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  • Market Preview: U.S. Treasury Buyback Eases Long-Term Rates, SK Hynix Buyback Boosts KOSPI
    Market Preview: U.S. Treasury Buyback Eases Long-Term Rates, SK Hynix Buyback Boosts KOSPI The New York Stock Exchange saw a slight rebound, aided by the U.S. Treasury's expansion of its long-term bond buyback program, which helped ease the recent surge in bond yields. With the pressure from rising interest rates somewhat alleviated and SK Hynix's announcement of a large-scale share buyback and cancellation, attention turns to whether the domestic market can recover from its recent decline on August 20.On August 19, the Dow Jones Industrial Average closed up 119.65 points (0.22%) at 53,463.05. The S&P 500 rose 16.22 points (0.21%) to finish at 7,707.98, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq gained 41.38 points (0.16%) to close at 26,331.09.U.S. stocks rebounded after three consecutive days of declines. The Treasury's decision to increase the buyback size from $2 billion to at least $4 billion per session contributed to the easing of long-term yields, which had surged recently. The yield on 30-year Treasury bonds fell by more than 10 basis points to around 5.18%, while the 10-year yield dropped to 4.64%.However, concerns about inflation stemming from the Middle East and the Federal Reserve's hawkish stance remain burdensome. The minutes from the July Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting revealed that many Fed officials believe monetary tightening may be necessary if inflation does not subside. Ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran have also contributed to rising international oil prices.Semiconductor stocks continued to struggle, with Micron down 0.4% and SanDisk falling 3.5%. Nvidia also saw a 1.0% decline, reflecting ongoing volatility in the tech sector. In contrast, Moderna surged over 177% following positive results from its cancer treatment clinical trial, attracting strong buying interest in biotech and growth stocks.In the domestic market, a potential rebound is anticipated due to bargain hunting following the previous day's sharp decline and the easing of long-term interest rates.As of 8:29 a.m. on August 20, shares of Samsung Electronics rose 4.44%, while SK Hynix increased by 7.87%. Other major semiconductor and tech stocks, including SK Square (9.76%) and Samsung Electro-Mechanics (3.17%), also showed strength. Leading market players such as Hyundai Motor (1.69%), LG Energy Solution (1.12%), and Samsung Biologics (5.76%) all exhibited upward trends.Notably, SK Hynix's decision to buy back and cancel approximately 40 trillion won worth of its shares over the next three months is expected to positively influence investor sentiment in the semiconductor sector. The company's existing shareholder return policy has also been revised upward from 'within 50%' to 'above 50%' of free cash flow, raising expectations for enhanced shareholder returns.Market analysts suggest that while volatility may persist due to the recent sharp declines, the easing of long-term interest rates and the focus on shareholder return momentum from leading stocks could support a recovery in the domestic market.Han Ji-young, a researcher at Kiwoom Securities, stated, "The easing of long-term interest rates due to the Treasury's buyback expansion and the surge in Moderna's stock are likely to improve investor sentiment in growth stocks, suggesting that both the KOSPI and KOSDAQ could see a recovery in momentum this week after their recent declines." He added, "SK Hynix's 40 trillion won share buyback and cancellation is expected to enhance earnings per share (EPS) due to a reduction in the number of shares outstanding and improve return on equity (ROE) due to a decrease in equity, thereby increasing price stability. The combination of shareholder return momentum from leading stocks, the easing of long-term U.S. bond yields, and a reduction in global semiconductor concentration is creating favorable conditions for a rebound in the domestic market."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-20 08:44:00
  • LS Electric and LS Cable Target European Power Market with HVDC and Data Center Solutions
    LS Electric and LS Cable Target European Power Market with HVDC and Data Center Solutions LS Electric and LS Cable are intensifying their efforts to penetrate the European power infrastructure market by focusing on next-generation power solutions, including high-voltage direct current (HVDC) and direct current distribution. As Europe faces the dual challenges of replacing aging power grids and expanding renewable energy, investments in the power grid are increasing. The companies aim to enhance their competitive edge by bundling their product offerings.On August 20, LS Electric announced that it will jointly participate with LS Cable in the 'CIGRE 2026' event, taking place from August 23 to 28 in Paris, France. LS Electric will showcase its HVDC technology, AI data center solutions, and direct current distribution systems at 13 booths covering 113 square meters.Investment in the European power grid is expanding alongside energy transition policies. The European Commission estimates that approximately €584 billion will be needed for the region's power grid by 2030. With about 40% of the EU's distribution network installed for over 40 years, there is significant demand for replacing outdated equipment.LS Electric is positioning HVDC as a key focus area. Leveraging its unique experience in current-type HVDC projects in South Korea, the company will introduce conversion transformers (C-TR). It will also unveil next-generation voltage-type HVDC technology and system stabilization solutions, including static synchronous compensators (STATCOM).The company will also present direct current distribution technology aimed at AI data centers. Based on its experience from the 'DC Factory,' a 100% direct current distribution facility established at its Cheonan site, LS Electric plans to showcase semiconductor transformers (SST) and semiconductor circuit breakers (SSCB).Recently, LS Electric has expanded its contracts for power infrastructure in North American data centers, broadening its focus from power equipment to data center power solutions.LS Cable will exhibit HVDC submarine and underground cables, as well as superconducting cable systems, targeting the demand for long-distance transmission networks that connect renewable energy generation sites with major consumers.LS Cable's subsidiary, LS Materials, will showcase ultra-capacitors (UC), which can respond to situations requiring large amounts of power instantaneously, thereby enhancing the power stability of AI data centers.At this exhibition, LS Electric and LS Cable will present transformers, distribution equipment, cables, and energy storage technologies together. This strategy aims to highlight their integrated capabilities in connecting power sources to transmission networks and consumers, moving beyond individual power equipment sales.CIGRE is an international academic organization in the power systems field, established in France in 1921. It hosts events every two years in Paris, bringing together global power companies, enterprises, and experts.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-20 08:44:00
  • McDonalds Expands Happy Snack Lineup with New Bulgogi Burger and Discounted Coffee
    McDonald's Expands 'Happy Snack' Lineup with New Bulgogi Burger and Discounted Coffee McDonald's Korea is expanding its 'Happy Snack' lineup to offer popular menu items at more affordable prices amid rising costs. The new lineup includes the addition of a Bulgogi Burger, which will be sold for 2,500 won, down from the regular price of 3,800 won. Iced drip coffee prices have also been reduced, with the medium size now available for 1,000 won, down from 2,400 won, and the large size for 1,500 won, down from 2,800 won.Starting August 20, McDonald's will operate the new Happy Snack lineup. Introduced in 2021, Happy Snack is a customer benefit platform that offers discounted prices on burgers, side items, desserts, and beverages throughout the day.This update adds the Bulgogi Burger to the previously snack and beverage-focused offerings. The Bulgogi Burger will be available at a 34.2% discount through the Happy Snack program.Additionally, the Crab Cream Croquette Snack Wrap will be priced at 3,000 won, three pieces of Salted Caramel Churros at 2,500 won, and the Grimace Shake at 3,000 won. The two-piece McWing, normally priced at 3,700 won, will be offered for 3,300 won.Since 2021, McDonald's has rotated products eligible for Happy Snack discounts each season. This latest update broadens the value options available to customers by including meal items alongside snacks and beverages.A McDonald's representative stated, "We have strengthened the pricing benefits of Happy Snack to allow customers to enjoy popular menu items at affordable prices. We will continue to introduce a variety of options that are both tasty and competitively priced."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-20 08:44:00
  • Apple and Pear Production Expected to Rise, While Persimmon Output May Decline Due to Heat
    Apple and Pear Production Expected to Rise, While Persimmon Output May Decline Due to Heat This year, apple and pear production is expected to increase compared to last year. However, persimmon production, primarily in Gyeongnam province, may decline due to damage from heat waves and drought.The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs announced on August 20 that the overall yield of major fruits is stable, indicating a reliable supply.The Korea Rural Economic Institute projected earlier this month that apple production would reach 487,100 tons, an 8.7% increase from the previous year. Pear production is expected to be 200,000 tons, up 1.3%, while persimmon production is forecasted at 96,300 tons, a 7.0% increase.Despite the recent heat and drought damage, apple and pear production is still expected to exceed last year's levels. However, persimmon yields may decrease depending on the extent of the damage.As of 8 a.m. on August 19, 99.2% of the reported heat damage to apples, pears, and persimmons occurred in Gyeongnam. The damage report ratio for persimmons was the highest at 17.2%, followed by pears at 0.6% and apples at 0.2%.Gyeongnam accounts for 67.6% of the national persimmon cultivation area. Prolonged high temperatures and drought have caused sunburn and poor growth in some orchards. However, rainfall since August 15 in the southern region has alleviated some drought conditions, and it is expected that fruits with less damage will recover.The damage to apples and pears, which are essential products for the Chuseok holiday, is relatively limited. The Gyeongnam Agricultural Technology Institute estimates that the damage rate for these two items is below 5%, and it is not expected to significantly impact the national supply. However, if high temperatures and humidity persist after the rainfall, there may be an outbreak of diseases and pests, necessitating pest control measures.With increased shipments, apple prices have dropped compared to last year. The average daily intake of the early-season Tsugaru apple in mid-August was 106 tons, a 20.5% increase from the previous year. The wholesale price is 45,819 won per 10 kg, down 18.1%, while the retail price is 19,009 won for 10 apples, a decrease of 28.6%.The wholesale price of the early-season pear variety, Wonhwang, is 9.0% higher than last year but is showing a downward trend with increased shipments. The price for 15 kg dropped from 70,696 won on August 3 to 48,452 won on August 19. The retail price is 32,280 won for 10 pears, down 3.2% from the previous year.The government is providing discounts of up to 50% on agricultural chemicals and nutrients through 62 agricultural cooperatives in major fruit-producing areas. This year's support scale has increased by 12.0% compared to last year.In preparation for Chuseok, the government plans to distribute designated shipment quantities of apples and pears and promote discounts on holiday gift sets. They aim to manage shipment timing and quantities to prevent price increases due to seasonal demand.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-20 08:40:00
  • Namyang Dairys Take Fit Leads Protein Drink Market with 76.1% Revenue Growth
    Namyang Dairy's 'Take Fit' Leads Protein Drink Market with 76.1% Revenue Growth Namyang Dairy has maintained its position as the leader in South Korea's liquid protein market for the second consecutive year with its 'Take Fit' brand. The company has seen significant growth in sales during the first half of this year by diversifying its product lineup, which includes high-protein drinks, shakes, and energy gels.On August 20, Namyang Dairy announced that, according to market research firm Market Link POS, it achieved the highest market share in sales among manufacturers in the domestic liquid protein market from October 2023 to September 2025. The gap in market share with the second-place company widened from 1.1 percentage points in the period from October 2023 to September 2024 to 1.3 percentage points in the following year.The brand has also continued its growth trajectory. According to the Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation (aT), Take Fit ranked first in offline sales for a single brand in the domestic protein drink market for four consecutive quarters from the second quarter of last year to the first quarter of this year. Sales of Take Fit in the first half of this year increased by 76.1% compared to the same period last year.Namyang Dairy has consistently expanded its product range to cater to various protein intake needs and preferences. Launched in 2022 as a protein powder, Take Fit now offers seven product lines with 18 items, including RTD (ready-to-drink) beverages, single-serving protein shakes, and energy gels.Notably, the company has introduced high-protein products in succession. The 'Take Fit Monster,' which was launched last May with 43 grams of protein, has since increased its protein content to 45 grams and then to 47 grams last month. The 'Take Fit Extreme,' introduced in May, became the first RTD protein drink in South Korea to contain 60 grams of protein per bottle, leading the ultra-high-protein market. In April, the company added the single-serving protein shake 'Take Fit Breadmill,' and in June, it launched the squeezable functional energy gel 'Take Fit Booster.'Each product varies not only in protein content but also in nutritional design. The company uses a combination of milk protein isolate (MPI) and soy protein isolate (SPI), adjusting the blend of EAA, BCAA, and arginine based on the product concept. They have also focused on reducing the chalkiness and off-flavors that can occur in high-protein beverages.Sales channels have been segmented to match the primary consumer demographics for each product. The Breadmill was initially launched on Musinsa, while the Extreme was made available on the Olive Young online store. After discontinuing its own online store, Namyang has utilized the Naver Brand Store as its official online sales platform.In terms of international strategy, Namyang expanded its reach last year by entering Hong Kong's Circle K and a major supermarket chain in Mongolia, and in the first half of this year, it extended its sales to Kazakhstan's CU. In May, Take Fit Monster was selected for the 'SIAL CHINA 2026' Innovation Award selection.Kim Seok-yun, category manager at Namyang Dairy, stated, "As consumers' purposes and preferences for protein products diversify, the criteria for selection are becoming more segmented, including protein content, taste, nutritional design, and consumption methods. We will continue to expand our product portfolio and sales touchpoints to broaden our growth base in domestic and international markets."Meanwhile, a newsletter published by the Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation (aT) reported that the domestic protein food market has grown approximately 5.5 times, from 81.3 billion won in 2018 to 450 billion won in 2023. This year, it is projected to reach 800 billion won.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-20 08:36:00
  • Daol Investment Securities: Hanwha Aerospace Selected Sole Supplier for U.S. MTC Project, Target Price Raised
    Daol Investment Securities: Hanwha Aerospace Selected Sole Supplier for U.S. MTC Project, Target Price Raised Daol Investment Securities reported that Hanwha Aerospace has been selected as the sole prototype supplier for the U.S. mobile tactical cannon (MTC) project, significantly increasing its prospects in the U.S. market. As a result, the firm raised its target price from 2.14 million won to 2.46 million won while maintaining a 'buy' rating. Choi Kwang-sik, a researcher at Daol Investment Securities, stated, "Hanwha Defense USA has been selected as the sole prototype supplier for the MTC project, which aims to replace aging towed artillery in the U.S. This increases the likelihood of a production project for 498 units following performance verification."The prototype contract is valued at $100 million for six units, with the potential to expand to a maximum of 18 units for $260 million. The contract execution period is up to 48 months. Choi noted, "If 498 units are produced, the project scale could reach approximately 10 trillion won, and when including ammunition and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services, the total project size will be even larger."Hanwha Aerospace plans to lease a facility in Opelika, Alabama, to establish related infrastructure and secure a local supply chain.Choi added, "This could be the first case of K-defense weapon systems entering the U.S. market on a large scale. The K9 self-propelled howitzer, which has already secured competitiveness in the tracked howitzer market, could expand its reach into new markets through the wheeled version, K9MH."He also noted that there is potential for further improvements in speed, operational personnel, and automation during the U.S. performance verification process. If trust is established with the U.S. military, it could quickly increase market share in the global wheeled howitzer market.The ongoing propellant project in the U.S. is also seen as a long-term growth driver. Choi mentioned, "A smart factory for the modular propellant system (MCS) is expected to be completed in South Korea by 2028, and growth will continue through the U.S. propellant project in the 2030s."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-20 08:36:00
  • Fire at Incheon Used Car Export Complex Destroys 58 Vehicles
    Fire at Incheon Used Car Export Complex Destroys 58 Vehicles A fire at a used car export complex in Incheon destroyed 58 vehicles.According to Yonhap News and the Incheon Fire Department, the blaze broke out at 12:39 a.m. on August 20 in the Okryeon-dong area of Yeonsu District.The fire completely consumed 50 used cars, while another eight vehicles suffered partial damage. A 400-square-meter tent structure and used electronics were also burned.As thick black smoke billowed from the scene, fire authorities received over 20 reports of the incident.In response, 181 personnel, including firefighters, and 60 pieces of equipment were dispatched to the site, and the fire was fully extinguished after 1 hour and 48 minutes.At the time of the fire, the Yeonsu District sent out a safety alert advising nearby vehicles to exercise caution.A fire department official stated, "Fortunately, there were no casualties," and added that an investigation will be conducted to determine the exact cause of the fire and whether it originated from the vehicles or the storage building.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-20 08:28:10
  • KAIST Develops Next-Generation Memory Technology to Enhance AI Semiconductor Performance
    KAIST Develops Next-Generation Memory Technology to Enhance AI Semiconductor Performance The KAIST research team has developed next-generation memory technology that enhances the performance of AI semiconductors while reducing power consumption. This innovation addresses the persistent defect issues associated with the three-dimensional structure of stacked semiconductors.On August 20, KAIST announced that a research team led by Professor Kwon Ji-min from the Department of Electrical Engineering, in collaboration with researchers from UNIST and Yonsei University, has developed a new multilayer interlayer insulating film structure that significantly reduces defects in oxide vertical channel transistors (VCT), improving performance and stability.For decades, DRAM technology has evolved by shrinking device sizes to store more data in the same area while lowering power consumption. However, as the physical limits of continuously miniaturizing semiconductors in a planar manner are approached, three-dimensional structures that stack devices vertically are gaining attention.The VCT is designed with a channel that conducts current vertically rather than horizontally, allowing for a higher density of devices in a limited area, which is advantageous for high-density memory implementation. Using oxide semiconductors for the channel material also significantly reduces current leakage.A key challenge was the 'oxygen vacancy' phenomenon, where oxygen atoms are missing from the oxide semiconductor. An increase in these vacancies alters the electrical properties of the semiconductor, making stable operation difficult. However, simply supplying oxygen can lead to oxidation of the metal electrodes, negatively impacting performance. Therefore, precise control of oxygen movement was necessary.To address this, the research team developed a new multilayer interlayer insulating film composed of silicon nitride, silicon dioxide, and silicon nitride (SiN·SiO₂·SiN). This insulating film serves not only as an electrical barrier but also as an 'oxygen tunnel' that allows oxygen to move toward the oxide semiconductor while restricting its movement toward the electrodes that should not oxidize.As a result, the research team achieved world-class current flow and data retention times in the field of oxide VCTs. After applying over 10 million operational stress cycles to the device, the threshold voltage change remained below 50 millivolts (mV), confirming high operational stability. Additionally, the team implemented technology to combine existing silicon-based CMOS semiconductors with the new oxide semiconductors to evaluate system performance.This technology is expected to enhance the performance of compute-in-memory (CIM) technology, which performs calculations within or near memory, overcoming the limitations of traditional architectures that require data transfer between separate memory and processor units.Professor Kwon Ji-min stated, "Just as it is important to build a tall building stably by increasing the number of floors, the key to three-dimensional semiconductors is to ensure stable operation while stacking them high. This technology is expected to accelerate the development of next-generation memory semiconductors that increase AI computation speed while reducing power consumption."Researcher Koo Hyun-ho from KAIST served as the first author, with Dr. Lee Yong-woo, Dr. Jeong Hak-soon, and Professor Kwon Ji-min as corresponding authors. Researchers from UNIST, Yonsei University, the Korea Institute of Chemical Technology, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, and Seoul National University also participated in the collaborative research.The research findings were published on May 20 in the international journal 'Advanced Functional Materials' and were selected as a cover paper due to their academic significance and originality.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-20 08:28:00
  • Most Buyers of Seouls Multi-Unit Buildings Are in Their 30s, Eunpyeong District Leads in July
    Most Buyers of Seoul's Multi-Unit Buildings Are in Their 30s, Eunpyeong District Leads in July Last month, buyers in their 30s accounted for the largest share of ownership transfer applications for multi-unit buildings in Seoul. Among the 25 districts in the city, Eunpyeong District recorded the highest number of buyers.On August 20, real estate information app Jipum analyzed data from the Supreme Court's registration information portal, revealing that in July, there were 16,172 buyers of multi-unit buildings in Seoul.This figure represents an increase of 1,091, or 7.2%, from June's total of 15,081. However, it is a decrease of 1,498, or 8.5%, compared to 17,670 buyers in July of the previous year.By age group, buyers in their 30s numbered 5,976, the highest among all age brackets. Buyers in their 40s followed with 3,925. Together, these two age groups accounted for 61.2% of all buyers.Buyers in their 30s increased by 452, or 8.2%, from 5,524 in June to 5,976 in July. Buyers in their 40s rose by 493, or 14.4%, from 3,432 to 3,925 during the same period. The combined increase from these two age groups constituted 86.6% of the total increase.In terms of districts, Eunpyeong District led with 1,435 buyers, followed by Songpa District with 1,173, Gangseo and Nowon districts each with 1,028, and Gangdong District with 887. In Eunpyeong, the breakdown included 486 buyers in their 30s, 402 in their 40s, and 264 in their 50s, marking an increase of 290 from the previous month.Nowon District had the highest number of buyers in their 30s at 488, followed by Eunpyeong with 486, Gangseo with 409, Songpa with 405, and Dongdaemun with 352.For buyers in their 40s, Eunpyeong District again ranked first with 402, followed by Songpa with 314, Gangdong with 279, Gangnam with 227, and Nowon with 226.Compared to the previous month, the total number of buyers increased in 16 out of the 25 districts in Seoul, while it decreased in 8 districts. One district remained unchanged. The largest increase was in Gwanak District with 344 buyers, followed by Eunpyeong with 290, Gangdong with 238, Songpa with 224, and Dongdaemun with 173. Conversely, Jungnang District saw the largest decrease, with 616 fewer buyers than the previous month.The trend of increased buyers in their 30s and 40s indicates a recovery in the market, driven by actual housing demand and a desire to upgrade in certain areas.A representative from Jipum stated, "In July 2026, the number of buyers in their 30s reached 5,976, the highest among all age groups, and when combined with buyers in their 40s, they accounted for 61.2% of the total. Eunpyeong District led with 1,435 buyers, while the top areas for buyers in their 30s were Nowon, Eunpyeong, and Gangseo, and for buyers in their 40s, Eunpyeong, Songpa, and Gangdong were the most prominent."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-20 08:24:00
  • Bithumb Enables Online Account Creation with KB Kookmin Bank Without App Installation
    Bithumb Enables Online Account Creation with KB Kookmin Bank Without App Installation 빗썸 has announced an update to its non-face-to-face account opening service, allowing users without a KB Kookmin Bank account to create one online without needing to install a separate banking application. With this update, Bithumb users who do not have a KB Kookmin Bank account can now open a new account in a web environment without the need to install the KB Star Banking app. Previously, users had to switch to the bank's app during the account creation process, but this change reduces the need for app installation and navigation. Account creation is available through both the Bithumb app and website. During the account verification stage, users can select 'Create Account via Web' to establish a KB Kookmin Bank account without installing a separate banking app. Once the account is created, the account number is automatically copied. Users can then paste the account number into the Bithumb app to complete the account linking process. A Bithumb representative stated, "We have diversified the non-face-to-face account opening options to ensure that anyone can conveniently use our services, regardless of their environment. We will continue to assess service convenience from the user's perspective to create a seamless virtual asset trading environment."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-20 08:24:00