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  • KOSPI Faces Uncertainty Amid U.S. Market Declines and Geopolitical Risks
    KOSPI Faces Uncertainty Amid U.S. Market Declines and Geopolitical Risks As the domestic stock market grapples with significant declines, attention turns to whether it can find a path to recovery on July 30. This follows a tumultuous period marked by a drop in U.S. markets, soaring long-term Treasury yields, and geopolitical risks in the Middle East.On July 29, all three major U.S. stock indices fell sharply. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 2.19%, marking its largest decline in 15 months since April 2022. The S&P 500 index fell by 1.52%, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite declined by 1.74%.Semiconductor stocks continued to struggle, with SK Hynix's American Depositary Receipts (ADRs) down 2.6%. Micron Technology saw a significant drop of 9.94%, and SanDisk fell by 7.32%.The U.S. Federal Reserve held its benchmark interest rate steady at 3.50% to 3.75% during its Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting. However, long-term Treasury yields surged, with the yield on 30-year U.S. Treasuries reaching 5.21%, the highest level since July 2007.Results from major tech companies were mixed. Microsoft reported a revenue increase of 18% year-over-year for its fiscal fourth quarter (April to June), totaling $90 billion, exceeding market expectations of $87.62 billion. In contrast, Meta Platforms fell short of market expectations for earnings per share (EPS) and provided a disappointing outlook for the third quarter.Han Ji-young, a researcher at Kiwoom Securities, noted, "Today, the domestic market is likely to face pressure from the July FOMC, geopolitical uncertainties, and mixed stock performance from Microsoft and Meta."Despite the recent steep declines, some analysts are hopeful for a rebound. Market attention is focused on Samsung Electronics' second-quarter earnings report and conference call scheduled for today. Samsung had previously announced preliminary second-quarter results of 171 trillion won in revenue and 89.4 trillion won in operating profit on July 7, with detailed divisional results expected today.Investors are particularly interested in the conference call's content, including specifics on long-term supply contracts, the company's perspective on memory supply shortages, outlook for the second half of the year, and shareholder return plans. The previous day, SK Hynix's record earnings failed to alleviate concerns about market conditions during its conference call, leading to continued sell-offs in semiconductor stocks.The domestic market has experienced significant declines over the past two days, severely dampening investor sentiment. The KOSPI closed down 360.42 points (5.98%) at 5,663.24. After starting the day with over a 1% gain, it reversed course and fell sharply. The KOSDAQ index also turned negative after an initial rise, closing at 662.68.As the sell-off continued, the securities market triggered its 15th circuit breaker and the ninth of the year. The KOSDAQ also activated its 14th circuit breaker and fourth of the year. This marks the first time both markets have simultaneously triggered circuit breakers for two consecutive days.As of 8:44 a.m., in the NXT pre-market, Samsung Electronics was down 1.1%, and SK Hynix fell 3.7%.One analyst commented, "Given the oversold conditions, we expect to see volatility in early trading followed by an attempt to rebound. The fact that July's returns are down 33%, marking the lowest monthly return on record, signals oversold conditions and a potential bottoming out."They added, "It is important to note that while negative narratives surrounding semiconductors are forming due to profit peak-outs and the end of the AI investment cycle, there has not yet been a deterioration in fundamentals."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-30 08:56:00
  • Korea Investment & Securities Raises SK Hynix Target Price to 4.7 Million Won
    Korea Investment & Securities Raises SK Hynix Target Price to 4.7 Million Won Korea Investment & Securities on July 30 projected that the prices of high bandwidth memory (HBM) and DRAM will rise significantly in the second half of the year, raising its target price for SK Hynix from 3.8 million won to 4.7 million won, an increase of 23.7%. The firm maintained its 'buy' rating.Analyst Chae Min-sook noted, "Although the second quarter operating profit fell short of market expectations, this was due to the timing of shipments for high-value products being pushed to the second half rather than a decline in demand. In the third quarter, we expect an improvement in performance as both DRAM price increases and the effects of HBM4 mass production will be reflected simultaneously."SK Hynix reported second-quarter revenues of 79.3 trillion won and an operating profit of 60.5 trillion won, marking increases of 51% and 61%, respectively, from the previous quarter, and 257% and 557% year-on-year. Although the operating profit was 6.4% below the market consensus of 64.7 trillion won, the operating profit margin reached a record high of 76% for the quarter.Analysts attributed the second-quarter results falling short of expectations to a lower-than-expected increase in the average selling price (ASP) of DRAM. However, they believe this is due to some shipment schedules being deferred to the second half, which could actually serve as a factor for improved performance in the third quarter.Korea Investment & Securities forecasts that DRAM prices will rise by about 20% in the third quarter compared to the previous quarter, exceeding the previous estimate of 10%. Additionally, they expect that the expansion of shipments for 1c-nanometer (nm) process-based SoCAMM2 will lead to a higher-than-expected bit growth rate for DRAM this year.Reflecting these factors, the estimates for operating profit for this year and next year have been raised by 10% and 11%, respectively, to 270 trillion won and 418 trillion won. With long-term supply contracts (LTA) supporting high memory prices, the mass production of HBM4 starting in the third quarter could lead to further price increases.Chae added, "The recent stock price adjustment reflects market concerns about the sustainability of AI investments rather than changes in SK Hynix's fundamentals. As hyperscalers continue to invest in AI infrastructure, customers are requesting early shipments due to tight supply conditions."She further noted, "Even with increased capital investment, the transition to production focused on HBM and advanced processes will limit the pace of supply expansion. The likelihood of a supply shortage intensifying in the second half of 2026 and into 2027 is high."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-30 08:56:00
  • Tourism Belt to be Established Around Regional Airports as Ministry Launches Five Tourism Zones
    Tourism Belt to be Established Around Regional Airports as Ministry Launches 'Five Tourism Zones' The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism is set to create a 'tourism zone' that connects nearby tourist cities centered around regional international airports. The initiative aims to expand the movement of foreign tourists, currently concentrated in the metropolitan area, to local regions, thereby increasing their length of stay and spending.On July 30, the ministry announced it will conduct a demand survey targeting metropolitan local governments until August 14 to select sites for the tourism zone development project. The ministry plans to finalize the target sites within this year and establish a detailed implementation plan, with concentrated support planned from 2027 to 2030.The tourism zone project is designed to connect multiple regions into a single tourism area based on the actual travel routes of foreign tourists, rather than administrative boundaries. The focus is on creating new travel routes that link surrounding tourist resources to gateway cities with regional international airports, such as Gimhae, Daegu, Cheongju, Muan, and Yangyang.The ministry has determined that the previous approach of attracting foreign tourists on a regional basis has limitations in addressing the concentration of visitors in the metropolitan area. Therefore, it has designed policies to expand local stay-type tourism by integrating airports, transportation networks, and tourism content.Selected tourism zones will receive financial support, regulatory exemptions, and assistance with artificial intelligence (AI) pilot projects. The goal is to reduce inconveniences throughout the travel process, from the initial awareness of the region to entry, transportation, accommodation, and experiences, thereby enhancing local tourism competitiveness.A tourism zone selection committee composed of private experts will determine the target sites. The committee will comprehensively review proposals submitted by metropolitan local governments, along with data on the movement of inbound tourists and their stay and spending characteristics, to select tourism zones for each regional international airport.On the same day, the ministry held a briefing at the Government Sejong Center for metropolitan local governments to explain the project direction and the demand survey process.“It is important to create an environment where foreign tourists can enjoy diverse travel experiences beyond the metropolitan area,” said Kang Jeong-won, head of the ministry's tourism policy division. “We will work with local governments to discover competitive tourism zones and establish a foundation for the growth of local tourism.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-30 08:44:00
  • Criticism Grows as Controversy Surrounds Kim Seon-taes Comments
    Criticism Grows as Controversy Surrounds Kim Seon-tae's Comments KBS's YouTube channel 'Don Seon-tae' has reignited criticism over past comments made by Lisenne member Won-i regarding the term 'Musseobno.' As a result, public sentiment is increasingly directed at Kim Seon-tae.On various online communities, discussions have emerged suggesting ways for Kim Seon-tae to regain public trust, referred to as 'revival strategies.'One user proposed utilizing popular celebrities and politicians in content, stating, 'Let me tell you how to resurrect. Call Karina to mention the red outfit controversy and have her deliver a sharp remark to the far-left, invite IU to address the absurd leftist controversy and have her counter the far-right, and ask the president to clarify how much private loans landlords can offer.'The user added, 'Don’t just film one; make sure to shoot all three and post them at once. This way, at least it will seem like you were genuinely trying to expose everyone, and you can maintain a top position in the broadcasting industry.'Another user commented, 'Last chance - challenge Lisenne and The Muse to a sparring match with Lee Sun-min for five rounds of five minutes each. But after watching the video, I think it’s better to just give up on trying to survive.'Additional comments included suggestions to ask Jang Won-young about airport passport stories, Karina about meeting Lee Jae-wook, and Winter about meeting Jung-guk, stating that if they could ask the same questions, they would acknowledge their boldness.Many users criticized Kim Seon-tae's content direction. The majority expressed sentiments like, 'It seems like the script was carelessly reviewed, which is unfortunate,' and 'You’re just underestimating and ignoring your opponents. If you had the guts to ask Yoo Jae-suk about ribs, Kang Ho-dong about taxes, and Shin Dong-yup about drugs, I would understand.'Previously, KBS's YouTube channel 'Don Seon-tae' faced backlash for a pre-released video that revisited the controversy surrounding Won-i's past use of 'Musseobno.' When a scene featuring Kim Seon-tae asking questions related to the term was made public, viewers criticized it as an attempt to resurface an old controversy. The production team subsequently made the video private and deleted the channel.Following this, online discussions have continued, highlighting that the content failed to protect the guest and criticizing Kim Seon-tae's broadcasting attitude.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-30 08:44:00
  • Eugene Investment & Securities Raises Samsung C&T Target Price to 420,000 Won
    Eugene Investment & Securities Raises Samsung C&T Target Price to 420,000 Won Eugene Investment & Securities announced on July 30 that it has raised its target price for Samsung C&T from 380,000 won to 420,000 won, citing strong performance across its construction, trading, and fashion sectors that exceeded market expectations. The firm maintained its 'buy' rating.Han Byeong-hwa, a researcher at Eugene Investment & Securities, stated in a report that while the stock price experienced a short-term drop due to concerns over semiconductor peaks, the expansion of the group's semiconductor factories is just beginning. He noted that if the potential AI bubble does not escalate too quickly, Samsung C&T's investment appeal remains high.Han reported that Samsung C&T's second-quarter revenue and operating profit reached 12 trillion won and 1 trillion won, respectively, significantly surpassing consensus estimates. He attributed the strong performance to a 72% year-on-year increase in operating profit from the construction sector, driven by a higher proportion of high-tech sales, and a 178% year-on-year increase in trading profits due to increased volatility in raw material prices.He also mentioned that the fashion sector's operating profit rose 64% year-on-year due to improvements in domestic market conditions. The key revenue drivers for the construction sector are the performance of related companies, with ongoing work on the P4 finishing project in Pyeongtaek and upcoming construction for P5 Fab 1, Fab 2, and the Giheung R&D center.Han added that construction of the Taylor Fab 2 in the U.S. is expected to begin soon, and there is a high likelihood that the Yongin and Honam fabs will start construction within the next 2-3 years. He projected that Samsung C&T's guidance for high-tech orders this year was set at 6.8 trillion won, but it has already achieved 6.4 trillion won in the first half. If the current trend continues, it is likely to exceed the record high of 12 trillion won in high-tech orders set in 2023.Additionally, he noted that the solar and battery energy storage system (BESS) projects currently underway in the U.S. and Australia are expected to expand into the southwestern region of South Korea. He also indicated a strong possibility of participation in the government's gas power plant project if it is confirmed.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-30 08:32:00
  • SUV Fire in Anyang Underpass Leaves No Injuries
    SUV Fire in Anyang Underpass Leaves No Injuries A fire broke out at the Bisan Underpass in Bisan-dong, Anyang, Gyeonggi Province, around 7:39 a.m. on July 30.According to Yonhap News, firefighters were dispatched to the scene after witnesses reported heavy smoke coming from an SUV. A total of 30 personnel and 10 fire trucks were deployed, and the fire was extinguished within 17 minutes.Fortunately, there were no reported injuries.The police and fire authorities are investigating the exact cause of the fire.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-30 08:32:00
  • Kiwoom Heroes Seo Geon-chang: It was tough, but Im glad we won
    Kiwoom Heroes' Seo Geon-chang: 'It was tough, but I'm glad we won' Seo Geon-chang of the Kiwoom Heroes showcased a performance reminiscent of his prime on July 29, recording five hits in a game against the LG Twins at Jamsil Stadium. Batting as the leadoff designated hitter, Seo went 5-for-6 with two RBIs, three runs scored, and one stolen base, leading his team to an 18-11 victory. The game featured a total of 40 hits, with Kiwoom recording 23 and LG 17, and lasted 4 hours and 23 minutes, concluding just after 11 p.m. After the game, Seo told reporters, "Fortunately, I didn't have to play defense, so it wasn't too hard for me. However, it's almost my first time playing such a long game without going into extra innings, and everyone was really exhausted." He added, "I think the players who had to play defense really struggled, but I'm glad we finished the game with a win." Regarding his recent hitting success, he mentioned, "I've been maintaining my good form by having many conversations with the hitting coaches." When asked if he had regained the feeling of his past 200-hit season, he replied, "I can't go back to that time, but I'm focusing on what I can do now. I'm trying to remember the good things from back then and am researching how to blend those with my current approach to hitting." Seo Geon-chang achieved a historic milestone in 2014 by becoming the first player in the KBO League to record 200 hits in a single season.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-30 08:24:20
  • Bitcoin Holds Steady Around $63,000 Following Feds Hawkish Rate Decision
    Bitcoin Holds Steady Around $63,000 Following Fed's Hawkish Rate Decision The U.S. Federal Reserve has kept its benchmark interest rate steady but reaffirmed its hawkish stance, leading Bitcoin to trade in a narrow range around $63,000.As of 8 a.m. on July 30, Bitcoin was trading at $63,862, down 0.20% from the previous day, according to global cryptocurrency market site CoinMarketCap.Major altcoins showed mixed performance. At the same time, Ethereum fell 0.34% to $1,904.77, and Solana dropped 0.19% to $73.53. Conversely, Binance Coin rose 0.31% to $570.33, while Ripple increased by 0.85% to $1.07.Market analysts suggest that the Fed's reaffirmation of its hawkish stance has dampened investor sentiment towards risk assets.On July 29, the Federal Open Market Committee met and decided to maintain the interest rate at 3.50% to 3.75% annually. However, three members voted against the decision, advocating for a rate hike, which reinforced perceptions of the Fed's hawkish approach.Concerns about persistent inflation have grown, pushing the yield on 30-year U.S. Treasury bonds up to 5.21%, the highest level since July 2007.Meanwhile, on the domestic exchange Bithumb, Bitcoin was trading at 91,629,000 won ($63,367), down 0.56% from the previous day. The 'Kimchi Premium' was recorded at -0.746%, indicating that Bitcoin prices in South Korea are lower than those overseas.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-30 08:24:20
  • Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix Await Earnings Reports Amid Semiconductor Market Concerns
    Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix Await Earnings Reports Amid Semiconductor Market Concerns As major technology companies prepare to release their earnings, the stock market is closely watching the semiconductor sector on July 30. With Apple, Microsoft, Meta, Amazon, and Qualcomm set to announce their results, investors are eager to see if the recent downturn in semiconductor stocks can be reversed.Market analysts are calling this day a "super earnings day." Samsung Electronics is expected to disclose its finalized results, detailed performance by business unit, and future outlook for the memory market. SK Hynix is also anticipated to provide additional guidance on AI semiconductor demand and the high-bandwidth memory (HBM) market.In the U.S., Microsoft and Meta must demonstrate the success of their AI investments. Recently, Alphabet (Google's parent company) and Tesla faced scrutiny as their free cash flow fell short compared to their significant AI investments, leading to stock price fluctuations. Investors will be particularly focused on whether Microsoft's cloud growth (Azure) and Meta's advertising profitability can offset AI investment costs.Amazon's performance will hinge on the demand for AI within its Amazon Web Services (AWS). Apple, with relatively smaller AI investments, is expected to report stable results, while Qualcomm has already raised concerns about a slowdown in its smartphone business and a projected decline in Apple sales.For the domestic stock market, the continuation of AI investments by major U.S. tech firms is crucial. A significant portion of the demand for HBM, DRAM, and NAND flash from Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix is directly linked to global AI data center investments. Analysts believe that if big tech companies maintain their trend of expanding AI investments, it could positively impact the recently plummeting domestic semiconductor stocks.However, there are several variables at play. Recent advancements in China's semiconductor technology and ongoing weakness in U.S. semiconductor stocks, combined with the Federal Reserve's monetary policy outcomes, could increase market volatility. Concerns have also been raised that if cost pressures overshadow the expansion of AI investments, semiconductor stocks may face further adjustments.Ultimately, this earnings season is seen as a pivotal moment for the short-term direction of domestic semiconductor stocks, including Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix. If the demand for memory driven by AI investment is reaffirmed, investor sentiment may recover. However, if the results or guidance fall short of expectations, there is a possibility of another round of declines following the recent downturn. 2026-07-30 08:20:20
  • Is It Safe to Travel to Japan Amid Typhoon Dolphin and Kumamoto Earthquake?
    Is It Safe to Travel to Japan Amid Typhoon Dolphin and Kumamoto Earthquake? As the summer vacation season approaches, concerns are rising among tourists planning trips to Japan. This follows a 7.1 magnitude earthquake in Kumamoto Prefecture and the impending arrival of Typhoon Dolphin.According to the Japan Meteorological Agency and local media, the earthquake struck at 4:27 p.m. on July 28 in the Kumamoto region. The quake had a depth of about 10 kilometers, with the highest intensity of 'shindo 7' recorded in Uki and Hikawa.The earthquake caused casualties and damage, with at least 13 fatalities reported. Buildings collapsed, fires broke out, roads were damaged, and there were power and water outages across Kumamoto. Following the earthquake, an explosion and subsequent collapse occurred at a shopping mall in the area, prompting rescue operations. Over 100 aftershocks have been recorded in the Kyushu region. Authorities have urged residents in areas that experienced strong tremors to remain vigilant for potential aftershocks over the next week.The South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a safety notice on July 28, confirming that tremors were felt in southern Japan, including Kyushu, due to the Kumamoto earthquake. Although a tsunami advisory for the western coast of Kumamoto was lifted, aftershocks continue, and citizens in the area have been advised to take extra precautions.Transportation services that were suspended immediately after the earthquake are gradually resuming. Aso Kumamoto Airport experienced disruptions to domestic and international flights on July 28 but resumed operations on July 29. However, the airport has cautioned that some flights and airport services may still be affected, advising travelers to check with their airlines for the latest updates.At this point, it does not seem necessary to cancel all travel plans to Japan. The earthquake's impact has been concentrated in Kumamoto, and uncertainties remain regarding the path and approach of the typhoon.Typhoon Dolphin, currently maintaining a very strong intensity, is expected to strengthen further, with maximum wind speeds potentially reaching 55 meters per second by July 31. Wind speeds exceeding 54 meters per second are classified as 'very strong' by the Korea Meteorological Administration.If the current forecast holds, Dolphin is expected to approach the Ogasawara Islands early next week with a 34% chance of entering the storm zone within the next five days, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. The trajectory beyond five days remains uncertain, with some models indicating a possible shift toward the Japanese archipelago.Travelers planning to visit Kumamoto and the surrounding Kyushu region are advised to check for aftershocks and local transportation conditions right before departure. However, there has been no official recommendation to cancel travel to areas such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Hokkaido, which are far from the earthquake-affected regions.For those planning to visit Japan in the first week of August, the path of Typhoon Dolphin could pose a significant variable. The typhoon's changing trajectory may suddenly impact flight and train operations, so it is essential to monitor airline updates and the latest forecasts from the Japan Meteorological Agency right before departure.Especially when making new reservations for accommodations and flights, it is advisable to review cancellation and change fee policies related to natural disasters.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-30 08:20:20