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  • HMM leads California orange shipments to South Korea for fourth year
    HMM leads California orange shipments to South Korea for fourth year SEOUL, July 15 (AJP) - HMM, South Korea's largest container carrier, said it had transported more California-grown oranges to the country than any rival for a fourth consecutive year. The Seoul-based shipping line revealed Wednesday that it carried 42 percent of all California oranges imported into South Korea this year, or about 3,060 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU), according to Piers Data compiled by U.S. maritime research firm JOC. The figure marked the top position in the segment. HMM has held the lead since 2023, when it commanded a 25 percent share, or about 2,380 TEU, and has widened its margin even as overall orange imports declined. The company attributed the gains to steady container supply and tight vessel scheduling. Oranges and other perishables move in refrigerated "reefer" containers, prized as high-value cargo because they demand meticulous temperature control to preserve freshness across weeks at sea. HMM has leaned on that expertise to court new business, shifting premium goods such as Washington cherries from costly air freight to the ocean. The carrier is also riding the global appetite for Korean culture, ferrying rising volumes of K-food and K-beauty exports in reefer boxes. More recently, it has used a new West African feeder network, built on a hub-and-spoke model, to ship small domestic mackerel to a market where the fish outsells Russian and Japanese rivals on price. "As reefer transport technology advances, the range of goods is diversifying and the pace of change is quickening," said an HMM spokesperson. "We plan to improve profitability by expanding into new, high-value markets." 2026-07-15 09:32:34
  • KOSPI Could Exceed 10,000 Points, New Forecast from Analyst Who Predicted Recent Drop
    KOSPI Could Exceed 10,000 Points, New Forecast from Analyst Who Predicted Recent Drop Amid a recent sharp decline in the KOSPI, investor sentiment has soured, drawing renewed attention to a report from a securities firm that accurately predicted the domestic stock market's peak two months ago. The analyst who made that prediction now states, "The KOSPI has technically reached a bottom," suggesting the possibility of surpassing 10,000 points in the long term, which has piqued investor interest.Lee Jae-man, head of global investment analysis at Hana Securities, indicated in a report titled "KOSPI, Now Entering the 10,000P Era" released in May that a key signal of a bull market would be when SK Hynix's market capitalization surpasses that of Samsung Electronics.At that time, he analyzed that the phenomenon of SK Hynix, which has lower profit forecasts than Samsung Electronics for 2026-2027, leading in market capitalization, is a typical sign of market overheating.Indeed, SK Hynix's market capitalization exceeded that of Samsung Electronics for the first time in June, coinciding with the KOSPI breaking through the 9,100 mark, marking a historical peak. However, the KOSPI subsequently underwent significant corrections, leading to a sharp decline in investor sentiment.Having accurately predicted the market peak, Lee has now released a new analysis stating, "The current market has technically entered a low point." He diagnosed that the recent decline is more indicative of an 'oversold condition' due to a rapid contraction in investor sentiment rather than a deterioration in corporate performance or a collapse of economic fundamentals.Considering the long-term growth potential of domestic companies, he maintained that the KOSPI has ample room for recovery and could challenge levels beyond 10,000 points, potentially reaching as high as 11,000 points in the long run.He supported this outlook with projections of corporate earnings and historical average price-to-earnings ratios (PER). Applying the expected net income of KOSPI-listed companies for 2027 and the historical average PER suggests that a KOSPI index exceeding 10,000 points is theoretically possible.However, opinions on this forecast are sharply divided in the market.Retail investors who have suffered significant losses in the recent downturn are cautiously optimistic about the hopeful outlook but remain concerned about volatility.Online comments reflect this sentiment: "I’m just getting through today with mental victories," "If it goes back to 9,000, I’ll never invest in stocks again," "If we don’t address the leverage issue, foreign investors will continue to shake the market," "We need to set stop-loss criteria rather than just waiting for a rebound," and "In the market, responding is more important than predicting. Managing cash reserves should be a priority."Some investors specifically pointed to leveraged ETFs and program trading as factors behind the excessive market volatility, expressing concerns that without structural improvements, high volatility could persist even after a rebound.Conversely, some view the current correction as a necessary pause for a long-term upward trend, suggesting that investors consider gradual purchases of quality stocks.Meanwhile, analysts predict that while short-term volatility may continue, future corporate performance, the global semiconductor market, and changes in foreign investment will be key variables determining the direction of the domestic stock market in the second half of the year.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-15 09:32:00
  • Hyundai Unveils Making-of Video for Hope as Film Opens with 600,000 Tickets Sold
    Hyundai Unveils Making-of Video for 'Hope' as Film Opens with 600,000 Tickets Sold Hyundai Motor sponsored the release of director Na Hong-jin's new film 'Hope' on July 15. To coincide with the film's debut, Hyundai released a character making video titled 'Sung-ae,' showcasing lead actress Jung Ho-yeon's journey as she takes on her first action role alongside the Hyundai 'Stella.''Hope' is Na Hong-jin's first sci-fi action thriller, following his acclaimed works such as 'The Chaser,' 'The Yellow Sea,' and 'The Wailing.' Set in the remote village of Hopohang near the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), the film depicts the struggle of individuals confronting an unidentified entity.The film was officially invited to compete at the 79th Cannes Film Festival, where it received positive reviews and a lengthy standing ovation following its world premiere.The making-of video features Jung Ho-yeon obtaining a Class 1 driver's license to perform car stunts, drifting, and executing J-turns in the Hyundai Stella. It also includes behind-the-scenes footage of the film's car chase scenes and episodes involving the Stella.The Hyundai Stella, a heritage model, appears as the police car driven by the characters Beom-seok (played by Hwang Jung-min) and Sung-ae (Jung Ho-yeon). It plays a central role in the film's car chase scenes, supporting the period atmosphere and narrative.Hyundai explained that this collaboration is part of a partnership strategy to convey the brand's heritage and cultural values through content.In addition to 'Hope,' Hyundai continues to engage in brand activities utilizing film content, including its own short film 'Night Fishing' and 'Bedford Park,' which received a Special Jury Award at the Sundance Film Festival.Meanwhile, Na Hong-jin's new film 'Hope' surpassed 600,000 pre-sale tickets on its opening day. According to distributor Plus M Entertainment, as of 7 a.m. on July 15, the film recorded 600,361 pre-sale tickets, according to the integrated computer network of the Korean Film Council.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-15 09:28:00
  • Lotte Holds Second Half VCM to Review Profitability and AI Transition Strategies
    Lotte Holds Second Half VCM to Review Profitability and AI Transition Strategies Lotte held its second half VCM (formerly known as the executive meeting) on July 15 at the Lotte World Tower in Songpa-gu, Seoul.The VCM was attended by over 80 participants, including Lotte Chairman Shin Dong-bin, the CEO of Lotte Holdings, department heads, and representatives from various subsidiaries. The meeting served as a platform to discuss the group's management policies and mid- to long-term strategies.During the meeting, attendees reviewed the management performance from the first half of the year and shared strategies and financial policies aimed at achieving goals for the second half. Discussions also focused on profitability-centered management and sustainable growth strategies in response to the uncertain domestic and international business environment.Earlier this year, at the first half VCM, Chairman Shin emphasized the need to strengthen business competitiveness and profitability over mere revenue growth, advocating for efficient investments to solidify the company's foundation.The meeting began with a presentation by Doug Stevens, a futurist and management consultant. This marks the first time Lotte has invited a foreign speaker to the VCM. Stevens is expected to discuss trends in artificial intelligence (AI) and global market forecasts.Following Stevens' presentation, Lotte Holdings CEO Noh Jun-hyung and Co-CEO Ko Jeong-wook will present the group's management and financial strategies for the second half. Key representatives from the food, retail, chemical, and hotel sectors will also propose measures to enhance business competitiveness.Ahead of the VCM, Lotte held an 'AI Agent Exhibition,' showcasing over ten AI agents developed for practical applications, including voice and motion recognition-based AI assistants, price monitoring, demand forecasting, and global market analysis.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-15 09:28:00
  • SK Innovation Supports 10 Youth Startups Using AI to Address Social Issues
    SK Innovation Supports 10 Youth Startups Using AI to Address Social Issues SK Innovation has selected 10 youth startup teams to tackle energy and social issues using artificial intelligence (AI) technology and has begun a comprehensive support process.On July 14, SK Innovation held a kickoff event and boot camp for the final selected teams of its 'AI Impact Solutions' program at the SK Serin Building in Jongno-gu, Seoul.The 'AI Impact Solutions' program aims to discover startup teams with ideas to solve energy and social problems based on AI technology. It is hosted and sponsored by SK Innovation, operated by the Qunesty Foundation, and supported by the Community Chest of Korea.After recruiting participants from May 11 to June 12, the final 10 teams were selected through evaluations by experts in energy, AI technology, commercialization, investment, and social value.The selected teams presented AI solutions addressing various social issues, including improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions in AI data centers, as well as care, safety, environment, mobility, and education.Ideas included technologies to reduce inefficiencies in battery recycling processes, methods to lower heat and noise in data centers, data analysis for early diagnosis of rare cancers, and real-time digital sign language generation.During the boot camp on July 14, teams developed plans for proof of concept (PoC) execution over the next four months and clarified their commercialization strategies. Participants attended lectures on AI technology and business, presenting their solutions and refining their business design.Professor Jeon Hae-gon from Yonsei University's Department of Artificial Intelligence delivered a lecture on 'Success Conditions and Execution Directions Learned from AI Technology PoC Cases,' discussing practical strategies for defining verifiable PoC scopes, deriving key hypotheses, and designing verification metrics.In the business sector, Kim Moon-kyu, an independent director at CNT Tech, spoke on 'Impact Business Models in the AI Era,' introducing methods for concretely defining customers, beneficiaries, and application sites, as well as building sustainable operating models and establishing social value measurement indicators.In the team solution pitching session, each team presented the problems they aim to solve, the stages of technology development, and their PoC plans. Participants assessed the feasibility of their technologies and commercialization strategies based on expert feedback.SK Innovation will provide one-on-one mentoring opportunities with experts in AI technology, business, and social value to the selected teams until October.Mentoring in the AI technology field will involve domestic scholars specializing in physical cognition AI and multimodal AI, as well as members of SK Innovation's AX team with AI expertise. They will advise teams on enhancing the completeness of their technologies and applying them in real-world settings.The participating teams will present their results at a performance-sharing event, 'Demo Day,' in November. Based on the presentations and business outcomes, SK Innovation will select the top three teams and continue with follow-up programs, including business advancement and impact investment connections.SK Innovation Vice President Kang Chung-sik stated, "AI is now a key tool for solving complex social issues such as energy efficiency, carbon reduction, care, safety, education, and mobility. We will actively support the participating teams to ensure their technologies are validated in real-world settings and lead to social value."Qunesty CEO Lee Soon-yeol expressed hope that the 10 selected teams would demonstrate practical solutions to energy and various social issues based on AI technology, stating, "We will closely support the entire process from proof design to commercialization and impact measurement to help ensure that technologies and ideas lead to real social change."Meanwhile, SK Innovation has recently launched a large-scale liquefied natural gas (LNG) power generation project in Vietnam, valued at approximately 3.3 trillion won.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-15 09:24:00
  • Toss Insurance Sees 80% Increase in Pet Insurance Sign-Ups, Surge in Pension Plans
    Toss Insurance Sees 80% Increase in Pet Insurance Sign-Ups, Surge in Pension Plans In the first half of this year, Toss Insurance reported a significant increase in sign-ups for pet insurance and pension plans. Notably, the growth in pension and health insurance enrollments was particularly pronounced among individuals under 20 years old.Toss Insurance announced on July 15 that, based on an analysis of insurance contract data from its app, new pet insurance contracts surged by 80% compared to the same period last year, marking the highest growth rate among the products analyzed.The company attributed this increase to a growing pet ownership population and the introduction of pet insurance products with expanded coverage options, which have broadened consumer choices.New pension insurance contracts also rose by 78.1% compared to the same period last year. Among the top 10 pension insurance products sold in the first half, six were variable annuities. This trend is believed to be linked to a bullish stock market and increased interest in financial management.The growth rate of pension insurance sign-ups by age group was highest among those aged 60 and older at 135.3%. This was followed by individuals in their 50s at 107.8%, those under 20 at 97.5%, individuals in their 40s at 69.6%, and those in their 30s at 49.1%. This data suggests that not only the traditional pension insurance demographic of those in their 50s and 60s but also younger individuals are preparing for retirement through private pensions.Health insurance new contracts increased by 16.5% compared to the previous year, while simplified insurance, which allows individuals with pre-existing conditions to enroll with relatively easy screening processes, saw a 44.5% rise.Particularly among those under 20, health insurance sign-ups increased by 59.2%, and simplified insurance enrollments rose by 83.5%, the highest growth rate across all age groups. This trend reflects a growing interest in health management among young people, who tend to prefer health insurance due to its lower premium burden compared to whole life insurance.A Toss Insurance representative stated, “The interest of the younger generation in financial management and preparing for future risks is reflected in the trend of insurance sign-ups. We will continue to expand our insurance products to meet customer demand.” 2026-07-15 09:24:00
  • HMM Dominates California Orange Imports for Fourth Consecutive Year
    HMM Dominates California Orange Imports for Fourth Consecutive Year HMM has been the leading transporter of California oranges to South Korea for the fourth consecutive year.On July 15, HMM announced that it transported 3,060 TEUs of California oranges, accounting for 42% of the total imports to Korea this year, according to data from the U.S. shipping research firm JOC's Pierce Data.After first achieving the top position in 2023 with 2,380 TEUs, representing a 25% market share, HMM has maintained its lead. The company attributed its steady market share growth to reliable container supply and efficient vessel scheduling, even as overall orange import volumes have declined.Fresh cargo like oranges is transported using reefer containers, which have refrigeration and freezing capabilities. These high-value goods require careful management to maintain freshness during long sea transport.HMM is also focusing on expanding into new markets by leveraging its competitive edge in reefer container transport. The company is now safely transporting high-value goods, such as cherries from Washington, which were previously imported mainly by air, to meet domestic demand.Additionally, HMM is shipping K-food and K-cosmetics products, which have seen increased exports due to the K-culture wave, using reefer containers to various international destinations.Recently, HMM has utilized its newly established West Africa feeder network, based on a Hub & Spoke strategy, to transport domestic small mackerel exports.An HMM official stated, "As reefer container transport technology advances, the variety of handled items is increasing, and the pace of market changes is accelerating. We aim to expand into new high-value markets to enhance profitability."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-15 09:24:00
  • Ecopro BM Shares Rise Over 7% Following Financial Supervisory Services Correction Request
    Ecopro BM Shares Rise Over 7% Following Financial Supervisory Service's Correction Request Ecopro BM shares surged more than 7% in early trading following a request from the Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) to correct its securities registration statement related to a capital increase.As of 9:07 a.m. on July 15, Ecopro BM was trading at 121,200 won, up 8,600 won (7.64%) from the previous trading day, according to the Korea Exchange.The rise in share price is attributed to the FSS's request made after the market closed the previous day, citing that the registration statement for the 1.2 trillion won capital increase lacked sufficient details and clarity, potentially hindering investors' ability to make informed decisions.Following the announcement of the capital increase plan on June 30, Ecopro BM's stock price had previously experienced significant declines, dropping 7.77% and 6.88% on the announcement day and the following day, respectively, marking eight consecutive days of losses.The correction request has suspended the effectiveness of the securities registration statement. If Ecopro BM does not submit a corrected statement within three months, the original statement will be considered withdrawn. This raises the possibility of changes to the subscription schedule originally set for October.Ecopro BM plans to use the funds raised through the capital increase, which will be conducted through a rights offering followed by a public offering of any unsubscribed shares, for acquiring securities of other companies (915 billion won), facility investments (150 billion won), and operational funds (135 billion won).* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-15 09:24:00
  • HLB Resolves Key Issues for U.S. Approval of Liver Cancer Drug
    HLB Resolves Key Issues for U.S. Approval of Liver Cancer Drug HLB announced that it has addressed many of the key issues that led to the U.S. approval delay of its liver cancer drug.On July 14, HLB reported that its U.S. subsidiary, Elevate Therapeutics, received a letter from its partner, Anhui Zhifei Longcom Biopharmaceutical, confirming the completion of the FDA's cGMP inspection of the raw material manufacturing facility for riboceranib. According to HLB, the FDA classified the inspection results as a Voluntary Action Indicated (VAI).The letter reportedly stated that the VAI classification does not affect the FDA's evaluation of the ongoing approval application associated with the manufacturing facility.Previously, the FDA had cited the results of the cGMP inspection at the Anhui Zhifei Longcom site as a reason for issuing a Complete Response Letter (CRL) regarding the liver cancer drug. Elevate plans to conduct a more expedited official inquiry with the FDA, in addition to a Type A meeting.It is also reported that Form 483 for the finished drug manufacturing facility included similar issues as those found at the raw material manufacturing facility. Anhui Zhifei Longcom is expected to submit a response and corrective and preventive action (CAPA) plan to the FDA by July 24 (U.S. time).A company official stated, "The FDA has concluded its review of the supplemental requirements related to camrelizumab without any special issues in the last CRL. With the cGMP inspection of the raw material manufacturing facility now classified as VAI, we believe that most of the key issues that affected the approval process have been resolved." The official added, "We will work quickly with the FDA to resume the new drug approval process as soon as possible." In 2023, HLB applied for FDA approval of riboceranib in combination with Anhui Zhifei Longcom's immuno-oncology drug, camrelizumab, as a first-line treatment for liver cancer. However, in 2024, Anhui Zhifei Longcom received a CRL from the FDA, leading to the denial of approval. A second application was also rejected last year due to issues related to sterilization procedures.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-15 09:20:00
  • Free Flights for Kids with Adult Ticket Purchase This Summer
    Free Flights for Kids with Adult Ticket Purchase This Summer This summer, families planning overseas trips with children have some good news. Amid rising costs due to inflation, a remarkable airfare promotion is being offered for budget-friendly vacations.On July 15, the Hong Kong Tourism Board announced a family travel promotion in collaboration with Cathay Pacific Airlines, targeting the peak summer vacation season. This initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden on households caused by recent increases in airfare and accommodation rates, while also boosting tourism to the popular short-haul destination of Hong Kong.◆ Free Airfare for One Child with Purchase of Two Adult TicketsThe promotion runs from July 15 to August 31 and applies to flights to Hong Kong departing before September 15.During this period, customers who purchase two round-trip adult tickets on Cathay Pacific's official website will receive the airfare for one accompanying child aged 12 or younger (valued at approximately 250,000 won) completely free of charge. This offer is available to the first 300 customers, with taxes and fuel surcharges applied separately.Even if the free tickets run out, additional benefits will still be available. The next 700 customers will receive a 50,000 won discount on children's tickets, along with a complimentary Airport Express (AEL) transport pass. This event, limited to 1,000 participants, may close early due to limited availability.◆ Competitive Airfares in August with Abundant Local FestivalsRecently, flights to Hong Kong have maintained relatively stable prices, making it an attractive short-haul travel destination once again. According to airfare comparison platform Skyscanner, as of August 10, fares for Cathay Pacific start at around 400,000 won, while Hong Kong Express offers tickets from approximately 300,000 won. The Hong Kong Tourism Board aims to maximize the appeal to family travelers by combining these competitive prices with the free child airfare promotion.Additionally, there are plenty of summer perks to enjoy in Hong Kong. The Hong Kong Tourism Board is hosting a large-scale shopping and tourism festival called 'Hong Kong Summer Fun' in collaboration with 9,000 stores across the city, running until August 31.During the festival, travelers can take advantage of various summer-exclusive benefits across major tourist attractions, dining, transportation, and shopping. Furthermore, in partnership with Alipay Plus, scanning QR codes in major shopping malls will randomly reward customers with up to 500 Hong Kong dollars, while over 150 stores will offer individual discounts and gifts.A representative from the Hong Kong Tourism Board stated, "We have prepared practical discount benefits that connect the ticket purchase stage to local travel itineraries. We hope families can enjoy a reasonable and fulfilling trip to Hong Kong this summer without financial burdens."Details regarding the promotion conditions and booking methods can be found on the official Cathay Pacific website.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-15 09:16:00