lotte Rental and the reorganization of Lotte Chemical's Daesan and Yeosu plants. Additionally, it outlined investment strategies for new businesses in sectors such as biotechnology, battery and semiconductor materials, and hydrogen.Lotte Biologics is set to complete the construction of its first plant at the Songdo campus in the second half of this year. Following the completion, the company plans to expand its global operations based on a production system connecting Syracuse, USA, and Songdo, Incheon.Lotte Energy Materials is adjusting its production focus from electric vehicle battery foil to energy storage system (ESS) batteries and AI circuit boards.Lotte Holdings stated, "We will work to secure financial stability and enhance corporate value through the reduction of project financing (PF) contingent liabilities at Lotte Construction and efficient investment execution within EBITDA."Meanwhile, Shin Dong-bin, chairman of Lotte Group, visited Hanoi, Vietnam, last month for his first overseas management visit of the year. During his visit to Lotte Mall Westlake Hanoi, he urged, "While strengthening the market competitiveness of existing core businesses, please also focus on pioneering new businesses in advanced urban construction, eco-friendly materials, and logistics."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-28 10:51:00
  • Gmarket to End Homeplus Same-Day Delivery Service
    Gmarket to End Homeplus Same-Day Delivery Service Gmarket, an e-commerce platform under the Shinsegae Group, will discontinue its same-day delivery service for Homeplus. This decision comes as Homeplus undergoes corporate restructuring amid ongoing financial difficulties and the suspension of operations at some of its stores. According to the retail industry on May 27, Gmarket plans to end the Homeplus same-day delivery service on June 30. Gmarket launched the 'Homeplus Same-Day Delivery Specialty Section' in July 2015, allowing customers to receive orders placed by 4 p.m. on the same day. The service offered fresh produce, meat, and household items based on Homeplus's nationwide store network. Gmarket partnered with Homeplus to meet the demand for fresh food among online shoppers, leveraging the supermarket's logistics network for quick deliveries.However, since Homeplus filed for corporate rehabilitation in March 2022 to initiate proactive restructuring, the service has faced disruptions. In September and October of last year, same-day delivery was suspended at several locations, including Gayang, Siheung, and Jeonju Wansan.Recently, there was some hope for improvement when Homeplus sold its supermarket division, Homeplus Express, to NS Shopping, a subsidiary of Harim Group. However, financial challenges remain significant. Homeplus is expected to receive approximately 120 billion won from the sale by the end of next month, but reports indicate difficulties in paying employee salaries and normalizing supply deliveries.Currently, Homeplus has temporarily suspended operations at 37 of its 104 hypermarket locations until July 3. This reduction in store operations is likely to weaken the foundation for online same-day delivery services.As uncertainty grows regarding Homeplus's operational status, industry insiders believe Gmarket's decision to end the service reflects this instability. One industry source stated, "Given that Homeplus has suspended operations at 37 stores for nearly two months, Gmarket likely determined it could not maintain the same-day delivery service as before."A Gmarket representative noted, "We plan to introduce various delivery services in the future to provide a better online shopping experience."Meanwhile, the deadline for the approval of Homeplus's rehabilitation plan is set for July 3. If a buyer is not found by then, the possibility of liquidation cannot be ruled out.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-28 10:22:03
  • Gmarket to End Homeplus Same-Day Delivery Service
    Gmarket to End Homeplus Same-Day Delivery Service Gmarket, an e-commerce platform under the Shinsegae Group, will discontinue its same-day delivery service for Homeplus. This decision comes as Homeplus undergoes corporate restructuring amid ongoing store closures and financial difficulties, leading to the end of the Homeplus dedicated section that has operated for nearly a decade.According to the retail industry on the 27th, Gmarket plans to terminate the Homeplus same-day delivery service effective June 30. Gmarket launched the 'Homeplus Same-Day Delivery Specialty Section' in July 2015, allowing customers to receive orders placed by 4 p.m. the same day. The service has offered fresh produce, meats, and household items based on Homeplus's nationwide store network. Gmarket partnered with Homeplus to meet the demand for fresh food among online shoppers, utilizing the supermarket's logistics infrastructure for quick delivery.However, the service has faced disruptions since Homeplus filed for corporate rehabilitation in March of last year to initiate proactive restructuring. In September and October of last year, same-day delivery services were suspended at several locations, including Gayang, Siheung, and Jeonju Wansan.Recently, there were hopes for a turnaround after Homeplus sold its supermarket division, Homeplus Express, to NS Shopping, a subsidiary of Harim Group. However, the financial challenges remain significant. Homeplus is expected to receive approximately 120 billion won from the sale by the end of next month, but reports indicate difficulties in paying employee salaries and normalizing supply deliveries.Notably, Homeplus has temporarily suspended operations at 37 of its 104 hypermarket locations until July 3. This reduction in store operations is likely to weaken the foundation for online same-day delivery services.As uncertainty looms over Homeplus's ability to resume normal operations, industry insiders believe Gmarket's decision to end the service reflects this reality. One industry source stated, "Given that Homeplus has suspended operations at 37 stores for nearly two months, Gmarket likely determined it was unsustainable to maintain the same-day delivery service as before."A Gmarket representative commented, "We plan to introduce various delivery services in the future to enhance the online shopping experience."Meanwhile, the deadline for Homeplus's rehabilitation plan approval is set for July 3. If a buyer is not found by then, liquidation remains a possibility.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-28 10:21:52
  • Gmarket to End Homeplus Same-Day Delivery Service
    Gmarket to End Homeplus Same-Day Delivery Service Gmarket, an e-commerce platform under the Shinsegae Group, will discontinue its same-day delivery service for Homeplus. This decision comes as Homeplus undergoes corporate rehabilitation amid ongoing store closures and financial difficulties, leading to the termination of the Homeplus dedicated section that has been in operation for nearly a decade.According to the retail industry on the 27th, Gmarket plans to end the Homeplus same-day delivery service on June 30. Gmarket launched the 'Homeplus Same-Day Delivery Specialty Section' in July 2015, allowing customers to receive orders placed by 4 p.m. the same day. The service offered fresh produce, meat, seasonal fruits, vegetables, and household goods based on Homeplus's nationwide store network. At that time, Gmarket partnered with Homeplus to meet the demand for fresh products among online shoppers, utilizing the large supermarket's logistics network for quick delivery.However, the service has faced disruptions since Homeplus filed for corporate rehabilitation in March of last year to initiate proactive restructuring. In September and October of last year, same-day delivery services were suspended at some locations, including Gayang, Siheung, and Jeonju Wansan.Recently, there were hopes for a turnaround as Homeplus sold its supermarket division, Homeplus Express, to NS Shopping, a subsidiary of Harim Group. However, the financial challenges remain significant. Homeplus is expected to receive approximately 120 billion won from the sale of Express by the end of next month, but reports indicate difficulties in paying employee salaries and normalizing supply deliveries.Notably, Homeplus has temporarily suspended operations at 37 of its 104 large supermarket locations until July 3. This reduction in store operations is likely to weaken the foundation for online same-day delivery services.As uncertainty looms over Homeplus's ability to resume normal operations, industry insiders believe Gmarket's decision to end the service reflects this reality. One industry source stated, "Given that Homeplus has suspended operations at 37 stores for nearly two months, Gmarket likely determined it was difficult to maintain the same-day delivery service as before."A Gmarket representative commented, "We plan to introduce various delivery services in the future to provide a better online shopping experience."Meanwhile, the deadline for the approval of Homeplus's rehabilitation plan is set for July 3. If a buyer is not found by then, the possibility of liquidation cannot be ruled out.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-28 10:21:30
  • Starbucks Controversy Sparks Industry Reassessment of Promotions
    Starbucks Controversy Sparks Industry Reassessment of Promotions The controversy surrounding Starbucks Korea's 'Tank Day' event is reverberating throughout the retail industry. The promotion, which coincided with the May 18 Democratic Uprising Memorial Day, has faced criticism for trivializing historical trauma. This concern intensified after President Lee Jae-myung referenced a Musinsa advertisement from seven years ago. Retailers are now reviewing not only their ongoing promotions but also past advertisements and content, adopting a cautious approach in light of the situation. According to industry sources on the 21st, a beauty company is currently assessing its ongoing promotions, previously distributed advertisements, and social media content. A company representative stated, "We are examining whether there are any inappropriate historical references following the Starbucks Korea Tank Day controversy." The household goods sector is experiencing a similar response. Although there has been no official directive from the company, it is reported that departments have been asked to review existing marketing content. A company representative explained, "In light of the Tank Day controversy and the renewed discussion of past advertisements, we are proactively checking for any potentially problematic elements." The industry's heightened sensitivity stems from the potential for the historical trivialization controversy sparked by Starbucks to extend to past content. The day before, President Lee publicly criticized a 2019 Musinsa advertisement featuring the phrase, "I slammed the desk and said, 'Oh my,'" which was noted for evoking memories of the late Park Jong-cheol's torture and death. In response to the President's remarks, Musinsa issued another apology, stating, "We deeply acknowledge that the wounds left by our hasty judgment seven years ago are not trivial even today." The controversy surrounding Musinsa had been resolved through the deletion of the content, an official apology, and visits to the bereaved families and the Park Jong-cheol Memorial Association for further apologies. CEO Jo Man-ho and other executives personally sought forgiveness, and it is reported that the association accepted Musinsa's apology. Following this, Musinsa invited history instructor Choi Tae-sung to conduct historical education for its employees. CEO Jo continues to be active as a member of the Park Jong-cheol Memorial Association. The retail industry believes this controversy could extend beyond a single company and affect the entire sector. The fact that President Lee received information about the Musinsa advertisement has raised concerns among businesses. There is a possibility that previously created advertising phrases or images could resurface through online reports. The Starbucks Korea controversy has also escalated into discussions of executive accountability. Jeong Yong-jin, chairman of Shinsegae Group, Starbucks Korea's parent company, has been reported for defamation, and there are calls for his resignation. An industry source stated, "In the future, marketing approvals will likely involve stricter scrutiny of expressions that could be linked to historical events, social tragedies, or specific individuals." In fact, Starbucks Korea has temporarily suspended some promotions and marketing schedules ahead of the summer peak season. The company announced through an internal notice the day before, "We are postponing or canceling events with a heavy sense of responsibility and a reflective mindset." They also decided not to operate their booth at the '18th Seoul Jazz Festival' scheduled for the 22nd to 24th. Summer is the peak season for beverage sales in the coffee franchise industry. Consequently, the postponement or cancellation of major events by Starbucks is expected to impose unavoidable pressure on short-term sales. An industry insider remarked, "This controversy has attracted international media attention and prompted responses from Starbucks headquarters. If similar issues arise with the company's name mentioned, the brand burden is significant, leading companies to act more swiftly than usual."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 21:57:39