SpaceX IPO Schedule Accelerates, Boosting Related Stocks Shares of companies related to SpaceX have surged following news that the space firm, led by Elon Musk, is accelerating its initial public offering (IPO) schedule. As of 10:04 a.m. on May 18, Mirae Asset Venture Investment saw its stock rise by 14.21%, trading at 62,700 won, an increase of 7,800 won from the previous day. Sphere also experienced a jump, with shares up 3,300 won (7.86%) to 45,300 won, while Mirae Asset Securities rose by 0.86% (600 won) to 70,500 won. Earlier reports from Reuters and other international media indicated that SpaceX is expected to launch its IPO on June 12, which is earlier than market expectations that aligned the IPO with Musk's birthday on June 28. In light of this development, BlackRock, the world's largest asset management firm, is reportedly planning to invest up to $10 billion (approximately 15 trillion won) in SpaceX's IPO. On May 16, the U.S. tech publication The Information cited multiple sources stating that BlackRock is discussing a stake investment of between $5 billion and $10 billion through its $536 billion active fund during SpaceX's listing process. SpaceX is engaged in satellite-based internet services through its Starlink project and is developing the Starship spacecraft. Recently, Musk's acquisition of the AI startup xAI has also expanded the company's ventures into artificial intelligence.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-18 12:37:52

Choi Seung-ho Commits to Diligent Participation in Second Mediation Meeting Choi Seung-ho, chairman of the Samsung Group inter-company labor union, stated on May 18 that he would participate diligently in the second mediation meeting held at the Central Labor Relations Commission in Sejong. Before entering the mediation venue, Choi told reporters, "I don’t have much to say. Regardless, we have reached the mediation stage, and I will engage sincerely in the second mediation." When asked how he interpreted comments made by the president regarding emergency mediation authority, Choi did not respond and proceeded into the meeting. The company’s representative negotiator entered the mediation venue around 9 a.m. and also refrained from making any comments. Samsung and its labor union have been unable to narrow their differences during wage and collective bargaining negotiations, leading to the continuation of the Central Labor Relations Commission’s mediation process. This second mediation is aimed at finding a last-minute compromise ahead of a potential strike. Industry observers believe that the outcome of this mediation will be a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict between Samsung and its labor union.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-18 12:36:22

Former U.S. Defense Secretary Gates: Netanyahu Underestimates Iran's Resilience Former U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for his overly optimistic view that Iran's regime could be toppled solely through military strikes. In an interview aired on CBS's "Face the Nation" on May 17, Gates recalled a meeting with Netanyahu in 2009, during which he noted that Netanyahu underestimated Iran's resolve and ability to maintain its regime. Gates stated, "Netanyahu believed that if Israel attacked Iran's nuclear facilities, the Iranian people would rise up and overthrow the regime, and that Iran would not retaliate against U.S. targets or regional oil facilities." He added, "I told him at the time that he was completely wrong," emphasizing that Netanyahu had misjudged the resilience of the Iranian people. Gates assessed that Netanyahu's unrealistic judgment was influenced by Israel's past experiences with minimal retaliation following attacks on Iraq's Osirak reactor and Syria's reactor. He reiterated, "Netanyahu claimed that the Iranian regime was weak and would collapse under the first attack, and that Iran would not have time to respond with other actions. I told him then that he was wrong." U.S. Faces Challenges in Addressing Iran Militarily While Gates acknowledged that the Iranian regime has weakened, he believes the likelihood of a popular uprising in the short term is low. He remarked, "The chances of a short-term uprising are very low. Iran's internal control still appears intact, and there are hardly any public protests." He added, "People are intimidated and fearful, and they are currently focused on how to make a living in the present situation." Gates predicted that any potential instability within the Iranian regime would manifest more as internal fractures after a conflict rather than immediate public uprisings during wartime. He explained, "What we typically see in such regimes is not a change of government in the streets but rather the regime itself beginning to fracture, with factions emerging that seek different paths and internal disputes over control." Regarding the Iranian nuclear issue, Gates emphasized that military action alone would not provide a fundamental solution. He stated, "The only way to remove enriched uranium from Iran and end its nuclear ambitions is through negotiations. Applying pressure to bring them to the negotiating table is the only path that offers any chance of success." However, he asserted that President Donald Trump cannot disengage from the Iran issue. Gates remarked, "The U.S. president cannot step back, and Israel cannot resolve this issue alone. Israel is strong, but it does not possess the type of power that the U.S. has." He also assessed that it is difficult to declare that the war is over from either the U.S. or Israeli perspective at this point.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-18 12:34:35

LG Electronics Supports Child Welfare with Battery Recycling Fund LG Electronics is launching an initiative to promote environmental protection and community support through its ESG management by collecting vacuum cleaner batteries. On May 18, LG Electronics announced that it will conduct a customer participation resource recycling campaign called 'Battery Return' in collaboration with the Korea Environmental Corporation and E-Circular Governance until June 30. Battery Return is a resource recycling project that offers customers a tangible discount when they return used vacuum cleaner batteries for the purchase of new batteries. The collected waste batteries will undergo a systematic and safe disassembly process, allowing for the recovery of key rare metals such as nickel, cobalt, lithium, and manganese. Market research firm SNE Research predicts that the global waste battery recycling market will grow from 3 trillion won in 2025 to 70 trillion won by 2030. Since 2022, LG Electronics has been leading the resource recycling culture in the home appliance industry through this annual campaign, collecting approximately 128 tons of waste batteries, totaling over 280,000 units, and extracting more than 11 tons of rare metals. In 2024, LG Electronics plans to establish a resource recycling system for electronic products by signing a memorandum of understanding with the Korea Environmental Corporation and E-Circular Governance for the collection and recycling of small batteries, further advancing the transition to a circular economy. This year's campaign has increased discount benefits to encourage more customers to participate in resource recycling. Customers can visit any LG Electronics service center nationwide to return used vacuum cleaner batteries, regardless of the manufacturer, and receive a discount of 40,000 won on the purchase of a new wireless stick vacuum cleaner battery, up from last year's 30,000 won. A portion of the funds raised will be used to support child welfare facilities. This initiative expands the campaign's significance beyond simple resource recycling to include social contribution activities for underprivileged groups. Customers can also apply online and return waste batteries to the nearest waste electronic appliance collection point. The locations of these collection points can be found on the 'Resource Recycling Practice Platform.' Son Chang-woo, head of LG Electronics' Living Solutions Division, stated, "We will continue our responsible management to build a circular economy for the environment and society, beyond just providing customers with the best product experience." * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-18 12:32:12

HJ Heavy Industries Reports 347% Increase in Q1 Operating Profit HJ Heavy Industries is accelerating its profitable management, driven by strong orders for high-value ships and defense contracts. The company's operating profit in the first quarter surged over 300% compared to the same period last year. On May 18, HJ Heavy Industries announced that it recorded consolidated sales of 541.4 billion won, an operating profit of 24.6 billion won, and a net income of 25.5 billion won for the first quarter. Sales increased by 32.0% from 410 billion won in the same period last year, while operating profit rose from 5.5 billion won to 24.6 billion won, marking a 347.3% increase. Net income also saw a significant jump from 5.6 billion won to 25.5 billion won, a 355.4% rise. The substantial improvement in performance is attributed to the realization of high-value ship construction orders in the shipbuilding sector and the recovery of cost structures in the construction division. Notably, sales in the shipbuilding sector increased by 70%, from 158.1 billion won to 268.6 billion won. In comparison, sales in the construction sector grew by 8.6%, from 247.9 billion won to 269.3 billion won, indicating a remarkable growth trajectory. Analysts credit the profitability to strategies focused on developing eco-friendly vessels, selecting orders based on cost advantages, and prioritizing key projects such as fast patrol boats. The construction division also successfully maintained profitability by managing cost structures amid a slowdown in domestic and international construction markets and rising raw material and labor costs. HJ Heavy Industries aims to continue its profitable management through a focus on 'qualitative growth' centered on profitability this year. Following the orders received at the end of last year for four new fast patrol boats for the navy, a multi-purpose chemical response vessel for the coast guard, and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) contracts with the U.S. Navy, the company also secured orders for four 11,000 TEU container ships earlier this year. The goal is to establish a virtuous cycle where quality work leads to improved profitability through various public projects and maintenance contracts. Additionally, the recent move to acquire HD Hyundai's Gunsan Shipyard has heightened expectations for long-term growth. If the acquisition proceeds as planned, HJ Heavy Industries is expected to enhance its production capacity and ability to respond to additional orders based on the Gunsan Shipyard. A representative from HJ Heavy Industries stated, "As the proportion of high-profit projects focused on eco-friendly and high-value vessels increases, our operating profit has significantly risen compared to the same period last year. With stable order backlogs secured for over three years across both major business sectors, we will continue to pursue stable growth through ongoing improvements in our structure and cost management." 2026-05-18 12:30:26

T'way Air Transitions to Trinity Air, Secures License from Ministry of Land South Korea's low-cost carrier T'way Air is accelerating its transition to Trinity Air, aiming to establish a comprehensive travel platform that encompasses flights, accommodations, and more.On May 18, T'way Air announced that it received a license from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport to change its name to Trinity Air. The new name, derived from the Latin word "Trinitas," symbolizes the concept of three entities coming together to achieve completeness, reflecting the airline's goal of enhancing customer experience by integrating air travel with lodging and tourism.The issuance of this license follows a resolution passed during the regular shareholders' meeting on March 31, which approved the name change and initiated the necessary aviation licensing procedures.However, due to the nature of international air transport, the actual commencement of operations under the new name will occur gradually, pending the completion of approvals from foreign aviation authorities.The Ministry of Land has stipulated conditions for the approval process, including measures to prevent consumer confusion, maintain safety protocols, and ensure the completion of approvals from international aviation authorities. T'way Air plans to implement these procedures step by step to ensure a smooth transition.Until all approval processes are finalized, the airline will continue to operate under the T'way Air name. The airline code (TW) and flight numbers will remain unchanged, and existing customers will be able to use services without any additional changes.A T'way Air official stated, "This license approval is a significant first step toward the transition to Trinity Air."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-18 12:28:09

Hyundai Marine & Fire Insurance Shares Surge 12% After Strong Q1 Earnings Hyundai Marine & Fire Insurance is experiencing a strong early trading session after reporting first-quarter results that exceeded market expectations. As of 9:58 a.m. on May 18, the company’s shares rose by 4,050 won (12.14%) to 37,400 won on the KOSPI market, according to the Korea Exchange. The stock opened at 33,450 won and reached a high of 37,650 won during the trading session, reflecting a robust upward trend. Market analysts attribute the surge in investor sentiment to the company’s strong first-quarter performance, which saw a net profit of 223.3 billion won, a 9.9% increase compared to the same period last year, surpassing market consensus. Following the earnings announcement, several securities firms raised their target prices for Hyundai Marine & Fire Insurance. Daol Investment & Securities reported that it has adjusted its target price from 43,000 won to 45,000 won, citing an upward revision of its forecasts for insurance profit. Mirae Asset Securities also raised its target price from 27,000 won to 32,000 won, noting improvements in other comprehensive income due to rising market interest rates, which are expected to continue. Shinhan Investment Corp. stated that the company achieved an earnings surprise due to one-time factors and anticipates benefits from the introduction of management benefits in the second half of the year, raising its target price from 42,000 won to 45,000 won. However, Shinhan Investment Corp. cautioned that while current valuation pressures are limited, there is a potential for dividend restrictions due to the reserve requirements for surrender benefits.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-18 12:26:51

Jusung Engineering Shares Surge 22% on ALG Semiconductor Equipment Shipment News Jusung Engineering's stock surged by over 22% in early trading, driven by news of its shipment of atomic layer growth (ALG) semiconductor equipment, which has boosted investor sentiment. According to the Korea Exchange, as of 9:52 a.m. on May 18, shares of Jusung Engineering were trading at 171,300 won, up 31,100 won (22.18%) from the previous trading day. The company announced that it held a shipment ceremony for its ALG transistor full integration semiconductor manufacturing equipment on May 16, with the customer identified as a global semiconductor manufacturer. ALG is a technology for growing thin films at the atomic level. Unlike traditional atomic layer deposition (ALD) techniques, which spray materials to form semiconductor circuits, ALG grows crystals, reducing costs associated with deposition and etching processes while enabling the creation of ultra-fine circuits without photolithography. However, Jusung Engineering's financial performance has been lackluster. In the first quarter of this year, the company reported consolidated revenues of 54.9 billion won and an operating loss of 7 billion won. This represents a 54.6% decline in revenue compared to the same period last year, with a shift from a profit of 33.9 billion won in the first quarter of the previous year to a loss. Jusung Engineering stated, "We plan to apply ALG technology not only in semiconductors but also in display and solar equipment, and we are currently collaborating with global companies in North America, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-18 12:25:28

Samsung Electronics Union Leader's Extreme Remarks Raise Concerns A Samsung Electronics union leader has sparked controversy with extreme remarks made just before the final negotiation table, stating, "It would be better to eliminate the company altogether. We are prepared for a split." Concerns have arisen among union members who are set to join the strike, expressing that the comments have crossed a line. According to industry sources on May 18, Lee Song-yi, vice-chair of the Samsung Electronics branch of the Samsung Group's mega union, made the remarks around 8 p.m. the previous day in a Telegram communication channel for union members. He stated, "If we are going to split, then let’s do it. It’s better to just eliminate Samsung Electronics altogether," adding, "We take responsibility for bringing it this far." He further emphasized, "I convey this with the readiness for a split," and warned, "If we are defeated this time, Samsung Electronics will no longer exist." In conversations with union members, he expressed heightened emotions, saying, "If I go to jail, I’ll read some books and exercise while I’m there." The transcripts of these conversations have spread to external communities, escalating the controversy. Notably, as the vice-chair of the DX (Device Experience) division, he has actively voiced dissatisfaction over the perceived neglect of this sector during the ongoing labor-management negotiations. He reportedly made unrefined comments such as, "This is like family talk," and "I’m not doing this for the money." The timing of these remarks, just before the final negotiations with management, has intensified the fallout. The comments from a key union leader have circulated widely, increasing tension surrounding the negotiations. Following the disclosure of Lee's statements, internal union members criticized the leadership's reckless behavior, asking, "Has he been drinking?" and urging, "Someone needs to calm the vice-chair down," while also cautioning against making statements that could be used against them in negotiations. Labor and management are set to engage in what is essentially the final negotiation regarding performance bonuses, payment criteria, institutionalization, and the elimination of caps ahead of a general strike scheduled for May 21. Management has reportedly proposed maintaining the cap on the excess profit incentive (OPI) at 50% of annual salary while allowing a choice between 20% economic value added (EVA) or 10% operating profit. Additionally, if the operating profit in the semiconductor (DS) division exceeds 200 trillion won, they suggested allocating 9-10% of the operating profit separately from the OPI, distributing it 60% across all divisions and 40% by business unit. In contrast, the union continues to demand a blanket performance bonus of 15% of operating profit, as previously stated, and insists on a distribution of 70% for the entire DS division and 30% by business unit. Choi Seung-ho, chair of the mega union, revealed that he held a preliminary meeting with management for post-adjustment discussions the previous afternoon, stating, "It seems the company’s attitude has changed following the government’s mention of urgent mediation." He added, "They are pressuring us that the damage will be significant, but we will not yield," asserting that if the same stance is maintained during post-adjustment discussions, they will not reach an agreement.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-18 12:24:07

President Lee Criticizes Samsung Union Strike, Emphasizes Respect for Corporate Rights President Lee Jae-myung emphasized on May 18 that both labor rights and corporate management rights must be respected in the ongoing negotiations between Samsung Electronics and its labor union.In a post on X (formerly Twitter), President Lee stated, "In South Korea, which adopts a free democratic order and a capitalist market economy, labor must be respected just as much as corporations."He added, "Workers should receive fair compensation for their labor, and shareholders who bear risks and losses should have a share in corporate profits," noting that the original constitutional provision for workers' equitable share of corporate profits was once included in the 1948 Constitution.The equitable share of corporate profits refers to the right of workers to receive a portion of a company's profits. This right was enshrined in the 1948 Constitution to protect workers' fundamental rights but was removed during the 1962 constitutional revision due to practical difficulties in its application.President Lee further criticized, "While the current constitution guarantees the basic rights of all citizens, these rights can be limited for public welfare as long as the essence is not violated. Just as there are peaks in mountains, there are also deep valleys. Excessive actions can lead to adverse outcomes."He concluded, "It is not about having more and being happier because one is strong; rather, a new future for South Korea lies in solidarity, responsibility, and a world where everyone thrives together."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-18 12:21:23