K-Bio Heads to ASCO 2026, Clinical Data as Key Asset The domestic pharmaceutical and biotech industries are turning their attention to the global stage ahead of the 2026 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) conference, scheduled to take place in Chicago from May 29 to June 2. This year's ASCO is expected to serve as a litmus test for K-Bio, determining whether it can translate participation into concrete business outcomes such as licensing deals and mergers and acquisitions (M&A).According to industry sources, ASCO is recognized as the world's largest oncology conference and a key platform for unveiling clinical trial results in new drug development. With major global pharmaceutical companies shifting their collaboration strategies to focus on 'clinically validated data,' firms are seizing opportunities to present phased clinical results at the conference to secure global partnerships.GI Innovation's immuno-oncology drug GI-101A has been selected for a rapid oral presentation at ASCO 2026 based solely on its Phase 1 data. The company emphasizes the efficacy of its combination therapy with PD-1 antibody drugs, adopting a strategic clinical design from the early stages. The oral presentation at this stage is considered unusual within the domestic biotech sector.ImmuneOncia will present interim results from its Phase 1b trial of the next-generation CD47 antibody IMC-002 targeting triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) in a poster session. This substantial data release is expected to lay the groundwork for discussions on expanding indications and forming global partnerships.TiumBio will showcase interim results from its Phase 2a trial of the oral immuno-oncology drug Tosefertinib (TU2218) in combination with Keytruda for head and neck cancer in a poster. Tosefertinib is being developed to improve the tumor microenvironment by simultaneously inhibiting transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). The company plans to update response rates and survival analysis results at ASCO, following data presented at last year's Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC) conference.VigenCell will present oral results from its Phase 2 trial of the cell therapy 'VT-EBV-N.' The company intends to focus on the clinical achievements of VT-EBV-N in terms of reducing recurrence and extending survival, highlighting significant effects in these areas and suggesting improved patient prognosis.Additionally, SillaJen will announce results from its Phase 1 trial of the dual inhibitor 'BAL0891' targeting solid tumors and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The data will focus on the tolerability and initial response rates of both monotherapy and combination therapy with PD-1 antibodies and chemotherapy. STCube will present early data from its Phase 1b/2 trial (STCUBE-003) of the BTN1A1-targeted immuno-oncology drug 'Nelmastobat' for metastatic colorectal cancer in a poster session, aiming to demonstrate disease control effects and potential survival improvements in patients with high BTN1A1 expression through multiplex immunohistochemistry (mIHC) analysis.An industry insider noted, "ASCO is seen as an opportunity not just for showcasing technological capabilities, but also for potentially reshaping the landscape of licensing deals and M&A with major global pharmaceutical companies. It presents a chance to establish a full value chain that leads to collaboration and global commercialization with these firms."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-11 03:18:35

Investors Split Strategies Amid Record KOSPI Surge and Derivative Trading Amid a record-breaking bull market, investors are divided in their strategies. As the KOSPI continues to hit all-time highs, funds in derivative trading accounts, margin trading balances, and investor deposits have surged to unprecedented levels, indicating a significant increase in long positions. Conversely, the amount of funds set aside for short selling has also reached record highs, reflecting a growing interest in short positions in anticipation of a market correction following the recent surge. According to the Korea Financial Investment Association, as of May 7, the balance of funds in derivative trading accounts reached 38.2567 trillion won, marking an all-time high. This represents an increase of over 6 trillion won compared to the previous week’s figure of 32.2335 trillion won on April 30. Compared to the 18.3986 trillion won recorded on the first trading day of the year, January 2, this amount has more than doubled in just four months. Funds in derivative trading accounts are reserved for investments in exchange-traded derivatives such as KOSPI 200 futures and options. Due to their higher volatility and frequent use of leverage, these funds are typically seen as indicators of aggressive investor sentiment. Analysts suggest that the recent sharp rise in the KOSPI has led to a significant influx of capital into the derivatives market as investors bet on further gains. The scale of margin trading, or borrowing to invest, is also nearing risky levels. The balance of margin trading loans surpassed 36 trillion won for the first time at the end of April and has remained around 35 trillion won since then. Margin trading represents the amount borrowed by investors from brokerage firms to invest in stocks, and it tends to increase rapidly when bullish sentiment is strong. Additionally, investor deposits, which serve as market liquidity, reached a record high of 137 trillion won on May 7, indicating a substantial increase in available capital for investment. However, concerns are growing regarding the relatively weak risk management capabilities of individual investors. Data shows that individual investors have incurred losses amounting to billions of won annually in derivative trading from 2020 to 2024. While high volatility and leverage can lead to significant profits in a rising market, they can also result in rapid losses if market conditions shift. At the same time, there is an increasing caution among market participants regarding potential volatility following the recent surge. The balance of funds set aside for short selling has recently surpassed 180 trillion won for the first time. As the stock market remains bullish, both long and short positions are being established as investors prepare for potential corrections after reaching new highs. Market analysts believe that corporate earnings will be a key factor in determining whether the KOSPI can continue its upward trajectory. Lee Kyung-min, a researcher at Daishin Securities, stated, "As long as the upward trend in leading earnings per share (EPS) remains intact, the likelihood of continued gains is high. We should keep the possibility of further increases open rather than hastily limiting the KOSPI's upside potential."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-11 03:16:34

Dua Lipa Sues Samsung for $15 Million Over Unauthorized Photo Use Dua Lipa, the global pop star, has reportedly filed a lawsuit against Samsung Electronics for $15 million (approximately 22 billion won), claiming unauthorized use of her photo. On May 9, U.S. entertainment outlet Variety reported that Lipa's team filed the lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California, alleging copyright infringement, trademark infringement, and violation of publicity rights. According to the lawsuit, Samsung began using Lipa's photo on TV packaging last year. After discovering this, Lipa's team requested that Samsung cease using the image, but the company allegedly refused. The complaint states, "Lipa's face was used extensively in a large-scale marketing campaign for consumer products without her consent or prior consultation, and without granting her any voice or control over its use. Lipa did not permit this and would not have permitted it." The lawsuit also cites social media posts from some consumers who expressed their intent to purchase the TV packaging featuring Lipa's photo. Lipa's team argues this demonstrates Samsung's commercial exploitation of her image and brand value. Lipa, a British artist, debuted in 2015 with the single "New Love" and gained recognition with her first studio album, "Dua Lipa," which reached No. 3 on the UK Albums Chart in 2017. She has since won three Grammy Awards. Variety reached out to Samsung for comment but did not receive an immediate response.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-11 03:15:20

ETF Assets Surpass 450 Trillion Won, Stock ETFs Break 200 Trillion Won Barrier As the domestic stock market gains momentum, the net assets of stock-type exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have surpassed 200 trillion won for the first time. Overall net assets have also exceeded 450 trillion won. According to financial information provider FnGuide, as of May 7, the total net assets of all domestic ETFs reached 456 trillion won. Of this, the net assets of domestic stock-type ETFs, which invest in companies listed in South Korea, amounted to 212 trillion won, marking the first time this figure has exceeded 200 trillion won. Among the 1,099 ETFs available (including domestic stock, foreign stock, domestic bond, and mixed types), there are 413 domestic stock-type ETFs. The net assets of domestic stock-type ETFs were only around 40 trillion won at the end of 2024, but surged to 93 trillion won last year and have rapidly approached 200 trillion won in just about four months this year. The net assets of domestic stock-type ETFs account for 3.47% of the KOSPI market capitalization of 6,138 trillion won, reaching an all-time high. This proportion was only 1.99% at the end of 2023 and remained at 2.08% in December 2024, but has jumped by 0.81 percentage points this year alone after ending last year at 2.68%. Domestic stock-type ETFs represent 46.6% of all ETFs. As the KOSPI continues to set new all-time highs, funds have rapidly flowed back into domestic stock-type ETFs. This trend indicates a clear shift in investment demand from overseas assets to the domestic market. New investors, often referred to as 'stock beginners,' are actively entering the rising market through domestic stock-type ETFs, which are seen as more accessible due to their diversification benefits compared to individual stock investments. ETFs allow investors to participate in the overall market with a smaller amount of capital. As of the end of April, there were 302,669 investors under the age of 20 investing in ETFs through the five major securities firms, a 37% increase compared to the end of last year. This suggests that younger investors are opting for index and theme-based ETFs to capitalize on market uptrends rather than selecting individual stocks. The expansion of ETF investments in retirement markets, such as pension funds, also appears to be driving the increase in net assets. Additionally, the market is expected to grow further with the upcoming launch of single-stock leveraged ETFs on May 22. Park Woo-yeol, a researcher at Shinhan Investment Corp, stated, "With Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix 2x ETFs already listed and traded on overseas exchanges, we expect to address the outflow of leveraged investment demand caused by regulatory asymmetries."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-11 03:14:04

Democratic Party Questions Opposition's Stance on Housing Prices The Democratic Party criticized the People Power Party on May 10 for its aggressive stance following the reintroduction of higher capital gains taxes on multiple homeowners, questioning whether the opposition party wants housing prices to soar uncontrollably. Jo Seung-rae, the party's secretary-general, stated during a press briefing at the National Assembly, "It seems that the People Power Party does not wish for housing price stability." He added, "It would be problematic if housing prices were to skyrocket or plummet," emphasizing that the party's fundamental position is that housing prices must stabilize. Regarding concerns that the end of the capital gains tax exemption could impact elections in the Seoul metropolitan area, Jo remarked, "It is difficult to confirm any direct correlation at this point," explaining that elections involve a variety of issues that voters consider collectively. In contrast, the People Power Party strongly criticized the implementation of the capital gains tax. Party leader Jang Dong-hyuk posted on Facebook, "With the start of the capital gains tax today, housing prices will rise further," adding that many are withdrawing properties from the market. He also criticized Lee Jae-myung, stating, "Lee insists on 'normalizing real estate' at all costs. The mindset that believes this is normal is abnormal." Chief spokesperson Choi Bo-yun argued, "What is needed now is the repeal of punitive taxation that blocks escape routes, along with decisive action to fully lift regulations on reconstruction and redevelopment to allow quality housing to be supplied where the market demands it." He warned that the Lee Jae-myung administration must recognize the failures of past governments that tried to control the market through taxation.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-11 03:12:40

U.S. Navy Blocks Dozens of Ships Amid Iran's Threats of Retaliation The U.S. military is implementing a maritime blockade against Iran, disrupting its trade routes. In response, Iran has warned that it will retaliate against U.S. bases and vessels if its ships are attacked in the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), which oversees military operations in the Middle East, announced on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on May 9 that it has redirected the routes of 58 commercial vessels and neutralized four ships to prevent access to Iranian ports since April 13. This blockade began on April 13, following a ceasefire agreement with Iran on April 7, and aims to pressure Iran’s funding sources to gain leverage in peace negotiations. In retaliation, Iran has issued a warning that any attacks on its oil tankers or commercial vessels will lead to strong reprisals against U.S. positions and enemy ships in the region. According to reports from AFP and other outlets, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) stated, "Any attack on Iranian oil tankers or commercial vessels will result in a powerful response against U.S. bases and enemy ships in the area." This warning came after the U.S. announced that it had neutralized two Iranian oil tankers attempting to breach the maritime blockade in the Strait of Hormuz and enter Iranian ports in the Gulf of Oman. Iran confirmed that there had been "limited clashes" with U.S. forces in the Strait of Hormuz. On May 7, U.S. and Iranian forces exchanged attacks in the Strait of Hormuz. However, both sides maintain that the ceasefire is still in effect. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump stated the previous day that he expected to receive a letter from Iran regarding U.S. demands. It remains unclear whether Iran has formally communicated its position. Previously, President Trump indicated that the peace agreement would include provisions for the removal of Iran's stockpile of highly enriched uranium and the cessation of operations at its underground nuclear facilities, but Iran has not yet provided an official response.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-11 03:11:36

Blue House Concludes Investigation into HMM Namoo Fire in Hormuz Strait The Blue House announced on May 10 that it has completed its on-site investigation into the fire aboard the South Korean vessel HMM Namoo, which occurred near the Hormuz Strait in the United Arab Emirates. A Blue House official stated in a press release that the investigation team has concluded the necessary fieldwork and will return individually based on flight availability following their local activities.The official added, "We have received preliminary findings from the on-site investigation, and we are currently reviewing and evaluating them with relevant agencies. The cause of the Namoo fire will be addressed after this review and evaluation process."The Blue House has maintained a cautious stance regarding the possibility of an attack, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause of the explosion.The government investigation team, consisting of three investigators from the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries' Marine Safety Tribunal and four forensic experts from the National Fire Agency, began their inquiry into the fire on May 8 at Dubai Port.The team is reportedly examining data, including the voyage data recorder (VDR) and closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage, while also interviewing crew members and conducting on-site inspections.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-11 03:10:32

Democratic Party Denounces Kim Kwan-young's Independent Candidacy The Democratic Party has sharply criticized Kim Kwan-young, the Jeonbuk governor who declared his independent candidacy on May 7, calling his actions "shameless." Kim was expelled from the party over allegations of distributing money envelopes and has supported Democratic Party lawmaker Ahn Ho-young, who staged a hunger strike after the party selected Lee Won-taek as its Jeonbuk gubernatorial candidate amid accusations of meal expense reimbursements. Jo Seung-rae, head of the Democratic Party's National Normalization Election Committee, stated at a press conference on May 10 that Kim is permanently ineligible for rejoining the party. He explained that the party's constitution prohibits the reinstatement of individuals expelled for sexual offenses or those who leave the party to run for office against the party's decisions. Jo criticized the notion that the Democratic Party is a place where individuals can freely enter and exit at will, responding to speculation that Kim could return to the party if elected as an independent. He also addressed Kim's claims that the party engaged in unfair candidate selection, stating, "Such assertions are blatant falsehoods, and we are considering legal action." Additionally, Jo issued a warning to the Justice Reform Party, suggesting that those who have been disciplined or denied candidacy within the Democratic Party should not expect to be welcomed back later. He remarked, "Some believe they will eventually be absorbed into the party, but that is a misconception." He added that he does not believe the Justice Reform Party is acting as a party in this regard, viewing any such actions as individual deviations that could harm mutual trust.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-11 03:08:56

Harim Group Becomes Third Largest SSM Operator with Homeplus Express Acquisition Harim Group's subsidiary, NS Shopping, has acquired Homeplus Express, the supermarket division of Homeplus, raising expectations for business synergy. The acquisition is expected to accelerate vertical integration in food production, logistics, and distribution based on Homeplus Express's nationwide store network. According to the retail industry on May 10, Harim Group is re-entering the domestic offline retail market in the form of a corporate supermarket (SSM) through NS Shopping's acquisition of Homeplus Express. This marks the group's return to the sector after selling NS Mart to E-Mart in 2012, a span of 14 years. On May 7, Homeplus, which is undergoing corporate rehabilitation, and NS Shopping signed a contract for the transfer of the Express business rights. The sale price is reported to be 120.6 billion won, falling short of the initially speculated 300 billion won. However, NS Shopping has agreed to settle some of Homeplus Express's debts, which is expected to increase the actual financial burden, although the specific amount has not been disclosed. With this acquisition, Harim Group has quickly ascended to become the third-largest player in the SSM sector. As of the end of last year, Homeplus Express operated 295 stores, ranking behind GS The Fresh (585 stores) and Lotte Super (338 stores). Notably, 90% of its stores are located in the metropolitan area and major cities, which is considered a significant advantage. Industry experts view Harim Group's acquisition of Homeplus Express as a strategic move aimed at leveraging synergies with its food business. Homeplus Express caters to the shopping needs of single-person households and homemakers, providing a platform for Harim Group to sell its meat products, home meal replacements (HMR), and processed foods directly. Additionally, establishing a structure that integrates production, distribution, and sales could help secure stable sales channels for its food business. There is also speculation about utilizing Homeplus Express stores as urban delivery hubs, potentially entering the quick commerce market. Furthermore, if linked with the Yangjae urban logistics center, which Harim Group aims to complete by 2029, it could create a delivery system that combines a large logistics hub with urban store networks. NS Shopping believes that combining its existing home shopping and online channels with Homeplus Express's offline store network will broaden opportunities for partner companies. By leveraging its 25 years of experience in handling agricultural products and food, NS Shopping can provide small food partners with opportunities to enter offline stores, while Homeplus Express partners can expand their sales channels through online and mobile platforms. However, challenges remain. Competition among SSMs, e-commerce, and convenience stores is intensifying, leading to a shrinking market for SSMs. The speed at which Harim Group can restructure the Homeplus Express store network into a retail hub will be a critical factor in its success. An NS Shopping official stated regarding the acquisition of Homeplus Express, "This will be an important turning point for strengthening our competitiveness across online and offline channels based on our expertise in food and distribution. We will carefully review all matters to ensure that the remaining procedures proceed smoothly." Meanwhile, following the sale of Homeplus Express, Homeplus has begun restructuring its remaining business segments, including hypermarkets, online operations, and headquarters. From May 10 to July 3, it plans to temporarily suspend operations at 37 of its 104 hypermarket locations, focusing on the remaining 67 stores that contribute more significantly to the business.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-11 03:07:05

Vietnam Responds Swiftly to U.S. Intellectual Property Warning The United States designated Vietnam as a "Priority Foreign Country" (PFC) in its 2026 Special 301 Report, prompting the Vietnamese government to quickly formulate a response. This marks the first time in 13 years that such a severe designation has been issued, raising concerns that it could lead to unfavorable trade measures, including tariffs. According to Vietnamese media outlet VOV, the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) classified Vietnam as a PFC in its report released on April 30. This is the highest level of warning issued to a specific trading partner since Ukraine in 2013. The USTR cited five reasons for Vietnam's designation as a PFC: ineffective enforcement against copyright infringement in the digital environment, insufficient action against counterfeit goods and trademark violations, limitations in border enforcement mechanisms, a lack of substantial measures against unauthorized software use within companies, and weak criminal regulations against the unauthorized interception of encrypted cable and satellite signals. In response, the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) stated that this issue requires careful examination. The department noted that if a formal investigation is initiated based on U.S. consultations and evaluations, the process could be lengthy and may lead to unfavorable trade measures, including tariffs. During the first term of President Donald Trump, the U.S. initiated a Special 301 investigation against China in 2017 concerning intellectual property rights and technology transfer, using it as a basis for imposing additional tariffs. Many of those measures have remained in place since then. The Special 301 provision allows the U.S. to take retaliatory actions if it determines that a trading partner is infringing on intellectual property rights. However, the WTO department noted that Vietnam has made consistent efforts in recent years to strengthen intellectual property protection through legal and institutional reforms and to enhance enforcement capabilities. Examples include amendments to intellectual property laws, improved inter-agency cooperation in handling violations, and inspections of the digital environment and product distribution stages. The Vietnamese government has also officially requested that the U.S. objectively and comprehensively assess its protection and enforcement efforts. Vietnam Moves Quickly to Prepare In this context, the response of Vietnamese companies has become a critical task. The WTO department advised businesses to reassess their compliance with intellectual property laws throughout their production, sales, and export processes. Companies deeply integrated with the U.S. market, partners, or supply chains should urgently review their internal compliance systems. They should first verify whether the software currently in use is legal, whether images, trademarks, packaging, designs, and promotional content are used legally, and whether the sources and usage rights of data, designs, technical documents, digital works, and marketing materials are clearly secured. It is also essential to maintain internal documents that can prove ownership or usage rights of related intellectual property assets. For companies providing intermediary infrastructure, such as digital platforms, e-commerce, data centers, and social networks, stricter standards have been proposed. They should enhance procedures for managing content and sellers, improve systems for receiving and processing infringement reports, and promptly remove products, stores, or content with clear violations. In high-risk areas, such as websites dealing with medical supplies, food, health supplements, and large-scale copyrighted content, early prevention and close cooperation with authorities are even more critical. Exporting companies to the U.S. are advised to ensure compliance checks on intellectual property, as well as enhance information transparency across their supply chains, digitization of materials, and traceability. The WTO department explained that this is not only a risk management measure in anticipation of potential unfavorable actions from the U.S., but also a key condition for meeting international market compliance, origin, quality, and transparency standards. Should the USTR officially initiate an investigation, related companies and industry associations are advised to actively provide information and opinions through appropriate channels. Demonstrating how they have refined their compliance management and the changes in Vietnam's legal reforms and enforcement efforts could be crucial in the U.S. evaluation process. The WTO department analyzed that the 2026 Special 301 Report signals that intellectual property should be recognized as a core element of modern governance and long-term competitiveness, beyond mere legal issues. Ultimately, investments in compliance, risk control, supply chain digitization, standardization of internal processes, and market diversification will provide a solid foundation for responding to the changing international trade environment.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-11 03:04:59