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  • Average Price of 59㎡ Apartments in Seoul Approaches 1.6 Billion Won
    Average Price of 59㎡ Apartments in Seoul Approaches 1.6 Billion Won The average price of 59㎡ private apartments in Seoul is nearing 1.6 billion won, continuing a trend of record highs. According to a report by Realhouse, which analyzed data from the Korea Real Estate Agency's subscription home, the 12-month moving average price for 59㎡ apartments in Seoul reached 159.34 million won as of August this year, marking a 1.97% increase from the previous month. The average price for 59㎡ apartments in Seoul has remained above 150 million won for four consecutive months since May. In Incheon, the average price rose to 53.9 million won, a 7.02% increase from the previous month, while the overall average for the metropolitan area increased by 0.65% to 92.03 million won. In Gyeonggi Province, the average price fell by 7.13% to 62.86 million won. Nationally, the average price for 59㎡ apartments stood at 53.2 million won, reflecting a 0.23% increase from the previous month. For 84㎡ apartments, the average price in Seoul reached 194.43 million won, up 1.87% from the previous month. In Incheon, the average price increased by 6.37% to 77.28 million won, while the overall average for the metropolitan area rose by 1.08% to 120.8 million won. In Gyeonggi Province, the average price decreased by 4.55% to 90.7 million won. Nationally, the average price for 84㎡ apartments was 71.48 million won, down 0.48% from the previous month. In August, 15 new private apartment complexes were launched nationwide, totaling 8,092 units, which is a 38.0% decrease from the previous month and a 23.1% drop compared to the same month last year. Kim Seon-a, head of the Realhouse subscription analysis team, stated, "With the government's expansion of financial support for housing project financing following the August 13 measures, the supply conditions in the metropolitan area are expected to improve. However, given the significant burden of already reflected land and construction costs, it remains to be seen whether prices will decrease even with increased supply."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-10 14:44:00
  • SH to Supply 125,227 Square Meters of Mixed-Use Land in Magok for Physical AI Companies
    SH to Supply 125,227 Square Meters of Mixed-Use Land in Magok for Physical AI Companies The Seoul Housing and Communities Corporation (SH) will supply 33 parcels of mixed-use land totaling 125,227 square meters in the Magok Industrial Complex, located in Gangseo-gu, Seoul. The initiative aims to attract companies related to artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics, particularly those involved in 'Physical AI,' to expand the advanced industrial ecosystem in the area.According to SH, the mixed-use land is designed to accommodate industrial facilities alongside other types of developments. More than 50% of the total building area must be allocated for research and development (R&D) facilities, while the remaining space can include neighborhood commercial facilities, offices, medical services, retail, cultural, and recreational facilities. This layout is intended to provide both research spaces for companies and convenience for their employees.The average supply price is approximately 7.5 million won per square meter, which SH describes as about half the level of surrounding market prices.The Magok Industrial Complex serves as a hub for advanced industries in the southwestern part of Seoul, housing major companies' R&D functions, including LG Science Park and Kolon Future Technology Institute. Currently, 209 large and small enterprises have established research facilities in the area, which also supports collaborative R&D and technology partnerships between large corporations and small and venture businesses.SH is particularly focused on attracting companies in the AI sector, especially those working on Physical AI technology, which integrates AI with physical devices such as robots, autonomous vehicles, and smart factories to enable real-world perception, decision-making, and control.The core of this supply initiative is to integrate AI technology with the existing R&D foundation of resident companies. The goal is to broaden the scope of collaboration through joint research and practical applications with newly attracted firms.Applications for land allocation can be submitted by individual corporations or consortia of 2 to 5 companies. Proposals will be evaluated based on the companies' R&D capabilities and business plans, with a preference for those demonstrating technological expertise and business potential in the AI field.On September 4, SH held a briefing for interested companies and stakeholders, attended by about 70 participants. The session covered the supply scale, eligible parcels, residency qualifications, evaluation criteria for business plans, and the supply schedule, followed by a Q&A session.Business proposals will be accepted until October 20. The final candidates will be selected after a review by the Magok Industrial Complex Policy Review Committee on November 26.SH plans to support research and practical applications in the AI industry by linking the existing R&D infrastructure of the Magok Industrial Complex with newly established companies. This initiative aims to develop Magok as a growth hub for AI and R&D technology firms and to promote convergence among advanced industries. 2026-09-10 14:44:00
  • Korean Bar Association and LAWASIA to Host 39th Annual Conference in Seoul
    Korean Bar Association and LAWASIA to Host 39th Annual Conference in Seoul The Korean Bar Association announced on September 10 that it will co-host the 39th LAWASIA Conference 2026 with LAWASIA (the Law Association for Asia and the Pacific) from September 14 to 16 at The Plaza Hotel Seoul and the Koreana Hotel. The two organizations have been collaborating since signing a memorandum of understanding in April to ensure a successful conference.LAWASIA is a prominent regional legal organization comprising lawyers, judges, and legal professionals from over 40 jurisdictions in the Asia-Pacific region. The annual conference serves as a key event where legal leaders and practitioners gather to discuss legal issues and international challenges.This year’s conference marks the fourth time it has been held in Seoul, following previous events in 1977, 1999, and 2011. Notably, it coincides with the 60th anniversary of LAWASIA and will focus on the theme 'Global New Order – Challenges and Perspectives.'With legal professionals from around the Asia-Pacific and beyond coming together, the conference aims to address significant issues and challenges facing the legal community amid a changing international order and legal environment. Due to high interest, registration reached capacity before the event.The opening ceremony on September 14 will begin at 1:30 PM, featuring remarks from Yap Teong Liang, President of LAWASIA, and Kim Jung-wook, President of the Korean Bar Association, along with a welcome address from Woo Chang-rok, co-chair of the organizing committee for the Seoul conference. Video messages will be delivered by President Lee Jae-myung, Chief Justice Cho Hee-dae, and Constitutional Court President Kim Sang-hwan.Ban Ki-moon, former UN Secretary-General, will deliver the keynote address, discussing key issues facing the legal profession and the role of legal professionals and organizations in upholding the values of the rule of law and human rights amid change and innovation.The conference will also feature cultural performances, including a taekwondo demonstration by K-TIGERS and a K-pop cover dance by the One Shot Crew, showcasing Korean culture and charm to both domestic and international attendees.Over the three days, the conference will include a welcome reception and specialized sessions covering various fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), intellectual property, international transactions, finance, labor, family law, human rights, and environmental law.Legal professionals from various countries will share insights on key legal issues and recent legislative and practical trends, seeking diverse perspectives and solutions. Additionally, networking programs and a gala dinner at the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul will enhance exchanges and cooperation among legal professionals from around the world.Kim Jung-wook stated, 'As the international order rapidly changes, the importance of exchange and cooperation among legal professionals is growing. We hope this conference, marking the 60th anniversary of LAWASIA, will be a meaningful opportunity for legal professionals from around the world to share key legal issues and explore the future legal environment together.'The Korean Bar Association plans to use this conference to further expand exchanges between the legal communities of South Korea and the Asia-Pacific region, strengthen the international network of domestic legal professionals, and enhance its role in the global legal community.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-10 14:40:00
  • Yuk Dong-hwi of KB Asset Management: Focus on Asset Structure, Not Just High Returns
    Yuk Dong-hwi of KB Asset Management: Focus on Asset Structure, Not Just High Returns This year, the popularity of bond-mixed exchange-traded funds (ETFs) has surged in the market. Notably, KB Asset Management's 'RISE Samsung Electronics SK Hynix Bond Mixed 50,' launched in February, surpassed 4 trillion won in net assets within just four months, becoming the top bond-mixed ETF in South Korea.In a recent interview with AJU Economy, Yuk Dong-hwi, head of ETF product marketing at KB Asset Management, emphasized that in ETF investing, the focus should be on 'how to structure assets' rather than 'what to buy.' He advised investors to first determine their asset goals for 5 to 10 years down the line and then select ETFs that align with those objectives, rather than simply chasing the highest returns.Investor Mindset Shifts After July Market Drop: ETFs as Asset Management ToolsYuk advised individual investors looking to start ETF investments that thinking about buying the ETF with the highest potential returns can complicate their investment strategy. Instead, he suggested that they should consider how much they want their investments to grow over the next 5 to 10 years and design their investment structure accordingly.By setting clear goals, investors can reverse-engineer their investment choices. For instance, if an investor currently has 100 and aims for it to grow to 120, the target increase is 20. Choosing ETFs that align with this goal would change their investment approach.This shift in investment strategy is also reflected in the recent ETF market trends. Previously, investors typically focused on high-yield themes or sectors, but there is now a growing number of investors using ETFs as tools for asset management.Yuk noted that the stock market's sharp decline in July accelerated this change in investor perception. More investors are considering factors like representative indices, dividends, and asset allocation, rather than concentrating solely on specific themes like artificial intelligence (AI) and semiconductors. He observed, "Since assets are not managed for just one year, it seems that long-term investors are increasing as market fluctuations occur."The success of bond-mixed ETFs this year is also seen as a result of heightened interest in asset allocation. By combining stocks and bonds, these ETFs provide opportunities for stock appreciation while reducing volatility, which has increased demand among pension investors. KB Asset Management is developing a diverse range of products, including bond-mixed ETFs, monthly dividend ETFs, and those based on representative indices. Yuk emphasized that the fundamental principle remains prioritizing the investor.ETF Market Expected to Expand: Increased Use by Pensions and InstitutionsThis transformation is expected to broaden the scope of the ETF market. Yuk anticipates significant growth potential in the ETF sector, as investors begin to view ETFs not just as vehicles for one-time profits but as essential tools for asset management. There is also potential for increased ETF utilization among pensions and institutional investors.He pointed out that many investors still choose principal-protected products like savings accounts in defined contribution (DC) retirement plans and individual retirement plans (IRPs). If the use of ETFs expands among defined benefit (DB) funds and institutional investors like pension funds and mutual aid associations, the market size could grow significantly.Yuk stated, "If companies aim for a 5% to 7% return annually, ETFs will be the investment vehicle of choice. Given that pension funds and other institutional investors are increasingly directing their funds toward ETFs, it’s plausible that the market could quickly reach 1,000 trillion won, not just 500 trillion won."As the ETF market continues to grow, Yuk identified AI as a key investment theme for the second half of the year. He advised investors to look beyond the name 'AI' and focus on sectors experiencing supply shortages or bottlenecks as the industry expands.Yuk remarked, "If you ask what the keyword for the second half is, it’s still AI. As the AI industry develops, sectors facing shortages, or bottlenecks, tend to see stock price increases. For instance, memory shortages have driven up prices, and the same could apply to graphics processing units (GPUs) and possibly central processing units (CPUs). We are planning upcoming product launches while considering what products investors need right now."KB Asset Management's recent launch of the 'RISE Global AI NAND Memory Semiconductor,' which focuses on the global NAND memory value chain, aligns with this strategy. The firm anticipates that the demand for NAND flash memory will structurally increase as the volume of data processed by AI grows rapidly, investing in related stocks listed in South Korea, the U.S., and Japan.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-10 14:36:10
  • NH SPAC 34 Soars 106% on First Day of KOSDAQ Listing
    NH SPAC 34 Soars 106% on First Day of KOSDAQ Listing NH SPAC 34 has surged over 106% on its first day of trading on the KOSDAQ market.As of 2:27 PM on September 10, the stock was trading at 4,125 won, up 2,125 won (106.25%) from the previous trading day, according to the Korea Exchange.NH SPAC 34 debuted on the KOSDAQ today with an initial public offering price of 2,000 won, opening at 4,000 won. During the trading session, it reached a high of 5,700 won, marking a 185% increase from the IPO price.The company is a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) established to merge with a private firm. If it fails to find a merger target within three years of its listing, it will face delisting procedures.NH Investment & Securities managed the listing, with 8.5 million shares offered, raising 17 billion won. The total number of shares listed is 9.05 million, and the IPO funds are fully deposited with Kookmin Bank.NH SPAC 34 has identified key industries for potential mergers, including renewable energy, biopharmaceuticals and medical devices, IT convergence systems, robotics, new materials and nanotechnology, automotive parts, and IT semiconductors. However, no specific merger targets have been determined yet.As a newly listed stock, NH SPAC 34 can trade within a range of 1,200 to 8,000 won, which is 60% to 400% of the IPO price. A volatility control mechanism (VI) is not applied on the first day of trading.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-10 14:36:10
  • South Korea Aims to Compete in AI Race, Focuses on Talent Development
    South Korea Aims to Compete in AI Race, Focuses on Talent Development Two recently released statistics have captured attention. One indicates that China's total research and development (R&D) spending has surpassed that of the United States for the first time, while the other reveals that Chinese students ranked first in mathematics and science in the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA). Both indicators suggest that China is preparing for dominance in the AI era, starting from foundational strengths.According to the 'Science and Technology Indicators' report from Japan's Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, China's R&D expenditure is projected to reach approximately 847 trillion won in 2024, surpassing the U.S. figure of about 831 trillion won. This marks the first time since the survey began in 1981 that China has taken the lead. Additionally, China’s top ranking in PISA for mathematics and science reflects its strong talent pool.As the world enters an AI competition era, the importance of education in mathematics and science, which underpin AI, is paramount. Choi Tae-won, chairman of SK Group, recently stated, 'In the AI era, mathematicians will earn more than doctors,' emphasizing that a rote memorization and exam-focused education will struggle to keep pace in the AI competition. Jensen Huang, CEO of NVIDIA, also remarked, 'If I could go back to being 20, I would study physical sciences over software.'Dan Wang, a technology industry analyst in China, contrasts the U.S. as a 'nation of lawyers' with China as a 'nation of engineers.' He notes that while U.S. bureaucrats often come from legal backgrounds, China's leadership is predominantly composed of engineers and technicians. In China, the cultivation of advanced industries is treated as an engineering project rather than mere rhetoric. Although Wang points out some negative side effects of this governance style, it is undeniable that it has propelled China to its current status as an AI powerhouse.In this context, South Korea, which has set a national goal to become one of the 'three AI superpowers,' must reassess its educational landscape. While the country is rapidly investing in infrastructure such as semiconductor and data center projects, questions arise about how well its educational policies align with the ultimate competitive factor: talent development. South Korean students have consistently performed at the top in academic assessments, and the country ranks second globally in R&D spending as a percentage of GDP at 5.13%. However, as South Korea aims to join the ranks of the U.S. and China as an AI superpower, this is not a time for complacency.Amid this, there have been hopeful reports that some semiconductor contract programs have surpassed admission scores of Seoul National University’s natural sciences. This shift has attracted top science students to practical career paths, such as employment with major semiconductor companies like Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix, slightly altering the previously dominant trend toward medical school. However, this change is limited to a few prestigious universities and does not yet represent a fundamental shift in the broader engineering education landscape.The goal of becoming one of the 'three AI superpowers' cannot be achieved through infrastructure investment alone. Unlike building semiconductor factories, talent cannot be produced on a short timeline. The ongoing global competition for AI talent is even more intense than the AI semiconductor race. Therefore, a consistent educational framework must be redesigned across all levels, from elementary to graduate school, to cultivate AI talent. This involves understanding AI through the lens of mathematics, science, and engineering, and fostering individuals who can create new technologies grounded in human values and ethics. This is the true starting point for AI education. 2026-09-10 14:36:00
  • Nongshims new ad with Aespa draws 100 million views on YouTube
    Nongshim's new ad with Aespa draws 100 million views on YouTube SEOUL, September 10 (AJP) - Nongshim's latest global ad for its flagship Shin Ramyun, featuring K-pop girl group Aespa, has surpassed 100 million views on YouTube in just two weeks, the instant noodle giant said on Thursday. Released late last month, the ad reached the milestone in just two weeks, twice as fast as the first ad also featuring the quartet, which was released in November last year and took about a month to surpass 100 million views, reflecting the growing global popularity of the instant noodle brand. The ad connects the brand's signature spicy flavor with everyday moments of happiness, showing Aespa members enjoying the noodles in their daily lives. "Available in multiple languages, the ad is intended to help consumers around the world enjoy the taste of the noodles in a more familiar way," said a Nongshim spokesman. First launched in 1986, Shin Ramyun has generated more than 20 trillion won (US$14.4 billion) in cumulative sales, with 42.5 billion units sold worldwide. The product, which marks its 40th anniversary this year, is now available in more than 100 countries. AJP Takeaways - Nongshim's latest global Shin Ramyun ad featuring K-pop girl group Aespa surpassed 100 million YouTube views within two weeks of its release in late August 2026. - The latest Aespa campaign reached 100 million views about twice as fast as the first Shin Ramyun ad featuring the group, which took about a month after its November 2025 release. - Shin Ramyun, launched in 1986, has sold 42.5 billion units worldwide and generated more than 20 trillion won (US$14.4 billion) in cumulative sales, with the brand now available in more than 100 countries. 2026-09-10 14:33:00
  • Cosmecca Korea to Invest 200 Billion Won in Cheongju for K-Beauty Production Hub
    Cosmecca Korea to Invest 200 Billion Won in Cheongju for K-Beauty Production Hub Cosmecca Korea will invest 200 billion won in the Ochang Science Industrial Complex in Cheongju, South Korea, to establish a production hub supporting the global expansion of K-beauty.On September 10, Cosmecca Korea announced it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with North Chungcheong Province and Cheongju City to establish a new cosmetics manufacturing facility. Key figures at the signing ceremony included Cosmecca Korea Chairman Jo Im-rae and North Chungcheong Governor Shin Yong-han.Under the agreement, Cosmecca Korea plans to invest a total of 200 billion won from 2026 to 2030 to expand its skincare production infrastructure and enhance manufacturing competitiveness.The new facility will be built on a 50,174.3 square meter (approximately 15,177 pyeong) site in the Ochang Science Industrial Complex in Cheongju's Heungdeok District. Cosmecca Korea aims to construct a skincare factory with a total floor area of 58,862.83 square meters (approximately 17,806 pyeong) to increase production capacity and establish a stable supply base for global business expansion.Notably, the new factory will be developed as a hub for 'intelligent manufacturing innovation' that goes beyond digital transformation (DX) to incorporate artificial intelligence (AX). Construction is set to begin this month, with the first phase of operations targeted for 2027, and production facilities will be gradually expanded by 2030. This process is expected to create around 500 new jobs.Chairman Jo Im-rae stated, "With the investment in the Ochang Science Industrial Complex, we have secured a production base for global market expansion. We will enhance AI-based manufacturing innovation and increase talent recruitment while growing together with the local community."Meanwhile, Cosmecca Korea reported growth in both revenue and profitability in the second quarter of this year, driven by increased exports of K-derma skincare products and the acquisition of new clients. Consolidated revenue reached 226.1 billion won, and operating profit was 32.1 billion won, marking increases of 39.8% and 39.3%, respectively, compared to the same period last year.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-10 14:32:10
  • SK hynix revises bonus deal, raises cash portion to 50%
    SK hynix revises bonus deal, raises cash portion to 50% SEOUL, September 10 (AJP) - SK hynix and its labor union have reached a revised tentative wage agreement that increases the cash portion of employee performance bonuses, following the rejection of an earlier deal by union members. Under the revised agreement, 50 percent of the company's profit-sharing bonus, or PS, will be paid in cash and 50 percent in shares, compared with a 40-60 split under the previous proposal, said a company official. Of the total PS, 80 percent will be paid in the year following the performance period, consisting of 50 percent in cash and 30 percent in shares. The remaining 20 percent will be deferred and paid in shares over the following two years, with 10 percent distributed each year. The revision comes after union members narrowly rejected the previous tentative agreement last month. The proposal was voted down by just 25 votes, with 50.08 percent opposing the deal and 49.92 percent supporting it. The earlier agreement had drawn concerns among employees over the increased use of stock-based compensation, as the value of shares can fluctuate before they are received. Under the revised plan, employees who prefer a higher proportion of stock will be able to increase the share-based portion from the default 50 percent to as much as 100 percent in 10-percentage-point increments. The company also agreed to bring forward the remaining 20 percent of PS based on last year's performance that had originally been scheduled for deferred payment over the next two years. SK hynix and the union have been renegotiating details of the compensation structure since the first tentative agreement was rejected. Union members are scheduled to vote on the revised agreement on Sept. 15 and 16. If approved, the vote will finalize the wage agreement, the SK hynix official said. AJP Takeaways - SK hynix revised its tentative bonus deal to increase the cash portion of PS to 50 percent from 40 percent, while cutting the stock portion to 50 percent from 60 percent. - Under the basic structure, 80 percent will be paid upfront — 50 percent in cash and 30 percent in shares — while 20 percent will be deferred over two years. - Union members will vote on the revised agreement on Sept. 15-16 after narrowly rejecting the previous proposal by 25 votes. 2026-09-10 14:32:05
  • Coupang Supports Online Transition for Traditional Markets with Consulting and Meal Kits
    Coupang Supports Online Transition for Traditional Markets with Consulting and Meal Kits Coupang is taking steps to enhance the online sales capabilities of traditional markets.Coupang and Coupang Eats announced on September 10 that they will launch the 'Digital Jump-Up Program for Traditional Markets' starting with the Yukgeori General Market in Cheongju, North Chungcheong Province. They plan to expand support to other regional traditional markets, including Geoje, by the first half of next year.The program will focus on online sales strategy consulting, industry-academic collaboration, and meal kit production. Future initiatives will include support for packaging materials and the operation of online promotional events.For merchants lacking experience with Coupang Eats, the program will provide training for onboarding, as well as assistance with menu and product photography. Considering the demographics of traditional markets, which often include many elderly merchants, support will continue even after onboarding to help with online sales operations.Collaboration with local universities will also be utilized. University students will propose marketing strategies and new customer acquisition methods from the perspective of consumers in their 20s. Efforts will also be made to identify unique menu items for each market and develop them into meal kit products.Previously, Coupang implemented a similar support program at the Cheongnyangni Market in Seoul. Following online sales strategy consulting, collaboration with Kyung Hee University's College of Hotel and Tourism, meal kit product development, and packaging support, merchants participating in the Cheongnyangni Market saw their Coupang Eats sales increase by approximately 40% in the first half of this year compared to the same period last year.Coupang Eats is also expanding online promotions targeting traditional markets. During a promotional event held in August at the Sokcho Tourism Fish Market, sales for participating stores increased by 87% compared to the same period the previous month. Some stores reported weekly sales increases of up to 220%, according to the company.Jang Young-cheol, Executive Director of Coupang's Social Contribution Division, stated, “We will support traditional market merchants to establish stable online sales channels and achieve sustainable growth, taking into account the unique characteristics of each local market.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-10 14:32:00