AJU PRESS ASIA FIRST NEWS AGENCY

Journalist

&
""
Latest by
  • Jang Dong-hyuk: Lee, Democratic Party, and Election Commission Form a Unified Front
    Jang Dong-hyuk: Lee, Democratic Party, and Election Commission Form a Unified Front Jang Dong-hyuk, leader of the People Power Party, stated on July 12 that "President Lee Jae-myung, the Democratic Party, and the National Election Commission are one body," emphasizing that without dismantling this massive election cartel, fundamental issues cannot be resolved.Jang made these remarks during a meeting with youth and university students in Busan's Suyeong District, addressing the recent 6.3 voting rights deprivation incident. He asserted that a "national special investigation" is necessary.He questioned the neutrality and objectivity of the organizations mentioned by the Democratic Party regarding the special investigation, asking, "Are they truly a 'third party' that can guarantee neutrality, fairness, and objectivity?"Jang further criticized the Democratic Party and President Lee for covering up nepotistic hiring practices within the Election Commission and for creating laws that threaten imprisonment for those who criticize the Commission. He noted that as the voices of youth and citizens calling for a national special investigation, re-elections, and reforms to the Election Commission and electoral system grow louder, the Democratic Party has resorted to silencing dissent.He stated, "They have taken away our voting rights, and now they are stripping away our freedom of expression. We must stop this. If young people and citizens fight together, we can protect our freedom and voting rights. The People Power Party will stand by you until the end."Earlier, on July 8, Jang visited the Incheon City Party office in Namdong District to hold a similar meeting with youth organizations in the metropolitan area.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-12 19:24:00
  • Democratic Party Candidates Clash Ahead of Leadership Election
    Democratic Party Candidates Clash Ahead of Leadership Election Candidates vying for leadership of the Democratic Party gathered on July 12. The atmosphere was charged as former Prime Minister Kim Min-seok and former party leader Jung Cheong-rae engaged in a verbal sparring match ahead of next month's party convention.The National Local Autonomy Democratic Leaders Conference (KDLC), composed of local government officials and lawmakers from the Democratic Party, held a presentation of candidates' visions at the National Assembly. Attendees included Kim, Jung, lawmakers Song Young-gil and Ko Min-jung, and former Gwangjin County Council member Kim Bo-mi, who all shared their visions.Following Ko's remarks, Kim took the stage for his presentation, stating, "As far as I know, former leader Jung has not declared his candidacy until now, but seeing him present his vision here seems to indicate that KDLC is quite influential." He aimed a jab at Jung.Kim continued, "I will thoroughly reform the prosecution to eradicate the roots of political prosecution, while also pursuing police reform based on democratic oversight and transparent verification. If I become party leader, I will ensure that within three months, we significantly widen the gap in approval ratings with the People Power Party, creating a strong, victorious Democratic Party once again."In response, Jung, who spoke last, countered Kim's remarks by saying, "I came here to support Gwangmyeong Mayor Park Seung-won's candidacy for the Supreme Council. While I will accept criticism as a former leader, I will defend myself as necessary."He added, "I will not engage in 'self-politics.' Although I was unjustly excluded from nominations in the past, I did not leave the party and campaigned nationwide. Leaving the party to support candidates from other parties and running as an independent is the worst form of self-politics." Regarding prosecution reform, he stated, "A complete abolition of supplementary investigative powers is the key to the success of the Lee Jae-myung administration and to boosting the Democratic Party's approval ratings."Song highlighted his diplomatic experience, urging support for President Lee Jae-myung's policies aimed at protecting national interests. He said, "I worked to prevent harmful clauses during the Korea-Japan agreement under former President Kim Dae-jung and the Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement under former President Roh Moo-hyun. I aim to create a global Democratic Party that protects South Korea's sovereignty and national interests, rather than a local party that merely fights the People Power Party."Meanwhile, during her presentation, Ko promised to support the success of the Lee Jae-myung administration through party unity, vowing to listen to the voices of the public. Former lawmaker Kim expressed her ambition to bring back young people who have left the Democratic Party and to advocate for generational change within the party.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-12 19:00:00
  • Weather Forecast: Heat Wave Continues with Showers Expected in Some Areas
    Weather Forecast: Heat Wave Continues with Showers Expected in Some Areas On Monday, July 13, a heat wave is expected to persist across most of the country, with some areas forecasted to experience rain or showers. During the day, the feels-like temperature may rise to around 35 degrees Celsius, with showers predicted in the metropolitan area and rain expected in parts of South Jeolla and western South Gyeongsang.According to the Korea Meteorological Administration on July 12, heat wave warnings are currently in effect for most regions, and temperatures are expected to remain above the average levels (minimum 20-22°C; maximum 26-30°C) for the time being.In particular, the feels-like temperature is projected to soar to around 35 degrees Celsius, especially in the metropolitan area, Chungcheong region, and southern parts of the country.While areas experiencing rain or showers may see a temporary drop in temperature, humidity is expected to rise after the rain stops, leading to muggy conditions.Morning low temperatures are forecasted as follows: △Seoul 26°C △Incheon 26°C △Chuncheon 24°C △Gangneung 26°C △Daejeon 25°C △Daegu 26°C △Jeonju 27°C △Gwangju 27°C △Busan 25°C △Jeju 26°C.Daytime high temperatures are expected to be: △Seoul 33°C △Incheon 32°C △Chuncheon 33°C △Gangneung 35°C △Daejeon 35°C △Daegu 36°C △Jeonju 34°C △Gwangju 33°C △Busan 31°C △Jeju 31°C.The country will experience occasional clouds, becoming increasingly overcast by night. The South Jeolla and South Gyeongsang regions, along with Jeju Island, are expected to have generally cloudy weather. Rain in the South Jeolla and western South Gyeongsang regions is anticipated to mostly cease by evening.Expected rainfall amounts are: △Gwangju and South Jeolla 5-20mm △Western South Gyeongsang 5-20mm △Jeju mountains 30-80mm △Jeju (excluding mountains) 5-30mm.From afternoon to evening, showers may occur in Seoul, Gyeonggi, Chungcheong regions, and inland mountainous areas of Gangwon, as well as in North Jeolla.Expected rainfall amounts are: △Seoul, Incheon, Gyeonggi 5-60mm △Inland and mountainous areas of Gangwon 5-40mm △Daejeon, Sejong, South Chungcheong, North Chungcheong 5-60mm △North Jeolla 5-60mm.Fine dust levels are expected to remain at 'good' levels across all regions.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-12 18:56:00
  • Koreas Tax Chief Calls for Future Response Fund Amid Tax Revenue Concerns
    Korea's Tax Chief Calls for Future Response Fund Amid Tax Revenue Concerns Im Kwang-hyun, head of the National Tax Service, stated on July 12 that "sustainable finance depends not only on how much tax revenue is secured but also on how stable that structure is." In a post on X (formerly Twitter) titled "Today's Tax Revenue, Tomorrow's Competitiveness," he emphasized the need to utilize the increased corporate tax revenue from the semiconductor boom for a future response fund. He diagnosed Korea's tax revenue as having a 'concentration-type portfolio,' indicating a high dependence on specific industries and a few companies. Im noted that while corporate tax revenue increases during semiconductor industry booms, a downturn in the semiconductor market leads to poor corporate performance and a subsequent decline in tax revenue. He remarked, "This year, we are experiencing a supercycle in semiconductors, resulting in increased corporate tax revenue, which, along with a revitalized stock market, has sharply raised securities transaction taxes," underscoring the importance of sustainable finance and a stable structure. To diversify the tax revenue portfolio, he stated that the core competitiveness of the semiconductor industry must be continuously nurtured as a super-gap industry, while also discovering future growth opportunities. He emphasized the need to secure future growth engines and diversify the industrial structure to establish a balanced and stable tax revenue base. Im described the plan to use additional tax revenue from the semiconductor boom to support three major mega projects as a necessary policy for strengthening the nation's long-term competitiveness, stating, "This will ensure both the sustainability of finances in preparation for increased welfare demands due to low birth rates and an aging population and tomorrow's competitiveness."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-12 18:24:00
  • SK Hynixs Nasdaq Listing Expected to Ease Won-Dollar Exchange Rate
    SK Hynix's Nasdaq Listing Expected to Ease Won-Dollar Exchange Rate SK Hynix's listing of American Depositary Receipts (ADRs) on Nasdaq is anticipated to lead to a significant influx of dollars, putting short-term downward pressure on the won-dollar exchange rate. This is due to the expected improvement in foreign exchange supply as global investment flows into the domestic currency market. However, as the U.S. government is urging both Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix to expand local semiconductor production, there are concerns that the dollars raised may be reinvested in U.S. operations, potentially leading to long-term dollar outflows. While the current dollar influx may provide temporary stability to the exchange rate, analysts suggest it remains to be seen whether this will result in a structural strengthening of the won. Large Dollar Inflow Expected to Drive Down Exchange Rate According to the Seoul foreign exchange market, the closing price of the won-dollar exchange rate at 2 a.m. on July 10 was 1,498.50 won. This marks a decrease of approximately 31.5 won from the closing price of 1,530.0 won on July 3. Market analysts attribute the decline in the exchange rate to the anticipation of a large dollar inflow following SK Hynix's ADR listing. On July 10, SK Hynix raised $26.5 billion through the issuance of ADRs on Nasdaq, with the funds expected to be settled by July 14. Reports indicate that demand for the offering exceeded seven times the amount available, suggesting that if foreign institutional investors continue to buy, it could serve as a sustained source of foreign currency inflow. The market anticipates that up to $1 billion in new dollar liquidity could be supplied daily, which may encourage export companies and heavy industries to sell dollars proactively, further increasing downward pressure on the exchange rate. Notably, the scale of this dollar inflow is considered comparable to a currency swap. During a $60 billion currency swap agreement between the Bank of Korea and the U.S. Federal Reserve in 2020, $19.872 billion was supplied to the domestic market, which is less than the amount expected from SK Hynix's ADR issuance. At that time, the won-dollar exchange rate fell from 1,285.7 won just before the swap announcement to 1,246.5 won the following day. There are also expectations that the SK Hynix ADR listing will not be a one-time event. If other domestic companies, such as Samsung Electronics, follow suit with their own ADR issuances, it could lead to increased foreign capital inflows, exerting additional downward pressure on the won-dollar exchange rate. Jo Yong-gu, a researcher at Shin Young Securities, stated, "Considering the inflow of SK Hynix ADR conversion amounts and the easing of foreign investors' rebalancing in the domestic stock market, the exchange rate is likely to trend lower than its current level." Dollar Inflow May Be Offset by Increased U.S. Investment However, it remains uncertain whether the short-term increase in dollar supply will lead to a structural strengthening of the won. As domestic semiconductor companies ramp up investments and expand production facilities in the U.S., the demand for dollars due to foreign direct investment is also expected to rise. The U.S. government has publicly called for increased local investments from South Korean semiconductor firms. On July 9, the day before SK Hynix's ADR listing, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo emphasized the desire to bring Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix to the U.S. to build factories, urging for an expansion of memory production in the country. In fact, the increase in investments by companies in the U.S. is already impacting the foreign exchange market. There is a growing tendency for companies to hold foreign currency instead of converting it, as they seek to secure dollars for construction and equipment investments in the U.S. According to the Bank of Korea, as of the end of May, the balance of foreign currency deposits held by residents at foreign exchange banks was $112.25 billion, an increase of $1.57 billion from the previous month. This marks a continuation of the upward trend in foreign currency deposits that began in April. Analysts suggest that if the dollars flowing in from the ADR issuance are used for U.S. factory construction, equipment procurement, and local operational funds, the net dollar supply effect in the foreign exchange market may be limited. The interplay between short-term dollar inflows and long-term investment expansion in the U.S. could constrain the extent of the exchange rate decline. The Bank of Korea noted, "While overseas investment income can be reinvested locally, an increase in investment income does not necessarily mean an immediate expansion of foreign currency inflows into the domestic foreign exchange market. Although the proportion of reinvested overseas direct investment income has somewhat decreased recently, there is a possibility that it could increase again as the scale of overseas investments expands." * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-12 18:04:00
  • The Rise of Subculture in South Korea: Expanding Beyond Gaming
    The Rise of Subculture in South Korea: Expanding Beyond Gaming The meaning of 'subculture' in South Korea's content market is evolving. Once primarily associated with specific gaming fandoms, the concept is now expanding across various content platforms and communities.According to industry sources, domestic subculture is broadening from gaming to include animation, music, and live interactive content. The fan base is increasingly diverse, not limited by age, gender, or nationality. Analysts suggest that while maintaining a subcultural identity, fandoms and consumer bases are growing within each area.This trend is particularly evident in the music market. The Japanese girl group Cutie Street has been expanding its fandom in South Korea by releasing a Korean version of their hit song 'Is It Not Enough to Be Cute?' in April and appearing on local music shows. Their performances have garnered over 13 million views on YouTube, and they are set to hold a solo concert in South Korea later this month following the release of additional Korean tracks.The interactive cinematic game 'Seongsecheonhwa: The Birth of the Empress' is another example of the expansion of subculture in South Korea. This game, based on live actors and centered around court intrigue, has gained popularity among fans of Chinese dramas, particularly female players. The first installment, released in September 2025, received a 99% 'overwhelmingly positive' rating on the Korean Steam chart. Following the release of the second installment last month, an offline fan meeting was held with over 300 attendees, including the lead actors and local fans.Industry experts believe that the growth of online communities and media platforms has significantly influenced the spread of subculture. Once viewed as a niche culture distinct from mainstream trends, subculture has rapidly gained traction as users with shared interests connect through platforms like YouTube and short-form content. Global streaming services like Netflix have increased access to animation, while YouTube and short-form platforms have become channels for music and gaming content to reach wider audiences.However, experts caution that the expansion of the consumer base does not mean subculture is being absorbed into mainstream culture. Subculture consumers tend to view their favorite content not merely as a trend but as part of a 'taste community.' This desire for 'hidden' culture strengthens the bonds and purchasing power within subcultural fandoms.Lee Eun-hee, a professor of consumer studies at Inha University, stated, 'There is a strong perception among subculture enthusiasts that they enjoy and know things that others do not. When content they enjoy becomes mainstream, they feel a sense of pride while simultaneously seeking out new, different experiences. The essence of subculture popularity lies in the pride associated with unique, non-mainstream tastes.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-12 18:04:00
  • Major Game Companies Enter Subculture Game Market as Competition Intensifies
    Major Game Companies Enter Subculture Game Market as Competition Intensifies Subculture games are becoming a key genre in the South Korean gaming market. Following the success of subculture games developed by local companies, major firms like NC, Netmarble, and Wemade are now venturing into this genre.According to the gaming industry on July 12, Shift Up's game 'Goddess of Victory: Nikke' generated 166.8 billion won in revenue last year, accounting for more than half of Shift Up's total annual revenue of 294.2 billion won.Market research firm Sensor Tower reported that Nexon's 'Blue Archive' earned approximately 95 billion won in South Korea over its four years since launch in 2022. These games have established themselves as success stories in the domestic subculture gaming market.Subculture, which refers to 'minority culture,' has rapidly gained a following in the South Korean gaming market since the 2020s. Subculture games primarily feature art styles inspired by Japanese anime and cute girl aesthetics.Nexon Games' 'Blue Archive' laid the groundwork for the growth of subculture games after achieving success in the Japanese market before its domestic release. Following this, titles like 'Goddess of Victory: Nikke' and 'Brown Dust 2' have also gained traction.'Brown Dust 2' is an example of a game that shifted to a subculture approach and found success. Originally a traditional turn-based RPG, it raised its age rating from 15 to 18 after one year of release in June 2023.The growth rate of subculture games is surpassing that of the overall South Korean gaming market. According to the 2024 Korea Game White Paper by the Korea Creative Content Agency, the growth rate of the domestic gaming market fell from 21.3% in 2020 to 3.4% in 2023, while the subculture game market has recorded an average annual growth rate of over 15%.As a result, more major South Korean gaming companies, including NC, Netmarble, Smilegate, and Wemade, are launching or developing subculture games.NC is preparing two subculture games, 'Limit Zero Breakers' (developed by Big Game Studio) and 'Astraea Oratio' (developed by Dynamis One). While NC has strengths in MMORPGs like 'Lineage' and 'Aion,' it is also venturing into subculture games to diversify its offerings.Smilegate is leveraging its experience from the 2018 RPG 'Epic Seven' for its upcoming titles. Following the release of 'Chaos Zero Nightmare' in October last year, it has recently opened pre-registration for its new game 'Mirash: The Invisible Future.'Netmarble's 'Mon-Gil: Star Dive' reinterprets its intellectual property 'Monster Taming' to align with subculture sensibilities. While inheriting the original world of the 2013 game 'Monster Taming,' it incorporates subculture elements in characters and graphics to attract both existing and new fans. Wemade launched 'Lost Sword' last year and released 'Make Drama: MAD' last month. It is currently developing games based on 'Noah (N.O.A.H)' and 'Hundred Note IP.'The ease of entering international markets is also cited as a reason for gaming companies to explore subculture games. According to Sensor Tower, about 70% of the approximately $650 million (about 900 billion won) in cumulative revenue generated by 'Blue Archive' over four years came from Japan.'Goddess of Victory: Nikke' achieved the top revenue spot in both the Korean and Japanese markets following its 3.5-year update in the first half of the year. After an update on July 2, it ranked first in App Store revenue in South Korea, second in Japan, and second in Taiwan, demonstrating success in overseas markets.Lee Jae-hong, president of the Korea Game Policy Association, stated, “Subculture games are adding originality to a market that has been concentrated on specific genres like Korean-style MMORPGs and 'Lineage-like' games, broadening the choices for gamers. As Korean culture gains popularity in the global market, game companies should diversify their storytelling and business models to achieve success not only domestically but also globally.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-12 18:04:00
  • Subculture Games Expand at Anime Expo 2026
    Subculture Games Expand at Anime Expo 2026 The competition among subculture games extends beyond the games themselves. Fandoms centered around characters and worlds are evolving into a 'fandom economy' that sustains long-term consumption of intellectual property (IP) through animation, merchandise, offline events, and fan creations.According to the gaming industry, subculture games exhibit higher user loyalty and diverse content consumption methods compared to traditional games. Users not only play the games but also engage with the IP by purchasing character merchandise, creating cosplay and fan art, and participating in offline events. This expansion into animation, performances, figures, and pop-up stores generates various revenue streams beyond game sales.The 'Anime Expo 2026,' held from July 2 to 5 at the Los Angeles Convention Center, exemplifies this fandom economy. As North America's largest animation and subculture event, Anime Expo is a premier global gathering that combines gaming, animation, voice actor events, merchandise sales, and cosplay.South Korean game companies actively utilized this year's Anime Expo as a platform to secure a global fanbase.Nexon participated for the third consecutive year, showcasing 'Blue Archive' and the upcoming title 'Project RX.' At the Blue Archive booth, the in-game city of 'Kibotos' was recreated in a real-world setting, featuring large character sculptures and photo zones. Daily DJ performances attracted large crowds, with cheers audible from the entrance of the venue. Merchandise sales were also a success, with 12 out of 25 items selling out early on the second day, demonstrating strong interest from local fans.'Project RX,' despite being publicly unveiled for the first time, drew attendees with an interactive space themed around a Western-style mansion and character cosplay. Long lines formed as attendees waited to enter, and Nexon hosted a separate panel session in a hall accommodating over 1,000 people to introduce the game's world and development direction.Smilegate revealed new season information for 'Chaos Zero Nightmare,' expanding its reach to North American users. The upcoming Season 4, titled 'Broken Light and Claws,' set to launch on July 29, was highlighted to build anticipation among global players.Netmarble debuted a new promotional video and key art for its upcoming title 'Solo Leveling: Karma.' This mobile roguelite action RPG is being developed to introduce new content to North American fans, leveraging the original IP's recognition.Subculture events are also rapidly growing in South Korea. The country's largest animation and gaming event, AGF, recorded its highest attendance ever last year, with 100,518 visitors over three days. A total of 71 companies participated, showcasing 1,075 booths, marking the largest scale to date. As more attendees visit for merchandise purchases, cosplay, voice actor stages, and IP experiences, the consumption of subculture content is expanding beyond gaming.An industry insider noted, 'Subculture games are characterized by strong attachment to characters and worlds, leading to continued consumption outside of the games. Creating a virtuous cycle that connects animation, merchandise, and offline events is a key strategy in recent IP business.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-12 18:04:00
  • Kim Min-seok Calls for Elimination of Dual Party Membership and Legal Action Against Shincheonjis Election Interference
    Kim Min-seok Calls for Elimination of Dual Party Membership and Legal Action Against Shincheonji's Election Interference Next month, Kim Min-seok, a candidate for the leadership of the Democratic Party, stated on July 12, "We must eliminate dual party membership and oppose Shincheonji's interference in elections." During a party member meeting titled 'Again! Winning Democratic Party: Kim Min-seok's Q&A' held at the National Assembly, Kim emphasized the need for honest elections, linking this to issues of dual party membership and Shincheonji. He remarked, "Dual party membership is morally, legally, and politically wrong," urging conscientious party members to address this issue during the upcoming convention. He also warned that if Shincheonji attempts to interfere politically in the Democratic Party's convention beyond its religious activities, he would seek legal action against them. The meeting included discussions on various internal issues such as the one-person, one-vote system, prosecutorial reform, and nominations for the June 3 local elections. In response to a question about the feasibility of fully implementing the one-person, one-vote system, Kim stated, "The one-person, one-vote system is one of the beginnings of party member sovereignty," adding that he plans to expand members' rights, duties, information, and discussions. He promised to pursue a ten-year plan for party member sovereignty if elected as party leader. Addressing allegations that he opposes the abolition of supplementary investigative powers and is against prosecutorial reform, Kim claimed, "The Prime Minister's Office directed the handling of the abolition of supplementary investigative powers in May and June, but the party leadership postponed it due to pressure. I have consistently maintained that abolishing supplementary investigative powers is a principle." Kim also pointed to his rival, former leader Jeong Cheong-rae, suggesting that the party leadership's flawed strategy contributed to the defeat in the June 3 local elections. He noted, "The party's top leadership did not campaign evenly across the country, leading to this outcome," and indicated that fairness issues arose in the nomination process. Meanwhile, Kim expressed confidence that leading the party in the upcoming general election in two years would benefit both the party and the government. He stated, "I have worked closely with President Lee Jae-myung over the past three years. I am best prepared to support President Lee's administration in the next two years," appealing for the support of party members.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-12 17:56:00
  • Naver and Kakao Anticipate Strong Q2 Earnings Amid AI Integration
    Naver and Kakao Anticipate Strong Q2 Earnings Amid AI Integration Naver and Kakao are expected to report improved earnings for the second quarter as they prepare for their upcoming announcements at the end of the month. Analysts predict that both companies will continue their positive performance, supported by stable advertising and platform businesses. A key factor will be how successfully they can integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into their existing services to create new revenue streams.According to financial information provider FnGuide, Naver's consolidated revenue for the second quarter is projected to reach 3.3481 trillion won, with an operating profit of 572.7 billion won, marking increases of 14.8% and 9.8%, respectively, compared to the same period last year.Kakao is also expected to report strong results, with a consensus revenue estimate of 2.056 trillion won and an operating profit of 223.4 billion won, reflecting year-on-year increases of 1.4% and 20.1%.Both companies' earnings are driven by their advertising and platform businesses, but their growth strategies for the second half of the year differ somewhat.Naver plans to enhance user engagement and boost advertising and shopping revenue by integrating AI into its search and commerce services. In the first quarter, the number of performance-based advertisers more than doubled compared to the previous year, thanks to advancements in AI-driven advertising.In the second half, Naver aims to strengthen this trend. The recently launched AI search feature, 'AI Tab,' will begin integrating real estate services in August, followed by health agents and specialized agents for the Whale browser, expanding its usability. Instead of operating the AI Tab as a paid service, Naver intends to increase search usage to enhance advertising and commerce engagement.Starting in the third quarter, advertisements are expected to be introduced at the top of the 'AI Briefing,' which summarizes search results, potentially increasing revenue through new advertising space.Strengthening commerce competitiveness is also a major task for Naver. The company is reportedly considering a direct delivery business model to enhance its logistics capabilities. This strategy aims to improve the shopping experience and increase the use of Naver Plus Store and membership, ultimately driving transaction growth.Kakao, on the other hand, is focusing on integrating AI into its platform ecosystem centered around KakaoTalk. Currently, TalkBiz advertising and commerce are key revenue sources, supported by its content business, which includes webtoons and music. In the first quarter, TalkBiz advertising revenue grew by 16% year-on-year, indicating robust growth in advertising and commerce.In the second half, increasing the utilization of AI within KakaoTalk will be a top priority. The company plans to gradually expand AI services such as 'ChatGPT for Kakao,' 'Kanana in KakaoTalk,' and AI Mate, incorporating various functions like conversation, search, recommendations, and schedule management into KakaoTalk. The goal is to increase user engagement and connect existing revenue models, including advertising, commerce, and subscriptions, with AI.However, Kakao faces challenges due to ongoing labor disputes related to its AI business expansion. Concerns have been raised that unresolved conflicts over organizational restructuring and business realignment could impact service launch schedules and the pace of business development.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-12 17:48:00