AJU PRESS ASIA FIRST NEWS AGENCY

Journalist

&
""
Latest by
  • Walkerhill Unveils 63 Years of Heritage from Louis Armstrong to AI
    Walkerhill Unveils 63 Years of Heritage from Louis Armstrong to AI A 63-year heritage that opened a new dawn for South Korea's tourism industry has been unveiled in a single space. Visitors can now experience the rich history of Korean tourism, from jazz legend Louis Armstrong's performances to the early architectural blueprints of genius architect Kim Soo-geun, and cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) technology.According to Walkerhill Hotel & Resort, the 'Walkerhill Story Lounge' has been newly established in the lobby of Vista Walkerhill Seoul. This multi-brand experience space encompasses the brand's inception, culture, gastronomy, and future innovations, allowing guests to engage with Walkerhill's unique brand assets from a contemporary perspective.From Kim Soo-geun's Blueprints to Employee MemorabiliaThe lounge features six immersive thematic zones that guide visitors on a time-traveling journey between the analog and digital worlds.In the 'Beginning of Walkerhill' zone, scenes from the hotel's opening in black and white film come to life through a large beam projector. The 'Space of Walkerhill' zone showcases rare items, including the original blueprints of the Douglas House and Hilltop Bar (now Pizza Hill) designed by Kim Soo-geun, as well as signage that was used in the past.Particularly noteworthy is the 'Connections Made Together' zone. It displays artifacts from the 'Indian Club,' the first professional hotelier group established in 1963, along with 36 selected items from over 300 donated by current and former employees. Additionally, a bronze statue donated by the family of General Walton Walker, after whom Walkerhill is named, adds historical significance to the exhibit.The Intersection of Louis Armstrong's Stage and AIThe history of gastronomy and cultural arts has also been vividly revived. The 'Sensory Experience of Walkerhill' zone highlights the heritage of 15 restaurants, including the renowned Myeongwolgwan and Pizza Hill, which were pivotal in Korean culinary culture. Visitors can enjoy live recordings of Louis Armstrong's performance from the hotel's opening day and legendary shows like the 'Honeybee Show,' which marked the beginning of Korean entertainment, through directional speakers and media dioramas. A comfortable lounge, in collaboration with the sofa brand 'Jakomo,' provides an immersive auditory experience.The exhibition concludes with a 'Special Exhibition Space' that showcases Walkerhill's ongoing transformation toward the future. An AI lounge has been established, creating a space where traditional heritage coexists with cutting-edge technology.Hyun Mong-joo, CEO of Walkerhill, stated, "Walkerhill has been a brand that has always been intertwined with the history of South Korean tourism for the past 63 years. I hope this Story Lounge becomes a special milestone that conveys the profound historical value and new inspiration unique to Walkerhill to our customers."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-18 06:04:00
  • Telecom Companies Enhance Network Quality and Roaming Services for Summer Travel
    Telecom Companies Enhance Network Quality and Roaming Services for Summer Travel The three major telecom companies in South Korea—SK Telecom, KT, and LG Uplus—are ramping up efforts to improve network quality and enhance roaming services ahead of the summer vacation season.According to the telecom industry on July 17, SK Telecom and KT will activate special response systems to prepare for increased traffic and weather-related emergencies during the holiday period. LG Uplus has streamlined its roaming services for international travelers.SK Telecom will operate a 'Summer Vacation Special Communication Situation Room' until July 31. The company plans to focus on managing network quality at over 1,100 key locations nationwide, including highways, airports, KTX stations, beaches, and campgrounds.Using its self-developed AI-based network operation system, 'A-One,' SK Telecom will predict traffic and detect anomalies early. The company has also expanded the capacity of its international roaming system for overseas travelers in advance. Safety inspections of more than 4,900 telecom facilities have been completed, and an emergency recovery system will be activated in the event of typhoons or heavy rainfall.KT will monitor network quality intensively at major tourist destinations and transportation hubs, including beaches, campgrounds, airports, and KTX stations, from late July through the end of August. The company has strengthened its disaster response system by implementing real-time traffic monitoring, optimizing base stations, conducting pre-inspections of facilities at risk of flooding, and operating 'on-site recovery teams' 24/7 at regional headquarters.LG Uplus has simplified the procedures for using its roaming services in line with the peak travel season. The revamped 'Roaming Pass' allows customers to start using the service immediately upon connecting to the network at foreign airports, without needing to input their local arrival times.Additionally, the ability for families to share data has been improved, allowing the primary account holder to set it up all at once. Customers visiting multiple countries can now set up automatic application only once, enabling them to use the same roaming service without additional sign-up procedures.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-18 06:04:00
  • Wemade Launches Summer Event Crow Vacation for Knight Crow
    Wemade Launches Summer Event 'Crow Vacation' for Knight Crow Wemade announced on July 18 that it is hosting a summer event called 'Crow Vacation' for its MMORPG 'Knight Crow,' developed by Mad Engine.As part of the event, all users will receive a 'Crow Vacation Coupon.' By using this coupon, players can obtain a 'Legendary Mount & Weapon Skin Challenge Box' and a 'Hero Glider Exchange Box.' The coupon code can be found on the official Knight Crow website.Additionally, players who log in to the game until August 20 will receive various items, including 'Clemens' Coupon' and 'Legendary Mount & Weapon Skin & Glider Challenge Boxes.'A 'Vacation Duck Tube Drop Event' will run until July 30. Players can exchange 'Vacation Duck Tubes' obtained from monster hunting for buff items like 'Cool Coconut Cocktail' and event items such as 'Beach Pebble Dice.' In the 'Summer Special Dice Board Event,' players can win a 'Crow Vacation Golden Box' containing 'Twilight's Brilliant Mount & Weapon Skin Selection Boxes.'From July 30 to August 13, a 'Crow Vacation Crafting Event' will also take place. During this period, players will receive various rewards, including 'Legendary Mount & Weapon Skin Growth Material Selection Boxes' and 'Legendary Glider Boxes,' based on their crafting level.Furthermore, an event to support rapid player growth has been organized. A hot time event will occur daily from 8 PM to midnight until August 13, increasing weapon proficiency, experience points, and gold acquisition. Until July 30, party dungeon rewards will be expanded, and from then until August 13, players can earn additional loot by defeating guild dungeon bosses.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-18 06:04:00
  • SK Hynixs Stock Expected to Rise Amid Growing Memory Demand, Says Chey Tae-won
    SK Hynix's Stock Expected to Rise Amid Growing Memory Demand, Says Chey Tae-won Chey Tae-won: SK Hynix's stock will rise as memory demand increasesChey Tae-won, chairman of the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry and SK Group, projected the long-term growth potential of SK Hynix, citing the expanding demand for memory in the age of artificial intelligence (AI). He emphasized the need to target niche markets focused on infrastructure and applications amid the AI power struggle between the U.S. and China.During a discussion on AI at the summer forum held in Jeju on July 17, Chey stated, "Memory will continue to be needed, so over time, it will trend upward. I don’t know how the stock will perform next month, but holding onto it without buying and selling is a good way to preserve wealth."He also remarked, "AI is like a 4-year-old child, but as it matures, memory will inevitably be used, leading to an exponential increase in demand."Regarding AI industry strategy, Chey advised avoiding the power competition between the U.S. and China and instead focusing on niche markets.He noted, "The future of AI is not just an industry but a matter of national security," diagnosing that the U.S. is pursuing a quality-centered strategy while China focuses on price competitiveness.Samsung and SK Hynix see 7 trillion won in single-stock leverage amid regulatory scrutinyOver the past month, more than 7 trillion won has flowed into 16 single-stock leverage products (including two inverse products) related to Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix. As financial authorities tighten regulations, there is growing interest in whether this investment concentration will ease.According to the Korea Exchange and ETF CHECK on July 17, from June 16 to July 15, a total of 7.3364 trillion won was net inflow into these single-stock leverage and inverse products.Among these, the 'KODEX SK Hynix Single Stock Leverage' saw the largest inflow at 3.4472 trillion won. It was followed by 'KODEX Samsung Electronics Single Stock Leverage' with 1.5083 trillion won, 'TIGER SK Hynix Single Stock Leverage' with 1.4271 trillion won, and 'TIGER Samsung Electronics Single Stock Leverage' with 693.8 billion won.From June 16 to July 16, the stock prices of Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix fell by 24.33% and 19.49%, respectively. The KODEX SK Hynix Single Stock Leverage and KODEX Samsung Electronics Single Stock Leverage experienced significant losses, dropping by 45.60% and 48.44%, respectively.Foreign Ministry Cancels Appointment of Former Prosecutor General's Daughter, Officials Face Disciplinary ActionThe Foreign Ministry has canceled the final appointment of Shim Mo, the daughter of former Prosecutor General Shim Woo-jung, as a public research assistant.On July 17, the ministry stated, "After a proper review process, including a hiring review committee, we have canceled Shim's final appointment as she did not meet the eligibility requirements specified in the announcement."The ministry attempted to contact Shim by phone on May 29 but was unable to reach her, so they completed the cancellation notice via email.The controversy began as opposition parties raised concerns about the hiring process, noting that Shim, who was a master's degree 'candidate,' was appointed to a position that required a master's degree 'holder.'As the allegations spread, the Foreign Ministry had temporarily suspended the appointment decision for an internal audit and ultimately concluded to invalidate the hiring after a thorough investigation.61% Support Retaining Prosecutorial Supplementary Investigation Rights, 23% OpposeA recent survey revealed that public opinion opposing the abolition of the prosecutorial supplementary investigation rights, which the Democratic Party is pushing for, is ahead of those in favor.According to a survey conducted by Gallup Korea from July 14 to 16 among 1,003 adults aged 18 and older, 61% responded that the rights should be maintained to prevent police oversight and inadequate investigations.In contrast, 23% said they should be completely abolished based on the principle of separating prosecution and investigation. Sixteen percent withheld their opinions.Among supporters of the Democratic Party, 46% favored retention while 39% supported abolition. Among the progressive group, opinions were nearly split with 46% in favor of retention and 42% for abolition. In the People Power Party's support base, 81% favored retention while only 8% supported abolition. Among moderates, 64% supported retention and 23% favored abolition.In a previous survey conducted by Gallup Korea in September last year regarding a proposal to abolish the prosecution and establish a public prosecution office and a serious crime investigation agency, 51% supported the proposal while 31% opposed it.Kim Jong-un Meets Chinese Delegation, Emphasizes Expanding Cooperation on Socialist FoundationsNorth Korean leader Kim Jong-un reaffirmed the strategic alliance between North Korea and China during a meeting with Wang Huning, chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, who visited North Korea.On July 17, the Korean Central News Agency and Xinhua reported that Kim met with the Chinese delegation led by Wang on July 16 in Pyongyang.During the meeting, Kim expressed gratitude for the greetings sent by Chinese President Xi Jinping and evaluated the dispatch of the high-level delegation as a firm commitment by China to implement agreements between the two leaders.He particularly emphasized the 65th anniversary of the North Korea-China Friendship Treaty, calling it a "treaty between nations that protects the fundamental interests of both countries and ensures regional peace," and stated that it is the government's consistent policy to develop the traditional friendship in line with the demands of the times based on socialism.He also reiterated North Korea's support for China's socialist endeavors.Andy Burnham Confirmed as New UK Prime Minister After Rapid Return to ParliamentAndy Burnham, a member of the ruling Labour Party, has been confirmed as the new Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.On July 17, the Labour Party held a special conference and officially elected Burnham as the new leader after he was the sole candidate in the party leadership election that closed the previous day.Burnham is set to meet with King Charles III on July 20 to receive the authority to form a government, officially taking office as the 59th Prime Minister of the UK. This marks an unprecedentedly rapid transition to power, occurring just one month after his return to Parliament through a by-election.At 56 years old, Burnham is known for his charismatic image and extensive local government experience. Coming from a working-class family in Liverpool, he joined the Labour Party at 15 and has served as a member of Parliament for 17 years, holding positions such as Minister of Culture and Minister of Health in the cabinets of Tony Blair and Gordon Brown.Since 2017, he has been serving his third term as the Mayor of Greater Manchester, receiving overwhelming support and earning the nickname 'King of the North.' His ability to remain above the intense factional battles in central politics allowed him to be chosen as a 'savior' without resistance from various factions within the party.Xi Jinping: AI Should Be a Symphony, Not a Solo by a Specific CountryChinese President Xi Jinping expressed ambitions to establish a new global AI order centered on China, countering the U.S. dominance in the field.According to reports from Reuters and AFP, Xi made his remarks during the opening ceremony of the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) held in Shanghai on July 17, stating, "The development of AI should not be a solo performance by a specific country but a symphony created by the international community together." This statement is seen as a direct challenge to the U.S.-led AI supply chain alliance known as 'Pax Silica.'Xi emphasized that AI development should be human-centered, ensuring safety and controllability, while also opposing the misuse of national security concepts to control technology.He particularly highlighted the importance of solidarity with the 'Global South,' which includes emerging and developing countries. He stated, "We must prevent new historical inequalities from arising in the field of AI," promising to foster AI cooperation centers with BRICS, ASEAN, Latin American, and African countries and to provide 5,000 educational opportunities for developing countries over the next five years.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-17 21:52:00
  • EU Eases Carbon Emission Trading Regulations to Boost Competitiveness
    EU Eases Carbon Emission Trading Regulations to Boost Competitiveness The European Union (EU) has decided to ease regulations on its key climate policy, the Emissions Trading System (ETS), to reduce the impact on domestic industries and enhance competitiveness.On July 17, the European Commission announced a reform plan for the ETS aimed at slowing the pace of greenhouse gas reductions and increasing investments in green technologies.Introduced in 2005, the EU ETS imposes limits on carbon emissions from high-polluting sectors such as oil refining, steel, and chemicals, requiring companies to purchase emission allowances. Currently, the price of these allowances is around 79 euros (approximately $86) per ton.Initially, the EU planned to pressure companies to decarbonize by reducing the annual emissions cap by 4.3% until 2040. However, the new reform adjusts this reduction rate to 3.7% from 2031 to 2035 and 1.7% from 2036 to 2040.The provision of free emission allowances for high-emission industries has also been extended, with the end date pushed back from 2034 to 2038. A new incentive program will provide 80% of free allowances upfront to companies that can demonstrate decarbonization investment plans, with the remaining 20% granted once the actual investments are made.This sudden shift by the EU reflects the realities of soaring energy costs due to conflicts in the Middle East and the struggles of European industries caught between the U.S. and China. Some member states, including Italy and Poland, have strongly opposed the current regulations, arguing they hinder growth.Conversely, Nordic countries and environmental groups advocating for a green transition have vehemently opposed this rollback in climate action, deepening internal divisions.The EU also unveiled a 'Decarbonization Action Plan' to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The plan aims to double the share of electricity consumption from the current 23% to 46% by 2040, transforming Europe into a continent centered on electricity to mitigate vulnerabilities from geopolitical risks.The ETS reform and electrification plan announced are expected to undergo final approval after detailed coordination with member state governments and the European Parliament over the next year.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-17 21:28:00
  • Andy Burnham Confirmed as New Prime Minister of the UK
    Andy Burnham Confirmed as New Prime Minister of the UK Andy Burnham, a Member of Parliament from the ruling Labour Party, has been confirmed as the new Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.The Labour Party announced on July 17 that it held a special party conference and officially elected Burnham as the new leader, following his unopposed candidacy in the party leadership election that closed the previous day.Burnham is set to meet with King Charles III on July 20 to receive the authority to form a government, officially taking office as the 59th Prime Minister of the UK. This marks an unprecedentedly rapid transition to power, occurring just one month after he returned to Parliament through a by-election.At 56 years old, Burnham is known for his charismatic image and extensive experience in local government. He hails from a working-class family in Liverpool and joined the Labour Party at the age of 15. He has served as an MP for 17 years and held positions as Minister of Culture and Minister of Health in the cabinets of Tony Blair and Gordon Brown.Since 2017, Burnham has been the Mayor of Greater Manchester, winning overwhelming support and earning the nickname 'King of the North.' His ability to remain outside the intense factional battles of central politics has allowed him to be seen as a unifying figure within the party.In his inaugural speech as party leader, Burnham declared his intention to redefine the Labour Party's identity, which he believes has lost its distinctiveness by leaning too far toward centrist pragmatism. He stated, "Since the 1980s, political power has become overly centralized, and the economy has suffered from the pitfalls of privatization," while outlining his vision for a 'clear Labour Party.'He aims to promote balanced growth across the country through economic structural reforms, enhanced public control, and reindustrialization.Burnham also plans to decentralize administrative powers related to housing, transportation, and education to local governments, promising tailored regional development. He has proposed establishing a 'Northern Prime Minister's Office' in Manchester, breaking away from the traditional focus on London.However, he intends to maintain existing Labour Party commitments, such as opposition to tax increases and the current government's immigration restrictions, while adhering to realistic fiscal rules.Despite the optimism surrounding his leadership, there are concerns. Former Prime Minister Keir Starmer faced challenges in preparing the government during his long tenure, and critics point out that Burnham's shorter preparation period may lead to insufficient policy validation on the national stage.As the UK grapples with slowing economic growth, strained public finances, and pressures from populism on both the left and right, the world is watching to see if the 'King of the North' can revive the struggling British economy.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-17 21:04:00
  • U.S. Government Demands Share of Semiconductor Windfall from South Korea
    U.S. Government Demands Share of Semiconductor Windfall from South Korea Reports have emerged that the U.S. government is demanding a share of the "excess profits" from South Korean semiconductor companies, sparking controversy online. Concerns are rising that discussions on excess profit distribution in South Korea may be influencing international perceptions, leading to criticism across the political spectrum.On July 17, The Korea Times reported that the U.S. government conveyed its position that it deserves a portion of the substantial profits generated by South Korean semiconductor firms due to their success in AI semiconductors, arguing that the U.S. has contributed to this success.According to industry sources, during a meeting last month, Rick Switzer, Deputy U.S. Trade Representative, told Yeo Han-goo, head of the Trade Negotiation Bureau at the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, that "the U.S. is entitled to a share of the significant profits made by SK Hynix and Samsung Electronics."Sources explained that the argument is based on the premise that U.S. companies have significantly contributed to the performance of South Korean firms by purchasing semiconductors in large quantities. They suggested that if South Korean partners receive excess profits, U.S. companies could claim the same rationale.A senior government official confirmed to The Korea Times that the U.S. made such remarks but did not disclose specific details.Following the news, reactions poured in on online communities.In progressive circles among those in their 20s and 30s, comments included, "This shows that the idea of excess profit distribution is fundamentally flawed," and "We inadvertently provided the U.S. with a reason to demand a share." Others criticized, saying, "This is not just about cutting the golden goose; it’s akin to slaughtering it."Conservative groups in the same age range also expressed discontent, stating, "We’ve set a dangerous precedent that has led to these demands," and "The excess profit controversy has given them a legitimate reason to ask for a share." They remarked, "The U.S. is now trying to get a piece of the pie," and questioned whether the government’s policies against conglomerates have led to this situation.Meanwhile, The Korea Times sought confirmation from the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), the Department of Commerce, and the Department of the Treasury regarding the statements but did not receive a response. The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy also stated, "We are not aware of the related comments and currently have no information to confirm or discuss."This report comes amid ongoing debates in South Korea about sharing excess profits from semiconductor companies with partners or returning them to society. Recently, discussions have emerged regarding the potential sharing of excess profits from Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix with their partners or contributing to social causes. 2026-07-17 21:00:00
  • South Koreas Foreign Ministry Cancels Appointment of Shin Woo-jungs Daughter Amid Controversy
    South Korea's Foreign Ministry Cancels Appointment of Shin Woo-jung's Daughter Amid Controversy The South Korean Foreign Ministry has canceled the appointment of Shin Mo, the daughter of former Prosecutor General Shin Woo-jung, as a public research assistant. The ministry announced on July 17, "After a proper review process by the hiring review committee, we have canceled Shin's appointment due to her failure to meet the eligibility requirements specified in the job announcement." The ministry attempted to contact Shin by phone on May 29 but was unsuccessful, ultimately notifying her of the cancellation via email. The controversy began when opposition parties raised concerns about the hiring process for Shin, who was appointed to a position that required a master's degree, despite only being a master's degree candidate at the time. Further allegations of favoritism emerged regarding her application for a public research assistant position, where documents submitted after the deadline were accepted, raising questions about her qualifications and the hiring process. As the allegations gained traction, the Foreign Ministry had temporarily suspended the appointment decision, citing an internal audit, and ultimately concluded that the hiring was invalid after a thorough investigation. Additionally, the ministry has referred the staff involved in the hiring process to the Central Disciplinary Committee and has initiated disciplinary proceedings against them. 2026-07-17 20:48:00
  • Controversy Erupts Over Jeonbuk Football Association Presidents Comments
    Controversy Erupts Over Jeonbuk Football Association President's Comments Seo Gang-il, president of the Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province Football Association, is facing backlash following a KBS interview, which has led to a flood of protest posts on the association's website.On July 17, a video of Seo's interview and screenshots of the Jeonbuk Football Association's free board were shared widely on an online community.The screenshots show numerous critical comments, including "Don't embarrass the local community, just leave," "What do you know about football? How did you become president?" and "Seo Gang-il, resign now!"One user wrote a lengthy post titled "I urge Seo Gang-il to apologize and resign for his outrageous remarks," expressing deep anger and disappointment after watching the interview. The user criticized Seo's comments as a direct insult to the hopes of many fans and football professionals who wish for the advancement of Korean football.The post continued, "To belittle figures like Park Ji-sung and Lee Young-pyo, who have elevated Korea's football status globally and experienced advanced football, by saying 'they are too young to understand life' and 'they lack social experience' is a serious offense. This attitude, dismissing efforts to reform the outdated administration of Korean football as childish behavior, proves what the biggest obstacles to the development of Korean football are."The author also called for Seo to retract his defense of former president Chung Mong-kyu's "13 years of sacrifice," stating that romanticizing the association's unilateral and incompetent administration amid public outrage is an absurd perspective.Regarding the controversy over the pardon of those involved in match-fixing, the author criticized Seo's statement that "forgiveness is needed" as shocking, asserting it undermines the integrity of sports, where fairness and justice are paramount.The post concluded with a call for an official apology and immediate resignation, stating, "Seo Gang-il's remarks are a disgrace that lowers the standards of not only the Jeonbuk Football Association but also Korean football as a whole."In the interview on July 16, Seo questioned the qualifications of Park Ji-sung and Lee Young-pyo, who are part of the Korea Football Association's innovation committee, saying, "What do Park Ji-sung and Lee Young-pyo know to be on the innovation committee? What do they know to speak so freely?"He added, "They may have been national team players, but how much life have they lived, how much do they know about the law, and how much social experience do they have to lead the innovation committee? Instead of just criticizing, they should run for president themselves."Seo also commented on the election process for the Korea Football Association president, stating, "According to the current bylaws, a by-election must be held within 60 days. Why are we trying to change the bylaws to a direct election?" He emphasized that without a president, the association's administration would be paralyzed, especially with the Asian Games and A-matches approaching.Regarding Chung Mong-kyu, Seo remarked, "Everyone makes mistakes in life except for God. I don't think Chung Mong-kyu deserves this level of criticism. While people call it a '13-year reign,' I see it as a '13-year sacrifice.'"On the match-fixing pardon controversy, he stated, "The intention was to suggest that sometimes we should forgive and understand mistakes, but the timing was not right, and it seems we rushed it a bit."In response to the controversy over using business class during the 2022 Qatar World Cup, he explained, "I said I couldn't fly economy due to knee issues, and the association suggested upgrading to business class, which I paid for out of my own pocket."When asked about the possibility of running for the Korea Football Association presidency in the future, he said, "I will not comment on that, but if someone without a willingness to reform appears, I might consider it."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-17 20:28:00
  • SK Hynix ADR Falls Below IPO Price Amid Market Concerns
    SK Hynix ADR Falls Below IPO Price Amid Market Concerns SK Hynix's American Depositary Receipts (ADRs), recently listed on the Nasdaq, have fallen below their initial public offering (IPO) price. Additionally, leveraged products linked to SK Hynix and Samsung Electronics on the Hong Kong stock exchange have also seen significant declines, raising concerns among investors.On July 17, local time, SK Hynix's ADRs traded below the IPO price of $149, setting a new low. When the stock debuted on July 10, it initially exceeded the IPO price but has since declined amid a broader correction in semiconductor stocks.Charts circulating online on this day showed the stock's rapid rise after its listing followed by a continuous downward trend, breaking below the IPO support level. Some investors commented, "With the stock now below the IPO price, those who have not sold are all facing unrealized losses."The weakness is not limited to the U.S. market; the Hong Kong market is also experiencing declines.The CSOP SK Hynix Daily 2x Leverage ETF (7709) on the Hong Kong exchange dropped nearly 20%, while Samsung-related leveraged products fell by around 19%. These single-stock leveraged ETFs are designed to track the daily price movements of their underlying assets at double the rate, meaning significant losses can occur when the underlying stock declines sharply.This drop is attributed not only to issues specific to SK Hynix but also to profit-taking across the global AI and semiconductor sectors, compounded by weakness in tech stocks. Recently, global markets have seen a sell-off focused on AI-related stocks, prompting South Korean financial authorities to announce regulatory measures, including restrictions on new single-stock leveraged ETF products and increased margin requirements due to concerns over volatility.As news of these developments spread, discussions regarding related policies have erupted in domestic online communities.One user criticized the overall policy, stating, "The only successful policies have been the semiconductor cycle and corporate law revisions, while failures include the yellow envelope law, excess profit controversies, forced currency exchanges, investment mandates in specific regions, pension fund management, and the launch of leveraged products for Samsung and SK Hynix."Other users reacted with comments such as, "Monday's emergency meeting for the director is imminent," "How can someone who changes their family tell us not to buy and sell?" and "It's contradictory to talk about shareholder value while revising corporate law and discussing excess profits," with some predicting Samsung's stock could drop to around 170,000 won.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-17 19:48:00