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Hyosung Chemical Shares Plunge 17% on First Day of Trading Resumption Hyosung Chemical is experiencing a significant drop in its stock price on the first day of trading resumption. While concerns about delisting have been alleviated following the Korea Exchange's decision to maintain its listing, the decline is attributed to a surge in sell orders from investors who had been waiting to realize profits after a prolonged trading halt. As of 10:46 a.m. on June 15, Hyosung Chemical shares were trading at 64,200 won, down 13,600 won (17.48%) from the previous trading day, according to the Korea Exchange. Trading resumed today after the Korea Exchange's corporate review committee met on June 12 and decided to maintain Hyosung Chemical's listing eligibility. Consequently, the suspension of trading in its shares was lifted. Last year, Hyosung Chemical was granted a period for improvement due to concerns over its deteriorating financial structure and capital erosion. Since then, the company has implemented significant self-rescue measures. It reported that it has resolved capital erosion and improved its debt ratio through the sale of its specialty gas division, the Onsan tank terminal, partial divestment of its Vietnamese subsidiary, attracting external capital, and issuing 200 billion won in new hybrid capital securities. The company has also been working on improving profitability. It halted its unprofitable TPA business and initiated workforce restructuring, cost-cutting measures, and expansion of high-margin product sales, resulting in a return to operating profit in the first quarter of this year. Additionally, it has taken steps to enhance management transparency by establishing internal accounting controls at its overseas subsidiaries and replacing management.However, the market perceives that the decision to maintain the listing was anticipated, leading to the release of accumulated sell orders coinciding with the resumption of trading.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-15 10:54:00 -
Experts Discuss Housing Market Stability and Rental Crisis Normalization President Lee Jae-myung's comments on real estate during a press conference marking his first anniversary in office have drawn significant attention from the market. President Lee stated, "I believe we have effectively managed the upward pressure on housing prices. Seoul has always been a place where real estate policies receive criticism, but I think the positive impacts have outweighed the negative ones." He also addressed the rental crisis, suggesting that the increase in jeonse loans has contributed to rising property prices, indicating a critical stance on these loans. Regarding taxation, he noted, "Our country's property tax is low. We will not only address the market through taxes but will also announce a comprehensive approach that includes taxation, finance, and supply, likely in July." In summary, the current administration asserts it has performed well thus far and intends to maintain its existing regulatory policies. Contrary to market expectations that the real estate policy might soften following local election results, it appears the government is keeping financial regulations in place while also considering tightening tax measures and continuing supply policies. However, how the market perceives these actions remains a separate issue. While the government claims to have suppressed the pressure on housing prices, the prevailing sentiment in the market tells a different story. Since President Lee took office, apartment prices in Seoul have consistently risen, with record-high transactions occurring in key areas. This upward trend has spread beyond Gangnam to regions like Mapo, Seongdong, Dongjak, and Gwangjin, often referred to as the semi-Gangnam area and the Han River belt. In the year following President Lee's inauguration, the cumulative increase in Seoul apartment prices reached 14.73%. This is higher than the increases seen during the Roh Moo-hyun administration at 11.68% and the Moon Jae-in administration at 9.41%. Although interest rates remain relatively high, concerns about a shortage of new housing and instability in the rental market raise worries for the remaining four years of his term. Real estate was also a key factor in the recent Seoul mayoral election. Analysts suggest that voter sentiment shifted around the Han River belt due to concerns over tax burdens and asset values. Additionally, instability in the rental market has exacerbated housing insecurity for younger generations, becoming a significant political issue. Labeling the severe rental crisis, characterized by skyrocketing jeonse prices and a shortage of rental listings, as a normalization process, while simultaneously proposing stricter regulations on jeonse loans, undermines the goal of ensuring housing stability for ordinary citizens. It appears the focus has shifted to merely controlling prices in Gangnam. The debate over taxation mirrors this sentiment. While the president mentioned that property tax levels in South Korea are low, the evaluation can vary depending on the criteria used. Although international comparisons may show a lower proportion of property taxes, homeowners in key areas of Seoul often feel a significant burden from comprehensive real estate taxes and property taxes. In fact, the total proportion of real estate taxes, combining transaction taxes and property taxes, stands at 2.67%, placing South Korea third after the United Kingdom at 3.43% and Canada at 3.02%. This figure is higher than those in the United States and Japan and more than double the OECD average of 1.27%. Statistics can easily lead to generalization errors if one only considers favorable data. It seems unlikely that residents in the metropolitan area would agree with the assertion that the government has effectively managed housing price increases and that the rental crisis is in a normalization phase. Rather than ensuring housing stability for ordinary citizens, it appears the government is engaged in a battle to prevent funds from the stock market from flowing into real estate, aiming to redirect real estate funds to bolster the stock market. Supply does not materialize instantly, and lending has already been tightened significantly. Ultimately, the market is keenly watching what measures the government will actually implement. Currently discussed policy tools include strengthening the comprehensive real estate tax, reducing long-term holding tax exemptions for non-resident homeowners, and imposing additional lending restrictions. However, financial regulations are already at a considerable level, and the increased capital gains tax for multiple homeowners has been reinstated. Additionally, expanding supply is unlikely to yield immediate results, leading to assessments that policy options may be more limited than anticipated. The rising prices in Gangnam may not directly lead to a decline in public sentiment or support for the government. However, as rental and jeonse listings dwindle and prices rise, the real issues will emerge when the fire is in one’s own backyard. Renters without homes still express a need for jeonse loans, while the government views these loans as a source of market distortion. Bridging this gap will likely become the most critical challenge for future real estate policies. Ultimately, what the market is curious about is not just how much the government can control housing prices, but whose interests the policies serve. If the government's notion of market stability diverges from the public's perception of housing stability, debates surrounding real estate policies will likely continue. The question remains: for whom is the government ringing the bell? 2026-06-15 10:54:00 -
Ivory Coast Secures 1-0 Victory Over Ecuador in World Cup Return Ivory Coast marked its return to the FIFA World Cup after 12 years with a thrilling 1-0 victory over Ecuador in their opening match of the group stage. On June 15, local time, Ivory Coast triumphed at the Stadium in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in the first match of Group E at the 2026 North America World Cup. Having last participated in the World Cup in 2014, Ivory Coast increased its chances of advancing past the group stage for the first time. In previous tournaments in 2006, 2010, and 2014, the team was eliminated in the group stage. This year's tournament features an expanded format with 48 teams, allowing the top two teams from each group, along with the eight best third-placed teams, to advance to the knockout stage. In the earlier match in Group E, Germany defeated Curaçao 7-1, placing them at the top of the group, while Ivory Coast sits in second. During the first half, Ivory Coast faced two significant threats from Ecuador. In the 23rd minute, a left-footed shot from John Yeboah struck the crossbar. Then, in the 30th minute, a shot from Alan Minda also hit the woodwork, narrowly avoiding a goal. In the second half, Ivory Coast intensified its attack and scored a dramatic winning goal just before the end of regulation time in the 45th minute. Wilfried Singo broke down Ecuador's right defense and delivered a low, fast cross into the penalty area. Amad Diallo received the pass and finished with a precise left-footed shot, making it 1-0. Ivory Coast successfully held on during seven minutes of stoppage time to secure the 1-0 victory.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-15 10:54:00 -
Eduwill Partners with Fastfive to Enhance Education and Shared Office Services Eduwill announced on June 15 that it signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Fastfive, a shared office operator, on June 12. Founded in 2015, Fastfive is a domestic brand that operates shared office spaces. Beyond simple space rentals, it offers programs for tenants, including health check-ups and corporate childcare services, and provides customized space solutions for businesses, leading the shared office market in South Korea. Currently, it operates 63 locations in major business districts in Seoul, as well as in Seongsu, Magok, and Pangyo, along with 202 affiliated sites nationwide. The MOU aims to leverage the strengths of both companies in education services and the activation of shared office and coworking spaces. The goal is to provide new value to both companies' customers and to jointly explore and expand business opportunities for mutual growth. To achieve this, the companies plan to collaborate in various areas, including joint planning of services and products, operation of partnership products, implementation of mutual benefits programs for members, and cooperation in online and offline promotion and marketing. An Eduwill representative stated, "By combining education and space, we will provide a higher quality learning and working experience for both students and professionals." They also emphasized that by integrating Fastfive's spatial infrastructure with Eduwill's educational capabilities, they aim to offer differentiated benefits and programs to their customers.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-15 10:51:00 -
Democratic Party Faces Internal Strife Ahead of Leadership Convention The Democratic Party is experiencing ongoing internal conflict regarding the future of leader Jung Cheong-rae as tensions reach a peak on June 15. Calls for Jung to resign for a fair leadership convention have intensified, alongside suggestions that he should refrain from seeking re-election. On this day, some lawmakers launched a campaign against Jung, who is expected to run in the party's leadership convention scheduled for August. Representative Kim Nam-hee stated on CBS Radio's "Park Seong-tae's News Show," "In light of the accountability issues surrounding Jung since the local elections, if he intends to seek re-election, he should resign now and face public evaluation. It is inappropriate for him to remain in the position of party leader without clarifying his intentions regarding the leadership race." Representative Park Ji-won argued that Jung should abandon his bid for re-election by not participating in the convention. Speaking on SBS Radio's "Kim Tae-hyun's Political Show," Park said, "Personally, I have expressed this view. It would be appropriate for Jung to take full responsibility and resign, allowing the public and party members to judge him through the convention." Following the local elections on June 3, discussions about leadership accountability have focused on Jung's position. Additionally, Jung's comment, "The people are eternal, but the regime is short-lived," raised suspicions that it was directed at President Lee Jae-myung. In response, President Lee emphasized the ruling party's responsibilities, further escalating internal conflicts within the party. In light of the controversy surrounding Jung's remarks, Kang Deuk-gu, a prominent member of the pro-Lee faction, responded on June 12, stating, "While the people and party members are eternal, party leadership is fleeting." Other pro-Lee members, including Representatives Lee Yong-woo and Jo Gye-won, also criticized Jung on June 13 and 14, respectively, expressing concerns that the leadership should not further burden the government and urging Jung to declare his intention to align with the pro-Lee faction due to differing views with the president. In response, members of the pro-Jung faction struck back. Supreme Council member Moon Jeong-bok criticized pro-Lee candidate Kim Min-seok, the Prime Minister, on June 12, saying, "It is not urgent work for someone representing the country to give speeches and take photos at a workshop for elected officials during the president's overseas trip." Additionally, Secretary-General Jo Seung-rae stated on June 14 that while it is inappropriate to narrow President Lee's message to a specific leadership, he understands it as an emphasis on the ruling party's accountability. Meanwhile, Jung is expected to announce his decision regarding participation in the leadership convention soon. After the Supreme Council meeting on June 15, he nodded silently when reporters inquired about his future plans. In this context, Chief Spokesperson Kang Jun-hyun remarked after the Supreme Council meeting, "While everyone may have their own intentions ahead of the convention, I hope we can overcome our differences." 2026-06-15 10:48:00 -
Court to Decide on Detention of Kim Myung-soo Amid Insurrection Allegations A court has begun a detention hearing for Kim Myung-soo, the former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, who is accused of participating in an insurrection during the declaration of martial law on December 3, 2024. On June 15, the Seoul Central District Court's chief judge for detention warrants opened the pre-trial hearing at 9:30 a.m. to assess the necessity of Kim's detention. Kim entered the courtroom early, possibly to avoid media scrutiny. Special prosecutors Kim Jung-min and Kwon Young-bin were present for the hearing. Kim is facing trial for allegedly failing to prevent military involvement in the National Assembly while overseeing the situation from the command center during the martial law declaration. He is accused of participating in the formation of the martial law command. The special prosecution team identified this case as its first major investigation after its establishment in March, charging Kim and other key military figures with insurrection-related offenses. The prosecution believes that Kim, as the highest-ranking military officer, was aware of the legal violations during the martial law declaration and the deployment of troops to the National Assembly but did not take appropriate action. Notably, despite receiving reports from his staff indicating issues with the martial law declaration process and recommending the withdrawal of troops from the National Assembly, Kim did not intervene with then-Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun and proceeded to help establish the martial law command, which the prosecution cites as crucial evidence of his involvement in the insurrection. In contrast, Kim's defense team denies all allegations, arguing that the martial law declaration was conducted under an abnormal structure where the Defense Minister directly commanded the martial law forces, and that Kim was completely excluded from the decision-making process, rendering him unable to exercise command authority. Additionally, the court is set to conduct sequential hearings for three other key figures involved in the martial law operations: Jeong Jin-pal, former Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; Lee Jae-sik, former Chief of the Joint Chiefs of Staff's Operational Readiness Inspection; and Kim Heung-jun, former Director of the Army Headquarters Policy Office. A decision on Kim's detention is expected to be made later today, possibly in the afternoon or late at night.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-15 10:45:00 -
Addressing the Housing Crisis: The MZ Generation's Struggles Special Column ② Jung Jae-hwan, Head of the Comprehensive Editorial Department & Deputy Director Delaying Births and Pushing for Home Ownership A woman in her early 30s, married for four years, exemplifies the MZ generation. While her parents hope to see her raise a beautiful child and build a harmonious family, her priorities differ. Her primary goal is not childbirth, travel, or a leisurely lifestyle, but rather securing her own home. Having won a lottery for an apartment a few years ago, she is set to move in next year, but gathering the necessary funds for the down payment and final payment is proving challenging. Plans for childbirth have naturally been postponed. To save on living expenses, she and her husband both work, opting to run in their neighborhood instead of going to the gym. They often rely on her parents for side dishes. To save on rent, they plan to move into an old, inexpensive government housing unit for the remaining year. "Once I have my own home, I want to think about having kids and live a normal life while paying off my debts," she says, reflecting the reality faced by many young people today. Their struggles are not due to laziness or unrealistic expectations; rather, they are working diligently. They do not expect favors or privileges from the established powers. They simply desire a society where hard work is rewarded according to one’s principles. However, reality often betrays those expectations. The Call for Fairness in Society Recent statistics show that nearly half of apartment purchases in Seoul are made by individuals under 30, highlighting the urgency felt by the youth. Unlike the ultra-low interest rates of the past, the current environment features stricter lending regulations and higher rates. Nevertheless, young people are selling stocks and cryptocurrencies to take out first-time homebuyer loans, driven by the fear that missing this opportunity could mean never owning a home. The Bank of Korea recently reported that rising real estate prices are exacerbating wealth inequality and diminishing opportunities for young people to build assets. Even with hard work and decent incomes, surpassing the wealth accumulated by previous generations is becoming increasingly difficult. This is a key reason why many young people are delaying marriage and childbirth. However, the challenges facing the MZ generation extend beyond housing prices. Their true anger stems from a belief that the societal systems they rely on are failing to function properly. When the belief that hard work leads to rewards is shaken, and the assurance of fair competition crumbles, frustration turns to anger. During the June 3 local elections, incidents of ballot shortages in areas like Songpa, Seoul, amplified this distrust. Elections are the cornerstone of democracy, representing the most fundamental process for citizens to express their will, and must be conducted with accuracy and fairness. The fact that voters had to wait long hours only to find a lack of ballots was shocking to many. Young people did not view this issue as a mere administrative error. For those who took time out of their busy schedules to vote, the ballot shortage felt like a message saying, "Your vote doesn’t matter." Many young voters gathered in the Olympic Park area in Jamsil identified themselves not as supporters of any specific party or political faction, but simply as "voters." Their demands were not for a grand revolution but for the basic principles of popular sovereignty and voting rights in a democracy. The Impact of Election Irregularities on Trust This is a crucial point for the older generation to consider. Today’s 2030 generation is the most educated and information-savvy in South Korea's history. They are also the most sensitive to fairness. They demand equitable rules in every aspect, from education and employment to promotions and investments. As a result, they have a strong aversion to privileges and unfair practices. To this generation, the real estate market no longer appears to be a level playing field. Parental wealth determines the starting line, and rising home prices seem to dictate wealth based on asset ownership rather than effort. Witnessing confusion in the electoral process, a core democratic procedure, only heightens their sense of deprivation, which is likely more profound than the older generation realizes. The recent protests by young people cannot be interpreted solely as political actions. Underlying these demonstrations are accumulated feelings of loss and distrust. There is frustration over having to delay childbirth to buy a home and the reality of taking out loans against their futures. There is also a sense of powerlessness in the difficulty of social mobility despite hard work, and a feeling of alienation when their voices are not adequately heard in politics. Of course, some voices of concern have emerged. There are warnings that interpreting the ballot shortage too politically or spreading unverified claims could exacerbate social conflict. This is a valid perspective that deserves attention. However, this does not mean that we should ignore the anger of young people. It is crucial to understand why they are angry and why they have taken to the streets. Criticizing only the symptoms without addressing the root causes will not solve the problem. What is needed now is a serious acknowledgment of the warning signals they are sending, rather than framing their voices through a lens of political advantage or disadvantage. The 40 to 60 age group must not view this issue as someone else's problem. Today's youth will be the backbone of South Korea's future. If they abandon marriage, delay childbirth, and lose trust in politics, the entire society will ultimately pay the price. The despair of the youth is, in essence, the despair of the nation. The Need for Policy Changes to Support Youth Now, it is time for the political sphere to respond. Above all, a thorough investigation into the ballot shortage during the June 3 local elections and measures to prevent recurrence are essential. The integrity and trustworthiness of elections are the lifeblood of democracy. No doubts, however minor, should be left unaddressed. Clear explanations and responsible actions must follow. Simultaneously, there is a need for a policy shift to expand opportunities for young people to build assets. Simple cash support or one-time measures will not suffice. We must restore the housing ladder, create quality jobs, and restore hope that hard work can lead to a better future. What my daughter wants is not a privilege. Many in the 2030 generation share this desire. They seek hope that they can secure a home, confidence that they can have children without worrying about the future, and trust that their votes will be fully respected. These are the minimum rights that every citizen in a democratic society should enjoy. Addressing the tears of the MZ generation is not just about comforting a few young people; it is about safeguarding the future of South Korea. It is now the turn of the older generation and the political sphere to respond. We must restore the belief in the value of hard work and fair rules for the youth. This is the most pressing task our society must undertake today. 2026-06-15 10:39:00 -
Russia Launches Drone and Missile Strikes on Kyiv Following Putin-Trump Call Russia launched drone and missile attacks on major cities in Ukraine, including the capital Kyiv, just hours after a phone call between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump. According to Bloomberg, Ukrainian authorities reported early on June 15 that cities such as Kyiv, Kharkiv, Dnipro, and Kryvyi Rih were targeted in the attacks. Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko stated, "Fires broke out in several apartment buildings across the city, and the historic Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra monastery in the city center was damaged." The attacks resulted in power outages affecting approximately 140,000 households in Kyiv. In Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city, five emergency responders lost their lives while attempting to rescue civilians, as reported by Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko. The airstrikes occurred following a phone conversation between Presidents Putin and Trump on June 14. The Kremlin stated that the two leaders discussed U.S.-Iran negotiations, U.S.-Russia contacts, and issues related to the Ukraine war. On the same day, President Trump also spoke separately with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. President Zelensky indicated that they would continue discussions at the upcoming G7 summit in France. However, U.S.-mediated negotiations for a ceasefire in Ukraine remain stalled. Bloomberg reported that "President Trump has focused recently on military clashes and negotiation issues with Iran, causing discussions on ending the war between Kyiv and Moscow to stagnate." Ukraine continues to target military and energy facilities within Russia. Recent attacks have included a chemical plant in the Tula region and an oil storage facility in the Yaroslavl region. The White House did not provide additional comments regarding the contents of the calls with Presidents Putin and Zelensky.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-15 10:36:00 -
Han Byeong-do Plans National Investigation into Ballot Shortage Han Byeong-do, the floor leader of the Democratic Party, announced plans to address the national investigation into the recent ballot shortage this week and aims to finalize the composition of the National Assembly by June 18. In response to the People Power Party's request to relinquish the chair of the Legislative Judiciary Committee, he stated, "The Democratic Party should take responsibility for a functioning National Assembly." During a Supreme Council meeting on June 15, Han said, "The Democratic Party will hold a plenary session this week to process the national investigation plan regarding the ballot shortage. We will act swiftly to clarify the facts and prevent a recurrence of this issue." He emphasized the need to hold the Central Election Commission accountable, citing its constitutional independence as an excuse for shirking responsibility. "We will resolve any lingering doubts through special committees and hearings. We will also initiate prompt institutional reforms through an internal task force," he added. While stressing the importance of completing the National Assembly's composition promptly, Han dismissed the idea of conceding the Legislative Judiciary Committee chair to the People Power Party. "We must finalize the composition by June 18. The mandate from voters to work diligently for the public's welfare was confirmed in the local elections," he stated. "Has the People Power Party forgotten how they have consistently obstructed governance and turned standing committees into arenas of conflict?" He further remarked, "The request for the Legislative Judiciary Committee chair from the People Power Party is akin to a strike against public welfare. The sole principle and standard for the upcoming composition is public welfare and results. To create a functioning National Assembly, the Democratic Party must lead the Legislative Judiciary Committee."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-15 10:36:00 -
Uclicks Hires Kim Jung-in from McKinsey and Hyundai Card to Strengthen AI Consulting Uclicks, a company specializing in artificial intelligence (AI) and data, has announced the hiring of Kim Jung-in, previously with McKinsey & Company and Hyundai Card, to enhance its corporate AI transformation (AX) consulting services. On June 15, Uclicks revealed that it will expand its consulting business focused on supporting companies in developing and executing AI transformation strategies. Kim is a strategic expert with extensive experience in global consulting, finance, and corporate management. While at McKinsey & Company, he worked as a partner, executing corporate strategy, digital transformation, risk management, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), and management innovation projects for major financial institutions and corporations across Asia. At Hyundai Card, he held various roles, including Chief Strategy Officer (CSO) and head of the card business division, where he led business transformation, digital initiatives, operational innovation, and new business development, including M&A. He is currently serving as an outside director at SKC, contributing to business portfolio restructuring and strategic planning. In his new role at Uclicks, Kim will oversee the AI consulting brand 'Aify,' which supports corporate clients throughout the entire AI transformation process, from strategy formulation to business innovation, organizational operations, brand strategy, and implementation systems. With this appointment, Uclicks aims to strengthen its consulting capabilities to support AI transformation across all aspects of corporate management, beyond just providing AI technology. Kim Jung-in stated, "AI is not just a tool for automating tasks; it is a key driver that redefines corporate strategy, operations, and customer experience. I will enhance our execution-focused consulting capabilities to ensure that corporate AI strategies translate into real management outcomes and organizational changes."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-15 10:33:00