POSCO Faces Unprecedented Uncertainty Amid Direct Employment Controversy POSCO is facing unprecedented uncertainty as tensions escalate between labor and management over the company's plan to directly employ workers from its partner companies. The labor union has initiated dispute procedures, claiming the move was made unilaterally without prior consultation. There are even discussions about the possibility of a first-ever general strike in the company's history. In April, POSCO announced its decision to directly hire 7,000 employees from partner companies through the Pohang and Gwangyang steelworks' cooperative council, citing the establishment of a 'coexistence labor-management model.' The company also revealed specific hiring methods, conditions, and treatment systems. A new job category, 'Operational Synergy (S) Group,' was created, with a promotion system ranging from S1 to S7. Direct employment of partner company workers is not unprecedented in the steel industry. In 2021, Hyundai Steel became the first private company in South Korea to hire over 4,500 employees from in-house partner companies as regular staff, followed by Dongkuk Steel, which directly employed 889 subcontracted workers in 2024. However, POSCO's case stands out due to its scale and potential impact. The direct employment plan affects about 40% of POSCO's workforce of approximately 17,000 employees, including those at its steelworks, which could influence the existing regular employment system and overall organizational operations. The main issue lies in the lack of sufficient dialogue with the workforce during the implementation of such a significant change. The union is particularly concerned about the absence of consultation during the process rather than the direct employment itself. Existing employees have also expressed concerns about potential changes to job structures, personnel management, and wage systems. Kim Sung-ho, chairman of the POSCO labor union, stated in a press release at the time of the announcement, "The management ignored the minimum procedure of building consensus among employees, causing deep wounds among union members. The intense efforts and unique values of each employee in the hiring process must not be undermined." Employees of partner companies targeted for direct employment have also voiced their dissatisfaction. They are raising concerns about being segregated into a separate S group, distinct from the existing regular production E group, which they see as discriminatory. Some employees from certain partner companies at the Pohang and Gwangyang steelworks have already refused to report to work due to grievances over the wage system, disrupting operations. Those affected include employees from companies like POTL and PSC, who are being considered for the S group transition. POSCO has reportedly deployed direct workers to replace them on-site. Currently, the wage system for the S group is set at over 70% of the equivalent E group for the same years of service, with the same benefits as direct employees. The company's challenges are understandable. Recently, there has been increasing demand in the industry for stronger accountability from primary contractors and improvements in safety systems. The issue of 'outsourcing risk' in manufacturing has become an urgent matter that cannot be postponed. It appears that POSCO has made a significant decision for large-scale direct employment in response to these societal trends. However, having the right direction does not guarantee that the process will be accepted by all. In industries like steel, where workplace culture is strong and job structures have been maintained for a long time, the process of persuading members is crucial. Concerns have been raised that if this conflict continues for an extended period, it could affect not only labor-management relations but also the stability of production sites. POSCO has consistently emphasized 'coexistence' as a core corporate value. The company must consider the mutual growth with its partners and the enhancement of safety as essential tasks. However, true coexistence cannot be achieved through declarations alone. Equally important is how well the members can understand and accept these policies. What POSCO needs now is not rapid decision-making but sufficient communication to restore trust among its workforce. 2026-05-19 05:17:26

High Oil Prices and Exchange Rates Strain Steel and Oil Industries The prolonged conflict in the Middle East has led to rising international oil prices and a surge in the won-dollar exchange rate, which has now exceeded 1500 won, increasing the burden on heavy industries such as steel and oil. According to industry sources on May 18, there are concerns that the exchange rate, which has surpassed 1400 won, may become a new norm at 1500 won. In March, the won-dollar exchange rate briefly crossed 1500 won for the first time in nearly 17 years since the financial crisis. The rate has remained above 1500 won, continuing the trend of high exchange rates. Meanwhile, the price of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil rose from $65.21 per barrel on February 26, before the conflict began, to $105.41 as of May 15, marking an increase of approximately 61.6%. With the ongoing conflict in the Middle East driving up oil prices, companies are expected to face even greater challenges in managing costs. The structure of industries that import key raw materials such as iron ore and crude oil in dollars and sell them in won means that rising exchange rates directly translate into increased costs. The steel industry is particularly vulnerable to high exchange rates. Major South Korean steelmakers, including POSCO, Hyundai Steel, and Dongkuk Steel, rely heavily on imports for iron ore and coking coal. While raw material payments are made in dollars, a significant portion of their sales is supplied to domestic shipbuilding, construction, and automotive sectors in won. The challenge lies in the difficulty of passing on increased costs to product prices. The influx of low-priced steel plates and products from China has limited the ability of domestic steelmakers to raise prices. With a downturn in the construction market leading to weak domestic demand, the combined pressure of rising exchange rates is rapidly deteriorating profitability. The steel industry is increasingly burdened as it struggles to transfer rising costs to product prices while facing additional pressures from exchange rates. The oil industry is also feeling the strain. The four major oil companies—SK Innovation, GS Caltex, S-Oil, and HD Hyundai Oilbank—are entirely reliant on imported crude oil, making them vulnerable to fluctuations in oil prices and exchange rates. The simultaneous rise in international oil prices and the sharp increase in exchange rates have significantly raised the costs of crude oil imports and increased cash outflow burdens. An industry insider stated, "The price of crude oil we are currently importing has risen significantly, and once supply shocks ease, oil prices will normalize. However, if that happens, the rising exchange rates combined with declining inventory asset values will create risks that the oil companies must fully bear, leading to significant operational burdens." While the first quarter saw some performance protection due to inventory valuation gains from soaring oil prices following the outbreak of the Middle East conflict, industry experts predict that if high exchange rates persist, the burdens of raw material procurement and increased financial costs will become more pronounced starting in the second quarter. Professor Heo Jun-young of Sogang University’s Department of Economics noted, "It seems increasingly difficult for the exchange rate to drop back to the 1300 won range this year." Regarding strategies to cope with the prolonged high exchange rates and the Middle East conflict, he explained, "While the oil industry has alternatives like the Red Sea if crude oil cannot pass through the Strait of Hormuz, the steel industry currently lacks effective short-term responses. Ultimately, they will have to endure."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-19 05:15:00

Vietnam to Send Trade Delegation to Seoul in July to Enhance Cooperation The Vietnamese government is taking proactive steps to restructure its cooperation framework aimed at penetrating the South Korean market. With bilateral trade reaching an all-time high, Vietnam is shifting from mere support to a partnership focused on creating shared value. According to various Vietnamese media outlets, on May 14, the Trade Promotion Agency (VIETRADE) under the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) held a seminar on trade and investment promotion in the South Korean market. The event was attended by representatives from relevant ministries, associations, and Vietnamese companies, as well as officials from the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA) and the Korea International Trade Association (KITA) Hanoi office. In his opening remarks, Le Hoang Thai, Deputy Director of VIETRADE, noted, "This year marks the 34th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and Vietnam. Last year, the trade volume between the two countries reached $94.5 billion, a 9% increase from the previous year, with Vietnam's exports to Korea amounting to $28.9 billion, up 12.9%." He also reported that the trade volume for the first quarter of this year was approximately $26.9 billion, reflecting a 29.5% increase compared to the same period last year. However, there are calls to reassess the cooperation model itself. Dao Trong Tien, a second secretary at the Vietnamese Embassy in South Korea, emphasized that the priority now is to revisit the cooperation model. He stated, "We are rapidly transitioning from a past approach focused on unilateral support to a partner model that creates value and data together." He explained that South Korea's economic growth rate has remained between 1.8% and 2.1% in recent years, with key criteria emerging around technological competitiveness, digital transformation capabilities, compliance with international standards, ESG (environmental, social, and governance) practices, data transparency, and rapid response capabilities. Need to Strengthen Competitiveness of Vietnamese Partners Currently, South Korea is Vietnam's largest source of foreign direct investment (FDI). The cumulative registered investment exceeds $90 billion, with over 10,000 projects currently in operation. However, it has been noted that Vietnamese companies remain stuck in low-value-added processing stages. Strategies to address this include expanding the use of free trade agreements (FTAs), enhancing digital infrastructure in industrial zones, refining ESG standards, and entering the supply chains of large FDI companies. Kang Heon-woo, head of the KITA Hanoi office, stated, "From 2025, semiconductors will become the top export item from Vietnam to South Korea." He highlighted that semiconductors and flat-panel displays account for approximately 55.7% of South Korea's exports to Vietnam, with intermediate goods making up over 50%. He stressed the need for Vietnamese companies to improve quality, pricing, delivery, safety certifications, and responsiveness to establish themselves as key suppliers for South Korean FDI firms. Examples from the field were also shared. Bui Thi Hoa, vice president of Viet Han High-Tech Production Joint Stock Company, described her company's entry into the global supply chain through a strategy called "3I" (Investment, Absorption, Innovation). She noted that investments in equipment, automation, and the application of Korean-style quality management systems have been foundational in enhancing competitiveness. Building on these discussions, VIETRADE announced it will operate a "Korea Trade and Investment Delegation" in Seoul from July 12 to 17. The delegation will include 25 member companies from various sectors, including industrial products, electronics, manufacturing, furniture, textiles, and agricultural products. Furthermore, the delegation will hold a "Vietnam-Korea Trade and Investment Cooperation Conference" at KOTRA headquarters, followed by a "Vietnam-Korea Business Conference" at the KITA headquarters. One-on-one business consultations will also be conducted in collaboration with the Korea Importers Association (KOIMA) and the Korea-ASEAN Center. A visit to the Incheon Free Economic Zone Authority (IFEZ) is also scheduled to facilitate discussions from multiple angles.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-19 05:11:58

Korea-Vietnam Manufacturing Alliance Expands into Robotics Amid Chinese Competition As the global wave of robotization accelerates, Vietnam faces pressure to overhaul its manufacturing model, which has long relied on cheap labor. With supply chain strategies being challenged, both South Korea and China are vying for a foothold in the Vietnamese market by leveraging robotics and artificial intelligence (AI), creating a clear competitive landscape. Attention is now on whether Korea-Vietnam cooperation can extend beyond manufacturing to become a key partnership in robotics. According to Bloomberg Vietnam, the density of robots in Vietnam's electronics industry is about 90 to 150 per 10,000 workers, falling short of the global average of 162. In contrast, South Korea leads the world with 1,220 robots per 10,000 workers, followed by Singapore with 818 and China with 470. China's dominance is particularly evident in terms of volume. In 2024 alone, approximately 295,000 new robots are expected to be installed in China, capturing 54% of the global market. Currently, around 2 million robots are operational in China, which is 4.5 times more than in Japan. The food and beverage sector has seen an 86% increase in new robot installations, while the textile industry has grown by 29%, indicating rapid robotization even in labor-intensive sectors. Vietnam holds a 24.5% share of the Southeast Asian robotics market, emerging as the largest market in the region last year. However, much of this growth has been driven by foreign direct investment (FDI) in the electronics sector. Global companies like Samsung, LG, and Foxconn have relocated their operations to Vietnam as part of a 'China Plus One' strategy, bringing robots along with them. Consequently, Vietnam is still considered to be in the 'user' stage of robotics, with the need to enhance its capabilities in system integration and industry-specific optimization. Korea and China Compete in Vietnam's Robotics Market Amid this backdrop, South Korea is intensifying its efforts to position Vietnam as a next-generation advanced manufacturing hub. The Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA) recently operated a 'Korean Robotics Pavilion' at the 'VINAMAC EXPO 2026' held in Hanoi from May 14 to 16, showcasing five Korean tech companies that presented their robotic products and automation solutions. Approximately 50 export consultations were conducted with 17 buyers, including Vietnamese automation firm ITEK Automation Solutions. South Korea's exports of industrial robots to Vietnam have surged sharply. In 2022, exports increased by 67% year-on-year, and they are projected to grow by another 12.4% to approximately $15.29 million (about 230 billion won) by 2025. Over the past three years, exports of transport and handling robots have skyrocketed 13-fold, while automation solutions have risen by about 40%. KOTRA is set to host the 'Korea-Vietnam AI Innovation Day' on May 20 in Ho Chi Minh City to discuss collaborative strategies for digital transformation in manufacturing. Chinese companies are also making significant inroads. The 'China Home Life Vietnam 2026' exhibition, which opened on May 13, featured around 500 Chinese firms showcasing industrial machinery, automation equipment, and AI-based smart devices. The exhibition included delivery and cleaning robots, voice-controlled smart home systems, and automated production lines for small and medium-sized enterprises. Some companies actively emphasized the potential for technology transfer and customized production partnerships. With both South Korea and China targeting Vietnam, local firms face a crucial decision in choosing their partners. Moreover, Vietnam's internal supply chain operations are rapidly evolving. Factories are now operating 24/7, demanding speed and precision in raw material procurement, logistics, and warehouse management. As robot-based quality control becomes commonplace, defects that were difficult to detect through manual inspection are now being monitored, and real-time data integration has become a fundamental requirement for entering the primary supply chain. Ultimately, Vietnam's ability to enhance its robot system integration and industry-specific optimization capabilities will be a decisive factor in determining its future standing. Combining imported robots with management software in sectors such as food, textiles, and cold chain logistics presents a realistic opportunity. Historically, Korea and Vietnam's collaboration has primarily focused on production networks centered around electronics and manufacturing. However, as robotics and AI emerge as core infrastructure in supply chains, the potential for the two countries to evolve into major partners encompassing system integration and technological advancement is increasingly significant.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-19 05:04:05

U.S. CDC Prepares to Increase Personnel Amid Ebola Spread in Congo As Ebola virus infections emerge in the Central African nation of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, CBS News reported on May 17 that at least six Americans in the country have been exposed to the virus, although their infection status remains unclear. According to sources, three of these individuals are considered high-risk contacts, with one showing symptoms. It has not been confirmed whether they are still in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. On May 17, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared an "international public health emergency" regarding the recent Ebola outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda. As of May 16, the WHO reported eight confirmed cases, 246 suspected cases, and 80 suspected deaths in Ituri Province, where the outbreak has surged. This region is located about 1,500 kilometers from the capital, Kinshasa, and borders Uganda. Ituri Province is already designated as a Level 4 travel advisory area by the U.S. government due to risks from armed group activities, kidnappings, murders, and sexual violence. Additionally, two travelers from the Democratic Republic of the Congo tested positive for Ebola in Uganda's capital, Kampala, with one of them reported dead. According to the BBC, Ugandan authorities confirmed that a 59-year-old man from the Democratic Republic of the Congo died while positive for Ebola, and his body has been handed over to Congolese authorities. The CDC reported that more than 300 suspected cases of Ebola have emerged in the Democratic Republic of the Congo as of May 17, with eight confirmed cases through laboratory testing. The agency stated, "We are supporting partner organizations to safely evacuate a small number of Americans directly affected by this outbreak." The CDC also advised Americans traveling to the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda to avoid contact with anyone exhibiting fever, muscle pain, or rash. The CDC assessed that the current risk to U.S. citizens from Ebola is low but is closely monitoring the situation. The agency is activating its emergency response center and plans to send additional personnel to its offices in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda, according to Reuters. However, Dr. Tom Frieden, who led the CDC during the large Ebola outbreak in West Africa in 2014, warned that this could potentially lead to a serious spread of the virus. According to the CDC, Ebola virus disease is a type of viral hemorrhagic fever caused by the Ebola virus. It spreads through contact with the blood, bodily fluids, or direct contact with infected animals and corpses. The incubation period ranges from 2 to 21 days. Currently, there are no specific actions from the U.S. government regarding travelers to the Democratic Republic of the Congo or Uganda. However, if the situation worsens, measures similar to those implemented in 2022, which required travelers who visited Uganda within the last 21 days to enter through five major airports for CDC and Customs and Border Protection inspections, may be considered. 2026-05-19 05:03:34

Rising Costs and End of Tax Cuts Signal Upcoming Car Price Increases The automotive industry is facing increasing pressure to raise prices due to soaring raw material costs, including batteries and semiconductors, compounded by high exchange rates. As signs of significant price adjustments emerge for the second half of the year, concerns are growing over a potential decline in demand with the expiration of individual consumption tax cuts at the end of the year. ◆ Global Car Prices Rise Amid Raw Material Costs According to industry sources on May 18, the prices of key components for electric vehicles, such as lithium, aluminum, copper, and semiconductors, have surged, prompting price increases across the global automotive sector. BYD raised the prices of optional advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) for several models, including the Dynasty, Ocean, and Formula Leopard, by over 2,000 yuan last month. Xiaomi also increased the prices of all models in its new SU7 series by 4,000 yuan. Companies like Weilai and Xiaopeng plan to raise prices for major models in the second quarter. The rise in battery raw material prices is particularly steep. Batteries account for 30% to 50% of the production cost of electric vehicles. According to market research firm Fastmarkets, the price of lithium, a key material for lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries used in budget electric vehicles, has risen to $25.15 per kilogram as of May 13, a 212% increase compared to the average of $8.10 in June of last year. The price of nickel, a core raw material for nickel-cobalt-manganese (NCM) batteries, has also increased by 28.4%, reaching $19,016.50 per ton, up from $14,879 at the end of last year. Additionally, prices for high-performance DDR and storage memory semiconductors used in cars have risen by 70% to 100% compared to the end of last year. An industry insider noted, "As semiconductor companies like Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix focus on producing chips for big tech AI servers, the supply of vehicle memory, which has lower margins and stricter certification requirements, is becoming increasingly unstable. Demand for semiconductors is rising due to developments in software-defined vehicles and autonomous driving, but supply shortages are causing prices to skyrocket." ◆ Price Increases Expected in the Korean Market Starting in June In South Korea, the trend of price increases is becoming evident. Tesla recently raised prices for some Model Y variants by 4 million to 5 million won, following increases in the U.S. The price of the Model Y Long Range AWD rose from 59.99 million won to 63.99 million won, an increase of 4 million won, while the Model 3 Performance and Model Y Long Body each saw a 5 million won increase. BMW Korea plans to raise prices for some models starting in June, with increases expected to be around 1%. Models likely to be affected include the 5 Series, X6, and electric models such as the i4 and i5. A BMW Korea representative stated, "As the high exchange rate becomes entrenched, our ability to absorb exchange rate burdens is diminishing. We will finalize specific models, timing, and extent of the increases based on domestic conditions." If the individual consumption tax cuts expire on December 31, consumer prices are expected to rise further. With car price increases coupled with higher tax burdens, demand is likely to weaken. An industry representative commented, "While we will increase our own promotions, such as interest-free financing and option discounts, the rapid rise in vehicle manufacturing costs limits our ability to offer significant discounts."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-19 05:03:00

Japan's Defense Industry Sees Investor Interest Amid Market Changes Despite no factory expansions or major arms export contracts yet, the market is reacting. Mitsubishi Electric has emerged as one of the standout stocks in Japan's spring market, with its share price climbing to record highs since late March. Investors are drawn to the company due to its air defense and space technologies, particularly in light of U.S. President Donald Trump's plans for a next-generation air defense system, the "Iron Dome," and Japan's efforts to enhance its air defense capabilities. Investors are betting not on the current state of Japan's defense industry, but on future prospects fueled by increased defense spending, the lifting of export restrictions, and rising global military expenditures. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), global military spending is projected to reach a record $2.887 trillion in 2025, a 2.9% increase from the previous year. As geopolitical risks grow, demand for defense equipment is expected to rise. The Nikkei reported that the combined market capitalization of Japan's three major heavy industries has increased more than 14 times over the past six years, significantly outpacing the growth in net profits during the same period. A shift in profitability structures is also contributing to this trend. Historically, Japan's defense sector has been viewed as a "money-losing business." However, starting in 2023, the Ministry of Defense has raised the expected operating profit margin for defense equipment suppliers from about 8% to as high as 15%. This change makes it easier to reflect costs related to inflation and quality improvements in pricing. Kawasaki Heavy Industries has reported that contracts awarded under these new conditions are expected to increase to about 90% by the 2026 fiscal year, indicating a significant improvement in profitability. Market expectations for industry restructuring are also growing. Unlike the U.S. defense giant Lockheed Martin, which derives nearly 90% of its revenue from defense, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries generates less than 20% from this sector. The defense segment is dispersed among large corporations, making it vulnerable to underinvestment and inadequate resource allocation. Calls for reform are emerging from within the government as well. A research group led by former Defense Minister Yasukazu Hamada has proposed separating and consolidating the aircraft, drone, and missile sectors from private companies by the end of 2025. The market hopes for the emergence of a leading company akin to "the Toyota of the defense industry" that can unify fragmented defense capabilities to enhance quality, profitability, and scale. Changes are also occurring outside the traditional defense sector. According to the Nikkei, Japanese drone startup Terra Drone released a video in April showing its technology intercepting and targeting Russia's Shahed suicide drones. The company’s "Terra A1" drones cost less than 500,000 yen (approximately $3,700) each, significantly reducing the financial burden compared to existing intercept missiles, which can cost tens of millions to billions of yen. Last month, the Defense Equipment Agency gathered around 100 startups and venture capital firms, previously distant from the defense sector, to announce a "fast-track procurement" system aimed at shortening procurement processes that typically take over a year. The focus of defense manufacturing is beginning to expand beyond traditional heavy industries to include drones, AI, and robotics companies. However, rising stock prices and regulatory changes do not immediately translate into industrial competitiveness. Japan's defense sector will find it challenging to quickly match South Korea in terms of pricing, delivery, and mass production capabilities. Without increased overseas demand, economies of scale will not materialize, and it will take time to reestablish factories, partnerships, and skilled labor. The entry of drone and AI companies cannot replace the foundational heavy industries that produce destroyers, fighter jets, and missiles. Nonetheless, regulations have been relaxed, the government is restructuring profitability, and investment capital is beginning to flow. The focus should not be solely on today's Japanese defense industry but on how these changes will accumulate over the next decade.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-19 04:15:00

Japan's Arms Export Ambitions: Are There Enough Products to Sell? Japan has long faced peculiar restrictions on the military equipment it can export. Despite possessing advanced capabilities, the country was limited to selling products for non-combat purposes such as structure, transport, surveillance, and mine clearance. This effectively meant that weapons could not be sold. However, the Japanese government recently revised its operational guidelines for the "Three Principles on Transfer of Defense Equipment," easing these restrictions. With case-by-case reviews, Japan can now export finished products with lethal capabilities. As South Korea's defense industry rapidly expands, Japan's long-dormant defense sector is beginning to awaken. The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), a U.S. think tank, views this move as a significant change for Japan's defense industry to enter the global market. However, it cautions that regulatory relaxation does not automatically lead to international competitiveness. Japanese companies must demonstrate a willingness to compete in overseas markets, supported by government initiatives for sales, joint development, and technology transfer. Additionally, Japan lacks major defense contractors like the U.S. firm Lockheed Martin, and even large manufacturers such as Mitsubishi Heavy Industries have a minimal focus on defense, making large-scale investments or business expansions challenging. While the regulatory barriers have been lifted, securing competitiveness remains a separate issue. The difficulty in transforming Japan's defense industry into an export sector stems from its long-standing market structure. For decades, the Self-Defense Forces were the sole customer for Japanese defense companies. With exports restricted, there was no opportunity to distribute development costs through bulk sales to allied nations like U.S. or European firms. Even when developing new tanks or armored vehicles, annual procurement quantities were limited to just a few dozen. The costs of maintaining production lines and investing in facilities were directly added to the equipment prices, creating a so-called "trap of low-volume, high-variety production." Profitability has also been low. The Ministry of Defense has expanded competitive bidding to enhance transparency and prevent corruption, but the price competition pressure on specialized defense materials has worsened companies' profitability. The average operating profit margin in the defense sector has remained at 2-3%, with many firms experiencing losses. Companies engaged in global business also face reputational risks. The mere fact of producing weapons can exclude them from ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) investments and negatively impact consumer perception. As a result, companies have gradually exited the defense sector. Komatsu halted new development of armored vehicles for the Ground Self-Defense Force in 2019, and Daicel withdrew from producing emergency escape device components for aircraft the following year. Sumitomo Heavy Industries and Mitsui E&S Shipbuilding ceased machine gun production in 2021, transferring their naval projects to Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. With low profitability and significant reputational burdens, there is little incentive for private companies to remain in the defense sector. Naval projects have been particularly stifled. Once, IHI operated a large shipyard in Toyosu, Tokyo, but it has since been replaced by high-rise apartments and commercial facilities. IHI last built a vessel, the Akebono frigate, in 2000 and has since exited shipbuilding. According to the Nikkei, the only companies currently capable of constructing new frigates in Japan are Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Japan Marine United (JMU). As Japan seeks to ramp up arms exports, its shipbuilding capabilities are limited to these two firms. Given this reality, simply lifting export restrictions will not enable Japan to compete effectively in the international defense market. The lack of experience in bulk deliveries to foreign customers and the diminished shipbuilding infrastructure cannot be restored overnight. Awakening Japanese Defense Industry However, it is premature to conclude that Japan's defense industry lacks competitiveness based solely on its current state. Many of the weaknesses revealed thus far stem not from a lack of technological capability but from being constrained from selling, which has prevented the industry from achieving scale. Increased overseas sales could lead to larger production volumes and lower unit costs. The recent lifting of the five-type restriction signals the beginning of a shift away from Japan's classification as a "high-cost domestic equipment" producer. On April 18, Japan and Australia formally signed a contract to supply 11 upgraded Mogami-class frigates for the Royal Australian Navy. Three of these will be built in Japan by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, while the remainder will be constructed in Australia starting in the early 2030s. Reuters described this as the most significant deal since Japan relaxed its arms export regulations in 2014. However, the Nikkei reported that prioritizing the three ships for Japan could delay the deployment of Self-Defense Forces vessels. The fact that even building just three ships may necessitate postponing domestic defense projects highlights that Japan's shipbuilding capacity is still insufficient. South Korea's defense industry excels in pricing, delivery times, and mass production capabilities. Due to the geopolitical reality of the Korean Peninsula's division, South Korea has maintained a certain level of arms production and maintenance infrastructure even in peacetime, contributing to its competitiveness. While U.S. and European defense firms have shown limitations in pricing and delivery, South Korea has expanded its market by providing quality weapons at reasonable prices and in a timely manner. Japan has largely remained outside this competitive landscape. However, with the lifting of the five-type restriction, this dynamic is beginning to change. While it will not be easy for Japan to catch up to South Korea's defense industry, the emergence of Japan as a variable in the competitive landscape that South Korea has enjoyed is evident. 2026-05-19 04:09:00

[[ASIA BIZ]] Pop Mart's Revenue Doubles in China Amid Art Toy Market Growth The Chinese art toy market has shown robust growth, with related companies reporting generally positive performance in the first quarter of this year. Pop Mart, a leading Chinese art toy brand, estimated its first-quarter revenue increased by 75% to 80% compared to the same period last year. Notably, sales in the mainland Chinese market more than doubled year-on-year, demonstrating strong consumer demand despite sluggish domestic conditions. However, growth in overseas markets has shown signs of slowing. Sales in the Asia-Pacific region rose by 25% to 30%, while the Americas saw an increase of 55% to 60%, and Europe and other regions grew by 60% to 65%. Compared to last year's explosive overseas growth, these figures indicate a significant decline, raising concerns about the sustainability of future growth. In response, Pop Mart stated, "We will further enhance the commercial value of the Labubu intellectual property (IP) through high-quality products and rich content." The company plans to expand its business beyond product sales to create a comprehensive IP ecosystem that includes Labubu film production and the development of a Labubu theme park. Miniso also continued its solid performance. As the second-largest art toy brand in China, owning Top Toy, Miniso reported first-quarter sales of up to 5.73 billion yuan, marking an increase of approximately 28% to 29% year-on-year, with net profits expected to surge by as much as 200%. The rapid growth of Top Toy appears to be driving this improvement. Consequently, Miniso is pursuing plans to spin off Top Toy and list it separately. The company submitted a listing application to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange last month. Unlike Pop Mart, Top Toy adopts a strategy of sourcing 70% of its products from external IP characters. This approach contrasts with Pop Mart's focus on its own characters, allowing Top Toy to quickly introduce various popular IPs and expand its market share. Sun Yuanwen, the founder of Top Toy, remarked, "If Pop Mart is the iOS of the art toy industry, then Top Toy is Android." Additionally, 52 Toys, which has received investment from the Chinese video platform Bilibili, has been rumored to be preparing for a listing on the Hong Kong stock market since last year.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-19 04:04:28

China's Art Toy Economy Thrives with Emotional Consumerism A massive 6-meter tall Molly figure with blue eyes and a crown, themed merchandise from the Chinese blockbuster game "Black Myth: Wukong," traditional flower crown refrigerator magnets from the National Museum of China, quirky duck plush toys from the Beijing roast duck restaurant Quanjude, and advanced AI figures capable of conversation were among the diverse cultural goods showcased at the event. Beijing Chaoyang Park Transformed into a 'Goods Paradise' The First National Cultural Goods and Art Toy Festival took place on May 15 at Beijing's Chaoyang Park. Covering an area of approximately 20,000 square meters, equivalent to ten soccer fields, the festival featured trendy toys from major Chinese art toy IP companies like Labubu and Wakuku, as well as themed merchandise from national institutions such as the Beijing Palace Museum and the Dunhuang Three Thousand Retreat Museum. Over 10,000 art toys from various regions, including cultural goods selected by 31 provinces and autonomous regions, were on display. Despite being a Friday afternoon, crowds continuously flocked to the venue to explore the cultural goods and art toys, highlighting the current state of China's expanding art toy and merchandise market. This event, the first national-level exhibition of cultural goods and art toys in China, was organized by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the Beijing Municipal Government. Huozijing, deputy director of the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism, stated at a press conference on May 9 that the event represents an important attempt for Beijing to establish itself as a hub for national cultural creative industries and to lead new consumer trends. China's Art Toy Market Set to Reach 20 Trillion Yuan In recent years, the market for art toys and related merchandise in China has experienced rapid growth. Known as "chaowan" (潮玩) in China, which translates to "trendy toys," the art toy industry is projected to surpass 110.1 billion yuan (approximately $24 billion) in sales by 2026, growing at an annual rate of 20%. This marks a more than 15-fold increase from 6.3 billion yuan in 2015. The art toy industry in China has successfully combined a robust manufacturing supply chain with mobile platform-based fandom culture, enabling rapid commercialization of intellectual property (IP). Notable brands include Pop Mart, which has grown into a global art toy brand with its whimsical monster character Labubu, as well as Top Toy under the Chinese version of Daiso, Miniso, and 52 Toys, which has received investment from the Chinese video platform Bilibili, among others. The growth of the art toy market is driven by the increasing emotional consumption among younger consumers. Art toys and merchandise fulfill the collecting preferences and emotional expression desires of young people, providing them with a sense of psychological comfort. According to the market research firm iMedia Research, China's so-called "emotional economy" is expected to reach approximately 2.3 trillion yuan by 2025 and exceed 4.5 trillion yuan by 2029. Chinese Goods Industry Evolving with 'Emotional Consumption' The Chinese government is also viewing the cultural goods and art toy market as a new growth engine for domestic consumption amid sluggish economic conditions. In a consumer promotion plan announced last November, character and figure art toys were identified as one of ten sectors to be developed into a 100 billion yuan industry. In China, art toys and merchandise consumption is perceived not merely as purchasing products but as engaging in cultural activities that involve emotional, aesthetic, and experiential consumption. The integration of pop-up stores, exhibitions, random draws, and social media culture has transformed art toys into an offline experiential consumption industry. The Chinese government plans to categorize this as an "IP economy" centered on characters and content, fostering it as a type of service consumption linked to culture, tourism, and entertainment. Labubu Leads Chinese IP Expansion Globally Moreover, art toys are rapidly emerging as a new soft power for promoting Chinese culture. Moving away from the image of being a "paradise for counterfeit toys," China is evolving into a powerhouse of intellectual property. Pop Mart, which originated in China, is capturing the attention of young people in Southeast Asia, Europe, and the United States with Labubu, positioning itself as a leader in global toy industry trends. Nearly half of Pop Mart's revenue now comes from overseas. A spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry noted that "more and more foreigners are understanding China and gaining emotional resonance," referencing Labubu's popularity. The Hong Kong South China Morning Post analyzed that China is at a turning point, similar to the growth phases of American brands like Disney and Marvel, and Japanese brands like Pokémon and Hello Kitty. In particular, art toys are actively targeting the South Korean market, which has been described as an "IP desert." Following Pop Mart's success, Top Toy and 52 Toys have already entered Korea, and recently, Haiyuan opened a flagship store in Seoul's Seongsu-dong, seeking to expand into the Korean market. This indicates that local art toy IPs with global influence are lacking in Korea, allowing Chinese toy companies to gain a foothold in the market.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-19 04:03:00