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  • Political Parties Increase Pressure on Election Commission Amid Investigations
    Political Parties Increase Pressure on Election Commission Amid Investigations Political parties are intensifying pressure on the National Election Commission regarding the voter ballot shortages and other violations of voting rights that occurred during the June 3 local elections. Following the passage of an extension for the National Investigation Special Committee's activities on July 30, the atmosphere is building ahead of the upcoming third hearing.Choi Bo-yun, the chief spokesperson for the People Power Party, stated in a commentary on August 6, "The 'voter count manipulation' was not an accidental deviation by some field workers, but an organized directive from the National Election Commission to local election offices across the country." Choi, who is also a member of the National Investigation Special Committee, pointed out that contrary to official guidelines requiring the commission to document and obtain approval for any modifications, the commission actually circumvented the process to offset numbers.He emphasized, "Adjustments made without records are not corrections but concealments," noting that abnormal patterns of mechanically repeated voter counts were confirmed in 109 locations during the last presidential election and 159 locations during the general election. He called for clarity on when this method began, who created and approved it, and which elections it applied to.The Democratic Party has also criticized the commission, with floor leader Cheon Jun-ho stating during a parliamentary strategy meeting on August 4, "The commission's inadequate and lax election management practices have gone too far. The mix of mistakes and intentional actions is infuriating as a citizen. We must conduct a thorough investigation and implement comprehensive reforms."Reactions from both inside and outside the political arena indicate a shift in sentiment following allegations that the commission arbitrarily modified voter counts after preliminary tallies or redistributed them to other polling places. As evidence supporting these allegations has emerged, there appears to be a growing consensus in the National Assembly that the situation warrants further scrutiny.In accordance with a bipartisan agreement, the third hearing on the voting rights violations is scheduled for August 10, increasing the pressure on the election commission. Both parties plan to summon former National Election Commission Chairman Noh Tae-ak and acting Chairman Wi Cheol-hwan, among other officials, to intensively question them about the allegations of voter count modifications.Additionally, the procedures for launching a special prosecutor are progressing swiftly. The Democratic Party has recommended lawyers Jo Du-hyun and Jo Gi-yeon, along with Sogang University political science professor Ha Sang-eung, while the People Power Party has nominated lawyers Kim Yong-gwan and Choi Chang-ho, along with Korea University law professor Cha Jin-ah, to the special prosecutor recommendation committee. The committee is set to hold its first meeting on August 7 to elect a chair and decide on requests for candidate recommendations from external organizations.According to the special prosecutor law, the recommendation committee must receive three candidates each from the Korean Bar Association and the Council of Law Schools, and within three days, unanimously recommend two candidates to the president. The president will then appoint one of the two as the special prosecutor. Observers in the political arena suggest that the special prosecutor recommendation process is advancing more quickly than expected, raising the possibility that both the National Investigation Special Committee and the special prosecutor could conduct a recount together later this month. Consequently, the third hearing is expected to focus more on criticism of the election commission rather than political disputes between the parties.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-06 18:44:10
  • CJ Freshway Reports 4.5% Revenue Growth in Q2, Driven by Sikbom Platform
    CJ Freshway Reports 4.5% Revenue Growth in Q2, Driven by 'Sikbom' Platform CJ Freshway continued its revenue growth in the second quarter, driven by an increase in food distribution and catering services despite a slowdown in the dining sector. The company's online business, particularly the B2B food distribution platform 'Sikbom,' has seen rapid growth, contributing significantly to its expansion.On August 6, CJ Freshway announced that its consolidated revenue for the second quarter reached 923.2 billion won, with an operating profit of 23.5 billion won. This marks a 4.5% increase in revenue compared to the same period last year, while operating profit decreased by 14.5%. During the same period, gross merchandise volume (GMV) rose by 13.3% to 1.363 trillion won.The food distribution and ingredient supply business generated 418.4 billion won in revenue, with online sales increasing by 51% year-over-year. The growth of the Sikbom platform, which CJ Freshway acquired a stake in last March, has bolstered these results.CJ Freshway has enhanced its online competitiveness by more than doubling its integrated delivery offerings that link its existing logistics network with the Sikbom platform. As a result, Sikbom's cumulative transaction volume for the second quarter reached 151.3 billion won, a 25.8% increase from the previous year.Sales in the food ingredient and franchise sectors also continued to grow. The food ingredient segment saw a 14.3% increase in revenue, while franchise sales rose by 11%, driven by data-based sales strategies that attracted new customers.The catering business reported sales of 498.3 billion won, with an expansion in supplies for kids' and school meals, and a 4.9% growth in the group meal sector. The volume of new contracts increased by 43.7% compared to the same period last year, with new military catering contracts secured at the Army Training Center and the Marine Corps 1st Division. Concession sales also grew by 21%.However, operating profit declined due to proactive investments in the open market for food ingredients. CJ Freshway is strategically allocating resources to develop Sikbom as a future growth driver, focusing on marketing and platform enhancement. Although initial investment costs have impacted profits, the company maintains stable growth across its food distribution and catering sectors.CJ Freshway plans to strengthen its online business competitiveness centered around Sikbom in the second half of the year while enhancing product and logistics services to improve operational efficiency.Im Seong-cheol, Chief Financial Officer of CJ Freshway, stated, "We aim to cultivate Sikbom as a core pillar of future growth and lead the digital transformation of the food distribution market. We will continue to invest in enhancing the competitiveness of our food distribution and catering businesses to establish a sustainable growth foundation."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-06 18:44:10
  • Red Cap Tour Reports Record Q2 Operating Profit of 15.7 Billion Won
    Red Cap Tour Reports Record Q2 Operating Profit of 15.7 Billion Won Red Cap Tour achieved its highest-ever quarterly performance in the second quarter, driven by improved profitability in its rental car business and a recovery in corporate travel demand.On August 6, Red Cap Tour announced that its consolidated revenue for the second quarter reached 98.2 billion won, with an operating profit of 15.7 billion won. This represents a 3.6% increase in revenue and a 16.3% rise in operating profit compared to the same period last year. Net profit also grew by 22.2% to 9.1 billion won.The rental car segment was the main contributor to this performance improvement. In the second quarter, rental car revenue was 87.2 billion won, up 3.6% year-on-year, while operating profit rose by 19.7% to 13.2 billion won. The operating profit margin increased by 2 percentage points to 15.1%. Red Cap Tour attributed this success to a tailored operational strategy aligned with the government's push for eco-friendly vehicle adoption.The travel business also continued its solid growth. Revenue for the second quarter was 11 billion won, reflecting a 3.9% increase, while operating profit grew by 1.8% to 2.6 billion won. Although some group events were canceled due to the impact of the conflict in the Middle East, increased demand for overseas business trips from major companies in sectors like semiconductors helped maintain performance.Looking ahead, Red Cap Tour plans to enhance its digital services, including the development of an AI chatbot and an upgraded Business Travel Management System (BTMS). The company aims to sustain its growth by securing corporate travel demand and rescheduling group events that were canceled in the first half of the year.Inyu-seong, CEO of Red Cap Tour, stated, "Despite the challenging business environment characterized by high oil prices, exchange rates, and interest rates, we have been able to achieve stable growth through customer-centric business strategies and specialized services. We will enhance the competitiveness of our integrated mobility and travel management services to increase shareholder value."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-06 18:44:10
  • People Power Party Calls for Strict Disciplinary Action Against Lawmakers Over Controversial Remarks
    People Power Party Calls for Strict Disciplinary Action Against Lawmakers Over Controversial Remarks 국민의힘이 6일 '부산 돌려차기 사건' 피해자가 참석한 국회 토론회에서 부적절한 발언으로 논란을 일으킨 서범수·진종오 의원에 대해 "윤리위원회를 통한 엄중한 조치가 필요하다"고 밝혔다. 앞서 징계 절차가 개시된 조경태·권영진·진종오 의원에 이어 서 의원까지 징계 대상에 포함되면서 징계 정국이 확대되는 모습이다. 국민의힘은 이날 오전 국회에서 열린 최고위원회의에서 '돌려차기 실언'에 대해 논의한 것으로 알려졌다. 최보윤 수석대변인은 최고위 회의를 마친 뒤 기자들과 만나 "보완수사권 폐지 관련 토론회 발언에 대한 논의가 있었다"며 "당 대표를 비롯해 모두가 언행의 심각성에 대해 공감했고, 상응한 윤리위의 조치가 있어야 한다는 것으로 의견이 모아졌다"고 말했다. 정점식 원내대표도 입장문을 통해 "최근 우리 당 소속 국회의원들이 끔찍한 범죄 사건을 희화화하는 발언이 있었다. 결코 해서는 안 될 부적절한 언행"이라며 "국민의힘 국회의원들을 대표하는 원내대표로서 깊이 송구하다"고 밝혔다. 이어 "피해자가 용서했으니 문제가 해소됐다고 이해하면 안 된다"며 "향후 이 같은 불미스러운 일이 재발하지 않도록 할 수 있는 모든 조치를 다 하겠다"고 했다. 당 지도부가 윤리위 징계 필요성에 의견을 모은 만큼 오는 7일 예정된 윤리위 회의에서 서 의원과 진 의원에 대한 징계가 논의될 것으로 보인다. 당내에선 두 의원의 징계에 대한 의견이 엇갈렸다. 지도부 관계자는 "본인이 정말 반성한다면 스스로 당을 떠나는 게 반성하는 것"이라며 "만약 그냥 넘어간다면 대표적인 내로남불이 된다"고 지적했다. 반면 한 친한(친한동훈)계 의원은 "말실수를 한 거고 피해자에게 사과하지 않았나. 토론회에 참석한 피해자도 본안에 집중해야지 이런 걸로 관심이 분산되는 걸 원하지 않는다고 말했다"며 "(징계를 하겠다는 건) 일부러 일을 만드는 것"이라고 비판했다. 이어 당 지도부를 겨냥해 "징계 정국으로 끌고가는 것이 당에도 좋을 게 하나도 없다"며 "당을 왜 이렇게 이끌고 가는지 모르겠다"고 꼬집었다. 앞서 서 의원은 지난 4일 '부산 돌려차기 사건' 피해자가 참석한 토론회에서 토론 시작 전 진 의원에게 "돌려차기 한번 하지"라고 말했다. 진 의원은 "저는 발보다 손을 잘 쓴다"고 답했다. 이후 논란이 커지자 서 의원과 진 의원은 피해자와 국민에 사과의 뜻을 밝혔다. 토론회에 참석했던 피해자 김진주(가명) 씨는 서 의원의 사과를 수용하면서 "토론이 중요한데 묻히는 게 더 싫다. 토론회 내용을 국민들이 알 수 있도록 힘써달라"고 말한 것으로 알려졌다. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-06 18:44:00
  • Trump Denies Reports of U.S. Military Weapon Shortages, Vows to Pursue Leakers
    Trump Denies Reports of U.S. Military Weapon Shortages, Vows to Pursue Leakers President Donald Trump has strongly denied reports that U.S. military weapon stockpiles are dwindling, stating that he is tracking down insiders who leaked the information.On August 6, Trump posted on social media platform Truth Social, asserting, "The United States has a tremendous amount of weapons, especially certain types, and large quantities are being produced and supplied to the U.S. as needed."He added, "Defense contractors are building the most factories and production facilities in U.S. history," and indicated that he would seek long prison sentences for those who spread what he called treasonous claims.Trump's comments come amid reports that the prolonged conflict in Iran has led to dangerously low levels of U.S. military offensive and defensive missile stockpiles.The Washington Post reported the day before, citing two sources, that Trump had pressed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on ammunition shortages during a Cabinet meeting at Camp David on July 31. Trump reportedly expressed dissatisfaction, believing the stockpile issues had already been resolved and that he had not been properly informed about the situation.According to the Post, U.S. forces used more than 850 Tomahawk cruise missiles and over 1,000 Patriot and THAAD interceptors in the first month of the conflict. The Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) also reportedly fired over 1,300 rounds in the initial weeks of the war.Reuters and CNN also reported on August 4 that U.S. forces had utilized most of their ATACMS and precision strike missile (PrSM) stockpiles in the Iran conflict, with significant reductions in Tomahawk, THAAD, and Patriot inventories.The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) estimated that approximately 65% of Patriot interceptors were depleted from February to July, and THAAD stockpiles had decreased by at least 38% compared to pre-war levels. They projected that it could take at least three years to restore THAAD stockpiles to pre-war levels.Both the White House and the Defense Department have denied the related reports. White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt called the Post's report about Trump reprimanding Hegseth "100% fake news."Sean Parnell, the Defense Department's chief spokesperson, emphasized that U.S. forces have the capability to conduct operations at the time and place chosen by the President. Hegseth also refuted CNN's report about depleted missile stockpiles, stating, "That is not true."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-06 18:44:00
  • Chinese Stock Market Closes Mixed Amid Profit-Taking; Digital Currency Sector Rises
    Chinese Stock Market Closes Mixed Amid Profit-Taking; Digital Currency Sector Rises The Chinese stock market showed mixed results on August 6, following two days of gains. Analysts attributed the market's adjustment to profit-taking activities. The Shanghai Composite Index closed up 0.56% at 3,900.35, while the Shenzhen Component Index fell 0.24% to 14,110.12, and the ChiNext Index dropped 0.55% to 3,515.56.Investor sentiment in the AI sector had improved in the U.S. stock market, contributing to the rise of Chinese tech stocks over the past two trading days. However, as U.S. tech stocks faced a correction, the Chinese market followed suit. Although the semiconductor sector in China declined, there was a slight drop in AI software, internet platforms, and AI applications, which attracted bargain-hunting.Additionally, investors adopted a wait-and-see approach ahead of the U.S. non-farm payroll (NFP) report set to be released on August 7. Concerns about potential economic slowdown in the U.S. due to weak private employment figures contributed to the market's cautious stance.Huatai Securities noted in a report that the market appears directionless without a consensus among investors in the short term, suggesting that a trend reversal may occur in late August. The firm added that the earnings reports from major tech companies will be crucial in determining whether a new upward phase for tech stocks will emerge. They also indicated that investments will likely focus on sectors with high earnings visibility rather than just the scale of investment.Notably, stocks related to digital currency saw significant gains. Companies such as Paytian Chengxin, Hengbao Guofen, and Chutian Long hit their daily price limits. This surge followed the Chinese government's announcement on August 5, emphasizing the need to support the digital transformation of retail businesses in its 'Opinions on Accelerating the Innovative Development of Retail.' The announcement included plans for comprehensive digitization and improving shopping and payment convenience for foreigners.Coal-related stocks also performed well, with Haohua Nengyuan and Dayou Nengyuan reaching their daily price limits. The rise in the power coal price index reported on August 5 positively impacted coal stocks, with 5,500-calorie products trading at 839 yuan per ton, an increase of 5 yuan. The sustained strength in coal prices has significantly improved the profitability of coal companies, and concerns about supply shortages have emerged as some coal mines enter safety maintenance.Meanwhile, the People's Bank of China set the yuan's central parity rate against the dollar at 6.7889 yuan, a slight increase of 0.0006 yuan from the previous day, reflecting a 0.009% decline in the yuan's value.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-06 18:40:20
  • K-Bonghwa Vietnam Valley Special Zone Designated to Boost Local Economy
    K-Bonghwa Vietnam Valley Special Zone Designated to Boost Local Economy A new 'K-Vietnam Valley Special Zone' will be established in Bonghwa, North Gyeongsang Province, as part of the government's initiative to increase tourism and resident population, thereby creating new growth engines for the region.The Ministry of SMEs and Startups announced on August 6 that it has designated the 'Bonghwa K-Vietnam Valley Special Zone' during the 60th Regional Specialized Development Zone Committee meeting.The Regional Specialized Development Zone system allows local governments to selectively apply 130 regulatory exceptions outlined in the 'Special Zone Act' to promote specialized projects that align with local characteristics.The newly designated 'Bonghwa K-Vietnam Valley Special Zone' will leverage the 800-year history of exchanges between Korea and Vietnam. It aims to create an international tourism hub that combines history, culture, and recreation, drawing on historical resources such as the Vietnamese Ly Dynasty prince who settled in Bonghwa during the Goryeo Dynasty and the Hwasan Yi clan.Based on this special zone designation, Bonghwa County plans to implement eight specialized projects with a total budget of 347.6 billion won from 2026 to 2030. These projects include the development of the K-Vietnam Valley, tourism development around the Changpyeong Reservoir, rental smart farms, and a healing pet village in the Baekdudaegan mountain range. The application of ten regulatory exceptions, including the Immigration Control Act, National Land Planning Act, and Housing Act, will ease institutional constraints related to the stay of foreign workers, land use, and housing supply.Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1992, exchanges between Korea and Vietnam have expanded across various sectors, including the economy and industry.Roh Yong-seok, First Vice Minister of the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, stated, 'The Bonghwa K-Vietnam Valley Special Zone is a new attempt to connect the unique historical resources of the 800-year exchange between Korea and Vietnam with cultural tourism and regional economic revitalization. We will support the implementation of projects to ensure that the specialized development zone becomes a practical growth hub, while also strengthening performance-based management and operations.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-06 18:40:20
  • Tving Reports First Profit in Q2, Driven by KBO Success
    Tving Reports First Profit in Q2, Driven by KBO Success Tving has successfully turned a profit in the second quarter, thanks to the popularity of Korean professional baseball (KBO) and the success of its original content. However, the financial impact of customer compensation related to a data breach and potential fines remains a concern for future performance.On August 6, CJ ENM announced during a conference call that Tving recorded second-quarter revenues of 140.7 billion won and an operating profit of 6 billion won.Jang Hyun-kyung, Tving's Chief Financial Officer, stated, "Tving's revenue grew by 40% compared to the same period last year," adding, "We have turned a profit in operating income."This success is attributed to the KBO's popularity. Original titles such as 'The Legend of the Cook' and 'Yumi's Cells 3' have also contributed to an increase in subscribers and monthly active users (MAU).Jang noted, "Advertising and subscriber revenue have seen significant growth," but cautioned that the third quarter may be less robust due to the seasonal decline in advertising and increased supply costs, along with a predicted short-term decrease in overseas sales. "It is expected to be somewhat sluggish compared to the second quarter," he explained.However, uncertainties remain. A data breach incident occurred in June, affecting an estimated 19.8 million accounts.Jang pointed out, "The financial implications related to the data breach could involve two main factors: customer compensation plans and penalties or fines." He indicated that the internal compensation plan would be unveiled around September or October.He added, "Fines and penalties will be determined after the completion of the investigation by the Personal Information Protection Commission, and since they are calculated based on revenue, they will have an impact."The merger between Tving and Wavve is still in progress. CJ ENM plans to advance discussions on the merger in the second half of the year and continue negotiations with strategic investors in conjunction with discussions with KT.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-06 18:40:20
  • KT&G Reports 18.5% Increase in Q2 Operating Profit to 414.5 Billion Won
    KT&G Reports 18.5% Increase in Q2 Operating Profit to 414.5 Billion Won KT&G has achieved its highest-ever first-half revenue, driven by strong overseas performance and growth in its next-generation tobacco (NGP) business. The company reported double-digit year-on-year growth in operating profit for four consecutive quarters. Additionally, it has raised its annual revenue and operating profit forecasts and increased its interim dividend to 2,000 won per share. On August 6, KT&G announced that its consolidated operating profit for the second quarter reached 414.5 billion won, an 18.5% increase from the same period last year. Revenue rose to 1.7 trillion won, up 9.9% year-on-year, while net profit surged 152.3% to 362.1 billion won. The company has adjusted its revenue forecast from a previous range of 3-5% to 5-7%, and its operating profit forecast from 6-8% to 10-13%, reflecting a positive outlook for the year. The core tobacco business was the main driver of overall performance, with second-quarter tobacco sales reaching 1.22 trillion won, an 11.7% increase compared to the previous year. Operating profit from this segment rose 18.8% to 382.5 billion won. Overseas sales of cigarettes increased by 18.9% to 557.7 billion won, benefiting from expanded sales volume and strategic price increases, which boosted operating profit by 45.6%. In the domestic market, KT&G held a 67.9% share in the first half of the year. The NGP business also continued its growth trajectory, with second-quarter sales reaching 242.7 billion won, a 23.8% increase year-on-year. The successful launch of the 'lil Able 3.0' in February contributed to a higher proportion of premium stick sales, improving both revenue and profitability. KT&G's market share in the domestic NGP sector was recorded at 48.2%. Looking ahead, KT&G plans to diversify its product lineup by launching new NGP products incorporating advanced technologies in the second half of the year. The company aims to expand its device and stick offerings to increase its domestic market share and strengthen its growth foundation in overseas NGP markets. KGC's health supplement business saw improved profitability due to a recovery in domestic sales and the expansion of high-margin sales channels. Domestic sales increased by 7.8% to 174.2 billion won, aided by promotional events linked to the month of family gatherings and high oil price relief funds, as well as the impact of campaigns for 'Waiting for Agarwood' and 'Everytime'. However, overseas sales were affected by inventory adjustments in China, decreasing by 9.4 billion won to 49.6 billion won compared to the previous year. Nonetheless, the health supplement business's operating profit rose 61.3% to 10 billion won due to increased sales from high-margin channels. KT&G also announced an increase in dividends. The board of directors decided to raise the interim dividend to 2,000 won per share, up 600 won from last year's 1,400 won. The company is also considering further increasing the year-end dividend based on profit growth and cash generation capacity. In 2025, KT&G's annual dividend per share was 6,000 won, and the company previously announced plans to distribute approximately 2.4 trillion won in dividends from 2024 to 2027. In April, it completed the cancellation of 10,866,189 shares of its own stock. KT&G plans to announce a new long-term shareholder return policy, which includes dividend expansion, in the fourth quarter. The company will also proceed with its previously planned share buyback and cancellation in the second half of the year. Lee Sang-hak, Senior Vice President of KT&G, stated, "The significant increase in operating profit from overseas operations and the strong growth momentum in the domestic NGP sector have led to a simultaneous rise in revenue and operating profit. Based on this profit growth, we will continue to pursue shareholder return policies such as high dividends and share buybacks to enhance shareholder value."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-06 18:40:10
  • KOSPI Plummets Over 4% to Below 6200 Amid Heavy Foreign Selling; KOSDAQ Rises for Fifth Day
    KOSPI Plummets Over 4% to Below 6200 Amid Heavy Foreign Selling; KOSDAQ Rises for Fifth Day The KOSPI index fell more than 4% on August 6, dragged down by significant selling from foreign and institutional investors, dropping below the 6200 mark. The volatility in the market increased, prompting a sell-side circuit breaker to be activated during trading. In contrast, the KOSDAQ index rose for the fifth consecutive day, recovering above 800.According to the Korea Exchange, the KOSPI closed at 6296.38, down 301.88 points (4.58%) from the previous trading day. The index opened at 6478.75, down 119.51 points (1.81%), and the decline accelerated throughout the session. A sell-side circuit breaker was triggered around 10:18 a.m., marking the 24th such occurrence this year.In the securities market, foreign and institutional investors sold a net 33.27 trillion won and 1.22 trillion won, respectively. Meanwhile, individual investors purchased a net 33.39 trillion won.Among the top market capitalization stocks, SK Hynix fell 10.07%, and SK Square dropped 13.14%. Other notable declines included Samsung Electro-Mechanics (-8.92%), Samsung Electronics (-6.50%), Samsung C&T (-4.17%), Samsung Life (-3.57%), and Hyundai Motor (-1.36%). Conversely, Hanwha Aerospace (3.97%), LG Energy Solution (2.24%), Samsung Biologics (1.27%), and KB Financial (0.29%) saw gains.The KOSDAQ index closed at 801.67, up 2.08 points (0.26%) from the previous day. It opened at 797.44, down 2.15 points (0.27%), before turning upward and surpassing the 800 mark. During the session, it reached a high of 813.54. The index has been on an upward trend since July 31.In the KOSDAQ market, individual and institutional investors bought a net 859 billion won and 1.615 trillion won, respectively, while foreign investors sold a net 2.482 trillion won.The top KOSDAQ stocks showed mixed performance. IOTech (5.96%), Alteogen (5.60%), ABL Bio (3.62%), EcoPro (1.82%), EcoPro BM (0.98%), Rino Technology (0.60%), HLB (0.57%), and Rainbow Robotics (0.52%) all gained. In contrast, Juseong Engineering (-6.65%) and Wonik IPS (-5.22%) declined.Lee Kyung-min, a researcher at Daishin Securities, noted, "Investor sentiment in the domestic market has weakened regarding memory-related stocks, leading to a sharp decline in the semiconductor sector, which has driven the index lower. The sell-side circuit breaker was activated as the decline expanded during the session." He added, "There was a rotation among sectors, with consumer goods and steel showing differentiated performance across industries."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-06 18:40:00