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  • Ha Ji-won Discusses Her Role as a Fallen Star in Bi-gwang
    Ha Ji-won Discusses Her Role as a Fallen Star in 'Bi-gwang' Actress Ha Ji-won has shed her glamorous image to portray a more relatable character in the film 'Bi-gwang.' In the movie, she plays Nam-mi, a fallen top star who endures the harsh realities of life while grappling with her past glory. Through her performance, Ha Ji-won effectively conveys the emotional turmoil of Nam-mi, proving her talent once again. "Before entering 'Bi-gwang,' I was in a period of deep reflection about myself. I was contemplating who Ha Ji-won is as a person and as an actress, and during that time, I was also working on painting. I was exploring stories about myself in the world, not just living as an actress on stage. It was during this time that I met Nam-mi, a character who also carries wounds and struggles as an actress. So, the year I spent waiting for this project was not just time passing; it was a time filled with contemplation," she said. 'Bi-gwang' wrapped filming in September 2021 and took a long time to reach theaters. Ha Ji-won expressed that after such a long wait, she viewed the completed film with a different perspective than during filming. "The release has been so long awaited that it's hard to express in words. I really counted down the days. I had seen a rough cut after filming and dubbing, but I watched the final version for the first time recently. Revisiting a project after some time allowed me to see it not just from Nam-mi's perspective but also from the audience's viewpoint. I noticed things I hadn't seen before, and even though it's my film, I enjoyed watching it," she said. Rather than feeling anxious about the delayed release, Ha Ji-won focused on trusting her choice of project. The extended preparation time allowed her to connect with Nam-mi on a deeper level. "I didn't feel anxious. Once I choose a project, I tend to trust and wait for it. Filming was delayed due to COVID-19, and the preparation took about a year longer, but I believe that time allowed me to embrace Nam-mi more fully," she explained. To understand Nam-mi better, Ha Ji-won took time to reflect on herself. She felt that through observing Nam-mi's relationships and wounds, she could experience the character's pain and growth. "I tried to accept the situations in the script as Ha Ji-won. Nam-mi's circumstances are incredibly challenging. I looked closely at the wounds and background she experiences, and I thought of her as a character who matures through that process. I also felt that Dong-joo, a child in the film, resembled Nam-mi. He lacked sufficient love, became an actor, and in that sense, Nam-mi saw him as a painful reflection of herself, someone she could either take in or abandon," she said. Although Ha Ji-won has not experienced a fall from grace like Nam-mi, she sought to connect with the emotions of the character as an actress. "I tried to immerse myself in that situation. When you place yourself in such circumstances, you can feel the emotions. I could relate more because both Nam-mi and I are actresses. Of course, I haven't experienced a significant fall like Nam-mi, but as a female actor, I have my own existence in society. I become more cautious, think twice, and feel a greater sense of responsibility. More broadly, we all live as the person society expects us to be—whether it's the person our mothers want us to be, or what our companies or schools expect. I think I understood Nam-mi through those reflections," she said. Nam-mi's transformation from a top star to a fallen actress required a significant change in appearance. Ha Ji-won meticulously adjusted her look and mannerisms to reflect the gap between her glamorous past and her more grounded present. "The director set up the character very well. The gap is part of Nam-mi's charm. When she was a top star, her speech was a bit rougher and more assertive, and she had a glamorous gold dress look. In contrast, after her fall, I made my hair look more damaged and gave the impression of neglecting skincare. While the early Nam-mi had a healthy vibe, eight years later, she needed to feel more lived-in. So, I discussed external changes, speech, tone, and breathing with the director extensively," she said. In the film, the relationship between Jung-gu and Nam-mi is complex. Ha Ji-won noted that actor Ryu Seung-ryong helped create the right mood for their interactions. "He was cast as Jung-gu before me. I really wanted to work with him, and it was an honor. He is usually very funny and tells dad jokes, but he didn't during filming. Our roles are familiar yet strange, and the relationship is complex. Instead of rehearsing, he naturally created the mood on set. I was grateful for how well he received my performance, and I wish we had more scenes together," she said. Working with Kim Sun-young and Kim Hae-sook also contributed significantly to portraying Nam-mi's grounded life. Ha Ji-won expressed her regret that their family scenes felt too brief. "It was a real honor to work with Sun-young. The sense of reality that emerged during rehearsals was wonderful, and I learned a lot from expressions like 'mayonnaise hair' and the smell of kimchi. I would love to act with her again. It was also an honor to work with Kim Hae-sook. All the seniors I filmed with in this movie were fantastic. Their performances conveyed a sense of real life. It was so enjoyable, and I felt it was too short with my family on screen," she said. For Ha Ji-won, the most important aspect of delivering a realistic performance was to physically feel the emotions. She believed that Nam-mi's emptiness and resilience needed to be naturally expressed through her gaze and breathing. "I think the tone of the dialogue and breathing come from feeling deeply. Nam-mi is a character who struggles to endure life, so her gaze needed to convey emptiness at times rather than intensity. During the preparation phase, I was very intense, but on set, I actually tried to empty myself more. I needed a gaze that didn't convey strength or intensity, as there are moments when she has so many stories and wounds but lacks the strength to endure. It was important to feel those emotions," she said. Recently, Ha Ji-won has been engaging with a new generation through her YouTube content '26th Batch Ji-won.' She explained that this project stemmed from her curiosity about living in the world, not just as an actress on stage. "I had a curiosity about the world beyond the stage. I always wanted to communicate with different generations to understand the world better, and during that time, I received the proposal for '26th Batch Ji-won.' I was genuinely curious and wanted to know more. What I appreciated was that my peers and seniors treated me as a 26th batch freshman, even though they were younger than me. That allowed me to immerse myself, and I was grateful for that," she said. For Ha Ji-won, aging as an actress means continuously taking on new challenges. Engaging in music broadcasts, creating YouTube content, and revisiting action roles are not easy choices, but she believes these experiences help her grow. "These days, I'm doing music broadcasts, '26th Batch Ji-won,' and revisiting action roles. Honestly, none of this is easy for me. It's challenging, nerve-wracking, and a test. But I feel that even if it's hard, going through these experiences expands me. My heart and my view of the world are gradually widening. While it's important to build depth and skill, I also think it's crucial to broaden my perspective of the world. That way, I can engage more with the world and contribute to diverse characters and genres," she said. For Ha Ji-won, 'Bi-gwang' tells Nam-mi's story while also resonating with everyone living in their own circumstances. She hopes that viewers will take a moment to breathe and reflect on themselves while watching the film. "It's important to have a moment to breathe and think about who I am. It could be within the family or at work. When we take a moment to reflect on ourselves, I believe we become happier as we understand our existence better. 'Bi-gwang' offers a time to feel that in your heart, so I hope you come to see it," she said. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-05 08:04:00
  • Free Tuition at Regional National Universities May Widen Educational Inequality
    Free Tuition at Regional National Universities May Widen Educational Inequality The South Korean government announced plans to fully waive tuition for new students at 30 regional national universities starting in 2027. However, research suggests that this generous financial support may inadvertently hinder low-income high achievers. Despite their academic excellence, economically disadvantaged students tend to opt for fully subsidized universities instead of more expensive top-tier institutions. This raises concerns that the government's 'free tuition' initiative could entrench educational inequality, effectively pushing low-income students to regional schools while wealthier students dominate prestigious universities in Seoul. On September 4, a research team led by Professor Jeong Dong-wook at Seoul National University published a paper in the Journal of Educational Administration, analyzing the impact of national scholarship policies on college and major selection across income levels. The study compared data from the 2008 cohort, before the introduction of the national scholarship program, with the 2018 cohort, after the program's expansion, to track the college enrollment patterns of low-income students. Why Are High Achievers from Low-Income Backgrounds Attending Fewer Top Universities? The findings indicate that while the national scholarship program has successfully increased the overall college enrollment rate for low-income students, a troubling trend emerges when focusing on high-achieving students with grades in the top 20 percent. Since the implementation of the scholarship program, the likelihood of middle- and upper-income high achievers attending top universities has significantly increased. In contrast, the enrollment rate for high-achieving students from low-income backgrounds has decreased relative to other income groups. Why are these students choosing to forgo admission to prestigious universities despite receiving scholarships? Choosing Scholarships Over Academic Potential: The 'Undermatching' Phenomenon The answer lies in the scholarship's 'tuition assistance ratio.' Current national scholarships provide a fixed amount based on income brackets. Consequently, if a student is accepted to an expensive private university, even with a scholarship, they may still face substantial out-of-pocket expenses. When factoring in the high cost of living in Seoul, the financial burden can become overwhelming. As a result, low-income high achievers often lower their sights, opting for less prestigious universities or affordable public institutions where tuition is fully covered by scholarships. This phenomenon, known as 'undermatching,' refers to students attending colleges that do not match their academic capabilities. This trend is also evident in major selection. As the tuition assistance ratio increases, wealthier students are more likely to pursue high-paying fields such as engineering or medicine, while low-income students gravitate toward less expensive humanities or natural sciences, limiting their options. The Pitfalls of the Free Tuition Policy: "Wealth Determines University Access" The research team's analysis highlights a critical contradiction in the government's recent announcement of full tuition support for new students at regional national universities. The government aims to prevent regional decline and retain talented individuals by making these institutions completely free starting in 2027. However, applying the undermatching theory reveals a more serious issue. If regional national universities become entirely free, low-income high achievers, despite their qualifications for top universities in Seoul, may feel compelled to prioritize these free options due to financial pressures. Conversely, students from higher-income families, who can afford the steep tuition and living costs of prestigious private universities, are likely to continue flocking to top institutions in Seoul without being constrained by the free tuition initiative. Ultimately, what began as a well-intentioned policy to support regional national universities may inadvertently reinforce a modern form of class division, where access to higher education is starkly divided along economic lines. The research team concluded, "While national scholarships have increased overall college enrollment for low-income students, they do not guarantee autonomy in college and major selection. We must seriously recognize the undermatching phenomenon, where financial burdens lead low-income students to choose institutions that do not reflect their academic achievements." It is now crucial for the government to move beyond simplistic measures like reducing tuition to zero and consider more nuanced support, such as living expense assistance, to enable low-income high achievers to select universities that align with their capabilities without financial fear.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-05 08:04:00
  • Real Estate Trends: Gangnam Prices Fall While Gangbuk Sees Gains
    Real Estate Trends: Gangnam Prices Fall While Gangbuk Sees Gains The Seoul apartment market is experiencing diverging price trends between the Gangnam and Gangbuk areas. While prices in Seocho and Gangnam districts are declining, Gangbuk, which includes Seongbuk and Nowon districts, has seen prices rise by around 0.5%, driving the overall increase in Seoul housing prices.According to the Korea Real Estate Agency's weekly apartment price trends report released on September 3, the rate of increase in Seoul apartment sales was 0.22%, a decrease of 0.07 percentage points from the previous week’s 0.29%. While key areas in Gangnam are experiencing declines, Gangbuk is showing a notable increase, highlighting a clear regional disparity.Gangnam Buyer Sentiment Drops, Gangbuk Sees GrowthLooking at the detailed figures, among the three districts in Gangnam, Gangnam District recorded a decline of -0.41%, widening its drop by 0.3 percentage points from the previous week. Seocho District fell by 0.23%, a decrease of 0.18 percentage points. Songpa District saw a slight increase of 0.01%, but this was a reduction of 0.08 percentage points from the previous week, nearing a stable range.In contrast, the previously considered outer Gangbuk area is showing a clear upward trend. Seongbuk District recorded the highest increase at 0.54%, followed by Jungnang at 0.52%, Nowon at 0.5%, and Gangbuk at 0.45%.A similar trend is observed in the rental market. During the same period, Seoul apartment rents rose by 0.21%, while Gangnam and Seocho districts recorded declines of -0.13% and -0.1%, respectively. Conversely, Seongbuk and Gangbuk districts saw increases of 0.38%, and Nowon and Dobong districts rose by 0.37% and 0.32%, respectively.The KB Real Estate 'Weekly KB Apartment Market Trends' report released on the same day also confirmed the price differences between Gangnam and Gangbuk. Gangnam District recorded a decline of -0.04% for the third consecutive week, while Nowon District saw an increase of 0.63%, and Dobong District rose by 0.45%, ranking first and second, respectively.In the rental market, Gangnam District recorded a decline of -0.03% for the third consecutive week, while Nowon District's increase of 0.46% surpassed the average rental increase in Seoul of 0.19%.A representative from KB Real Estate stated, "In Gangnam, buyers and sellers have adopted a wait-and-see approach amid ongoing discussions regarding the revised tax reform plan, leading to a slowdown in transactions. In contrast, in Nowon District, affordable listings are being quickly absorbed, causing prices of newly listed properties to rise as well."Tax Reform and Interest Rate Hikes Prompt Caution in Gangnam, While Outer Areas AdjustThe weakness in the core Gangnam area is attributed to uncertainties surrounding tax reforms targeting high-priced homes and other policy uncertainties.On August 3, the government announced a tax reform plan for 2026, which included adjustments to the comprehensive real estate tax and capital gains tax systems. Initially, it proposed reducing the basic deduction for non-resident homeowners and increasing the tax burden cap, but on September 1, it reversed its stance to maintain the current system, increasing policy uncertainty within a month.Financial conditions have also played a role. The Bank of Korea's Monetary Policy Committee raised the base interest rate from 2.75% to 3.00% on August 27. Although the government expanded the total supply capacity for household loans on August 13, it decided to maintain key regulations such as loan-to-value (LTV) and debt service ratio (DSR), indicating that the burden of financing high-priced homes remains significant.In contrast, mid-range areas are supported by relatively lower purchase prices and genuine demand. Homebuyers, facing price burdens and limited inventory, are turning their attention to Gangbuk, where financing challenges are less severe.Kim In-man, head of Kim In-man Real Estate Research Institute, stated, "Due to the recent impacts of tax reforms and loan regulations, there has been an increase in properties for quick profit realization in Gangnam, while buyers are adjusting their expectations in the outer areas of Seoul. For the time being, the buying trend is expected to continue in Gangbuk and the outskirts of Seoul."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-05 08:04:00
  • Xiaomis Redmi Watch 6 Offers Long Battery Life and User-Friendly Features
    Xiaomi's Redmi Watch 6 Offers Long Battery Life and User-Friendly Features Xiaomi has established itself in the wearable market with its Mi Band, leading the popularization of smart bands with affordable prices and long-lasting batteries. The 'Redmi Watch 6' is the culmination of this experience, now in its sixth generation. One of the most impressive aspects of the Redmi Watch 6 is its long battery life. As a user who has avoided smartwatches due to the hassle of frequent charging, I felt I had finally found the right product. No matter how many features a device has, if it requires daily charging, it often ends up in a drawer. This product, however, seems to eliminate that concern. The Redmi Watch 6 is equipped with a 550mAh battery. Xiaomi claims it can last up to 24 days with light use, 12 days with regular use, and 7 days with intensive use. Actual usage time may vary based on notifications, exercise tracking, and health monitoring settings, but it is clear that daily charging is not a requirement. For short trips or travels, one might not even need to pack a charger. When compared to major smartwatches, the differences become more apparent. Product A offers a maximum of 40 hours with the always-on display (AOD) off and 30 hours with it on. Product B claims a maximum of 24 hours with regular use and 38 hours in low-power mode. While testing conditions and features vary by manufacturer, it is evident that the Redmi Watch 6 has a notably long battery life. Another satisfying feature is the large display. The 2.07-inch AMOLED screen has a 2mm bezel, allowing for easy visibility of messages and notifications. It boasts a maximum brightness of 2000 nits and a refresh rate of 60Hz. The responsiveness when navigating menus is quick and smooth. For those accustomed to the narrow screens of smart bands, the difference in checking notifications or viewing exercise records is significant. Despite the larger screen, it does not feel cumbersome. The watch's slim 9.9mm thickness and aluminum alloy frame make it comfortable to wear all day. The operation is straightforward, utilizing a crown and a secondary button. Pressing the secondary button once opens the control center, while three presses connect to emergency contacts. The ability to adjust the watch's orientation for left or right wrists may seem minor, but it proves quite convenient in practice. The exercise and health management features are well-equipped, supporting over 150 sports modes and an independent Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). It measures heart rate, blood oxygen levels, sleep, and stress. For users who do not require complex exercise functions, it is sufficient for tracking daily activity and sleep patterns. However, there are some drawbacks. Keeping the AOD on or increasing the frequency of health monitoring can lead to faster battery drain. While reading KakaoTalk or text notifications is easy on the large screen, the watch does not support replying directly; users must pull out their smartphones to respond. Nevertheless, what stands out most about the Redmi Watch 6 is not its flashy features but its fundamental ability to encourage regular use. For someone who has avoided smartwatches due to battery concerns, the reduced stress of charging has changed my usage habits. Coupled with a bright, large display, lightweight feel, and quick, intuitive operation, it is worth reconsidering for those who have previously given up on wearing a watch.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-05 07:08:00
  • Generational Reading Preferences: Genre Novels for 20s, Essays by Kim Ae-ran for 40s, and Jo Jung-rae for 50s and 60s
    Generational Reading Preferences: Genre Novels for 20s, Essays by Kim Ae-ran for 40s, and Jo Jung-rae for 50s and 60s Reading preferences vary significantly across generations. Readers in their 20s gravitate towards genre novels, while those in their 40s favor essay collections by Kim Ae-ran. Meanwhile, readers in their 50s and 60s are drawn to Jo Jung-rae's new work after a three-year hiatus.According to Kyobo Bookstore and Yes24, the top choice for readers in their 20s was Choi In-seo's genre novel 'Research Institute of Unusual Phenomena in Korean History.'This book, which developed a fanbase among young readers during its online serialization, has held the number one spot on Kyobo Bookstore's overall bestseller list for two consecutive weeks. It ranked ninth in the fiction, poetry, and drama category on Yes24, where 41.5% of buyers were in their 20s.Readers in their 40s preferred Kim Ae-ran's new essay collection 'I Wrote That.' It is currently ranked third on Yes24's overall bestseller list and first in the essay category. Among its buyers, 45.8% were in their 40s, followed by 29.8% in their 50s. The collection, which reflects Kim's daily life, has resonated with readers of the same age group.Jo Jung-rae's long-awaited novel 'Set of Frost Flowers,' released after three years, has garnered significant support from middle-aged readers. It is ranked eighth in the fiction, poetry, and drama category on Yes24, with 41.9% of buyers in their 50s and 26.9% in their 60s.Interest from older readers is also evident in biographies. Yoon Tae-young's 'Biography of Roh Moo-hyun' has entered Kyobo Bookstore's overall bestseller list at seventh place, with a notable purchasing share from men in their 50s and strong interest from readers aged 40 and above.The trend of seeking out classics transcends generational boundaries. The popularity of the film 'Odyssey' has propelled 'Odyssey' (translated by Kim Heon) to the top of Yes24's overall bestseller list, with sales increasing by 73.7% compared to the previous week. It also climbed five spots to rank 11th overall at Kyobo Bookstore. Another translation, 'Odyssey' (translated by Park Mun-jae), reached fifth place at Kyobo Bookstore and fourth place at Yes24.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-05 07:04:00
  • Trump Advocates for South Korea to Sell Cheongung-II to Ukraine
    Trump Advocates for South Korea to Sell Cheongung-II to Ukraine Donald Trump, the President of the United States, expressed support for a column advocating the sale of South Korea's mid-range surface-to-air missile, Cheongung-II, to Ukraine.According to Yonhap News on September 5, Trump shared a Washington Post column titled 'How Trump Can Help Ukraine Develop Its Own Patriot Missiles' on his social media platform, Truth Social.The column, written by Mark Thiessen, a foreign and security policy expert who has worked for former President George W. Bush and former Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld, suggests that Trump should pressure South Korea to sell its stockpiled M-SAM (Cheongung-II) to Ukraine. Thiessen argues that providing interceptors to Ukraine would alleviate the burden on the United States and improve relations.He added, 'Trump is justifiably angry that South Korea has refused to support operations in the Strait of Hormuz. There is no better way for South Korea to improve relations than to provide interceptors to Ukraine, which would also lessen the burden on the U.S.'Thiessen emphasized that this is an opportunity for South Korea to prove itself as a reliable ally.He also claimed that selling Cheongung-II aligns with South Korea's national interests, noting that while South Korea has legal restrictions on selling weapons to countries at war, it has sold Cheongung-II to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which is also involved in conflict.Furthermore, he raised concerns about advanced technology potentially falling into enemy hands, arguing that Ukraine should be granted permission to produce Patriot missiles, as sharing manufacturing technology could lead to it being transferred to Russia, Iran, North Korea, and China. He suggested that Ukraine should be allowed to co-produce a new, lower-cost version of the Patriot, the PAC-3 ACE, which lacks the most advanced capabilities.Trump did not comment further but shared the column's title and link on Truth Social. This action is interpreted as a push for South Korea to sell Cheongung-II to Ukraine, consistent with Trump's previous practice of sharing media that aligns with his views.The Cheongung-II was developed to counter aerial threats, including North Korean ballistic missiles. It is a key asset in South Korea's missile defense system, capable of intercepting missiles and aircraft at altitudes of 15 to 20 kilometers. Since 2020, it has been exported to major Middle Eastern countries, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq.However, some analysts suggest that Trump's sharing of the column may not only pressure South Korea regarding the sale of Cheongung-II but also address broader issues, such as South Korea's lack of cooperation in the Iran conflict.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-05 06:52:00
  • KOSPI Faces Volatility Amid Geopolitical Tensions and U.S. Inflation Data
    KOSPI Faces Volatility Amid Geopolitical Tensions and U.S. Inflation Data The KOSPI index fell over 1% this week due to renewed geopolitical risks and rising interest rate concerns. Next week, the domestic market is expected to experience increased volatility ahead of U.S. inflation data and the simultaneous expiration of futures and options. Analysts suggest that while the U.S.-Iran conflict and fluctuations in international oil prices may pose short-term challenges, strong semiconductor exports and expectations of a U.S. interest rate freeze could provide support.According to the Korea Exchange, the KOSPI dropped 1.50% during the week of August 31 to September 4. The KOSDAQ also fell by 2.97% during the same period.This week, the domestic market faced heightened volatility as geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and Iran escalated. The U.S. conducted direct strikes against Iran, resuming hostilities and diminishing hopes for normalization in the Strait of Hormuz, which led to a sharp rise in international oil prices. Coupled with a rise in global long-term interest rates, the KOSPI plummeted nearly 4% in a single day on September 2.However, by the end of the week, the rise in U.S. long-term interest rates stabilized, and dovish comments from Federal Reserve officials helped restore some investor sentiment. On September 4, the KOSPI closed at 6,687.21, up 107.73 points (1.64%) from the previous trading day, driven by rebounds in semiconductor stocks such as Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix. Foreign and institutional investors also supported the index's rise, with net purchases of 943.4 billion won and 1.9273 trillion won, respectively.Market analysts identify U.S. inflation and interest rate trends as key variables for next week. The U.S. is set to release its Producer Price Index (PPI) on September 10 and Consumer Price Index (CPI) on September 11, drawing attention to how these figures may influence the Federal Reserve's monetary policy in September.Recent disappointing U.S. employment data has emerged as a factor supporting a freeze on interest rates. The ADP private employment report for August showed an increase of only 38,000 jobs, falling short of market expectations, while job openings also came in below forecasts. Coupled with dovish remarks from Fed officials, concerns about a rate hike in September have eased somewhat.However, rising international oil prices add uncertainty to the inflation outlook. Continued tensions between the U.S. and Iran could lead to higher oil prices and increased inflation expectations, potentially pushing long-term interest rates back up. The U.S. CPI for August is projected to rise by 3.4% year-on-year, and if inflation comes in higher than expected, it could weigh on the stock market.On a positive note, the fundamentals of the semiconductor sector remain relatively strong. South Korea's exports in August reached $98.3 billion, a 68.7% increase from the previous year, with the average daily export growth rate for semiconductors at 216%. As semiconductor exports continue to perform well, analysts believe there will be little change in profit outlooks for the sector.Na Jeong-hwan, a researcher at NH Investment & Securities, stated, "Recent stock price volatility has clearly decreased from its peak, and semiconductor fundamentals are in good shape. The semiconductor sector accounts for over 70% of KOSPI net profits, and with the growth rate of semiconductor exports expanding, it is essential to maintain a strategy focused on this sector."However, next week will see the simultaneous expiration of futures and options on September 10, which could lead to increased short-term volatility due to supply and demand factors. With trading volumes in the domestic market significantly declining, fluctuations in foreign investors' positions in cash and futures could lead to larger index movements.Na added, "Given the decrease in trading volume coinciding with the simultaneous expiration, short-term stock price volatility may increase depending on the direction of foreign investors' cash and futures investments. While maintaining a focus on semiconductors, it is also important to consider sectors that may benefit from secondary batteries and AI platforms and services if upward momentum slows."Positive forecasts have also emerged regarding the domestic economy and the won. Samsung Securities highlighted the potential for a large current account surplus due to soaring semiconductor prices to translate into increased domestic consumption through government spending and corporate investment. As a result, they have revised their year-end forecast for the won-dollar exchange rate from 1,380 won to 1,300 won, and for next year, from 1,300 won to 1,250 won.Heo Jin-wook and Jeong Seong-tae, researchers at Samsung Securities, noted, "The South Korean economy is entering a phase where unprecedented positive terms of trade shocks are materializing due to soaring semiconductor prices driven by a global AI investment boom. We expect that the significant income increase effects will gradually spread throughout the domestic economy as we move through the second half of this year."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-05 06:04:00
  • Korean Minister Requests U.S. to Ease Tariffs on Investment Equipment
    Korean Minister Requests U.S. to Ease Tariffs on Investment Equipment 김정관 산업통상부 장관이 미국 측에 현지 투자에 나선 한국 기업의 공장 설비와 자재에 대한 관세 부담을 완화해달라고 요청했다.산업부에 따르면 김 장관은 4일(현지시간) 미국 루이지애나주 도널드슨빌에서 열린 현대제철·포스코 루이지애나 전기로 제철소(HPLS) 기공식에 참석했다.기공식에 앞서 김 장관은 제프 랜드리 루이지애나 주지사와 만나 한국 기업의 미국 투자가 한미 공급망 협력과 미국 제조업 강화에 기여하고 있다고 강조했다.이어 대규모 현지 투자가 계획대로 진행될 수 있도록 미국 내 조달이 어려운 공장 설비와 자재 등의 관세 부담을 완화하고 투자 애로를 해소하는 데 미국 연방정부와 주정부가 지원해달라고 요청했다.루이지애나 제철소는 현대자동차그룹이 추가 확정한 260억 달러 규모 대미 투자계획의 핵심 프로젝트다. 총 투자액은 58억 달러로 연간 생산능력은 270만t 규모다.제철소는 미국 주요 자동차 생산거점과 가까운 루이지애나주 미시시피강 유역에 건설된다. 루이지애나의 에너지·산업 인프라와 국내 기업의 철강 제조기술을 결합해 한미 철강·자동차 공급망 협력을 강화한다는 구상이다.생산된 자동차 강판은 미국 남부와 멕시코에 위치한 국내 자동차 기업 생산기지 등에 공급될 예정이다. 현지 생산을 통해 북미 고부가 철강시장 진출 기반도 넓힐 것으로 기대된다.김 장관은 "루이지애나의 풍부한 에너지와 우수한 산업 인프라에 대한민국이 자랑하는 세계적인 제철기술이 더해지는 새로운 출발점"이라며 "서로의 강점을 연결해 양국의 경쟁력을 함께 높이는 것이 한미 산업 협력의 새로운 모습"이라고 밝혔다.특히 루이지애나 제철소는 전기로 기반의 저탄소 생산공정을 적용해 자동차 강판 등 고급 철강재를 생산한다. 석탄 기반 코크스 대신 천연가스를 활용하고 전기로 공정을 결합해 기존 고로 공정 대비 탄소배출량을 약 70% 줄일 것으로 예상된다.산업부는 이번 투자가 미국의 무역확장법 232조 관세 등으로 수출을 통한 미국 철강시장 접근이 어려워진 상황에서 국내 철강기업이 현지 생산기반을 확보하는 교두보가 될 것으로 기대하고 있다.정부는 앞으로 국내 기업이 해외시장을 선점하고 안정적인 공급망을 구축할 수 있도록 통상·투자 애로 해소 등을 지원할 방침이다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-05 06:04:00
  • Korean Steel Alliance Launches Electric Vehicle Steel Plant in Louisiana
    Korean Steel Alliance Launches Electric Vehicle Steel Plant in Louisiana The first electric arc furnace-based automotive steel plant in the U.S. will be built by a South Korean company. Hyundai Steel is investing 8 trillion won to construct the HPLS electric steel plant in Louisiana.The plant will have an annual production capacity of 2.7 million tons, with construction set to begin in the fourth quarter of this year and production expected to start in 2029. If completed as planned, it will be the world's first commercial production of automotive steel using electric arc furnaces.On September 4, Hyundai Steel held a groundbreaking ceremony for the HPLS electric steel plant in Donaldsonville, Louisiana, aimed at producing high-quality, low-carbon steel products.Attending the ceremony were Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, William Kimmitt, Deputy Under Secretary for International Trade at the U.S. Department of Commerce, and U.S. Representatives Troy Carter and Julia Letlow, along with South Korean officials including Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy Kim Jeong-kwan, Ambassador to the U.S. Cho Hyun, and Consul General in Houston Lee Kyung-eun, among approximately 250 attendees.Executives from POSCO Group and Hyundai Motor Group, who are co-investing in the HPLS plant, were also present. POSCO Group was represented by Chairman Jang In-hwa and Vice Chairman Kim Kwang-moo, while Hyundai Motor Group included Chairman Chung Euisun, President Lee Bo-ryong of Hyundai Steel, President Jose Munoz of Hyundai Motor, and President Song Ho-sung of Kia, among others.The HPLS electric steel plant is a joint venture, with Hyundai Steel holding a 50% stake, POSCO 20%, and Hyundai Motor and Kia each holding 15%. It features a streamlined production process that allows for the production of raw materials and finished products in one facility, reducing carbon emissions by over 70% compared to traditional blast furnaces.Hyundai Motor Group aims to secure a stable local supply chain for automotive steel in North America, while POSCO plans to establish a production and supply base for high-value, low-carbon automotive steel in the region.In his welcoming remarks, Chairman Chung emphasized that the steel produced at the HPLS plant will play a significant role in the production of next-generation mobility vehicles for both Hyundai Motor Group and U.S. automotive companies. He noted that the HPLS plant marks the beginning of a more resource-efficient and sustainable future for the steel industry.The investment aims to overcome high tariff barriers in the U.S. through local production. Last year, the U.S. imposed a 50% tariff on foreign steel under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, leading to a decline in South Korea's steel exports to the U.S. to 2.54 million tons, down about 8% from 2.76 million tons the previous year.Once operational, the HPLS plant is expected to significantly reduce import tariff burdens. Hyundai Steel will be able to address the supply shortage of high-value steel products for the U.S. automotive industry while providing a stable supply of automotive steel to Hyundai and Kia.Despite being the third-largest steel producer in the world after China and India, the U.S. imports over 20 million tons of steel annually due to production not meeting demand.The HPLS project is significant as it represents the largest production initiative by Hyundai Steel since the completion of the Dangjin steelworks in 2010. While Honorary Chairman Chung Mong-koo led the localization of automotive steel and the establishment of a supply chain through the Dangjin plant, Chairman Chung Euisun is expanding this initiative globally to establish a new global production system.Once operational, Hyundai Motor Group will have a local production system in the U.S. that encompasses everything from steel materials to finished vehicles. Hyundai Steel plans to leverage its brand recognition built through local customer engagement to attract new clients in advanced markets like Europe.A Hyundai Steel official stated, "This project is not just about building a steel plant; it will serve as a starting point for the future steel industry and hydrogen ecosystem."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-05 06:04:00
  • President Yoon Congratulates Director Lee Chang-dong on Auteur Award
    President Yoon Congratulates Director Lee Chang-dong on Auteur Award President Yoon Suk Yeol sent a congratulatory message to director Lee Chang-dong, who became the first Korean to receive the Auteur Award at the 49th Mill Valley Film Festival.President Yoon expressed his hopes for good news from the Venice International Film Festival, where Lee's new film Possible Love has been invited to compete.On September 4, President Yoon posted on X (formerly Twitter), stating, "I sincerely congratulate director Lee Chang-dong on receiving the Auteur Award at the 49th Mill Valley Film Festival, along with the people of our nation."He reflected, "I was deeply impressed by director Lee's work when I watched Peppermint Candy."The president praised Lee's profound perspective on humanity and life, noting that films like Oasis, Secret Sunshine, Poetry, and Burning have moved many audiences.He added, "It is even more gratifying that the fruits of his long journey have led to this award."President Yoon also expressed anticipation for Lee's new film, saying, "I heard that Possible Love has also been invited to compete at the 83rd Venice International Film Festival. I will cheer for good news from Venice, following Mill Valley, along with the people of our nation."He concluded with, "Once again, I sincerely congratulate you."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-09-04 22:52:00