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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 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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Glen Hansard of 'Once' Dies in Motorcycle Accident at Age 56 Irish singer-songwriter and actor Glen Hansard, known for the film 'Once,' has died at the age of 56. According to reports from BBC and other outlets, Hansard passed away on July 29 in a motorcycle accident in Dublin, Ireland. ATC Management, his music management company, announced, "It is with great sadness that we inform you of Glen Hansard's passing due to a traffic accident in Dublin early this morning." The statement continued, "His family is in shock and mourning, and they ask for privacy during this difficult time." Irish and British media reported that Dublin police are seeking witnesses to the single-vehicle motorcycle accident that occurred on Lucan Road in west Dublin. Born in April 1970 in Dublin, Hansard was a busker-turned-musician. He formed the rock band The Frames and appeared in the 1991 musical film 'The Commitments.' Hansard gained international fame in 2007 for his role in the musical film 'Once,' alongside Czech singer Markéta Irglová. Their collaborative project, The Swell Season, won the Academy Award for Best Original Song for "Falling Slowly" at the 80th Academy Awards. 'Once' was also well-received in South Korea, where Hansard and Irglová performed multiple concerts. Their 2009 concert in Seoul attracted 2,784 attendees at the Sejong Center. In the 2010s, Hansard continued his solo career, earning a Grammy nomination for Best Folk Album for his 2015 release 'Didn’t He Ramble.' Micheál Martin, the Taoiseach of Ireland, expressed his condolences on X, stating, "He was a talented musician and actor who made significant contributions to Irish culture over the years." He is survived by his wife, poet Myra Sweeney, and their son.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-30 08:08:00
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Kim Jong-kook Addresses Wedding Controversy: 'I Couldn't Retrieve Gifts' Singer Kim Jong-kook revealed details about his wedding during an appearance on tvN's 'You Quiz on the Block' on July 29.When host Yoo Jae-suk mentioned Kim's marriage, Kim responded, "It hasn't even been a year yet. There are still a couple of months to go."Yoo Jae-suk noted, "I attended the wedding to celebrate, but it was held very privately." In response, Kim clarified, "I informed everyone about the wedding venue and date, but it seems there was a misunderstanding that I didn't share that information."He added, "Above all, I thought it might be burdensome for someone who has lived their life as an individual to suddenly be known as someone's wife, so I wanted to keep it low-key. I didn't hide everything."Yoo Jae-suk acknowledged, "We understand, but some viewers might think it's a bit excessive."Kim explained, "I minimized the scale of the wedding, inviting only 50 guests for each side. I could only invite about 20 of my friends. Since debuting with Turbo in 1995, I've attended many weddings. I can't even count the amount of wedding gifts I've given. I couldn't retrieve any of it, and I accepted all of that."Kim Jong-kook debuted in 1995 with the group Turbo and gained significant popularity with hits like 'Recall,' 'White Love,' 'Twist King,' 'One Man,' 'Stagnation,' and 'Lovely.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-30 08:08:00
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Shinhan Securities Raises LG Household & Health Care Target Price on North American Growth Shinhan Investment Corp. on July 30 raised its target price for LG Household & Health Care from 279,000 won to 335,000 won, citing continued growth in overseas sales, particularly in North America, and an improvement in performance. The firm also upgraded its investment recommendation to 'buy.'Park Hyun-jin, a researcher at Shinhan Investment, stated, "The growth rate of overseas sales, centered on North America, achieved an earnings surprise for the second consecutive quarter. We expect a clear performance turnaround based on the recovery of domestic profits due to the revival of duty-free channels and increased export demand in North America."For the second quarter of this year, LG Household & Health Care reported consolidated sales of 1.6574 trillion won and operating profit of 102.8 billion won, marking increases of 3.3% and 87.5%, respectively, compared to the same period last year. The operating profit significantly exceeded Shinhan Investment's estimate of 63.8 billion won and the market consensus of 75.2 billion won. Even excluding a 15 billion won customs refund from the U.S., the results surpassed market expectations.By business segment, cosmetics sales rose by 4%, household goods by 5%, and beverages by 1%, indicating growth across all divisions. The cosmetics segment turned profitable with an operating profit of 44.4 billion won, while the operating profit for household goods increased by 23%. However, the beverage segment saw a 15% decline in operating profit due to cost pressures.Regionally, North American sales surged by 47% year-on-year, driving overall growth. Domestic sales, as well as sales in China and Japan, saw declines of 1%, 5%, and 1%, respectively, but the extent of the declines was reduced. Notably, the expansion of online and offline export demand for the hair care brand 'Dr. Groot' was identified as a key factor in North American growth. The share of Dr. Groot's cosmetics sales rose to 8%, and additional revenue growth is anticipated with the upcoming entry into all North American Sephora stores in the second half of the year.Park added, "While there may be increased marketing expenses and rising raw material costs in the third quarter, the improvement in profit margins due to channel mix enhancement will continue. We have raised our 2026 net profit estimate by 20%, leading to a 20.1% increase in the target price."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-30 08:08:00
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KBS YouTube Channel 'Donseontae' Deleted Amid 'Musubno' Controversy KBS's YouTube channel 'Donseontae' has reignited the controversy surrounding Lisenne member Woni's 'Musubno' remarks, leading to the channel's deletion. Following the decision to make a pre-released video private, the channel's disappearance has further fueled the debate.On July 29, a pre-released video featuring Woni aired at 6 PM, where host Kim Seontae directly addressed the past controversy over Woni's 'Musubno' comments.In the video, Kim Seontae stated, "As the saying goes, 'Good fortune brings many words,'" referencing the 'Musubno' controversy. Woni responded, "It was terrifying to suddenly be in the news. Since then, I've felt I need to be very careful with every word I say. I realized that even if I didn't intend it, others could interpret it differently."Woni explained that 'no' was a word he often used as an exclamation, to which Kim Seontae remarked, "That was a level of controversy created out of nothing." However, he followed up with, "Did you ever think it was viral?"Woni expressed concern that his name in the news might harm the group, while fellow member Minami also mentioned feeling flustered by appearing in the news.Later, Kim Seontae requested Woni to say something in dialect, to which Woni replied in Gyeongsang dialect, "I don't even know what that is," and "I just said it. Look at it nicely."After the video was released, viewers criticized the decision to revisit a settled controversy, suggesting it was an attempt to boost viewership.As the backlash grew, the production team modified the video thumbnail and hashtags, and deleted critical comments.However, criticism persisted, and the pre-released video was made private on YouTube just four hours after its release.Online, criticism directed at host Kim Seontae continued.Netizens questioned, "I don't understand why someone who emphasized political neutrality would ask a politically controversial question to an idol," and suggested that he prioritized controversy over protecting the guest, stating, "It seems he exploited sensitive issues for viewership."Particularly, a previous episode of the YouTube channel 'Salon Drip' featuring Lisenne was also revisited.During that episode, host Jang Do-yeon expressed her hope that the members would not get hurt, shedding tears, which led some netizens to comment on the stark contrast in how the guests were treated.Additionally, related complaints were submitted to the KBS viewer petition board.The petitioner stated, "Revisiting a controversy that has already ended is akin to re-traumatizing someone who has been victimized," questioning the necessity for a public broadcaster to revisit politically sensitive expressions.They also noted, "While the circumstances during filming are understandable, airing that scene without editing was inappropriate," and requested that such content not be included in the main broadcast.Meanwhile, some netizens argued that this issue is not unique to KBS but reflects a broader problem within legacy media that sensationalizes provocative topics. 2026-07-30 08:04:00