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  • Knowledge Industry Centers Face Financial Strain as Values Drop and Loans Tighten
    Knowledge Industry Centers Face Financial Strain as Values Drop and Loans Tighten Knowledge industry centers are experiencing increased financial burdens for buyers as they face rising vacancies and unsold units, along with reduced loan availability and declining collateral values. As asset values decrease, financial institutions are applying a more conservative loan-to-value (LTV) ratio, resulting in lower loan limits and additional pressures for principal repayments or conversions to personal loans.According to the Korea Real Estate Development Industry Research Institute, the vacancy rate for knowledge industry centers in the metropolitan area reached 55% as of February this year. The average unsold rate for 65 projects supplied in the metropolitan area from 2022 to 2024 was recorded at 37%, with Seoul's rate reaching 43%. As vacancies increase, some landlords are lowering rents to attract tenants, but the burden of management costs makes it difficult to recover profitability.Financial institutions are also reassessing the collateral value of knowledge industry centers more conservatively, leading to stricter loan evaluations. Buyers who previously acquired properties with an LTV of up to 80% are now facing reduced loan limits due to declining collateral values, with some loans being converted to personal loans. This cycle of price declines leading to lower collateral values, reduced loans, and increased repayment burdens exacerbates financial difficulties.The auction market is also facing challenging investment conditions. A real estate industry insider noted, “Demand for commercial real estate is more limited than for residential properties, making it likely that properties will be repeatedly unsold or sold at prices below market value,” adding that “low winning bids further depress the market value and collateral of knowledge industry centers.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-30 17:32:00
  • Shanghai to Appoint Young Elite Official as Mayor Ahead of 21st Party Congress
    Shanghai to Appoint Young Elite Official as Mayor Ahead of 21st Party Congress A young elite official born in the 1970s is expected to be appointed as the mayor of Shanghai, China's economic capital.According to reports from Hong Kong's Ming Pao and others on August 30, Zhu Zhongming (54), the Shanghai Municipal Party Secretary, has been appointed as the Secretary of the Shanghai Municipal Government. His new position was first officially confirmed when he chaired a meeting as the Secretary of the Shanghai Municipal Government the previous day. According to Chinese political customs, the appointment of a municipal government secretary is effectively seen as a nomination for mayor.Born in April 1972 in Zhejiang Province, Zhu graduated from Wuhan University in 1993 with a degree in finance and auditing. He began his public service career in the finance sector of Zhejiang Province, where he worked for nearly 20 years. In 2012, he became the Deputy Mayor of Wenzhou City in Zhejiang, later serving as the Director of the Zhejiang Provincial Audit Office and the Director of the Zhejiang Provincial Finance Department.During his time in Zhejiang, he reportedly developed a working relationship with Li Qiang, the current Premier of China, who served as the Governor of Zhejiang from 2013 to 2016.In 2020, Zhu moved to Hunan Province as the Deputy Governor, and in June of the following year, he was appointed as the Deputy Minister of Finance, making him the youngest and only official from the 1970s generation in that role. He has been serving as the Deputy Secretary of Shanghai since July 2024.With Zhu effectively set to become the mayor of Shanghai, the current mayor, Gong Zheng, born in 1960, is likely to retire at the age of 66.Notably, Zhu is not currently a member or candidate of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, which has led to assessments that his appointment as mayor is unusual. Should he assume the role, there is speculation that he could enter the Central Committee at the 21st National Congress of the Communist Party of China scheduled for next fall.On the same day, Kong Shaoxun (57), Deputy Director of the General Office of the Communist Party of China, was also appointed as the Party Secretary and Secretary of the Government of Gansu Province. Following customary practices, he is expected to take on the role of Governor of Gansu.Born in 1969, Kong has primarily worked in the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, serving in various roles including Secretary of the Ningxia Party Committee and Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee. In December 2010, he moved to the Central Office of the Communist Party of China, where he has served as Deputy Director and Secretary of the Secretariat.As Shanghai and other major cities in China see the appointment of young officials with experience in finance, economy, and industry to key party and government positions, there is an analysis suggesting a rapid generational shift in local leadership ahead of the 21st Party Congress.Earlier on August 24, Li Yun (53), Deputy Governor of Guangdong Province, was appointed as the Acting Mayor of Shenzhen. Born in 1973, Li is a finance expert with a master's degree in monetary banking and a Ph.D. in global economics from Wuhan University. On August 23, Qin Weiguo (56), who has emerged as the Party Secretary of Hefei City in Anhui Province, a hub for high-tech venture investment, was appointed as a member of the Standing Committee of the Anhui Provincial Party Committee and Secretary of the Political and Legal Committee. 2026-08-30 17:32:00
  • Business groups welcome Lee So-young as nominee for SME minister
    Business groups welcome Lee So-young as nominee for SME minister SEOUL, August 30 (AJP) - South Korean business and women's entrepreneur groups welcomed the nomination of Lee So-young, a two-term lawmaker of the ruling Democratic Party, as minister of SMEs and startups, urging her to deliver tangible support and fresh momentum to a sector that accounts for the bulk of the country's jobs. The nomination fills a post left vacant for about two months after former minister Han Sung-sook was tapped as prime minister. A lawyer by training who served in the 21st and 22nd National Assemblies, Lee was named to the position by President Lee Jae Myung Sunday. The Korea Women Entrepreneurs Association praised her legislative record and pressed for policies aimed at women-led firms. "We hope she will listen to the field voices of small businesses and small merchants, including women-owned enterprises, and back their innovative growth and new engines of growth," the group said in a statement. The Korea Federation of SMEs said it expected her experience to help smaller firms weather artificial intelligence and digital transformation, break into global markets, and overcome the polarization of so-called K-shaped growth. The Korea Venture Business Association and the Korea Venture Capital Association each called for lighter regulation and deeper capital markets, urging her to spur private investment and modernize exit channels such as initial public offerings and mergers and acquisitions. The Korea Federation of Micro Enterprise, meanwhile, asked the nominee to treat the nation's 7.9 million small merchants as full participants in the economy rather than mere recipients of aid, calling for stronger safety nets and fairer business conditions. AJP Takeaways • President Lee Jae Myung nominated two-term Democratic Party lawmaker Lee So-young as minister of SMEs and startups, filling a post vacant for about two months. • Business and women's entrepreneur groups welcomed the pick, pressing for tangible support on AI transition, global expansion and women-led firms. • Venture groups pushed for lighter regulation and stronger exit channels such as IPOs and M&As to deepen the startup capital market. 2026-08-30 17:28:36
  • Kim Seung-won Pledges Commitment to New Criminal Justice System and Victim Rights
    Kim Seung-won Pledges Commitment to New Criminal Justice System and Victim Rights 김승원 법무부 장관 후보자가 "새로운 형사사법 체계가 안정적으로 정착할 수 있도록 최선을 다하겠다"며 "범죄 피해자의 권리는 더욱 두텁게 보호하겠다"고 말했다. 김 후보자는 30일 페이스북을 통해 "국민주권 정부 법무부 장관 후보자로 지명됐다"며 "막중한 책임감을 느낀다"고 밝혔다. 그러면서 "판사와 변호사로 국민의 권리와 인권을 지키기 위해 노력했고, 국회 법사위에서는 국민과 정의만을 바라보며 달려왔다"고 언급했다. 아울러 "지금 대한민국은 70년간 이어진 형사사법 체계의 대전환을 앞두고 있다"며 "그동안의 경험을 바탕으로 새로운 형사사법 체계가 국민에게 신뢰받는 제도로 안정적으로 정착할 수 있도록 최선을 다하겠다"고 강조했다. 또 "실체적 진실은 더욱 신속히 밝히고, 국민의 안전을 지키며 범죄 피해자의 권리는 더욱 두텁게 보호하겠다"고 포부를 전했다. 이어 "국민을 위한 법무 행정을 구현하고, 이재명 정부의 성공을 위해 맡은 바 책임을 다하겠다"며 "앞으로 있을 인사청문 과정에도 겸손하고 성실한 자세로 임하겠다"고 덧붙였다. 이재명 대통령은 이날 6개 부처의 개각을 단행했으며, 신입 법무부 장관 후보자로 김 후보자를 지명했다. 강훈식 청와대 비서실장은 브리핑을 통해 "판사 출신이자 국회 법제사법위원회 간사를 맡은 재선 의원으로 형사사법 체계 개편의 취지를 누구보다 깊이 이해하고 있는 만큼 피해자의 권리를 최우선으로 보호하며 새로운 제도를 빠르게 안착시킬 것으로 기대한다"고 지명 배경을 설명했다. 김 후보자는 검찰의 수사권과 기소권을 완전히 분리하고, 검사의 보완수사권도 폐지해야 한다고 주장한 강성 검찰 개혁주의자로 분류된다. 지난 2024년 6월부터 국회 법제사법위원회 여당 간사를 맡아 검찰 개혁 법안 처리를 주도해 왔다. 인사청문 절차를 거쳐 취임하면 형사소송법 개정안 시행의 후속 조처와 공소청·중대범죄수사청 출범 준비 등의 형사사법 현안 해결에 주력할 것으로 예상된다.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-30 17:28:00
  • Anyang Fire Department Inspects Fire Hazards at Anyang Central Market
    Anyang Fire Department Inspects Fire Hazards at Anyang Central Market The Anyang Fire Department conducted a fire hazard inspection at Anyang Central Market on August 28. According to the fire department, the inspection focused on identifying fire vulnerabilities and enhancing the safety management cooperation between relevant agencies and market stakeholders. Anyang Central Market, a traditional market with densely packed stores and narrow aisles, poses challenges for firefighting efforts and the spread of fire, necessitating ongoing safety management of electrical and firefighting facilities, as well as passageways. The inspection involved firefighters from the Anyang Fire Department, city and provincial council members, volunteer firefighters, and market merchants. Participants first gathered at the customer culture center to discuss the market's operational status and fire safety issues before thoroughly checking fire-prone areas throughout the market. They particularly focused on aging electrical facilities, obstacles affecting fire truck access, and the condition of emergency firefighting equipment necessary for initial fire response. Additionally, they patrolled vulnerable areas and conducted a fire prevention campaign, urging merchants to promptly report fires and respond quickly, while also encouraging them to maintain clear passageways and organize firefighting facilities. A market merchant remarked, "Since I frequent the market daily, I often overlook certain areas, but inspecting them with firefighters made me realize the importance of regular maintenance. We will also diligently check for small hazards to prevent fires." A local resident added, "Traditional markets can be crowded and have narrow aisles, so fire safety is a concern. It’s reassuring to see the fire department directly inspecting vulnerable areas and managing safety." Jang Min-soo, a member of the Gyeonggi Provincial Council's Safety Administration Committee, stated, "The safety of traditional markets requires ongoing attention and collaboration, not just one-time inspections. We will actively cooperate with relevant agencies to ensure that the feedback gathered on-site is reflected in actual safety measures." Fire Chief Kim Ji-han emphasized, "We will continue to promote fire prevention and safety management centered on the field, ensuring close cooperation among the fire department, relevant agencies, and merchants to create a safe traditional market."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-30 17:24:00
  • U.S. AI Market Stumbles as Interest Rates Rise; Korean Semiconductor Sector Shines
    U.S. AI Market Stumbles as Interest Rates Rise; Korean Semiconductor Sector Shines In August 2026, the global financial market is navigating a significant turning point, influenced by geopolitical crises in the Middle East, soaring long-term interest rates in the U.S., and ongoing debates over the valuation of the artificial intelligence (AI) industry. As leading stocks face volatility, global capital is rapidly seeking stable performance amid an unstable macroeconomic environment. The concerns over profitability in cloud AI, triggered by the U.S. stock market, and the resurgence of major semiconductor stocks in South Korea are key milestones that investors must consider in the second half of the year.The attention foreign investors are giving to South Korean semiconductors is paradoxically linked to the formidable challenges facing the U.S. stock market. Wall Street currently identifies the relentless rise of U.S. long-term Treasury yields as the most critical threat to the AI rally.The high interest rates particularly impact high-valuation AI technology stocks. Given the nature of growth stocks, which justify current prices by projecting future value, rising rates diminish the present value of future earnings.A more significant issue is the soaring financing costs for hyperscalers, companies operating massive data centers, which must undertake substantial capital investments. In the past, these firms managed such costs with ample cash flow, but they are increasingly relying on external borrowing, such as bond issuance, making high long-term rates a financial burden.As doubts about the profitability of cloud AI services grow in light of astronomical investment costs, Wall Street's capital is gradually shifting away from cloud AI towards 'on-device AI' centered around Apple, which has lower interest rate sensitivity and broader real-world applications, as well as financial stocks with attractive valuations.Concerns regarding AI infrastructure investments in the U.S. often spill over into discussions about the 'peak-out theory' for South Korean semiconductors. Rumors suggest that Meta may reduce memory orders as it leases AI server infrastructure externally, and there are fears that Apple will adopt DRAM from China's Changxin Memory Technologies (CXMT) to cut costs.However, these fears are unfounded. Reports indicate that Meta's long-term orders for chips and components are actually strengthening, and Apple's adoption of Chinese components is complicated by U.S. semiconductor technology export regulations and stringent delivery specifications.Most importantly, the momentum for profit growth in South Korean semiconductors dispels all these concerns. The net profit of the KOSPI, driven by semiconductors, is expected to surge from 222 trillion won in 2025 to 759 trillion won in 2026, a staggering 242% increase year-on-year. The semiconductor sector's net profit is projected to skyrocket from 81 trillion won in 2025 to an astonishing 581 trillion won in 2026, representing a remarkable 614% growth. Considering that the profit growth rate for other sectors is around 27%, it is not an exaggeration to say that the advancement of the South Korean stock market relies entirely on semiconductors.From a macroeconomic perspective, the South Korean won is expected to gradually stabilize after experiencing some turbulence in the second half of the year. Currently, the rise in international oil prices and the strong economic fundamentals of the U.S. are driving capital flows towards the U.S., reinforcing a strong dollar trend. As a result, the South Korean won, along with the Japanese yen, is facing significant depreciation pressure in the global market.However, buoyed by a robust economic growth rate nearing 3% and the semiconductor supercycle, the current account surplus is expanding nearly twofold, with continuous inflows of funds into high-quality semiconductor American Depositary Receipts (ADRs) like SK Hynix. After absorbing temporary upward risks due to the prolonged war, the won-to-dollar exchange rate is expected to stabilize in the 1,400 won range from late this year into early 2027, creating a favorable environment for foreign capital.In the past, during the dot-com bubble's collapse, vague anxieties about new technologies and concerns over investment excess shook the market, but ultimately, it was the proven performance of companies that revived leading stocks.The current global asset allocation strategy in August 2026 is no different. The investment attractiveness of stocks still surpasses that of precious metals or bonds. With major political events like the U.S. midterm elections approaching, the administration is likely to gradually shift towards a more accommodative policy stance due to pressure on approval ratings. If geopolitical risks are resolved, global liquidity will likely surge once again.While corrections in a rising market may feel increasingly deep and sharp, it is essential to remember that for high-quality stocks with stable performance, corrections always present the perfect buying opportunity for the next upswing.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-30 17:00:20
  • President Lee: We Must Eradicate Real Estate Speculation and Reform Unfair Taxes
    President Lee: We Must Eradicate Real Estate Speculation and Reform Unfair Taxes President Lee Jae-myung emphasized on August 30 that the "people's sovereignty government will eradicate destructive real estate speculation at all costs," stating that the government will mobilize all national resources for financial and tax reforms, as well as increasing and expediting housing supply.In a post on X (formerly Twitter), President Lee said, "We will correct the unfair and unreasonable tax system that has been shown to encourage speculation, as a matter of tax justice." He added, "We must eliminate the risks of real estate speculation and the lost 30 years for the hope of the next generation."Recently, within the Democratic Party, there have been calls to broaden the recognition of 'unavoidable non-resident reasons' for one-homeowners in the government's tax reform plan, suggesting a more lenient approach.Regarding supply measures, President Lee stated, "We will definitely implement early expansion of housing construction. Since 2022, housing permits and construction in the metropolitan area and Seoul have sharply declined for over three years. We will provide maximum incentives for early permits and construction by granting district mayors the authority to issue permits for projects under 500 units."He also addressed criticisms from some media that the government is tightening financial regulations while increasing total loan amounts, saying, "This may be an attempt to incite the public and attack the government. However, expanding finance for increased housing supply and increasing loans for actual demand, such as for young people, is a necessary targeted policy."President Lee added, "As the Minister of Land said, we will quickly increase supply as we are 'crazy' for not being able to supply enough. The Prime Minister is checking progress daily, and the Blue House is also conducting regular reviews."Furthermore, he advised those interested in real estate speculation to pay particular attention to reports predicting a 3.5% interest rate from the Bank of Korea in the first quarter of next year.While noting that the government does not intervene in interest rates, he emphasized the need to consider the current situation where low growth, which hindered interest rate normalization, is being rapidly overcome.He also pointed out, "One more thing to note is that there has been a significant increase in mortgage delinquencies and auction properties. I hope you pay attention to the bidding rates as well."President Lee explained that the government has instructed the preparation of a system to purchase a large number of homes below a certain standard for public housing in anticipation of a potential housing price crash due to early mass supply, suppression of speculative demand, and a surge in delinquencies and auctions caused by high interest rates.He remarked, "Reform is said to be more difficult than revolution due to the anxiety, pain, and resistance of those losing their vested interests. The challenge belongs to those seeking power, while the responsibility of those who have already seized power is to deliver results. There is no need to amplify the anxiety and resistance of vested interests with loud proclamations."He concluded, "The trust of the people in political groups will be determined by who has practically improved and can improve the lives of the citizens. Let us overcome all abnormalities and move toward an irreplaceable Republic of Korea that creates a golden era, as Jensen Huang said." 2026-08-30 17:00:00
  • Editorial: Lees Cabinet overhaul needs discipline, not haste
    Editorial: Lee's Cabinet overhaul needs discipline, not haste President Lee Jae Myung has launched a broad Cabinet reset as his approval rating slides sharply barely into his second year in office, replacing six ministers at once in a bid to regain political momentum and accelerate delivery on the economy, housing and reform. The decision is understandable. What the administration needs now is not another prolonged season of personnel speculation but demonstrable results, particularly on the economy and housing. Lee's approval rating has fallen to a record-low 42 percent, with real estate policy by far the biggest reason cited by those unhappy with his performance. Economic and livelihood concerns and the government's prosecution overhaul are also weighing on public sentiment. Against that backdrop, the choice of career officials to lead the finance and land ministries sends a sensible message. Finance minister nominee Lee Hyoung-il has spent much of his career making economic policy and, as first vice finance minister, can take over without a lengthy learning curve. Hong Jee-sun, tapped to lead the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, likewise brings extensive experience in housing and transport policy. The appointments suggest the presidential office understands that the public is increasingly interested in implementation rather than slogans. Economic growth targets, housing supply plans and support for households struggling with high prices will ultimately be judged by what happens on the ground. The political appointments have a different logic. Democratic Party lawmakers Kim Seung-won and Lee So-young were nominated to lead the justice ministry and Ministry of SMEs and Startups, respectively, while Basic Income Party lawmaker Yong Hye-in was tapped as gender equality and family minister. Bringing politicians into the Cabinet can give the administration greater legislative muscle as major reforms move through the National Assembly. Yong's nomination also broadens the Cabinet beyond the Democratic Party and gives substance to Lee's stated desire to build a wider governing coalition. The mix of bureaucrats and politicians therefore has merit - technocrats where continuity and execution matter most, politicians where legislation and political persuasion are indispensable. But a reshuffle intended to advertise competence cannot begin with confusion. The extraordinary scene surrounding outgoing Finance Minister Koo Yun-cheol on Sunday exposed precisely the kind of coordination failure the new Cabinet is supposed to eliminate. Koo arrived at Incheon International Airport to depart for a Group of 20 finance ministers and central bank governors meeting in the United States, only to learn that he was among the ministers being replaced. He initially canceled the trip and accompanying bilateral meetings before reversing that decision and boarding the flight after all. It was the correct decision to go. Until his successor completes a National Assembly confirmation hearing and formally takes office, Koo remains finance minister. International negotiations do not stop because Seoul has announced a Cabinet reshuffle. More importantly, this is hardly a routine moment in Korea-U.S. economic relations. Washington has been pressing Seoul over its pledged U.S. investment commitments , while tariff issues, digital trade and other bilateral economic disputes remain unresolved. At such a time, continuity in communication with U.S. counterparts is not optional. For Korea's finance minister to cancel and then restore a major international trip because he learned of his replacement only after arriving at the airport suggests that domestic political scheduling was allowed, however briefly, to interfere with economic diplomacy. A Cabinet reshuffle is the president's prerogative, and surprise is sometimes necessary to prevent lobbying and political maneuvering ahead of appointments. But there is a difference between maintaining confidentiality and failing to coordinate the transition of one of the government's most internationally exposed positions. The finance minister represents Korea before markets, investors and foreign governments. Continuity during a transition is not a courtesy to an outgoing official; it is a matter of national interest. The timing also deserves scrutiny. Lee opted for a six-minister package just two days before the regular National Assembly session begins. The decision may allow the presidential office to finish the reshuffle quickly rather than stretch uncertainty through the autumn. It also means six confirmation battles will now unfold alongside budget deliberations, prosecution reform and other contentious legislation. That is a political gamble the administration is entitled to make. But having made it, Lee must ensure that the government does not become consumed by personnel battles at the expense of policy execution. This reshuffle should therefore be judged neither by how many ministers have been replaced nor by the political symbolism of their backgrounds. The administration is right to demand speed. Korea faces unusually complicated economic conditions at home and an increasingly transactional relationship with Washington abroad. It cannot afford months of drift. But speed without coordination creates mistakes. Changing the people is the easy part. Making the machinery of government work more coherently is the real test. 2026-08-30 16:59:11
  • Uiwang Mayor Confirms High Level of Civic Awareness Among Naeson 1-dong Residents
    Uiwang Mayor Confirms High Level of Civic Awareness Among Naeson 1-dong Residents Uiwang Mayor Kim Sung-je confirmed on August 28 that the recent residents' meeting demonstrated the passion of the Naeson 1-dong residents' council members and the high level of civic awareness among the community.Mayor Kim made this statement after attending the '4th Naeson 1-dong Residents' Meeting' held in the fifth-floor conference room of the Naeson 1-dong community center.About 200 attendees, including Mayor Kim, community council members, and local residents, gathered to share the achievements of past community activities and review the community project plans selected through resident voting for 2027.Notably, this residents' meeting emphasized the significance of civic participation, as residents proposed necessary projects for the community and voted to prioritize them.In the month leading up to the meeting, over 1,000 residents participated in online and offline voting.This reflects the high interest and willingness of residents to engage with local issues and community projects.The results of the voting established the priority for the 2027 Naeson 1-dong community projects as follows: the 15th Galmi Open Music Festival, the 3rd Naeson Fun Fun Fun Festival, a project to plant hibiscus and beautify the village, a historical walk in our neighborhood and caring for companion plants, and a family-friendly event called 'Starry Night GO!'The selected projects will undergo relevant procedures, including the allocation of city subsidies, before being fully implemented.During the residents' meeting, Mayor Kim praised the active involvement of the community council members and the participation of residents, emphasizing that “community autonomy, where residents directly decide the future of their area, is a crucial foundation for local development.”This approach allows citizens to choose projects that directly impact their lives, supported by the city, showcasing the active civic participation administration being promoted in Uiwang.Residents present at the meeting expressed positive feedback about being able to select necessary projects and see the results.One resident remarked, “I appreciated that we could directly decide on projects that are truly needed in our neighborhood. I hope the projects chosen through voting translate into tangible benefits in our daily lives.”Another resident noted, “Participating in the residents' meeting allowed me to understand what my neighbors think. I hope more residents will take an interest and participate in the future.”Yoo Heung-sook, chair of the Naeson 1-dong residents' council, stated, “I hope this meeting serves as an opportunity to reflect on the achievements of the Naeson 1-dong residents' council this year and to explore the right direction for future project implementation.”Mayor Kim added, “I will ensure that community projects are carried out effectively, reflecting residents' opinions, and I will not spare any support.”Meanwhile, Mayor Kim plans to continuously discover and support community autonomy projects that reflect local characteristics and residents' needs based on voluntary participation.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-30 16:56:00
  • Financial Supervisory Service to Inspect Mirae Asset Securities Amid SpaceX Controversy
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