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365mc Launches AI Transformation Champions to Drive Medical Innovation 365mc is accelerating its efforts in medical innovation through artificial intelligence (AI). The company aims to enhance its data-driven medical system by integrating AI across clinical and operational areas.On July 7, 365mc announced the launch of 'AX Champions' (AI Transformation Champions), a dedicated organization focused on AI implementation. This group will apply AI across all areas, from clinical practice to operations, to improve efficiency and advance precision medicine.Choi Ji-hyun, head of 365mc, has been appointed as the inaugural Chief AI Officer (CAIO). The organization comprises 16 members selected from various fields, including medical staff and administration, to promote AI adoption centered on practical applications.365mc has been integrating AI technology into healthcare for several years. Starting with the 'AI Liposuction System' developed in collaboration with Microsoft in 2017, the company has advanced related technologies through its AI research group, HOBIT Lab. It is leveraging approximately 1.4 billion data points to enhance safety and improve demand forecasting across various sectors.Recent research achievements include the development of algorithms for predicting fat extraction amounts and models for predicting respiratory decline during surgery, in collaboration with university researchers. These studies have been published in the international journal 'Scientific Reports.'In clinical settings, 365mc is expanding AI-based services, including systems for predicting post-surgery swelling and bruising, as well as programs for forecasting treatment outcomes, covering everything from consultations to post-operative care.The company plans to strengthen its AI-based medical system further with this new organization. Kim Ha-jin, chair of the 365mc representative council, stated, "Involving those who understand the field best in the AI adoption process is essential for genuine service innovation. We aim to enhance patient safety and satisfaction through data-driven healthcare."CAIO Choi Ji-hyun emphasized, "As digital transformation accelerates, AI is a core competitive advantage. We will combine our data and technological capabilities to establish a globally competitive smart healthcare model."Meanwhile, 365mc is actively implementing AI systems in real clinical environments. For instance, the AI-based 'APPA (Artificial Intelligence Post-operative Symptoms Prediction Algorithm)' system, which predicts symptoms after liposuction, is currently in operation at Busan 365mc Hospital.The APPA system analyzes 730,000 liposuction data points accumulated over 23 years, assessing factors such as body shape, fat volume, treatment area, and surgery duration to predict recovery processes. This allows for advance estimation of bruising severity, pain intensity, and recovery speed for specific symptoms. The system was developed by HOBIT Lab, 365mc's dedicated AI and big data team.The APPA system is designed to proactively address potential post-surgery symptoms using predictive data, enabling personalized care for each patient. There are plans to expand its application to all 365mc hospitals nationwide.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-07 14:28:00 -
Insurance Association Accelerates Climate Insurance Infrastructure Amid Extreme Weather 손해보험협회가 한국기상산업기술원과 손잡고 기상·기후 데이터를 활용한 '기후보험 종합 포털' 구축에 나선다. 최근 집중호우와 폭염 등 이상기후가 일상이 되면서 보험업계도 기후 데이터 활용에 속도를 내는 모습이다.손해보험협회는 서울 종로구 손해보험협회에서 한국기상산업기술원과 '기상기후 데이터 활용 기후보험 종합 포털 구축'을 위한 업무협약(MOU)을 체결했다고 7일 밝혔다.이번 협약은 이상기후로 자연재해 피해가 증가하면서 보험을 통한 위험 관리와 기상 데이터 활용 수요가 높아지는 데 따른 것이다.양 기관은 기상청의 기상·기후 데이터와 기후보험 정보를 연계한 기후보험 종합 포털을 공동 구축할 계획이다.사업은 한국기상산업기술원이 추진하는 '2026년 기상기후 데이터 활용 지원사업'의 일환으로 진행된다. 기술원은 포털 구축 사업 수행기관 선정과 구축 비용을 지원하고, 손해보험협회는 보험업계 수요를 반영해 포털 구축을 추진할 예정이다.포털에는 지수형 기후보험의 보상 조건 충족 여부를 자동으로 판정하고 신속한 보험금 지급을 지원하는 기능이 탑재된다. 또 기상청과 손해보험협회, 보험사 간 시스템(API)을 연계해 데이터 허브 역할을 수행하고, 보험사의 보상 업무 효율화와 신규 상품 개발을 지원할 예정이다. 이와 함께 풍수해보험 등 기후보험의 보험금 지급 조건과 지급 현황 조회 기능을 제공한다.손해보험협회 관계자는 "이번 포털 구축을 통해 기후위기에 대응하는 보험 인프라가 한층 강화될 것"이라며 "손해보험업계는 앞으로도 기상 기후데이터를 활용해 기후보험 활성화에 힘쓰겠다"고 말했다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-07 14:24:00
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Cristiano Ronaldo Reflects on World Cup Exit, Values Euro Win Equally Cristiano Ronaldo, who concluded his FIFA World Cup journey in the Round of 16, expressed disappointment but emphasized his pride in his national team career.On July 7, Portugal faced Spain in the Round of 16 of the 2026 North America World Cup at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas, losing 1-0. After a scoreless 90 minutes, Portugal conceded the decisive goal in the first minute of stoppage time.Following their quarterfinal finish in the 2022 Qatar tournament, Portugal's journey in this tournament ended in the Round of 16.Ronaldo, who started the match and played the full 90 minutes, attempted three shots but did not register any points. As the final whistle blew, he was unable to hide his tear-filled eyes. His best World Cup performance remains the semifinals in the 2006 Germany tournament.However, outside the stadium, he maintained his composure. According to Portuguese media outlet A Bola, Ronaldo stated after the match, "I am sad to leave the World Cup this way. But as I said in yesterday's press conference, I gave it my all and leave with a sense of relief. Tomorrow, I will rise with the same pride as today."He also expressed strong pride in his achievements with the national team, saying, "I have played for the national team for 23 years and won three trophies. Before I joined, Portugal had not won a single trophy." He emphasized, "Among them, the UEFA Euro victory is the most important. Honestly, for me, the 2016 Euro win holds the same value as the World Cup."Portugal won its first major tournament by defeating host nation France 1-0 in the final of the 2016 Euro Championship.In a press conference the day before, Ronaldo hinted at retiring from World Cup participation after this tournament but refrained from confirming his complete retirement from international play. He remarked, "I won't make a decision in haste. Right now, it's not important whether I continue playing or not."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-07 14:24:00
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Debate Erupts Over Wedding Gift Money: Is 150,000 Won the New Standard? There is growing controversy online over whether the standard wedding gift money should be raised from 100,000 won to 150,000 won. As the costs of wedding venues and preparations have significantly increased, some argue that the traditional gift amount should also change. However, many netizens have responded that "gift money is not just a meal payment," leading to a heated debate.The discussion began with a post on a recent online community, where the author noted that buffet prices at wedding venues and various wedding costs have been rising. They suggested that guests should contribute around 150,000 won as a standard gift, arguing that 100,000 won is insufficient given the expenses involved in hosting a wedding.This claim quickly spread across multiple online communities and social media platforms. Given that wedding gift money is a topic many people have considered, reactions were swift and varied. While netizens acknowledged the reality of rising wedding costs, opinions diverged on whether it is appropriate to shift that financial burden onto guests.Critics focused on the meaning of gift money. Some argued, "Gift money is given to celebrate a marriage, not to cover the cost of the meal at the venue." They pointed out that the expenses of preparing for a wedding should primarily be borne by the couple, and expecting guests to contribute a certain amount could be seen as passing the burden onto them.Others emphasized that the scale of the wedding and the choice of venue are decisions made by the couple. Comments included, "It doesn’t make sense to choose an expensive venue and then ask guests to pay more," and "If you invite guests, you should prioritize hospitality." Many expressed concern that as the burden of gift money increases, attending weddings could become uncomfortable.Particularly among working professionals and acquaintances, there were voices expressing concern about the financial strain. Netizens commented, "Having two or three weddings in a month is a significant burden," and "While I can give more than 150,000 won for close friends, it’s difficult for acquaintances to contribute that much." They noted that while salaries have not significantly increased, the expectation for gift money continues to rise.On the other hand, some expressed understanding for the perspective of engaged couples. They argued that with the rising costs of wedding meals, 100,000 won is no longer a sufficient amount if guests are expected to eat. Some netizens stated, "If we are close, I can consider contributing around 150,000 won," and "As prices rise, it’s natural for the standard of gift money to change." They noted that if the meal cost is around 70,000 to 80,000 won, then 100,000 won might feel inadequate.However, many who supported this view also expressed discomfort with the idea of a "basic 150,000 won" standard. While they could voluntarily give more for close relationships, they felt that establishing a social norm could create psychological pressure on guests. Online comments included, "It should be a matter of personal choice based on relationships," and "I can give 150,000 won, but if it feels like a demand, I will resist it." Many argued that rather than raising the standard, a culture of understanding each other's circumstances is needed.It is true that the rising costs of weddings have increased the burden on engaged couples. Expenses for venue rental, meals, photography, wedding attire, and honeymoon plans have all risen, leading many preparing for weddings to feel that they are "much tighter than before." The question remains whether it is appropriate to address this burden through increased gift money from guests.Netizens' reactions are divided at this point. Some believe that as prices rise, gift money must also increase to some extent, while others argue that the meaning of celebration should not be quantified in monetary terms. The debate continues, as gift money is intertwined with human relationships, social expectations, and economic pressures.Some have suggested that the culture surrounding gift money itself needs to change. Suggestions include allowing guests to choose whether to eat and lowering the burden of gift money, promoting smaller weddings or family-centered ceremonies, and creating a system that is less burdensome for both hosts and guests. Concerns have been raised that weddings are becoming less about celebration and more about financial calculations.Online discussions have also revealed a variety of opinions on specific gift money amounts. While some believe that for close friends or family, amounts over 200,000 won are acceptable, many feel that 50,000 to 100,000 won is sufficient for colleagues or acquaintances they haven’t seen in a while. There are also suggestions that the amount should vary based on attendance, with 100,000 won or more for those who attend and around 50,000 won for those who send their regards without attending.This controversy is not merely about the difference between 100,000 won and 150,000 won. It highlights the burdens faced by those preparing for weddings in a high-cost environment, the financial pressures on guests, and the differing perceptions of the original meaning of gift money. As wedding costs rise, the culture surrounding weddings is also under pressure to change.Ultimately, the consensus seems to be that there is no definitive answer regarding gift money. For close relationships, it is acceptable to give more according to one’s means, and if the burden is too great, it is better to express one’s feelings within reasonable limits. However, there are ongoing concerns that as the culture of setting a basic amount becomes stronger, the spirit of celebration may diminish while the burden increases.The debate over the 150,000 won gift money standard is likely to continue online for the foreseeable future. While weddings are significant personal events, they also represent a social occasion that requires time and financial investment from invited guests. In a situation where both engaged couples and guests feel burdened, discussions surrounding gift money standards are likely to persist alongside changes in wedding culture.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-07 14:24:00
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Hyundai Motor Group maintains No. 7 in global EV sales SEOUL, July 7 (AJP) - Hyundai Motor Group ranked seventh globally in electric vehicle sales for the first five months of this year, according to data released by market researcher SNE Research on Tuesday. Hyundai Motor and its affiliate Kia sold a combined 303,000 electric vehicles including plug-in hybrids from January through May, up 24.3 percent from a year earlier to retain seventh place, narrowing the gap with sixth-ranked Chinese automaker Changan to 27,000 vehicles from 78,000 a year earlier. The combined market share of the two automakers also rose to 3.9 percent from 3.3 percent. "Hyundai saw the fastest growth among the world's top seven automaker groups, driven by a recovery in Europe and expansion in Asian markets beyond China," SNE Research said. China's BYD led global EV sales with 1.16 million deliveries, despite a 21.5 percent decline from a year earlier. Its market share also fell to 14.9 percent from 19.7 percent. Another Chinese automaker Geely ranked second with 779,000 deliveries, followed by U.S.-based Tesla with 601,000 and Germany's Volkswagen with 542,000. China's largest state-owned automaker SAIC (Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation) Motor ranked fifth with 458,000 deliveries. With Chinese automakers almost dominating the top five, the world's most populous country remained the largest EV market with 4.16 million deliveries, although their combined market share fell to 53.7 percent from 62 percent a year earlier. EV deliveries in Europe rose 27.5 percent to 1.99 million, while those in Asia excluding China jumped 75 percent to 747,000. North America saw deliveries fall 27.6 percent to 517,000. 2026-07-07 14:23:26 -
Government Accelerates Major Semiconductor Cluster Project Amid Real Estate Concerns The government is accelerating the development of large-scale industrial complexes, including the confirmation of the semiconductor cluster site in the Gwangju military airport area, through a major public-private joint inspection meeting. While the announcement of such massive developments is welcomed as a means to secure future economic growth and promote regional balanced development, it also brings inevitable side effects, particularly the overheating of the real estate market. Kim Yong-beom, head of the Presidential Policy Office, stated in a radio broadcast that the "real estate situation is at its worst," warning that the rising asset prices are likely to become even more pronounced by the end of the year and into next year. He emphasized the urgent need to find solutions, specifically highlighting the need for "extraordinary measures" to curb demand pressure and increase supply. A sober assessment of the current economic environment and social issues reveals that the term "urgent" is not an exaggeration. South Korea's economy is showing strong recovery, with a significant increase in the current account surplus compared to previous years and a dramatic rise in profits for listed companies. However, the substantial liquidity generated from corporate bonuses and taxes is being funneled into the "black hole" of real estate. News of large-scale industrial complex developments tends to stimulate speculative behavior. Funds gravitate toward areas with positive developments, creating a vicious cycle that drives up property prices in surrounding regions. If this pattern repeats, the hard-won economic recovery could become a boomerang of asset bubbles that strangles the economy. A more significant issue is that the soaring real estate prices do not merely represent a problem of unearned income for asset holders. The root causes of many social issues currently plaguing society, such as low birth rates, despair among the youth, and deepening polarization, can always be traced back to "housing instability." The feeling of helplessness that comes from being unable to afford a home, even after saving for decades without spending a penny of one’s salary, has become a decisive reason for young people to forgo dating, marriage, and childbirth. The failure to stabilize real estate prices could ultimately lead to a national disaster that undermines the sustainability of the South Korean community. The government has announced that it is reviewing various measures, including the early supply of new towns and the development of 60,000 housing units in the metropolitan area, along with expanding long-term rental and purchase rental housing. As Kim stated, this is not the time to be picky about solutions; it is a moment for desperate supply measures to be implemented. However, merely increasing supply is insufficient. Strong regulations and market monitoring must be in place to thoroughly block speculative forces that disrupt the market amid development news. If mega projects are overshadowed by a real estate speculation frenzy, they could transform from a promise for South Korea's future into a cause of hardship for the public. Stabilizing the real estate market is not just a matter of policy success; it is the last bastion for addressing long-standing societal issues and ensuring at least minimal hope for future generations. The government must demonstrate a firm commitment and execution to avoid repeating past failures. If the overheating of the asset market is not curbed and the stability of people's livelihoods is not achieved, mega projects will ultimately be nothing more than empty shells. The government must define the current situation as an "urgent crisis" and mobilize all available policy tools in the battle for real estate market stability. 2026-07-07 14:20:00
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Supply-Only Approach Won't Solve Seoul's Housing Crisis Kim Yong-beom, head of the Presidential Policy Office, stated that a "desperate solution" is needed for the real estate issues in the metropolitan area. He described the influx of money into real estate as the "worst" scenario. His concerns are valid. With a current account surplus and rising corporate profits, money is flowing into South Korea, but if it is concentrated in certain real estate markets in Seoul rather than being directed toward productive investments or regional industries, the Korean economy could once again be hindered by rising housing prices.However, the challenge lies in finding a solution. If the government prioritizes supply again, it will not be sufficient. While supply is necessary, discussing price stabilization without addressing the need for quality housing in Seoul and the metropolitan area is unrealistic. Moreover, increasing supply takes time; finding land, obtaining permits, and completing construction can take years. The current market is driven by today's anxieties and tomorrow's expectations. It is naive to believe that merely announcing supply plans will curb speculative demand and the concentration of demand in Seoul.The essence of South Korea's real estate problem is not simply a lack of housing. The issue lies in the concentration of all opportunities in Seoul, where education, jobs, culture, and wealth accumulation are all funneled into the real estate market. The belief that one must live in Seoul to succeed and the conviction that entering affluent areas like Gangnam, Myeongdong, and the Han River belt is the only path to upward mobility support the market. Unless this belief is dismantled, any supply measures will ultimately fuel price increases.Therefore, the solution must directly target demand. Taxation, loans, holding costs, rental systems, and regional industrial policies should be bundled into a comprehensive package. The social costs associated with owning multiple high-value properties should be increased, while ensuring housing stability for genuine residents. At the same time, the institutional benefits that make real estate the safest and most advantageous investment should be reduced. Without changing the reasons why money flows only into Seoul's real estate, price stabilization will remain a mere slogan.More importantly, sustainability is crucial. Real estate policies have often been strict in the early stages of a government but waver as elections approach. When prices rise, the focus shifts to supply, and when transactions slow, discussions of regulatory relaxation emerge, instilling incorrect lessons in the market. The market is more persistent than the government. When the government introduces short-term measures, the market waits for years for relaxation. What is needed is not one-off measures but long-term signals. The direction to reduce the concentration in Seoul and lower expected returns from real estate must be maintained beyond political terms and elections.Supply must also align with these principles. An indiscriminate "supply at all costs" approach is dangerous. Key questions include where, for whom, at what price, and alongside what transportation and job plans will the supply occur. If expanding supply in central Seoul leads to another lottery-style allocation and stimulates surrounding prices, it will be a policy failure. Supply that merely fills numbers in the outskirts of the metropolitan area will not alleviate the concentration in Seoul. Supply must be designed alongside demand dispersion.As Kim stated, the influx of money into real estate is the worst scenario. However, to prevent this worst-case outcome, we must move beyond familiar supply prescriptions. As long as good jobs, schools, hospitals, and cultural infrastructure are concentrated only in Seoul, demand will not easily diminish. Real estate policy must serve as housing policy while also functioning as industrial policy, educational policy, and balanced development policy.If the government is truly desperate, it must send a clear signal to the market. Investments relying on the myth of invulnerable Seoul real estate will no longer be protected by the state. Supply should be increased, but the illusion that supply alone can solve everything must be discarded. To ensure that the awareness of real estate issues does not remain just talk, what is now needed is decisiveness and sustainability.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-07 14:20:00
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NATO family proves too tight for South Korea in Canadian bid SEOUL, July 07 (AJP) - South Korea's campaign to break into NATO's inner circle of submarine suppliers fell short as Canada chose Germany's TKMS over Hanwha Ocean, underscoring that alliance politics can outweigh technology and industrial advantages in major defense contracts. Ottawa on Monday designated TKMS as the preferred supplier for a program to procure up to 12 conventionally powered submarines. The acquisition is expected to cost at least $20 billion, while lifetime spending on maintenance, infrastructure and support could reach about C$80 billion over coming decades. Hanwha Ocean's KSS-III Batch-II was named the reserve supplier, meaning South Korea could still enter negotiations if talks with the German company collapse. Prime Minister Mark Carney announced the decision in Halifax, Nova Scotia, calling it "a difficult, close decision between two highly qualified suppliers." He did not disclose the contract value but said it would be the largest procurement in Canadian history and involve "tens of billions of dollars" in investment. "Both suppliers met the Royal Canadian Navy's demanding capability requirements and presented strong industrial proposals," Carney said. "In the end, this decision was about choosing the absolute best platform and partnership to meet Canada's combined strategic, security and economic interests." Canada's choice highlighted the weight Ottawa placed on the Type 212CD's Arctic capabilities, NATO interoperability and integration into the existing German-Norwegian submarine program. TKMS already supplies submarines to more than one-third of NATO members. Ottawa said the Type 212CD's low acoustic and magnetic signatures, under-ice operating capability and seamless interoperability with NATO forces would strengthen Canada's ability to defend its three coasts while deepening cooperation with key allies. TKMS also offered to reshuffle production slots from existing German and Norwegian orders, allowing Canada to receive its first four submarines in 2034 before the retirement of its aging Victoria-class fleet. Hanwha had pitched its KSS-III Batch-II offered longer range, greater weapons capacity and a faster production schedule, proposing delivery of the first submarine in 2032 and four boats by 2035. The South Korean company nevertheless acknowledged that superior technology and delivery speed had not been enough to overcome the alliance factor. "We made every effort based on the government's full support, the outstanding performance of our submarine and the Navy's successful operational experience, but we were unable to overcome the wall of the NATO alliance," Hanwha Ocean said. The company said it would review shortcomings exposed during the competition to strengthen its global competitiveness and support further expansion of South Korea's naval defense industry. Presidential chief of staff Kang Hoon-sik, who twice visited Canada as President Lee Jae Myung's special envoy, echoed that assessment. Kang said South Korean submarine technology had demonstrated that it was comparable to, and in some respects ahead of, Germany's, but acknowledged that decades of military integration among NATO members could not be overcome in a single competition. He added that Seoul respected Canada's decision, saying it reflected a combination of security, industrial cooperation, economic considerations and cost. President Lee Jae Myung also struck a measured tone. "Although we did not achieve the result we had hoped for, I believe we once again clearly demonstrated our capabilities to the international community," he said. The Canadian decision does not yet constitute a final contract award. Ottawa and TKMS must still negotiate pricing, the final number of submarines, delivery schedules, Canadian industrial participation, infrastructure, training and long-term maintenance. Canada aims to conclude the contract by the end of 2027. Carney also emphasized that Hanwha remains in reserve. "If negotiations with TKMS are unsuccessful, Canada retains the right to designate Hanwha Ocean, currently the reserve supplier, as the preferred supplier and enter into negotiations with them," he said. Still, Ottawa made clear it expects to reach a final agreement with TKMS, leaving Hanwha as a fallback option only if negotiations break down over price, delivery or industrial commitments. Investors also abandoned ship. Hanwha Ocean shares plunged more than 24 percent Tuesday to 88,000 won, extending their decline to nearly 40 percent from the June 17 peak of 141,900 won when expectations for the Canadian bid were running high. For Seoul, the setback carries a broader lesson. Winning future multibillion-dollar defense contracts will require not only competitive technology and rapid delivery but also a strategy that addresses alliance structures, industrial partnerships and the geopolitical priorities that increasingly shape procurement decisions. 2026-07-07 14:18:38 -
Adviotech Becomes Second-Largest Shareholder in Onhill, Shares Rise 7% Adviotech is experiencing strong gains as it expands its bio and contract research organization (CRO) business through the acquisition of shares in pet healthcare company Onhill.As of 2:10 PM on July 7, Adviotech's shares were trading at 2,215 won, up 7.26% from the previous trading day, according to the Korea Exchange.The surge in investor sentiment is attributed to news of a strategic investment aimed at diversifying its business. Adviotech announced on July 6 that it had decided to acquire 181,269 shares of Onhill for approximately 10 billion won, following a board resolution on July 3. After the acquisition, Adviotech will hold a 12.28% stake, making it the second-largest shareholder in Onhill, following CEO Kim Do-hyung.The company plans to leverage this investment to enhance synergies in new business areas, including non-clinical CRO services, veterinary hospital platforms, and pet healthcare. The investment represents about 29.25% of Adviotech's equity, described as a strategic move to secure future growth drivers.Onhill operates based on the One Health concept, engaging in non-clinical CRO services, pharmaceutical and medical device design and distribution, animal medicine licensing, the VETUS veterinary prescription platform, B2C distribution for pet products, and pet healthcare research and development (R&D).Since appointing Kim Do-hyung as CEO at a special shareholders' meeting in June, Adviotech has been strengthening its existing immunotherapy business while expanding its portfolio into bio R&D, medical and healthcare, pet services, and digital platforms.A company representative stated, "This share acquisition is part of our diversification strategy for sustainable growth. We will strengthen strategic partnerships and actively seek new business opportunities."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-07 14:16:00
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KOSPI Plummets Nearly 8%, Triggering First Circuit Breaker of the Year The KOSPI index fell nearly 8% due to massive sell-offs by foreign and institutional investors, dropping to the 7400 range. The index experienced an over 8% decline for more than a minute, triggering the first stage of the circuit breaker (CB) in the securities market this year.As of 1:59 PM on July 7, the KOSPI was down 646.85 points (8.03%) at 7404.48 compared to the previous trading day.The index continued to decline, and at approximately 1:51 PM, it fell more than 8% for a minute, leading to a 20-minute suspension of trading in the securities market. The Korea Exchange activated the first stage of the circuit breaker at 1:51:33 PM when the KOSPI dropped to 7401.56, marking an 8.07% decrease from the previous day.The first stage of the circuit breaker halts trading for 20 minutes if the KOSPI remains down more than 8% for one minute. If the index falls more than 15% from the previous close and drops an additional 1% from the first stage activation level, the second stage is triggered. A decline of more than 20% from the previous close and an additional 1% drop from the second stage activation level would result in the third stage, ending trading for the day.Just before the circuit breaker was activated, foreign and institutional investors led the decline, selling a net 3.9696 trillion won and 649.2 billion won, respectively. In contrast, individual investors bought a net 4.5058 trillion won, absorbing the sell-off.Most of the top market capitalization stocks showed significant declines. Samsung Electronics fell 9.91%, SK Hynix dropped 10.54%, SK Square decreased 13.18%, Samsung Electro-Mechanics was down 11.98%, LG Energy Solution fell 8.07%, Hyundai Motor dropped 8.74%, Samsung Life Insurance decreased 7.88%, Samsung C&T fell 8.01%, and Samsung Biologics was down 1.28%.At the same time, the KOSDAQ index recorded a decline of 30.73 points (3.63%), reaching 816.34 compared to the previous trading day.In the KOSDAQ market, individual investors sold a net 303.9 billion won, while foreign and institutional investors bought a net 211.2 billion won and 96.6 billion won, respectively.Among the top market capitalization stocks, Alteogen rose 0.15%, Kolon TissueGene increased 2.60%, HLB was up 1.95%, and ABL Bio gained 2.99%. However, EcoPro BM fell 2.71%, EcoPro dropped 3.16%, Rainbow Robotics decreased 6.56%, JUSUNG Engineering was down 3.19%, Wonik IPS fell 11.08%, and Rino Technology dropped 5.87%.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-07 14:12:00