Shinhan Investment Corp. Projects Continued Profitability for Kyungdong Navien Shinhan Investment Corp. stated on May 21 that considering changes in tariff rates and related non-operating income, Kyungdong Navien's profitability is expected to improve continuously in the second quarter and throughout the year. The firm maintained its target stock price at 89,000 won and its investment recommendation at 'Buy.' Research analyst Heo Seong-kyu noted, "The strong performance in the first quarter of this year is different from the favorable results due to advance orders in the second quarter of last year. The primary reason for the increase in performance is attributed to the decline in the general tariff rate." He added, "In the second quarter of this year, a change in the implementation of tariffs on steel and aluminum is expected to result in an additional decrease of about 2-3% in tariff rates. The tariff changes are currently undergoing refund procedures for last year's implementation amounts, and additional contributions to non-operating income are anticipated." He emphasized that the company is expanding its residential HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) product line, with significant sales activities underway in the second quarter. Heo explained, "The product lineup includes hydro furnaces, heat pumps, air conditioners, and air handlers. The average price of these products is similar to that of existing condensing water heaters, which means that the expanded product mix will positively impact consolidated profitability in the medium to long term." He also noted, "This gradual change is expected to reduce the seasonal volatility of quarterly performance associated with existing water heaters concentrated in winter." Additionally, Heo assessed that Kyungdong Navien is undervalued both relatively and absolutely. He stated, "There is no reason for a discount compared to competitors and historical figures, indicating that both relative and absolute valuations are low. There are factors that could lead to performance increases depending on profitability in the second half of the year."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 08:39:28

Gong Seung-yeon Discusses TWICE's Jeongyeon and Her Battle with Cushing's Syndrome Actress Gong Seung-yeon expressed her affection for her younger sister, Jeongyeon, a member of the popular girl group TWICE. During an appearance on the tvN variety show "You Quiz on the Block" on May 20, Jeongyeon reflected on her difficult battle with Cushing's syndrome, recalling, "It was a mentally challenging time, and I don't remember much because it was so hard. I relied heavily on my sister during that period." She added, "My sister noticed something was wrong with my health and suggested I see a doctor, which led to my diagnosis of Cushing's syndrome at a major hospital." Jeongyeon noted that despite her sister's usual dislike for physical activity, she began exercising alongside her. "Thanks to my sister, I was able to receive proper treatment and recover healthily," she said. In response, Gong Seung-yeon shared, "At that time, Jeongyeon was really struggling. I felt anxious about leaving her alone, so I suggested we live together. I was terrified that my sister might just disappear or give up completely." She explained, "I couldn't fully understand what Jeongyeon was going through, so I tried various approaches. I would scold her, comfort her, and even cry with her. But I found that just being there for her was the best way to support her." Jeongyeon expressed her gratitude, saying, "I'm thankful that my sister is my real sister, and I'm sorry for the trouble I caused her. I love you." * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 08:37:26

Financial Authorities File Criminal Charges Against NH Investment & Securities for Insider Trading Financial authorities have imposed sanctions on executives and associates of NH Investment & Securities for alleged insider trading related to tender offers. The Securities and Futures Commission (SFC), under the Financial Services Commission, has filed criminal charges and imposed the maximum administrative fines as part of a strong response to actions that undermine the capital market order. On May 21, the SFC announced that during its 10th regular meeting on May 20, it reported eight individuals, including executives and their spouses and acquaintances, to prosecutors for violating the Capital Markets Act by using undisclosed important information. Additionally, it decided to impose fines on eight others who received and traded on this information for violating market disruption regulations. This action follows a joint investigation by the Financial Services Commission, the Financial Supervisory Service, and the Korea Exchange. Authorities believe that undisclosed information obtained during the tender offer process was leaked and used for stock trading. According to the SFC, the suspects allegedly used undisclosed information acquired while conducting tender offer-related work from May 2023 to September 2025 to make concentrated purchases of stocks from 15 listed companies. They are accused of selling their shares for illicit profits after the stock prices rose following the announcement of the tender offers. Authorities view the use of proxy accounts by executives and their spouses to conceal trades as a serious matter. Investigations revealed that spouses mimicked their husbands' trading methods by using accounts in the names of other acquaintances. The joint response team confirmed the actual ownership of multiple accounts and collusion through fund tracking and searches. In addition to the criminal charges, authorities stated that the eight individuals who traded based on insider information would face the highest possible fines under the law to raise market awareness. Furthermore, depending on the results of the prosecutors' investigation, authorities plan to impose additional fines of up to twice the amount of illicit profits on those accused of using insider information. Previously, NH Investment & Securities established a task force to strengthen internal controls immediately after becoming aware of the situation in October of last year. The company has implemented comprehensive measures, including requiring all executives to submit compliance pledges, banning new stock purchases, introducing a registration management system for employees handling undisclosed important information, expanding monitoring of accounts held in family members' names, and formalizing a 'one-strike-out' principle.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 08:34:39

U.S.-South Korea Deputy Foreign Ministers Meet to Launch Joint Fact Sheet Group Park Yoon-joo, First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, met with Christopher Landau, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, in Washington on May 20 to discuss specific measures for implementing the Joint Fact Sheet (JFS) from the recent summit between the two nations. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on May 21, the two deputy ministers emphasized that the South Korea-U.S. alliance is a cornerstone for peace, security, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. They agreed that the announcement of the JFS is one of the most significant diplomatic achievements in the past year since the current government took office and serves as a vital tool for addressing shared challenges amid international security and economic uncertainties. The deputy ministers also noted that discussions on U.S. investment in South Korea are progressing smoothly and committed to ensuring the success of the upcoming kickoff meeting scheduled for later this month. During a meeting with South Korean correspondents at the South Korean Embassy in Washington, Park highlighted the agreement to hold a launch meeting for the implementation of the Joint Fact Sheet as the most important outcome of his visit to the U.S. Landau reaffirmed the United States' strong defense commitment to South Korea and the unwavering readiness of the South Korea-U.S. alliance, stating that South Korea is the best economic, trade, and investment partner for both nations and that efforts will continue to support this partnership. Park expressed gratitude for Landau's keen interest and commitment to resolving visa issues, which are essential for advancing investment cooperation between the two countries, and expressed hope for continued progress. Landau acknowledged the significant contributions of South Korean companies to the U.S. economy and manufacturing revival, pledging ongoing support for their investment activities. The two deputy ministers also exchanged in-depth views on global issues and situations, including the Middle East, the recent U.S.-China summit, and critical mineral supply chains. Park particularly praised President Trump's proactive leadership in addressing Middle East issues and agreed on the importance of safe and free navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. They agreed to maintain immediate communication on various issues arising between the two countries and to coordinate high-level communications over the next 2-3 months through various opportunities. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 08:32:14

Candidates Launch Campaigns for Seoul Mayor Election Jung Won-o, the Democratic Party candidate for Seoul Mayor, and Oh Se-hoon, the People Power Party candidate, will officially launch their campaigns on May 21. According to political sources on May 20, Jung will visit the Dongseoul Postal Distribution Center in Gwangjin-gu at midnight to meet with workers on the night shift. Joining him will be Democratic Party officials, including Representative Jung Cheong-rae and former lawmakers Park Joo-min and Jeon Hyun-hee, who are part of the 'Ottu Campaign Team' following their defeat in the mayoral primary. Later that morning at 10:30 a.m., Jung will hold an official launch event at Wangsimni Station Plaza in his political hometown of Seongdong-gu. The event is expected to attract numerous Democratic Party officials from 25 districts and 48 local committees. In the afternoon, Jung will focus on campaigning in the Gangnam area. At 3 p.m., he will greet voters at the Seocho-gu Express Bus Terminal, followed by a major rally at Gangnam Square at 6 p.m. targeting commuters. Oh Se-hoon will announce the start of his campaign at midnight at the Garak Agricultural and Fishery Wholesale Market in Songpa-gu. He plans to engage with voters by personally transporting vegetables like cabbage and radishes at the auction site. His first rally with former lawmaker Yoo Seung-min will take place at 9:30 a.m., with an official launch event scheduled for the afternoon. Gyeonggi governor candidates will also kick off their campaigns. Democratic Party candidate Choo Mi-ae will hold her first rally at 10 a.m. at Seohyeon Station in Bundang-gu, accompanied by Representative Jung and lawmakers Kim Tae-nyeon, Lee Soo-jin, and Seongnam mayoral candidate Kim Byeong-wook to rally support. Reform Party candidate Jo Eung-cheon will hold a joint launch event for the Central and Gyeonggi Election Campaign Committees at his campaign office in Hwaseong at 9 a.m. He will then move to Suwon Station's underground shopping area for his first street rally at noon. Yang Hyang-ja, a candidate from the People Power Party who is on a hunger strike to prevent a total strike at Samsung Electronics, will hold her launch event at 3 p.m. at the Yeongdong Market in Suwon. However, if negotiations between Samsung Electronics and labor representatives break down that day, she plans to cancel the event and continue her protest.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 08:30:38

Bitcoin Recovers to $77,400 as Investor Sentiment Improves Bitcoin and other major cryptocurrencies saw a significant rise in prices. This increase is attributed to a recovery in global risk asset investor sentiment, which has led to increased buying activity in the cryptocurrency market. According to CoinMarketCap, as of 8 a.m. on May 21, Bitcoin was trading at $77,424, up 0.92% from the previous day. Ethereum also rose by 0.92%, reaching $2,126. Binance Coin (BNB), Solana, and Ripple (XRP) recorded increases of 1.51%, 2.25%, and 0.62%, trading at $648, $85, and $1.36, respectively. Market analysts believe that the strong performance of the U.S. stock market and a renewed preference for risk assets have positively influenced the cryptocurrency market. Recent reductions in volatility in global financial markets have contributed to an improvement in investor sentiment. As Bitcoin's upward trend continues, buying interest is spreading to major altcoins. Analysts note that there is growing optimism for short-term rebounds, particularly among certain altcoins like Solana. As of 8 a.m. on the same day, Bitcoin was trading at approximately 114.95 million won ($77,425) on the domestic exchange Bithumb, reflecting a slight decrease of 0.04% from the previous day. The 'Kimchi Premium' was recorded at -0.860%, indicating that the price of Bitcoin in South Korea is lower than that in international markets. 2026-05-21 08:24:50

KT HCN to Broadcast Ulleung County Mayor Candidate Debate KT HCN announced it will broadcast a debate featuring candidates for the Ulleung County mayoral election on May 26 at 8 p.m. on its local channel. The debate will allow candidates to express their positions on local issues, key pledges, and governance direction. The company aims to provide Ulleung County voters with an opportunity to evaluate the candidates ahead of the June 3 local elections. Due to the island's geographical isolation, travel conditions can vary based on weather and ferry operations, making it difficult for national election broadcasts to adequately cover local issues and candidates. KT HCN plans to deliver the debate live from Ulleung Island, ensuring that residents receive timely information relevant to their daily lives. The company emphasized that this broadcast reflects its commitment to fulfilling its public service obligations as a cable TV provider, continuing to deliver essential information to the community despite challenging business conditions. Choi Kwang-cheol, CEO of KT HCN, stated, "Since 2018, KT HCN has been broadcasting Ulleung County mayoral candidate debates live to enhance election information accessibility for island voters. We are preparing this broadcast to allow Ulleung voters to directly compare the candidates' policies and visions in this local election." He added, "We will continue to ensure that necessary election information is delivered equitably to island communities, fulfilling our public role as a cable TV provider." Candidates for the Ulleung County mayor include Jeong Seong-hwan from the Democratic Party, Kim Byeong-su from the People Power Party, independent candidates Nam Han-gwon and Nam Jin-bok.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 08:22:28

Foreign Investors Sell 38 Trillion Won While Retail Investors Buy 41 Trillion Won Amid Ongoing Market Struggle ◆Ajou Economic Major News ▷Foreign investors have sold 38 trillion won in the KOSPI over 10 consecutive trading days, while retail investors have responded with 11 consecutive days of net buying. - Foreign investors have engaged in net selling for 10 straight trading days in May, offloading approximately 38 trillion won. In contrast, individual investors have been net buyers for 11 consecutive days, absorbing the sell-off. - Analysts suggest that the surge in U.S. interest rates and concerns over overheating in the KOSPI are driving the foreign selling trend. - However, the proportion of foreign ownership reached a record high of 39.58% on May 13, indicating that despite the selling, foreign ownership has actually increased. - This is interpreted as the value of foreign-held stocks rising significantly due to the stock price increases, outpacing the volume of net selling. - Market analysts view the current foreign investor behavior as a 'weight adjustment' rather than a complete exit from the Korean stock market, indicating profit-taking and portfolio rebalancing. ◆Key Reports ▷Will AI Kill Bonds? - Meritz Securities analyzes that the spread of AI is creating a more favorable environment for the stock market over bonds by improving productivity and growth rates. - While AI's labor replacement and resource allocation efficiency could contribute to long-term price stability, short-term large-scale infrastructure investments are causing inflation and rising procurement costs, putting pressure on the bond market. - Concerns are raised that the bond market may remain weak until the investment competition among global hyperscalers in AI infrastructure stabilizes. - Recent global interest rate hikes are attributed to a combination of factors, including supply-driven inflation from soaring oil prices in the Middle East, deteriorating fiscal health, and demographic changes. - Meritz Securities diagnoses that declining savings and increasing social security costs in major countries like the U.S., U.K., and Japan are structurally increasing pressure for rising interest rates. ◆Major Announcements After Market Close (May 20) ▷Daewoong Pharmaceutical has transferred ERA technology rights to Hanol Bio instead of Turn Bio in the U.S. ▷The exchange has decided to delist Geumyang due to 'refusal of audit opinion.' ▷Waivers has decided on a 5-for-1 stock consolidation. ▷Fantagio has changed its largest shareholder from 'Mirae I & G and two others' to 'X and one other.' ▷JTC has decided to retire 15 billion won worth of treasury stock. ▷Remed has decided to enter into a trust agreement for the acquisition of 2 billion won worth of its own shares. ◆Fund Trends (As of May 19, excluding ETFs) ▷Domestic equity: +79 billion won ▷Overseas equity: -3.2 billion won ◆Key Schedule for Today (May 21) ▷South Korea: Producer Price Index (April) ▷Eurozone: Manufacturing and Services PMI (May) ▷United States: Housing starts and permits (April), Manufacturing and Services PMI (May)* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 08:20:41

Brooks Koepka Returns to CJ Cup After Five Years, Remembers Memorable Journey Brooks Koepka, known as a "major hunter," is aiming for victory at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson, returning to the PGA Tour after five years. The tournament, which features a total prize purse of $10.3 million, will take place at TPC Craig Ranch in McKinney, Texas. On May 21, during a press conference at the tournament's media center, Koepka stated, "This is my third consecutive week on tour. I like to create momentum and find my rhythm by playing several weeks in a row. It's been a while since I've played this golf course, and I'm looking forward to it. I hope the weather holds up." The CJ Cup holds fond memories for Koepka. In 2018, while competing at the event in Jeju, he caught a massive 50-centimeter fish off the coast before the tournament. At the press conference, he smiled and said, "I hope the fish brings me good luck," before ultimately lifting the championship trophy. Reflecting on that experience, Koepka remarked, "I had a great time in Jeju. I won, and it was a really fun journey. I think I enjoyed it from the moment I boarded the plane to Korea. Jeju is a fantastic, beautiful place. I struggled a lot while fishing, only managing to catch one fish, but just being out on the water was a lot of fun." Koepka also fondly remembers the Korean barbecue he enjoyed after fishing. "About 30 minutes after fishing, I had Korean barbecue, which was really delicious," he said. "Tour life can become repetitive, but experiencing the culture of different countries is always interesting and enjoyable." Having won five major championships, Koepka transitioned to LIV Golf in 2022 but returned to the PGA Tour this year. However, his ranking dropped to 111th due to his LIV Golf activities, and he currently lacks sufficient points for various PGA Tour events. To secure spots in signature tournaments reserved for top-ranked players, he must accumulate points diligently at each event. This situation has fueled Koepka's passion. "Every week feels like a new beginning for me. If I get the chance to compete, I want to take it," he said. "More than anything, I’ve really fallen back in love with golf. Competing fiercely on tour and working to improve my game is genuinely enjoyable for me." Despite being outside the top 100 in the world rankings, Koepka is still considered a strong contender for this tournament. He is ranked fifth in the power rankings released by the PGA Tour, which noted that he has finished in the top 20 in five of his last six tournaments. In this tournament, Koepka will play the first two rounds alongside world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler and Kim Si-woo. He commented, "Scheffler is undoubtedly the best player in the world right now. Many fans will come to support him, and the atmosphere will be very exciting. It will be a great gauge of where my game and my standing are at. I expect it to be a fantastic competition." The tournament will take place from May 22 to 25. The winner will receive 500 FedEx Cup points, a two-year tour exemption, and eligibility for signature events that year, as well as entry into the next season's Players Championship and major tournaments.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 08:18:48

Lotte World Offers Unique Experiences with 'Star Wars' and Baby Penguins Lotte World is focusing on attracting visitors by offering a variety of attractions, from global intellectual property experiences to the birth of endangered species, in celebration of Family Month. Lotte World Tower's Seoul Sky will host the 'STAR WARS: ABOVE THE GALAXY' exhibition in collaboration with Walt Disney Company Korea, running until June 28, ahead of the film release of 'The Mandalorian and Grogu' on May 27. This themed space is designed to take visitors on a journey into the Star Wars universe right in the heart of Seoul. The entrance on the basement level features photo zones themed around the upcoming film, while a special store on the first basement level offers a variety of themed merchandise, including figures. During the May holiday period, Lotte World hosted a parade featuring the official Star Wars fan club and a marching band, which received positive feedback. Lotte World reported that foreign visitor numbers increased by approximately 41% compared to the same period last year, attributing this rise to the successful use of global IP in their space planning. At Lotte World Aquarium, visitors can witness the wonders of new life. The aquarium will debut a baby Humboldt penguin, hatched in February, on May 22 in honor of Biodiversity Day. Humboldt penguins, native to the coasts of South America, are classified as an endangered species. The aquarium operates a breeding system that scientifically regulates temperature and water conditions based on an analysis of their natural habitat in Peru, resulting in a steady birth rate since 2018. The newly hatched penguin has completed swimming adaptation and socialization training under the care of veterinarians and aquarists. Educational sessions on penguin ecology are held twice daily (at noon and 4 p.m.) in the polar zone on the first basement level. Additionally, the aquarium will host a special exhibition in collaboration with the popular game IP 'Cookie Run' until June 7.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 08:15:00