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  • CJ OnStyle Reports 21% Increase in Q2 Operating Profit Driven by Mobile Live Commerce
    CJ OnStyle Reports 21% Increase in Q2 Operating Profit Driven by Mobile Live Commerce CJ ENM's commerce division, CJ OnStyle, has reported simultaneous growth in revenue and profitability for the second quarter of this year, fueled by the rise of mobile live commerce (MLC).According to CJ ENM, CJ OnStyle's operating profit for the second quarter reached 26 billion won, a 21.2% increase compared to the same period last year. Revenue rose by 4.4% to 402.8 billion won.The improvement in performance was led by MLC, which saw a transaction volume of 184.8 billion won in the second quarter, marking a staggering 161.3% increase year-on-year. During the same period, the number of new installations of the CJ OnStyle app and the monthly active users (MAU) also grew by 25.6% and 10.5%, respectively.Previously, CJ OnStyle expanded its customer base by distributing short-form content edited from live broadcasts on external channels such as YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok. Additionally, the integration of popular intellectual properties (IP) from the KBO, as well as films like 'The Devil Wears Prada 2', 'Wally Run', and 'Minions', into commerce content proved effective.The company explained that a virtuous cycle has been established, where customers who engage with content on external platforms transition to the CJ OnStyle app to make purchases, leading to improvements in both customer base and conversion rates.In terms of product categories, premium travel and children's products drove revenue growth. The expansion of health supplements and premium beauty products also contributed to the increase in operating profit by enhancing profitability-focused product management.A CJ ENM representative stated, "We will continue to improve profitability in the second half of the year by expanding our platform customer base and diversifying our business with content and music IP, as well as expanding global distribution."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-06 18:32:20
  • Stray Kids Returns with This & That After Record-Breaking Billboard Success
    Stray Kids Returns with 'This & That' After Record-Breaking Billboard Success Stray Kids, who made history with eight consecutive entries at number one on the Billboard 200, is back with a new album. Known for their challenging and experimental music, the group is presenting a more relaxed and polished side this time. With the album titled 'This & That,' Stray Kids aims to showcase their versatility and justified confidence. On August 6, a press conference was held at the Conrad Seoul Hotel in Yeouido, Seoul, to celebrate the release of Stray Kids' new album 'This & That.' Following the release of 'DO IT' in November last year, 'This & That' marks the group's return after about nine months. The album, consisting of eight tracks, reflects Stray Kids' multifaceted nature and confidence. The title track, which shares the album's name, is a groovy hip-hop track that maximizes the group's chill and cool mood, embodying their readiness to tackle anything. Bang Chan stated, "As we are in our ninth year, we have explored various music genres from the beginning. The more genres we tackle, the more we can show different sides of Stray Kids. With this album, we have prepared a new color for Stray Kids, just as the album title suggests." The key difference from previous works is the sense of 'relaxation.' Stray Kids, known for their intense and powerful energy, is now emphasizing a chill and cool vibe in this album. Changbin explained, "The title track 'This & That' is different from our previous title tracks. It captures a relaxed and easygoing side of Stray Kids. We worked hard to convey our confidence in doing various things through the album." Stray Kids has consistently carved their own path with challenging and experimental sounds in each album. The title track combines new textures and intuitive hooks rather than repeating familiar formulas. Changbin added, "There are unique sounds in the track that you haven't heard before. While the lyrics aim to simply repeat 'This & That,' I was confident about the title track from the moment we worked on it in the U.S. The hook came out quickly, and I thought the members would enjoy it as they started dancing along. The positive response confirmed my belief." Han remarked, "There are safe choices. We could come back the same way and do what is familiar, but the reason we take on challenges when making an album is that it is more fun. There are difficulties and variables in the path of creating music, but we learn a lot through that process. If we keep doing the same thing, our interest will wane." Rather than feeling burdened by records, the group prioritizes their genuine passion for performing. Last year, Stray Kids made history by being the first global artists to achieve eight consecutive number one entries on the Billboard 200 with 'DO IT.' However, the members emphasize that their focus is on their music and their fans. Seungmin stated, "When preparing for each album, concert, or new project, we aim to show our sincerity rather than focusing on results. It would be great if the results align with that, but above all, we hope our feelings reach STAY and listeners." Stray Kids is expanding their presence beyond solo concerts to festivals. They announced the launch of a new festival, 'STRAYCITY,' in Mexico City, centered around Stray Kids. This marks a trend of broadening their presence as an IP that can expand beyond a single team through global tours and festivals. Seungmin expressed, "We are still hungry. I think the desire to reach STAY who have never encountered us will continue. I hope to meet many people not only through solo concerts but also on various stages. I believe this is a great opportunity, and I expect to show a slightly different vibe from concerts." Hyunjin added, "Festivals are stages where not only our fans but also non-fans can come together with the mindset of 'let's have a crazy time today.' Concerts are where we enjoy and prove what kind of music and performances Stray Kids has delivered so far and what we want to show in the future." When asked about global awards and records, the members remained steadfast in their team's direction. Despite ongoing discussions about classifications and new award categories surrounding K-pop in the global music market, Stray Kids' goals remain focused on their fans and music. Hyunjin stated, "Throughout our activities, we have never set award results or records as our goals when releasing music. This album is no different. We want to show and prove that we can do various things. Our biggest goal and dream is for our fans to be satisfied and happy." Han discussed the direction of Stray Kids, saying, "Thanks to those who love us, we can work hard on music and walk this path. We never take the love and affection we receive for granted. We want to strive to meet those expectations. Stray Kids wants to weave our stories into our music and show many sides through various content, aiming to be a group that can last long with STAY." Lee Know candidly addressed questions about military service and future team activities. Born in 1998, he responded to inquiries about his enlistment, saying, "I believe fulfilling my duty is natural. When called, I will carry out my responsibilities diligently. While we haven't discussed detailed plans for album activities after my service, one thing is certain: we will likely reunite. I felt during this concert that there are many STAY out there, and even if I go to the military, I want to repay the love I received from them. Please wait a moment; I will be back soon." Stray Kids believes that their essence lies in continuous innovation. Changbin stated, "We have shown a playful and energetic side, which I believe has left an impression on STAY and listeners. In this album, we aimed to present a more relaxed and cool side. We will continue to strive to show the newness of Stray Kids. What makes Stray Kids unique is that we create our songs. We find what we can do well and challenge ourselves with unfamiliar things, digesting them in our own color, which is our challenge." Bang Chan concluded, "We will show good sides and various things from here and there, so please look forward to it." Stray Kids' new album 'This & That' and its title track will be released on August 7 at 1 PM on various music streaming sites. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-06 18:32:20
  • Samsung Electronics Recognized for Next-Gen Memory Technology at FMS 2026
    Samsung Electronics Recognized for Next-Gen Memory Technology at FMS 2026 Samsung Electronics received recognition for its next-generation memory technology at the global memory technology conference, FMS 2026, winning awards in two categories.According to Samsung Electronics, the company was awarded the 3D & NAND Innovation Award for its V10 BV-NAND and the Next-Gen Memory Award for its LPDDR5X-PIM during the Best of Show Awards held at FMS 2026.The V10 BV-NAND represents a next-generation V-NAND technology that implements a super high-layer structure with over 400 layers. It features bonding vertical technology that vertically bonds wafers and a three-stack structure that connects V-NAND cells across three layers, enhancing storage capacity while reducing power consumption and heat generation. This technology is seen as a response to the growing demand for data storage in the AI era.The LPDDR5X-PIM, awarded alongside the V10 BV-NAND, is the world's first low-power DRAM that incorporates processing-in-memory (PIM) technology. This structure allows for direct computation within the memory, minimizing data movement and improving both system performance and power efficiency. It is particularly noted as a key memory technology that can alleviate bottlenecks in large-scale AI computing environments, such as AI accelerators and high-performance computing (HPC).With these awards, Samsung Electronics has reaffirmed its leadership in next-generation NAND and AI memory technologies, and it plans to further solidify its position as a leader in memory technology for the AI era.The company will showcase its next-generation memory roadmap, AI memory solutions, and advanced storage technologies at FMS 2026, which runs until August 6, sharing its vision for future memory technologies with global clients.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-06 18:32:10
  • Political Parties Clash Over Real Estate Tax Reform Proposal
    Political Parties Clash Over Real Estate Tax Reform Proposal Political parties have been engaged in a heated debate over the real estate tax reform proposal announced by the government on August 3. The People Power Party criticized the proposal as "the height of irresponsibility, repeating only optimism," while the Democratic Party expressed regret, stating that the reform aims to protect homeowners and enhance tax fairness.Han Jeong-ae, chair of the Democratic Party's policy committee, stated during a policy coordination meeting at the National Assembly, "The tax reform proposal was prepared to establish a virtuous economic cycle and normalize taxation, but the People Power Party is launching political attacks with baseless arguments."She emphasized that the reform is designed to protect actual residents and improve tax equity, adding, "We will work with the government to examine the detailed impacts on the market."Chun Jun-ho, the party's deputy floor leader, criticized the People Power Party for distorting the government's tax reform proposal and exacerbating public anxiety, stating that fear-mongering for political gain does not help the public. He urged the People Power Party to stop the unfounded distortions and engage in policy discussions, saying, "Real estate policy should not become a tool for fear-mongering politics. Only accurate information and responsible policy competition can maintain trust and ensure housing stability for the public."On the other hand, the People Power Party intensified its criticism, arguing that the government's tax reform proposal does not provide practical measures for ordinary citizens but instead imposes a greater tax burden. Choi Bo-yun, the party's chief spokesperson, stated in a commentary, "As the reality of the tax reform proposal and housing supply plan put forth by the Lee Jae-myung administration becomes clearer, public anger and frustration are reaching a peak. The government's attitude of repeating optimism in the face of the worst 'supply cliff' is the height of irresponsibility."He added, "The punitive taxation aimed at curbing real estate speculation is actually targeting the elderly and ordinary citizens who have maintained a single home for their entire lives, imposing a greater tax burden on those who have lived in the same house for a long time while promoting actual residence."Kim Tae-kyu, the party's senior deputy spokesperson, criticized the upcoming second closed-door meeting on real estate policy hosted by the government on August 7, questioning, "Does having a majority mean we don't need to listen to the opposition's opinions?"* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-06 18:32:10
  • Stock Prices Decline Despite Share Buybacks: 40% of Companies See Drop
    Stock Prices Decline Despite Share Buybacks: 40% of Companies See Drop Share buybacks are typically seen as a positive signal, but actual stock performance has not met expectations. Among companies that announced share buybacks this year, 40% saw their stock prices decline one month later.According to the Korea Exchange, as of August 5, among the 309 listed companies that disclosed share buybacks (including direct purchases, trusts, and stock options), 125 companies (40.5%) had lower stock prices one month later compared to the announcement date.There was little variation across markets. In the KOSPI market, 49 out of 138 companies (35.5%) saw their stock prices drop the day after the announcement. A week later, 42 out of 134 companies (31.3%) experienced declines, and one month later, 41 out of 105 companies (39.0%) recorded lower prices.The KOSDAQ market showed similar trends. The day after the announcement, 77 out of 255 companies (30.2%) saw their stock prices fall. A week later, 76 out of 247 companies (30.8%) experienced declines, and one month later, 84 out of 204 companies (41.2%) had lower prices. Notably, the largest declines were seen in KOSDAQ-listed companies: Samhwa Networks (-21.74%) the day after the announcement, Madup (-20.53%) a week later, and Alt (-38.50%) one month later.Market analysts suggest that the method of utilizing share buybacks has a greater impact on stock prices than the buybacks themselves. When shares are canceled, the number of outstanding shares decreases, potentially improving earnings per share (EPS) and return on equity (ROE). However, if the acquired shares are retained or used for employee compensation or mergers and acquisitions, the effect on shareholder value may be limited.In a recent report, Kang Jin-hyuk, a researcher at Shinhan Investment Corp, stated, "Investors should pay attention to whether a company's share buyback leads to actual cancellations rather than being a mere tool for stabilizing stock prices." He added that companies with a high proportion of buybacks and ample cash reserves are likely to see greater improvements in EPS and ROE through active buyback and cancellation processes. He noted, "The purpose of share buybacks and financial conditions vary by company, and with further regulatory adjustments pending, it is still difficult to determine the extent of cancellations." Meanwhile, the exchange reported that last month, Shinhan Financial Group (July 23, 700 billion won), KB Financial Group (July 23, 700 billion won), Hana Financial Group (July 24, 250 billion won), and Woori Financial Group (July 24, 150 billion won) conducted share buybacks and cancellations. The exchange explained, "Decisions on share buybacks and cancellations have been actively made among financial holding companies, indicating a robust trend in returning value to shareholders."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-06 18:32:00
  • Webzen Reports 2nd Quarter Operating Profit of 5.6 Billion Won Amid Weak Performance
    Webzen Reports 2nd Quarter Operating Profit of 5.6 Billion Won Amid Weak Performance Webzen reported weak performance in the second quarter of this year due to a lack of new game releases. The company plans to unveil information about upcoming games scheduled for release next year in the second half of this year.On August 6, Webzen announced its second-quarter revenue of 38 billion won, operating profit of 5.6 billion won, and net profit of 6.3 billion won. These figures represent decreases of 2.8%, 8.4%, and 6.4%, respectively, compared to the same period last year. The company attributed the decline in revenue to the absence of new game launches.For the first half of 2026, Webzen reported revenue of 77.3 billion won and operating profit of 11 billion won, marking decreases of 4% and 26.8%, respectively, compared to the previous year. However, net profit increased by 89%.Webzen plans to reveal the development process of new games throughout the second half of this year.First, its subsidiary Webzen Crevix is developing a strategy game titled 'Project D1,' which aims for a 2027 release and will share game information in the second half of this year.A new game based on the Naver webtoon 'I Became the Tyrant of the Defense Game' is also in development. This game will feature 2.5D graphics and combine elements of tower defense and dungeon offense.The strategy defense game 'Gate of Gates' is set to release additional game information in the second half of this year.Additionally, the 'MU' IP game 'Project G' is being developed by the subsidiary Webzen Red Star using Unreal Engine 5. 'Tervise' is undergoing a complete overhaul following a closed beta test (CBT) and will be showcased at Japan's subculture exhibition 'Comiket.' Webzen had previously replaced key developers at Webzen Nova after user feedback from last year's CBT fell short of expectations.Kim Tae-young, CEO of Webzen, stated, "We are preparing an active business schedule in the second half of the year to promote the new games that are becoming visible for next year. We will continue efforts to enhance shareholder value, including the payment of scheduled special dividends, and maintain investments in our gaming business to prepare for long-term growth."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-06 18:32:00
  • Daewoo Engineering & Construction CEO Kim Bo-hyun Resigns; Lee Kang-seok Appointed as Successor
    Daewoo Engineering & Construction CEO Kim Bo-hyun Resigns; Lee Kang-seok Appointed as Successor Kim Bo-hyun, CEO of Daewoo Engineering & Construction, has resigned. Lee Kang-seok, head of external cooperation at the company, has been appointed as his successor.According to Daewoo Engineering & Construction on August 6, Lee Kang-seok, who was born in 1971 and graduated from Incheon University, has been selected to succeed Kim. Lee has previously served as the head of the general affairs team and the management support office at the company.He is particularly known for leading the task force when Jungheung Group acquired Daewoo Engineering & Construction.Kim recently expressed his intention to resign. He is the son-in-law of Jungheung Group Chairman Jung Chang-sun and the brother-in-law of Daewoo Engineering & Construction Chairman Jung Won-joo. He officially took office as CEO in December 2024.A former Air Force brigadier general, Kim rose to the position of CEO after serving as an inside director and executive vice president following Jungheung Group's acquisition of Daewoo Engineering & Construction in 2021.As Daewoo Engineering & Construction accelerates its efforts to improve profitability and expand its overseas and energy businesses, this appointment is expected to influence future organizational operations and management strategies within the Jungheung Group.Meanwhile, Daewoo Engineering & Construction reported consolidated revenues of 3.9949 trillion won, operating profit of 487.9 billion won, and net profit of 363 billion won for the first half of this year. Although revenues decreased by 8.2% compared to 4.35 trillion won in the same period last year, operating profit increased by 109% from 233.5 billion won in the previous year.Net profit also saw a significant rise from 15 billion won in the same period last year to 363 billion won.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-06 18:32:00
  • KOSME and Hyundai Engineering Launch Collaboration for Long-Term Employment of Skilled Workers
    KOSME and Hyundai Engineering Launch Collaboration for Long-Term Employment of Skilled Workers The Korea Small and Medium Enterprises and Startups Agency (KOSME) and Hyundai Engineering are collaborating to enhance safety management capabilities at construction sites in line with government industrial safety policies.KOSME announced on August 6 that it is promoting a 'collaborative safety and quality support fund' aimed at supporting the long-term employment of skilled workers at Hyundai Engineering's construction partners. The recruitment of participating companies will continue until the end of August.This collaborative fund targets safety and quality personnel employed by Hyundai Engineering's top-performing partners. In addition to the contributions made by the workers, KOSME and Hyundai Engineering will cover the performance compensation contributions that the companies are required to pay. Furthermore, Hyundai Engineering will contribute to a mutual cooperation fund.Safety and quality personnel will contribute 100,000 won monthly to the fund, with KOSME providing an additional 100,000 won and Hyundai Engineering contributing 240,000 won each month. As a result, at maturity, participants can expect a total of 15.84 million won in principal and compound interest over three years.For dual-role personnel, if they contribute 100,000 won monthly to a preferential savings fund for three years, KOSME and Hyundai Engineering will each provide 20,000 won monthly, totaling 40,000 won in support. At maturity, participants will receive a total of 5.04 million won in savings and compound interest.The recruitment will include 200 dedicated personnel and 50 dual-role personnel, totaling 250 participants. After reviewing eligibility requirements, Hyundai Engineering will initially select participating companies and workers, with KOSME making the final confirmation. The program is set to officially launch in September.Jo Han-kyu, Director of Human Resource Growth at KOSME, stated, “At this critical time, the long-term employment of skilled workers in small and medium-sized enterprises responsible for safety at construction sites is more important than ever. We will continue to support the establishment of a safe labor environment and a culture of mutual cooperation in the construction industry through this fund.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-06 18:28:20
  • AI Takes Center Stage in Content Creation Across Industries
    AI Takes Center Stage in Content Creation Across Industries Generative artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly becoming prominent in the content industry. Previously serving as an 'invisible tool' for tasks like translation, concept image creation, and programming, AI is now being showcased in games, videos, and advertisements that consumers directly engage with. The trend is shifting towards openly acknowledging AI's role in content creation.According to industry reports, the number of games on the global gaming platform Steam that disclosed the use of AI surged from about 1,000 two years ago to over 8,000 in the first half of last year. Approximately 20% of new releases last year revealed their use of AI, indicating that generative AI is rapidly spreading not only in game development but also in final content.Market research firm Brand View Research predicts that the global generative AI content creation market will continue to grow at over 30% annually, potentially reaching tens of trillions of won by 2030. This suggests that the market is transitioning from simple experimentation to forming a new industry.“We Created It with AI” – Generative AI Takes Center Stage in ContentShift Up unveiled the music video for 'Wanna Be in Love,' part of the soundtrack for 'Stella Blade: Blood Rain,' on July 31. The video primarily features visuals created by generative AI based on characters designed by the company's artists. This content aims to introduce game characters and their universe to users, marking a departure from traditional practices in the gaming industry by prominently featuring AI-generated results.Historically, game companies have primarily utilized AI internally to enhance development efficiency through tasks like concept image creation, translation, programming, and meeting material preparation. Nexon Games is also focusing on improving workflow and efficiency within its organization, aiming to build new development processes that go beyond merely adding AI to existing tasks.For smaller development studios with limited resources, the adoption of generative AI can help achieve productivity levels comparable to larger companies. According to the gaming industry, incorporating AI into concept art and video asset production can reduce initial production time by over 50%.Shift Up's initiative aligns with CEO Kim Hyung-tae's philosophy on AI utilization. Earlier this year, at a national economic growth strategy briefing, he noted that Chinese game companies often deploy 1,000 to 2,000 personnel on a single project, stating, “It will be difficult to compete with absolute manpower, and in the future, AI capabilities will determine industry competitiveness.” This project is seen as an extension of his strategy to actively incorporate AI throughout the production process.Reactions from users have been mixed, with some pointing out that the video’s movements appear somewhat unnatural. However, industry experts view this case as significant because it represents a shift from AI being an 'invisible production tool' to becoming 'content consumed directly by users.'Beyond Using AI – The Focus is on How It’s UsedThe trend of prominently featuring AI is not limited to gaming. It is also being actively utilized in broadcasting and video production.A notable example is the SBS drama 'Kim Manager.' In the second episode, a scene featuring a car chase and gunfight, along with a bridge collapse, was entirely produced using generative AI. While viewers initially focused on the actors' actions and direction, it was later revealed that the footage was AI-generated, sparking considerable discussion.CJ ENM is also applying AI throughout the content creation process, including commercializing AI-based virtual product placement (VPPL). Unlike traditional product placement, VPPL allows for the natural insertion or replacement of products even after filming is completed, enabling advertisers to decide on execution post-shooting and allowing producers to reflect new advertisements without reshoots. The virtual production stage at CJ ENM's studio center in Paju utilizes LED screen technology to reduce costs and time in film, drama, and advertisement production.However, not all AI-driven content has received positive feedback.Pearl Abyss faced scrutiny earlier this year when users speculated that some character assets in the game 'Crimson Desert' utilized generative AI for finger representations. The company apologized and committed to a comprehensive investigation of all assets, acknowledging shortcomings in quality control. Users expressed concerns not about the use of AI itself but about the quality of the results and the inspection process.Debates surrounding generative AI content are particularly active in Western gaming markets, where games produced en masse with insufficient creativity are labeled 'Game Slop' and criticized. Industry experts believe that the quality and creativity of the output, as well as the transparency of AI usage, will significantly influence user trust.Looking ahead, the use of generative AI is expected to increase across various content creation sectors, including advertising, music videos, game cutscenes, and post-production for dramas. However, the focus will shift from whether AI was used to how effectively it was implemented and how transparently this is communicated to users, which will ultimately determine content competitiveness.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-06 18:28:20
  • SK D&D Hits Upper Limit Following Financial Supervisory Services Request for Correction
    SK D&D Hits Upper Limit Following Financial Supervisory Service's Request for Correction SK D&D reached its upper limit after the Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) requested a correction regarding its capital increase. This surge is interpreted as a reflection of reduced concerns over shareholder value dilution due to the large issuance of new shares.According to the Korea Exchange, as of 3:10 PM, SK D&D was trading at 5,940 won, up 1,365 won (29.84%) from the previous trading day.On the previous day, the FSS demanded that SK D&D submit a corrected report regarding its securities filing for the capital increase submitted on July 28. If SK D&D does not submit the correction within three months, the securities filing will be considered withdrawn.Earlier, SK D&D's board decided on July 28 to issue 44,681,000 new shares to raise 136.7 billion won for debt repayment through a shareholder allocation method. The scale of the new share issuance is approximately 240% of the existing number of shares, leading to increased concerns about stock value dilution and a decline in share prices following the announcement.The FSS explained the request for correction, stating, "If the details of important matters are unclear or misleading, it can hinder rational investment decisions by investors or cause significant misunderstandings among them."Market analysts suggest that the FSS's intervention may prompt a reevaluation of the capital increase process, potentially alleviating the dilution burden on existing shareholders, which in turn has driven up the stock price.Since the announcement of the capital increase, SK D&D's stock had been on a downward trend until the previous day. However, the request for correction has increased uncertainty regarding the large issuance of new shares, improving investor sentiment and attracting buying interest.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-06 18:28:10