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Nvidia Dominates K-Industry Supply Chain from Semiconductors to Copper Foil The influence of Nvidia, the world's largest artificial intelligence (AI) semiconductor company, is permeating the entire South Korean industrial ecosystem. There is a growing argument that while benefiting from the supercycle led by Nvidia, efforts to strengthen existing competitiveness must also continue.According to industry sources on August 25, the semiconductor sector has reaped the most significant benefits from Nvidia's rapidly growing AI chip business. A prime example is high-bandwidth memory (HBM). The memory supercycle, which has propelled Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix to peak performance in terms of earnings and market capitalization, was triggered by the expansion of Nvidia-driven AI data centers.The substrate business, which supports Nvidia's graphics processing units (GPUs), is also experiencing a positive trend. Major domestic printed circuit board (PCB) companies, including Samsung Electro-Mechanics and LG Innotek, have seen their performance and market capitalization surge over the past year, with increasing demand for next-generation substrates like FC-BGA that directly encase semiconductors.Moreover, copper foil, once a material for secondary batteries, is strengthening its role as a semiconductor material due to Nvidia's advancements. Doosan's Electronics BG division is leveraging its position as the top domestic producer of copper-clad laminates (CCL) to drive the group's second growth phase.Competition is also fierce in the glass substrate sector, an alternative to PCBs, as companies vie for Nvidia's approval. SKC has initiated a 400 billion won capital increase for its subsidiary, Absolix, to commercialize glass substrates, while Samsung Electro-Mechanics and LG Innotek are committed to early commercialization of glass substrates.Nvidia's influence extends to cooling and power network sectors as well. Samsung Electronics is leveraging its acquisition of Germany's Flakt Group to secure domestic and international customers for its HVAC business, while LG Electronics is embarking on large-scale bidding based on a liquid cooling system that integrates chillers, cooling water distribution units (CDUs), and cold plates.The power infrastructure sector is no exception. Companies like Hyosung Heavy Industries, which specializes in high-voltage transformers, and LS Cable & System and LS Electric, which focus on wires and distribution, are securing contracts for AI data centers overseas, including in the United States.However, experts caution that excessive reliance on Nvidia could weaken negotiation power, necessitating the establishment of alternative supply chains. In fact, one domestic semiconductor company has expressed concerns about technological dependency and diminished negotiation power, as it can only exchange design and process information with Nvidia through a closed network.Professor Yang Jun-seok of Catholic University stated, "Currently, the boom in key South Korean industries like semiconductors is led by American companies such as Nvidia, and the independent actions of South Korean firms are not clearly visible. In fields like robotics (physical AI), there is a need for South Korean companies to create a proactive collaboration framework to secure industrial leadership based on their accumulated competitiveness."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-26 05:04:00 -
Family Trip Takes Unexpected Turn in 'Gyeongju Journey' Family trips rarely go as planned. Wrong turns, hunger pangs, and minor disagreements can lead to conflicts. Even when the goal is 'revenge,' things don't unfold as expected.The film 'Gyeongju Journey' follows this theme. It strays from the typical revenge narrative, often stumbling and veering off course due to the small variables of everyday life. This deviation from genre conventions adds an unexpected and intriguing element to the film.Eight years after the youngest daughter, Gyeongju, went missing during a school trip, her mother, Ok-sil (played by Lee Jung-eun), and her three daughters, Jang-joo (Gong Hyo-jin), Yeong-joo (Park So-dam), and Dong-joo (Lee Yeon), embark on a seemingly cheerful family trip to Gyeongju for a 'fresh start.' Clad in matching T-shirts, they stroll around Cheomseongdae and Donggung Palace, capturing happy moments on camera. However, this idyllic scene is a meticulously planned alibi. In the rattling trunk of their van lies their long-awaited prey: the perpetrator, Baek Sang-hyun (Byeon Yo-han), who took their youngest away, bound and helpless.While 'Gyeongju Journey' presents itself as a revenge tale, it does not rush toward bloody retribution. Instead, it weaves a black comedy from the desperate emotions of four ordinary women who have never harmed a fly, as they grapple with the mundane realities of daily life while contemplating murder.This intricately crafted 'crime journey' reveals different facets upon closer inspection. What initially appears to be a tightly-knit family begins to unravel as they confront buried traumas and wounds during their trip. The process of discovering each other's vulnerabilities within a shared goal adds genuine weight to their relationships.Notably, every character in the film serves a purpose. There are no superfluous figures added merely to fit the revenge genre; instead, each character is organically intertwined, driving the narrative forward. Their distinct roles, coupled with realistic portrayals of their inner struggles, add emotional depth to the story. Rather than being mere tools of the genre, the four women find a way to fully grieve during their journey, creating a compelling narrative that resonates with audiences.The film's rhythm is also noteworthy. The lively transitions and the chemistry among the actors create visual enjoyment, while the music oscillates between comedy and tragedy, harmonizing with director Kim Mi-jo's perspective that maintains humor even in the midst of sorrow, leaving viewers eager for her next project.The cast delivers performances that truly embody their characters. Lee Jung-eun portrays the overwhelmed mother, Ok-sil, with a depth that captures her grief and anger. Gong Hyo-jin, as the eldest daughter Jang-joo, adds a sense of realism to the film with her relatable performance. Park So-dam, playing the calculating second daughter Yeong-joo, brings credibility to her character. Lee Yeon, as the impulsive third daughter Dong-joo, is a standout, providing humor while also striking emotional chords unexpectedly. Byeon Yo-han effectively evokes audience anger as the villain Baek Sang-hyun, injecting tension into the narrative.As the journey progresses, the four daughters confront not just the perpetrator in the trunk but also the scars they have neglected within themselves. 'Gyeongju Journey' quietly observes the process of those left behind facing their loss and moving forward in solidarity, rather than showcasing catharsis. The destination they reach, despite not going as planned, leaves a profound impact. This film marks a return to solid craftsmanship in Korean cinema. It is set to be released on the 26th, with a runtime of 111 minutes and a rating of 15 and older.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-26 00:04:00
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Anyang Youth Foundation Enhances Communication Through Youth Council Exchange The Anyang Youth Foundation's Youth Council Union, known as 'Bubble Lab,' is promoting youth participation and expanding networks through inter-regional exchanges. According to the foundation, 'Bubble Lab' conducted a joint exchange activity on August 22 at the Incheon Seohae Youth Center in collaboration with the Incheon Seohae Facilities Management Corporation's Youth Council Union. The 'Bubble Lab' is an organization established to facilitate exchanges and cooperation among youth councils affiliated with the Anyang Youth Foundation. Youth from various institutions share their experiences and opinions, broadening the scope of youth participation through joint activities. They continue to engage in diverse activities that allow youth to communicate directly and grow together based on inter-regional exchanges. This event was organized to enable regional youth councils to share their experiences and best practices, seeking collaborative directions for the development of youth participation activities. The program began with opening remarks from the head of the Incheon Seohae Facilities Management Corporation's Youth Division, followed by a signing ceremony for the youth council agreement, introductions of the youth council unions from both regions, sharing of best practices, recreational activities, and facility tours. Notably, both organizations established a formal agreement to lay the groundwork for ongoing exchanges and cooperation among youth councils. During the facility tours and community activities, participants took the opportunity to understand each other's initiatives beyond regional and organizational boundaries, fostering connections among youth. Looking ahead, 'Bubble Lab' plans to continue expanding the network of youth councils across regions and to engage in various collaborative activities led by youth themselves.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-25 22:16:00
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Gwangju City Management Corporation Conducts Lifesaving Training for All Staff The Gwangju City Management Corporation's Nungpyeong Sports Center conducted hands-on lifesaving and CPR training for all employees to prepare for potential safety incidents at swimming pools and sports facilities. According to the corporation, on August 21, the Nungpyeong Sports Center provided training for all staff, focusing on responding to water safety incidents, CPR, first aid, and rescue techniques with the help of experts. This training emphasized practical exercises based on real-life scenarios rather than theoretical instruction, aiming to enhance employees' on-site response capabilities. Staff members practiced entering the water to assess the condition of drowning victims and safely execute rescue procedures, learning necessary judgment and initial response protocols in emergencies. Participants in the training expressed that, "Practicing rescue training in the water made it clearer what to prioritize in an emergency situation," adding, "I realized the importance of regularly assessing our response capabilities to ensure the safety of pool users." The Nungpyeong Sports Center plans to continue regular safety training and response drills tailored to various types of incidents, prioritizing user safety. Additionally, the center will conduct periodic safety inspections of its facilities and continuously improve its on-site safety management system. CEO Choi Chan-yong stated, "Quick situational assessment and initial response are crucial in swimming pool environments." He emphasized, "We will continue to create an environment where citizens can use sports facilities with peace of mind through practical training and systematic safety management."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-25 21:56:00
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Seoul Rent Crisis: Average Jeonse Hits 700 Million Won, Monthly Rent Reaches 1.62 Million Won As the supply of jeonse (long-term lease) apartments in Seoul decreases and both monthly rents and purchase prices rise, housing instability among the 2030 age group is intensifying.MBC's 'PD Notebook' will air an episode titled 'The Era of Jeonse Extinction - 2030 on the Edge' on August 25, shedding light on the realities faced by young people trying to secure homes amid declining jeonse availability, rising monthly rents, and tightening loan regulations.In July 2026, the average jeonse price for apartments in Seoul surpassed 700 million won, while the average monthly rent reached a record high of 1.62 million won. The aftermath of jeonse fraud has heightened concerns about renting villas, and stricter regulations on jeonse loans aimed at curbing speculative investments have further narrowed housing options for young people.According to the real estate big data platform Asil, as of April 21, 2026, the number of jeonse listings for apartments in Seoul was 15,105, the lowest level recorded in the past three years. The average monthly rent for Seoul apartments has also been steadily increasing since June of last year, reaching its highest point in July 2026.'PD Notebook' will feature stories from young people who have directly experienced the shortage of jeonse listings.Um Da-in, who is set to marry in December, faced a dilemma between buying and renting an apartment. While in the elevator heading to view a property, she learned that another prospective tenant had just signed a contract for the only remaining jeonse listing. Although she was aware of the scarcity of jeonse options, witnessing the opportunity slip away in front of her heightened her anxiety.The villa market continues to feel the aftereffects of jeonse fraud.Jung Min-chae, a groom-to-be in his 30s, fell victim to jeonse fraud twice while renting villas with deposits of 163 million won and 250 million won. The landlord forged official documents related to rental insurance, deceiving approximately 160 tenants, including Jung. After losing his life savings, Jung's future housing plans have become uncertain.Young people attempting to purchase homes are also facing obstacles due to loan regulations.Kang Ji-han, in his 30s, who won a lottery for an apartment in Guri, Gyeonggi Province, is struggling to secure the remaining funds after his expected loan was denied. Due to the exhaustion of household loan limits in the banking sector, the amount he can borrow has decreased regardless of his income level. If he cannot secure the funds by the payment deadline, he risks losing his deposit.The combination of declining jeonse listings, rising monthly rents, and increasing home prices has led to the emergence of terms like 'survival purchase' among young people, surpassing the previous trend of 'young-geul' (a term for extreme financial effort to buy a home).'PD Notebook' has selected an apartment with the highest transaction volume in Seoul during the first half of this year and conducted a comprehensive investigation of 3,830 property registration documents. The production team will examine the scale of loans and funding methods that 2030s have undertaken to purchase homes.The program will also address the frustrations of young people regarding government real estate regulations.As regulations aimed at controlling housing prices and speculation continue to be implemented, concerns have been raised that the housing ladder for young people without homes is becoming weaker. Recently, a lawmaker proposed using decommissioned buses as housing solutions for young people, sparking controversy.While the government has since announced measures to ease loan regulations and expand public housing supply, many young people still express that their housing burdens remain significant.The episode of 'PD Notebook' titled 'The Era of Jeonse Extinction - 2030 on the Edge,' which explores the precarious housing reality of young people in their 2030s amid declining jeonse availability, rising monthly rents, and loan regulations, will air today at 10:20 PM.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-25 21:52:00
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Ruling Party Leaders Discuss Cooperation on Legislation and Budget with President Lee The new leadership of the Democratic Party held a dinner with President Lee Jae-myung on August 25, where they expressed their commitment to collaborate on legislation related to people's livelihoods and reforms, as well as the budget for 2027.Park Sung-jun, the party's chief spokesperson, stated in a written briefing after the dinner at the Blue House that the party leadership engaged in open communication and shared a wide range of opinions with President Lee.He noted that President Lee emphasized the importance of cooperation, stating that the party, government, and Blue House are a shared entity. In response, Kim Min-seok, the party leader, affirmed, 'We will work effectively as the ruling party leadership.'Furthermore, the leadership pledged to robustly support the implementation of President Lee's governance philosophy and to closely collaborate on legislation concerning people's livelihoods and the 2027 budget, strengthening their unity through a toast.Prior to the dinner, Kim Min-seok and Han Byeong-do, the floor leader, highlighted their commitment to supporting President Lee as the ruling party.Kim stated, 'Now is the time for the party to demonstrate its capabilities to ensure the effective operation of the President's administration. We will become a leadership team that alleviates the President's concerns.'Han also remarked that the regular National Assembly session starting in September will be a turning point for both the success of this government and the Democratic Party, promising to meticulously oversee legislative tasks and the activities of parliamentary committees and the plenary session each week.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-25 21:36:20
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President Lee Emphasizes 'Productive Finance' Amid Budget Discussions President Lee Emphasizes 'Productive Finance' Amid Budget DiscussionsPresident Lee Jae-myung stated on August 25 that now is not the time to be overly focused on immediate financial figures regarding next year's budget. He called for a shift towards 'productive finance' that prioritizes investments in artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced industries.The Democratic Party and the government plan to focus on five key areas in the proposed budget, which is expected to exceed 800 trillion won, the largest in history. These areas include AI, three mega projects, future growth engines, youth support, local-led growth, and addressing K-shaped polarization and public safety.During a Cabinet meeting at the Blue House, President Lee noted, "As the AI transformation accelerates the growth of advanced industries like semiconductors, our economy is facing conditions unlike any before. We must seize the opportunities created by this industrial transformation to lead a substantial improvement in the lives of our citizens."He added, "We must ensure that our increased financial capacity is used as seeds for greater future returns. It is essential to invest precious future resources in efficient and productive areas, turning today’s 10,000 won into 100,000 won tomorrow, and eventually into 1 million won."FST Expands Production Equipment for Samsung's 2nm CNT PelliclesFST, a semiconductor pellicle company, is set to acquire additional production equipment for carbon nanotube (CNT) pellicles from Finland's Canatu. This move is seen as a preparation for mass production of CNT pellicles for Samsung's 2nm foundry process, indicating that the CNT pellicle business is moving beyond technology development to mass production readiness.According to investment banking sources on August 25, FST has placed an order for the 'CNT100 SEMI' equipment from Canatu. This order follows a previous order for long-lead time items made earlier this year. With the procurement of long-lead components now secured, the investment in increasing CNT pellicle production capacity is officially underway.KakaoPay Receives Compensation After 4-Year NegotiationKakaoPay has confirmed that it has received compensation related to the 2022 fire at the SK AX data center in Pangyo. This compensation comes after nearly four years of negotiations between Kakao and SK AX regarding losses incurred from the suspension of key services such as payments, remittances, and loan brokerage.On August 25, financial industry sources reported that the KakaoPay board recently approved a compensation agreement with SK AX. SK AX has made a lump-sum payment to Kakao, which has since distributed the funds among affected subsidiaries, including KakaoPay. The total amount of the settlement and the specific allocation to KakaoPay have not been disclosed.Shinhan Card to Launch Mid-Rate Loans for Low-Credit BorrowersIn a move to support low-credit borrowers, Shinhan Card is preparing to launch a 'mid-rate living stability loan,' becoming the first card company to do so. This initiative follows a decision by financial authorities to exclude the increase in mid-rate loans from total household loan management in the second financial sector, allowing card companies to expand their lending capacity.According to financial industry sources on August 25, Shinhan Card plans to introduce the mid-rate loan as early as late September or early October. Preparations, including system development for the product, are currently underway.KB Kookmin Card is also working on a similar product with a goal to launch it within the year. Other card companies, including Samsung, Hyundai, Lotte, and BC Card, are considering similar offerings but have not set specific timelines.Jeju Police Officer Re-Arrested for Falsifying Missing Person CaseA police officer in Jeju has been re-arrested for allegedly falsifying the conclusion of a missing person report and deleting related documents. The Jeju District Court issued an arrest warrant on August 25 after a hearing for the officer, identified as Officer A, who faces charges of neglect of duty, forgery of public documents, and obstruction of official duties.Officer A was previously detained and had requested a review of his detention, which the court accepted, leading to his release on August 24. However, he was re-arrested just a day later.He is accused of misleading the person who reported the missing case of 37-year-old Jang Mi-ran by falsely claiming that he had made contact with her, leading to the case being closed. Investigations revealed that he also deleted documents related to Jang from the missing person profiling system.SK Hynix Labor Agreement Fails by 25 Votes Over Bonus DisputeA tentative agreement on wages and collective bargaining between SK Hynix and its labor union was rejected by a narrow margin of 25 votes after two months of negotiations. Despite a proposed 6.3% wage increase and expanded benefits, the plan to distribute 60% of the performance bonus in company stock did not gain sufficient support from union members.On August 25, industry sources reported that 7,535 members voted against the tentative agreement, accounting for 50.08% of the votes, while 7,510 members voted in favor, or 49.92%. Out of 16,083 total union members, 15,045 participated in the vote, resulting in a turnout of 93.81%.The rejection appears to stem more from the method of bonus distribution than the wage increase itself. The agreement had proposed a 6.3% wage increase, with 40% of the performance bonus paid in cash and 60% in company stock. Of the stock, 40% could be sold immediately, while 20% would be deferred over two years.Market Watches U.S. Treasury Rates Ahead of Jackson Hole SpeechDomestic government bond rates remain elevated as the market closely monitors the upcoming keynote speech by Kevin Warsh, the new chair of the U.S. Federal Reserve, at Jackson Hole, along with U.S. inflation indicators. If uncertainties regarding the Fed's interest rate path are alleviated, there are expectations for further stabilization of domestic long-term rates.On August 25, the yield on three-year government bonds in Seoul closed at 3.836%, down 0.6 basis points from the previous trading day. The yield on 10-year bonds fell by 1.5 basis points to 4.320%, while 30-year bonds decreased by 4.5 basis points to 4.632%.Although government bond yields have shown a retracement after a recent surge, they remain at relatively high levels. Factors such as the potential for domestic interest rate hikes, rising long-term rates in the U.S. and Japan, and increased global fiscal burdens are exerting upward pressure on long-term yields.42% of Corporate High-Value Homes Used Privately, Tax Agency InvestigatesIt has been revealed that 42% of high-value homes owned by corporations are being used as residences or vacation homes by their owners. The National Tax Service is investigating 50 companies suspected of tax evasion through the private use of corporate housing, including the use of fictitious labor costs and false tax invoices.On August 25, the National Tax Service announced that it has begun tax investigations into these 50 companies suspected of using corporate-owned high-value homes for private purposes. The total estimated tax evasion amount is approximately 1.9 trillion won.A comprehensive review of 2,639 corporate-owned homes exceeding 85 square meters and valued over 900 million won found that 1,097 homes (42%) were confirmed to be used by the owners or their families. The remaining properties included 1,157 homes held for rental purposes and 385 homes used for business purposes, such as employee dormitories. The National Tax Service is also analyzing the usage of the remaining corporate homes and the reporting records of the owning companies.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-25 21:36:00
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Kia and Labor Union Reach Wage Agreement, Marking Six Years of No Strikes Kia Motors and its labor union have reached a tentative wage and collective bargaining agreement, continuing a six-year streak of no strikes.On August 25, during the 12th round of negotiations held at the Gwangmyeong Auto Land, the parties finalized the 2026 wage agreement. The agreement includes a base salary increase of 100,000 won, a management performance bonus of 300% plus 4 million won, a quality improvement incentive of 100% plus 4.7 million won, a 4 million won bonus for winning the 2026 Auto Car Awards, 47 shares of company stock, and a special point system offering 500,000 points for achieving maximum production and sales targets.This agreement helps Kia avoid production disruptions, as the union had previously threatened partial strikes if negotiations failed. A vote for union members to approve or reject the tentative agreement is scheduled for August 28.Both parties have committed to preventing serious accidents and enhancing future competitiveness. They plan to establish a safety culture and jointly respond to industrial transitions to ensure job stability. Additionally, they will contribute 4 billion won to a social contribution fund to support community development and aid vulnerable groups.A Kia representative stated, "We will work diligently to finalize this wage agreement quickly and take a step forward as a global top-tier company."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-25 21:32:00
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Missing Chinese Student Found Dead in Daegu; Suspect Arrested 대구에서 실종된 20대 중국인 유학생이 엿새 만에 숨진 채 발견됐다. 경찰은 살인 혐의로 30대 남성을 붙잡아 범행 경위 등을 조사하고 있다. 경찰은 이날 오후 7시29분께 경산시에서 체포영장을 집행해 B씨를 검거했다. 이후 경산시 하양읍에 있는 B씨의 주거지에서 실종됐던 A(25)씨의 시신을 발견했다. A씨는 지난 20일 밤 대구로 이동한 뒤 가족과 연락이 끊겼다. 경찰이 확인한 A씨의 마지막 행적은 동대구역이었다. 경찰은 A씨의 이동 경로 등을 추적하는 과정에서 범죄 혐의를 포착하고 B씨를 용의자로 특정한 것으로 전해졌다. 경찰은 정확한 사망 원인을 확인하기 위해 A씨의 시신을 부검할 예정이다. B씨를 상대로 범행 동기와 구체적인 사건 경위도 조사하고 있다. 아울러 B씨의 주거지 등을 압수수색해 범행과 관련된 증거를 추가로 확보할 방침이다. 경찰 관계자는 "수사상 구체적인 내용은 공개하기 어렵다"고 말했다. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-25 21:28:00
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U.S. Prepares to Return Diplomats to Middle East Embassies Amid Iran Tensions The U.S. government is preparing to send back diplomats to its embassies in the Middle East, which were evacuated following the war with Iran. This move aligns with a recent shift towards economic pressure on Iran rather than military action, raising speculation that the U.S. may be stepping back from a full-scale military confrontation. According to a report by the New York Times, which obtained internal documents from the State Department, the return of diplomats and the easing of emergency measures at embassies could begin this week. The U.S. Embassy in Lebanon is expected to resume normal operations first. All diplomats are set to return to the embassies in Israel, Jordan, and Oman. However, restrictions on the entry of diplomats' families will remain in place. Following the outbreak of war between Iran and Israel, the State Department ordered the evacuation of U.S. personnel from embassies in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar, Jordan, and Iraq due to Iranian attacks on neighboring countries. The U.S. Embassy in Kuwait had fully suspended operations in March but resumed emergency consular services for Americans at the end of June. Experts view the redeployment of diplomatic personnel as a sign of de-escalation amid stalled ceasefire negotiations with Iran. Dan Shapiro, a former U.S. ambassador to Israel, noted that sending diplomats back to previously evacuated areas indicates that the U.S. administration believes the war is entering a phase of resolution. However, some analysts caution that the return of diplomats does not eliminate the possibility of U.S. military action against Iran. Robert Danin, a former deputy assistant secretary of state for Near Eastern affairs, stated that the return of embassy staff does not preclude future U.S. actions, especially given that military operations have already occurred. The State Department has not provided specific comments regarding the return of diplomats to the Middle East. It did, however, confirm that it continuously assesses the security posture of diplomatic missions worldwide and adjusts personnel deployments based on recent evaluations, considering both staff safety and diplomatic objectives.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-25 21:00:00