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  • KOSPI leads Asian rally on institutional buying
    KOSPI leads Asian rally on institutional buying SEOUL, August 12 (AJP) - South Korea's benchmark stock index surged Wednesday on institutional chase after a potential generous payouts by chip bellwethers. The KOSPI gained 233.51 points or 3.68 percent to 6,579.04 as Samsung Electronics climbed 16,000 won, or 6.7 cent, to 255,500 won and SK hynix 5.5 percent,to 1.504 million won. The advance far outpaced gains across the region, where Japan's Nikkei 225 added 0.8 percent to 67,524.06 and Shanghai's composite index 0.4 percent to 3,948.84. Foreign investors were net buyers of 2.84 trillion won on the main board, while institutions purchased 527.8 billion won and individuals sold a net 3.19 trillion won. The buying reflected renewed enthusiasm for artificial-intelligence and semiconductor shares, which have remained a major driver of Korea's market as investors continue to bet on demand for AI infrastructure. Samsung Electronics and SK hynix were joined by a wide range of large-cap technology stocks, preventing the rally from being concentrated entirely in the two biggest chipmakers. SK square jumped 8.4 percent to 1.024 million won, Samsung Electro-Mechanics rose 5.8 percent to 1.335 million won and Hanwha Aerospace gained 5.3 percent to 1.156 million won. LG Electronics surged 12.8 percent and LG Innotek advanced 11.1 percent as electronics stocks emerged as one of the strongest groups on the main board. The electronics sector rose 12.4 percent overall, while semiconductor-related shares including UBIQUIS and Soulbrain gained 16.6 percent and 13.0 percent, respectively. The KOSPI 200 climbed 42.03 points, or 4.3 percent, to 1,029.43, showing that the advance extended across much of the large-cap market. The KOSDAQ was considerably weaker, edging up 1.07 points, or 0.1 percent, to 858.91. Samsung Biologics was among the notable decliners, falling 3.7 percent to 1.549 million won, while HD Hyundai Heavy Industries dropped 1.4 percent to 496,000 won. The strength in Korea contrasted with more modest gains elsewhere in Asia. In Tokyo, Recruit Holdings rose 3.1 percent to 16,660 yen, Advantest gained 0.9 percent to 34,550 yen and Mitsui Kinzoku advanced 4.1 percent to 29,000 yen. The Shanghai composite wrapped up around 3,948.84, up 14.75 points, or 0.4 percent, with Xinjiang Bai Hua Cun Pharma Tech surging 10.0 percent to 14.03 yuan. WuXi AppTec fell 0.9 percent to 158.82 yuan and ICBC declined 1.1 percent to 7.52 yuan. The won weakened to 1,416.60 per dollar, down 3.10 won from the previous session. The day's trading left Korea as the clear regional leader, with foreign buying and a broad-based surge in technology shares pushing the KOSPI sharply higher as investors returned to the AI and semiconductor trade. 2026-08-12 16:02:04
  • Investor Deposits Fall Below 100 Trillion Won as Margin Trading Rises
    Investor Deposits Fall Below 100 Trillion Won as Margin Trading Rises Domestic stock market adjustments have led to investor deposits falling below 100 trillion won. While available funds for the stock market are rapidly decreasing, the balance of margin trading, known as 'debt investment,' remains steady in the 30 trillion won range. According to the Korea Financial Investment Association, as of August 11, investor deposits were recorded at 97.9289 trillion won, a decrease of 2.7891 trillion won from the previous trading day. This marks the first time investor deposits have fallen below 100 trillion won since February 13, when they were at 99.2735 trillion won. Compared to the all-time high of 139.6947 trillion won on June 4, this represents a decrease of 41.7658 trillion won, or 29.9%. Investor deposits refer to funds held in securities accounts that have not yet been used for stock purchases, typically viewed as available cash for the stock market. A decline in these deposits can indicate a weakening buying power among individual investors, which may add pressure to the market amid foreign selling. In contrast, margin trading has rebounded to the 30 trillion won level. As of August 11, the balance of margin trading was recorded at 30.3872 trillion won. The balance in the securities market was 23.7704 trillion won, while the KOSDAQ market accounted for 6.2683 trillion won. After dropping to the 27 trillion won range on August 3-4, the margin trading balance has shown an upward trend. However, it remains 8.2456 trillion won, or 21.3%, lower than the record high of 38.6328 trillion won on June 24. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-12 16:00:00
  • Prime Minister Han Seung-soo: Youth Concerns Must Be Central to 2045 Strategy
    Prime Minister Han Seung-soo: Youth Concerns Must Be Central to 2045 Strategy Prime Minister Han Seung-soo stated on August 12, "Without addressing youth issues, there is no future for South Korea."During the second meeting of the 'Republic of Korea 2045 Strategy Establishment Committee' held at the Government Seoul Office, Han emphasized that the 2045 national development strategy will serve as a roadmap and blueprint for the country's direction over the next 20 years.This was the first time Han presided over a committee meeting since its launch in May. He noted, "While 2045 may seem far off, it is crucial to prepare now as we approach the 100th anniversary of liberation."Han diagnosed that South Korea is facing structural crises that threaten its growth potential, including demographic changes, polarization, and regional extinction.He stressed the importance of how to address these issues through significant transformations and technology, urging thorough preparation for the changing industrial paradigm.Han identified youth policy as a core task of the 2045 strategy. He stated, "It is vital to incorporate the urgent concerns and sincere proposals of the youth who will lead South Korea in ten years into the strategy, ensuring that future generations become a strong foundation and the main players of South Korea in 2045."Additionally, he remarked, "By 2045, which marks the significant 100th anniversary of liberation, South Korea must become an 'indispensable South Korea,' and we need to select and pursue bold and challenging tasks to achieve this."Han also emphasized that the 2045 strategy should not be established unilaterally by the government. He urged that it is not just a government initiative but a collective effort involving future generations and all citizens in preparing for the future, calling for various procedures to allow public participation and to faithfully reflect their opinions in the strategy formulation process.Meanwhile, the meeting discussed the discourse surrounding the 2045 national development strategy, reviewed survey results conducted among the general public, youth, and experts, and explored ways to specify future strategic directions.Attendees included Defense Minister An Gyu-baek, Minister of the Interior and Safety Yoon Ho-joong, Minister of Planning and Budget Park Hong-geun, and Lee Han-joo, chairman of the Economic and Social Research Council.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-12 15:56:00
  • Massive Bids in Seouls Reconstruction Projects, But Competition Fades
    Massive Bids in Seoul's Reconstruction Projects, But Competition Fades This second half of the year, the Seoul maintenance project market is seeing the emergence of massive projects worth 2 to 3 trillion won, yet competition among construction companies for contracts is becoming increasingly rare. Multiple firms may attend project briefings, but often only one bids, leading to a pattern of single bids after failed attempts and re-bidding.According to the maintenance industry on August 12, among 25 bids for Seoul maintenance projects involving the top 10 construction companies from January to July this year, only three had actual competition among multiple firms. This trend is attributed to rising construction and financing costs, as well as large firms focusing their efforts on projects with higher profitability and bidding potential.On August 10, the first bid for the reconstruction of Mokdong Apartment Complex 10 in Yangcheon District was rejected after only Hyundai Engineering & Construction submitted a bid. The project aims to rebuild the existing 2,160 units into 4,248 units, with an estimated construction cost of 2.6135 trillion won. Although six construction companies attended the briefing, only Hyundai submitted a bid. Korea Land Trust plans to participate in a second bidding round, and if competition does not materialize, a negotiated contract may be pursued.The scale of projects emerging in the second half of the year is unprecedented. Mokdong Complex 13 has an estimated construction cost of 2.3763 trillion won, while the Seongsu Strategic Maintenance Zone 2 has 2.0137 trillion won, and Seongsu District 3 is estimated at 1.8275 trillion won. The combined total for the five major projects, including Mokdong Complexes 10, 12, and 13, and Seongsu Districts 2 and 3, reaches approximately 10.62 trillion won.Additionally, Mokdong Complex 14, the largest reconstruction project in the area, is expected to exceed 3 trillion won in construction costs as it aims to increase the number of units from 3,100 to 5,123. The bidding process is underway, targeting a contractor selection announcement in September. If the project proceeds as anticipated, it could become the largest maintenance project of the second half of the year, with Hyundai Engineering & Construction, DL E&C, and Daewoo Engineering & Construction among the potential bidders.The Yeouido Shimbun Apartments will also close bids for contractors on the 25th. The project involves the reconstruction of 2,491 units, with an estimated construction cost of about 1.5 trillion won, and a briefing in May attracted seven construction firms, including Samsung C&T and GS Engineering & Construction.However, contrary to initial expectations that larger project sizes would intensify bidding competition, competitive tenders are actually diminishing. Construction firms are now focusing their resources on one or two projects based on their bidding potential and profitability rather than pursuing every large opportunity.Seongsu District 3 exemplifies this trend. While the first briefing attracted Samsung C&T, Kumho Construction, and Jeil Construction, only Samsung C&T attended the second briefing for re-bidding. With two rounds of competition failing to materialize, the likelihood of a negotiated contract with Samsung C&T has increased.In contrast, Seongsu District 2, which closes bids on the same day, still holds potential for competition. Last month’s briefing saw DL E&C and IPARK Hyundai Industrial Development in attendance, with industry insiders noting that DL E&C is taking a more proactive approach, though actual competition will depend on the bid deadline.On the same day, the Mokdong Complex 12 briefing included GS Engineering & Construction, Daewoo Engineering & Construction, POSCO E&C, and IPARK Hyundai Industrial Development. GS Engineering & Construction has been particularly active, revealing a specialized design in collaboration with a global design firm. The bid guarantee is set at 80 billion won.An industry insider stated, “To bid on a large project, companies must prepare cash guarantees in the hundreds of millions of won, along with significant costs and manpower for design, financing conditions, and member benefits. In Mokdong, the simultaneous contractor selections for 14 complexes are proceeding faster than expected, making it difficult for even large construction firms to respond to all projects.” 2026-08-12 15:56:00
  • Lotte Engineering Reports 230% Increase in Q2 Operating Profit
    Lotte Engineering Reports 230% Increase in Q2 Operating Profit Lotte Engineering reported an operating profit of 122.4 billion won for the second quarter of this year, marking a significant improvement in both profitability and financial stability. Although sales decreased, the company saw a substantial increase in operating profit due to improved cost ratios and selective order acquisition. On August 12, Lotte Engineering announced through the Financial Supervisory Service's electronic disclosure system that its consolidated sales for the second quarter reached 1.6792 trillion won, with an operating profit of 122.4 billion won. Sales fell by 14.1% compared to the same period last year, but operating profit surged by 230% from 37.1 billion won during the same period last year. The operating profit margin rose to 7.3%, up 5.4 percentage points from 1.9% a year earlier. The trend of improving cost ratios continued. Lotte Engineering's cost ratio decreased from 93.6% in the second quarter of last year and 92.8% at the end of last year to 91.7% in the first quarter and 88.8% in the second quarter of this year. The cumulative performance for the first half of the year also showed improvement, with sales amounting to 3.2804 trillion won and operating profit reaching 172.8 billion won. The operating profit for the first half increased by 1.319 billion won, or 323%, compared to 40.9 billion won in the same period last year. Lotte Engineering attributed its profitability improvement to strong performance in urban redevelopment and development projects, an increased share of high-margin projects, and company-wide cost efficiency. Selling and administrative expenses for the first half were 148.5 billion won, down 16.8 billion won from 165.3 billion won in the same period last year. Financial indicators also improved. The debt ratio, which was 186.7% at the end of last year, decreased to 168.2% in the first quarter and 162.8% in the second quarter. Total equity increased from 3.1614 trillion won at the end of last year to 3.6150 trillion won, influenced by the issuance of new capital securities and an increase in retained earnings. The current ratio rose from 120% at the end of last year to 149.8%. Cash and cash equivalents increased by 184 billion won from the end of last year to 820.9 billion won. Contingent liabilities related to project financing (PF) also decreased. As of the second quarter, PF contingent liabilities stood at 24.262 trillion won, down approximately 727.6 billion won from the end of last year, thanks to the successful transition of large projects such as Homeplus in Bucheon and Dongdaemun. The size of the Charlotte Fund, established to manage PF contingent liabilities, is also shrinking. Initially 1.9 trillion won during the refinancing in 2025, the fund has repaid 745.3 billion won to date, reducing the balance to around 1.2 trillion won. Lotte Engineering plans to repay an additional 320 billion won by maturity to lower the fund balance to around 800 billion won and will manage it stably through maturity extensions. The company aims to reduce total PF contingent liabilities to around 22 trillion won by the end of the year. Amid ongoing PF burdens and cost pressures in the construction industry, Lotte Engineering's performance improvement is seen as a successful example of a profitability-focused selective order strategy rather than mere expansion. A company representative stated, “Our selective order acquisition based on business viability and company-wide cost management efforts have led to substantial profit generation, allowing us to stabilize our financial normalization trajectory. We will continue to strengthen our sustainable growth foundation through thorough risk management and sound management practices.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-12 15:48:00
  • SP Samhwa Launches Two New Car Repair Paints Carocle Premium
    SP Samhwa Launches Two New Car Repair Paints 'Carocle Premium' SP Samhwa has launched two new automotive repair paints, 'Carocle Premium,' designed to reduce worker fatigue and enhance process efficiency.The new products are core offerings that SP Samhwa expects will improve repair quality and productivity in the automotive repair paint market.The 'Carocle Premium 1K Surfacer' fills in fine scratches on vehicle surfaces, aiding in the vivid application of topcoat paint. It is available in light gray and dark gray, and features a quick drying time of 2 to 5 minutes, allowing for easy transition to subsequent sanding processes. The 'Carocle Premium Bumper Primer' (white and gray) serves as an adhesive base that connects the plastic surface of the vehicle to the topcoat paint.Both new 'Carocle Premium' products achieve a low content of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) compared to legal standards, balancing functionality and eco-friendliness. SP Samhwa aims to support the automotive repair industry's transition to environmentally friendly practices by providing compliant paint supplies and solidifying its position in the repair paint market.An SP Samhwa representative stated, “These new products were developed with the convenience and productivity of repair workers in mind. We will continue to introduce products that reflect the voices of the field, strengthening our competitiveness in the automotive repair market and realizing shared value with our repair customers.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-12 15:44:10
  • Hot Stock: LG Electronics fly on hopes for deeper Nvidia ties
    Hot Stock: LG Electronics fly on hopes for deeper Nvidia ties SEOUL, August 12 (AJP) - Shares of LG Electronics jumped nearly 13 percent on Wednesday, fueled by expectations that an anticipated meeting between LG Group Chairman Koo Kwang-mo and Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang could lead to deeper cooperation in robotics and artificial intelligence infrastructure. LG Electronics closed at 205,000 won ($148), up 12.82 percent from the previous session, after climbing as high as 212,500 won during trading. Koo is visiting Nvidia's headquarters in Silicon Valley this week for talks with Huang, according to industry sources, drawing investor attention to potential expansion of ties between the two companies. The two executives last met in Seoul in June, when they discussed potential cooperation in areas including robotics, AI infrastructure and autonomous driving. Investor expectations have also been supported by growing interest in so-called physical AI, which extends artificial intelligence into machines and real-world systems such as robots. Morgan Stanley recently identified LG Electronics as a potential beneficiary of the trend, pointing to its businesses spanning AI-powered homes, robotics, commercial heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems and cooling solutions for AI data centers. The broader LG Group also has businesses that could feed into physical AI infrastructure, including sensing and optical components from LG Innotek, batteries from LG Energy Solution and smart factory capabilities from LG CNS. LG Electronics has meanwhile been expanding beyond its traditional consumer appliance business. On Wednesday, the company launched a new diagnostic monitor cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as part of an expansion of its B2B medical display business. Wednesday's rally followed a sharp pullback in the stock, which fell 4.37 percent in the previous session. The shares had surged to around 390,000 won in early June amid expectations surrounding Koo and Huang's previous meeting before retreating sharply in subsequent weeks. 2026-08-12 15:43:07
  • Yuhan Corporation Concludes Yoo Il-han Academy 2026 to Foster Future Healthcare Talent
    Yuhan Corporation Concludes 'Yoo Il-han Academy 2026' to Foster Future Healthcare Talent Yuhan Corporation has completed its youth healthcare social innovation program, 'Yoo Il-han Academy 2026.'The company announced on August 12 that it held a performance sharing event and graduation ceremony for 'Yoo Il-han Academy 2026' at the Yuhan Corporation Willow House News Square, aimed at inheriting the entrepreneurial spirit of its founder, Dr. Yoo Il-han.This event was organized to share the results of a project-based learning (N-PBL) course that took place over five weeks, starting on July 9.During the presentation, six groups participated, showcasing solutions to healthcare and welfare issues, including a sleep health management app for the 2030 generation, a project to verify the authenticity of obesity treatment advertisements, a guidebook for patients with rare diseases, a voice medication platform activated by NFC tags, an AI-based podcast service for elderly individuals living alone in the metropolitan area, and a medication information connection platform.Before the graduation ceremony, Noh Yeon-hong, president of the Korea Pharmaceutical and Bio-Pharma Manufacturers Association, delivered a special lecture on 'The Present and Future of the Pharmaceutical and Bio-Pharma Sector.' He emphasized the importance of nurturing young talent to lead solutions to social issues in the healthcare and welfare fields.During the graduation ceremony, Yuhan Corporation CEO Cho Wook-je presented certificates to 36 graduates. The group proposing the medication information connection platform 'Yaksun' received the grand prize for their outstanding idea. The second prize went to the group that developed an app to verify exaggerated advertisements for obesity treatments, while the team proposing the NFC-based voice medication guidance service 'Yaktok' received the excellence award.Participants analyzed social issues in the healthcare and welfare sectors and designed solutions through expert lectures, field visits, stakeholder interviews, and design thinking workshops over the five weeks. Yuhan Corporation employees also provided support in research and development (R&D), clinical trials, marketing, and mentoring.A Yuhan Corporation representative stated, 'Yoo Il-han Academy is a participatory talent development program where young people directly experience social issues and propose actionable solutions. We will continue to nurture future talent to drive innovation in the healthcare and welfare sectors and actively support the creation of social value by youth.'Meanwhile, Yuhan Corporation continues to achieve excellent results in domestic and international environmental, social, and governance (ESG) evaluations. It received the highest rating of AA in Sustainbest's '2026 First Half ESG Evaluation' and ranked second among companies with assets over 2 trillion won in the 'ESG Best Companies 2026 First Half.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-12 15:40:00
  • Ahn Cheol-soo Calls for Exclusion of Reunification Movement from Upcoming Elections
    Ahn Cheol-soo Calls for Exclusion of 'Reunification Movement' from Upcoming Elections Ahn Cheol-soo, a member of the People Power Party, stated on August 12 that the "reunification movement" serving specific individuals outside the party and causing division must be eliminated from the People Power Party. He argued that such individuals should be excluded from support in the upcoming general elections.Ahn made these remarks during a press conference at the National Assembly, emphasizing that now is the right time to establish clear goals and activate the Special Committee for Organizational Strengthening (조강특위).He analyzed that the People Power Party is currently engaged in a battle not only against the Lee Jae-myung administration but also against the reunification movement. Ahn pointed out, "They are mobilizing to defeat our party's candidates in the elections and attacking those who testified in court about the facts."In addition to eradicating the reunification movement, Ahn suggested filtering out individuals with ethical blemishes. He argued that the party cannot criticize the Democratic Party while neglecting internal issues. He also stressed the need to maximize organizational strength tailored to the metropolitan area and actively recruit strategists and experts.Ahn proposed that positions vacated by local party chairs should be filled by young individuals from the 2030 generation or those who have dedicated themselves to the party, stating, "We must prepare for the next general election from now on." He added that the party leader should delegate responsibilities to party resources and present better solutions to the public based on the results.In response to Ahn's proposals, Jo Kwang-han, a senior party member, expressed agreement, saying, "He has pointed out well what our party needs to do." However, Woo Jae-jun, the youth committee chair, questioned Ahn's stance, asking, "Is Ahn regretting his support for the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk-yeol, which he initially endorsed?"Meanwhile, the People Power Party recently formed the Special Committee for Organizational Strengthening to lead the reorganization of local party chairs and held its second meeting on the same day after the first meeting on August 10. Jeong Hee-yong, the committee chair, stated after the meeting that while it is inappropriate to express personal views on Ahn's proposals from a practical standpoint, the committee plans to conduct a thorough review considering various conditions.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-12 15:40:00
  • Hanwha Leads Local Talent Development for AI and Aerospace Ecosystem
    Hanwha Leads Local Talent Development for AI and Aerospace Ecosystem Hanwha is taking a significant step towards building an AI and aerospace industry ecosystem in the southeastern region by partnering with national universities to develop local talent.On August 12, Hanwha Aerospace, Hanwha Ocean, and Hanwha Engine announced the signing of a 'Southeastern Regional Talent Development Agreement' at the R&D center of Hanwha Aerospace in Changwon, Gyeongnam, in collaboration with Gyeongsang National University, Pusan National University, and National Changwon University.This initiative is part of a 55 trillion won investment plan for the Yeongnam region's AI and aerospace sector, announced by Kim Dong-kwan, Vice Chairman of Hanwha Group, during a national report meeting on advanced industry development held in Jinju, Gyeongnam last month.At that time, Kim stated, "The true industrial ecosystem envisioned by Hanwha is one where local talent learns in their region, local companies challenge the global market, and local industries lead the future of South Korea in a virtuous cycle."Hanwha plans to create an AI and aerospace industry ecosystem based on three pillars: local talent development, enhancing the technological capabilities of partner companies, and fostering the growth of startups and research institutions.Hanwha will establish a contract department at Pusan National University (tentatively named 'Department of Advanced Mechanical Systems Engineering') and expand R&D cooperation. Gyeongsang National University and Changwon University will operate a contract enrollment master's program focused on nurturing AI talent.Selected students will work at Hanwha Aerospace, Hanwha Ocean, and Hanwha Engine after graduation, undergoing a separate selection process. During their studies, they will receive scholarships and living stipends, along with internship opportunities.Additionally, Hanwha plans to implement industry-academia cooperation programs, including field-centered education, special lectures, and seminars, while promoting joint research and technology exchange. The company aims to enhance employment support for outstanding talent and jointly discover and promote support projects with local governments.Changwon University will operate an exchange student program with a university in Vietnam, while Gyeongsang National University and Pusan National University plan to bid for the '10 Seoul National Universities' initiative. Existing industry-academia cooperation programs, such as the Hanwha Aerospace Hub, will also continue to expand.Attending the event were Gyeongnam Governor Park Wan-soo, Busan Mayor Jeon Jae-soo, People Power Party lawmaker Seo Il-jun, Gyeongsang National University President Kwon Jin-hwa, Pusan National University President Choi Jae-won, Changwon University President Park Min-won, Hanwha Aerospace CEO Son Jae-il, Hanwha Ocean CEO Kim Hee-cheol, Hanwha Engine CEO Kim Jong-seo, and Hanwha Aerospace Director of Win-Win Cooperation Jeong In-seop, among over 100 attendees.In his congratulatory speech, Governor Park Wan-soo emphasized that the agreement for local talent development in the southeastern region is significant as it prepares a future talent ecosystem in the region, a hub for advanced manufacturing innovation in South Korea, through collaboration among businesses, universities, and local governments.Mayor Jeon Jae-soo stated, "We will vigorously support the actual education programs, joint research, and recruitment to create a new growth axis at the southern tip of the Korean Peninsula, paving the way for South Korea to advance into a bipolar and tripolar system."Lawmaker Seo Il-jun expressed hope that the agreement would serve as a new opportunity for universities, businesses, and the region, providing a foundation for youth growth, and pledged to review and promote related systems and policies in the National Assembly to establish a sustainable talent development system.Kim Hee-cheol, CEO of Hanwha Ocean, who delivered a welcoming speech on behalf of the three companies, expressed gratitude to the government, local authorities, and university officials for their commitment to nurturing talent responsible for the region's future, stating, "Hanwha will continue to be a reliable partner that grows together with the region and creates the future."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-12 15:36:00