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China Begins Production of Immersion DUV Equipment, Causing Semiconductor Stocks to Plummet A company supported by the Chinese government has started production of immersion deep ultraviolet (DUV) lithography equipment for semiconductor manufacturing, leading to a sharp decline in global semiconductor equipment stocks. Concerns over China's progress in localizing semiconductor equipment have dampened investor sentiment.Bloomberg reported on July 27, citing the U.S. IT media outlet The Information, that a Shanghai-based Chinese company has begun producing its own immersion DUV lithography equipment. The name of the company has not been disclosed.Lithography equipment is essential for etching intricate circuits onto semiconductor wafers, which serve as the foundation for chips. Immersion DUV technology uses water between the lens and the wafer to create more precise circuits, with Dutch company ASML currently leading the market.The Chinese company aims to produce five units this year and 20 units next year. The initial production is expected to be supplied to major Chinese foundry Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation (SMIC), Huahong Semiconductor, and DRAM manufacturer ChangXin Memory Technologies (CXMT).However, the Chinese-made equipment is still in the early stages of production and reportedly does not yet match the performance and reliability of ASML's products. Considering that ASML shipped 131 immersion DUV units last year, the production scale of the Chinese company remains limited.Market observers are focusing on the fact that China has begun producing advanced lithography equipment independently, rather than the scale of production. On the same day, ASML's stock fell 8.4% on the Dutch stock exchange, while ASM International dropped 7.3% and BE Semiconductor declined 9.9%. In the U.S. market, Applied Materials fell 6.7% and Lam Research dropped 7.9%.China is unable to import ASML's cutting-edge extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography equipment due to U.S.-led export controls. High-performance immersion DUV equipment is also subject to export permits from the Dutch government. As a result, China is pushing for the localization of key semiconductor equipment, including lithography machines.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-28 08:52:00 -
Kakao Bank Surpasses 5 Million Users for Investment Tab, Fund Balance Reaches 1.8 Trillion Won Kakao Bank's investment service is experiencing rapid growth.As of July 26, Kakao Bank reported that the cumulative number of users for its 'Investment Tab' has reached 5.43 million, just three months after its launch in April.The Investment Tab allows users to manage their investment assets in one place and explore products tailored to their investment preferences. It consists of an 'Investment Home' for checking the status of held investment products and a 'Discovery Home' that provides various products and investment information.With the increased use of the Investment Tab, sales of investment products have also surged. As of the first half of this year, Kakao Bank's total fund sales balance exceeded 1.8 trillion won. The product lineup, which started with six funds, has now expanded to 80.Kakao Bank is broadening its investment options beyond funds to include financial products from securities firms, such as bonds, issued notes, repos, ISAs, and IRPs.The flagship product, the 'Target Conversion Fund,' has surpassed 100 billion won in cumulative sales since its launch in November last year. More than 90% of subscribers have opted for the 'Automatic Withdrawal Service' to reduce the burden of realizing profits, and seven out of the eleven products released so far have achieved their target returns ahead of schedule.A Kakao Bank representative stated, "Customers who previously found investing difficult and complex are now able to check their investment status on the Kakao Bank app and naturally discover new investment opportunities that suit them. We will continue to introduce various products and services to make investment experiences easier and more convenient for our customers."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-28 08:52:00
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Shin Ji-eun Wins LPGA Title After 10 Years, Jumps to World No. 36 Shin Ji-eun has claimed her first LPGA title in over a decade, significantly boosting her position in the women's golf world rankings.On July 28, the women's golf world rankings were released, showing Shin rising 62 spots to 36th place from 98th the previous week. This marks the largest jump among players in the top 50.Shin secured her victory on July 27 at the ISPS Handa Scottish Women's Open, held at Dundonald Links in North Ayrshire, Scotland, where she finished with a total score of 9-under-par 279. She led from start to finish in a 'wire-to-wire' win.This victory comes 10 years, 2 months, and 25 days (3,738 days) after her first win at the Texas Shootout in May 2016. Since 1980, Shin is only the third player on the LPGA Tour to have a gap of over 10 years between two victories, marking a significant milestone.Kim A-rim, who finished second with a total score of 7-under-par 281 at the Scottish Women's Open, also saw her ranking improve, moving up eight spots to 24th from 32nd last week.There were no changes in the top 10 of the world rankings. Nelly Korda of the United States remains firmly in first place, while Atthaya Thitikul of Thailand holds the second position. Among South Korean players, Yoon Hee-yan and Kim Hyo-joo are ranked third and fourth, respectively, with Kim Sei-young also in the top 10.Other South Korean players include Kim Min-sol at 16th, Yoon In-na at 20th, Choi Hye-jin at 22nd, and Im Jin-hee at 26th.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-28 08:52:00
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Apple Regains Top Spot in Global Market Capitalization, Surpassing Nvidia Apple has reclaimed its position as the world's most valuable company, surpassing Nvidia after 15 months.On July 27, Apple shares closed at $336.91, up 1.17% from the previous trading day, bringing its market capitalization to $4.948 trillion. In contrast, Nvidia's stock fell nearly 5% to $196.51, reducing its market cap to $4.756 trillion.This shift in rankings is attributed to growing investor caution regarding the massive capital expenditures and profitability of big tech companies in the AI sector. Apple, once criticized for lagging in AI investments, is now being reevaluated as a company that has avoided significant spending burdens.Alphabet, Microsoft, Amazon, and Meta are projected to spend $724 billion on AI this year, with estimates rising to $950 billion next year. Instead of heavily investing in its own AI infrastructure, Apple has opted to utilize Google's AI models and cloud services to minimize costs.Jay Woods, chief market strategist at Freedom Capital Markets, told Yahoo Finance, "Apple was once criticized for not investing more in AI, but that has allowed it to avoid several pitfalls related to capital expenditures."Daniel Newman, CEO of Futurum Group, stated in the New York Times, "People view AI-related stocks as highly volatile, and Apple is seen as akin to holding an index. It is regarded as a kind of 'safe asset.'"Apple's return to the top spot in market capitalization comes about a month before CEO Tim Cook is set to step down. John Turnus, the senior vice president who will take over in September, has stated that he will maintain the financial discipline that has been a hallmark of Cook's tenure.Apple held the title of the world's largest company by market capitalization for over a decade before losing it to Microsoft in April of last year. Following a surge in demand for AI semiconductors, Microsoft ceded the title to Nvidia just two months later. Nvidia's market cap surpassed $4 trillion in July of last year and exceeded $5 trillion for the first time in October. It reached an all-time high of $5.7 trillion on May 14 of this year but has since declined, allowing Apple to reclaim the top position. 2026-07-28 08:44:00
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Middle East Risks Weigh on Business Sentiment, August Outlook Drops to 80s As risks in the Middle East escalate, domestic business outlook has declined. While exports, particularly in semiconductors, have increased, most indicators related to cash flow, domestic demand, and profitability remain below baseline levels.The Korea Economic Association (KEA) reported on July 28 that the Business Sentiment Index (BSI) forecast for August stands at 89.9. This marks an 8.1-point drop from the previous month’s figure of 98, falling back into the 80s for the first time in three months since May's 87.5.Typically, a BSI above 100 indicates a positive outlook compared to the previous month, while a score below 100 signifies a negative outlook. The BSI has remained below 100 for five consecutive months since April's forecast of 85.1. The drop into the 80s is the first since May.Both manufacturing and non-manufacturing sectors reported poor outlooks. The manufacturing forecast fell to 88.4, down 7.2 points from the previous month, while the non-manufacturing sector dropped to 91.5, a decrease of 9.1 points, reversing last month’s positive outlook.Within manufacturing, only the electronics and communication equipment sector (118.8) and the food and beverage sector (105.6) exceeded the baseline. In contrast, the petroleum refining and chemical sector recorded a low of 57.7, the lowest level since February 2009, following the global financial crisis.The KEA attributed these results to the prolonged conflict in the Middle East, which has increased raw material and energy costs, worsened petrochemical spreads, and created uncertainties in supply chains.In the non-manufacturing sector, most industries, except for leisure, accommodation, and food services (116.7), fell below the baseline, including electricity, gas, and water (73.7), construction (87.8), information and communication (92.3), and retail (93.0).Export forecasts maintained a baseline score of 100.0, continuing a relatively favorable trend for three consecutive months. However, domestic demand (90.8), cash flow (87.8), profitability (93.5), employment (95.0), and investment (97.0) all recorded scores below the baseline.Lee Sang-ho, head of the KEA's economic division, emphasized the need for ongoing support to alleviate the burden of raw material and logistics costs and to ensure that restructuring efforts in the struggling refining and petrochemical industries proceed without disruption.Meanwhile, the BSI for July recorded a figure of 94.4, remaining below 100 for four and a half years since February 2022's 91.5.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-28 08:40:00
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Lee Chang-dong's 'Possible Love' Set for Theatrical Release and Netflix Debut Lee Chang-dong's new film 'Possible Love' has confirmed its theatrical release date and Netflix debut.The Netflix film 'Possible Love' will first hit South Korean theaters on September 23, followed by a global release on Netflix on November 6.'Possible Love' tells the story of two couples—a laid-off worker and his wife, and a documentary filmmaker and her husband—who confront their different lives and hidden desires while working on a documentary.The film has already garnered attention, having been officially invited to compete at the 83rd Venice International Film Festival and to be featured in the Special Presentations section of the 51st Toronto International Film Festival.This trend of Netflix films first being shown in theaters continues, with previous examples including 'Frankenstein,' 'Maestro Bernstein,' and 'The Irishman.' 'Possible Love' is expected to attract film fans eager to see Lee Chang-dong's latest work on the big screen first.The announcement poster released alongside the premiere dates features a scene of Mi-ok and Ye-ji standing under a tree swaying in the wind against a dawn sky. The moment where Ye-ji, who is filming a documentary about the laid-off worker, and Mi-ok, the worker's wife, gaze at each other hints at the tension and evolving relationships within the film.'Possible Love' marks Lee Chang-dong's first new work in eight years, featuring performances by Jeon Do-yeon, Sul Kyung-gu, Jo In-sung, and Jo Yeo-jeong.'Possible Love' will be released in theaters on September 23, followed by its Netflix premiere on November 6. 2026-07-28 08:36:00
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Heat Wave Increases Air Conditioner Fires; Watch for Warning Signs As the heat wave continues, incidents of fires related to air conditioner outdoor units are on the rise.According to fire authorities, a fire broke out at 9:30 a.m. on July 27 in the outdoor unit room of an 11th-floor apartment in Magok-dong, Gangseo District, Seoul.The flames spread up the exterior of the building but were extinguished within about 30 minutes. Approximately 40 residents evacuated the building, but no injuries were reported.Fire officials are investigating the cause of the fire, considering the possibility of electrical issues related to the outdoor unit.On the previous day, July 26, a fire occurred at a factory in Naksan-ri, Waegwan-eup, Chilgok County.Fire authorities received a report stating that flames were spreading from an air conditioner outdoor unit toward the building. They managed to control the fire by 5:44 p.m., about an hour after the report, and fully extinguished it by 9:24 p.m. using excavators.The fire completely destroyed a 250-pyeong steel-frame warehouse and damaged a forklift and factory equipment, but there were no casualties. Police and fire authorities are investigating whether the fire actually started from the outdoor unit and assessing the extent of the damage.Similar outdoor unit fires have occurred in other apartments in Seoul. On July 23, a fire in an outdoor unit at an apartment in Okusudong, Seongdong District, forced about 20 residents to evacuate.On June 29, a fire started in an outdoor unit installed on the exterior of a building in Itaewon-dong, Yongsan District, resulting in the destruction of five outdoor units. Property damage was estimated at around 8 million won.In the past five years, there have been over 2,100 fires nationwide involving air conditioning and cooling devices, resulting in more than 160 casualties and property damage exceeding 14.1 billion won.More than 60% of these fires occurred in apartments and other multi-family housing. Electrical issues, including poor contact, damaged wiring, and insulation deterioration, accounted for about 80% of the causes.The outdoor unit expels heat absorbed from inside the air conditioner. However, if items are stacked around the outdoor unit or if the ventilation window is closed, hot air can become trapped, leading to overheating.Dust accumulation on wires and terminals can increase the risk of sparks if current flows for extended periods. Old or damaged wiring and loose connections can also be fire hazards.Residents should not continue using the air conditioner if they notice unusual vibrations, strange noises, burning smells, smoke, or signs of melting. They should turn off the power and have it inspected, and if smoke or flames are visible, they should immediately call 119 and evacuate to a safe location.To prevent fires, it is essential to fully open the ventilation window of the outdoor unit room to allow heat to escape. Avoid placing flammable items such as cardboard boxes, plastic, and trash near the outdoor unit, and regularly remove dust and leaves.Ensure there is enough space between the outdoor unit and the wall for heat to dissipate. Instead of connecting multiple electrical devices to a single power strip, use a dedicated outlet for the air conditioner, and regularly check for any pinched or frayed wires.The Gyeongbuk Fire Department has identified strong heat, vibrations, unusual noises, burning smells, and smoke as warning signs of potential outdoor unit fires. They urge residents to install outdoor units in well-ventilated areas, maintain a distance of at least 10 cm from walls, and remove nearby flammable materials.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-28 08:36:00
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Samsung Wallet Adds Hana Travel Log Check Card with 10% Points on Overseas Payments Samsung Electronics announced on July 27 that it has added the 'Samsung Wallet Hana Travel Log Check Card' in collaboration with Hana Card. This card combines Samsung Wallet's convenient payment experience with Hana Card's overseas specialized services.The card retains key benefits from the existing Travel Log Check Card, including 100% exchange rate preferential free currency exchange, exemption from fees for using overseas merchants, and no fees for withdrawals from overseas ATMs. Additionally, users will earn 10% in 'Samsung Wallet Points' when making payments at overseas offline stores using Samsung Wallet.Samsung Wallet Points are a prepaid simple payment service that can be used at domestic online and offline merchants through the Samsung Wallet app. The number of subscribers has recently surpassed 2.5 million.The card can be applied for directly through the Samsung Wallet app without an annual fee, and users can register it immediately in Samsung Wallet through a simple registration notification after issuance.To celebrate the card launch, Samsung Electronics is also running a promotion. From August 1 to December 31, the limit for Samsung Wallet Points accumulation will be increased from 10,000 points to 20,000 points. Additionally, from August 1 to November 30, customers who make payments of 200,000 won or more at overseas merchants will be entered into a drawing for prizes including the Galaxy Fold 8, Galaxy Watch 9, Galaxy Buds 4, and airline tickets.Chae Won-cheol, Vice President and Head of the Digital Wallet Team at Samsung Electronics' MX Business Division, stated, "Samsung Wallet has continuously expanded its global usability for overseas payments and travel services. This new card will provide Galaxy users with differentiated overseas payment benefits." He emphasized that strong security technology based on Samsung Knox has been applied to ensure safe mobile payments abroad.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-28 08:36:00
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Chabot Motors Opens Ram Pickup Truck Showroom in South Korea Chabot Motors has opened a showroom for the American pickup truck brand Ram, serving as the official importer in South Korea.On July 27, Chabot Motors announced the launch of the first official showroom, 'Ram Trucks Seoul.'Located in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province, the showroom is situated in a prominent area known for its concentration of major imported car brands. This strategic location aims to maximize connections with customers in the metropolitan area who prefer premium pickup trucks, thanks to its excellent accessibility from Bundang and Pangyo.The showroom features an exhibition space showcasing the impressive design of Ram trucks, a customer lounge, and a sales and service consulting room for personalized consultations.Additionally, it includes a 'Quick Shop' facility for vehicle purchase consultations and technical maintenance services. This setup provides a one-stop customer care system, allowing for vehicle purchases and prompt after-sales service all in one place.Jin-koo Jeong, CEO of Chabot Motors, stated, "This will be a key hub for introducing the value of authentic pickup trucks to Korean customers. We aim to enhance our market presence by offering advanced sales expertise and tailored maintenance services throughout the entire process from consultation to purchase, providing a high-quality ownership experience for domestic customers."Meanwhile, Chabot Motors is expanding its portfolio of officially imported brands, adding Ram to its lineup, which already includes the British brands Ineos Grenadier and Morgan.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-28 08:36:00
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SM Group's Samhwan Corporation Wins 1.3 Trillion Won Contract for Miho River Bridge Upgrade Samhwan Corporation, a construction subsidiary of SM Group, has once again demonstrated its competitiveness in public sector projects by securing a contract for the upgrade of the aging Miho River Bridge.On July 28, Samhwan Corporation announced that it has been selected as the contractor for the renovation of the Miho River Bridge, located in Osong-eup, Cheongju, Chungcheongbuk-do, which connects Jochiwon and Naepan. The bridge, completed in 1938, spans a total length of 440 meters.The project involves demolishing the existing single-span bridge and constructing a new double-span bridge in its place. The total project cost is 1.309 trillion won, with Samhwan Corporation holding a 70% stake. As demand for upgrades to aging infrastructure like the Miho River Bridge continues to rise, the company's expertise and technical capabilities in civil engineering are expected to gain further recognition, especially as it marks its 80th anniversary this year.Previously, Samhwan Corporation has successfully completed projects such as the Ieon Overpass (254 billion won) and the Noan Bridge (278 billion won), showcasing its strengths in bridge renovation.Additionally, the company has taken on projects including soundproof facilities in Yongin-Seoul (367 billion won), soundproof facilities in Namsa-Dongtan (440 billion won), road construction in Nongsogangdong (1.137 trillion won), and a residential complex in Shinnae (1.518 trillion won), accumulating a total of 5.049 trillion won in public project contracts over the past two years. Its overall order backlog has now surpassed 1 trillion won (1.143 trillion won).A representative from Samhwan Corporation stated, "We are striving to enhance profitability and achieve balanced growth by simultaneously conducting our own construction projects alongside civil engineering projects such as bridges and roads. We will establish a solid management approach focused on revenue stability while responding thoroughly to changes and risks in the construction industry."Founded in 1946, Samhwan Corporation entered the domestic construction industry following the Korean War, starting with national reconstruction projects. Major facilities constructed by the company include the Walkerhill Hotel, Shilla Hotel, and the Supreme Prosecutors' Office.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-28 08:32:00